COFFS COAST
February 2016//issue 65
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Feature Story Ash Gravino
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focus COFFS COAST
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Welcome to the February issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.
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he silly season is coming to an end. We are finally getting back into the swing of things! It has taken us a couple of weeks to get our heads out of holiday mode, but we got there ... Just in time for fabulous February! WELCOME NATALIE When we found out Hayley was leaving FOCUS, we thought, “Oh no! Who is going to be able to fill her shoes?” They were pretty big shoes to fill ... Until Natalie came along. Nat started with us two weeks ago and has fitted perfectly into our small team of five. Nat has lived on the Coffs Coast for most of her life, so I am sure a lot of you would recognise her face from somewhere. We are very excited to have Nat join our team! THE ULTIMATE WEDDING GUIDE!
February is the month of love and the traditional commencement of the wedding season, which means it’s timely for the wedding industry to showcase what they have to offer future brides. Our beautifully presented Wedding Guide, as part of this FOCUS publication, will be sought after by local brides as the essential wedding planning tool. This month we’ll be combining and creating the “Ultimate Wedding” feature from ALL FOUR FOCUS publication regions to create a unique handbook highlighting wedding suppliers and participants from the Mid North Coast and New England region, which will then be delivered as a free e-book via social media.
Styled by the amazing Leah Simpson from Living Doll and photographed by the talented Lyss and her Camera, it’s a stunning photo.
THE FRONT COVER One of our favourite hairdressers sent us this image last week, and we instantly fell in love with it!
FINAL SAY “I don’t know where I am going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.” David Bowie.
NEXT MONTH International Women’s Day is held on March 8th. Local businesswomen are invited to participate in our annual “Women in Business” feature, which celebrates the drive, passion and involvement they have in our local business community. We’ll also be combining the “Women in Business“ feature from ALL FOUR FOCUS publications to create a unique handbook showcasing wonderful women and their businesses from across the Mid North Coast and New England regions.
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ASH GRAVINO.
From humble beginnings tattooing fruit, Ash Gravino has evolved into a renowned artist. Making the sea change to the Coffs Coast, he has found a strong customer base from people that admire his style. FOCUS caught up with Ash to find out what it takes to tattoo for a living ...
NICOLE GENNOCHIO. Ever wondered what it takes to design a delicious and amazing wedding cake? FOCUS caught up with Nicole Gennochio from Sweet Love Cake Couture to find out how she takes her clients’ descriptions and turns them into delicious culinary creations.
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WHAT’S ON FOR FEBRUARY EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS WEDDING GUIDE FOCUS FEATURE STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI BUSINESS MINDS WITH SAM WARDMAN SOCIAL SCENE WITH CAROLE BEROS MEET A LOCAL TRADIE FOCUS FEATURE ABODE REAL ESTATE SECTION
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NIEL MCDONALD.
Acupuncture is a treatment that has existed and been practiced for hundreds of years. Looking like a macabre torture ritual to a first timer, the science behind it is intriguing. FOCUS spoke Niel McDonald, a local practitioner, to find out more.
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focus_What’s On Coffs Coast
February 2016
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SYDNEY SWANS Sydney Swans will return to Coffs Harbour for a four day preseason training camp. For the fourth straight year, the Swans will set up camp at the Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort. When February 2 - 5. Where C.ex Coffs International Stadium for open training sessions. More info contact Jonathan 0412 703 303 or Jordan 0422 074 191.
SURF ST CAFE VALENTINE’S DAY Indulge the one you LOVE this Valentine’s Day with a special lunch or dinner menu. Relax and take in the ocean views. When Sunday 14th February. Where Surf St Café - 104 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach. More info Phone 6656 1888.
“MINIONS” (PG)
THE NECKS
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CINEMA UNDER THE STARS presented by NEWCASTLE PERMANENT. Evolving from single-celled yellow organisms at the dawn of time, Minions live to serve, but find themselves working for a continual series of unsuccessful masters, from T. Rex to Napoleon. Where Coffs Harbour Showground. When Saturday 13th February. Time 5:30pm. Cost Free.
TRIVIA NIGHT The Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak presents a fundraising Trivia Night to raise money for the REAP Food Rescue Truck. Where Coffs Harbour Golf Club. When 26th February. Time 6:30pm. Cost: $15 per head (max 8 people per table). For bookings or more info contact Bev: 0400 022 365.
Together for over 25 years, Australian cult trio The Necks enthral audiences worldwide with their compelling style of improvisation. When Friday 5th February. Where Jetty Theatre. Tickets available from the Jetty Theatre.
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WEDDING OPEN DAY
PHILLIP HUGHES TRIBUTE MATCH
Enjoy champagne and canapés whilst you meet experienced wedding specialists and inspect ceremony and reception locations. When Saturday 6th February; 9:30 am - 1pm. Where Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort, 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour. Cost Free entry and on-site parking.
The NSW Blues will play South Australia Redbacks in a Phillip Hughes Tribute match at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, as part of the 2015 - 2016 Bupa Sheffield Shield competition. When 25th February - 28th February. Where C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
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ADAM BRAND AND THE OUTLAWS
Adam Brand and The Outlaws is an all-star line-up of Australian country music’s most prolific names: Adam Brand, Drew McAlister, Travis Collins, Matt Cornell and Mike Carr. When Saturday 27th February; 7pm. Where Moonee Beach Tavern. Tickets and more info visit: www.offbeatoperations.com.au or contact the Moonee Tavern: 6653 6199.
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Necks
Flatop Creations
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hat is our business/how long have we been open? Flatop Creations are importers of handmade quality Teak indoor/ outdoor furniture, new and old. Crafted in central Java, supplied direct from the manufacturer. Stocking: • 2/3 seater swinging suites • Daybeds • Table settings • Large Teak umbrellas with brass fittings • Benches • Wigwam rattan lights • Teak bath tiles • Book balls • Beautiful double glazed pots • Metal sculptures by local artist Alfie Blakey: kangaroo mail box, dragon fly, “E” Bell with stand, firewood clutch and brazier.
TOGETHER FOR OVER 25 YEARS, AUSTRALIAN CULT TRIO THE NECKS ENTHRAL AUDIENCES WORLDWIDE WITH THEIR COMPELLING STYLE OF IMPROVISATION.
We are New to the Coffs Coast, opening three months ago. What services do we offer? One of a kind creations - handmade from re-cycled hardwood timber and metal, for your home and garden. Sculptured timber lighting, solar lighting. Lazy susans, daybeds. Surfboard coffee tables, business card holders and more. GIFTS WITH A DIFFERENCE Have any ideas - we create and sell! Located in the Woolgoolga industrial area, which allows us to manufacturer (create) and have our showroom under the one roof. How can we be contacted? Flatop Creations (not Flat Top), 39 Bosworth Road, Shed 2 B, Woolgoolga. Phone. O423 249 935 www.flatopcreations.com.au OPEN. Tuesday to Saturday.
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hris Abrahams (piano), Tony Buck (drums), and Lloyd Swanton (bass) conjure a chemistry together that defies orthodox description. Not entirely avant-garde, nor minimalist, nor ambient, nor jazz, their music is regularly described internationally as, simply, unique. The deceptive simplicity of their music reveals new charms on each hearing. Featuring lengthy pieces of long-form development, which build in a mesmerising, epic fashion, and are frequently underpinned by an insistent deep groove, their performances are never less than phenomenal. Typically a live performance will begin very quietly with one of the musicians playing a simple figure. One by one, the other two will join with their own contributions - all three players
independent, yet intertwined. As the “piece” builds through subtle micro-changes, the interaction of their instruments creates layers of harmonics and prismatic washes of sound that lead some to apply the genre label “trance jazz”. The music of The Necks is possibly unique in the world today. Since 1989 The Necks have recorded over 18 albums, including the ARIA award-winning Drive By (2003) and Chemist (2006) in the “Best Jazz Album” category. Their other releases include Sex (1989), Aquatic (1994), Piano Bass Drums (1998), Aether (2001), Mosquito/See Through (2004), Silverwater (2009), Mindset (2011), Open (2013), and the most recent, Vertigo (2015). When Friday 5th February. Where Jetty Theatre. Tickets available from the Jetty Theatre.
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JOHN VAN DER KOLK IS A SCULPTOR WHO CREATES INTRIGUING AND UNUSAL ORIGINAL WORKS. FOCUS SAT DOWN FOR A CUP OF TEA AT HIS AMAZING STUDIO IN WOOLGOOLGA TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT IT TAKES TO FOLLOW THE PATH OF AN ARTISTIC LIFE.
hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? My girlfriend (now wife) Sue and I backpacked overseas a fair bit when we were young; when time came to settle down, it was always going to be in Australia somewhere. So we travelled Australia looking for a place to live, and decided Coffs Harbour was it. We've been here nearly 30 years now and never once regretted that decision. Could you briefly describe how you became involved in visual arts? The things that surround you when growing up establish your benchmark for “normal”. I grew up in a home where everyone was always involved in hobbies and projects of some sort, music, drawing and making things. A big early influence was my brother and sister (9 and 11 years older than me). My brother, ever practical, could make just about anything from scratch - telescopes, scuba gear, explosives - he always had three or four projects on the boil. My sister was the more emotional one, expressing herself in murals and music. I recall both of them deriving such pleasure from making things. The result never seemed as important as the journey or simply the process of just creating. Can you briefly describe your current project? At the moment I'm preparing for a large collaborative sculpture project in Kathmandu 8 coffs coast focus.
in a few weeks’ time. This particular project involves getting 25 sculptors from 20 different countries to work on a single piece over a four week period (which is then gifted to the city). Sounds like a catastrophe waiting to happen, doesn't it? But I've been involved in similar projects in China and Turkey over the last two years, and they have been amazing fun, chaotic and inspirational experiences. Where did the inspiration for this work originate? As you can imagine, the inspiration for a project like this is an odd fluid process. It’s great big fun experiencing creativity as an extreme sport. So, how it works is that most of the participants are introduced to each other on social media a few weeks prior to the project. Initial introductions are made and a few tentative ideas and sketches are presented, and some diplomatic opinions are offered. After about a week or two, it generally turns into a free for all, with a constant flow of scribbles, sketches and ideas. Robust and scathing critiques are volunteered and delicate egos stomped on. So by the time we are actually meet on site, we have reached absolutely no consensus on what to make. We have, however, a much better understanding of our various styles, and different approaches to sculpture. We have learned how to navigate around each other’s cultures without causing an international incident and most importantly, we have become hard and fast friends.
Sculpture generally t allow for n’ es do ity; it much spontane ion at er id ns needs co y and planning . M back ground in has industrial design age nt va ad t ea gr been a this .” g in nd ta rs de in un
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Art, it seems, does not cause war. (Welcome to my tribe.) As an artist, how would you describe your style and approach to a subject? A tough question for me. I have always loved experimenting with different materials, so subject matter and style often depend on the medium and how it can be manipulated. Sculpture generally doesn't allow for much spontaneity; it needs consideration and planning. My background in industrial design has been a great advantage in understanding this. The difficulty is never quite knowing when the design hat is off and the art hat is on. What artists have do you admire and draw influence from? There are too many to mention. Some artists can still be an influence by their sheer technical skills, even though I don't connect with their work, and some outsider artists, unencumbered by art training of any sort, can be a total delight. I mostly admire artists that I associate and work with ... The dedicated few who have committed themselves to their practice despite the difficulties. You also work as a teacher; can you tell us a bit about that? Most of my teaching involves short courses and workshops in process and technique. Wood carving, casting, mould making
and the use of various tools and materials etc. I teach occasionally at TAFE for Visual Arts and Furniture Design at Coffs Harbour Campus and some local weekend workshops. Teaching also allows me a bit of travel, and this year I have two workshops in New Zealand and Hawaii. If you could live anywhere in the world to experience a specific period of art, which would you choose and why? I exhibited at the Florence Biennale in 2007 and came to realise that the great art produced during the Renaissance was due to a culture of patronage. I'd like to experience any period or part of the world where making art is considered a legitimate career choice; you know - like a plumber or stock trader or a DJ. What advice would you give to someone who is considering taking up art either as a profession or a hobby? Advice for taking up art as a hobby? Sure. Have fun, practice, experiment, make mistakes, practice, be curious and play ... Did I mention practice! And for those considering art as a profession ... All of the above, plus practice. Art is just another language, like music or German. If you wish to express yourself, then be proficient in the vocabulary (the craft). Thanks John.
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too tat
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F RO M H U M B L E B E G I N N I NG S TAT T O O I N G F RU I T, A S H G R AV I N O H A S E VO LV E D I N T O A R E N OW N E D A RT I S T. M A K I N G T H E S E A C H A N G E T O T H E C O F F S C OA S T, H E H A S FOU N D A ST RO NG C U STO M E R BA S E F R O M P E O P L E T H AT A D M I R E H I S S T Y L E . F O C U S C AU G H T U P W I T H A S H T O F I N D O U T W H AT I T TA K E S T O TAT T O O F O R A L I V I N G . . .
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ou are very well known career is today? in the region for your It all started when I had a weekend job as tattoos. Take us back to an assistant in a piercing studio in Parramatta; the beginning; when did the lady I worked for had a partner who was a you know that tattooist. I had been practicing tattooing you wanted on all sorts of fruit in my fruit bowl to be a tattoo artist? and thought I’d better take it I grew up in a home to the next level, so I went that nurtured an and sat with him and Tattooing has changed so interest in art and picked his brain for all the ted, music. My father did information and tips that I much since I star n is and its evolutio oil paintings and was could. Help to get started ’s an accelerating ... It a commissioned to do in the tattoo industry was be exciting time to the occasional sign hard to come by 18 years part of it. ” writing job or art for ago. Eventually he told me T-shirts and trophies about a friend of a friend when I was a kid. This led of his who was opening a to me being a keen drawer brand new studio in Fairfield from a young age; I guess in Sydney; that’s where I got my dad and his friends having tattoos start, and the journey has been amazing. sparked my interest in tattoos, and I Tattooing has changed so much since I always liked the sort of images that were started, and its evolution is accelerating ... It’s commonly found in tattoo art. an exciting time to be a part of it. What was the progression to where your Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast?
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I enjoy doing r custom pieces fo ; es yl st y clients in man eone I love when som a ith w e m s message al and really cool origin personal idea . ”
“ No, I grew up in Sydney’s Western Suburbs, and tattooed there for 10 years. I didn’t think I’d ever leave Sydney, but after several visits to Coffs, the sea change became more appealing. After a little research I discovered that the Coffs Coast has a thriving tattoo culture. I made the move 8 years ago and haven’t looked back. Tell us about your style ... My style has changed considerably over the years, inspired partially by trends of what people are asking for and partially by improvement in my ability. In the early days of my career, my friends and I would wait three months for a European tattoo magazine to come out to see what sort of artwork they were doing; most of the time we’d be left scratching our heads saying, “Where do you even start?” when we saw what they were achieving ... I enjoy doing custom pieces for clients in many styles; I love when someone messages me with a really cool original and personal idea. I have been leaning towards realism and surrealism for a little while, and more recently
I’ve been doing a lot of watercolour style pieces. It’s hard for me to pick a favourite style - maybe because of the diversity in clients I had in my early years, I’ll always be a bit of an all-rounder ... What was your first ever tattoo? The first tattoo I ever did was a small Bass Clef music symbol on a friend’s ankle; I did it with a tattoo machine that I made from a tape recorder motor, a model train power supply and a sewing needle. It still looks surprisingly OK almost 20 years on - I can’t say that about all of my early attempts though. What advice would you give to people considering a tattoo, and what is a common mistake people make? There is so much advice I could give, but to keep it short, don’t make a decision based on anyone else’s opinion. Tattoos are personal, and only you have to live with your tattoo. When choosing the right artist, a little
research will go a long way. Thanks to Instagram and the like we can see amazing examples of tattoo art being done all over the world every day, and it becomes easy to spot the difference between quality tattoos and tattoos done badly. In the Coffs area there are a lot of talented artists, some with particular styles they specialise in and strengths. Look at the artist’s portfolio before choosing, and even if they are quite good, make sure they can do the style that you are wanting to get. Make sure you speak up - tattoo artists aren’t going to be upset if you need to ask a question or you have concerns; again, it is you that has to live with it, and we want you to be happy. Do you think that tattooing gets enough respect as an art form, or do you think it still carries some sort of social stigma? Slowly but surely it’s getting more and more respect as an art form. Tattoo art is worn by people of all ages from all walks of life these
days. The old negative opinions of some people die hard, but thanks to professional artists striving to improve, tattoo exhibitions, tattoo TV shows, and new technology, tattoo art is becoming more widely accepted. Out of all the pieces you’ve created, what is your favourite? I don’t think I’d be able to pick one favourite piece - so many come to mind! There are a lot of people in this area who have come to me with awesome ideas, and I have loved turning them into unique pieces of art. What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? The ocean! I just got my first surfboard and I’m trying to learn to stay on it! Moving here has been great for my work; the people here are really creative when it comes to tattoo ideas. I have met the coolest bunch of people since moving here, so hanging out, working with, and playing music with all these friends over the last eight years has been awesome. Thanks Ash. coffs coast focus. 11
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Natalie Hunt.
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coffs coast
new team member
Natalie Hunt grew up on the Coffs Coast from a young age. Coffs Coast FOCUS would like to introduce the newest member of the team. We caught up with Nat, to find out more about her professional background and what she loves about living on the Coffs Coast.
re you originally from Coffs harbour? I was born in Sydney but moved here when I was young. I completed all my schooling here, at Tyalla Primary and Orara High School. I moved to the Gold Coast after high school, where I completed my degree at Griffith University. In 2008, I then moved back to Coffs Harbour and have been living here ever since. What is your professional background? I have a degree in Communications, majoring in Marketing and Journalism. I have worked as a journalist on the Gold Coast. I then worked locally as a Marketing Manager for five years for a local retail store, a radio announcer and also more recently as a travel consultant. What do you love about FOCUS? I love that it’s all about the Coffs people and community. We have such amazing residents and businesses in this town; it’s great to see them showcased. I love that it is a completely local magazine showcasing all that Coffs has to offer. There is always something new to learn
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about our region or our people. What has been the best piece of advice you have received? Everything is possible. Never let anybody tell you “you can't”. What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? I love that we have such a beautiful town. The beaches are some of the best in the world! Coffs also has some amazing hinterland and day trips close by. It has an amazing relaxed lifestyle. Coffs is a small enough town that it’s great to walk down the street and chat to friendly and familiar faces. I am lucky enough to have an amazing network of friends that live here, and my immediate family also still live here too. If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be and why? Dennis Wilson - he would have one hell of a story to tell about his short but fully lived life. One of my favourite quotes of his is: “They say I live a fast life. Maybe I just like a fast life. I wouldn't give it up for anything in the world. It won't last forever, either. But the memories will”.
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION Happy New Year to all of our clients, family and friends.
KLAUSTEL Introducing the new desktop touch screen Fanvil phone to work in conjunction with the Aristel MY PBX phone system with smart phone technology, you can browse the internet, send emails, video call, and much more. Do you have a number of different sites in Coffs Harbour or surrounding areas with multiple phone numbers that you use for adverstising? With MY PBX phone system and Klaustel NBN voice services, you only need one advertised number, and the phone system can seamlessly direct calls to any area or location in your business. Other features include voicemail and voicemail to email on every extension, the ability to customise your greetings and auto attendant, as well as setting up mobiles etc. as extensions. You don’t need expensive long term payment or maintenance contracts; we offer a three month interest free payment plan, three year warranty on equipment and 12 month labour warranty. This is an in expensive phone system for the future, and remember: “At Klaustel the same people that sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it” Call today for a free quote (02) 6651 5288.
The festive season has gone quickly, and I hope it treated you well. It is now time to reflect on the year that has gone and focus on your plans for the New Year. I find that many people think about their financial situation over the holiday period and how they can do things differently or improve their situation in the year ahead. Business owners - why not start the New Year by conducting a waste audit on your business? Toyota, for example, uses a seven step process to identify waste in their business. If you put a value on it, then corrective action can be taken. Employees - complete a budget. Set a realistic savings goal such as salary sacrifice into Super or save for a rainy day. Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement, and even small changes can lead to bigger and better outcomes. You need to “plant that seed” if you want to grow. We have a range of packages of services that can be tailored to suit your needs for both business and personal clients. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.
Langlands Property 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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Cass ENERGY
Meet the incredible CASS ENERGY sport aerobic athletes: Paris Warncken, Claudia Baff and Brooklyn Leonard. The girls are coached by 14 X New South Wales State Champion, 9 X Australian Champion and 2 X World Sport Aerobic Champion, Cass Scully.
C
ass absolutely loves being a coach for medals from the different categories they were in. the sport she holds very dearly to her Introducing the three CASS Energy pocket heart. She has trained for many years rockets, who at the age of 13 years and after five in the sport and has been completely years of hard training and self belief represented dedicated to her extremely Australia for the first time and were rewarded taxing weekly training programme, with a world medal. The “CASS Rock” followed a strict diet and nutritrio team members, Claudia Baff, tion regime, learned to make Brooklyn Leonard and Paris social sacrifices so as not g in Warncken with coach Cassie az am This to interrupt or distract her nd ou gr Scully show off the silver ck ba ost training and has stayed m e th ss Ca medals they won at the 2015 es mak for completely committed and FISAF World Aerobic Chamfantastic co ach GY focused towards every upher CASS ENER pionships on the Caribbean coming competition. Cass athletes . ” Island of Martinique. Winning always had the attitude that a medal at their first World partying, eating chocolate and Championships has been a three other yummy/unhealthy food year dream come true for these will always be there in the future, talented local athletes. After winning so while she had the fitness, strength, the Australian Championships for the last skill level, determination, commitment and four successive years, this trio were now ready to focus, it was her time to use these qualities take their place on the world stage and challenge to her advantage and knuckle down so she could for a world title. They did not disappoint ,and be at her absolute peak performance before going were narrowly beaten by the Czech Republic in an on stage. Cass was always 100% prepared for epic final battle in excessive temperatures of 35 EVERY single competition. As an athlete, Cass degrees. says, “There is no better feeling than standing These young athletes will continue to grow backstage, about to have your name announced, on their aerobic journey, as they now step up then to run out on stage and know you are ready into the next category as junior individuals. They and you could not have trained harder.” have a challenging 2016 ahead of them that will This amazing background makes Cass the most challenge their physical and mental strength to a fantastic coach for her CASS ENERGY athletes. new level. Cassie believes in their ability to take Cass says she is so proud of all of her athletes on this new level of extremely high difficulty skill just getting out on the stage and doing their and strength moves. It’s exciting for Cassie now to best - a medal or placing is a bonus! It’s about the teach the girls even harder skills and support them individual’s personal journey, and it’s important physically and mentally to believe in themselves to acknowledge where they started and see their and achieve new goals at Junior level. personal improvements along the way - no matter To sign up your child to CASS Energy Sport how big or small. In 2015 Cass had outstanding Aerobics, please contact Cassie at askcassenergy@ results from her athletes in their competitions, and they brought home many GOLD Australian title hotmail.com
“
14 coffs coast focus.
