Coffs Coast Focus i60

COFFS COAST

September 2015//issue 60

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Feature Story Bellingen Brewery

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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.

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Welcome to the September issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

W

hat a month! September is jam packed full of things to do on the Coffs Coast. It is also the beginning of one of the most glorious seasons Earth has to offer ...

Spring.

September is Rally month, and what a great privilege for Coffs Harbour to host an international event. Rally always brings in a great crowd, so be sure to grab your tickets from the Rally website now, so you don’t miss out. The Buskers Festival has always been a huge success each year on the Coffs Coast. It is the 15th year the event will run and it begins on September 20th and runs until the 27th.

A DAY AT THE RACES WITH COFFS COAST FOCUS. Thursday, August 6th was a great day. Why? Because we got to spend the day at the races in our very own marquee with our friends and long standing clients. It was a great way for us to give back to those who have supported us

over the past five years. The theme was Miami Glamour, and everyone go into the spirit.

Check out who was there and what they wore on pages 18 and 19.

THE FRONT COVER This month’s front’s cover showcases one of our favourite Rally drivers, Sébastien Ogier. The Frenchman has been a part of the Volkswagen Motorsport team since November 2011, and we couldn’t be more excited to catch him in action at the Coates Hire Rally starting on the 10th and finishing on the 13th September.

INSIDE THIS EDITION The recent opening of the Bellingen Brewery sees a fresh new venture that is focused on providing a unique local experience to those who visit - an open and imaginatively designed space that is filled with hand crafted local materials, good vibes and better brews.

Mitchell Rae has shaped bespoke surfboards on the Mid North Cast for the last few decades. Drawing inspiration from nature,

his boards are unique in design and treasured additions to surfers’ “quivers” all over the globe.

Kaidee Peel is a Creative Director and CoFounder of Kultcha Collective, born and raised in Coffs Harbour. Kaidee thrives on finding new embellishments, fabrics and manufacturing techniques from around the world. FOCUS sits down with Kaidee and her family to find out where it all began.

Coffs Coast FOCUS is holding a competition to recognise some of the best restaurants on the Coast. “Coffs Coast Signature Dish Competition” gives you guys the opportunity to vote for your favourite dish on our Facebook page for your chance to win a $250 ”Dinner for Four” voucher at the establishment of your choice, selected from restaurants participating!

Check out Page 32 and 33 for how to vote!

Final say: “Be yourself, because really, who else can you be?” James A. Murphy - LCD Soundsystem.

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coffs coast focus. 5

16.

inside this

Mitchell Rae. Mitchell Rae has shaped bespoke surfboards on the Mid North Coast for the last few decades.

Drawing inspiration from nature, his boards are unique in design and treasured additions to surfers’ “quivers” all over the globe.

Issue 60 - September 2015

usual suspects.

Cate Townsend.

the

Local artist Cate Townsend has an eye for beauty, and uses fabrics, Japanese design, Ottoman tiles and the female form as some of her many inspirations. Cate’s dream is to ultimately set up her own design business, while continuing to exhibit her stunning work ...

7. what’s on for September 28. eat featuring local restaurants

75.

32.

Bailey and Cooper Spencer.

Siblings, and especially brothers, are competitive by nature... Twin brothers, well that’s just asking for trouble. Bailey and Cooper Spencer enjoy nothing better than racing each other competitively on their dirt bikes, pushing each other to the limit...

6 coffs coast focus.

71. star guide with Terri 72. social scene with Carole Beros

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

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on

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AROUND THE REGION //SEPTEMBER 2015

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curry festival Woolgoolga Curryfest is celebrating 10 years of culture, cuisine and good community fun and as things heat up towards the September Festival, organisers are promising one of the biggest and best events to date.

18

When: Friday, September 18th.

The Coffs Harbour International Buskers & Comedy Festival (“Buskers” to us) is the largest busking festival in Australia and is now in its 15th year.

When: Saturday, September 26; the festival begins at 9am. Entry When: Sunday 20th September until Sunday 27th September.

Contact: John Logan on 6652 8266 or visit is only $4 per adult; kids are free. Info: www.curryfest.com.au www.coffsharbourbuskers.com for accommodation and further festival information.

KATIE NOONAN Katie Noonan is one of Australia’s most brilliant and talented female performers. Her amazing voice, vocal range and songwriting prowess has led her on a massively successful solo career that has seen her consistently in the national charts and performing on the biggest stage.

Coffs Harbour Buskers Festival

rally australia

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Where: Coffs Harbour Golf Club, Earl St, Coffs Harbour.

Ph: 6652 3244.

The beautiful Coffs Coast in Northern NSW will play host to Coates Hire Rally Australia, the Australian leg of the WRC and a round of the East Coast Bullbars Australian Rally Championship.

Tickets: Only $35 +bf and selling fast. They are available directly from Coffs Harbour Golf Club Reception.

When: 10th - 13th September.

For information and tickets: visit www.rallyaustralia.com.au

Toast Urunga, Food, Wine and Music Festival When: Sunday 6th September; 10am - 4pm.

Where: Morgo Street Reserve, Urunga, Coffs Coast.

Cost: $5 donation; accompanied children under 12 free.

coffs coast focus. 7

focusinterview.

DOCUMENTARY FILM MAKER

The world of filmmaking can be a competitive and cutthroat one ... Competing for funding and dealing with production crews, actors and editors can prove to be too much for many. However, Mid North Coast based Simon Portus has managed to navigate the many pitfalls and build a successful career ...

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

We moved out of Sydney 14 years ago and slowly made our way up the coast looking for somewhere to live. We eventually stopped in Valla and fell in love with the area and have lived here ever since.

Can you briefly describe what it is that you do?

I run a production company that creates everything from lifestyle television series and drama to corporate films and documentaries.

Before working as a producer, you spent a few years screenwriting. Can you tell us a bit about that?

I still write whenever I can - which at the moment isn’t very often. If I could do anything and make a living out of it, it would be scriptwriting, but it’s a big commitment of time with not much money throughout the development process. I really enjoy the process of creating characters and putting the whole puzzle together.

What are you currently working on?

I’m doing a documentary and online resource about the rise of Diabetes throughout the world.

How difficult is it to find funding for projects?

Funding any project is really challenging. Competition for funds from broadcasters and government agencies is fierce, and being in people’s faces is an important part of the industry. I’d like to think that funding people in the cities would treat regional producers on a level footing, but in reality I think there is a misconception that we are less skilled.

8 coffs coast focus.

Wild Kitchen is a project that you issue. The cuts at ABC mean we probably play a major part in. Tell us about won’t be able to do another series this ... with them, but we are looking at other I produced and directed Wild Kitchen broadcasters to see whom we can take it with Claire Lindsay and also developed further with. and created the series with Clayton Who are some of the great Donovan. moviemakers and producers that you There was a conscious decision to use respect and why? a local crew to shoot the series; why I respect anyone who manages to was that, and was it successful? make films for a living. The filmmakers I It just seemed a logical thing to do, loved in the past are all probably making seeing the series was based up here video art installations, because the and the crew we needed was quite industry is so risk adverse. Having said small. Claire is based in that, my favourite filmmakers are Coffs Harbour and our ones who don’t necessarily cameraman, Peter make great films all the Clarke, is from time, but who take Be adventurou s Bellingen. The risks. The Cohen and take risk s. industry is so Brothers are in that a G ood ideas are Sydney and category. Fargo is ith w t bu starting point, s it’ Melbourneone of those films on si vi film and tele d, en e centric, and I can watch over th to ad a long ro to t an I find that and over again. rt po im so it’s step ch ea frustrating. I Alejandro Inarritu, te ia ec pr ap knew we had who most recently along the way.” a great crew made Birdman, is up here, so it was great. Jonathan Glazer is perfect for this series. also a bit of a genius.

The series had a decent What advice would you give showing. Where were some of someone who is considering the key places it was shown? undertaking a role such as yours?

Wild Kitchen screened on ABC1 Be adventurous and take risks. Good and on New Zealand television. It also ideas are a starting point, but with film screened on Qantas and Virgin, so we and television it’s a long road to the end, had it all over the country. so it’s important to appreciate each step What is the next phase of this along the way. project?

Plans and hopes for the immediate We are creating an outreach future; what are they? programme for schools and Councils I’d like to get a few more of my bigger around the country, to help them to projects off the ground, but I also love incorporate native produce into cooking the smaller projects. I still get a thrill every classes. We’d love to take Wild Kitchen time something comes together that around Australia or even around the started as just an idea in my head. world, but funding is always a major Thanks Simon.

“

focusinterview.

from the

Everyone needs a Therapist at some stage in their lives, whether it's for their mental or physical wellbeing. A platform recently

launched on the Coffs Coast aims to make it easier to make the connection between patient and health practioners. FOCUS caught up

with James Hay, the brains behind the project, to find out more.

T

ell us a bit about your background ...

My name is James. I am a lawyer by trade, and I previously also worked as an engineer. Until recently I worked in family law to help people resolve conflict during times of separation and to support and advocate for the best interests of their children. It was very fulfilling work, and I hope to go back to doing some more of it at some stage. But for now I am focused on this business and am passionate about connecting people to great therapists.

What is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I moved here around two years ago for my family law work. It has been a wonderful place to live. I really enjoy the beach, surfing and generally spending my time around the water. I have met lots of amazing people in the community. I especially enjoy all the great little towns surrounding Coffs, along with the delicious food and produce grown in this area.

Where did the idea for My Therapist originate?

Initially when I moved here, I found it hard to know where to find health practitioners and services. There didn’t seem to be an easy way to connect with practitioners outside of word of mouth and general Internet searching. Also through my work in family law, I often referred parents/families for some extra support and found the same challenges with locating practitioners for my clients. Feedback provided by my clients also indicated that they had the same experience.

10 coffs coast focus.

Can you briefly explain how it works?

We have had a really positive response from Through our website, health and beauty therapists signing up and listing their services. therapists can create a profile and list their Therapists have been really positive about services, which people can then find and having another avenue for connecting with book. Payments are made through us, but people. Plus, they seem to be happy about there are no fees to the person booking. We not having to pay any fees, at least until they receive a small commission from themselves are making money. what the therapist receives. So At a recently held pitch basically, it is free for users fest, My Therapist or clients. Therapists took first prize. Tell Initially when I then only have to pay us about this ... und moved here , I fo when they are makIt was a fantastic where to it hard to know ioners ing money. experience to tit find health prac e didn’t What is the probhave a group of er and services . Th way to lem that you hope experts analyse the sy ea seem to be an rs ne io tit to solve? ac business. It really pr connect with th ou m of d Therapists have tested our business or w of outside et rn te In l said that they want model to make sure ra ne and ge ” g. in to spend less time on we were developing ch ar se marketing and more something that was time helping people. So needed. we bring all of the therapists What did you win, and together to one place and take how has it helped? care of the marketing to get people to We won some money, which is see their listings. The result is a one-stop obviously very helpful. But we also won shop, where people can easily find theramentoring from a few different businesspists. es. The mentoring has been amazing, as we Is it a problem that exists in the local continually get a health check of the business area? by an expert to make sure we are on track.

There are therapists in the area who are Another prize was membership to the 6 qualified, but don’t practice simply because degrees co-working space and some office they don’t have the time or energy to put into space in the innovation centre at the univermarketing. We want to make it easy for those sity campus. Both of these have also been so therapists to be found, as well as connecting valuable to really provide a platform to launch more established therapists and businesses the business from. with even more people.

How has the progress been with the webWhat has the reaction from local therasite and software so far? pist been so far?

It’s going really well, especially as we have

“

just released our first version of the software!

A number of therapists have already listed their services, but any other therapists are welcome to also join for free and list their services with us to connect with more clients.

Did your involvement with the local working space 6 degrees benefit the launching of your platform?

It has been so valuable to work with the 6 degrees space. There are some really talented people doing some amazing things in business around the Coffs area. We actually now work with some of those great people that we met through the 6 degrees space and some other finalists in the competition.

Have you learnt any lessons that you could hand on to others who may be thinking about launching a startup?

Apart from just having a go and doing it, the biggest lesson learned is to be flexible and be willing to accept change. Our software was built in conjunction with feedback from initial users and therapists. It’s so different to what the original idea was. But it wouldn’t be as useful if we had just stuck with the original plan and not listened to the feedback.

What are the plans for My Therapist's future?

I am concentrating on building the website for the needs of the Coffs area at this stage.

The next stage will be expanding to other communities.

How can people contact you and get involved?

To list your health or beauty services, or even search for those services, sign up for free at: search.mytherapist.co Thanks James.

focusinterview.

C O F F S

C L A R E N C E

L O C A L

A R E A

C O M M A N D

ROTARY POLICE AWA R D S N I G H T

THE ROTARY CLUB OF COFFS HARBOUR DAYBREAK IS HOLDING ITS THIRD POLICE AWARDS DINNER ON SATURDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 2015 AT OPAL COVE RESORT, COFFS HARBOUR, COMMENCING AT 6.30PM.

T ONCE A YEAR IN SEPTEMBER, COFFS GETS TO EXPERIENCE A TRULY WONDERFUL AND UNIQUE EVENT THAT IS UNLIKE ANYTHING WE GET TO SEE THE REST OF THE YEAR ... AND IF YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO LIVE HERE, YOU GET TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE THAT PRETTY MUCH FOR NEXT TO NOTHING. he Coffs Harbour International together. He also heard the talk about the Buskers & Comedy Festival kicks buskers and approached Council with an off in about a month’s time and idea. And so it was reborn; the old Buttercup if you are lucky enough to have Buskers Festival became the Coffs Harbour been born and live here, you get to see Buskers Festival, later evolving into The Coffs it every year play out on the streets, parks Harbour International Buskers & Comedy and reserves of the city during the day and Festival. With Council supporting the event, around the pubs and clubs at night. it grew to be a part of the landscape, and we FOCUS was particularly keen on are lucky to enjoy the event every how the festival came to be year. and after doing a bit of It has evolved and research, found out some remained in Coffs Sitting in the interesting information. for fourteen straight audience back in The festival began in years - no mean feat city centre 1989 in the old 1989, when it was run in a landscape when l ca was lo mall at the time d

by Coffs City Rotary. dozens of other an t en entertainment ag gan, www.coffscityrotary. events have failed, Lo promoter John w it was org.au/club-history/ ceased to exist, or ho d who wondere ...” er Run in September/ gone elsewhere.

Think th all put toge October each year, it about events you used was mainly a competitive to see that you don’t see event, with Butttercup any more. The Food & Wine Bakery on board as a major Festival, The Global Carnival, sponsor. The event eventually outgrew Warm Winters Day, Open Arms, the resources of a volunteer organisation Coast Out - just to name a few, are all and with the loss of Buttercup as no longer part of the landscape. Organisers sponsors, the event just faded from the put this down to Council’s support, JLE’s local scene in 1993. Fast forward to 2000, dedication and the public response to the when Council and city centre interests were event. looking for ways to invigorate the precinct, Over fourteen years, it has had a variety and everyone seemed to mention the buskers of formats, with the Sunday to Sunday more as an ideal way to re-activate the city centre. streamlined model being the preferred one.

Sitting in the audience back in 1989 in This 15th year, the event will run the old city centre mall at the time was local September 20th - 27th. For more entertainment agent and promoter John information, check out the website: Logan, who wondered how it was all put www.coffsharbourbuskers.com

“

12 coffs coast focus.

he event was instigated in 2012 as a result of a conversation between Rotarian Jennifer Stratten and her police officer next door neighbour.

Many people understand and respect the work undertaken, often in horrific and traumatic conditions, which police men and women have to contend with on a regular basis. However, the diversity of roles undertaken is not always fully comprehended. Some officers are on the beat attending to day to day matters such as traffic accidents, robberies, drug incidences, domestic violence and school education programmes. Others are spending days, months and even years following up on forensic evidence or chasing leads and witnesses into murder cases or paedophile investigations, painstakingly attending to and recording every bit of information that comes to light, no matter how insignificant it seems. Due to shortages in staffing levels caused by illness, injury and budget constraints, it is not unusual for officers to work long hours under considerable duress.

A few are honoured by the state. However, there was no opportunity for them to be acknowledged by their peers or to be publicly recognised by their local command and/or the community. Previous winners for the Peer Award have been Senior Constables Neville Middleton from Dorrigo, Dave Brooker from Coffs Coast and Alistair McLeod from Clarence Valley. Senior Constables Bernadette Snow and Mark Griffith have both won Community Awards.

Hence, the purpose of the event is to recognise those efforts of serving police officers throughout the Coffs Clarence Command during 2014/15 in the presence of their leaders, their peers, local dignitaries and members of their local community. All nominees will be presented with a certificate. Awards will be presented to two officers by Superintendent Mark Holahan on behalf of their peers, and a third award will be presented to an officer nominated by the community.

Nominations can be submitted by businesses, organisations or individuals.

To nominate your friendly, caring officer who is not only devoted to duty, but also to those whom they are working with and for, please go to the Coffs Harbour Daybreak Facebook Page and follow the link.

The night will include a two course dinner, music and raffles at a cost of $65 per head.

Tickets are available via sticky tickets using the link: https://www.stickytickets.com.au/29337 by Monday 21st September 2015.

All net profits will be donated to the PCYC. Approximately $6,000 has been donated to them as a result of the previous two events.

Senior Constable Bernadette Snow was presented with the Inaugural Community Award

by Member for Coffs Harbour, Andrew Fraser.

Senior Constable Neville Middleton from Dorrigo receiving the Inaugural Peer Award from Superintendent Mark Holahan.

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focusinterview.

JASON BROWN • RAIN FORAN • RICHARD JENNINGS

THE RECENT OPENING OF THE BELLINGEN BREWERY SEES A FRESH NEW VENTURE THAT IS FOCUSED ON PROVIDING A UNIQUE LOCAL EXPERIENCE TO THOSE WHO VISIT. IT'S AN OPEN AND IMAGINATIVELY DESIGNED SPACE THAT IS FILLED WITH HAND CRAFTED LOCAL MATERIALS, GOOD VIBES AND BETTER BREWS ...

W

here did the inspiration come from to start this project?

All three of us had a plan to do something, and timing brought us together. Richard has been brewing and operating for seven years and wanted to take the company to the next level. Jason had finished up another project and had a very strong desire to do a project in the back of his property that was very communal and multifaceted. Rain has dreamed of doing a brewery since the age of 21 and just got back from a trip around Australia that re-inspired him to pursue this dream.

Who is involved?

Rain Foran, Richard Jennings, and Jason Brown.

Briefly tell us a bit about yourselves ...

Originally from the UK, Richard qualified as a Marine Zoologist and spent seven years working on development projects in Africa, before immigrating to Australia. He moved from Adelaide to Bellingen in 1996 and established the Bellingen Brewing Company in 1998.

Rain grew up and was born right at the end of Darkwood Rd, 14 coffs coast focus.

Thora, on an incredible property. He spent some time in Sydney and overseas, but has always returned home; he has a strong connection to this area. He is very passionate about Bellingen and the environment. Rain has a very particular attention to detail and a strong respect for architecture. He leads a very full lifestyle, loves being in nature and adventuring through it, and actually spends a lot of time underwater. A respected foray into real estate has connected Rain even further with the area and its people; he loves being involved in the community.

Jason is a shire boy with an array of skills, and a distinct eye for design. After time in the florist world with his family, he spread his wings into music and then in to the corporate world with graphic design. He gained many skills, but this was not enough to fill his passion for life. Since being a young man, Jason has been surfing his way up the coast, coming to Bellingen regularly, and one year ago he purchased the site of the brewery. Many years later, he set up No.5 Church Street with a good mate, and now calls Bellingen home.

Bellingen has become an exciting little hub for music and food over the last few years. Did it feel like the time was right to launch a venue like this?

We believe the timing is right in many ways, for us individuals, for the community, and the fact that we think that there is a real desire for things that are real today. Whether it's craft beer or anything that is hand made, people seem to want to connect with the things they consume more and more now and we hope this desire only gets stronger, because it really benefits our community and our country.

You have spent a bit of time renovating and setting up the space; how’s the journey been?

The journey has been really fun - but obviously it has had it's stressful times as well.

We had a very clear direction which all three of us agreed on and which was heavily guided by our environmental passions.

Every millimetre of this project was considered for its environmental merits and design aesthetics. All the timber used was recycled or sustainably sourced locally. We would spend hours before each decision we made, looking into our materials and making decisions based on the product that had the most minimal effect on the environment. We are very proud to stand behind this venue and know what has gone into it and the feedback so far has been so generous. The ethics and

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IN G W E A R E WO R K O N A FE W R THE CO N C EP TS FO W H AT W E T BU FU T U R E, IS IT W IL L CA N T EL L YO U CA LLY LO BE SO U RC ED E BE ST H T BE A N D W IL L R IN G U D D N FI W E CA N .”

EAC H SE A SO N

“

decisions made on the build will be the same principles going forward in our company.

Craft beer is a hot topic these days.

What's the history behind this local beer?

Richard arrived in Australia from the UK in 1996. The beer scene there had changed radically in the previous 10 years, moving away from the dominance of the big multi-national brewers to the resurgence of local breweries offering choice and regional identity. Unfortunately, work got in the way of realising the dream for a few years, until Richard and family moved to Bellingen. In the meantime, craft brewers were beginning to be recognised and appreciated, so it was about time Bellingen put itself on the beer map.

From small beginnings serving beer at the monthly Bellingen markets, the word spread and the number of retail customers increased. The next step was to set up our own bar, where great beer can be served in a relaxed and comfortable space - and that’s where we are now.

What types of beer are brewed, and what are some of their unique qualities?

At present we are producing "ales" - Harvest, Darkwood and Black Pig Porter, which explore the range of styles from pale through to dark. The brewer has a choice of numerous malts, hops and yeasts to choose from when designing a new beer, and it is the combination of these elements that makes each craft beer unique. Now that the bar is open, we are looking forward to extending the range, and our plan is to become an organic brewery if we can - so watch this space.

What’s the secret to making a great beer? What are the strengths you look for when you taste one?

It’s a secret! The starting point is to use quality ingredients

with no additives or preservatives and seeing that water is the biggest ingredient, it's important to use the cleanest H2O you can find. On a technical level, it’s a question of balancing the malt, hops and alcohol to produce a beer that is enjoyable and interesting.

That’s what we look for when tasting a new beer.

Craft brewing is all about difference.

What style of food will you be serving?

We are working on a few concepts for the future, but what we can tell you is it will be sourced locally and will be the best we can find during each season.

How would you describe the venue and the experience it offers to someone over the phone?

"Hello; you must come have a look."

Ha ha ... I guess we want people to feel like it's a unique venue that has always been here.

Plans for the future ... What do you hope will happen over the next 12 months?

We have big plans. We want to focus on the brewery now that we have opened the venue; we have some exciting new beer ideas and want to start sourcing the best ingredients and hopefully more organic ingredients … The rest is a surprise.

Where can people find out more?

3/5 Church Street, Bellingen. P: 6655 2210. www.bellingenbrewery.com.au www.facebook.com/thebellingenbrewery Thanks everyone.

Instagram/thebellingenbrewery Portrait: Russell Pell.

Other Photography: Bruce Jacups Photography. coffs coast focus.

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C H E L L • M I T

R A E •

MITCHELL RAE HAS SHAPED BESPOKE SURFBOARDS ON THE MID NORTH COAST FOR THE LAST FEW DECADES. DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM NATURE, HIS BOARDS ARE UNIQUE IN DESIGN AND TREASURED ADDITIONS TO SURFERS’ “QUIVERS” ALL OVER THE GLOBE.

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hen did you start shaping surfboards?

I shaped my first board in my mate, Gary's, place in 1967. I was wagging school. He had a backyard flat, some basic hand tools and the new Jimmy Hendrix Are you Experienced on the turntable - perfect! I grew up and learned to surf at Dee Why. Just over the hill in Brookvale was the epicentre of the board industry, so I used to check out the board shops and factories, get some clues. I glassed and finished that first board in red and had red hands for a week or so. The first Schoolboys Comp ran that year. I rode my homemade board into the finals with Mark Richards and Steve Cooney (Morning of the Earth).

How did you get your start in the industry?

I got a start as a sander at Peter Clark Surfboards in Brookvale. It was hard yakka with heavy tools, and I had to sand eight boards a day and foil the fibreglass fins for the next day’s glassing. After about a year, I got a start shaping.

Your method of shaping is very different from that of most mainstream commercial shapers; why is that?

Back in the day, we shaped the boards from oversized “blanks”, using a hand saw to cut them out, electric planer to remove the bulk so they were close to the desired shape, not unlike 16 coffs coast focus.

a sculptor. I'm fortunate to have been shaping right through all the design changes and design evolution from longboards in the ‘60s to today.

