Coffs Coast Focus i59

COFFS COAST

August 2015//issue 59

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Feature Story Hayley Fischer

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focus COFFS COAST

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PHOTOGRAPHY/CONTENT: 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 2015 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the August issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

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rrrrr ... This chilly weather is making it very hard to get out of bed each morning, but it feels great once you are up, showered, and rugged up in your warm clothes. We love winter time ... especially on a Friday afternoon, after work, when we head down to the new Cellar Lounge at the Pier Hotel for a couple of wines by the lovely warm fireplace. It’s such a great way to end the working week.

Racing season kicks off this month, and the FOCUS office could not be more excited. This year we are celebrating our 5th birthday in style.

We will be celebrating in our very own Coffs Harbour Gold Cup Marquee. It has taken me five years to convince the powers above to be part of the Corporate Marquee strip, and they have finally come around and given us the green light ... Buzzing!

IN THIS ISSUE Playing hockey runs through the veins of

Hayley Fischer, and her dedication to the sport is inspiring. Achieving amazing results in the sport at a young age, she has her sights firmly set on the future. Ricki Brideoake loves a good BBQ. You could call him a fanatic, a meat nerd - just don’t call him late for dinner. Check his story out on page 32. Born and bred Yorkshire man, Chris Parker, moved from England to join the Axemen to share their joy, despair, close calls and everything in between. FOCUS sat down with Chris to find out more about what brought him to the other end of the world and how the Axemen fared this season.

THE FRONT COVER What an amazing front cover we have this month! To tie in with Men in Business, we thought we would showcase a couple of our friends on the front cover of this month’s edition. We all had so much fun doing this shoot down at Element Bar. The men look very dapper and scrubbed up all right!

Thanks to Paul Basing (The Pier), Marcus Phillips (Designer Living Kitchens), Jason Barnett (The Edge), Rick Fischer (G.J. Gardner Homes), Ian Davie (Key Employment), Bryn Goode (Giant Media) and Darren Northey (Element Bar) for your time and bow ties this month. Also, a special mention to Carol Beros, who styled the men and to Jack Simmons Menswear, for helping out with the suspenders and bow ties.

WELCOME HAYLEY FRYER Our fifth and final member of FOCUS joined our team this month, all the way from Newcastle in the UK. Hayley has a Bachelor of Arts and Classical History and also a huge amount of experience in sales and marketing. If you see her around town, say “G’day”. She will be sure to say, “Areet, Pet” right back to you.

FINAL SAY “Live like someone left the gate open” Unknown.

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inside this

Marieka Walsh.

Marieka Walsh is an amazingly talented animator and artist. Her animations created with sand are majestic, peaceful and unique.

Issue 59 - August 2015

Courtney Hancock.

Courtney Hancock is a woman with racing in her blood. Having won three Australian Ironwoman Championships and the gruelling Coolangatta Gold, she understands precisely the dedication, focus, courage and sheer skill that elite sporting success demands.

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the

7. what’s on for August 28. eat featuring local restaurants 57. social scene with Carole Beros

Ricki Brideoake.

Ricki Brideoake loves a good BBQ. You could call him a fanatic, a meat nerd - just don’t call him late for dinner. His style of cooking and approach to the cherished art is different to yours, guaranteed.

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usual suspects.

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60. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

71. star guide with Terri

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AROUND THE REGION //AUGUST 2015

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HEALTHY, HAPPY AGEING EXPO

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PORT MACQUARIE BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL Showcasing a spectacular mixing pot of brews with over fifty different beers and ciders represented, from local and Australian-wide brewers.

When Saturday 26th September, 12pm. Where Westport Park, Port Macquarie. Ticket Packages $25 + BF. Kids’ Tickets: $10 + BF | Kids Under Two FREE. Family Pass (2 adults and 2 kids): $60 + BF. Group Pass (buy 10 adult tickets and get one FREE): $250 + BF. Tickets will be available on the day: $35.

Ticket and bus package information also available on our website www.portmacbeerandciderfestival.com

This expo will have many exhibitors displaying a wide range of products and services for a healthy and happy ageing journey for you and your loved ones. There will be information, guest speakers, demonstrations, entertainment, freebies and much, much more. Admission is free and open to all visitors.

When Friday 14th Aug. Where C.ex Coffs, 1 Vernon St. Time 9am - 5pm.

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C.EX Coffs Harbour Offshore Superboat Championships

The C.ex Coffs Harbour Offshore Superboat Championships will be held in Coffs Harbour, at the Coffs International Marina. This will be a free family event that all can enjoy. Come on down to the Coffs Harbour International Marina, see the boats and meet the drivers.

Then watch the boats thunder around the harbour and out the heads.

When 15th - 16th August.

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Ride for Multiple Sclerosis trivia fundraising night

2015 Carlton Mid Coffs Harbour Gold Cup

There will be a silent auction on the night, games and trivia. There will also be a raffle with a mountain bike as first prize, $350 bike shoes as second and an Artisti Coffee Package as third.

When Thursday 6th August 2015. Gates open 11am.

Cost Entry $20. Contact Phone 66521488 or visit www.coffsracingclub.com.au

When Saturday 22nd August. Where Artisti Coffee, 37 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour. Tickets $20 each available from Bob Wallis Cycles. Includes savoury snacks and coffee.

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ouse of the Le Dain Designs Designs.’ is situated on First Avenue in Along with both designer and the picturesque beach side everyday jewellery, there is a town of Sawtell. The wide selection of fashion. boutique is opulent but From casual wear to definitely welcoming being dressed up to and affordable. It has the nines for that the charm of an old special occasion, Dressing ladies fashioned store Le Dain Designs but the pizazz of all ages, of all has it all. of today. There dress sizes for any House of Le is an emphasis Dain Designs occasion. on personalised is one of the service with Major Sponsors after hours styling for the Park Beach sessions available Fashions on the with experienced stylists available at all times. To field, so there is always view their products there is a a sensational selection of website and Face Book page ‘Le Dain millinery available.

Attendee photos by Emma Rhoades Photography

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focusinterview.

Hayley Fischer

PLAYING HOCKEY RUNS THROUGH THE VEINS OF HAYLEY FISCHER, AND HER DEDICATION TO THE SPORT IS INSPIRING. ACHIEVING AMAZING RESULTS IN THE SPORT AT A YOUNG AGE, SHE HAS HER SIGHTS FIRMLY SET ON THE FUTURE.

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hat do you love about playing hockey?

Hockey is a team sport where you get to play with your friends and have a lot of fun. It’s a fast sport, and you need to use your individual skills and work as a team. I play with lots of different people with different skill levels, and I have made heaps of new friends outside of school too. I can run pretty fast and I’m a bit competitive, which is why I love to play hockey.

I love playing representative hockey and travelling away. I’ve started to get to know people from all over NSW and seem to come across some of the same people, and we’ve become good friends. There is one girl from Cudgen that I played hockey against and I always seem to run into her at Nippers, athletics, cross country and swimming. She even looks a bit like me, and her name is Hayley too.

How old were you when you started playing?

Mum and Dad (Susan and Rick Fischer) have been taking me to hockey since I was a baby. I used to muck around on the sideline with my own little stick while Dad played and umpired in the senior comp. I started playing when I was four years old in mods, which is played on a smaller field with modified rules. My dad coached us, and Mum managed the team.

Recently you were selected to play in the NSW Representative side; can you tell us a bit about that?

In May I travelled up to Murwillumbah 10 coffs coast focus.

I play two games of hockey each week in and represented North Coast at the NSW the local Saturday morning competition: one PSSA Hockey Championships in a three day in the Under 12s and one in the Under 16s competition. North Coast finished Runners as well. I train with the Beaches Up to Polding at the tournament. I Hockey Club seniors on was so excited when my name Thursday nights, where we was called out to represent run through drills and set NSW at the nationals in I’m also hoping plays. The senior players Perth in August. The that my really help me out and nationals will be a week ill get achievements w encourage me a lot. I long tournament, and e Coffs more kids on th also do stick skills with I can’t wait to play d give Co ast to come an Dad on the tiled floor hockey at the next n ca they hockey a go, so ve in my bedroom for level - it’s going to be a lo d an learn the game .” about 20 minutes each great experience. do I it as much as night before I go to bed.

In preparation for the It’s good to do the stick nationals, I get to travel skills on the tiles or concrete, to Newcastle for a two-day because the ball moves a lot training camp, where I will get to quicker and you need to have more know the coach and manager and the control of the ball.

13 other players who were selected on the Do you also undertake workouts and team. I already know two of them though, fitness training outside of hockey because I’ve been playing hockey with my training? friend, Ashleigh Ensbey, since I was four years You have to be really fit to play hockey. I’ll old. We’ve both played with Jasmin Morrisey be playing six games over five days against from Tweed Heads with the North Coast team the top players in Australia, and we play QLD as well. in the last game on day five. From what I’ve The coach will organise some set plays heard, it’s a bit like a State of Origin match; and work out positions, and we will do some QLD will do anything to beat NSW. So, I need team bonding activities. I think we’re going to be really fit for that game. For endurance, ten pin bowling. I’m also really excited about I train with Jason at "Coffs Coast Flyers" on getting my NSW representative uniform at the Tuesday and Thursday mornings. My little training camp - I’m number 11. We’ll all meet sister, Breah, also comes to Flyers; she’s been at Sydney Airport and travel over as a team to training for state cross country. It’s been a bit Perth on the plane together; it should be fun. cold lately, but we still rug up, put our gloves How do you train specifically for hockey? on and just do it. For speed, I train with Selena How much hockey do you play each at "Fast Track Feet" out at Toormina on Friday week?

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afternoons. You do a lot of short sprints in hockey, so Selena’s sessions are great. I also do swim squads with Dean at Coffs Olympic Pool on Monday afternoons. I’m very lucky to have great coaches like Jason, Selena and Dean.

They all keep me motivated; I couldn’t do it without them.

You’re only 11 years old and already very successful in this sport. Have you set yourself goals to achieve that you are working towards?

My goal was to make it into a NSW representative team at a younger age than my dad (Rick) did. He was selected in the Under 13s NSW squad. Dad has coached and mentored me since I was four, so I can thank him for getting me to where I am now though.

Thanks Dad! Next year I will trial at the Under 13s NSW State Championships, and my goal is to be selected into the NSW Under 13s team to play at the national championships. I would love to represent Australia with the Hockeyroos at the Olympics one day with my friend Ashleigh, but that’s a little way off just yet.

I’m also hoping that my achievements will get more kids on the Coffs Coast to come and give hockey a go, so they can learn the game and love it as much as I do. My dad didn’t actually start playing hockey until he was in high school and Mum only started playing a few years ago because the rest of the family were playing - so she thought she may as well play too. It’s never too late to start playing, so find a local club and have a go - it’s a lot of fun.

Thanks Hayley.

focusinterview.

MARIEKA MARIEKA WALSH IS AN AMAZINGLY TALENTED ANIMATOR AND ARTIST. HER ANIMATIONS CREATED WITH SAND ARE MAJESTIC, PEACEFUL AND UNIQUE.

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ith her work appearing everywhere from That Sugar Film to an adaption of Tim Winton’s The Turning, her patience and maybe a little sand stuck between her toes from growing up on the beaches of the Coffs Coast are gaining her recognition that is more than deserved.

What is your connection with the Coffs Coast?

I grew up here in both Bellingen and Emerald Beach.

Can you explain what sand animation is?

Aside from excruciatingly time consuming and sometimes heart breaking, it’s basically a method of stop frame animation by making pictures with sand over a light box.

How did you discover this style of animation?

I watched a 1970s short film by Caroline Leaf, who pioneered the medium, and I was instantly attracted to the grainy look of it and the process.

At that stage, I'd made a couple of bad short films, I'd worked in video editing for a few years and had always been a drawer, so this kind of platform into animation suited me. I got some sand, a few paint brushes, made a glass box and then got stupidly obsessed with the medium enough, so that I spent every free minute outside of paid work for 18 months on making my film, The Hunter.

Briefly describe the process of making a short film using this process?

Spend seemingly endless hours on script development, editing and re editing. Research the period, design characters, sets, lighting, then create detailed storyboards for the entire film. I’d then mark out the animation timings

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The type of is animation I do g in aw dr to pretty close d an ) nd sa in (only it’s of I think that kind t ac nt co te ia ed m im close to allows me to be ” the work.

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for each shot; if the work has dialogue, we record the actor prior to animating. Next I prepare the sand and lighting equipment ready to start animating, then I move the sand, sometimes a grain at a time, taking a photo each time to create the 12 frames that make one second of footage. It sounds infuriating, and for much of the process it is (especially if you cough and accidently wreck your image) but most the time it is a wonderfully enjoyable way to make a film.

After the film is shot, it then goes into postproduction, where we work on editing the film, music, sound fx, narration, a colour grade and then finally a sound mix.

Most everything is created digitally these days. Your approach seems to be very analogue based; why is this?

I think for me it's as simple as I just like working with my hands with real materials.

The type of animation I do is pretty close to drawing (only it’s in sand) and I think that kind of immediate contact allows me to be close to the work.

Do you create the storylines and scripts for your films?

Yes, I write the scripts for my films; it's the part I find the hardest, but it's the most important to get right. I find I often re-write the story a bit as the animation unfolds too.

What are some of the themes that you explore in your work?

Humans v nature, humans in nature, humans v humans, hope, loss, fear, death, love, beauty, danger - all the good stuff, really.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Everywhere and nowhere in particular ...

Your short film, The Hunter, has won several awards. Can you tell us briefly about that project?

The Hunter was the first sand animation I’d ever created. I shot it on a 1950s 35 mm camera, which meant I never actually saw any of my animation until I had the negative processed. For me it was quite the leap of faith, in that I would spend months animating and not know if any of the animation film exposures had worked until the negative came back.

The story looks at fear of the wilderness and human instinct. It’s a story about a boy who goes missing in the icy wilderness, feared taken by wolves. A hunter undertakes a journey to find the boy; dead or alive. As the hunter tracks the boy into the mountains, he discovers that his instincts can no longer be trusted.

How long did it take to complete?

I was juggling studying and work and then spending all my free time in a dark windowless room in the bowels of UTS Sydney animating … I animated the film over 18 months.

Ash Wednesday, a short film you made as part of the adaptation of Tim Winton’s The Turning - how did you become involved in this project?

The director/ producer Robert Connolly saw a snippet of my short film The Hunter at the AACTA awards, where we met briefly. I sent him the full film, then a few weeks later he asked me to be involved with the project and as with all the directors involved, I was given

the opportunity to creatively interpret the book.

Robert asked me to work on bookend short films, that conveyed the tone of Tim Winton’s stories and worked with the T.S Elliott poem Ash Wednesday, that appears in the front of the book. This was a very daunting and exciting project to be involved with; I was pretty nervous about creating the first piece of the film.

Another project, That Sugar Film - did it involve sand animation, or did you use different techniques?

The work I did for That Sugar Film is part of a two - three minute skit where Hugh Jackman is performing a kind of magic show over a lightbox. While he describes the history of sugar, he creates intricate illustrations in sugar, dusting them aside and starting again as he narrates. To create these illustrations, I used tiny paintbrushes to draw in both sugar and sand over a lightbox.

Were you working directly with an actor?

For That Sugar Film I was working with actors’ hands … yes! But Hugh Jackman was filmed in a separate location. For The Turning I was lucky enough to have worked with the amazing Colin Friels, who narrated the animation. He will also be voicing the main character in my next film, The Crossing.

What project are you currently working on?

Currently I’m working on the short sand animation The Crossing, funded by Screen Australia. The Crossing is a dark fable about an ageing sea captain who leads his men into peril.

Where can our readers see more of your work?

They can have a look at my website: www. mariekawalsh.com.au or look out for my short film, The Hunter, that is screening as part of SOS on SBS, catch The Turning on iTunes or DVD or the newly released feature, That Sugar Film.

Thanks Marieka.

are C ged A domSENTS e e Fr PRE

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— O P X E G IN

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ay d i Fr 8.15 14.0

ffs o C C.ex – 5PM 9AM

E E R F

Y R T EN

This expo will have many exhibitors displaying a wide range of products and services for a healthy and happy ageing journey for you or your loved ones.

There will be information, guest speakers, demonstrations, entertainment, freebies and much, much more.

Admission is free and open to all visitors and will be held at the C.ex Coffs 1 Vernon St, Coffs Harbour Presented by

AGED CARE

Feel free to call us 1800 357 681

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D A Y

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T H E

L I F E

S E R I E S

focusinterview.

DR JOSEPH B e a i n i

This is a day in the life of Dr Joseph Beaini , who is a doctor in the Intensive Care Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus.

Dr Beaini has worked at the hospital for the past 12 years as part of a team of dedicated specialists, nurses, allied health professionals and support staff.

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hy did you initially become a doctor?

I actually began my medical studies in the field of biomedical science, which involved a lot of laboratory work. At the time, my brother was studying medicine and when comparing the two career paths, I decided that his looked much more interesting. I also love people and realised that I would have much more interaction beyond the walls of a lab.

I transferred to a medical degree and studied for a further five years to become a doctor.

While studying at Sydney University, I was also working as a wardsman at Westmead Hospital, which gave me an insight into all aspects of patient care. In this role, I interacted daily with doctors, nurses and other hospital staff, which gave me an appreciation of the importance of teamwork and communication.

After graduating, I undertook my internship and residency at Prince of Wales Hospital, which involved a lot of Emergency Department work. I also worked for 12 years in general practice in Sydney, before relocating to Coffs Harbour in 2002 and working in the Emergency Department.

How did you find your way into the field of intensive care medicine?

After three years of working in the Emergency Department, I began taking on some shifts in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and found that I really enjoyed working with the ICU team and caring for critically ill patients.

Did you have to undertake extra training to be able to work in this field?

The experience I had already gained over many years of being a doctor in various settings allowed me to join the ICU team at Coffs Harbour. I work in the ICU with a number of Intensive Care Specialists who have undertaken additional training specific to the critical care setting. As a team, we are constantly improving our skills and continuing to learn, particularly as advances are made in 14 coffs coast focus.

medicine.

What are some of the key attributes you need to have work in this area?

It is important to have the ability to develop a good rapport with patients and their families.

These people come to us at what is often a very stressful and uncertain time and it is our role to provide them with as much information I love the energy and reassurance as of a workplace possible to ensure they and such as the ICU understand all aspects by d te or being supp n rely of their treatment and ca I m ho w people patients who have ow kn hospital care. on and whom I been brought to the in highYou must also be a can rely on me unit and any changes ns .” team player. The team is pressure situatio in the condition of not just other doctors - it existing patients. It is is a whole range of medical a very important part of professionals, such as nurses, the day, as it is vital that we pharmacy, physiotherapists, maintain continuity of care for social workers, as well as pathology and our patients. The handover is a team radiology staff. We are also very fortunate meeting where doctors, nurses and allied to be supported by experienced and health professionals all discuss patient care. capable administrative staff.

After handover, the medical staff does a formal Is it a position where experience plays ward round, where we visit each patient and a large part in being able to make quick bedside nurse to discuss the treatment plan for decisions under pressure? the day. Other duties depend on the individual The level of training that we undertake to need of patients, but examples can include the become a doctor helps to lay the foundation insertion of a special vascular line to administer for the type of work situation we will vital medication to patients or monitoring of encounter in the future. It is also important blood pressure, as well as other intensive care to see all experiences in the hospital setting procedures. Throughout the day we update as learning opportunities. At Coffs Harbour family members and carers on the condition Health Campus, we have an excellent team of of their loved ones. We can also expect at ICU specialists and senior staff who are able any time to receive new patients into the unit to share their experiences with junior medical who require intensive care. The ICU functions staff to ensure they are supported in their very efficiently because of the teamwork and learning and receive a high level of education respect that exists between all those on duty at and training. the time. ICU doctors are also called to other Can you give a brief outline of what can parts of the hospital at a moment’s notice to be involved in a shift? attend to situations requiring an advanced A day shift usually begins with a handover, level of care. which is where we discuss the events of the You must gain a great deal of satisfaction evening. That can involve details of new

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when you see patients recover?

When you watch someone, who at one time was critically ill with major problems and on a life support machine, able to walk out the door, I have to say that is one of the most rewarding aspects of this job. It can be a very long journey for the patient and their loved ones and those involved in their treatment, but there is an enormous amount of satisfaction in seeing our patients recover and continue to lead fulfilling lives.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy all aspects of critical care medicine, including looking after those who are in most need of intensive management. I love the energy of a workplace such as the ICU and being supported by people whom I can rely on and whom I know can rely on me in high-pressure situations. I particularly enjoy working alongside the medical and nursing staff, who are extremely well trained in critical care medicine.

Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing this line of work as a career choice?

For graduates who are thinking about intensive care medicine, I would say spend some time in the ICU, work alongside specialists and see if it is for you. For me, it has been a very fulfilling career.

Thank you Dr Beaini.

TPARs MADE EASY complete PEST CONTROL

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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.

If your business is part of the building and construction industry, you’ll know it’s nearly time to lodge your TPAR. TPAR stands for Taxable Payments Annual Reporting and must be received by the ATO by August 28, 2015.

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.

A TPAR must include details and information about payments made to subcontractors. The mere thought of TPAR time will give most business owners a headache. With complex collating of information, it’s no wonder. So if you want to stress less, your best bet is to head to the region’s leading bookkeepers and experts in TPAR’s, admintechniQs. admintechniQs team of highly qualified bookkeepers use world-leading software including MYOB and Xero to effortlessly streamline your business and help it run at peak efficiency.

The team use the most up-to-date ATO information to ensure TPAR time is a breeze, setting up and tracking systems that capture ABN’s for subcontractors and flagging those which are reportable.

Whether you’re a big or small business, well-established or just starting out, admintechniQs will help you stress less.

For more information, contact Pam at admintechniQs on 0417 133 144 or visit: www.admintechniQs.com.au admintechniQs - where the Q stands for Quality.

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.

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focusinterview.

W I T H T H E Coffs

Coast Dancing with the Coffs Coast Stars 2015 is set to be an amazing event. Being held for the fifth consecutive year at C.ex Coffs, 14th November will see over 400 guests support and cheer on eleven couples when they sashay and spin on the dance floor. The event fundraises on behalf of Cancer Council NSW and boasts a great variety of dance styles to enjoy.

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ance for Cancer has a once again be at C.ex Coffs, who have been brand new identity… our major sponsor since the event started.

Tell us about the name We thank the C.ex Board and the wonderful change and what’s staff for their great venue and professional yet different from last year? friendly services.

It sure has! The event is How much money has this event raised for now known as “Stars of Coffs Coast Dance Cancer Council NSW, and where does the for Cancer”. Due to the great success of this money go? event on the Coffs Coast, it has now been This event has just gone from strength to rolled out around the state by Cancer Council strength. Our first event back in 2011 raised NSW. We had a name change to create a just over $55,000, with our most recent event state-wide brand for the event and to ensure raising $104,000. To date, the Dance for Cancer we weren’t encroaching on Dancing has raised close to $500,000. with the Stars! This is now All funds raised go to Cancer our 5th year, and our 6th Council NSW, which is 97% event. We moved from publically funded. The February to November, Cancer Council is the We have as it was tricky for our largest non-government ensured that ols stars and dancers to funder of cancer research 100% of our scho d keep up the dancing in Australia and the are Sun Smart an n tio run other preven as and fundraising only cancer charity that ch programmes su momentum over the funds research across d at It an the Eat It To Be Christmas period. all cancers, and works Sun Sound.”

There is a new across all stages of the website, so you can cancer journey. This means check out the stars’ conducting and funding and dancers’ profiles and research to reduce the impact events, sponsors, important event of cancer, promoting prevention information and of course, donate programmes to reduce cancer incidents, at www.everydayhero.com.au/event/ providing information and support to empower starsofcoffscoast2015. There is also a new people affected by cancer so no one has to Facebook page, “Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for face cancer alone, and carrying out advocacy to Cancer”, which features regular updates from ensure that governments take action to reduce our stars’ dance lessons, fundraising events and cancer risks and improve access to care and other important information, so please like and treatment. share us!

Locally we run transport to treatment and Fortunately some things don’t change, and accommodation services, provide access to Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer will free legal and financial advice, information

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16 coffs coast focus.

and support services. We have ensured that 100% of our schools are Sun Smart and run other prevention programmes such as the Eat It To Beat It and Sun Sound. Approximately 500 people per year are diagnosed with cancer on the Coffs Coast, which is significantly higher than the NSW average.

Who are the stars hitting the dance floor this year?

It is with great delight that I introduce our fabulous team of 11 stars, who are brave enough to not only learn and perform a dance routine in front of 400 people, but to fundraise and show support for people in our community affected by cancer. They are: • Lee Millard, a dedicated breast care nurse at MNCLHD • Peter Hodges, a regular to the stage with Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company • Dr Kristen Pigram from Coffs Medical Centre and Headspace • Sam Ledger, co-owner of CHC Pharmacy • Jacqui (Jarrat) Barrett, Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year, CEO of the Business Woman’s Network and co-owner of Coffs Coast Health Club • Gary Amiguet, owner of Seabreeze Smash Repairs • Alice Williams, previous Dance for Cancer MC and co-owner of Axis Printing • Brendan Smith, NBN news reporter • Sarah Ramsay, a physiotherapist at Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy • PT Clarke, co-owner of All Office and Business • Sarah Pryor, Community Relations Coordinator for the C.ex Group Who are the gorgeous dance teachers that we have this year? Any new ones on

board that we need to look out for?

We are very fortunate to have 11 fabulous dance teachers and a huge array of dance styles being performed. We have three dancers from Julie Ross Dance Studio, Ashleigh Ross, Emily McCarthy and Kym Mackinnon, who will be jazzing up the night with jazz, hip hop and musical theatre performances. Julie was the choreographer of the Council flashmob opening performance at the last event.

Xaeda from Sacred Lotus Bellydance is also a new addition to our team. We have Chris Pemberton-Lewis from Coffs Latin Rhythms, Kelly Stoner, who will rock out some Rock n’ Roll, the fabulous Christina Monneron (Coffs Harbour International Woman of the Year) with her Cuban grooves, along with Owen Gilliland from Kulturithmik, Carol Young from Pacific Dance Studio with two of her protégées Melissa Thomson and Kyle Withers, and of course, the very talented and entertaining Carol Young from Woolgoolga Dance Studio, who has taken our stars to winning place for the past two events.

Tickets always sell out fast; where can we buy tickets, and when is the event?

Save the date for Saturday, November 14th!

Tickets will be available from the 20th August from the C.ex Coffs, online or in person. This year the ticket prices are tiered and range in price from $50 - $80. The event is always a sellout, so get some friends together, grab a table, and get in quick! It will be a night to remember and best of all, raising money for a cause that supports so many people in our local community.

Interview with Pippa Tabone from the Cancer Council.

Quota International

Sawtell Art Gallery We have come to that time of the year when one of the major Art and Social events of the community is approaching quickly. Sawtell Art Gallery is proud to present The 28th Annual Art Exhibition 2015, Opening Night Thursday Evening 17th September 2015 @ 6:30pm.

Please download your application form from: www.sawtellartgroup.com.au for the chance to be part of this amazing community art event and the chance to take home part of the total prize money of $5,000, consisting of $1,000 Grand Prize and $4,000 sectional prize money.

Application forms may also be picked up from the Sawtell Art Gallery and other venues, for further information concerning The 28th Sawtell Annual Exhibition and other upcoming events and classes, especially Sawtell Art Extraordinaire Camp in January 2016, sponsored by Coffs Harbour City Council. Tutors are coming to Sawtell Art Extraordinaire Camp straight from Camp Creative for shorter workshops to suit all abilities.

Contact Colleen Davies: email: colleenrosedaviesartist@gmail.com Phone Helen (02) 6658 9596 or Rhonda 0401 214 312.

Quota International of Coffs Harbour has been a dynamic part of the community since 1962 and is part of a worldwide network of service and friendship dedicated to making a difference locally and globally. Following their motto, “We Share”, Quotarians focus service in helping deaf, hard of hearing and speech-impaired individuals, and disadvantaged women and children. Members of local clubs are invited to grow personally by helping others and making friends along the way.

On the last weekend in August, Friday 28th, Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August, Quota is holding its twentieth annual Antique Fair. A vast array of antiques and collectables will be on sale by dealers from New South Wales and interstate. Venue is the Exhibition Hall, Coffs Harbour Showground - admission $5, with children under 12 free - no activities for children - fully wheelchair accessible. $50 Voucher Draws for buyers should entice you to stay and have a leisurely look at the fascinating items on show, whilst partaking of the morning teas or freshly made sandwiches. You never know who you will see there!

Proceeds to local charities.

Other projects include Christmas wrapping at Park Beach Plaza, assisting supplying dinners at Shearwater Lodge, morning teas at Shearwater Lodge on a roster basis with other groups, Mother’s Day posies distributed to local nursing homes, supporting a Deaf Camp, school awards, and aiding funding for anti-bullying programmes at secondary schools. Quota also supports the RDA, Australia Day Awards, Senior College Scholarships and the Eisteddfod.

The Australia-japan Society The Australia-Japan Society will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a dinner at Opal Cove Resort, on Friday 21st August.

It was founded in 1990 two years after Coffs Harbour entered into a sister city relationship with Sasebo, on the island of Kyushu in the south of Japan. Its aims were to foster understanding between the people of Australia and Japan in general and between the people of Coffs Harbour and Sasebo in particular. We encouraged the learning of Japanese language and an interest in Japanese culture. We started a youth exchange scheme with Seiwas Johsi Gakuim, the School of Heavenly Peace, in Sasebo. With so many schools teaching Japan’s language, we started an annual Japanese Speech Competition. We held many Culture Days at the Bunker Cartoon Gallery and in the Botanic Gardens.

We have organised seven trips to Sasebo with a two week tour of Japan. The Australia-Japan Society is pleased to have helped with the integration of Japanese residents into Coffs society. We are strong supporters of the Festival of Japanese Children’s Day each May and hold a film night each June.

Tickets, $55 pp, $45 students, are available from the Hope Chest (opposite C.Ex) and Park Beach Music.

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focusinterview.

CHRIS

PARKER

CAPTAIN OF THE ORARA VALLEY AXEMEN

B O R N A N D B R E D YO R K S H I R E M A N C H R I S PA R K E R M OV E D F RO M E N G L A N D T O J O I N T H E A X E M E N T O S H A R E T H E I R J OY, D E S PA I R , C L O S E C A L L S A N D E V E RY T H I N G I N B E T W E E N. F O C U S S AT D OW N W I T H C H R I S T O F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T W H AT B RO U G H T H I M T O T H E O T H E R E N D O F T H E WO R L D A N D H OW T H E A X E M E N FA R E D T H I S S E A S O N. G O T H E A X E M E N !

S

o why Rugby League in Coffs Harbour?

I used to play Rugby League in the UK for a team called Gateshead Thunder, which is where I played for two years.

After almost eighteen months of recovering from a knee operation, I got the chance to play for the Orara Valley Axemen. It was a massive and life changing decision to move to Coffs Harbour, but I knew it would be an amazing opportunity to challenge myself and have a fresh start.

Moving from England must have been a big change for you. What do you love about the Coffs Coast?

Yes, it definitely was a huge change, uprooting your whole life and leaving your friends, family and partner behind was emotional, to say the least. What really makes me love the Coffs Coast is its amazing beaches and scenery. It’s an idyllic place to live, and I’ve met so many new people in Coffs Harbour. Another thing I love about Coffs is of course the coffee - Coffs Harbour by far has the best coffee I’ve ever had!

How did you become interested in Rugby League?

I started out playing soccer, but I’ve always followed Rugby League since being a young kid. Both my dad and my grandfather played Rugby League, so it was always a part of my growing up. After deciding soccer wasn’t for me, I decided to finally follow in my grandfather’s and father’s footsteps and give Rugby League a shot. I started out playing for a local Rugby League team, and within four years I signed at my first semi-professional club, 18 coffs coast focus.

Featherstone Rovers. within the club?

I’ve been very fortunate growing up to Everything is based around family, friendhave such a supportive family, in particular ship and the community. The club has a my dad, whom I cannot thank enough for proud history, and hopefully we can start all his valuable advice over the years. I’ve winning some more trophies again! There are also been extremely fortunate to have some a lot of hardworking and dedicated people fantastic coaches, who have all contributed within the club that keep the club going year to making me the player I am. after year who play an integral part to What a long way to come! the Axemen and deserve a huge How has your first season thanks. at Orara Valley gone?

What I think makes s It’s been an amaza strong community ha ly Not on t ea gr a en ing year so far! I’ve feeling within the club be is th e th r fo been made to feel is the age diversity ce en ri expe t it has bu , ds la r so welcome and of both players and ge un yo em with a part of the club. supporters. At the also provided th lenge of an exciting ch al Initially it was a case moment we don’t e Rugby playing open ag of adapting to the have an under eighLeague . ” different playing style teens team, so a few of Australian Group of the young lads have Two Rugby League, but had the chance to step up after three months of intense and play reserve grade. The pre-season training, I soon settled older lads have really made them in. The toughest part for me was without feel welcome, and the younger players a doubt having to acclimatise to the heat have integrated well into the team. Not and the humidity! only has this been a great experience for the After a few tough years for Orara Valley, younger lads, but it has also provided them it’s been a challenging yet enjoyable, positive with an exciting challenge of playing open season so far. Although we have improved age Rugby League. In the first grade team we significantly from recent years, there is a conhave a broad range of ages, backgrounds and sensus within the club that we have massively cultures, which has added immense value to underachieved this year. After we narrowly the Axemen. lost on the opening game of the season to What has been your most memorable last year’s premiers, Grafton, everyone within match so far this season? the club felt that this could be the year we My favourite has to be the second game finally reach our potential. of the season. We travelled to Bellingen on a Orara Valley are known as a brilliant cold and wet Sunday afternoon, still licking community club. Is there a good feeling our wounds from the previous week’s narrow

“

defeat against Grafton. I remember at half time the scores were tied, and the other players and I were struggling to keep warm and dry in the changing rooms. I sat thinking to myself, it’s like being back in drizzly, old England playing in the pouring rain again just like back in my university days! It was certainly a far cry away from what I imagined East Coast Australia to be like. We ended up winning the game, and the feeling in the changing rooms at full time was indescribable. Singing the club’s victory song for the first time with my new team was an amazing experience, which I will never forget!

We’ve heard that you’re a big Robbie Williams fan! What kind of music do you like?

Yes, I’m a huge Robbie Williams fan; it’s my dream to see him perform one day. Everyone cringes at my taste in music, as I’m obsessed with ‘90s pop music and boy bands. At a recent club fundraiser, I even treated our supporters to my karaoke talent, where I sang a classic Backstreet Boys hit - I Want It That Way! I’m sure they won’t forget that experience anytime soon.

So Chris, the 2015 season is coming to a close; what’s next?

I’ve got a list as long as my arm! I feel really lucky to be in such a beautiful part of the world. Australia is unlike anywhere I’ve ever been before, and the Coffs Coast has some of the most amazing coastlines. I’m planning to go travelling around the East Coast of Australia and maybe try a few festivals. I’d love to swim at the Great Barrier Reef and learn to scuba dive, but that’s only to name a few.

Thanks Chris.

coffs coast

meet the team Coffs Coast FOCUS would like to introduce the team.

Some old, some new, but together we promise to bring you an exciting new magazine every month. We deliver.

Nicci Seccombe.

Russell Pell.

C o - o r di n ato r /A dv e r t i s i n g c o n s u lta n t

Editorial Contributor

How long have you been with FOCUS? I am lucky enough to have been part of the FOCUS family for nearly five years. I was with Coffs Coast FOCUS the very first day the magazine graced our shores, and I couldn’t be more proud of watching it blossom into what it is now.

How long have you been with FOCUS? Since the magazine launched in Coffs Harbour - five years, I think.

What is your professional background? I have around 10 years of retail management experience, so when I began my first day with FOCUS, I thought for sure I was out of my depth.

Turns out this was the job for me!

What do you love about FOCUS? I enjoy getting out on the street and meeting people, hearing their stories. FOCUS is a great forum for highlighting the amazing mixture of talented and interesting people that reside on the Coffs Coast.

What do you love about FOCUS? What's not to love? A magazine full of local people doing amazing things, delivered to homes, and you don't even need to pay for it. That’s pretty great! The most rewarding part is the response we get back from the community each month. It's a great feeling when people say how amazing the magazine is and commenting on what a great job we are doing. We are in a pretty good place at the moment, and we are only going to get better.

What’s has been the best piece of advice you have received? “It’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice.”

Hayley Fryer.

Carole Beros.

A d v e r t i s i n g s a l e s C o n s u lta n t

Writer/Stylist

How long have you been with FOCUS? I have been with FOCUS since July, so I'm a fresh face in the Coffs Harbour team!

How long have you been with FOCUS? I have had the pleasure of being with Coffs Coast FOCUS since the very beginning, way back in 2010. It’s been an amazing ride and can only get better!

What is your professional background? Worked as a commercial photographer in Sydney and a freelance journalist for various publications.

What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? For me it’s the ocean, uncrowded waves and awesome beaches; you can’t beat it. I have been around the world, in both directions, and haven’t found anywhere that compares. Growing up around here is such a blessing.

Jenni Saville.

A d v e r t i s i n g S a l e s C o n s u lta n t How long have you been with FOCUS? I joined the dynamic Coffs Coast FOCUS team in June this year.

What is your professional background? I qualified as a Graphic Artist at the completion of my schooling, working in the commercial printing industry and newsprint for many years. I have also undertaken a Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration/Colour Consultancy, operating my own business for 23 years, with a strong passion for creativity and design. My career also includes extensive advertising sales and marketing in print media, radio and television.

What do you love about FOCUS? The amazing team of dynamic, creative and passionate people who make up the FOCUS team. Each day I have the opportunity to help local business owners promote and expand their profile on the Coffs Coast.

What’s has been the best piece of advice you have received? “If you want something done - ask a busy person.”

What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? Born and raised in Albury, I moved to Coffs Harbour early 2014, for the ultimate “sea change”. I love the beautiful coastline here on the Coffs Coast and experience the beauty from 15,000 ft, skydiving and landing on a local beach.

What is your professional background? I studied Classical History at university, so I'm a bit of an ancient history buff!

After graduating, I worked in marketing and travel and lifestyle media.

What do you love about FOCUS? The people make FOCUS fantastic. Our amazing team, advertisers and of course, our readers.

What has been the best piece of advice you have received? My dad said to me, "If you don't love something in your life - change it!"

This has always motivated me to do what I love.

What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? I come from the East Coast of England, so I love the beach. The Coffs Coast has the most beautiful stretch of coastline I've ever seen!

What is your professional background? I am a caterer by trade but have always been in involved in photography/ writing and design from an early age. I originally started with the intention to complete studying fashion design in London way back in my twenties but instead, left the Channel Islands and made Australia my home. Right now I am the owner/designer at House of Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell and totally enjoying being a writer and stylist for FOCUS. What do you love about FOCUS? Working for FOCUS is like nothing else. Meeting so many people with so many stories is amazing. We strive towards opening up the readers’ world to enjoy everything we experience. It’s so refreshing to pick up a glossy magazine, kick back and enjoy a good read.

coffs coast focus.

19

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

CYBER

MUM

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

MUSIC EDUCATION Under construction Term 3 is a very exciting time for the Conservatorium, with the commencement of building works on what will become the jewel in the region’s musical crown, the Performance Space.

T

he Conservatorium has had several homes now, from a tiny cottage on Earl St, then a modern facility in the Homebase complex, to the much grander and spacious current facility in the Bray St Complex. The Conservatorium stands proudly next to the Cinemas and Suave Café, where musicians regularly get their coffee fixes before teaching all the talented students in the area. The building incorporates 12 modern and spacious studios, where up to 30 tutors provide musical tuition to nearly 700 students.

Originally a nightclub that sees some of the now grown-up parents blush when recounting memories of the last time they entered the building, the Performance Space is stage two of the renovation project for the Conservatorium.

Until now the staff and students have cheerfully performed under cheap second hand spotlights on a temporary stage, optimistically ignoring the dangling leads and gaping holes whilst describing it as “industrial style”. Despite the current rough-and-ready limitations, the Conservatorium has presented many concerts, ranging from small student recitals for families and friends, to sold-out ensemble and professional concerts that have demonstrated the strong demand by the Coffs Harbour community for quality performances.

With very few suitable live concert venues in Coffs Harbour, the renovation of the Performance Space will provide the region with a high quality venue that will seat up to 200 people. It will meet a demonstrated need for a facility that will be diverse enough

20 coffs coast focus.

to cater for local, interstate and international events. Features will include raked rows of comfortable seating, a gallery area, bio-box for recording and sound management, and a large wooden stage area that will allow flexibility for a wide variety of performance styles from solo performance to an orchestra, or “in-the-round” performance art.

The renovation is funded by a Coffs Harbour City Council Community Capital Infrastructure Grant, the NSW Department of Education & Communities Community Building Partnership Grant, along with strong support from local members of parliament, Coffs Council, local community members, trades and especially Ann Gee, of G2 Architects, who has completed the plans for this stunning new venue.

Building work will be slowing down the rate of performances that audiences have become used to from the Conservatorium, but the wait will be worth it, and the term “musical chairs” will take on an entire new dimension. Students this term are busy sitting their AMEB and HSC exams so by the time the hall is ready for the first performance, their skills will be well honed and the excitement of taking to the new stage will be even more rewarding.

There will be further costs to be met for completion of the building, and sponsorship is always gratefully received for many aspects of the wonderful work that the Conservatorium is doing to ensure a cultural future for Coffs Harbour. If you would like to consider a donation or sponsorship of the Conservatorium, please contact the Business Manager, Terry Ronan, on 6652 1592.

ACRONYMS EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW! = “A.E.P.S.K!” IF YOU ARE ANYTHING LIKE ME YOU HAVE PROBABLY FIGURED OUT WHAT LOL, OMG, WTF MEANS IN TODAY’S WORLD OF ACRONYMS, ONLINE CHAT AND SOCIAL MEDIA COMMUNICATION.

B

ut if you think that means you’re tech savvy, let me test just how trendy you are. Any idea what “IWSN” stands for? ... Well, it is too crude to publish in FOCUS! If it makes you feel any better, I had no clue, and neither did a number of women I asked about it. Acronyms are widely popular across the internet, especially on social media and texting apps, because in some cases they offer a shorthand for communication that is meant to be instant. But the reality is that we parents are just a little behind the times, so I thought providing parents with a quick reference guide to some of the lingo being used online might give you a better chance of gauging what interactions are taking place in your child’s social media space. You may overhear these terms being used if your child is at home on the computer talking in a chat room, on Skype, playing a game via server, gaming online or you may see these written on Instagram, Facebook or even text messages.

If you are hearing this lingo in your home, it’s pretty normal and probably pretty harmless; however, as you will see there are a few phrases that should catch your attention. Whilst the use of “LMK”: let me know and “WYCM: will you call me?” are innocent enough, the issue for parents is understanding the slang that could signal some dangerous teen behaviours. Also understanding that “PIR” means parent in room, which could mean the teen wants to have a conversation about things that his or her parent might not approve of.

So how do we keep up with all these acronyms, especially as new ones are being used every day?

My recommendation is talk to your children, as the phrases can have different meanings to different people, but asking your kids shows you are paying attention and sparks the conversation about their online behaviours, which is so important. I’ve started occasionally throwing in a BRB or G2G in everyday conversation, so my kids get the idea that I’m not completely out of touch.

Yes, they laugh and think I’m totally uncool, but they get the message.

Here are some of the less known by parents but commonly used online acronyms that ... well,

let’s just say surprised me - and I’m thinking may just surprise you! (For the full uncensored list that cannot be published in FOCUS, go to my blog at: www.cybermumaus.com) ALAP - As Late As Possible B4YKI - Before You Know It BRB - Be Right Back BRT - Be Right There CWYL - Chat With You Later CYA - See You CYL8R - See you later DUSL - Did You Scream Loud E123 - Easy As One, Two, Three EOD - End Of Day F2F - Face-to-Face FOAF - Friend Of A Friend G2G - Got to go GYPO - Get Your Pants Off HAK - Hugs And Kisses IIT - Is It Tight ILU - I Love You KPC - Keeping Parents Clueless L8R - Later LMAO - Laughing My Ass Off LMIRL - Let’s meet in real life LMK - Let Me Know NM - Never Mind - or - Nothing Much - or - Nice Move NMU - Not Much. You? OTP - On The Phone PIR - Parent In Room POS - Parent Over Shoulder P911 - Parent Alert ROFL - Rolling On The Floor Laughing ROFLMAO Rolling On The Floor Laughing My Ass Off RUH - Are You Horny?

SWDYT - So What Do You Think?

TDTM - Talk Dirty To Me TTFN - Ta Ta For Now T2UL8R - Talk to you later WFM - Works For Me WUF - Where You From 143 - I Love You 182 - I Hate You There are many more, and I strongly suggest you go to www.cybermumaus.com to read the full and more alarming list.

coast2country Clark RUBBER Clark Rubber has always been the place to go for light weight affordable storage solutions. They have sold the Keter brand of storage chests, cabinets, bin enclosures and sheds on the Coffs Coast for many years.

Now Clark Rubber add to their new range the KIS brand of UV stabilised resin storage products made in Italy.

Robina’s Hair boutique OUR SPECIAL TO YOU 10 FOILS AND A GORGEOUS CUT EVERY SATURDAY FOR $70.00 To remedy dry, frizzy, “electric” hair of winter, you need to use a daily moisture crème from the JUUCE range (an all Australian made and owned company); the results are amazing.

We would love to see you in the salon for a COMPLIMENTARY application, so you can experience this beautiful product and at only $23.95 a tube, it’s a must for those BAD HAIR days.

The range includes storage crates, waterproof “Scuba Boxes”, free standing shelf units, various sized upright cabinets and an outdoor storage chest.

The KIS storage system is very affordable and is the perfect solution in the garage, on the verandah, around the pool, in the spare room or in the workplace.

As a KIS introductory special, Clark Rubber is offering the “Scuba” waterproof box for only $70. The 110 litre box is waterproof, lockable, light weight and very durable. Perfect for tools, instruments, camera gear, sports equipment etc.

We have pension concessions every day of the week, and a great kiddies’ corner to keep those little ones entertained during those long appointments.

Also offered is the Titan storage chest for only $99. The Titan chest is lightweight, lockable and water resistant and is ideal for storing toys, shoes, pool equipment, outdoor cushions, tools, etc.

See you in the salon soon, Robina.

Visit Clark Rubber this month and take advantage of the introductory prices on KIS storage solutions.

Many people think of Coast2Country Real Estate as a specialist rural real estate agency. While this is still true, Coast2Country Real Estate is one of, if not the, leading authorities when it comes to selling your rural property.

However, Coast2Country Real Estate has been steadily growing their market share of the residential real estate market in the Coffs region.

AND, they have had some great success! Over the last year and a half, under the leadership of principal Peter Creenaune, Coast2Country Real Estate has sold dozens of residential properties ranging in price from $275,000 to $1,280,000.

We have a great team dedicated to first class service. We talk in a language that makes everything easy to understand, and we take the mystery out of selling property to make your real estate sale or purchase as smooth and as stress free as possible.

If you are considering selling your home and would like to talk to someone who speaks your language, call Coast2Country Real Estate, even if it is just for a second opinion.

No obligation, no pressure, all we ask is for a chance to compete for your business and to have the opportunity to show you who we are and what we are capable of.

I will put my team and their service and dedication up against any other agency in Coffs Harbour. Please consider Coast2Country Real Estate to look after you for your next real estate transaction.

Peter Creenaune, Principal, Coast2Country Real Estate.

coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

COURTNEY Hancock is a woman with racing in her blood. Having won three Australian Ironwoman Championships and the gruelling Coolangatta Gold, she understands precisely the dedication, focus, courage and sheer skill that elite sporting success demands.

courtney Hancock

COATES HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA Courtney Hancock is a woman with racing in her blood. Having won three Australian Ironwoman Championships and the gruelling Coolangatta Gold, she understands precisely the dedication, focus, courage and sheer skill that elite sporting success demands.

A

nd as the proud product of a Sawtell upbringing, who better to be appointed the inaugural Ambassador of the Coffs Coast’s own mega-sport event, Coates Hire Rally Australia and the FIA World Rally Championship?

The rally organisers asked Courtney to take on the role because they believed she was a perfect person to spruik the attractions of both a world championship event and its host region.

“Courtney is an inspirational sportswoman whose achievements in her sport have much in common with her World Rally counterparts.

She has a high profile and we believe she’ll be able to interpret the story of our event for those who don’t know much about rally but who we want to attract to the Coffs Coast on September 11 to 13,” says Rally Australia Chairman Ben Rainsford.

“And having grown up locally, even though she now trains on the Gold Coast, she can also help us highlight the tourism attractions of this region. This, after all, is the reason 22 coffs coast focus.

Rally Australia received State Government support to come to the Coast – to take advantage of the matchless global media promotion that the World Rally Championship delivers.

“This event is also And having , about the memories grown up locally w launch at the rally’s Opal no our visitors take e sh even though d ol Cove Resort headquarters home. Courtney is G e th trains on so al n ca a genuine downe in June, her first chance to sh Co ast, e th ht lig gh hi to-earth Golden Girl us meet some of Australia’s help ns of who personifies the tourism attractio top drivers and see their this region .” lifestyle of this part of cars. the world, so to have “I’m so excited to be her as part of our team representing the biggest at various social functions, sporting event that has ever come on the start and finish podiums to my home region and having the and joining the WRC drivers in pre-event opportunity to help showcase the Coffs Coast, media promotions will naturally make an the rally and my own sport of ironwoman impression.” racing to the WRC’s huge global following,” Courtney is on a fast track to learn about the she said, after taking to the stage not in event and a sport that previously was unknown her usual lycra swimmers but in her own to her. personalised race suit.

She was officially introduced at an event “This is one of the most beautiful parts of

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Australia and now with Rally Australia, it’s also one of the most exciting.

“I personally can’t wait for all the stars and cars and their supporters and the international media to arrive here in September - and hopefully even to get a ride in a rally car. It’s going to be exciting.”

The ride is coming sooner than that, planned for this month as she helps introduce the event to some key national media representatives.

And most likely she’ll be taking extra notice of the one person she might regard as her rally counterpart, Sydney-based international driver Molly Taylor.

Molly has similar sporting credentials - she’s won the European Ladies Rally Championship and, twice, the British Ladies Championship

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proFile

Coates Hire Rally Australia

SOME OF THE FASTEST DRIVERS ON THE PLANET RETURN TO THE COFFS COAST FOR COATES HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA ON 10 - 13 SEPTEMBER.

Courtney was raised ree alongside her th and ll te w Sa in sisters er at her love of the w e sh began when rs joined the Nippe ” e. fiv at age

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and is the world’s topranked female rally driver. She too knows what it’s like to not only train hard but also to develop the business skills to sustain her sporting life.

They’re a similar age - Courtney 26, Molly 27.

Says Courtney: “I recently met Molly, an Australian who is one of the world’s fastest female rally drivers. While the physical challenges are different, I can see a competitor like Molly also needs high levels of fitness and stamina and the ability to maintain calm but intense focus.”

Courtney was raised alongside her three sisters in Sawtell, and her love of the water began when she joined the Nippers at age five. She nurtured a dream that one day she wanted to be a professional Ironwoman like her idol, Karla Gilbert.

She’s certainly fulfilled the dream. She won multiple Ironwoman titles in the

cadet ranks at the Australian Championships and then other individual World and Australian Titles in open competition.

But by far and away the highlight of her sporting career has been winning Australian and Professional Ironwoman Series titles in 2011, 2013 and 2014.

And when Courtney also won the Coolangatta Gold in 2011 she became the first person to win the triple crown of elite events within the same calendar year.

Ironwoman Courtney Hancock’s induction to the world of rallying is almost complete. The personalised race suit, the rally car ride and a custom Coates Hire Rally Australia surfboard which will be part of the prize pool - have all been ticked off.

The final step will be taken on 11 - 13 September, when she joins thousands of fans to watch the fastest drivers in the world in action right here on the Coffs Coast.

COATES HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA • FIA World Rally Championship (Rd 10 of 13) • 10 -13 September 2015 • Coffs Coast, NSW • Tickets: Adult from $53 per day, 3-Day Super Pass $184, NRMAtix

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he 24th Rally Australia will be Round 10 of the FIA World Rally Championship, bringing a big contingent of drivers, teams, media, supporters and spectators from around world.

The three-day rally demands extreme skill, endurance and bravery of crews and gives spectators a thrilling up-close experience far more visceral than circuit-based racing. The WRC is regarded as the most challenging series in international motorsport.

Millions of daily television viewers in more than 140 countries will track stars such as dual World Champion Sebastien Ogier of France, Brit Kris Meeke, New Zealand’s Hayden Paddon and Ott Tanak of Estonia as they tackle more than 300 kms of competition stages to the north, south and west of the Coffs Harbour service headquarters.

Top Australian competitors also take part, with contenders including the world’s leading female rally driver, 27-year-old Molly Taylor of Sydney, and current Australian Champion Scott Pedder, who is contesting the WRC2 category in Europe and at home.

The Coffs Coast rally stages are some of the most beautiful and spectacular on the 13-country WRC circuit, a bonus for fans combining a holiday with their favourite sport.

Spectators can see the stars and cars up-close from the Special Stage dedicated daily viewing points, at the city Service Park and at the official start and finish ceremonies.

A revised route for 2015 takes in more of the Nambucca region and gives spectators a chance to see the cars as they pause at one of the most iconic locations on the Australian map, the Pub with No Beer at Taylors Arm. There’s also a night stage at Valla early on Saturday evening to give fans a rare experience of traditional rally action.

The finale will be on the Wedding Bells stage in Bucca State Forest, a short drive north of Coffs Harbour. A large spectator point here with all facilities will provide a great view of cars as they tackle the WRC Power Stage, which not only can decide the rally result at the last moment, but also is televised live around the world directly from the forest.

Rally spectating is an exciting and easy experience for everyone and you don’t need to be a knowledgeable enthusiast to have fun.

Most all it’s spectacular and up-close, so take your camera.

Or to get even closer to the action, join the corps of around 1,500 volunteer officials who are essential to the staging of one of NSW’s most prestigious international events.

Sign up at www.rallyaustralia.com.au/ officials.

Tickets are on sale at NRMAtix via www.rallyaustralia.com.au. www.rallyaustralia.com.au www.facebook.com/rallyaustralia www.twitter.com/rallyaustralia www.wrc.com.au www.wrcplus.com

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Website: www.rallyaustralia.com.au Official Ceremonial Start and Rally Show: Thursday 10 September (4.30pm), Coffs Harbour CBD, Harbour Drive Official Podium Finish: Sunday 13 September (3pm), Coffs Harbour CBD, Harbour Drive

coffs coast focus.

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When I really stop and think y about it, I find m me co s ile greatest sm y an m e os from th ents little simple mom at th , along the way ten are easily forgot o few to ly ab ob and pr ...” and far between

“ FS HARBOUR OF COF

RICK FISCHER G.J. GARDNER HOMES

What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast?

The thing I love most about living on the Coffs Coast is the people who live here: if you’re not related to them, you generally know them through the kids’ school, sport, work or social activities. I have a young, sporting family, and we come across so many different people all the time. Everyone we meet has a great outlook on life and a really positive attitude.

“

Being part of the building industry, we are also actively involved in working with a wide range of families living on and moving to the Coffs Coast every day. We see many people move from Sydney, Melbourne and South Australia.”

These people are moving to the Coffs Coast for the same reason we live here - there is so much opportunity for a growing family and we have a great lifestyle, with the beautiful beaches and not too far to go up the mountain to the occasional snowfalls.

There are so many opportunities for my family to create a comfortable, easygoing lifestyle on the Coffs Coast.

BEC WILLIAMS TARRARAY PET RETREAT

If there was one place in the world you could travel to, where would it be and why?

The place I would most like to visit would be Fiji. Being the owner of Tarraray Pet Retreat, out here in Bonville, a seven day a week business, a holiday for myself is something to dream about, and the one I dream of is one which involves total relaxation.

Fiji, warm and peaceful, no hustle and bustle - just the way I like it. Sounds to me like the perfect escape.

The genuine friendliness and hospitality of the Fijian people is said to be truly welcoming, and time after time our customers who have visited Fiji would tell us of their trip and I would have to say after hearing their tales, I’m all the more eager to go.

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Fiji, warm and peaceful , no hustle and way bustle - just the to ds un So it. e I lik ect rf pe e th e lik e m escape .”

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DARRIN NORTHEY ELEMENT BAR

What have been a couple of your standout moments in life?

Whilst I have a lot of those big personal life moments that always stick in my mind, like the birth of my three wonderful sons, my lovely partner, Christina, actually saying “yes” for the first time, or the first day we opened Element Bar and actually had customers walk in the door.

When I really stop and think about it, I find my greatest smiles come from those many little simple moments along the way, that are easily forgotten and probably too few and far between ... Like stopping to really listen to music that gives you goosebumps, or sitting on a rock watching the ocean and smelling the salt air, or a good uncontrollable belly laugh with my partner over something incredibly dumb, or of course, sitting back on a leather chesterfield lounge with a beer and my feet up watching Passenger play live at the Buddha Bar in Byron Bay!

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I entered my first competition in out 2003 and took 0 4, 20 first place in re si de y m feeding ” e. or m n to lear

“ SANDRA KELLY

ART N QUILTING STUDIO

What do you love most about living on the Coffs Coast?

The Coffs Coast is a relaxing and beautiful place to live, we moved to Coffs Harbour in 2003. I love to be creative, and Coffs Coast is lucky to have some very talented artists and textile artists. I enjoy sewing and painting, and I like to combine the two. I opened a longarm quilting business in Sandy Beach called Art N Quilting Studio, which allows me to be creative with quilting and help customers to finish their quilts. Coffs Harbour has some great quilt shops to buy beautiful fabrics to make my quilts.

“

Living on the Coffs Coast is inspirational, with friendly people and beautiful coastlines. I enjoy all aspects of Coffs Harbour, from the ocean to the hinterland.”

MINDY BELL

I love to walk up the headlands and watch the whales passing and dolphins playing in the surf.

@MINDYS

What has been your greatest achievement in life?

RIKKI M McMENEMY COFFS CENTRAL

What is your favourite quote and why?

My favourite quote I stand by everyday was one I picked up on my worldly travels when I was younger. It helpec me become who I am today, and reminded me life is to short to worry about the negatives and smile about the positives!

My greatest achievement in life was opening my own salon @Mindys in October 2013. Considering I wanted to be a mechanic, I was encouraged by my older sister into hairdressing at a young age. I never dreamt I'd complete my apprenticeship, let alone own my own salon. The moment I started working in this amazing industry, I was taken to Sydney for hair expo by my first boss. I saw Sharon Blain and many others perform on stage, and that was it for me. It was like someone flicked a switch. I was inspired, I was addicted and in love with hairdressing. I entered my first competition in 2003, and took out first place in 2004, feeding my desire to learn more. I loved my job then, but I love it more now. Guess I was just meant to be a hair mechanic!

“

Enjoy every single moment. The good, the bad, the beautiful, the ugly, the inspiring, the not so glamorous moments. And thank your loved ones you got through it all together.”

EJ

RADIO 2CS FM What has been your greatest achievement in life?

Wow what a soul searching question. I certainly don’t hold any records nor do I possess any Olympic medals. But, as I think it is for all of us, life is full of achievements. I have received three national radio awards which I am very proud of, but that’s not it.

As corny as it may sound, it would have to be my kids, Max and Sam. They are good little men, sure they don’t pick up after themselves, and they often forget to shut the door, but they are kind, considerate and show concern for others. Max and Sam are on the top of the list as far as achievements are concerned. I share this achievement of course with my wife Terri. (Actually the ratio is probably 60/40 her way).

OF COFFS HARBOUR

I certainly don’ t hold cords, nor re y an do I possess any s.

Olympic medal is for it k in th I as But, ll of fu all of us , life is .” ts achievemen

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H

QB Chartered Accountants has been in the game for 60 years now, tell us about the firm’s background.

HQB was established in 1955 and began trading as Allen C Hogbin Accountants and Auditors. In 1971, the firm became known as Hogbin, Tolhurst & Quinn to accommodate new partners and then later in 1978 as Hogbin, Quinn & Bentley coinciding with a move to the current premises in Park Avenue.

With 60 yea rs under our belt, we hold long association with many Coffs Coast businesses and organisations. From humble beginnings, a solid reputation was forged of excellence in accounting, professional and business services which today remains the firm’s cornerstone. Presently, HQB has wide spread operations with clients from Tasmania in the south to Cairns in far north Queensland and even overseas, effective use of cutting edge technology makes this possible.

Wow! You have definitely grown over the years.

Let us know a little bit more about HQB today?

We have grown immensely over the last 6 decades into a large local employer. We currently have a team base of 4 Partners, 4 Accountant Managers, 9 Accountants and 9 Administration with qualifications ranging from diplomas in business and admin through to CA and FCA. The firm’s strengths lie with our well qualified and trained professional staff who have been in practice for many years and we are constantly looking to expand our diverse team.

Our firm is proud of the service offered not only to our clients but its support to the community. We have been, and continue to be heavily involved in the community and local the Coffs Tri, Coffs Coast Cycle From humble cha r itable events Challenge, Chamber of Commerce beginnings, a and pride ourselves Golf Day and many more. on our community solid reputation was It sounds like you have engagement. forged of excellence a strong presence in the Speaking of in accounting, community. What helps drive your community professional and this continued support? involvement, business services which Throughout the year we hold what are some of today remains the various events where all our the events you have firm’s cornerstone. families get together. By catching supported recently? up out of our normal structured For the past three environment, we are able to get to know years we have been major each other together with our families on a sponsors of the Annual HQB more personal level. We also get involved in the Australia Day Fun Run, with all proceeds from this event going to our local Surf Life ride to work day annually and this year we have taken Saving Clubs to help fund beach patrolling duties. on other local businesses in the Global Corporate On a number of occasions we have entered teams Challenge (GCC) to encourage comradery internally into the Coffs Coast & Clarence CanDo Cancer Trust and healthy competition externally. The GCC is a Rottnest Channel Swim, all proceeds from this event program that works with businesses all over the go towards helping patients and families affected by world to improve the health and performance of their employees. We believe our involvement in all of these cancer in the North Coast Cancer Institute.

As well as the aforementioned, we have also been events and activities achieves a sense of community involved in the Coffs Harbour Running Festival which within our workplace which encourages us to come raises funds for local children’s charities including together and support not only one another, but the Life Education Australia, Coffs Coast Autism, community as a whole.

Camp Quality and the Early Childhood Intervention So what does the future hold for HQB? Program Coffs Harbour. Not to mention our other As we have already mentioned, we are continually community engagement activities varying from seeking to broaden our qualified team base. We

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ACCOUNTING • TA X ATION & GS T • GENERAL BUSINESS ADVICE ES TATE & SUCCESSION PL ANNING • AUDIT & ASSURANCE LIMITED RECOURSE BORROWING ARRANGEMENTS • SUPERANNUATION 26 coffs coast focus.

encourage on the job training by holding weekly training meetings and frequently attending webinars and seminars. This ensures our staff are kept up to date with relevant changes to the tax laws and HQB maintains the high level of expertise to remain competitive in our field.

We are constantly updating our technology and software which enhances the

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high quality services we provide to our clients.

As well as being community conscious, HQB is extremely mindful of our carbon footprint and we have turned our attention to becoming a more environmentally friendly workplace. We recently installed solar panels, we are progressively moving towards becoming a paperless office and we are currently refurbishing our website to improve our

electronic communication.

But it’s not all business, we plan to celebrate in style for our 60th anniversary.

Speaking of your 60th anniversary, what’s in the pipeline for your celebrations?

To mark our diamond anniversary we will be holding a black-tie cocktail party at Latitude 30 Restaurant and Bar on Saturday 31st October 2015. We extend our welcome to our associates, past and present, but we do advise numbers are limited so get in fast.

Our firm is proud of the service offered not only to our clients but its support to the community.”

Tel: (02) 6652 2333 Fax: (02) 6651 2958 Web: www.hqb.com.au 13-15 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. HQB Chartered Accountants is not a Financial Services Provider. Any financial product advice contained in this communication is of a actual basis only. Financial product advice can be obtained from an AFSL - such as HQB Financial Solutions Pty Ltd.

coffs coast focus.

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the Caffeine Central Beef Burger from caffeine central.

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

28 coffs coast focus.

plantation hotel

the hoey moey

It’s never too early to organise your Christmas party.

If you are looking to host a large formal function or a small intimate celebration, the Plantation Hotel can cater to you.

Our chefs have sourced impeccable ingredients, both local and exotic, to create the perfect blend of flavours, which is showcased through our extensive menu options.

For all function enquiries, call Jade Vassallo at the Plantation Hotel or email jade@plantationhotel.com.au

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 John Marshall.

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 take away, or stick with our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday. Our $7.50 FEED of LAMB CUTLETS is now being offered on both Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

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

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.

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

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

beachstone café

the pier hotel

Come down to Beachstone Café and take advantage of our scrumptious weekday special! With any regular size tea or coffee, you can get a yummy breakfast of bacon, eggs, toast and house made relish for only $12.50! Only available Tuesday through to Friday.

At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the “Cellar Lounge”. We welcome you to come down and feast your eyes on Coffs Harbour’s most historic hotel, with our new winter menu up and running and a warming wine list to chase it down with. Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, has sourced meats from around the region and boasts that we have the best steak in town. We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

Don’t forget about our free kids’ fun day from 10:30am every Friday with Mr Smiley and Friends, where your kiddies get to take part in activities and games for free while you relax with a coffee!

Be sure to secure your table for our “Hot Night in August” dinner on Friday 21/08/2015.

Places are fast filling up!

Owner Aileen Chen.

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

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Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg

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

Warm up with Creamy chicken and wild mushroom risotto with snowpeas, heirloom tomatoes, baby spinach and goats cheese crumble.

CAFFEINE CENTRAl café the hoey moey

horizons horizons restaurant restaurant && bar bar

Try Our Winter Celebrate withDinner Us! Menu Horizons Restaurant and in Bar at Opal Cove modern Australian June is Birthday Month Horizons!

If youResort dine infeatures Horizons on your actual cuisine with a creative menu, which has just changed for winter, taking full birthday, you will receive your main course free! Photo ID must be shown. advantage of the region’s freshest produce and seafood.

Be tempted with Try our Winter Dinner Menu chilli andupsalt friedand squid chorizo andatblack bean Restaurant and crispy noodle.

Warm thisflash Winter getwith out of the cold Horizons and Remember leaveResort room with for dessert, with the always popular banana and date Bar at OpaltoCove a creative menu.

Be tempted with the Chilli pudding butterscotch vanillaand bean ice-cream yum!OR Pork and saltwith flash fried squidsauce withand chorizo black bean -salad Join us for lunch! in THE OC LUNCH Sirloin wrapped prosciutto andDEAL sage with maple roasted fennel, Enjoy a glass oferhouse wine, domestic beergreen or softapple drink,and yourport mealwine and jus. roasted kipfl potatoes, caramelised espresso or tea at Horizons Restaurant & Barthe overlooking the pool and taking Remember to leave room for dessert with decedent Deconstructed and lime tart withare citrus candied orange, inlemon the coastal views.

Guests ablesyrup to dineand alfresco on the terraceyum! or in air conditioned comfort.

All for $23.50pp.

11:30am 2:30pm, 7 days.

Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5 - 6pm daily.

Bookings Preferred.

Clinton Hunter Hunter Clinton Chef.

Head Chef.

The weather is warming up, the days getting longer, so come Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at theare Hoey Moey with our newlyin for a Gusto Coffee or a Red Sparrow Tea. renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach Enjoy aCome wide range of fresh sandwiches and burgers, or garden, be creative access. and enjoy our wraps, beachside hotel with spacious beer and design your own. open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities.

The cheesecake avoursout change regularly: Come down andflcheck our new kitchenChai, and Tiramisu, a revamp classic of our offerings passionfruit, ultimate triple decker chocolate or dine kiwifruit lime, or to you. Try ourthe new gourmet pizzas, where you can in orand takeaway bright green in colour. stick with our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday. Watch this

All meals available as dinethings in or take away. space, with more exciting to come.

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

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Specsavers, Harbour City Square, Opposite Coffs Harbour 6652 04183833 665 620www.hoeymoey.com.au

OpalCove CoveResort, Resort,Opal OpalBoulevard, Boulevard,Coff CoffssHarbour Harbour Opal 66510510 0510 www.opalcove.com www.opalcove.com 6651

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

- Friday, 6:30am - 3pm.

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

Breakfast,lunch lunchand anddinner dinner--77days days Breakfast, week.Bookings Bookingsrecommended. recommended. aaweek.

plantation hotel

beachstone café

Winter has rolled in and so has our new winter menu! With the cooler nights upon us, there’s nothing better than rugging up and enjoying a wholesome hearty meal with the whole family. Treat your taste buds to a sensational winter menu that’ll keep you warm, and cosy, through those crisp days and evenings. Not only will we serve you well in the food department, we’ll also keep you snug with our fireplace that runs all through winter.

Why not grab a hot chocolate and a locally homemade dessert when you’re finished satisfying the senses. We would love to see you at the Plantation Bar & Grill.

Boasting a fresh and exciting new menu featuring unique and delicious meals, from our grilled polenta served with fresh asparagus, roast mushrooms, parmesan and poached egg to our variety of Turkish toasties, which are available all day! Come down today and try our new menu, which caters for both gluten free and vegetarians.

We also have a new week day special for $12.50, which gets you a regular coffee, tea or hot chocolate with bacon, eggs, toast and relish. It’s too good to pass up!

pasfields restaurant BAr deck

la hacienda 101

Enjoy Pasfields for a fine dining experience or casual meals.

Our first class food speaks for itself with our reviews.

Our ambience and setting is welcoming and stunning.

La Hacienda 101 is a true representation of the meaning of “Hacienda”, where locals (and tourists) come together to celebrate food, drink, and the joys of life with family and friends. Situated in Emerald Beach just 11minutes from Coffs, it is well worth the drive - with a menu that is so tempting, it gets you coming back just to try something else on it or indeed, the chef’s specials. Chefs Michael and David tempt you with amazing desserts that are simply hard to say no to. Open six days during winter, excluding school holidays.

Birthdays, reunions, engagements ... we can tailor make to your budget. Up to 300 guests. $12 13” dine in pizza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 - 8pm.

Christmas function bookings are now being taken, so book early to get your chosen date: admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

Head Chef Kim Robson.

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour.

675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au 6652 3855 www.plantationhotel.com.au Lunch: 12pm to 2:30. Dinner: 5:30 to 8:30, 7 days a week.

Owners Michael and David.

Owner Aileen Chen.

Chef John Marshall.

Tues - Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. (large functions anytime).

Owner Head Chef SteveRicketts.

Calder.

David

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

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

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focusinterview.

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the new highway.

Located at Emerald Beach with one of the best views on the coast, check the surf and watch the whales while you enjoy breakfast or lunch on the deck.

Inside it’s cosy at night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to be outside.

Our food is fresh, local, and prepared by award winning chefs.

Head Chef Dan Williams

Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert $10, and the menu changes every week.

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au Wednesday - Sunday for breakfast & lunch Thursday - Saturday for dinner.

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MICHAEL SMITH AND DAVID BLACK.

ell us about the cuisine you salt rimmed glass. specialise in ...

It took us three months to perfect. We also We try to capture the vast have a Tommy Margarita, which is smaller range in Mexican cuisine from and focuses on the type of Tequila added. the many different regions of Do you cater for parties?

Mexico. Whether it’s street food, We cater for parties and traditional home dishes or a family gatherings, either in Texmex favourite, we try structured meals or as to feature something antojithos (tapas). that you won’t Our fresh Do you have a s ta find anywhere in Margari h es fr of favourite dish on d Australia. are a blen , ila qu Te , es ic the menu? citrus ju What makes your

“

u, Agave ,

Crafty • Stone and Wood Pacific Ale •

On the chilled taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip sits this North Coast local...

Stone and Wood Pacific Ale. Inspired by its Byron Bay home, Pacific Ale is cloudy, golden and sits in an absolute class of its own. Its big fruity aroma and crisp, refreshing finish have seen it grow rapidly to one of the most popular crafties in Australia.

31 coffs coast focus.

Cointrea Favourite dish ... restaurant stand en and served ak sh mmmm, that’s hard. a out? e in with a slice of lim s.”

We stand out as Can’t decide between salt rimmed glas the dishes are very chicken flautas, fish fresh, and the mix of tacos or banana flautas. spices and moles all add There are so many to to the flavours found in choose from.

Mexican life - but here in Emerald What sort of atmosphere does Beach. Sure, we have some hot sauces your restaurant have? and dishes, but we are more about La Hacienda 101 is a quirky, vibrant yet flavours. We stand out, as everything is relaxed dining atmosphere. We are here for handmade - even our corn chips. a good time. Hacienda means homestead, Tell us about your fresh made and we have one of the oldest homesteads margaritas... in Emerald Beach, so it is like you walk into Our fresh Margaritas are a blend of fresh citrus juices, Tequila, Cointreau, Agave, shaken and served with a slice of lime in a

our home and we create a dining experience for you.

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B B Q

Ricki Brideoake loves a good BBQ. You could call him a fanatic, a meat nerd - just don’t call him late for dinner.

His style of cooking and approach to the cherished art is different to yours, guaranteed. With different styles, ingredients and a groundswell of interest in the BBQ movement in Australia, FOCUS caught up with Ricki to find out more.

Y

ou quit your a complex flavour profile with multiple engineering job to levels that really stand out. I want to make pursue a full-time the judges slap the table and scream, career in BBQ. Why? “Who’s your daddy!” all in one bite. When I had met some people I cater for people or cook for friends and on a training course that family, I use the similar flavours but tone had left their normal jobs to pursue their down the strength a little bit to be not so passions in life, and it really inspired me to overwhelming, allowing you to eat more of make a change. My interest in BBQ had it in one sitting. slowly been growing over the past six years The BBQ scene is growing in popularity and had turned into a full blown obsession, within Australia. Can you tell us a bit so I decided to take the plunge to chase my about it and why you think people are dreams. getting involved?

Now you’re not spending your time on There has been a big surge of late in the job site, how has BBQ taken over the American style “low and slow” BBQ your days? scene. It’s absolutely huge in America, and To say I eat, sleep and breathe BBQ now Australia seems to be following that trend would probably be an understatement.

- like it does with other American trends.

Every aspect of my daily life now has However, I think the thing that is really something to do with BBQ. I drawing more and more people will either be running BBQ into BBQ in Australia is the classes, selling BBQ friendly and welcoming st be e I think th be products, practicing culture. ri sc de way to is e or competing in Is there a typical yl st l al my over in s BBQ competitions ot BBQ aficionado? ro its s ‘It ha ey st yle ok sm or researching I really do think tic en th au with new BBQ ideas. I the typical BBQ goer American BBQ aditional also have regular is changing as it influences of tr all home cooking, meetings with Chris grows in popularity. an bundled up with Marks from America, At the latest BBQ event ” t’. is tw Australian who is an eight-time in Port Macquarie, there BBQ World Champion, was a really diverse crowd to ensure I am staying up to with a nice mix of guys and date with all the latest in the world girls from all different ages and of BBQ. backgrounds down there to have a good Explain what makes the way you time. approach BBQ different from what There are many different styles of BBQ most people do in their backyard on a e.g. smoking, slow cooking ... tell us a weekend ... bit about a few of these.

A lot of my cooking is competition There is the usual Australian style of style BBQ, which is quite different from BBQ using gas burners and cooking at the normal weekend cook up. At the relatively high temperatures. The other competitions there is a panel of judges popular Australian BBQ is spit roasting over who will most likely only have one or two gas or coals. The relatively unknown style bites of your food, so you need to have becoming more popular is the American

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32 coffs coast focus.

“low and slow” style of smoking.

In smoking, the Pitmaster will use different types of wood such as oak, ironbark, apple or hickory (American) to smoulder in the cooking chamber. This creates a “flavoured” smoke, which lands on the meat and is drawn inside it, imparting a wonderful flavour that truly has to be experienced to understand.

Describe your style of cooking BBQ ...

I think the best way to describe my overall style is: “It has its roots in authentic smokey style American BBQ with influences of traditional home cooking, all bundled up with an Australian twist”.

Are there any events on the Mid North Coast BBQ calendar?

Port Macquarie currently plays host to the largest BBQ festival in the Southern Hemisphere; the BBQ and Blues Festival is held on the 2nd April next year. There is also a competition coming up in Bangalow in August. I would love to organise a BBQ Festival in Coffs Harbour in the future, so watch this space and drop me a line if you would like to get onboard in organising one.

Where can people find out more about modern BBQ? The Australian BBQ alliance is a top place to start with; it has good educational material and a calendar of events. Besides that, there are also some forums on Facebook. And of course, you can always contact me to register for upcoming BBQ Boot Camps that I am running all across the Mid North Coast. Even if you would just like a chat to learn more about the wonderful world of BBQ, I love nothing more than talking about BBQ ... just ask my mates; I don’t shut up about it.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ bullybbqs Email: bullybbqs@gmail.com Thanks Ricki.

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G A N G

O F

YOUTHS

Rock Motorcycles

Sales Service Parts & Accessories Rider Equipment Finance

The Ultimate Riding Machine

AFTER PACKING OUT VENUES AROUND AUSTRALIA ON THEIR SOLD OUT NATIONAL TOUR, GANG OF YOUTHS ARE KICKING OFF AGAIN AROUND AUSTRALIA. FRONT MAN DAVE LE’AUPEPE TALKS LIFE AND MUSIC WITH FOCUS…

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hat are your earliest it’s uninhibited - a visceral connection to the memories of music, music ... I think there’s one thing to say to write and how did that honestly, but it’s entire other thing entirely to progress to where write with conviction - to write with gusto. And you are now?

I suppose in my formative years learning how Oh Jesus! Man ... to love music and learning how to love the art umm ... probably breast milk! I dunno - I vagueform, I was confronted with people who had ly remember my family taking me to church and conviction, who lived a long, crazy life and died seeing the drummer and being really infatuated broke, or kept pushing the boundaries. I think with the drums, but I think in terms of like a that was pretty important to me - to learn how formative memory, my sister used to scoop to do that with absolute, dire conviction. me up out of bed when we were After nailing a sold out nationwide little. I would’ve been around tour, you’re just about to kick 7 or 8, and we’d sit in front off again this time visiting a If I’m going to of the TV and watch Rage. lot of regional places this make art, if So, watching Rage really time, which is exciting for e I’m going to mak g to late on a Friday night us. What are you lookin anything , I’m go the ... my sister really loved ing forward to the most ith do it honestly w Madonna when she was about continuing on from t ar y he conviction of m a kid. I saw a lot on Rage that last tour? and my soul . ” that I learnt to appreciate Well, there will be some places later in life. I very, very visually I’ve never been before, so that’s remember the Born to Run video pretty cool. I think one of the

by Bruce Springsteen - the 1987 tour things I hated about touring previousvideo that he did. ly, is that I didn’t get to spend time in any The way you perform your lyrics is different new places. It was always the same quite emotionally poetic, with some thing - especially when you’re in this country deep topics covered throughout this album. but there’s an element of surprise waiting for What is it that drives you to write so honme, I suppose, and I’m pretty interested in that. estly and with such conviction?

I’m pretty excited.

There are enough cowards in the world to last Any words of wisdom to share with our us through to the 6th Millennium. If I’m going readers? to make art, if I’m going to make anything, I’m Don’t be a coward! going to do it honestly with the conviction of And lastly, where can we follow you guys? my heart and my soul. I can’t of do anything Facebook and instagram are the best way to half arsed, just as a general rule - I’m really bad follow us round. at it.

Thanks Dave.

And to express the fullness of what’s going on in my heart and in my head is kind of ... I supthe plug! pose ... my calling. There are others who aren’t See Gang of Youths on Saturday 15 Aug called to do that with their lives, but I suppose 2015, 7pm, at the Seaview Tavern, 51 it’s just what I find myself really enjoying. And River Street, Woolgoolga.

I like the tension, I like drama, I like the banter,

“

I like the dialogue and exchange with artists, and consuming that happens when there’s full disclosure. When there are no limitations, when

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coffs coast focus.

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CLARK RUBBER W I T H

B R E T T

G O O D F E L L O W

CLARK RUBBER HAS EVOLVED IN THE AUSTRALIAN RETAIL LANDSCAPE OVER THE PAST 60 YEARS. CLARK RUBBER STORES TODAY HAVE THREE MAJOR CATEGORIES: THE RUBBER EXPERTS, THE HOME OF FOAM, AND AUSTRALIA’S ONE STOP POOL SHOP.

Doubleshot R O C K

C O V E R

B A N D

AFTER NINE MONTHS ESTABLISHING THEMSELVES ON THE COFFS COAST MUSIC SCENE, IN DEMAND ROCK COVER BAND, DOUBLESHOT, HAVE THEIR SIGHTS SET ON MORE VENUES, WITH AN ENERGETIC, AUTHENTIC LIVE SHOW THAT IS SECOND TO NONE.

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his five-piece rock and blues band has performers Tony Harvey, Tony Ryan and Darren well over 100 years of combined live “Fuji” Oberleuter. With such talent and music, production and entertainment experience on hand, you can expect superindustry experience. While tight performances, three-part vocal each member has a wide variety harmonies, duelling guitar of influences, they all have solos, impromptu bluesy deep roots in Australian jams and relentless, hard Since their huge pub rock, hard rock, e th driving rock! at t debu and blues classics from er ob ct O in el DoubleShot’s focus Co ast Hot around the world. , D ou bleShot 14 20 is on entertaining the Since their huge have over 30 gigs d crowd, building energy, debut at the Coast eir belt an

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under th

the high quality sound and Hotel in October 2014, never fail to get ” g! in ov m s DoubleShot have over er lighting, and keeping punt 30 gigs under their belt patrons on the dance and never fail to get the floor ALL NIGHT. They can punters moving! The schedule expertly deliver up to four sets leading up to Christmas is already packed with anthems from AC/DC, filling up, with more than 20 bookings in Powderfinger, The Living End, Australian the calendar and more to come.

Crawl, Grinspoon, Hunters & Collectors, Cold A line up change after New Year’s Eve Chisel, The Screaming Jets, Gary Moore, Paul 2014 has seen the band settle in with some Kelly and many more! familiar and talented faces on the Coffs To book DoubleShot for your venue or Coast music scene. Joining original vocalist Peter Creenaune and bass player Tommy Wainwright are seasoned Coffs Coast rock

34 coffs coast focus.

function, visit www.doubleshotofrock.com.au or www.facebook.com/doubleshotofrock

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best foam for a customer’s needs. veryone knows that Clark Rubber is an iconic Australian trading name, Why does a retailer called “Clark Rubber” but what do you actually specialise include a full swimming pool shop under its in? banner?

Clark Rubber has evolved in the Australian Clark Rubber developed the above-ground retail landscape over the past 60 years. swimming pool in Australia in the 1950s.

Clark Rubber stores today have three major Clark Rubber was, and still is, the major categories: The Rubber experts, the Home of retailer of modular and portable swimming Foam, and Australia’s One Stop Pool Shop. pools in Australia. We now boast a full and The name says Clark Rubber. What rubber comprehensive pool shop, including free water products do you sell? analysis, chemicals, pumps, filters, heaters, We sell strip and sheet rubber, mats and chlorinators, cleaners, covers, accessories, matting, anti-slip rubber for ramps and work and a dedicated on-site pool service areas, rubber profiles for seals to doors, operation for cleaning and repairs to pools, cars, trucks, marine, caravans etc, or installation of new equipment. self-adhesive sponge rubber Rubber, foam and pools strips, ute and van matting, - that’s quite a diverse flooring for horse floats Clark Ru bber range. Does Clark and livestock vehicles, developed the Rubber sell anything imming pond-liners, a huge above-ground sw the else that may surprise in range of plugs, pool in Australia , as w people? bber grommets, chair tips, 19 50s. Clark Ru or aj We sell a lot of m e th , is ill and st crutch and walking ar an d ul od outdoor and marine m of r ile ta re stick tips, bungs ... the ols le swimming po carpets for verandahs, ab rt po list goes on… outdoor rooms, boats, in Australia .”

And “Home of Foam”. decks, and pontoons. Also, What does that mean? we specialise in artificial grass Clark Rubber is the largest surfacing. We stock and sell various specialised foam retailer in grades for a variety of purposes: from Australia. We cut foam rubber to customer surfacing patios and verandahs, outdoor play specifications. We stock a large range of quality areas, backyards, to golfing and bowls areas. foam grades that we cut to size while the We even offer an installation service for those customer waits. For example: new foam for who prefer not to DIY. your favourite sofa or chair, foam for a day-bed Also, we sell a large range of storage boxes, or window seat, new foam for caravan or boat cabinets and enclosures - all in light weight seats, custom cut mattress foam. One thing we resin, rustproof, good-looking and durable. are proud of is that all our foam is Australian We have just introduced innerspring made and of the highest quality. mattresses to our extensive foam mattress You’ve mentioned foam grades. What does category.

Clark Rubber are now exclusive that mean? national stockists of the “Sleepmaker” brand.

Foam can be manufactured in various Quality mattresses, at a very keen price, and densities for many purposes. We stock and sell they are Australian made. All mattresses, all memory foam, air filter foam, closed cell foam, sizes in store ready for a test rest today.

Enduro foam, acoustic foam, latex foam rubber, Thanks Brett. etc. All our staff are trained to advise on the

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Legacy inaugural gala ball SATURDAY 15TH AUGUST 2015 AT AANUKA BEACH RESORT

NAVIGATING

AT L E GAC Y, O U R V I S I O N TO DAY I S T H E SA M E A S I T WA S W H E N W E F O R M E D BAC K I N 1923: T H AT N O D E P E N DA N T O F A N AU ST R A L I A N D E F E N C E F O RC E M E M B E R S U F F E R S F I NA N C I A L O R S O C I A L D I SA DVA N TAG E A S A R E S U LT O F T H E D E AT H O R I N CA PAC I T Y O F A FA M I LY M E M B E R .

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offs Coast Legacy cares for over will see our Legacy merchandise stalls at all 570 dependants of Ex-service major shopping centres and other community Personnel locally. venues across the Coffs Coast.

Legacy’s ongoing support is Please support Coffs Coast Legacy in any funded through Legacy Week way you can and help us continue to support and other activities during the year. With very our local families. limited Government assistance, Legacy is very Legacy Ball dependent on public support.

Coffs Coast Legacy is striving to become Coming up is Legacy Badge Week, even more involved with our community. We 31 August to 6 September. aim to achieve this through the Legacy Week is our annual development of beneficial fundraising appeal to and lasting partnerships raise awareness and with other Coffs funds for the families Coast businesses at th nt of our incapacitated and organisations. ce y Ever e th om fr e and deceased Informing our is we ra e th on s ay st Veterans. It is also community of st Coffs Coa fit s ne be d an st known for its what Coffs Coast oa Coffs C for d an ity un m Badge Day and Legacy is and more m our co are e w e, on al the iconic badges ct importantly, what fa that ” d. ou pr y el offered as a token we do, is a major em extr of appreciation for focus for us in the the donation made by future. the public.

To assist our exposure in The funds Coffs Coast the lead up to Badge Week, Legacy raises from Legacy Coffs Coast Legacy is holding its Week helps us continue to assist our Inaugural Gala Ball at Aanuka Beach local widows, children and people with Resort on 15 August 2015. This date is disabilities with essential services such significant on our calendar, as it is Victory in as: counselling, special housing, medical, the Pacific Day, remembering in effect the day advocacy, social support and children’s World War II ended. education.

Our purpose and focus for this event is to Every cent that we raise from the Coffs connect with our local community members Coast stays on the Coffs Coast and benefits and businesses to create positive and our community and for that fact alone, we progressive partnerships for the future. are extremely proud.

The evening kicks off at 6pm with drinks Corporal Mark Donaldson VC, who is the and canapes on the Casay Deck, followed by Patron of Coffs Coast Legacy, was a Junior a two course dinner, entertainment, a charity Legatee. Mark grew up in Dorrigo and auction and an enjoyable night to be had by became a ward of the Dorrigo Legacy Chapter everyone. following the death of his father, a Vietnam Tickets are $120 per head; secure your Veteran. Mark has expressed his appreciation booking quickly for a fantastic evening, for the support on both an emotional and and in turn support your local community. financial level that Legacy has given his family.

1300 (Legacy) 534 229 Our Badge Day is Friday 4 September. You legacyball@coffslegacy.com.au.

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35 coffs coast focus.

YOUR WAY TO

Success The most common problem I see in the businesses and individuals that I work closely with is the lack of a plan about how they are going to succeed. This poor or non existent planning results in disjointed actions and poor results. Teams end up unhappy and disengaged, managers feel unfulfilled and poorly rewarded, and businesses often perform well below their potential.

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hilst this seems These four areas, whether individual or remarkable, three out of combined, are enough to inhibit a business’ or four organisations do not a team’s success. They are also relatively easy use a structured Strategic to fix.

Planning process. Add to The Critical Factor has access and this the fact that only 5% of employees can experience in a range a of programmes describe their employer’s business strategy designed to help organisations, teams and properly, and you begin to understand why individuals work through these challenges so many organisations are achieving and achieve remarkable results. less than they could. How can These programmes have seen our people deliver what we success in organisations need to succeed, when as diverse as Westpac, TH E CR IT IC AL they do not understand Australia Post and CE SS FACT OR HA S AC what it is?

Colliers International.

A CE IN AN D EX PE RI EN ES M This lack of We work closely M RA RA NG E OF PROG LP HE planning can be with organisations TO ED DE SI GN S, TE AM S ON TI SA NI addressed with the GA to create tailored OR AL S AN D IN DI VI DU right focus and programmes to H TH ES E W OR K TH RO UG E EV HI investment of time, fix specific issues AN D AC CH AL LE NG ES RE SU LT S. ” energy and expertise. and challenges they RE M AR KA BL E The key obstacles to may be facing. These success often include: programmes have proven A lack of clear direction or to be highly effective at vision. No tangible and measurable turning around organisational goals to work towards. performance in relatively short time frames.

The absence of a strong connection The use of team and individual coaching, between the individual and the organisation’s tangible and measurable goals that are then values. A lack of meaning and motivation to shared with the entire team regularly and joint work towards common goals. accountability for what goes right and what Missing skills or competence in areas that goes wrong helps to drive a different culture are needed to reach the goals set by a business within an organisation. or organisation.

For a complimentary, obligation free A lack of belief in the goals set by an discussion regarding how we may be able organisation or in an individual’s or team’s to assist you, please don’t hesitate to ability to reach those goals. contact us on 1300 727 817.

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EXPLORE THE JETTY

LOUNGE THE PIER HOTEL HAS OPENED UP ITS VERY OWN WINE BAR CALLED “THE CELLAR LOUNGE”, AND FOCUS IS VERY EXCITED ABOUT IT. OFFERING A GREAT RANGE OF WINE, BEER AND TAPAS FOOD, THE CELLAR LOUNGE IS CERTAINLY ONE OF COFFS HARBOUR’S LITTLE HIDDEN GEMS. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HOTEL MANAGER PAUL BASING TO FIND OUT MORE ...

We have made significant te a changes to crea sive en eh pr m co more ith menu along w of very engaging a team led s, ef ch nt compete Blake ef Ch d ea H r by ou ” Whittenberg ...

“ ocals have been going on about this new “Cellar Lounge" at the Pier ... Tell us about it.

We feel that we wanted to add something new and unique to the Pier Hotel - somewhere people can go to if they want a bit of privacy and to enjoy a meal and some beer and wine.

You could say we have a brought a bit of Melbourne to Coffs Harbour, which is what we were aiming for.

The Cellar Lounge sounds like a great place to chill out and have a few drinks…

What sort of atmosphere can we expect?

At this time of year you can expect a warm and cosy atmosphere; on those cold nights we have a fire warming the room up, to keep you nice and comfortable.

What’s on the beer and wine list?

I think the best way to find out what’s on the list is to come down and have a look; you can expect a truly international range, plus our iconic Australian beers on tap or packaged product. Our wine list comprises a very comprehensive range of most recognisable brands on the market, plus a variety of Australian and European wines.

At this time we have just partnered a new supplier of a very interesting range to choose 36 coffs coast focus.

from. Visitors to our Cellar Lounge should be very satisfied with what we have available.

Is food available in the Cellar Lounge? If so, what’s on the menu?

We currently have a tapas menu running, which is changed regularly.

Clearly, our direction is to have our menu interesting and flavoursome with constant change and very much driven by seasonal opportunities.

What makes it different to other bars around Coffs?

I think it’s different ‘cause we have mixed old with new, keeping the uniqueness of the Pier Hotel history from the exposed brick and recycling of all hardwood, which was once hidden behind some of the existing walls in the old bottle shop. All tradesmen involved in the renovations were locals who took a strong personal interest in the project, allowing for the best of finishes to be achieved. It’s very visible and already receiving very positive appraisals.

What type of functions do you cater for?

We cater for many different functions. We have held “Jetty Club functions”, the Beef

and Burgundy Club, birthdays and also private work parties. During the Melbourne cup spring carnival, functions will be available for Melbourne Cup Day and also ladies day, “the Victorian Oaks”, on the Thursday after the Cup. Both of these days are very much ladies days, and the Cellar Lounge will be a perfect venue to enjoy the excitement of one of the world’s great racing carnivals; be sure to book early though, if interested.

Our terrace bar is a lot bigger and used for larger functions, so we can cater for small and large. We have held a number of wedding receptions in the terrace bar, with many compliments on the room.

Waves Bistro in the pub itself has had a bit of a facelift as well. Tell us what’s new about your winter menu.

We have made significant changes to create a more comprehensive menu, along with engaging a team of very competent chefs, led by our Head Chef Blake Whittenberg.

We have food in all price ranges, and we are

still running our $10 meals from Monday to Sunday, which is extremely popular to many business people who have limited time but want a quick, quality and wholesome meal.

With our new menu we have implemented a steak menu, which is going really well. Not to mention our specials board, which is changed daily from entrees, mains and desserts.

What entertainment can we expect in August?

We have a lot coming up in August, starting off with our yearly charity event, the Coffs Harbour Gold Cup Calcutta drawn on Wednesday 5th August at 8pm; this event is the second largest Calcutta in NSW behind Wagga, and it is a must to attend.

The following day is the running of the Coffs Cup on Thursday 6th August, with Top Shelf playing live and loud. Following we have Owen Shannon, 4 way street, Thorazoo, Band from Planet X, Mark Bergin, Magic Mojo and Craig Stewart playing throughout August.

I did save the best ‘til last, and that is Wayne Donnelly, a Hypnotist who will be here on Friday 21st. Tickets are selling quickly and for only $15, you’re guaranteed a great laugh and a good night. Hope to see you here in August.

Thanks Paul.

EXPLORE THE JETTY

Jetty theatre Upcoming shows

LSA Accountants Design Studio 22

At LSA Accountants you receive a one-on-one, face-to-face service offering professional, cost effective accounting with a personal touch.

Kate and Jayne - design studio 22 As the design studio 22 interior design team, can you please explain what you do?

Our roles are very diverse, as style and design are reflected in all areas of our lives. Put simply, we design and collaborate on projects for you, your home and your business, from small two hour makeovers to large commercial projects.

You say that “style and design are reflected in all areas of our lives”; what do you mean by this?

Our senses react to our environment, and how you design, colour and decorate a space can instantly elevate your mood, making you happy, energised, relaxed, reflective; it’s that powerful. We’ve all experienced certain feelings when we walk into a room, and creating spaces that evoke those feelings is what we specialise in.

Do you only design interiors?

We also create amazing textures, finishes and colours for exteriors of buildings and interesting, vibrant outdoor spaces.

Defined areas need to flow and connect with each other, exterior to interior and one room to the next. As skilled, experienced designers, we can often achieve this very simply and economically. Please call Kate or Jayne on (02) 6651 4104 to make a time to chat about your next project.

LSA Accountants is your “one-stop-shop” for • Taxation Services • Accounting & BAS Services • SMSF Specialists • Business Valuations • Business Advice & Planning • Wealth & Retirement Planning • Finance Broking - Commercial & Residential Loans • Personal Insurance & Advice LSA Accountants provide smarter accounting for your business to partner you to success through • Our professional expertise and experience • Design and setup business structures • Planning and budgeting assistance • Cashflow projections and analysis to manage your business

Dance, film, music and theatre are coming to the Jetty Theatre this month … bringing world-class talent and stories from all over the world. Enjoy!

Melbourne Ballet Company Workshops - Friday 31 July and Saturday 1 August An opportunity for young and inspired dancers to experience a workshop with the Melbourne Ballet Company. Divided into three age groups, numbers are strictly limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Melbourne Ballet Company Divenire - Saturday 1 August Experience the beauty, precision and passion of world-class contemporary ballet, as Melbourne Ballet Company brings the stunning programme, Divenire, to town.

Short Sharp Film Festival - Saturday 15 August Now in its ninth year, the Short Sharp Film Festival is a key event on the Coffs Coast’s calendar. The Festival encourages movie making across all genres and from all around the world.

Christine Anu - Saturday 22 August 2015 sees Christine Anu celebrating the 20th anniversary of her ARIA Award winning album, Stylin’ Up, with a national tour that includes hit songs Island Home, Party, Monkey and the Turtle, and Wanem Time.

As Accredited Practising Public Accountants (MIPA), Registered Tax Agents and Accredited Finance Brokers (FBAA), we offer a combination of qualifications and expertise, as well as real world experience to better assist our clients.

Shoe-Horn Sonata - Friday 28 August - Sunday 6 September Thousands of women and children, including Australian Army Nurses, were imprisoned in Japanese camps throughout South East Asia in WWII. Shoe-Horn Sonata tells their story and how they survived.

Our team members at LSA Accountants are Lynda Soderlund (centre), Simran Gill (left) and Sarah Spagnolo.

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

EXCLUSIVE WORKSHOPS

NATIONAL DESIGN AWARD WINNERS

a r c h i t e c t u r e

+

i n t e r i o r

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Young and inspired dancers can experience a workshop with the Melbourne Ballet Company. Limited places.

l a n d s c a p e

Friday 31 July & Saturday 1 August

COLOUR CONSULTING COMMERCIAL DESIGN PRE SALE DECLUTTERING DOWN SIZING EXTERIOR DESIGN

DIVENIRE

Following their sell-out 2014 visit to the Jetty Theatre, MBC is back with a dynamic new program, ‘Divenire’.

Saturday 1 August • 2pm & 8pm

INTERIOR DESIGN

SHORT SHARP FILM FESTIVAL

PROPERTY STYLING SOFT FURNISHINGS

Short Films from around the world – across all genres.

STORAGE DESIGN

Saturday 15 August • 7pm

TILE LAYOUTS LIGHTING SELECTIONS SHOP + STYLE CUSTOMISED PACKAGES PICK + POINT ELECTRICAL LAYOUTS

The Harbour Agency presents…

CHRISTINE ANU 2015 sees Christine Anu celebrate the 20th anniversary of her ARIA Award winning album, ‘Stylin’ Up’.

Saturday 22 August • 8pm

Bootlace Productions present…

DOCUMENTATION + SPECIFICATION

THE SHOE-HORN SONATA

Stories of survival from WWII – Directed by Sue Dickinson.

Friday 28 August – Sunday 6 September

NEW+RENOVATION | HOMES+COMMERCIAL KEEP CALM AND ENGAGE AN

INTERIOR DESIGNER

coffs harbour | brisbane 1/16 edgar street, coffs harbour t. 02 6651 4104 | 1300 657 662

designstudio22.com.au

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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For over forty five years, Dolphin Marine Magic has been dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation andrelease of marine wildlife. Over this time the parkhas been responsible for saving the lives ofthousands of rescued animals.

dolphin magic

Decades of

caring DOLPHIN MARINE MAGIC LIFE SCIENCES MANAGER AARON TOLLEY

For over forty five years, Dolphin Marine Magic has been dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine wildlife. Over this time, the park has been responsible for saving the lives of thousands of rescued animals.

ell us about the dolphin named “Lonely” that you recently rescued and released?

Local residents first alerted Dolphin Marine Magic (DMM) in late June to a pair of dolphins trapped in a tidal lagoon near Yamba. DMM worked with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service and the rescue organisation ORRCA to monitor the dolphins over the week, in the hope they would free themselves.

The older dolphin did eventually do this; however, it seems the younger dolphin was too scared to swim through the drain and out of the lagoon. On the last weekend in June, DMM worked with ORRCA and NPWS in a combined operation to rescue the young dolphin from the lagoon, transport the dolphin to nearby “Whiting Beach” at Yamba and to then release the dolphin back into the main channel of the Clarence River, where Lonely’s family would be living.

What is it like when you release an animal like this back into the wild?

It’s really an amazing feeling when you’re able to save an animal like this and give them a second chance at life. When we first released Lonely back into the water, she just 38 coffs coast focus.

floated there for a second without moving. and no matter the time of day or night, the Then I gave her a little push, and she just team is always on standby to save animals in took off, heading out into the main channel danger. where a pod of dolphins had been seen So Dolphin Marine Magic has a licence to earlier! As she left the bay, she did this one rescue these animals? big bow into the air, as if to say thank you, Yes - DMM has a licence from NPWS and all around us on the beach to rescue, rehabilitate and release everyone gave a massive all types of marine animals, cheer to see her go. It’s including the only licence the moments like that in NSW to rehabilitate which make you feel cetaceans (dolphins and It’s really really lucky to be a an amazing whales) onsite at DMM u’re part of something so if required. DMM also feeling when yo amazing and special. able to save an has an exclusive MOU and Does DMM conduct animal like this (Memorandum of nd give them a se co rescues like this Understanding) with chance at life. ” often?

NPWS about DMM’s DMM generally responsibilities at rescues, rescues, rehabilitates or and DMM also works with releases over 100 animals organisations such as ORRCA each year, and these rescues and Dolphin Research Australia in can be anything from marine turtles these rescue situations. who have washed up on the shore How does all this rescue work get or seabirds have become entangled funded? Does DMM receive money from in fishing line, all the way through to the government for this service? emaciated seals or even dolphins and No, all the rescue work DMM provides whales stranded on the beach. The DMM to the community is funded entirely by rescue team has over 100 years’ combined DMM, without any government support. experience in animal rescue and rehabilitation In any given year DMM usually spends over

“

$100,000 on animal rescues.

To improve on the animal rescue and rehabilitation services that DMM provides, DMM recently partnered with the NPWS, NSW TAFE and a number of other organisations to found a charity named CHART (Coffs Harbour Animal Rescue Trust).

CHART aims to build a specialised triage hospital in Coffs for native and marine wildlife and will support research into wildlife health and disease.

Is there any other conservation work DMM does around the Coffs Coast other than rescues?

Yes, DMM supports a number of other conservation initiatives around Coffs, including our Seal The Loop programme, which is all about getting bins installed in popular fishing locations to collect fishing line and other waste.

DMM also operates an education programme for primary and secondary school students, which has a very strong focus on conservation and on the small changes the students can make in their lives to benefit the environment. All of these initiatives are part of the DMM philosophy Experience - Discover - Act. Thanks Aaron.

EXPLORE THE JETTY

GET R ESULTS THAT COUN T Marketing Advice & Planning

East Coast Cabinets East Coast Cabinets is a long established business which shifted into Lawson Crescent in the early 1980s.

Inspirations Paints Inspirations Paint is locally owned and has been a part of the Coffs Harbour community for the past 20 years.

Located next to Eastland Trade Supplies, Inspirations Paint is open to both trade and retail customers, stocking their favourite brands, including Dulux, Berger, Cabot’s and more.

Ben, Adrian and Luke are passionate about projects and can’t wait to get stuck into yours. Whether you’ve got a wallpaper project, or need to give some love to a neglected deck in time for the entertaining season, or you need to give your letterbox a fresh coat, no project is too big or too small.

And if colour selection is getting in the way of you kick-starting your next project - don’t worry - Leanne, our Dulux certified Colour Consultant, makes house calls! Or if you’re in the area, drop by the store for some help choosing your next colour scheme, as Leanne works in-store too. So next time you need paint, drop by Inspirations Paint for help with your next project.

It has been managed by Deb and Peter Farquhar since July 1984. They and their long term team of employees and families have been staunch supporters, wherever possible, of local businesses and the community, contributing towards the area’s growth and economy as much as possible.

They remain the only cabinetmaking business in the area to hold a NSW State HIA Top Homes Award for Kitchens and through their association with local builders, have supplied cabinetwork to many other award winning projects.

Kitchens, vanities, robes and associated cabinetwork are not their only areas of activity. They are also widely recognised for their commercial fit-outs in shops and offices etc. both locally and in the northern region of the state.

Although the last 30 years have seen many changes in the industry, this business continues to operate under one roof, endeavouring to keep your money in the local area.

The advent of the large Bunnings and Masters stores throughout the rural areas puts the squeeze on all facets of small business. However, with the assistance of price and quality conscious customers, everyone should be able to retain their niche.

From marketing plans and projects that you need us to manage for you to general advice on what to do with your marketing – we’re the experts you can trust.

Website Design

We design fresh, modern and mobile-friendly websites to suit your customers and business needs.

We’re more than just web designers, we’re marketers.

Graphic Design & Logos Looking for a brand refresh, advertising creative or logo design for a new business?

Our creatives produce designs that get you results.

Contact Sam or Yvette

FOR A FREE 30 MINUTE CONSULT TODAY Call us on: 9188 5013 cornerpostconsulting.com.au

CornerPost Coffs Harbour 175 Orlando St Ph: 6652 4952

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C ONSULTIN

InspirationsPaint.com.au coffs coast focus.

39

focusbusiness with Melanie from MJ Accountants

TINY STEPS AND BIG DECISIONS Lea and Tim Allen own and manage The Butcher’s Bullevard in Coffs Central and Butcher’s Boutique in Sawtell, while simultaneously raising their two daughters. To say life is hectic would be an understatement.

When Lea and Tim applied for one of MJ Accountants’ Business Excellence Scholarships, they were looking for a better way to juggle their many priorities and move the business forward.

I caught up with Lea after four coaching sessions with our accountant Steve Oakley to see how things are going.

Mel: Has having a coach helped you to deal with the frantic pace?

Lea: Yes. I’ve really struggled with having so much to do. Sometimes I look at things I know I should be doing and just think, “Oh my goodness. I can’t do that.” With Steve we look at what we want to achieve and then break the job down into tiny little steps that seem manageable.

Mel: What do you mean by tiny steps?

Lea: Well for example, one of our goals is to install a new counter in Butcher’s Boutique.

We’ve broken that down to steps like “Spend two hours investigating available counters” and “Compare the strengths and weaknesses of the top five counters.” I’ve realised that I don’t have to finish the whole job today! And there’s a plan - so once I’ve finished a task, I know exactly what I need to do next.

It’s a great tool for the everyday running of our business, and I’ve used it now on other things.

Mel: Has coaching offered you any other useful tools and advice?

Lea: Absolutely. We’ve been able to look at

40 coffs coast focus.

our business against industry benchmarks. We thought we were doing pretty well, but the benchmarks showed us we really needed to raise our prices to keep pace with the industry.

And Steve helped us prepare financial projections. All of a sudden, we can see our weak and strong periods, which helps us make better plans. So if we know that the next two months are likely to be quiet months, we can try to arrange for staff to take holidays and hold off on major expenses.

Mel: Those are great decision-making tools.

What’s been the biggest decision you’ve made with your coach?

Lea: We decided to sell the business.

Mel: Wow! How did you make that decision?

Lea: We had already been thinking about selling Butcher’s Bullevard. We discussed the idea with Steve, pulled together some numbers and realised that selling the two shops together would be a stronger offering. In our next meetings with Steve we will be working out what needs to be done to get the shops ready for sale.

Mel: That’s exciting. With your busy life have you found that having a coach makes things easier?

Lea: His knowledge is amazing. We’ve just learned so much. And it’s been like having another person driving our business. We get caught up in the day-to-day and miss stuff.

Steve pulls us back, so things keep moving forward.

MJ Accountants is here to help our clients grow and thrive. If you need help taking tiny steps or making big decisions, give us a call today.

EXPLORE THE JETTY

Local Beauty Queens Join forces Elke Smithers from Soul Divine Beauty Therapy.

I'm a fully qualified beauty therapist. Becoming a beauty theraptist was my childhood vision. I am now following my dreams and intuition into the future, now working for myself and providing exceptional personal beauty treatments for my clients.

Jetty Holistic health It’s been nearly a year! How is business for you on the Jetty Strip?

Firstly, a great big thank you to the Jetty and wider community for welcoming and supporting our holistic health clinic. We are absolutely loving it down here! No health issue is too big or too small for us to tackle.

Whether you are just looking for symptomatic relief from a runny nose, are always tired or are battling a major illness, feel free to come in for chat to see how we can help you.

Sounds great! What services do you guys offer?

Steffi: We currently have five massage therapists available offering remedial, hot stone, sports and relaxing massages. They all get amazing feedback! Cate and myself

are the naturopaths specialising in fertility/ hormone issues as well as detoxification and wellness/healthy ageing. You can get on the spot neck and shoulder massages for $15 and warming foot treatments for $25 without an appointment.

What do you love most about what you do?

When patients come in to show off their new baby that we’ve helped to “make” ha ha! Also, seeing the fantastic health results from our easy to follow treatment plans like lowered blood pressure and cholesterol, reductions in fatty liver and increased vitality and mood in general. Patients are always amazed how much their quality of life improves alongside their health.

I'm very passionate about making people look and feel good. I focus on my clients’ individual needs and cater for their specific requirements for each treatment. And that's where I come into it; I offer excellent customer service and make sure my clients come first. “Beauty therapy is more than beauty; it’s therapy”. I offer everything beauty, including massage, facials, peels, waxing for him and her, tinting, manicures, pedicures shellac nail art, eyelash extensions and mobile spray tanning. Visit my page for more information and great opening specials: www.facebook.com/ soul-divine-beauty-therapy

whatever problem they have or simply improve nature, with either a soft and natural result or a more prominent one. Popular procedures I preform include: hair-stroke eyebrows, feathertouch eyebrows, eyelash enhancements, eyeliner top and bottom, lip line and blend,

Lee Smidt from Cosmetic Artistry by Lee

old tattoo color corrections, scar camouflage,

I am a qualified advanced accredited Cosmetic and Paramedical Tattooist and Cosmetic Teeth Whitening Specialist.

micro-balding for men, skin needling and

I absolutely love my job; I have a strong passion for tattooing and pride myself on being a perfectionist.

are performed with pain relief, and I follow very

Young and elderly, men and women, everybody can benefit from cosmetic tattooing to solve

com/cosmeticartistrybylee or simply call to book a

areola reconstruction for women who have lost breasts through breast cancer. All procedures strict hygiene and sanitisation regulations. For more information, visit my page www.facebook. personal consultation.

coffs coast focus.

41

focuseditorial.

EXPLORE THE JETTY

COFFS

H AR BO U R

CENTENARY OF

LIVING DOLL’s Candice Murphy Introducing Living Doll Premier Stylist, Candice Murphy.

Candice has been with Living Doll for four years now, working alongside some of the greats, learning, growing and succeeding in becoming a well-known Premier Stylist in the Coffs Coast area.

Candice has a passion for all things hair and loves getting to know her clients and forming a special bond with them.

“I love having the opportunity to look after wonderful people and help them look and feel great! I can’t pick a favourite technique, because I equally love colour, cutting and styling and creating a personalised look from start to finish.”

Candice’s enthusiasm for her craft was evident when entering La Biosthetique International Beauty Stylists Awards competition, where her Wedding Collection was both beautiful and inspiring. If you would like to try someone new, but you are apprehensive, Candice’s kind and caring nature will surely make you feel comfortable. She really takes the time to listen and help you find the look that’s right for you.

XO Dolls.

ON THE 30TH AUGUST 1915, THE FIRST TRAIN ARRIVED AT COFFS HARBOUR. COFFS HARBOUR WAS THEN NO LONGER A SMALL ISOLATED COASTAL VILLAGE SEPARATED FROM MAJOR CITIES AND MARKETS BY EITHER A LONG AND UNCOMFORTABLE ROAD JOURNEY OR A DANGEROUS PASSAGE IN A SMALL COASTAL STEAMER. THIS WAS THE START OF COFFS HARBOUR’S INCREDIBLE GROWTH.

O

com.au/ ur group has a plan to not only We know that our event will be commemorate successful, as although the idea of the enormous combining all forms of transport contribution and together at the same time is new, transformation the successful visits by heritage transport in arrival of rail made to Coffs Harbour, but the past have always been popular and also to create a festival that will live on well supported. after our centenary year has passed.

Many locals will recall that the biggest The centenary crowd Coffs Harbour has ever celebrations will take seen was when the tall full advantage of ships visited our harbour Coffs Harbour’s in 1988 for the The work to be geographic bi-centennial year, r ou done to make gift in being and that tall ship a ns io at br centennial cele the only city visits continue to en th ill w t fantastic even r fo t on the east draw large crowds in pr ue bl e live on as th n as ow coast with a whenever they kn t en ev al an annu ATER W E railway station, visit us. Air shows TH N O E K SMO working have always been ” L. A IV ST FE harbour, road popular, proven network and by the great success airport in close of the last visit of the proximity, so that vintage Super Constellation airliner. Vintage cars, motorbikes interaction between the and trucks draw good crowds and different forms of transport is bring large numbers of exhibitors to our possible. city. In Coffs Harbour, steam and other The work to be done to make our heritage rail tours always sell out. centennial celebrations a fantastic event Our committee has already hosted will then live on as the blueprint for an tours by vintage rail motors, and annual event known as SMOKE ON THE over 4,000 people have enjoyed this WATER FESTIVAL. experience. We propose joining these Further information of our plans is on already proven crowd pullers together to our website: coffsharbourrailcentenary.

“

42 coffs coast focus.

create a transport themed event that has the potential to grow to be a very large festival.

We believe that our festival will grow to be something that will be unique to Coffs Harbour, because no other east coast destination has all the modes of transport in close proximity, and Coffs Harbour is already a popular destination and already has the tourism infrastructure to host an event like this.

Top this off with the beauty of what can be seen from the rail (five tunnels and four bridges twice in a one hour shuttle), sea (the Solitary Islands), road and air and base all this at our beautified foreshores, and we have a recipe for certain success.

Already confirmed are Lachlan Valley Railways steam train operating out of Coffs Harbour Railway Station, a model train, plane and car show at Coffs High School Hall, vintage farm machinery and steam engines at the Jetty Foreshores, the pirate ship Notorious, vintage and classic car show at the foreshores, an extended Harbourside Markets, Warbirds at Coffs Aero Club, including a Winjeel trainer and a Stearman Biplane.

For the kids there will be a treasure hunt at Jetty Beach and as we all know, if there are pirates then there must be buried treasure on the beach.

HEALTH with Lee Smidt

with Living Doll

AT THE RACES

Coffs Cup tips Happy and Hydrated: my number one tip for winter racing and beauty is keeping hydrated. If you’re healthy on the inside, you will glow on the outside.

I

f you are not a fan of water, try warm water with a squeeze of lemon or herbal teas. Just remember, staying hydrated helps prevent wrinkles and plumps up your lips.

Brows on fleek - eyebrow shaping and design is an essential beauty treatment that can dramatically transform your overall appearance. Don’t fall into the trap of making your brows too blocky or fake try a more refined look that will enhance your facial features and contours. Give your natural brows depth and definition.

If you don’t feel confident, see a brow specialist to help redesign your brows.

Flirty lashes - lashes can make a dramatic difference to your look by drawing attention to your eyes. If you choose stick on lashes, choose lashes that suit your eye shape and size. The bigger your eyes, the bolder the lashes you can get away with. For a faultless and safer option for glamorous cup lashes, treat yourself to some mink or silk lash extensions done by a qualified lash technician. They last around three weeks, and you can have them removed or filled in after this time.

Flawless fake tan - no matter what tanning solution you use, preparing the skin is extremely important. The night before tanning, remove all hair from required areas, and give your whole body a deep scrub to remove dead skin cells - especially dry areas such as elbows and knees. After the shower, lather your body with a rich moisturiser to help hydrate. On the day, apply tan to clean, product-free skin.

Whether you’re using a tinted moistening cream, gel, mousse, or professional spray tan, you must get your shade right. If you have a

fair skin tone and want to go dark, do a couple of applications of a light-to-medium shade, rather than buying a dark shade, or you’ll end up looking fake and orange.

Neat nails - just remember, ladies, everyone will see your nails wrapped around your champagne glass at the Cup. A fine lady should always have neat nails; if you’re not a fan of acrylic fake nails, get a nice gel or shellac colour applied the week of the cup to avoid showing off chipped, cracked old polish.

Your nails are a great place to go wild and be bold; think of them as an accessory. Try matching your fascinator or hat and shoes to your nails. For an on trend look, go for darker colours such as red and deep berry and for the more adventurous, try metallic polishes, crystal embellishments, lace or foil art.

Glamorous makeup - winter 2015 trends have moved back to more glamorous, luxurious, expensive looks. Remember the Coffs Gold Cup is a daytime event; try to avoid putting on too much makeup, as it will be very visible in the sunlight. Priming your face is extremely important to get a smooth, soft overall coverage under your foundation.

When choosing foundation, remember you may need a shade or two darker to match your tan. Use your brows and lashes to define your features and apply a nice soft palette of nude, browns, gold, silver to your eyes. Apply a pop of color to your lips to brighten your face. The darker colours such as berry have been very prominent through the runway lip palette this season and will match perfectly with your nude undertones and winter fashions.

Remember ladies: beauty comes from within, and the most attractive thing a woman can wear is her smile.

H

ow to style your hair If you hate hats and hairpieces, you need around a fascinator. to make sure your hair is the stand out: Start off by washing and glamorous curls cascading down always do blow-drying your hair the day the trick for a dressy affair. Statement hair is before the races, putting in also a great way to make the need for a hat some mousse for hold and redundant. An expertly crafted braid around body, such as La Biosthetique PILVIPAXS Setting your hairline, or a series of tightly woven braids Foam. Styles should be simple and classic, such will make your hair the crowning glory. as a low ponytail or a chignon to complement It you can’t fathom taking on the task the fascinator. Also, as a general rule yourself, the Living Doll Premier always part your hair on the Stylists are here to help. With opposite side to the side on our special race day offer, which you’ll be wearing hair and makeup for A low, slightly your fascinator. $155 including a cheese undone bun is How to avoid hat platter, chocolate to n also a great optio t, hair. strawberries and glass ha wear beneath a If you do opt for a of bubbly to get you in ok lo ill and it will st u big hat, you still need the spirit, what more yo ld ou sh s glamorou ur yo to make sure your could a girl ask for! e ov m re to choose ” r. hair is under control See you at the races. te la r ea w head underneath it. Tumbling XO Dolls. curls look fabulous falling Living Doll’s break down from beneath a great hat, of a simple up-style so make sure they start off neat 1. Start by parting your hair to and tidy using a setting lotion such as one side.

La Biosthetique Styling Fluid and they will 2. Braid a section of hair from the part, naturally soften, so they look beautiful all leaving out your fringe or piece to frame your day long. A low, slightly undone bun is also face. a great option to wear beneath a hat, and it 3. Secure the ends and holding firmly, pinch will still look glamorous should you choose to the sides of the braid to expand. remove your headwear later. Hold your style 4. Next, tease the roots over your crown and in place with firm holding hairspray as well as place you hair in a ponytail with a messy bun. keep a gloss spray or serum such as Luxury Spa 5. Secure the braid into and around the Oil by La Biosthetique in your handbag for a ponytail with bobby pins and finally, curl fringe quick touch-up if needed. pieces to finish.

“

coffs coast focus.

43

“ You no longer have to fight for your freedoms and choices just to get the care you need as you age!”

Estelle, Freedom Aged Care Resident At Freedom Aged Care you get to keep the most precious things there are in this life.

You get to keep your freedom, independence and privacy because you own your own beautiful Freedom home in a vibrant community. You get to make your own everyday choices and live life on your own terms. You get to stay together with your partner regardless of changing health needs. You get to bring your pets. And you get to have family and friends stay over whenever you like.

And on top of all that you get nursing and personal care throughout the day and night, in your own Freedom home, in a vibrant social community dedicated to freedom, friendship and fun.

Come in and see for yourself why Freedom Aged Care communities are the most sought after in Australia.

Feel free to call us on

1800 357 681

What’s life without freedom?

Centre for women’s reproductive care Having a baby is one of the most exciting events in a couple’s life - the fulfillment of very deep desires and needs. Even from pre conception, a mother-to-be may need optimisation of her health, management of medical issues to place her best to conceive and carry the next generation safely in her pregnancy to a happy conclusion with her delivery.

Dr Ward has been looking after women in these special times for over 30 years and regards this as one of the most rewarding of all responsibilities.

With an exponential rise in knowledge and study, keeping up with the latest management of complex conditions remains a passion of his, and our Centre is able to offer a comprehensive prenatal, antenatal (with high resolution ultrasound) and postnatal care along with our wonderful midwives’ support - Cookie, Sally and Mary!

Our staff love looking after pregnant ladies, and we have had some women delivering their fourth baby with us in Coffs!

We would be delighted to provide all the information to prospective mums and their partners and of course, our website contains info sheets and links to important trustworthy websites for most pregnancy needs.

bellingen healing centre

Mass nutrition Coffs harbour

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

Mass Nutrition first opened in the beautiful Coffs Harbour community in June 2014.

Health is a journey with your practitioner to wellbeing, asking the question, “Why is this illness or disease present in this person?” The Practitioner integrates orthodox medicine and complementary 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.

Over the past 12 months, Mass Nutrition has been educating the Coffs Harbour Community with the most important tools to have in the health fitness industry, and that is with their amazing all Natural Health and Wellness range of products.

The most popular product that has taken the Coffs Coast community by storm is our all Natural Super Green “Phyotlogic 2.0.”.

Phytologic 2.0 is the pinnacle of all super green products on the market from when it hit the shelves in 2014.

The Fitness Industry is all about having fun with your friends and family exercising and motivating each other and living a healthy, happy life.

Health and fitness isn’t about who can lift the heaviest weights or who has the biggest muscles; it is about having fun, enjoying your training and helping to motivate others to step outside their comfort zone to see how much fun our industry is.

This is why Craig Daley, the owner of Mass Nutrition Coffs Harbour, changed the whole image of what a sports nutrition store should portray, and with this Craig created the “Mass Family.” The key to the “Mass Family” is to feel confident, motivated, happy, healthy and part of a family network to motivate and reach goals either in health and fitness or your career path.

coffs coast focus.

45

focusinterview.

BARINGA PRIVATE HOSPITAL

HOTEL SERVICES MANAGER

T

ell me about yourself ...

I finished my 12 year contract in the Royal Australian Navy in 1981 and commenced employment at Baringa Private Hospital as a chef and had 10 lovely years of cooking with my father, who was the Head Chef. Looking for something new, I was employed as the Executive Chef at Country Comfort for 18 years, where I learnt the arts of management, budgeting and forecasting. The door opened again six years ago at Baringa Private Hospital and I was employed by the current CEO, Elizabeth Ruthnam, and it was great to become one of the family again.

What is it like managing hotel services in a private hospital?

Managing hotel services at Baringa is more a pleasure than a job. The self satisfaction is one of the most rewarding aspects.

The team at Baringa is very close knit,

BPH Airport Signage 2400x600 0512OL.indd 1

46 coffs coast focus.

and everyone strives to variety of salads, l ta en M w ne satisfy but is continually ur snacks and hot O is t ni U lth ea H after improvement, meals. The and is as is practised in the duck and lamb also catered for part a very rewarding g Ramsay Way (caring and shanks are in of Baringa, know e progressive). probably the ic we offer this serv .”

Do you get an most popular ity to the commun opportunity to visit dishes. We serve patients to find out how a fully cooked they like the food? breakfast, morning We mix with the patients daily, tea, lunch, afternoon as there is a wide scope of patients. tea, dinner with a glass of We cater for surgical, children and the wine (if you like) and of course, elderly. Our new Mental Health Unit is also supper. catered for and is a very rewarding part of We are fortunate to have a great team Baringa, knowing we offer this service to of qualified chefs who pride themselves the community. on delivering quality healthy and fine food It is fulfilling catching up with locals who which our patients, staff and doctors love. like to talk about the history of Coffs Tell us about your team?

Harbour and old times and make their stay My team consists of five qualified chefs, as comfortable as possible. nine tray and kitchen personnel, three diet What’s on the menu? aides and eight highly skilled housekeepers.

We have a 15 day menu which consists of a Julie, our housekeeper in charge of her

“

team, keeps Baringa shipshape and most of our patient feedback is how clean the rooms are and how wonderful the food is. They all are very dedicated staff, which makes my job a pleasure. Nothing is too much trouble for them: “every day’s a Sunday attitude.”

What is it you love most about working in a private hospital?

The big attraction working at Baringa is as I said before, being surrounded by highly skilled staff, which makes you feel confident in yourself. Ramsay Health is growing from strength to strength.

We like to feel patients leave here with 100% satisfaction, an experience more like a resort, rather than a hospital. We put this into practice with the guidance of our CEO Elizabeth Ruthnam, Director of Clinical Services Peter Parkes and the rest of the team.

Thanks David.

17/05/12 11:25 AM

focusinterview.

DR. ALAN BURROW - O P T O M E T R I S T

W

Milestones in Vision Correction

e are privileged to live in a period of unprecedented innovation in Optometry.

While spectacles were first developed in Italy around 1286, their initial use was largely limited to those who had privileged access to hand written scripts, becoming far more widespread following the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in 1440, which made books available to common people.

Spectacle evolution has been accompanied by long periods of stagnation. The next major development over three hundred years later was the invention of the bifocal in 1784 by Benjamin Franklin, renowned US inventor and Founding Father! This enabled the wearer to see distant and near objects without having to change spectacles. A further 100 years later a British optician, Owen Aves, developed the concept of the multifocal lens, which was designed to overcome some of the limitations of the bifocal by providing clear vision at all distances. This lens was never commercially available.

The first commercially available multifocal lenses were developed by the Frenchman Bernard Maitenaz in the 1960s. However, these crude designs caused significant visual distortion. I recall a patient in her fifties with an accident free driving record who was keen to try this “innovative” lens. Within two weeks, she had scraped the side of a parked vehicle and reversed into a gate! Once the multifocals were replaced with bifocals, her driving performance was restored.

Advanced lens materials and extremely sophisticated computer-controlled lathes which could generate highly complex curves with pinpoint accuracy were developed around the turn of this century, permitting greatly enhanced designs with vastly superior visual performance.

These manufacturing techniques allow designs customised to the patient’s prescription, frame type and visual activities. Specific

designs for truck drivers would be unsuitable for computer operators with different visual demands. This has become particularly important in the digital age, with its emphasis on electronic devices. Designs for visually demanding tasks have been developed to minimise “eye strain” and improve performance.

While developments have allowed mature age workers to match the visual competence of their younger counterparts, they have also increased the skill level required to prescribe and dispense these lenses effectively.

Alignment of the lenses with the eyes and precise fitting of the frame are essential in achieving visual efficiency. Sophisticated electronic devices have been developed to improve the accuracy of measurements.

Ironically, the increased precision required to dispense these state-of-the-art lenses has coincided with the government’s deregulation of the optical dispensing industry, with an associated increased number of unqualified operators.

In spite of these technological developments, patients need to be screened for suitability.

Indiscriminate prescribing and inadequate information provided to prospective users significantly decreases the success rate. When prescribing it is important for the optometrist to evaluate not only the patient’s visual status, but also the visual demands, motivation and preparedness to adapt to change.

As is the case with learning to ride a bicycle, prospective wearers need to be aware that skill is required to use these lenses effectively.

The visual system needs to co-ordinate head, eye and neck movements to facilitate viewing through the appropriate clear zones.

Furthermore, the brain needs to recalibrate to eliminate the “tilting and sloping” effect frequently experienced by new users.

Appropriate use of these technologies provides the opportunity to restore visual efficiency and comfort to a level previously not possible. coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

T O

S O U N D

AS A RETIRED FARMER, LINDSAY CHAPPLE SUFFERED WITH TINNITUS OR “RINGING IN THE EARS” FOR OVER FORTY YEARS, AFFECTING HIS ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE AND ULTIMATELY CONTRIBUTING TO HIS FIRST MARRIAGE BREAK-UP.

Lindsay Chapple and his wife Anne at home at Boambee East.

T

oday, Lindsay has a new lease on life, thanks to hearing aid technology that has relieved his tinnitus dramatically.

When did you first notice problems with your hearing?

“Going back 40 years in the mid 1970s, I was a traditional sheep and wheat farmer living near Young with my wife and children,” explains Lindsay.

“Our farming practices were so different to today, and I had a high exposure to noise.

There were long hours spent on tractors, sawing firewood and blacksmithing on an anvil. I don’t remember any education on protecting your hearing.”

“I also used firearms, starting as a cadet in high school … then on the farm we used a rifle and shotgun right up to my retirement. And again, we didn’t have hearing protection.”

“Early on I was having communication problems, with my family often commenting, ‘Didn’t you hear me, Dad?’ I also started to experience a new sound, a persistent sound, which we now know is tinnitus.

“This ultimately affected my marriage. Over 37 years we survived a lot of challenges on the land, but poor communication from my hearing loss and tinnitus was such a serious problem.”

48 coffs coast focus.

The tinnitus soun

“

d

Tell us about your conversation, I hear is like the tinnitus or “ringing” in as I can now e of mechanical nois lic, al the ears? concentrate. My et m a r, to the trac ing ng ri “The tinnitus sound d memory recall he itc -p high was I hear is like the has improved sound. Before it t it’s bu mechanical noise of the significantly and just a nuisance , er and grown much loud own tractor, a metallic, highit has certainly e gr dominant as I’v pitched ringing sound. improved my older.”

Before it was just a nuisance, sleep pattern. but it’s grown much louder “I can and dominant as I’ve grown communicate with my older. wife, Anne, a lot more easily.

“The tinnitus sound is constant and I don’t need to be face to face to makes it very hard to concentrate. It affected my talk to her or have to try to lip-read... thought patterns and my ability to recall things ”It drives people crazy to repeat things or such as names … I would even wake at night, as wait for your delayed response. Now I get it the sound was disturbing my sleep. right the first time.

“It is hard to live normally and focus on things “Hearing aids have certainly made all the outside of yourself. It’s difficult not give in to this difference to my confidence, as you can hear dominant sound. People look at you and don’t people and relate to them. Living in Coffs, you’ll realise your ears are ringing and you’re missing get a smile and a ‘g’day’ from locals, and it’s critical words.” great to be able to respond to that. I also feel How did you eventually find relief from more confident getting out and about. We go to your tinnitus and hearing loss? the local clubs in town, and it’s manageable with “The good news is my new hearing aids with hearing aids. the white noise programme give considerable “The phone used to be a ‘no go’ area, as I relief from the relentless tinnitus. It’s retraining wouldn’t be able to hear correctly. In the end I for my brain not to focus on the noise so refused to speak on the phone. Now I can stay in much. This allows me to finish my thoughts in touch with people much more easily.”

“The design of the new hearing aids are so lightweight and comfortable, you can wear them almost 24/7 and forget you have them on.”

Lindsay’s wife, Anne, agrees that life has improved recently.

“Lindsay having new hearing aids has taken a lot of stress out of life. I never knew if he could hear me, but now I know we are connecting.

“Lindsay is more talkative and prepared to be more sociable. When we had our children here for a visit recently, it was much easier for Lindsay to join in on the conversations.

“It’s such a waste not to do anything about your hearing and take up the assistance available.”

As a pensioner, Lindsay was eligible to receive government-funded hearing services from Australian Hearing and hearing aids that have helped relieve his tinnitus. A new management programme is now also available to eligible people suffering from tinnitus who may not require hearing aids.

To celebrate Hearing Awareness Week this August, Australian Hearing is offering free hearing checks and the chance to discuss your hearing concerns. Call 6652 0700 or visit the Hearing Centre at 2 Lyster St, Coffs Harbour.

focusinterview.

moisture cure

Mould

IS NOT A DIRTY WORD

The one stable element in the Moisture Cure business is change. If that sounds like a paradox, then you probably will not understand either how two people can have a passion for mould. Well, not mould as such, but getting rid of mould. Local businessman Bob Knuckey moved to the Mid North Coast town of Wauchope some 40 years ago … Bob and his partner, Christine, tell us about their thriving local business - Moisture Cure. oisture Cure Pty Ltd began 15 years ago when Bob discovered there was very little information available on the Mid North Coast about dehumidifiers and how they can reduce mould and condensation.

Always looking for an edge in their existing floor covering business, Bob and partner Christine listened to their customers and often heard of problems in their homes caused by mould and condensation issues. Some basic market research was done, a small quantity of dehumidifiers bought, and the fledgling company called Moisture Cure was born.

“Prior to moving to Wauchope, I had built up a very successful business specialising in laying cork and timber floors in Victoria. I brought my experience and knowledge to the Hastings - because very few tradesmen were doing that here,” says Bob. “From a desire to save my knees for my other passion, cricket, I ventured into carpet cleaning and water damage restoration services. This is where I first became aware of mould and its potential impact on property and personal health. It was at this point that I also recognised another niche market.

“Having been made aware of the benefits of dehumidifiers, particularly in humid climates, I took a leap of faith and purchased a small quantity to trial in the local arena. “ In 2003, Christine came into my life and soon after joined me in the business. Together we have built up a successful multi-faceted business focused around the concept of home

health and humidity control.“ From these humble beginnings, Moisture Cure has now grown to be perhaps the largest independent importers and stockists of quality dehumidifiers in Australia. Bob believes they set the benchmark in quality machines, knowledge and the ability to find solutions for their customers.

“Dehumidifiers are what Moisture Cure has become well known for we’ve literally sold thousands - but along the way we realised another major factor was influencing our customers’ homes: the subfloor,“ says Christine.

“The subfloor of your home is often ignored. It’s out of sight to most home owners, not a very attractive area, but it has the potential to effect the inside living conditions of your home big time. If this hidden area of your home is damp, mouldy and has an unhealthy odour, it needs attention.

“Vermin, such as rats, mice and other unmentionables as well as a home owner’s most dreaded enemy, the white ant, love these damp, unhealthy conditions.

“If you want to ensure your home remains healthy and doesn’t become overrun with these nasties, make certain your subfloor is as dry as possible.”

Thankfully, we found out it’s not all gloom and doom. Some housekeeping and a bit of common sense can seriously improve the situation.

“First off, roll up your sleeves, grab a torch and venture into this other world!” says Bob. “Take a good look around. Can you see light shining through holes in the brick work? These are the breathing

holes that ensure this area is being ventilated properly.

“If you can see there are very few, you probably need to install more.

“Secondly, check for rubbish that has been accumulating. Timber, old furniture, cardboard boxes - all of these encourage vermin and white ants and allow moisture to accumulate and should be removed.

“Can you see low spots that water can settle in? These need to be levelled out, so any water can easily run away.

“Maybe consider replacing your old wooden access door with a mesh door. This will immediately allow more ventilation into this area. “ Checking your subfloor should become part of your normal home maintenance, and Bob suggests every 12 months.

However, if you want to ensure your subfloor is as healthy as possible, Moisture Cure offers you a comprehensive property inspection option.

As you can see, Moisture Cure isn’t only about dehumidifiers. As Moisture Cure has grown, Bob and Christine have tried to surround themselves with people who excel in areas that we aren’t necessarily good at.

“Of course, Christine and I aren’t just about work. We are both involved in Toastmasters, both the morning and evening group and are both keen tennis players, unfortunately at lower grades.

As well as tennis and Toastmasters, we torture ourselves at the gym a couple of times a week, travel a fair bit and love dining out.“ To find out more about Moisture Cure, give Bob, Christine or the team a call on 6584 2511.

Dr Alan Burrow Optometrist Dip Optom F.B.O.A. (HD) D.C.L.P. D.ORTH. F.B.C.O. MSC.(Med.) G.C.O.T. M.OPTOM. G.C.B.A

Benjamin Franklin invented the bifocal lens in 1784 to overcome his frustration at needing to change spectacles for distant and near objects.

While this design has been very successful, the obvious line between the distant and reading segments can be visually and cosmetically unappealing.

We constantly research new products to provide patients with cost-effective, efficient and attractive solutions to vision problems.

An innovative company, Shamir, has now developed Shamir Duo®, a new generation of freeform bifocal that eliminates the line with an invisible transition, thus improving the appearance of wearers, as well as the way they see.

Shamir Duo® digital lens technology maintains a natural, distortion free visual path as the eye moves from the distance to near vision zones. Now there is no need to compromise on either appearance or visual comfort.

Shamir Duo® is available in a wide range of materials and tints including Transitions®, NuPolar® polarised and high index material for thinner, more aesthetically pleasing lenses.

For more information on Shamir and our range of lenses, please visit alanburrow.com.au and click on Shamir under Lenses.

coffs coast focus.

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World leading fertility services right here on your doorstep For almost 30 years Genea has been committed to providing the best possible chance of success and the greatest delivery of care to couples who dream of becoming parents to a healthy baby.

And Genea’s Port Macquarie Fertility Specialists have been dedicated to providing this valuable service to North Coast couples for more than 17 years.

Give yourself the best chance, call Louise Harper today for more information 0411 581 271 or 02 6583 4922

Dr Ray Hodgson Specialities - General infertility, gynaecology and pelvic floor surgery 57 Lake Road, Port Macquarie 02 6584 5857 Dr Penny Black Specialities - General infertility, public obstetrics and gynaecology Suite 6, 2 Wrights Road, Port Macquarie 02 6581 0444

1300 361 795 | genea.com.au 50 coffs coast focus.

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The

secret to pain free living may be feet

Bellingen

Healing centre

I

hqb DPS

WAS ESTABLISHED BY DR ANDREW HESLOP IN 1992 AS A COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PRACTICE WITH A STRONG INTEREST IN COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE ALONGSIDE OF AND WITH CURRENT GENERAL PRACTICES.

t has expanded to currently have six disease than what sort of a disease a patient has’. doctors and two nurses working as a team Recent understanding is showing how a person with our wonderful practice managers Kym genetically expresses uniquely in their biochemisDyer and Shane Keys (pictured). try, leading to new strategies to smooth out imDr Andrew Heslop has been a Visiting Medbalances that are individual to a person and that ical Officer at Bellinger River & District Hospital can be underlying factors for illnesses. This has since 1992. He has qualifications in Herbal Medibeen particularly helpful with psychological and cine, Psychology and is a Fellow of the Australian psychiatric conditions, leading to a calmer life and College of Environmental & Nutritional less dependence on pharmaceutical drugs.

Medicine. His practice includes It is the basis of Bio-Balance.”

Herbal Medicine, Mineral TheraDr Adrienne Newman pies, Bio-Balance for psycho(pictured) has joined the team D orothea logical and psychiatric conat Bellingen Healing Centre enjoys ditions, Dreamwork and more recently.

She is acof the variety Chelation. He has seen tively involved in Registrar e, tic ac general pr ve that all healing methods Doctor training, and has si en eh compr re ca have a place in treatment, worked in Aboriginal, al du vi di in is and are “like segments of rural and remote health. and an emphas e tiv ta an orange” where all fit toShe believes in the body’s on preven strategies .” gether to make a whole. This ability to heal itself with includes prescription medicine many natural supports and the and surgery, along with physical best current practices in western therapies, psycho-spiritual, naturopathy, medicine. She also loves music and is diet, exercise, psychology, where each is as an amazing saxophone player. important as the other.

Dr Dorothea Eburn has interests in women’s DR Gull Herzberg adds … “The list goes health and adolescent health and conducts the on … because each health modality looks at the Dorrigo Youth Hub. Dorothea enjoys the variety human condition differently. Some problems of general practice, comprehensive individual care require immediate, life-saving surgical techniques. and an emphasis on preventative strategies.

Other problems require removal of something Dr Rongi Ji has been a registrar with the Healfrom the person’s environment (e.g. with allering Centre for over two years and attends Bellgies). Yet others require compassionate couninger Hospital as a Visiting Medical Officer. Ronni seling. This clearly requires some understanding enjoys all aspects of medicine and best health of the wide variety of approaches to health and practices. She has a special interest in women’s disease. Otherwise, as the American Psychologist health, skin lesions and excisions.

Abraham Maslow said, ‘If you only have a hamDr Susan Lumsdaine came from the Austramer, you tend to see every problem as a nail’. lian Defence Forces and has a wide range of GP “Having a diverse tool kit increases a health skills. Susan believes in a collaborative approach professional’s ability to find an approach that to maintaining health and wellbeing. Susan also works AND which is acceptable to the patient. has a beautiful voice, so enjoys singing in the Critically, this requires the professional to unchoir and dancing with a small troupe. derstand the patient. To quote another famous Bellingen Healing centre is currently open to American, Sir William Osler: ‘It is much more new patients and you can phone 6655 0000 for important to know what sort of a patient has a an appointment or to make enquiries.

“

ARE YOU FRUSTRATED BY ONGOING FOOT, KNEE, HIP OR BACK PAIN? DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’RE IN THE DARK ABOUT WHAT THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM IS?

M

id North Coast Physio continues to easier to find the right solution for your pain. utilise state of the art technology All too often complaints like bursitis, shin in healthcare across their multiple splints, plantar fasciitis, low back pain and clinics on the Coffs Coast and many others can be as a result of poor foot can help you find the answers others miss. By mechanics - you end up like a car with a bad using computerised foot scanning with the wheel alignment, which leads to excessive Gaitscan system, along with thorough physical wear and tear. By finding what’s going wrong, analysis, their team can solve your ongoing you can then treat the cause, rather than just pain for good, rather than just short term symptoms. There is nothing more frustrating quick fixes. than having the same problem Owner and leading coming back again and physiotherapist Aaron again because your Hardaker tells us why therapist is focused on e Also, on averag technology plays an what hurts, rather in ly the foot is on important role in finding than what makes it nd ou gr e contact with th the cause, rather than hurt. At Mid North ith w c se 7 for about 0. e at st g just treating symptoms.

Coast Physio we in us so , each step gy lo What is Gaitscan? no want to make sure ch te t ar of the r tte be h Gaitscan is a you are fixed for uc m s w allo hat is computerised foot good, not just for assessment of w ry a ve scanning system that is now. going wrong in e. ” tim of e ac sp used at Mid North Coast How can you get short Physio to get very detailed a FREE Gaitscan analysis of our clients’ foot and computer foot lower limb movement and load. assessment?

The problem with just watching someone With clinics in Woolgoolga, walk, or even videoing the movement, is Toormina and Urunga, we are able that we aren’t able to measure the impact to organise an appointment at the most on the joints or where the impact occurs. convenient site for you. As a special offer for Also, on average the foot is only in contact Coffs Coast FOCUS readers, we are offering a with the ground for about 0.7 sec with each FREE Gaitscan computerised foot assessment step, so using state of the art technology to the first 10 callers on 1300 27 37 47. And allows much better assessment of what is as an extra bonus, anyone who requires going wrong in a very short space of time. custom made orthotics will get $50 off their How can having a scan help you solve orthotics purchase. This is a strictly limited your pain? offer, so call now to book and find out how to By getting all the information, it’s then much get rid of your pain for good.

“

coffs coast focus.

51

focusinterview.

EKAM FESTIVAL

YOGA 11TH OCT

Celtic Roots

Stretch your body and your mind at a new annual yoga event in Port Macquarie.

Ekam Yoga Festival brings together local and Australiawide recognised yoga teachers, musicians and natural health professionals for one day at the Glasshouse on Sunday 11 October 2015.

E

kam is a word from the ancient Indian language Sanskrit, meaning “one”. At Ekam, teachers and students of different yogic traditions come together as one to learn and share with respect for each other’s experience and knowledge.

Ekam organisers are excited to welcome John Ogilvie, one of Australia’s most respected and experienced teachers and founder of Byron Yoga Centre. He has guided the journey into yoga teaching of thousands of Australian and international teachers. John will present a Purna Yoga Master Class, as well as a session on yoga philosophy.

Other yoga classes offered include Power Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Japanese Movement Meditation, Ashtanga Yoga, Meditation, Yoga for Women, and Yoga Philosophie.

52 coffs coast focus.

Ekam also offers a range of different music experiences with musicians from NSW and beyond. The Natural Health & Sustainable Living Expo will be of interest to anyone pursuing a healthy lifestyle and includes talks from natural health professionals.

The Festival wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors Byron Yoga Centre, Marketplace Events, The Yoga Shala and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

the plug!

Tickets are $98 and available online now. Sessions are booking out quickly, so head to www. ekamyogafestival.org.au for more information & tickets soon. Connect to the Ekam community on Facebook /ekamyogafestival.

Why do I always wash hair first rather than cutting it dry, or giving it a quick squirt to dampen it?

When I trained (a while ago, admittedly, but I don’t believe that things have changed that much since), hairdressers were taught to shampoo and if required, condition the hair.

Cynics may suggest that this is so that we can charge more - this is not so, nor is it for reasons of cleanliness.

Hair has an element of elasticity to it, whether curly or straight, and it is only when it is wet that this can be properly gauged.

Personally I also find it much easier to maintain tension to achieve an even cut. Even the traditional barber of old would use the clippers first and then wash the hair before finishing the

cut and checking it over. Cutting dry hair does not allow for the bumps and lumps of a scalp, nor the swirls and kicks of hair growth.

If you are looking to save a dollar or two, then Celtic Roots has decided to offer the following: • WASH, CUT and “GO” $36 • 20% DISCOUNT on other services - colour and curl - if you wish to “Wash and Go” (does not apply to Keratin Hair Treatment).

Please state “Wash and Go” when making an appointment, or the full price will be charged on the day.

Get it done cheap, or get it done proper!

The only salon on the Mid North Coast to ever be a finalist for NSW Hairdresser of the Year.

Petit

EARLY LEARNING JOURNEY PETIT EARLY LEARNING JOURNEY IS A PREMIUM BRAND LONG DAY CARE PROVIDER THAT IS RENOWNED FOR CREATING SAFE, RESPECTFUL AND COMPASSIONATE ENVIRONMENTS, AND THEY ARE OPENING A BRAND NEW PURPOSE BUILT CENTRE IN COFFS HARBOUR MID-2015.

T

he Centre will offer enthralling class environments, and their naturalistic playscapes will provide opportunity for children to explore and bond with nature while having FUN! Their premium outdoor play areas include elements of real grass, sand, forts, slides, seating and water play.

Petit will offer a Kindergarten Programme, and Centre programming supports the Early Years Learning Framework. Petit are conscious of creating supportive environments, and all studios will be configured to the new educatorto-child ratios, which as a requirement under the National Quality Framework must be in effect as of January 2016. The advantages of

Petit working to the new educator-to-child ratios now, means that your children are being supervised to the highest standard, and educators are able to give more individual care and attention. As a result, more meaningful relationships are formed, which encourages your child’s unique personal development.

To save you time and assist with those busy mornings, all meals are inclusive within your daily fee and are prepared on site by their very own chef - this includes morning and afternoon tea and a nutritious lunch!

Mealtimes at Petit provide an opportunity for staff to encourage the development of healthy eating practices. Petit’s seasonal menus have been developed in association

with EatWell Australia and aim to meet a significant amount of a child’s daily nutritional requirements. Hannah Gentile, founder of EatWell Australia, holds a Master of Nutrition and has spent the last 10 years working in the fields of behavioural science, health, and nutrition with women and children across New Zealand and Australia. When developing their seasonal menus, a range of textures and tastes appropriate to the developmental stages of different age groups were considered. The biweekly menus will be displayed on the kitchen noticeboard and portray an extensive array of important dietary nutrients required for a daily balanced healthy diet. Children are encouraged to drink water and milk throughout the day

and other sweet drinks such as juices and cordials are not permitted within the centre.

You can be assured that your children are receiving the freshest, nutritionally sound meals while at Petit!

Petit also embrace sustainable practices and utilise a paperless digital sign in/sign out system, as well as an online child portfolio tool.

With your own unique access to the online family lounge - log in at anytime, anywhere to follow your child’s learning journey.

The Coffs Harbour Centre will be located at 380 Pacific Highway and has the capacity to care for 84 children (subject to licensing approval). Proposed opening hours are 6am 6pm.

coffs coast focus.

53

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

KEN PHILLIPS KPI BROKING

K

en, you’re a well-known Coffs Harbour business person. Tell me a little about your background and how you came to be the go-to insurance expert?

Like a lot of people in the insurance industry, I kind of fell into it.

I moved from Dubbo to Sydney after school and, over the following 14 years, honed my technical underwriting skills with various global insurance companies. In 1999, I moved to Coffs with my wife, Wendy, to take up a management position with Zurich.

We only intended to stay for a few years before returning to Sydney, but we quickly fell in love with Coffs and decided to raise our three wonderful kids here (Mia, Will and Charlie). I had always harboured the ambition of owning my own insurance brokerage and took that next step in 2004.

Your new business, KPI Broking, has just launched. Tell us about this new change and what you’ll be offering clients.

I’m really excited about this new venture.

KPI Broking is a boutique insurance advisory service. We seek to truly understand our clients’ business activities to ensure all exposures are identified.

We have access to over 200 insurers and underwriting agencies, so at each renewal we can easily entice insurers to compete for our clients’ business - thereby extracting the best deal in terms of breadth of cover and price. We provide placement services, policy maintenance and most importantly, claims advocacy - if it’s grey, we argue that the insurer should pay!

54 coffs coast focus.

You’ve owned and operated a very successEnterprises) are now being targeted. Business ful local insurance brokerage for 11 years. owners need a risk management and disaster Why are you starting again? recovery plan. They should engage an I.T. expert Rather than a new start, this feels like a and also consider outsourcing the exposure via continuation of that strong ambition to have insurance. If you do both, you should be able complete control of my own destiny. I’m also to protect your cash flow and bottom line and fortunate enough to receive support from importantly, protect your enviable Coffs Coast a great bunch of clients, lifestyle! and I really enjoy talking to The big insurance compathem about their businessnies are selling more and Insurance is es, their challenges and more insurance products the DNA of our their aspirations. We have directly to customers oneconomy. Nothing gets some very talented business line. Is this a threat to you manufactured, built, people in Coffs Harbour. This as an insurance broker? sold, driven, flown, new venture allows me to I see it as a challenge, sailed or moved without spend more time with great rather than a threat. Insurit. It’s one of the most people! ance brokers add tremencomplicated products in People generally hate the world and after more dous value, but we need to than 25 years in the buying insurance. Why do work hard to communicate industry, it continues to you love it? and demonstrate that value. challenge me every day.

Insurance is the DNA of That’s the challenge.

I like that. ” our economy. Nothing gets Online “off the shelf” manufactured, built, sold, insurance products are cerdriven, flown, sailed or tainly running rampant. They moved without it. It’s one “dumb down” the product, of the most complicated products in the world and it can be very competitive sometimes. and after more than 25 years in the industry, it You can swipe your way to the shopping cart continues to challenge me every day. I like that. in minutes. That’s disruptive! It’s important to I also like helping businesses understand their understand, however, that when you buy online exposures and how insurance can plug the gaps you do not have a professional acting in your so that they can enjoy peace of mind and get best interest during the purchase or when you on with their own business. make a claim. In my experience, the premium What are some of the trends that are evolv- is long-forgotten after the claim has been paid. ing in the insurance industry at present?

Furthermore, in terms of business insurance, Cyber Crime is almost certainly the most I have not found the online market to be any worrying trend for business owners. The biggest more competitive that what we can access. concern is that, in addition to large corporations I’d imagine that networking and getting and multi-nationals, SMEs (Small to Medium to know as many new business people as

“

possible is a key part of your marketing activities. What are your top tips for making the most out of networking opportunities?

Great question! Networking is a critical business skill that requires lots of practice.

Tip #1 At a networking event, first and foremost, try to relax. Think of it as a chance to make new friends, so try to smile and be yourself and people should be drawn to you accordingly.

Tip #2 Be a good listener. Encourage others to participate in the conversation and make sure that you are alert throughout their responses. Act as a sponge and attempt to soak in everything that is being said. You will be thankful later when you try to recall what you have learnt!

Tip #3 I’ve found that it’s often better and more rewarding to engage with fewer people at a deeper level than to hang around the coffee pot flicking your business cards in the air hoping someone will catch one!

You were successfully nominated as a committee member of the Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce. What do you hope to achieve on the committee?

I’m thrilled to be accepted onto the committee. I was attracted to it by the strong leadership and consistent and clear messages delivered over the past 12 months. Small business is everybody’s business and if I can contribute by lobbying for the removal of unfair and inefficient taxes on insurance policies, a reduction in payroll tax or a reduction in penalty rates, then I’ll feel that I’ve made a worthwhile contribution.

Thanks Ken.

MEET YOUR LOCAL HOME

F

LENDING SPECIALIST

or those who have ever built, bought or invested in a property, you’ll appreciate it can be one of the bigger decisions faced in life. The Community Mutual Group appreciate that this decision calls for not only a product range that represents great value for money, but a dedicated specialist who’s there every step of the way.

Cara Sevil, Coffs Harbour’s Home Lending Specialist, has had 26 years’ experience in the financial industry, proving to be invaluable expertise for residents of Coffs and surrounds.

Having owned her own mortgage business, Cara explains what members find most valuable when looking to purchase property.

“Definitely having one person there, not only to fund the loan, but for the whole journey. Having a real banking relationship means not repeating your story over and over.

It means you have someone looking out for you and your goals,” she said.

After 19 years of specialising in the field of lending, Cara expresses the most important qualities of a good home lending specialist.

“It’s about taking the time to get to know your members’ needs and wants It’s about taking to ensure they’re Community Mutual Group the time to ge t to rs’ getting the best be em m ur when they opened an office yo know re possible fit for su en to s in Coffs Harbour last year, ed ne e best them. It’s also they’re getting th Cara describes what sets the em . ” important to possible fit for th organisation apart from other provide genuine institutions. feedback, so “The Community Mutual Group members can make are a member owned financial informed decisions.” institution, so they are member focused Having started with The in more ways than one; they hold customer

“

Earn a second income with a granny flat

service in a very high regard.

“They’re also very passionate about the respective communities which are all throughout NSW, allowing all staff to spend two days a year volunteering for local community groups. This has allowed me to assist at my daughter’s school,” she said.

For a better banking relationship, talk to Cara Sevil from The Community Mutual Group today.

Better returns

coffs coast focus.

55

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Quadrant Travel & JOURNEYS Kia Ora! - Golf and Gardens of NZ I would like 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.

Kerry Moss IS the legend True?

Have you ever wondered if the legend of the Blarney Stone is true?

Would you really be bestowed with the gift of eloquence if you climbed the steps of Blarney Castle and kissed the mythical Blarney Stone?

O

n a recent trip to Ireland, I felt compelled to see if the legend were true.

Ireland is breathtakingly beautiful, with rolling green hills and picturesque farming land, so it’s no surprise that on my Quadrant Australia Tour of Ireland and the UK that we didn’t head straight to Blarney in County Cork. We meandered along dramatic coastlines and through quaint villages; we sampled Guinness Beer at the storehouse in Dublin and we stood in awe of the amazing Book of Kels at Trinity College.

We explored Ireland, North and South.

We met some wonderful locals, including Eamonn, our black cab taxi driver in Belfast, who bravely shared his stories of the conflicts in years gone by and Brendan, a local bus driver who’d grown up on farming land in County Kerry. Despite these characters and the fresh, clean air, I couldn’t help but feel impatient at the chance of ticking another item off my bucket list, so it was off to Blarney we went.

On arrival, I was surprised how just how spectacular the castle and gardens were; for a moment, I had forgotten that somewhere within reach was the infamous Blarney Stone.

I followed the crowds and the glaringly obvious signs and arrived at the foot of Blarney Castle. For over 200 years, world statesmen, literary giants, and legends of the silver screen have joined the millions of pilgrims climbing the steps to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence, and 56 coffs coast focus.

here I was ready to do the same. As I climbed the steps and secretly cursed myself for not wearing more appropriate shoes, the staircase got narrower and steeper. Before long, the dark, damp stairwell spilt out onto the open roof of the castle and there it was; the Blarney Stone. I lined up with the hundreds of other tourists who also wanted to benefit from the gift of the gab, but I fooled myself into thinking that I’d be the only one who had a childhood dream to kiss it.

In the line-up, conversation flowed freely, and stories were shared. There was the old Scottish man who despite living so near had never been to Ireland and wanted to visit the places he learnt about at school. Tom from the USA had been brought there by his wife; he had no interest in the fantasy of the Blarney Stone, but felt compelled to do it now that he’d come this far. Catherine was there with her daughter, teaching her the family history dating back hundreds of years, and I was there living out a childhood memory.

There at the top of Blarney Castle overlooking the fields of lavender dotted with ancient ruins whilst I stood with a melting pot of cultures, it struck me. The legend of the Blarney Stone had evolved from the days of medieval knights and witches. The modern legend was unfolding right before my eyes.

The Blarney Stone, if only for a moment, allowed people from all over the world to stand beside their neighbours and share stories of their lives - creating new memories for the next generation to create their own legend.

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.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

AUGUST 2015

with Terri

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 energises 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 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 in 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 Your new sense of personal power has recently shifted and you are vulnerable to being domineered if you don’t stand your ground.

You are such a wonderful, gentle example of love personified; this is your strength. Good luck will come through work soon. Carnelian can evoke creative energy quicker than many other crystals.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 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 to visualise.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Situations may be forced onto 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 wellbeing.

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.

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s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Julie Smith, Brendan J. Smith and Kay Skinner

Warren and Kay Skinner

Launch of the Coats Hire Coffs Coast NSW Rally

Launch of the Coats Hire Coffs Coast NSW Rally

Launch of the Coats Hire Coffs Coast NSW Rally

Isaac Sheridan , Kira Bates and Ashley Raven

Jackie Smith and Jo Higgs

Christina Monneron

Lynn Reeves and Jasmine Davies

W

Social/scene.

hat with our Annual Carlton Mid 2015 Coffs Harbour Gold Cup Carnival, which is kick-starting this weekend, through to the thrill and fast pace of the Coates Hire Coffs Coast NSW Rally!

The fact of the matter is that the dust will be flying at both events, whether it’s trackside at the races or roadside at the rally ... Let the excitement begin! CAN’T WAIT! A Black and White Cocktail Party was held at the beautiful Beachfront Opal Cove Resort just recently. Coast to Coast for a cause was in benefit of The Jodi Lee Foundation. This is a national bowel cancer awareness and prevention charity.

The event was also to Support Paul Grant’s 3,500 km solo ride from Perth to Melbourne in aid of the cause. Guests got to enjoy delicious cocktail style food and bubbles aplenty! The night was a huge success in support of the charity.

Going straight on to the celebrations of the launch of our Racing Carnival, a first time held “SELL OUT” event was staged at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club just recently. The MC for the day was the beautiful Alice Williams, who never falters under pressure (I certainly gave her a touch of that!) The check in entrance was a red carpet affair with sensational displays of vibrant enormous sunflowers. The sunflowers were kindly donated by Michael and Julie Trachtenberg.

The main room was a white linen affair with 58 coffs coast focus.

beautiful soft pink roses, freesias, cream lilies and wall flowers provided by Freelance Flowers at Northside Shopping Centre to set the atmosphere.

House of Le Dãin Designs, who are one of the Major Sponsors for the Park Beach Fashions on the Field, held its very first Annual High Fashion Hats and High Tea Event.

This day is to help extend our Racing Carnival and whilst it is not a fundraiser, it helps support the Coffs Harbour Pink Silks Perpetual Trust. One of the guest speakers for the day was Tanya Johnson, who chatted about the charity and informed the guests about how Pink Silks raise funds for breast cancer and women’s health in the Coffs Coast region.

The event was not only for the ladies, as gentlemen were certainly invited, and dare I say that they had an absolutely fabulous time! All dressed up, waited on and surrounded by beautiful women! What more could they want!

It wasn’t all fashion and froth. Mr Jim Jarvis from the Racing Club was the other guest speaker and gave a very laidback down to earth chat about training and owning horses and his involvement with the club. This event was bumper to bumper with entertainment, a delicious sweet and savoury High Tea served on old English China and tiered cake stands. There were over $3,500 worth of prizes to win. After a few “Christalina” cocktails, the millinery parade staged by House of Le Dãin

It’s all about racing over the next two months.

Everything is speeding up towards springtime ...

Designs swung into gear. Prior to the parade, Mr Simon Chladil graced the head of the room (after being bullied into it he he!) and gave a well informed talk on Fashions on the Field and race day etiquette! The show proceeded with ladies of all ages and sizes strutting their stuff down the red carpeted catwalk, donning a colourful array of winter and new season spring millinery. Mr Chladil, looking dapper as ever, joined Carole Beros for the finale! The two very exciting performances came from Christina Monneron and her team, who liven up any occasion with their vibrant and colourful Cuban style dancing.

Christina is the Collaborator at World Salsa Tours, Co-Creator at Afrekete Afro-Cuban Dance and Music Camp and Creator at Kulturithmik. The other entertainment was provided by “Sultrio”.

Dressed in glamorous beautiful gowns, they entranced the guests with their performance.

Sultrio are described as an acapella trio who sing sultry, delicious, haunting and sensual music with breathtaking harmonies. La Fleur D’Alyse had a beautiful “Pamper Beauty Parlour” for the ladies, where indulging yourself with a touch of luxury was the name of the game! House of Le Dãin Designs had a pop up boutique with fully qualified stylists on hand, including Super Stylist Kay Ryan, who just happened to be celebrating a big birthday on the day! Happy birthday, Kay Ryan ... you are “The Bomb”!

Best dressed for the day went to Tanya Johnson

and Julie Tratchtenberg.

There was even a mini studio set up by talented photographer Emma Rhoades from Emma Rhoades Photography. Capturing wonderful memories to treasure forever is what Emma is all about. The day was most certainly memorable and helped support a great cause.

Major sponsors for the day were FOCUS, Coffs Harbour Racing Club, Emma Rhoades Photography, La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser and Medispa, Ladies in Racing Magazine and BWN. It’s that time again for Sawtell’s St Nics Op Shop’s Annual Fashion Parade. The date to pop in your diary is Saturday 29th August at 2pm. There will be new and pre-loved clothing and accessories.

This parade is something else. It always packs the house, and the organisers and models throw their all into this event! The proceeds get split between Lifeline, Reap Food Rescue and St Nics. Come and enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea, a parade and some fabulous entertainment from the Ukelele Group. For all enquiries, drop into the Op Shop at Sawtell.

Another Pink Silks event, and what a BOOMER! Arrived at the Birch Carroll and Coyle Cinemas for the fundraiser screening of Magic Mike XXL! Seriously SOLD OUT! Over 300 ladies arrived, ready to have some fun. The evening rose over $5,000!

What a fun night, with a great result!

Carole Le Dain.

focusinterview. s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

T H E

B E N D I G O

B A N K

COFFS HARBOUR

RUNNING F E S T I V A L

Pink Silks Fundraiser, Magic Mike XXL

Hayley Fryer, Carol Beros and Nicci Secombe

Photo by Emma Rhoades Photography

Carole Beros, Simon Chladil and Barbara Wenman

Photo by Emma Rhoades Photography

Tanya Watts from Opal Cove Resort

Candice and Betty Weick

Photo by Emma Rhoades Photography

Erin and Karen Jackson

T H E B E N D I G O BA N K C O F F S H A R B O U R RU N N I N G F E S T I VA L H A S B E E N S U P P O R T I N G L O C A L CHARITIES SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 2011.

T

o date, a total of $100,000 has Classroom operating locally.” been donated to Life Education, The Life Education Programme has been Coffs Coast Autism, Camp operating in primary schools in the Coffs Quality and the Early Childhood region for over thirty years, empowering Intervention Programme to help fund staff, children to make the right life choices. support special projects and provide much Another major beneficiary is the Coffs needed equipment.

Harbour Early Childhood Intervention Event Director Mick Maley said, “We Programme, which provides education and selected these particular charities because therapy programmes for preschool aged we wanted to help children in children with developmental delays. need in our local community.

“Donations and fundraising Children are the heart of are vital for our continued a community and if we operation,” said manager, can help in a small Caryn Maher. “The The money we e way, it benefits the money we receive from receive from th really is children, their families the running festival running festival we are and has a positive really is a life saver, a life saver, and eciative impact on the whole and we are extremely extremely appr pport su of the generous community.” appreciative of the over the years.”

“While the charities generous support over benefit from the event, the years.” we also rely on the support Representatives from of volunteers from local Coffs Coast Autism, Camp community groups. The Rotary Quality and the Early Childhood Club of Coffs Harbour is instrumental Intervention Programme also help out in the event’s success, providing muchat the running festival. “It’s a really fun day needed manpower for the aid stations, out for us, and some of the younger volunteers marshalling, registrations, etc.,” said Mick. have been known to throw water over the Life Education provides around fifteen runners to keep them cool,” said Caryn. volunteers each year to man one of the aid The fifth Bendigo Bank Coffs Harbour stations, and its mascot, Healthy Harold, loves Running Festival is on Sunday 6th September. being out on the course. “He is very popular It is one of the region’s largest sporting with the kids and gives out water and highevents and last year attracted over 1,500 fives as they run by,” said Mick. participants in the half marathon (21.1 km), Barry Martin, Chairman of the Coffs Harbour 10 km fun run, 5 km run/walk and the 3 km Life Education Support Group, said his team family fun run/walk. enjoys helping out at the running festival each Just by taking part, all participants are year. “We are very grateful for the support helping their local community. To register, or we have received over the past four years. for more information, go to: It is a huge help towards the thousands of www.villagesports.com.au or contact dollars required each year to keep the Mobile Village Sports on 6651 2029.

“

Pink Silks Fundraiser, Magic Mike XXL

Pink Silks Fundraiser, Magic Mike XXL

Photo by Emma Rhoades Photography

Pink Silks Fundraiser, Magic Mike XXL

Vicky Hunter and Dympna

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focus_tourism

focus_real estate

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

realestate UPDATE

HI, AND WELCOME TO THE NEW PROPERTY INDUSTRY COLUMN. EACH MONTH I’LL BE TELLING IT STRAIGHT DOWN THE LINE, REMOVING THE “UNKNOWN” AROUND THE PROPERTY INDUSTRY, PROVIDING INSIGHT INTO MARKET TRENDS, ACTIVITY AND WHAT’S HAPPENING ACROSS OUR BEAUTIFUL BACKYARD, ALONG WITH NATIONAL INTEREST ITEMS.

O

n a daily basis I hear from the community that they don’t understand why things are done the way they are, what this term or that term means, why a property achieves a certain price, why some agencies achieve better results and lower vacancy rates than others, and what can they do to ensure that their most valuable asset remains a rock solid investment.

The Coffs Coast property market has seen an impressive start to the year, with numerous agencies reporting the best start to the year for some time. The volume of homes for sale, however, has decreased slightly as we headed into winter. On the rental market, the latest Vacancy Rate Report released by REINSW shows Coffs Harbour with a residential vacancy rate of 2.9%, slightly below the long term average. Hence, most investors should now be receiving great rental returns and have their properties tenanted. If you’re one of the 2.9% that are vacant, then strategies should be developed in consultation with your agent to increase your opportunity to get it leased.

We are seeing a lot of quality tenants finding it difficult to secure desirable properties to lease. Of course, borrowing has also never been cheaper, with the Reserve Bank deciding to leave interest rates at an historically low level of just 2.0%, and this creates additional opportunity for investors to secure their next addition to their portfolio.

The Coffs Coast offers the utopia of investing in property where you can still receive great rental yield (returns) of 5% or greater, and enjoy capital growth going forward if you purchase the right property in the right location and invest in maintaining it. Here are a couple of points of interest and factual information: 60 coffs coast focus.

Did you know that NO agent can advertise

UPDATE

your property for sale (including ringing, talking about, online or in print) until they hold a Contract for the Sale of Land produced by your solicitor or conveyancer?

Did you know that as an investment property owner you can’t legally charge your tenants for water usage unless you have separate metering and water efficiency measures installed, certified, and checked routinely?

Did you know that every agent who engages in the work of selling and leasing properties must hold a minimum of a Certificate of Registration and needs to undergo yearly professional development courses in order to maintain their currency?

Did you know that engaging the right agent and agency can be the difference between your financial success and security, or endless problems and headaches?

Did you know that an agency that is a member of the industry peak body the Real Estate Institute of NSW (REINSW) is bound by an additional Code of Ethics and Conduct, adding a further level of accountability, integrity and best practice?

Next month we’ll explore some of the most commonly used terminology and look at the role of the Property Manager and how their performance is crucial to ensuring you maximise your returns in the short and long term. We will also look at some of the recent amendments to the Residential Tenancy Act and how if your property manager isn’t on the cutting edge of training and legislative updates, you could be left exposed and at risk of breaching your tenant’s lease agreement.

Yours in Property, Martin Wells.

OVER THE LAST 18 MONTHS TOURISM COFFS COAST HAS BEEN WORKING WITH COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCIL ON HOW BOTH COUNCIL AND THE TOURISM OPERATORS WORK BETTER TOGETHER TO MARKET THE COFFS COAST REGION.

A

fter a lengthy consultancy business plan also for the marketing of the process, we have been given region. To have industry input into these types a report which concluded that of plans is a major achievement for tourism in the best way to move forward the region. with such a project I would like to thank my fellow directors was to form a new commitfor the effort that they have put tee as part of Council into Tourism Coffs Coast over with industry reprethe years and also for their sentatives. support in regards to IS TH Why would this review. The direcG IN H

BY ESTA BL IS E, TE we do such a tors are volunteer IT M N EW CO M DS R A W TO K thing? positions, and they R O W E W IL L W EG IC AT R ST A G IN Over the H have all contributESTA BL IS S PL A N ES N SI BU D N A last five ed large amounts PL A N M A R K ET IN G years as of their time for A LS O FO R TH E E N. TO H AV O F TH E R EG IO E a board our local tourism ES TH TO T IN IN D U ST RY IN PU IS A M A JO R member industry.

NS TY PE S O F PL A of Tourism Thanks go to: FO R TO U R IS M T EN EM V IE ACH .”

Coffs Coast, Fiona Barden N IO IN TH E R EG we have found ETC; that there were Ian Swanborough some identity issues National Australia Bank; between ourselves and Paige Sinclair - Dolphin MaCoffs Coast Marketing (Coffs rine Magic; Harbour City Council Marketing Michael Hall - Smugglers on the Beach Department). and Coffs Coast Beach Houses; Communication between Coffs Bruce Levy - Lilly Pily guest house; Coast Marketing, Tourism Coffs Coast Kathryn Wood - Dorrigo Rainforest Centre; and members of the Tourism Industry needed David Laarhoven - Coffs Coast Co. to be improved.

A big thank you also to our members, By establishing this new committee, we will whom we will contact in the future under the work towards establishing a strategic plan and committee.

“

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Adam & Reg Latter

Benjamin Bryant

Reg latter electrical

Slater + GORDON

What is your area of expertise?

What makes your business stand out?

Family law: parenting matters, property

Slater and Gordon has 80 offices nationwide, so our clients get all the resources and benefits of a national firm, without having to travel to a capital city. Our lawyers are accessible, down to earth and know the local area, because they live here.

matters, dispute resolution, litigation and divorce.

Share some expert advice with our readers ...

Do not put off getting legal advice. A lawyer’s role is not to force a client into an agreement or drag them to court. A good lawyer will listen and advise their client of the advantages and disadvantages of the options available and help them move forward.

Don’t worry when the other party obtains legal advice; welcome it. If both parties are supported by lawyers, the process is a lot easier and the matter can be resolved as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

We also introduced an innovative fixed fee* service for family law to limit uncertainty for people going through what is likely to be the most difficult time in their lives.

What is the best thing about your job?

Times are emotionally and financially tough when there’s a break-up, and being able to help people through the turmoil pushes me forward.

Seeing the families I’ve assisted rebuild after the dust has settled is hugely rewarding, and it has a positive impact on the local community. That’s not something you get in the big cities.

FAMILY LAW

“ Separation is a rollercoaster.

But it’s comforting to know the legal side can run smoothly.”

Maggie had a lot on her mind with the separation. But after talking through the legal process with her lawyer from start to finish, she was confident that was one less thing she had to worry about.

If you’ve decided to separate, we can guide you every step of the way, provide fixed fees* for greater certainty and work to resolve the issues quickly so you can move on. You may also be eligible to pay at the end*.

We have a specialist family lawyer near you.

Heather McKinnon Practice Group Leader, Coffs Harbour Heather has been serving the community for over 30 years and is happy to introduce Benjamin to the team.

Benjamin Bryant Associate, Coffs Harbour Benjamin has recently joined Slater and Gordon and enjoys working as part of a co-operative office and firm. With experience in parenting matters, property matters, dispute resolution, litigation and divorce he can help to get the best outcome possible for his clients. Benjamin loves working in rural NSW because he is able to see what a difference his work is making to the community.

Get in touch 39 Gordon Street COFFS HARBOUR 6651 8440 slatergordon.com.au/family-law *Conditions apply. Excludes disbursements, pay fees on settlement.

62 coffs coast focus.

In 1979 Reg Latter established Reg Latter Electrical and began serving the electrical needs of Coffs Harbour and the surrounding district.

Twenty years later in 1999, Adam, Reg’s son, joined the family business as Reg’s apprentice.

Adam was a natural, ultimately topping the state in studies. Together, Reg and Adam have driven the business to be the professional operation it is today.

The longevity of Reg Latter Electrical is attributed to a dedication to honesty and hard work, combined with the pursuit of constant innovation which is complemented by impressive technical knowledge and experience. Both Reg and Adam share an unrelenting pursuit of service and product excellence and employ people with the same work ethics and integrity.

Reg Latter Electrical incorporating Pacific Powerlines provides a diverse and efficient range of electrical services; DOMESTIC, COMMERCIAL and INDUSTRIAL are accredited LEVEL 1 and LEVEL 2 Essential Energy service providers.

Furthermore, Reg Latter Electrical offers Coffs Harbour and surrounding districts after hours, on-call service and importantly, we offer same day service to respond to emergencies.

Recently Reg Latter Electrical has MOVED to its new premises at 28 Hulberts Rd, Toormina, providing the business the space to grow to better service existing and new customers now and into the future.

For prompt, efficient and FAMILY friendly service, call us and meet our team, or alternatively drop into our NEW premises at 28 Hulberts Rd, Toormina. Find us on Facebook.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Marcus Phillips

Geoffrey Gallagher

Designer living kitchens

The denture clinic

What is your area of expertise? Some of you readers may know me as a Dental Mechanic.

These days I am described as a Dental Technician and a Dental Prosthetist, providing the services of a Denture Clinic and a Dental Laboratory.

The Denture Clinic is open to the public for all Denture Services. This includes making new dentures from acrylic, cast metal and porcelain.

We also refit, maintain and repair existing dentures. We also run a Dental Laboratory, which services the local Dentists and Surgeons in the area with their patients needing oral appliance treatment, such as splint therapy, tooth removal, surgical guides and mouth guards.

When and why did you start your business?

Being born and raised on the Coffs Coast, I was drawn to work in the community. At 18 I set off to study Dental Prosthetics and Business Studies, with the dream of one day returning to work in

Coffs Harbour. Eight years later I did just that, bringing with me the skills and experience learnt along the way. For me there is great satisfaction in treating people from the local area and seeing their happy smiles I helped create out and about in our community.

What makes your business stand out?

Community Denture Clinic is run by locals for locals. Everyone who visits the clinic experiences honest, reliable and professional services, dealing directly with the person making the dentures. The focus for every patient is to provide education, allowing them to learn and ask questions about their treatment. Patients leave feeling confident with their new dentures, knowing they are natural looking, secure and comfortable. Community Denture Clinic is located in peaceful Glynn Avenue, with onsite access parking and a bus stop at the door.

Please call for a consultation.

reg latter

Interior design is about creating an environment to suit a particular criteria, whether it’s creating a warm, welcoming feel for a home, funky reception desk or an office space.

Function naturally is the first to consider, with the ease of performing the most commonly repeated tasks taken into account. Good function can lead to beauty and style such as furniture, cars, boats etc; however, the mixing of various elements, drawer lines, The style and feel of an appliances and finishes need e th it interior needs to be I call a ul careful consideration to work rm fo B moulded to personality FA successfully for the client. Taking , on ti and expectation, as well - Func e nc the space that is connected to ra ea as being functional and App t.� ge ud the kitchen area into the equation B d an ergonomically sound. is essential. How the family uses With this in mind, colour, the areas, how many people in the space and movement become home and how they entertain family critical to creating mood. The and friends, how it relates to outdoor wrong use of these elements can lead to entertaining areas are things to be looked at. uneasiness, unconsciously or otherwise, the result As an Interior Designer designing kitchens, these being a need to vacate or not visit as often ... aspects are vital to the creation of a successful Designing a kitchen into an environment requires outcome - the important thing being to tie all all of these elements to be considered. I call it the these elements together.

FAB formula - Function, Appearance and Budget.

“

slater & gordon

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63

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

W

hat’s new at Coffs Legacy?

Coffs Harbour Legacy has made a lot of significant changes over the past 12 months, with the implementation of a new role of Chief Executive Officer/Director of Nursing.

I was previously the Director of Nursing of the Coffs Harbour Legacy Nursing Home and have now taken on this new dual role. We also implemented a comprehensive Strategic Plan to bring our business units together. Our business units consist of: • Welfare • The Coffs Coast Legacy Opportunity Shop • Coffs Harbour Legacy Nursing Home The other most significant change is the change of name from Coffs Harbour Legacy to the Coffs Coast Legacy. Our aim here was to acknowledge that our Legacy club is active and cares for our beneficiaries throughout the entire Coffs Coast region, north to Corindi/Red Rock,

64 coffs coast focus.

Shawn Bergquist south to Urunga and west to Dorrigo.

How long have you been in your role, and what is the best thing about your job?

I joined Coffs Coast Legacy in 2009 and have been in my new dual role for just over 12 months. During this time I have been lucky enough to be a part of some very positive changes for Coffs Coast Legacy. We have a team of exceptional people made up of employees and volunteers who focus on the best outcomes and support for all of our beneficiaries and the Coffs Coast community. Working with our Legatees has been an honour, volunteering their time and skills at a level that is unprecedented in any environment that I have ever worked with. Their mantra is service, and our increasing number of Legatees are all dedicated, supportive and caring people.

What is Legacy?

Legacy provides support to Australian families suffering financially and socially after the

Coffs Coast Legacy

incapacitation or death of a spouse or parent, during or after their defence force service.

What does Legacy do?

Coffs Coast Legacy cares for over 570 dependants of Ex-service Personnel and 49 residents at the Nursing Home. Legacy’s ongoing support is funded through Legacy Week and other activities during the year. With very limited Government assistance, Legacy is very dependent on public support. Every cent that we raise from the Coffs Coast stays on the Coffs Coast and benefits our community, and for that fact alone we are extremely proud. Coffs Coast Legacy’s support programmes include subsidised housing, home support, medical alarms, education expenses and pension advocacy, to name a few.

Corporal Mark Donaldson VC, is the Patron of Coffs Coast Legacy. Mark grew up in Dorrigo and became a ward of the Dorrigo Legacy Chapter (a Junior Legatee) following the death

of his father, a Vietnam Veteran. Mark has expressed his appreciation for the support, on both an emotional and financial level, that Legacy has given his family.

What plans do you have for the future?

Over the next couple of years we will continue to provide support to all of our beneficiaries to ensure that they are all comfortable, feel supported, and a part of our community. We aim to become even more involved with our community. We want to achieve this through the development of lasting and beneficial partnerships with other Coffs Coast businesses and organisations. Informing our community of what Coffs Coast Legacy is and more importantly, what we do, is a major focus for us in the future. We have already commenced this through a partnership with the Veterans Centre Mid North Coast, which will see us collaborate to open the Mark Donaldson VC Veterans Centre within our Opportunity Shop premises.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

W

hat is your area of expertise?

Our company provides professional services to assist people with selling, renting, or buying properties. From property health checks to presentation and styling advice, my team take the time to listen to clients’ needs and tailor solutions to achieve satisfying results.

Share some expert advice with our readers.

Real estate isn’t rocket science. It has always been about position, presentation and price.

You can’t do anything about the position once you own it, so it is vital that you get the presentation and price right. Don’t settle for second best just to try and save a dollar.

And you have a family as well - how do you juggle it all?

A great team, time management and an

Martin Wells understanding and supportive family who support my business passions.

When and why did you start your business?

The business itself is a Coffs Coast institution, this year in its 28th year of operation. In the real estate industry, longevity is a sign of integrity and success. You just can’t operate for that long if you’re no good or shonky. I purchased the business in 2011 and have seen some incredible growth and results beyond all expectations.

What is the best thing about your job?

Mentoring and coaching my staff to be outstanding agents and engendering a culture of pride, accountability, integrity and success.

I love seeing the pride and enthusiasm they exude when we hit new milestones and receive amazing reviews. Our team is like another family; they know I care about them, and I

Atkinson’s real estate

know they will strive to deliver for my clients and me every day.

What makes your business stand out above your competitors?

Being ourselves, a business running our own race with a focus on our clients, not the opposition. I encourage our team not to focus on our competitors and just focus on doing what we do better than the day before. As a business we run our own race with clear goals and service delivery models.

What plans do you have for 2015?

Wow, if only you could see inside my head right now! We recently opened our second office in Harbour Drive, so there will be some consolidation of that, and later this year the Coffs Coast real estate industry will see one of the most exciting announcements and transitions in years.

How do you keep your team motivated?

I build a team and a culture abundant in training, value, respect, and acknowledgement of results and service. I said to them in a recent meeting, “If you need me to motivate you, you’re in the wrong place. What I will do is provide you the environment, the systems and the opportunity to be the best you can be both professionally and personally”. I have an amazing team.

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received?

Success is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration.

You don’t “get lucky”; to achieve success you make the tough decisions and bust your guts to see them out.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?

The huge variety of property, the wonderful people and the opportunity to make the most of the climate and natural beauty of the coast!

coffs coast focus.

65

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Shannon Timmins

Paul Basing

Steve Harrison

Whats the most satisfying aspect of your role?

What is the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my job is the people you meet, whether you’re travelling around or meet people passing through. Also, the challenges you can come up against day to day and being able to think on your feet is always fun for me. I love a challenge and love the career path I have chosen.

What is your area of expertise?

• Specialist in car and 4x4 services. (Fixed price, drive through, while you wait).

• Registration (Pink Slip, Blue Slip (Unregistered/interstate vehicles etc), LPG & Green (CTP) Slip.

• Full range of mechanical repairs.

• Pre-purchase inspections • Suspension including Gross Vehicle Mass upgrades. (Leading Suppliers).

• Engine enhancements - with King Brown Exhausts and Red Dirt Diesel Computer Chip.

Dukes Barbershop

For me it would be the ability to be creative everyday and to see someone who has visited our shop leaving feeling like a new person, knowing that making them look good on the outside hopefully makes them feel good on the inside as well.

What is your background experience?

I have been in the hair industry for 13 years now, starting my career in Melbourne working for well known salons and barbershops before moving to Coffs. So I have many years experience with both mens and womens styles which I can apply at Dukes.

What is Dukes’ point of difference?

We offer you a traditional barbershop experience complete with a complimentary espresso coffee, a neck shave, hot towel cleanse and of course the best cuts in town but we also have speciality services normally found at a salon, including men’s colouring to fade away those greys, full treatments and shampoos, and best of all, the part I enjoy the most about traditional barbering is the art of cut throat shaving.

Where do you see Dukes heading in the future?

We will be getting in more hair care stock and unique gifts for men over time. The owner of Dukes plans to open more locations in the very near future. If you would like to be a part of the Dukes team as a stylist or to discuss other locations then send an email to jase@ dukesshop.com.

Find us at Shop 6, The Boulavard Arcade, Harbour Drive, downtown Coffs Harbour Monday - Saturday.

66 coffs coast focus.

The Pier

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?

I love the Coffs Harbour lifestyle, being so close to some of the best beaches on the East Coast and then being able to drive 10 minutes west and be in some of the best rainforest, freshwater holes and 4WD tracks. Secondly, after living in Melbourne and having four seasons in one day, Coffs Harbour weather is always nothing but rewarding.

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received?

Well, I have always been told to aim high and work hard for what you want. I was once told the difference between success and failure with people is not that they aim too high and fail, but that they aim too low and succeed.

What are your plans/goals for 2015/2016?

There are a number of things in the pipeline for the Pier Hotel, which I’m happy to be a part of. More renovations will be happening in the not too far future, which will be great for the Jetty strip. I do have one project that I have started on recently, but don’t want to disclose too much information just yet - but let me say it will be good for Coffs Harbour, and it involves food and wine.

Speedy Lube

Share some expert advice with our readers?

How important is it to have your car serviced? Put it this way: if you were forced to constantly eat and drink the same product from the same date of purchase, what effect do you think it would have on your health? Although your car is a mechanical object, it too depends on fluids that contain essential lubricants to protect and provide energy to all of the operating parts.

Failure to provide the correct lubricants over time will lead to higher running costs and eventually cause engine seizure.

Therefore, preventative maintenance is an essential fact of life in car ownership. Manufacturers recommend service intervals for the many different varieties and models of cars. Outside of warranty periods depending on the make, age and use of the vehicle, it is generally recommended that services should be carried out at either 5,000 km or 10,000 km intervals.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Peter Meagher

Nic Derrin

What is your area of expertise?

I have been a floor layer for over 33 years. I purchased Andersens in 2011.

Derrin’s Joinery and Stair is a local family owned and operated

Ian and Phil Klaus specialise in all things

business servicing Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas.

Telecommunications. As well as having 20 years’

Specialists in the manufacture and installation of beautiful

experience between them, they have the privilege of

What are you passionate about?

I care about making your purchase a pleasant and rewarding experience with Andersens.

made to measure timber staircases, Derrin’s Joinery can also

working alongside Max, their father, who has 45 years’

manufacture most of your joinery needs with the experience and

experience and knowledge.

quality only a small workshop can offer.

The entire Klaus family live on the Coffs Coast and

What is the best thing about your job?

Job satisfaction. Selling and laying a new floor and seeing how happy it makes the customer.

Derrin’s Joinery has a passion for customer service and

would not have it any other way.

understands the importance of a one on one relationship from

They all love the lifestyle, with just about every family

start to finish, ensuring the customers’ needs are met the first

What makes your business stand out above your competitors?

Presentation and customer service. My team care about your experience with Andersens. We want you to be happy; we have a great showroom at Andersens with lots of products on show and experienced people to help you.

member from the kids to the grandparents enjoying a

time, every time.

surf most weekends.

What is your area of expertise?

As well as the three boys out in the field, they have

We’ve strived to specialise in timber stairs since we opened a few

their sister, Amy, running the show from their office.

years ago, but we’re still capable of manufacturing all timber

“Our business has grown immensely over the last few

Andersens coffs harbour

What plans do you have for 2015?

I want to grow the business and feel I have the right people to do that with.

How do you keep your team motivated?

I try to make the team feel part of the business.

Derrin’s Joinery

joinery products, excluding kitchens. We’ve recently focused on making our business more efficient in stair production, with up to date programming, machinery and a new installer.

Now with 17 years of combined experience in staircases and balustrades, there’s no problem that can’t be solved.

What plans do you have for 2015?

What’s been the best business advice you have received?

Have a go and don’t look back. Have the right team around you and work hard.

With the consistent growth in the Coffs Harbour building

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? To be able to have a surf before work.

Currently that involves expanding our factory to improve flow

industry, we plan on continuing to improve the efficiency that our customers have come to expect. and safety and to make room for our new showroom.

Ian & Phil Klaus Klaustel

years, with the introduction of our personalised service provider branding; we offer competitive rates on our NBN, phone line and phone system pricing.”

Having direct access to a personal service is the key.

“The key to our business is to keep it small enough to care, and large enough to deliver.”

Our main motto is: “We won’t sell you something you don’t need, or undersell something to you to win a job.”

Remember, “At Klaustel the same people that sell the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it.”

For a free measure & quote call

6651 7171

or visit 1/36, Park Ave Coffs Harbour andersens.com.au CARPET • TIMBER • BAMBOO • VINYL FLOORING AWNINGS • SHUTTERS • BLINDS coffs coast focus.

67

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Gary Evans

Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? As the Dealer Principal it’s wonderful to see the staff grow and develop, especially through their own initiatives - which they often kick start themselves.

level of sustainability, as we have many procedures

It is also pleasing to hear the amount of positive feedback from clients. It’s good to know that we are providing a high level of service and a great product with our photocopiers and software.

sporting groups and worthy causes within the local

What background experience do you bring to your current role? I worked for Fuji Xerox for 14 years in Sydney in a sales role before buying the Mid North Coast office. Before that I was a Service Manager in Sydney and had over 30 engineers in my team.

Championships every year it has been in Coffs.

Business/personal goals for this financial year? To increase customer awareness in what we do, who we are and what we believe in as a company. A large focus of this would be our high

industry is constantly changing, they have to

68 coffs coast focus.

in place for making sure we are environmentally aware.

How does your business give back to the community? We are proud to support many community such as Coffs Comets, Snappers Rugby Union and Westpac Rescue Helicopter, to name a few. We have also sponsored the World Rally Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? They would need to be honest, ethical, and patient. They would need to make sure they believe that customer service is critical and key to any successful business. As the technological accept and react when things change, enjoy being challenged and know that there is a high level of competition.

Jason Burnett The Edge

What background experience do you bring to your current role? I started my real estate career in 1998 as a trainee with a national franchise. In 2003 at the age of 24, I opened The Edge Real Estate.

Estate, where we successfully sold the property at auction and donated our services and marketing. This sale raised over $200,000 for Destiny Rescue, a charitable organisation fighting against children trafficking.

At this time I was one of the youngest Licensees in Charge/ Office Owners in the country. The Edge over the years has grown to become the number 1 office in the region for sales and property management, with a team of 35 people.

We take our corporate responsibility seriously and give back to the community that supports us.

How does your business give back to the community? We support many local organisations and sporting clubs every year ongoing. I recently participated in the Coffs Coast Community Sleepout, where over $24,000 was raised for the homeless people in our area. Last year, The Edge was involved in the “Rescue House” at Sapphire Beachfront

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? As a business owner, the most satisfying aspect of my role is watching my colleagues develop in their careers and mentoring our new staff as they start their career journey in the real estate industry. Dealing with repeat clients and their families is something I also enjoy. Many of my clients have been dealing with me since the early stages of my career, and their ongoing support is greatly appreciated.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Ian Davie

business development manager Key EMployment FOLLOWING AN EARLY CAREER IN LEGAL MARKETING IN LONDON, IAN MOVED TO THE COFFS COAST IN 2012 AND TENDERS FOR NEW BUSINESS AT DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT SERVICE PROVIDER, KEY EMPLOYMENT.

Y

ou’re from the UK; what’s your background?

I studied Business and Marketing at university and worked for a number of global law firms in London in Business Development and Project Management for seven years. I backpacked around Australia for six months in 2012 before settling in Coffs Harbour and have been at Key Employment for nearly two years.

What is your role at Key? I’m Business Development Manager and am responsible for driving initiatives to improve the service we offer to our clients, local employers and the Mid North Coast community. There are a number of projects I’m working on to position Key appropriately for when the National Disability Insurance Scheme rolls out here. This will change how Disability Services operate nationally, and we are being proactive and hopefully ground-breaking in our approach. I’m building relationships with employers and community groups to increase awareness of the disability and employment services we offer and the amazing work we do. I look for funding opportunities to help us offer the great programmes we run and tender for new contracts.

Why should local business owners call Key Employment?

The Coffs Coast is a very competitive employment market, and our aim is to assist local businesses to improve their operations and staff management. The crux to a successful business usually centres on its workforce, and our involvement doesn’t stop at placing an individual in work.

Through continued support to the employee and employer, we help to sustain long-term positions and ultimately progressive careers for our clients. Finding out what keeps the

employer awake at night and helping them find solutions is where we see ourselves. We can take the pain of recruitment away from the employer and help them build a team they can be proud of. We’re excited to have just opened an office in Woolgoolga and invite local employers to visit Lisa and Kathy in Market Street to help them with their staffing needs.

What makes your business stand t out above your Finding out whaoyer pl em e competitors? keeps th d helping Key has 60 staff awake at night an ons is from Kempsey to them find soluti rselves. where we see ou pain of Yamba, and each We can take theay from the person has huge recruitment aw lp them commitment to employer and he can be their role and in build a team they targeted at helping improving proud of.” disengaged the lives of their youth clients. There is story after story of going the with disability, not extra mile by our staff, and thriving at school, and I think everyone is proud to offers them an adult learning wear the Key Employment logo on their environment to build the skills they need for shirt. Key is a family and everyone works the world of work. We currently have 115 together, learns from each other and drops students enrolled over ten classes in Coffs everything to help a colleague out. Key Harbour, Kempsey, Nambucca, Bellingen are rated highly by our governing bodies, and Grafton, and I am formalising our and the feedback we receive from clients, work experience programme to go handemployers and auditors is phenomenal. Key in-hand with their studies to give them are forward thinking and for over 20 years the best chance of walking into work at haven’t stood by waiting for change, but graduation. A very common remark from have prepared well for it. students is that they are changing their life What is the biggest success story of through this course, which is rewarding to your time at Key? hear. I’d encourage employers to get on The KAPOW (Kids and the Power of board with this initiative and take on one of Work) programme started around the time our students to give them the opportunity I did, and in those two years we’ve seen to learn about working life, and we have around 120 young people graduate KAPOW already seen some early graduates of with a Business Cert II qualification, life skills KAPOW commence trade apprenticeships and other work-related licences to better as the first step towards successful careers. prepare them for employment. KAPOW is

“

What plans do you have for the rest of 2015?

I have a busy couple of months getting projects off the ground and seeing others to fruition before I go to the States on holiday in September. Coming in to the summer, I want to see results and improvements on some stats from the first half of the year.

Key are sponsoring the Living Well Expo in August, the Coffs Running Festival Half Marathon in September (I’m training for that), hosting our third annual Golf Day for employers in November and proudly celebrating the International Day of People with Disability in December with our PARK Life community fun day. Then it will be back to London for a short winter Christmas break for me.

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

Being English, the weather! There is a great sense of community here and for a relatively small place (coming from London) there is always something to do!

Thanks Ian. coffs coast focus. 69

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Richard Hennessy

C

Chau & Hennessy

loud accounting, also referred to at, such as Quickbooks, MYOB, Xero & Sage as “online accounting”, serves plus others, but the main thing is to look at the same function as accounting a couple of the options, not just your current software that you would install provider, as price structures vary - as do levels on your computer, except it of support. Overall, you need to consider the runs on a server and you and your accountant option that suits your business best, as all can access it using a web browser over the businesses are different.

Internet. Your data is securely stored and Is it easy to change to another type of processed on a server - or “in the cloud”. This accounting software? means you are able to access your business Yes, most systems should be able to financials from anywhere and using any device, integrate into the cloud option you decide as long as you are connected to the internet. on, so you don’t have to go and recreate the There are many benefits to using cloud wheel, so to speak. Most providers are offering accounting. In addition to the flexibility of accessing your data from anywhere, you never You-Tube type training tutorials and with the need to install software on any device, and assistance of your accountant, should be able updates are automatic. The provider’s servers to get you up and running. are actively monitored and maintained, and Is security an issue; there are some possibly have an even higher level pretty scary stories out of security than many small there about identity business networks and theft and online staff laptops. fraud?

What do you see est advantage gg bi The cloud he T as the biggest e is that it will se I is one of the advantage join w accountants toin their lo al most secure of cloud nts in with their clie ramme in ways to store accounting? og ting pr

“

accoun

correct

t only The biggest information real time and noin completion st si as advantage and is login errors or S eping for BA I see is that of their bookke but also offer and password and financials , rate advice it will allow driven. timely and accu mance of accountants or rf All of your pe e about th to join in with .” ss ne si bu information is r thei their clients in safely and securely their accounting stored off your work programme in real site. Cloud-based software time and not only correct companies ensure that the errors or assist in completion of security and privacy of data about you and their bookkeeping for BAS and financials, but your organisation is always airtight. If you use also offer timely and accurate advice about the performance of their business. Gone are the days of software being out of date or old versions, having to save files to USB and drop them off or email in and not be able to work on your file in the meantime. The biggest benefit I see, is that it will create efficiency and let’s face it - no business person really loves doing their bookkeeping at the end of a hard day which means you can spend more time doing what you love most!

There seems to be plenty of options out there how do I know which provider is best for my business?

Yes there is now a bit of competition which is good, so there are a few options to look 70 coffs coast focus.

online banking, then you’re already primed to use cloud accounting.

Cloud Accounting will give your business the edge, with up to date reporting and real time results; it will create efficiency so you can devote your time to what you do best!

At Chau & Hennessy Professional Accountants, we are able to assist with the setup of cloud accounting, including import of information from your existing accounting software if required and be your primary support source of technical support.

We are happy to assist with any queries you may have about the use of cloud accounting.

Paul Bebendorf

RP Material Handling

What is your area of expertise? I have 37 years’ experience as a mechanic, starting as an apprentice at Holden. I then worked and trained as a Plant Mechanic, which led me into the material handling industry. The diversified nature of this industry engages me and excites my capacity to learn and challenge myself.

What makes your business stand out? R P Material Handling Pty Ltd is the only independent and locally owned and operated material handling company on the Coffs Coast. We employ local staff and support local suppliers in our operation.

RPM supplies quality products in Komatsu and TCM Forklifts, Merlo and Manitou Telescopic Handlers and Tieman Dock solutions. With factory support and training, a fully equipped workshop and mobile service vans on the Coffs Coast, Port Macquarie and in Tamworth. R P Material Handling can offer all material handling solutions.

And you have a family as well - how do you

juggle it all? Yes, I am a working single father.

I am lucky enough to have a dedicated team of employees that I trust and rely on to maintain the operation of the business if required. Our company is much bigger than just one person, and working as a unified team is vital in giving the customer the quality service they deserve. My son, Kobi, who is completing his senior years at high school has also joined our team as a casual employee; we enjoy working together and I hope that these days will help inspire him to achieve his own professional goals.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? The Coffs Coast is such a beautiful place to live. We have the majority of the facilities of a city much larger in size, yet we have access to some of the best coastline in the world.

One of my favourite weekend activities is to kayak the beautiful Coffs Creek with my son and enjoy the beach, especially as it warms up a bit.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

HELPING business grow The Critical Factor exists to help our clients grow. We do this through a problem solving approach that has a very clear focus on tangible, measurable outcomes. We consider “how” we achieve our success to be just as important as what we achieve, and we do this through a clear focus on integrity, open communication, client satisfaction and leadership as an organisation.

Tim Kitching

Gareth Owen

Big Garden Furniture

W

hat is the most milled and solar kilned to reduce our carbon satisfying aspect of footprint and to keep costs at a minimum. your role?

We also source Tasmanian Oak, Being able to make a Tasmanian Blackwood, QLD Maple and client’s dream a reality, from concept to Jarrah to make our unique one off designs finished product. The look on their faces come to life. when they see our finished creation still YourTO wife is also involved? puts a smile on the dial and makes it YOUR all WAY Yes, Lisa looks after the showroom three worthwhile.

How do you effectively market your days a week and also handcrafts all the business to new customers? covers for our daybeds on site. Lisa also We use both print media, FOCUS of looks after the quality control side, as she course, and TV; the idea of both mediums hasbusinesses a very good eye for individuals detail and finish.

The most common problem I see in the and that is to direct traffic to our website and Business/personal goals for this I work closely with is the lack of a plan about how they are going to alternatively the showroom. Using social financial year? succeed.

This poor non existent media like Instagram andor Facebook is still planning results in disjointed actions and poor results.

Teams end up unhappy and managers Wedisengaged, would like to get our dining growing momentum, so we need to feel unfulfilled and poorly rewarded, and businesses often perform well chairs in to the exclusive get more involved with it in

NAVIGATING

Success

below their potential. the near future.

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We y,

W

T h ein cworking r i t i c awith l f aindividuals c t o r and Specialising businesses that needsatisfying help; we work with What is the most aspect of you your to identify issues and problems; we create role? At the end of the day, my role is to help pragmatic and sensible plans drive change people solve problems.

This istovery satisfying whilst supporting you and your team as especially if a business or individual doesyou not work a different result. knowfor what to do next.

I love the feeling when

Recent client period was having you lookCase backStudy over a-6Atorecent 12 month and trouble recruiting the right candidate for a role. a business has been transformed.

They had employed two candidates over the past What background experience do you bring 12 months for a role, and both of them proved to your current role? I have had careers in the to be unsuitable. This was costing the business entertainment industry, the Police Force and time and money. Using specialised interview the corporate sector before starting my own techniques and some psychometric testing, business and building a consulting practice. I we were able to add value to the recruitment have lots of practical life experiences, and these process and provide insights and advice over come through in everything that I do. My work their top three candidates for the role. This client and my solutions are pragmatic and realistic; this now has the right person in the right role in their is my point of difference. business. At around $700 per candidate, this Business/personal for helps this fito nancial service soon pays forgoals itself and avoid year? hiring This year I am looking expand costly mistakes that cantotake manymy months practice into regional NSW. I believe that our to resolve.

regional businesses have no less of a need for advice and guidance in my areas of expertise than their friends in the city, and being able to offer this important me. Personally, I just Why use isThe Critical to Factor - Principal Tim want to spend more time with my family Kitching has over 20 years’ experience in this year. leadership positions in both the Public and How do you encourage a positive working Private Sectors, including the NSW Police environment?

I believe that work andHe business Force and the National Australia Bank. has in general can be fun.

It is all about the mindset coached literally hundreds of people to success that you apply to it. If you approach the world as a Leader within large organisations. Tim’s that you live in with a positive attitude, this has a philosophy is simple. Success, in any endeavour, huge impact on the outcome that you produce. is ultimately about Direction, Planning and Positive work environments start with a leader People. Concentrating on these three things will or business owner and move down from here. always and coaching is, after Leadersresult needintochange understand their people and all, about positive change.

Tim’s proven track record what drives them, and then use this to engage of success, combined with a deep knowledge and motivate them. Unfortunately, this is rare in about leadership, people and planning for the most work environments.

A work environment future, makes Tim perfect to help that is positive andthe happy has partner a demonstrably higher level of you succeed in productivity business. and profitability.

“

e still do toda

hing w individuals work through theseonchallenges properly, you begin to understand why somet took overand in 2008 the market, we build them e us ca be so many organisations are achieving and achieve remarkable results. .” and relocated else and we make a er than anyone tt be less than they could.

How can These programmes have seen the business to bloody beautiful our people deliver what we success in organisations Woolgoolga, where chair! need to succeed when Cas diverse as Westpac, FA we have a showroom AL IC IT TH E CR How does your SS AN D they do not understand Australia Post and at 1852 Solitary Islands TO R HA S AC CE E business give International. back to the A RA NG what it is?a factory at 20 Colliers Way and EX PE RI EN CE IN M ES DEcommunity?

M RA OG PR A OF This lack Road, of We work closely Bosworth Woolgoolga.

LP ORGA NI SI GN ED TO HE We support DI IN local schools, planning bemake? withpreschools, organisations D AN What docan you S SATI ON S, TE AM H UG RO TH K addressed with the to create tailored OR W We can practically make any style of AL S the local Men’s Shed and Woolgoolga VI DU NG ES AN D LE AL CH E right focus and programmes to ES furniture, from rustic to modern designs.

TH Rotary and Ehave supported cyclone stricken E RE M AR KA BL EV HI AC investment of time, fix specific issues The original business started by making Vanuatu with tools and volunteer work over RE SU LT S. ” energy expertise. and challenges they uniqueand rustic outdoor furniture - something the past four years.

The key do obstacles may be facing. These we still today, to because we build them How do you encourage a positive success oftenanyone include:else. programmes have proven better than working environment?

A lack of clearhas direction or to be highly effective at The business progressed to Lead by example, be motivational, have vision.

No tangible andquality measurable turning around organisational manufacturing high bespoke

“

goals to work towards. furniture, daybeds, bedroom furniture, The absence a strong connection entertainment of units, vanities, dining tables, between the individual and thefurniture. organisation’s coffee tables and associated values.

A lack of meaning and motivation We also produce handcrafted dining to work goals. with 8 chairstowards that arecommon sold nationally, Missing or competence in areas that designs toskills choose from. are needed to reach the use? goals set by a business What timber do you or We organisation. have always lent towards using locally A lack of belief in Blackbutt, the goals set by anWood, grown species like Tallow organisation or in an individual’s or team’s Ironbark, Forest Redgum, Red Mahogany, ability to reach those goals.

Silky Oak and Bluegum.

The timber is locally

belief in your staff’s capabilities, listen to performance in relatively short time frames.

The use of team and individual coaching, their ideas and implement them if they have tangible and measurable goals that are then merit. shared with the entire team regularly and joint Best advice for someone starting out in accountability for what goes right and what your industry? goes wrong helps to drive a different culture Have a business plan, know your market, within an organisation. stay on what you want, free listen to Forfocused a complimentary, obligation your clients and remain discussion regarding howgrounded. we may be able to Come for a chat quotes and assist you,inplease don’tanytime; hesitate to contact us on 1300 727 817. free of charge. advice are always greater port macquarie . 8371 coffs coastfocus focus.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Mathew Dal Pozzo

Michael Bailey

Harbourside refrigeration and air conditioning

Radiance Insulation services

When and why did you start your business?

The business started in 1998, when customers purchasing insulation through our long established family hardware store started requesting an “installed” price. I started installing the product in my own time, and the rest is history.

What makes your business stand out?

We only use Australian Made products from CSR Bradford for ceilings and walls, and (especially at this time of year) Optimo sub floor insulation. We only employ qualified and experienced installers.

CSR Bradford products are not only Australian Owned, but Australian made. They have achieved a “Sensitive Choice” rating from the National Asthma Council and are non allergenic and non carcinogenic. They are also supplied with a 70 year performance guarantee on wall, ceiling and underfloor insulation.

Share some expert advice with our readers ...

72 coffs coast focus.

If you are planning a new home or an addition, talk to your builder about Wall Wrap, Wall Batts, Ceiling Batts, Sound Screen, and Sub Floor Insulation, as well as asking about Skylights, Ventilators and Gutter Guard. It is much more cost effective and efficient to have these products expertly installed during the construction phase.

What are your plans for 2015?

I want to grow the business locally along with expanding into other areas, resulting in employing more full-time staff, but without losing our focus on providing the highest quality service to our customers. To us, each customer is as important as the other - from the construction company building 100 plus homes a year to the retirees who need insulation for a granny flat, and everyone in between. It is my belief that they all deserve to be treated as a high priority customer who receives high quality service at an affordable price.

What is your area of expertise?

We cover a wide range of equipment, from the smallest residential air conditioners through to large commercial air conditioning. We also specialise in commercial and industrial refrigeration, including cool rooms and freezer rooms, we do custom fit outs for cafés, restaurants and bars, as well as commercial kitchens, we offer a full range of catering equipment as well as coffee machines and accessories. We offer sales, installation, and service for all of the above mentioned equipment.

What makes your business stand out?

As a family owned business, we get to know our customers very well. We know the kind of service they require, and we can offer them the ongoing support that they need to keep their equipment in tip top shape. My wife and I grew up in Coffs and have lived here for the greater

part of our lives; we are now raising our own family in this brilliant part of the world. We know the local area and the people who call this city home. When you ring our phone number for service, you will always talk to the same person.

What is the best thing about your job?

I would say that the best part of my job is meeting and developing a real relationship with my clients. We see them out and about on weekends or after work, and there is always time for a chat. We eat at their cafés and restaurants, or shop at their business. To me, it’s all about supporting local business - that’s why we really try to get to know our clients, and they in turn get to know us. We support each other’s business, and the winner is our community.

We have such a top part of the world to call home, and by supporting local business we can continue to make the Coffs Coast the best place in Australia to live.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Mark Rutledge

Tom Williams

Scott Vidler

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received?

What is your area of expertise?

We specialise in domestic and commercial maintenance, gas fitting, roofing, solar hot water, renovations and new homes.

Tarraray Pet Retreat is a unique concept in pet care, offering first class facilities to ensure owners’ peace of mind, when it is necessary to be away from their pets.

Tarraray is designed to give your pet the best of everything with various styles of accommodation from five-star luxury suites to backpackers kennel runs which are all inside our secure facility.

Coramba Hotel

Don’t jeopardise your own integrity, set goals, and treat others the way you wish to be treated. Stay true to yourself; what you put out in life is what you will receive back.

Also, watching and listening to my mother in business over the years; as a mentor, she has made me a strong business person.

And you have a family as well - how do you juggle it all?

I’m very lucky in this area, as our hotel is a family business, employing my three daughters, Sarah, Naomi and Jessica which means I can focus on the important issues, outsourcing the day to day running to the girls.

What makes your business stand out above your competitors?

Coramba Hotel is quite unique for its relaxed atmosphere overlooking dairy farms in the peaceful Orara Valley. Being only 12 minutes from the beaches, we enjoy the best of both worlds. The amount of friendly diners and their positive comments sends shivers down my spine; as you can tell, I am very passionate about my business.

What is your area of expertise?

I think my expertise is Marketing and Sales, because I am customer service orientated and enjoy growing revenue, researching and learning new market strategies while building new business relationships.

T. Williams plumbing

What makes your business stand out?

I believe T. Williams plumbing stands out due to the professional approach we take towards each job and the pride we show in our work.

When and why did you start your business?

I started my business in 2012. I am following in my father’s footsteps, who has been plumbing on the Coffs Coast for over 30 years. I had a lot of friends, family and the general public asking if I work for myself, which in turn made me realise that I had a unique set of skills and I should put them to good use.

What is the best thing about your job?

I believe the best thing about my job is doing something different every day and the challenge you get from offering such a wide range of services.

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received?

It was from my first employer, when I was an apprentice. He told me that every client is important, always show pride in your work, and you should always complete your work as if you were doing it on your own home.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?

It’s my home, and I enjoy helping the local community by providing a honest and devoted company of hard working locals with country morals.

Tarraray Pet Retreat

While only new to the animal care industry, Scott comes from a background in disability care and a cook in numerous restaurants in Coffs and with this comes the knowledge of cleaning and hygiene, which is an necessity for a boarding kennel.

For Scott’s partner Bec, becoming the owner of Tarraray is the fulfilment of a life-time dream and in the very place where she has worked for the last three years – first as a cleaner, then as the manager and now owner.

Situated on Bonville Station Road, just south of Coffs, Tarraray offers accommodation for dogs from $20 per day and $15 for cats. We also offer doggie daycare for those who are travelling with their dogs and want the day to themselves to enjoy a round of golf or a bit of shopping.

Set on 20+ acres of beautiful countryside, there can be anything up to 50 dogs and 12 cats in residence…plus horses, guinea pigs, rabbits, ducks, birds and also a regular holidaying axolotl. “We cater for anything when it comes to caring for pets”.

coffs coast focus.

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Paul Pierlot

Joshua Allen

Infracraft

ANZ

W

hat are your business/ personal goals for this financial year?

My primary goal is to continue to strengthen Infracraft's position and reputation as a provider of quality commercial joinery. I believe strongly in the importance of innovation and the appropriate application of technology to establish and maintain a competitive edge and in keeping with this, we are currently implementing an integrated customisable ERP system to consolidate our financial, inventory and production systems.

Another goal for this financial year is to further reduce our carbon footprint and utility costs by adding large scale storage to the commercial rooftop solar array we installed at our factory earlier this year.

This investment supports our other environmental initiatives, such as our recycling policies, re-usable cabinet packaging methods, power efficiency initiatives and sophisticated dust and fume extraction and disposal systems.

the region.

What key lessons have you learned from successfully overcoming difficulties in your business?

The primary lesson I have learned is that business is about people and relationships. We have built our business reputation by fostering strong business relationships with the companies that we deal with, providing quality products and services and honouring our commitments.

We encourage staff to exhibit

A second lesson is that you sion need to have a vi ur bigger than yo and current capacity st in be willing to inve your vision .”

“

How does your business give back to the community?

Infracraft gives back to the community in a number of different ways. We directly support a number of charities and organisations locally through both financial gifts and gifts of time and materials, including the PCYC, Rotary, Shearwater Lodge and Marine Rescue NSW. The other way we give back to the community is through our youth and mature age apprenticeship programmes, which we run in partnership with NSW TAFE. Cabinetmaking is now only taught out of the Lithgow and Hunter TAFE campuses, so Infracraft are part of a novel training programme where the majority of the training is provided on-site by Infracraft tradesmen, with periodic visits from TAFE staff for skills assessment and additional training. This allows Infracraft to act as a satellite training centre for TAFE, allowing our apprentices to remain living locally and providing an opportunity for local apprenticeships in

74 coffs coast focus.

cabinetmaking which would otherwise be lost to

professionalism, courtesy and accuracy in all dealings with clients and suppliers. These relationships have provided us with the flexibility to respond to the complex challenges

facing small business.

A second lesson is that you need to have a vision bigger than your current capacity and be willing to invest in your vision. This is the principle which drove us to invest in or create technology which was at the time virtually unknown in the commercial joinery industry in Australia. For example, our first point to point CNC router was not only the first one used in the industry, it was the first one in the country and only the second in the world.

The final lesson is the importance of innovation and embracing technology. We are firm believers in the adage "change or die", or as we prefer, "innovate or die". Infracraft has continued to invest significantly in IT and automation technology to ensure that our systems are fast, efficient and functional. This reduces staff frustration, increases staff output and provides us with a significant commercial advantage.

W

hat is your area of managers and dedicated local product expertise? specialists” that truly sets the Commercial Over a 20 year career in & Agri Banking team apart from any other business development, bank. marketing, social enterprise and finance, When and why did you start your I have joined the local team in ANZ business?

Commercial & Agri Banking, where I work Operating in the Australian market, ANZ in partnership with our senior relationship has a proud history of 180 years servicing managers to consult with our clients and deliver working capital solutions. On the banking clients. Here on the Coffs Coast, ground here on the Coffs Coast, that our regional Commercial & Agri Banking translates to helping business clients with team has worked in partnership locally how they pay money out and receive with clients for over 20 years. Over the money in from their clients to help past five years we have seen their business manage cash significant growth in our flow and benefit from local team, with the best the most current and bankers across the & efficient transactional In Commercial e region choosing to products and services Agri B anking , th es rvic join ANZ as the most available. products and semarket e th in professional and e bl availa Share some expert ster fa ng gi an ch e rewarding bank to ar advice with our nesses than many busi the work for. readers? are adapting to What is the best In Commercial & Agri change .”

“

Banking the products and services available in the market are changing faster than many businesses are adapting to the change. Driven by new technologies, security requirements, social media and the growth of online enterprise, the businesses that engage with our team to proactively evaluate new ideas and strategies are the most successful clients in the region.

What makes your business stand out?

Direct feedback from our clients has identified that it is “Innovative banking services that help my business to grow, along with local credit approvals, personalised service, accessibility to senior

thing about your

job?

For me, it’s all about the clients. I derive great pleasure in working with the most successful business clients across the North Coast region, understanding their business objectives and goals and then helping them to work seamlessly with ANZ systems. Diversity would also have to be one of the best parts of my role, as I work with clients across all industries and every day is different. With my clients spanning the NSW East Coast from Tweed Heads through to Taree, this is truly one of the most beautiful parts of Australia.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

W

hat is your area of expertise?

I’ve been in the optical industry for 39 years, so have extensive optical knowledge and experience. My work requires plenty of HR knowledge to manage our 350+ dispensing staff and liaise with up to 100 Optometrists that consult within our stores.

What makes your business stand out above your competitors?

We are the largest, independent Australianowned optical chain in Australia, which puts us in a position to negotiate for volume discounts that we get to pass on to our customers. And, we have a philosophy of not up-selling, offering the customer what they actually need. My view is that we are in the

Steve Dorz T h e O p t i c a l S u p e r s t o r e business of health-based customer service, rather than sales. If we do that well, the sales will come.

I’m also proud of the ethics within our company. The owners of the parent company have established a women’s health and malnutrition clinic in East Timor, and over the years we’ve employed a number of political refugees at our Head Office in Melbourne.

When and why did you start your business?

The Optical Superstore was originally established in Queensland over 25 years ago, and six years ago the company was ready to bring quality lower-priced optical products to this region. The timing coincided with my wife and I wanting to move out of the city to a regional area, so we invested in the Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie stores and are thrilled with the positive feedback we get

from our customers.

And you have a family as well - how do you juggle it all?

I do travel regularly, but my work is centred around my laptop, so I also get to work from home. We have to keep things very fluid to juggle our kids and their sporting commitments. But I’ll get into trouble if I don’t acknowledge my very capable wife and her ability to schedule everything.

What is the best thing about your job?

The variety of my work keeps it interesting.

I get to do everything from setting policy and procedure for the sixty stores to being hands-on with new shop fits; liaising with Health Funds and Medicare and negotiating with overseas suppliers and manufacturers on pricing and supply.

What plans do you have for 2015?

We’ve recently been accredited as a retailer

for Tag Heuer Eyewear. These are high-quality frames made in France and come with a twoyear warranty.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?

The eight minute commute to work is far more enjoyable than the two hours it used to take to get home from the airport on a Friday afternoon in Brisbane. But the best thing about Coffs is the people! We made more friends in our first two weeks living in Coffs Harbour than we made in nine months on the Gold Coast prior to that.

Share some expert advice with our readers. Shop around for the best deals and don’t be caught by clever marketing tactics.

We’re surprised by the number of people who don’t realise they can use their Optometrist’s prescription at any optical outlet to get the best price for their specs.

coffs coast focus.

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Drop in for a chat today.

Check out the 2015 design range from G.J. Gardner Homes.

Expertly designed, we have added further modern and spacious plans to choose from.

Office

Stillwater 303 - Resort Facade

Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

171 Orlando Street Opening Hours

25100

Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm LDRY.

BUTLERS PANTRY

BED 4

Display home

DOUBLE GARAGE

ROBE

LOUNGE

KITCHEN

3 Cherry Street,

FR

PWDR.

BBQ AREA

Sapphire Beach, NSW, 2450

GALLERY

FOYER

15790

PORCH

DINE WIR

STUDY NOOK

Opening Hours

LINEN

ROBE

BED 2

BED 1

LINEN

7 days 9am to 5pm

ALFRESCO FAMILY

ROBE

BED 3

WC

ENSUITE ACTIVITY BATH

Photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. Excluded items include but are not limited to landscaping items such as planter boxes, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, screens, driveways and decorative items such as fencing and outdoor kitchens or barbeques. Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast. Builders Licence 191313C.

Call us on (02) 6691 3509 email coffsharbour@gjgardner.com.au or visit gjgardner.com.au

PLANS ARE SUBJECT TO LOCAL COUNCIL & DEVELOPERS GUIDELINES (COVENANTS).

STILLWATER 303

CONCEPT

Copyright© Archiman Pty Ltd exclusive To G.J. Gardner Concept plans only, final working drawings may vary

05/06/15

"Element" Resort Streetscape

DATE:

FLOOR AREAS INTERNAL GARAGE ALFRESCO PORCH

219.8 m² 37.4 m² 37.7 m² 7.8 m²

TOTAL

302.7 m²

16m Wide Site

PRESENTATION PLAN

PROPOSED DISPLAY HOME

LOT 531 SAPPHIRE BEACH

G.J. Gardner.

HOMES