BANKSIA PRESCHOOL Banksia Preschool & Long Daycare Centre is a family owned and operated centre that operates 50 weeks of the year. We are open from 7:45am to 6pm. We cater for children aged from two years to five years of age. We have a dedicated, passionate and nurturing team of educators who work together with parents and carers for their child’s early learning. We have an inside and outside learning environment for the children to play in. We have strong community links with local schools, which includes regular visits to their library and school happenings. This helps the children to connect with their community and get a better understanding of the outside world. We also offer yoga and tennis - these being conducted and designed by qualified instructors. We believe in providing a home like environment where children are nurtured whilst learning through play and are supported in their development. Not every child develops at the same rate. Learning is delivered in an environment that is inclusive and accepting. Call Sandra to schedule a visit and discuss your child’s education during these very important years. Our Facebook page or web page www.banksiapreschool. com.au is designed to share our programme and the memories we have made.
coffs coast focus. 15
Prawn and avocado salad with roasted macadamias, mango and lime dressing FROM driftwood dining and cafè
download our eat. dining guide for iPhone & Android www.focusmag.com.au/eat
16 coffs coast focus.
So if you a go at O
to seeing you.
lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.
Café open daily from 9.30am. Lunch 12-2.30pm. Dinner 5.30-8.30pm. Open 7 days
Try the amazingand Fresh Bellingen Veal Carpaccio house made Spaghetti Gnocci (clams) and spicy sauce. chorizo. with aVongole blue cheese and walnut
Welcometo tothe theBeachside BeachsideBistro Bistroat atthe theHoey Hoey Welcome Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We Moey, with our newly renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beachaccess. access.Come Comeand andenjoy enjoyour ourbeachside beachside beach hotel with spacious beer garden, hotel with spacious all weather Beer Garden, openplan planbar, bar,bistro, bistro,new drivekids thruroom bottle shop open drive thru and TAB facilities. tried our new Bottleshop and TABHave and you Keno Facilities. Gourmet Pizza range? Therebook is a large Easter is around the corner, your selection to choose from and you can have eatour celebrations with us. Call Emma tothese discuss in or takeaway. Come in and check out our available options and or book one of our VIP takeaway specials areas for the family.or phone ahead for pick-up. If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS The HOEY MOEY! There’s really no other place $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. to be!
Try the the weather amazingwarms Fresh Bellingen Spaghetti As up, try our delicate with Vongole (clams) and spicy gourmet veal carpaccio as chorizo, a perfectwashed spring down with Margaret River, Flame Treegnocci Chenin entrée, followed by our house made Blanc.a blue cheese and walnut sauce. with Pizza NOW Vino isfor open daysChristmas a week, Tuesday to Book yoursixwork party and Sunday, 5pm to late! spring and summer try our mouth watering menu. Pizza Vino are now open Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm for dining in or takeaway.
At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new “Cellar Lounge”.
We pride tuned es made fro who wal
Turmeric latte - cold pressed juice of turmeric root with ginger and a dash of Oursome beachside deck fully glassed and newly honey and Chai spices. Thehas idealbeen caffeine free drink toin tantalise your carpeted, making it entirely so itofcan be enjoyed any time of the year. taste buds and also weatherproof, make you feel on top the world.
café o.p 81
the pier hotel
Turmeric latte - cold pressed juice of turmeric root with ginger and a dash of
Pizza Vino Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg.
menu shortly. Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a great produce he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward your way down andyou. have a look at the new and upcoming changes to to seeing the Pier Hotel.
book to for reserve yourand spot the deckcalled so you don’t miss out. TurmericPlease is widely known its healing hason a compound honey and some Chai spices. The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise your Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people with all sorts of disease taste buds andBowel also make feel on top of the states including Irritable Disease,you Rheumatoid Arthritis, andworld. cancer. Owners Also, Curcumin protective the heart, thehealing liver, the and skin and brain by Turmericis is widely for known for its hasthe a compound called Matt and Bree. quenching free radicals reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known Curcumin, thatand has demonstrated relief for people with for all sorts of disease its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer. Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear.
Head Chef Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the brain by AdamChef GalloBlake Head So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes Wiittenberg. quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for a go at O.P 81 café.
Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour
We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a
the hoey moey
Tuesday - Sundayfrom from5pm 5pm‘til‘tillate late, Open Tuesday-Sunday and Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour dine infrom and takeaway. Lunch Fri-Sat for dine in and takeaway.
Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct access. Come and enjoy ourto beachside Atbeach the Pier Hotel we’re excited announce the hotel with beer garden, opening ofspacious the new “Cellar Lounge”.
the pier hotel
Try the m made fre and semi potato w Mediterr light, yet
Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan. Head Chef Head Chef Owners David Ricketts. David Ricketts. Matt and Bree.
Follow us
its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and 81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 84Ocean Ocean Parade,Coffs CoffsHarbour Harbour Chai spicesthe in milk just like aSurf warm cuddle from a 84 smiling bear. 6652 9011 Parade, Inside Coffare s Harbour Life Saving Club, 66523833 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au www.hoeymoey.com.au 6652 Surf Club Beach, Coff s Harbour 7amSo - 2pm, Tuesday Sunday. if you wanttoRoad, to feelPark on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm a go6652 at O.P 81 café.
hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 enut crusted Barramundi fillet with 10, 361 Harbour drive ((Jetty Jetty Village), Village ), call the Hotel on 6652 2110. WeCoff looks Harbour forward lunch 11:30am -Pier 2:30pm; dinner Coffs rocolinireservation, and roast please capsicum sauce. 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week. to seeing you. 6650 9112
lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.
mr.
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar
café o.p 81 Open seven days for breakfast and lunch from 7am.
the pier hotel We welcome to come and feast eyes onofCoffs At the Pier Hotel we’reyou excited to down announce theyour opening the new Harbour’s most historic hotel. With our winter menu about to finish “Cellar Lounge”. up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new We welcome youshortly. to come downBlake andWittenberg, feast youriseyes on Coffs menu Our chef, very excited with all the Italian Pizzeria great historic produce he gets With to use our over winter the summer period. Be to sure to make Harbour’s most hotel. menu about finish your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new to the Pier Hotel.
7am -
Open 7 days during school holidays from 5pm ‘til EDST. (Daylight Saving).
the hoey hoey moey moey the
Pizza Vino
Matt, Adam and the team welcome you this summer CoffsHarbour’s Harbour’snewest best place toto Coff’s placetotoeat eat fHerb & pinenut crusted Barramundi fillet withspring and catch up with friends. Pizza Vino is fully steamed fbrocolini and crusted roast capsicum sauce. Herb & pinenut Barramundi fillet with licensed, offering gourmet pizza, pasta, tapas steamed brocolini and roast capsicum sauce. food to share with a twist. forgetting and share food with a twist. NotNot forgetting of of course, a delectable selection of wines. course, a delectable selection of wines.
hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222
81 Oc 6652
Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour 101 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com
60 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3622 www.pbbc.com.au/dining
Shop 6656
7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm 2:30pm; 5:30 5:30 -- 8:30pm. 8:30pm. Fri Fri -- Sat: Sat: -- 2:30pm; Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week 12pm -- 2:30pm; 2:30pm; 5.30 5.30 -- 9pm. 9pm. 81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 12pm for breakfast and lunch.
Monda and Sund
6652 9011
coffs coast focus. mr. good beans
7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.
31
Simple pleasures and undiscovered treasures!
the hoey moey open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop
Nothing makes the Good Beans team happier than a clean plate and an empty cup - and that’s We welcome you to come down and feast your and TAB to facilities. Have you tried our at new Welcome the Beachside Bistro the Hoey why we work hard to create simple dishes that eyes on Coffs Harbour’s most historic hotel. Our Gourmet is a large selectionWe Moey withPizza our range? newly There renovated kitchen. surprise and delight our customers. new summer menu has been a hit; our chef, to choose from and you can have these eat are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct in or takeaway. Come andexcited check out ourall the Blake Wittenberg, is in very with With new owners, a new vibe and smiling faces, beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside takeaway specials phone ahead for the pick-up. great produce heorgets to use over summer you’d be nuts to miss out on our egg and pesto hotel garden, If a with pizza isspacious not whatbeer you are after our FAMOUS period. Be sure to make your way down and scramble - delightfully served on toasted ciabatta $7.50 FEEDS alwaysdrive available open plan bar,are bistro, thrudaily. bottle shop have a look at the new and upcoming changes with spinach and avocado … Simple, delicious and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new to the Pier Hotel. and delightful! Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection We are open seven days a week for lunch and Mention to the team you saw this in FOCUS, and to choose from and you can have these eat mr. good beans dinner; to make a reservation,Turmeric please call the we’ll coldpride pressed juice turmeric root withservice ginger a dash of shout you a small coffee to go with this in or takeaway. Come in and check out latte our - We ourselves on of bringing a personalised andand product: a finely Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We honey look forward to dish! (offer valid until Feb 20). just how the customer likes it,to gourmet caféyour food sometuned Chaiespresso spices.coffee The ideal caffeine free drink tantalise takeaway specials or phone ahead forand pick-up. seeing you. made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience to all See you there soon! tasteour buds and also make you feel on top of the world. If a pizza is not what you are after FAMOUS
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you to come down and feast your eyes on Coffs st historic hotel. With our winter menu about to finish er approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make wn and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to .
seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a ease call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward .
who walk through the café door.
$7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. is widely known for its healing and has a compound called Turmeric
Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring,
Curcumin, that made has demonstrated forvegetables, people with sorts ofkalamata diseaseolives fresh from locallyrelief sourced mixedallwith feta, states including and Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid andand cancer. semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled Arthritis, chicken breast sweet Head Chef Kristy Deveson. wafer thin drizzled secretand zestythe citrus dressing. Owners Also, Curcumin potato is protective forchips theand heart, thewith liver,Chef’s the skin brain by Head Chef Blake Matt and Bree. Mediterranean fl avours expertly blended to match the Australian spring Wiittenberg. quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for Head Chef light, yet very satisfying. We pride ourselves on bringing a personalised service and product: a finely David itsRicketts. powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans tuned espresso coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet café food Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear. 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour scratch in house, and friendly, comfortable experience to all So if you want to feelmade on topfrom of the world, give one of aour turmeric lattes 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach who walk through the café door. a go at O.P 81 café.
mr. good beans
7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.
6656 4511
www.mrgoodbeans.com.au
Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring, Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm 81 Ocean Parade, Coff s Harbour our Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour and Sundays – 3pm made8am fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives 6652 9011 2 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet Head Chef Head Chef Blake coffs coast focus. 33 0am - 2:30pm; dinner 7am - 2pm, Tuesdaypotato to Sunday. Kristy Deveson. Wiittenberg. wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. 0pm; 7 days a week. Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring Head Chef light, yet very satisfying. Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, David Ricketts. Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans Coffs Harbour Moonee Beach Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 6656 4511 www.fb.com/mrgoodbeans Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. WeCoffs Harbour 84 Ocean Parade, lunch3833 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner Monday - Saturday, 6am - 4pm 6652 are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour withwww.hoeymoey.com.au direct Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach and Sundays 8am - 3pm. 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week. 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside
the hoey moey
7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm
hotel with spacious beer garden, - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.
open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new
Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm and Sundays 8am – 3pm
coffs coast focus. 17
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Surf Club Restaurant & Bar
flooded gums restaurant Thesummer spring menu ow. InInthe The menuatatthe theFlooded FloodedGums Gumsisisininfull fullflflow. thewarmer warmer months, there there isis no no better better place place to to be, be, as as when when the the sun sun goes goes down, down, the the months, Flooded Gums Gums restaurant restaurant at at Bonville Bonville Golf Golf Resort Resort isis transformed transformed into into an an Flooded intimate fine fine dining dining experience experience -- the the best best Coffs Coffs Harbour Harbour has has to to offer. offer. intimate Flooded Gums Gums have have received received an an Award Award of of Excellence Excellence (Wine (Wine Spectator Spectator Flooded Magazine Wine Wine List List of of the the Year Year Awards Awards -- only only property property in in regional RegionalNSW NSWto Magazine to be awarded). A wine featuring release current vintages be awarded). A wine list list featuring ageage release andand current vintages from from acclaimed producers the greatest regions; the potential for serious acclaimed producers in theingreatest regions; the potential for serious food foodwine and matching wine matching is limitless. and is limitless.
Open seven days for breakfast and lunch from 7am. Our beachside deck has been fully glassed in and newly carpeted, making it entirely weatherproof, so it can be enjoyed any time of the year. Please book to reserve your spot on the deck, so you don’t miss out.
Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.
Executive Chef Chef: Darren Ryan.
unter ef.
d,
n.
Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com
North Bonville Bonville Road, Road, Bonville Bonville North 6653 4002 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au www.bonvillegolf.com.au 6653
Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch.
Open 77 nights; nights; bookings bookings essential. essential. Open
Artisti Coffee Roasters iIt has been a fantastic school holiday period at Artisti, with a steady flow of familiar faces and a number of new ones too. At breakfast another one of our popular offerings was our vegan breakfast, with organic garlic ciabatta toast, Portobello mushrooms, Roma tomatoes, roasted pumpkin, baby rocket and mildly spiced lentils and a balsamic glaze. What a perfect way to stay on track with that New Year’s resolution.
SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH
pasfields restaurant BAr deck
Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the new highway.
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.
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. Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert $10, and the menu changes every week.
Birthdays, reunions etc. tailor made to your budget for up to 300 guests. Book now for Valentine’s Day… Full à la carte menu, lunch and dinner. Pasfields love weddings ... Come in and plan your perfect day in one appointment. Head Chef Sam Allinson. Head Chef Matt Knight.
Taking bookings now for your Christmas party!
104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au Wednesday - Sunday for breakfast & lunch Thursday - Saturday for dinner.
18 coffs coast focus.
37 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour. Wholesale enquires 6691 3334. HQ Espresso Bar 0434 700 910. Monday to Friday, 6:30 - 4:30pm. Saturday 6:30 - 2pm.
$12 13” dine in pizza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 - 8pm. Pasfields now offer a six course degustation menu for a minimum of 10 guests: $60 ph food only and $100 ph with wine pairing. Please indicate upon booking. Set menus: Tues - Thurs dinner / Fri - Sat lunch. Two courses $40 ph / three courses $50 ph. Kids eat free school holidays: one per adult / à la carte main (conditions apply). 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.
from acclaimed producers in the greatest regions; the potential for serious food and wine matching is limitless.
Darren Ryan.
Clinton Hunter Head Chef.
Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com
la hacienda 101
andbe dinner - 7indays La Breakfast, Hacienda lunch 101 can found Emerald a week. Bookings recommended.
ds restaurant BAr deck
a fine dining experience or casual meals. speaks for itself with our reviews. setting is welcoming and stunning.
North Bonville Road, Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au Open 7 nights; bookings essential.
Beach, 11 minutes north of Coffs Harbour. Walking through the doors, you enter a little slice of Mexico, with the aromas of Mexican street food and a home cooked meal that are enticing you to want to order everything on the menu. With an ever changing specials menu, it’s hard to decide - go with your old favourite or try something new. With over 20 Mexican beers to be sampled or a cocktail or two, it’s easy to sit, relax and enjoy your evening out. Early bookings essential.Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the
SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH new highway.
Located at Emerald Beach with one of the best views on the coast, check the surf and watch the whales while you enjoy breakfast or lunch on the deck.
, engagements ... We can tailor make to your budget.
dings ... Come in and plan your perfect day in one Head Chef
Kim Robson. BAr deck zza and pasfields happy hour, Thursdays,restaurant 5 - 8pm.
Enjoy fortaken, a fine so dining or casual meals. bookings arePasfi nowelds being bookexperience early to get Our fi rst class food speaks for itself with our reviews. admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au Our ambience and setting is welcoming and stunning.
Birthdays, reunions, engagements ... We can tailor make to your budget. Up to 300 guests. hway, Korora ww.pasfi eldsrestaurant.com.au Pasfi elds love weddings ... Come in and plan your perfect day in one
5pm; Friappointment. & Sat from midday. time).
us.
Open 7 nights; bookings essential.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.
$12 13” dine in pizza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 - 8pm.
Inside it’s cosy at night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to be outside.
SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH
Indulge the one you Love ♥ this Valentine’s Day with our special lunch and dinner menus. Relax and take in the beautiful ocean views for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes drive north from Coffs Harbour on the new highway, and located at Emerald Beach with one of the best unrestricted views on the coast. Summer evenings are a perfect time to gather friends for a drink and dinner, or drop by late afternoon to choose from the snack menu. We have a great selection of beers, cocktails and wines. Our food is fresh, local and prepared by award winning chefs. “Blackboard Night” is BACK! Starts again on 4th February. Head Chef
Sam Allinson. SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH Our food is fresh, local, and prepared by award winning chefs.
Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert new highway. $10, and the menu changes every week. Located at Emerald Beach with one of the best views on the coast, Taking bookings now for your Christmas party! check the surf and watch the whales while you enjoy breakfast or lunch on the deck. 104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach Owners 6656 1888Michael www.surfstreet.com.au Inside it’s cosy at night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to
and David. be outside. Head Chef- Sunday for breakfast Wednesday & lunch Kim Robson. Thursday - Saturday for dinner. Our food is fresh, local, and prepared by award winning chefs.
Christmas function bookings are now being taken, so book early to get your chosen date: admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au 101 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com Open 6 days from 6pm - closed Tuesdays.
675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au Tues - Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. (large functions anytime).
Head Chef Sam Allinson.
Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 dessert Road, Emerald Beach 104and Fiddaman $10, and the menu changes every week. 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au Taking bookings now for your Christmas party! Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and
104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au
lunch.Thursday to Saturday for dinner.
Wednesday - Sunday for breakfast & lunch Thursday - Saturday for dinner.
32 coffs coast focus.
DRIFTWOOD dining and café DRIFTWOOD dining and café DRIFTWOOD dining and café Park Beach Bowls is excited to announce the opening of its new casual
horizons restaurant & bar Try our New Dinner Menu After the craziness of the school holidays, Horizons Restaurant and Bar at Opal Cove Resort is back to normal with its new à la carte menu featuring modern Australian cuisine. The creative menu takes full advantage of the region’s freshest produce and seafood. Why not try a cheese plate on the terrace with one our many boutique beers! Join us for Lunch! THE OC LUNCH DEAL is Back for February Enjoy a glass of house wine, domestic beer or soft drink, your meal and espresso or tea at Horizons Restaurant & Bar overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views. Guests are able to dine alfresco on the terrace or in air conditioned comfort. All for $24.50pp - 11:30am - 2:30pm 7 days - bookings preferred. Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5 - 6pm daily.
Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.
Park Beach Bowls isDriftwood. excited announce the opening its new casual Located at Park Beach Bowls,toDriftwood offers relaxedofdining facilities dining experience, dining experience, Driftwood. with delicious Australian cuisine for lunch and dinner every day. Enjoy a Conveniently located on Ocean Parade, Driftwood offers relaxed dining $10 lunchwith every day on (non-members $12) or café options from 9:30am daily. Conveniently located Ocean Australian Parade, Driftwood offers relaxed dining facilities delicious modern cuisine for lunch and dinner
Clinton Hunter Head Chef.
facilities modern Australian cuisine for lunch andmenu dinnerfor Celebrate Valentine’s with our enticing three course every day.with Cafédelicious optionsDay are also available from 9:30am daily. every day. Caféor options are also available fromfor 9:30am daily. only Seafood Platter forspecial Two including a Enjoy$39.90pp our Coffee and Cake of the Day for $99.00, only $6.50 or choose complimentary glass of sparkling. $42.90 / $105.) Enjoyour ourgreat Coffee and$10 Cake of the Day(Non-members special for only $6.50 or choose from value lunch selections. (Member pricing.) from our great value $10 selections. Become getlunch discounts ondiscounts all (Member meals on andpricing.) Becomeaamember memberand for only $5 and get alldrinks. meals and drinks. SoBecome come down and try mouthwatering Cluband prices. a member forour onlyNEW $5 and get discountsmenu on all at meals drinks. So come down and try our NEW mouthwatering menu at Club prices. So come down and try our NEW mouthwatering menu at Club prices. Kids welcome! Kids welcome! Kids welcome!
Head Chef Head GerryChef Spatz. Gerry Spatz.
60 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 60Ocean Ocean Parade, CoffsHarbour Harbour 60 Coffs 6652 3622Parade, www.pbbc.com.au/dining 66523622 3622 www.pbbc.com.au/dining www.pbbc.com.au/dining 6652
Café open daily from 9.30am. Lunch 12-2.30pm. Dinner 5.30-8.30pm. Open 7 days Caféopen opendaily dailyfrom from9:30am. 9.30am.Lunch Lunch12 12-2.30pm. Open 7 days Café - 2:30pm.Dinner Dinner5.30-8.30pm. 5:30 - 8:30pm. Open 7 days.
Veal Carpaccio and house made Gnocci Veal aCarpaccio andand house made Gnocci with blue cheese walnut sauce. with a blue cheese and walnut sauce.