Can you tell us a bit about your approach to shaping a board for c I take a scientifi a client? to approach My job is to and look to gn si de design and shape plane things like aero bo ats, custom boards d an ts ch ya , wings for people. The iration I take a scientific approach sp in n ai m y m but majority are e to design and look to th comes from .” re repeat clients, tu na of n things like aeroplane wings, io observat and I get to know yachts and boats, but my their preferences and main inspiration comes from surfing style. Often I’ll the observation of nature ... fish, get to surf with them. With dolphins, sharks, birds and the like. a new client I spend some time There is a great deal to learned from the various getting a feel of what they are looking for, their creatures and how their forms and shapes body weight, fitness level, surfing experience, function. age etc. I'll often get them to bring along old Do you still surf as much as you can; do you favourite boards and check those out. I often still get a buzz from shooting the curl? spend a lot of time discussing options and The reason I started in this game was to to fine points, getting a clear picture of where stay as close as possible to the surfing life. I still we are going with the design. With repeat love it - surf as often as I can. I do get a little clients we often build on a “quiver”of boards, jaded with the increasing crowds in the water which are tailored to suit various wave sizes and I'm pretty selective, but try and get my and conditions. I set these up with a seamless share when the waves are primo. transition from one to the next, like stepping I love to travel to the tropics in search of stones. quality waves and new adventures. I'll keep Where do you find inspiration for your surfing until I'm too old and crusty to paddle boards?

“

out!

One of the unique aspects of your boards is the flex tail. Can you briefly describe what it is and how it functions?

Living creatures can alter their shape whilst in motion. Birds can extend their wings for more lift, soaring on a thermal, tuck them in on a speed dive chasing prey. Fish have the same abilities. Dolphins, fish, sharks generate propulsion with their tail fins. Many aircraft wings also can change their wing profiles in flight by mechanical means, altering the foils dramatically at takeoff and landing to what's best at altitude for speed and economy.

I've been working with flexible designs since the ‘70s. Flex introduces variable control curves and most importantly, generates “reflex”. The flex tail gives propulsion out of a turn, like a diver on a springboard, or an arrow being released from a bow. The boards feel alive to ride.

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How have your boards evolved over the last decade?

I'm still refining and expanding design concepts. I've developed a design I call V2 Flex using two timber stringers in a V shape converging at the tip of the nose and exiting the rail about a third from the tail. These increase rigidity in the forward, entry area and allow for a degree of natural flex in the tail third of the board. It's elegant in its simplicity and again, the boards feel alive. On our top of the line range we use this construction and combine it with a carbon fibre composite “FlexTail” acting like a dolphin’s flipper. The combination of these two flex ingredients generates amazing acceleration and control, capable of extemely tight arcs and hi speed drive lines.

Can you run us through a day in a board shaper’s life?

On a good day, it starts with a surf! Usually it’s a coffee, check emails and phone messages, Facebook and Instagram. I use social media to build awareness and send out new images, designs etc. Then I change into my grungy work clothes and get into the shaping bay.

I’ll usually work on a group of three or four custom orders, do the machine work with power saw and planer first, then move through the hand finishing, fine tuning process one by one. We only build custom orders, with the focus on small numbers of the highest quality - real surfboards for real people. That keeps it

interesting, compared to I love to travel churning out production to the tropics in waves boards for the shops search of quality es . ur nt ve what I call the “white and new ad until board market”.

I’ll keep surfing usty cr d an d ol o What advice would I’m to you can’t deny the ” you give to anyone who to paddle out! greatness and skill of is thinking about taking Kelly Slater. I think John up surfboard shaping as a John Florence is the guy to career? watch. I like to watch surfers It’s always been a tough game who work with the wave, rather and continues to get harder. Now that than dominate it - guys like Rasta, and machines can shape the boards, it’s taken some of the younger crew like Asher Pacey, a lot of individuality away, made for a very Heath Joske. homogenised market place. I believe there will Do you see the possibilities of always be a place for small numbers of genuine shaping surfboards becoming a more hand shaped/handmade boards. If a young environmentally friendly endeavour than shaper can hitch their wagon to a rising star, that what it is now? works ... As I said to young Isaac when he came My approach is to build small numbers of high on board with me, don’t expect to get rich, do quality. Each one is hand tooled and receives a expect long hours in a toxic environment; it’s a lot of love and attention to detail ... as such, I lifestyle thing. We can down tools and surf when like them to last, to have a life. the waves are on. It takes a lot of dedication, The surfboard “industry” has gone the way of years to learn the skills, a lot of focus and an the Japanese chopstick, total disposability. enquiring mind to make a name as a shaper.

There’s a fair amount of waste in board Who over the years have been some of your construction. The majority of the materials are favourite surfers to watch? various forms of plastics. I’m watching with great I have been very fortunate to surf with most interest the rapid development of 3D printing of the “greats” of my eras, from Midget, Nat, technology and won’t be at all surprised to see McTavish, Wayne Lynch, Ted Spencer, Michael it being used in the board game, maybe fins Peterson ... all of them influential. I’m not initially. a great follower of competitive surfing, but

“

One of my passions is building boards from balsa wood. This is environmentally sustainable, and the boards are highly crafted using techniques I’ve developed over many years.

The timbers are bent and glued under tension, imparting a resonance like that of a guitar or violin. I’ve sourced some beautiful Ecuadorian balsa, Western red and Australian cedars...

Fully hollow, there are maybe 40 to 60 litres of air inside that offsets the weight of the timber when in the water. They have a fantastic feeling of glide to ride, difficult to describe. These are my lasting works of art in the surfing world and will be around for generations, long after I'm pushing up daisies.

What do you see as the future direction for Outer Island Surfboards?

We are a two man team at present. Isaac Harry has been onboard with me for some 15 years and has mastered the art of shaping, along with the various skills required: paint, laminating, sanding, gloss, cut and polish.

I will remain low profile, focused on innovation, designing and building the finest surfboards human hands can make ...

Thanks Mitchell.

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s o c i a l s c e n e

COFFS COAST FOCUS GOLD CUP MARQUEE

A DAy at THE RACES Tanya Watts, Nicci Seccombe, Hayley Fryer. Kylee Evans, Jenni Saville, Leah Holmes

Kamie kennedy, Nicole Donovan, Nicci Seccombe

Leah Holmes, Jenni Saville, Nicci Seccombe, Hayley Fryer

Carole Beros, Jay Beaumont, Alice Williams

Bryn Goode, Peter Dodds

Bryn Goode, Nicole Donovan

Hayley Fryer, Chris Parker

Hayley Fryer, Nicci Seccombe. Christopher Beros, Amanda Langlands

Elaine McClunie, Peter Creenaune

Robyn Goodard, Monica Richards

Pippa Tabone, Elaine McClunie, Peter Creenaune, Sarah Rodgers

Joe Beaini, Mark Bowman, Kerry Hines, Chris Hines

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Social/scene.

THANKS TO THOSE WHO ENJOYED THE DAY WITH US!

Amanda Langlands, Jenni Saville, Michael Close

Rob Hoy, Jenni Saville, Nicci Seccombe, Shane Geary

Lauryn Nicholls, Michael Lane, Nicole Donovan

Nicci Seccombe, Carole Beros, Jay Beaumont, Michael ?

Marchment, Russell Pell, Jenni Saville

Leah Holmes, Jenni Saville

Nicci Seccombe, Marcus Phillips

Mark Bowman, Joe Beaini, Kerry Hines, Chris Hines, Pippa ?

Tabone

Tanya Watts, Nicci Seccombe, Hayley Fryer. Kylee Evans, Jenni Saville, Leah Holmes

Carole and Christopher Beros

Nicci Seccombe, Daniel Spagnolo, Kamie Kennedy

Mark Bowman, Jenni Saville, Joe Beanini

Daniel Spagnolo, Kamie Kennedy, Ernie Lovelock

Nicci Seccombe, Carole Beros ?

Carole Beros, Michael Marchment

Nicci Seccombe, Alice Williams

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KULT CHA COL L E CTI VE

Kaidee Peel

Kultcha Collective How would you describe your designs ... What is fashion to you? Kultcha Collective is a lifestyle brand with clothing and the jewellery that are designed to complement each other.

Everything is designed using inspiration from our travels and our home studio surrounds of mountains and oceans.

We tend to use a lot of natural fibres, such as silks, cottons and things that just feel beautiful on your skin. Our jewellery consists of sterling silver, brass and silver plated with semi precious stones and raw crystals. I believe what we wear can be a canvas for personal self expression; it doesn’t have to be dictated by high end fashion.

What’s next for Kultcha Colllective? We hope to try out a pop up shop in Coffs and Byron Bay in summer. We are off on another adventure to Thailand next month, where we will explore some new digital prints of our own design. My best friends and I have started our new children’s label, “Child of the Wild”, made from local, recycled fabrics. We want to encourage sustainability by creating recycled fabric clothing for our next generation. Stocked in Mini Mojo’s, Coffs Harbour.

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KAIDEE PEEL IS A CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND CO-FOUNDER OF KULTCHA COLLECTIVE, BORN AND RAISED IN COFFS HARBOUR. KAIDEE THRIVES ON FINDING NEW EMBELLISHMENTS, FABRICS AND MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH KAIDEE AND HER FAMILY AND DISCUSSED FINDING THE INSPIRATION TO FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS ...

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e would love to know how it all started. A little birdy told us it started with an old sewing machine. Tell us your story!

From a very young age I have always taken an interest in creating all sorts of crafts from whatever I could find around the house, garden or beach. I would say my first influence on sewing was from my grandmother, Mitzi Dillon; I loved staying over at Nan and Pop's when I was little.

Pop (Scott Dillon, world famous longboarder in his day) would take me out for an early 5am surf at Sapphire Beach, then we would be home by 7:30am to cook brekkie and get crafty with with Mitzi. I just remember being drawn to her collection of fabrics, beads, trims in her sewing room; it was an endless supply of goodness. We sewed up bags, cushions and my dance costumes. Mitzi passed on her whole collection to me when she passed; I was about 14 years old.

You are a local to Coffs Harbour, but your passions have taken both you and your family all over the world.

What makes Coffs Harbour home to you?

I was born and bred in Coffs Harbour; it’s always home to me. However, we do love adventure - even now, when we are a family of four. When I moved to Byron Bay and met my now husband, Bulan, we began to adventure, dream and travel around the world. There we would find inspiration, adorned and surrounded

by the likes of India, Thailand, Mexico, California and many more. Our daughter, Inca Mitzi, had travelled to Mexico, California and Bali before she was two years old, and we are off on another adventure in the coming months to visit our extended family in Thailand with Inca Mitzi and Ari Uki. We have fallen in love with your designs! Which part of the world has given you the most inspiration?

I can really appreciate the beauty in traditional techniques used all over the world, including Australia. It speaks truth, authenticity and pride of where the nationality or tribe may come from. I am drawn to patterns, colours, embellishments from all corners of the world.

After travelling through these countries, you really gain respect for their art and traditions. It also really reflects a lot about how beautiful our country is and its traditional custodians; these traditions are sadly being lost, and I ache to learn and be inspired by more within Australia.

And you have a beautiful family!

How do you balance your creative work with your family life?

That’s a good question! Yes, that can be challenging at times. We all love to be creative and get amongst it; Inca Mitzi has her own little desk with bead and paints, so she has her own little projects she works on. Ari loves to explore my studio; he also has his Jolly Jumper in there, so he can bounce around and enjoy all the chaos and fun. Bulan also has his leather and silver smithing area,

where he finds time to work on projects.

Having Bulan's support is one of the most valuable things; it gives me time to set myself aside for work and focus.

Being mostly online and based at a home studio, it can be hard to switch off from work at times, so we try to keep all of the projects separate from the house and in the studio.

What has been your most inspiring influence in your work?

I have been fortunate enough to grow up in a place like Coffs Harbour and spend the last six years in Byron Bay. This and travelling has been an inspiration in itself. Being surrounded by beautiful landscapes of ocean, hills, I've met some pretty amazing people and talent, and I'm very grateful. When I first moved to Byron Bay, I worked closely with Colin Heaney, an amazing graphic artist who printed his art onto silk caftans and started up his label, “Liberated Heart”.

Colin and his small team were amazing, and I was introduced to other designers, artists, boutique owners.

What's the best piece of advice you could give?

Always continue to learn in whatever it is you do, keep going, follow your passions and never give up. We all need to make a living but unless you are doing something that truly feeds your soul, then you are just fulfilling someone else's dream. Lead a positive, happy life, believe in yourself, and the rest will follow and fall into place.

Thanks Kaidee.

WELCOME Yvette Harper

JETTY THEATRE Upcoming Shows

CornerPost Consulting is pleased to welcome Yvette Harper to the team as a Sales and Marketing Executive. Yvette and her family are delighted to be back in Coffs, having lived overseas and interstate for the past several years.

Spring into some great entertainment this month at the Jetty Memorial Theatre.

The 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. The Shoe-Horn Sonata tells their story and how they survived.

Along with her communications degree, Yvette brings much media experience, having worked for Channel 9, Prime7 and in print media. She also loves writing and is a great wordsmith.

Her writing experience is diverse, with articles published in magazines such as the Australian Women’s Weekly, Practical Parenting, Coast Living and with us here at FOCUS. It’s no wonder she’s CornerPost’s new go-to-girl for content writing and press releases.

Yvette’s very much a people person and loves a good chat. She has in-depth experience in sales and and looks forward to helping clients to achieve greater results with their marketing activities.

Aside from managing new clients for CornerPost, Yvette will also be the go-to-person for article writing, award submissions, website content and press releases. So if you are considering entering the Sunny Awards this year, why not touch base with her to help you out with your entry.

Yvette joins the growing CornerPost team including: Samantha, Karen, Lisa, Jude, Lauren and Markell. For all your marketing, design and website needs, CornerPost Consulting is the agency you can trust.

Damien Leith, The Parting Glass; An Irish Journey Saturday 19 September The show incorporates both a play and a musical concert of classic Irish songs. The setting is in an Irish pub, and Damien takes on the character roles of both a father and a son who are catching up on lost time over a few drinks.

All My Love Wednesday 30 September & Thursday 1 October Their lives could have been written so differently: the story of Henry Lawson and Mary Gilmore’s lost love. Both were heroes of Australian literature, both were the face of Australia’s currency… and both were the victims of a deception that thwarted their future as a couple. This engaging live theatre show shares their remarkable story. See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office, noon - 4pm Tues to Fri (02) 6652 8088.

G ET R ES U LTS THAT COU N T

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.

Bootlace Productions present…

THE SHOE-HORN SONATA Stories of survival from WWII. Directed by Sue Dickinson.

Friday 28 August – Sunday 6 September

MARKETING ADVICE & PLANNING

The Harbour Agency presents…

DAMIEN LEITH

THE PARTING GLASS – AN IRISH JOURNEY

rousing renditions of traditional Irish songs “The were a highlight…”

WEBSITE DESIGN & CONTENT WRITING

THE ADELAIDE ADVERTSIER

Saturday 19 September • 8pm

ALL MY LOVE

A Production By Christine Harris & Hit Productions

GRAPHIC DESIGN & LOGOS Contact Sam or Yvette

FOR A FREE 30 MINUTE CONSULT TODAY

Call us on: 9188 5013 cornerpostconsulting.com.au

Engaging live theatre about two Australian literary heroes; Henry Lawson and Mary Gilmore and their love that could have been…

CornerPost

Follow us on

G

C ONSULTIN

Wednesday 30 September & Thursday 1 October • 8pm 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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SHARE

THE

DIGNITY

YO U M AY H AV E A L R E A DY H E A R D O F S H A R E T H E D I G N I T Y, B U T I F N O T, H E R E ’ S A B R I E F I N T R O D U C T I O N. Share the Dignity started earlier this year by a Brisbane mum, after realising that many Australian women were not only homeless but had to face many obstacles and issues that many of us take for granted - like our monthly period. For most of us, it’s a slight inconvenience, but imagine being homeless and having to use paper towels for makeshift sanitary pads! Imagine choosing between food or sanitary items? This is not OK; sanitary items should be a right, not a privilege.

On 1 March 2015, Share the Dignity collected over 500 packets of sanitary items, which were distributed to various Brisbane charities, with the final 100 being donated to the Vanuatu disaster relief. Share the Dignity has now become a national project, and they have over

100 collection points throughout Australia.

This August, Share the Dignity are aiming to collect 20,000 packets of sanitary items, to ensure that no woman will have to face the indignity of choosing.

How can I help? It’s easy; just buy an extra pack when you do your shopping to donate.

Wholly Organic at 33 First Avenue, Sawtell are a collection point and also sell Tsuno sanitary pads. Wholly Organic will match your donation if you make a purchase from them. Wholly Organic will ensure all donations will go to local women’s shelters too! If you’d like any more information, please contacted Michelle at Wholly Organic at the shop or by phone: (02) 6690 0153.

Thanks for helping us share the dignity!

Crafty • The Kraken Mojito •

The crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip have thrown up a modern edgy twist on a timeless classic. The perfect blend of fresh lime & mint, The Kraken Dark Spiced Rum, house syrup, soda, plenty of crushed ice & a sprinkle of aromatic bitters…the perfect refresher to put your feet up to on a sunny spring day !!

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KATIE

NOONAN

T R A N S M U TA N T

K AT I E N O O N A N I S O N E O F AU S T R A L I A’ S M O S T B R I L L I A N T A N D TA L E N T E D F E M A L E P E R F O R M E R S . H E R A M A Z I N G VO I C E , VO C A L R A N G E A N D S O N G -W R I T I N G P R OW E S S H A S L E D H E R O N A M A S S I V E LY S U C C E S S F U L S O L O C A R E E R T H AT H A S S E E N H E R C O N S I S T E N T LY I N T H E N AT I O N A L C H A RT S A N D P E R F O R M I N G O N T H E B I G G E S T S TAG E S .

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he is a 4 x ARIA award winning and 7 x Platinum seling artist, and the quality of her music and performance is undeniable. She has released 16 albums since she first made an impact on the Australian music scene with her original band, “George”.

Katie has once again re-invented herself and successfully transformed her sound on her newly released album, Transmutant. It debuted at number 33 in the ARIA charts and Top 10 in the Independent Albums Chart.

The album, recorded with her band “Katie Noonan’s Vanguard”, has been described by Rolling Stone (on their highly rated four star review) as her most personal yet and her voice described as an “exquisite instrument”. It combines some haunting vocal lines and unique pop rhythms, giving it a new direction and flavour.

Katie has named her recent life experiences as a major influence on the album, and it shines through in the lyrics of the tracks. Her skills and talents as a producer are also highlighted on this album, as she has taken the reins to create her own vision.

The first single from the album, Quicksand, has been creating a buzz nationally after its release and her recent live performances on Channel Seven and the ABC. Katie’s fans helped to make Transmutant through a crowd funding campaign that reached its target in just forty-eight hours. It

shows the dedication of her fans and audience.

The process has helped her to gain a deeper connection with her fans and helped inspired her to create a musical masterpiece.

She is heading to The Coffs Coast for a Special One-off Concert at Coffs Harbour Golf Club on Friday, September 18, before she completes a full national tour in October and November.

She will be accompanied by her guitarist and Vanguard band member, PJ Koopman.

Special Guest, Bellingen Valley Folk Songstress, Gina Balenzano, will be also be opening the show. Gina has been riding her own wave of success this year, having performed several big shows, including a memorable performance at The Basement in Sydney in May. Promoter for the concert, Benny Francis from Ace Entertainment, along with Coffs Harbour Golf Club General Manager Paul McAra and Marketing Manager Zoie Swindells, are excited to be presenting the show and bringing Katie back to the coast.

“This will be one of the shows of the year!

Katie is such an awesome talent, and we can’t wait to see her,” said Benny.

the plug!

Tickets are only $35 +bf and selling fast.

They are available directly from Coffs Harbour Golf Club Reception, Earl Street, Coffs Harbour Ph: 6652 3244.

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KLAUSTEL FUJI XEROX BUSINESS CENTRE Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast partners with Rally Australia.

The Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast is again the sole provider of document solution equipment for Rally Australia in the upcoming world rally event held in Coffs Harbour. Gary Evans, Dealer Principal, is delighted to have the opportunity to showcase Fuji Xerox as Australia’s premier document solution provider, a world leader in the field. The equipment supplied will be the latest state of the art digital equipment backed by the dedicated local technicians and office support, who have recently been awarded #1 for service. This sponsorship highlights the company’s exceptional environmental credentials. Gary is proud to also receive the naming rights to the WRC Breakfast on the 7th September.

To promote the sponsorship with the World Rally, Fuji Xerox is offering six months no finance repayments until the end of the month. Contact Fuji Xerox on 6650 2598 for a free assessment of your current printing situation.

It has now been two years since the NBN first started to connect in Coffs Harbour. Here at Klaustel we have been involved since the beginning; we have helped many of our existing and new customers migrate to the NBN, making the transition as smooth as possible. We also offer NBN and VoIP telephony services, and we look after existing phone equipment or give the opportunity to upgrade to our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems - starting from just $2,250, including 4 x phones with interest free payment plans.

Remember, “At Klaustel the same people that sell the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it.”

For a free quote, please call (02) 6651 5288.

Our main motto is: “We won’t sell you something you don’t need, or undersell something to you to win a job.”

For businesses with any Aristel, Hybrex or Omni telephone systems and equipment, we are still servicing and maintaining all of these models as we have done on the Coffs Coast for the past 17 years.

“The key to our business is to keep it small enough to care, and large enough to deliver.”

coffs coast focus.

25

coffs harbour

Meet the Stars of the Cancer Council NSW Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer!!

Stars of Coffs Coast – Dance for Cancer is a gala fundraising event for the Cancer Council NSW. Our “Stars” consist of business owners and other notable characters from the Coffs Coast dancing with some of our local, fabulously talented dance teachers. The “Stars” are required to fundraise and perform a dance routine at a showcase dance event at C.ex Coffs on Saturday, 14th November 2015. You can FOR check out their full profile, list of fundraising events and donate at http://www.everydayhero.com.au/event/starsofcoffscoast2015. Also follow, like and share our Facebook page “Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer”.

Meet the Stars of the Cancer NSW Stars of Coff s Coast Dance for Tickets Council for this dancing extravaganza are available from C.ex Coffs.

DANCE

CANCER

Cancer!! Each Star will perform a dance routine at a gala fundraising event held at C.ex Coffs on Saturday, 14th November 2015 (tickets available from C.ex Coffs). The Stars are also raising vital funding and awareness to help beat cancer in our community. To support a Star go to www.everydayhero. com.au/event/starsofcoffscoast2015, check out their pages to donate or participate in fundraising events!! Follow, like and share on Facebook “Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer”.

Alice Williams About our Star: Alice was involved in the previous Stars event as MC alongside EJ, but is now SUPER PUMPED to be a Star for this November’s event! Whilst she now works in Marketing for Registered Clubs as part of her business, Axis Print Solutions, Alice’s past involvement in musical theatre in London, karoke championships in Tokyo and Sydney as well as previous experience as MC for various charity events has meant that getting up on stage and “shaking her thang” for the Cancer Council is something she has been working towards for a long time!

Motivation: Cancer touches everyone - it doesn’t discriminate - therefore everyone needs to do their part to help raise funds and awareness for cancer research and education. It could be your friend, your mother, brother, or even you who one day will need support. I’ve had loved ones affected by this disease and so being involved in this event, I am motivated to fundraise and dance for them!

Dance: Alice will be dancing Zouk (Dirty Dancing Latin Style) with Chris Pemberton-Lewis from Coffs Latin Rhythms.

Brendan Smith About our Star: Brendan, our local NBN news reporter, is a Queenslander in Blues territory. He’s Brisbane born and bred and proud of it. He made the move to Coffs Harbour after working for a number of television news stations in Queensland. With a love for cars, tapas and socialising, he likes to think he is a pretty good dancer; but most of his friends would say he’s a “tragic” on the dance floor, but is always willing to give it his all.

With two left feet, teamed with a “can-do” attitude, Brendan is excited to take part in the fundraiser.

Motivation: Supporting cancer research is something close to his heart. He’s had a number of family members and friends battle the disease, and he knows additional funding will help eventually find a cure for this horrific disease.

Dance: Brendan will be busting out the Hip Hop moves with Emily McCarthy from Julie Ross Dance Studio.

26 coffs coast focus.

Peter Hodges About our Star: If you’ve been to see a show at the Jetty Theatre in the last few years, chances are you’ll recognise Peter. He is a regular performer with the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company, as well as being the Treasurer of the Company. By day, Peter is the Music Administrator at Bishop Druitt College.

Motivation: Pete says, “Everyone is touched by cancer.

My mother had melanoma when I was very young, my grandfather died of cancer, and my father-in-law was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year.”

Dance: Pete will be entertaining us with a musical inspired Variety piece with Ashleigh Ross of Julie Ross Dance Studio.

Jacqui Barnett About our Star: Over the past 25 years Jacqui has worked in nearly every area of the fitness industry possible, from cleaner to club owner. Jacqui and her husband Glen (a previous Star in this event) relocated their Personal Training business from Canberra to Coffs Harbour almost six years ago. They went into partnership to establish Coffs Coast Health Club, the most awarded Health Club in the region!

