Coffs Coast Focus i61

COFFS COAST

October 2015//issue 61

or n B to

Ride

emma de Groot

1 coffs coast focus focus.

Feature Story Mike Davey

focus COFFS COAST

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

Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2015 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the October issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

I

T’S OUR BIRTHDAY MONTH! Can you believe we are celebrating our fifth birthday this month?

A huge reason why we have been so successful over the past five years is because of the generosity of businesses in the local area. We generally have an interest in business owners: the people who keep FOCUS alive and in circulation. Our clients are our friends - and it’s something we pride ourselves on. Thank you to everyone who has played a role in helping us bring the locals a great publication each month.

Also a massive thank you to those who have welcomed Hayley and Jen - our new sales team.

They are loving their adoption into the FOCUS family and really value the time they get to spend with each of their clients.

In regards to the editorial side of things ...

With the new office restructure, we thought we would introduce a little more heart back into the magazine and interview different people with totally different stories that touch us all in

one way or another. If you know someone who has an interesting story to tell, feel free to drop us an email to either nicole@focusmag.com.au or russellpell@gmail.com INSIDE THIS EDITION Local brothers Mitch McGuire and Tom Seccombe have a great pride in and passion for big rigs and the road. Six days a week is spent driving up and down the East Coast of Australia, ensuring that local builders are receiving the materials they need to help develop the Coffs Coast. The brothers have just come back from the Casino truck show with some pretty impressive awards. We caught up with them both to find out what they love about the industry and why they love what they do.

Taking a brief hiatus from her role as an art teacher, Liz Smith has rediscovered her passion for drawing. FOCUS took a stroll along the beach with the artist to find out about her inspiration and upcoming exhibition.

Albe Falzon was one of the creators of Tracks Surfing Magazine, an irreverent and challenging publication launched in 1970 that is still published today. During the filming of his seminal surf movie, Morning of the Earth, he fell in love with the Mid North Coast and never left.

THIS MONTH’S FRONT COVER This month our front cover features local horse whisperer Emma De Groot. A passion for horses and riding is evident when you see the affinity Emma has with these majestic beasts.

Spending most weekends competing and any spare time tending to her horses, FOCUS managed to sit down with the avid equestrian to find out more about the sport and what it takes to be involved. Check out her story on pages 14 and 15.

FINAL SAY “Challenges are what make life interesting.

Overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”

coffs coast focus. 3

10.

inside this

Liz Smith.

Taking a brief hiatus from her role as an art teacher, Liz Smith has rediscovered her passion for drawing. FOCUS took a stroll along the beach with the artist to find out about her inspiration and upcoming exhibition.

Issue 61 - October 2015

Albe Falzon.

Albe Falzon was one of the creators of Tracks Surfing Magazine, an irreverent and challenging publication launched in 1970 that is still published today. During the filming of his seminal surf movie, Morning of the Earth, he fell in love with the Mid North Coast and never left.

77.

40.

5. what’s on for October 22. eat featuring local restaurants

Light it up.

Local designer Tom Stephen creates amazing lights and fixtures. Finding inspiration in local materials coupled with a background in fine arts, he produces collectible bespoke pieces. FOCUS sat down with the artist over a pint to get an insight into his work.

4 coffs coast focus.

usual suspects.

the

50. social scene with Carole Beros 52. star guide with Terri

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 //OCTOBER 2015

BLACK SORROWS

16

Where Moonee Beach Tavern. When Friday 16th October. Tickets on sale now at the Moonee Tavern, Park Beach Music and Hifi or online at offbeat.oztix.com.au

Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival The 2015 14th Annual Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival is shaping up to be one of the best yet - with an exceptional lineup and some new surprises in store. It's a time when our picturesque Dorrigo showground comes alive with concerts, workshops, dancing, jamming, impromptu performances, poetry and children's entertainment.

When 23rd, 24th, 25th October 2015. For tickets and more information, please visit www.dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au

24

CASINO ROYALE BALL

PCYC and Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour’s inaugural Gala Ball, “Dinner Time 4 Kids”. A fun night of dancing and casino games, raising funds to support local Police programmes and activities for the kids.

When Saturday 24th October. Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Tickets $60 - available from PCYC, Parry’s Jewellers and Bray St Butchery. More info Call 6651 9961

thirsty merc

18

Thirsty Merc burst onto the Australian music landscape delivering hit after hit - 20 Good Reasons, Someday Someday, Mousetrap Heart and In The Summertime. Now they announce their new single release and national tour. Where The Hoey Moey, Sunday Sesh.

When Sunday 18th Oct 2015 - 4pm - FREE GIG.

Opening weekend - tickets on sale now! www.bigbanana.com coffs coast focus. 5

focusinterview.

LOCAL DIVE INSTRUCTOR MIKE DAVEY SPENDS MORE TIME UNDER THE WATERS OF THE COFFS COAST THAN HE DOES ABOVE IT. FOCUS PUT THE GOGGLES ON AND TOOK THE PLUNGE TO HEAR HIS INSIGHT INTO WHY THE DIVING HERE IS WORLD CLASS.

dive instructor

INSTRUCTOR MIKE DAVEY

an you tell us a bit about your connection to the local area?

My name is Mike Dave.

My wife, Debbie, and I have owned Jetty Dive for 19 years. During this time I have dived the Solitary Islands Marine Park a couple of thousand times ... or more.

Has it changed much in those years?

It was only a Marine Sanctuary area around the Solitary Islands for a couple of years when I first dived it, very few Clownfish and Anemones, and the odd tropical fish. Over the years, we have seen a steady increase in fish numbers, mainly in the smaller residential fish. The corals have got better with age; we are even seeing a change in coral type with the warming of the sea. You can easily find Nemo and Dory out there now!

How long have you been a dive instructor?

Since 1994.

Were you always interested in diving, or did you discover it later in life?

I learnt to dive as a teenager, and became passionate about it in my 20s. As time went on, my weekend hobby became a lifestyle, and a full-time job when we bought the shop.

How does a typical day begin for you?

I am up before 6am to check the weather

6 coffs coast focus.

We even have

“

and sea conditions. mixing with them. people who , If it is all good to Friendly Blue Groper, ks ar sh are scared of ith go, we start at the big Black Cod, w ve di a come for d an , Dive Centre at 7am em turtles, and to top it th e se us and it.” ve lo to prepare for our off, we have the ever ly te lu so ab morning dive trip. At passive Grey Nurse 8am we are loading the Shark on a majority boat, and then around of dives during the year.

9am we are underwater on We have the best of both our first of two dives for the worlds. morning.

How does it rate compared to Does it take long to teach someone other areas around the world? how to dive?

We take group trips overseas regularly, No, it is not too long, considering how usually to the tropics to get warm water, much there is to learn. Three days of and sometimes to exotic and remote practical sessions (a pool training day and locations, but you know, none of them have two days of diving, which includes four such interaction like we have with our Grey dives) and either a day of theory sessions, or Nurses, and to top that off, we have so online study, before the practical days. many other fish - there is always something What is the most important thing that a new. The Solitaries still rate the best to me! student needs to learn?

Is there a typical person who learns to There is a bit to take in, but it is not hard. dive, or do you see a broad range of The training has extensive theory, ultimately enthusiastic students? that is essential to make it a safe sport, so I We see all ages, Mum, Dad and the kids would say that is very important. Obviously learn to dive together, and then we teach underwater experience and skills follows school age groups right through to 60+ that. year olds. I suppose the more common What is the local area like for diving? age is 20 - 40 year olds who are keen for I suppose I am biased, but it is hard their next adventure. It is not a physically to beat our diving. We have an amazing demanding sport, but does require a bit amount of fish out at the Solitary Islands. of fitness and preferably knowing how to Tropical fish like those from the Barrier Reef swim and a sense of adventure! and then schools of temperate water fish Do you get asked about sharks very

Photo by Gary Bell, www.oceanwideimages.com

• A D AY I N T H E L I F E O F A •

often?

Yes, especially with the current publicity with shark bites on board riders. We scuba dive with sharks! In fact, even though the Grey Nurse Sharks look scary, they are really like big puppy dogs. We don't feed them, we don't attract them, and they just hang around with us. We even have people who are scared of sharks, come for a dive with us and see them, and absolutely love it. It is sometimes a life changing experience.

As for the big sharks, we have not seen them at the islands. We have found the Grey Nurse Sharks are scared of them, and if we couldn't find any Grey Nurses out there, it would tell us something! We haven't seen that yet.

What is the most amazing thing or experience you have had whilst diving?

Gee, I have seen so many amazing things - shipwrecks full of WWII vehicles at Truk Lagoon to Whale Sharks in the Philippines.

I still think the day we saved a Grey Nurse Shark from certain slow death, by cutting off a rope looped around its tail, is the best experience I have had.

Do you ever get tired of diving?

Heck no! I just find more things to learn and do! My latest challenge is to dive on a re-breather (which has no bubbles that can scare fish) and try and get that best underwater picture!

Thanks Mike.

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COASTAL designer kitchens Coastal Designer Kitchens is a locally owned business that prides itself on a personalised approach to their work.

Andrew and Mel manage a small team of specialised and experienced tradespeople, enabling CDK to provide a more personalised service which ensures that their exceptionally high standards are always met. CDK’s impeccable reputation across the Coffs Coast is testimony to their professionalism and commitment to their work, customer deadlines and treating their customers’ needs as the utmost of importance.

CDK are on top of current trends in the industry and are constantly researching and updating the latest products and designs. They understand that this is essential to offer their clients modern designs, as well as superior craftsmanship. Mel has a particular eye for colour and a passion for

8 coffs coast focus.

design. Mel is qualified in kitchen, bathroom and interior spaces design and is available to assist you with the entire design process of your project.

CDK offer finance to their customers, so they are able to get their kitchen now and pay it off over time with a take home lay-by payment plan with no interest. This is a fantastic option for renovators, as you can include appliances, glass splash backs, laundry, vanity and your built-in robes as part of the package and pay it off with one easy fortnightly repayment. They can also co-ordinate other trades such as plumber and electrician and manage your entire project for you. Drop in to the showroom and ask about how you can apply for the Ezi-Pay Payment Plan.

CDK would love the opportunity to provide you with a quote on any project you may have in the future.

focusinterview.

Taking a brief hiatus from her role as an ART TEACHER, LIZ SMITH HAS REDISCOVERED HER PASSION FOR DRAWING. FOCUS took a stroll along the beach with the artist to find out about her inspiration and upcoming exhibition. hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

Last year my husband and I were looking for a "sea change" from Bathurst in the Central West, and that is exactly what we got when we moved to Nambucca Heads.

Where does the inspiration for your drawings come from?

I studied Natural History Illustration at The University of Newcastle, which was the perfect blend of science and art. I have always had an affinity with nature and draw most of my inspiration from the natural world. I try to complement the physical characteristics of a subject with unrelated objects, a personality or mood, to create an artwork with a slightly surreal feel.

I like to work largely from photos, so generally draw things that are easily accessible or that I have been lucky enough to stumble across while the camera was at hand. The challenge is then finding the right combination of every day forms that complement each other enough to create an artwork that moves beyond the ordinary.

When and why did you start drawing?

I think I have always been creative. Even when I was small I was always drawing, painting and making. I studied art all the way through high school and uni, but have really 10 coffs coast focus.

only become serious about being an indeSurrealists, and also traditional Natural History pendent artist recently. By trade I am a high Illustration. Ernst Haeckel is a standout for his school art teacher, which I found did not leave scientific plates that are so beautifully coma lot of room for me to establish myself. I posed. I also admire Albert Durer’s etchings. have taken some time away from teaching to If you could live anywhere in the world focus on doing just that. I miss the buzz to experience a specific period of art, of a productive art class, but am which would you choose and enjoying seeing my body of why? work grow.

I would really like to I started with drawing spend some time in because I felt I had not Italy. The Renaissance e I am really in aw approached it seriousproduced some beauof James Guppy ly since my time at tiful art. Specifically, r . Fo and Tim Storrier ts uni. It seemed like a I would like to visit tis me, these two ar e in good place to start, Florence and see as im bl convey the su and I haven’t looked many original Botticel.” ay w a profound back. lis as possible. I think How would you deit would be wonderful scribe your style? to immerse yourself in a Representational. Surreal. world so saturated with art.

I don’t think I have honed my What advice would you give style just yet, but would like to head to someone who is considering towards an exploration of the sublime and the taking up art either as a profession or a aesthetic. Two big concepts, so they should hobby? keep me going for some time.

I am only relatively new to this, but I think What artists have do you admire and the key is to move past the what ifs and just draw influence from? start being creative. The biggest thing for me There are so many. I am really in awe of was starting. I had every excuse in the book James Guppy and Tim Storrier. For me, these to stop me drawing - what if people don’t like two artists convey the sublime in a profound it? What if they don’t get it? What if this one way. I find Michael Esson’s drawings are also isn’t as good as the last one? I found the more a big influence. I love Romanticism and the I drew, the more confidence I had, and slowly

“

I built up a body of work. It is much easier to get yourself out there if you have the work to support you. I keep telling myself, “Just do it, get started”.

What are your plans for the future?

I would love to just keep producing work.

Short term I have a couple of commissions to do, but after that I would like to spread my wings a little and try something different.

Every day I see something new that I want to draw, paint or work with. The future is pretty open for me at the moment, and that is exciting.

Where can people find out more about you and your art?

I have an artist Facebook page under my maiden name Liz Gallwey, as there are so many Liz Smiths out there, and my email is elizabeth.gallwey@hotmail.com Alternatively, anybody wanting to know more about me or my artwork can visit my exhibition, Harmonies & Contradictions, at the Bellingen Gallery and Framing studio this October.

Thanks Liz. Shout Out View Liz Smith's Harmonies & Contradictions, an exhibition of drawings, from the 2nd October to 4th November 2015 at the Bellingen Gallery and Faming Studio, 44 Hyde St Bellingen. Mon - Fri, 10am to 4:30pm and Sat, 9am to 12pm.

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focusinterview.

dancing stars

With Pippa Tabone, Coffs Coast Community Relations Coordinator for the Cancer Council NSW.

W

hat is the latest news on the Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer?

With only one month to go, competition on the dance floor is heating up! Behind the scenes our Coffs Coast Stars are polishing up their dance routines, while publically they are out and about raising vital funds and awareness for the Cancer Council NSW. There are some great fundraising events happening in October to get along to; follow us on Facebook “Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer” or check out everydayhero.com.au/ event/starsofcoffscoast2015 for more details or to donate to a Star.

Tickets are now on sale for the big dance off, Saturday 14th November at C.ex Coffs.

It will be a great night of entertainment, with eleven teams taking to the dance floor, each performing a different dance style under the scrutiny of our panel of judges! There is also the People’s Choice Award, special guest performances, an auction and of course, great food and dancing for all!

The biggest news this month is the announcement of our hosts and judging panel…

Our hosts are David J. Laarhoven, better know as “Laarz”, from A1 Coffs Coast Tours, with the wonderful Vicky Hunter, who will be asking all the big questions out back in the Gold Room!

Laarz is an out and proud Coffs local. With a deep desire and passion to showcase the Coffs Coast, Laarz started his Harley tours business to share the great beauty and diversity of the region.

Vicky Hunter is a radiographer at Coffs 12 coffs coast focus.

The Stars of t Coffs Co ast even e us ca be t, is importan ity it builds solidar unity, m m co r ou in with le op to support pe er and living with canc re tu fu a te ea help cr ” it. om fr free

“

Harbour Health Campus. She is actively involved in lots of community events, was a Director for Coffs Harbour Racing Club for eight years and is currently on the Stars of Coffs Coast committee.

She is committed to supporting the Cancer Council, having seen its effects first hand on her family, friends and through her work at the hospital.

On the judging panel we will see the return of Bec Gaile, who tap-danced her way to win both Judges’ and People’s Choice Award in the previous Dance for Cancer event. Bec is thrilled to be a judge and complete her dancing journey!

Judging alongside Bec, we have the new 2CS Morning Presenter and Digital Content Manager - Michael Moffett, aka “Moffee”. He was awarded an Australian Commercial Radio Award for Best Programme Director 2012 and 2014, and for Best Music Special in 2013. We welcome Moffee to the Coffs Coast and are glad to have him on board.

Last, but definitely not least, we have Simmone Jade MacKinnon, a Coffs local who won her way into hearts worldwide as Stevie Hall from McLeod’s Daughters. Simmone left home at 16 to pursue her dream of being a dancer, studying at the exclusive Queensland Dance School of Excellence. A classically trained dancer, Simmone performed in Japan and toured with the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Cats. While having a break from the physical demands of dancing, she auditioned for a TV commercial, taking her into a career in acting.

Her first major role came in the 1998 Baywatch

Down Under special, leading to an invitation to join the core cast on Baywatch. She returned to Australia to star in McLeod’s Daughters from 2003 - 2009.

We are very excited to have Simmone on the panel as our dance expert!

Why is this event so important?

Here on the Coffs Coast, approximately 680 people per year will receive a cancer diagnosis, which is significantly higher then the NSW average. It is a disease that affects so many people in our community, all requiring support but in many different ways. The Cancer Council is the only charity that works across all forms of cancers and at each stage of the cancer journey. Funds raised from Stars of Coffs Coast ensures that we can continue to improve cancer outcomes through research, local prevention, awareness and advocacy programmes, and to actively support people living with cancer in the Coffs Coast communities.

The Stars of Coffs Coast event is important, because it builds solidarity within our community, to support people living with cancer and help create a future free from it.

In particular, this event reaches out to people in our local business community to take on a challenge and be a champion for a cause. Be it as a Star, Dancer, Sponsor or a Committee member, it is the support of many local people and businesses that make this event a success.

For their part, ours Stars are putting themselves out of their comfort zones to not only fundraise, but to learn and publically perform a dance routine at our Dance for Cancer event. Through their bravery and the amazing array of fundraising events they hold, they truly bring our community together.

You mentioned how important support from the local business community is to this event; who are your supporters?

We have the amazing dance schools, choreographers and dancers from Julie Ross Dance Studio, Pacific Dancentre, Kulturithmik, Coffs Latin Rhythms, Sacred Lotus Bellydance and Woolgoolga Dance Studio. There are also the businesses, family and friends supporting each Star, and of all our wonderful committee members.

In particular, I would like to mention our major sponsor, the C.ex Group, and all of our other sponsors: FOCUS, Southern Cross Austereo, La Fluer D’Alyse, Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, One Agency Real Estate, Emma Rhoades Photography, Bad Hat Harry Design & Marketing, Saltwater Productions and Any Entertainment.

I would like to extend a big thank you for the generosity of all the people and businesses that help make this event a success.

Tickets available at C.ex Coffs Reception or go to www.cex.com.au.

focusinterview.

de Groot BORN TO RIDE A PASSION FOR HORSES AND RIDING IS EVIDENT WHEN YOU SEE THE AFFINITY EMMA DE GROOT HAS WITH THESE MAJESTIC BEASTS. SPENDING MOST WEEKENDS COMPETING AND ANY SPARE TIME TENDING TO HER HORSES, FOCUS MANAGED TO SIT DOWN WITH THE AVID EQUESTRIAN TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SPORT AND WHAT IT TAKES TO BE INVOLVED.

C

an you briefly tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to the local area?

I’m a local girl, born and raised. I grew up in Boambee, when my parents realised that horses weren’t just a phase and we moved to Bonville. Now my husband and I own a 110 acre property in Coramba.

How long have you been involved with equestrianism?

I have always had a love affair/obsession with horses. When I was in primary school, I used to go to my aunt's property in Denman during the school holidays and would spend the entire time out with the horses; it was there that she started to teach me the responsibilities of owning and looking after horses and taught me to ride confidently on my own. When I was 11, my parents finally gave in to my persistent nagging and bought me my very first horse for my birthday, signing me up to a local Pony Club.

Most of the kids my age had been riding from a young age, so I had a lot of catching up to do. I began going to gymkhanas every weekend and started moving up the grades in both showing, show jumping state level and competing in the 14 coffs coast focus.

inter schools. Showing ultimately was the one riding competition or rider class is a competition that I fell in love with, and I haven’t looked between riders to determine the most correct back. rider position and application of the aids in an Can you describe what it is and what is efficient and elegant manner. It takes a great involved in an event? deal of practice and training to be There are two categories I able to work a horse and have it compete in on a regular “look” like you aren’t doing basis: hack classes and anything. Core strength rider classes. Hack and balance is essential.

It can either ly classes are judged on How often do you al happen re ve lo in ll the horses; the horse fa train, and what quickly - you ey th d an should be excellently does that involve? with them d on sp re d an at presented and give I train daily sense th ke ta n ca it , or , nd the appearance of and have regular in ki nnect. It’s co to e tim e m being a pleasure to professional lessons so ow your important to kn handle, watch and and attend weekend nd … ” horse’s back grou ride. It is entirely up to clinics. If I’m not the talent of the rider riding, I like to use to prepare and show the other forms to exercise horse in the way in which them, such as lunging, it looks and performs best. A which allows the horses to work show horse must give the impression without the interference of the rider. of covering the ground easily and fluently.

Every time I ride is for a purpose; there is The horse must be well balanced and work always something to improve and work harder without any obvious effort by the rider or towards perfection. I strive to have my horses any untoward resistance from the horse. The happy with the work/exercise they are doing. It’s whole picture should be pleasing to the eye. A important to me for them to move freely and

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without tension. It’s also equally as important to let them rest, so they do have days off.

Looking after horses is a big commitment; can you describe the routine?

I work full-time as a Print Production Manager for Fuji Xerox Business Centre, so I’m up early every morning generally around 5am and head straight to the stables. First I organise morning feeds for all the horses; I currently own four and have another in my care. I will work one of a morning while the other in the stable gets a head start on breakfast and a massage.

Once I’ve finished, I let the stabled horses out into their day paddocks, making sure they have the appropriate rugs on for the weather.

Then I feed them all and head up to clean the stables before I head off to work. After work in the evenings, the horse that was worked in the morning will come into the stable for a massage, whilst I work my other horse before I bring them into their stables for the night and give them their night feeds. I generally finish around 7pm. Needless to say, I’m very excited for Daylight Saving.

Horses are fascinating creatures with loads of personality. How do you connect with them?

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I owned a horse a few years ago g, but who was amazin e th impossible all at d ha e H e. tim e m sa d an s ou a very nerv ive ct ru st de lf almost se personality.”

“ It can either happen really quickly - you fall in love with them and they sense that and respond in kind, or, it can take some time to connect.

It’s important to know your horse’s background and where they came from and spend time with them in a manner that reinforces their trust - simple things like grooming, washing, and lots of praise. Interact with him in a way that makes him feel secure.

Above all else, you need patience; it’s an important bond to have, so it isn’t one you want to force.

What breed is best for the sport?

There isn’t a particular breed that is “best” for it. I personally love Thoroughbreds; they have this ability to step out into the ring and just command people’s attention with their presence and charisma. But they can also have a “hot” behaviour, so as a rider you need to be able to manage their exuberance.

Do you have a favourite horse?

That’s hard! I couldn’t pick one. All the horses I’ve had, past and present, have all been so uniquely different and have each taught me something different. I’ve never owned an “easy” horse. Three of the horses I currently own probably standout the most: Ben, Blue and Spanner. Ben has a very big personality and a lot of character; he knows what he likes and

doesn’t like and can have a bit of a temper (which you can only laugh at), but he can also be a big softie. He's also one of the most spectacular horses to own and ride. Blue is very much a people horse; he will gladly stand around you all day, especially if there are treats involved. Spanner is the horse I have the biggest bond with. He has been with me for over 12 years; he has since been retired and is happy going on trail rides with my mum and living like a king.

There is a fair bit of grooming involved and presentation for both horse and rider.Can you briefly explain what is involved?

There is a lot of grooming; it’s an extremely important daily routine, especially for the overall coat health. I groom daily, which includes all over body, hooves, manes and tails as well as a weekly bath, clipping and trimming of the legs, mane and tail. Preparing the horse on show day has the same vibe as if you were preparing a model for the catwalk: manes are braided and rolled into rosettes, all points of the horse are highlighted with makeup, nose, eyes, legs and hindquarters are marked. All gear must be

cleaned and polished, and the rider should be neat, tidy and present themselves with the same level of care.

Outside of competing, do you ride purely for fun?

Most of the year is filled with competitions and training, but I do love taking the boys down to the beach for a relaxing ride, then they can have a swim and a roll in the sand.

What do you love most about the sport?

I love my team mates, being able to perform with amazing talented creatures who have minds of their own and weigh 500+kg; it’s poetry in motion.

What have been your best achievements so far?

I owned a horse a few years ago who was amazing, but impossible all at the same time. He had a very nervous and almost self destructive personality. With perseverance, hard work and a lot of patience with him, I was winning champion and supreme champion open rider classes. That was a defining moment

for me. None of my horses have been easy since.

What advice would you give to anyone who would like to get involved?

There is no age barrier; anyone can learn. If you don’t have your own horse but you want to learn, there are places on the Coffs Coast where you can go and have private lessons. If you have your own horse, I would recommend joining one of the local riding clubs. They always provide great outings and events for the local area, covering a wide range of disciplines.

What are your goals and hopes for the future?

My goal for the future is to have my horses competing at a national level and to train my young ones to compete at the same high standard. My husband and I are also in the process of turning our property into an equine training facility. We hope to provide full-time care and training for time poor people. Overall, I love horses and training them and competing, so as long as I am involved I will be happy.

Thanks Emma. coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

LOCAL BROTHERS MITCH MCGUIRE AND TOM SECCOMBE HAVE A GREAT PRIDE IN AND PASSION FOR BIG RIGS AND THE ROAD.

SIX DAYS A WEEK IS SPENT DRIVING UP AND DOWN THE EAST COAST OF AUSTRALIA, ENSURING LOCAL BUILDERS RECEIVE THE MATERIALS THEY NEED TO HELP DEVELOP THE COFFS COAST. THE BROTHERS HAVE JUST COME BACK FROM THE CASINO TRUCK SHOW WITH SOME PRETTY IMPRESSIVE AWARDS. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THEM BOTH TO FIND OUT WHAT THEY LOVE ABOUT THE INDUSTRY AND WHY THEY LOVE WHAT THEY DO ...

I got my truck as licence when I w st y fir 20 years old. M orth nw Ke a in as w trip ing week w llo fo e th 50 T9 Brown at e av while on le a great & Hurley. It was e to lif milestone in my ro ad e th drive freely on n.” io is rv pe without su

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here were you both born and raised?

Mitch: I was born in Coffs Harbour in 1986 and moved to Queensland when I was approx. four, so my father could manage the Brisbane Transport Depot. We moved back to Coffs Harbour when I was 10, and I now live here with my own family. I have two children: Billy, who is three, and Georgia, 10 months. My wife, Sarah Jane, and I now have our own transport business, M&S Freighters Coffs Harbour.

Tom: I was born in Queensland in 1992, and 16 coffs coast focus.

moved to Coffs Harbour when I was about four years old; it has been my home town ever since. I also now have my own transport business along with my mum, KT Haulage.

Tell us about your upbringing in the transport industry …

Mitch: I have been around trucks on a daily basis for as long as I can remember, but I knew from a young age that I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps and make my career goal to one day have my own transport business. After leaving school, I completed a diesel mechanic apprenticeship with Brown & Hurley, Coffs Harbour.

Tom: As a kid, I didn’t really like trucks. I was

more focused on my football career, until one day my mum took me to the shops and bought me a work shirt and a pair of King Gees. I spent the rest of the day with my dad at the transport depot, and that was it ... I loved it! Ever since that day, trucks have been my passion.

Nothing could be more rewarding than climbing behind the wheel of a rig for your first ever run as a professional driver.

Tell us about your first experience as a qualified truck driver …

Mitch: I was 20 years old when I got my HC licence, and I remember my first trip it was in a Kenworth T950 the following week while on leave from Brown & Hurley. It was a great milestone in my life to drive freely on the road without supervision.

Tom: I still remember the day I got my HC licence; I delivered a load of concrete blocks in a Kenworth T908, and it was such a great feeling.

I was 20 years old. Prior to that I had spent many

years in the truck with my old man, but it was great to be behind the wheel on my own.

How does licensing work? Is a truck licence hard to get, and what is the process?

Mitchell: It has changed a fair bit since I got my licence. I had to hold a HR licence for 12 months before I could upgrade to a HC licence, which allows you to tow one trailer.