Pizza Vino Vino coffs coast focus. 19 Pizza Matt, Adam and the team welcome you this Matt, Adam and the team welcome you this spring to Coff’s Harbour’s newest place to eat
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WELL, SANTA HAS DEFINITELY DELIVERED FOR THE NEW MANAGEMENT OF THE COFFS HARBOUR DEEP SEA FISHING CLUB. THE FESTIVE SEASON SAW THOUSANDS OF LOCALS AND TOURISTS COMING TO THE CLUB TO SHOW THEIR SUPPORT AND ENJOY THE FACILITIES. he weather has been absolutely fabulous throughout December and January, and what better place to enjoy the sun then on the outdoor deck of the club overlooking the sensational views! What are the immediate plans for the Fishing Club General Manager Carl Mower: Following overwhelming community support to keep the club afloat, now comes the task of ensuring that Coffs Coast locals continue to support the club. And if the requests for club membership is anything to go by, then locals most definitely want to see the club going from strength to strength. Previously the club was known as a great place to have a cold beverage and enjoy the amazing view of the coast; will this still be the case? Most definitely. The view from the outdoor deck (actually from 99% of the club) is nothing short of breathtaking. Whether you’re watching the standup paddle boarders and kayakers cruising around the Jetty or the surfers carving up waves at Gallo’s, there is always something to attract your attention. Are there plans to include a wider selection of beer for customers; any
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chance of a craft beer? direction of the restaurants. Modern beer drinkers want variety, and What style of food will this include? plans are well underway to see that this occurs The new Fisho’s Seafood Platter is already at the club. the talk of the town throughout the Coffs We are presently in discussion with major Coast and is setting new standards. craft brewers, as well as some very unique The look of awe and delight when our small boutique brewery operators. There will Fisho’s staff carry out the “huge” two tiered be a beer to suit everyone’s taste seafood platter to the table never palate. loses its impact. Do plans to improve The club is an icon of the premises include the local area. what E refurbishing the plans are there to IN TH U PC O M IN G restaurant? help more people UB Catering and W EE K S, TH E CL discover and enjoy ON W IL L A LS O SO M S Functions Manager the venue? U LAU N CH IT S ‘M T Anthony Chouri: I’m General Manager OU & BU BS CH IL L extremely excited about Carl Mower: One of M O R N IN G’. ” the future plans for the the most common restaurant and function requests from club areas of the club. members since reopening Opening at the peak of the has been for the need of Christmas period was very difficult a Club Courtesy Bus. This has and challenging, and it meant that the already been delivered by the new menu on offer had to be limited; however, management team. Currently operating all this is set to change, with a new menu to Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm, the be introduced in the next couple of weeks. Fisho’s new “courto” has been a hit. Will the restaurant menu be taking a new The Club wants to support local community direction? sporting and charity groups, and I encourage Fresh is most definitely going to be key to any such groups to contact me, so we the “Fisho’s Seafood Bar & Grill”. might be able to discuss possible mutually Purchasing quality fresh seafood from beneficially sponsorship opportunities.” local suppliers is a key element for the new Making families feel welcomed at the Fisho’s
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is equally important, and a brand new jumping castle has been in place for the past couple of weeks. In the upcoming weeks, the Club will also soon launch its “Mums & Bubs Chill Out morning”. Watch out for more news on this exciting initiative. As everyone knows, social media is critical in getting the message out. The Club has recently launched a fresh, brand new website that’s mobile friendly and will regularly be sending out special offers to its members via SMS. If you haven’t already done so, please get onto the Fisho’s new Facebook page and “like us”. As an important part of the local fishing community, how will the club continue to improve the services it provides to club members? With less than three months to go before the annual Easter Fishing Classic, we want to ensure that this event remains highly successful and continues to grow. Additionally, now that the Club has reopened, the club boat and fishing cleaning facilities are back in operation. What are the hopes that the new management for the future of the club and premises? We are really excited about the future of the club. Thanks everyone.
Jetty Theatre Upcoming Shows The Jetty Theatre is really bringing on the talent for you: fresh and unique music, Theatre Open Day fun and belly-aching humour. Life at the theatre will be better than ever! The Necks: Friday 5 February. The Necks are one of the hottest bands in the world right now. Their sound is pure Australian musical genius, with consistently sold-out shows in London, Melbourne and Europe. Not entirely avant-garde, nor minimalist, nor ambient, nor jazz, the music of The Necks offers a once-in-alifetime live performance experience. Theatre Open Day & Fundraiser: Sunday 7 February Come along and enjoy your theatre! Be entertained with films, live performances and theatre tours. Learn what’s happening in community theatre and meet the performers. Join the fun of dress ups, face painting, stalls, and tasty refreshments and much more on the day! Luna Grand: Friday 19 February Embarking on their first ever tour as Luna Grand to celebrate their single release Chase The world, Sydney band formerly known as Uncle Jed are coming home to Coffs with their new musical creations, as well as some favourites from their latest EP, Patience Love. Aboriginal Comedy Allstars: Wednesday 2 March From the oldest culture on earth comes the freshest and funniest stand-up around. Cheeky, playful, irreverent, and hilarious, the Aboriginal Comedy Allstars are an utterly unique comedy experience. Welcome to comedy, everyone! See jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office noon – 4pm, Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088.
Jetty Memorial Theatre Open Day & Fundraiser
It’s your theatre – come along and enjoy it. All proceeds to the Jetty Memorial Theatre Trust. Event: Sunday 7 February
Luna Grand
Their first ever tour as Luna Grand, Sydney band formerly known as Uncle Jed are coming home to Coffs to share their new musical creations and favourites. ‘These guys can seriously play.’ – themusic.com.au Show: Friday 19 February
A Jetty Theatre Touring Presentation…
Aboriginal Comedy Allstars
Cheeky, playful, irreverent, and hilarious. ‘This show is hilarious. Belly aching, cheek hurting, hilarious… See it. See it. See it. *****’ – Adelaide Advertiser Show: Wednesday 3 March
COMMUNITY EVENT
An Association of Coffs Harbour Community Theatre Societies Initiative...
TOURING SHOW
The Necks
A rare, unique and life-changing experience. Australian musical genius that is selling out shows around the world. ‘A kind of religious experience.’ - The Australian Show: Friday 5 February
TOURING SHOW
Seth Jordan and JMT Touring in association with Top Shelf Productions present…
TOURING SHOW
February – March 2016
Proudly supported by 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour 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
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THE GIG GUIDE
THE FRAPP
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Coffs
BULLHORN
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GIG GUIDE 27
VICTORIA AVENUE
FEBRUARY 4TH
FEBRUARY 11TH
FEBRUARY 18TH
Mescalito Blues Duo - Hoey Moey Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern
Big T - Hoey Moey Craig Freeman - Hoey Moey
Matty Devitt - Seview Tavern James Bennett - Hoey Moey
FEBRUARY 5TH
FEBRUARY 12TH
FEBRUARY 19TH
Phat Tracta and Dj Bisho - Hoey Moey The Frapp - The Coast Hotel DJ Brown Sugar - Seaview Tavern Kerry Pike - C.ex Coffs
FEBRUARY 6TH
Ladies Night with DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Secret Squirrel - Seaview Tavern Double Shot - The Coast Hotel Plus DJ Ning - The Coast Hotel Big Block - C.ex Coffs Harbour
FEBRUARY 7TH
The Strides - Hoey Moey Paul Clement - Sawtell Golf Club
Double Shot and DJ Ning - Hoey Moey Pink Zinc - Hoey Moey Tasman Jude - from Canada - The Coast Hotel The Kabz - C.ex Coffs Harbour
FEBRUARY 13TH
DJ Ning - Seaview Tavern Rawfish - Plus DJ Brown Sugar - The Coast Hotel Tau Tau - Plantation Hotel Trevor Knight - C.ex Coffs Harbour Creedence and Friends - Sawtell RSL
FEBRUARY 14TH
The Bondi Cigars - Hoey Moey
The Frapp and DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Totum - The Coast Hotel False Idols - C.ex Coffs Harbour Hussy Hicks - Seaview tavern
FEBRUARY 20TH
Ladies night with DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Plus DJ Ning - The Coast Hotel Push - The Coast Hotel DJ Marcus - Seaview Tavern Lost In Neverland - Plantation Hotel Atmosphere - C.ex Coffs Harbour
FEBRUARY 21ST
Bullhorn - Hoey Moey Dave Fahey - Sawtell Golf club
ADAM BRAND & THE OUTLAWS
FEBRUARY 24TH
Fatman Scoop - Plantation Hotel
FEBRUARY 25TH
Minnie Marks - Hoey Moey James Bennett - Seaview Tavern
FEBRUARY 26TH
Matty Devitt Band & DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Diversity Festival - Plantation Hotel The Frapp - Seaview Tavern Hekyl & Jive - The Coast Hotel Tommy Memphis - C.ex Coffs
FEBRUARY 27TH
Adam Brand & The Outlaws - Moonee Tavern Ladies Night with DJ Ning - Hoey Moey Dave James Karaoke - Seaview Tavern Elton Jack - Dinner Show - C.ex Coffs Amanda Gibson - C.ex Coffs
FEBRUARY 28TH
Victoria Avenue - Hoey Moey 22 coffs coast focus.
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ADAM B R
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TWELVE TIME GOLDEN GUITAR WINNER ADAM BRAND IS JOINED BY COUNTRY MUSIC STARS DREW MCALISTER, TRAVIS COLLINS, MATT CORNELL AND MIKE CARR; TOGETHER, THEY MAKE UP COUNTRY’S NEWEST SUPERGROUP ADAM BRAND & THE OUTLAWS. RELEASING AN ALBUM AND KICKING OFF ON A NATIONAL TOUR, FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH FRONTMAN ADAM BRAND …
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i Adam. Take us back to your first memories of having an interest in music; what was it that first captivated you? My dad and my uncles had a band; my dad was the singer, my uncle was a drummer, and one of my other uncles was a bass player. My other uncle couldn’t sing or play to save himself, so he was the dodgy manager! My first time on stage was when I was three years old with that band singing How Much is That Doggy in the Window? So if you want to go back to the beginning, that’s where it all started. All through my life ... I was playing drums, I loved music; it was just always something I wanted to be a part of. What is is about country music that you love, and why did you choose to write and play that genre of music? I grew up listening to Springsteen and Mellencamp and Chisel, Fleetwood Mac, all that sort of stuff. Country music is just so easy to connect with - it’s easy to listen to a lyric and go, “Yeah, I get it. I’ve been through that; I’m going through that”. I suppose it really does cover everything from having a big night out with your mates at the pub dancin’ on the
bar, doing nudey runs down the street, right through to standing up in honour of people who have served and make the ultimate sacrifice for our country ... and it’s just very, very real stories and things that we can all relate to. I didn’t grow up listening to music about living on the outback sheep station or cattle station or those types of things, but I grew up smaller country towns, so I sing about things I can relate to. For me, it’s being able to find something that connects me with my audience. Being such a musically inspired man, how do you keep your creative side alive? You hear this a lot - maybe it’s a cliche, but its absolutely true: when you do something you love, it doesn’t feel like work! It’s something that you love doing, something you’re passionate about, and you don’t have to force yourself to do it. It’s you, you want to do it - you get up in the morning and you want to listen to music. Most people just have conversations, but when I’m talking and someone says something that’s interesting, I go: “Oh, that’s an idea for a song!” So I write down a line, and it could be a seed that starts a song. I think when it’s something that’s just engrained into your heart and your soul, keeping that motivation going is
pretty easy. Introduce us to your latest venture, Adam Brand and The Outlaws. How did you come together, and who makes up the group? The unique thing about this group is it’s made up of five individual artists, all coming together to form one band. They’re all accomplished, they all have amazing careers and in those amazing careers they’ve all had albums, all had number ones and top tens, made videos and toured for years ... So there’s such a wealth of knowledge and exprience in the band. It’s made up of Travis Collins, who’s nominated this year for his last album for male vocalist; highest selling Drew McAlister, who’s half of McAlister Kemp, a huge duo and band; Matt Cornell, who’s played in everyone’s band over the years from Baby Animals to Richard Clapton; Mike Carr, who’s won ARIA awards for Buddy Goode the comedy artist - as well as written hit songs over the years, including ones for me! There’s just so much diversity in the band. This is an idea I’ve had for over 10 years ... and what’s the foundation of this? It’s that these guys are all great mates of mine and
we’ve all worked together in some capacity over the years, so it’s great to be able to put that together and say, “Fellas, let’s take a break from our normal careers and go out and do this thing”. The idea behind the songs that we’re doing is that they’re party songs - let’s get together in a room and jam on all of our favourite songs, the kind of songs we would want playing if we were at a party or a BBQ at our house that we all love to sing along to - great anthems. So that’s the idea for the album and the shows: five artists, all on stage singing their favourite songs that everyone else knows ... And a party! Thanks Adam.
the plug! Catch Adam Brand and The Outlaws at Moonee Beach Tavern. When Saturday 27th Feb 2016. Time 3pm. Tickets $39.80 http://offbeat.oztix.com.au/Default. aspx?Event=56051 coffs coast focus. 23
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Photo Credit: Lyss and her Camera 24 coffs coast focus.
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Melanie Jayne Congratulations to all brides to be - and not to forget all the grooms to be - who recently got engaged over Christmas and New Year. Now it is time to plan your wedding and find the perfect gown for what is to be one of the most important and celebrated days of your life. Melanie has been a part of the bridal couture industry for over 20 years. Focusing on design and excellence, Melanie Jayne’s team of professional designers and couturiers can make your dream dress a reality. It begins from an idea to a sketch, then a mock up calico dress is made and fitted, before the real garment is carefully handcrafted from luxurious silk fabrics and laces imported from around the world. Finally, the gown is hand embellished with the finest of pearls, precious gemstones and 24 ct gold beading. Brides can choose from the Melanie Jayne ready to wear collection or have a bespoke gown crafted. A Melanie Jayne Couture gown is a timeless masterpiece. All brides to be are encouraged to book an appointment for a private bridal consultation. Our designers/consultants will give you the best advice on what style best suits your look and figure. More information is available on our FAQs page on our website: www.melaniejayne.com.au.
Sweet Love Cake Couture THE COFFS COAST’S PREMIER WEDDING CAKE SPECIALIST Exquisite Cakes Signified by visually striking designs, these edible works of art have a focus on intricate craftsmanship and flawless finishes. Chic Designs Trained by world leaders in cake design and sugar artistry, you can be assured your cake will be the epitome of style. Luscious Flavours Freshly baked to order using the finest quality ingredients, ensuring what you taste is just as indulgent as what you see. Sweet Love Cake Couture is a boutique cake decorating business based in Coffs Harbour. Specialising in handcrafted cakes for weddings and celebrations, Nicole from Sweet Love Cake Couture will design and create a stunning cake that is a true reflection of your unique style. Using only the finest quality ingredients, Nicole expertly combines the traditional method of baking from scratch with the latest techniques and trends in cake design. With over ten years’ experience, Nicole was credited as one of the leading trendsetters in cake design by industry peers in 2015. Sweet Love Cake Couture’s services are in high demand during wedding season, so if you would like to treat your guests to a slice of cake heaven, contact Nicole at Sweet Love Cake Couture today.
Flowers on First At Flowers on First, we specialise in providing fresh wedding flowers. From simple whimsical posies to more intricate designer bouquets, we can work with your ideas to come up with a Wedding Flower Package to suit your style and your budget. Wedding Flowers have a huge visual impact and chosen well, should complement your gown, bridesmaid’s gown and highlight your theme and styling. Our friendly, professional team, led by Kelly Finley, is happy to offer advice and information to help you with your flower choice, and we recommend that you start with our own Seasonal Availability List. Choosing fresh, seasonal and or locally grown flowers and foliages will ensure that you receive a beautiful, quality result on the day. Call us to organise an initial obligation free quotation or to have our Seasonal Availability List emailed to you. As pictured above you can see this recent wedding had such a lovely informal feel, by keeping her choices simple our Bride was able to achieve such a breathtakingly beautiful “garden inspired” theme. Keeping your choices simple can often have more impact than elaborate stylised bouquets and flowers.
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Photography by Rod Harvey
Photography by Rod Harvey
Aliesha & Kayne Fry 14.02.2014
Aliesha & Kayne Fry 14.02.2014
Photography by Heidi Bell Photography
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Photography by David & Leah Moore
Ashlee & Dale Jones 03.10.2015 Photography by David Moore
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Carl & Rebecca Bennett 26.10.2013
Lovďż˝ Birds O
Photography by Captured With Love
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Hayley and Conan Richardson 04.10.2014
Jay Daley Photography
Mike & Amy Photgraphy
Jessica and Dale Higgins 07.11.2015
Karla and Adam Nightingale 22.04.2014
Katie & Vince Sibio 21.03.15
Photos by Leoni Bolt Photography
Kye Norton Photography
Mark & Lucy Singh 24.10.2015
Shaun and Alira Bayndrian 08.09.2012
Photography by Lyss and her camera
Hayley and Jimmy Evans 29.11.2014
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Dressed �
�uccess O Kimberley Giles O
Kimberley Giles spends countless hours crafting amazing bespoke veils and wedding gowns. Embellished with pearls and gemstones, her creations are a celebration of skills and an attention to detail that is sadly disappearing in today’s society. FOCUS sat down with the young creative dynamo to find out more about her work.
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i Kimberley. Can you briefly tell us what you do? I work at Melanie Jayne and specialise in designing exclusive bridal gowns for clientele across the country. As a couturier, it all starts from the sketch I create to suit each individual’s dreams in search of the perfect dress. I make beaded hairpieces, veils and bridal belts to complement each bride and help style her look for the day. Using only the finest of materials and laces sourced internationally, I delicately hand embellish all the garments using genuine pearls and signature 24 ct gold beading alongside a private and highly exclusive range of beadwork only known to my clients. Is sewing something that you have always had an interest in? All my life I’ve lived and breathed bridal. Moving to Australia from New Zealand with my parents and sisters, my mother opened up her studio, where she was creating gorgeous gowns for countless brides. As a little girl I was in heaven, playing under her desk in all the pretty laces and picking up the beautiful
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beads that fell to the floor. She taught me hand You recently completed a course in pattern making at TAFE. Can you tell us a bit about sewing, and I made garters, ring cushions and what you learnt and how it will be of other bridal accessories. benefit to you and your clients? By the age of seven, I would piece outfits In the year just gone, I completed together from scrap material raided a Diploma in Pattern Making from Mum’s fabric bin, spending in Coffs Harbour, where most of the day carefully I designed complex hand sewing on lace patterns for garments and safety pining My creations and built on my up shoulders. My are heirloom existing skills from younger sister, each keepsakes, and previous courses. Emma, and I pranced xed is beautifully bo Advanced pattern around the house of with certificates rd co re making involves proudly in our new a authenticity, so brides e th drafting designs dresses, and Mum can be kept of ” it. from an idea and a would often come who wear few measurements home from work and and knowing how to just laugh at what we test the limits of fabric were wearing while we manipulation to achieve showed off our clothes with interesting textures and creating grins from ear to ear. depth in garments. For my final I have always been inspired and assignment at TAFE, they had us make encouraged by my parents to sew and Baroque Evening wear. Being in the bridal when I turned 16, I got my own sewing industry, I was so excited and designed a range machine so I could sew to my heart’s of exquisite bridal gowns using champagne content. I would often be up late at night silks and thousands of pearl and rich gold making myself a dress to wear for the next day.
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beads. With all the skills I have obtained over the years, I am able to create exclusive bespoke garments for my clients, who desire an original gown of the finest quality. Can you describe the approach you take to designing and making a wedding dress? I start with a pencil to paper and draw numerous sketches. After selecting the favourite design, I decide on the best fabrics and laces to make the gown from. Then I draft the patterns and ensure the perfect fit, always carefully checking each stage of design. There are many hours and much toil involved in this process before the fabric even sees the cutting table. Once all the pieces are cut out, the gown is then sewn and fitted onto a tailor’s mannequin. Lastly, I add the hand embellishments with laces and breathtaking beads for the final touch. You must be a perfectionist, as everything must need to be 100% when you fit the dress on a wedding day. How much work goes into a dress? A lot of work in a gown is unseen, such as custom built in corsetry and boning, which is hidden between many layers of fabrics. Wedding gown skirts can contain multiple
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
r With my love fo n io sh fa d an y er ch ar d ul co combined, who e than inspire me mor e from nc re w Jennifer La es’! Oh, am G r ge un ‘The H make to how I would love n for w go her a stunning ” the Red Carpet!
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layers, using rolls of fabrics and laces. The beadwork is all done by hand, and is very time consuming; imagine sewing on over 15,000 beads individually on a single gown by hand. The amount of hours from the original sketch to the finished product is in excess of hundreds of hours. Each gown needs to fit perfectly, and most require precise fittings only days before the wedding. What are some of the materials that you use? I only use the best, from French laces and pure silk satin to sheer silk organza. All gowns are lined with a soft silk cotton blend, which is beautiful to wear and flows with the silk. I use silk thread for hand sewing and stunning 24 ct gold beads and genuine pearls. Where do you source these materials? The French laces are made on old French looms in France. And I source my silks and beads internationally from many exotic locations around the world. You also make amazing veils to complement the dresses. What makes
them unique? Veils have adorned the heads of brides for thousands of year and are still a tradition among modern brides today. “Kimberley Susan” veils are exclusive only to Melanie Jayne. I hand bead and sew all the veils to suit each gown, matching the colour, beadwork and length perfectly for each bride. Using pearls, gold, silver and crystal beads, these veils are exquisite heirlooms to pass down through the generations. Each dress is one of a kind; how does getting to know the bride help you shape the gown? Choosing a bridal gown can be very stressful, and for some brides a daunting experience. I ensure that my brides feel comfortable, and understand that each bride wants to look and feel beautiful on her wedding day. Her dress must be the reflection of her personality, and help tell her story. After listening and talking with each other, we work on achieving the perfect silhouette. I then design the finer details, right down to the very last ruffle and
ivory pearl. She can have everything she desires... sweeping low backs to French lace sleeves, classical ball gown skirts and trains. She is not just a bride for the day. She is a bride for a lifetime, as the moment is captured and photographed forever. What has been your favourite creation so far? One of the gowns I made was in my last assignment at TAFE. “ Aurora” from the Baroque Collection has been my favourite creation. How many hours went into it, and what were the aspects of the dress that you liked the most? Designing “Aurora” took uncountable hours and was made using 35 metres of pure silk organza, hemmed with a wide braid forming these amazing waves in the skirt. The bodice was a stunning corset embellished with rich gold and pearls. She was fun to make, and I cannot wait to make another one, as this dress was sold before I could have it professionally photographed. Your creations must be seen as heirlooms and could be handed down from
generation to generation; do you also see them this way? My creations are heirloom keepsakes, and each is beautifully boxed with certificates of authenticity, so a record can be kept of the brides who wear it. As each piece is passed down it collects history, becoming more priceless and holding precious memories. If you could create a dress for a celebrity, who would it be and why? With my love for archery and fashion combined, who could inspire me more than Jennifer Lawrence from The Hunger Games! Oh, how I would love to make her a stunning gown for the red carpet! What are your plans for the future? I love working in bridal as a couturier and feel honoured being a part of something so special and beautiful with my brides. I plan on continuing work here at Melanie Jayne and will keep designing gowns where the only limit to my creations is my imagination. Where can people find out more about your work? All my work can be viewed in store at Melanie Jayne. I post my recent works in progress on our Facebook page and am available for appointed bridal consultations. Thanks Kimberley. coffs coast focus. 29
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Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Opal Cove
resort Your Perfect Wedding Venue Opal Cove Resort specialises in wedding ceremonies and receptions, making it the perfect venue for your special day. Let us make this day one you will remember forever. Say “I do” surrounded by nature, your family and friends.
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pal Cove Resort specialises in Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions making it the perfect venue for your special day. Let us make this day one you will
Our picturesque and stylishly appointed reception venues make the perfect location
your guests may never want to leave! Our dedicated Wedding Coordinator will
to celebrate your special day. Offering natural
guide you in making the most important day
lighting and panoramic views of the Pacific
of your life stress free and memorable. Contact
Ocean, the Opals function room can cater for up
Carolyn today on (02) 6651 0510 or email
remember forever. Say ‘I do’ surrounded by
to 120 guests and is fully equipped with a Bar,
weddings@opalcove.com to tailor a Wedding
nature, your family and friends.