Motivation: Being a Star in Coffs Coast - Dance for Cancer 2015, means she can rally support from people near and far, knowing that each of these people are contributing to make that positive difference.

Dance: Jacqui will be hitting the dance floor with a Jazz Variety number with Kym Mackinnon from Julie Ross Dance Studio.

Gary Amiguet - “Seagull” About our Star: Born in Melbourne, Gary and his wife Sandy moved to Coffs Harbour in 1986 and established Seabreeze Premium Motor Body Repairs, Coffs Harbour’s longest running smash repair shop.

Gary is a keen sportsperson, having participated in Aussie Rules Football, cricket, water-skiing, trail bikes, motor racing and fishing. He is also a big supporter of charities and has been involved with Variety since 2000.

Motivation: To have fun whilst raising much needed funds for this great cause.

Dance - Gary will be rocking our socks off with some Rock ‘n’ Roll with Kelly Stoner from Coffs Latin & Rhythms.

Paul-Thomas Clarke

Sarah Ramsey About our Star: I am a 30 year old female, NZ born and bred, currently enjoying the lifestyle of tropical Coffs Harbour. I grew up in Christchurch and moved to the deep south of New Zealand to study physiotherapy at Otago University. After a stint living and working in London, my husband and I moved to Australia. I am currently working as a Physiotherapist at Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy and am a keen netballer, touch rugby player and runner.

Motivation: To be involved with the event - first and foremost, it is a good cause; everyone you know these days has had experiences with cancer themselves or knows someone who has. My cousin passed away when she was 13 from melanoma, and my father-in-law passed away from bowel cancer.

Dance: Sarah will be shaking it with Xaeda Raqasa from Sacred Lotus Bellydance.

Lee Millard-Newton About our Star: I recently celebrated my 41st year in nursing and have spent the past 15 years as the specialist breast nurse at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, having previously been a midwife. I also work for Breastscreen North Coast, facilitating assessment clinics and I am a lymphoedema therapist.

Motivation: Working closely with people diagnosed with breast cancer, I have an understanding of the emotional, physical and social impact that a cancer diagnosis brings. The event is not only about getting out of your comfort zone, but also about having fun which I intend to do!

Dance: Lee will be gracing the dance floor with amateur competitor Kyle Withers in a nouveau ballroom performance choreographed by Carol Myers of Pacific Dancentre.

Sam Ledger About our Star: Sam is a local community pharmacist, and co-founder of the CHC group. Sam is passionate about music, merriment and adventuring. “Go forth, bring out the best in the people through your actions and a smile to the lives of those around you.”

Motivation: To make a difference and promote positive health outcomes to the wider community.

As a local pharmacist, I see many people's lives touched by cancer; those with the condition, their family, friends, medical practitioners and their support staff.

Dance: Sam will be setting the dance floor on fire with a Cuban Salsa with the Coffs Coast International Woman of the Year, Christina Monneron from Kulturithmik.

About our Star: My name is Paul-Thomas Clarke, but most people know me as PT. At the age of 20 I had a career change and bought my first business, a post office in the small town of Walcha. In 2009 I sold Walcha Post Office, bought Toormina Post Office and moved to Coffs Harbour. Although we have only just recently sold Toormina Post Office, I have been working as business development manager at All Office and Business since April last year. I am also a keen member at Rotary and have supported a number of charities.

Motivation: My father has always done a lot for charity, which has always inspired me. Also, having experienced friends, family and employees suffering or dying from prostate cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer and melanoma, I saw being a “Star” in this event as a great opportunity to raise money and awareness for cancer.

Dance: PT will be dancing an Argentinian Cha Cha/ Tango mix with amateur competitor Melissa Thomson, choreographed by Carol Myers of Pacific Dancentre.

Kristen Pigram About our Star: I am an enthusiastic doctor and mother. Working at both Coffs Medical Centre and headspace, I am passionate about helping others on their health journey, both physically and emotionally.

I have travelled throughout Australia, including Arnhem Land, working as a Remote Medical Officer.

Always keen to volunteer, I was a Cancer Council Youth Ambassador, I have been the Camp Doctor for Camp Quality and completed the Oxfam 100 km walk.

Motivation: Like most, I have experienced the loss of friends to cancer. I have also been deeply moved and forever changed through my work on the Oncology wards of Sydney Children's Hospital. It is through further advances in research, continued education and accessible support services that the burden of cancer can be reduced.

Dance: Kristen will be busting out a Bachata from the Dominican Republic with “Cuban Pete” (Peter Skewes) from Kulturithmik.

Sarah Pryor About our Star: I moved to the Coffs Coast almost six years ago from the rural town of Griffith, NSW. Up until two years ago, my career had solely been in Community Pharmacy, a path which exposed me to the heinous disease that is cancer. I have always been a conscious member of my local community, reflected by my current role of Community Relations Coordinator at the C.ex Group.

Motivation: It is estimated that 128,000 Australians will receive a cancer diagnosis this year alone, with this figure increasing to 150,000 in the year 2020.

The Cancer Council is an inspiring organisation who contribute $65 million per year to cancer research in Australia.

Standing at 5”11, I have committed to gracelessly show off my dance moves in an effort to raise funds for cancer research.

Dance: Sarah is teaming up with previous event winner Carol Young from Woolgoolga Dance Centre to do a Musical Theatre performance.

coffs coast focus.

27

S low c o o k e d p o r k b e l ly, h o n e y s c e n t e d carrot puree, seared scallops, apple red wine chutney, sage glaze from pasfields restaurant bar deck

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

28 coffs coast focus.

café o.p 81

la hacienda 101

Milk, eggs, flour, fruit, sugar, citrus and chocolate, knead, whip, fold, bake, roll and melt.

Hacienda means homestead in Spanish and as you walk through the door, you quickly get the impression that you are walking into a unique dining experience. Owners David and Michael like to welcome you as family, treat you to Mexican cuisine not yet seen in Australia, mixed with some good ol’ Tex Mex favourites. Word is spreading that La Hacienda is becoming one of the premier Mexican restaurants in Australia.

Yes, you guessed it - home made cakes at o.p 81 café! All of our sweets are house made in our kitchen using the best ingredients we can get our hands on; scones and muffins are baked daily and a nice selection of cakes individually portioned and served with vanilla cream. So come on down for morning tea, share a cake, or just have one for yourself with a deliciously rich and creamy coffee or one of our temperature control brewed organic teas.

Owners Matt and Bree.

Owners Michael and David.

If you are looking for cakes made by hands, not machines, we are at 81 Ocean Parade. For reservations: 6652 9011.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011

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

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Open 7 days a week, from 6pm.

the hoey moey

CAFFEINE CENTRAl café

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,

Come into Caffeine Central and sample our new menu. The weather is great, and the town is buzzing with people now that winter has left the building.

open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities.

We have a new range of cold coffee cocktails and smoothies. As the fruits come into season, the options will change. At the moment the Banoffee (banana and toffee) smoothie is proving very popular. The Mocha Milkshake is also very tasty with a shot of Gusto Coffee added to a rich chocolate milkshake. Yum! Come in and ask us to make something special just for you.

Come down and check out our new kitchen and a revamp of our offerings to you. Try our new Gourmet Pizza’s where you can dine in or takeaway or stick with our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday. Check out the buskers here in the 22nd, 23rd and 24th of September. It’s where you would rather be.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm.

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

Head Chef David Ricketts.

Owner Steve Calder.

City Square, Opposite Specsavers, Coffs Harbour 0418 665 620 Monday - Friday, 6:30am - 3pm. coffs coast focus.

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horizons horizons restaurant restaurant && bar bar

pasfields restaurant BAr deck the hoey moey

Father’s Day - get Celebrate with Us!into Dad’s good books; treat him to a special buffet Bookings advised.

June is breakfast!

Birthday Month in Horizons!

If you dine in Horizons on your actual birthday, you will receive main ID must be shown.

Rally Headquarter Specialsyour from thecourse 11th -free!

13thPhoto September 2015.

Try our Winter Dinner Menu Get in early for Join-a-Party Christmas! Saturday 28th November 2015. up this Winter and and get out of the cold at Horizons and IfWarm you have a small group budget but want to have aRestaurant much better Bar at Opal Covewith Resort with creative menu. Be tempted with the fun, Chillithis Christmas event loads ofafood, entertainment and Christmas salt flContact ash fried squid with chorizo andfor black bean salad OR Pork isand for you! our functions team today details.

Sirloin wrapped in prosciutto and sage with maple roasted fennel, It’s back for the September/October School holidays - Horizons Brasserie! roasted kipfler potatoes, caramelised green apple and port wine jus.

11:30am - 9pm every day.

Remember to leave room for dessert with the decedent Deconstructed Dining easylime for families, thesyrup new extensive brasserie menu and daily lemonisand tart withwith citrus and candied orange, yum! specials available using the region’s fresh produce and seafood.

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

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

Enjoy Pasfi a fine dining casual meals.

Welcome toelds the for Beachside Bistro experience at the Hoeyor Moey with our newly Our first class foodWe speaks foronly itselfhotel withinour reviews. renovated kitchen. are the Coffs Harbour with direct beach Our ambience andenjoy setting welcoming andwith stunning. access.

Come and ourisbeachside hotel spacious beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, engagements drive thru bottle and TABmake facilities.

Birthdays, reunions, ... shop we can tailor to your budget.

Clinton Hunter Hunter Clinton Chef.

Head Chef.

Up todown 300 guests.

Come and check out our new kitchen and a revamp of our offerings to you.

Trydine our new gourmet pizzas,hour, where you can 5dine or takeaway or $12 13” in pizza and happy Thursdays - 8 in pm. stick with our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday. Watch this Christmas function bookings are now being taken, so book early to get space, with more exciting things to come. your chosen date: admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

HeadChef Chef Head Kim Robson.

David Ricketts.

3 FINE DINING COURSES FOR just $50 upon presentation of this voucher valid until 11th September 2015. Bookings only. Conditions apply

84 Ocean CoffKorora s Harbour 675 PacifiParade, c Highway, 6652 66533833 7710 www.hoeymoey.com.au www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

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

7Tues days.- Thurs Mon -from Thurs5pm; and Sun: - 2:30pm; Fri & 12pm Sat from midday.5:30 - 8:30pm.

Fri(large and Sat: 12pmanytime).

- 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm. functions

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.

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar Surf Club Restaurant and Bar proudly displays a large selection of twelve house made cakes, including citrus tart, hummingbird cake and gluten free choc, orange and almond torte.

Gay and Tina also make at least four different flavoured baked cheesecakes to tempt you.

All our cakes and desserts are made using free range eggs and only the best quality ingredients.

They are all available as whole cakes for the home, or to celebrate in our restaurant (72 hours’ notice required).

Our full cake and dessert menu can be viewed on our website: surfclubparkbeach.com

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!

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.

Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Chef Donovan.

John Marshall.

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.

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

Book now for Fathers Day breakfast or lunch.

Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, 88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour.

6652 3855 www.plantationhotel.com.au Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com Lunch: 12pm to 2:30. Dinner: 5:30 to 8:30,

Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week7 days a week. for breakfast and lunch.

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

Head Chef Dan Williams 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. coffs coast focus.

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25

the pier hotel

Creole Spiced Prawns

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.

flooded gums restaurant

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.

It’s starting to warm up in Coffs and we are looking forward to those warm summer nights on our Terrace Lawn, watching the sun sink behind the Flooded Gums. Bonville Golf Resorts, The Flooded Gums menu has just changed highlighting more of our regions seasonal and fresh produce put together expertly by our team of chefs. October brings about the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Month, and the Flooded Gums are celebrating by holding ‘Flavours of the North Coast’ a degustation menu to delight on the Thursday 29th October 2015.

Bookings essential 02 6653 4002.

Executive Chef: Darren Ryan.

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

beachstone café As the weather warms up, be sure to get down to Beachstone and try some of our delicious new items from our fresh new spring menu.

Tables are fast filling up for our September 25th dinner night when we will once again be holding our ever popular Brazilian BBQ. Get in quick to secure your table before it’s too late!

Christmas will be here again before we know it so take one thing off the to-do list by booking your Christmas party now! Get in early to ensure you get the date you want!!

Pizza “The Vino” Smoked mozzarella, white anchovies, olives and oregano Pork belly w` gorgonzola, pear, toasted almonds and beetroot puree.

Pizza Vino is a new pizza, pasta and tapas bar situated in the Jetty Village.

We offer Italian and Mediterranean style share food with a twist. Fully licensed, offering a wide range of imported and local wine, beer and spirits.

Head Chef Adam Gallo

Bookings recommended.

Owner Aileen Chen.

361 Harbour Drive (Jetty Strip), Coffs Harbour 6650 9112 Open Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm till late for dine in and take away.

Pizza Vino Italian Pizzeria

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.

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focus

COMPETITION VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE DISH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A $250 “DINNER FOR FOUR” VOUCHER AT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF YOUR CHOICE, SELECTED FROM RESTAURANTS BELOW!

Bonville

horizons

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

Enjoy spring by the pool, with our roast pork belly, scallop, fennel and orange salad.

op81

la hacienda

the pier hotel

Chipotle shrimp puff taco - topped with a mandarin and grilled pineapple salsa decorated with feta and cilantro. Served on a bed of lettuce and a splash of lime.

350 g Diamantina scotch fillet - 100 day grain fed. A pristine environment and careful rearing that results in the exceptional marbling, tenderness and flavour to give you that “melt in your mouth experience”.

32 coffs coast focus.

VOTE TO WIN A $250 “DINNER FOR FOUR” AT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF YOUR CHOICE

CAFE O.P81

Surf st cafÉ

Moroccan chicken salad. Marinated chicken breast with roasted vegetables and fresh lettuce finished with spiced lime yogurt dressing and sweet potato crisps.

New England lamb with green lentil, goats cheese and beetroot assiette.

op81

Pasfields restaurant bar deck

Surf club Restaurant and Bar

Slow cooked pork belly, honey scented carrot puree, seared scallops, apple red wine chutney, sage glaze.

Choose from our array of delicious homemade treats. Made fresh daily.

focus

COMPETITION

How to enter 1. SELECT THE DISH OF YOUR CHOICE FROM ABOVE. 2. JUMP ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/COFFSCOAST.FOCUS 3. CLICK ON THE “SIGNATURE DISH” ALBUM. 4. CLICK ON YOUR CHOSEN “SIGNATURE DISH”.

5. LIKE AND COMMENT IN 25 WORDS OR LESS WHY IT’S YOUR FAVOURITE DISH!

VOTING OPEN FROM 21ST AUGUST TO 11TH SEPTEMBER, WINNER ANNOUNCED 25TH SEPTEMBER 5PM.

coffs coast focus.

33

focusinterview.

TOAST URUNGA 2015

For a relaxing day of good fresh food, regional wines, great music and cooking demonstrations featuring Terase Davidson (from Taste Byron Bay) and Lyndall Dykes (from The Cheesemaking Workshop) in a picturesque outdoor setting where the Bellinger and Kalang rivers meet the sea, make sure you put Sunday 6 September in your diary.

MATT C A F E

O . P

8 1

SMITH

FOCUS TUCKS THEIR CHAIRS UNDER THE TABLE OF CAFÉ O.P81 TO CHAT TO MATT SMITH ABOUT HIS PASSION FOR GOOD FOOD, GREAT COFFEE AND BREAKING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE WITH EXCITING FLAVOURS.

W

hat is your first memory of food and cooking?

My first memories are of collecting fresh vegetables and eggs from the family gardens and cooking them in a wood fired oven, adding a slightly smokey complexity to even the simplest of dishes; this is what originally got me hooked on cooking.

Where did you earn your stripes?

I earned my stripes at a fine dining restaurant in Armidale, “Archie’s On The Park”. I started my apprenticeship in my first year out of school, I then progressed to second chef, and it was at this time the restaurant was awarded a chef’s hat in the SMH Good Food Guide.

In the third year of my apprenticeship, I took over as head chef and continued on in the SMH Good Food Guide for the remainder of my time at “Archie’s On The Park”.

What do you love most about food and cooking?

I love matching textures, flavours and techniques to give our diners an experience; I think dining out should be something you look forward to doing rather than just another way to get a meal, I like to gently encourage people out of their comfort zone to try different foods and combinations that have them leaving the café with an all day smile.

34 coffs coast focus.

Your food philosophy?

My aim is to create food inspired by texture, pure ingredients, local produce and intensity of flavour.

These elements allow me the inspiration to craft dishes that are unique, delicious, sustainable and to support local producers wherever possible.

These influences, teamed with my life experiences, personality, memories and imagination, guide me to form a menu with integrity, flavour, texture and excitement.

The breakfast there is so good - why?

Thank you!

We try to keep all of the flavours and meals clean, fresh and exciting.

We also use the best pasture raised eggs, supplied by “Waterfall Agriculture” with their farm in the Orara Valley using holistic farm management techniques. As a result, the eggs are rich and clean on the palate and most of all, the yolks are as bright as the sun.

We also make sure that we have vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, as well as the old favourite, bacon and eggs.

Both myself and my wife, Bree, have a passion for all things food and coffee and have both been in the hospitality industry since our early teens.

Combining all of these ingredients make the perfect recipes.

Thanks Matt.

The day will feature non stop music from vibrant acts including: fiddle favourites The Bostocks, local folk group Honey & Knives, festival rocker Minnie Marks and many, many more.

The festival will include more than 70 stalls selling a diverse range of cuisines, local produce, wines and boutique beers. Whilst adults enjoy a wide variety of music, wine and food, kids have their own entertainment, with personalised, interactive karaoke, jumping castles, smiley shows, face painting and bungee trampolines.

Around town the local shops will be open, and vintage cars will be on display.

The festival will include more lling than 70 stalls se of e ng ra e rs a dive oduce, cuisines , local pr ue iq ut wines and bo beers.”

“

focusinterview.

E AT, D R I N K A N D E X P L O R E T H I S FAT H E R ’ S D AY !

BA S K I N T H E B E AU T Y O F U RU N GA , W H E R E T H E B E AU T I F U L BELLINGER AND KALANG RIVERS MEET THE SEA.

“

with guests harvesting fresh produce from our garden before each cooking class. I love introducing our guests to exceptional local produce available, that is enjoyed around a big table with great wine, local beer and lots of laughter.

We can't wait for TOAST Urunga. What do you love most about the Food, Wine and Music Festival?

I love the way Toast Urunga has brought together all the good things in life - amazing food, delectable wine, great music and a love of family and friends - all to be celebrated on Father's Day. The festival is quite an accomplishment for the 100 plus volunteers who have been running the event for nine years now, relying solely on local business support to make it happen.

There will be over 70 stalls at TOAST Urunga 2015, from Australian to Spanish, Vietnam, Japanese and African cuisine. Do you have a favourite dish?

Tough question! Will have to take a few minutes to think about this! Probably Huevos Rancheros. For those who haven't heard of this dish, it's an easy to make Mexican dish served for breakfast, lunch or dinner, which will definitely satisfy any hunger pangs you may have! I like putting my own twist on this dish

though, by adding fried chorizo, toasted almonds, coriander and mint finished with a big dollop of goats cheese!

What is your connection with Urunga and the Coffs Coast?

I've always loved popping into the Coffs Coast on my journeys between Sydney and Byron Bay - I'm hoping the connection will grow even stronger after meeting all the wonderful people visiting the Toast Urunga event.

What makes your cooking stand out?

I use fresh seasonal local produce and then build on the flavours. I am a big supporter of sustainable farming and love the old school practices of delivering big bold flavours in the kitchen.

If there was one ingredient that you could not live without, what would it be?

Goats cheese! I just love it. If more people ate goats cheese, we'd have world peace I am sure. I use any excuse to use goats cheese!

We hear that the Taste Byron Bay cooking classes are the perfect way to brush up on your cooking skills. Where did you learn to cook?

I grew up in a family of chefs, and my mum is a brilliant cook. I've always been fascinated

TOAST URUNGA FESTIVAL

T

here will be over 70 stalls at this year's Toast Urunga festival, featuring fresh food delicacies from around the globe. Tantalise your taste buds with food from Australia to Japan, Vietnam, Spain and Africa in one day!

What more could you want? FOCUS sits down with celebrity chef Terase Davidson, who will be demonstrating her cooking skills at TOAST Urunga 2015.

Terase is the founder of Taste Byron Bay and is a food industry professional - a qualified seasoned chef and experienced events planner with a big love for Byron. Terase believes in fostering a deeper connection with the food we eat by getting to know the amazing people behind the labels and experiencing firsthand how the food is grown, farmed and produced.

You will hear her talk about “flavour starting in the paddock with the farmer” and “getting back to basics”. Come and meet Terase at Toast Urunga Morgo St Reserve on Sunday 6th September - cooking demonstrations are at 11:30am, 12:30pm and 1:30pm. The festival runs between 10am and 4pm. Free parking is available at the Urunga Recreation Grounds and a free shuttle bus operates to the event site.

Terase - what exactly is Taste Byron Bay? Taste Byron Bay is all about showcasing local seasonal produce. We offer food tours of Byron and the Hinterland in our super cute combi plus cooking classes at the iconic Fig Tree Restaurant,

d I’ve always love to in popping on my the Coffs Co ast n Sydney ee tw be journeys I’m and Byron Bay ection will nn co e th ng pi ho er afte r grow even strong derful won meeting all the the To ast g tin si vi le peop ” t.

Urunga even

by food and how it is a perfect way to bring people together. Eating a meal together is a great equaliser, regardless of cultures, religion or background. I’m often invited into family homes for dinner when travelling overseas.

Sharing plates of food together with new and old friends is the perfect way to strengthen friendships and learn a lot more about others (and yourself!) Interestingly, it wasn't until I was thirty-two that I finally answered my professional calling and retrained as a chef. My new career began at the fine dining restaurant, Aqua Dining, which at the time was a prestigious one-hat restaurant.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in the kitchen?

Oh, that's easy! My Uncle Charly! I spent many family holidays as a child peeling garlic in my aunty and uncle’s restaurant, the iconic Fig Tree Restaurant overlooking Byron Bay. If you could cook for anyone, who would it be?

Family and friends - I don't have any desire to cook for anyone famous. My favourite meals are those shared with family and friends - everyone sitting down together to laugh, to tell stories and to celebrate great food.

What’s the best piece of advice you have received?

Don't be afraid to follow your dreams.

Thanks Terase. coffs coast focus.

35

curry • CELEBRATING

10 YEARS •

WOOLGOOLGA CURRYFEST IS CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF CULTURE, CUISINE AND GOOD COMMUNITY FUN AND AS THINGS HEAT UP TOWARDS THE SEPTEMBER FESTIVAL, ORGANISERS ARE PROMISING ONE OF THE BIGGEST AND BEST EVENTS TO DATE.

T

he event, which is one of Destination NSW’s celebrated flagship events, has seen as many as 13,000 people flock to the seaside village, and this year it is expected that more than 15,000 will come and help celebrate their 10th anniversary.

Woolgoolga is home to the biggest Australian Punjabi Sikh population outside of capital cities. Woolgoolga’s population is only 5,000, but the town boasts two Sikh temples and hundreds of citizens for whom Punjabi is their first language. On September 26, the whole town celebrates its unique heritage with Curryfest, a food and cultural festival that has grown into a flagship event.

Curryfest features curries from all over the

36 coffs coast focus.

world, ethnic foods, Punjabi music, dancing and other cultural displays … a feast for the eyes, ears and for the stomach.

This year the fun begins with the “Tastes of Woolgoolga” restaurant experiences, starting with a banquet on September 5, followed by a Moroccan night on September 12. Woolgoolga The Bollywood Musical will wow audiences on September 24, and the warm up for Festival Day on September 26 is the much-loved Bollywood on the Beach outdoor movies on the evening of September 25.

On the big day, Saturday, September 26, the festival begins at 9am. Entry is only $4 per adult; kids are free. There are more than 100 stalls, two stages with lots of cultural and traditional entertainment, cooking

Buy a Curryfest raffle ticket, in a and you might w a di In to t gh return fli ir A of ts en im compl $2.” e India. Tickets ar

“

demonstrations, mindfulness and meditation workshops, kids’ activities, henna tattoos, market stalls and lots of opportunities to try and buy curries and spice products for you to take away and experiment with in your own kitchen. There will also be lots of other ethnic food for those whose tastes lie elsewhere.

Buy a Curryfest raffle ticket, and you might win a return flight to India compliments of Air India. Tickets are $2.

The festival also coincides this year with Woolgoolga’s renowned Lillipilli Art Exhibition,

celebrating regional artists in a number of formats.

Locals could make a day trip to Woolgoolga and stay on to sample some of the local taverns, clubs and restaurants in the evening, or just

take a twilight stroll along some of the best beaches on the Coffs Coast to walk off those curries. It’s the start of the school holidays, and don’t forget the festival has a kids’ zone to add to all the usual Coffs Coast kids’ attractions.

Head to www.curryfest.com.au for accommodation and further festival information.

Discover coffs coast in spring Discover some of Coffs’ best kept secrets this Spring - stunning headlands, beaches and rainforests on a FREE Coffs Ambassadors Tour. Our team of friendly Coffs Ambassador tour-guides run tours of the places they know and love, sharing with you the local stories, history and wildlife of the region.

NORTH COAST REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Eight very special tours are on offer in Coffs Harbour, Toormina, Coramba, Emerald Beach and Woolgoolga. Tours range in distance from 500m to 3.5km and are either easy (flat) or medium grade (some steps or steep areas), so you can find a tour to suit your ability.

The Botanic Gardens Children’s Holiday Program offers families with children aged 4-13 years of age the opportunity to enjoy a discovery walk through the one of the many gardens followed by a creative practical activity. Cost is $2 per child per session.

KOALAS IN OUR BACKYARDS Sunday 20 September 10am - 12pm

Classes are from 9am-10am. Those interested meet at the Botanic Garden reception desk.

The Great Sea Turtle Adventure FOR KIDS Tuesday 22 September 10am - 11:30am

The Spring classes for the September school holidays are: Flowers in Bloom Wednesday 23 September. Children will go on a discovery tour of the garden; seeing all the spring blossoms and create an artwork and pot a plant to take home.

CORAMBA RAINFOREST STROLL Saturday 26 September 10am - 12pm HARBOUR HISTORY WALK Saturday 10 October 9:30am - 11:30am SEA TURTLES OF THE SOLITARY ISLANDS Sunday 25 October 10am - 12pm COFFS RAINFOREST WALK - Sunday 8 November 10am - 12pm DISCOVER YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY GARDEN Sunday 15 November 10am - 12pm BUSH TUCKER AT WOOLGOOLGA LAKE Saturday 21 November 10am - 11:30am

Flowers and Insects Saturday 26 September. Children are invited to wander the garden in search of insects interacting with the various flowers and create a gift to take home.

Birds in the Garden Wednesday 30 September. Discover the birds that live in the garden, where they nest and how they use the garden to survive. The activity is to collect feathers and ground matter to create a masterpiece to take home.

MASS NUTRITION barber Mass Nutrition is the first store to introduce an in-store barber. The “Mass Barber” has really taken off with stores all over Australia following suit.

Mass Nutrition’s barber “Jaxx Ripia” has the best reputation in Coffs Harbour for her incredible attention to details and makes sure everyone feels welcomed and walks out super happy with their fresh new hair style.

Mass Nutrition make their cuts affordable and the cheapest on the Coffs Coast with $20 hair cuts.

The barber shop is open Tuesday through to Saturday with appointments and walk-ins available.

Joining both health fitness, hair cuts, motivation and inspiration - come on in and meet our friendly team at Mass Nutrition.

coffs coast focus.

37

WELLBEING

By Pamela Millican

By Ellen Slater

Happiness is an inside job!

I

Find Happiness with Depression!

Yup, I hear you – am I out of my tiny little mind!

believe that emotions are our or even lousy food) that it disagrees with internal guidance system. They it makes you vomit to purge the contents give us an indication of where we so that the body can be brought back into are in life. When we are on the balance - how clever is that! right track, for example, everything One way to reduce sadness and find is easy, the people you need appear out happiness of course, include regular exercise. of nowhere, the money shows up, life We know that one of the benefits of is fun, there’s no stress and exercise is stress relief. But did everything works in harmony. you know that working Now think about how up a sweat doesn’t just ay w e th er Consid things are when we’re ts ac help you physically; re dy bo the a little off track, the ng hi et m so t it also increases pu u when yo whole world turns s, ug dr it e (b chemicals that it de insi upside down, usy can moderate the cohol, or even lo s al everything and gree food) that it di sa vomit brain’s response u everyone is a pain to with - it makes yo ts to stress, meaning en deal with, everything to purge the co nt n be you can reduce ca dy goes wrong, things so that the bo e nc la ba stress and boost the to in ck break, people let you brought ba ” ! at th is body’s ability to deal er ev cl down, and where on – how with existing mental earth did the money pot tension at the same go - and so it goes! time!

Exercise also releases It feels really good when happy endorphins: “Studies we achieve something and equally have shown that exercise can even lousy when we fail. If that’s not a good alleviate symptoms among the clinically indicator of the usefulness of our feelings, then I don’t know what is! If we didn’t depressed and doctors often recommend have feelings, how would we function, how that people suffering from depression/anxiety would we know whether we liked what we schedule time for exercise”. Also, on a very were doing or whether we were even being basic level, physical fitness can boost self successful? esteem, improve positive self-image and can I firmly believe that ALL negative emotions quickly elevate a person’s perception of his or tell us that something is just not right. her self worth and self confidence, regardless Consider the way the body reacts when you of their weight, size, gender, or age. put something inside it (be it drugs, alcohol,

“

38 coffs coast focus.

ELLEN SLATER

Y

Joyland Carers rETREAT

ou are a newcomer to Coffs Harbour and started a new business. Please tell us about it …

I moved to Coffs Harbour last December from the Gold Coast. Joyland Carers Retreat was officially opened by the Mayor Denise Knight on January 21, which was very exciting, as this venture has been a dream of mine for over 30 years to offer an in-home respite service for family carers.

Thirty years is a long time; what was the dream that became a reality?

I have been a carer most of my life, caring for many members in my family, and I know the complexities of what it means to be a carer, not only physically but financially, spiritually and emotionally. I never considered myself a carer as I was part of a family; however, like most carers, I suffered burnout, frustration, anger, grief, anxiety, depression and lost me. After my husband died in 2008, it was different again; I didn’t know what to do, I had lost my “job” as a carer, with my self-identity being non-existent.

Did you receive government funding to build Joyland Carers Retreat, and do you receive funding for carers?

I privately funded Joyland after selling properties in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

With no government funding for carers, I rely on successful grant submissions, and now as a Not for Profit I raise funds through events.

“Winter Delight” in June was my inaugural event, which raised enough funds for eight

carers to have respite. This was thanks to business sponsors, donations for raffles by generous Coffs Harbour businesses and a sell out event, with 120 ladies enjoying high tea, fashion parades, cocktail tastings by Dan Murphy’s and amazing raffles.

What is in the future for events?

In the booking and planning stages are two events for next year, one in April and another “Winter Delight” in June. Stay tuned!

What is offered at Joyland?

Firstly, the peace and tranquillity of being in such an idyllic spot in Korora. There’s a vast amount of wildlife to enjoy; the beach is only a 300 m short walk and it’s 7 km to the CBD. Joyland offers a holistic service with two double bedrooms with plush bathrobes, a beautiful bathroom with a French tub, a media room stocked with DVDs and an extensive library. All meals are home cooked and nutritious, with lots of goodies to enjoy.

I also have a professional private counselling practice operating from Joyland which is accessible to carers and the general public.

Clients have told me they love coming here, as it is private, totally confidential and anonymous to anyone as to why they are at Joyland.

Additionally, I welcome anyone who would like to visit Joyland, indulge in some home baked morning tea and see for themselves what is offered; I don’t want to be the best kept secret in town!

Thanks Ellen.

& WELLBEING

COFFS HEALTH HUB Have you ever thought to use Hypnotherapy for • Releasing Stress • Anxiety • Weight Loss • Quitting Smoking • Increasing confidence & improving your Self image?

• Improving Sports Performance, & Public Speaking Pam works with a fun, encouraging, compassionate style, showing you how to reprogram the brain and re-condition your body. Using neuroscience and a combination of Hypnosis, NLP Language, EFT and Timeline Therapy she can you help you achieve effective and lasting changes.

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

Spectacle frames not only serve their main function of positioning the lenses correctly in front of the eyes to deliver optimal vision correction, but also have a significant visual impact.

ROBINA’s HAIR BOUTIQUE

Hypnosis can effectively help you lose weight and keep it off and has been proven to be 30% more effective than dieting alone.

OUR SPECIAL TO YOU 10 FOILS AND A GORGEOUS CUT EVERY SATURDAY FOR $70.00

Hypnosis can help reduce stress. Stress can be factored in as a major cause of serious illnesses like heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and sleep disorders. High stress levels in your everyday life can force your body to be constantly kept in a high alert and toxic state. One of the benefits of hypnotherapy may be learning simple relaxation, self-hypnosis and meditation techniques. If you feel like you can’t get your stress levels under control why not consider hypnotherapy?

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.

Many Athletes use hypnosis to effectively reinforce their goals, improve their mental imagery, effectively deal with performance anxiety, increase confidence and keep their motivation levels high.

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.

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

See you in the salon soon, Robina.

Skill and experience are needed when selecting an appropriate frame which matches the facial features while providing a comfortable and aesthetically appealing result.

Our goal is to cater for a broad range of frame styles ranging from the formal to the casual as well as more unusual leading-edge designs.

Adidas optical frames are a leading brand which has been constructed for both general purpose and sports enthusiasts as they provide great support in total comfort. They are manufactured from an exclusive ultralight weight SPXTM polymer material which, in addition to being lightweight, is flexible and durable.

In fact, these frames are so durable that they come with a two-year, no questions asked, Peace of Mind Warranty! (This warranty does not cover optical lenses.)

To see the full range visit alanburrow.com.au, click on frames and then the Adidas range or scan the QR code below.

coffs coast focus.

39

WELLBEING

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

Health is a journey with your practitioner to 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.

40 coffs coast focus.

Nutritionists Louise and Naomi with personal trainer Col

COFFS COAST NUTRITION Lose 3 kg per week by eating the foods you love!

We’ve all seen or heard these types of claims before. In reality, however, most diets are not sustainable and simply don’t result in long-term weight loss.

There is no one diet that suits everyone. Some people prefer a lower carbohydrate, higher protein diet, while others function better when they eat a few more carbs. Some people have food intolerances, while others can eat virtually anything.

Some people have medical conditions that impact upon their quality of life, while others are healthy and just want to lose weight. Some people benefit from following a structured meal plan, while others prefer to make simple modifications to their normal way of eating …

JOYLAND CARERS retreat Joyland Carers Retreat is a privately funded carers inhome retreat for unpaid family carers. We are located 300 m from the beach in Korora, Coffs Harbour.

Imagine what it must be like to care for a loved one 24/7. You probably don’t realise that carers continue their caring role regardless of the impact and effect on their own wellbeing, with evidenced based research showing that unpaid family carers are the lowest marginalised population financially, spiritually and suffering chronic burnout, sleep deprivation, social isolation, depression and at times suicidal ideation, plus all the psychological issues relating to ongoing caring.

Changing the types of foods consumed can dramatically affect health and wellbeing. Recent research indicates that certain foods have an inflammatory effect (in the arteries and organs of the body) which can increase the risk of Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, respiratory problems and some types of cancer.

There is also a link to both chronic pain and depression.

From the moment you enter Joyland Carers Retreat, peace and tranquillity reigns. It offers two double bedrooms, bathroom with a French tub to totally relax, a media room to watch favourite movies, listen to music or curl up in a luxury bathrobe and muse through a vast array of books from the library. A “treehouse” verandah offers the opportunity to watch native birds whilst relaxing listening to the ocean.

At Coffs Coast Nutrition, we understand that everyone is different. We can take YOUR individual circumstances into account to design a lifestyle programme that works for YOU.

If you would like to see what Joyland Carers Retreat has to offer, view the website www.joylandcarersretreat.com.au or phone 0421 644 998 and have some morning tea.

focusinterview.

15 MINUTES WITH DR SAM ROSEHILL AND DR SHAUN CLARKE. TAKING THE PAIN OUT OF A TRIP TO THE DENTIST IS A GREAT IDEA AND ONE THAT A LOCAL PARTNERSHIP IS MAKING A REALITY. DR SAM ROSEHILL AND DR SHAUN CLARKE EXPLAIN THE EXPERIENCE AND ALSO WHAT ATTRACTED THEM TO THE COFFS COAST.

DR SAM ROSEHILL am, how long have you lived experience that sedation allows me to provide, on the Coffs Coast, and what they have such a sense of accomplishment and brought you here? can often begin to break down the barriers to I have lived in Coffs Harbour seeking healthcare more regularly. It is a pleasure for the past six years. I was born to be a part of these journeys. in Byron Bay and prior to moving Dentistry is often an isolated profession in to Coffs Harbour, we lived in Brisbane and that the dentist works alone or with just Townsville. We have family in Coffs Harbour and an assistant in the room. What is it like we wanted to be closer to them, so we made our working with Dr Shaun Clarke, a specialist way down the coast and now happily call The anaesthetist also there with you? It sounds Dental Centre home. like it would be crowded!

What do you love most about living in the Fortunately we have a purpose-built space area? that allows us to fit Shaun and his It has to be the natural beauty. specialist equipment comfortably.

The unique geography of the From a professional perspective, Great Dividing Range coming it is brilliant. Shaun is not le op Some pe so close to the coast is truly just there to put patients to up t will pu special, not to mention the sleep. He has a tremendous d an with pain r fo t amazing beaches, plenty en background in pain sm as rr emba to r de of fish, great surf, and a management, and his or in s ar ye t. ” friendly, relaxed lifestyle. specialty is working with avoid the de nt is Many dentists find people who suffer from treating nervous patients pain modified by psychosocial to be one of the most difficult factors. This means that Shaun is aspects of dentistry. What makes an incredibly caring professional. you want to have a professional focus What should people look for when on treating patients with dental fear and they choose a dental practice to visit? anxiety?

Dentistry is not just about the mechanical Over the past few years I have focused on process of fixing teeth. Long gone are the days advancing my skills in the surgical aspects of when a dentist would tell a patient what to do. dentistry, such as implants and crown and Our role as healthcare professionals is to help our bridge treatment that may be needed after patients understand their oral condition, their teeth are removed. I knew that these types of treatment options, and the best ways to achieve treatments could be comfortably delivered under their desired outcome. a more advanced form of anaesthetic rather For these reasons, people should choose than just local anaesthetic, so we looked for an a dental practice that takes the time to appropriately qualified medical specialist to help communicate, and explain things clearly. If all the us provide this service. staff are bright, happy, and focused on making Some people will put up with pain and sure the patient experience is as comfortable as embarrassment for years in order to avoid possible, that helps too! the dentist, but once they have the positive Thanks Sam.

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DR SHAUN CLARKE haun - you have lived here of dentistry in a group of patients whose for a few years now. What anxiety and stress levels may detract from this brought you to the Coffs without sedation.

Coast?

Normally dentists provide sedation using We moved from Southwest “happy gas”, which can be effective for some England in 2010 for the great patients. This has limitations, and in certain climate and were seduced by the fantastic patients intravenous sedation is required. beaches and local scenery. Coffs is a great It’s not often that a dentist and an place to bring up a family and we enjoy the anaesthetic specialist work directly sense of community, which is difficult to together. What do you see as the main replicate in larger cities. benefits of this multidisciplinary team?

What do you love most about living in Ultimately this is about patient care the area? and achieving the best outcome Coffs provides the perfect for the patient. Dentists and balance of great climate, anaesthetists are used to beautiful surroundings Coffs is a great dealing with anxious g in br and a lifestyle with all the to place d patients. Dentists are an ily trappings of what rural up a fam e ns se e th expert at developing y jo New South Wales has we en , ity un m m a rapport with their co to offer. Air transport of lt to which is difficu means that Sydney is patients, which is key er replicate in larg pretty much on your in dealing with anxious cities.” doorstep if you need. patients. Anaesthetists One of your professional are expert at achieving interests is in managing something similar using orofacial pain; can you explain pharmacological means. It seems how this has linked you to the world that the combination should be, and in of dentistry? our experience is, synergistic.

I provide anaesthesia for several How is the service that you both offer maxillofacial surgeons and dentists in Coffs different from other clinics?

Harbour. As a pain specialist, I have a special Sam and his colleagues at The Dental interest in orofacial pain sparked by the IASP Centre provide a truly professional and highyear of orofacial pain in 2013. I met Sam at quality service to the local population. They an educational event I was involved in last have managed to attract leaders in their field year. to Coffs Harbour and have a state-of-the-art Can you explain simply what it is that facility. It is fantastic to be part of their team. you do?

Sam and I share the view that an integrated My principal role when working with holistic approach is the way to provide a highSam is as a specialist anaesthetist. Providing quality service. intravenous sedation allows Sam and his Thanks Shaun. colleagues to focus on the technical aspects

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coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

RUTHSCOTT T H E FAC E O F BA R I N GA

RUTH SCOTT HAS BEEN WELCOMING PATIENTS TO BARINGA FOR THE LAST 32 YEARS. SHE IS AN INVALUABLE MEMBER OF THE ADMINISTRATION TEAM AND AN ASSET TO RAMSAY HEALTH CARE IN COFFS HARBOUR. THIS IS HER STORY... joyed, and then moved to Baringa in 1982 working at reception, and I have been looking after patients here ever since.

Ruth, as one of Baringa’s longest-serving employees, what are the changes you have observed over the years?

Over the last 32 years, I have seen a tremendous amount of growth, changes and additions since starting at Baringa. This is great for Coffs Harbour and surrounding disOver the last 32 en years, I have se tricts; we all work as ount a team in all different a tremendous am and ges of growth , chan departments and starting additions since great have so many doctors is at Baringa. This and grandchildren. available and many ur for Coffs Harbo cts.” ri My working life specialised areas. st di g in nd surrou began again when we Ruth, you are usually lived with my mother and the first person people I got a job on the reception see when they walk into at the “Star Motel” working the Baringa Foyer, so can you for Geoff and Cynthia Nolan and his tell us what the best part of your parents. This was a turning point for job is? me; Geoff was a wonderful mentor with I love my job and have made many friends fantastic people skills. Then after nine years, during this time. I feel my job is to always John and I had built a home, so hours had have the patient as a priority and endeavour to put them at ease on their arrival to change and I worked for two and a half and during their stay should they have any years at the Coffs Medical Centre. This I en-

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ell us a little bit about your background and interests?

I was born in Dorrigo and spent the first 10 years of my life on a dairy farm at Paddy’s Plains. I was the youngest of five girls. I loved the animals, but I always had a great passion for horses. We moved to Coffs Harbour, and I went to Coffs Primary and then to Jetty High School. I met my late husband, John, sometime later and we had two daughters: Lisa and Vanessa, who still reside in this area. I now have five beautiful

BPH Airport Signage 2400x600 0512OL.indd 1

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queries.

You work in a team of people. What do they try and do for patients?

My team in the office and reception try to make each patient’s admission and discharge process as pleasant as possible. Our admin staff work together at all times to provide patients and visitors with the best service available. Anything they want or need, we are more than willing to help.

You are famous for always being pleasant and courteous to all staff, doctors and patients. What advice would you pass on to young people seeking a job in health? How important is courtesy and respect in your field?

To anyone lucky enough to work to make a difference in the stay of patients, to always treat them as they would like to be treated themselves and nothing should be too much trouble.

Courtesy and respect to all patients and visitors is vital and a priority at all times.

Ramsay Health Care is going from strength to strength, and I feel privileged to be associated with management and doctors who have made this possible.

Thanks Ruth.

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The

core secret to beating back pain REVEALED

ARE YOU ONE OF THE 80% OF THE POPULATION THAT SUFFERS FROM BACK PAIN? DO YOU ALWAYS HEAR ABOUT “CORE STRENGTH” AND HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS?

H

ave you wondered why your the right muscles doing the right jobs. We back pain flares up without often see people who have hurt their back any warning? again from doing something very simple like Owner of Mid North Coast bending to pick up a piece of paper or get out Physiotherapy, Aaron Hardaker, of the car - this is because the spine doesn’t tells us why core strength and Pilates based have the support it needs to move properly. exercises are a real key to getting rid of back Love it or hate, there is no quick fix to this; pain for good. you need to do the right exercises for What is “core strength”, and the right muscles to get the best why is it important? outcome.

You often hear people How can you find out if talking about the “core”, your core muscles are The key focus of s Pilates exercise but it is usually really working well? re is getting the co poorly understood.

Mid North Coast work to es cl us m In simple terms, the Physio has a team of ove together to impr th core is made up of healthcare professionals ng re movement, st the deepest layer of across three clinics on ” y. lit and flexi bi the abdominal muscles the Coffs Coast who (transverse abdominus) have a proven track record not the six pack muscles, but in solving back pain for deeper - along with a series of thousands of happy clients. By small muscles in between your vertebrae incorporating physiotherapy, exercise (multifidus) and the pelvic floor muscles. physiology, Pilates, hydrotherapy, massage These groups of muscle work together and yoga into a comprehensive treatment to form a strong support cylinder around the plan, you are sure to get long term solutions spine to help reduce load and minimise the risk rather that short term relief. of injury. Once you have had a back injury, it If you have suffered with back pain is vital to retrain and strengthen these muscles previously or are worried about your core to get your back moving well with the right strength, why not see one of the experienced support. This is usually the step that is missed physios or exercise physiologists at Mid in back rehab, meaning that you are at a much North Coast Physio to get a comprehensive higher risk of further back pain in the future. assessment. For this month only we are Why is Pilates recommended? offering 10 FREE Pilates assessments to The key focus of Pilates exercises is getting check your core strength and flexibility and the core muscles to work together to improve provide you with a clear plan of rehab. To movement, strength and flexibility. Your body secure one of these appointments, call develops bad habits after being in pain and 1300 27 37 47 now and get your back continues those unless you learn how to get on the right track.

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focusinterview.

D R .

H A R V E Y

WARD Centre for womens reproductive care The life of an obstetrician in Coffs Harbour is not an easy one. Just ask Dr Ward’s wife, Kathy, and family.

Dr Ward is available “on call” for women delivering as private patients, for guiding and overseeing this miraculous journey for both mother and child. He offers personalised care for an individual delivery plan and the safe arrival of a precious baby. He offers this seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

Dr Ward is especially keen to encourage fathers’ and partners’ participation as fully as possible and offers expert advice to both parties along the way.

He offers private antenatal clinics in his rooms shared between him and the delightful midwives, Mary, Cookie and Sally. Between the two, there is a wealth of obstetric knowledge and expertise shared.

The midwives in the birthing unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus keep Dr Ward abreast of your progress during labour and when it comes time for birthing, there is no greater security than having your private specialist obstetrician available to you.

Fortunately for us, Dr Ward loves being an obstetrician. His smile and manner say it all, as any of his patients will attest to.

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DR HARVEY WARD WORKS TIRELESSLY TO HELP WOMEN ON THE COFFS COAST, WITH EXPERTISE IN PROLAPSE AND INCONTINENCE SURGERY AND INFERTILITY ISSUES ...

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hat is your area of expertise?

Working in a rural area in Australia necessitates a broad range of skills as an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist, so our centre is really able to offer almost all of the services available in larger centres. My areas of expertise are in prolapse and incontinence surgery primarily and also infertility with Genea.

Share some expert advice with our readers?

Often, women’s problems go untreated due to embarrassment. There are many very good management options, sometimes surgical, that can very effectively relieve symptoms. For couples who are having difficulty falling pregnant, and assisted reproductive technologies are needed, through Genea we offer world class service.

It is always important to remember that as we get older, particularly over 36, our fertility reduces sharply, so early consultation is better than leaving it too late. Also, there are new and effective treatments for heavy periods that don't involve the Pill or hysterectomy - and many other women’s conditions can be managed with keyhole surgery, allowing quicker return to normal activities with less pain and activity restriction. Pregnancy tests can be daunting and the new tests advertised can be confusing, so early referral is advised.

What makes your business stand out?

Our lovely consulting rooms are close to maternity, with adequate parking and pleasant, restful surroundings colour-matched with our beautiful Jeffrey Baker original, aquarium and "Birrigan's Story" Aboriginal masterpiece.

Our reception staff are the most pleasant, polite, sensitive and helpful team I could wish for, and our practice manager, Debra, is caring, resourceful and super skilled in

running our office smoothly. We surprise our mums with special gifts and flowers!

We call patients with results quickly and offer ongoing appointment adjustments because - as you know - Dr Ward's life is a little unpredictable! We have Urodynamics (bladder testing), colposcopy (dealing with abnormal Pap smears) Ultrasound, semen sample preparation - for intra uterine insemination and a variety of choices for managing birth control. And my bowties!

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

My wife, Kathy, is patient and long suffering and the most valuable colleague I have! Our children have moved on, with the two girls studying and my son Tim, a qualified teacher in Queensland. We do our best to meet up as often as possible, on weekends and when passing through!

My daughter, Belinda, and I sing together at our annual Valentine's Day fundraiser for Bouvier school in Haiti, and all the family have been actively involved in our local church, Lifehouse.

When and why did you start your business?

We arrived in Coffs Harbour on Aug 10, 2006 after scouting out the spot the year before with my eldest daughter, Christy.

Prof. Max Brinsmead was retiring, and I was privileged to be able to step into his well established practice. We also found the school for our children, Christian Community School, the best move we could have imagined.

What is the best thing about your job?

The best thing I find is that I get the opportunity daily to observe at close quarters the amazing wonders of God's creation, at the smallest level, genetic and embryonic to the spectacular privilege of using my skills to repair, reorganise and remove whatever causes suffering in my brave patients. I so enjoy going to work in an environment where I am surrounded

by such incredible people, staff, patients and colleagues! It is such a satisfying job, and I also have the real joy of imparting knowledge, skills and experience to the students who are training at the UNSW Rural School of Medicine where I teach.

What plans do you have for 2015?

In September I will be travelling to Tbilisi, Georgia with Dr Nino Abuladze to present two papers on next birth after Caesarean Section, and non invasive prenatal testing at their national conference. I will then present two talks at the ISPP conference in Istanbul, Turkey, one on solutions for painful sexual intercourse and a second on reducing mesh erosion in prolapse surgery. At our provincial Fellows meeting in September in Taree, I will be presenting nine years of data with over 1,300 prolapse and incontinence surgeries performed here in Coffs and finally, in November, I will be going to Taiwan to perform live surgery and lecture at the APUGA conference. Quite busy indeed!

How do you keep your team motivated?

They motivate me! Good coffee, good communication, regular socialising, excellent humour, hard work ethic, brainstorming for innovation, end of year Christmas party poetry and round up, with hilarious Secret Santa gift exchange!

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

From King Solomon Psalm 3v5: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don't lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will guide your path.

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

Awesome people, lovely practice, great scenery and beaches, happy wife (happy life), brilliant church, fine medical school what more can I ask for!

Thanks Dr Ward.

Legacy WEEK 2015

AT LEGACY, OUR VISION TODAY IS THE SAME AS IT WAS WHEN WE FORMED BACK IN 1923: THAT NO DEPENDANT OF AN AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE MEMBER SUFFERS FINANCIAL OR SOCIAL DISADVANTAGE AS A RESULT OF THE DEATH OR INCAPACITY OF A FAMILY MEMBER.

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or each serving Australian who risks everything, a family does the same.

Australians will have the chance to show their support for these very special families by supporting Legacy during Legacy Week - August 30 to September 5 2015.

Legacy is the only organisation of its type in the world and relies on an army of dedicated volunteers, many of whom are returned servicemen and women, to carry out our vital work.

Coffs Coast Legacy cares for around 600 widows and dependants of all ages, all sharing the heartache of losing a loved one, either physically or mentally, a loss which can last a lifetime. Legacy’s role is as vital today as it was 90 years ago and continues to evolve to accommodate the changing needs of families we support, including those affected by Post

Traumatic Stress. We support our local widows, children and people with disabilities with essential services such as, subsidised housing, financial assistance, home support, medical alarms, education expenses and pension advocacy, to name a few.

Corporal Mark Donaldson VC is a 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.

All the money Coffs Coast Legacy raises remains on the Coffs Coast to support our local community, and for that fact alone we are extremely proud.

Coffs Coast Legacy is striving to become even more involved with our community. We

aim to achieve this through the development of beneficial and lasting 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.

Legacy acknowledges the support of the Australian Defence Force during Badge Week.

This year Coffs Coast Legacy will be supported by volunteers from the 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment. Along with a devoted team of volunteers, Friends of Legacy, Legacy widows, Legatees and high school students from across the region, we are aiming at making this the most successful Badge Week yet.

Our Badge Day is Friday 4 September; you will see our Legacy merchandise stalls at all major shopping centres and other community

venues across the Coffs Coast. You will also find us at the Jetty Foreshore Markets on Sunday 30 August and at Bunnings and Masters stores on Saturday 5 September.

Badge Week merchandise is available year round at the Legacy Nursing Home in Victoria Street, and at our Legacy Opportunity Shop in Scarba Street.

Our merchandise this year not only includes our iconic badges, but also WWI Soldier and Nurse, Army, Navy and Air Force Bears, commemorative wristbands, quality pens and collectors pennies.

Please support Coffs Coast Legacy in any way you can and help us continue our work with local families.

Join the Legacy movement, make a donation or volunteer your time by visiting www.legacy.com/coffsharbour or call 1300 LEGACY (534 229).

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JETTY

HOLISTICHealth We offer easy to follow treatment plans that will help you achieve YOUR Health goals FREE Nutritional Advice All you have to do is write a food diary for three days, bring it into the clinic and either Cate or Steffi will give you some simple advice on why you may not be achieving the health goals you have set yourself.

12-week fat loss program When losing weight it is important not to lose muscle tissue but actual fat. Our program not only includes great meal plans and an individually tailored exercise plan, we will also aim to eliminate any underlying health issues that may be preventing you from losing weight. Toxicity, Inflammation, hormone imbalances and stress can all be implicated and natural medicine can help you address these.

6-week detoxification This may sound scary! No fasting or elimination of major food groups is required. During this time you will simply eliminate all processed foods and drink whilst introducing lots of fresh and tasty meals. During 3 two week phases we will guide you through this program to balance the microflora in your gut, flush your kidneys and

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detoxify your liver. We have truly seen some amazing results with this program like reduced liver enzymes, fatty liver and cholesterol.

Of course there usually is some weight loss and an increase in general wellbeing. This is recommended for anyone that is experiencing any digestive issues, tiredness, skin problems, less than optimal health or is thinking of conceiving in the next 6-12 months.

3 month preconception care program This is recommended for anyone thinking of conceiving in the next 4-12 months. Whether you are experiencing difficulties conceiving, are planning on going through an IVF program or simply want the best start for your baby, this program is for you. Research has shown that preconception care improves your chances of falling pregnant as well as reducing the risk of any pregnancy complications. Ideally both prospective parents follow a treatment plan to achieve best results.

incredible! Fantastic massages, amazing advice and lovely service with a cheerful happy smile. I recommend them to anyone seeking a holistic approach to life.�

All programs include naturopathic supervision and comprehensive testing.

Massage

Please talk to us about easy payment plans Testimonials: “The guys at Jetty Holistic Health are

Kids Clinic We recognise the importance of educating children early about health and getting them started on the path to wellbeing. To make this more affordable for parents we are offering naturopathic consultations for children for only $60.

Our amazing massage therapists offer a range of treatments including remedial, hot stone, sports and relaxing massage. Bella, Tash and Ric all get amazing feedback from their patients.

Advanced bookings are increasingly required due to these guys becoming very popular.

Pampering Treatments The most popular package is the 1 hour organic facial, foot and hand treatment plus 1 hour remedial massage for just $149. Purchase a gift voucher for someone special or treat yourself.

15 minute Neck and Shoulder massages are still only $15 and you don’t need an appointment. Simply pop in during business hours.

Balinese style Foot treatment 30 minutes just $39. Warming and detoxifying !

Call us NOW on 5606 1064 to find out how we can help you achieve your health goals.

focusinterview.

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

Artists' Q&A

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

JUSTIN FLEMINGO Recently turned 35 with a double celebration, losing 21 kilos Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Jacqui’s Pilates Girls. This month we are catching up with Justin Flemington and his Personal Trainer Leslie Hamilton, to hear his inspiring story.

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hat is your diet and exercise background?

I grew up in what I affectionately remember as “Happy Carrie’s Healthy Hilton”. My mother was a career nurse and lived by her values of nutritious home cooked meals.

I was a healthy, energetic kid who loved the outdoors. I remember I was 12 years old when I discovered the existence of white bread; and my very first soft drink was with my very first alcoholic drink at the pub.

So where do you think you were going wrong? Things changed when I got my Driver’s Licence. I developed an amazing repertoire of excuses why I should drive through the takeaway on the way home from school. I indulged my passion for all the bad foods I had never eaten.

What motivated you to find a solution? It was soon after moving from Bathurst back to Coffs Harbour with my wife and young family. I guess it was me always being out of breath, and not being able to physically do the things with my kids that I did when I was younger.

How did you go about making that positive change? My wife and her super fit sister challenged me to lose weight and being a typical man up for a challenge, I took them on. I looked around the gyms in the area and liked what I saw at Coffs Coast Heath Club, a multi-functional club offering a great range of activities and most importantly, on-site childminding, so both my wife and I could train.

Why did you choose Leslie as your personal trainer? I found that the fitness and weight loss industry can be a maze of information and misinformation. I wanted to give myself the best opportunity of success, and I wasn’t afraid to ask for help. Leslie listened to me and I found she would individually adjust the Healthy Inspirations programme eating plan to fit into 48 coffs coast focus.

my family lifestyle, rather than being disruptive.

The impact of Leslie’s professional knowledge in weight training combined with her weight loss consultations motivated me to look forward to coming to the gym, and she has helped me establish new healthy habits. Fortunately, it doesn’t just stop with me though. My motherin-law, Karen, had never stepped inside a gym before meeting Leslie and has now lost 20 kilos with her. Karen is the first to admit she doesn’t love the gym like me, but she knows that she needs to maintain regular exercise and continues to follow a Healthy Inspirations eating for life plan.

What goals have you achieved so far? I’ve lost over 21 kilos and transformed my physical appearance. I also have the energy to keep up with the ever increasing sporting and recreational activities of my children. I’m slightly addicted to the gym, I look forward to a 2 km run in the morning and happily help my working wife with the home duties. But it is more than the physical; it has made my application at work more productive. My mental focus is sharper and I am a happier person to be around. I’m becoming more involved with the kids’ activities and training to be a Scout Leader. I’m planning on starting extra studies, and my future has never looked brighter.

What is the most useful advice you could share? Don’t be afraid to seek help; look for someone who listens to you and adjusts your programme and progress schedule to suit your needs, not those of the trainer. Put everything into what you are doing right at that moment and make the time to achieve your goals.

Thanks Justin. If you’re looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club. You can also contact our reception team on 6658 6222 or Leslie on 0434 480 782 to get started today.

NORTH COAST

PORCELAIN PAINTERS MAXINE KOHLHAGEN IS JUST ONE OF THE TALENTED PORCELAIN PAINTERS WHO’LL BE SHOWCASING HER WORK IN THE NORTH COAST PORCELAIN PAINTERS 15TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION IN SEPTEMBER. VISIT THE BOTANIC GARDENS FOR YOUR CHANCE TO VIEW SOME STUNNING FINE PORCELAIN, AND PERHAPS YOU’LL EVEN BE ABLE TO FIND SPECIAL GIFT FOR SOMEONE WHILE YOU’RE THERE!

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i Maxine. You’re a member of the North Coast Porcelain Painters Group. What is your role with the group and when/where does the group regularly meet?

North Coast Porcelain Painters are a group of people who all enjoy the art of painting on porcelain and meet regularly at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden to further and share their porcelain art skills.

Workshop meetings are usually held on the first Saturday of each month from 10am to 3pm. Each month a different subject is covered, under the guidance of one of the members.

Over the later years our membership has dwindled to just ten members, but all of the members participate regularly at workshops and exhibitions, including one member who travels from Stuarts Point.

I joined the group in 2005, when I commenced porcelain painting, and soon after joining I took on the role as Treasurer. In 2012 I became President of the group and continue with that role.

The group will be holding their 15th Annual Porcelain Art Exhibition in September at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden. What dates/times will the exhibition be open?

Yes, this is the group’s 15th Annual Porcelain Art Exhibition being held at the Botanic Garden, Hardacre Street, Coffs Harbour. It is an excellent venue for an exhibition and an ideal opportunity for visitors to the exhibition to also take a walk through the beautiful gardens.

The exhibition opens on Saturday 19th September at 11am and closes on Saturday 26th September at 3pm. During this time the exhibition will be open daily from 10am to 3:30pm. The group do hold a smaller exhibition at the Botanic Garden over the Mother’s Day

weekend in May each year.

Who are some of the artists that will have work on display at the exhibition?

It is expected that all of the ten members will be exhibiting by having some of their hand painted work for sale and on display at the exhibition. Artists will include Carol Askew, Olga Donn-Patterson, Thelma Dubbelde, Betty Eunson, Fay Harris, Sue Peter, Coral Stettaford, Sandi Turley, Margaret Warwick and myself.

What types of items will be exhibited; will these items all be for sale?

There will be a large selection of items exhibited, ranging from plates, vases, tiles, trinket and jewellery boxes, small dishes, etc. featuring many of the different techniques used in this art, such as soft technique, pen work, lustre, etc. It is an ideal opportunity to purchase a unique hand painted piece of porcelain for someone special or for yourself as the majority of the work will be for sale.

There will be a small number of display pieces, and these are pieces of work very special to the artist which at this stage they do not wish to sell but are prepared to have on display.

What cost is there to attend the exhibition - and where can readers find out more information?

Admission to the exhibition is free, and during the course of the exhibition there will be members available who are more than willing to answer any questions that you may have with regards to the group and /or the fine art of porcelain painting. At various times throughout the exhibition there will be demonstrations by members. Please call in to the Botanic Garden to have a look at this exhibition of fine art. If you would like any further information about the group, workshop dates and/or exhibition, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0419 642 666 or ncppainters@gmail.com Thanks Maxine.

Photo Credit Lyss and Her Camera for Living Doll.49 coffs coast focus.

wedding feature.

A floral touch at Park Avenue Florist La Beauté du Monde Beauty Located in the heart of Bellingen, La Beauté du Monde Beauty Salon offers a wide range of services for brides, bridesmaids mothers of the bride and hens’ beauty days. Owned and operated by experienced Therapist, Nadira Perera, La Beauté du Monde uses luxury French brand Payot to deliver exceptional treatments tailormade to suit each skin condition.

Previously trained in Paris, Nadira has a wealth of beauty knowledge and loves working with brides leading up to their wedding. For optimum results and flawless, glowing bridal skin, Nadira recommends a skincare programme that starts six months prior to your big day. La Beauté du Monde offers a full complement of beauty services, from facial treatments, waxing, tinting, Shellac manicures and pedicures and special occasion makeup in a beautiful, hygienic environment. Two new Payot treatments at La Beauté du Monde are the Peform Lift Eye Treatment and the Body Performance Treatment: both are targeted treatments with exceptional results. No two brides are the same, and Nadira and her team want to give you a personalised, custom made package that suits your needs and budget. Let Nadira and her team give you the best, relaxed and most beautiful you on your special day! www.labeautedumonde.com.au

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Fresh blooms on your wedding day are indispensable, and your flowers should reflect your own unique bridal style.

Flowers are the perfect accessory to complement your dress, your wedding cake, table setting for your reception and much, much more. Flowers have an amazing power to transform your day into something amazing, bringing your special day to life.

At Park Avenue Florist, we are here to guide you each step of the way to transform your dream day with beautiful flowers.

You can choose from a wide range, including our Vintage Pastel style, which is very popular at the moment.

With vintage inspired weddings becoming increasingly fashionable, everything old is new once again.

Pastels are sweet, soft and romantic, so colour schemes of cream, pinks, champagnes work perfectly for Vintage weddings. Roses, orchids, kale, freesias, tulips, lisianthus, peonies, ivy pearls all make a gorgeous vintage wedding bouquet.

Whatever style, from Classic Chic, Springtime Bright or traditional styles, let the team at Park Avenue Florists inspire, create and design your happy ever after occasion.

We are experts in guiding you to find your ideal bridal bouquet that’s right for you with beautiful, fresh, seasonal flowers.

Moore Relationships The Seven Essential Skills for a Successful Relationship.

Most people dream of falling in love and living happily ever after. We all want it to work. We all want to look into the eyes of our beloved and know that our lives together will bring deep satisfaction and joy in the years to come.

However, the skills for a successful relationship are not automatic. Many just hope that the love they feel at the start will carry them through. Unfortunately, this is often not the case - relationship statistics speak volumes.

Eileen and Michael Moore are Relationship Counsellors with many years’ experience. They have been together for 28 years and have worked together to identify the 7 key skills needed for a successful relationship. They bring this knowledge to you in the form of an interesting and information packed one day workshop.

At this workshop Eileen and Michael will give you important knowledge that will help you make sure you can have the best relationship you can. They will also perform the skills in role plays with each other (portraying the wrong way and then the right way of doing things) so you can really see how it is done differently.

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Your Wedding in the Garden The Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens is renowned for its tranquil beauty and is the perfect place for your garden wedding.

There are many spectacular areas for everlasting memories and photographs. The most popular areas for your special day include: The Japanese Garden with its wide expanse of green grass, a spectacular lake and of course the red Japanese inspired bridge.

The waterfall area is a more intimate space, with its pergola, grassy area and little bridge in front of the waterfall.

The Front Pavilion with its large grassy area, beautiful trees and colourful flower beds.

The Botanic Gardens is located in Hardacre Street, Coffs Harbour, which is just one kilometre from the centre of town. The garden is pedestrian traffic only, but you may book our people mover, with a Friends of the Garden driver to drive the bridal party and any less able guests to your preferred location. To book the people mover or a tour of the Garden or to hire chairs, call Jan Moran on (02) 6653 6817 or 0429 334 659. A “weddings and special events” brochure is available at the Garden shop or may be downloaded from the Friends website: www.ncrbg.com.au.

For further information and to book your wedding, contact the co-ordinator, Julie Bedford, in the City Parks and Recreation Branch of the Council (02) 6648 4542. Please note that approval by the Council is always required prior to the date, and weddings are booked on a “first come, first served” basis.

Phone (02) 6648 4188 or visit ww.coffsbotanicalgarden.com. au. Call Jan Moran for more information or to book a tour of the Gardens by People Mover - on 6653 6817 or 0429 334 659.

LDKINGS Living Doll Premier Stylists are not just for ladies; we have a loyal following of men we like to call our #LDKINGS. When they enter the salon they are welcomed and offered a café beverage, which is followed by a relaxing and rejuvenating head massage in one of our shiatsu massage chairs, and then they’re finally treated to an on trend haircut, where they leave feeling like a KING. This year men’s styling has been about modern, retro, and classic hair combined with facial hair and even the man bun. Wanting a new look but not sure where to start? Living Doll is here to help.

How can I ask my stylists for the haircut I want? Bringing a picture is the best way to get exactly the haircut you want. Of course, you’re going to have to start with a hairstyle that works for you, but the Living Doll Stylists can adapt a style that best suits you.

How can I style my hair at home? Ask your stylist about hair products and styling techniques.

We’ve all been there. You look great leaving the hairdressers, soaking up compliments for the evening. Then the next morning you shower, air dry hair, don’t use product, and it’s just not the same. How to fix the problem? Simple! Watch how your stylist applies the product to your hair and works it through. It’s your own personal demonstration, as your stylist is a wealth of knowledge, so make the most of the opportunity. You could be surprised by what you learn. Become a better man; see Living Doll Premier Stylists today. XO Dolls.

Flowers on first At Flowers on First, we specialise in providing fresh wedding flowers. From simple whimsical posies to more intricate designer bouquets, we can work with your ideas to come up with a Wedding Flower Package to suit your style and your budget. Wedding Flowers have a huge visual impact and chosen well, should complement your gown, bridesmaid’s gown and highlight your theme and styling.

Our friendly, professional team, led by Kelly Finley, is happy to offer advice and information to help you with your flower choice, and we recommend that you start with our own Seasonal Availability List. Choosing fresh, seasonal and or locally grown flowers and foliages will ensure that you receive a beautiful, quality result on the day.

Call us to organise an initial obligation free quotation or to have our Seasonal Availability List emailed to you. As pictured, you can see our Tussey Mussey Bouquet, made from locally grown flowers, herbs and foliage. Keeping your choices simple can often have more impact than elaborate stylised bouquets and flowers.

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WEDDING STYLE with Style Council

From modern upstyles to romantic waves and detailed braids, we are sharing the most on trend styles to help you find a look that is bride worthy, yet still feels like "you".

Even if you're not entirely sure how you want to wear your hair on the big day, you probably have a general idea of whether you'd like to have it up or down, extension or on the shorter side. Living Doll is here to get you started …

Chignons Brides are opting for a more effortless vibe with upstyles that are asymmetrical or have a softer, almost messy finish. If you have layers, leave them out to create an even softer look around the face.

Braids Braided wedding hairstyles are hotter than ever, and it's no coincidence when you take into account the surge of rustic-themed wedding affairs.

However, when styled the right way, they can also be used for more formal settings as well. Halo braids, French plaits, undercut braids, braided buns, and fishtail plaits; however you want

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to wear them, this is one long-lasting trend that’s not going anywhere.

Waves The trick to amazing waves is longevity - they need to be able to stand up to hours of posing for photos, embracing loved ones and busting a move on the dance floor - so don't be shy when applying product and bring hairspray to the reception for touch-ups. Balanced with some subtle sombré highlights to add definition and appeal, this look will last a life time.

Retro-Glam If you're inspired by vintage wedding details, borrow your hairstyle from a different decade, too, with curls and twists that would make any pin-up starlet jealous.

Ponytail Love wearing your hair up but a traditional chignon is just too formal for you? Dress up a basic ponytail with

intricate curls and twists.

Short So long extensions are not you - minimalist pixies never looked so good.

We're psyched to see more brides embracing them on their wedding day as well!

Hair Accessories From traditional vails, small tiaras, to gorgeous diamanté accessories, there is a look right for everyone. But if it is simply not your style, the ever-awesome flower crown isn’t going anywhere. We’ve had big blooms in your hair for a while now, but it’s time for the pretty little ones. From dainty daisy crowns and tiny wildflowers dotted through your halo braid, to baby’s breath plaits, this is an easy trend to carry off, and a cool new twist on the much-loved fresh flower hairstyle.

Hope this has given you some inspiration for the most special day of your life. XO Dolls.

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With Love, For Love Photography & Cakes Photography and cake making are my passions, and it is an honour to be invited into sharing this with others during their happiest and most intimate moments. My main priority when working with a couple is to make them feel comfortable and relaxed so that together as a team we can produce an amazing end result.

My name is Lisa Anderson, and I provide affordable, personalised wedding photography and custom designed cakes, catering to the Mid North Coast specialising in weddings and other personalised sessions.

These services can be booked separately or as packages, depending on your needs.

Each couple is unique, with a vision for their wedding; therefore, it is my key priority to help you create and capture the wedding of your dreams. I am able to tailor to your chosen style and allow both your individual personalities to shine through on the day.

My photography and my cakes both have a contemporary style with earthy undertones. I work closely with each couple leading up to their big day, starting the day early with hair

and make up, then the ceremony, through to the reception. I am also open to working in partnership with your chosen florist to create a harmonious blend between your bouquet and cake. Whatever you envision, I will endeavour to create and capture those memories for a lifetime.

To see a selection of my work as well as pricing and available packages, please visit my website or follow me on Facebook and Instagram.

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Photo by Illuminating Photography

My Mate’s Place

Bohemian

LUXE Living Doll

I have over nine years of barista experience and am well known for my latte art. I am passionate about coffee and endeavour to provide you with the whole experience: a delicious, fulfilling, well presented hot beverage to excite your taste buds.

My Mate’s Place is a coffee Kombi serving coffee and homemade treats to people of the beautiful Coffs Coast. I use Cleanskin Coffee Company’s signature blend, “Saint”, which is smooth with tones of butter, chocolate and berry. My Mate’s Place specialty, “Nutella Latte”, is a popular choice for that little something extra. Our Salted Caramel Fudge, Gluten-free Choc Brownies and Peanut Butter Bliss Balls are sweet morsels of homemade downright deliciousness. Very popular!

I cater for businesses, events (big or small), private parties and functions, weddings and corporate meetings. The Kombi is the perfect addition to your wedding!

My Mate’s Place has been a part of some beautiful weddings this year, with its smooth shade of eggshell blue paintwork and decked out with sweet little strings of lights of an evening. My Mate’s Place will provide the perfect enhancement to your special day and is a great to pose with for a few of your wedding photos too!

“Boho” gets thrown around a lot these days when talking about wedding styling and, true, this style is obviously perfect for a garden wedding. But here, touches of chicness applied to the carefree vibe, the addition of leather and lace, free-spirited prettiness, along with seasonal flowers, Lauren Vestey and her talented team Leah Simpson (Cover Image), Kimberley Martin, Candice Murphy and Kirra Doyle show us that this perfectly executed theme is one that can work all year round…

Living Doll’s Leah Simpson recreated these images on Stage at Sydney’s Hair Expo this year, where she received fantastic feedback from the elite hairdressing community.

Photos by the talented Alyssa from Lyss and Her Camera.

Melanie Jayne Wedding Dress combined with Vintage Dresses and Styled by Rosie Pose Events and Flowers from Emma Louise Flowers.

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Back Left Clockwise: Bianca, Karen, Karra & Emily.

Precious Petals Precious Petals is the florist of choice when thinking about your special event, which includes weddings.

Precious Petals has florists who pride themselves on being innovative, versatile and at times “different” from the rest. The team will work with you to take your ideas to an obtainable reality.

Precious Petals is located in Vernon St opposite the Coffs ExServices Club, where you will also find a boutique Café & Tea House. The Tea House is available for bookings for Hen’s High Teas or Engagement Kitchen Teas.

From conceptual and quoting stage to your special day, you can rely on the girls at Precious Petals to provide a relaxed and professional process.

You contact the team today either on (02) 6652 7557; orders@preciouspetals.com.au; www.preciouspetals.com.au ; or via their Facebook page.

wedding feature.

Love & Kisses It’s that time again at Love & Kisses - loads of new stock arriving for spring, boxes everywhere, and never enough shelves to display it all!

Judy is most excited to have found a fun new range of jewellery exclusive in Coffs Harbour to Love & Kisses - lovely “see-through” lockets with a range of hundreds of miniature charms designed for you to personalise your own locket with everlasting memories of people and events that are special only to you.

And you have to see the newest of the new ... HOLD, FOLD & SLAP SUNGLASSES … the funnest, funkiest, cleverest sunnies for active people, that will never fall off while you run, cycle, kayak, fish, garden, turn somersaults - definitely worth calling in to have a look!

Judy says colouring books for adults were the product of the year at the recent trade fairs, and she has new designs arriving every week ... they’re such a good gift for friends, or just for you to give your busy brain a little bit of rest and relaxation.

And while you’re in the shop, ask to try the Lyra colouring pencils from Germany - once you’ve used these you’ll never go back to any other pencil.

Call in to Love & Kisses today - there’s always something new to see.

Love N’ Blues Pauline and Jan from duo LOVE N’ BLUES are confident they have the quality, range of repertoire and desired blend of voices and keyboard to provide for varied musical preferences.

The duo can present standard Jazz through to the latest love ballads, suitable for the WEDDING SERVICE, either religious or secular.

Pauline: I’m a singer/song writer and have lived in Coffs for 23 years.

My love of singing began at age 13, having performed at weddings, parties, clubs and pubs. I currently work with my brother in a duo, a local band “Easily distracted” and run the Wednesday night Karaoke at the Coffs Hotel. I really enjoy the opportunity of sharing my vocal gift with others through my work.

Jan: I have been part of the Coffs community for 30 years, initially as a high school music teacher and also operating my private piano studio at our Toormina home.

My accompaniment experience is with choirs, vocalists, instrumentalists, and various ensembles, performing original chamber music repertoire and playing for weddings and functions.

Even though my training at the Sydney Conservatorium of music was essentially classical, I have always had a secret desire to play keyboard and sing backup vocals with a rock band!

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wedding feature.

LAUREN FRASER You’re engaged! A million things are running through you head, right? The dress, the venue, the food, where do I get my flowers from ... HELP! Planning your wedding may seem like a daunting task, but remember you aren’t alone and good news - our stunning Coffs Coast is being described as the “New Byron Bay” for couples wanting a bespoke wedding without the hefty northern price tag.

FOCUS meet Lauren Fraser from North Coast Luxury Weddings for some expert advice on planning the perfect wedding.

Her philosophy? Meticulous planning, creative flair, always exceeding expectations.

Sounds idyllic! However, there will always be challenges when planning your wedding.

Having planned close to 100 weddings at North Coast Luxury Weddings, Lauren knows just how to create a beautiful and memorable day for couples. Surprisingly, she says it’s the basics that are most likely to get the garters in a twist. Here, Lauren offers her best tips on wedding planning.

BUDGET Couples need to be realistic about their budget and what they are able to afford. It’s a good idea to have a 10% buffer to cover those unexpected expenses. For example, it’s great to know you have a little left in the kitty

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should your favourite bloom unexpectedly come into season. Remember to prioritise!

We always ask our couples what they consider to be the most important elements of their wedding day. It’s best to spend a little more money on these items and less on the elements that matter less. It’s that simple!

SUPPLIERS Your chosen suppliers are your best allies in planning your wedding. They are the experts the very reason you chose them. Advise them of your budget and help them to understand and appreciate your vision, rather than being too specific. You’ll be amazed what they come up with when you give them the flexibility to be creative.

I would also recommend that you speak to your venue contact person and find out the suppliers they work with most consistently.

When suppliers work together often, you’ll be sure to get your wedding dream team!

RSVPS Expect the RSVP deadline to come and go with one third of your list having not yet have replied. Keep in mind that the dreaded “Are you coming?” phone call may ultimately be

necessary, but there are ways to minimise this.

For example, ensure the RSVP deadline is very clear and that your guests know exactly what they need to do. If using paper invitations, include an RSVP card with a pre-addressed, stamped envelope. Another increasingly popular idea is a wedding website. In our online world, some of our couples have greater success with this RSVP method.

DELEGATE It doesn’t have to all be on your shoulders.

Your family and bridal party want to help… so let them! Give them jobs and tasks, have them make some of the smaller decisions.

This will help them feel valued and will also alleviate stress.

REMEMBER Not everything will be perfect, both in the lead up and on the day itself. It helps to be prepared for this.

Yes, you are having a wedding day but ultimately, it’s important to keep the bigger picture in mind. You and your partner are making an incredible commitment to one another and starting your lives together as a married couple.

coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

C

offs Coast Motors is now range of parts and accessories for everybody. proudly part of the Geoff We want to share our expertise with you.

King Motors Group, with a If you've been toying with the idea of a large selection of vehicles to Mazda, Coffs Coast Motors is your one stop suit all needs. shop. We have a huge range of Mazdas in The Sales Team consists stock, from the Sporty Mazda 2, the small of Michael White, John Ragen, Mark Haines car with quick-witted agility, the popular and Daniel Stewart. We are all experienced Mazda 3, the all new CX-3, the top selling in finding people of the Coffs Coast the right CX-5 to the "Big Guy", the BT-50, perfect for vehicle for them and their needs. taking on the big jobs or taking off for a long Why buy from us? weekend.

Easy! We have state of Did you know you can build the art facilities, a great your own Mazda with selection of quality new, Coffs Coast Motors? demonstrator as well With our help, you can , ly nd Our frie as used vehicles. We spec out the Mazda ed ifi qual up ve have factory trained model of your choice ha s an ci techni ic st no technicians and of and receive a great ag di te to da to t course, because our en complete price from pm ui eq es , staff friendly, helpful us. Chat to us about service all vehicl e in staff are there for how to Build Your meaning you ar s.” nd experienced ha you.

Mazda now and see We are the go what's possible. to Mazda and Honda We also have a wide dealers on the Coffs Coast. range of Hondas, from the We have an experienced service Honda Jazz, award winning CRV, department, the head of which is all new HRV to the people mover Robert Jackson. Our friendly, qualified Odyssey. technicians have up to date diagnostic Additionally, if you are looking for a equipment to service all vehicles, meaning used car in Coffs Harbour, look no further you are in experienced hands. Likewise, we than Coffs Coast Motors. We have a wide have a committed parts department, the selection of vehicles which we thoroughly head of which is Ben Judd, which has a full inspect and provide warranty on.

“

THE ALL NEW

Coffs Coast

GEOFF KING MOTOR GROUP TOOK OVER THE EXISTING DEALERSHIP ON THE 1ST MAY 2015. TODAY, WITH OVER 27 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE, THE BUSINESS HAS GROWN SUBSTANTIALLY TO BECOME ONE OF THE LARGEST NEW AND USED VEHICLE DEALERSHIP GROUPS ON THE MID NORTH COAST.

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coffs coast focus.

59

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

DAVE Graham

JR CYCLES AT THE PROMENADE

D

ave, JR Cycles has been in business for a long time here on the Coffs Coast.

Tell us about the background of JR Cycles and how you came to be involved.

JR Cycles has been around since the late 1970s.

I am now a part-owner and one of two directors of the business. I’ve been involved with JR Cycles for almost a decade now, and it’s a great industry to be in.

I was very much into BMX as a teenager and started selling BMX clothing to help cover the cost of competing. A lot of the gear was not available locally at the time, and our family would sell clothing, bike frames and parts that we had sourced online. I was also working part-time at a bike shop and was offered full-time work with them at the age of 17. My step-father, Michael Peen, felt this was an opportune time for us to go into the industry together and purchased JR Cycles in 2006. We worked together in the business until earlier this year, when we moved to The Promenade for the next exciting chapter.

A few months ago you made the move into a brand new store at The Promenade. What inspired the move?

We’d basically outgrown our previous site at Toormina, so in order for the business to move forward we needed to expand. This new shop at The Promenade is great - a large, open space with plenty of natural light in a really central location. We also have the bonus of having the cycle track passing through and easy car parking should our customers need to offload their bikes for a service with us.

We also have a larger floor space to stock a huge range of bicycles, scooters, helmets and cycling gear. So for our customers, old and new, there is now a bigger and better store for all 60 coffs coast focus.

things cycling and service.

Plus, we also hire bikes out as well. So if you don’t want to invest in purchasing a new bike, you can hire one for us for a half day or full day to explore the Coffs Coast. It’s great for locals and visitors alike.

The Coffs Coast is known as a great region for riding. Tell us more about what makes it so?

We’re blessed to have amazing facilities, all within 30 minutes. You name it, Coffs has it.

From long tourist tracks like the Coffs Creek cycle track to purpose built cycle lanes on the Solitary Islands Way, there are a lot of different ride types to choose from. We have some fantastic BMX tracks and the velodrome too, not to mention wonderful hills for road riders and some amazing mountain bike trails. There’s also the new skate park here for the scooter enthusiasts. Coffs is great for an active lifestyle.

Are you a local Coffs boy then?

I’m not sure when “local” means local. My family made the move over from New Zealand in 2001, and I’ve been here ever since. So I guess I’m slowly becoming a local. We love this area for many reasons; it’s a super easy lifestyle and a great place to raise a young family like mine.

We have a lot of cycling groups and clubs within the region. Are they supportive of the business?

Very much so. They’re good enough to send business our way. Much of our business comes from repeat clients and customer referrals, which is great. We’re proud to support the clubs too and sponsor a number of young BMX racers and freestyle riders. We’re always on the look out for great new riders too.

We really enjoy being a part of the big cycling community in Coffs. There are some great cycling groups, social and serious, and there are a diverse range of men’s, women’s and mixed cycling

groups to be a part of. Plus, we have some What challenges do you have from a fantastic major cycling events like the Coffs Coast business perspective?

Cycle Challenge too. We’re lucky to have this The competition for business is an ongoing strong cycling focus in Coffs, that’s for sure. challenge. Online sales are a concern too. This is How important do you consider it to have a less the case with bikes, because manufacturers digital presence? won’t honour warranties unless a bike has been It never used to be even on our radar, because purchased and assembled by a qualified bike of our loyal customer base, but now it’s too mechanic, but parts and accessories are available valuable not to be on social media and to have online. I think the assumption may be that bike a website. The first thing people do when they parts and accessories are cheaper online, but need something is pick up their smart I’ll often be able to sell an item in phone or tablet and search for store for the same price or suppliers or even research less, so it’s always worth the product or service coming in and talking r us It’s imperative fo ly they want to purchase. to me first. on to be online and r ou ed So it’s imperative for What do you ch laun this month , we , te si eb w ly us to be online and think sets your nd new mobile-frie ge pa ok bo ce only this month, business apart?

Fa r revamped ou I So . m ra ag st we launched our We very much In and joined should ss ne si bu y new mobile-friendly respect our er think ev e profile , lin on r ei th er website, revamped customers.

We id cons rtunities , po op r fo ly on our Facebook page pride ourselves on t no ice their but also to serv and joined Instagram. offering a great, r. ” customers bette So I think every business friendly, personalised should consider their service. We won’t try online profile, not only for to sell you something opportunities, but also to service that isn’t going to suit your their customers better. needs. We‘re very much a family What’s something that people may not bike store, with a local focus, catering know about your business? to all types of riding - so it’s in our best In addition to selling bikes and hiring bikes, interest to make sure your riding experience is we also stock demo bikes. This allows customers the very best it can be. to sample high end bicycles across the range You run the business and work six days a (road bikes, enduro bikes, mountain bikes) so week. That can’t leave you much time for they can make an informed decision when it riding … comes to making a purchase. It really is the next I wish I had more time for it. I’d always rather level in customer service. It’s a great opportunity be on my bike. I still love BMX after a decade of for our customer who are serious about investing it - it never gets old. Cycling is fantastic and so in a bicycle for their hobby or every professionally, easy. You can ride for 20 minutes or for 10 hours. to test ride the product to make sure it suits them It’s a great way to switch off too. I love it. before purchase.

Thanks Dave.

“

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

SEPTEMBER 2015

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You may have been feeling left out or abandoned lately. Don’t despair; you were just being given a perfect time out time, to regather your energy and personal power.

Work opportunities will soon take you on a new journey. Enjoy! Ruby is very effective for personal power.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 If life still isn’t satisfying you, perhaps your focus is a little too material. Try connecting with the essence of your childhood joy, and allow new adventure into your life. Your intellect will soon be satisfied, as study is a likely influence soon. Citrine brings an abundance of creative energy.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Be patient a little longer; you’re about to step into some happier times, but your attitude is critical. If you can step into the unknown fearless, there will be nothing to worry about. Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

New beginnings surround you at the moment. Dreaming of birth often represents new beginnings too, so don’t be worried if you have dreamt these themes. This year is likely to host a myriad of activities for your social calendar. New acquaintances are entering the picture, so enjoy their company.

Mangano Calcite is wonderful for removing potential negative thought patterns and eliminating self-sabotage.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

You have recently triumphed over personal challenges and may have begun to recognise new strengths. Now just bring back your laughter and lighten up your energy.

New romance, fun and adventure can be expected. Make a wish and see what happens. Rose Quartz brings out our passion for living and our joy.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

You are about to tumble into “the adventure of a lifetime”. Enjoy your talents and the wonder of developing them, as this year will present many opportunities to explore them through. Reconnect through your inner child with a personal relationship and enjoy some playful energy.

Aquamarine gives us enormous self courage to confidently walk through any situation.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 This month your awareness is being called towards your usual happy way of processing life. The reason why you are so fearful at present, is because you are currently taking life far too seriously; lighten up and bring back your laughter and watch your fears disappear. Pyrite will bring back courage.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Congratulations: you have created the way for your success through letting go of anxiety and bringing forth self-confidence.

Now rehash what is important to you and why it is, to attract even more reward. Real estate dealings should prove very rewarding.

Orange Calcite heals, restores and rejuvenates the mind, body and spirit.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Stand strong in your own light; someone close to you is trying to grow through their weaknesses, and their insecurities are playing with them.

They are learning by your example, so don’t give up. Remember we all react to truths we aren’t prepared for. Blue lace agate lightens the mind and clears thoughts.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Total change can be expected to your binding circumstance, as your wish has been heard. Validate one talent today by using it, and watch the wonderful difference this makes to your attitudes.

Try a little goal setting. Carnelian is a wonderful motivating crystal.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Now is a really good time to debate your own rules and regulations for life. Your judgement prohibits you from enjoying life to its fullest, so be kinder to yourself. Plan a holiday for yourself and get out of your current circumstance to try a little new goal setting. Citrine will shatter negative thoughts and attract an abundance of positive ones.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Congratulations: you are about to receive a beautiful reward. Your faith is one of your strongest gifts, and even though you have been through rough times, you were still able to be true to yourself and remained yourself. You may now be showing others how to do the same.

Turquoise enables us to receive our rewards effortlessly.

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Avalon . CONVEYANCER AVALONConnor CONVEYANCING Tell us about Avalon Connor Conveyancing.

What is your area of expertise?

Avalon Connor Conveyancing is all about catering to all I am a CPC in conveyancing; this means Certified Property people entering into property transactions in New South Conveyancer. I have over 20 years’ worth of experience in Wales, including interstate and international investors. helping people, including companies and superannuation At Avalon Connor Conveyancing, we understand that funds in buying and selling properties. buying or selling a residential, commercial or industrial Share some expert advice with our readers? property is a big decision and a significant matter for most You do not need a solicitor, only a conveyancer, who is a people. specialist in the field.

What is involved in your job?

What makes your business stand out?

• Preparation and review of contracts for sale or purchase I don’t know - my adorable personality! I think my experience of land and expertise speaks volumes and makes my business stand • Property settlements and negotiations out from the rest.

• Looking after Auction enquiries We can definitely vouch for your loveable personality, • Assistance with first home owners and the First Home Avalon! When and why did you start your business?

Owners Grant have an Associate Degreeand in Law from Southern Cross •I Mortgages, refinancing property deposit bonds University in Lismore, which led me to open Avalon • Property developments and subdivisions to provide a helping hand to those in the •Conveyancing Residential property seeking legal advice on property.

•community Commercial and industrial property Whatare is the best thing about your job?

Who your customers?

Without doubt, thebuyers, people!property I also enjoy that therereal is always We assist afirst home developers, estate something newmortgage to learn. brokers and surveyors. agents, banks, What plans do you have are for offered 2015? at competitive, fixed Our conveyancing services One plan and I have 2015 them is thatthrough I want tohighly be thequalifi first ed fee rates, wefor deliver conveyancer Harbourantoappointment. do an electronic settlement. staff.

ContactinusCoffs to arrange

62 coffs coast focus.

Tarraray Pet Retreat

Breea Gal.

New owner’s Bec andHAIR ScottSTYLIST would like to invite all pet owners on the Coffs Coast and beyond to come and Coffs Harbour local Breea Gal has been chosen from inspect their great facility that is Tarraray Pet Retreat, thousands of hairdressers across Australia and New located south of Coffs in Bonville.

Zealand to be a part of the Generation Next Gala Night Dog and cat boarding is what we do, but is not the only thing. at Hair Expo 2015.

If you have a pet and you need it looked after, having a party Breea’s creative and passionate flair in the hairdressing world or just out of the way for some renovations, bring them out has landed her a place in the top eight across Australia. to Tarraray Pet Retreat. Axolotls to zebra finches, we welcome Along with and care foropening them all.up her own business this year, Breea is ready to take to the stage and showcase her work.

If you haven’t seen Tarraray Pet Retreat, put it on your bucket list. Our facility is not your average boarding kennel. Purposely Breea’s creative and passionate flair built with 4 inch concrete exterior, double insulated glass, insulated and ceilings and reverse cycle air-con for those in theroof hairdressing world has landed balmy hot Coffs days and for that odd cold day we have. her a place in the top eight across Open between 9am - 12pm and 3pm - 5pm weekdays, 9amAustralia.

10am and 3pm - 4pm weekends, we welcome anyone in these hours. If our front door is open, every door is. We really want people to feelbackstage comfortable in at where they are leaving their “I’ve worked now Australia’s Mercedes Benz belovedweek pet. There no need to book haveaapart look;ofwe have fashion three isyears in a row, andto being that nothinglife to hide. runway has made me take the next step in my career and the Generation Next Hairdressing Comp. for Fromenter backpacking to flashpacking, there is something everyone. rates start as at $20 daytop foreight dogs,in$15 for cats “And nowOur being chosen one per of the Australia $10 for rabbits, birds with no extra charges for isand justfrom a dream come true!” saysetc Breea. administering orindustry cateringfor forseven individual needs/ Breea has beenmeds in the yearsspecial now, and diet. at the age of only 22 she is ready to take on a new, fresh We look forward to meeting yousalon all. and on the runway! approach to hairdressing in the

BOB wallIS CYCLES Congratulations to Coffs Coast residents on being rated recently by the CSIRO as having Australia’s healthiest eating habits. Combine that with all the health benefits that cycling has to offer, and you have a lot of enjoyable years to look forward to.

It’s an exciting time of the year at Bob Wallis Cycles. I have recently returned from the launch of Trek’s 2016 range, and there are a number of new models in the road and mountain bike line ups show that are show casing new designs and market leading technology. We are starting to receive these new models in store now, so come on in and have a look at some great bikes. The new Ballista Aero Road helmet has just arrived in store and is a great way to save some time and watts on those road rides or triathlons.

Our Precision Fit System is running well, with a number of customers coming in and getting their riding positions dialled in. This will allow you to ride longer with more comfort, efficiency and performance. A bicycle that fits correctly makes for a better riding experience. For September and October we will be offering our Precision Fits for $240, which is a 20% saving off our regular price.

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

focuskitchens.

Marcus Phillips - Designer Living Kitchens

CYBER

MUM

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

marcusphillips.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HASHTAGS

ELLEN SLATER D I R E C T O R J O Y L A N D C A R E R S R E T R E AT

W

hat is a hashtag, you ask? A hashtag is the number sign, Shift 3 on your keyboard, the sharp note in musical notation, a noughts and crosses board or this: #. When it comes to social media, the hashtag is used to draw attention to, to organise and to promote posts on social media. They are a very useful tool when, say, marketing your business online.

You don’t need any special software, coding experience, or even a university degree to create a hashtag. The only thing you need to do is put the hashtag sign directly in front of the word or phrase you want to turn into a hashtag and follow these simple rules: no spaces, no punctuation, no special characters.

So the hashtag seems simple enough and don’t get me wrong, in business hashtags have a very useful purpose; however, there are some concerns and dangers that I believe parents need to get a handle on when it comes to hashtags.

I’m specifically talking about the dangers hashtags present when mixed with public photos of your children on Facebook and Instagram. If you have a public social media account and you hashtag a picture of your child, then you are putting that picture into a public gallery. So at the risk of offending you, I’m putting it out there that we adults need to reconsider some of our social media habits.

In our child’s world of social media, the hashtag is taking on a whole new meaning.

They are fast becoming a form of conversation within a conversation, a way of expressing hidden meaning in a post, or a way of sending a private or “in” message to the child’s “group”, or even a way of setting up a friendship group’s picture library indexing Instagram photo topics or social media posts. Don’t get me wrong some of the hashtags being used by our kids are innocent enough and safe if your child’s account is set to private. But, and there is always a but, there is a scary side to the subject matter of the

hashtags being used by young teens.

In its most dangerous form, the hashtag has also become a shortcut for kids to search topics of generally inappropriate material quickly. It’s basically a hashtag library of images on a topic and in the hands of curious kids, I can assure you they are not looking up #mathematics.

So here are my top safety four tips about hashtags: 1. Remember hashtags are searchable - you may not think about it when you write #blessed or #mumlife on a public picture of your child, but someone is searching for those hashtags and it could be a predator. Now think about your public picture of little Jenny in a bikini or taking a bath with #cutiepie in the post. That’s right public hashtag searches are open to you, your neighbour and people anywhere in the world.

2. Your child’s name should never be a hashtag - I strongly recommend refraining from turning your child’s name into a hashtag. It’s not cute, more importantly it’s not smart; it’s potentially dangerous. It’s easy for identity thieves to find baby pictures on public profiles, get the birthdate and full name of your child and proceed to create fake accounts or worse, track down your child.

3. Check the hashtag searches your tech savvy kids are following - you can look for yourself by checking their Facebook activity list and clicking on the “Only Me” activity. On Instagram, look under searches, and click on hashtags instead of users. Tap the screen, and you’ll see previous searches.

4. Monitor hashtags being used by your kids and their friends - if you see your child or their friends using a hashtag, click on it and check it out. Is it innocent enough? Or is it something that warrants further investigation and discussion? For example, #iwantodie has 228,356 photos listed. #meangirls 1,553,890.

To read my full article on hashtags, go to www.cybermumaus.com

FROM INCEPTION, I KNEW I WANTED A SPECIAL KITCHEN. TO ME, IT IS THE HEART OF THE HOME - A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN MINGLE, SHARE STORIES AND ENJOY THE DELICIOUS SMELLS THAT WAFT AROUND.

M

y kitchen, that was of inclusion from the moment you enter the designed by Marcus middle floor. Guests can sit on the bar stools, Phillips from Designer have a cup of tea and chat to me whilst I am Living Kitchens, is perfect preparing food and be part of it. in every sense.

Marcus specialises in attention to detail, When I first met Marcus, I the capping on top of the cupboards, had a scrapbook of kitchen the beautiful glass cupboards pictures of what I that showcase my bone wanted my kitchen china, the soft opening The colour of to feel like, some drawers and cupboards the kitchen very extravagant that wrap around the e blends with th le o h and expensive, whole kitchen and, he w e interior of th this g n others with sourced the handles area , creati fect of ef l fu practical ideas for and door knobs that I wonder the storage. Marcus wanted. Every part of inclusion fromente r moment youoor. ” looked through the kitchen is practical the middle fl my scrapbook and and beautifully designed visualised the theme to have the optimum and feel, then proceeded usage. to get to know me and the My delight was that importance of my kitchen. everything was within my budget, Then the designing began. A sketch and I had the privilege of having the was drawn up and sent to me, a few expertise and care of Marcus to listen, little changes, and the story begins. design and provide me with my dream My kitchen is luxurious, bright, airy and kitchen. gives the feel of spaciousness. The colour of The after care service from Designer Living the kitchen blends with the interior of the Kitchens has been outstanding, professional, whole area, creating this wonderful effect courteous and prompt.