Tom: After holding my car licence for two years, I was able to upgrade to a heavy rigid licence for 12 months, then continue to a HC licence, which allows you to tow a single trailer.

Once I held that licence for 12 months, I upgraded to a MC, which is what I currently hold. This allows me to tow a B-Double combination.

Tell us about the types of trucks you drive and what you love about them.

Mitch: I own and drive a Kenworth T950. Besides my family, it is my pride and joy. I drove this truck originally for my father, and my wife and I later bought it - around 8 years ago now. I have added plenty of extras over time, which makes my week at work more enjoyable.

Tom: I own and drive a Kenworth T904. I upgraded from a Western Star six months ago, which was hard to part with, although I couldn’t be happier with my new Kenworth. Most weekends are spent washing, polishing and servicing the trucks with my best mate, Mick. Couldn’t think of a better way to spend my weekends.

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ey The last Kemps k uc tr show I won es hi op tr t of the show, bu so al ’s It s. nu are just a bo tch a great way to ca ers iv dr w llo fe up with munity m co e th r fo d an the to interact with ry in a st du in t transpor positive light . ”

“ Give us a brief rundown on how your working week pans out.

Mitch: I normally hit the road late on a Sunday afternoon. Each week varies as to where I load or unload, although I usually travel between Brisbane and Sydney, depending on our freight demands for the week. On average I am in Brisbane and Sydney twice a week, which is good, because it gives me one day at home during the week. We mainly carry building materials.

Tom: I also leave on a Sunday afternoon. My week varies, but I normally do three trips to Brisbane a week, also carrying building materials into Coffs Harbour, which means we both play a vital role in supplying products to local businesses.

You have just come back from the Casino truck show, with a few trophies to add to the trophy cabinet. Tell us about the categories you won and what was involved.

Mitch: I won the Judge’s elite award, which means my truck was voted one of the top five trucks of the show, which is a great reward for the amount of hours spent cleaning and polishing most weekends.

Tom: I won my category, truck five to 10 years old, which I was stoked with, Mick and I spend a lot of time keeping it shiny.

Tell us about some of the other shows you have entered and categories you have won over the years …

Tom: Growing up in the transport industry with our father, Paul, meant every year he would enter his entire fleet in the annual Grafton truck show.

It is just something we loved doing as a family, and over the years we have brought home quite a few trophies.

Mitch: The last Kempsey show I won truck of the show, but trophies are just a bonus. It’s also a great way to catch up with fellow drivers and for the community to interact with the transport industry in a positive light.

No matter how well a truck driver plans a trip, there are countless variables that will stand in your way. What struggles do you both face regarding deadlines and the public’s perception of your profession?

Mitch: It’s sad when the public’s perception of our profession is so generalised; we try our best to meet deadlines safely and professionally. As long

as you follow the requirements of your log book and sleep when you’re tired, then things generally run smoothly.

Tom: Social media gives society the freedom to voice their opinion publicly, which I think is OK, but if you don’t know enough about the industry and what we do, then it can sometimes be misleading. We work hard and tirelessly to transport goods from one place to another late at night, away from our families and by the rules. I personally love what I do, and I am responsible on the road.

So how does a new driver survive their hectic, stressful, tiring, demanding, and incredibly challenging first six months on the job?

Mitch: If you’re tired, go to bed. Life is not worth risking for a deadline.

Tom: I agree. Rest when you can, be patient on the road and take your time. Life’s a journey, not a race.

What is the best part of your job?

Tom: Finishing the week and having a few hard earned drinks with friends like Mick & Julie while sitting back and admiring the truck. It’s also great to meet different people on the road and swap stories.

Mitch: Being on the open road and meeting new people. It’s a great feeling when your three year old son knows the sound of your truck when it’s not even in sight.

If you could travel any road in the world, where would it be and why?

Mitch: Route 66, but in a Winnebago.

Tom: The Nullarbor. I’d rather see what our country has to offer in my T904.

What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast?

Mitch: It’s a great place to raise a family. I have lived here most of my life, and there is no place like home.

Tom: What’s not to like? It’s a great town, and this is where my friends and family live.

Tom’s tip: find a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life.

Thanks Mitch and Tom.

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Nadira Perera Meet Nadira Perera, who was born in Sri Lanka and lived in France for 20 years, before migrating to Australia.

As a beauty salon and spa owner, Nadira has a passion for French style treatments along with prestige French beauty products.

Nadira loves sharing all her knowledge and skills learned from across the globe.

colouring book meet a

local.

FROM $9.95 AT LOVE & KISSES. We are always looking for different ways to relax, de-stress and zone out from the pressures of our day to day lives. If you didn't find a way to escape every now and again, you'd be pulling your hair out, right? This creative hobby is just what we need to unwind. Colouring pencils at the ready! From $9.95 at Love & Kisses.

What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? Moving to Bellingen back in 2010 from a city like Paris, where I had spent 20 years of my life, was possibly the greatest change I have ever experienced - but I sure don't regret it! I love the fact that here, on the Coffs Coast, everything is within reach: the ocean, the river, the mountains ... But most of all, I'm grateful for all the wonderful people I've met here in the last five years.

Everyone is open-minded and very accepting, and I couldn't imagine having a beauty salon anywhere else where I am able to have such a close and personal relationship with my customers. Being surrounded by such beautiful landscapes has really helped me find peace, and I am so thankful to my husband, without whom I would never have found myself in this wonderful place!

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joshua allen Meet Joshua Allen, who has a passion for creating meaningful and memorable food events that inspire people to get in touch with farmers and learn more about food origins and the farming methods used to grow the food their family eats.

meet a

local.

If you could cook a meal favourite Pinot Noir from for anyone, who would Freycinet in Tasmania) in you cook for and what a big Riedel glass, fire stes Although my ta dish would you cook up our wood fired g change accordin them? Although my oven with some g in to what's growin tastes change according aromatic wood and really season , I would hnny to what's growing in prepare him one Jo love to cook for season, I would really of our Pumpkin is ho Di Francesco, w e th love to cook for Johnny Blue pizzas with on the chef that w ita er gh ar Di Francesco, who is caramelised onion, m world’s best ” n. the chef that won the crumbled Gorgonzola, io competit world’s best margherita Brazilian spinach, Swiss competition. At our paddockBrown mushrooms, our to-plate eating experience, I would three cheese mix and shallots, have him sitting comfortably at our long drizzled with garlic oil and our six table on Synchronicity Farm. After taking in secret herbs and spices, served on our the ambience and discussing the intricacies famous twice fermented base with fresh of cooking exceptional pizza, I would serve salads from the garden. I might even be bold him a glass of beautiful wine (most likely my enough to cook him one of our margherita!

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of The • 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 and mint, The Kraken Dark Spiced Rum, house syrup, soda, plenty of crushed ice and a sprinkle of aromatic bitters … The perfect refresher to put your feet up with on a sunny spring day!

love & kisses Judy wasn’t joking when she said Love & Kisses would have new stock arriving every day from now ‘til Christmas! This week they’ve had a big new delivery of the beautiful bright leather wallets and bags from the Italian mywalit company, and also lots of new Oran leather bags in black, browns and a lovely new forest green leather. There are new watches for you to try, and lots of new little “Paris Lady” necklaces.

But the biggest load to arrive was four enormous cartons of new jewellery boxes - and there are still more to come! So this year you can choose from the traditional leather-look in lots of styles and colours, or shiny lacquerware, or wooden musical boxes, or rustic timber ... or for little girls there are dozens of musical boxes with fairies and ballerinas and butterflies. Big girl boxes range from $13.95 to $80, and little girl boxes from $17.95 to $29.95.

Love & Kisses is renowned for their Christmas decorations, and Judy says they’re all flooding in now, so it’s lucky she has plenty of storage space. They’ll all go out at the end of October, so hold off buying until you can look there first!

For a feel-good shopping experience, Love & Kisses is definitely the place to go.

toormina physiotherapy Retraining of core stabilisers through use of Real Time Ultrasound. Why is the deep muscular corset so important?

The deep muscular corset helps to protect your spine from injury and works to stabilise all movement. In individuals who have never experienced low back pain, the deep muscular corset turns on or pre-activates (starts working) prior to movement of your arms or legs. It has been shown in studies that the function of the deep muscular corset may be stopped or altered, in the presence of pain. In individuals with low back pain, this preactivation is delayed or in many cases, absent. Current research is demonstrating the importance of retraining the deep muscular corset after an episode of low back pain.

New technology images deep muscular corset. At Toormina Physio we are using real time ultrasound as a feedback tool to teach and retrain how to contract the deep muscular corset. This ultrasound is used to view the deep muscular corset muscles and shows the muscular contractions (or lack of muscular contraction!)

Using this technology can help you to visualise the activation of your deep muscular corset muscles and start retraining your core immediately.

Contact Chris and the team today on (02) 6653 3850.

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

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

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

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

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

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focusbusiness

President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Martin Wells

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

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GREETINGS TO ALL THE FOCUS READERS FROM THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY IN SAWTELL.

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retail and community based projects. e trust you are enjoying the glorious spring The first of the Sawtell Summer Sessions will weather that the be held from 4pm on Thursday October 8th.

Coffs Coast is so well These are always fabulous family occasions and known for, as we enter feature entertainment for all ages under the fig the second month trees on First Avenue. During the evening a fashof spring and the second week of the school ion parade will get underway in support of the holidays. We have seen a good number Breast Cancer Foundation, featuring of visitors to our village enjoying some of the beautiful clothing the climate, as well as all the available from Sawtell's fashgreat variety of shopping and ion houses. As well as the il ta Small re dining that Sawtell has on fashion being on display, ch su ps stri offer. We continue to be t no e ar s Sawtell's other boull’ te as Saw complimented on the by ed ng le al tiques and retail outlets ch only eclectic and boutique itions, will be open during the economic cond pete m assortment of outlets on but must also co ts , evening, as will be our an Sawtell's First Avenue and with the retail gi many restaurants and ng pi op also the gentle and happy aka the maj or sh cafés. We look forward vibe that greets locals and centres.” to seeing you for the first visitors alike. of these wonderful events.

Many visitors are returning to The next Summer Session on Sawtell with their families after expeNovember 12th will now be part of riencing family holidays here themselves as the Our Living Coast Festival promoted by youngsters. These folk arrive with the expecCoffs Harbour City Council. tation that the next generation can experience It will encompass a Schools Spectacular, the same simple pleasures as they had done featuring musical performances drawn from local years ago. They are always pleasantly surprised schools, a children's parade in support of the when they notice the growth and changes to the Tern Up Sawtell (welcome home to the endanvillage, but relieved almost to see that the relaxed gered species, the Little Tern) and an information nature and mellow spirit that they remembered evening on the part of Wholly Organic to include still exists. a presentation, “From Crop to Shop, where do Small retail strips such as Sawtell's are not only my clothes come from?" dealing with sustainchallenged by economic conditions, but must able, organic and fair trade practices. More news also compete with the retail giants, aka the major on the November Summer Session to come. shopping centres. The Sawtell business owners The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is run by persist in their efforts to outdo the shopping a committed group of volunteers and meets on centres at their own game in terms of meeting a monthly basis. We are always grateful for any consumer demand, re-invention and generating support or assistance that is offered and welcome a buzz or an environment where people like to any enquiries. be. The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is greatly We look forward to seeing you in Sunny committed to these endeavours and works very hard all year in support of such and on various Sawtell!

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I’VE HAD QUITE A FEW PARENTS ASK ME MY VIEWS ON ONLINE GAMING AND THE DANGERS THIS MAY PRESENT TO CHILDREN.

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have to admit this is an area in our home that until recently has been pretty much the boys’ domain, as until I started this Cyber Mum quest, I was somewhat oblivious (like most mums) that the PlayStation/Xbox is actually an online device as well.

So let’s talk online gaming… An online game is a game played over a computer network, whether using a PC over the internet, via an internet-connected game console or on a handheld device such as a mobile phone or smartphone.

The nature of online games can vary greatly, from single-player games, to multi-player games, to community-based games in social networking sites (known as social gaming), or massive multiplayer online games (MMOGs) and massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPGs), where potentially millions of players are involved in the game at any one time. Some games are free, whereas others are subscription based or require credits to acquire virtual goods or possessions to proceed through the game.

Online gaming has become big business in recent years, and many games have a huge following the world over. To give some examples, FarmVille - a popular social game on Facebook, claimed 11.5 million active users within two months of launch and today has 37 million “likes”. Likewise, World of Warcraft (WoW) - one of the best-known MMORPGs has around 10 million subscribers. Interestingly, this game and Minecraft feature consistently in reports of concerning behaviours in young males due to the addictive nature of the games.

It is not all negative, however. Some people may find it difficult to establish regular social relationships in their own (real) communities, and for them, the online networks associated with gaming may actually help to boost their confidence and self-esteem. As with everything in life, however, there should be balance, and online interactions are no substitute for regular real-life interactions. But as fun and cool as online gaming is, there are some issues that should concern parents, including:

• Age appropriateness • Online interactions • Revealing too much personal information • Addictive tendencies • Impact on behaviour, health and welfare Like with other aspects of the digital era, we now live in an age where online gaming, like it or not, is part of our children’s world, and putting our foot down and banning it or choosing not to try and understand it is not a realistic option. My recommendations for parents don’t vary greatly from the strategies we should be employing for all online activities, and the list looks something like this: • For younger kids, establish rules for gaming just like the rules for iPods, iPhones, iPads, Tablets, Android phones and computers. Ensure the rules include things such as playing with people they know, not sharing personal information and agreed time limits. Write the rules out and laminate the sheet and leave it near the device, so your child remembers what is expected.

• Help your kids set up their accounts securely and if possible, set up WiFi time restrictions as well.

• Make sure you know what the game rating is; games are rated similarly to movies and TV shows. Would you let your 11 year old son go to the movies on his own to watch a MA 15+ movie?

• I can’t say it enough: talk to your kids! Engage with them and be interested (even if you are not), ask what they are playing? Who they are playing with? Even play with them occasionally. Get them to explain the game to you and show you how it works.

• Make sure they know they must log off and talk to you if they hear or see anything or any behaviour of concern.

But lastly, if you feel the game is taking over, it is time to say no! Online gaming problems can develop out of nowhere; as if overnight, the obsession goes from manageable to unmanageable very quickly. You may feel unpopular, but enforcing the rules you have established, like any family rule, is critical.

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Dining by the pool – Panfried Atlantic salmon on a roast kipfler potato, heirloom tomato & green bean salad from horizons

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

Venison and truffled mushroom risotto with a Caprese salad

Pizza Vino

fHerb & pinenut crusted Barramundi fillet with

Pizza Vino is Coffs Harbour’s newest place to eat and catch up with friends.

steamed brocolini and roast capsicum sauce.

Fully licensed, offering gourmet pizza, pasta, tapas and share food with a twist.

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm, for dine in or takeaway.

Open Friday and Saturday lunches and Sunday nights during school holidays.

the pier hotel At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new “Cellar Lounge”.

Pizza Vino Italian Pizzeria

Head Chef Adam Gallo

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

We welcome you to come down and feast your eyes on Coffs Harbour’s most historic hotel. With our winter menu about to finish up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new menu shortly. Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the great produce he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to the Pier Hotel.

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg

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.

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.

la hacienda 101 La Hacienda 101 is quickly making a name for itself for its authentic Mexican cuisine with a mix of Tex-mex favourites. With an extensive range of Mexican beers and tequila, the question begs - what to have first? Beer, tequila or margaritas? It is best to book in advance, especially heading into our busy period, as we already have functions that book out the restaurant. So, book your Xmas party now! Or join our day of dead celebrations, October 30th - 31st.

CAFFEINE CENTRAl café Yeah! Spring is finally here. It’s time for fresh salads, delicious wraps and tasty smoothies made with the fruits of the season.

We have a wide range of fresh wraps, sandwiches and burgers. If you can’t see something you like on the menu, design your own. There is a diverse range of specials available every day, and all the cakes, slices and biscuits are home made.

All our meals are available to dine in or takeaway, and don’t forget we have the smoothest coffee in town. Come into the heart of town, sit, relax and have a coffee and a laugh with us.

Owner Steve Calder.

Owners Michael and David.

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

101 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com Open 7 days during school holidays from 5pm ‘til EDST. (Daylight Saving). coffs coast focus.

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SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar

Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the new highway.

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

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

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

Conferences, wedding receptions, parties and celebrations.

Please join us.

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

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

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

Owner Carol Walsh

Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.

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

Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com

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

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

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

Have you tried our new Gourmet Pizza range?

There is a large selection to choose from, and you can have these eat in or takeaway. Come in and check out our takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. If a pizza is not what you are after, our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily.

pasfields restaurant BAr deck Enjoy Pasfields for a fine dining experience or casual meals.

Our first class food speaks for itself with our reviews.

Our ambience and setting is welcoming and stunning.

Birthdays, reunions, engagements ... We can tailor make to your budget.

Up to 300 guests.

Pasfields love weddings ... Come in and plan your perfect day in one appointment. $12 13” dine in pizza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 - 8pm.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm.

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

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

Head Chef Kim Robson.

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 October 30th dinner night, when we will be throwing a fun-filled evening of Oktoberfest celebrations! 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!

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.

horizons horizonsrestaurant restaurant && bar bar

PARTY, PARTY, Celebrate withPARTY! Us! June is Birthday in Horizons!

If you dine in Horizons on your actual Book NOW for Month your work Christmas party birthday, you will receive your main course free! Photo ID must be shown.

OR Book forWinter “Join aDinner Christmas Party”, 28th November 7pm.

Try our Menu Warm up this Winter thefunctions cold at Horizons Restaurant The organising is doneand for get you;out callofour team for more and Bar at Opal Cove Resort with a creative menu. Be tempted with the Chilli information. and salt flash fried squid with starts chorizo and black bean salad OR Pork Spring/Summer Dinner Menu 8th October Sirloin wrapped prosciutto andseason sage with roasted fennel, What better way toincelebrate a new thanmaple to launch a new menu to roasted kipfl er potatoes, caramelised green apple and port wine jus. take advantage of the best in seasonal produce!

Remember to leave room for dessert with the decedent Deconstructed For those who like desserts, leave room for our fantastic dessert selections. lemon and lime tart with citrus syrup and candied orange, yum!

Christmas Day now available; get in early.

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

Open breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week.

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

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

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

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

Head Chef David Ricketts.

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

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

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

plantation hotel Winter has rolled in and so has our new winter menu! With the cooler nights upon

beachstonecoffs café coast focus.

25 Boasting a fresh and exciting new menu featuring unique and delicious meals, from our

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H

Tastings on Hastings makes et a perfect gourm r fo ay weekend aw es ili m fa d couples an e th ng si ca ow alike, sh e in w very best food , on has and beer the regi to offer.”

“ ungry crowds will flock to the riverside to tempt their tastebuds and sample exciting new flavours, soak up the live entertainment and enjoy the food-fuelled

good vibes.

Attracting more than 100 exhibitors and 17,000 people from right across the North Coast and beyond, Tastings on Hastings has evolved into three action-packed days of culinary celebrations and is one of the region’s premier events.

Themed “Fire, Water, Harvest”, Tastings on Hastings 2015 will ignite all the senses with a smorgasbord of events, including a night time festival, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and the popular main event.

With a wide range of accommodation options available in Port Macquarie, many within walking distance to the festival, Tastings on Hastings makes a perfect gourmet weekend away for couples and families alike.

Exciting flavours from the regional food bowl Tastings on Hastings showcases the very best food, wine and beer the region has to offer, and last year featured more than 110 exhibitors, including farmers, artisans, food producers, wine

growers, brewers, restaurants and cafés.

Exhibitors come from the “100 Food Mile” region spanning from Port Stephens in the south, Armidale in the west, and Woolgoolga in the north.

Matt Moran will cook up a storm Celebrity chef Matt Moran will head to Port Macquarie for the weekend and is set to ignite the region’s passion for fresh local produce.

Matt Moran is a passionate foodie, successful restaurateur and a firm believer in reducing unnecessary waste and creating more sustainable food practices, making him the perfect match for Tastings on Hastings 2015.

Tickets to the Matt Moran dinners at The Stunned Mullet sold out in just four minutes, but visitors can still grab tickets to hear Matt’s top tips and tricks for the kitchen in a cooking demonstration on the Saturday.

Night time festival - Friday 6 November The weekend’s festivities will begin with a unique Fire Water Festival on the Town Green, which will see the foreshore alight with fire twirlers, lanterns, braziers and torches.

The Fire Water Festival will be a cultural fusion of local art, musical and street performers, night

FROM FRIDAY 6 TO SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER, PORT MACQUARIE WILL TRANSFORM INTO A FOOD-LOVERS’ PARADISE DURING THE 13TH ANNUAL TASTINGS ON HASTINGS FESTIVAL, PROUDLY PRESENTED BY PORT MACQUARIE-HASTINGS COUNCIL.

markets and an exciting array of food stalls.

This free event is open to the public from 4:30pm to 9:30pm.

Cooking demos, workshops and masterclasses - Saturday 7 November A tasty line-up of workshops and masterclasses will be held from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 7 November.

Matt Moran’s Love Food Hate Waste Cooking Demonstration will highlight how easy it is to reduce household food waste with recipe creations that utilise everyday leftover foods. The session will kick off with the announcement of the BioCup ArtSeries Competition Winner, and $5 from every ticket will be donated to food rescue organisation REAP by OzHarvest.

People interested in unlocking the nutritional value of food can learn about the secret microbial world of sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha with Sammi Zajko from Fermenting Australia.

Cheese lovers will learn how to make Paneer, Ricotta and Haloumi easily at home and sample a variety of homemade cheeses from Artisan Cheese Maker and Author Lyndall Dykes.

The afternoon sessions begin with a Wine Masterclass with a panel of experts from Wine

Selectors, who will explore some hidden gems from NSW’s less well known vineyard regions such as the nearby New England. Attendees will have an opportunity to taste surprising varieties such as Fiano, Arneis, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo.

Those who enjoy a good brew can learn more about boutique beers with Australia’s leading beer writer, broadcaster and educator Matt Kirkgaard, and sample some exciting new styles.

Tickets range from $10 to $25 and can be purchased via www.glasshouse.org.au Popular main event - Sunday 8 November The ever-popular main event from 9am to 4pm on Sunday 8 November will provide visitors with the opportunity to sample new products, chat with producers, share tasting plates, shop for local produce and enjoy the entertainment on the Town Green.

Entry is just $5 and provides access to several exciting precincts including the Farmers’ Markets, the Restaurant Precinct, the Main Stage, the Beer and Wine Precinct and the Makers’ Markets.

While sitting back to savour the flavours of the festival, visitors will enjoy a great line-up of live entertainment, including the soulful sounds of popular North Coast singer Lisa Hunt and more.

For all the event action, head to tastingsonhastings.com.au, sign up for the newsletter and follow us on facebook.com/tastingsonhastings

Featuring Celebrity Chef

MATT MORAN

F R I D AY 6 - S U N D AY 8 N O V E M B E R

#TOH2015

For a full schedule of events visit

www.tastingsonhastings.com.au 26 coffs coast focus.

COASTfront REALTY

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focusinterview.

ollowing on from the success of their It enhances, not changes really. You always love album Certified Blue last year, The Black the things that you started loving. You can get tired Sorrows released Endless Sleep on the of something and find something else, but you'll 17th April 2015. The LPs are a tribute always come back to the thing that you first fell in to the likes of Lou Reed, JJ Cale, John Coltrane, love with, because you're attracted to it. What really Captain Beefheart, Hank Williams, Skip James broadened my outlook is not only being a music and more. After reading Joe's biography, A Life in fan, but also hanging out with like minded, musical Music, I dialled the telephone eagerly to find out people. They show you something and you show more about the Blues Rock legend. them something, and it changes you and you really How were The Black Sorrows born? get something out of that. I love Folk Blues records Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons broke up, and and was introduced to Jazz Blues about six months later I formed The records, which I hadn't heard Black Sorrows, because I really much of. I have just grown wanted to play again. This gave into music genres and keep When I was me the opportunity to start discovering things. When ’t dn di younger, I again. I love music and what I was younger, I didn't ly al re be think I would l ca I do. It's a perfect job - you think I would be really si as Cl in interested ry ve make people happy, and you interested in Classical am I t bu music, usic m l ca make yourself happy at the music, but I am very si as Cl of fond use I ca be , same time. fond of Classical music ra pe O d an sed to You were born in Malta in and Opera, because I have have been expo the central Mediterranean been exposed to it. When it.” between Sicily and the North it's good, it's really good, and African coast. What do you love there is a reason why people are about Mediterranean Europe? so attracted to it. I'm always looking It's a beautiful place, and I love Europe. I'm for something different. really enjoying being in Norway and Sweden at If you could play music with anyone, the moment, because it's ancient ground and has dead or alive, who would it be? a real story to tell, and it's very rich in history and Ray Charles comes to mind for me. I would culture. We are currently staying near a river, and be too scared to strike a note, but I would love this afternoon I saw a man fishing for trout and to sit there next to him and he would be saying salon in the river - it's a picture you wouldn't often something like, "That's how you do it, son - hear see in the heart of the cities of Australia. I try to see this" and play. If I was able to play with Ray Charles, as much of the Mediterranean as I can. that would be the highlight of my life.

Has your music tastes changed over the years?

Thanks for staying up late to chat to us, Joe.

“

J O E

C A M I L L E R I

IT WAS 1:30AM EUROPEAN TIME WHEN I CALLED JOE CAMILLERI. 30 MINUTES EARLIER, JOE WAS PLAYING IN FRONT OF THOUSANDS OF FANS ON A SWEDISH STAGE AS LEAD VOCALS, SAXOPHONE AND LEAD GUITAR WITH THE BLACK SORROWS.

LIVE IN THE BEER GARDEN

The Black Sorrows THE MOONEE BEACH TAVERN FRIDAY OCTOBER 16TH

TICKETS ON SALE AT THE TAVERN | ONLINE-OZTIX | PARK BEACH MUSIC & HIFI PH: 6653 6199 | 2 MOONEE BEACH RD, MOONEE BEACH | MOONEEBEACHTAVERN.COM.AU coffs coast focus.

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A TRANSFIGURED

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thirsty merc

NIGHT

SHIFTING GEARS

THE COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL CONSERVATORIUM PRESENTS A RARE PERFORMANCE OF TWO OUTSTANDING CHAMBER WORKS ON SATURDAY 3RD OCTOBER AT COFFS HARBOUR EDUCATION CAMPUS.

A

s part of the Coffs Harbour Conservatorium String School, which is attracting 38 talented violin, viola, cello and double bass playing students from around the state for a week of rehearsals and workshops, nine of Australia’s finest professional string players will come together for a landmark Chamber Music performance on Saturday 3rd October. Featuring on the programme are two works that are considered amongst the greatest Chamber Music works in the classical repertoire Schoenberg’s Verklärte Nacht (Transfigured Night) and Schubert’s Trout Quintet. A world premiere performance of Australian composer Leanne Bear’s whimsical Postcards to Hungary for piano trio will join these magnificent works.

Born in Austria in 1874, Arnold Schoenberg crossed generations with his compositions, from luscious late romanticism to the more avant garde 12 tone music that has divided audiences for many years. He was a complicated man, intelligent, a renowned painter, part of the expressionist movement and leader of the Second Viennese School, and suffering from triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13). He spent his life terrified that he would die in a year divisible by 13, and died on Friday 13th, when he was 76. One of his earlier works, Verklärte Nacht, is a deeply romantic and beautiful one movement piece inspired by Richard Dehmel’s poem of the same name and scored for two violins, two violas and two cellos (string sextet). The poem tells of a couple walking on a moonlit night, and the woman’s anguish over having to admit that she is carrying a stranger’s baby.

Her partner very gallantly assures her that while

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the moon still shines on them, all will be well.