DJ Booth, Dance Floor, Projector and Screen.
Package just for you!
At Opal Cove Resort, we have only one
For larger weddings, our Ballroom will be
Some of our happy couples from 2015
ceremony per day, ensuring that you and your
sure to impress, featuring high ceilings, endless
“I wanted to say how appreciative I am for
guests can relax and enjoy the facilities.
theming options, it can accommodate over 300
everything you did leading up to and on the day
guests, with plenty of room for dancing and
of our wedding; it was seriously a spectacular
entertainment.
day!” Jasmine and Paul, October 2015.
With an idyllic beachside location and fabulous views to the Solitary Islands, look no further than Opal Cove Resort Coffs Harbour.
A spectacular backdrop for photos and special
“Thank you for such an awesome job last
couldn’t have asked for anything more from you, Carolyn. Thank you so much.” Abbey and Simon, September 2015. “A huge thank you to you and the staff who assisted to make our day in March enjoyable. Thank you for all the assistance, discussions and additional advice/direction and small touches that you provided in making our small but special event an extremely enjoyable one. We will always have fond memories of the day and the fact that everything ran smoothly, and that is credit to yourself and a wonderful
Capture the moment on your wedding day
memories is right here at Opal Cove Resort Coffs
night. Everything went so smoothly, all the staff
team there at Opal Cove, from reception, to wait
with a variety of ceremony locations featuring
Harbour. Set in an idyllic location, with luxury
were friendly and amazing and the food was
staff to the domestic staff. We look forward to
amazing views of ocean, lagoon and garden
accommodation options, exquisite cuisine and
beautiful! You are professional, helpful, caring
returning on our anniversary, if not beforehand.”
backdrops.
quality service from a professional team, you and
and absolutely fantastic at your job, and we
Shannon and Adam, March 2015.
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NicoleO slater
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Wedding Cake Artist
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Ever wondered what it takes to design a delicious and amazing wedding cake? FOCUS caught up with Nicole Slater from Sweet Love Cake Couture to find out how she takes her clients’ descriptions and turns them into delicious culinary creations.
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ow long have you been creating wedding cakes? I discovered the art of cake decorating around 12 years ago and initially dreamt of nothing more than creating fun and funky kids’ cakes. Around five years ago though, I fell in love with sugar flower artistry and have specialised in weddings ever since. Can you briefly describe the process of creating a wedding cake? It’s exciting! And yummy! And hard work! The process begins with our first contact with the client. The most important thing is that the cake is personalised for their love story. This is where the design comes in. Then, the exciting part is bringing the vision to life. First the cake is baked the way grandma did ... from scratch and with love ... no packet mixes and production lines here. Cakes are then torted, filled and covered to lock in the freshness and moisture. All up, that’s a three-day process. Then there’s the
decoration, which can take as little as an hour or two, or as long as a week. What ingredients are used to make a wedding cake? Only the very best! Not all cakes are created equal, and the ingredients are where it all begins and where it all ends. We source only the freshest, finest quality ingredients to produce the mouth-wateringly delicious cakes we’ve become renowned for. It’s such a cliché in the industry, but a look at our testimonials reflects that our cakes really do taste as good as they look. We even keep free-range heritage breed chickens who lay the eggs used in our cakes. What’s the favourite cake you’ve created? Without a doubt, it’s our “Nature’s Lovebirds” cake. In 2015, this cake saw us credited as one of the leading trendsetters in cake design (on a global stage) by industry peers. What’s even better is that many couples have chosen this design for their wedding.
G one are the days where the ch fondant is an in e ar s ke thick. Our ca t an nd fo in covered nd ou ar is which s 3 mm thick, so it’ ” e. bl ea barely notic
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It’s pretty special to know that something that came from my heart and soul plays such an important part in the start of a couple’s journey together. How long does a cake take to create on average? Hmmmm, well that’s a difficult one to answer, because there’s no such thing as an average wedding cake. Mind you, it’s a question I get asked a lot ... So if I was to put a timeline on it, I’d say around three days. What are some of the options that people have when they order a cake? Oh gosh, there are lots! There’s more to a cake than first meets the eye. But when you break it all down, there are three main elements - size, flavour and design. Size and flavour are easy, but design options are limitless. Some clients bring us a picture of their dream cake. Others like different elements from a number of cakes. And some choose to have a cake designed exclusively for them. The good news is, we can work with any of these options. What have been some of the stranger requests that you have had? There’s not much that surprises me anymore. One request was too naughty to print, but some other “unique” requests include zombies, skulls, Day of the Dead and dragons.
What was the most extravagant cake that you have ever made? There’s been a trend in the industry for a little while for naked cakes. While this style of cake is popular, particularly with our relaxed coastal lifestyle, clients either love them or hate them. For weddings though, there’s no escaping the captivating romance of a decorated cake. Gone are the days where the fondant is an inch thick. Our cakes are covered in fondant which is around 3 mm thick, so it’s barely noticeable. Savvy brides are sending us photos of cakes from internationally renowned designers such as Cotton and Crumbs, Peggy Porschen, Maggie Austin Cakes and Faye Cahill Cake Design. Do wedding cake trends change? Even in the relatively short time I’ve been in the industry, I’ve seen trends change. But the good thing is, there’s really no right or wrong. Everything goes, as it really is about a reflection of the couple. What are your plans for the future? An entire wall in my office is taken up with a quote from Steve Jobs: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do”. This is the mantra for the business, and I plan to continue loving what I do. Thanks Nicole. coffs coast focus. 33
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Mass Nutrition Green Tea X50 have created this super-clean drink that is an instant energy provider, helps to burn fat, detoxify the organs and also increase the metabolic rate of the body. The product is free of guarana, while it stimulates fat burning via thermogenesis. Green tea X50 provides a concentrated source of green tea powder (provides about 20 servings of green tea in a single serving). Since it contains a combination of antioxidants, green tea x50 is an ultimate antioxidant house that possess excellent free radical scavenging properties. The product can be taken as an energy drink, detox help and also weight loss aid.
the skin of fruits like grapes, berries and nuts. It is also present in high concentration in red wine. Many studies show that resveratrol is an important phytonutrient (plant chemical that helps to reduce inflammation, prevent free radical damage and offer protection against cancers. Each sachet of Green teaX50 contains the equivalent of resveratrol present in 25 glasses of wine. L-Theanine: it is an aminoacid that occurs naturally in green tea leaves. Theanine is known for its ability to improve mental alertness, clarity and focus.
Ingredients Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis): green tea extracts are rich in polyphenolic antioxidants that prevent many degenerative health conditions. The presence of theanine and EGCG promote an anti-inflammatory response.
EGCG: Epigallactocatechin Gallate is in short called EGCG. EGCG is a polyphenolic compound that is responsible for the powerful antioxidant effect of green tea and its fat-burning ability. Some studies show that EGCG helps to initiate the thermogenesis (fat-burning ability) of the body and help as a natural aid in weight loss.
Resveratrol (Fallopia Japonica): Reseveratrol is a type of antioxidant that is commonly found in
Trace minerals play a crucial role in enhancing immune health, energy and metabolism.
Great
Wedding
HAIR
So that special day has finally come, one you have dreamt of since you were a little girl. Location set, dress fitting like a glove, skin glowing and every hair in place. Stress free bliss ... Here’s how! The secret to great wedding-day hair ...
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ork it all out in rehearssnapshots - anything from a photo of you in al … your dress to the flowers you’ll be carrying - so Get organised. Schedule your stylist has aesthetic guidance on the whole your hair trial three months feel of your wedding. before the wedding, Bring a trusted friend or family member, not recommends Lauren Vestey, owner of Living Doll the whole tribe. Ask your mother, your MOH, or Premier Stylists. If you book it too early in the a friend whose opinion you trust to come with planning process, changing trends you. Too many voices create chaos, or too many options could lead Lauren explains. to second-guessing. See what works. Don’t t Bring a Pinteres Have a full dress forget the hair accessories bo ard of rehearsal, out of sight (veil, comb) you plan hing snapshots - anyt u of course. A great on wearing so you can yo from a photo of e idea is to go home th to experiment with them. s es dr ur yo in and try your dress on Take photos of each s you’ ll be er w flo with your hairstyle, stylist hairstyle from different rrying - so your ce ca to see if everything idan has aesthetic gu angles and try a few of comes together as you el on the whole fe options so that you really imagined it would. your wedding . ” can find the one you love. Wash and dry your hair You will get a feel for the the night beforehand to avoid right one, almost straight away, spending the majority of your trial remembering something that looks good getting a blowout. Stylists prefer to work on someone else may not look the same on with hair that is washed the night before, yourself. as it allows the hair to settle and not be By having options, it won’t dishearten you too soft to work with. and it will make the process a fun and enjoyable Wear makeup. You’ll be staring at yourself, one. The Living Doll Premier Stylists team pride so put your best face forward, Lauren says. If themselves on making your Perfect Look for you can, schedule your makeup trial to happen your Perfect Day, stress free and beautiful. right before. Bring visuals. Bring a Pinterest board of XO Dolls.
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Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
Offbeat operations
Choosing the right music for your wedding can be quite daunting. FOCUS caught up with Offbeat Operations to find out how to book the perfect band or DJ for your special day.
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hat do you specialise in? We specialise in booking music for venues, and booking tours for bands. We co-ordinate many outdoor concerts and festivals. We also, of course, book entertainment for many weddings. We promote the bands’ tours, organise interviews and co-ordinate with media, the venue and the managers of the acts. We also do a lot of corporate work and supply some the biggest companies in Australia with our corporate artists Australia wide. You pretty much have the market covered when looking to book a band or DJ for weddings on the North Coast. What are some of the things you need to consider when organising music for your wedding? So many aspects to consider, but I would say to not only choose what music you’re personally into, but to consider your guests so they are well entertained also. Obviously budget determines what you can book, though I would look at the amount of guests you have at the wedding. If it’s only
a small wedding, you may only need a duo or even solo; if it’s a larger wedding, a band would be more suitable. You should always firstly check with the venue where you are holding your wedding to see if they have any noise restrictions or policies you need to follow, as this can impact hugely on what you can book. It’s also never too early to book; the better quality acts get booked out very far in advance. Would you recommend a band or a DJ for a wedding? What is the most popular option? That’s a really hard one. I personally prefer live bands to DJs, but it’s such a personal preference. I say some people may be more inclined to go with a DJ if the venue has restrictions with noise, or even space. I feel bands create a better atmosphere and prescence, but others may prefer a DJ for the song range, and may have more input into the songs they want played, so for that reason a DJ may be the better option. Choosing the right entertainment for your wedding is so important; it can make your wedding day one to remember for a lifetime. What is the process when booking a
band or DJ through Offbeat Operations? Just give us a call or email us, and we can simply have a chat to get a good idea of what you are after, the wedding setting, venue etc; so we can get a feel for your wedding. Once we have done this, we will compile a list of options for you with prices and bands, and song lists for you to make your decision. We offer bands or DJs. Who are some of the bands or DJs in our local area you would recommend for a wedding, and what type of music do they play? We have many great bands and DJs in our area. Every band has their own flavour, which is why it’s always good to go listen to them somewhere, or at least check out their song list. Lisa Hunt would probably be at the top of our list, and the most popular option with many of our clients. As we book many bands and DJs from the East Coast area, we can offer quality options from many different locations. How do we get in contact with Offbeat Operations? www.offbeatoperations.com.au or email us at offbeat@midcoast.com.au or call (02) 6653 8377.
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Coffs CoffsCoast CoastWedding WeddingGuide Guide
Beach Bodies Come on in and meet the new owners, Tony and Angela Farrell, and their friendly team at Beachbodies Health Club. Beachbodies is perfectly located upstairs in the Jetty Village Shopping Centre and offers something for everyone! We are a 24 hour facility and fully staffed Monday - Friday from 5:15am until 7:15pm, Saturday mornings 7 - 11am and Sunday mornings 8 - 11am. Our club is Fitness Passport friendly and is fully air conditioned for your comfort. There is a lift for disabled access at the northern end of centre. Our crèche is open every weekday morning and evening, also on Saturday and Sunday mornings to accommodate our fantastic new group fitness timetable. We now offer 49 classes per week and if you haven’t met our motivating group fitness instructors, you are missing out! They are vibrant, fun, motivational and full of energy! If you need extra motivation and
36 coffs coast focus.
accountability, we have Personal Trainers with exceptional skills and knowledge who can help you to reach your full potential, any specific goals and dreams, or just to help guide you in the right direction. In addition to our Wedding Fit packages available, if you are truly up to changing your habits into a healthy lifestyle, be sure to come check out our 8 week “Kickstart to health and fitness mind and body transformation” challenge starting on 1st February 2016. To secure your place, call 6652 1428. Limited numbers, and it’s filling up quick. Until the end of January, our club is offering “6 weeks for $69”, or you can join from as little as $16 per week. We want everybody to become fitter, healthier and happier. So if this is you, come pay us a visit. Like our Facebook page to stay up to date or visit our web page: www.beachbodies.club. Our email address is info@beachbodies.club
Coffs Coast Wedding Guide
mountain
High PROPOSAL
Bhutan CF S TRAVEL
Magic is real, and Bhutan is where it can be found. Almost all throughout the 20th Century, Bhutan was all but forgotten by the world. Suffice it to say, modern age passed much of Bhutan by.
Proposing at the top of a mountain could be awkward if the answer is no, as it is a long way down. Luckily for these Coffs Coast lovebirds, that was not the case! FOCUS caught up with Russ Holland and Kirsten Howton to hear more about this amazing adventure.
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i Russ and Kirsten. Can December to the most amazing clear, yet cool you tell us a bit about the day … Finally … We were all together standing proposal? on the roof of Africa! Our “summit night/day” Russ: It was on top of the involved a 16 hour hike … and we still weren’t Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest all the way down! Some would argue it was freestanding mountain in the world at harder to descend than ascend. 5,895 m. When we met I was planning a Youth What was the most amazing part of the Charity Challenge to Africa, and it wasn’t long adventure? before I asked Kirsten to accompany me as my Kirsten: Having our entire team make co-expedition leader. It was about then that my the summit together. It was an incredible plan began to take shape. experience made all the more special Kirsten: I had no idea what was by our amazing local guides, going on. But having been sick porters and crew. Our lead for a couple of days on the guide has been climbing p It was on to mountain, getting engaged Mt Kilimanjaro for over 20 nt of Mou was the last thing on my years, summited over 500 e th , ro Kilimanja ng di an mind. st times and has never seen ee fr t highes orld w e th in n Russ: With Kirsten not ai a marriage proposal! Post nt mou well, I could see my plans climb, we all went and did at 5,89 5 m . ” unravelling, so I started a three day safari, which was to come up with plan B. equally amazing! Fortunately, I didn’t need it, as Russ: Having climbed Kili in all 10 of us stood on the summit 2013, I loved witnessing the team’s together. It was then I unfurled a banner journey on the mountain. It’s a tough I’d brought with me, asking her to marry climb and doesn’t come without personal me. Thankfully she said yes, as 6,000 m can be challenges along the way. I’m really looking a very lonely place! I designed a ring and had forward to the 2016 expedition. it made and did the traditional thing, getting It was all for a great cause as well; can you down on one knee and asking Kirsten to marry tell us a bit about that? me. Russ: As I work for the Westpac Life Saver How did you arrive at the top of the Rescue Helicopter, this has been the main mountain? charity for this climb. The team did an amazing Kirsten: Well, it certainly wasn’t by Westpac job, raising around $23,000 for this vital local Rescue Helicopter! (Although after being sick service. Every team member individually raised I’m sure I wouldn’t have minded at the time!) over $2,500 to be a part of the expedition. Let’s just say I never thought I could walk so We are looking at doing another youth charity slowly. After five nights/six days walking, challenge fundraising trip in December this year. we arrived at the summit at sunrise on 11th Thanks Russ and Kirsten.
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or a land of scenic valleys and bows, normally used for hunting elsewhere. fortresses perched on precarious Tshechu colourful mask dances: are perpeaks, the Himalayan nation’s formed during tshechu.The atmosphere at these isolation now is no longer an festivals is one of celebration and merry making. accident - it is deliberate. Today, In the midst of all this though, don’t forget to Bhutan’s culture and traditions are preserved see the huge undertone of the Buddhist teachand protected along with its forests, and visitors ing relayed though the acts at the venue. Most are regulated. Perhaps the only country in the of the mask dances have religious messages of world without traffic lights - a country governed good versus evil, the impermanence of life and by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness the need to accumulate good merit when alive. the opportunity to experience it isn’t a vacation; Institute of Zorig Chusum: the arts, crafts and it’s a privilege. architecture in Bhutan have their The easiest way to travel to roots in Zorig Chusum. The towBhutan is via Bangkok with an ering dzongs built without st te la onward flight to Paro with ’s the use of a single nail, the lie Ju Druk airlines or Bhutan adventure in beautifully sculpted stattend His airlines. When descending ues, the majestic paintings Bhutan was to at Druk Fourth e th ty es aj M into Paro, the international and head stitched images as the Gyalpo’s (known an) port of Bhutan, your views of the great saints who ut Fourth King of Bh will be astounding; you visited this nation in giant ” . 60th birthday can view three of the most scroll paintings are all maspectacular mountains: jestic samples of the different Mt Everest 8,848 m, Nepal; arts and crafts of this nation. Jomolhari 7,326 m, Bhutan; Mountain biking: if you thought Annapurna 8,000 m, Nepal. biking was an adventure sport, wait ‘til Six must dos in Bhutan you try it at the highest points in the world Visit Taktsang: if you are in Bhutan and have at many mountain passes in Bhutan, where the not visited the Tigers Nest monastery, your trip high rising ridges almost kiss the sky, and you is incomplete. Tigers Nest is a world renowned get to literally ride among the clouds. Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage, and devotees all over the rugged terrain and serpentine roads that run world visit throughout the year. Tigers Nest across different climatic zones make mountain stands on a precarious ridge, about 1,000 feet biking not only challenging, but also exciting. above the Paro valley. Julie’s latest adventure in Bhutan was to Try Emadatshi: this hot, spicy dish made with attend His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s chili and cheese is a national favourite. You (known as the fourth King of Bhutan) 60th should know that in this country, chili is treated birthday. The Dragon King single handedly as a vegetable, not a condiment. When in Bhutransformed the country, gifted democracy, and tan, at least get the real taste of this fiery dish. abdicated the throne way before his age. What Archery: is the national game of Bhutan. A an honour! team of 11 play against another team, shooting Julie has made friends with some astounding a pair of arrows, trying to hit wooden targets Bhutanese actors, diplomats, travel guides and 140 m apart. Archery is fun, because this is the politicians, so her knowledge of this country is only sport in the world where alcohol flows outstanding! She hopes to get back to Bhutan freely during the game. Played both with tradiin April, as Prince William and Princess Kate will tional bamboo bows and imported compound also be visiting her happy place.
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WELLBEING W I T H @ M I N DY ’ S
WITH POSITIVE OUTLOOK
positive psychology
P
BEYOND THE ABSENCE OF ILLNESS
ositive Psychology encourages pride in your achievements, and offering self a focus beyond resolving illness congratulation. and suffering, to well-being and The engaged life is about using your talents optimal functioning. Many have and strengths of character to become more termed this a focus on happiness. engaged and achieve a better state of flow. However, Positive Psychology is not Related qualities of character that about putting rose coloured are considered virtues across glasses on everything, nor different cultures include is it about putting on a kindness, integrity, origihappy face all the time. nality, wisdom, and the Lead researchers in capacity to love and be l fu The meaning this field, including loved. Suggestions for ed at ci life is asso d an Martin Seligman, enhancing engage, to t en with attachm ng prefer to focus more hi ment include identiet m so , service of f.” el es on the pathways to fying and using your on an th r greate happiness. They define strengths, developing three distinct pathways, mindfulness skills to including the pleasant life, enhance attention to the the engaged life, and the current moment, and nurturmeaningful life. Seligman and ing relationships. his colleagues have shown that alThe meaningful life is associatthough individuals differ in the type of life ed with attachment to, and service of, they pursue, the most satisfied people are something greater than oneself. This may those that are oriented towards all three of include finding meaning in family and friends, these pathways. community, work, or to one’s faith - be that The pleasant life is concerned with positive religious, spiritual or secular. Finding meaning emotion. For the past, this includes conin life can be enhanced by learning to have tentment and satisfaction. For the present: and display gratitude, performing small acts of savouring positive experiences. For the future, kindness, and being true to your values. it may include the emotions of optimism, hope Peter Lindsay and faith. The Black Dog Institute suggests Psychologist practical ways to enhance pleasure, including BPsychSc(Hons) MPsych(Clin) sharing experiences with others, and taking Assoc MAPS
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@
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mindy’s
hen and why did you start your own business? I opened @Mindys two years ago, because I guess I just really wanted to create a relaxing, fun and friendly environment for my clients to enjoy but also for my team and myself to work in. But mostly I wanted to give our clients a highly trained, passionate, knowledgeable team of stylists who not only love what they do, but allow them the time to care about each individual that enters @Mindys. @Mindys we pride ourselves in all aspects of hairdressing. From the moment you walk in our door and you are greeted by our happy friendly staff, YOU are now our priority until the moment you leave our care. @Mindys we know without our amazing clients, we could not do what we love every day. What’s been the best business advice you’ve ever received? The best business advice I have ever received is from my first boss, after I won my first competition back in Canberra all those years ago as an apprentice. YOU ARE ONLY AS GOOD AS YOUR LAST HAIR CUT! Meaning simply, every cut or colour you do for your clients, should be your best. This, she said, will always give you long-lasting clients; she was right. @Mindys we believe consultation is the key to achieve a fantastic final result. You must not only understand your client’s wants and needs, but also lifestyle and time restraints; because, we as stylists so often forget that you, the clients, are the ones who must recreate and upkeep your
new style at home. What’s your area of expertise? @Mindys we love everything about hairdressing. I’d have to say formal occasion up-styling styling is high on the list, but most of all I’d have to say colour correction is our specialty. Being a De Lorenzo preferred ASPYA Salon, all of our stylists must be highly trained in colour correction and all other aspects of hairdressing. @Mindys Stylists are constantly attending hair competitions, shows and courses throughout the year, upskilling all their techniques from precision cutting to the latest trends in hair and fashion through the De Lorenzo ASPYA training programme. Share some expert advice with our readers ... The environment and animal testing is a huge issue in the beauty industry. @Mindys are very passionate about not adding to this growing problem. This is the reason @Mindys loves and uses only De Lorenzo Haircare colours and products. De Lorenzo Hair Care is an all Australian made and owned company made right here, in beautiful Sydney, Australia. It is naturally based with the philosophy to address the four balances for healthy hair: moisture, protein, pH balance and natural oils. De Lorenzo strongly supports campaigning against cruelty to animals and do NOT test on animals, and do NOT contain any ingredients of animal origin. All De Lorenzo hair care packaging is 100% recyclable. How could we use and trust anything else! xo
& WELLBEING
hara moves ... to a larger, quieter, brighter and air conditioned studio in central Coffs with parking and individually designed rooms to offer more classes, especially in peak hours.