“

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focus_real estate

C realestate UPDATE

COFFS LGA AVERAGE HOUSE PRICE = $430,000 COFFS LGA AVERAGE UNIT PRICE = $285,000 COFFS LGA CAPITAL GROWTH (12 MONTHS) = 2.8% COFFS LGA AVERAGE HOUSE RENT = $410 PER WEEK COFFS LGA VACANCY RATE = 2.9% (SOURCE: RP DATA/REINSW/DOMAIN.COM.AU)

64 coffs coast focus.

ongratulations, you’ve decided to buy an investment property to commence or expand your portfolio. This is one of the most exciting and hopefully stress-free opportunities available as an investment strategy. As is the case with all major transactions, investment advice is highly recommended to be sought from your financial adviser, accountant, solicitor or conveyancer, as everyone’s investment strategy and personal circumstances vary. Whether you’re buying for yield i.e. rental return, or as a tax-effective strategy, or for capital gain, the fundamentals of property management remain the same.

The options available to you are to engage an industry trained, successful property management team to manage the property on your behalf, or attempt to manage the property yourself. I’m not going to deny that both of these circumstances have risks! Select the wrong property management team, and the intention of placing the property in the hands of an industry specialist can be quickly undone if the service, property maintenance, tenant selection, and general care of your property is not up to (and exceeding) industry standards. Manage the property on your own, and you will need to become familiar with legislative requirements, industry paperwork and then dealing one on one with the tenant and the selection process. Not being able to remove yourself emotionally from this process is the biggest downfall for those who attempt to self-manage.

• Do you know how many days’ notice is required by yourself or the tenant to terminate the residential tenancy agreement?

• Do you know the requirements around “ingoing” and “outgoing” condition reports and how these can

affect your ability to claim bond for any damage that may be incurred?

• How would you collect the rent and provide the tenant with a receipt?

• Do you know what repairs are classed as urgent and non-urgent?

• Would you know how to represent yourself at Tribunal if required?

• Did you know that the average management fee is between 7.7% to 8.8% of rent collected?

• Did you know that anyone who offers management fees less than this will actually need to reduce services or overload their managers with more properties than they can safely handle to make it a viable business?

• Did you know that a property that leases for $350 per week will only cost you $4.40 per day (at 8.8%) for a manager to take care of everything for you?

That’s less than a cup of coffee, and in most cases is tax deductible! Is it really worth the headache and risk to self-manage?

Property management is a complex and specialised area within the property services framework, and the importance of a specialised property manager to manage and ensure that your biggest investment is maintained and therefore increases in value over the years for you cannot be underestimated. For more details, head to www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au “Being a Landlord”.

Next month we will look at the property sale process from the perspective of a vendor and provide some tips and advice that no-one thinking of selling should be without.

Yours in property, Martin Wells.

DESTINATION GLEN INNES When you get tired of the heat and humidity this summer, remember that Glen Innes is so close, but worlds away.

Glen Innes is 1,062 metres above sea level.

With an average high temperature of 26 degrees in January, Glen Innes is the place to go when it is just too hot. If you can’t beat the heat, come to Glen Innes!

You will cool down as soon as you get to Glen Innes. With our alpine climate we refer to our summer as being air-conditioned. You will notice the change in temperature as soon as you arrive.

Some of the wonderful reasons to come to Glen Innes in the summer include our National Parks. Within the National Parks there is ample opportunity for swimming, bird watching, experiencing beautiful waterfalls,

bush walking, mountain bike riding and more - you can do all of this in a world devoid of humidity!

Another wonderful activity to enjoy in summer is fishing. Fabulous fun for the whole family, and no-one will complain about being hot and bothered! Pack a picnic and find a cool, shady place by Rocky Ponds Creek or enjoy a drive through our stunning countryside. Soak up the history and do a historic walk through town and visit the Land of the Beardies and History House Museum.

Glen Innes - so close, yet worlds away. For information or to become a Destination Glen Innes Club Member and be always up to date, email us on: destinationgleninnes@yahoo.com.au or send us a message via Facebook.

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focusbusiness

President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Martin Wells

WELL, FOR THOSE WHO JOINED US IN SAWTELL FOR THE SAWTELL CHILLI FESTIVAL (ALL 12,000 OF YOU!) WHO WERE TREATED TO A GLORIOUS COFFS COAST DAY AND AN ABUNDANCE OF CULINARY DELIGHTS FROM LOCAL AND INTERSTATE STALLHOLDERS.

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ayor Denise Knight opened the celebrations, and we were delighted to have Natasha Beyersdorf from NBN join us again to MC the event. The pre-event fundraising night held at the Sawtell Hotel raised over $2,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and the Sawtell Hotel was at capacity!

Of course, the day would not have been the success it was without the tireless efforts of an amazing team of volunteers. I know it is always fraught with danger, and the entire Chamber of Commerce played a big part in ensuring this event was again a major success for the Coffs Coast; however, I would like to single out Clive Greenway (President) and Maryanne Khan (Chilli Festival Co-ordinator) for their herculean efforts leading up to, and on the day. The logistical arrangements from traffic control, negotiating with 90+ stall-holders, generators, temporary staging, competitions and generally trying to keep everyone happy is a challenge. This event generates significant economic benefit for Sawtell businesses and the Coffs Coast in general, not necessarily on the day, but in the days, months and years that follow.

The exciting sounds of circular saws and hammers are filling the usually quiet First Avenue as the Sawtell Cinema commences its upgrade and fit-out. As has been widely reported, the community support via the “crowd-funding” campaign has exceeded the

expectations of the syndicate of investors that are undertaking the transformation of this business. So many locals have fond memories and anticipate with much excitement creating new memories once the project is complete.

The Chamber has been lobbying Coffs Council for the commencement of First Avenue beautification and upgrade works, including new seating, water bubbler facilities, increased bicycle racks and the ongoing maintenance/trimming of the iconic Figs as they begin to impact building awnings and gutters either side of First Avenue. We are also underway in planning for the launch of the monthly Sawtell Summer Sessions commencing in October, which proved a huge success over the summer months.

There are several significant developments either close to commencement, undergoing DA approval, or in the case of the Sawtell Catholic Church site, about to be sold. Given the limited amount of opportunity for Sawtell to responsibly grow and become home for more people on the Coffs Coast,these developments should be met with excitement by all locals, and businesses alike. They represent opportunity and prosperity in a unique village that is bucking the trend of empty shops and low business sentiment. Sawtell is thriving. We invite you to come out and see for yourself.

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Highlights of italy With a taste of spain

Kerry Moss TOP 10 TIPS Ever wondered if travelling in a group is right for you?

Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel gives you her top 10 tips about why it’s good to travel in a group 1. You’ll gain valuable local knowledge and get access to things that you can’t do on your own. Whether it’s lunch in a 14th Century castle or knowing which street is the safest to walk on, being in a group allows you to learn from those who have travelled the path before you.

2. You can save money. Tour operators such as Quadrant Australia have access to group airfares and discounted hotel rates. When a company is able to purchase a larger number of rooms, they can get it for a cheaper price than if you were to book one room on your own. These savings are then passed on to you.

Better still, share the cost of your room with a suitably matched person on the tour.

3. You can relax. Some say that when you travel as a group, you can leave the worry behind. You don’t need to think about flight times, travel routes and restaurant bookings; it’s all done for you in advance. Navigating red tape on your own can be exhausting, especially when you don’t know the language or customs.

4. Your time is precious. So you get your annual three week holiday, and you start planning it - an hour here and there and before you know it, you’ve forgotten to pick the kids up from school, because you were too busy researching how to get from Rome airport to your centrally located Rome hotel. Professional Tour companies do this for a living; they know when, where and how much, and it takes them a quarter of the time to find it.

5. You’ll share first-time experiences with someone else. Nothing nicer than trekking to the top of a mountain and turning to the

person beside you and saying, “We did that!”

Sharing your experience with old and new friends enhances your holiday.

6. You’ll practice patience. Travelling with a group can be a selfless practice; you’ll share your space, you may compromise on timings and you might need to give up the front seat of the coach occasionally. You don’t need to see this as a negative, quite the opposite. It’s a good reminder of worthwhile life skills.

7. You’ll meet different people from different places. People who travel in groups connect with others who they may not have otherwise. These meetings can result in lifelong friendships or might just teach us tolerance, both nationally and globally but either way, you’re better for it.

8. Food tastes better with friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m comfortable dining on my own in a crowded restaurant, but nothing beats the laughter as you learn to use chopsticks together eating noodles in Shanghai. Being with a group gives you courage. I’m not sure I would have eaten jellyfish or haggis had I not been “encouraged” (some may say “pressured”!) by my new friends.

9. Safety in numbers. Need I say more?

10. No need to argue over directions any more. Be it in a bus, train or plane, you can be assured that your group travel programme will be well managed. Sit back and relax and let someone else drive for a while. It might even save your marriage!

Convinced? Need to hear more? Stay tuned for next month’s Travel Tales. In the meantime, happy (group) travels ...

Local tour company, Quadrant Australia are at it again! They’ve created a wonderful and unique opportunity for FOCUS readers to travel to Italy and Spain on their fully escorted, Highlights of Italy with a Taste of Spain tour.

Colosseum, the Vatican City and the stunning Amalfi Coast are also included and with the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites located in Italy, the 17 day tour is packed with experiences.

Quadrant Australia have been taking travellers around the world for more than 30 years. Their local office in Coffs Harbour is staffed by local people, and has been operating for more than five years.

With an optional extension to Spain to take in some of the country’s rich cultural heritage and best loved sights, this Quadrant Australia Tour is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for FOCUS readers.

They offer travellers the chance to experience the real country from an agricultural perspective. You’ll visit farms and get the chance to talk to the farmers. With visits to olive groves, vineyards, buffalo and donkey milk farms, it’s an opportunity to learn from the locals and sample regional produce directly from the farmers. The major sights such as the

This tour will be led by local travel guru, Kerry Moss. Kerry has travelled to more than 40 countries and has led a number of the Quadrant Australia tours over the years, including South America, UK and Ireland.

If you’re interested in finding out more about this tour or to have a chat to Kerry, drop in to see the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour.

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focusadmin. Pam Butcher- admintechniQs

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Superstream READY? IsTPAR’s your business compliant with the Government’s new MADE EASY

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SICK OF STRESSING OVER PAPERWORK? HEAD TO THE REGION’S MOST TRUSTED BOOKKEEPERS, admintechniQs.

SuperStream reforms? admintechniQs pty ltd can help you save Let admintechniQs Pty Ltdyour take the stress out of with TPARall of time and money by getting business up to date time the Governments reforms for 2015.

If your business part of the building and construction industry, SuperStream is aisgovernment reform aimed at improving the you’ll know it’s nearly time to lodge your TPAR. TPAR stands for efficiency of the superannuation system. Under SuperStream, Taxable Payments Annual Reporting and must be received by employers must make super contributions on behalf of their the ATO byby August 28, 2015. employees submitting data and payments electronically in a consistent andinclude simplifidetails ed manner.

The benefitabout of SuperStream A TPAR must and information payments for employers include: made to subcontractors. The mere thought of TPAR time will businessto owners a headache.

With complex collating •give Themost opportunity use a single channel when dealing with of information, it’s no wonder. if you want to stress less, super funds, regardless of how So many funds your employees your best bet contribute to. is to head to the region’s leading bookkeepers and experts in TPAR’s, admintechniQs. • Less time spent dealing with employee data issues and fund AdmintechniQs team of highly qualified bookkeepers use queries. softwareand including MYOB and Xero to effortlessly •world-leading Greater automation reduced cost of processing streamline your business and help it run at peak efficiency. contributions and payments. team use the up-to-date and ATOmoney information to ensure •The More timely flowmost of information in meeting your TPAR time is a breeze, setting up and tracking systems that superannuation obligations. capture ABN’s for subcontractors and flagging those which are Businesses that have less than 20 employees and turn reportable. over less than $2 million as at June 2014 are required to be Whether you’re a big small business, well-established or just SuperStream ready byor June 2016.

All other businesses must be starting out, admintechniQs will help you stress less. fully compliant by 31 October 2015.

For more contacttoPam at admintechniQs 0417 Why wait information ‘til the last minute become SuperStreamon ready?

133 144 or visit: www.admintechniqs.com.au Save time and money by letting the team at admintechniQs pty @CAP: admintechniQs ltd get you ready NOW!– where the Q stands for Quality.

68 coffs coast focus.

Langlands Property Offering a six star service, Langlands Property want the process

ARE YOU WASTING TIME ON THE BOOKS WHEN YOU COULD BE RUNNING AND BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS? admintechniQs ARE HERE TO HELP!

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dmintechniQs is the region’s leading bookkeeping and BAS service. Its highly trained staff use the latest software and systems to keep your business running smoothly, giving you more time to focus on what you do best.

Director of admintechniQs, Pam Butcher, understands small businesses in the area.

Pam’s a professional bookkeeper and fully certified BAS Agent, as well as a respected business leader and member of Coffs Harbour’s Business Network International (BNI), so she understands the needs and challenges of running and growing a business.

Pam formed admintechniQs more than seven years ago and today, her business is considered the most trusted bookkeeping and BAS service in the region.

Pam believes the key to a successful business is in the initial set-up.

“It’s very important to get bookkeeping processes right from the start, to set up your business properly and ensure its compliant and tailored to your industry,” advises Pam. “I’ve had plenty of experience going into businesses and fixing up messes and it can be an extremely stressful and costly exercise.”

But Pam says it’s never too late to get it right. Her team at admintechniQs are experts at initial set-ups, but are also adept at helping your business run smoothly and efficiently, no matter what stage or situation you’re in.

“We are the experts at tailoring bookkeeping solutions for our clients, whether they are a small, at-home business or companies with Payroll Tax, superannuation and ATO obligations,” Pam explains. “admintechniQs is equipped with resources to access Awards, HR, GST as well as the latest software to cater for all bookkeeping requirements, small to

large.”

The admintechniQs team has vast experience across a variety of industries, and there’s no job too big or small.

So rather than burying your head in compliance legislation, data entry and administration, you can hand the reins to Pam and her team, knowing everything will be taken care of efficiently and accurately.

Pam and her team also offer top notch training and support on a range of software and systems, including MYOB, Xero, Banklink, Handicash and Microsoft office.

“We recognise that every business is different, which is why we tailor individual solutions to meet your needs,” explains Pam. “We also offer proper support and training, so you have a true understanding of your business and how best to help it thrive and grow.” admintechniQs have just moved to bigger offices at 175b Orlando Street, to accommodate growing demand from local businesses.

Whether you’re an individual or business, starting up or well-established, the team at admintechniQs can help you get back to work and stress less.

Phone Pam on 0417 133 144 or visit: admintechniqs.com.au to find out more.

Local business love admintechniQs: “If you’re looking to take the stress out of your business, so that you can concentrate on your business, I would highly recommend Pam.” - Harbour Hair Design, Coffs Harbour.

“Pam is fantastic and is incredibly organised and proficient. She is experienced in all facets of account keeping and BAS.”- Solar Obsession, Coffs Harbour.

“Pam is a valuable source of reliable information. The bookkeeping is of a high standard, which is verified by our accountant. coffs coast focus.

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“I would highly recommend Pam and her team for ethical, thorough work.” Sawtell Radiators, Toormina admintechniQs provides: • New business setup and training • Troubleshooting and sorting out overdue BAS’s and other mandatory obligations.

• MYOB setup - Individualised chart of accounts, letterhead setup for invoices and statements.

• Data entry and coding.

• Reconciliation - banks, credit cards, payroll.

• GST calculation and lodgement, cash and accrual, EOY reconciliation.

• Payroll - wages, salary, superannuation, workers compensation, monthly and end of year reconciliation, payment summaries.

• Modern awards - award reading, fairwork paycheck.

• Asset, liability and loan data entry.

• Liaison with accountants.

Pam’s Top 5 Tips For Business Success: 1. Use a fully certified BAS agent who is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board - they will work with you to provide the information you need to make good decisions and maximise your tax advantages.

2. Use an online programme that all partners (business owners, bookkeepers, accountants) can view and use.

3. Know your software - training and support will give you the confidence to make the best decisions for your business.

4. Have a good set up from the get go.

Sorting out a financial mess is costly, stressful and time consuming.

5. A good filing system is imperative.

The ATO requires you to keep records for seven years, and you’ll need to be able to access them quickly and efficiently.

Leading software and a great filing system is imperative for helping your business run smoothly. Contact admintechniQs to help set you up for success.

focusbusiness with Melanie from MJ Accountants

Coffs Harbour is about to become a string player’s mecca, with the launch of the Conservatorium String School from Sept 29 to Oct 4.

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hirty eight talented young violinists, violists, cellists and bassists are coming together from Sydney, Armidale, Port Macquarie, Grafton, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour for an intensive five days of workshops, rehearsals and performances led by some of Australia’s finest musicians.

The Conservatorium already runs a very successful chamber music programme called The Academy, for gifted and talented classical music students. The String School will further enhance the opportunities for those students to unite with other talented players from outside Coffs Harbour, as well as giving younger players an inspirational experience and view to their own futures. Playing a stringed instrument such as the violin or cello requires a great deal of commitment and hard work to become successful. All that hard work is made worth it when they come together as a string orchestra and create one of the most beautiful sounds on earth.

Featured artists include Associate Concertmaster with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Kirsten Williams, and former Head of Strings at the ANU in Canberra, Tor Fromyhr, who will perform as soloist and conduct the senior orchestra. Tor has spent his life pioneering the education of string players, and many of his students are now leading professional players worldwide.

When Kirsten Williams isn’t leading the Sydney Symphony or performing as concerto soloist, she gives her time to babies in the neonatal ward at the RPA by soothing them with her beautiful playing. She also travels to Goulburn regularly, where she is running a violin programme for disadvantaged children at the Goulburn Conservatorium. Joining Tor

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and Kirsten are Sydney double bassist Jennifer Druery, ACT composer Leanne Bear and the award winning Enigma Quartet, all under the artistic direction of cellist Trish O’Brien.

Trish O’Brien and Tor Fromyhr attended the Hobart String School in the late ‘70s, Trish as a wide-eyed youngster just discovering her passion for the cello, and Tor as a leader in his field embarking on his career. The Hobart String School attracted many dedicated string players from across the country each year, and formed the foundation of an entire generation of extraordinary string playing talent in Australia.

Thanks to support from Arts NSW, the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium is able to present their own String School, modelled on the Hobart experience and providing a unique opportunity for enrichment and excitement for all things string in this wonderful region.

The students will be formed into two graded string orchestras and will rehearse each morning, followed by workshops, tutorials, concerts and social events.

There are five public performances scheduled throughout the week, including performances by the The Academy, The Enigma Quartet and a student lunchtime recital for some of the most talented young musicians. When not teaching and inspiring the students, the tutors will rehearse and perform a programme of works that are rarely able to be played in a regional area, and a real treat for concert goers, including Schoenberg’s sumptuous and romantic Verklarte Nacht and Schubert’s infamous Trout Quintet. The concert programme culminates in a performance by the two string orchestras and a performance of Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante for violin, viola and string orchestra. All details and tickets are available online at www.coffscon.org.au

The day you become a small business owner, you are suddenly expected to be all things to all people.

Perhaps you are the world’s best electrician.

You start running your own show, and suddenly you’re expected to build a brand name, manage your cash flow and hire and fire staff. Where’s the manual?

Or maybe you’ve developed a new product or service to capitalise on a need in the market.

Your idea is taking off, and now you’re faced with the nuts and bolts of day-to-day business management. This doesn’t feel like the entrepreneurial dream you signed up for.

And the worst part … you’re on your own.

But maybe you’re not. This is where a good business coach, like Steve Oakley and Jennifer Holman from MJ Accountants, comes in. Steve and Jen help small business owners face their demons, overcome their weaknesses and build their skills to achieve business success without personal burn out.

If you are serious about growing your business and any one of the following statements strikes a nerve, it’s probably time for you to think about finding a coach.

I’m too busy working “in” the business to see the big picture.

Especially when you are talented in a particular skill or trade, it can be easy to focus your energies on what you know, avoiding the work required to grow your business. A good business coach will lift your head from your inbox or your trade, and force you to really think about your business.

“Steve has helped me to realise I need to‘get off the mop’. I’m a business owner and I need to start acting like one.”

- Krystie Boyes, Champ Cleaning.

No one holds me accountable.

Most small businesses don’t have boards, so there’s no one to challenge owners when they fall short on their goals. It’s simply too easy to let deadlines and targets slip past. A good coach will ask you to make commitments and then work with you to ensure they stick.

“Jen has forced me to put everything in writing, instead of having my ideas floating around in my head. Writing it down makes me more committed to getting it done.”

- Aidan Jarvis, GeraGera Mobile Café.

Sometimes it all seems too hard.

Running any business can be overwhelming.

There are a million things coming at you, and somehow you’re also supposed to find time to get new initiatives off the ground. A good coach will help you to prioritise, delegate and stay on track so you can keep your business growing, while still juggling the day-to-day.

“With Steve, we look at what we want to achieve and then break the job down into tiny little steps that seem manageable.”

- Lea Allen, Butcher’s Bullevard.

I need a good sounding board.

It’s hard to find someone to thrash out your ideas or express your worries when you run a small business. Talking to employees could cause disquiet. Friends and family often just don’t understand. A good coach provides a sounding board and an experienced outside perspective.

“Ben and I often have chats about the business and we’ll say, ‘Let’s email Jen.’ She’s so easy to talk to, and she simplifies things into language we can understand.” - Jasmin Adams, fromZion.

If you would like to speak to Jen or Steve about business coaching, please give us a call.

All our coaching programmes are tailored to meet your needs.

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focusinterview.

Local artist Cate Townsend has an eye for beauty, and uses fabrics, Japanese design, Ottoman tiles and the female form as some of her many inspirations. Cate’s dream is to ultimately set up her own design business, while continuing to exhibit her stunning work ...

Townsend hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I fell in love with the Coffs Coast while on family holidays and moved here around 20 years ago.

Where does the inspiration for your paintings come from?

Inspiration comes from fabric prints, mosaics, Ottoman tiles, Japanese designs, women, curves, femininity, different cultures and their histories, the landscape, nature, the ocean, rivers and rainforest. I am constantly searching for beauty in everything.

When and why did you start painting?

I started painting in 2002 after completing a design course through TAFE. I thought that being able to paint and draw would enhance my ability to design. After I finished my first painting, a self-portrait in the style of Picasso, my teacher told me to keep painting.

How would you describe your style?

My work is mostly design based. I work out my composition using photographs and layering these in photoshop, creating digital collages.

These collages can become final works in their own right, or I will chose to develop them further into acrylic, oil, or mixed media works on canvas or sometimes incorporating photographs of paintings and drawings I have already completed to create a new work.

What artists do you admire and draw influence from?

There are so many artists that I admire. Having spent the last three years studying Fine Arts and Visual Culture through Curtin University, 70 coffs coast focus.

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I have spent many at the Tap Gallery in I Istarted paintin hours researching Darlinghurst, Sydney in 2002 after sign artists. Through was wonderful, with completing a de FE .

TA h course throug this research I have real warmth and an ing I thought that be aw realised how many underground feel to d dr able to paint an wonderful artists it; I loved it.

I also love y m would enhance there are. Del Kathryn teaching at Sawtell and .” gn ability to desi Barton, Michael Zavros, getting to meet other and Dale Frank are artists, where I have found three leading Australian that my students and other contemporary artists I admire artists have this wonderful very much. I am greatly inspired by warm connection happening. and draw influence from a great many artists What advice would you give to someone and art movements. When I was 13, our school who is considering taking up art either as a visited a Picasso exhibition at the Art Gallery of profession or a hobby?

NSW, and I became very excited about painting Firstly, I think that you need to have a genuine and art. My teacher encouraged my love of passion and love for expression through art art at school and would hang my work in the and most importantly, to believe in yourself and corridors, but it wasn’t until I was much older follow your instincts. Study is very important, that I would fulfill my dream of becoming an so that you can learn new techniques and artist. keep up with what is happening in the art When I was younger, art was not considered world. Try different classes, so you can learn a viable career choice, and I was encouraged techniques such as oils, acrylics, watercolour, instead to get a “real” job with the government; drawing, mixed media etc. Don’t be afraid so, I gave up my dream of becoming an artist to experiment, as you can always paint over and pushed it aside in order to fit in with what mistakes. Understand that you are not going was expected. to be successful straight away; you need the If you could live anywhere in the world to necessary skills to be able to produce good experience a specific period of art, which quality artwork. In working with different would you choose and why? mediums and experimenting, you will work out Paris in the early 1900s would have been what is best for you. incredible, where the artist community was alive Networking is also very important; you and thriving, with meetings in intimate cafés can never have enough connections. Attend and that close connection that was shared. openings, get to meet other artists, look at what New and exciting developments both in art is out there. The internet is your best friend, and and industry were occurring. Having said that, you should utilise it. I joined an art site called the first time I experienced the art community redbubble, and that led me to a Sydney based

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group doing exhibitions at the Tap Gallery in Darlinghurst. Through the same curator, I am now going to be exhibiting in Rome, Italy, in November. Also, LinkedIn led to me being asked to put forward a work for the Brisbane Art Prize, which was fortunate in being selected as a finalist. Take risks; be prepared for a lot of hard work and to step outside your comfort zone.

What are your plans for the future?

I am looking forward to completing my degree in November this year. I will also continue to teach painting at Sawtell Gallery on Monday and Tuesday. I have been invited to be part of an art event in January called “Art Extraordinaire” at Sawtell Gallery, which incorporates workshops with artists from Camp Creative, running from Saturday 16th until Sunday 24th January 2016. set up hwerIt would be great to attend the exhibition in Rome I am involved with in November; I also plan to do as much travelling as I can to gain inspiration for a new body of work. My dream is to set up my own design business and continue to exhibit my work.

Where can people find out more about you and your art?

I have a Facebook page, where you can view my work and order prints: www.facebook.com/ catetownsendartist I also have a portfolio on Art People magazine - www.artpeoplegallery.com/mixed-media-artdesign/ A redbubble page, where you can order prints: www.redbubble.com/people/catetownsend and you can view: Arts Mid North Coast artsmidnorthcoast.com/listing/cate-townsend-3/ Thanks Cate.

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s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Russ Holland and Kristen Howton

Wayne and Joan Lambeth

Kathy, Kasey and Craig Dawson

Kay’s Birthday Bash

Karen Jackson and Therese Barker

Adam Denham, Adelaide Zietsch, Carole Beros, Leanne Zietsch and Christopher Beros

Leanne Zietsch, Margaret Van Melis and Kay Ryan

Emma Rhoades and Barbara Wenman

Carole Beros and Jenny Bonfield

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Social/scene.

ome of the braver (and crazier, me thinks) are already hitting the beaches and actually venturing into the surf for a dip. Brrrr! Way too cold for that yet!

Staying on the topic of the sea and the surf, it was time for some excitement when The Australian Offshore Super Boat Championships powered into Coffs Harbour just recently. An excited mixed crowd consisting of both tourists and locals lined the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores to witness and enjoy the showcasing of some of the most expensive and most fast moving powerboats racing across our harbour!

What a spectacular show it was!

The beautiful beachfront Opal Cove Resort was the venue of choice for a special event over the weekend. It was the Coffs Harbour Australia-Japan Society’s 25th Anniversary Dinner. The group was founded in 1990, two years after Coffs Harbour began a sister city relationship with the Japanese city of Sasebo, which is situated on the island of Kyushu in the south of Japan. The Society aims to foster understanding between the people of Australia and Japan in General and between the people of Coffs Harbour and Sasebo in particular. This, along with the study of Japanese language and culture.

The special guest for the evening was the 72 coffs coast focus.

Spring is here, and it’s time to enjoying the great outdoors. You really start to appreciate how lucky we are living here on the Coffs Coast when the sunny weather kicks in.

Consul-General of Japan, Masato Takaoka.

Apart from the delicious dinner and fine wines, guests enjoyed entertainment provided by a cello and flute recital by Stephanie Egan and Ursula Cooper from Bishop Druitt College. The Society are also strong supporters of the Festival of Japanese Children’s Day each May and hold a Movie Night in June each year.

To linger on with a touch of all things Japanese; Local Super Stylist Kay Ryan enjoyed a Big 0 Birthday just recently. I won’t mention which 0 Birthday it was, as a lady never discloses her age! But there was certainly a lot of celebrating going on at the ever popular Kimono Japanese Restaurant down on First Avenue in Sawtell. Over 70 close friends and family members poured into Kimono Restaurant and Bar to enjoy some tantalising food, listen to some hilarious life stories and sip a cocktail or two. Happy birthday, Kay Ryan!

It may seem to some that I am always out and about, poshing it up in a fancy hat or whatnot, but I assure you that isn’t the case!

One of the family members is usually with one of us and sometimes we meet up in the middle! One of my nieces is usually with me at most events and “The Son” (who is too old to be teased in this column anymore) went to the North Coast Hotel Group Sportsman’s Breakfast with his father, Uncle Dick and best mate

Jono. This is held at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club, and the morning consisted of a hearty breakfast and a whole stack of entertainment.

The event was hosted by Mike Rabbitt and SKY racing’s Shawn Cosgrove. The names that were there to keep the boys entertained were Melbourne Race caller Greg Miles, QLD Race caller Alan Thomas, Cricketer Andy Bichel, Australian Rugby Union player Joe Roff and other iconic speakers. The men had a really good time, and this day is definitely not about ladies in FAB hats.

The next race day at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club was the BIG ONE! Record crowds dressed up and turned up for another successful Carlton Mid 2015 Coffs Harbour Gold Cup. People travel from far and wide to attend this Race Day. Instead of my niece, who adores these days, it was “The Son” who surprised me and announced that he was coming to the races! He looked fabulous in a suit, I might say, but then we mothers are a touch biased!

Of course, the day was a huge success, with the sun shining and fashions flowing at the Park Beach Fashions on the Field. Along with the judges, we had Cathryn Meredith from Queensland, who is the Editor and owner of national magazine Ladies in Racing. It was certainly very difficult to judge, with so many fabulous ladies and gents! I might just take

this opportunity to mention that if in any part of the competition there is someone who has been dressed by my store, it is announced that I will be stepping back from that section of the competition. Later in the day, I tracked down the lovely Alice Williams, who was the MC for the Fashions and darted off to have some fun in the FOCUS Marquee. It was a themed affair of course! Definitely one of the marquees that you couldn’t miss ... ummm Flamingo styled millinery! Need I say more ... You can view some of the fun that was had by the FOCUS team and guests on page 18.

Races were won and a flutter or two was had at our table. Not much was won but along with a delicious luncheon, there was a whole lot of fun had by one and all! Of course!

“The Husband” and I met somewhere in the middle of all the madness and decided to go out for a quiet dinner. Off we drove and took a chance to get a table at the Horizon’s Restaurant at Opal Cove Resort. It was no quiet table for two! We were in for a treat ... as the whole of the Better Homes and Gardens team were staying at the resort and dining in for the evening ... boy oh boy did we have some fun!

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Images by Carole Beros and Coffs Harbour Racing Club

Barbara Ellis and Loretta Bryant

Julie Trickenburh, Linda Bolitho and Penny Johnson

Rose Marie Atkins, Julie Robertson and Marlene Power

Laura Bamford and Christopher Beros

Jenny Evans, Jill Bale and Liz Williams

Candice Weick and Alice Williams

Dr Harry Cooper and Graham Ross

Brock Goodhill, Demi Harman and Adam Doville (Better Homes and Gardens)

Gold Cup

Yvette Prewitt, Stacey O’Neill and Cathryn Meredith Judges Park Beach Fashions on the Field

Gold Cup

Winners- Best Dressed Man

Winners of Best Dressed Contemporary Lady - Alana croucher, Emma Binns, Tayla Mullen

Runners Up Best Dressed Couple - Sallie-Ann Munro and Jackson Stanmore

Best Dressed Millinery - Amie Want, Naomi Cook and Sherida Parker

Winners of Best Dressed Classical Lady - Karyn Johnson, Tracy Press and Liz Stehr

coffs coast focus.

73

focusinterview.

ANDREW BASFORD

ANDREW BASFORD HAS INK ON HIS HANDS AND MOST LIKELY IN HIS VEINS. WORKING AS PRINTER SINCE THE AGE OF 16, HE RECENTLY RELOCATED TO THE COFFS COAST WITH HIS BEAUTIFUL HEIDELBERG PRESS. ANDREW SAT DOWN WITH FOCUS TO TELL US ALL ABOUT THE WONDERS OF LETTERPRESS.

One of the gs interesting thin u yo is ss re about letterp y bu d an t ou go can’ t just ed ne e .W a new machine esses pr r ou ce ur to so d it helps an , second hand ck ground if you have a ba ry .” st in the print indu

“

H

ow did you become involved in printing?

My uncle got me an apprenticeship when I was 16. I had no idea what the print industry was about, but I soon got the bug and I loved operating the old presses. I bought my first press at 20 and I opened my first print shop at 22 in Manly on the northern beaches of Sydney.

What was the motivation in relocating and setting up on the Coffs Coast?

My wife introduced me to the area about 12 years ago. She has family up here and we would come up regularly. I was always interested in moving up the coast; it has so much to offer, and we love the lifestyle.

Can you tell us about letterpress?

Letterpress is the original form of printing on paper; it dates back centuries to Guttenberg in Germany and further back to China.

Could you describe the process simply?

Basically, letterpress printing is the transfer of ink to paper via a raised surface not unlike an ink stamp. Letterpress was the backbone 74 coffs coast focus.

of the printing industry up until the late sixties/early seventies.

Modern letterpress is mainly used for bespoke highend stationery such as wedding and corporate invitations. We also print a lot of custom business cards.

The letterpress effect is best described as type or images debossed into paper; no other form of printing can give this effect.

What machinery and tools are involved?

Modern letterpress involves graphic design not unlike conventional forms of print. Once the design process via computer is complete, we then output the design to a film negative.

We don’t use wooden or lead type like the print trade originally did for many years; we use photopolymer plates that give us the raised images. These are mounted in our vintage Heidelberg presses from Germany, and the print process begins.

Has this style of printing become popular again ... Why do you think this is?

I was not aware of the letterpress comeback until my wife wanted her new business cards printed letterpress. I was intrigued with the

type of reproduction that modern letterpress could achieve and its rising popularity in America and England and here in Australia. It all comes down to great design beautiful paper stocks and how the image is transferred. The effect is three dimensional, and it screams of quality and luxury. Letterpress is high end and is not for every print job, but there’s certainly a market for it where the printed piece demands some special attention.

How is it married with today's technology?

In the old days, printing in letterpress meant you were confined to lead or wooden type. It didn’t lend itself to graphic design expression.

The images were limited to a few typefaces in a few sizes; if you wanted to print a custom styled image, it was expensive to make the dies that were required. This was one of the downfalls of letterpress in the transition to offset in the 1970s. Nowadays, we can use graphic design programmes and create an image that can easily be reproduced in letterpress.

What sorts of projects is letterpress best

suited for?

We print a lot of wedding, corporate and special event stationery. Bespoke business cards are also a big market for us. It’s not really suited to bulky long runs of print due to cost and time constraints. Most of our work is low volume, but we have done some larger commercial runs.

Do you think letterpress is here to stay, or is it a fad?

I hope it’s not a fad; I’m planning on being in the print industry for life. I think letterpress will always have place where a premium quality printed piece is required. One of the interesting things about letterpress is you can’t just go out and buy a new machine.

We need to source our presses second hand, and it helps if you have a background in the print industry; so, it will always be a niche industry. At the moment a few graphic designers have had a go at it themselves, some with success, some without. It really does help to use a letterpress printer with trade experience, otherwise it can be hit and miss and letterpress is not a cost effective way of having a miss.

What are your hopes for the future?

I’m excited about what lies ahead. I’m all about spreading the word of what letterpress can bring to the table. We spend a fair bit of time educating the graphic design community on what’s possible, so they can pass it on to their clients, and that’s what it’s all about.

How can people find out more about letterpress and your operation?

Worldwide letterpress is having a comeback; there is a big following in the US. Obviously online is the best way of getting an idea of what’s its all about. But in saying that, you can’t beat seeing how these awesome old machines work. They are almost hypnotic; I have people stare in amazement when they are operating. It’s not like a box where a piece of paper spits out one end; you see very gear, cam and lever in operation, and they sound amazing. We have a website www.retropress. com.au and we are always adding pictures and videos to Instagram @retro_press Thanks Andrew.

focusinterview.

TRaOcUiBnLgE

r

ers, are specially broth rs, well Siblings, and e ... Twin brothe re u at n y b e v ti and competi ouble. Bailey tr r fo g in sk a that’s just better than njoy nothing e r ce n e p S r e n their Coop mpetitively o co r e th o ch a it. racing e ther to the lim o ch a e g in sh own from dirt bikes, pu tion passed d ic d ad d n a n ation A passio pe their dedic o h s in tw e th racing on their father, e day see them n o l il w ls il sk SA. and rcuits of the U the flat track ci

BAILEY SPENCER

W

hy are you called Double Trouble Racing?

Because I am a twin brother, meaning we are double trouble.

How did you become involved in dirt bike racing?

My dad used to race, and he brought us up with motorbikes.

What is it about the sport that you find addictive?

I just love going fast and the adrenaline rush.

Is there a rivalry between you two?

Yes, we have some good battles on the track.

What have being some of your best results?

Third place NSW track titles at Gunnedah, 3rd place in the Australian dirt track titles at Kempsey and 2nd place in NSW long track titles at Barleigh Ranch.

Are you involved in a local club?

Yes, Coffs Harbour Motorcycle Club.

What is the scene like locally?

Really friendly club, lots of young riders.

How often do you compete?

Most weekends from March through to October.

Would you like to be able to race professionally?

That would be my biggest goal to achieve in this sport.

Is there any training that you do?

Riding my motorbikes.

Do you guys work on your own bikes?

Yes, we do.

Have you had any injuries?

I’ve had no major injuries.

What are your hopes for the future?

To move to America and race AMA flat track.

Anyone you would like to thank?

Coffs KTM, Stamped Authority, All Areas Demolition and Excavations.

W

COOPER SPENCER

hy are you Yes, I spent most of last year out with a called Double Troubruised brain. ble Racing?

What are your hopes for the future?

I am a twin brother, To get really good at racing and go to America meaning we are douto race in the pro flat track. ble trouble.

Sponsorships?

How did you become involved in dirt Coffs KTM help us out a lot, Stamped Authoribike racing? ty, All Areas Demolition and Excavation.

My dad brought me up into it.

As the boys like to keep their answers to a What is it about the sport that you find minimum and let their riding do the talking, addictive? we had their mum, Dee Spencer, give us a The adrenaline of going really fast and the bit of extra insight ... fun beating your friends.

How long have the boys been Is there a rivalry between riding? g you two?

They have been riding bikes re G ar ye st La We like to race each since they were four years of decided to try ack tr l other, and it's always age, starting off with a pee oi at ys bo e th s place good having battles with wee 50 and than klx 110, racing ; this take ey and Bailey. riding mainly at friends’ in Taree, Kemps took to y What have been some places, and then at home Gunnedah. Baile l and el this extremely w to the of your best results? where their Dad. Greg has te received an invi c in I haven't placed at built a track in the back si as Cl s is yl Troy Ba many events, because yard.

Taree ...” injuries have set me back.

Do you ever get anxious Are you involved in a local watching them race? club?

As a mum watching, as long as We are members of the Coffs Harbour they are enjoying it and they stay upright, Motorcycle club.

I am happy.

What is the scene like locally; are there a Have they suffered any major injuries? lot of younger crew involved?

Cooper’s had an accident that resulted in bruisYes, there are lots of junior riders. ing of the brain, in August 2014, which saw him How often do you compete? off the motorbike for six months or so. As soon Most weekends from March through to as he was able to ride again, he rode. Cooper has October. had his fair share of injuries, but nothing too major that has stopped him from getting back on.

Would you like to be able to race professionally?

What other benefits have you seen from Yes, it would be really fun. being involved in the local racing scene?

Is there any training that you do?

The friends that we have made in the racing Riding my motorbike - getting bike time. scene have been amazing; everyone is there for Do you guys work on your own bikes? one another and if someone needs something Yes, we do. or a child needs support, all parents are there to Have you had any injuries? help, no matter who it is.

“

Greg has shown the boys how to look after their bikes, from changing tyres to checking oil and everything in between.

What has being the evolution of their racing careers?

They stared racing at Coffs Harbour Motorcycle Club in 2012, where they both did flat track and Motocross.

Bailey enjoyed flat track over Motocross and Cooper enjoyed Motocross over flat track.

The first year of flat track for Bailey saw him winning the club championship, with Cooper coming a close second - both boys riding KTM 65s.

The second year both boys rode KTM 85s with Bailey winning the club championship.

The third year both boys rode KTM 85s - with Bailey winning the club championship.

Both boys participate in the Jacaranda Dirt Drags in Grafton, both winning in different years, and they have being doing this for three years.

Last year Greg decided to try the boys at oil track racing; this takes place in Taree, Kempsey and Gunnedah. Bailey took to this extremely well and received an invite to the Troy Bayliss Classic in Taree - placing sixth, which was a great achievement.

This year Bailey has achieved a 3rd in the Oz Titles at Kempsey and 2nd at long track title at Barleigh Ranch and 3rd at NSW dirt track at Gunnedah. This has given him an invitation to the night of champions in Sydney later in the year.

As twins, they must be great rivals on the track?

You might say competition between the boys is very healthy - Bailey likes to win. At this stage racing dirt and oil is the only thing they both think about at the moment. Their comment is always, “Where are we racing this weekend?” A big thank you needs to go to their dad, Greg, for being there and making sure their bikes are the best they can be. coffs coast focus.

75

R OGIER? O F S E E R H T N I E M O C WILL GOOD THINGS

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP - ROUND 10

If good things indeed come in threes, Frenchman Sébastien Ogier will be smiling right now. Either he’s already got his third straight FIA World Rally Championship on the mantlepiece, or he’s a good chance of collecting it at Coates Hire Rally Australia.

His first mathematical the title chance to clinch to win sia - and for Ingras ing cond po es rr co the onship pi drivers cham 9, Rally d un Ro - came at onth .”

G ermany, last m

“ long with co-driver and countryman Julien Ingrassia, Ogier is enjoying another dominant season with the official Volkswagen Motorsport team. He won five of the first eight of the 2015 calendar’s 13 events.

His first mathematical chance to clinch the title - and for Ingrassia to win the

corresponding codrivers championship came at Round 9, Rally Germany, last month. Did he do it? We don’t know, because Germany happened while this edition of FOCUS was being printed. Nothing would thrill the mighty Volkswagen squad more than to win on its home event, but the odds were long. Ogier

should be closer to his goal when he tackles the roads of the Coffs Coast.

And here he’ll be mindful of his experiences of the past two years.

He has great form in Australia, with two straight wins for Volkswagen.

In 2013, he nevertheless missed by just one point in wrapping up the title and had

to wait until the next round in France. Last year after crashing in Germany, he had no chance to clinch the title in Australia, although an all-Volkswagen podium secured the Manufacturers Championship. His second crown followed at Rally Spain, with Ingrassia in lock-step for co-driver honours. Australian fans will be on the edge of their seats as another red-hot WRC season progresses toward a gripping conclusion.

coffs coast focus.

77

SEB AND JULIEN: A HIGH-SPEED LIFE Winning so regularly in one of the world’s elite motor sports is no coincidence. Everything has to go right with the team, the car, luck and most importantly, the driver and co-driver.

Ogier and Ingrassia share an intensely focused and trusting relationship in their high-speed jobs.

Here’s who they are and what they say about each other SÉBASTIEN OGIER (Driver) Date of birth: 17 December 1983.

Place of birth: Gap, France.

Home: Forest-Saint-Julien, France.

Hobbies: Skiing, Boule Lyonnaise.

78 coffs coast focus.

He has shared the cockpit with whe n Sébastien Ogier llye Ra e they won th e nc si d an Jeunes , been ve ha ey th 2006 a solid team .”

“

Engines and sport are Ogier’s passions, and the mechanic and qualified ski instructor is considered to be the world’s top rally driver. He won the French Rallye Jeunes for up-and-coming drivers in 2005 and went on to win the junior world championship within this space of just three years. He joined the WRC in 2009 and scored his first victory in 2010 in Rally Portugal.

This was followed in 2011 by five rally victories and third place overall in the championship. The Frenchman has been a part of the Volkswagen

Motorsport team since November 2011. In the 2012 season, Ogier competed in 11 WRC events in a Skoda Fabia S2000 and also played an active part in developing the Polo R WRC. This paid off, as the 2013 season proved to be Ogier’s most successful of his career to date, with a dream coming true after 11 of the 13 rallies: Ogier clinched the drivers championship in Rally France, before the season had finished. In 2014 it was a tough challenge against his teammate Jari-Mtti Latvala

but after 12 of the 13 rallies, Ogier successfully defended his crown.

JULIEN INGRASSIA (Co-driver) Date of birth: 26 November 1979.

Place of birth: Aix-en-Provence, France.

Home: Aix-en-Provence, France.

Hobbies: Mountain biking, fishing.

Igrassia embarked on his career as a co-driver in the French national rallies in 2002. He has shared the cockpit with Sébastien Ogier when they won the Rallye Jeunes, and since 2006 they have been a solid team. The two Frenchmen scored victories in the junior world championship in 2008 and in Rallye Monte-Carlo (IRC) in 2009.

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP - ROUND 10

The seasoned team are inseparable and jointly switched alliegances in November 2011 to Volkswagen Motorsport. Ingrassia celebrated the biggest victory of his career in 2013, becoming world champion co-driver alongside Ogier in Rally France. But that’s not all: just one season later Ingrassia and Ogier successfully defended their titles and became 2014 world champions. Now they are on the path to an extraordinary third straight crown in 2015.

The ultimate driver’s challenge • 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, Visitor Information Centre Big Banana, Coffs Central Concierge, Rally Shop Harbour Drive and Port Central Concierge.

• Website: www.rallyaustralia.com.au CHALLENGING new stages on this year’s

“

e tidy-up

Th Coates Hire Rally Australia n process will mea will level the playing field e os lo be ill the surface w and give more drivers a be t no ill w and new. I chance to lead from the if after at all surprised ages very first kilometres. the first three st ay we id Day one of competition at lunch on Fr nt re ffe di e on Friday 11 September have som .” will feature three new predicts. results stages, Utungun, Bakers Creek Championship regulations and Northbank, in the Taylors say the driver leading the Arm area - home to the famous Pub standings - currently Sébastien Ogier With No Beer - west of Macksville.

- must start first on the opening day and The rally’s sporting chief, Clerk of Course potentially is at the most disadvantage.

Adrian Stafford, describes the stages as the “They will go straight into the event on three greatest challenge WRC drivers will have faced new stages, with no-one having an advantage. since the rally moved to the Coffs Coast region This breaks the rhythm of the event from in 2011. previous years.

With no driver having experience of the new “The tidy-up process will mean the surface will roads and gravel surfaces loose after preparatory be loose and new. I will not be at all surprised if roadworks, more of the field should be able to after the first three stages at lunch on Friday we challenge the established front-runners, Stafford have some different results.”

The new stages approximately 80 km south of the rally service park at C.ex Coffs International Stadium are part of a programme to refresh the driving challenge from year to year, and Stafford is excited about another innovation - a classic night stage at Valla on Saturday.

“This will be the first time in its 24-year history that Rally Australia has run a stage at night and it has already triggered quite a bit of excitement among traditional rally fans.

“The sound and sight of the world’s fastest rally cars blasting out of the darkness will be fabulous. As the countryside is fairly open, the headlights should be visible for a good distance.”

coffs coast focus.

79

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP - ROUND 10

This year’s Coates Hire Rally Australia At national and local level, the stakes are also comprises 17 Special Stages and a total high. State and local government support to attract competitive distance of 309 km. The liaison the rally here ensures dedicated daily television distance between the various stages and the coverage, including the three live programmes service park at C.ex Coffs International stadium from Valla and Wedding Bells. is just over 700 km - saving wear and tear on A substantial line-up of business sponsors, rally cars and travelling time for spectators including Coates Hire and Hyundai Motor ensuring the event remains one of the most Company Australia and local leaders such as Opal compact in the WRC calendar.

Cove Resort, Bellbowrie Motors, Geoff Three stages, Valla on King Motors, C.ex Group, Axis Saturday morning and Printing and Fuji Xerox Business Wedding Bells on And don’ t forget Centre Mid North Coast also to give a cheer Sunday morning help get the show on the p to r and afternoon - the and a wave for ou Scott road and cater for the g in Aussies , includ event-closing WRC , nn ui thousands of visitors.

Q n ha Pedder, Nat Power Stage - will or yl Ta ly ol The commercial power M s, Eli Evan be broadcast live on , as in pp Co n ia of the WRC will help drive dr A and television around the case ow sh to d bi the region’s economy, but ey th world, delivering priceless the their talents on it’s horsepower, not corporate Coffs Coast tourism world stage.” power, the fans come to see. promotion to an estimated Can Sebastien Ogier and Julien audience of more than 46 million Ingrassia win their third FIA World viewers.

Rally Championship at Coates Hire Rally While the WRC is in essence a sporting Australia?

They’re in the box seat, but there’s a contest, like its sister FIA world championship, dazzling line-up of the world’s fastest rally drivers Formula 1, the commercial stakes are huge. on hand trying to make sure they don’t.

There is no better contest than the WRC to And don’ forget to give a cheer and a wave for showcase popular roadgoing cars; manufacturer our top Aussies, including Scott Pedder, Nathan teams from Volkswagen, Citroen and Hyundai and Quinn, Eli Evans, Molly Taylor and Adrian Coppin, the Ford-mounted M-Sport team spend hundreds as they bid to showcase their talents on the world of millions of dollars to prove theirs is best. When stage.

Toyota joins the fray in 2017, four of the world’s It’s classic World Rally Championship - incredibly top five car makers will use the WRC above tough, unpredictable and exciting. every other international motorsport series as a marketing platform.

You’re going to love it!

“

80 coffs coast focus.

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