It’s a simple poem, but through the eyes of Schoenberg becomes one of the greatest works for strings of all time, and will now receive its Coffs Harbour debut. The ensemble will be led by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s Associate Concertmaster, Kirsten Williams. Joining her are members of Sydney’s Enigma Quartet, violist Tor Fromyhr and Artistic Director and cellist Trish O’Brien. Those who own a Samsung washing machine will be strangely familiar with Schubert’s Trout Quintet, the main tune of which is played at the end of the spin cycle in late model machines. In all seriousness, the Trout (Quintet for piano and strings in A major, D667) is one of the most popular quintets in the classical music repertoire but rarely played, if ever, in Coffs Harbour. The piece demands the highest level of technique and uses the unusual instrumentation of piano, violin, viola, cello and double bass. Sydney double bassist Jennifer Druery will join Kirsten Williams, Tor Fromyhr, Trish O’Brien and our own Leanne Swanson in this special performance for Coffs Harbour.

Tickets are available for this and all of the String School performances on the String School page of the Conservatorium website www.coffscon. org.au On the day following the Schoenberg Schubert concert, the students become the featured artists in a Grand String Orchestra concert, highlighting a week of inspiration and learning.

The sound of a string orchestra is akin to eating a block of the finest chocolate or walking through a grove of tall green trees - there’s a richness and power that is addictive and satisfying. If you want proof, book your tickets now!

FORMING IN 2002, THIRSTY MERC NOW CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF THEIR BRAND NEW ALBUM, SHIFTING GEARS, THEIR FIRST NEW MATERIAL IN FIVE YEARS, INDEPENDENTLY - AND VERY DIFFERENTLY! FOCUS SIT DOWN WITH VOCALIST, SONGWRITER AND CO-FOUNDER, RAI THISTLETHWAYTE, TO FIND OUT MORE.

W

hat should we expect from Coffs Coast? you new album?

It gets more and more beautiful. When you A little bit more acoustic guitars actually hit Coffs Coast, you feel all of the and a little bit more story telling. stresses of the urban centres just slip off you.

It has an honest narrative element to it. From You've got these beautiful sub-tropical places, early feedback, it speaks lyrically about where which becomes more apparent across the Coffs someone’s place is and where they find home Coast, Yamba and Byron Bay. and also more complex and deeper feelings of We have some avid surfers in the band, so we family love. That’s what I find that the love having a nice breakfast at one of the album is about.

Surf Clubs on the Coffs Coast.

Who will be supporting The audience in Coffs is always you? nice and welcoming when we It’s a very We have various have played at several venues Australian opening artists across the Coffs Coast over al bum in many throughout the tour. For the years. Everyone is very ways, and going a u the Coffs Coast we have enthusiastic. overseas gives yo e iv unique perspect Brother Fox supporting Do you have any idols? ve on where you ha us.

Yeah, absolutely. There come from . ” We have a great have been a lot of musical Australian mix on the inspirations; I'd say a lot of airwaves. Where do you inspiration has came from British think the industry is heading?

Blues bands that broke out in the early I have been living between both ‘70s - Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin to name a Sydney and California. I know there are a couple. There are also a lot of Australian bands lot of artists - for example, Lisa Mitchell, that are really inspiring and fun to hang out with. who has been living and working in London, so What are Thirsty Merc's plans for 2016? you get a lot of great Australian artists who are There's going to be a lot of touring coming working overseas, and that shows what I have up, and that is our focus at the moment; there is always consistently felt ... Which is that Australia a huge to-do list! We did a little bit of recording has always had a huge pool of talent ... on the latest album which might be the start of a Living in California, did this influence the new album - so wait and see! new album?

Thanks Rai. Yeah, in a way. Some of the lyrics have been written about isolation, travel, the logistical the plug! difficulties of having to travel around all of the time, as well as the stresses that come with that.

Catch Thirsty Merc at The Hoey Moey It’s a very Australian album in many ways, and Sunday 18th October. going overseas gives you a unique perspective on where you have come from. In a way, it was FREE SHOW a return to being able to dive back into life here in Australia. www.thirstymerc.com What do you love about playing on the

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ed by the Inspir

Power of Nature LIVING COAST FESTIVAL

The very first Living Coast Festival will take place from 1- 30 November 2015 celebrating the natural beauty of the Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Nambucca regions and providing sustainable living inspiration.

T

he Coffs Harbour Sustainable Living Day on Sunday 1 November at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, will be the signature event for the Coffs region.

Join special guest Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC’s Gardening Australia in the beautiful setting of the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens.

“My philosophy on life is pretty simple and hinges on food. Without food, our bodies don’t have fuel, and without fuel we can’t operate. To grow good quality local food, you need to understand nature and the natural ecosystems that underpin everything we do,” says Costa.

Visit the stalls to buy native plants, herbs and veggie seedlings, local artisan foods, arts and crafts, investigate solar power for your house and get advice on the best way to rid your garden of weeds.

Try the Kids’ Zone with live reptile shows, story-time and hands-on craft and gardening activities, relish the delicious tastes from myriad food stalls, or just kick back and enjoy the live music.

Coffs Solar Energy - the proud Gold sponsor of the Living Coast Festival - will be offering FREE tech help for householders with solar panels. Experienced technicians will be on hand to answer any questions about maintenance of existing systems at the Coffs Solar Energy stall.

Entry is by gold coin donation.

The headline festival event for the Bellingen region is the Bello Spring LEAF Festival from 2 - 22 November. Highlights include the opening of the Sustainability Learning Centre

at the Stables in Bellingen, the launch of the Bellingen Shire Local Food Guide, Permaculture Workshops at Northbank Community Garden, EcoFaith and Active Hope Workshops, a Love Food Hate Waste workshop, as well as a Bellingen Environmental Youth Experience (EYE) camp and Centre for Ecological Learning bushwalk for adults.

In Nambucca, the focus will be the Nambucca River Festival on 28 - 29 November in Macksville. The Festival includes water fun, water ski show, kayaks and paddle craft, raft racing, power boat races, as well as the Brian Cockbain Memorial Cycle Ride around the River.

Plus, there will be heaps of entertainment, food and wine stalls showcasing local produce, various market stalls and carnival rides.

The climax will be the Lantern Parade down the river after dark, followed by fireworks over the river and a musical street party to dance the night away.

Throughout November there will also be over thirty additional festival events held across the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Council areas. These include arts and cultural happenings and exhibitions, nature tours, local food and gardening workshops and also business forums and workshops.

To check out what’s on offer, or for more information on events in the lead-up to the Festival, go to www.ourlivingcoast.com.au The Living Coast Festival is an initiative of the Our Living Coast Regional Sustainability Alliance of Coffs Harbour City Council, Bellingen Shire Council and Nambucca Shire Council. coffs coast focus.

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ALPINE focusinterview.

OFF THE BACK OF THEIR TOUR OF THE STATES, ALPINE WILL BE HITTING OUR SUNNY SHORES FOR FESTIVAL OF THE SUN, BRINGING WITH THEM THEIR ECLECTIC POP MUSIC AND STORY BOOK ADVENTURE ON-STAGE VIBE ….

Y

ou guys are on the bill for “FOTSUN” this year. What are you looking forward to the most?

Coming from Melbourne, at the moment it’s freezing and grey and a bit sad, so we are looking forward to having the sunshine and the warmth - something we’re not used to in Melbourne.

And I think just being in a festival environment always has a real sense of escapism - being in an outside performance space, you can really see the people in the crowd, so you get to share the experience with everyone, and that’s something that we love. If the crowd’s having a good time, we vibe off the crowd.

What experience can we expect from your show on the stage, and what sort of vibe will you be pumping out?

It’s a very energetic live show. In our band there are six members, and it’s very much like an adventure story book watching an Alpine show. Everyone has got their own thing happening, and it can look quite chaotic - I think that’s what makes it quite special.

Phoebe and I are the two female lead co-vocalists and performers; we’re bringing that girl power back. I think we perform in a way that’s quite raw; we don’t try to perform like we’re really good dancers, we know that we’re not, we just wanna move to the music and just have that sense of freedom that comes with however you want to express yourself. We definitely want to get people to kind of feel like they’re involved with it as well …

It’s been three years since you released your debut album, A is for Alpine. How 30 coffs coast focus.

There are moments pass where I can just over e on ph the micro d an d ow cr to the ing the fans are sing st ju ’s at along, and th ” amazing.

“

has your sound progressed, and how has that been reflected on your new album, Yuck?

When we did A is for Alpine, we had just sorta emerged as a band, and we were still trying to formulate what our sound was. A lot of people compared us to Phoenix and Lykke Li ...

There was definitely, I guess, a sense of innocence to the music, and then three years later I think we’ve really as a band understood what our influences are. We’ve become a lot more confident; there’s definitely a lot more sass and elements of ‘90s R&B mixed in with a little bit of Hip Hop. There’s a assertiveness in the way Phoebe and I have explored new territories.

A is for Alpine was about trying to understand the world around us and understand ourselves individually, and I think when we came to writing Yuck, those three years were a long time. I think Pheebs and I had grown up a little bit more and realised more things and also realised that life still does stay difficult and great and exciting ... And I guess commenting on that and realisations and the realities of things when you come into your own bit more, you’re kind of owning it and not being afraid of it.

Speaking of your new album, the title, Yuck - what is this in reference to?

So, the title came from the first song we started writing, Foolish; it’s a lyric in that song.

It’s a reaction to a relationship that ended -

you know you kind of relapse sometimes and it’s hard to completely walk away from a good thing, even though you know it’s past its used by date. So the word “Yuck”, just really ended up summing up the album. It’s kind of playful as well; I think yuck is quite a funny word. When you say “yuck”, you know you’ve had a really raw reaction to something, and you don’t ever want it to happen again, whether it’s like a smell or an experience, or something that you’ve seen. So it just seemed to be this word that really kind of summed up the attitude of the album, and it still brought it back to our genre of Pop Music.

The last few years touring must’ve brought along some memorable experiences. What has been the highlight?

We got to headline Metro in the Forum for the Sydney and Melbourne theatre shows, which has always been a dream of ours. It’s so amazing to think where we started, to this recent tour and the huge turnout that we had, and people were singing along to the songs.

There are moments where I can just pass the microphone over to the crowd and the fans are singing along, and that’s just amazing. You really start to recognise longevity and fans and supporters of our music … And then in terms of shows that we’ve done, touring with Empire of the Sun across America was incredible. We got to perform on Jimmy Kimmel, which was again amazing - I felt like it was over in two seconds, because I was just so high on adren-

aline. The fact that we get to tour anyway is incredible; a lot of bands don’t even get to the stage that we’ve got to, so every time we get to go anywhere or go to an airport to play a show is pretty much a highlight.

The future for Alpine is looking bright.

What’s on the horizon?

We are about to head off to the States again, and we’re doing a really big tour with a band called Joywave. We have festivals like Falls Festival coming up as well, and we want to get straight back into the studio as soon as we come back; we are really keen to get our third album in the works. I think it’s just as many shows as we can get thrown at us; we are ready to do that and keep creating and writing. You never know what’s around the corner - we are just stoked to be able to do it.

Lastly, where can our readers follow your journey and purchase your music?

We are across pretty much most of the Social Media platforms, and it’s @alpineband so, instagram, twitter, and Facebook. The music you can get on iTunes or you can purchase at JB Hi-Fi. You can watch our music videos on YouTube.

Interview with Lou James.

the plug!

Catch ALPINE at FOTSUN. 11th - 12th December.

For full lineup and tickets, head to www.fotsun.com For enquiries email info@fotsun.com

PRESENTED BY TRIPLE J, THE MUSIC, SOUTHERN CROSS TEN, FOCUS & SAND EVENTS

11-12 DEC PORT MACQUARIE

SUNDOWNER BREAKWALL TOURIST PARK

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THU DAMENTA L S

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ION R CA L M O S E A N RE L • G R LIGERE

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coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

LAUNCHING STUNNING NEW ALBUM

THE LAST TIME JODI MARTIN VISITED THE EAST COAST, HER TOUR WAS A SELL OUT! JODI'S VERY EXCITED TO REVISIT THE AREA, AS SHE HAS SOME NEW STORIES AND SOME NEW SONGS TO UNVEIL ...

Fri 9 October, 8pm

Crescent Head Public School Communal Hall

Sat 10 October, 8pm Glasshouse Theatre, Port Macquarie

Sun 11 October, 4pm

Pacific Palms Recreation Club

Thurs 15 October, 7pm dinner for 8pm show Bent on Food, Wingham

(Akoostik Festival Pre-show)

Sat 24 October, 8pm Bangalow Bowling Club

Fri 30 October, 8pm

No 5 Church Street, Bellingen

Sat 31 October, 8pm

Pelican Playhouse, Grafton

NEW ALBUM OUT NOW! download your free track at

www.jodimartin.com

32 coffs coast focus.

elcome back ... What have you been up to since we last caught up?

Touring with the single Saltwater in My Hair has been taking me on some amazing adventures, playing shows from Port Fairy Folk Festival in Victoria to Cairns to Darwin and a regional South Australian tour. I was lucky enough to spend four weeks on tropical Groote Eylandt as well, running songwriting workshops in remote communities and playing a couple of shows there too.

I am loving these regional tours, and my dream is to cover the whole country.

I want to play more than just the capital cities with the Saltwater album! I was based in Canada for several years playing music over there, and when I returned to Australia, I stopped touring for a while so I could move back to my hometown to be close to my family through a very difficult time. So being on the road again and reconnecting with my people and my place means a lot to me.

You’re back this October for another tour along the East Coast. Your last tour was sold out ... How does it feel to come back to somewhere after having such a great first encounter with the area?

It is very special to be back, for many reasons - particularly because the Mid to North Coast of NSW is like a second home to me, as it is where I came of age as an artist at 19 and found my voice. On my January tour here, the people were amazing and made me feel so welcome to be back on every level. It’s important to me to honour that.

What made you decided to come back so soon?

What I am loving the most about being

Although I’m e not releasing th y ad re al single yet, I have d in an o made the vide le’s response to peop them ve gi to t an w I votes, by w ie ev pr k ea sn the at o de vi e screening th !” ur to is th on s the show

“

back on the road is connecting with people from friends who have known me for the longest time to new ones.

I turn my raw life experiences into songs, and it’s amazing to share these with people who have gone through similar things in life, and get to hear their stories as well.

It’s a really special thing, and I don’t want to leave it too long before I see everyone again.

I am also coming back on a promise! It was really fun to have audiences voting on songs during the last tour… At every show, people voted for which song they wanted to be the next single and music video to be released. The clear winner was Diesel, with 11 out of 12 shows winning the Diesel vote! Although I’m not releasing the single yet, I have already made the video and in response to people’s votes, I want to give them the sneak preview by screening the video at the shows on this tour!

What can our readers expect for this show?

A subtle change is that there is more music and less talking this time around.

Of course, stories are an important part of a Jodi Martin show, and I will always make sure that the strongest and funniest stories get told. Actually, one of these stories is about a near-death experience which was one of my most embarrassing moments ever - and it actually happened on my last tour here, near Coffs Harbour.

I love telling this humbling true story to have a good laugh - and it’s also a great philisophical lesson for life!

I am really excited about unveiling some brand new songs on this tour as well.

These are songs that have been born on the road as I’ve been touring the first single Saltwater in My Hair around the country.

In the last few years leading up to this album I’ve faced some big losses, and as the tour has gone on, I have realised that there is more to say than I initially thought. More songs have been flowing out to become the soundtrack of this chapter of my life.

What are your plans after your tour is complete?

After the next couple months of touring, including the Great Ocean Road tour in November/December 2015, I plan to take some time out with family, hit the beach, reflect some more and do some more writing which will come from these coming dates.

The new Saltwater album was birthed after a very tough couple of years, where I faced a great deal of loss - most painfully being the loss of my brother. Initially I thought I had finished the Saltwater album, and said everything I wanted to say.

But the more I’ve gone on, the more I’ve realised how much this record has affected me. As I’ve talked with people about their own experiences, I now know there is more to say before I close this chapter.

I’m currently back in the studio with Shane Nicholson recording one of these new songs and knowing there’s more I need to say about the Saltwater story, I can say that the record will be re-released some time next year, with the second chapter. And for anyone who has bought it in its current incarnation, they will be able to access free downloads of whatever shape this takes.

Thanks Jodi.

JETTY THEATRE UPCOMING SHOWS Make the most of some great entertainment at the Jetty Theatre this month.

tarraray pet retreat bob wallis cycles Now that spring is upon us, it’s time to grab your dusty bike from the shed and take those wheels for a spin! Great for family time, fitness and fun, getting back on the bike is the perfect way to start enjoying the warmer weather and longer days.

For those with bikes looking a little worse for wear, come and visit the crew at Bob Wallis Cycles, where we can give your bike some TLC. For those looking to upgrade, we have just received our new Trek 2016 bicycle range to suit riders of all levels and ages. Back by popular demand we have our sweet range of Electra Cruisers and retro bikes, with loads of different colours and styles for you to roll around town on.

Riding in style isn’t complete without our new spring/ summer clothing range, which will be in store soon. To make room for our new range we are offering 20% off selected Bontrager winter gear. Come in store to grab a bargain before stock runs out!

Tarraray Pet Retreat is a unique concept in pet care, offering first class facilities to ensure owners’ peace of mind, when it is necessary to be away from their pets.

Tarraray is designed to give your pet the best of everything, including various styles of accommodation from five-star luxury suites to backpackers kennel runs, including doggie day care.

All My Love - Wednesday 30 September and 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.

Birthrights - Friday 16 October - Sunday 25 October

For Bec, becoming the owner of Tarraray is the fulfilment of a lifetime dream and in the very place where she has worked for the last three years - first as a cleaner, then as the manager and now owner. Her partner, Scott, offers solid support, coming to the animal care industry from a background in disability care.

Playwright David Williamson addresses the topic of surrogacy in his recent play Birthrights, presented by CHATS and directed

by David Quinn. Helen is unable to have children, so her careeroriented sister offers to act as surrogate. At first this seems to be a wonderful idea, until unforeseen difficulties arise as the baby girl grows into a young woman.

Situated on Bonville Station Road, just south of Coffs, Tarraray offers accommodation for dogs from $20 per day and $15 for cats.

Cinematinee Fortnightly Film Screenings - Thursday 8 October and Thursday 22 October

Set on 20+ acres of beautiful countryside, there can be anything up to 50 dogs and 12 cats in residence … plus horses, guinea pigs, rabbits, ducks, birds and also a regular holidaying axolotl. “We cater for anything when it comes to caring for pets”.

The Jetty Theatre and Screenwave are proud to present regular matinee screenings. Enjoy world cinema, favourites from international film festivals and Coffs Coast premieres. October kicks off with French film Almost Friends on Thursday 8 October.

See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings.

Visit or call the box office noon - 4pm, Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088.

ALL MY LOVE

A Production By Christine Harris & Hit Productions

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

Wednesday 30 September & Thursday 1 October • 8pm

FILM

SCREENINGS

OPEN 7 DAYS

A David Williamson play presented by CHATS and directed by David Quinn

Witty and compelling.

Friday 16th – Sunday 25th October

The Jetty Theatre and Screenwave are proud to present regular matinee cinema screenings.

Alternate Thursdays 10:30am and 1:30pm 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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focusinterview.

THERE ARE A PLETHORA OF SUPER HERO MOVIES IN CINEMAS THESE DAYS,

BY DAY, THESE AMAZING CHARACTERS ARE LAWYERS OR NEWSPAPER REPORTERS AND BY NIGHT, MASKED SAVIOURS OF CITIZENS IN DISTRESS. IT’S NOT VERY OFTEN YOU MEET A REAL ONE, EVEN IF HE HAS RETIRED.

W

ord on the street is that previous to your current career you worked in Search and Rescue.

Tell us a bit about this and your connection to the Coffs Coast ...

I am a Lismore boy, however, spent a bit of my youth in Coffs, and as it turned out spent many a rescue mission as a volunteer Rescue Crewman on board the Westpac Rescue Helicopter from Lismore, conducting rescue missions in and around Coffs Harbour between 1993 and 1996 whilst completing my Nursing Degree at Southern Cross Uni in Lismore. In 1996 after becoming a Paramedic with the NSW Ambulance Service, I was stationed at Coffs for my training before being transferred to Sydney. Ten years later I returned to Coffs and spent the final five years of my service caring for the community of the Coffs Coast until 2011, when I changed my focus to being a business owner.

34 coffs coast focus.

Could you describe some of the tasks you As an entire crew we employed something performed? termed Crew Resource Management, a set of Rescue helicopter operations cover: primary training procedures for use in environments missions (where we head to the scene where human error can have devasof an accident or incident and tating effects. Used primarily for treat/stabilise patients in a improving air safety, it focuses pre-hospital environment, on interpersonal commuAt first light we sometimes requiring nication, leadership, and arrived overhead y winch access due to sound decision making ce rtainl and conditions inaccessible terrain under duress. We had e . Th hadn’t improved 10-15 or water); secondary complete faith in each g yacht was movin every missions (which entail other to complete our ith w feet at a time as the transfer of patients roles and achieve sucw d an it, t hi wave that from one hospital to a cessful, safe outcomes.

4-5m rising and falling larger referral hospital); Can you tell us about ” e. tim each SAR missions (Search and the most dangerous resRescue for distress beacons cue you were involved in? etc.); and plenty of ground and In April 1994 we were tasked air training flights to ensure all goes to around 30 nautical miles off to plan when it turns real. the Coffs Coast to a yacht (the Golden You must have to maintain a cool head Dolphin) that had rolled 360 degrees several and make the right decisions quickly times in atrocious conditions, 4 - 5 m seas and when involved in a rescue. How did you gale force winds. The mast had snapped, the maintain calm? yacht was taking on water through a cracked

“

hull, and a female on board had serious injuries. Australian Maritime Search & Rescue (AMSAR) contacted us late on the 14th April to conduct an emergency beacon search for the yacht that had declared a “MAYDAY” incident.

We flew to Coffs at 7pm, then turned east and headed to sea for a two hour search and rescue effort. In the pitch black and howling winds, it was eerie!

We eventually located the stricken vessel, by now being protected by a massive iron ore tanker. It was far too risky for a night winch from the helicopter, and the decision was made to return to base and fly out at first light, not knowing whether they would survive the night.

We got back at midnight. None of us slept.

At 5am we flew from Lismore base to Coffs Airport to fill our tanks to capacity, to give us maximum time off-shore. At first light we arrived overhead, and conditions certainly hadn’t improved. The yacht was moving 10 - 15 feet at a time with every wave that hit it, and was rising and falling 4 - 5m each time.

Why was this rescue so dangerous?

focusinterview.

AT THIS POINT THE HELICOPTER CREW WERE WEIGHING UP CUTTING THE CABLE TO PROTECT THE HELICOPTER SO THE WINCH WIRE DIDN’T BECOME SNAGGED. THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN THE END OF ME...

Usually a winch operation for two survivors will take around 10 minutes to complete in good conditions. It took the winch operator that long just to chase the yacht and drop me on the bow for the first time. I grabbed a hand rail, got smashed by a huge wave, the hand rail broke under the force, and I was washed back into the ocean, the yacht pitching on top of me.

At this point the helicopter crew were weighing up cutting the cable to protect the helicopter, so the winch wire didn’t become snagged. That would have been the end of me, as all that cable would have dragged me under water. They winched me back up and attempted to dump me back on the yacht, as we were now getting low on fuel. It was now or never for this rescue, as the yacht was sinking. Thankfully the second attempt went to plan and I got on board, disconnected from the helo, I crawled to the cabin and fell into the hull (the stairs had broken away) as a wave smashed us.

Downstairs I found a woman with fractured ribs

and a punctured lung in a fair amount of distress. It was a D ownstairs horrible environment, being I found smashed by waves, water a woman with d fractured ri bs an flooding in, sea-sickness, and mentally ng lu a punctured and not knowing whether nt draining operations ou in a fair am we would get out of that ” that I was glad to . ss of distre yacht. I had to lift her from see the end of. For the hull up to her husband the first time in my life and then climb out to winch her I was worried I wasn’t up to the helo. The entire process going to be going home. then needed to be repeated to rescue Later that year the entire crew her husband, while the pilot warned me we were awarded Governor General were very low on fuel and either we did a Commendations, and I received the clean pick-up or they would leave me on the Australian Bravery Medal, the third highest yacht with him, while they returned to Coffs to civilian bravery award. refuel and come back to get me.

Were there any similar rescues to this one Like hell that was going to happen! you mentioned?

The second winch went without drama, and In a strange turn of events, just five months I secured him and we were retrieved back to later we were at it again with another drawn the helo. We dropped both patients to waiting out operation off the Coffs Coast, rescuing four paramedics at Coffs airport and headed back sailors by winch from the stricken yacht ozfire, one of whom, a Coffs Coast local, I have had to base in Lismore - four hours of physically

“

contact with over the years beyond - a bond not many can share.

Do you miss it at all now?

I look back on my time with the Rescue Helicopter and being a Paramedic with immense pride. I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives when they were at their darkest, most horrible moments. I won’t lie; I saw things and dealt with situations that no-one should see in a lifetime, let alone on a daily basis. It stays with you in one way or another.

Now I concentrate on achieving great outcomes and assisting people with their needs selling, buying and investing in property, and frankly it gives me just as much pride to be given the opportunity to be entrusted with this role, and work for them.

Thanks Martin. coffs coast focus.

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pcyc nsw About PCYC NSW

Take the first step to a healthier happy you!

Girlfit’s hourly beach sessions run throughout the week on the beautiful beaches in your local area. All our sessions are different and designed to keep your body guessing.

Our sessions are fun, yet challenging. New friendships are formed, and we guarantee you will love it.

With more than 60 clubs and centres across NSW and around 85,000 members, Police Citizens Youth Clubs NSW is one of Australia’s leading youth organisations.

Our Mission We get young people active in life.

We develop their skills, character and leadership.

We reduce and prevent crime by, and against, young people.

Coffs Harbour PCYC

Girlfit has changed so many women’s lives. Girlfit is Coffs Harbour’s premier Outdoor Fitness Training for women. Nicola Taylor formed Girlfit six years ago and developed GF 28 days earlier this year.

At Coffs Harbour PCYC we have around 1,300 members. We are currently running activities in Judo, Dance, Fitness and Parkour.

Classes vary in cost from $8 to $15. We have a self-service weights gym for only $6 per visit to members over 16 (no lock in contracts). Private Classes and Group sessions can be arranged.

GF 28 Days is addressed to women living on the North Coast who want to shed excess weight, create lean muscle and reduce their body fat percentage over a focused four-week period. It is perfect to kick start summer, or get ready for winter jeans, holiday preparation, or for that special event in your life.

This programme will create a healthier, leaner you.

We are an accredited provider of the Safer Driver Course for Learner drivers, giving participants an additional 20 hours credit in their log book; and the Traffic Offender Intervention Programme. We run the Blue Star Citizenship Programme, which is a Leadership programme for youth - find out more at www. pcycbluestar.org

The programme can be started any time, and we guarantee local support and knowledge. The programme can be purchased online at: www.girlfit.com.au.

Annual membership fees are $20 for over 18 and $10 for Juniors.

The programme is $99, which includes:

Our next fundraising events will be a “Charity Golf Day” on 9 October and a “Gala Ball” on 24 October 2015. For further information, contact the club on 6651 9961 or coffsharbour@ pcycnsw.org.au

Four weeks of training, meal plan, shopping list, online forum 24/7 support.

For more information, email nicola@girlfit.com.au

36 coffs coast focus.

Opening hours are from 9:30am to 6:30pm weekdays.

Fundraising Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOORMINA

PHYSIO CHRIS DUFFY & THE TEAM

SPORTSPOWER

SUPER WAREHOUSE JAMES REEVE AND NICOLE O’MEARA

JAMES REEVE AND NICOLE O’MEARA HAVE JUST OPENED SPORTSPOWER SUPER WAREHOUSE ON PARK BEACH RD IN COFFS HARBOUR. THE BUSINESS IS THEIR THIRD RETAIL OUTLET, WITH SHOPS IN BALLINA AND LISMORE AS WELL.

N

icole, your family has a long association with retail in Coffs Harbour ...

Yes, my parents owned the Soul Pattinson Pharmacy on Harbour Drive for 30 years, and they still live in Coffs. So it is really nice to be opening a business in the town where I grew up and know so well.

Briefly tell us a bit about yourselves ...

N: After finishing school at Orara High and graduating from university (where I met James) I began a career in Event Management.

I was incredibly fortunate and worked on everything from the Rugby World Cup in South Africa and The Goodwill Games in New York through to the Centenary of Waltzing Matilda and Gold Coast Marathon. Along the way I met the likes of John McEnroe, Peter Brock and even stood beside Nelson Mandela at the Rugby.