Dr Alan Burrow Optometrist Dip Optom F.B.O.A. (HD) D.C.L.P. D.ORTH. F.B.C.O. MSC.(Med.) G.C.O.T. M.OPTOM. G.C.B.A
Our goal is to provide patients with a wide choice of frames from numerous manufacturers to satisfy a broad range of needs. While Adidas was originally founded as a shoe and sports goods manufacturer, it has more recently developed a popular brand of “sporty” eyewear which is cosmetically appealing with demonstrated reliability and durability. Some designers produce frames which are completely impractical for optical corrections, Adidas eyewear is designed and manufactured by SilhouetteTM, a company with many years of optical experience to create frames that are not only fashionable but can be customised to fit different facial profiles and cater for a wide range of prescriptions. Adidas Sport Eyewear’s Youth Optical Frames are amongst the most resilient and comfortable with their exclusive ultralightweight SPXTM and Performance SteelTM construction. They are both incredibly lightweight, flexible and durable. As a result they come with a two-year no questions asked, peace of mind warranty. However, this warranty, details of which can be provided upon request, only covers the frame and not the optical lenses.
Hara Beyond Movement Studio has been operated for seven years in Coffs Harbour by its founder, Suzanne McCarty, who uses her passion for physical movement to help people from all walks of life to enjoy movement, become stronger and pain free to live their life with ease and happiness. Suzanne and the HARA team offer private and duo sessions in Pilates, Yoga and GYROTONIC® for those who prefer or need individual attention, and also conduct various styles and levels of Group classes in Pilates, Yoga and GYROKINESIS® to suit everyBODY. From the 1st February, HARA is located at 2/105-107 West High Street, with designed rooms for: • Pilates and GYROTONIC® equipment • Pilates and GYROKINESIS® group classes and GYROKINESIS® teacher training • Therapy • Yoga classes, with a dance standard sprung floor and infra-red heaters - because some like their yoga hot. The HARA studio environment is friendly, non-competitive and supportive of your personal challenges and goals. Visit us to check out our new studio and the timetable for Term 1 classes. Contact us on 6652 4462 www.beyondmovementstudio.com.au office@beyondmovementstudio.com.au
Living doll Premier Stylists 2016 has already started with a boom ... and is this year going to be an extra special one for you? Is your wedding date booked in - are you are starting to do the many checklists that it involves, so you can keep bridezilla away? Well, the team at Living Doll is proud to bring some fantastic 2016 Wedding Packages to help make the decision easier. Whether you need the whole salon style tribe to come and work their magic or would like that special time just for yourself, Living Doll has something for you. Packages include: makeup by a professional makeup artist, hair styled by a premier stylist, complimentary glass of bubbly, chocolate strawberries and cheese platter to start the celebrations. Our dedicated Wedding Coordinator, Kim, will be able to help you with your every need. Ring the salon today to book a wedding consultation for package prices: 6699 2122. Let Living Doll make your Perfect Look for your Perfect Day. XO Dolls.
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&& WELLBEING WELLBEING
bcu COFFS Tri
• but at what cost? •
The continuing rise in the demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures has led to an increase
ON THE 5TH AND 6TH MARCH, TRIATHLETES FROMofALL in the number people administering these types of treatments at incredibly low prices. OVER THE COUNTRY WILL DESCEND ON COFFS HARBOUR goes into bringing you a treatment you can trust.
erly qualified practitioner; they will invest time in consultation and assessment to ensure that you receive the correct treatment for your individual Companies that manufacture premium prodneeds. They will also take time to answer any uct for cosmetic use have invested millions of questions that you may have, in order to provide dollars in developing, researching and providing then loops to and the end you with the information you need to make an evidence ofaround its safety effectiveness. They also of the newly revamped informed decision about whether to proceed continue to invest in further research and develS treatment. G Ayour breakwall. It’s one of new ways their medicines A S LO Nwith opment, discovering SW IM , N CA U WhileBodies the event those events where it can YO Registration with Regulatory can be used and developing new products. The W TO O H W attracts the elite there of the be hard to focus on the O N K As well as the above mentioned costs, cost of this investment is reflected in its price. A BI K E A N D E sport, it is open to all actual race, because the ID R are other expenses involved in setting up, running Training N, N WA LK O R RU CA levels, from those doing scenery and atmosphere and maintaining a non-surgical cosmetic clinic, Responsible non-surgical cosmetic practitioners LL YO U ’V E G OT A is so incredible.” their first triathlon to ” . many of which underpin its safety. Registration will invest heavily in training and ongoing eduES K TH AT IT TA Event organiser, Village those stepping up from and revalidation with regulatory bodies such as cation in order to expertly deliver treatments and Sports, is offering a total the enticer to Olympic The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation having received initial training, will continue to prize purse of AU$4,500 for distance event, or those just Agency (AHPRA) is mandatory, as this body is invest in further education. the top three overall male and wanting to improve on a previous responsible for regulating medical practitioners A Safe Environment female placegetters and is expecting time. and nurses. Practitioners must ensure that they comply to attract a high calibre of professional Event director Sinclair Black says, “You Serious practitioners often choose to join prowith health and safety legislation, are able to athletes again this year. Brad Kahlefeldt won don’t have to be a triathlete to compete in fessional associations which safely supply andwith storeMichellie medicines andclaiming that they the 2014 event, Jones the bcu Coffs Tri. As long as provide you canpeer-to-peer swim, know support, education and training, andrun, keep them can securely store medical records to protect convictory in the enticer distance the same year. how to ride a bike and can walk or you’ve updated on industry standards, regulations fiOther dentiality. They must also implement and uphold well-known triathletes who have raced the got all that it takes. And, if you’re not up forand all policies as they develop.distance event has a team relevant policies and procedures to minimise risks. bcu Coffs Tri course include Clayton Fettell, Mitch three legs, the Olympic Is “Cheap” Worth the Risk? Assessment Dean, Rachael Paxton (2015 female winner), option.” In order to offer You must be consulted face to face by a propMatilda Raynolds and Anna Cleaver. “Triathletes oftencheap have procedures, to travel longpractidistances
Research FOR THE ANNUAL MULTISPORT FESTIVAL,
THE BCU COFFS TRI.
T
he weekend of events includes aquathons and triathlons for all ages and abilities held around our picturesque harbour foreshore, making it ideal for competitors and spectators alike. The bcu Coffs Tri includes children’s events on the Saturday for ages five to fourteen. And on Whilst this might like good news for the the Sunday, there sound is the choice of an “enticer” consumer, unfortunately it’s far from it. triathlon (375 m swim/10 km cycle /2.5 km run) Non-surgical procedures, and and the headlinecosmetic Olympic-distance race (1.5 km injectables particular, costly forthe very goodof swim/40 kminCycle/10 kmare run), with option reasons. competing as an individual or part of a team. The involved using quality 750 expense competitors took in part in the 2015products, event, providing service and meeting which wasexcellent won by Yamba’s Lindsey Wall,the who necessary safety requirements is signifi cant, so said it is one of the most spectacular courses hein order to meet has ever raced these on. costs, quality practitioners have to set “This racetheir is asprices good accordingly. as they get - the swim is to help educate public what in In theorder stunning harbour andthe takes youabout out around exactly they are getting forride their money the iconic Coffs Jetty; the is on fast, when fully they invest a quality procedure, closed roadsinout to thenon-surgical Coffs Harbour airport; we’ve a brief guide about and theput runtogether takes you out to the end of what the Jetty,
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tioners are unlikely to invest in any of the above, as when offering cheap treatments, the cost of provision has to be minimal in order to make a profit. However, we strongly believe that profit should never come before safety. Practitioners who don’t invest in training, the clinic they work in, care standards and protection to compete on a quality course, and we are very are an accident waiting to happen. There are risks fortunate to have a world class course in our involved in cosmetic procedures, andincorporate without the own backyard. This year’s event will necessary safeguards in place, side effects the recently completed Jetty Walkway, andand it is a complications are more to occur.our beautiful great opportunity for uslikely to showcase Patients receiving treatments have thehe right harbour and foreshore area to visitors,” said. The event relies heavily theappropriate local community to expect a quality service on in an to ensure a safe and enjoyable course.beVolunteers environment. Injections should never adminfrom Coffs Harbour and Sawtell Surf Clubs, istered at a party, in a hotel room, at a shop the or local triathlon club, the Corindi Coffs SESand beauty salon. All patients, whenand researching crews and the C.ex Community Crew all pitch in receiving these treatments, should expect to be: to ensure the event runs smoothly and flawlessly. treated with respect; kept fully informed; and to Village Sports donates all proceeds from the be given time, care and attention throughout the event to local charities and community groups, entire experience. and to date has raised over $200,000 for the In order to ensure their safety, patients should Coffs community. always select a qualified,about established practitioner For more information the bcu Coffs Tri who built up a good reputation over time. and has to enter, visit www.villagesports.com.au
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healthprofessionals
By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club
New year new back
Solving Back Pain
For Good INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW
TASH ROUT Are you one of the 80% of the population that suffers from back pain? Do you always hear about “core strength” and have no idea what it means? Have you wondered why your back pain flares up without any warning?
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wner of Mid North Coast Physiotherapy, Aaron Hardaker, tells us why core strength and Pilates based exercises are a real key to getting rid of back pain for good. What is “core strength” and why is it important? You often hear people talking about the “core”, but it is usually really poorly understood. In simple terms, the core is made up of the deepest layer of the abdominal muscles (transverse abdominus) - not the 6 pack muscles but deeper - along with a series of small muscles in between your vertebrae (multifidus) and the pelvic floor muscles. These groups of muscle work together to form a strong support cylinder around the spine to help reduce load and minimise the risk of injury. Once you have had a back injury, it is vital to retrain and strengthen these muscles to get your back moving well with the right support. This is usually the step that is missed in back rehab, meaning that you are at a much higher risk of further back pain in the future. Why is Pilates recommended? The key focus of clinical Pilates exercises is getting the core muscles to work together to improve movement, strength and flexibility. Your body develops bad habits after being in pain and continues those unless you learn how to get the right muscles doing the right
jobs. We often see people who have hurt their back again from doing something very simple like bending to pick up a piece of paper or get out of the car - this is because the spine doesn’t have the support it needs to move properly. Love it or hate it, there is no quick fix to this; you need to do the right exercises for the right muscles to get the best outcome. How can you find out if your core muscles are working well? Mid North Coast Physio has a team of healthcare professionals across four clinics on the Coffs Coast who have a proven track record in solving back pain for thousands of happy clients. By incorporating physiotherapy, exercise physiology, Pilates, hydrotherapy, massage and yoga into a comprehensive treatment plan, you are sure to get long term solutions rather than short term relief. If you have suffered with back pain previously or are worried about your core strength, why not see one of the experienced physios or exercise physiologists at Mid North Coast Physio to get a comprehensive assessment. For this month only we are offering 10 lucky people a FREE Pilates assessment to check your core strength and flexibility and provide you with a clear plan of rehab - you will then get your 1st Pilates class FREE. To secure one of these appointments, call 1300 27 37 47 now and get your back on the right track.
WITH 23 YEAR OLD RETAIL MANAGER TASH ROUT, WHO DECIDED TO MAKE 2015 HER YEAR TO LOSE WEIGHT… AND SHE DID!
Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Simone & her amazing client, Jean. This month we are catching up with Tash Rout and her Personal Trainer Kylie Calder, to hear her inspiring story.
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hat is your diet and exercise background? I have always tried every fad under the sun, from shakes, just protein, massive calorie restriction to eating just soup for weeks. They would work for a while, but then real life kicked in and then I would put it back on and more. Until now, I had never actually given the old simple eat healthy and exercise regularly a go. Where do you think it all went wrong? I have always been overweight, but it wasn’t until I went to college that it escalated. A diet of alcohol and fast food ended badly. I ate much better when I left, but I would still splurge often, exercise very little and drink way too much (and cure my hangover with greasy food). What motivated you to find a solution to the problem? I had been trying to find a solution for years, but I finally realised it took a long time to put on the weight and it’s going to take a long time to take it off. I needed to do it the right way this time and make a positive change. How did you go about making that positive change? I started fresh at the start of last year and made some massive changes to my life. Once I did that, I figured I can change anything, and diet was right up there. I went along slowly, but struggled, until I decided to change gyms.
Why did you choose Kylie as your personal trainer, and what have you been doing together to achieve your goals? She was the first person I met at the gym and I could be 100% honest with her about my bad habits and what I wanted to change. She was as excited as I was to get that change happening, and that support is critical. We do one session each week, which has really helped me learn what to do when I come to the gym every other time. What goals have you achieved so far? Since last year I’ve lost 20 kg, and since working with Kylie I’ve seen a massive change in my fitness levels and the toning of my body while I lose the weight. What are your goals for the future? I have about 15 more kg to lose, so that’s the main goal. To improve my overall fitness much more and continue pushing my limits is secondary. What is the most useful advice you could share with other readers? Don’t be intimidated to ask for help; everyone is looking to improve themselves. Don’t feel embarrassed or nervous to go and try something new. Thanks for sharing, Tash, and if you are looking to kickstart 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 Kylie directly on 0414 257 086 to get started today. coffs coast focus. 41
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focusinterview.
McDONALD A C U P U N C T U R E
ACUPUNCTURE IS A TREATMENT THAT HAS EXISTED AND BEING PRACTICED FOR HUNDREDS OF YEARS. LOOKING LIKE A MACABRE TORTURE RITUAL TO A FIRST TIMER, THE SCIENCE BEHIND IT IS INTRIGUING. FOCUS SPOKE TO NIEL MCDONALD, A LOCAL PRACTITIONER, TO FIND OUT MORE.
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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I’m originally from the Gold Coast and spent my early years either on or in the water surfing, fishing, boating and generally enjoying the outdoors. But as the years went by, those activities became less enjoyable with the influx of new residents and the relentless development that ensued. So in 2008 after spending many years visiting friends and holidaying on the Coffs Coast, I decided to pack up and move to this beautiful part of the world. Where did you study acupuncture? I studied for six years at The Australian College of Natural Medicine, where I attained my Bachelor of Health Science - Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. My studies included Remedial Massage, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Dietetics and of course, Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Where did acupuncture originate? The theory and practice of acupuncture originated in China. It was first mentioned and recorded in documents dating a few hundred years before the Common Era. Earlier, instead of needles, sharpened stones and long sharp bones were used for Acupuncture treatments. I for one am glad I wasn’t around to experience those early methods! How does one become an acupuncturist? To become a Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner/Acupuncturist, you must at a minimum complete a four year Bachelor Degree
Programme. Qualified practitioners are educated reused. You will feel a slight prick when they are in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, diagnosis inserted, but not enough to cause discomfort. and clinical assessment, as well as Western BioAfter the needles have been inserted, your medical sciences. practitioner will leave you for around 15 -20 What can acupuncture be used to treat? minutes, usually they will leave gentle music At my clinic I treat conditions such as playing in the background. They will then return Musculoskeletal Pain, Sports Injuries, Hormonal and remove the needles; they may move to Imbalance, Fertility (Infertility, another area and repeat the process. A Pregnancy, IVF) Immune treatment usually takes about one Restoration, Stress, hour. Anxiety and Sleep Is it painful? Disorders, Fatigue and The simple answer is no, Acupuncture Adrenal Exhaustion, acupuncture doesn’t hurt g involves insertin Digestion Issues and when performed by an rgicalextremely fine su l much more. experienced Registered stee grade stainless How does it work? Acupuncturist. In my ific ec sp to needles in Acupuncture clinic I’m often asked in . ” points on the sk involves inserting about a treatment called extremely fine surgicaldry needling, which from all grade stainless steel reports is painful and usually needles into specific points performed by physiotherapists on the skin - or applying various and some massage therapists. This other techniques such as Moxibustion form of “trigger point “ needling is often to the acupuncture points - to restore taught over a two or three day course and balance and encourage the body to heal as such, the experience of the practitioner is itself by stimulating the body’s energy flow. extremely limited and the needle sensation can Traditionally, practitioners discuss your be painful. So my advice is, if your therapist pulls ailments with you; they may suggest dietary out a packet of Acupuncture needles, ask them changes and/or a herbal formula to assist in the if they are qualified in Acupuncture and if not, healing process. You will then lay on a treatment their level of training! table facing up or down, depending on the How did you become involved in area of treatment. Your practitioner will gently complementary medicine? insert the needles into your exposed skin. The My first experience with Acupuncture was as needles are .22 mm thick. They come individually an 18 year old. I had an accident while in the packaged to ensure sterility and are never, ever surf and hurt my neck. I spent several months
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and lots of money on many western medical treatments, with no success. Eventually as a last resort, I turned to Acupuncture and much to my surprise, with two treatments my neck was better than ever! From that day on I just wanted to learn as much as I could about Acupuncture. As it turns out, it was the best decision I ever made! I’m so grateful that I chose the path that I did. Now every day in my clinic I get to share my knowledge and experience with my patients. I never get tired of the look of utter surprise when people leave my clinic, pain free or just feeling amazed after having been through similar limited success with other treatments as I did back when I was 18. Acupuncture is truly a powerful tool when applied by a skilled practitioner. What advice would you have for someone who is considering a career in Acupuncture? Personally, I have found a “career” that I am both passionate about and that brings me enormous satisfaction. My advice would be to follow your passions, and they will lead you to happiness and success. Where can our readers find out more about you? For more information about the clinic and the latest news and studies involving Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, head over to our website: www.acupuncturecoffsharbour.com.au I regularly add new and exciting articles about the latest research and the amazing health benefits of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Thanks Niel. coffs coast focus. 43
& WELLBEING
BOB BACKHOUSE
OLEG PUSHKAREV
ANNA BARMASHEVA
fresh dental care
FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE
F R E S H D E N TA L CA R E H A S T WO N E W H YG E N I ST S STA RT I N G T H I S M O N T H F RO M RU S S I A , O L E G P U S H K A R E V A N D A N NA BA R M A S H E VA . T H E Y A L S O H AV E A N E W D E N TA L P R AC T I C I O N E R , B O B BAC K H O U S E .
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irstly Oleg, what made you move to Australia, and in particular the Coffs Coast? Australia has always been a mysterious dreamland for me. Probably I preserved this feeling from my childhood memories, when I saw Picnic at Hanging Rock. I travelled, studied and spent quite a lot of time in Europe, but Australia was always something different and attractive to me, and sometimes your dreams come true. I started my new life in Australia in Adelaide, and I fell in love with this beautiful country, culture and people. During my Dental Hygiene studies in SA, one of my patients described the North Coast of NSW as one of the most beautiful places in Australia, as he was born and raised here. When I first saw Coffs Harbour for myself and visited its beautiful surroundings, I realised this is the place to be. Anna, where do you come from, and how is your life different in Australia to back home? I come from a huge, very hectic city called Saint-Petersburg, and there is no way you can compare it with Coffs Coast because it’s like living on the other planet. But I am extremely happy being so lucky to see and start a new life in another part of the world, and I enjoy every day that I live in Australia. Oleg - what do you love about living in the area? First of all it is fresh air of ocean breeze and 44 coffs coast focus.
natural beauty, which is hard to find elsewhere. Secondly, it is an amazing and relaxed lifestyle. And last but not least, the wonderful and friendly people who live here. What is the first thing you do when you wake up/start your day? Oleg - usually I go jogging; I particularly enjoy the footpath along the coastline with astonishing views from Muttonbird Island. Anna - morning is a perfect time to talk with my parents, because of the time difference with Saint-Petersburg. I start each morning with checking my phone for messages from parents and friends. I usually write to them or have a short conversation with them. What does your job entail, Anna? As a Dental Hygienist I aim to prevent development of decay and gum disease among children and adults. I educate on oral health and better options to save it, explain various dental procedures to patients and help in the work of dentists. I was specially trained in periodontal disease treatment and, over the years of work in dental field, I developed personalised holistic approach to their management. I’m keen on making people’s smiles beautiful and use the advances in cosmetic dentistry, in particular in bleaching, to make their teeth look white, sparkling and healthy. Oleg, why did you become a hygienist? I feel that dental hygiene is the first frontier of dentistry, the key to oral health, which is often overlooked until it is too late. I remember
I am extremely happy being d so lucky to see an in e lif w ne start a the another part of y jo en world , and I e liv I at th every day ” . ia al tr in Aus
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my classmates - many of them were afraid of visiting dentistry, while, luckily, I had been treated by a wonderful therapist. She used to tell me that prevention is better than treatment. And it affected my future career choice. Oleg - what's your most memorable experience at work? One of my patients was so inspired that his gums were not sore anymore, that he painted a picture for me. There was a vase with a teeth-like border and lots of apples in it, which symbolised how happy he was, being able to eat what he liked the most. BOB BACKHOUSE How long have you lived and worked on the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coffs Harbour in 1966 to do a locum for Roy Ridell, became a partner in the practice, and the rest is history. What do you love about living in the area? I love living by the beach; it’s like being on a permanent holiday. What is the first thing you do when you wake up/start your day? I usually go for a walk up Mutton Bird Island or jump on my bike. Many dentists find treating nervous patients to be one of the most difficult aspects of dentistry. what makes you
want to have a professional focus on treating patients with dental fear and anxiety? I have found that most patients appreciate clear, honest, and straightforward
communication. Constant reassurance allows the patient to feel more at ease. Why did you become a dentist? I was fortunate enough to have a great dentist as a child, who inspired me to study dentistry. Which areas of dentistry do you like the most? I enjoy cosmetic and orthodontics. What should people look for when they choose a dental practice to visit? A professional environment that includes a warm and friendly greeting from the moment they walk in the door. What advice can you give for people who aspire to be where you are? Believe in yourself, work hard, and enjoy the moment. What do you like to do when you’re not working? Relax with my family and friends. Thanks everyone.
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coffs coast focus. 45
focusinterview. & WELLBEING
Ramsay Health Care
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IN COFFS HARBOUR JOURNEY
Left to Right is Peter Parkes, Director of Clinical Services, Elizabeth Ruthnam CEO and Mike Gray Commercial Manager.
hat is your story, values of Paul Ramsay. analyses the business in all its strands and tors in the country! In partnership we offer a Elizabeth? What does your job entail? makes it possible as a team for us to make the wide range of services, including most surgical I came to Australia Well, I am part of an executive team of best decisions for the growth and direction specialties, at both Baringa and Coffs Harbour from Scotland with three: myself as CEO, Peter Parkes the Direcof the business. This may sound a bit dry, but Day Surgery. We have a large and successful my family 29 years tor of Clinical Services and Mike Gray, our Mike makes it all exciting and imbues it with rehabilitation business, which ranges from ago, and we came Commercial Manager. We manage Baringa a sense of endless possibility. Besides that, he inpatient, to day patient and outpatient care. directly to Coffs Harbour. My family continPrivate Hospital in Mackays Road, Baringa is the office comedian and one never knows Three years ago we established Bindarray, ues to grow, and we now have a wonderful Rehabilitation, our outpatient allied health what messages may be waiting for you on an inpatient mental health unit at Baringa. extended family and great friends here. business also at Mackays Road, Coffs Harbour your door in the morning! We provide day medical services, including My first years were spent working at what Day Surgery in Albany Street, and The Baringa We always appreciate that we are part of chemotherapy, and our medical unit offers a was then Coffs Harbour District Hospital in Centre at the Specialist Medical Centre, adjaa much larger close knit team. We celebrate range of medical inpatient services, including Victoria Street, from whereho I have many happy cent to the base hospital. together, and They it speaks volumes Weconstructive provide IVF relationships services in partare the Friends How did this service come about? athings worthwhile service. comment theythat love ofpalliative Baringa. care. Building memories. Fourteen years ago I accepted an My is to lead and manage the business, they were among fundraising hoswhois bring their scientific of Baringa? Thisrole volunteer service came about to get up inthe thetop morning knowing tonership achievewith greatGenea, outcomes very important executive role at Baringa andThe Coffs Harbour ensure compliance all the rules and regupitals in RHCthey for the Nepal Appeal. They are to Coffs Harbour Friends of over 25 years ago, with and was have something worthwhile forteam all volunteers and staff.three times a year. Day Surgery. I am so happyBaringa that our entailed in running truly people caring for or people. What the future of Ramsay Health Care is private a group of lations originally advertised on thea health facility and to do, achieve. These Are the is Friends of Baringa the original health service still works well andwho happily with toradio grow and diversify ladies volunteer What sisththe best thing about your job? seeking people the business. It may not in Coffs Harbour? ladies not only volunteer volunteers? e ar Over the ye Monday to sound who would likebut to offer time toPaul Baringa, AsWe youhave could imagine, the public health service intheir Coffstime Harbour, exciting, it is, because it involves The founder of thetheir company, Ramsay, grown a lotmany in thevolunteers last few years r ve ne s ha e ic rv se e Friday to look about one hour a week some volunteer to have come and gone over the years due th and I believe thatafter this patients’ enriches flowers. all of us as a constant interaction with people. passed away last year after a stellar 50 year and will continue to do so to meet thetoneeds to e diminished, du ng vi gi These ladies work as a team; two ladies y helping at the other facilities as well, moving away or being needed elsewhere. jo community. Peter (aka thehospital best dressed man inlathe career building this company. Paul beof our growing population. From an organisaen ho dies w Baringa his major shareholding each morning together to make sure with keeping flowers so they are in giving and However, we do havewe ladies who are still Baringa Privatework Hospital was the compahospital) has many portfolios and is th theeigo-to this comtional perspective, wish to work with our r time to queathed ying flowers areand keptsurgical beautifully trimmed fresh for caring people. volunteers from 25 years ago, andofwe ny’sthe first medical facility, and itand person forthe thepatients. day-to-day operation pa of tie thent s, enjo pany tora charitable foundation. This means teams and stayover at the cutting edge emergct fo pe as al ci the so water you’re a patient in Baringa is a “family” How did they get appreciate each one of them and what they was also refreshed. the first ofWhen Paul Ramsay’s regional clinical facilities and of course, is responsible that we work substantially for a charitable ing pharmaceuticals and technologies. This e emselves , and th g a th hospital, are many smallnow things youhere atmosphere, people their name? mean to our patients at Baringa. hospitals in there Australia. We have been in for the delivery of safe and quality patient g of coinstitution, brings its own challenges, but we believe our ntribut one that we will be hearing about feelin able than to do35 foryears. yourself, and caring for people, and By patients We would like to thank our friends byscientific rvice. ”years. onare thisnot sitebeing for more Ramsay care. Peter facilitates work experiencewand community deserves to benefi t from secoming orthwhile in this is where our volunteer ladies are well this is what our Friends acknowledging they are “starring them” in this issue of FOCUS, Health Care is now one of Australia’s top ASX undergraduate student placements and drives What services does your health service advances. received and happy accommodate. As well the of Baringa achieve. Over more like friends of the because theyon deserve it. Thank you Friends of listed companies and istothe biggest provider quality and policy framework that keeps offer? Any tips running a business? as refreshing flowers, the ladies offer light the years the service has patients and the staff, than Baringa. of private health care in Australia. It is now a the service cohesive and robust. It would be easier to say what services we Always employ people smarter than yourconversation, a bright cheerful smile, and never diminished, due to the ladies volunteers. The Friends of Baringa (Unfortunately Carmel is unavailable for a global company, but it still reflects the strong Mike is our Commercial Manager and do not offer. We have some of the best docself! are very respectful of a patient’s privacy. The who enjoy giving their time to Baringa also follow the “Ramsay Way”. They photo and a couple of ladies have not been “Friends of Baringa” are clearly identified by patients, enjoying the social aspect for enjoy their work and use a positive spirit. able to return due to health reasons, but they If you want to know more about the and of programmes run at Baringa Rehabilitation, them on Friends 6658 0322. their purple aprons, and their name badge. themselves, andservices the feeling contributing This is clearly identifiedcontact with our lovely will know who they are.)
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BPH Airport Signage 2400x600 0512OL.indd 1
46 coffs coast focus.
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& WELLBEING
Positive OUTLOOK Did you know that Positive Outlook offers a range of services including individual therapy, group programmes, employee assistance programmes and psychological assessments? Whether individual or group therapy is required, our range of services are provided either selffunded, through Medicare on referral from a GP, or through your workplace or support agency. Our services are targeted to the needs of each unique client, and clients with a health care card are bulk billed. As a general psychological practice, we are able to assist with a broad range of issues, including depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, anxiety-related disorders, neuro-developmental disorders, trauma including PTSD, and personal development such as enhancing self-esteem and self-efficacy. In addition, we provide services to carers, defence force veterans and their families, victims of crime, and people going through significant life changes. Our core philosophy is based on the principles of positive psychology, which encourages a focus
on wellbeing and optimal functioning, rather than an exclusive focus on a person’s illness (see associated article on page 38). We use a range of therapies to not only assist people through their mental illness, but to help them experience pleasure, engage with others, and find meaning in their lives. As an evidenced-based practice, Positive Outlook is committed to best practice in the treatment of mental illness and psychological conditions. We achieve this through ongoing professional development built on a foundation of strong academic and professional training, and extensive and varied work and life experiences. Both Peter and Kathleen Lindsay have continued with advanced studies in psychology. Peter completed his Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology early last year, and Kathleen completes hers this month. This has allowed them to refocus more energy into their clinical practice, and both are now available for new clients.
coffs coast focus. 47
& WELLBEING
BOAMBEE DISCOUNT DRUG STORE Boambee Discount Drug Store is your locally owned DISCOUNT Pharmacy that prides itself on Customer Service. Hi I’m Brett and I’m still the owner of the Boambee Pharmacy. I wanted to give you and our community a bigger and better range with the best DISCOUNT prices. And now with our NEW NSW Lotteries agency there is another reason to visit!
Toormina Physiotherapy 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. We treat all sorts of problems with your musculo-skeletal system, such as sore backs and necks, knee pain and shoulder pain, ankle sprains, shin splints, sporting injuries, running injuries, work injuries. We rehabilitate after fractures and car accidents. We look to find the cause of your problems and not just treat the symptoms. For example, your knee may be sore because you are rolling in on your foot; or your shoulder may be hurting because the muscles holding it in the socket are not working in the correct way. We make sure you understand what is causing your condition, and we aim to help you to manage the problem correctly. Need help with an injury or long term pain? Call Chris Duffy and the team on (02) 6653 3850.
Our neighbourhood centre, with Super IGA, is a great place to shop with easy parking at the door. Our opening hours are from 8.30am until 6pm, with Jon our Pharmacist and our great team of caring people to help. We have a huge range of Discount Vitamins, speak to our Naturopath every Friday from 10am- 4pm. Even though we are a DISCOUNT Chemist I was not prepared to reduce our customer service. You can still have your blood pressure checked for Free. We ALWAYS provide expert Pharmacist advice on all your Scripts, Free Script Reminder service, we’ll keep your Scripts on file, and do a Diabetes Risk Assessments or a Cardiovascular risk assessment for free. You can return any unwanted medicines for disposal and we can help improve your asthma inhaler technique. We’ll even pack your Webster Pack for free. At Boambee Discount Drug Store we will help you manage your health. Count on people who care.
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BOAMBEE DISCOUNT DRUG STORE SHOP 2, 140 LINDEN AVE, BOAMBEE EAST PH: (02) 6658 4008 • FAX: (02) 6658 2250 MONDAY - FRIDAY: 8.30AM - 6.00PM SATURDAY: 8.30AM - 1.00PM CLOSED: SUNDAYS
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g n i e t h g h t e o t k e e e p W e t n o " . s u ost o t m s u o i pre c tha t ’s Each o ther ."
WHAT’S
LIFE WITHOUT
FREEDOM coffs coast focus. 49
with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343
FEBRUARY 2016
with Terri
AQUARIUS.
January 21 - February 19 Relationships will provide ample opportunity for self-awareness and growth at present. Enjoy a mutual project with a loved one and experience a new found level of love. See your own divinity in your relationships for self-approval. Rose Quartz is a beautiful loving crystal, helping us to feel our unconditional love.
PISCES.
February 20 - March 20 Total change is likely to take effect. Your need to achieve your life’s purpose is on your agenda. Set some new goals and be realistic, then thank yourself for achieving. Selfappreciation is most beneficial for attracting new success. Rose Quartz is the crystal for self-love.
ARIES.
March 21 - April 20 Relationships will be offering opportunities to learn about yourself. Mirroring yourself in your partner will enlighten you and increase your tolerance and ease disappointments. When someone does something you do not like, find out from looking within why you have a problem with it. Citrine shatters negativity.
TAURUS. April 21 - May 21
Time to set some new goals, but be aware of your motive to ensure attracting the best of the best. If you are at a loss when it comes to knowing what to look for, don’t despair. Make a list of emotions that you would like to experience and pray for those feelings to be fulfilled. Selenite shatters fears and encourages positive energy.
50 coffs coast focus.
GEMINI.
LIBRA.
May 22 - June 22
Now is a great time to learn something new. Your thoughts are centering around the bigger picture in life and helping you to achieve the excitement of connecting to something that you were born to do. Think about a gift or talent you would like to play with, and take action. You’ll be surprised with the outcome. Clear Quartz helps us to reach our true potential.
September 24 - October 23
Don’t allow delays to deter you from a long set goal. Instead, try visualising yourself walking the walk and feel the potential excitement this offers. It will restore your faith in the bigger picture, lessoning any likeliness of sabotage. Try not to lose the passion for your pursuit. Appophyllite helps us visualise.
CANCER.
SCORPIO.
June 23 - July 23
Now is a great time to recognise your fears, take hold of them and reshape them, so you are in control of them. Once you have become aware of your challenge or fear, try laughing at it. Your subconscious can only confirm, not reason. This technique will shatter the fear very efficiently. Ruby shatters fears.
October 24 - November 22 Making simple choices may seem like a huge challenge at present. Make things easier for yourself by knowing nothing needs to be forever. If you’re unhappy with the change, make new ones. Avoid feeling like life is a one-way street, or your fears could leave you totally trapped. Ruby shatters fears and helps us to feel secure.
LEO.
SAGITTARIUS.
July 24 - August 23 Your mind is vulnerable to becoming bored at present. Also, there is a growing need to pursue your life’s purpose or destiny. If you set some goals centering on accessing a gift or talent that provides learning opportunities, you should be content with the next year’s cycle and elevation in selfesteem. Rose Quartz restores self-worth.
November 23 - December 21
Avoid concerning yourself with morbid thoughts of what you believe others are thinking of you. You are very capable of being extremely charismatic; you just need to occupy your thoughts with self-esteem and compliments. Who cares what other people think? Rose Quartz is a powerful self-loving crystal.
VIRGO.
CAPRICORN.
August 24 - September 23 Now is a great time to pursue a dream from either a long time ago, or a dream you have carried for a long time. Write a list of all the things you will require and take action; getting something on the list will have you poised and ready for the opportunity as soon as it presents. Citrine shatters negative and attracts abundance of positive energy.
December 22 - January 20
You may be feeling unsupported at present. Identify any emotion you wish to feel externally and wake it up on the inside by breathing into it and igniting it. By becoming the answers to your fears, you will avoid facing them and having to challenge or grow through them. Ruby is powerful for inner strength.
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coffs coast focus. 51
focus_interview
Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting
CROSS REGIONAL FINANCE SOLUTIONS
sam wardman
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od, tell us a little about you and your business background ... I’m very happily married with three great kids, although two of them are now young adults (hard to fathom, I know, when I’m so young myself). We moved to Coffs about ten years ago from Forster, partly as a bank transfer but also as we felt that living in Coffs provided better educational opportunities for our kids. I’m currently on the Board of Coffs Harbour Support Services and am Secretary of Coffs Harbour Baseball Association. I’ve just had my first anniversary of business ownership with Regional Financial Solutions (Regfin). It was a challenging year, with a burst water pipe flooding the office in our first month and the loss of my father, but I have to say that the business has done all that I’ve asked of it and is in a really good position to grow further this year. You were in banking but made the move to start your own lending business. How did this come about? I’d been toying with the idea of going into business for myself for some time. When the opportunity to take on the licence for Regfin in this area came up, it was too good to refuse. My most recent efforts in banking had been centred on small business, and I felt that this was an area of the market that really had been underserviced by the banks. I saw this as an opportunity to apply my banking and finance expertise to help small businesses secure funding for their business and equipment as well as their own home and investment loans. Were there elements in establishing your own business that surprised you? I’ve been really pleased to see that my professional network, clients and even other bankers and brokers have been so willing to support the business over the past twelve
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months. Within a month of opening, we also are more and more brokers entering the marhad the opportunity to represent Finlease in ket too, which reflects a growing consumer Northern NSW. Finlease are a huge equipment awareness. I rely a lot on word of mouth finance brokerage firm and their support, netand have some excellent referral partners in work and industry reputation have helped us place. Maintaining good relationships with to open up doors to even more lenders and at them has been critical. I was also a member better rates than we could offer on our own. of BNI (Business Network International) for How do industry trends impact on your many years and the past twelve months in BNI business? really helped my business get off to It can often be feast or fama great start. I have also done ine. There was quite a bit of some radio advertising, disruption in the middle signage for my office and Set a specific of last year when the car as well as internet go al and then banking system reguand social media. I’ve work on reaching lator, APRA (Australian recently started more it. If you want to Prudential Regulation regular contact with s knock your debt Authority), sought to my clients through a h down, establis d reduce the amount of an e-newsletter. This an ck plan of atta ” h. ug investment property newsletter has only just ro th follow it lending in the market. begun, but I’m already This saw some really receiving really positive significant changes to policy feedback. It helps remind and product from our lenders, my clients that I’m there and am which took a lot to keep up with. available - often with solutions they The trend in my industry is that cushadn’t previously considered. tomers are becoming increasingly aware Where do you sit on marketing and the of a broker’s ability to source the right loan online world? from the right lender, which offers customers It hasn’t been a huge source of new business; considerable savings on time and money. however, it adds considerable weight to our It must feel rewarding to provide finanoverall branding strategy and this year, as a cial relief to people should they find group, we will be increasing our social media themselves overwhelmed financially? profile and making our website more user It’s really been a pleasure to be able to find friendly and interactive. I expect that both of solutions that weren’t always available to these actions will see more new business, as me previously. For example, I recently helped people really do shop with their fingers and some home owners who had been through eyes. a business failure several years earlier. We Any tips for someone considering starting helped consolidate some outstanding debts up their own business? from that time and also allowed them to upBe sure that you have something to offer grade their car. This gave them considerable that the market wants; consider what income peace of mind coming into the New Year. you will need to survive that first twelve How do you promote your business in months and what returns you want for your what must be a very competitive market? time and investment, then make sure you The market is very competitive, and there build realistic budgets around that. It helps to
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expect the unexpected too. Many of us are coming off the back of big spending over Christmas and the New Year. Any handy hints to help people tighten their belts this year? Set some goals around it. If you’re looking to make a big purchase, understand the costs involved, the deposit and repayment commitment required and then set about making it happen. If you’re looking to save, begin with the end in sight - work out your financial target and then determine what you’ll need to put aside to get there. Don’t just think, “I want to get ahead”. Set a specific goal and then work on reaching it. If you want to knock your debts down, establish a plan of attack and follow it through. Your finance professional should be able to help with all aspects of budgeting. Where would we find you on weekends? Over summer, you’d find me on one of our beautiful waterways usually with a kayak or SUP board holding me up. In winter, I’m generally caught up with baseball - coaching, managing or playing very badly. What’s your work/life balance like? A constantly evolving process! It often depends on my workload, but being self-employed has meant that I can better work around family commitments than I could previously. I also a feel a lot less stressed as I’m answerable to myself and my customers, rather than a head office. I think the biggest struggle for anyone these days in terms of a work/life balance is that our mobile devices tend to mean that work follows us everywhere and there is a real need to switch off the 24/7 work cycle that these devices enable. Do you have a quote you live by or try to? To try and treat people the way I would like to be treated and to do it all with humour. Thanks Rod.
focus_technology
with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate
cyber mum. ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS
Caroline Bleechmore
SCHOOL’S BACK WHAT A GREAT TIME TO CHECK IN ON YOUR CHILD’S DIGITAL WORLD. AS THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR STARTS, SO DOES THE NEED FOR OUR KIDS TO FEEL SOCIALLY CONNECTED WITH THEIR FRIENDS IN THE DIGITAL ERA WE FIND OURSELVES PARENTING IN.
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any of us will be faced with kids starting high school and perhaps for the first time having a mobile phone. Or kids turning 13 and for the first time being legally old enough to access the popular social networking sites such as Facebook (although I’m told this is for “old people”), Instagram, Snapchat and the like. So I thought at the risk or repeating myself, I would remind readers that there are some simple but important steps you as parents can take if you are perhaps allowing your child (with I’m sure much trepidation) to venture in the digital era on their own device. It’s important to remember that while our kids are smart, tech savvy, intuitive and that they get IT, they don’t have the maturity to consistently make good choices, see potential dangers, see how hurtful some words and images can be to others, or to understand how their online actions can not only harm themselves, but others. So this is where we parents come in; we may not understand online as much as our kids do, but we do have a responsibility to parent our kids in the digital space just like we do in the “real world”. My top tips to help make our kids safe online are: 1. Ensure your kids understand that they are building their digital footprint that they will take with them their whole life, “If the school principal shouldn’t see it, don’t post it” is a great line to use. Most kids don’t fully understand this concept, but I can assure you that prospective employers check digital footprints! 2. If you are paying the bill for the device, you have the right to set some rules and monitor your child’s online activity. 3. Ensure one of the rules is that you follow or friend them online via their social media accounts so you can interact with them; this in turn allows you to monitor their activities and
talk with them about the tone, appropriateness etc. of what they are posting. 4. Turn off the devices’ camera geolocation. In fact, if your child has an Apple device, set up the parental controls. This feature can be found in settings and is easy to set up; you just need to remember the password you allocate. It also enables you to restrict explicit content, age appropriate APPS, age appropriate music,
Rock motorcycles Rock Motorcycles is your premier destination on the North Coast for all your BMW Motorrad needs. Manager Rory Rock tells us more about the range now in store and the exceptional quality of the BMW brand. What makes the new BMW S 1000 XR the perfect motorcycle for those who want a cross between a touring and a sports bike? The S 1000 XR was voted bike of the year with AMCN (Australian Motorcycle News Magazine), and combines the dynamic performance of a sports motorcycle with the comfort of a touring bike. It is the first ever adventure sports bike made by BMW Motorrad; perfect for everyone in search of on road sports and big days in the saddle. Experience it for yourself: Demo now in store. What other models are available in the BMW S Series? The bike that revolutionised the super sports category: the S 1000 RR. It’s been heavily upgraded for 2015 and still leader ot it’s class. We also have the S 1000 R roadster, combining the RR engine with a more versatile naked road bike. Available to test ride at Rock Motorcycles and both models are currently on sale (ex demo) at great prices.
What finance options are available? BMW have some great finance rates available with guaranteed future value lease. BMW Full Circle by 3asy Ride guarantees the value of your new BMW Motorcycle at the end of your finance contract, even before you ride it home. What options are available when it comes to extra accessories for your BMW motorcycle? BMW have recently announced bundle pricing on certain model accessory packs. Genuine BMW accessories will make any machine seem like one of a kind. There is a great range and for a limited time packs of accessories are available at discounted prices- enquire now. Come and see Rory and the experienced team at Rock Motorcycles today! Located at 175 Gordon St, Port Macquarie. Phone (02) 6583 6655.
all without your child even being aware you’re restricting their device. 5. Ensure that if you allow your child to be in
Rock Motorcycles
the social media space and be on things like Facebook and Instagram, that their accounts are set up as private. I also recommend double
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checking your own accounts are private as well. 6. Set down some rules about who to follow or friend - do they actually know the people, or is it the “official page” of a celebrity? If not, then question why they would need to be talking with strangers. 7. Ensure that if you have purchased a monthly plan for your child’s phone that you have actually set up it up so data is automatically blocked if they exceed their monthly limit, or you may be in for a rude shock when the bill comes in. Talk through the bill with your child, so they get a sense of understanding as to how much phones and devices cost, because to most it’s a bottomless pit of entertainment. 8. Ensure you discuss with your child the appropriateness of what they are posting, because I can tell you now - the number of tween/teen girls posting semi naked selfies is alarming. 9. If you see something that seems odd, wrong, or attention seeking from your child or their friends, talk to your child about it. 10. Encourage your child to talk to you about what they see, what they post and any chatter or images that they think are inappropriate. For further information, go to www.cybermumaus.com or www.facebook.com/cybermumaus
AMCN’s 2015 Motorcycle of the Year, the S 1000 XR, lets you experience sports touring like never before. Book a test ride today with the team at Rock Motorcycles.