J: I am originally from country Queensland.

My career started in the finance industry in Melbourne before moving into IT for a major Australian food company in Sydney.

How did you end up in retail?

We had been living in Sydney for several years, and our eldest daughter was about to start school; we wanted to give our kids an upbringing similar to the one I had enjoyed on the Coffs Coast, so we made the decision to make a sea change. We began by opening a small Sportspower store in Byron Bay. We now have businesses in Ballina and Lismore as well as online (and our eldest daughter is close to finishing school).

Has retail changed over the last decade?

The massive growth in online shopping has

changed the world of retail forever.

A few years ago we increasingly found customers turning to us and saying, “Thanks, now I’ll go home and buy it online from the UK”. It became apparent to us that we had one of two choices; to reduce the size of the shops and become highly specialised, or to go big and be able to offer customers price and range, to match online.

We chose to go big - our shop in Lismore is the largest Sportspower store in Australia.

What can people expect at Sportspower Super Warehouse?

Customers can expect great prices every day of the year. We are part of a buying group that includes 160 stores, so we have the ability to buy on a massive scale and pass the savings on to our customers.

However, this is not a faceless multinational, this is a family owned business - we even have a few photos of our kids playing sport around the shop.

What sets your business apart?

Our staff are the key to our business, and customers in our store will get informed service.

They are avid sports people themselves, whose interests vary from tennis to triathlon and soccer to personal training. So our staff can all draw from their own experiences as an athlete.

Where can people find you?

Sportspower Super Warehouse, 27 Park Beach Rd, Coffs Harbour. www.facebook.com/sportspowercoffs Thanks James and Nicole.

SINCE 1985, CHRIS DUFFY AND THE TEAM AT TOORMINA PHYSIOTHERAPY HAVE BEEN DEDICATED TO BRINGING TO THE PEOPLE OF TOORMINA, SAWTELL, COFFS HARBOUR, BONVILLE, BOAMBEE AND THE REST OF THE COFFS COAST AN UP TO DATE AND ENTHUSIASTIC PHYSIOTHERAPY SERVICE.

W

hen and why did are a few areas of special interest worth menyou start your busitioning. At Toormina Physio we are using real ness? time ultrasound as a feedback tool to teach I started the and retrain how to contract the deep muscubusiness in 1985, lar corset. This ultrasound is used to view the following studying at deep muscular corset muscles and shows the University of Queensland. After initially workmuscular contractions (or lack of muscular ing for two years in a hospital and in a private contraction!) Using this technology may help practice in Victoria, I was keen to head to you to visualise the activation of your deep the North Coast and saw an opmuscular corset muscles. Another portunity here in Toormina. As area of recent interest has I played rugby union and been using slow motion cricket, I got to meet lots video analysis of running We live out on a of local sports people, and other sporting few acres, so on and the practice grew techniques to help ne rally weekends we ge l, quite rapidly. in the treatment of al get away from it What is the best injuries. e bush and get out in th thing about your How do you encourrses , or and ride our ho or job? age a positive workk go for a bush wal Physiotherapy is ing environment? .” swim in the river always evolving and We constantly have developing, and we are people commenting constantly learning better on the happy and friendly ways to deal with various injuries nature of our clinic. Everyone and conditions. By using the latest who works here is very passionate technology and up to date information, we about helping people. The team is a really are able to make better decisions about pagreat group of people, and we work together tient care. For example, slow motion video exceptionally well. The only time we seem to analysis of people’s running styles or sporting have personnel issues are at State of Origin or techniques allows us to see and deal with Bledisloe Cup time, or on a Monday morning problems we could never have seen before. when the footy tipping ladder goes up.

The other great thing about our practice is And you have a family as well - how do that we see such a wide variety of people and you juggle it all? conditions. One patient may be a runner with The work/life balance is important to get a torn hamstring, the next might be a manual right, but as my wife and daughter also work worker with a low back injury, followed by a at the clinic we certainly get to spend lots of footballer with a knee reconstruction, then time together during and out of work hours. someone with a knee replacement or an Luckily, we work really well together. We elderly person with balance issues. Every day is live out on a few acres, so on weekends we different and presents new challenges. generally get away from it all, and get out in Are there any areas of special interest to the bush and ride our horses, or go for a bush you and the team? walk or swim in the river.

While we see all sorts of conditions, there Thanks Chris.

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coffs coast focus.

37

one conscious breath yoga

powerhouse gym

As we approach our second birthday, our studio and community are growing from strength to strength.

At One Conscious Breath Yoga Studio we offer a range of different classes to suit everybody, from beginners’ yoga, to lunchtime yoga, to Vinyasa yoga, as well as private one on one and group yoga sessions. We also offer many different Workshops, Retreats and Special Events. We really do have something for everyone!

Located at Coffs Harbour Homebase, Powerhouse Gym is a local small business that has weathered the test of time. Since first opening its doors around 10 years ago, it has evolved a family friendly atmosphere and great vibe.

Our team of highly qualified and friendly teachers are dedicated to meeting you where you are at in your yoga journey, guiding you through your practice and offering modifications and variations for all levels of experience.

If you are looking for a little more balance in your life, you want to become more flexible and strong, or you simply just want to learn to relax, then Yoga is perfect for you. We have a special introductory Offer for spring of three classes for just $20; this is a fantastic opportunity to try out a few different classes and teachers and find the one that best suits your needs.

One Conscious Breath Yoga studio is centrally located in the City Boulevard Arcade off Vernon St, opposite C.ex club.

For more information on classes or workshops, head to our website: www.oneconsciousbreath.com.au

38 coffs coast focus.

The gym is well equipped with a HUGE selection of free weights and strength training equipment, as well as an impressive range of BRAND NEW cardio machines. Regular classes include Step, Pump, Spin, Beginner Boxing and Muay Thai Kickboxing.

Gym staff are friendly and can provide professional fitness advice as well as taking great pride in keeping the gym spotless and tidy.

Best of all, your fitness dollar goes further, with the best membership prices in town.

Casual visits are welcome, so come in and experience our spacious open air floor plan for yourself!

Gym Hours Monday to Friday - 5:30am to 8pm Saturday - 8am to 1pm Sunday - 8am to 12pm Located underneath Harvey Norman at Homebase, Coffs Harbour Phone (02) 66513254

HYPOXI HYPOXI IS THE MODERN, LOW-IMPACT EXERCISE TECHNOLOGY WITH QUICK, TARGETED RESULTS AND HAS TAKEN AUSTRALIA BY STORM.

E

xplain how HYPOXI works?

HYPOXI machines apply positive and negative pressure to a client’s body while they undertake a gentle 30 min cycle; this process improves circulation, which then allows the body to metabolise fat stores in the target areas, which are the stomach, bottom and thigh areas. Put simply, because fat is metabolised via the blood stream, if a person has poor circulation in a specific area it can become increasingly difficult to lose weight in these locations, even when a person is looking after their diet and exercising. HYPOXI overcomes this issue, and allows a person to achieve targeted weight loss.

Other than weight loss, what other benefits are there to using HYPOXI? Anecdotally we have seen cases where clients have come to us because they have had an injury or are recovering from knee surgery and are unable to do traditional exercise, many have noted significant pain relief and reduced swelling after completing a round of HYPOXI due to improved circulation. This area is very exciting for us, as we see great

potential to work alongside other health professionals such as physiotherapists and doctors. Currently in Europe, HYPOXI is the Therapeutic Goods Administration equivalent body approved - that is the devices are deemed to provide a therapeutic benefit. At present HYPOXI Australia Pty Ltd is investigating options to obtain a TGA approval - which would be tremendous.

What changes have happened at HYPOXI in the last 12 months?

We have expanded our services so now we offer - Personal Training, Infrared Sauna Treatments and Beauty Therapy - our focus has been on developing a boutique health facility with an emphasis on a very personalised service.

Tell us more about your PT service?

Personal trainer Nikki Blewitt offers training for individuals and groups at HYPOXI. She is a Certified Personal Trainer and Accredited Boxing Instructor. “I’ve always led an active lifestyle and am passionate about health and fitness.

My aim is to determine my clients’ fitness goals and write individualised training programmes so they achieve their goals,” says Nikki. So what

do her clients have to say? “I love the results - my body weight and shape have changed.

Most importantly, my mindset about healthy living and regular exercise has been heightened.

Nikki is genuinely interested in my personal goals and helping me achieve them. She is very knowledgeable about fitness and wellbeing.”

Ngaire Robinson - 40 years, Coffs Harbour.

Tell us about your beauty therapy service?

Joyce Mifsud, who has over 10 years’ experience as a beauty therapist, launched Beauty Within in June - operating from HYPOXI Studio - specialising in natural skincare products handmade in Australia. “We are most definitely

seeing a demand for products free of nasties such as, parabens, fragrance and alcohol, to name a few. As such, we have focused on providing a natural therapeutic grade skincare range, which nourishes the skin,” says Joyce.

Beauty Within is the only location in Coffs Harbour using Simplicite skincare range, which was developed by well-known Brisbane Naturopath David Lyons. In addition, we also utilise Zoya nail polish, which is a natural based product also made in Australia.

Why not book your free trial today and experience HYPOXI and the full range of services.

hypoxi

coffs coast focus.

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IN THE

SAND A L B E

F A L Z O N

ALBE FALZON WAS ONE OF THE CREATORS OF TRACKS SURFING MAGAZINE, AN IRREVERENT AND CHALLENGING PUBLICATION

LAUNCHED IN 1970 THAT IS STILL PUBLISHED TODAY. DURING THE FILMING OF HIS SEMINAL SURF MOVIE, MORNING OF THE EARTH, HE FELL IN LOVE WITH THE MID NORTH COAST AND NEVER LEFT.

Y

ou were one of the creators of Tracks Surfing Magazine. What was the inspiration behind starting this publication?

At that time (early ‘70s) we were very proactive with environmental, political and social issues. The newspaper became a forum for that as well as covering global surfing and travel adventures. There was also a big shift towards self-sufficiency and a more holistic lifestyle. We were very interested in that as an alternative My mother said form of living, and Tracks became to me when I the “surfers’ bible” for laying the getting and focused on important issues at the was young and foundations for that movement. t ou ad he time. to y ad re With the inexpensive farms on st What topics were covered in to the world , ‘Ju d in the North Coast available for an the magazine when it was first do what you love … t’ buying and renting, many surfers follow your hear published? moved towards the Mid North and I did. ” One of the features at the start of the Coast and Byron Bay areas and newspaper was a section called “News started organic farms and living a & Opinion” - this opened the way for an country lifestyle. As well as that, there enormous amount of comment and interaction was great points breaks for surfing with with our readers. We were also heavily involved little or no development - it was a surfer’s with environmental issues both in the water and on dream. Cheap healthy living, organic food and great land, with campaigns for the saving of the whales and banning point breaks. As a surfer at the time, who wouldn’t want that! uranium mining as well as protesting against the rutile mining Tracks was printed on newspaper stock and had a unique along the East Coast. We were very politically active, supporting look and feel to it. Why did you choose this format? politicians who were aligned with our thinking and ridiculing The newspaper had a more organic feel to it than the those who weren’t. slick glossies printed in Hong Kong. Our philosophy was We also featured a cooking page with recipes from “Aunty to promote a sustainable lifestyle as opposed to spending Gweyndolan” each month promoting vegetarian meals. We unnecessary money of commodities that were not needed reviewed music, films and books and did feature stories - using newspaper stock was an aspect of that philosophy. The on musicians, authors and artists. We invited our readers to glossies represented success and ambition. Tracks - on the other participate on all levels - which they did - this contributed to the hand - was more interested in sustainability and healthy lifestyle success of the newspaper. To my disappointment, Tracks today

“

40 coffs coast focus.

has gone the way of the glossies.

The magazine began as irreverent and challenged the status quo of mainstream culture; do you feel that this attitude is missing in the surf community of today?

Certainly … Most of the magazines are driven by advertising and corporate involvement, or were; however with the internet and the social media and Facebook and zines, I think we are seeing the demise of the magazine as a forum for change certainly it’s importance is almost irrelevant in today’s world with the magnitude of digital and immediate availability of information through the net. Personally, I think there is room for both - I love the feel of magazine and books. My house is a library, and I still purchase magazines - there’s something about the feel and smell of a new book or magazine as opposed to electronic publishing. It just doesn’t do it for me. I love the organic feel of paper and turning the page.

In the early ‘70s you were also working on the seminal surf film, Morning of the Earth. Were the projects linked?

As a young boy, I was interested in photography as a way of capturing and sharing the beauty of the world that unfolded for me. I wanted to share the beauty of the ocean and surfing through using the camera. They kind of went hand in hand - I

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started surfing at about the same time as I bought my first his home break at Kirra on the Gold Coast on a very beautiful camera. Soon after I was filming, and Morning of the Earth small swell. None of it really was planned; they were all surfers was the result of that. Had I been born two hundred years who were great individuals and very creative with their lives. ago, I probably would have been an artist painting images of Do you still feel like you're enjoying a similar lifestyle to the ocean and country on canvas. The camera became my what the movie portrayed? paintbrush and surfing my palette. I suppose in a way the This area offers everything that we need to sustain a healthy newspaper and film were linked - there was a parallel with and happy lifestyle - at least, it does for me. I drink crystal clear both. They were both extensions of being inspired by the love spring water from the Dorrigo Mountains, eat organic food of surfing and photography. I was fortunate to have great from my garden and visit the nearby Bellingen growers’ market mentors along the way and to realise early in life my every other week to buy locally grown organic purpose. food. There is no industry in this area, so How did the production of Morning of the the air is not polluted. Add to that the Earth begin? amazing countryside with its beautiful My mother said to me when I was river systems, empty beaches and Whatever you young and getting ready to head out incredible National Parks - I ur are doing in yo into the world, “Just do what you love mean, really ... how much do you ur life, whatever yo u can and follow your heart” ... and I did. need to be rich? I have travelled yo if career path is , ve Morning of the Earth was my first film, lo extensively to many parts of this ur yo stay true to g in rf su and everything that I’ve done since then planet, and this Mid North Coast is e m r which fo r tte be a u has been a result of that. That simple area is certainly high on the scale yo es it mak even t ou ith piece of advice in a way has been a for a wonderful life. w on rs pe mantra for my life, and it’s afforded me realising it.” great opportunities to travel and explore the most amazing places on this planet and make films about those travels. I left school when I was 15 and have been around the world 20 times visiting incredible places from Tibet to Timbuktu and beyond.

How long did Morning of the Earth take to produce?

It was about a two year turnaround. We spent over a year filming the Mid North Coast areas and then travelled to Bali and Hawaii to do some sequences there. We had no script or plans, just a broad idea on what it was we wanted to film. We had very little money and just enough equipment to film the sequences. It was a great big bag of fun and adventure - we just made it up as we went along. We really just filmed the way we lived and what we loved. It was that simple.

Who were some of the naturally talented surfers of that era?

I spent a lot of time with Stephen Cooney - he was a young grommet at the time with an abundance of surfing talent and a beautiful spirit. Along with David Treloar, we made many trips up to the North Coast ... never stopped laughing all the way. David ended up staying at one of the places we filmed Angourie. He has lived there ever since. I filmed Terry Fitzgerald in Hawaii, who was a dynamic surfer at the time. We filmed Chris Brock living in a treehouse on one of the North Coast beaches and captured Michael Peterson, a radical surfer, surfing

“

How often do you surf these days?

I surf most days. When I wake up in the morning and can feel a slight breeze coming off the mountains, I’m out the door.

I think it’s really important that we do what we love regardless.

Life is precious, and certainly I don't let a day go by without being grateful for living and surfing in such a beautiful place. It doesn’t matter what’s on your mind before you enter the ocean for a surf - guaranteed it’ll be washed away in a few minutes.

It’s the perfect zen experience. Without being conscious of what’s happening, it just happens that way. Whatever you are doing in your life, whatever your career path is, if you can stay true to your love, which for me is surfing, it makes you a better person without even realising it.

I live each day as if it's the only day I have on this planet and each evening before I drop off to sleep I say thank you, thank you, thank you. I mean, really, if this was the last day of your life on this planet, how would you like to spend it? When you can realise the answer to that and live it, that’s as good as your life’s going to get. I go surf, and then everything just falls into place.

Thanks Albe.

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By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

these are

pretty c

• MENS AND LADIES •

ool

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

ANNE HUNTER is 46 years young, happily married and a mother of two. She is a customer service specialist at OneSteel and has just dropped some serious kilos.

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Leslie & her amazing client, Justin. This month we are catching up with Anne Hunter and her Personal Trainer Sheree Pate, to hear her inspiring story.

W

hat was your diet and exercise programme in the past?

I have not had a diet or exercise programme for a number of years now and have been struggling with my weight and the way I feel about myself.

My weight has been slowly creeping up over the past four years, and I could only see it getting worse.

So where did it all go wrong?

Always making excuses not to go to the gym and exercise. Eating too much of the wrong types of foods and drinking too much wine, whilst not doing any exercise.

And how did that make you feel?

I felt horrible. I really let myself down, as I had always maintained a regular exercise programme and maintained my health and fitness. My selfesteem plummeted and I was having to buy size 14 clothes, which was not a good feeling.

Then what motivated you to find a solution to the problem?

I realised I was the heaviest weight I had been since having my two children. I wanted to have the body back that I knew was underneath. We have a gorgeous outdoor entertaining area with pool and spa, and I wanted to get back into my bikini before summer. I knew that with help from Sheree, I could start to work towards my goal weight. I have kept all my size 8 and 10 clothes, and now I am fitting back into all my gorgeous clothes. My husband bought me a gorgeous dress on our honeymoon four years ago, and I wanted to get back into that dress.

How did you go about making that positive change?

I started doing PT sessions with Sheree at Coffs Coast Health Club a couple of days per week.

Sheree suggested I join Healthy Inspirations and take on one of the challenges. I decided to go ahead with the challenge, and 10 weeks later I have achieved my goal weight.

Why did you select Sheree as your personal trainer, and what have you been doing

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together to achieve your goals?

I have known Sheree for a number of years outside the gym and decided to start training with her because of her positive attitude and her drive to help people reach their goals. She is a fantastic person, as well as a dedicated PT. I have been training with Sheree three days per week; training has been three x 45 minute PT sessions including strength, boxing and cycling. I have also taken part in Pump classes to help with toning and conditioning.

I followed the Healthy Inspirations diet, which went for 10 weeks; I did not drink alcohol throughout the challenge and followed strictly the food allowed. I was weighed in each Thursday evening during the challenge and had measurements taken twice during the challenge to highlight the changes my body was undertaking.

What goals have you achieved so far?

My goal was to reach 61 kilos; my starting weight was 69.2. I achieved my goal weight and am now currently 60.9 kilos. My goal weight was reached in 10 weeks through the Healthy Inspirations Challenge. The reason why I gave myself 10 weeks was because I was going to Adelaide for a special occasion, and it was important to me to lose the weight.

What are your goals for the future?

My goal for the future is to maintain my current weight and fitness level and keep up my gym programme and healthy eating.

What is the most useful advice you could share?

Never give up thinking you can make a change.

It may take a while, but the end result is worth all the hard work. IT TOOK ME 4 YEARS TO PUT IN ON AND ONLY 10 WEEKS TO LOSE IT. I feel great!

Thanks for sharing, Anne, and if you are looking to kick start your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or our NEW CLUB in MOONEE! You can also contact our reception team on 6658 6222 or Sheree on 0434 480 782 to get started today.

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THE WALCHA MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL IS ON AGAIN! WHAT A GREAT OCCASION TO CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS OR TO BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY ALONG TO AND ENJOY A WONDERFUL EVENT FILLED WEEKEND IN BEAUTIFUL WALCHA. THERE IS MUCH TO DO AND SEE AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL, WITH A FEW NEW ADDITIONS TO THE PROGRAMME.

H

eld alongside the Walcha Westpac Rescue Helicopter Mountain Bike Challenge, the festival has enjoyed a revitalised excitement since moving last year to the grounds of the iconic historic mansion, Langford, for the Sunday festivities, 1 km south of Walcha on Thunderbolts Way. The Festival runs over two days, 17 - 18 October 2015.

On Saturday a Road Ride Challenge and Billy Cart Derby are run in conjunction with the monthly Walcha Farmers Market and Trash n’ Treasure Market.

The 75 km Road Ride Challenge, also raising funds for Westpac Rescue Helicopter, is a great ride taking cyclists through Walcha’s picturesque surrounding villages of Kentucky, Wollun and Walcha Road. Some hills prove to be challenging, but it’s nothing a low gear can’t sort out!

The Billy Cart Derby begins at 10:30am and sees competitors hurtle down the impressive South Street hill, just near the Walcha Farmers’ Market, where great coffee, beautiful food and produce await. The Quilt Exhibition runs over both days - Saturday 10 - 3pm and on Sunday for the duration of the festival at Langford’s newly restored woolshed, 1 km south of town on Thunderbolts Way. On Sunday, the festival is at Langford, along ide the Walcha Westpac Rescue Helicopter Mountain Bike Challenge (enter as a solo rider or as a relay team - online registration essential). A family bike ride is also available, which would suit all ages and level of rider (own bike required, and you can enter on the day).

Start the day with an egg and bacon roll and a good caffeine hit of espresso before you set off on your ride; these will be available from 7am on Sunday. Sunday also brings quality food and market stalls, FREE kids’ activities such as face painting, a jumping castle, bush croquet,

and an egg throwing competition; there will also be a rock climbing wall to challenge the older ones as well as the SES conducting an abseiling demonstration. Great musical entertainment by “The Bronzed Aussies” will set the atmospheric scene throughout the day, as well as the ever popular drawcard of the Australian Wool Fashion Awards Parade. You can expect to see a fantastic display of beautifully restored unique classic cars and motorcycles, as well as remote control model boats and ships cruising on the Langford Lake, which was also enjoyed by everyone last year. Guided tours of Langford homestead will again be conducted hourly, (book on the day or pre-bookings are available).

This year’s Long Lunch @ Langford will be a three course meal, held in the homestead’s conservatorium dining room ($55pp, bookings essential - 6778 0395; the menu is available for viewing at www.walchamountainfestival.org) as well as craft beer and boutique wines available for purchase from the Whyworry Wines and New England Brewing stand.

Departing at 9am, another addition to this years event is a three hour Horse Trail Ride, which will take in the pretty countryside of Langford and surrounding properties. Participants require their own horse, and advance bookings are essential with the organiser, Ian Mackey, 6777 6592.

So come on up the mountain for the Walcha Mountain Festival and make a weekend of it; enjoy the natural beauty of New England High Country and all it has to offer.

The Walcha Mountain Festival is a two-day festival, held over the weekend of 17 - 18 October. On Saturday all the action is around McHattan Park from 8:30am - 1pm, near the Visitor Information Centre. On Sunday soak up the atmosphere in the magnificent grounds of historic Langford homestead, 8am - 3pm. For more information, visit www.walchamountainfestival.org or call (02) 6774 2460. coffs coast focus.

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and WELLBEING W I T H L AU R E N V E S T E Y F RO M L I V I N G D O L L

•COFFS COAST•

NutRition

L O U I S E & N AO M I ( N U T R I T I O N I S T S ) , & C O L ( T R A I N E R )

Living Doll

IS THERE ANY BENEFIT TO FOLLOWING AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET?

T

he answer is yes. It is wellknown that inflammation in the arteries and organs of the body can lead to long-term chronic diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, respiratory problems and certain cancers.

An anti-inflammatory diet has been linked with improving the ability of the hormone insulin to produce energy in every living cell, as well as reducing cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammatory markers and other disease risk factors. There is also evidence that an anti-inflammatory diet can help change the composition of bacteria in our guts from unhealthy to healthy and that it may help with mood states such as depression. In addition, this way of eating may help to ease some types of chronic pain and muscle soreness, and while it won’t cure an injury, it may be useful in reducing the signs and symptoms of muscle injury, including pain.

Simply reducing your intake of proinflammatory foods and replacing these with anti-inflammatory alternatives can make a big difference to overall health and wellness.

If you would like evidence-based advice on specific pro-inflammatory and antiinflammatory foods, or if you need assistance with any aspect of nutrition, feel free to contact the friendly team at Coffs Coast Nutrition.

44 coffs coast focus.

Coffs Coast Nutrition provides a nutrition, health and fitness service with a difference.

Our team consists of university qualified Nutritionists and Health Coaches, and we also have Personal Trainers and a studio gym. Our Nutritionists take your individual circumstances into account to design a programme that works for you. We understand that no one diet suits everyone, and that’s why we offer customised meal plans. Our computerised dietary analysis is great value for money and is not available elsewhere in the Coffs Harbour area. We cater to people who are wanting to focus on weight management, sports nutrition, health and fitness, as well as nutrition therapy relating to a range of medical conditions.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a fun workout (either indoors or outdoors) then you’ve come to the right place. We identified a need for a service that caters to people of varying abilities and fitness levels, and we focus on ensuring that no-one is made to feel intimidated or judged in any way. You don’t need to see our Nutritionists to take advantage of our personal training services, and there are no joining fees and no waiting for equipment. Why not arrange a oneon-one session with our trainer or bring a friend?

Ph: 6652 7529 www.coffscoastnutrition.com.au

THE FINISH LINE TO WINTER IS FINALLY LONG GONE, AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO CHANGE UP YOUR LOOK FOR SPRING THAN A NEW HUE?

O

ur Living Doll Style Council of fashion and by keeping it soft by layering expert, Lauren Vestey, says other tones such as peach, pearl and platinum, this season it’s it will achieve a much edgier way to all about do blondes without going too believable far. Toffee Blonde Bombcolour. shells use softer all over “For so long, women tones to give a buttery Anyone can have been OK with blonde hue for a natupull off this having hair that was ral and elegant feel. look and it’s less s obviously coloured,” Deep Red hues are maintenance - it’ ng she says. “Now, there’s not bright, unnatujust about findi n the right variatio a return to just having ral looking reds, but .” ne to in for your sk colour that is only have lots of depth slightly enhancing your while maintaining their natural tones.” vibrancy; they are likewise Here she shares the top multidimensional with soft hair colours of the season. copper flicks and look stunning Tortoiseshell is by far the most popon those with lighter skin tones. ular trend this season, with its multi-diSay farewell to ombre look, ladies. Just mensional natural tones. “It’s natural, yet as the blondes and redheads are going more dramatic, sexy but sophisticated looking,” natural, so should the brunettes. For spring, Lauren says. “Anyone can pull off this look and the overall colour has a soft golden tint with a it’s less maintenance - it’s just about finding subtle progression to light tips, as we now call the right variation for your skin tone.” If you the Sombre. (Soft Ombre) have olive skin, you should go light colours like Come in to Living Doll to ask an expert for peach, golden blonde and baby blonde. Just some advice on something new, something tell your colourist you want a multi-dimensionnatural and something to make your day. al blonde that’s golden, NOT ORANGE. Beautiful spring is the season for it.

Baby White Blonde tones will never go out XO Dolls.

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& WELLBEING

• what it takes to be a •

MIDWIFE MIDWIFE CONNIE GREENWOOD

Earlier this year, Connie Greenwood was recognised on International Midwives Day as Coffs Harbour Health Campus’ Midwife of the Year. The honour recognised a career that has spanned more than 17 years and is still going strong.

We talk to Connie about what it is like to be part of such a special moment as childbirth.

W

hy did you become a midwife?

Having trained as a Registered Nurse and spending a few years working in that role, I decided I wanted to align myself more with women’s health. So wanting to become a mother myself one day, I did some research and thought that the midwifery course looked interesting.

What an absolute privilege it would be to spend the months and days with women and their families on their journey to motherhood. I have been a midwife for 17 years, and I can certainly say it is the right career fit for me.

What sort of training did you undertake to become a midwife?

I had already undertaken three years of tertiary study to become a Registered Nurse, and that was followed by two years studying for a Graduate Diploma in Midwifery. This entailed a combination of part-time university study and onthe-job training. I undertook the practical training at the Royal Hospital for Women at Randwick, rotating through all clinical areas.

Is midwifery a career choice, or are certain people drawn to it by their nature?

I think that being a midwife is all about being woman-centred, which is why I believe more women are attracted to the profession - because they can relate to it. Personally, I was naturally attracted to it because the whole concept of woman-centred care - independence and informed choice resonated with me. I really think midwifery attracts you; you aren’t attracted to it.

It naturally speaks to those who have an affinity 46 coffs coast focus.

aspect of this role is that I am learning every with it. day, and the women I care for are my greatest What are some of the key attributes you teachers. require to work in this area?

Are there times when a baby is born quicker I think the key attributes are: flexibility, than anticipated (e.g. in an elevator or on patience, an element of softness and good the side of the road?) time-management skills. The reason these There are certainly some women attributes are important is because who are at greater risk of a no two women are the same, quicker birth. The bonus of so you need to be adaptable modern day maternity care month to month, week rsonally, I Pe enables continuity of to week, moment to was naturally relationships, whereby moment. You also use tracted to it beca at women can discuss need to be an effective ep t the whole conc their individual needs ed communicator within tr en -c an of wom ence nd with their care providers a multi-disciplinary pe de in re ca oi ce to ensure the best team in order to meet and informed ch ” me. possible outcomes and the individual needs resonated with ideally anticipate an early of women. A multiarrival. Having said that, disciplinary team means you there are certainly stories of are working closely with other babies coming when they are ready, midwives, obstetricians, general and that is not necessarily in a hospital practitioners and allied health workers setting. such as physiotherapists, dietitians and Can you describe how a midwife is involved osteopaths. in the birth process?

How have your years of experience helped Midwives play an important role in a woman’s you as a midwife? journey to motherhood, well before the birth.

There is no doubt that experience plays an Continuity of care engages women from early important role in providing midwifery care and pregnancy to six weeks after birth in a variety that is about individualising a care plan with of settings, including hospital or home or a range of skills, so the more experienced you community. Information is provided to women are, the greater the range of skills you will about their healthcare, and together midwives have. However, the university-based training work with women to develop a plan that meets programmes have clear requirements to support the woman’s individual needs. A midwife’s role newly-registered midwives to provide safe and is to empower and encourage women through appropriate care. This is again where teamwork the birth process. This is about connecting the plays a pivotal role in the process. One great

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woman with her own ability and her own selfbelief. Midwives have advanced clinical skills to call upon according to the needs of the mother or baby.

It must be very rewarding when you see a mother hold her newborn child for the first time ...

It is just one of the most beautiful things as a human being to be part of those experiences and to witness and share that life-changing moment.

It is just amazing.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

It is the variety, the connection with community, it’s people walking away saying: “That was unreal.” It’s seeing strong, confident women going back to the community and the whole process that goes with that. There are so many special moments in a job like this.

Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing this line of work?

There are really fantastic programmes now to support rural people to study and stay in their communities, and this training can be done in Coffs Harbour and at this hospital. In recent years, midwifery has been recognised in its own right as its own profession, and university courses have been designed to suit. There is a world-wide shortage of midwives, and women will always continue to have babies. So if you are thinking of pursing midwifery as a career, my advice would be to get in touch with your closest university to find out more. You can also seek the advice of a midwife. We are all eager to share our knowledge and experiences.

Photo: Connie Greenwood with patient Jess Eggeling.

& WELLBEING

Hand & body concepts At Hand and Body Concepts, Ann Grieg and the team provide total relaxation in a stunning modern décor.

They have four fully equipped beauty rooms, four nail work stations, a private spa pedicure room for two, and a spay tan room.

What’s new? Something very exciting!

Ann Greig, owner of Hand and Body Concepts at Park Beach Plaza is proud to announce the opening of her new venture, Innovative Education Australia. With the need for new employment opportunities in the region, Ann and Business Partner Simon Fabian have brought a fresh approach to meeting the needs of local business through the establishment of the Registered Training Organisation.

Innovative Education Australia provides the nationally recognised Diploma of Business and plans to soon offer additional qualifications such as Beauty. “Simon approached me two years ago as my Business Adviser with a concept that could allow me to offer Accredited Training to new Beauticians and take my business to a new level,” Ann said. “It’s fantastic to be involved in adding value to the rich fabric of the community on the Coffs Coast,” Simon added. IEA is officially open and offers both Accredited and non-Accredited training to anyone on the Coffs Coast.

We also offer,Other Courses Non Accredited Introduction to Waxing, nail technology, make-up,Your Life By Design, Superannuation—Planning for Retirement, First Home Buyers Course,Hair Removal—In sensitive places, all courses are for (8 x 2 hours per week) Maximum 12 Students Minimum 8 Students for this course

LIVING DOLL STYLISTS WHAT AN EXPERT! Since 2012, Kimberley Martin has been part of the Living Doll Team. Wow, what an impact she having! She is a stellar talent within the Living Doll team, and is one of the salon’s most requested stylists. A specialist in women’s hair colour, cutting and creative force in styling, Kim has gained a hugely loyal following. Kim has great understanding of what clients are looking for, and her results are exceptional.

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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

Kim is constantly pushing for new and exciting services, techniques, products and practices to keep Living Doll the salon of choice for fashion forward clients of the Coffs Coast.

After Living Doll’s most recent voyage to Brisbane for this Seasons Trend Session, Kim is eager to share with you what she has learnt.

Our goal is to be at the forefront of optometric technology.

One such development is Orthokeratology (Ortho K), a technique which offers an alternative treatment to laser refractive surgery. The technique involves wearing specially designed lenses overnight while sleeping. This gently reshapes the eye, which restores clear vision without the use of spectacles or contact lenses during waking hours. The results can be spectacular, with significantly improved vision after wearing for a single night and sight frequently restored to normal for all waking hours after approximately one week.

Having undertaken intensive education throughout her 10 years in the industry and being a PREMIER STYLIST at Living Doll, she brings finely honed technical ability and precise colouring techniques to her clients.“I love delivering classic with a little edge,” she says.

This technique has the significant additional benefit of reducing or arresting the progression of shortsightedness in a significant number of people, while reducing the risks of retinal detachment, glaucoma and macular damage associated with higher levels of shortsightedness.

Kim’s knowledge and experience to the clients who visit wanting that “Living Doll Experience” is second to none.

Anyone who knows Kim, knows of her work, her passion and her professionalism for her craft.

It is important to recognise that this procedure cannot correct all forms of focusing errors. Its usefulness can only be determined following a comprehensive examination which includes a detailed assessment of the corneal shape. However, for suitable candidates this can indeed be described as a major breakthrough in restoring clear vision independent of spectacles or contact lenses for all daily activities.

The Living Doll dynamic team of Premier Stylists and Young Gun Stylists can’t wait to share everything they know with the beautiful people of the Coffs Coast. XO Dolls.

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focusinterview.

LEE MITCHELL A S S I S TA N T D I R E C T O R O F N U R S I N G ( A D O N ) AT B A R I N G A P R I VAT E H O S P I TA L in a Rest Home for the active elderly in the

role offers me other challenges, leadership

Old Kings Forest, England, where I was

responsibilities and additional interpersonal

chief nurse, cook and bottle washer. Dare

engagements. In other words, further

I say it, preparing for motherhood! Back in Australia, more children’s nursing at the Prince of Wales Children’s Hospital, then I had another thought, mothercraft nursing, regular

My father’s a words set me on nture - a journey of adve fying rewarding , satis career rich with diversity. ”

“

L

ee, tell us about yourself. When did you decide to be a nurse?

I never thought about nursing as a career. As a youngster, the Nunnery beckoned me, then as an adolescent teaching was on the radar. Circumstances were such that further education was beyond the parental pocket, so my wonderful father said, “Try nursing - follow in your mother’s footsteps”, so I did!

I trained at Calvary Hospital, North Adelaide, a long time ago, followed by a year’s post graduate managerial course at the Royal

BPH Airport Signage 2400x600 0512OL.indd 1

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Adelaide, primarily to consolidate my training.

Sometime later, after a Paediatric Course at the Adelaide Children’s hospital, I returned to Sydney for Obstetrics at Crown Street Women’s Hospital. I have a gypsy’s soul, and it was not long after Obstetrics that I ventured overseas. As well as travelling and exploring, I actually worked

hours and babies - “bliss”. I then completed my Tresillian Nursing at Petersham.

During this time I had met a Coffs Harbourian, and as Coffs does, it drew him home - and I followed.

growth and development. I am exceptionally proud of my team of nurses and allied health staff, who all work together to achieve best patient outcomes. We are also fortunate to have members of the medical profession in our team who share our vision and support us in achieving our goals. As a progressive hospital we provide a learning environment for post graduate students, trainee nurses, and a school based traineeship.

This led to employment at

My Father’s words set me on a journey of

Baringa Private Hospital and

adventure - a rewarding, satisfying career

over the ensuing years, I have been fortunate enough to use all of my nursing skills in one capacity or another, leading to being the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON), of medical,

rich with diversity. Upon settling in Coffs Harbour, Baringa Private Hospital provided an environment brimming with solid work ethics, the focus on all being united together

rehabilitation and palliative care ward. Not

to achieve best results for our patients. The

a lot of hands on nursing now, which I

centre piece of nursing, the icing on the cake

have always enjoyed, but this managerial

for myself, has been my three children.

17/05/12 11:25 AM

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Is

PAIN & INJURY ruining your fitness goals?

ARE YOU FRUSTRATED BY YOUR CURRENT FITNESS LEVELS? DO YOU FEEL THAT PAIN AND INJURY IS STOPPING YOU FROM BEING FITTER AND HEALTHIER? ARE YOU LIKE MOST OF US WHO GET MOTIVATED TO GET HEALTHY AND LOSE WEIGHT, BUT ARE HELD BACK BECAUSE OF NAGGING PROBLEMS WITH YOUR BODY?

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id North Coast Physio continues to shop for healthcare. lead innovation in healthcare across What can people expect from MNC Physio the region and has developed the and Coffs Coast Health Club’s new facility perfect solution to these problems. in Moonee Beach? In short - better health!

By partnering with renowned local fitness experts The idea of having a range of highly qualified Coffs Coast Health Club, they are bringing you health professionals within a brand new fitness a brand new facility in Moonee Beach, focused facility is to complete a full circle of health on providing everything you need to be fit and from injury or disease right through to fitness healthy both now and into the future. and wellbeing. If you want to lose weight, the Owner and leading physiotherapist expertise and support is available right Aaron Hardaker spills the beans there. If you are suffering with on why bringing the health chronic health issues such as g There is nothin and fitness industries g Diabetes, heart problems or more frustratin n ee tw together is simply better back pain, then our exercise be ng ci ra than for you and the local physiologist can help you appointments at ith community. exercise safely. If you have various clinics w als sion different profes Why is the joining of an acute injury or ongoing ea who have no id is fitness and healthcare niggle, our physiotherapists r what one anothe getting such great can treat the problem quickly doing.” results? The easy answer is and get rid of pain. If you are that people get everything they tight, stiff or stressed, then our need to solve their health issues in massage therapists can provide you with one location - because there is nothing immediate relief. The vision is to empower more frustrating than racing between the Coffs Coast community to live a healthier and appointments at various clinics with different more active lifestyle. professionals who have no idea what one How do people get started? Coffs Coast another is doing. You end up getting conflicting Health Club at Moonee Marketplace will throw advice, wasting time, money and energy without open the doors on Saturday 19th September getting a solution. With the merging of Mid with a huge range of specials and fun to be North Coast Physio and Coffs Coast Health Club had. To celebrate opening of this new location, we have brought together Physiotherapy, Exercise Mid North Coast Physio is offering five FREE Physiology, Massage, Weight Loss Coaching, physiotherapy assessments at Moonee to the Personal Training and Health Club memberships first five callers. In addition, you could be one of within a state-of-the art fitness facility. This 10 lucky readers to secure a one hour massage ensures people can deal with one team who are for the price of 30 minutes in the new clinic. fully focused on working together to achieve To secure one of these special offers, simply call your health and fitness goals. It’s truly a one-stop Mid North Coast Physio NOW on 1300 273 747.

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coffs coast focus.

49

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Brian Everitt and Brock Stubbs

Elfyn Evans

Ford M-Sport Alison Hughes

Janelle Turner

Malcolm Wilson Managing Director Ford M-Sport

Ott Tanak and Aimee Rudd (Ford M-Sport Rally Team)

Scott Pedder

Aimee Rudd

Glen Barnett and Sue Clarke

I

Social/scene.

think it's named that because our festive parties seem to be getting earlier and earlier each year! But hey ...This is the Coffs Coast; we always have something to celebrate up here!

There were so many events attached to the rally, we certainly couldn’t cover them all. The rally headquarters was based at Opal Cove Resort for the fourth year in a row. Rally teams, FIA officals, FIA stewards, media, police operations, results and command centre along with items from the Australian Rally Centre were all based at the resort. The ford UK M-Sport Rally team held a media launch and cocktail event on the terrace of Horizons Restaurant at Opal Cove.

Local and international attendees were treated to a visit from Steve McEwan's reptile world.

Lots of excitement when some of the drivers and staff got up close and personal with some of our local fauna!

A three day pass to Rally Australia was on offer for the locals and visitors to the region.

The lucky winners were local family Jocelyn and Nick Stubbs, who attended the rally with a very enthusiastic son, Brock! Rally Australia senior official and deputy clerk of course Brian Everitt presented Brock with his winning tickets.

The Sunrise weather crew were recently on the Coffs coast promoting the upcoming Woolgoolga Curryfest. Enthusiastic locals braved the 50 coffs coast focus.

The last of the dust has just about settled after the excitement of the rally, and we are streaming towards the silly season ...

chilly morning to greet Nuala and the Sunrise crew, putting Woolgoolga and Curryfest on the map! Nuala and the hot chilli challenge certainly had everyone getting excited and talking about Curryfest!

Not all fabulous fashions shows are big showy affairs with designer labels and expensive front row seats. Yes, I am guilty of loving the big shows, but I did have the privilege along with the much loved local Mrs Gretel Brissett (past owner of Sawtell Cinema) of having front row seats at a table at the Annual St Nics Op Shop Fashion Parade down at Sawtell. It was staged at the Sawtell Uniting Church. During the interval, we were treated to the most amazing afternoon tea and enjoyed entertainment from the Marion Grove Ukulele Group. Yes, there were fab models throwing their all into modelling for the packed house and yes, there were a few designer labels in the mix. There was also professional photographer Rob Cleary from "Seen Australia", who donated his time for the day.

Rob can be contacted for his photographic skills on 6658 8089. The fashion was fabulous, but the difference was that they were all pre-loved clothes and up for sale raising funds for Lifeline, REAP and Sawtell Anglican OP Shop. It was a wonderful afternoon raising funds for great causes. Well done to Anita and all involved.

The FOCUS team attended another of the

ever popular BWN breakfasts just recently. This meeting was staged at the beautiful Novotel Pacific Bay Resort. The guest speaker was Jane Tavener, who is co-creator of WOW (Women of the World). She was there to share her vision for an exciting new project. Uplifting morning, and great way to start the day. The next breakfast will be on Thursday 8th October, and the guest speaker for the morning will be one of our amazing local communications experts, Gael Drum.

FOCUS love to attend and cover and promote events in all our beautiful local areas. Bellingen just had a vibrant and colourful Plant Fair recently. It was presented by the Bellingen Environment Centre Inc. You could certainly make a day of it! There were over 70 stalls providing a huge diversity of species. It was hard to choose from all the native, rare and exotic plants and trees.

To add to the fun of the day there were musicians, workshops and lots of delicious food.

Staying on floral and enjoying the great outdoors, the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens will be stunning with flowers as well as twinkling with candles this October, as hundreds of lanterns are to be set afloat in celebration of the Japanese Lantern Festival. The event will be hosted Coffs Harbour Daybreak Rotary in conjunction with the North Coast Botanic Gardens. The Festival will offer traditional Japanese

cuisine and a magical launching ceremony. For information and bookings, go to www.facebook.com/japaneselanternfestival.

We attended the ever popular Annual Antique Fair, which was presented by Quota International of Coffs Harbour Inc. This fair is always staged at the Coffs Harbour Showground.

This was their 20th Fair, which is always a huge success. There really is something for everyone, and proceeds from the day go to Quota Local Charities. During the course of the day there are homemade cakes and savouries to devour, washed down with a cup of tea served in fine china, of course.

From Bellingen up to Woolgoolga! Get colourful and get your tickets to the Bollywood Musical. The Inaugural Show on the 24th September is part of the Woolgoola Curryfest’s 10th Anniversary celebrations and always attracts massive support from the local community. This event held at the C.ex Woolgoolga includes a three course dinner from Walters Bistro and loads of fabulous entertainment narrated by Councillor and cultural identity John Arkan. To brighten and enlighten there will be dancing from the super popular Sirens Bollywood dance team and Babas Band.

Tickets available from www.curryfest.com.au Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

St Nic's Fashion Parade

Betty Weick and Adam Harvey

BWN Event

St Nic's Fashion Parade

Lee And Rebeckha Campbell, Paul Burke and Tanya Watts

BWN Event

BWN Events

Jetty Club

BWN Event

Sunrise Crew & Nuala at Woolgoolga

Sue and Michelle

NSW Country Cricketers of the Year: Carly Leeson and Tim Cox

Kookaburra Under 21 Player of the Year: James Psarakis (left) and Lewin Maladay (right)

CNSW Lifetime Coaching Award winner John McMahon (OAM) (left) and Cricket NSW’s David Moore (right)

St Nic's Fashion Parade (Photo by Seen Australia)

St Nic's Fashion Parade (Photo by Seen Australia)

coffs coast focus.

51

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

OCTOBER 2015

with Terri

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company’s next production is none other than the well-loved family favourite, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

The cast are in rehearsal, learning songs you will all remember, such as Truly Scrumptious, Toot Sweets, and of course, the title song! Pictured above are Emma Goddard as Truly Scrumptious, Lincoln Elliott as Caractacus Potts, Harley Hayes as Jeremy, and Grace Jones as Jemima.

Featuring all the characters you love from the MGM movie, Jeremy and Jemima, their father Caractacus Potts and the lovely Truly Scrumptious set out to rescue Grandpa from the evil Baron Bomburst.

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.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Expect the unexpected! Your leadership qualities and communication will be given opportunity to sparkle. You have an innate sense of justice and fairness and like to strive for win-win situations, so trust in your ability and allow yourself to be heard confidently.

Turquoise helps us to communicate with high esteem.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Although change can be a challenge, it is also a very rewarding part of life. Set some fresh goals and try giving yourself permission to succeed. If fear overwhelms you at the time of getting ready to step forward, try visualising yourself walking the walk. Apophyllite helps to visualise clearly.

Will they win over the forces of Vulgaria?

Will the Baron and Baroness be defeated?

Will Grandpa be rescued?

With teamwork, imagination, and the help of a magical car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang flies, swims and rides to a breathtaking finale!

Tickets on sale now at the Jetty Theatre Box office, 6652 8088, or online at www.jettytheatre.com

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 Don’t lose sight of your dreams; they give you opportunity to reconnect with that feeling of life’s purpose and joy. Use your restless energy to benefit you. Set some fresh goals and acknowledge how clever you are at manifesting. An inner contentment will soon fill your being. Citrine is great for change and empowerment.

Directed by Maureen

Burgess * Musical Director T im E gan

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Opportunity to enjoy your heart-felt connections will satisfy a yearning in your being. Don’t be afraid of commitment; instead, nurture the love you feel and enjoy its rewards. Mirror yourself in your partner or friends and learn knew things about yourself. Ruby releases us from fear.

52 coffs coast focus.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Relationships may feel like hard work at present, as they are presenting challenges to your old belief systems. Practice patience with yourself and others and try debating your beliefs. Although it’s not easy, it can be very rewarding. Self-awareness will simplify things. Clear Quartz aids in personal development.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Undigested emotions are surfacing at present, to give you another opportunity to release the effects they have on you.

This is why you may be feeling suspended.

Work metaphysically with your body to free these negative components from your life.

Look for insecurity and become the divine answer. Rose Quartz stimulates self-love.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Your wisdom attracts other people’s problems to you. You are a natural born counsellor, and others sense this. Hear your wise words that catch your attention when you are helping someone through a tough time. This is how you too are being guided.

Turquoise helps us to communicate efficiently.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Time for change is fast approaching, and you will find yourself extremely restless and feeling frustrated if you have no newfound direction. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to proceed without fear. Fake it until you make it, because success will breed further triumphs. Aquamarine washes away self-doubt.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Relationships are providing you with perfect opportunity to see how nurturing, loving and compassionate you can be. If you are feeling unappreciated, try looking inward at the gifts and talents you chose to incarnate with and thank yourself for these attributes.

Rose Quartz will fill your heart with love.

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.

focusinterview.

Find Your Career Path A GREAT COURSE COMBINED WITH AN AMAZING PORT MACQUARIE LOCATION MADE THE OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY AT CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY (CSU) TOO GOOD TO MISS FOR PARAMEDIC STUDENT MARISSA LESO.

O

riginally from Wollongong, Marissa was attracted to CSU by the chance to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while studying towards her Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic).

Already, Marissa has completed a community placement with an Aboriginal medical centre, learning more about the Indigenous culture while practising vital signs.

CSU courses include many opportunities for workplace learning, as well as the chance to learn from people with real industry experience, offering a real insight into students’ future careers right from the start of their course.

“By far, the lecturers have been a highlight,” Marissa said.

Studying at CSU in Port Macquarie also gave Marissa the chance to volunteer at the Ironman 2015, where she wore her CSU Paramedic uniform with pride.

Fellow CSU student Josh White was already

living in Port Macquarie when he decided to enrol in the Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic).

The ability to study at a university campus in his hometown was one of the drawcards for Josh, as well as the friendly atmosphere at CSU and its reputation in the community.

But while he was from Port Macquarie already, Josh said one of the highlights of his study experience was the chance to expand his networks.

“CSU is a great place to meet new people while still getting an education,” he said.

As well as making new friends, Josh has started developing his professional network through a workplace learning placement in Boolaroo, near Newcastle.

Paramedics is just one of the growing suite of courses offered at CSU in Port Macquarie.

Students can also choose from Bachelor degrees in Accounting, Advertising, Business Studies, Criminal Justice, Gerontology and Healthy Ageing, Graphic Design, K-12 Education, Medical Radiation Science, Outdoor

Marissa Leso

Josh White

Recreation and Ecotourism, Studying at CSU ie Public Relations, in Port Macquar e th sa is ar Psychology or also gave M ee r chance to volu nt 15, Social Work, 20 an m on Ir e at th providing where she wore diverse career edic her CSU Param opportunities ide. ” pr ith w uniform for students without having to leave the Mid North Coast.

Michael Ashworth In 2016, CSU will open the first stage of its new permanent also available specifically for students at Port campus in Port Macquarie, further Macquarie Campus. boosting the opportunities for students Justice Studies student Michael Ashworth to experience the best of uni life on their urged anyone thinking about studying at CSU doorstep. in Port Macquarie to follow their dream. “Do The new campus will include practical it. It will be the best experience that you can learning facilities and social spaces, as well as think of,” he said. offering students all the support and academic Find out more: Phone 1800 334 733 or visit services needed to succeed. Scholarships are www.csu.edu.au/port-info

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focusinterview.

Petit Early Learning J O U R N E Y

Petit Early Learning Journey is a premium brand long day care provider that is renowned for creating safe, respectful and compassionate environments. With centres already open in Townsville, Port Douglas, Marian, Caloundra and Barton, Petit have now extended their premium centres to Coffs Harbour!

grand open day on Saturday 22nd August revealed the centre’s enthralling environment and welcomed the community the opportunity to tour the facilities and meet the friendly staff. Petit ELJ Coffs Harbour are very excited and pleased to welcome Miss Sharon to the Petit team as the Centre Director.

Sharon comes to Petit with a wealth of knowledge and over 30 years' experience within the childcare industry. “I am really looking forward to meeting you and getting to know you and your family. If there is ever a question or query, please come and speak to me, as communication is extremely important to me. My door is always open, and I will welcome you and always be honest, open and upfront. Talk to you all soon,” says Sharon.

Petit Early Learning Journey follow a holistic approach that encompasses a connection of mind, body and spirit, and a view that all learning is integrated and interconnected.

By cultivating a child’s self-awareness of their body, feelings, thoughts and attitudes, Petit hope to support the discovery of each child’s unique personality. By encouraging and practicing mindfulness, teachers awake a child’s motivation from within to engage their unique personal development.

Petit also embrace sustainable practices and utilise a paperless digital sign in/sign out system (QK Kiosk) as well as an online child portfolio tool (QKeYLM). With your own unique access to the online family lounge log in at anytime, anywhere, to follow your child’s learning journey.

Christa Adamson, a parent at the Burdell centre, absolutely loves QKeYLM: “With our work life, at times we are not able to do pick up and drop off ourselves to see her

54 coffs coast focus.

e To save you tim ith w st and assi ning s, those busy mor usive cl in e ar ls all mea fe e within your daily on site ed and are prepar chef n ow ry by their ve ning or m es ud cl - this in and a a and afternoon te ” h! nutritious lunc

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educators. Having the online service allows us to check in on her day and the fun activities she has enjoyed especially when we have to be away for work. It is also a great tool to sit down with our daughter and look at photos of her day so she can share her stories and happiness about the day she has had.”

The Coffs Harbour centre features four studios: Baby Boulevard, Burrows Lane, Haven Place and Treasure Cove, each catering to a different age group starting from six weeks - five years. With two large outdoor play areas which include elements of real grass, large sandpits, forts, slides, swings, bike tracks and water play, there is plenty of opportunity for children to explore and bond with nature while having FUN! To save you time and assist with those busy mornings, all meals are inclusive within your daily fee and are prepared on site by their very own chef - this includes morning and afternoon tea and a nutritious lunch!

Mealtimes at Petit provide an opportunity for staff to encourage the development of healthy eating practices. Petit’s seasonal menus have been developed in association with EatWell Australia and aim to meet a significant amount of a child’s daily nutritional requirements. You can be assured

that your children are receiving the freshest, nutritionally sound meals while at Petit!

Did we mention that all nappies are included too?

Furniture and resources made from environmentally-friendly materials, that are functionally operational and versatile are sourced. Shying away from plastic furniture, the focus and design of all Petit studio fit outs are nature inspired and highlight the natural beauty of wooden pieces. Stimulating environments that cater to children’s learning experience are created to ensure centre surroundings allow the imaginations of children to flourish and encourage learning through inspiration.

Individual differences and cultural diversity are valued and respected at Petit, and considerable emphasis is placed on promoting an environment that supports and fosters multicultural differences which inspired a collection of beautifully selected multicultural resources.

Christa goes on to say, “The facilities at the centre are amazing! Being a brand new centre, obviously things are nice, but one thing we have said each time new toys or

equipment arrive - you provide great quality equipment from the beginning! The toys are fabulous; we LOVE the wooden toys, puzzles and the great outdoor play.”

Petit centres offer a kindergarten programme taught by Bachelor qualified staff, and centre programming supports the Early Years Learning Framework.

Petit are conscious of creating supportive environments, and all studios are configured to the new educator-to-child ratios which as a requirement under the National Quality Framework must be in effect as of January 2016.

The advantages of Petit working to the new educator-to-child ratios now, means that your children are being supervised to the highest standard, and educators are able to give more individual care and attention. As a result, more meaningful relationships are formed.

Enrolments are now open for their Coffs Harbour centre. If you are interested in securing a place for your child, contact the team on (02) 6600 1648. Alternatively, visit www.petitjourney.com.au/ and complete an enquiry form online and a PETIT team member will be in touch to help walk you through the first steps in securing a place for your child.

focusinterview.

Casuarina SCHOOL

REVEALED

The record of academic achievement for children that attend Casuarina Steiner School speaks for itself. For example, this year’s Student Representative Council at Coffs Harbour Senior College is made up of twelve students – of these, three are ex-Casuarina students, including the President and two general members.

S

uccesses like this are testament to the excellence of the educational culture at Casuarina, that develops a love for learning amongst its students that continues way beyond primary school.

Steiner education is a popular choice for schooling in Australia today, with over 40 schools across the country. While many parents are choosing Steiner, others have never heard of it or know very little about it. What is Steiner education? And why is it so good?

Steiner education was developed in Austria by the philosopher Rudolf Steiner, in 1919.

Today there are over 1,200 schools worldwide in 60 countries. In Steiner schools, often called Waldorf schools, the teaching approach is unique, and quite different from typical mainstream education. Globally, all Steiner schools follow the same basic principles and approach to teaching.

On visiting a Steiner school, such as Casuarina in Gentle Street, Coffs Harbour, one is immediately struck by the school itself - its buildings, its grounds, the environment are all remarkable. Casuarina is architect designed and built solely from stone and wood, with irregularly shaped classrooms and lots of natural light. In these generally smaller schools, the staff and students all know each other well and call one another by first names. There is a general air of connection, of calm. A focus on visual arts is immediately evident, and closer inspection shows a focus on other arts too - craft, knitting, sewing, painting, sculpture, music, song, story-telling, dance, foreign language and physical movement all form part of the weekly rhythm for students.

The curriculum is based on an integrated, holistic approach that focuses on building the various dimensions of each child - cog-

nitive, emotional, ethical and spiritual. Lessons are Our students carefully crafted to be regularly go on age-specific, meeting aders, to be engaged le the needs of the child d their own model both socially an any at their various stages m in ly buildings, and building academical of development. This ols something real within local High Scho approach encourages the school’s grounds and community a high level of inquisiorganisations .” such as a climbing tiveness as children learn frame. Within this lesson at a pace that suits their they may be learning about development, making all angles, fractions, weights and learning enjoyable and intermeasurements, and collaboration esting to them. In the early years, the and teamwork, all through building school day is play-based. Children learn their own wall. Each project the children skills using their hands that will help them complete has a purpose. Casuarina Steiner with writing later, while oral literacy is taught School caters for children through the standard through story-telling, rhyme and song. When NSW Primary Years from 1 to 6, and meets the it comes time to formally read and write, chilState requirements in terms of curriculum. dren are keen to learn and engage much more A key principle is teaching through real life readily, with a deeper level of comprehension. situations. Children never learn information Casuarina caters for children aged from twelve by rote, just because they need to know it to months through their Lavender Cottage Parent pass a test. This builds interest in what they are and Child Programme - morning sessions for learning, as they see how it pertains to everya day or two each week; while children aged day life, and creates a model for all learning from four and a half to six attend Kindergarten for the future. At Casuarina Steiner School this from three to five days a week. is evident in the outstanding levels of success Steiner students uniquely travel their primary achieved by our students when they reach high school journey with a Class Teacher whom school. Casuarina students typically move on ideally stays with them through Classes 1 to to a variety of high schools in the area, often 6, creating the opportunity for the class to accessing “gifted and talented” streams. Every become a real cohesive team with a teacher year Coffs Harbour Seniors College, amongst who fully understands the capabilities and others, sees outstanding performances from needs of every child in his or her classroom. ex-Casuarina students, in achieving top grades Teaching focuses on three-week long Main across a broad range of subjects. The dux or Lesson blocks, each dedicated to a broad subschool captain positions are often awarded to ject. Each Main Lesson uses a theme to teach ex-Casuarina students. multiple disciplines simultaneously e.g. In Class Another aspect of Steiner schools, strongly 3, children at Casuarina study a Building Main apparent at Casuarina, is a focus on the wider community. Casuarina, as all Steiner schools, Lesson that sees them investigating dwellings aims to work with parents in educating their from different countries and climates, creating

“

children. The social fabric of a Steiner school is rich - parents and friends come together regularly for weekly events such as: Friday Café; regular Main Lesson Sharing sessions; seasonal festivals that are open to the general community; and various other opportunities such as visiting musicians, story-tellers, or performers; or social get-togethers like Curry Nights. Casuarina “strings ensemble” students perform at various events and festivals in the region - playing classical violin and cello to delighted audiences. By putting in to the local community, the children learn how different types of people come together in society to create positive results for the greater good - a learning that remains with them for life. This is reflected in the level of respect they have for all people regardless of age, ability or background.

As a school, we are proud of what we have achieved over recent years. We believe we deliver the best education curriculum in the world with some of the best and most dedicated teachers locally, in what is described as the most beautiful school grounds in Coffs Harbour. All of our children learn in a supportive, caring environment bringing out the best in them to leave us confident, respectful lifelong learners. These children go on to be engaged leaders, both socially and academically in many local high schools and community organisations.

If you would like to find out more about Casuarina Steiner School and what they can do for your child, give them a call on (02) 6651 2770 to arrange a school tour or talk to their Principal. coffs coast focus.

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T E A C H E R S

W I T H

H E A R T

GARLAMBIRLA WITH SOUL

Local teachers Madge Hair and Simon Smith have inspired their students with an amazingly successful local production that has evolved into the Garlambirla Youth Theatre. FOCUS caught up with the duo to find out more about the evolution of the project and how the students are making it their own.

C

an you briefly tell us a bit about yourself and the role you play in the production?

Simon: My name is Simon Smith, and I am a music teacher at Coffs Harbour High School. I am also the Musical Director of Garlambirla Youth Theatre (GYT). I work in collaboration with Madge Hair, the Director of GYT and the cast and crew of GYT to create original music and arrange existing songs to complement the musical’s GYT performs. I conduct the 14 piece GYT band and can’t help joining in at times, whether it be on the bass, guitar or my favourite, the tambourine!

Madge: I am the scriptwriter and co-director. Our patron is Stephen “Baamba” Albert, one of the original actors from Bran Nue Dae in Broome.

In a few paragraphs, can you outline what the production is about?

Garlambirla: A Musical with Soul, is an original musical based on the shared histories of Garlambirla, otherwise known as Coffs Harbour, on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales.

The plot of Garlambirla follows the Creation

56 coffs coast focus.

Where did the inspiration for the producAncestors on their journeys through Gumtion originate? baynggirr country and touches on significant The inspiration came from the old Gumpoints of cross-cultural contact. Gumbaynggirr baynggirr people, the ancestors. We include country comprises sky, land and sea, saltwater respect for the old people in all our warm-ups and freshwater, and this is reflected in the before shows and rehearsals. surprising and colourful set.

When did the project begin?

The re-enactment of these The project began in 2012, cultural stories is supported although the idea had been by traditional and contemmulled over for a few porary dance and a full years before that. Of band pumping out e This innovativ course, the GumbaynSoul, Reggae and es at br show cele ggirr creation stories Ska classics, plus of m the continuu have been around for some solid Aussie ul tif au be life on the 50,000 years or more, singalong numbers nt da un and ab nds, as la r from the time before like Solid Rock, Yil ir gg yn ba Gum itional the sea levels rose.

Lull and Blackfella told by the trad Did you need to have Whitefella. custodians . ” permission from the This innovative local Traditional Owners show celebrates the to include their stories? continuum of life on The script was developed the beautiful and abundant through extensive consultation with Gumbaynggirr lands, as told by Gumbaynggirr students, families and elders, the traditional custodians. Audiences are invitacademic research and moments of inspiraed to share this experience, and learn who is tion from country. As part of the consultative actually guiding us when we look up into the process, students travelled to important sites night sky, or out to the shining islands.

“

with elders and listened to cultural stories on country.

The show and GYT have also been endorsed by the Garlambirla Guuyu - girrwaa Aboriginal Elders Corporation, Muurrbay Aboriginal Language and Culture Co-operative, Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance Aboriginal Corporation and Yarrawarra Cultural Centre.

Does the production tell the less positive side of colonisation and its effects on the local indigenous population? Were the students involved enthusiastic from the beginning or did this grow as the production progressed?

In the beginning, a core group of 40 musicians, dancers, actors, artists and stage crew were excited to perform Garlambirla. The production really gained momentum after the students attended cultural tours, led by our local Indigenous elders, to significant sites to the north and south of Coffs. As a result, the cast and crew gained a sense of the cultural significance of the stories, and were then able to tell these stories with passion and respect.

The success of the original performances also enhanced the show’s popularity amongst the students, with almost 100 past and pres-

focusinterview.

ent members of GYT performing since 2013.

Our school was lucky to receive some Transition Funding, and we were able to use this to buy locally made didgeridoos, boomerangs and clapsticks. The didge-maker, Kristian Benton, came up to the school with a variety of instruments, and we had a few boys test them out and choose their favourites. From that day, those boys practised didge every lunchtime, in corridors or in the playground, as well as formal lessons with Uncle Ben Ferguson on Monday afternoons. They were so proud of them, they protected the edges from concrete with bits of cardboard. They performed with them on stage and subsequently played them for other classes while teaching their cultural stories.

We do admit to playing a lot of dirty tricks on the kids to get the cast we wanted! A lot of our performers had never acted before; however, they may have wanted to sing a particular song. Gradually we would reveal that the character singing that song had to act in certain “small” scenes, which mysteriously expanded! Or, kids would agree to perform, provided they didn’t have to speak. One performer ended up with five major speaking roles through being sneakily coerced like this.

He then went on to gain a place in a TV series [Blue Zoo] which was filmed locally. Now he and our main didge player have been invited to audition for NAISDA - the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dance Academy.

Handing ownership of the project over to students is an aim you mentioned; how will this happen?

The young people we work with are an eclectic, talented bunch, with a vast array of skills, talents and interests. From the beginning, Madge and I were more facilitators, guiding the students as they took on roles that we ourselves were not experts in. These roles included lighting, sound, choreography and set design, to name just a few.

Since the first performance we have strived

to provide as many opportunities as possible for the students to be mentored and inspired by professionals. The students have attended Bangarra Dance Theatre workshops and rehearsals. They have had intensive choreography mentoring from Coffs Harbour’s very own Christina Moneron, as well as working with Sani Townsend from Bangarra and Gondwana Youth Choir. We have travelled to Brisbane to draw inspiration from large scale shows like The Lion King and We do admit to dirty playing a lot of Bangarra’s production t the ge to ds ki of Lore. Students have tricks on the ” cast we wanted! attended composition workshops with Australian and international artists like Rai Thistlethwaite from Thirsty Merc.

Region, the Governor A number of our students have of NSW, His Excellence since worked professionally, assisting General David Hurley and with lighting and sound for local events Mrs Hurley, and toured the show and theatre productions. We have also worked to the Australian Theatre for Young People to develop a management team amongst the (ATYP) in Sydney. students who have elected Year 9 student We are lucky to have had so much comFaith Hyland-Taylor as the President of GYT. munity support; for instance, the Council has Our hope is that as the skills and confidence awarded us two Arts and Cultural Developof the students develop, they will take on ment Grants, which enabled us to bring our even more leadership roles for the creation of patron Uncle Baamba over from Broome and future productions. helped with our Saltwater Tour to Sydney.

The production has taken on a life of its We also received a Country Arts Support own since it was created in 2013. Can you Programme Grant, which allowed us to bring give us a brief timeline of this evolution? choreographer Sani Townson up from Sydney We first performed Garlambirla at Jetty to work with the kids.

Memorial Theatre in August 2013, then the Although we have surpassed many of our audience response was so overwhelming that dreams, we still keep our goal of touring the we did a second season by popular demand show to Broome! in October 2013. After that we began to perThere are plans for the project to be form selected scenes at community events like rolled out to other areas. Explain the idea Galambila Aboriginal Health Service Close the behind this and how you see it being Gap Day and Saltwater Freshwater Festival. executed ...

In the meantime we formed Garlambirla It is more of a dream then a plan at this Youth Theatre, and have gone on to perform stage, and at GYT we dream big! for the Aboriginal staff of NPWS Northern Garlambirla: A Musical with Soul has

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provided me the opportunity to connect with our community, acknowledge the history of where we live and the cultural significance of the islands, headlands and mountains that surround me. We would love to see other communities and schools from all over Australia consult with local Indigenous elders, to learn and share language, knowledge, history and culture in a creative, inclusive, fun and respectful way.

Recently the Department of Education filmed a short documentary on the production and those involved?

The documentary is called Effective Practice in Aboriginal Education and was filmed by NSW Department of Education, Aboriginal Education and Community Engagement Section.

It was filmed on Friday, August 21 and will be used to inform other schools about possible ways to engage with their communities. The film came about after some people from the Department‘s Aboriginal Education Section saw our show at the Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP) in Sydney.

Thanks Madge and Simon; good luck to you and the students for the future. coffs coast focus.

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coffs coast focus.

57

focusbusiness with Melanie from MJ Accountants

PL AY ING WI T H T HE

BIG BOYS Coffs Harbour City Library Service Coffs Harbour City Library moves into the new era with new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. RFID works by using a low level radio frequency to read special tags attached to the library items. For our customers, RFID technology means a faster service and shorter queues.

The library received the funding for this technology through a grant provided by the Library Council of NSW of $193,650. RFID is a widely used technology in libraries, and our staff are excited about its implementation.The main benefits of RFID are stock management and self-service. For library staff, the new technology will dramatically improve jobs such as locating misplaced items and items that customers have reserved. A hand held device can be passed over shelved stock, and

the device will indicate when it locates the specified items. Ultimately it gives us greater stock control and a better service for our customers.Security is another benefit with this technology, allowing all three library branches to have reliable stock security.Self-Service gives our customers more independence and privacy. The RFID kiosks, dressed elegantly in orange, are proving very popular, having large easy to read touch-screens, and customers can choose from a range of languages. The bench height can be adjusted with a press of a button to accommodate adults and children. Self-service is not for everybody, and the kiosks will not replace our staff, who will happily continue to answer customer enquiries and check out their loans.

Alison Heagney is a very brave woman. Single mum to four-year-old Daniel with experience in the employment sector, Alison is stepping well outside her comfort zone and into the lions’ den of the big supermarkets when her new product, Magic Meatballs, hits the shelves in Woolworths later this month. Mel caught up with her to find out what it’s like to be playing with the big boys.

What experience do you have in the food industry?

None. I had absolutely no background in food when I started this.

Wow! What possessed you to create a food product?

The catalyst was my son, Daniel. I just couldn’t find good convenient healthy food that fit his taste and my lifestyle. So I created what I then called “emergency meatballs”: a well-rounded meal that Daniel will actually eat. I’d keep them in the freezer so there was something for those days when I didn’t have time to prepare something special.

It occurred to me that other time poor and health conscious families need a product like this. That’s where the Magic Meatballs idea started.

With so little background in food, how have you managed to get yourself into a major chain like Woolworths?

I studied a Masters of Complex Project Management while Daniel was a baby and when I was close to completing that, I joined 6 Degrees co-working network in town, and they helped keep me accountable, as well as connecting me with experts like you. And I got advice through ETC Small Bus Connect, who suggested that I explore contract manufacturing.

Over time I’ve been able to build a strong team around me. I engaged a consultant with expertise in commercialising food products. He’s really helped me to understand how the business works. We have contract manufacturers in Melbourne with the capacity

to produce for hundreds of stores, and a brokerage firm that can make sure my product is on the shelf.

What has been your biggest learning so far?

You need deep pockets if you are going to play with the big boys if you want to survive and scale up. You have to have the right business structure, insurances, accreditations, business plans and financing.

I’ve had a devil of a time juggling the finances for this project. I just did my first large production run ready to stock Woolworths, which you pay in advance including packaging design and barcoding.

Orders will vary from week to week, which means I may need more or less money. So I have to keep revising my estimates all the time.

And I know I’m probably not going to make a dime out of this for at least a year.

That’s tough. Do you have any regrets?

There are times when I think, “I’m out of my depth. I’m risking too much.” But it’s too late now.

But I’m excited. I think of all those people at the contract manufacturer that I’m employing.

I think about the family that doesn’t have to worry about what to feed the kids. I think about Daniel’s future.

It seems to me that most people who become successful entrepreneurs have a sense of desperation. That’s me. This has to work.

If you need help getting a new product or service off the ground, give us a call. We can help with business planning, budgeting and arranging finance.

coffs coast focus.

59

focus_real estate

realestate UPDATE

Langlands

I

n the competitive and ever changing world of real estate, it is very difficult to be distinguished from the rest, but that's exactly what Amanda Langlands has achieved and more. Her national award winning achievements and local relationships are what have enabled her to remain at the top of her industry for over 15 years.

What's hot right now?

Buyers are available across the full spectrum of properties from low to high, particularly if the work has already been done and the property has been presented well. Properties are selling quite quickly; for example, 4/2 Nile Street, Coffs Harbour; 5 Par Place, Coffs Harbour; 35 Norman Hill Drive, Korora; 101 Bailey Avenue, Coffs Harbour; 91 Poperaperin Creek Road, Karangi, all exceeding vendor expectations in the past month alone, selling within the first few weeks of listing.

As prices have gradually strengthened, we are also finding keen interest in properties priced close to entry level e.g. 300 - 450, as there is a shortage of available properties with a larger percentage of buyers currently in the marketplace (outweighing demand) pushing the properties to achieve exceptional prices.

Where are the majority of buyers coming from?

Difficult to assess accurately, as a full range of buyers are purchasing. However, the trend seems to be a solid mix of locals upgrading and downgrading and as is traditional for this time of year, we are noticing more buyers moving from Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne.

The booming markets in metropolitan areas have seen an increasing flow of sea-changers and also interestingly those choosing to stay in the city and using their equity to purchase affordable investments in our area due to their stronger returns.

How have you found the move to your 60 coffs coast focus.

PROPERTY new office?

We are simply loving our new office location.

Not only do we have excellent exposure and easy parking, we are able to enjoy the beautiful building with excellent natural light flow. It is a pleasure to be there every day.

Days on Market for our office Current sales range from immediate sale to around 40 days.

One tip for soon to-be vendors Sellers need to be aware that buyers are now wanting to do less and are prepared to pay more for improvements already completed. We live in a busy world, and people are prepared to pay for convenience.

One tip for cashed-up buyers For those who don't mind doing extra improvements, excellent capital gains can be achieved.

How has the market changed over the 15 years you have been in the industry?

Advances in technology have enabled our industry to offer current and up to date market research, knowledge and analytics about properties to our buyers all over the world.

No longer do you need a window display, as buyers shop from their lounge rooms.

What is the rental market like at the moment?

Vacancy rates remain low (around 2%), meaning when properties become available we are seeing numerous strong applications, therefore giving the owners a great selection of applicants to choose from.

Tips for tenants It is a very competitive market at present.

Ensure all your documentation is arranged and submitted when putting in your application, so don't leave anything out, and keep a keen eye on new to market properties to ensure you are the first to the open house inspections. Be sure to use strong, reliable references.

THIS MONTH WE LOOK AT THE PROPERTY PURCHASE PROCESS. “WHAT SHOULD I DO TO ASSIST IN SECURING A PROPERTY?”

O

they decide to accept a more favourable offer, btain what is termed “conditional finance approval”. Your finance or remain with the initial offer and acceptance provider will give you an indication position. It is important to remember that it is of whether a loan is likely to be never the decision of the agent. approved, and establishes your purchase In NSW the property is not secured until limit to confidently go house shopping. The such time as the contracts are exchanged. lending institution will still need to conduct At this point it is crucial that the following a valuation of the property you decide on, actions are undertaken to ensure that you are hence why most offers have conditions of not “gazumped”. Gazumping is not an illegal “subject to unconditional finance approval” practice and occurs when a purchaser has attached. If you’re a “cash” buyer, or you an offer accepted verbally by a vendor, and have sold prior to commencing your a higher offer is subsequently agreed search, you are in a great to by the vendor prior to the position. These instances first purchaser exchanging result in you becoming contracts. Gazumping s, rm what the industry terms occurs more often when te e pl m si In a “qualified buyer”. there is a delay between you will need to d any an r fe “Once I've found of offer and acceptance an ve ha ons the property I want, and the contracts attached conditi ndor ve how do I secure it?” being exchanged. To accepted by the the and exchange on In simple terms, prevent this occurring, as property as soon you will need to agents are permitted possible . ” have an offer and any to conduct an exchange attached conditions of contract as soon as accepted by the vendor your offer is accepted, and and exchange on the property in line with vendor instruction. as soon as possible. The further the A 0.25% deposit is required to be offer is from the listed price, and the paid by the purchaser, and this process more conditions that are attached to it, allows for a “five day cooling-off period” the less likely it may be accepted, or the for the purchaser to consult their solicitor/ more likely that a more attractive offer may conveyancer about the contract, secure their be presented. The agent should keep you unconditional finance approval and conduct informed of the vendor’s feedback, and other any pre-purchase inspection reports that purchasers/offers to allow you to increase are required. This process will legally ensure your offer if required. This feedback is either that you cannot be gazumped and that fact, or fiction, and if the latter (and the you secure the property. Once the coolingagent is caught out) then the damage to their off period expires, the contracts become credibility will be deserved. “unconditional”, the property is officially Unless given prior instruction by the vendor SOLD, and the keys become yours once the to decline offers once “offer and acceptance” contract period is complete. If you withdraw has been achieved, the agent must by law during the five day cooling-off period, you take any further offers (and any attached will forfeit the 0.25% deposit to the vendor, and the property goes back on the market. conditions of purchase such as settlement Happy house-hunting! request, inclusions, and finance status) to the Martin. vendor. It is then up to the vendor whether

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The best gets better.

McGrath coming soon.

The The best best gets gets better. better.

McGrath McGrath coming coming soon. soon.

McGrath is excited to announce we are coming to Coffs Harbour and Sawtell. With a hand-picked team and the best local agents at your doorstep, soon you can experience the McGrath difference. mcgrath.com.au

McGrath McGrath is excited is excited to announce to announce we we areare coming coming to to Coffs Coffs Harbour Harbour andand Sawtell.

Sawtell.

With With a hand-picked a hand-picked team team andand thethe best best local local agents agents at your at your doorstep, doorstep, soon soon youyou cancan experience experience thethe McGrath McGrath difference. difference. mcgrath.com.au mcgrath.com.au coffs coast focus.

61

focus_tourism

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast

UPDATE WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SPRING TO THE COFFS COAST, COMES WARMER WEATHER AS WELL AS THE RUN HOME TO THE CHRISTMAS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. With spring comes some major events to the Coffs Coast, such as The World Rally Championship and National Junior Football Titles.

The new Coffs Coast Tourism Committee of Council has now met twice, and one of the major objectives is to guide the strategic direction for tourism on the Coffs Coast. Made up of tourism industry members, Councillors and staff from both the Coffs Harbour and Bellingen communities, the committee are looking forward to representing the tourism industry and working together to drive tourism to the region.

We have identified the need for a strategic tourism plan to guide the sustainable development, management and marketing of tourism for the Coffs Coast and its towns and villages over the next five years. The plan is being developed by a consultant team

62 coffs coast focus.

comprising Dr Meredith Wray, Sarah Lebski and Bill Fox in consultation with a new Council Steering Committee that has been established to guide the strategic direction of tourism for the Coffs Coast.

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THE C O M M IT T E E G A R E LO O K INO T D R A F O RW G THE R E P R E SE N T IN ST RY U D IN T O U R IS M G A N D WO R K IN O T R E H T TOGE M TO D R IV E T O U R IS � .

N T H E R E G IO

The consultation process will seek to identify and review issues, challenges and opportunities with tourism over the next five years, including opportunities associated with nature-based tourism, arts and culture, hospitality, heritage, festivals and events and more for the Coffs Coast region.

An important part of the tourism planning process will involve consultation with business and community stakeholders with an interest in the sustainable development of tourism for Coffs Coast and its towns and villages. Consultation workshops have been facilitated across the Coffs Coast earlier this month, and an online Have Your Say survey will be available until October 31. We

encourage everyone to take part in this survey!

To find out more about the survey, visit: www.meredithwray.com.au Photo above:The new S355 tourism committee, along with our strategic planning consultants (L to R from back) Chris Chapman, Michael Grieve, Cr Steve Klipin, Dene Zahner Meredith Wray, Michael Hall, Yvonne Wynen, Nikki Greenwood Stephen Saunders, Sarah Lebski, Jenny Sewell, Cr Bob Palmer (Absent: Paige Sinclair and David Laarhoven).

focusinterview.

Business Minds

with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

MARILYN BRIEN

Leadership Management Australia

M

arilyn, tell us a little about yourself and your background.

In 1990, we made the sea change from Sydney as a family. For the next eight years I was involved with a local aviation company. The role presented many exciting challenges and was very fulfilling as far as our achievements in pilot training, search and rescue, passenger and freight charter were concerned. In 1998, I started working with Leadership Management Australia (LMA) as an Account Manager.

In 2005, I was given the opportunity to buy the LMA License for the Mid North Coast and thus became LMA - Marilyn Brien. Since then I have grown my team of facilitators, coaches and business development managers. We now have an awesome team of seven covering Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Grafton.

You’re the Licensee of LMA on the Mid North Coast. What services do you provide businesses?

We really love what we do. As a Registered Training Organisation, we provide training and development, delivering qualifications, measurable results and return on investment for our clients. We develop the areas of leadership, management, communication, performance, productivity improvements, team development and sales. Our open workshops involve faceto-face learning - a fantastic, fun-filled learning environment.

What has always appealed to me about LMA is the focus on the development of people.

In other words, participants experience real change and continuous improvement through implementation of their learning to their personal and business lives. We also support par-

as I see challenges to es opportuniti hat could we do ‘W k, as e great differently?’ Th and ng ni ow benefit of ness operating a busi ance ch e regionally is th ure rt nu d to grow an clients ith w ps hi relations sis. ” ba on a face-to-face

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ticipants through our unique development process with a LMA facilitator, LMA coach and a mentor from their workplace. We call this our communication triangle - all parties working together to achieve real change in behaviour and attitude, as well as a return on investment.

As the saying goes, “A fish goes rotten from the head down”. What do you see as the key components of good leadership?

A good leader understands and practises the key components - honesty, integrity, knowledge, experience, empathy, problem solving, decision making and of course, being a good listener. If all of these components are in place, there will be trust, and with trust comes employee engagement.

What impact can strong leadership have on an organisation?

Strong, fair and even-handed leadership in an organisation means you will have a cooperative team environment - everyone working together for the good of the organisation. The values will be set and clear to all. Employees who are happy will be engaged, roles and responsibilities will be clear, and there will be less employee turnover and sick leave. All of these elements impact on an organisation’s bottom line in a positive and productive manner.

What are some of the best ways to motivate employees?

That’s an interesting question, because the trend has changed over the years. In 2000, LMA developed the Leadership, Employment and Direction Survey (L.E.A.D) across Australia.

The survey involved the employees, managers and leaders of thousands of organisations.

Our most recent survey around Positive Influences in the Workplace indicated that the five ways to best motivate staff were as follows: • Reasonable salary and pay • Being entrusted with responsibility/independence • Interesting/challenging work • Good relationships with other staff • Flexible working arrangements hours/family friendly hours A good start for any business would be to look at these areas and see whether improvement is needed. It’s important to talk to your team about what might motivate them to do a better job or be happier in the workplace.

What challenges have you come across in running a business on the Coffs Coast?

I see challenges as opportunities to ask, “What could we do differently?” The great benefit of owning and operating a business regionally is the chance to grow and nurture relationships with clients on a face-to-face basis.

We have worked with over 1,000 organisations on the Mid North Coast, some of whom we’ve been involved with for over a decade. As an organisation, LMA is at the forefront of training and development, acutely aware of change and continuous improvement. I believe that people can be your greatest challenge in business as well as your greatest asset - if you invest in them, develop them and effectively lead them. I believe that people behave as you let

them behave, so if you’re not happy with their behaviour, you first need to look at yourself and the way you are managing and communicating with them. As an employer, it’s important to ask the question, “what could I do better?”

How do you remain so passionate after 17 years with LMA? It’s great to share the results with our participants at each graduation. My team and I really love what we do. We are committed to achieving change in behaviour and attitude for all - that’s what really motivates me.

Have you had a mentor to guide you in business?

Brendan Walsh, who owned the LMA business in this area prior to my involvement, was a wonderful mentor. These days I consider many of the successful business owners, who are also clients, great mentors.

From where do you draw inspiration every day?

I love where I live, the relationships we develop and communicating with people. For me, doing what I love equates to my values of caring for and helping people. This is also played out through my involvement with Rotary, who do such wonderful work locally and globally.

Away from work, how do you spend your time?

We have a blended family of five children and 13 grandchildren, so that keeps us busy. I love to travel. Music is another passion of mine as well. And I absolutely love to read. I read all kinds of books and have a wonderful swap system with my girlfriends.

I very much value the importance of having a work/life balance - this is encouraged and supported through all of our programmes.

Thanks so much for your time and insight, Marilyn. coffs coast focus.

63

copy centre coffs Ask pam - admintechniQs

Copy Centre Coffs is a locally owned business with a friendly experienced staff.

With shop front parking and free delivery to businesses in the CBD, why wouldn’t you venture out to Isles Drive for your printing needs?

Barry Hockey Accountants

Copy Centre Coffs specialise in Business Packages - business cards, flyers, presentation folders, booklets, flags/banners, along with a full design service and much more.

It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. If you prepare your own tax return, then you need to complete and lodge your tax return by 31 October. If you have not been to a tax agent before and would like your return completed by a professional, then you need to see them prior to 31 October. You should ensure that your tax professional is a registered tax agent.

They can print your images on canvas, poster boards, light box or banner material and also print on mugs, T-shirts, plaques, clocks, mouse pads, plastic ID cards etc.

Susan Douglass is the Manager of the Copy Centre, bringing to her position the experience gained from a long career in photography.

Photo restoration, product photography, negative and photograph scanning, slideshow production, photobooks and DVD/CD burning are all services the Copy Centre provide.

Kerri Weekes is the Print Coordinator, overseeing all aspects of the final product. Kerri has worked in the print industry for over 10 years and thoroughly enjoys her position.

Jessica Bayndrian is the Print Assistant. With expertise in binding, laminating and all forms of finishing and print work, her background in administration and training in design applications are great assets to the Copy Centre.

64 coffs coast focus.

Tax Time Deadline is looming fast - 31 October

Do you use your car for work?

A deduction for work related car expenses can be claimed for eligible motor vehicle expenses incurred in deriving your assessable income. Motor vehicle expenses can be claimed via four methods. The logbook allows a claim based on the business use of the vehicle, but you need to keep written evidence for all expenses, including estimates for fuel and oil used.

At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. We not only specialise in taxation, but we have extensive background skills in finance and banking.

Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

Why do you need a BAS Agent/Bookkeeper?

Having a CERTIFIED BAS Agent/Bookkeeper at your disposal allows you as a business owner to spend your time more effectively on growing your business whilst letting qualified professionals, track, file and organise your business.

Is having a BAS Agent as a Bookkeeper important?

As a Registered BAS Agent, I have accreditation with the TPD (Tax Practitioner’s Board) therefore can communicate on your behalf with the ATO. I am required to have insurance and continuing professional education. Only then does the ATO enable me to have a BAS Agents Portal and direct contact.

This allows YOU as a business owner to spend less time worrying about lodgement dates and more time running your business.

Why admintechniQs? admintechniQs is at the forefront of Bookkeeping Practices, constantly keeping up to date with the latest software, training and legislation. Our team can help, whether you just need your paperwork filed correctly, or you’re after payroll, BAS or ATO Communication. admintechniQs is set up and ready to help you build business success. admintechniQs, where the “Q” stands for quality.

KLAUSTEL

OWNED AND OPERATED

KLAUSTEL PHONES AND DATA ARE FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED AND HAVE BEEN SERVICING THE COFFS COAST AND SURROUNDING AREAS FOR OVER 17 YEARS.

an and Phil Klaus specialise in all things Telecommunications.

As well as having 20 years’ experience between them, they have also had the privilege of 45 years’ experience with their father, Max Klaus, as mentor.

The entire Klaus family live on the Coffs Coast and wouldn’t have it any other way; they all love the lifestyle, with just about every family member from the grandkids right up to Grandma and Grandpa enjoying a surf on most weekends.

“We are a very closeknit family.”

As well as the three boys out in the field, they also have their sister Amy running the show from their office (and they do mean running it) - there’s not too much Amy lets them slack off on.

“Our business has grown immensely over the last few years. With the introduction of our personalised service provider branding, and with Klaustel’s brand and competitive rates, we are now rivalling the larger telcos with our NBN, phone line and phone system pricing, with the flexibility to style a plan to suit your business.”

It has now been two years since the NBN first started to connect in Coffs Harbour, with most of us coming through the NBN cutover without too much pain and getting on with business. 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. For others, there are still some hurdles, and we just need to deal with them as they arise. We have found the NBN speeds are a great benefit to all businesses and remember, there are a lot of savings to be made utilising the NBN - cutting line rental and call costs is saving our customers money every month.

The key to Klaustel's competitiveness has always been the personal approach, with direct access to a personal service being the key. “The key to our business is to keep it small enough to care and large enough to

klausTel Phones & Data

deliver.” as promoting your products and services, it As well as offering NBN and VoIP telewill also project the professionalism of your phony services under the Klaustel name, business. we look after existing phone equipment or Plantronics wireless headsets are so give our customers the opportunity comfortable and discreet that you may to upgrade to our Hybrex forget you’re wearing them or MYPBX IP phone until that crucial call comes systems. Starting through, and you’re ready from just $1,990 to respond instantly. ed The double co at s including four x Plantronics Headsets re ru bber case ensu phones, there is give a maximum k y wor durability in an case is no need to get 100 metres’ range e environment. Th lashstuck in expen(about 50 metres sp t, shock resistan an es ur sive long term in a typical office), at fe proof and d an ip gr nd ha payment plans. so you can stretch ed integrat a. ” nn te an ile Our prices are very your legs, attend a of pr low affordable; howevmeeting, touch base er, we do offer interwith a colleague, grab a est free payment plans coffee, and still be confident if you prefer and remember: that your team or customers will “At Klaustel the same people that sell get straight through to you. the equipment are the same people Not only do we look after businesses who install and maintain it.” And: with a standard office set up, we also help “We won’t sell you something you don’t businesses who need something a little need, or undersell you something you do, extra. Do you have a large industrial site, to win a job.” factory, caravan park, motel, resort, nursery Things have changed with the NBN; or farm? phone systems are doing more now than Our long range Engenius cordless phone ever. The Aristel MYPBX with direct concould be perfect for you, with two-way ranection to the NBN VoIP lines has unlimited dio technology to cover the extra distance; phone lines, up to 100 handsets with the more open the space, the greater the voicemail per extension, auto attendant distance covered. EnGenius provides mobil- calls can be automatically transferred ity, flexibility and freedom. Add the many directly out to mobiles, phones, other ofuser-friendly convenience features, and fices, businesses or internally; the ability to you have the ultimate in versatile, powerful link systems together via the internet and cordless phone systems ideal for rural external extensions via the internet keeps properties and businesses of every size. businesses with multiple offices connected The double coated rubber case ensures as one. durability in any work environment. The The Hybrex system also has direct case is shock resistant, splash-proof and connection to the NBN VoIP lines, external features an integrated handgrip and low extensions via the internet, voicemail, call profile antenna. queing, cordless phone system, fire emerSo if you are starting out, relocating, exgency evacuation and school lock down panding or simply upgrading, we can look alert through its extensions. after all your Telecommunications needs.

When putting your customers on hold, We give expert advice and offer an efficient why not sell your business with a carefully and prompt service with ongoing support. worded song and catchy jingle that we For a free quote, please call write music for especially for you; as well (02) 6651 5288.

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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, also offering NBN and VoIP telephony services under the Klaustel brand, we look after existing phone equipment or give the opportunity to upgrade to our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems. Starting from just $1,990 including four x phones, with interest free payment plans.

Remember, “At Klaustel the same people who 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.”

$1990 CALL (02) 66 515 288

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THIS YEAR SAW JOHN AND JOY DAL-BON, OWNERS OF COFFS HARBOUR RELOCATIONS AND STORAGE, WIN THE 2015 REMOVAL FLEET OF THE YEAR AWARD AT THE 23RD ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN FURNITURE REMOVERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH THEM BOTH TO FIND OUT HOW THEY HAVE BECOME SO SUCCESSFUL AS A LOCALLY RUN FAMILY BUSINESS.

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COFFS HARBOUR RELOCATIONS & STORAGE • REMOVAL FLEET OF THE YEAR

Starting out with k, uc just one small tr l al sm a om fr g operatin le ho w a warehouse and , Joy and hn Jo t, ar he of t lo ichael M , ns their two so xiously an t sa l, ie and Dan phone e and waited for th did! ” it ng to ring - and ri

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ow did your business come to be?

Lifetime residents and long-time ambassadors for Coffs Harbour to some of you, John and Joy Dal-Bon are two familiar faces in the community.

John, a born-and-bred Karangi boy and only child to Gloria and Silvano Dal-Bon, grew up in the middle of the Coffs Coast’s then fast paced, competitive banana industry.

Joy, a born-and-bred Coffs Harbour girl and youngest of five children to Joan and Noel Saggus, grew up in the furniture removal industry - an industry which pre-dates the motor vehicle, when Joy’s great grandfather, Charles Saggus, was a one man operation with his horses and dray.

When John and his parents moved from their banana farm in Karangi to town, John (a strapping young lad) helped with the relocation and continued to work for that business (owned by Joy’s older sister) for the next 23 years, until the day it sold.

John and Joy met while they both worked in the removal industry; they married, then lived in and later bought the old Saggus family home in North St., Coffs Harbour, where they reared four children together: Kerry-Louise, Michael, Daniel, and Polly. In 1998 the family moved home to the Orara Valley, where they still live to this day.

After finding themselves unemployed for the first time early in 2009, John and Joy took a chance on an industry that flowed through their veins. They decided to follow in the Saggus family tradition and start their very own relocations and storage business.

Starting out with just one small truck, operating from a small warehouse and a whole lot of heart, John, Joy and their two sons, Michael and Daniel, sat anxiously and waited for the phone to ring - and ring it did! Six years later, Coffs Harbour Relocations and Storage consists of an award winning fleet of four trucks,

three warehouses and eight local Coffs Harbour employees, increasing during busy periods, operating out of the very same purpose built storage facility, built by Joy’s father in 1972.

The new modern signage has a fresh, inviting look, combining the Saggus tradition of green and yellow colours of the past generations, the banana leaf, which represents the family tradition of the Dal-Bon family in the banana industry, and the road going through the leaf winding into the sunset, which represents the life of a furniture removalist on the road. The vibrant yellow sun is how we usually think of Coffs Harbour - bright and sunny.

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K&J TRUCK

COFFS HARBOUR RELOCATIONS & STORAGE

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

“ Keeping the fleet is well maintained ss si ne . the life of our bu our We need to know best e th vehicles are in on at possible conditi r to de or in all times se rvice st be e th e id prov ” to our clients.

“ You have some exciting news to share with us; fill us in ...

This year the Australian Furniture Removals Association, otherwise known as AFRA, held their 23rd Annual Conference on Thursday 20th August to Saturday 22nd August 2015.

AFRA is the official body of removals experts that helps regulate the removals industry. AFRA is consulted by Government departments before they make decisions about the industry and only accredits the furniture removalists that have all necessary equipment, vehicles, premises and staff training needed to complete a professional move. As an AFRA member, every furniture removals company has a set of minimum standards to meet in all aspects of their business. At present there are approximately 350 furniture removal and associated companies that are members of AFRA. These range in size from small one truck owner operated companies to large multi-national companies with many branches both in Australia and overseas. The AFRA membership covers virtually every region of

Australia and New Zealand.

The National Fleet of the Year award is assessed on the basis of those companies meeting and exceeding those standards as far as not only fleet appearance and representing AFRA on the road, but also safety records, team training, reduced insurance claims, fleet maintenance records, reliability and risk management procedures employed.

How prestigious is the award, and what does it mean for your business?

Winning the Prestigious AFRA Removal Fleet of the Year Award for 2015 has been a great recognition of our achievements in continuously providing a professional service within the removals industry.

We are consistent with the maintenance programme. Keeping the fleet well maintained is the life of our business. We need to know

our vehicles are in the best possible condition at all times in order to provide the best service to our clients. We consistently use the local businesses of Coffs Harbour to help us maintain our fleet in tip top condition.

Our fleet have an excellent safety record.

We remain incident free due to our fatigue management systems, the preparation and the training of our staff to report possible problems before they arise. All vehicles in our fleet are equipped with a resource pack that consists of the necessary information in case of an emergency, spare documents, first aid kit etc.

We take great pride in the image of our company and adhere to the AFRA standards.

We always keep the customers’ perspectives and best interests at heart. We achieve A1 presentation by following our company policies and guidelines with regard to the cleanliness of vehicles on a day to day basis.

What makes your business stand out

above your competitors?

Coffs Harbour Relocations and Storage have five generations of experience in the removals industry. Operating under their own name for just six years, they have a small but efficient fleet of immaculately kept vehicles. The entire fleet is uniformly sign written displaying our fresh and inviting logo to maximise advertising coverage on our mobile billboards. Our fleet consists of various size trucks, ranging from 18 cbm - 54 cbm and one Caddy Van, the newest of the bunch being used for carton delivery, pre-pack prior to relocation, conducting of pre-removal surveys and is our zippy little advertising machine. We take pride in knowing that we have a support network, and so too do our customers.

•KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMA Our storage facility is the only central based storage facility of its kind in Coffs Harbour; it is vermin free, clean, safe and secure, with ample ventilation. Your belongings are listed and stacked into wooden home pack modules. Quilted store pads are used for added protection whilst your belongings are in transit

K&J TRUCK

PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH COFFS HARBOUR RELOCATIONS & STORAGE

Port Macquarie to Yamba West to Dorrigo

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or long-term storage. We have installed the latest base security system available for the protection of your precious items whilst in our care.

“I can remember Dad being told by his fishing club mates that he was mad for building so far out of town.”

What services do you offer?

We provide all of our customers with a written quotation for each service we provide.

Long or short term residential storage arrangements - pay by the cubic metre, not by the unit.

Fine Art or Antique relocations and storage.

Vehicle Storage i.e. car/caravan/boat/trailer storage enclosed in our warehouse.

Commercial relocations and storage

Document storage Storage and comprehensive transit insurance Organising of pet relocations Organising of home cleaning We stock and sell all types of packing materials - heavy duty removalist cartons, plastics, international wrap, plasma cartons, pallets and crates. If we don’t have it on hand, we can certainly arrange it for you!

We can also assist you in the relocation of your goods internationally.

Basically, if it needs relocating, packing or storing, Coffs Harbour Relocations and Storage is the one stop shop for all your moving needs.

What to look for when choosing a removalist?

No matter how small or large a move,

relocating can be an emotionally traumatic, physically tiring and financially upsetting experience, or it can be exciting, rewarding and inspirational.

A professional removalist can minimise the emotional and physical problems that are associated with moving and allow the excitement of the moment to be your lasting memory.

AFRA recommends that you check the following 10 points: Is the company a member of the Australian Furniture Removers Association?

Does the company appear professional in all respects - appearance of staff, vehicles, commitment and service?

Does the company motivate their entire staff

to maintain a professional approach towards servicing customers?

Do the removal staff wear neat and tidy uniforms?

Are their facilities clean and well organised?

Do they strive to add value to their service to you by offering extra advice and commitment?

Have you obtained a no obligation written quote, usually prepared after an in home survey of your belongings?

Are they able to deliver your goods on the day and to the destination you require?

Were you offered information about insurance when first asking for assistance?

Is all the paperwork you have been offered easy to understand and professionally prepared?

MY15

Amarok Tradie Auto FROM

$37,990 DRIVEAWAY*

Find out more at vwoffers.com.au Geoff King Volkswagen 6 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour MD1000 Tel: 02 6659 1000 www.geoffkingmotors.com.au * Campaign Driveaway price of $37,990 is for all new and demonstrator MY15 Amarok 4x2 Automatic Vehicles, sold and delivered by 31/12/2015, while stocks last. Options available for an additional cost. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Volkswagen Group Australia reserves the right to change or extend this offer. Terms and conditions apply, see www.vwoffers.com.au

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focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

combine your two great loves...

HORSES AND TRAVELLING. Local tour company, Quadrant Australia, together with Horse Deals are offering FOCUS readers the unique opportunity to visit the UK on their 20 day escorted tour Equine Experience to the UK.

Kerry Moss Why should you BOOK THROUGH A LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT? Who do you call when a volcano erupts and your flight is cancelled? What do you do if your hotel has burnt down when you arrive? These are all real stories from travellers who have called their travel agent for help. Booking through a travel agent means you have someone to help you if things don’t go to plan.

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ravel agents have access to airfares, competitive hotel rates and group tour discounts that you won’t be able to access on your own. It’s not widely known that it doesn’t cost you any extra to book through a travel agent. In fact, a good travel agent will SAVE you money.

Travel agents spend all day, every day reading, researching and booking holidays. They’re a wealth of information on destinations, airfare options, and well located hotels. They live and breathe it and if they haven’t been there, they probably know someone who has been. Being a good travel agent takes training and practice. They are professionals in their field.

Have you ever tried to apply for a Brazilian visa on your own? If your sanity survives the process, your credit card may not. Travel agents provide assistance with the tricky things like visas and currency and which travel insurance policy suits your needs. They get lots of practice.

How do you know which airline flies to where and at what time? Instead of needing to visit five different websites to check all the flight options, travel agents are a one stop shop, with loads of choices at their fingertips. They use tools that are 70 coffs coast focus.

not available to the general public.

Professional travel agents meet strict industry guidelines, which means you have the security of knowing where your money is going and talking to the person that you’re paying it to. No need to put your credit card online and risk security concerns.

If you’re one of those people who like to be involved, then you can you can do as little or as much of the research as you want to. Travel agents work with you, so together you can create your dream holiday.

We’ve all heard it but do we practice it … Shopping local keeps the jobs local and helps support local business.

Quadrant Australia are a local travel specialist offering FOCUS readers and the Coffs Harbour community friendly and professional service to help you plan and book your next holiday. Jeannette and Kerry have over 50 years of experience in the travel industry. Between them they have travelled to more than 60 countries, and they never stop searching for the perfect solution for your dream holiday.

With the local office located in Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour, why not drop in to discuss your next trip with them!

Departing in May 2016, travellers will enjoy three days at the prestigious Badminton Horse Trials, before travelling through the UK enjoying many of the highlights, including London, Cambridge, Oxford and Bath. Guests then experience three event filled days at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, with an opportunity to visit leading show horse producers and the Royal Mews.

This tour is escorted by Dale Plumb. Dale is one of Australia’s leading producers, trainers and riders, winning at all major Royal Shows, and he has numerous National Titles to his credit. Witty and wise with an excellent sense of humour, Dale will offer participants a fun filled equine experience of a lifetime.

This tour is a wonderful chance to combine equine with sightseeing whilst travelling with a small escorted group. Make friends, and take the opportunity to enjoy the colour and pageantry of equestrian events.

When we spoke to Jan Goldner, who was one of the travellers from the 2015 inaugural trip, she said, “I would recommend this trip to anyone; everything equestrian was covered. I saw so much, I learnt so much, and I could do it all again tomorrow. I had the best time”.

Quadrant Australia have a local office in Coffs Harbour staffed by a professional, passionate and knowledgeable team. If you’d like to discuss your travel plans or join this trip of a lifetime, then drop in to see the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour, or visit their website: www.quadrantaustralia.com

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complete p e s t

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c o n t r o l

hat is your area of expertise?

We tackle anything pest related, protection to new homes, termite inspections, commercial and residential pest treatments, pre-purchase building and pest inspections and probably the largest area we excel in would be termite prevention and eradication.

Share some expert advice with our readers...

Prevention is better than the cure. It is always hard to go out to a house that is suffering from heavy termite infestations and explain to a distraught home owner that the extensive damage in most cases could have easily been prevented. Whilst regular termite inspections are excellent for helping to identify areas of concern and potential issues, if Termites are located in the home it’s already too late. There are systems that can be put in place to prevent termite attack which can be relatively inexpensive, especially in comparison to the cost of repairs to your home that your insurance doesn’t cover.

What makes your business stand out above your competitors?

We believe there are several things that make Complete Pest Control stand out. Being 100% locally owned We have eight and operated staff here at ing us is extremely Complete, mak ter ca to gh ou important to us, large en th or N id M e th the local community meaning all of for t small bu s ed ne t’s as Co through donations and the jobs stay local ide enough to prov ised sponsorships. and support local al efficient , person What is the best thing families. We have ” e. ic serv about your job? eight staff here at This would have to be all Complete, making us the fantastic people I get to meet. large enough to cater for If it’s through working at customers’ the Mid North Coast’s needs, but homes, dealing with other business owners small enough to provide efficient, or local charity and sponsorship events, we personalised service. We pride are always meeting new people and making ourselves on looking after our customers new connections on the Coffs Coast. and providing outstanding service and It really gives us an appreciation of just value for money, as well as supporting

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how many fantastic people we have living in this part of the country.

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

Look outside and see what we have - the mountains run almost to the sea, we have spectacular bush land and picturesque coast lines.

The weather is spectacular, and the people in our community are so diverse and for the most part very closeknit and supportive.

Locals supporting locals is something that really makes Coffs Harbour stand out.

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TOM WILLIAMS - T WILLIAMS PLUMBING. What is your area of expertise? We specialise in domestic and commercial maintenance, gas fitting, roofing, solar hot water, renovations and new homes.

What makes your business stand out? I believe T. Williams plumbing stands out due to the professional approach we take to each job and the pride we show in our work.

When and why did you start your business? I started my business in 2012. I am following in my father’s footsteps; he has been plumbing on the Coffs Coast for over 30 years. I had a lot of friends, family and the general public asking if I work for myself, which in turn made me realise that I had a unique set of skills and I should put them to good use.

What is the best thing about your job? I believe the best thing about my job is doing something different every day and the challenge you get from offering such a wide range of services.

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received? It was from my first employer, when I was an apprentice. He told me that every client is important, always show pride in your work, and you should always complete your work as if you were doing it on your own home.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? It’s my home, and I enjoy helping the local community by providing a honest and devoted company of hard working locals with country morals.

EAST COAST CABINETS. Spring is here, and it is not long until Christmas and the summer season of parties and visitors will be upon us. Now is the time to not only think about what needs modifying, updating or replacing in your home and business, but to plan and place orders for jobs required prior to the Christmas holiday period.

East Coast Cabinets is a long established business located in Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour, since 1984. The long term team of employees and families have been staunch supporters, wherever possible, of local businesses and the community, contributing towards the area’s growth and economy as much as possible.

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

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

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

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the pinnacle of COASTAL living

RALEIGH SECOND HAND BARN. If you are visiting Coffs Harbour or Bellingen, you would be crazy not to take the opportunity to visit the legendary BARN. Praised by the locals for its range of unique vintage items, there is always something to be discovered or unearthed.

Nestled on the Old Pacific Highway in Raleigh, self-confessed hoarders and collectors Michael and Wendy run the Raleigh Barn. Michael and Wendy have been Bellingen locals for over 38 years, having moved to Bellingen as part of the hippie alternative movement in the ‘70s, which is very much reflected in their beautiful vintage pieces in THE BARN. From collectable Underwood Typewriters, to antique dressers to vintage chandeliers, there is a whole host of gorgeous pieces to add a vintage chic to your home.

THE BARN also has an abundance of second hand building materials. Michael, Wendy and the team welcome you to come into the store to see what building and decorating inspiration awaits to renovate and rejuvenate your home. People have been known to design their whole home around that one unique item that was found at THE BARN. “The best place to find the treasure you have been searching for. Every time I visit there is something that catches my eye - and the staff are so nice, knowledgeable and fun." - Ingrid Hughes, Coffs Harbour.

E A S Y T O B U I L D, F L AT L O T S

FROM $252,000

"It's the best place to cruise around in; it has everything you are looking for and more. The staff are super friendly and nice. It's a must visit."- Ebony Shroot, Bellingen.

T H E P E R F E C T FA M I LY S E T T I N G Introducing Sugar Mill, the pristine new release at North Sapphire Beach.

Featuring large, private blocks, sun drenched yards all with no more than a 5 minute walk to stunning Sapphire beach. This award winning community is perfect for families, with quiet streets and large blocks nestled amongst 38h of parkland, and a neighbourhood playground on the lawns of the Beachstone Café.

VISIT THE SALES CENTRE Corner of North Solitary Dr & Fisher Rd North Sapphire Beach

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OPENING HOURS Wed - Sun 9am - 3pm or by appointment

focusinterview.

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PHOTOS BY LUC REMOND

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LOCAL DESIGNER TOM STEPHEN CREATES AMAZING LIGHTS AND FIXTURES. FINDING INSPIRATION IN LOCAL MATERIALS COUPLED WITH A BACKGROUND IN FINE ARTS, HE PRODUCES COLLECTIBLE BESPOKE PIECES. FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH THE ARTIST OVER A PINT TO GET AN INSIGHT INTO HIS WORK.

t h Ligit up

BAKER I MILLER

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here are you based on the Coffs Coast, and what do you like about the area?

I am based just outside of Bellingen, in Gleniffer, on a small property. We have been living here for around 10 years and moved here from Sydney. The area is great on a number of levels. Growing up in a metropolis, we wanted to give our kids a different perspective - a slower, more physically adventurous, less tech connected upbringing.

That said, we are not luddites or hippies.

The Coffs airport enables us to connect back to our families, to Sydney, to the wider world. Coffs/Bellingen itself is big enough to provide us with pretty much most of our needs. Personally, I love to surf, and this area has great uncrowded beaches. Around us are some of the most pristine rivers, rain forests - up the escarpment and again you’re in another world, so I guess it’s a really diverse area geographically. I like that. There is always something going down in Bellingen, so pretty much I love the area and can’t see myself being anywhere else.

Can you briefly describe your designs and what it is that you produce?

We design stuff for the home, made mainly out of locally sourced and absolute top quality plywood and concrete. The Bakermiller

THOMAS W P STEPHEN

design ethos grew out The name of producing things for Bakermiller my own place and for from a colour I es m co friends. sted in . ever that might be, was very intere ly pink ck How did you begin si er th and then someone will It is a ra s min d on this path? that allegedly ha see it and say, “Hey, I’d .”

I come from a fine calming qualities like one of them!” And arts background and then I work out a way to kind of just drifted into produce the hand crafted making stuff. I had some original article into something really important mentors along I can sell. At this point it all gets the way (chiefly my concrete and deway more complicated: costs, reprosign guru, Andrew Murray) who opened ducibility, regulations, longevity etc. my eyes to great architecture and design I make all this stuff locally. I have a local and helped me technically, gave me the guy, Trevor Oliver-King, who cuts the shapes desire to produce really high quality stuff, not on a computer controlled cutting machine, just aesthetically but in terms of materials, and then I take them to my little "factory" finish, craftsmanship. and do the rest.

Where did the name Bakermiller come Why lamps and lighting? from?

We only have lights up for sale on the The name Bakermiller comes from a colour website, but there are many other objects on I was very interested in. It is a rather sickly the brink of coming out: chairs, tables, door pink that allegedly has mind calming qualihandles, stools, sinks, kitchenwares. ties. I used to produce extreme artworks in Do you build them as custom orders, this colour in order to see how people would or are there different models to choose react to the juxtaposition of the calming from? qualities of Bakermiller pink and confronting We do custom items. I am always happy imagery. Not very well, it turned out! to give something a go; there always seems Can you briefly describe the design and to be stuff coming up, so it’s a mix of selling production process? stuff I have already sorted out and doing new All the stuff we sell can be found in our bespoke items. own house, so the process has been, we need something for our place, I make whatWhat other artists have do you admire

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and draw influence from?

Greatest influences in design and the world would be Carlos Scarpa, Grant Featherstone, The Eames, Andrew and Clinton Murray, Tony Parker, Fler, Frank Gehry, Le corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, Rothko, The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Hemmingway, the guy down the road doing something interesting ... There are so many giants out there and such a lot of mind melding stuff, I don’t know where to start or finish. The world of man is a wonderful place; go look around.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering taking up design either as a profession or a hobby?

I don’t think I can really give out any advice; I am still trying to work it out myself.

What are your plans for the future? Will you continue with lighting, or do you have other irons in the fire?

The future for Bakermiller is less lighting, more other stuff that requires less regulation. There are a number of lights that I have produced that will never make it to the public because of the regulatory costs; it is very frustrating to see your babies disappear under a mountain of red tape.

Where can people find out more about you and your work?

We can be found at bakermiller.com.au or alternatively go to the Bellingen Brewery to see some lights, sinks and taps.

Thanks Thomas. coffs coast focus.

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one step c o n v e y a n c i n g

services Sarah Speirs, Licensee and Director, established One Step in March this year with A VISION TO BRING FORWARD A MORE FRESH AND MODERN APPROACH TO THE CONVEYANCING INDUSTRY. Born and raised a Coffs Coast Local, she has extensive knowledge of the local area.

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ith a background in real estate on the market, by law you or your agent are and residential conveyancing, prohibited from marketing your property whether you are buying or without a Contract for Sale of Land. selling real property, Sarah can We understand that it is imperative that definitely assist you with your enquiry. contracts are prepared quickly to enable your What makes One Step Conveyancing real estate agent to begin the marketing Services the best choice of conveyancer? process. With this in mind, we aim to have the Let’s face it: times are changing, and people contract prepared and sent to your nominated are getting busier. One Step offers a mobile agent the same day we receive your instructions service to all our clients, so we visit you at a (subject to the Councils Section 149 Certificate time and venue that suits your needs. availability). To get the ball rolling, we have a We have the most up-to-date legal software; questionnaire that we can email or fax to you in fact, once your purchase is complete, we not for completion. This will provide important only provide hard copies of all your details about yourself and your documents, we provide you property in order for us to with a USB drive containing prepare a contract on your all documents scanned for behalf.

The best advice Exciting news for One your convenience. we can give Tips and advice for Step Conveyancing an ith you is speak w ty er anyone buying or Services! op pr d experience d an selling property: We are proud to r ce conveyan r fo t ac ey Buying: A common announce that we are th re ensu and y el tim a in question we are asked expanding, providing u yo ” r. ne an m nt ie is: “What happens after an even more specialised effic an offer is accepted on the conveyancing experience property we want to buy?” for everyone involved.

Unfortunately, buying a house is Tara Beyer will be joining the not a simple process; we wish it was! team at the end of this month and The best advice we can give you is speak brings a wealth of experience with her. with an experienced property conveyancer She has completed a Bachelor of Laws with and ensure they act for you in a timely and her main focus and passion in conveyancing. efficient matter. You could also ask what extra She has over eight years’ experience in the services they offer? legal industry and is soon to become a Licensed Do you need finance? If so, have you spoken Conveyancer. We are very excited to welcome to a financial institution about this? You may her to One Step.

Have you checked out our website yet? want to get in contact with your lender at this Go to: www.onestepconveyancing.com. point. But again, this is the reason why we au - we offer regular updates on legislation suggest you speak to a conveyancer, as we have and handy tips for anyone looking at buying or a checklist which we will run through with you selling their home. to make sure all bases are covered. Our only For more information, you can catch One other advice is: be patient. Buying a home takes Step Conveyancing on Facebook or call time!

Selling: If you a looking to put your property Sarah on 6656 4076.

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C O F F S H A R B O U R T I L E & C A R P E T C O U R T. If you think of your floor as the canvas on which you’re going to design your entire home décor around, you realise how important choosing the right flooring really is.

Not only will it be a decision you’ll be living with for many years to come, the colours and materials will set the mood and the tone for the rest of the house.

Come in to see the experts at Australia’s largest flooring retailer, TILE & CARPET COURT, for all the latest in vinyl, timber, bamboo, laminate, blinds and of course, tiles and carpets.

Be inspired by the Carpet Court embassadors Darren Palmer and Shelley Craft, who have a wealth of knowledge and experience who appear on Channel

9’s THE BLOCK – did you know that Carpet Court supplies the flooring for THE BLOCK contestants?

Finding the right fit for your floor is something that takes time! Our showroom is open seven days on the Pacific Highway across the road from Bunnings for you to explore all the options with our experienced team. We can help you with all your questions or quandaries - what type of product will suit your family? Which colour will look the best? How to install if you want to DIY? We will work hard to make it easy!

The good news is, there are many flooring options now available at TILE & CARPET COURT that are quick and easy to install and even better, are easy on the back pocket. So which style will floor you?

NATIONAL DESIGN AWARD WINNERS NATIONAL DESIGN AWARD WINNERS

a r c h i t e c t u r e + i n t e r i o r + l a n d s c a p e a r c h i t e c t u r e + i n t e r i o r + l a n d s c a p e New Home - Nana Glen New Home - Nana Glen

ARCHITECTURE defines your spatial, zoning and internal living or working spaces including passive solar andARCHITECTURE thermal comfort requirements. of space correct orientation effectspassive defines The yourallocation spatial, zoning andand internal living or workingdramatically spaces including the dynamics of your familycomfort or workrequirements. team and howThe they relate toofeach other. comfortable, well dramatically designed effects solar and thermal allocation space and Acorrect orientation space and/or buildingofgreatly assistsorharmony andand positive performance, whileother. enhancing the built environment. the dynamics your family work team how they relate to each A comfortable, well designed space and/or building greatly assists harmony and positive performance, while enhancing the built environment.

INTERIOR DESIGN + SPECIFICATION introduces colour, texture and fittings to reinforce both the internal and + external features of the design while colour, adding texture an individual INTERIOR DESIGN SPECIFICATION introduces and fittings flavour to to reinforce your homeboth or business.

Professional advice in thisof area is crucial in adding bringingantheindividual the internal and external features the design while entire project making to complement theindesign andisthecrucial personalities flavourtogether to your home or selections business. Professional advice this area in bringing the of the inhabitants to create a comfortable flow and functional use of space. entire project together making selections to complement the design and the personalities of the inhabitants to create a comfortable flow and functional use of space.

Before Before Renovation - Emerald Beach After- Emerald Beach Renovation After New Home - Nana Glen New Home - Nana Glen

LANDSCAPE DESIGN unifies your internal/external areas giving pleasant vistas, creatingLANDSCAPE exterior living spaces and edible planting zones. Careful planning in thispleasant area allows for DESIGN unifies your internal/external areas giving vistas, maximum enjoyment of your livingand environment in all zones. seasons, creating an ever changing creating exterior livingtotal spaces edible planting Careful planning in this area allows for panorama, minimising maintenance and the ultimate, allowing youseasons, to savourcreating your own maximum enjoyment of your total living environment in all an produce. ever changing panorama, minimising maintenance and the ultimate, allowing you to savour your own produce.

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DISABILITY ACCESS DESIGN AND PLANNING focuses on architectural accessibility within theDISABILITY built environment relating toDESIGN disability, safety ageing issues,focuses together rehabilitation ACCESS ANDand PLANNING onwith architectural accessibility planning within and design reporting servicerelating for individual clients,safety the legal profession andtogether insurance the built environment to disability, and ageing issues, withagencies. rehabilitation This should be given consideration design ofclients, your home or business. planning andsignificant design reporting serviceinforthe individual the legal profession and insurance agencies.

This should be given significant consideration in the design of your home or business.

NEW+RENOVATION | HOMES+COMMERCIAL NEW+RENOVATION | HOMES+COMMERCIAL BRISBANE THROUGH TO PORT MACQUARIE. With offices in Brisbane and Coffs Harbour,

THROUGH TOdesign PORT MACQUARIE. With offices and Coffs Harbour, designBRISBANE studio 22 can assist with all your needs right through Northern NSW in andBrisbane into Southern Queensland. design studio 22 can assist with all your design needs right through Northern NSW and into Southern Queensland.

HOLISTIC DESIGN PHILOSOPHY. At design studio 22 we have the expertise to create your total HOLISTIC DESIGNHaving PHILOSOPHY. At design studio 22 we have expertiseDesigners, to create creates your total living or working environment. a team of Architects, Interior Designers and the Landscape a living or working environment.

Having a team of Architects, Interior Designers and Landscape Designers, creates a complement of services which results in all areas working in harmony in the creation of a holistic design. complement of services which results in all areas working in harmony in the creation of a holistic design.

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

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M E E T

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Dream

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WAtsons aluminium.

At Watsons Aluminium we design, fabricate and install Aluminium, Glass and Stainless Steel products including Balustrade, Pool and Landscape Fencing, Manual and Automatic Gates, Privacy Screens as well as special project fabrication.

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Two birds Design.

ABirds N DDesign E R SisEanNinterior S CO FFS HA R specialise BOUR. Two design studio that in delivering highly creative and innovation design solutions.

Using design principles of functionality, quality and beauty inject Andersens Coffs Harbour continues to be thewe blind theretailer life and of sensory appeal yourreasons. project. choice forinto many We are a the friendly helpful localclosely team with hereyou at AndersThroughout designand process we work and ens and are happy to help you with your colour and your blind provide a range of tools to assist with capturing and defining selections. requirements to ensure your design is suitable and that the end In store, receive excellent service friendly result is whatyou youwill expect.

We believe good designfrom is notthe about the Andersens team, who have had many years’ experience magnitude of the budget, but rather, the ideas behind the concept in the sales and installation, and Andersens Coffs Harbour is and attention to detail in executing it. locally owned and operated.

Two Birds offer a broad range of services, from a simple verbal Here at Andersens Coffs Harbour we can offer you a wide consultation to develop your idea, to a complete interior design range of roller blinds, verticals, panel glides, venetians, package. We select & schedule colours, finishes, materials, fixtures shutters, all styles of external awnings as well as Romans & fittings and can complete each project by providing our designers’ and Vision blinds. Andersens have a vast selection of fabfinishing touch with furniture, window treatments, artworks, soft rics for you to choose from as well. furnishings and accessories.

We would like to invite you to come and explore our large WeBlind welcome you to callShowroom Kristie & Kylie on 6652 or drop and Awning located at 9154, 36 Park Ave, into the studio, conveniently located at 91 West High Street, Coffs Coffs Harbour, or call us on 6651 7171.

Harbour to discuss your next project.

Whether it’s a room renovation or a total home or office Latest arrivals in stock – Coffs Harbour are the trusted locals makeover, Andersens framed indoor/outdoor lamps. furnishing needs. to seeprints, for all of your floorrugs andand window

As well as servicing the Coffs Coast for everything balustrade, fencing, gates, screens and special project fabrication, did you WAT S O N S A L U M I N I U M . know we also have the largest range of cut to size sections on the coast. All to suit yourisindividual Watsons Aluminium a familyneeds. owned and operated local business 35 years’ experience.

We stock a large with rangeover of extrusions including angle, flat bar, Experts in the fabrication, supply and bal- as tube, box, sheet, machine bar and plateinstallation up to 25mmofthick, ustrade, pool and garden fencing, manual and electronic well as offcut sizes. With phone orders welcome, we also have gates, privacy screensin-house and general thereand is no specialised tradesmen for allfabrication, your fabrication job too big or too small. welding needs.

We pride ourselves on custom making high quality prodWe are a family owned and operated business with over 35 ucts, as well as stocking a wide range of aluminium extruyears’ experience that is committed to superior workmanship. sions, sheet and plate cut to size.

We work with to and design what bestthem suits as their Working with our the customers community supporting they needs.

Whether be balustrade, landscape fencing, support us is allitpart of being a pool local and business. manual and fiautomatic gates, screens, grabrailsand or the Seeing the nal product thatprivacy our team has created special project in Aluminium, Stainless Steel or satisfied facesfabrication of our clients keeps us motivated.

It’s fantastic Glass, in-house design team foramazing your individual to seecontact a pool,our deck or internal area look surrounded by a stunning frameless glass fence, aluminium or customised needs and see how wepool will add value and stainless steel balustrade. personality to your home or project through our commitment Wea are workevery withtime. the best builders in Coffs and to highproud qualitytofinish service both residential and commercial clients.

Offering obligation free measure and quotes in the Coffs If you are in need of custom made high quality balustrade, Harbour area come and see the experts in Aluminium. pool and garden fencing, manual and electronic gates, Contact us todayorongeneral 02 6652 6566 or come in and and visit ourin privacy screens fabrication, call in see us showroom and see the wide range available at Harbour, 165 Orlando our showroom at 165 Orlando Street, Coffs or give Street, Coffs us a call (02)Harbour.

6652 6566.

RENOVATE YOUR HOME with our latest range of

BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND AWNINGS

For a free measure & quote call 1300 307 523 or visit our friendly Coffs Harbour Store at Shop 1, 36 Park Avenue

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WA R W I C K G R E E N BUILDING. Warwick Green Building is a locally owned and operated building company now located in Coffs Harbour after being based in Dubbo, NSW servicing the majority of NSW. With our highly motivated, friendly and professional team, you are assured that your next building, renovation, extension or repairs will be managed efficiently and cost effectively. We pride ourselves on our integrity and superior workmanship. We have gained a reputation for exceptional customer service and getting the job done on time and within budget. We use only licensed, fully insured tradesmen, and there is no job too big or small. We are a trusted team with a diverse range of skills to take care of your needs. We ensure your peace of mind by looking after all aspects of your project.

What we specialise in: Warwick Green Building provides a complete building service from carpentry through to building your dream home or renovating your

existing one. We also do commercial builds and can accommodate tasks like demolition, friable and bonded asbestos removal.

• Insurance Repairs • Commercial • Industrial • Renovations and Extensions • Truck and Bobcat Hire • Shed Construction • Concreting • New Dwellings • Fencing

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G.J. Gardner Homes N O R T H

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When you decide to build a home there are many decisions to contemplate but the first one, and most important, is choosing the style of home you desire.

What style of home you want to build will impact everything from your budget, to choice of builder, so where is the best place to find your inspiration and ideas for your new home? Display homes …

R

ick and Susan Fischer, owners of G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast, opened their new display home on September 5 at North Sapphire Beach and understand the importance of a display home visit in the build process. It not only gives people a sense of how a finished home will look and feel, but also allows them to picture themselves actually living and moving in the space, something you just can’t get from a brochure or floor plan alone.

We spoke with Rick and Susan Fischer about their passion for building, what inspired their latest display home venture, and gathered some tips to help new builders through the process.

Rick and Susan, what was the process you went through when deciding where to build your

new display home and which design to build?

Although we have years of experience, we still went through a similar process to any new home builder. Firstly, it started by selecting where our clients want to live. For this display home, we wanted to build a resort style home close to the beach. We headed down to see Robyn Goddard at North Sapphire Beach Estate, where we were on the lookout for a block that faced south, so when the main living areas were opened up they would take advantage of the northerly aspect and cool breezes in summer.

We also loved that the estate is only 10 minutes from the centre of town, has a beach café, a great kids’ playground, and it’s just a short stroll down to the beach - all the lifestyle aspects we desire here on the Coffs Coast.

Win with G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast!

DISCLAIMER: 1. Cannot be exchanged or redeemed for cash. 2. Smeg SA35MX Microwave Oven, RRP: $550. 3. Winner drawn 2nd November 4.This promotion applies to G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast only.

Visit our new display home and fill out our entry form to go in the draw to win a 1000W Smeg Microwave Oven valued at $550!!!

Display Home 3 Cherry Street, North Sapphire Beach, NSW, 2450 7 days, 9am - 5pm

(02) 6691 3509 | gjgardner.com.au coffs coast focus.

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The light grey exterior works flects well too, as it de and n su e the heat of th the ts en em pl also com th of e cool blue tones ” beach nearby.

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Once we secured the land, we hit the road on a research trip, inspecting a large amount of display homes along the East Coast that had a similar lifestyle to the Coffs Coast. We then met with our G.J. Gardner Homes house plan designer, who guided us through the design selection. He pointed out any modifications we would need to make to bring our vision to reality and helped us secure a design that would get the maximum potential out of our block of land. In the end, we decided on the G.J. Gardner Homes Stillwater 300 design as the basis for the home, which we then modified to the Stillwater 303 to suit our selected block of land.

One of the main design features we loved was the emphasis on outdoor living and how easily you could throw open the massive sliding doors and create a beautiful flow from inside to outside. In summer, the central courtyard will create the perfect

SHOP

ONLINE

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN DESIGN - PLANT SUPPLY - ONLINE STORE

Claudia Nevell 0409 513 305 info@gardenexpressions.com.au

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oasis by allowing cross breezes throughout the master suite, family room and lounge room. In winter, sunshine will filter in and provide warmth to the home. As with every G.J. Gardner Home design, there are several different sizes and facade options to choose from, depending on your needs and budget.

On this occasion, we went for a larger design creating a spacious, four bedroom home, perfect for growing families.

What was the inspiration behind the design for your new display home?

We really wanted to bring a coastal resort feel to this display home, and we took inspiration from a number of different places. Luxury tropical destinations such as Bali and Thailand were a strong influence, along with the unique colours,

textures and natural beauty of the Australian coastline. This is why the choice of natural materials such as stone and wood on the façade of our display home was very deliberate and important. The light grey exterior works well too, as it deflects the heat of the sun and also complements the cool blue tones of the beach nearby.

The plantation shutters on the windows echo the style of “The Hamptons”, yet allow control of light and protection against the elements.

The central courtyard creates a private retreat similar to what you might see in a luxury Balinese resort. The master bedroom ensuite, with its freestanding bathtub surrounded by pebble stones, would look at home in any five star Thai day spa. A

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coastal, resort style home needs to be light and from floor to ceiling, giving the room a real sense airy, with a beautiful sense of space that easily of grandeur, with complete practicality. complements the natural environment, and we Back into the entry foyer and on the opposite believe we have achieved this in our new display side is another generous sized bedroom and a home at North Sapphire Beach Estate. very glamorous powder room. We chose a beautiDoes the resort feel flow through the interior ful grey feature tile in this room, and we love the layout also? clean lines of the vanity and how mirrors wrap the Inside the display home our aim was to create a walls, giving it a more open feel. Hiding the space that was refined and elegant, yet with cistern also adds to the sense of space in what a casual, relaxed feel that is renowned can essentially be a small room. with beach lifestyle. As you walk Walking past the gallery, we arrive through the oversized glass and at the master suite. It would have timber front door, you get an to be our favourite room in the immediate sense of light entire home, with its open so and space, with the wide plan ensuite, huge freeal g in This w e th foyer inviting you in. With standing tub and generous ns ai cont ch hi w , the flooring we used walk in robe. You can lie om ro activity to t ec rf pe beautiful, natural, Italian in bed and gaze outside be ld wou room , floor tile from Amber, into the courtyard. It feels use as a games sitting which are a little bit diflike you’re on holiday when guest retreat or room .” ferent, but we think they you’re in there, which is look fantastic and are very exactly what a master suite practical for beach living. should feel like! Adjacent to A large study nook leads the master suite is the formal the way to two children’s or guest lounge. It may be large in size, but bedrooms, providing a retreat from the it has a cosy feel due to the fact it features hustle and bustle of the main living areas. This high profile windows, which allow lots of natural wing also contains the activity room, which would light but prevents glare on your television screen. be perfect to use as a games room, guest retreat A great place for watching all night movie maraor sitting room. The main bathroom completes thons away from the kids! this space, with a beautiful, natural tile running

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Proud supplier to GJ Gardner Homes

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The seamless design sees the e integration of th r’s tle bu d an y laundr addition pantry, and the es add nc ia pl of SMEG ap gh-end to the overall hi ” n. he tc ki e th feel of

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As you walk further down the hall, the house opens up into what we like to call “the heart of the home”, a spacious combined kitchen, dining and living area. This is the place where most families would spend the majority of time together. It is so light and airy, with the raised ceiling creating a grand sense of space. Marcus from Designer Living Kitchens has done a fantastic job. It is a stunning design, modern and sleek, yet extremely functional. The seamless design sees the integration of the laundry and butler’s pantry, and the addition of SMEG appliances add to the overall high-end feel of the kitchen.

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Following on is the spacious dining area, which sits perfectly between the kitchen and family living area, taking full advantage of both the stunning courtyard and rear deck. This area is such as great space for entertaining. The cavity sliding glass doors open up the entire space and bring the outdoors in, perfect for taking advantage of the climate here on the Coffs Coast. You can just imagine yourself relaxing by the outdoor BBQ on a balmy

summer’s night, entertaining friends and family.

The lounge features a built in wall entertainment system to maximise use of space, and a peekaboo window underneath the TV enhances the natural light in the room even further.

The finishing touches in any home are important.

How did you decide to present the interior of the display home?

Together with our stylist, we brought the home together

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I would say the interior is the tion perfect combina e, yl st ’s on pt am of ‘H ith w d complemente ic al resort and naut to create ng ki or w features ilies that a space for fam and rt imbues comfo ” elegance’.

“ with the styling of the furniture and décor. You get a real sense of calm and relaxation as soon as you walk in. Natural textures like timber, stone and the use of straw baskets echo the natural surroundings, and the use of colours such as cool greys mixed with warm whites and navy really help to bring the beach lifestyle indoors. I would say the interior is the perfect combination of “Hampton’s style, complemented with resort and nautical features working to create a space for families that imbues comfort and elegance”. I think we have achieved the perfect space to simply relax and unwind.

Particular attention has been paid to landscaping as well?

The gardens have been designed by a local garden designer,

Claudia Neville from Garden Expressions. We wanted something that was low maintenance but that reflected the natural surroundings, and we love the end result. Both native and tropical plants were used. The amazing central courtyard is one of our favourite spots in the home, with its feature Pandanus tree, timber decking, stone clad wall and a water feature combining to create a beautiful space.

It is perfect for entertaining, and most rooms in the house get a view of this area, ensuring nature is a feature in every room.

The use of decorative roof panelling adds texture, and wonderful shadows dance on the ground most of the day. It really is a lovely space to sit and relax.

Rick, why did you decide to become a builder?

I guess you could say building is in my blood. My family has over 150 years in the building industry. My father, grandfather and great grandfather were all builders, so I guess that makes me fifth generation. It’s all I’ve ever known, and I couldn’t think of another career I’d enjoy more.

My father started his apprenticeship as a carpenter in 1963 at the age of 16 in the Clarence Valley, before moving to Sydney. When he returned, he started as one of the first country franchise builders, building several hundred homes with Huxley Homes over a 16-year period. My grandfather started out as a carpenter around 1935, also at the age of 16, building many beautiful homes and churches, also throughout the Clarence Valley. My great-grandfather started in around 1900, at the age of 14. His name was Archibald Mackinnon, and he was a ship’s carpenter who helped build the “City of Grafton” in Scotland, on which he then sailed on to come to Australia, so I guess you could say building is certainly a family legacy.

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I remember going out to building sites with my father when I was four or five years old, playing on the piles of sand, climbing on scaffolding, trying to bring home all the offcuts of timber and bricks so I could make cubby houses. My father also developed a number of display homes over many years, and I remember my sisters and I would race into the houses as quickly as possible to claim the room we wanted, as if we where going to move in and make it our own.

Susan and I have been in the building game for over 20 years ourselves now, and we are a really proud family business. Coffs Harbour is such a special place to live, and we’re lucky to be able to build great homes in one of the most beautiful places in Australia.

What can prospective customers expect if they choose to build with you?

PROUD SUPPLIERS OF

GJ GARDNER HOMES.

Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando St (02) 6691-6100

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Susan and I have been in e the building gam s ar ye for over 20 and ourselves now, oud pr ly al re a e we ar .” ss family busine

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We are a family business that takes immense pride in what we do. We use local tradespeople and local suppliers and while we build homes, we also like to think we play a part in building the community that brings home owners, investors and tenants together. When you choose a local builder, you are also investing in their knowledge. They know what’s under the soil, they know the local Councils, and their businesses are run by people who will benefit from the improved local community they create.

My wife, Susan, and I, along with the rest of our team, are committed to building a business here on the Coffs Coast, and we value honesty first and foremost. There is no better way of

developing trust between us, our customers and our building partners than by being truthful and honest in every single customer and partner interaction.

We’re honest in our feedback, and this is crucial in giving people transparency in the project. We offer fixed-price contracts and believe in being transparent in all our dealings with customers.

The other benefit is that when you work with G.J. Gardner Homes, there are many options for customers to consider.

For people at the very start of the building journey you can choose from a great range of specialty home designs exclusive to G.J. Gardner. Most designs have a range of facades and options to suit almost any block. We are also happy to work

focusabode. with people to build a completely bespoke house, business. or people sometimes already have a plan for a home Why should new homebuilders visit a display drawn up and are simply looking for a quality builder home? to make it a reality. No matter the circumstance, we Visiting a display home gives people the chance to can work with every customer to build the house of really experience a house and all its features prior to their dreams. investing in it. While looking at pictures and designs We believe we go above and beyond what is of a house is useful, it doesn’t provide the depth of expected. Building a house can be a daunting experiunderstanding that physically experiencing a house ence, and a lot of customer care is required throughdoes. Design aspects such as the kitchen layout can out the process. Being sensitive to our customers’ look perfect in a plan or on Pinterest, but it isn’t needs, wants and emotions throughout is key. We until you actually go in and try it that you might always try to remember that while this is one of realise the cupboards are impractical or the bench is many builds for us, for them, it is THE build. slightly too high for your family’s needs. It also We’re proud of what we have achieved provides people with ideas that they over the past two years, and we have might not have thought of, such been recognised by the industry for as including a butler’s pantry, our efforts, winning awards such courtyard or study nook. It ve We belie as Best Exhibition/Project Home really does help with the e ov ab we go is t NSW ($300,001-$350,000) at design decision making ha w nd yo and be ga in ild the Master Builders Association process, and you often Bu . ed ct expe daunting a be Excellence in Housing/Building can speak direct with the n ca e us ho a lot Awards in 2014. We also picked builders on site to find experience , and is up an award at the 2014 HIA out more. Visiting a disof customer care ut the ho Northern NSW Housing, Kitchen play home is the perfect required throug process. ” and Bathroom Awards, winning the way to imagine what it will regional award for Best Exhibition be like living in your dream Home ($300,001 - $350,000) and the home!

Regional Award Winner for Best Kitchen Rick and Susan invite everyone to under $25,000. Most recently we received a Merit come and experience their new display Award for “Best Medium Density Project - Townhome at 3 Cherry Street, North Sapphire houses and Villas” category in the 2015 NSW NorthBeach, open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week. ern Regional Master Builders Awards for Excellence.

Anyone who visits the new display home between And while these accolades are amazing, what we are now and the end of October can go in the draw to most proud of is being an ethical local family owned win a SMEG Microwave valued at $550.

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BATHROOMS | INDOOR LIVING | OUTDOOR

p: (02) 6651 4133 www.ambertiles.com.au

Reece Plumbing proudly supports GJ Gardner Homes

Reece Plumbing Centre Coffs Harbour 177A Orlando Street Coffs Harbour 2450 Ph (02) 6652 4277

Reece Plumbing Centre Coffs Harbour South 12 Isles Drive Coffs Harbour South 2450 Ph (02) 6651 9444

or visit www.reece.com.au

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Rick Fischer - G.J Gardner Homes, Marcus Phillips - Designer Living Kitchens, Susan Fischer - G.J Gardner Homes,Rachel Bye - Marina Hair + Beauty

Katrina & Brent Stuart, James Dowd - Amber Tiles

Kendal Divine - Nolans Real Estate, Doug Alderman – Newnham Karl Weir Surveying

G.J. Gardner Homes Team, Brad Bye, Marc Zaveczky, Kim Casson, Scott Brown

Jamie Henman - Natural Habitat, Natalie Aichroy - Natural Habitat

Rachel Bye – Marina Hair + Beauty, Ryan Seccombe - Coffs City Cranes, Robyn Goddard North Sapphire Beach Estate

Suzi Coote - Fee & Suzi’s Cleaning, Gail Goffett - Westpac, Annette Doohan - Westpac, Fee Elliott - Fee & Suzi’s Cleaning

Brian & Robyn Lacey, Jeanie Burkamshaw

Cory & Rachel Daley

VIP NIGHT • NORTH SAPPHIRE BEACH

SUGAR MILL THE PE RF ECT FAMILY SETTIN G Introducing Sugar Mill, the pristine new release at North Sapphire Beach. Featuring large, private blocks, sun drenched yards all with no more than a 5 minute walk to stunning Sapphire beach.

VI S I T T H E SA L ES C E NT R E

OPENING HOURS

Corner of North Solitary Dr & Fisher Rd, North Sapphire Beach

Wed - Sun 9am - 3pm or by appointment

90 coffs coast focus.

E A S Y T O B U I L D, F L AT L O T S

FROM $252,000

At Freedom Aged Care you get to keep the most precious things there are in this life. You get to keep your freedom, independence and privacy because you own your own beautiful home in a vibrant community.

You get to make your own everyday choices and live life on your own terms. You get to stay together with your partner regardless of changing health needs. You get to bring your much-loved pets. And you get to have family and friends stay over whenever you like. And on top of all that you get nursing and personal care throughout the day and night, in your own Freedom home, in a vibrant social community dedicated to freedom, friendship and fun. Come in and see for yourself why Freedom Aged Care communities are the most sought after in Australia.

Feel free to call us on 1800 984 840 WHAT’S

LIFE WITHOUT

FREEDOM coffs coast focus.

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coffs coast focus.

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