Rock Motorcycles 175 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Tel 02 65836655 or 1800 00ROCK Web rockmotorcycles.com.au Email sales@rockmotorcycles.com.au coffs coast focus. 53
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with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast
tourism UPDATE
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martin wells
THE SECOND WAVE GREETINGS TO THE FOCUS READERS FROM THE BUSINESSES AND TRADERS IN SAWTELL. WHO COULD BELIEVE IT’S FEBRUARY SO SOON, THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS OVER, THE SPARE ROOM SPARE AND THE TRAFFIC IN THE COFFS REGION NOT QUITE AS CHAOTIC.
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ere we are already in the secshopping and dining. Another successful event ond month of a new year. hosted by the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce. It has been an action packed A big thank you to Jane-Marie Cook from the tourist season in Sawtell. First Sawtell Post Office for her tireless work with Avenue was busy morning to the Summer Sessions and also to the volunteers evening with happy holiday makers delighting who assist her. in the boutique shopping and wonderful dining Speaking of the Summer Sessions, the options and very importantly, the Sawtell CineFebruary event will be held on Thursday the ma. It is so wonderful to see the doors open and 11th from 5pm and will feature a special guest the lights of the cinema shining once more. appearance by Alan Carter. Alan is Australia’s It was delightful also to be complimented foremost expert on antiques and collectibles, enjoying over 50 years in the antiques industry. He by our visitors on our village. A lot of people is the publisher of more than 43 books were returning after some years and on antiques and collectables,has expressing their pleasure at the produced more than 20 vidchanges and the energy in the eos and DVDs and appears street. Others were new to t as an expert on several the town and similarly February does no , mean, however television programmes expressing their praise. urist the end of the to we and radio shows, A word that was used ll; season in Sawte r to name but a few most frequently was he seem to get anot ch accomplishments. “friendly”, which ea wave of visitors Alan will be set makes us very proud. to year who want e up from 5pm outside When the tourists th ce on s enjoy the site ed rn Bella Cosa, Sawtell’s arrive in numbers, it is tu re ve ha children antique shop, and invites often difficult for busi” . ol to scho ness owners to stay bright people to bring along their and bubbly around the clock, treasures for a complimentary particularly when a minority of appraisal and valuation. This is a visitors can be difficult. Year after year wonderful opportunity to have that however, Sawtell business owners are wel“piece” that you have often wondered coming and gracious to all their customers, about examined by Australia’s expert. We look locals or guests, and all are greeted to excelforward to seeing you there. lent customer service and pride of business. Find SAWTELL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE February does not mean, however, the end on Facebook for up to date information about of the tourist season in Sawtell; we seem to get activities happening in the Summer Sessions or another wave of visitors each year who want to visit the website sawtellnsw.com.au and follow enjoy the sights once the children have returned the events prompt to Summer Sessions. to school. And why not ... The weather is still The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is run beautiful and Sawtell just as inviting! by a committed group of volunteers and meets The January Sawtell Summer Session was on a monthly basis. We are always grateful for another success, with families enjoying the enany support or assistance that is offered and tertainment under the fig trees and the evening welcome any enquiries.
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COFFS COAST’S SUMMER OF FUN CONTINUES. THE COFFS COAST IS PRIVILEGED TO HOST A WIDE RANGE OF EXCITING EVENTS THIS SUMMER.
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ere’s just a taster of what’s on the menu: Sydney Swans Training Camp 2 - 5 February In preparation for the 2016 home and away season, the Sydney Swans will return to Coffs Coast for their three day pre-season training and community camp. “The Swans have always enjoyed a strong connection with the Coffs Harbour community and through our QBE Sydney Swans Coffs Harbour Academy, our pre-season training and community camps,” says Sydney Swans chief executive Andrew Ireland. On Wednesday 3, the kids will have the chance to meet their favourite #SydneySWANS players, but parents must register each child first via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Swansclinic2016 Registrations close on Thursday, 28 January 2016 or until capacity is reached. Yes, it’s FREE. Come and watch the boys prepare for the upcoming 2016 season - it’s FREE. Oztag NSW Junior State Cup 12 - 14 February C.ex International Stadium The Australian Oztag Sports Association hosts a Junior State Cup tournament annually, and this year’s event is in Coffs Harbour at the C.ex Stadium. This is NSW’s largest tournament, with around 300 junior teams competing to be crowned NSW Champions. Associations across the state compete against each other over a three day tournament. The junior tournament caters for players aged nine to 17 years old. Newcastle Permanent Cinema under the Stars - 13 February Coffs Harbour Showground Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars is Australia’s largest free outdoor cinema programme and is coming to Coffs! Gates open at 5:30pm for a fantastic afternoon of family-friendly entertainment, with the big screen lighting up at sundown. For further details, please visit the website or “Like” them at the Newcastle Permanent Facebook page. Sheffield Shield - NSW Blues vs South Australia Redbacks, 25 - 28 February C.ex International Stadium
The NSW Blues will play South Australia in a Sheffield Shield match at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium. Hosted by Coffs Harbour City Council, the match will also give local fans the opportunity to pay tribute to North Coast cricketer, Phillip Hughes, alongside players from the two states he represented in domestic cricket. The Shield match is part of a three year partnership between Cricket NSW and Coffs Harbour City Council. Music: Adam Brand and The Outlaws 27 February - Moonee Beach Tavern Adam Brand and The Outlaws is an all-star line-up of Australian country music’s most prolific names: Drew McAlister, Travis Collins, Matt Cornell and Mike Carr. Adam Brand - 12 x Golden Guitar-winner and multi-ARIA Award-nominee. Adam has earned 3 x Platinum and 5 x Gold albums and was the winner of this year’s CMC OZ artist of the year Drew McAlister - with a slew of Golden Guitars under his belt for both performance and song-writing credits, Drew has taken the stage with US heavyweights Big & Rich. Travis Collins - multi-Golden Guitar nominee, with the longest-running #1 Country Airplay track of 2015 for Curves from his #1 ARIA country album, Wired. Matt Cornell - the former Baby Animal has now cemented himself in the Australian country music scene, fast gaining a reputation for his live shows; he was also the finalist for the CMC “New Artist Of The Year” in 2015. Mike Carr - best known recently as the creator of 2 time ARIA-winning comedian Buddy Goode, Mike Carr is a Golden Guitar winning songwriter who has penned many well-known Australian country hits. Adam Brand and The Outlaws is what you get when you join one of the key artists of his generation with four of the finest country musicians to emerge in this country over the last two decades. They’re called “Outlaws”, but the lads are a bunch of good time boys looking to provide the ultimate party soundtrack. There’s an album coming, and the shows are sure to become the stuff of legend. It won’t last forever though: outlaws don’t stick around. So buckle up and get ready for some sonic fireworks! Adam Brand and The Outlaws have arrived.
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Martin Wells from McGrath Estate Agents
martin wells
real estate update WELCOME TO 2016. I TRUST THAT OUR READERS AND YOUR FAMILIES HAD A HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAY PERIOD AND THAT 2016 BRINGS YOU ALL THE SUCCESS AND GOALS YOU SET.
et us take a look at some of the economic markers and local market opportunities that the year may produce ...”Crystal ball” forecasting … Always fraught with danger, but let’s focus on facts and commentary. Valuer General Releases Latest Land Values Coffs Coast property owners started the year with the news from the Valuer General’s (VG) department that land values across the Coffs Harbour LGA increased on average by 9.93% during 2015, now reflecting a land value average of $328,000. Land values, however, shouldn’t be confused for average house prices. VG land values are used to assist in the determination of local council rates, and Office of State Revenue Land Tax amounts. Whilst valuers and experienced sales agents will take into account the land component and “improvements” value to come up with a quantifiable overall value, they generally aren’t relied on to determine market value. Market value takes into account numerous factors beyond this, including recent comparable sales (similar land size, similar homes, similar locations); however, as we have seen in recent years, the market (buyers) may push a market to new highs out of pure demand. The property market is driven predominantly by the economic principles of supply and demand. Interest Rates for 2016 There are some interesting data sets coming out early in 2016 indicating that there may actually be an opportunity (need) for the Reserve Bank to cut rates further in Australia. The fixed and floating rates of most lending institutions have seen a reversal of the slight rise late 2015 to now be showing a weakening. All this bodes well for investors looking
to secure lending at historically low levels. The Coffs Coast market offers significant opportunity, as not only are investors seeing well bought property showing rental yields still within the 4-5%+ range, but with the possibility of strong capital gain in years to come. Again, supply and demand will drive the local market throughout 2016, as additional investors see the benefit of securing property on the Coffs Coast, as they are driven out of capital markets by high prices, and hence poor rental yields. Coupled with this is the forecast migration into the Coffs Coast, with up to a 27% increase in population being factored in to 2031. These people need homes to buy, or rent. What have we seen already in 2016? For those agencies that worked through the holiday period, there has already been significant levels of enquiries from locals, and beyond for well presented, well priced property. There is no “bad market” to sell property. If the fundamentals of presentation, pricing, effective marketing, and an agent who works hard at achieving you the highest achievable price in the current conditions are implemented, there will always be buyers and sellers looking to be brought together to transact and commence the next exciting phase of their lives. That is what gives great agents the greatest joy being a part of the process that changes lives. I wish you all the very best for 2016 and if you have any property queries or would like to see a particular topic covered this year in the Real Estate Column, feel free to contact me martinwells@mcgrath.com.au Yours in Property. Martin Wells, McGrath Estate Agents - Coffs Harbour and Sawtell.
Fresh thinking in real estate. 2/19 Gordon Street Coffs Harbour 6652 8885
1/57 First Avenue Sawtell 6658 1577
mcgrath.com.au
coffs coast focus. 55
focus_travel
with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel
THE TWO GREAT LOVES 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. 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 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
Kerry Moss
A DATE WITH MELBOURNE ARGUABLY AUSTRALIA’S CULTURAL CAPITAL, MELBOURNE IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE HOME OF OUTSTANDING FOOD AND SPECTACULAR ART, COUPLED WITH WORLD CLASS SPORTING EVENTS AND SUPERIOR SIGHTSEEING. IF YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO MELBOURNE LATELY, THEN YOU’RE REALLY MISSING OUT.
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t’s true that Melbourne is still home to many of the things we all know and love, like trams and football, but with its multiculturalism, edgy street art and limitless choices for extraordinary food, some say Melbourne has overtaken its nearest rivals. If it isn’t enough to be the cultural kings, then consider the blue-ribbon sporting events that Melbourne serves up each year. Many world events call Melbourne home and bring festivals and activities to accompany them. The Australian Open, a premier Grand Slam event on the world tennis calendar has called Melbourne home since 1972, whilst 2016 will be the 55th year of the world’s oldest and most prestigious surfing event held annually at Bells Beach. Closer to home, Melbourne is home to a football culture like no other, where they proudly house 10 out of the 18 professional AFL teams. Melbourne is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in their food. You can find everything from street food through to the finest dining in the country, with a sample of every possible cuisine within walking distance of the food streets of Lygon St and St Kilda Rd. Take time to wander through the laneways and stop in at some of the country’s finest casual dining, or if you’re lucky (and rich) enough, then consider booking into Melbourne’s premier entertainment complex, Crown - the short-term home to world
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renowned Chef, Heston Blumenthal, who has temporarily relocated his 3 Michelin star London restaurant, the Fat Duck. Within driving distance of Melbourne is some of the finest sightseeing in the country. Heritage listed and stretching 243 kilometres between the cities of Torquay and Allansford, The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s best coastal drives and the ideal viewing platform for the magical 12 Apostles. For an eclectic mix of stunning white beaches interposed with hi-octane motor sports, then don’t miss the opportunity to visit Phillip Island. Make the pilgrimage to the Penguin Parade to observe the penguins as they emerge from the sea and waddle across the beach to their sand dune burrows, or soak up all the action at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. Hire a car and escape from the city to indulge in the finery of the Yarra Valley food and wine region. Fine wines and local produce are housed in historic surrounds, all within easy reach from Melbourne. Or if luxury is on your mind (and budget), then consider spoiling yourself with gourmet food and indulgent accommodation in Daylesford, known for its natural mineral springs and fabulous local produce. With direct and affordable flights from Coffs Harbour, there is no better time to hop on board and explore Melbourne and all she has to offer.
focusinterview.
Women’s INTERNATIONAL
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY (IWD) IS CELEBRATED EACH YEAR IN COFFS HARBOUR AS A JOINT VENTURE OF THE THREE MAJOR WOMEN’S GROUPS; THE ZONTA CLUB OF COFFS HARBOUR INC, BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN (BPW) COFFS HARBOUR, AND THE COFFS COAST BUSINESS WOMEN’S NETWORK (BWN). IWD CELEBRATES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF WOMEN.
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he International Women’s Day Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year Award acknowledges and promotes the positive contribution of women in the region of Coffs Harbour. It recognises a woman who demonstrates significant leadership, and/or achievement, and who has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of women and girls in the community. This year four amazing finalists have been recognised. The finalists and the eventual winner of the Award will be presented at the IWD Breakfast on International Women’s Day, March 8th, 2016. Thank you to bcu, who has come on board again in part sponsoring this award. MADGE HAIR Madge Hair’s development of Garlambirla: A Musical with Soul at Coffs Harbour High School - and its subsequent 2015 production in Sydney for Australian Theatre for Young People - has encouraged Indigenous students to participate and perform, focusing on the Gumbayngirr nation’s dreaming stories and the colonial history of Coffs Harbour, leading to the formation of Garlambirla Youth Theatre. The increased confidence of the students is indicative of the hard work that Madge has put in. Eleven Aboriginal students successfully auditioned for the Bangarra Dance Theatre Rekindling Programme, with a principal dancer from the play being accepted into NAISDA Dance College. Currently 18 girls are learning traditional and contemporary
C h a r lot t e Yo u n g • M a d g e H a i r • Ja n e Tav e n e r • D e b Rya n
Gumbaynggirr dance styles with local 2010, and she has co-created many events choreographer Gloria Mercy. to celebrate women with the core values of Madge also secured three Small Arts and Respect, Connection, Honour, Courage and Cultural Grants, which allowed students to Empowerment. work with professional Indigenous actors and CHARLOTTE YOUNG dancers. The impact of Madge’s work in Coffs Charlotte Young, manager of Warrina Harbour, within the theatrical and Indigenous Women and Children’s Refuge, is a woman communities, has been widespread and with a vision. She has been employed at widely appreciated. Warrina for over 20 years and holds firm JANE TAVENER beliefs on the rights of women and Jane Tavener has set children to live a life free of abuse. up a foundation called Charlotte demonstrates a the Heart and Soul passion and commitment to Foundation, which is women, children and young Coffs Harbour aimed at developing people, enabling them to has so many programmes to have every opportunity ible women; ed cr in empower women possible to have a life where ate come and celebr through Heart they are respected and with us! ” Connection. She has happy, with safety being a assembled a group priority. This is evidenced by of women facilitators her compassionate nature and to teach personal and wicked sense of humour as she professional development engages with people of many walks of modalities, liaising with the Women’s life, always advocating for women’s rights, Resource Centre and Warrina the safety of children and the good of the Children’s and Women’s Refuge to run Coffs Harbour community. a pilot of her “taster” programme for women Charlotte is a generous woman in giving who have been through domestic and sexual her time and her knowledge within our abuse. The pilot was so successful, that Jane community. She is a dedicated leader who was able to trial a follow on programme, continues to raise the profile of this insidious named the Enrichment Programme. social and cultural issue in all areas of both Jane has a vision and a passion to bring her professional and personal life. women together to help other women DEB RYAN improve their lives, and she works tirelessly to Deb Ryan has been the passionate and achieve this. dynamic CEO of Community Care Options Jane has also been involved with WOW for the past eight years. She exemplifies the (Women of the World) since its inception in remarkable reach and prevalent impact of
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inclusive leadership, approachability and warm personal style - balancing the performance and human sides of business to bring out the best in people. Deb is dedicated to CCO and the value our industry brings to society and making a difference. Clients credit Deb with making their world a better place. Women and girls benefit from Deb’s enthusiasm for our community, as demonstrated by her involvement in such events as: participation in C.ex’s CEO Sleepout to promote homelessness awareness, writing successful tenders for the Links To Learning Programme (an alternative education programme for girls at risk of disengaging from school) and the Emergency Relief Funding Programme for people experiencing financial hardship, presenting community workshops, hosting various client lunches, the connectABLE Programme and We Care Day. IWD AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the IWD Breakfast event at C.ex Coffs on International Women’s Day, Tuesday 8th March. Guest speaker on the day will see the welcome return of Lydia Shelly, a Sydney lawyer who is a strong advocate of women and in their ability to make positive changes in the world. If you missed meeting Lydia at a BWN breakfast last year, now is your chance to come and hear an amazing woman. Coffs Harbour has so many incredible women; come and celebrate with us. Tickets can be purchased at www.stickytickets.com. au/ 33743 or call 0411 463 592 for more information. coffs coast focus. 57
CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs
Sam and Scott Dawson
Alissa Russell, Tori Matson, Hayley Fryer and Sarah Hannaford
Karla and Sarah Hannaford
Carole Berson, Kay Ryan and Jill Bale
Maureen and Dympna
Linda and Bryan Bolitho, and Barbara Ellis
Barbara and John Wenman
Loretta Bryant and Rose Marie Atkins
SOCIAL/SCENE
T
his month I will cover not only the paid events we all get to attend but a few of the absolutely free of charge ones that we can enjoy with the whole family.
Hayley Fryer and Chris Parker
THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO KEEP US ALL OCCUPIED HERE ON THE COFFS COAST, ESPECIALLY IN THE BEAUTIFUL SUMMER MONTHS. NO WONDER THE TOURISTS FLOCK UP HERE TO SPEND THEIR HOLIDAYS. ALL OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS THAT COME HERE TO VISIT US ARE SUPER ENVIOUS OF THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE WE CALL HOME AND THE AMAZING LIFESTYLE WE HAVE.
activities for the children are always a big hit. It’s
say it was the largest crowd I have seen to rock
yet another free event here for us to enjoy on
up ‘Pinked up’ ready to enjoy a spot of racing ,
Drinks, Nibbles and the amazing Australian
the Coffs Coast.
a flutter or two and the ‘ Park Beach Fashions
documentary film Putuparri and the Rainmakers
on the Field’ . This is also a day for the whole
were enjoyed by a full house of film lovers.
Also open to the locals and holiday makers
Memorial Theatre.
and totally free of charge was an event staged
family and the gents also don a spot of pink
at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. It was the
and join in the Fashion side of the day. One of
‘Afrekete’ which is a colourful and vibrant Afro-
first night of the Screenwave International Film
our ladies won the ‘Pinkest Lady’... Jill Bale you
Cuban Summer Music and Dance Camp. It’s like
Festival that ran in a variety of venues in Coffs
are a WINNER! For the children there is NBN’s
a piece of Cuba coming to the idyllic surrounds
Harbour and Bellingen. Screening of the ‘Song
Big Dog, Free rides, Face Painting, Games, Steve
Beachfront Opal Cove Resort just recently. It was
of Sawtell, which is where the mountains and
of the Sea’ launched the Film Festival in Coffs
McEwan’s Reptile World and so much more! As
the Gumbaynggirr Warluuny-ambi yandaarra-y-
the rivers meet the ocean. From the 29th to
Harbour with a Free outdoor Cinema screening`
Le Dain Designs is a Major Sponsor for the Park
gam. It was a special event that gave everyone
the 31st January it will be staged at the Sawtell
for the locals and tourists alike. With over 200
Beach Fashions on the Field, I usually sit on the
who attended the opportunity to explore the
Beach Holiday Park and the Sawtell RSL. It opens
people of all ages attending on the lawns of the
judging panel, but I opted out this time round
culture of the traditional Custodians of tis land,
at the Sawtell RSL with The Hot Havana Nights.
Coffs Harbour Racing Club. ‘Song of the Sea’
and got to enjoy the luxury of our own table
Christina Monneron from Kulturithmik and so
The Gumbaynggirr people. Guests enjoyed
recently won the 2015 Melbourne International
in the Corporate Lounge. Pink Silk is always a
many talented artists will be involved. For info :
Film Festival’s Audience Award, edging out over
beautiful day and this time round it was a special
events filled with art, dance, storytelling, music,
kulturithmik@gmail.com
300 other films as decided by MIFF’s audience.
event as it was the celebration the 10th year
This really was an event for everyone. A fantastic
running! Between Simon Chladil, Russ Atkinson
family-friendly community event.
the Racing Club and the Pink Silks Committee,
Our current visitors will be attending
Staying with Sawtell, the First Avenue Summer Sessions at Sawtell drew its usual excited crowds. The street closure and the extension of trading
Also at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club was the
the day, as usual was a massive success.
Special guests included the Director, Nicole Ma and Mayor Denise Knight amongst others. Another free community event was held at the
language and delicious Bust Tucker. Most of these events covered today were Free of charge and Family Friendly! What more could you ask for! Here is to enjoying ourselves.....
hours of the beautiful boutique style stores and
much loved and ever popular Pink Silks Race Day.
all of the eateries attract both locals and tourists
Mother Nature was at her finest with the sun
Festival (SWIFF.com.au) celebrated it’s Opening
Carole
alike. Baby animals, rides, chalk street art and
shining and the temperature perfect. I have to
Night on Saturday 2 January: at the Jetty
Le Dain Designs
58 coffs coast focus.
Screenwave’s inaugural International Film
CarolE Beros from Le Dﾄ（n Designs
Megan and Kobie Williams
Vicky Hunter and Dympna Keogh
Therese Barker, Erin and Karen Jackson
Alice Williams and Jem Hinds
Pink Silks Race Day
Marissa Kaandrop and Simon Chladil
Pinkest Lady: Jill Bale
Kerrie Barrow, Sharon Miers, Mel Iles, Karen Young and Jenni Saville
Steph and Ben
Kerrie Barrow, Todd Nicholls and Jenni Saville
Bec Neville, Angela Hunt, Donna Schafer, Donna Cullen and Tony Goodfellow
Victoria Shaw and Tanya Johnson
Kellie Gav, Kerry Major, Patsy Bruce and Kirsi Edwards
Mirco and Sam
Screenwave International Film Festival
Nicole Ma and Kate Howat
coffs coast focus. 59
Meet a local TRADIE
MEET A LOCAEL TRADI
60 coffs coast focus.
Meet a local TRADIE
MEET A LOCAEL TRADI
Coastal DESIGNER KITCHENS Richard Taylor Tree Services Brian Cook PLUMBING Brian Cook Plumbing is a family owned business with over 40 years of experience in plumbing and gas servicing. Brian spent over 20 years with AGL in Sydney, bringing a wealth of gas specialty with him to the Mid North Coast. Brian is an expert on gas conversion for all heaters and cookers, and hot water, which is in high demand in Coffs Harbour. Brian Cook Plumbing is the leader in gas heater installation and servicing, encouraging all customers with gas heaters to have a yearly servicing and inspection. The business is fully licensed and accredited for all solar installations, sewer treatment systems and back flow prevention devices. Brian Cook Plumbing is a well established company that gives expert advice and fast, friendly service to customers seven days a week. Our service area includes Macksville to Grafton and Dorrigo, catering for small and large jobs. Pensioner discounts given. Keeping up with new technology can be a challenge with any business, and plumbing is no different; with new appliances and materials being introduced all the time, we pride ourselves with keeping up to date with all the new technology.
What is your area of expertise? I started Richard Taylor Tree Services 11 years ago on the Coffs Coast. In this time I have successfully completed a wide range of jobs, from small back yard jobs right up to large scale commercial contracts and local /interstate storm clean-ups. Our areas of expertise meet all customer requirements, from grinding a small stump to clearing a block for a new housing development. Having a large range of up to date equipment allows us to complete any job. What is the best thing about your job? I enjoy working in the tree industry, because every job is different. Being outdoors and meeting new customers is both rewarding and interesting. I find it satisfying to safely and efficiently complete jobs and create solutions for my clientele. Share some expert advice to our readers ... It is always best to have any trees you are concerned about assessed by an arborist sooner rather than later. They will advise you on the health and structural integrity of the tree and advise you on how to proceed. Always make sure you use a qualified arborist who has all relevant insurances. It also advisable to research your contractor and their previous clients’ testimonials. Richard Taylor Trees Services meets all these requirements.
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 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.
coffs coast focus. 61
Meet a local TRADIE
MEET A LOCAEL TRADI
EMERALD beach PLUMBING A LOVELY LOOK FOR YOUR HOME
Texture FX Our expert team at Texture FX take great pride in delivering a quality service and product. Being a highly visual component of a project, it is crucial to get it right. The final finish can add value to a project both monetary and aesthetically. Our areas of specialty include applying architectural coatings, texture coating / rendering as well as general painting. We also install and finish polystyrene foam boards for various projects. Because we are a small team, it allows us to interact, communicate and advise more closely with our clients, thus ensuring the fantastic positive result that they are looking for. As long term locals, we love the area and love what we do. Our aim is to always be a team with integrity, and endeavour to ensure every client and builder is more than happy with the service and end result that we can provide.
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We can supply you with and we can fix almost any timber flooring for you. We offer a one stop shop approach to you, our local client base. We do domestic, insurance and commercial jobs.
What is your area of expertise? We specialise in maintenance plumbing, blockages, hot water systems, solar gas and electric, commercial maintenance, drainage, gas, roofing, drain camera.
Our team of professionals will be there with you from the start of your timber flooring experience, all the way ‘til the end, when you will have lovely new timber floors.
Share some expert advice with our readers ... It is always better to get a licensed plumber to do any plumbing work. Even a simple tap washer change over can sometimes turn into a nightmare. If plumbing work is carried out by an unlicensed plumber, then faulty work and subsequent damage will not be covered under warranty or as an insurance claim.
When it comes to the sanding and polishing of your timber floors, this is the most important part of your flooring experience; this is what is going to greet you each and every day when you come home from work.
What makes your business stand out? We have the most amazing team of people. They bring professionalism, expertise, knowledge and a friendly fun manner that is unquestionable.
We will look after your home like it was our own home. We do a series of sands over the entire floor, as well as the edges close to the walls. All the nails and any imperfections, small holes and end joints will be filled with a timber filler designed for the floors species that you have. The floor will then have another sand with a finer belt to finish off the process. The floors will then be vacuumed, and walls, skirting boards and bench tops will be dusted off and vacuumed again.
When and why did you start your business? We started our business 20 years ago when we arrived up here from Melbourne. Pete was already running his own business in Melbourne for 13 years prior to the move.
Four generations and over 25 years’ experience.
What plans do you have for 2016? We are always looking at ways to improve and innovate. We are looking at being the best we can in all areas, so we are constantly coming up with new ideas to better service the needs of our customers.
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159 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour coffs coast focus. 63
64 coffs coast focus.
focusfeature.
SGA Architectural Window solutions are pleased to announce that they have relocated into a brand new showroom in Industrial Drive. To coincide with this exciting new change, Matt Galvin, Shaun Thorp and their
team partnered with FOCUS to showcase some of the work they have done over the years with a handful of well established local builders. The purpose of this is to recognise the continuous need to promote the great quality and customer service that will ensure the security and longevity of local employment.
window solutions
coffs coast focus. 65
focuseditorial.
S G A - S I N C E
1 9 7 8
window solutions
With experience ial in both resident and commercial ve projects , we belie e th of e dg our knowle the en be s ha industry our to r main contri buto success. �
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C
an you tell us a little bit about your background and experience in this industry? Shaun and I have both been involved in the glass and glazing industry for many years. With experience in both residential and commercial projects, we believe our knowledge of the industry has been the main contributor to our success. I feel strongly that
66 coffs coast focus.
if you have started from the bottom of the chain, the better understanding you have of improving things as you progress up the ladder. Most importantly though, our success is driven by our experienced fabrication team. Without our dedicated staff, SGA would not have the
reputation it does today being the preferred fabricator for the Coffs Coast and regional areas. Both Shaun and I enjoy working with our team and thrive on tackling the challenges we sometimes face in our ever evolving
and challenging industry. Since taking over the reins at SGA, what are some of the things you have changed and improved? Upon taking the reins of the business, Shaun and I both felt it was imperative to review where the position of the business was in terms of aligning with modern technology. One of our top priorities was the process in which
focuseditorial. e Through creativ e w , ng ki thin to have managed pany’s m co e th ce redu ugh ro th direct costs her ot g tin implemen ch as su s se es oc new pr these.”
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we were ordering our materials. What used to be a manual, time consuming process is now a fast, efficient electronic means of purchasing. Through creative thinking, we have managed to reduce the company's direct costs through implementing other new processes such as these.
With the opening of your new showroom, how will this help to improve the way people can learn about your services and products? The task of setting out the showroom meant that I needed to be vigilant in what products were going to be on display; they also needed to be
presented in a simple format relative to what is most popular in our local region. SGA can offer an extensive range of products; however, it is important that we understand the need of consumer demand by showcasing the correct products.
Turning your concept into a construction Williams River Steel are professionals in the design and construction industry with over 30 years experience in commercial and industrial builds, car dealerships and automotive solutions, educational facilities, aircraft hangers and other specialty builds. Our in-house drafting team can streamline your ideas from design to construction and arrange costings, council approvals, construction through to final occupation.
We have a full steel fabrication, precast panel and freight facility to integrate in with your design and construction to ensure it is built to budget, on time and of a high quality.
Coffs Harbour
Brisbane
Newcastle
Coffs Harbour Sales: Unit 1, 12 Industrial Dr North Boambee Ph: 02 6651 7223 Head Office 1300 363 121 wrsteel.com.au
coffs coast focus. 67
focuseditorial.
S G A - S I N C E
1 9 7 8
There are no hidden secrets selli ng when it comes to you ; or do or w a windo te to la re to ed ne y simpl w ho d an the customer it su ill w t the produc their lifestyle . �
“ What makes SGA different from other companies in the local area? Being different can be defined in a number of ways; at SGA, we feel that less is more and that relating the product to your lifestyle can be the simplest solution in most cases. A product
68 coffs coast focus.
may appeal to the eye; however, it may not suit the means of your lifestyle. There are no hidden secrets when it comes to selling a window or door; you simply need to relate to the customer and how the product will suit
their lifestyle. What is the best advice you can give to a prospective customer? Whether your build is an investment or a lifelong journey, your home is a
place where you spend a considerable amount of time. The comfort of your own home is something that is sometimes taken for granted and unfortunately, the cost of living is always increasing. Performance glazing is a simple solution
S G A - S IS NG CA E- S 1 I 9N 7 C 8 E
1 9 7 8
focusfeature.
window solutions
Natural light and thermal e transmission ar e tiv ra pe an im topic to consider when designing your home. �
“ in attempt to reduce some of your energy costs. Natural light and thermal transmission are an imperative topic to consider when designing your home. For information on how you can maximise your home’s energy efficiency through perfomance glazing, consult your Building Designer/Architect or visit www. basix.nsw.gov.au Do you offer solutions for budgets of
different sizes? Certainly. Our product range allows us to cater for all types of construction. From residential, high end residential to commercial, SGA can provide a tailored solution to suit the needs of almost any budget.
coffs coast focus. 69
focuseditorial.
S G A - S I N C E
1 9 7 8
Whilst the idea of n ild bu ing your ow g, tin home is exci it can have both positive and negative effects.�
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How has the local building and construction industry changed over the last few years? A change we have seen in recent years is the rising number of owner builders. Whilst the idea of building your own home is exciting, it can have both positive and negative effects. Managing a team of tradesmen and ensuring compliance measures are met throughout the build can be very overwhelming
70 coffs coast focus.
and stressful. Employing a fully qualified builder will ensure a smooth transition throughout the planning and construction process and ensure all of your compliance measures are met (Australian Standards and Building Code of Australia/BCA etc). What services and products do you offer to the tradespeople on the Coffs Coast, and how will this new showroom help to improve these?
focusfeature.
window solutions
Throughout the years, SGA (formerly to point you in the right direction should you “Sawtell Glass and Aluminium”) have catered require assistance with any of these products. for a lot of different markets and What are your plans for the consumer products. The changes future of SGA? in management over the The plan is simple for years has seen a lot of our business: promote, en SGA have be products removed from sell and service our servicing local the production line, products to the best il ta re d tradesmen an ffs simply enabling us to of our ability. SGA Co e th on s customer w, no s focus on what we do have been servicing ar ye 37 r fo Co ast be to best. Today, SGA are a local tradesmen and nd te in e w d an ore new aluminium window retail customers on here for many m and door manufacturer the Coffs Coast for years to come. ” only. We manufacture, sell 37 years now, and we and service AWS (Vantage intend to be here for Residential/Elevate Commercial many more years to come. and Thermal Heart) aluminium With a brand new showroom products. We no longer manufacture and manufacturing facility located products such as shower screens, wardobes at 58 Industrial Drive, it will enable us and splashbacks. to merge with market trends and modern These can be sourced locally through other technology whilst tackling the challenges of trusted manufacturers. streamlining manufacturing processes. Our friendly sales staff are more than happy Thanks guys.
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coffs coast focus. 71
COFFS COAST
property guide
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focusabode.
We had often discussed that we should do something r together, but fo s on as different re as w g the timin t.” never quite righ
“ hat is the history behind Bentley
BENTLEY HOMES Bentley Homes is a family business, locally owned by Nathan and Danielle Bentley and Ashley and Ebony Trengove. Nathan and I are brothers in-law and have known each other for nearly 20 years. We first came into contact after I started going out with his older sister, Ebony.
Homes? Bentley Homes is a family business, locally owned by Nathan and Danielle Bentley and Ashley and Ebony Trengove. Nathan and I are brothers in-law and have known each other for nearly 20 years. We first came into contact after I started going out with his older sister, Ebony.
› Local builders specialising in quality Custom built homes, extensions and renovations in Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas
› Local builders specialising in quality Custom built homes, extensions and › Family owned and operated with many renovations Coffs Harbour and years’ experience in thein building industry surrounding › Happy to quote on your areas plans or work
We have been building houses and units in the area over the last 10 years, but these were mainly for private use. We had often discussed that we should do something together, but for different reasons the timing was never quite right. Twelve months ago, however, a few things fell into place for us, so we decided to take the jump into the world of residential home building as a fulltime job, and Bentley Homes was born.
local builders...building your dream
with us to design customised plans
› Family owned and operated with many years’ experience in the building industry
› We offer a personalised, ‘hands-on’ approach in all areas and stages of your project
Display Home 6 Water Gum Close North Sapphire Beach Estate NSW 2450
local
› Happy to quote on your plans or work with us to design customised plans
› Brand new display home open at 6 Water Gum Close, North Sapphire Beach Estate
› We offer a personalised, ‘hands-on’ Contact us today for more information or an obligation free quote. approach in all areas and stages of
Ashley Trengove 0428 806 335 | Nathan Bentley 0438 453 251 your project info@bentleyhomes.net.au | www.bentleyhomes.net.au › Brand new display home open at 6 Water Gum Close, North Sapphire Beach Estate
coffs coast focus. 73
focusabode.
BENTLEY HOMES Nathan and I bring experience from various backgrounds. Nathan as a qualified carpenter and licensed builder in his own right, with approximately 13 years’ hands on experience, has been involved in all aspects of the building industry, from repairs and maintenance to residential home building, commercial fitouts and unit development. While predominately working in the Coffs Harbour area, Nathan has worked as far afield as Armidale, Bundaberg, Cairns and London. Most recently, Nathan has returned from Yeppoon, where he was working for his brother’s construction company, which handles insurance repairs. Nathan was in charge of supervising in excess of 40 claims after TC Marcia devastated Rockhampton and Yeppoon; these were completed in approximately six months. By being involved with all these areas of the industry, Nathan’s developed a keen eye for detail and quality We aim to build workmanship. al modern, practic My background is in t out and well though hing accounting and business et homes with som rent management, although ffe just a little bit di I’ve always had an in all of them .” interest in architecture and building. I worked at and managed Eastcoast Masonry (which has now become Austral Masonry) for a number of years; here we manufactured and sold concrete blocks, bricks, retaining walls, pavers and various other building products. This position provided me with the opportunity
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to deal with people from all walks of life, from mum and dad DIYers, to property developers and major builders to local tradesmen and architects/ designers. These dealings further reinforced my understanding of the building industry from various perspectives. The last two years have seen me managing another construction company for my brother in-law, which is primarily involved with insurance repairs after natural disasters such as cyclones and floods. In this line of work, understanding the building process and effective communication is paramount to schedule multiple trades on multiple jobs in order to complete repairs on time and budget to a high standard. Together, we feel we make a good combination as we both have different strengths, but ultimately have the same goal or focus. What services do Bentley Homes provide? Bentley Homes can provide a range of services, from smaller jobs like decks, through to extensions, renovations and of course, new home construction. We have experience in not only urban residential, but also rural residential construction. Sloping sites are no problem for us either. We aim to build modern, practical and well thought out homes with something just a little bit different in all of them. We can arrange design and drafting for you, or we’re equally happy to quote off plans that you may already have drawn up. In the end, we want to build your dream … Tell us about some of the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future ...
masonry. style and function
Your local manufacturer and supplier of concrete blocks, retaining walls and pavers. Display Centre 27 Lawson Crescent Coffs Harbour Ph (02) 6652 3457 www.australmasonry.com.au
74 coffs coast focus.
As a new builder to the market, as we thought it w able be to important ive ct pe os pr to show could clients what they of s expect in te rm when style and finish .” us ith w g buildin
focusabode.
“
Well, firstly is our display home at 6 Watergum Close, North Sapphire Beach, which we opened prior to Christmas. As a new builder to the market, we thought it was important to be able to show prospective clients what they could expect in terms of style and finish when building with us. Although we have built a number of homes in the last 10 years, we couldn’t really get people to drop around to these various addresses for a sticky beak, so our display home is the answer.
This particular house is a four bedroom, two bathroom home, centered around a north-east facing courtyard and alfresco area. The home’s open plan kitchen, dining and living area is very generously proportioned and has a very relaxed feel, which reflects the coastal location that is North Sapphire Beach. With a large study area, plenty of storage and huge bedrooms, this home has plenty of space for everyone and would make a wonderful family home. It really is worth a look.
Secondly is another home that we’ve just completed opposite our display home. 3 Watergum Close, North Sapphire is once again a four bedroom, two bathroom residence, with a separate media room. This home has some additional features such as freestanding baths in main bathroom and ensuite, high quality Miele appliances and high end tapware. With the kitchen in the centre of the home with easy access to the oversized covered alfresco area, entertaining at this address will be a breeze.
With a fully landscaped, private back yard coming straight off the deck and uninterrupted views to a creek reserve at the rear, gatherings large or small will be well accommodated. The internal areas of this home are equally as impressive, with large bedrooms away from the main open plan living area, as well as a separate office/study area and master bedroom zone at the front of the house coupled with extensive storage throughout; this house is thoughtfully laid out to guarantee living is easy.
coffs coast focus. 75
focusabode.
We offer great flexi bility in r design in that ou d re ilo ta e ar es hom , le to your lifesty nd , your block of la ur yo , et dg your bu .” m drea
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We’ve had a great response from those that have been through our display home so far, and this has given us the opportunity to quote on building a number of people’s dreams. We’ll also be looking at building another one or two “speckies” in the coming year, details of which will be on our Facebook page and website as they become available. What are the stand out features or the benefits of building with Bentley Homes? As we are only a small company, we can provide true personalised service and a hands on approach. When you come to the display home or call Bentley Homes, you will be dealing with either Nathan or I. When we begin construction, actually prior to beginning construction, either Nathan or I, or both, will be onsite or a phone call away, to oversee and
BENTLEY HOMES
ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible. We offer great flexibility in design in that our homes are tailored to your lifestyle, your block of land, your budget, your dream. We can help create your plans from scratch, or we’re equally happy to work with plans of your own and bring them to life. Bentley Homes is committed to offering you quality construction at an affordable price. We don’t believe in taking shortcuts, we wouldn’t do it in our own homes, so there is now way we’d do it in yours. What is the process when a new client walks through the door? (i.e. assessing land, budget, eco requirements etc.) There is no one size fits all answer to this; everyone has
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Choices Flooring Coffs Harbour - 6652 2473 48 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour choicesflooring.com.au
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varying degrees of experience and knowledge when it comes to building a house, so the process is different for everyone. Some people may be looking to build house three, four or five, so they’ve been through it before and more often than not will know exactly what they want and may have plans, engineering and specifications already prepared, so they really just need a quote. On the other hand, someone might be looking to build for the first time and may need more guidance, some might not even have a block of land and might be just testing the water. If you’ve got a block of land, you’ve probably put some thought into how much you can spend on a new house. We use that information, also lifestyle factors such as family size, ages, interests/hobbies, etc. as well as finding out what features in a home you like or dislike or simply can’t live without, and with this we can start building a profile of the type of house that will suit your needs. It is important
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to have a contour survey (especially for sloping sites) and a geotechnical report completed in order to best design your new home. Other things like bushfire ratings, BASIX and covenants need to be considered, as they can have significant effects on the design and cost of your new home. We can arrange to sit down or meet on site with our draftsman/designer to go through this home profile and begin putting ideas on paper. Once the plans are finalised, we can then prepare the quote for your new home. By this stage we will probably already have a pretty good estimate of the price, so it will be more a matter of finalising particular details to give you the final fixed figure. If our quote is successful and you would like to proceed, finance, contracts, insurance and building approvals are required. This can take some weeks depending on the financial
institution and also the council. Final selections, material procurement and project scheduling can all take place while approvals are being sought, so once the construction certificate is granted, we can start as soon as possible. Then the fun part begins … What are the top three things that people should consider when looking to build a new house? When building a new home there are a multitude of things to consider; some of these things carry significantly more importance than others. I recall a few heated discussions during the construction of our first home, one concerning light switches and power points, the other to do with door handles. At the time these were “crucial” decisions about relatively mundane things and highlights that sometimes it is easy to overthink things. At the end of the day,
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BENTLEY HOMES building a new home should be an exciting and enjoyable experience - not a nightmare. I think getting the right design/floorplan is of particular importance. Good house design is more than just picking a floorplan that fits on your block of land the best, or having rooms for the sake of having rooms. The size, layout and orientation of the house can dramatically affect not only the initial cost of the home, but also the ongoing costs of running the house. Good or bad design can also have a dramatic effect on the overall liveability and day to day function of the house and its inhabitants. That’s where the services of an experienced designer can be invaluable. Another thing to keep in mind when comparing the various offerings of all builders is what is actually included in the quoted price. Some builders, for instance, don’t allow for a letterbox, not that that is a major
78 coffs coast focus.
G ood or bad design can also effect have a dramatic bility ea liv l al er ov on the nction fu y da to y da and its d an of the house inhabitants.”
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thing in its own right, but the majority of people would simply expect that one would be included. Other common items this is true for are electrical and floor coverings. I’ve been told of many instances where people have been enticed by a cheap price, paid a deposit then been advised of the actual cost. A lot of people feel they can’t opt out and are obliged to continue with the process. The cheapest quote may not always cost you the least in the long run. Where are the hot spots to build on the Coffs Coast? I think majority of people would agree that we are fairly lucky to live anywhere on the Coffs Coast, and we are pretty spoilt for
choice. Anywhere near the beach is always popular, so areas like Sapphire Beach, Moonee Beach and Woolgoolga are always favourites; the continual release of land in these areas are testament to that. In saying that though, there are a number of areas west of the highway that while they don’t have the proximity to the beach, they do have other equally appealing qualities, such as larger blocks and in some instances lower prices. Since conception, what has been the most important thing to you as a local trade? One thing we are proud of is being locally owned. My family moved to Coffs Harbour in 1980 when I was six months old, and for
all but two years of my life I’ve been lucky to call Coffs home. Nathan’s family moved to the area in 1990 when he was four; he has spent a little bit of time overseas and in Queensland, but Coffs Harbour is definitely home for him too. As we are asking people to support us as locals, we are also conscious of the fact we need to do our part as well and support other locally owned, independent businesses. This is true of our suppliers and tradespeople. I think there’s a misconception that bigger means cheaper or better. The other thing is being honest and upfront in what we do. Even though Coffs has grown substantially since our families moved here, it is still a small town at heart, and word of mouth is still crucial to the success or failure of any business. Thanks guys.
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Free family holiday to Vanuatu worth $3880!
Pay your initial investment between February 1st and March 31st 2016 and sign your building contract by the end of June 2016 to receive a family holiday to Vanuatu valued at $3,880!
Call (02) 6691 3509 email coffsharbour@gjgardner.com.au or visit gjgardner.com.au Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast. Builders Licence: 191313C.
Family Holiday valued at $3880! + Flights to and from Sydney or Brisbane to Vanuatu + 5 nights accommodation at the Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa for a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children)
DISCLAIMER: 1. Dates of promotion: Initial investment must be paid between 1st February 2016 and 31st March 2016. Building contract must be signed by 30th June 2016. 2. Initial investment amount varies between G.J. Gardner Offices. 3. Package includes economy-class return flights from Sydney or Brisbane to Vanuatu and up to 5 nights accommodation at Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa for 2 adults and 2 children (under 12 years of age using existing bedding), transfers and selected bonuses. 4. Holiday must be booked with Ignite Travel between 1st September 2016 and 31st December 2016. 5. Subject to availability with accommodation and sale airfares at time of booking. 6. Offer applies to low season travel. Additional surcharges will need to be paid by customer for travel outside of low season. 7. Cannot be redeemed for cash. 8. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. 9. For full terms and conditions, please visit gjgardner.com.au/nsw-act-vanuatu-promotion. 10. This promotion only applies to G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast.