Coffs Coast Focus i66

COFFS COAST

March 2016//issue 66

A special focus feature

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Feature Story

The Australian Defence Medal

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focus COFFS COAST

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

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

Welcome to the March issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

W

ow! Can you believe we are already in March? What a fantastic month we have had executing this fabulous edition.

It is with great pleasure that we present to you our annual “Women In Business” feature.

This feature is, by all measures and accounts, a favourite of ours. The Coffs Coast is full of so many successful business women living, sharing ideas and inspiring each other daily. These amazing women often juggle busy careers, run kids around and keep a house in order. We love each of their stories. They are truly amazing!

INSIDE THIS EDITION It is amazing to find people living on the

Coffs Coast who have achieved accolades at the highest levels. Merv Rose is a true tennis superhero, and he lives right next door. FOCUS grabbed a racquet and tried to return a serve to find out more. Emma de Groot began playing golf as a teenager, initially enticed by the hot chips and chocolate milkshake she enjoyed pre game. Today, she plays on the Ladies Professional Golfing Association tour in the USA; she sat down with FOCUS to tell us more. Jessica Wilson runs the highly successful fashion app called Stashd and has had conversations with Richard Branson. We caught up with the 24 year old CEO to find out more about her rise to the top of e-commerce.

GIG GUIDE The festive season is anything but over! With Easter around the corner and longer days and warmer weather, who wouldn’t want to be out and about enjoying what our local nightlife has to offer? The Coffs Coast is renowned for having some of the greatest home grown musicians and bands take centre stage at our amazing local venues. If you are looking for something to do in March, check out our monthly gig guide ...

FINAL SAY “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will then know peace.”

- Jimmy Hendrix.

coffs coast focus. 3

Want to know more about residential aged care or home care?

issue I S S U E

6 6

M A R C H

2 0 1 6

EMMA de GROOT.

Emma de Groot began playing golf as a teenager, initially enticed by the hot chips and chocolate milkshake she enjoyed pre game! Today, she plays on the Ladies Professional Golfing Association tour in the USA. She sat down with FOCUS to tell us more.

RFBI has been providing care and accommodation to older Australians for over 100 years and our friendly team are here to help.

Call your local RFBI Masonic Village to find out what aged care services might be right for you or your loved one, how to access aged care servcies and get a simple explanation of the fees and charges.

12 -

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EASTER FISHING CLASSIC. Over 200 local and interstate anglers are gearing up to descend on the Coffs Coast, from the NSW/Victorian border to the Sunshine Coast in the north. This year’s Easter Fishing Classic is set to be the biggest and best yet, with entertainment galore for the whole family.

MERV ROSE.

54

It’s amazing to find people living on the Coffs Coast who have achieved accolades at the highest levels.

Merv Rose is a true tennis superhero, and he lives right next door. FOCUS grabbed a racquet and tried to return a serve to find out more...

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R EGU L A R S RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village (02) 6650 2200 RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village (02) 6692 4400 RFBI Bellorana Masonic Village (Bellingen) (02) 6655 2777

www.rfbi.com.au 4 coffs coast focus.

Masonic Villages: It’s how to live...

6. WHAT’S ON

FOR MARCH 18. EAT

FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 27. STAR GUIDE

WITH TERRI 28. WOMEN IN BUSINESS

FOCUS FEATURE

51.

60.

67.

SENIOR LIVING FOCUS FEATURE SOCIAL SCENE WITH CAROLE BEROS BUSINESS MINDS WITH SAM WARDMAN

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

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C C EE LL EE BB RR AA TT EE TT O OG G EE TT H H EE RR N N EE SS SS || C CO O FF FF SS H H AA RR BB O OU U RR 2 20 0 –– 2 22 2 M M AA RR C CH H

the 10thth anniversary

multicultural

FESTIVAL SUNDAY 20 MARCH

COLOURFEST COLOURFEST MULTICULTURAL MULTICULTURAL SHORT SHORT FILM FESTIVAL FILM FESTIVAL

BOTANIC BOTANIC GARDENS GARDENS

MONDAY MONDAY 21 21 MARCH MARCH 6.30PM 6.30PM

SUNDAY 20 MARCH

9AM 9AM -- 3PM 3PM

JETTY JETTY THEATRE THEATRE

“HARMONY “HARMONY IN HEALTH” IN HEALTH” MULTICULTURAL HEALTH EXPO MULTICULTURAL HEALTH EXPO

CEX CEX COFFS COFFS TUESDAY TUESDAY 22 22 MARCH MARCH

10AM 10AM -- 2PM 2PM

Sharing Sharing the the skills skills and and talents talents of of our our region’s region’s diverse diverse cultural cultural communities communities

traditional traditional welcome welcome to to country country || all all day day cultural cultural performances performances || youth youth performances performances Australian kid’s entertainment entertainment || storytelling storytelling Australian reptile reptile information information display display || kid’s information international foods foods … … and and much much more more information stands stands & & workshops workshops || international for for more more details details phone phone 6648 6648 4833 4833 or or www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au NCRBG NCRBG

SHARING DIASPORA STORIES SHARING DIASPORA STORIES

HARMONY FESTIVAL_2016_Focus_FP.indd 1 HARMONY FESTIVAL_2016_Focus_FP.indd 1

FRIENDS OF THE GARDEN FRIENDS OF THE GARDEN

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focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

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March 2016

2016 IWD AND COFFS HARBOUR WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD.

WOOLGOOLGA PUBLIC SCHOOL TWILIGHT FETE

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

When March 8th, 2016 at 6:45am. Where C.ex Coffs Harbour.

This will be a major fundraising event for the school. All profits from the event will be used to help purchase iPads for our students and to continue our beautification projects around the school. Hot food, tasty treats, market stalls, entertainment and fun activities. When Friday 18th March. Where Centennial Oval, Woolgoolga. Time 3:30pm - 7:30pm.

MASQUERADE PARTY

JETTY CLUB CATCH UP

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18

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Head along and help celebrate Tarraray Pet Retreat’s 1st Birthday, with a FREE sausage sizzle, fairy floss, popcorn, slushies, mechanical bull, kids jumping castle and waterslide. Also a working sheep dog displays and the LIVE attractions to keep the whole family entertained. When Sunday 13th March Where 81 Bonville Station Road, Bonville Time 11am - 3pm 6 coffs coast focus.

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Joyland Carers Retreat Proudly presents ... Masquerade Party Frock Up; treat yourself to an amazing night out and support Joyland Carers Retreat (a local not-for-profit organisation) to continue to care for our carers! Amazing prizes to be won in our raffles as well. So what are you waiting for - design your mask, organise your table of friends and purchase your tickets now at http://tix.yt/joyland-carers-retreat-masqueradeparty When Saturday 16th April. Where Opal Cove Resort.

Tickets $85 per person.

Come and join like minded professionals for a friendly catch up over a cold beverage at the Cellar Lounge for the Jetty Club. Invite your friends and colleagues - the more the merrier. We promise you’ll have fun and meet someone new. When Wednesday 9th March. Where Cellar Lounge, Pier Hotel. Time 6pm onwards.

TARRARAY PET RETREAT 1ST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS - OPEN DAY.

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10TH ANNUAL MULTICULTURAL HARMONY FESTIVAL

Coffs Harbour City Council’s annual Multicultural Harmony Festival recognises the principles of Harmony Day, which celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. When Festival Launch - 21st March, Jetty Theatre Festival - 22nd March; Botanical Gardens. More info Phone 6648 4833 or visit www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au

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CHARITY GOLF DAY Hoys Physiotherapy / NRM / Carfinders Charity Golf Day. Well, Christmas and New Year are now behind us, we’re back at work and looking for a little stress relief. What could be better than hitting a little ball - all in the name of charity, of course! The Cancer Council will be this year’s beneficiary. We’re also offering a car as a prize for a “hole-in-one”. Where Coffs Harbour Golf Club.

When 18th March. Register and Lunch 11am. Team Cost From $260 to $400. To enter contact Rob Hoy on 6658 3878.

EASTER FISHING CLASSIC The Coffs Harbour Deep Sea Fishing Club - 2016 Easter Fishing Classic. Traditional Fish Auction, Sunday 27th, 1pm to aid Marine Rescue. Family activities, waterslides, jumping castle, cooking demos, music on the deck + much more. When March 24 - 27.

Angler entry forms via: www.deepseafishingclub.com.au

coffs coast

COVER SHOOT

that involvement with a strong representation across a wider range of community events. BWN are also

Our front cover this month was dedicated to all of the amazing and successful women in business thriving on the Coffs Coast. Every year in March, FOCUS gives local business women the opportunity to profile themselves in our Women in Business feature. Turn to page 28 and check it out!

co-initiators of the International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Awards, which recognise impactful contribution.“ Mel Crossland - Marketing Coordinator for Fuji Xerox Coffs & Port “I am out and about quite a bit with my job and have met lots of wonderful people with some really interesting stories. Specifically with work, I like that I am able to show people cost and business efficiency

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in an area of their business which is often unanalysed.” ho were the stunning Women showcased on the front

Sharni Seccombe/Winkler - Booking Agent at Offbeat Operations “We have a few aspects to our business. One is to supply venues or clients such as wedding parties

“Living Doll is your little oasis, a time just for yourself, to indulge in warm coffee, good magazines, head massages and to give you the pickup you so deserve. With everyone’s busy schedule, it is so hard to put yourself first - especially women and mothers.”

A special mention needs to go to the amazing people behind the scenes ...

Photography by: Russell Pell - our amazing FOCUS photographer Dressed by: Carole Beros - professional clothing and jewellery stylist from House of Le Dãin Designs Hair and Makeup by: Lauren Vestey and her team at Living Doll - Coffs Harbour’s Premier Hair and Makeup Artists Vehicle Supplied by: Glenda and Pat O’Carroll - owner of the amazing 1967 MGB vehicle used in the shoot.

cover?

or corporate businesses with

Jade Woodward - President of Coffs

entertainment, and the other is

Harbour BWN (Business Women’s

to supply bands or DJs or any sort

Network)

of entertainers with work in these

“Coffs Coast BWN support a range

categories.”

of local business and charities,

Lauren Vestey - Owner/Operator of

Location: Simon Chladil - Events Manager and Licensee, Coffs Harbour Racing Club

and our aim is to further increase

Living Doll Premier Stylists

Thank you, From the FOCUS team.

coffs coast focus. 7

focusinterview.

THIS MONTH WE HAVE A CHAT WITH SCOTT SECCOMBE, SNR VICE PRESIDENT OF THE VETERANS CENTRE MID NORTH COAST ABOUT THE NEW CENTRE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE MEDAL THIS ANZAC DAY.

S

o Scott, what is “VCMNC”, and what does it provide?

The Veterans Centre Mid North Coast, or VCMNC, was established to assist our local ex-service networks in connecting with the younger ex-service men and women and their families in the community - our mission statement says it all. ”The mission of the Veteran Centre Mid North Coast is to engage past, present and future veterans and their families to assist with benefit entitlements and transition from military to civilian life. To provide opportunities for peer to peer support, mentoring and social networking and to raise awareness of veteran issues among the local community“.

You mention “younger ex-service men and women”; what do you mean by that?

When we talk about younger ex-service men and women, we are focused on the post-Vietnam service from 1975 up to our present day. This would include anyone who has deployed in a war zone, for example in Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan, just to name a few. It also includes many of our defence personal who, because of “better times”, stayed on Australian soil.

So how do we know, as civilians, if 8 coffs coast focus.

someone has served the country? like further information about applying, they That’s a good question. Every Australian can contact us at the Veterans Centre. who has served their country is entitled to The second action that we need to underan “Australian Defence Medal” (ADM). This take, is to encourage these men and women medal was authorised on the 20th March to turn up and march on ANZAC Day. We 2006, and ex-service personnel who have understand that some ex-service men and served from 3rd September 1945 women may not feel “worthy” or onwards qualify. This medal be struggling with their own is awarded for completion post-service issues, but e of a designated term of these men and women th of on si is m The re service, from four years have donated their nt Ce n ra te Ve to is t and over. time in service to this as Co th or N Mid ent and es pr , Any service man country and have the st pa ge ga en and their or woman who has right to participate future veterans with been awarded the in commemorative families to assist ts and en ADM wears it on the activities and be an benefit entitlem military transition from left side of their jacket, active part of the ” e. lif to civilian and it can be worn in ex-service commuconjunction with other nity. As I have already medals such as bravery, stated, they have served this long service or campaign medcountry. als. Next ANZAC Day, keep an eye Are families able to be involved out for anyone wearing the Australian in the Centre and the ex-service Defence Medal. (See picture.) community also?

What’s the next step in getting our Partners, children, mums and dads are very ex-service community to be involved? much involved - they experience firsthand The first thing we, as a community, need the effects of service and need to be acto do is encourage the men and women who knowledged for their resilience. We encourhave served their country to apply for the age anyone that would like to be a part of ADM. If you, or someone you know, would the Centre to contact us in our local office in

“

Scarba Street.

A really important area where families can also help, is by encouraging their loved ones who have not marched or feel they are not worthy to wear the Australian Defence Medal with pride and march this ANZAC Day. They and many others before and after them have served this nation and have every right to be recognised for their service.

And what future plans are there for VCMNC - anything exciting?

Yes, we are working on a number of different ideas to engage with the ex-service community and their families. The first campaign will be close to ANZAC Day, where we will be introducing some very forward thinking and exciting initiatives which will be announced in the April edition of FOCUS. In closing, what message would you like to leave our readers with?

I would like to encourage all ex-service men and women to be a part of ANZAC Day. Always remember that you have served the Commonwealth of Australia with unwavering loyalty and determination, and we say thank you.

For more information, please contact VCMNC on 0459 759 922 or drop into our office at 4 Scarba Street, Coffs Harbour.

Thanks Scott.

PA T YN OCR TOH NS A P PHH IOR EMB EEA CSH We were excited to introduce Pycon Homes’ new display, the “Sapphire”. This home was specifically designed with open plan living and natural light in mind and has received glowing reviews, joining the award-winning “Adriatic” and “Sovereign” homes on display in Port Macquarie.

P YCON

DISPLAY HOME

ABOUT PYCON HOMES

O P E N 7 D AY S

Pycon Homes and Constructions was started

by Trevor Suitor in 1980. Now over 35 years on they continue to be a family owned, locally run business using local trades and suppliers in the areas serviced.

Pycon believe in honesty, flexibility and building your home to the benchmark quality they are renowned for. With their focus on quality, Pycon have developed into a multiaward winning builder servicing the Mid North Coast of NSW from Forster to Grafton.

VISIT THE PYCON DISPLAY HOME Call in to the Pycon display home - they would to be love to be part of the exciting journey of building your new home.

9 Cherry St, North Sapphire Beach Open 7 days 10am -5pm Call Terry 0414 448 138

VISIT THE LAND SALES CENTRE Corner of North Solitary Drive & Cherry Street North Sapphire Beach Opening hours Wednesday - Sunday 9am - 3pm or by appointment

coffs coast focus. 9

focusinterview.

NORMAN KEITH

STANDING MASONICARE REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE, REGION 5, NORMAN KEITH STANDING WAS BORN ON 20TH SEPTEMBER 1935, AT NORTHMEAD, NSW. HE WAS THE ONLY CHILD OF KEITH AND NITA STANDING. HERE IS NORMAN’S STORY ...

M

y father was the third Harbour Apex Club, moving on to Pacific City employee of Howard Lions Club and Strathpine Rotary Club (Qld).My Auto Cultivators, Windsor life has been about assisting those in need where Road, Northmead. My possible. I am a strong believer that “charity mother was a professional begins at home”; we have to be safe, smart and pianist. cautious, but that doesn’t mean we have to be In 1948 we moved to Coffs Harbour, and I afraid. In life, as in love, the jewels come to those completed my schooling at Coffs Harbour High who are willing to take the chances, stay open School. After leaving, I assisted my to the possibilities, keep faith, and just father on his banana plantation. do what it takes to make it work.

After completing my National My challenge as Masonicare ts en em ev hi Service and CMF commitment, Regional Representative ac My I commenced my interest in was to find creative ways would not have ul service life, serving 15 years to place Region 5 in a been as successf rful de on w as an officer in the regular sound situation, giving without the and support, loyalty le Army on full-time service. an opportunity for each ab love of my ador On leaving the Army, I person to develop their ars wife , Judy - 59 ye e in moved to Brisbane, where charity aspirations and to ad of a marriage m my wife and I purchased develop to his or her full heaven . ” newsagencies and video potential. stores, retiring in 2004.

My achievements would not I married my wife, Judy, in 1956 have been as successful without and had two wonderful children, the wonderful support, loyalty and son Timothy and daughter Christine. Now love of my adorable wife, Judy - 59 years we have six grandchildren and seven great of a marriage made in heaven. grandchildren.

Can you tell us a bit about Cando Cancer?

My beginnings in Freemasonry sprang from my It was formed in 2010 to provide financial admiration for my father and the desire to follow support for patients attending the North Coast him into the craft. I was initiated into Freemasonry Cancer Institute (NCCI) at the Coffs Harbour in April 1955.

Health Campus, covering key areas of the Coffs My work and learning the aspects of charity Coast, Nambucca Valley, Bellinger Valley/Dorrigo started when I was a young man joining the Coffs and the Clarence Valley.

“

10 coffs coast focus.

You were the original organiser of the charity; how did it all begin?

Coffs Coast Freemasons approached the North Coast Cancer Institute (NCCI) and the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, to see what assistance they could give. It was suggested that we support the patients who run into financial difficulties suffering this terrible disease, with assistance in day to day expenses, e.g. electricity, motor vehicle costs, medical, and also essential cards for fuel and food. We have provided assistance to 564 patients since commencement, totalling in excess of $250,000. On average, we provide assistance to 110 patients per annum.

What events are you planning this year?

Sawtell Ladies Bowls Club held a Charity Bowls Day late January, raising in excess of $4,000.

Our major fundraiser will be the “Music in the Gardens” to be held on 13th March at the Botanic Gardens.

The Rottnest Channel swim will be on Saturday 19th March, and another major fundraiser is the Woolgoolga Charity Bowls Day, to be held late July.

Tell us about your OAM ...

I was very honoured and privileged and will be extremely proud when I wear my award, not just for myself, but also for the wonderful support and loyalty from the Coffs Coast Freemasons, Cando Cancer Committee and the devoted doctors and nurses of the NCCI. Thanks Norman.

coffs coast focus. 11

focusinterview.

US LPGA

TOUR

EMMA DE GROOT BEGAN PLAYING GOLF AS A TEENAGER, INITIALLY ENTICED BY THE HOT CHIPS AND CHOCOLATE MILKSHAKE SHE ENJOYED PRE GAME! TODAY, SHE PLAYS ON THE LADIES PROFESSIONAL GOLFING ASSOCIATION TOUR IN THE USA. SHE SAT DOWN WITH FOCUS TO TELL US MORE.

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

Before moving to America to pursue a career in professional golf, I grew up in Coffs Harbour. My parents and Nan still live here, and so every time I am in Australia, I can't wait to get back to Coffs.

What is the best thing about living in this area?

I spend my life travelling to different places, but there's something about Coffs Harbour that I just love. It's got everything you could want. From gorgeous golf courses, to stunning beaches, Coffs ticks every box. I love to come home and head to the beaches in Sawtell, to play golf at Coffs Golf Club, and to see how much it changes every time I come back. I love that it's small enough to make me feel like I'm in my own little beach town, yet big enough to have all I could need when I am here. Plus, it's home, so it will always have a place in my heart.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf at the age of 13. Prior

12 coffs coast focus.

to that, I had never really had much interest. better, something to work on. I have grown to To be honest, my favourite part of golf when I love the fact that win or lose, it's on me. My first started was the $2 hot chips and chocolate results are a reflection of how hard I work, milkshake I got to have before not how hard my team works. practice each day.

What were some of the I played soccer and softball highlights of your early from a young age and career when you were n loved the team sport starting out in the ow gr I have ct fa e th atmosphere, so golf sport? ve lo to s on it’ , se lo or never struck me as I was never a stand in w that ea ar lts su re y something I would really out junior. I started M e. m w hard I care too much for. later than most, and reflection of ho rd my work, not how ha However, after playing therefore I spent team works . ” for a few months, I my first four or five started doing after school years playing catch up squads, saw improvements - always being "just not and basically have been hooked good enough". I began to ever since. make some NSW state teams at What is it about the sport that you find around the age of 17, but it wasn't addictive? until I went to college that my career I think the same things I find addictive really took off. I had six wins and numerous about the sport are the same things I can't top 10s in college, and that really gave me the stand about the sport. It's so complex, there confidence and belief that I could compete at a are so many parts of the game to try and professional level. master, and it doesn't matter how great you Where is your favourite course to play on are, there's always something you can do the Coffs Coast and why?

“

I spend so much of my year overseas, so when I come home I love nothing more than to go back to my roots and play at Coffs Harbour Golf Club. They have supported me 100% since the very beginning of my career, and continue to do all they can to nurture and encourage me as I move forward. I have a great relationship with a lot of the members, and the staff go out of their way to make me feel comfortable. There are so many beautiful golf courses around the Coffs Coast, but there's nothing like going back to CHGC and really feeling like I am home.

Can you tell us a bit about the LPGA and what is like to play on it?

The LPGA is amazing, and I relish every opportunity to play events out there. I have been fortunate enough to play in quite a few events out there over my career, and every time I do, I leave feeling motivated and refreshed.

You are treated like golfing royalty. From the sponsors, to the food, to the locker rooms, to the physiotherapists and trainers that are there to help with anything you need, every single aspect is top class.

Last year you conducted a crowd funding

focusinterview.

campaign to help with the costs of golf at 6:30am every Saturday, to college titles travelling; was it successful? in America, to the LPGA, my family has been It was incredibly successful, and I can't thank on this journey with me and has helped me enough all those who donated to help with both emotionally and financially whenever I the cause. People don't realise how expensive needed it. Professional golf is a roller coaster; professional golf is when you're not one of there are so many highs and so many lows, and the top in the world. It's a real grind week in they ride the ride with me every day of every and week out just to make ends meet and be week of every year, and I am beyond grateful able to afford to enter the tournament the for all they have done for me. I am 100% sure following week.

I wouldn't be half the golfer and person I am My GoFundMe campaign helped me raise today without their love and support. enough money to be able to play with some I also have to give a huge amount of credit more freedom, and not have to stress so much to my full-time caddy/manager, Ashley Sholer. about each dollar and where my next entry fees 2015 was the first year I had her on the bag or petrol money would come from. Sometimes full-time, and the change it made to my game those who make it are not necessarily those was incredible. Having someone like Ash, who with the most talent, but those who have the travels with me to each event and pushes me funds to be able to keep pushing through until every day to be the best player I can be has they reach their potential - and thanks to the been so important to my progress. Being so far help of those both in Australia and America away from home, it's nice to have someone who reached into their wallets to help, I was who I know has my best interests at heart and able to close out a pretty successful year over believes in me, probably more than I believe in in America. myself at times.

Is one of the difficulties of golf to be able What are your plans for the future? to put together a strong game mentally, as I want to keep playing golf as long as I can well as physically? be successful and as long as I have the passion At my level, the game is almost 100% for it. My ultimate goal is to play full-time on mental. Everyone has put in the hours, the LPGA, and one day to represent Australia in everyone can hit the ball great, chip great, the Olympic Games. The longer I have played make putts, but it's the ones who can keep golf, however, the more I realise that balance is their composure and do it when they need to so important. Golf is not the be all and end all that come out on top. of my life. I want to have a happy life off the If you stand on the driving golf course too. I want to get married, range before a tournament maybe have a family, and enjoy all round, you wouldn't be that life has to offer. able to separate a lot of Thanks Emma.

It’s not all roses the players in terms of and you have ake talent and ability, but to be willing to m s ce ifi cr sa ss tournaments aren't countle but if it’s won on the range. over the years, then t, what you wan It's about self won’t s ce ifi those sacr belief, discipline, and parison m co in g seem bi having the ability to to your dreams.” quiet your mind and relax your body when the moment calls for it. These are things that don't come naturally to a lot of people, and so just as I practice the physical aspects of the game every day, I also have drills and exercises to help me get the most out of my mental game.

What advice would you give to other young women who may be considering a career as a professional golfer?

I will always say, if you're passionate about something, then you have to go for it. It's not all roses and you have to be willing to make countless sacrifices over the years, but if it's what you want, then those sacrifices won't seem big in comparison to your dreams. Golf has already given me so much, and I am only 27 years old. I never would have had the US LPGA TOUR experiences I have, and those I am yet to have, without golf and without the courage to chase my passion.

Who do you attribute most of your success to?

There have been so many people who have helped me throughout each stage of my career. But the constant rock, through thick and thin, has been my family. From sub junior

“

coffs coast focus. 13

14 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

Over 200 local and interstate anglers are gearing up to descend on the Coffs Coast, from the NSW/Victorian border to the Sunshine Coast in the north. This year’s Easter Fishing Classic is set to be the biggest and best yet, with entertainment galore for the whole family. FOCUS spoke with Carl Mower, manager of the Deep Sea Fishing Club, to find out more about the event.

W

hat are the categories that people can enter?

The two key categories are our Beach Rock and Estuary (BRE) class, and the prodigious Deep Sea division. Within the Deep Sea category there are 16 named species, and each angler is limited to a single fish weigh-in per species per day to score points for daily species prizes. A competitor’s highest pointscoring fish in each species goes toward overall tournament prizes.

The BRE category is similar; however, it involves a lesser number of species and is focused on those that inhabit beach rock and estuary areas. BRE also has a catch and release category for those who prefer to release their catch for environmental sustainability.

The competition is designed primarily to recognise the knowledge, skill, technique and persistence of contestants, rather than the person with the biggest catch. It’s quite rare that any one angler catches all species - although the challenge has been laid - and the winners will no doubt demonstrate their abilities across the three day event.

Can anyone enter the Easter Classic?

Senior Male and Female Divisions (18 yrs+) are accompanied by the Junior and Sub-Junior categories, ensuring a sizeable field. Sub-Juniors (10 yrs and under) are limited to BRE category, and are not required to hold a NSW Recreational Fishing License (U 18yrs), so it’s a fantastic day out on the water for the youngsters as well.

What are some highlights of past events?

Easter invariably falls during the local Mackerel season,

the Classic. The significant prize pool ranges from some high when these fast swimming and toothy game fish visit the Coffs Coast from the warmer waters to the north of us. This quality fishing and boating gear, to ladies hair and beauty year is no different, with good numbers of Barred (Spanish) vouchers, to special prizes for the youngsters. and Spotted Mackerel already being caught. Watching these What is the programme for the event? spectacular fish being weighed in is always a highlight.

The event starts with a compulsory briefing on the The annual Fish Auction on Easter Sunday Thursday evening, with fishing to commence after is a major highlight, which raises many the Blessing of the Fleet at 6am on Good Friday. thousands of dollars each year for Fishing runs through until Sunday afternoon, voluntary Marine Rescue Coffs with Easter Monday traditionally a “wind Many Harbour. The Auction will commence down” family affair, where everyone gets a prize at 1pm at the Club, and everyone s together to share stories of the event. winning fish ha is welcome to attend. Bid or buy; been caught from What makes the Coffs Coast ideal for just make sure you take home some our jetty or from this type of event? great fresh local fish. the breakwalls Coffs is one of those special places What else is in store for this around the that has both warm water and cooler year’s Classic? harbour. ” water species inhabiting the area, with the This year will see three days of mixing of currents making it attractive to action-packed excitement for everyone. anglers from all over. Unlike many other fishing Family Fun Day Sunday will see loads of destinations, Coffs has a safe harbour, with no activities for the kids, including a jumping castle, dangerous bar crossings to tackle. The fishing grounds waterslides, mechanical surfboard, face painting, camel are within easy access of the harbour, and you don’t have to rides and an Easter egg hunt. For those a little more travel miles out to reach good fishing waters. Similarly, there inclined to chill, soak up the 270º million dollar views are great beaches and estuaries within easy access of our with tantalising food and ice-cold beverages, then kick back with live tunes on the deck from 2pm with Totum. town. Many a prize winning fish has been caught from our What are some of the prizes up for grabs this year? jetty or from the breakwalls surrounding the harbour.

The major titles are cash prizes, plus there are a stack How can people enter the Easter Classic? of additional prizes up for grabs. Without our incredible Simply download the entry form at sponsors, this event simply would not exist and while much of www.deepseafishingclub.com.au, or call into the Club our sponsorship is still being coordinated, we can tell you that reception between 10am and 5pm any day of the week. the Coffs Coast business community has rallied right behind Thanks Carl.

“

coffs coast focus. 15

TARRARAY Pet retreat OH, HOW TIME FLIES! ONE YEAR HAS PASSED SINCE PURCHASING TARRARAY PET RETREAT AND TO CELEBRATE OUR FIRST YEAR, WE ARE HAVING A BIRTHDAY PARTY. We would like to invite pet owners and their families out to Tarraray Pet Retreat at 81 Bonville Station Road, Bonville, on Sunday 13th March.

Starting at 11am and finishing around 3pm, there will be a sausage sizzle, fairy floss, popcorn, slushies, mechanical bull, kids’ jumping castle and weather permitting, waterslide - all FREE. You may want to bring a towel along with you. On the day there will also be working sheep dog displays and other LIVE attractions to keep the whole family entertained.

Bring the family out to meet and interact with our extended family, consisting of Smudge the miniature horse, Gary, Barry and Louise our naughty little goats, our little piggy Sharon and our array of geese, ducks and chickens.

Bring your camera along and get some nice photos with your family.

We will be giving away to all new customers their first day boarding FREE when they register their pet details with us on our party day, and no booking date is needed on the day.

To all our clients - for the month of March we are taking 10% off all bookings made.

Whether you’re planning a holiday, some

16 coffs coast focus.

house renovations, or need doggy day care, whatever or whenever the event or occasion, book in March to receive your 10% discount.

(Bookings for this promotion need to be made before 31th March 2016 to receive the 10% discount).

If you’re free on Sunday 13th March, between 11am and 3pm, come out and say hello, have a feed and enjoy our birthday celebrations with us.

CHOICES FOR THE DOGS Starting at the top is our 5 star room - 3.5m x 3m room with single kid’s bed. From only $30 per day.

3 star room - same size room as the 5 star, but has a Kuranda luxury dog bed. From only $25 per day.

Backpackers - still safely inside a 6m x 4m room holding up to 6 dogs, separated by wire runs with Kuranda poly bed. From only $20 per day.

The lounge room - for social dogs that like to spend time with other like-minded dogs of same size and demeanour. From only $20 per day.

IT’S A CAT’S LIFE The cats I believe get it a bit better than the

dogs. A 2m x 1.5m room set up with a cot or basket, chairs and blankets. All cat rooms have extended window sills to give them their sunny time. From only $15 per day.

Not only do we look after cats and dogs, we are able to care for any pet. We have in our customer base a regular visiting Axolotl named Axl, some very cute bunnies, Wilbur the meant to be miniature pig and a few feathered friends, which some of you would have met, such as Ned the ever so curious Cockatoo sitting at our front door. If you can get them here, we can look after them; however, we also offer a pick-up service. If you’re unsure, just call 6653 4423, and we will answer any questions or queries you may have - or call out to 81 Bonville Station Road, Bonville in our office hours. No appointments are needed within our opening hours; if our front door is open, all our doors are.

We look forward to seeing our regular and meeting some new customers in the near future.

Don’t forget about our birthday party on Sunday 13th March 2016, starting at 11am.

See you there.

Thanks Scotty and Bec.

Opera In THE PADDOCK

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.

Opera North West is branching out this year, with two Opera in the Paddock performances featuring superstar baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes - one in Armidale and the second at its traditional home, Mimosa, Delungra, 25 km west of Inverell. The first concert on Friday, April 1 will be held at Lazenby Hall on the UNE campus, with the second at Delungra on Saturday, April 2 at 4:30pm.

Tahu Rhodes will be joined on stage by outstanding tenor Bradley Daley, sopranos Elizabeth Lewis and Peta Blyth, with conductor Timothy Sexton and the Mimosa Orchestra, led by Jennifer Nickson, Deputy Leader Royal Opera House Covent Garden, London.

The concerts will include arias and ensembles from Beethoven, Rossini, Verdi, Bizet and Lehar, finishing with a selection from well-known musicals.

Tahu Rhodes comes to Opera in the Paddock with a rolled gold international reputation. Recent performances include Méphistophélès in Faust for Opera Australia and the title roles in Don Giovanni and Sweeney Todd. His versatile talents included the extraordinary success starring in The King and I and South Pacific, in which he starred with Lisa McCune.

Don’t miss these truly unforgettable performances.

Adult $88, Conc $85, Student $55, Family & group conc available Book online: www.operainthepaddock.com.au or phone 1800 240 301.

coffs coast focus. 17

Wicked Mixed Brekkie Bruschetta FROM mr. good beans.

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

18 coffs coast focus.

Artisti Coffee Roasters

DRIFTWOOD dining and café

With March upon us and the fantastic weather that autumn brings here on the Coffs Coast, we have full breakfast and lunch menus, with breakfast being available between 6:45am and 11:30am, with a late lunch until 2:30pm.

Our marinated lamb salad with a tender lamb fillet served on top of a Greek style salad of crisp mesclun lettuce, cherry tomatoes, continental cucumber, Kalamata olives, Danish feta and chickpeas finished with a drizzle of minted yoghurt has always been a very popular dish.

Located at Park Beach Bowls, Driftwood offers relaxed dining facilities with delicious Australian cuisine for lunch and dinner every day. Café options are also available from 9:30am daily.

Enjoy a $10 lunch every day (non-members $12) or a traditional Sunday Roast Lunch* from only $8 (non-members from $9). *Not available public holidays.

Become a member and get discounts on all meals and drinks.

So come down and try our NEW mouthwatering menu at Club prices.

Kids welcome!

DRIFTWOOD dining and café DRIFTWOOD and café Park Beach Bowls is excited todining announce the opening of its new casual Park Beach Bowls isDriftwood. excited to announce the opening of its new casual dining experience, dining experience, Driftwood.

Conveniently located on Ocean Parade, Driftwood offers relaxed dining Conveniently located on Ocean Australian Parade, Driftwood offers relaxed dining facilities with delicious modern cuisine for lunch and dinner facilities cuisine for lunch and dinner every day.with Cafédelicious optionsmodern are alsoAustralian available from 9:30am daily. every day. Café options are also available from 9:30am daily.

Enjoy our Coffee and Cake of the Day special for only $6.50 or choose Enjoyour ourgreat Coffee and$10 Cake of the Day special for onlypricing.) $6.50 or choose from value lunch selections.

(Member from our great value $10 lunch selections. (Member pricing.)

Become a member for only $5 and get discounts on all meals and drinks.

Become a member for only $5 and get discounts on all meals and 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!

Head Chef Head GerryChef Spatz.

Gerry Spatz.

Head Chef Matt Knight.

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.

60 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 60 Ocean Coffs Harbour 6652 3622Parade, www.pbbc.com.au/dining 6652 3622 www.pbbc.com.au/dining

60 Ocean Parade,Open Coffs7Harbour Café open daily from 9.30am. Lunch 12-2.30pm. Dinner 5.30-8.30pm. days Café open daily from 9.30am. Lunch 12-2.30pm. Dinner Open 7 days 66525.30-8.30pm.

3622 www.pbbc.com.au/dining

Veal Carpaccio and house made Gnocci Veal aCarpaccio andand house made Gnocci with blue cheese walnut sauce. with a blue cheese and walnut sauce.

Garlic & chilli prawn linguini with rocket, preserved lemon & garden herbs.

Café open daily from 9:30am. Lunch 12 2:30pm. Dinner 5:30 - 8:30pm. Open 7 days.

Pizza Vino Vino 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 spring to Coff’s Harbour’s newest place to eat and catch up with friends. Pizza Vino is fully and catch up with friends. Pizza Vino is fully licensed, offering gourmet pizza, pasta, tapas licensed, offering gourmet pizza, pasta, tapas and share food with a twist. Not forgetting of and share food with a twist. Not forgetting of course, a delectable selection of wines. course, a delectable selection of wines.

As the weather warms up, try our delicate As the weather warms up, try our delicate gourmet veal carpaccio as a perfect spring gourmet veal carpaccio as a perfect spring entrée, followed by our house made gnocci entrée, followed by our house made gnocci with a blue cheese and walnut sauce. with a blue cheese and walnut sauce.

Book NOW for your work Christmas party and Book NOW for your work Christmas party and try our mouth watering spring and summer try our mouth watering spring and summer menu. menu.

Pizza Vino Vino are are now now open openTuesday Tuesdayto toSunday Sunday Pizza from 5pm for dining in or takeaway. from 5pm for dining in or takeaway.

la hacienda 101

horizons restaurant & bar

La Hacienda 101 can be found in Emerald 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 entice 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.

GOOD FRIENDS, GREAT FOOD, COLD BEER and GOOD CHEER!

101 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com Open 6 days from 6pm - closed Tuesdays.

Horizons Restaurant and Bar at Opal Cove Resort is the epitome of relaxed dining at its finest. This Coffs Harbour restaurant has welcomed Italian Pizzeria Pizzeria visitors, locals and even celebrities to come in and experience a real taste Italian of the Coffs Coast. As one of the best Coffs Harbour restaurants, Horizons utilises only the finest local produce and flairs it up so that it will tantalise your taste buds!

Opensev se Open Our bea Our beac entirel ititentirely

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Pizza Vino Vino

Owners Michael and David.

Sur Surf

HeadChef Chef Head Clinton Hunter AdamGallo Gallo Adam Head Chef.

If your idea of dining in Coffs Harbour is in a vibrant, busy restaurant with professional yet casual staff, exquisite and exciting food, craft beers and cocktails to write home about, then Horizons Restaurant and Bar is the 10,Harbour 361Harbour Harbour drive((Jetty JettyVillage Village),), obvious choice. Bookings for this busy restaurant in Coffs are drive 10, 361 Coff Harbour Coff ss Harbour essential. Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5 - 6pm daily.

6650 9112 9112 6650 Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour Open Tuesday-Sunday from5pm 5pm‘til ‘tillate lateand and Open Tuesday-Sunday from 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Lunch from from Fri-Sat Fri-Sat for fordine dineininand andtakeaway. takeaway.

Lunch Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended. coffs coast focus. 19

Insid Inside SurfCC Surf 66529 6652

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Opal OpalCove CoveResort, Resort,Opal OpalBoulevard, Boulevard, Coff CoffssHarbour Harbour 6651 66510510 0510 www.opalcove.com www.opalcove.com Breakfast, Breakfast,lunch lunchand anddinner dinner- -77days days aaweek. week.Bookings Bookingsrecommended. recommended.

North NorthBonville BonvilleRoad, Road,Bonville Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au Open Open77nights; nights;bookings bookingsessential. essential.

ffHerb Herb & & pinenut pinenut crusted crusted Barramundi Barramundi fi fillet llet with with steamed steamed brocolini brocolini and and roast roast capsicum capsicum sauce. sauce.

fHerb & pinenut crusted Barramundi fillet with steamed brocolini and roast capsicum sauce.

pasfields restaurant the pier café o.photel 81 pasfields restaurantBAr BArdeck deck the pier hotel

Enjoy Pasfi elds for aknow dining experience or At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of new COFFEE: you that most of us start our daymeals. with something Enjoy elds for afifine ne dining orcasual casual meals.

At thePasfi Pier did Hotel we’re excited toexperience announce the opening of the the new that Our fi rst class food speaks for itself with our reviews.

“Cellar Lounge”. should be measured to 0.1for of itself a gram, timed to the second and have a Our firstLounge”. class food speaks with our reviews.

“Cellar Our ambience and and yield to the gram, and beisadjusted throughout the dayCoffs with changes in Our ambience andsetting setting iswelcoming welcoming andstunning. stunning.

We We welcome welcome you you to to come come down down and and feast feast your your eyes eyes on on Coffs Birthdays, reunions, engagements ...

We can tailor make your budget. temperature, humidity and the breeze to can extract the besttoto balance from your Harbour’s most historic hotel.

With our winter menu about nish Birthdays, reunions, engagements ...

We tailor make your Harbour’s most historic hotel. With our winter menu about to to fi fi nishbudget.

Up to 300 guests. daily grind?

Scales are now just as important askicking the coffee machine. up and summer approaching quickly, we will be off our new Up to 300 guests. up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new menu shortly.

Our Blake Wittenberg, is very with all the Pasfi elds love ... ininand your perfect day one Over the lastweddings few chef, months we have spent a lot ofexcited time and money on Pasfi elds love weddings ...Come Come andplan plan your perfect day one menu shortly.

Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with allinin the great produce he gets to use over the summer period.

Be sure to make appointment.

At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new Blake Owners Head Chef updating our equipment, but most importantly our techniques, to come Head Chef appointment. great produce he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make Head Chef Head Chef Blake Matt and Bree.

Kim Robson.

Wiittenberg. your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to “Cellar Lounge”.

Kim Robson. into line with the industry accepted best practice to achieve the best, most $12 13” dine in pizza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 8pm.

Wiittenberg. your 13” way dine downinand have look at hour, the new and upcoming changes to $12 pizza anda happy Thursdays, 5 - 8pm. the Pier consistent product possible. comebeing on anddown try ourand blend coffee We So welcome youdown to come feastofyour eyes on Coffs the Pier Hotel.

Hotel.

Christmas function Christmas functionbookings bookingsare arenow now beingtaken, taken,sosobook bookearly earlytotoget get We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a exhibiting flavours of forrest berry, hints of spice and a bitter sweet chocolate Harbour’s most historic hotel.

With our winter menu about to finish your chosen We are opendate: sevenadmin@pasfi days a weekeldsrestaurant.com.au for lunch and dinner; to make a your chosen date: admin@pasfi eldsrestaurant.com.au reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110.

We look forward reveal throughout the cup, with a long lingering finish.

Available dine in or up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you. takeaway between 7am and 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday. menu shortly.

Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the to seeing you. great produce he gets to use over the summer period.

Be sure to make 675 Korora 675Pacifi PacificcHighway, Highway, Korora Cnr Dr and Camperdown St, Coff ss Harbour 81 Harbour Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coff Harbour 6653 7710 www.pasfi eldsrestaurant.com.au your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au hotel: 6651 8222 66526652 9011 2110 hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: bistro: 6651 8222 the Pier Hotel.

Tues - Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday.

the pier hotel

Tues - 11:30am Thurs from 5pm; Fri dinner & Sat from midday. lunch - 2:30pm; lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 7am - 2pm,anytime).

Tuesday to Sunday. (large functions are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a (large functions anytime).

5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days aWe week.

5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.

32 32 coffs coffscoast coastfocus. focus.

reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

SURF café o.p 81 SURFST STCAFÉ CAFÉ EmeraldBeaCH BeaCH café o.p 81 Emerald Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the

Surf St Café is- less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on theon of Turmeric root with ginger and north Turmeric latte latte - cold cold pressed pressed juice juice of of turmeric turmeric root from with Coffs gingerHarbour and aa dash dash of new highway. new highway. honey and some Chai spices.

The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise the new honey andhighway. some Chai spices. The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise your your Located at Emerald Beach with one oftop the best views on the taste buds also you feel on of the world.

Located Emerald Beach with one the views on thecoast, coast, Beach, with one of the best ocean views from our taste budsatand and also make make you feel onof top ofbest the world. check surf and watch the whales you enjoy breakfast ororlunch check the surfthe and watch whales while you breakfast lunch Turmeric is known its and aaenjoy compound called deck.the Watch roll for inthe while youwhile enjoy breakfast, a leisurely Turmeric is widely widely surf known for its healing healing and has has compound calledlunch or on the deck. on the deck.

Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people with all sorts of disease dinner.

Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people with all sorts of disease Inside cosy night for dinner, and have ififyou wish to states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, cancer.

Inside cosy at night for dinner, and we have heaters youand wish to Drop it’s init’sfor a at glass of wine, cocktail orwe beer lateheaters afternoons, when we states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer.

Owners be outside.

Turmeric latte cold pressed juice of turmeric root with Head ginger and a dash of Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the brain be outside.

HeadChef Chef Owners have our delicious snack menu available through ‘til dinner Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, right the liver, the skin and thetime. brain by by Matt and Bree.

Sam Allinson. honey and some Chai spices.

The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise quenching free radicals and reducing infl ammation.

Ginger is also known for Sam Allinson.

Matt and Bree.your Our fresh, local, and prepared by award chefs. quenching radicals and infl Ginger is also for Ourfood foodisisfree fresh, local, andreducing prepared byammation. award winning chefs. we source local seafood and winning produce, and it isknown prepared taste buds and also make you feel on qualities, top of theand world. its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti infl ammatory its in“Blackboard settlingchefs the Night”: stomach and for its anti infl$20 ammatory qualities, and Thursday $10, mains and bypowers awardisiswinning for you.entree Thursday “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains anddessert dessert Chai spices in milk are just like aa warm cuddle from aa $20 smiling bear.

Turmeric is widely known for its healing and has a compound called Chai spices in milk are just like warm cuddle from smiling bear. $10, and the menu changes every week. $10, changes every week.

Bookand earlythe formenu Thursday Blackboard night: entrees $10, mains $20 and Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief forlattes people with all sorts of disease So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric So if you want to feel onfor topyour of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes Taking bookings now Christmas party! desserts are $10. bookings now for your Christmas party! states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer. aaTaking go at O.P 81 café. go at O.P 81 café.

Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the brain by Head ChefParade, Blake 104 Road, Emerald Beach 104Fiddaman Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 81 Coff ss Harbour 104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 81 Ocean Ocean Parade, Coff Harbour Wiittenberg. quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for 6656 66561888 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au www.surfstreet.com.au 6652 9011 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au 6652 9011 its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and Wednesday Sunday for breakfast &&lunch Wednesday Sunday for breakfast and 7am - 2pm,- Tuesday tofor Sunday.

Wednesday -to Sunday breakfast lunch 7am - -2pm, Tuesday to Chai Sunday.

Thursday Saturday dinner. lunch.

Thursday to for Saturday forspices dinner.in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear.

café o.p 81

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Thursday - Saturday for dinner.

So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes a go at O.P 81 café.

the the hoey hoey moey moey

Welcome Bistro Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown Coffs Harbour Welcome to to the theSt,Beachside Beachside Bistro at at the the Hoey Hoey hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 Moey with our newly renovated kitchen.

Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We We are the lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; aredinner the only only hotel hotel in in Coffs Coffs Harbour Harbour with with direct direct 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days abeach week. beach access. access. Come Come and and enjoy enjoy our our beachside beachside hotel with spacious beer garden, hotel with spacious beer garden, open open plan plan bar, bar, bistro, bistro, drive drive thru thru bottle bottle shop shop and TAB facilities.

Have you tried Welcome tonew the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey and TAB facilities. Have you tried our our new Gourmet is large selection Moey our newly renovated kitchen. We Gourmet Pizza Pizza range? range? There There is aawith large selection to choose from and you can have these eat are the only hotel to choose from and you can have these eat in Coffs Harbour with direct in check out our beach access. in or or takeaway. takeaway. Come Come in in and and check out Come our and enjoy our beachside takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. hotel with spacious beer garden, takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up.

If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS planour bar,FAMOUS bistro, drive thru bottle shop If a pizza is not what you open are after $7.50 and TABdaily. facilities. Have you tried our new $7.50 FEEDS FEEDS are are always always available available daily.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011 7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey

Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection to choose from and you can have these eat in or takeaway. Come in and check out our takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up.

We pride ourselves on bringing aa personalised product: fi If a pizza is not what you are after FAMOUS Fine-tuned espresso made how you askservice for it •and Gluten freeaaoptions Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey, with our newly We prideour ourselves oncoffee bringing personalised service and product: finely nely tuned espresso coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet café food $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct tuned espresso coffee just how customer likes it,•gourmet café food Rich and creamy and green andthe healthy smoothies Easy parking made from scratch house, aa friendly, comfortable experience beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious all made from juices scratch• in inDecadent house, and and friendly, experience to to all all Delightful Salmon Eggs comfortable Benedict who walk through the café door. weather Beer Garden, open plan bar, bistro, new kids room drive thru who walk through the café door.

Exotic, super-powered Acai bowls • Breakfast until the kitchen closes Try Bottleshop and TAB and Keno Facilities.

Try the the mouth-watering mouth-watering Mediterranean Mediterranean grilled grilled chicken chicken salad salad this this spring, spring, Goodfresh humour and happy smilesvegetables, • Non-dairy milkswith feta, kalamata olives made from locally sourced mixed Easter is around the corner, book your celebrations with us. Call Emma made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives Right nextdried door to a baker, butcher, gym, post, news, GP, aColes, liquor, and with grilled chicken breast and We pride ourselves bringing personalised product: a finely to discuss our available options and or book one of our VIP areas for the and semi semi dried tomatoes, tomatoes, topped topped with grilled on chicken breast and sweet sweet service andHead Head Chef Chef Head Chef pharmacy, clothing etc.

Kristy Deveson. potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. tuned espresso coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet food Kristycafé Deveson. family. potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing.

David Ricketts.

Mediterranean fl avours expertly blended to match the Australian spring made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience to all FREE SMALL COFFEE with a meal purchase if you whisper the words “ I saw Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring The HOEY MOEY! There’s really no other place to be!

Head light, yet very satisfying. who walk through the café door.

Head Chef Chef the ad; give me free coffee”. light, yet very satisfying.

David David Ricketts.

Ricketts.

Follow us Instagram and nd our Facebook @MrGoodBeans Tryfi mouth-watering grilled chicken salad this spring, Mr. Good - serving and lovingpage it! Mediterranean Follow us on onBeans Instagram and fiitthe ndup, our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives 84 84 Ocean Ocean Parade, Parade, Coff Coffss Harbour Harbour and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour Shop 1 MooneeMarketplace, Marketplace,Moonee MooneeBeach Beach.

Shop 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au Shop 11 Moonee Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing.

6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 66564511 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au www.mrgoodbeans.com.au 6656 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm Mediterranean fl avours expertly blended to match the Australian spring 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: Monday Saturday,6am 6am–- 4pm 4pm and Monday –- Saturday 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 -- 8:30pm.

Head Chef 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm light, yet very satisfying.

12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.

Sundays 8am - 3pm.

mr. mr. good good beans beans mr. good beans

the hoey moey

mr. good beans

Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.

20 coffs coast focus.

12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.

and Sundays 8am – 3pm David Ricketts. and Sundays 8am – 3pm

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

Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans coffs coast focus. coffs coast focus.

Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au

33 33

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nenut crusted Barramundi fillet with rocolini and roast capsicum sauce.

focuseditorial.

the pier hotel Waves Bistro@ The Pier Hotel is about providing traditional pub food using fresh local ingredients.

A DS E R D DEAD

Our lunchtime menu ranges from delicious panko prawns to the gourmet steak sandwich.

Dinner includes our mouthwatering steaks and the ever popular prawn and crab linguine.

ARE

Thursday night is Mexican Night, with a huge range of authentic Mexican dishes to choose from.

FOR CHARITY

café o.p 81

ier hotel

otel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new ge”.

you to come down and feast your eyes on Coffs st historic hotel. With our winter menu about to finish mer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the e he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make wn and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to .

Fresh local seafood is an integral part of Waves; our Seafood Sunday provides platters Turmericwith lattelocal - cold pressed juice of turmeric root with ginger and a dash of oysters that are local and fish that is fresh off Chai spices. The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise your honey and some the boat. taste buds and also make you feel on top of the world.

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg.

seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a lease call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward .

our Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour 52 2110 bistro: 6651 8222

Turmeric is widely known for its healing and has a compound called Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people with all sorts of disease states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer.

Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the brain by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear.

Owners Matt and Bree.

So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes a go at O.P 81 café.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011 Head Chef Blake 7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Wiittenberg.

0am - 2:30pm; dinner 0pm; 7 days a week.

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, the hoey moey Coffs Harbour Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week. beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious beer garden,

of The

open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection to choose from and you can have these eat in or takeaway. Come in and check out our takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up.

If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily.

LOCAL EBB N FLO DRUMMER MICKY SECCOMBE HAS BEEN GROWING HIS DREAD LOCKS FOR OVER 14 YEARS. IN A BID TO RAISE FUNDS FOR NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATION SURFAID, MICKY WILL TAKE

THE PLUNGE AND SHAVE HIS PRECIOUS DREADS OFF.

THE DREADLOCKS WILL COME OFF AT EBB N FLO’S NEXT SHOW ON 27TH MARCH. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH MICKY TO FIND OUT WHY HE IS SO PASSIONATE ABOUT THIS CHARITY AND WHAT AMOUNT HE IS AIMING TO RAISE ...

T

ell us why you’re getting rid of What makes you so passionate about this those infamous dreads? project?

I’ve had my dreads for 14 You only have to see what SurfAid has years. To be honest, I can’t wait already done for these communities. It’s truly • K I W I C HIL L • We pride ourselves onto bringing personalised service and hot product: wear aahat again! It gets really undera finely amazing, very inspiring ... And they are surfers tuned espresso coffee these just how the customer likes it, gourmet café food ha ha! locks, especially in summer, at work made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience and surfing. I travelled to Macaronis Resort to all How can people donate to the cause? who walk through the(Mentawai café door. Islands), West Sumatra late last I have a donation page set up by SurfAid. Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken year; it hosts some of the best salad wavesthis onspring, the All donations are tax-deductible. No donation made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata planet.

I was going through some hard times olives is too small. Please go to https://give. and semi dried tomatoes, topped chicken andmy sweet in my life; itwith wasgrilled perfect timingbreast to clear everydayhero.com/au/micky Head Chef Kristyare Deveson. potato wafer thin chips and and drizzled secretinzesty citrus dressing.How much head surf with withChef’s my mates a place you you aiming to raise?

Mediterranean flavours expertly blended matchamazing the Australian call paradise.

I mettosome peoplespring and I’ve set my goal at $10,000; however, I’m Head Chef light, yet very satisfying. was overwhelmed by the local people and very grateful for as much as I can raise. It all David Ricketts. how That trip page changed my life for makes a difference, and that’s my intention.

Follow us on Instagram andthey find live. our Facebook @MrGoodBeans the better, and I want to give back to a place When and where is the shave happening?

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour that makes me so happy.

The dreadlocks will come off at Ebb N Flo’s 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Beach Tell us aboutMoonee the project ... next show, 27th March (Easter Sunday) at the 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm SurfAid is a non-profit humanitarian Hoey Moey. Ebb N Flo are bringing a fresh - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: Monday – Saturday organisation, 6am – 4pm whose aim is to significantly new sound, with a killer new lead singer! It’s 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm. and Sundays 8am – 3pm improve the health, wellbeing and self-reliance gonna be a huge day! I will cut the dreads of communities in remote geographical off after the show on stage, with the hope of The newest member of the cocktail family at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is the coffs coast focus. 33 locations connected to us through surfing. having as many people as possible there on “Kiwi Chill”. With its sensational blend of fresh muddled kiwi fruit, Midori, Malibu and SurfAid works to prevent disease, suffering the day to reach my donation goal and to be tropical infused vodka with a splash of lemonade and crushed ice, nothing cools you and death through educational programmes dreadlock free! down on a hot summer day like this little fruity green lady!

Thanks Micky. which empower people.

mr. good beans

cocktail

coffs coast focus. 21

focusinterview.

D’BOYZOS MUSIC INTERVIEW

W

hat style of music do you guys play?

The style of music we play is acoustic.

We play mainly cover tunes, consisting of quite a diverse variety of songs from a few different genres from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s through to current material. As we are an acoustic trio and don’t use any backing tracks, this can sometimes be quite a challenge, so we sometimes have to improvise with our arrangements and instrumentation (Lee likes to play Kazoo).

Can you tell us a little bit about yourselves?

D’Boyzos are a family trio of musicians from the town of Nana Glen, just outside of Coffs Harbour NSW. Its members are Pete Dyball (the dad), Sam Dyball, age 15 and younger brother Lee Dyball, age 13. In the band Pete sings a few songs and plays the acoustic guitar, as well as keeping the beat with his stomp box and tambourine. Sam is the main lead singer and also plays acoustic guitar, and Lee is our multiinstrumentalist, playing ukulele, bass guitar, harmonica, percussion and kazoo; he also sings a few tunes and covers the majority of harmonies.

How and when was the band formed?

We originally started the band as a fun family activity and a way for the boys to earn some pocket money. We did this by busking, which also helped with honing their talents. The band was formed in early February 2014; after a very small impromptu two song performance one evening at a local market, we were then offered our first ever gig. This was to be a busking gig at the Twilight Food Market down at the Park 22 coffs coast focus.

D’ B OYZ O S H AV E B E E N ST RU M M I N G U P A STO R M O F L AT E . F O C U S CAU G H T U P W I T H T H E FA M I LY T R I O TO F I N D O U T A B I T O F BAC KG RO U N D A B O U T T H E BA N D. guitar; it also evokes a sense of happiness.

Beach Reserve in April 2014.

The band has been getting quite a few How long have you all been involved in gigs and a bit of a following around town; playing music? are you feeling more confident with each Pete has been involved in the music industry performance? for the last 29 years in various capacities, both Yes, we have been extremely busy over the last as a musician and on the technical side of 18 months, having clocked up over 150 shows things. He currently works as an Audio Engineer and with each performance, building confidence and Tour Manager for, and alongside, some of and musicianship. It’s also important for me, as a Australia’s best known artists and tours both parent, to pass my knowledge and skills of music nationally and internationally. Being the sons of and the industry along to my kids; what Pete, both Sam and Lee have grown better way for me to do that than up in a very musical household to put a band together and get environment and have out there and have a go! naturally adopted the e el ul uk e Th If you could play a musical lifestyle; they s such a ha so al set with any band or have both been involved und great unique so musician, who would in music in some way and blends very it be? from a young age with ic st well with acou Sam says, “Ed school productions, so guitar; it al Sheeran”; Ed is definitely as well as singing and of e ns se a evokes one of his musical playing around in Dad’s ” s. es in happ heroes. We have actually home recording studio. been very fortunate already We noticed that the in our short career with this ukulele gets busted out for band, having been given some a few songs; can you tell us a amazing opportunities to support and bit about the attraction of using that open up shows for some of Australia’s great instrument? musical Artists such as Kasey Chambers, Wendy Ahhh the Ukulele ... It’s such a happy Matthews, The Black Sorrows, Reece Mastin and instrument!

Uncle Jed, to name a few.

I guess the first attraction to the ukulele was What are the plans for the future of the its size and ease of playability for tiny fingers and band? the easy chord shapes. A good quality ukulele is At this stage we are very happy playing gigs not very expensive either, so this was really great together and are enjoying ourselves a lot; it really for the boys; it made it quite quick for them to is great family bonding time, and it’s great to learn songs and get a grasp of the fundamentals watch young talent evolve and blossom. We are of playing music. The ukulele has such a great also focusing on our songwriting and developing unique sound and blends very well with acoustic

“

our own original material. Hopefully, this will enable us to expand into different areas of the music scene and for us to start performing at different events such as festivals, where mainly original material is required.

Do you have any gigs coming up where people can check you out at?

Yes, we certainly do!

Feb 20th at Element Bar, Coffs Harbour.

March 4th at Twilight Food Market, Park Beach Reserve.

March 5th at Coffs Harbour Yacht Club.

March 26th at Element Bar, Coffs Harbour.

March 27th at Maclean Hotel.

April 1st at Twilight Food Market, Park Beach Reserve.

April 22nd at Sawtell RSL, supporting Rick Price.

Where can our readers find out more about D’Boyzos?

The best way to find out more about us is to come along to one of our shows - live music needs the support of people going to see it! So be sure to come and say g’day to us! We love interacting and talking with people; it’s fun and exciting to share that experience. We also have a Facebook page for the band that you can like and follow at www.facebook.com/dboyzos where we post pictures and videos, as well as all our upcoming performance dates. You can also follow us on Instagram.

For all venue booking enquiries, please contact Sharni at Offbeat Operations Entertainment Agency on (02) 6653 8377.

Thanks guys.

focusinterview.

do you remember THE

underarm?

“

All About Women (AAW) - Sunday 6 March Part of the Sydney Opera House’s Ideas at the House programme, AAW festival aims to invigorate discussion on important issues and ideas that matter to women.

The Underarm - Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 March The infamous 1981 underarm bowl will be explored in this fastpaced, riotous comedy. Critically acclaimed and star-studded, this national touring show promises a great night out for everyone - sports fans and non-sports fans alike.

Flickerfest - Friday 11 and Saturday 12 March Flickerfest, Australia’s most respected short film festival, turns 25 this year and is still going strong. With Academy® accreditation and BAFTA recognition, Flickerfest is always entertaining, inspiring and highly creative.

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

March 2016 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 Sydney Opera House and Jetty Memorial Theatre present…

All About Women

Streamed live from Sydney Opera House to the Jetty Theatre

Part of the Sydney Opera House’s Ideas at the House program, All About Women will see two engaging events streamed live to the Jetty Theatre.

Show: Sunday 6 March | 12:30pm & 2:30pm A Jetty Theatre Touring Presentation…

The Underarm

The story of two brothers ripped apart by the most infamous act in trans-Tasman sport.

Hailed by critics as ‘a riotous comedy’, ‘destined to become a classic’.

Show: Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 March | 7:30pm A Jetty Theatre Touring Presentation…

Flickerfest

This veritable feast of the best in short film is back in Coffs! Two separate programs showcasing the best of Australian and international shorts for 2016.

Show: Friday 11 and Saturday 12 March | 7:30pm 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 /jettymemorialtheatre

TOURING SHOW

present lives.” Many themes are explored, at school one day. The bowler bowled an including, “Aussie/Kiwi rivalry and the ideal underarm, and it ended up in a full on of being able to let go of the past and fight. The knock on effect of the incident, move on. Life is short!” even in school yards, was huge.” Coustley Asked whether the show is all about also reflects: “What we always need to cricket, Coustley says: “I believe the major consider here is that no rule was actually theme presented in the play is: right or broken. So, the debate is really about wrong, there are always two sides to whether or not The Underarm was actually every story. Die-hard cricket fans will be cheating or not.” tantalised with facts and figures and those Brougham remembers: “I was at not so cricket mad, will be kept totally home watching the game with my two interested and entertained by what is older brothers. All hell broke loose. Kiwis bubbling underneath.” not only fought with Aussies, but Both actors know that Aussies were also turning Coffs’ audiences can on themselves. Some expect an entertaining saw it as hilarious, experience. “This is others a blow to the I was at home not a boring show,” game and a huge me watching the ga says Brougham. disappointment r with my two olde oke “Be prepared for after such a close ll br brothers . All he a fast and furious ly finish.” on t loose. Kiwis no t bu , es si night out, with Former us A fought with ing rn tu so al New Zealand e Australian Captain er w Aussies ” . es lv taking on Australia se Richie Benaud em on th like you’ve never described the act seen … And a whole as “disgraceful, and lot of laughter. Never have even the Australian Prime I been in a show where any Minister, Malcolm Fraser, called manner of shouts might rain down on it “contrary to the traditions of the you from the audience at any minute game”. (audience participation is encouraged).

On the role of the incident in the show, It’s terrific.”

Brougham observes: “The writers use this Coustley agrees: “Audiences are divisive moment as merely a metaphor of transported back in time, with live rea much deeper malaise: big/little brother enactments from the actual 1981 match, resentments and the heartache and side splittingly funny sibling rivalry and destruction that ripping a family apart can banter and an emotional journey as both cause to two young boys who are forced to brothers reveal their pain and sadness they grow up so near, yet so far apart.” have experienced over the years. This play Coustley concludes that, “This show is ultimately about family and all the trials would appeal to anyone. The Underarm is and tribulations attached to being part of an extremely well written piece of theatre. one, functional or dysfunctional.”

It borders on sports political satire, where Reflecting on their own real-life an honest mix of comedy and sincerity are memories of The Underarm incident, the integral for the success of the piece.” two actors recall the effect it had on them Be bowled over by this solid all-rounder! as youngsters. “I was 11 or 12 when it The Underarm - Tuesday 8 and happened,” says Coustley. “I remember Wednesday 9 March, 7:30pm. playing a scrap match in the playground Jettytheatre.com or phone 6652 8088.

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.

Welcome to comedy, everyone!

LIVE STREAMED

W

hether you remember the moment or not and whether or not you’re a sports fan, if you get fired up about Aussie-Kiwi relations, family interactions and stories of life, love and loss, that moment could well be of interest to you - 35 years on, here in Coffs Harbour.

That infamous moment when Australia bowled an underarm to win against the Kiwis in the third final of the 1981 series, will be explored in a fast-paced, riotous comedy called The Underarm, coming to the Jetty Theatre on 8 and 9 March.

Presented by Hit Productions, Australia’s premier theatre touring company, the show will bring stars from Mamma Mia, The Hobbit and Avatar to entertain us.

The Underarm is acclaimed by critics and promises a great night out for those who love cricket, as well as for those who don’t know a run from a wicket.

The stars of the show, Brendan Coustley (Rock of Ages, Mamma Mia and Keating) and Christopher Brougham (The Hobbit, Avatar and Shortland Street) share with us what makes The Underarm such a treat.

Coustley plays Don, a “loud-mouthed Aussie who hides behind an onslaught of crass humour”. Brougham plays his younger brother, Colin, “an anal retentive, civil servant, who likes things just so”. The two brothers were separated, when their parent’s “imploded” after witnessing The Underarm incident first hand. Colin was dragged off to live with his Kiwi Mum in Wellington, while Don stayed with his Aussie Dad in Brisbane. The show features the moment 30 years later when the estranged brothers are reunited at another test match in Wellington, and a quiet day at the cricket turns into all-out war.

Coustley explains: “The two brothers discuss and relive The Underarm whilst revealing the tragedies of their past and

It’s all happening at the Jetty Theatre, as March brings bellyaching and riotous comedy, engaging and inspiring discussion, national touring theatre and Academy® accredited and BAFTA recognised short film.

TOURING SHOW

Brendan Coustley The Underarm, Touring Show

Jetty Theatre In March

TOURING SHOW

It was 1st February 1981, John Lennon’s “Just Like Starting Over’” was at number one.

Big hair was in, moustaches were in, bright colours and loud stripes were in … And a packed MCG was about to witness one of the most controversial moments in world cricket history. It was a moment that ignited transTasman rivalry like never before.

@jettymemorialtheatre

coffs coast focus. 23

THE GIG GUIDE

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

MARCH 2ND

Yhan Leal - Element Bar

MARCH 3RD Thursday Night Live With Raku, The Soul Man - Hoey Moey Craig Freeman - Sawtell Hotel Sydney J - Seaview Tavern

MARCH 4TH Agent 77 + DJ Ning - Hoey Moey The Frapp - Sawtell Hotel DJ Bisho - Seaview Tavern Secret Squirrel - The Coast Hotel Doubleshot - The Pier Hotel Hydraulix - Plantation Hotel Little Ripper - Park Beach Bowling Club Benny Francis - Coffs Hotel

MARCH 5TH Ladies’ Night With DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Push Band - Sawtell Hotel Ben Francis Duo - Seaview Tavern Matty Devitt Band - The Coast Hotel Comedy Hypnosis Show with Wayne Donnelly - The Pier Hotel The Rockin Eddie Band - C.ex Bonka - Plantation Hotel Boewood - Element Bar Dean Weston - Park Beach Bowling Club

MARCH 6TH Sunday Sesh With Mason Rack - Hoey Moey Mick Bateman - Deep Sea Fishing Club The Rambling Boys - Moonee Beach Tavern Jammin with Jules - Coramba Hotel Jake Davey - Element Bar

MARCH 9TH Gina Balenzano - Element Bar 24 coffs coast focus.

MARCH 10TH

Thursday Night Live With Sydney - Hoey Moey Hayley Grace Band - Sawtell Hotel Bobby Lea Coulton - Seaview Tavern Jesse Morris Duo - Element Bar

Ben Francis Duo - ST Pat’s Day - Sawtell Hotel Matty Devitt Duo - St Pat’s Day - Seaview Tavern St Pat’s Day Celebrations - Moonee Beach Tavern

MARCH 11TH

MARCH 18TH

Hayley Grace Band + DJ Brown Sugar Hoey Moey Spindrift Saga - Sawtell Hotel Bobby Lea Coulton - Seaview Tavern Gunshy - The Coast Hotel Conspiracy - C.ex Tim Helmy - Element Bar John Curtain - Park Beach Bowling Club Benny Francis - Coffs Hotel

Hekyl & Jive + Dj Ning - Hoey Moey Sons Of Jaquar - Seaview Tavern Tallowood Bush Band - Moonee Beach Sabotage - The Coast Hotel Majic Mojo -The Pier Hotel John Curtin - C.ex Rob Norsworthy - Park Beach Bowling Club Vanessa Heinitz - Element Bar Benny Francis - Coffs Hotel

MARCH 12TH

MARCH 19TH

Ladies Night With DJ Ning - Hoey Moey The Mambo Slammers - Sawtell Hotel The Spindrift Saga - The Coast Hotel Matty Devitt - C.ex Some Blonde DJ - Plantation Hotel Fish On Fire - Element Bar Craig Stewart - Park Beach Bowling Club

MARCH 13TH

Sunday Sesh With Emily Williams & Band - Hoey Moey Bobby Lea Coulton - Deep Sea Fishing Club Ball and Chain - Coramba Hotel Craig Freeman - Element Bar

MARCH 16TH

Keogh Maybon - Element Bar

MARCH 17TH

Thursday Night Live With The Buggy Brothers - St Pat’s Day - Hoey Moey

Ladies’ Night With DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Fuzzy Muppets - Sawtell Hotel Dave James Karaoke - Seaview Tavern Misschief - The Coast Hotel Tallowood Bush Band - Moonee Beach Big Shot Duelling Pianos - C.ex Rave Radio - Plantation Hotel Chris Cook Band - Park Beach Bowling Club Ben Francis - Element Bar

MARCH 20TH Sunday Sesh With Blackbird Hum - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Deep Sea Fishing Club Jesus and the Fatman - Coramba Hotel Misty Optic - Element Bar

MARCH 23RD Shanteya & Jo - Element Bar

MARCH 24TH

Thursday Night Live With Totum - Hoey Moey Sydney J - Seaview Tavern The Funk Thieves - The Coast Hotel Bombs Away - Plantation Hotel

MARCH 25TH Totum - Sawtell Hotel Owen Shannon - The Pier Hotel Craig Stewart - C.ex Dave James - Park Beach Bowling Club David Fahey - Element Bar Benny Francis - Coffs Hotel

MARCH 26TH Mason Rack - Sawtell Hotel Totum - Seaview Tavern The Stripes - The Coast Hotel Secret Squirrel - The Pier Hotel Thora Zoo - C.ex Mashd N Kutcher - Plantation Hotel Rowland Moye - Park Beach Bowling Club D’Boyzos - Element Bar

MARCH 27TH Sunday Sesh With Ebb N Flo - Hoey Moey Jazroll - Sawtell Hotel Totum Duo - Deep Sea Fishing Club JamesY - Coramba Hotel Owen Shannon - Element Bar

MARCH 30TH Shannon Elzer - Element Bar

MARCH 31ST Thursday Night Live With Knox Trio - Hoey Moey Matty Devitt - Sawtell Hotel Bobby Lea Coulton - Seaview Tavern

coffs coast focus. 25

focusinterview.

•A D

N I C K

AY I N T H E L I F E •

S O U L T A N I A N

I now believe that there ore are more and m lable ai av es iti un rt oppo er ne gi en for a young ly gh hi ld and wou choi ce recommend this ne of career to anyo ” it. t ou thinking ab

“ Helicopters are intriguing machines, and it is hard not to be attracted to them.

With all their moving parts, they require constant maintenance and meticulous servicing. FOCUS sat down with Nick Soultanian to find out what a day in the life of a helicopter engineer is like.

ow long have you worked on helicopters?

I have been an aircraft maintenance engineer for 46 years.

I did my initial training in the RAF in the United Kingdom and spent four years working on Nimrods. I then moved to Australia and spent two and a half years with Qantas working on 747s and 707s.

I have spent the past 40 years working in the general aviation industry, which would mean I’ve spent about 20 years working on helicopters, both here in Australia and New Zealand. I have been with Precision Helicopters here in Coffs Harbour since 2007.

Can you briefly describe your daily routine?

To be honest, there is no such thing as a daily routine in the aviation industry.

Every day is different, and you can never be sure what each day will bring. Precision Helicopters have six different types of helicopters, seven in their total fleet, so there is always variety to each week.

As an example, if a helicopter is in the hangar for routine maintenance, then we will have a good idea of what to expect and how long it will take to complete the job; plus, we 26 coffs coast focus.

would normally have all the required parts and consumable materials on hand. Helicopters are required to be serviced every so many hours of flight. Each helicopter is different; parts get inspected each 50, 100, 300 and 600 hours. There are also annual, biannual and other assessments.

Of course, there are always exceptions, and some unexpected defects may delay the machine from being serviceable whilst we are waiting for new parts to arrive.

Then there is the possibility that a machine may become unserviceable out in the field, which can in itself pose logistical problems.

That can often involve a fairly long drive or flight, with all the parts and tools required to carry out a repair, often resulting in an overnight stay.

Are they complicated machines to fix and maintain?

Due to the nature of their design, helicopters have lots of moving parts and to the uninitiated, this can make them appear complicated to maintain and repair - which of course they are - but once you understand the basic principles of the mechanics, they really aren’t that difficult to work on.

What sort of training do you require?

There are several options for training. One

is to join one of the armed forces and learn your trade there.

There are now also several training schools that will help assist you towards your goal and of course, you could always try contacting a local maintenance facility to see if they can offer any sort of work, which might help lead you into full-time employment.

What is the most challenging part of the job?

Most engineers will have different opinions as to what they find the most challenging part of the job. Some might say that all the paperwork that is involved is far and away the biggest challenge. Every part used on the helicopter has to have paperwork that is traceable, where the part was bought from, who manufactured it and when. Most of the parts are purchased out of the United States, and sourcing them from there can be difficult. Personally, I find that defect rectification can be the most challenging, but it is also the most satisfying when you finally locate that difficult to find problem and repair it successfully.

Can you fly a helicopter?

In a word, no, but that’s not to say I haven’t flown one and I certainly don’t have a

pilot’s licence. I can, however, fly radio controlled ones, and a lot of people will tell you they are harder to fly than the real thing!

However, as engineers we often get to go on air tests for various reasons such as main rotor tracking and balancing or checking power performance parameters.

What is your favourite helicopter and why?

I will have to say the Hughes, now MD 500 (the bad guys in movies always fly these!) I have always liked its looks; it’s a very manoeuvrable machine and has a reasonable turn of speed. It is, however, not a particularly easy machine from the maintenance point of view.

What advice would you have for someone who is thinking about taking your line of work up as a career?

Several years ago I might have replied to that question by saying, “Don’t do it!”

However, I now believe that there are more and more opportunities available for a young engineer and would highly recommend this choice of career to anyone thinking about it.

It is a very hands on practical skill, so someone with a mechanical background such as car mechanics naturally enjoy it.

I personally believe that you need to have some sort of interest in aviation to begin with though, although there are always exceptions to this.

Thanks Nick.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

MARCH 2016

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Expect life to have no more illusion. You are seeing things very clearly at present, and what you see will be what you get. You enjoy being busy, so set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to succeed. You can expect to be busy in a peaceful manner.

Selenite helps cut through illusion.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Home and relationships will be big influences this month. Avoid carrying conflict forward from the day before. Instead, clear conflict from your mind and body before you put your head on your pillow at night. Try a heart chakra healing meditation exercise for a peaceful outcome.

Rose Quartz is the crystal for self-love.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 As your sensitivity increases, it is important to release any frustrating feelings and not be tempted to bite your tongue and bottle, as this will create havoc for you. If you choose not to share your turmoil with another person, at least write it down and burn the paper it’s written on. Turquoise helps us communicate in a confident way.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

If receiving love is a challenge for you, try doing a heart chakra healing meditation. This will enable you to receive and reciprocate love effortlessly. Trust in the sweetness of unconditional love to carry you until the fear has diminished.

Selenite shatters fears and encourages positive energy.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Avoid looking at the cup as half empty as much as possible, as this is becoming habit and will easily lead to depression. Your sensitivity is becoming more vulnerable where negativity is concerned, so try being a little more aware of your thoughts and disconnect from sad or dark thoughts ASAP. Citrine helps shatter negativity and bring light thoughts into the picture.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

If you have been feeling suspended lately, it could be that you are holding onto undigested emotions and your higher consciousness does not approve of you taking these things into the future. Try reflecting on the past twelve months and let go of inner conflict gratefully for the enlightenment it offered. Malachite helps bring past hurts to the surface for releasing.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Avoid slipping into negative thought patterns, as this goes completely against your grain. You have the ability to rise above challenges and allow the experience to make you more powerful, not pitiful. This strength will carry you through tough times.

Clear Quartz gives us emotional strength when needed.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Avoid stressing over finances, as this blocks your ability to draw money towards you.

Instead, try planning for that special treat for yourself and see how clever you can be with budgeting and being prepared for that rainy day. Your positivity will reap some great rewards. Citrine shatters the negative and attracts an abundance of positive energy.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 If your security in life is being challenged at present, you could be experiencing lower back aches and pains. This may just be a blocked root chakra. Try doing some healing by placing your hands on the area and telepathically thank yourself for being able to support your needs fearlessly.

Ruby shatters fear.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 In times of turmoil, try looking inward and focus on all the qualities and attributes that you chose to incarnate with that you are approving of. This will initiate self-worth and fill your aura with a pure loving vibration, so nothing negative can enter your energy.

Rose Quartz stimulates self-love.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Set some fresh goals, prioritising your emotional satisfaction. Now is a great time for you to have contentment and bliss; however, at times you’re too hard on yourself with unrealistic expectations. By asking for emotions you wish to experience as new goals, you won’t be placing restrictions on yourself.

Rose Quartz is a powerful self-loving crystal.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Past hurts have been surfacing lately, for you to release the effects and memories of these traumas. Avoid over-analysing, as this could add further stress. Just try giving life permission to show you what needs your attention, and give powerful loving answers to yourself.

Ruby is powerful for inner strength.

coffs coast focus. 27

Lee

Lana

Melanie

Sarah

Sarah

Alana

Ellen

Charlotte

Christine

Jen

Smidt.

Zander.

Castor.

Rengger.

Burrows.

Armstrong.

Slater.

Dowd.

Mel

Crossland.

McIlvaney.

French.

Shelley Gray.

Emma

Suzanne

De Groot.

Kim

Pasterfield.

Deidre Cleary.

Amelia Cocks.

Suzanne

McCarty.

Trish

Van Gestel.

Carol

Jackson.

Cowling.

Barden.

Dorz.

Kristie Peel.

Kylie

O Fiona

Tarina

Mackay.

Carole Beros.

Kerry Moss.

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We all believe strongly in learning through play and offering the very essence of what childhood means to all of us.

O Shelley Gray. DIRECTOR GARDINER AVE CHILDREN’S CENTRE

Amelia Cocks. DIRECTOR TREEHOUSE EARLY YEARS LEARNING CENTRE

What is the history behind your business?

Gardiner Ave Children’s Centre has been a long established Child Care Centre here on the Coffs Coast, located near the CBD.

juggle it all? I have an amazing family that unconditionally offers me support and encouragement. My husband is incredible; he makes sure I have nothing to worry about on the home front. He is a teacher and also Early Childhood trained, so he has a greater understanding of what it takes to be in this position and how much it means to me to give it my best. My two daughters have basically grown up with me at Gardiner Ave, and my youngest attended. I think they see the love and passion that I have for what I do, and they also share in that.

I am a new “local” to the Coffs coast. I

What does our service offer? Close to CBD, 8am ‘til 6pm, ages 2 - 6 years. Two early childhood teachers undertaking their degree, four diploma trained staff, two completing their diploma. We are now licensed for 25 children a day; vacancies available.

driven on the exact thing that defines our

What makes you stand out from your competitors? We are very fortunate to be able to remain a small, homely centre. In an industry with high staff turnover, we are thrilled to have educators who have been here several years, and I am coming into my eighth year at Gardiner Ave. This creates stability and continuity for the children and our families, which in turn strengthens and deepens the relationships we have with each other. Our educators know all the families and time is spent intentionally engaging, to create that sense of belonging for all that enter Gardiner Ave. You also have a family; how do you

30 coffs coast focus.

am a mother to three children. I adore children and watching them grow and

we believe strongly in allowing them to experience childhood to its fullest.

means to all of us. Children are only little

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of business?

Marketing, good team, customer service? For me, the most important aspect of business is a good team. A team that shows up every day not because they have to, but because they want to. A team that loves what they do, and at Treehouse you will definitely find that. When you find a great team, you know you are on to a winning formula, because everything just works. When you have a group of people that all believe that what they are doing is making a difference, you know you can expect great things.

for such a short period of their lives, and

Thank you! Amelia.

discover the world around them.

What are your business goals for the next 12 months? Over the next 12 months I’d like to see our fantastic centre continue to grow on a professional and personal level, with our educators developing further skills to facilitate the learning of our children, and to expand the relationships we have with our families. At Treehouse we are all incredibly industry, and that is “Childhood”. We all believe strongly in learning through play and offering the very essence of what childhood

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O Melanie Zander. MJ ACCOUNTANTS

Lana Burrows. COFFS HARBOUR REAL ESTATE

Why did you decide to take the plunge and swing open the doors of your business back in the day?

What is the history behind your business?

Coffs Harbour Real Estate commenced in 2010 and become the contract selling agents for a local agency, with Barry France and I working as a team. Solid sales performance over an extended period of time led to an excellent reputation for delivering great results. Most of our new listings come from referrals from our past clients, so we decided it was time start operating under our own banner.

I had worked with a number of major accounting firms, and I saw there was a need for accountants to be more aligned with their clients.

We’re often too busy tallying up the results of the past, when our clients are focused on what happens next.

I decided to launch a firm that really understood business owners, spoke their language and had a range of tools to help them to be more successful.

Tell us about what makes your business unique?

Our focus is on helping our clients to grow

and thrive. We do great compliance work, but where we really make a difference is in helping business owners to understand their financial levers, plan for the future and develop their leadership skills.

What has been your best achievement to date?

I’m particularly proud of the business coaching services we launched last year.

We’ve combined our financial know how with all the business lessons we’ve learned in developing our own business into a programme that is really making a difference to other business owners.

Four of our graduates were finalists in the 2015 Sunny Awards, and two graduates took home gongs.

What service do you offer?

The high level of personal service we offer to our clients, backed by years of industry knowledge and experience, I feel is highly valued by our clients. We are experts in assessing your home for market presentation and provide presale advice which can be the difference in you achieving a great sale price in a relatively short selling period.

Our clients love the fact we can take that pre-sale pressure off them by providing practical and sound advice.

What community events do you support?

We feel strongly about supporting local business and the local community in general. With that in mind, we launched the “Locals helping locals” Community Support Programme, which has been a great success and very much appreciated by the community groups and clubs that have been recipients. When home owners trust us to sell their property, we give back to the community by donating $300 from our selling fee to their favourite charity, school, sports club or community group. They choose who they want to help. If you want to find out more about “Locals helping locals”, call us or visit our website.

Reliable property service based on integrity 6651 2888 realestatecoffsharbour.com.au

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JESSICA WILSON Ceo of Stashd

32 coffs coast focus.

JESSICA WILSON RUNS THE HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL FASHION APP CALLED STASHD AND HAS HAD CONVERSATIONS WITH RICHARD BRANSON. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH THE 24 YEAR OLD CEO TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HER RISE TO THE TOP OF E-COMMERCE.

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hat is your connection to the a single contact of anyone who lived there (sorry Mum, I know ing back on that experience. Richard Branson and spending Coffs Coast? you were worried!) but I was ambitious to find out more about time with him and like minded entrepreneurs on Necker Island I grew up in Coffs - on a small the tech industry. I met people from the likes of Google and was beyond anything I can put into words - I learnt a lot from farm just outside of Coffs Harbour Yahoo, who taught me about the industry. I then moved back him (we spent breakfast, lunch and dinner together with (Karangi). I went to BDC throughout to Australia and into a tech co-working space called Fishburntwenty or so other like minded entrepreneurs for five days). high school and I learnt some of my ers, where I found a tech co-founder. The tech co-founder built The island only ever houses 30 people at a time and it’s all most valuable lessons and met my core group of friends, who Stashd, and the rest is history. We had a fair amount of traction through invitation only - the villas are incredible and it’s in the continue to be super supportive in Coffs Harbour. relatively quickly and have continued to grow since. The start Caribbean, so when we weren’t having conversations about And your entrepreneurial spirit began to show at a was all bootstrapped, which means we did it all on not much the mindset of being a business owner, motivating people or young age, when you began organising parties for your money. general banter, we were making the most of the location. friends and school mates?

What are some of the interesting statistics for Stashd?

Who have been some of the most influential people you Ha ha, yes - it was all quite random at the time! The events We have users in 136 countries, have featured as one of have met? started out when our principal at the time banned formal after Apple’s Best New Apps in 11 countries and within the top 10 I’ve been so fortunate to meet some incredible people along parties, so a group of friends and I decided to organise the Lifestyle Apps in five countries. We will soon have close to one the way - some of whom I’ve mentioned, such as Richard Branschool formal after party on the farmland I grew up on. million items available on Stashd from retailers such as ASOS, son and our Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull as well as the We pitched to my parents to use the farmland as a venue Bloomingdales, Estee Lauder and Shopbop. co-founder of Net-a-porter, the founder of companies such as and once (after much convincing) we got the go ahead, we Looking back, what were some of the things that helped Tinder and Spanx and investors who have invested in compatook to organising suppliers of lighting, staging, DJs and securi- you succeed? nies such as Paypal ... ty and even registered the party with the local police. The first Persistence ... And surrounding yourself with people who What start-up business advice could you give to young event went quite well and we broke even with ticket sales, so know more about the industry than you do and being open women from regional areas like Coffs Harbour?

I pitched to my parents again to use the farm as a venue, and to learning from them. Mentors who have been there and I’d say just make a start - I’m a big we continued to hold after parties, 18ths and believer in that we only have one lifetime 21sts throughout my final years of high school. and if you have an inkling of what you What is Stashd is and how does it works?

Persistence ... And surrounding yourself with people want to be doing with your life, you’re Stashd is what we like to call a global digital who know more about the industry than you do and ahead of a large majority of the popubeing open to learning from them. fashion mall on your mobile, although unlike a lation, so you may as well give it a go. regular mall, Stashd holds zero stock. We have Worst case scenario, it doesn’t work out, taken the process of how we intuitively browse you learn a lot, meet some really cool in an actual mall (flicking through items) and people and then try again. Don’t be put off by “failure” - sotranslated the process onto mobile with the use of swipe. Users done what you are trying to do cuts your learning curve in half ciety has put a level of negative hype on failure ... Failure isn’t - then you need the mindset to persist when things get hard are presented with one item and have the choice to either bad - it’s a stepping stone and process to learning and life ... I (which they will), be surrounded by the right team to execute swipe left to “Trash” an item to never see it again, or right to would also start to train your brain to think as big as possible; and have courage to do things the way you think they will “Stash” an item into a centralised Virtual Wardrobe in which just because you live in a regional area doesn’t mean you can’t work ... they can go back to for style inspiration, to share with friends have a global vision. Put yourself in sight of any opportunity Why do you think that Stashd has been so successful? for a second opinion or to go directly through and purchase, in which aligns with that vision ...

A few things, one of which is that we’re a bit lucky the which we take a commission on sales. industry is ready to be disrupted, so we have timing on our side What are the plans for Stashd’s future?

When was the light bulb moment for Stashd?

The vision is to become the largest digital fashion mall in the - which is a major factor as to whether a company succeeds or I was working through Australia and New York fashion world holding zero stock - so a lot of locking in brands. We are doesn’t. The industry needs to be ready to be disrupted, users weeks and I noticed a huge transition from shopping on also a contestor on a reality TV series, which is a cross between need to be willing to use your product, and the market size desktop (e-commerce) moving to shopping on mobile (m-comShark Tank and X Factor airing on a Chinese reality TV network and stats need to be large enough to get retailers excited and merce) and like any successful platform of new technology, to 22 million people in April. We are looking to strategically on board the vision. there needs to be one “hero location” to discover, with a user break into the Chinese market - which is a whole mission in I also think a good mix in our team has been a factor - I am experience unique to the technology. So I decided to use my itself. the target market of our end user, which allows us to underknowledge of the fashion industry and book a one way ticket We’re also shooting a reality TV series, which is looking to stand what the customer wants more so than competitors who to Silicon Valley to find out more and fill that multi trillion air on one of the major free to air stations around our journey are more often than not old men who can see an impressive dollar market gap opportunity. growing this vision, behind the scenes of fashion weeks and market size, but might not necessarily be passionate and eduHow did you get started on the journey of building the generally handling the ups and downs of running a tech busicated about the industry they are heading into. app and the company? ness as a 24 year old CEO - which I’m super excited about.

The journey started with booking a one way ticket to Silicon What was being invited to Richard Branson’s island like?

Valley when I was 21. I didn’t have much money, I didn’t have Necker Island was incredible! I still pinch myself a little lookThanks Jessica. coffs coast focus. 33

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Know where you are heading. A business’ success is determined by its ability to give the business owner what they need and want.

O Carol Cowling. COWLINGS R&R CARPETS

Fiona Barden. ETC BUSINESS ADVISOR

I’m learning that being a woman in

What services do you offer? ETC’s business services programmes offer small businesses the opportunity to discover and work towards the goals for their business. These services are provided by funding from the state and federal government, allowing business owners to access advice at fully and partially subsidised rates from experienced business advisors. Businesses can find answers to one-off questions, access relevant resources or partner with an advisor on a longer term basis to work on their business.

What do you consider to be the

What is the best piece of business advice that you can offer to others? Know where you are heading. A business’ success is determined by its ability to give the business owner what they need and want. Knowing what you need and want will help you to plan, succeed and ultimately drive you to do things the best way they can be done.

the understanding and experience to work

business is empowering and fulfilling, although my journey hasn’t been an easy one.

Three years ago Troy, my gorgeous husband and father to our four beautiful children, passed away suddenly. So running our family business without him has been a traumatic and bumpy ride, and at times I’ve felt like giving up.

Troy worked in flooring from his teens, and he went on to become a sought-after flooring specialist, which often took him away from home.

Anyone who knew Troy knows that family was the most important part of his life and that is why, 12 years ago, we bought our first floor covering store here in Coffs. From then we worked together, building our business.

We then went on to buy R & R Carpets from Bob and Narelle Burns - an independent, family owned business established by Bob’s parents in the 1970s. We had the business only six years when our beloved Troy passed.

The amazing Cowlings R&R team pulled

the local community, I am proud to say Cowlings R & R Carpet is stronger than ever.

Since Troy passed, I have learnt anything is possible, every day is a learning opportunity and with our kids as my motivation, that work-life balance is so important.

I feel so grateful every day for the support and guidance I have from friends, family, my team, reps, our customers and business people in our community.

The culture at Cowlings R & R Carpet is one of integrity. We promise “Our family looking after yours”, and we mean it.

We pride ourselves on our after-salesservice, and our team has over 100 years of experience between them.

We want to ensure getting new floors or blinds is an enjoyable and stress-free experience for you, or your business, from start to finish.

We supply all the leading brands, and some exclusive ranges, to suit any budget, plus blinds, vinyl (planks or sheet), carpet (wool, synthetic and solution dyed nylon carpet (SDN), bamboo and laminate.

We recently extended our showroom to show you our most popular products.

mentally. Three years on, with the support

If you are looking for flooring or blinds visit the showroom or our new website: www.rrcarpet.com.au

from friends, people in the industry and

It would be great to meet you.

together and kept the business running when I couldn’t be there physically or

34 coffs coast focus.

most important aspect of business?

Understanding all aspects of financials in your business - pricing, record keeping and reporting is most important, even if you a social enterprise or not-for-profit business.

What experience has brought you to where you are today? Owning a family business in Coffs harbour for 12 years, that had consistent financial and visitor growth, has given me as a Business Advisor for ETC. It excites me that small business owners have a connection with their customers and that they are often ultra-passionate about their product or service.

Working with business owners to help them “WIN” is what keeps me going every day.

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O Lee Smidt. COSMETIC ARTISTRY BY LEE Tell us about what makes your business unique ... Cosmetic Artistry By Lee is a non surgical boutique cosmetic practice located at the Jetty Village Shopping Centre on the Coffs Coast. We use only the highest quality products, to guarantee highest quality results. We are committed to giving everyone confidential, friendly and personal attention at an affordable price. We use the latest technology and techniques to achieve only the best results for all of our clients. Myself and all technicians working at the salon are qualified/certified in all treatments we perform and undergo continuous training to stay ahead in the industry.

What inspired your business? My business started in Main Beach, Gold Coast; I had a small salon where I was predominately working as a cosmetic and paramedical tattooist. I was travelling up and down the coast due to demand for my services, and I saw the opening in the

that you can offer to others? Follow your dreams; believe in yourself and your own abilities.

Anything is possible if you want it bad enough.

I took the leap into business six years ago with $150 in my bank account and a new baby and told myself I had no choice but to succeed.

What has been your best achievement to date? Being a mother is by far the greatest achievement in my life; my daughter is my number one inspiration and drive.

With the enhancement of technology over the past decade, how has this impacted your business? The medi beauty industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. The enhancement of technology is the key to my business and its success. Today, people are very busy and want treatments that are permanent and delivered quickly. For example, SHR hair reduction: each treatment is faster than waxing an area, less painful and costs roughly the same

Cosmetic Artistry By Lee is a non surgical boutique cosmetic practice located at the Jetty Village Shopping Centre on the Coffs Coast. We are committed to giving everyone confidential, friendly and personal attention at an affordable price. market in Coffs Harbour. There was a strong demand for quality affordable cosmetic services here.

Until now, the medical beauty industry has been out of reach for many people due to cost and availability. I wanted to create a platform for everyone to have access to treatments.

What are your business goals for the next twelve months? Cosmetic Artistry is expanding very quickly, and we will be operating from a new salon at the Jetty Village Shopping Centre by the end of May. The new salon has four treatment rooms to allow for extra technicians and treatments to be offered quickly and efficiently.

We have more very exciting new treatments and products that we will be adding to our service menu with the opening of the new salon.

You also have a family; how do you juggle it all? Yes, I am a single mother of my beautiful six year old daughter. My life is extremely busy running my business and being a full-time mum, but I would not change it for the world.

I often push myself to the limit and need take a step back and remember it’s important to keep balance in relationships, health, and finance.

What is the best piece of business advice

as it would to wax the area for only one year.

What services do you offer? Cosmetic Artistry offers a very extensive list of services, including: • Tattoo removal - Ultralase Q Switched Nd YAG Laser, safe and effective, permanent results, reduce or remove tattoos.

• Cosmetic tattooing and paramedical tattooing • IPL, SHR and Elight permanent hair reduction for ALL hair colours and types (yes, we can treat grey, red and blonde hair) • IPL - acne management, pigmentation treatments, vascular treatments, skin rejuvenation, Rosacea treatments.

• Ultrasound cavitation - cellulite reduction, fat reduction, body contouring, fat melting • RF - radio frequency non surgical skin tightening • Bio-Synthesis LED light therapy • Professional teeth whitening • Moroccan spray tanning • Silk Eyelash Extensions • Acrylic nails, gel nails, manis and pedis • Swedish massage, facials, ear candling and much, much more.

We offer interest free payment plans.

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JADE WOODWARD

MEL CROSSLAND

COFFS COAST BUSINESS WOMEN’S NETWORK

FUJI XEROX BUSINESS CENTRE

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hat is the history behind your business? With its beginnings at a local café in 2004, demand for larger monthly business events grew, and almost 12 years on, the Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network has built to a membership base of 1300+ local business leaders. The premise is to nurture the personal and professional development of women through informative, supportive and enjoyable events.

Tell us about what makes your business unique? Word of mouth is powerful - and it’s a well known fact that women love to chat! Through increasing our networks, both personally and professionally, there is insatiable opportunity for growth. Most of us are familiar with the adage: “It’s who you know, not what you know” - and this rings true, with many a business partnership formed through facilitated social interaction. This is a proven and extremely effective strategy to boost personal/brand awareness, whether in business for yourself or for a local firm. We have such an amazing array of talent on the Coffs Coast, and I’m continually blown away at the background of these women.

The experience and diverse skills we have in our own backyard is akin to metropolitan areas - we don’t need to outsource geographically; just take a look a little closer to home next time you need a more specialised service.

What are your business goals for the next twelve months? Our core focus is to position Coffs Coast BWN as the premier networking organisation on the Coffs Coast - to be the go-to professional resource base for local business. To achieve this, a slight rebrand and a strong, proactive development strategy is key. We’ve exciting enhancements planned for 2016, including: a significant increase to the value offered to our membership base; introduction of a financial membership for 2016/17; introduction of an annual Awards 36 coffs coast focus.

night; implementing a strong marketing and PR strategy; a new-look website with enhanced database; and strategic alignment with partners to mutually fuel business growth. Further enhancements being considered include affiliate memberships with larger business bodies, introduction of monthly lunchtime round-tables to cater to a wider market, and potential for an education based mentor programme to ensure the future talent of this region stays put to further strengthen the local economy.

What community events do you support?

Coffs Coast BWN support a range of local business and charities, and our aim is to further increase that involvement with a strong representation across a wider range of community events. BWN are also co-initiators of the International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Awards, which recognise impactful contribution. In essence, we’re a representation of the wider business community, so a strong social awareness and responsibility is, and has never been more, important. We also provide a platform at our monthly events for fundraising direct through various charities. As a network, we’ve raised in excess of $30,000 for local charity.

With the enhancement of technology over the past decade, how has this impacted your business? As a not-for-profit organisation, the proliferation of social media has enabled us to increase our marketing reach with nil financial strain. Technology affords a much quicker, streamlined business process and systemisation of the back end, allowing for decreased input with greater value output. We are able to target demographics relevant to subject matter, and we can respond quicker to stakeholder needs.

What services do you offer? Facilitated networking between women in business on the Coffs Coast. In addition to our key offerings aforementioned, we are the only organisation on the Coffs Coast to offer child minding at our events.

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hat is the history behind your business?

The Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast was first established in 1982 and the current Dealer Principal has run the business for over 10 years. Since his leadership, the business has grown from two staff to almost 20 covering from Grafton to Port Macquarie. Our office is on the corner of Park Avenue and the Pacific Highway.

What is the best piece of business advice that you can offer to others? The old saying, love what you do and you will never have to work a day in your life is so true. It may not be the dream job you had as a child,

We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place where the climate barely changes, and straight after work you can run down to the beach and go for a stroll or a dip. We live in Sawtell, and the vibe in the main street with the new cafés is really nice and positive for a small town.

What has been your best achievement to date? In January I returned home from the “Honours Club”, which is an incentive system operating for high achieving sales staff.

I was one of this year’s winners, and earned the trip of a lifetime to New York, where I received an award for my achievements. It was an amazing experience to interact with

Specifically with work, I like that I am able to show people cost and business efficiency in an area of their business which is often unanalysed.

but if you are passionate about it you will succeed. We are fortunate enough to offer the best quality products in terms of our photocopiers, so it makes my job easier, as we know that we can deliver above and beyond client expectations. Find what you like to do, and that is typically what you are good at, and stick with it. Not every day is going to be rainbows, but there is no point wasting our already short lives doing something we are miserable about.

What do you enjoy the most about working on the Coffs Coast? I am out and about quite a bit with my job and have met lots of wonderful people with some really interesting stories. Specifically with work, I like that I am able to show people cost and business efficiency in an area of their business which is often unanalysed.

all of these top performing staff within the company.

What services do you offer? We provide state of the art Fuji Xerox copiers, printers and software solutions, as well as copying and design services, from our Park Avenue shop. We have had countless examples over the years of businesses with cost savings and quality printing with our Fuji Xerox devices, and now we offer numerous software solutions for businesses which assist with even more cost efficiencies in the ever evolving workplace. For example: freeing up more productive time by reducing manual steps in uploading documents to your database. It might sound corny, but we know the copier industry backwards, forwards, duplexed, stapled, folded and scanned … You will be so happy you spoke with us.

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SHARNI SECCOMBE

LAUREN VESTEY

OFFBEAT OPERATIONS

LIVING DOLL

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ell us about what makes your business unique ... It’s very unique, as there aren’t many businesses at all like ours. We have many different clients we need to keep focus on, from publicans to bands and the media; it’s a juggling act to keep everyone happy and find a happy medium so they can all thrive.

We certainly deal with a very diverse range of characters!

What makes you stand out above your competitors? We have certainly stood the test of time. Many competitors have come and gone; we have always just done the right thing, and this has paid off. We have developed very loyal relationships with clients, and we have grown more over time - hence why we are still here.

What do you enjoy the most about working on the Coffs Coast? I love the size of the Coffs Coast; it’s just perfect in every way. I have travelled to many countries, and this truly is such a beautiful place. Working and living here is the ultimate lifestyle. You can work, play and do everything in between, without having to go anywhere. The suburbs around us are all unique and connected and add so much character. It’s big enough to stay excited and have different things to do, but not too big you lose that sense of community. And so many businesses are thriving here.

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of business?

Marketing, good team, customer service? Well, all of these things. I think a good team will give you good customer service, and you can’t market anything unless you have these things to start with. You couldn’t ask for much more than family as a good team, so we have a great advantage with this. We trust

each other, we know no matter what we can always rely on each other, and we can always speak our real truth without worrying about offending each other - and this gives us a very clear direction and communication.

Dedication and loving what you do would have to be the most important aspect.

If you love it, you will be dedicated and passionate, and you will be successful.

What community events do you support? We support The Hoey Moey’s Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club; surfing is a big part of all our lives also. We also support many fundraisers and events; we have always helped with fundraisers for any locals in need of support.

With the enhancement of technology over the past decade, how has this impacted your business? It has impacted massively. We have a relatively new website that has been great for our business, plus developing an understanding Google, and doing a lot more social networking. You need to roll with the times and be clued into these new advances.

What services do you offer? We have a few aspects to our business; one is to supply venues or clients such as wedding parties or corporate businesses with entertainment, and the other is to supply bands or DJs or any sort of entertainers with work in these categories. We exclusively look after some entertainers and venues, who are our main priority. Another service we offer is co-ordinating outdoor concerts and festivals and also booking tours for major national and international bands along the East Coast and promoting their shows. Lastly, we also hire out production equipment for touring and local artists.

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hy did you decide to take the plunge and swing open the doors of your business back in the day? I opened Living Doll in September 2010 to create a space for women and men to come and take some time out for themselves, to recharge their batteries and feel confident and sexy in their own skin. Living Doll’s vision was to treat people really how I would like to be treated myself - to have the upmost skill and knowledge of the latest hair trends and share that passion and skill with my staff and the beautiful Coffs Coast. Living Doll is driven to elevate the hairdressing industry standard as a whole. With the right training, what we do can really change lives (laughs). It’s true; anyone who has had a bad cut will understand.

Tell us what makes your business unique?

Living Doll is your little oasis, a time just for yourself, to indulge in warm coffee, good magazines, head massages and to give you the pick-up you so deserve. With everyone’s busy schedule, it is so hard to put yourself first especially women and mothers. We try to really focus on clients’ every need, to really give them that lift of life, the feeling you get when you have that amazing haircut that just sits into place with little to no effort. Or, that shiny colour where a stranger on the street comments on how great it looks, and you are suddenly walking taller. It’s an overall wellness we can help bring out in you, that keeps you going until your next visit.

What do you enjoy the most about working on the Coff Coast? I was just talking about this today with my staff, about working in a “City Salon” in one of the busy shopping centres, how life was oh so different. Living Doll was designed so we would have the time with the clients, to really give them the love and attention they deserve. Working in Coffs is like a dream; the salon’s location on the jetty strip was chosen for its beautiful outlook on to one of Coffs Coast’s wood carvings of an eagle (I like to think he watches over us).

But the people are what makes Coffs Harbour so beautiful. I can honestly say I have never met so many amazing people who come to one salon than those who have entered Living Doll. When you are working with remarkable staff and then have just honestly amazing customers, that love flows over to your home life - and really, that’s what we all dream of ... A balanced, happy life.

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of business? Relationships … I run Living Doll with my HEART, and everyone who comes into the business shares that love. This includes our clients, the talented, beautiful inspiring team, the suppliers and anyone else who shares our vision.

Is your business sustainable? We understand as an industry that hairdressing has its elements that can affect the environment, so at Living Doll we wanted to have the least impact possible. Firstly, we chose La Biosthetique range for its professional colour and makeup, as its ethos is that it should be natural, not synthetic. They forbid testing on animals as well. Even their head office runs on hydraulic energy and has a carbon-neutral footprint throughout Europe. La Biosthetique colour range is full of natural ingredients that are chosen for their biomimetic qualities, meaning they mimic our own bio-chemistry. They have home care sulphate and paraben free products direct from Mother Nature.

Secondly, we recycle everything we can, including our colour tubes and aluminium foil and even the hair. Who would have thought hair could be recycled, but it can; it is used for cleaning up oil spills.

What services do you offer? We are a full service salon, where we like to do everything from shampooing your hair to an in-depth consultation, scalp analysis, aromatherapy massage, all over colours, foils, balayage and women’s and men’s style cuts, blow-dries, upstyles and makeup.

Thanks for reading. XO Lauren Vestey Living Doll coffs coast focus. 37

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Our team has more than 100 years of combined experience - experience in travel, travelling, and agriculture.

O Carole Beros. OWNER/STYLIST, HOUSE OF LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Kerry Moss. QUADRANT AUSTRALIA

Tell us about what makes your business

towards providing the best service we can

unique ... Le Dãin Designs is an ever

offer to our current clients and all our new

changing store that extends beyond its

customers. We are setting up a monthly in

own doors and joins forces with other

store fashion parade and cocktail event and

What is the history behind your business?

Quadrant Australia has been in operation nearly 30 years. We’re in the travel business: holidays, packages, flights and special interest tours.

businesses to offer extra special services to

are working on late night shopping evenings

make your shopping experience stress free

for all those busy people who miss out on a

and enjoyable. From beauty treatments

touch of retail therapy.

to photo-shoots, we have all the right

Sawtell is booming at the moment with the

connections. Shopping online is a flat and

reopening of the local cinema and all the

sometimes frustrating venture. There is

eateries to choose from. So, to come out for

nothing like walking into a beautiful store

dinner with the girls and have a bubbles and

and being totally looked after. It turns your

“treat yourself to something fabulous” time

whole shopping experience into something

is so much fun.

you want to do, instead of something you have to do.

Who has been your biggest business influence? There is only one answer for that

What makes you stand out above your

on a grand scale, and that would be Coco

competitors? Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell is

Chanel. For designers and business women

like a one stop shop for getting the whole

within Australia, it would be Carla Zampatti.

Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell is like a one stop shop for getting the whole look. We also pride ourselves on being able to dress ladies of all sizes and all ages for any occasion. We have families of three generations who can walk out, all styled and dressed, ready to go.

look. We also pride ourselves on being able

You also have a family; how do you

to dress ladies of all sizes and all ages for

juggle it all? I am very good at separating

any occasion. We have families of three

family time and business. Sometimes the

generations who can walk out, all styled

two merge, but luckily my other hat I wear

and dressed, ready to go. We stock casual

is being part of the FOCUS team.

to formal and specialise in millinery and

I am a fashion shoot stylist and write for the

dress ladies for the races. Our prices suit all

publication and I know it sounds corny, but

budgets. We also have experienced stylists

the whole family love FOCUS as much as me,

available at all times, even after hours.

so I get loads of support.

What community events do you

What has been your biggest achievement

support? House of Le Dãin Designs is

to date? Within this industry , I would have

heavily involved in many different events.

to say that when we had the opportunity to

We are one of the Major sponsors at the

design and provide the three Waterhouse

Coffs Harbour Racing Club and love to

ladies with Le Dain Designs originals . We

support The Pink Silks Perpetual Trust. We

are heavily involved with the Racing industry

are also once again supporting the Cancer

, so adorning Racing Royalty such as Gai ,

Council with their annual events and the

Kate and Susie was pretty exciting . I am

local Coffs Harbour Children’s Ward with

also a writer and photographer for National

a Le Dãin Designs event later this year. The

Magazine ‘Ladies in Racing’ . We are also

store also involves itself with looking after

involved and join a Melbourne Team in

the Annual Charity Fashion Parade run by St

producing Photo shoots that get submitted

Nics Opportunity Shop and are also now a

to appear in High Fashion Magazines . Last

major sponsor of The Hero Organisation.

year our Couture Jewells adorned all the

What are your business goals for the

models on the front cover of A New York City

next twelve months? We are striving

Magazine. Great Times !

38 coffs coast focus.

Tell us about what makes your business unique ... Quadrant Australia are leaders in Agricultural Tours. We give farmers the chance to travel, experience and learn from an agricultural perspective, all whilst seeing the sights and experiencing the culture of another country. We take small groups of farmers all over the world and get them into places that they couldn’t get to any other way. Whether it’s taking a group of beekeepers to Korea or beef farmers to Canada, the experiences are one-of-a-kind.

What makes you stand out above your competitors? Our team has more than 100 years of combined experience - experience in travel, travelling, and agriculture. Our travel agency team have travelled to more than 50 countries and love to travel themselves. Our tours are led by experienced leaders, holding the hands of our

travellers from the very first day.

What is the best piece of business advice that you can offer to others? If the door opens, walk through it. Some of our most amazing achievements have happened by circumstance.

With the enhancement of technology over the past decade, how has this impacted your business? Many people feel that the internet means that travel agents won’t exist in the future.

I don’t think this at all. The internet has provided really valuable tools to our customers to allow them to research a lot of information before they come to an expert for the booking. Twenty years ago, people asked about travelling to Europe; now, those same people are asking about a tiny little villa in Tuscany where they can stay, play and eat with locals. Whilst there are some people who choose to book their own travel online, we’ve seen an increase in customers who are returning to travel agents for the options, peace of mind and ability to call someone if something doesn’t go to plan.

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O Ellen Slater. JOYLAND CARERS RETREAT Tell us about what makes your business unique? Joyland Carers Retreat is a purpose built, bespoke retreat, affording carers some much needed ‘me’ time away from their caring role. Joyland is unique, being the only service of its kind from Coffs Harbour to Brisbane.

What is the vision behind Joyland Carers Retreat? I have been a carer the majority of my life. I’ve experienced the varied challenges and sacrifices that carers make. My dream has always been to provide a luxurious in-home environment for carers to be nurtured and take rest. Thankfully, that dream was realised in 2015.

Why is community important to you? Giving back to our community is very important to me. Joyland hosts Goddess Sisters, a free morning tea for ladies to share a laugh and relax. Joyland also hosts some wonderful annual fundraisers, which are becoming renowned as sell-out events, with ‘that something extra’. Our community has been incredible with their support, and at times it is overwhelming, the generosity received.

What has been your greatest achievement to date? A Sunny’s Business Award ‘Finalist’ was an exceptional honour, particularly after only nine months of operation. We have also been fund recipients of the Pink Silks Perpetual Trust.

However, the greatest achievement is seeing the impact on carers wellbeing - when they arrive to when they leave - a pure miracle before our eyes.

Kim Pasterfield.

Trish Jackson.

YOUR HOME PET SITTING SERVICE

WILLAID HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT

The main aim of the business is to provide clients and their pets

Willaid has been part of Coffs Harbour for about 20 years. Owner and manager Trish Jackson said clients keep coming back to Willaid because of its long established reputation, wide variety of products, and friendly and expert advice. Involved in sales, hire and repairs, Willaid stocks everything from a walking stick to a hospital bed.

with a far less stressful and a less costly alternative to a dog boarding kennel or cattery.

As most people treat their pets with very high affection the service I offer enables the pets to stay on their regular routine and they do not have to adapt to a new environment. There is no travel trauma, more flexibility around a boarding kennels required vaccinations and less risk of the pet being exposed to illnesses and parasites of other animals. Eg: kennel cough, ear mites, fleas, ticks etc.

I offer a quality service that provides a number of different options to my clients such as doggie day care, flexible opening hours, covering areas outside Coffs Harbour, caring for pets in my home when possible or housesitting in yours if required.

I also offer a doggie social day (twice weekly) which includes transport, socialising, walking and swimming.

Being a dedicated and passionate animal lover myself I offer a reliable friendly service guaranteeing your pet will receive ongoing attention, love and cuddles.

For further information contact Kim Mb: 0433 965 805 Email: yhpss@hotmail.com Facebook: Your Home Pet Sitting Service

Providing independence, safety, increased mobility and comfort for elderly clients, people with a disability and post-op patients, Willaid is your local expert in health care equipment.

As a woman in business, Trish said the last eleven years have been challenging. There have been a number of changes in funding and delivery of services in this sector. The buying group we helped establish, Peak Care, has allowed Willaid to remain competitive and relevant. We serve a large section of the community, and we welcome inquiries.

“The main thing we value at Willaid is a sense of community; we help people maintain independence and be comfortable, and that’s a fulfilling role to play.”

Trish said the best way for people to experience what Willaid has to offer is to come into 1/16 Isles Drive and view the range of products. For more information on any of the products or services listed above, visit www.willaid.com.au, email sales@ willaid.com.au or call 6651 7900.

Willaid Health Care Equipment is located at 1/16 Isles Drive, open Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm.

coffs coast focus. 39

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O Fuji Xerox BUSINESS CENTRE MID NORTH COAST

Kristie Peel & Kylie Mackay.

Sarah Armstrong.

What is the history behind your business?

Tell us about what makes your business unique ... The small

Two Birds Design has been established since 2010, owned and

and personal nature of our business means that clients get the one

operated by Kylie Mackay and Kristie Peel.

on one service that their unique project deserves. I end up calling

After working together for over 13 years, both as business partners

the majority of my clients friends by the end of what is a very

The staff are like one big family and sponsor some of the events held in Coffs, like the World Rally Championships.

and colleagues, we have an excellent understanding of each other

personal journey.

Mel Crossland, Marketing

which reflects in our quality of work & services we offer.

Why did you decide to take the plunge and swing open the do things the way I think they need to be done ... All with the

I love that we have high quality photocopiers that our clients love.

We also have a great team to work with which makes our jobs easier and enjoyable.

flexibility to be able to pop out to watch a kids’ sports carnival

Emma de Groot, Print Production

TWO BIRDS DESIGN

Tell us about what makes your business unique?

We tailor our services to each client’s individual needs and work directly on the project from start to finish. Our aim is to ensure the clients expectations are met and a beautiful design is completed.

After all we want our clients to love their home, office space etc.

Why did you decide to take the plunge and swing open the doors of your business back in the day?

ARMSTRONG ARCHITECTS

doors of your business back in the day? Realising that I could

when needed!

What are your business goals for the next twelve months?

To have Armstrong Architects get involved in some community projects that benefit Coffs Harbour, as well as continue our great work in the commercial and residential world.

We asked the staff what they love about what they do.

Alana Castor, PA.

I get to build a relationship with all of my customers, as I handle their work from the initial enquiry to the finished production. They are always blown away with what we can do with our copiers.

Sarah Mcilvaney, Service Work Controller Dealing with a wide range of customers and organising a service team to assist them. I like waking up every morning knowing I’m coming to a great, friendly, enjoyable environment.

Loving what we do! We wanted to offer affordable interior design

With the enhancement of technology over the past decade,

services and inject our experience, passion and professionalism

how has this impacted your business? Constant improvements

100% into each project.

in the world of computer documentation and 3D rendering has

What services do you offer? One-off hourly consultations to

meant that we need to keep up to date to offer our clients the best

Suzanne van Gestel, Graphic Design

extensive exterior and interior schemes for renovations, new

services possible.

homes and commercial projects.We have a full decorator service

What services do you offer? Design and documentation of both

with furniture packages for holiday fit outs and residential homes.

residential and commercial projects - small or large! Renovations or

We have an excellent range of quality fabrics for soft furnishings,

new build - we work in closely with interior designers Kristie and

There is nothing more satisfying than finishing up a job I’m particularly proud of and to see it in print or online. My success is tangible. It is also so rewarding to see people so happy with what you have created for them.

window treatments and stock beautiful rugs, artworks, lamps,

Kylie at “Two Birds Design” and also offer a full design service.

cushions and designer pieces in the showroom.

Call today for a free consultation.

40 coffs coast focus.

Contact the ladies to assist with all of your business printing needs on 6652 6844

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O Deidre Cleary. OWNER - KHMER AFFAIR

Charlotte French. GREENROOM GALLERY

I have always loved sewing and creating clothing.

Tell us about what makes your business unique? We mix art and clothes - a little weird, but it works. Wayne’s vibrant paintings dress the walls, and the shop is stocked with bamboo, organic cotton, hemp and lots of lovely silk. Greenroom is colourful all year around.

I travel regularly to Cambodia - a destination I find, together with its people, so beautiful. I am passionate about natural fibres, and during one of my visits was fortunate enough to locate a cotton that is hand dyed, using 100% natural ingredients and hand woven on traditional looms. Due to the use of natural dye, the colour palette is soft and muted.

This fabric was the inspiration behind the children’s clothing range that I carry. I work closely with designer Yek Hong, who is based in Phnom Penh, and together we have created a gorgeous range of vintage inspired garments under the label ‘it’s my bliss’. The garment workers that Yek employs within her small business “Peace Handicrafts” are all disabled, deaf or landmine victims. Their workmanship is of the highest standard, and the garments are beautifully finished featuring French seams.

All the items I carry in store have been sourced from ethical and sustainable businesses throughout this amazing country.

I also carry a range of beautiful bags and purses which have been made from recycled materials including netting, fish and/or cement bags. khmer.affair@yahoo.com www.khmeraffair.com Find us on Facebook and Instagram

Why did you decide to take the plunge and swing open the doors of your business back in the day? After years as a bear artist, having just finished an order of 100 koalas for an American company, I needed a break from bear making - a new challenge. I wanted a boutique where I could buy fair trade clothes and gifts. Wayne was keen for a showroom for his art, so we joined forces. That was in 2010. We are still on The Promenade, but recently moved next door to bigger premises.

Is your business sustainable? We, as well as our suppliers, big or small, are all about ethical and sustainable practices.

Whether it’s the environmental aspect or the people who produce the goods, this is our commitment - my heart and passion.

What services do you offer? I give honest and experienced help to women of all ages, shapes and sizes. Our comfortable bamboo clothes are flattering, great for work, play and travel and you can dress it all up with our gorgeous silk kaftans and kimonos. We have a March special for Focus readers, mention this add and you have $10 to spend on a bamboo top of your choice.

Jen Dowd. RALLY AUSTRALIA What is the history behind your business? NSW Coffs Coast and Mid North Coast is the traditional home of rallying in Australia, commencing with the renowned Southern Cross Rally in the ‘60s and ‘70s that attracted some of the world’s best drivers and teams. The event was welcomed back to the region in 2011 and received unprecedented local and national support.

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of business? For Rally Australia to host a successful event, it requires great team work, trust, long hours and excellent communication.

We are a small team who host a world event.

What experience has brought you to where you are today?

I worked in Sydney for 20 years before moving to the Coffs Coast, always in Marketing/Advertising. I’ve worked in New York, Hong Kong, Singapore. I’ve worked for large international companies, as well as small agencies. I’ve never had a job I didn’t like.

Who has been your biggest business influence? Michael Bloomberg. I worked for Bloomberg for several years in Sydney and New York before he became Mayor of New York City. He was the most interesting, motivating, smart and kind man. He had a great sense of humour. He put it all into perspective.

For Rally Australia to host a successful event, it requires great team work, trust, long hours and excellent communication. We are a small team who host a world event.

Colourful . Ethical . Naturally Inspired ROUND 14 FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

COFFS COAST, 17-20 NOVEMBER 2016

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS

THE PROMENADE 321 HARBOUR DRIVE THE PROMENADE 321 HARBOUR DR www.greenroomgallery.com.au

Ph0413 349459

RALLYAUSTRALIA.COM.AU coffs coast focus. 41

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O Christine Rengger. TMP RENTALS What is the history behind your business?

Started the business to allow landlords to explore an exclusive tenancy specialist that focuses solely on the rental process.

What are your business goals for next twelve months?

We are experiencing unprecedented growth in just a short space of time, so we are focusing on refining our service and implementing some updates to business strategies that will allow the process of renting to follow much more effortlessly for our landlords and tenants.

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

Well, it is a beautiful location, so that is a huge bonus, but there are some extordinary people in our area with extordinary experience to learn from.

What has been your best achievement to date?

Everything I have experienced to date is an achievement! I have travelled some huge learning curves, and they have shaped the person I have become and showed me the kind of person I wish to be.

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of business? Marketing, good team, customer service?

My team hands down have invaluable experience, they are a delight to be around, I value their knowledge and advice highly, and they are reliable.

BJ Ballantyne. Kimberley Grant.

What is the history behind your business?

NORTEC is a for-purpose, community organisation that matches jobseekers and businesses looking for staff. We invest in local initiatives that inspire business growth and employment opportunities in our region.

Tell us about what makes your business unique?

Delivering on our service promise of inspiring futures and creating opportunities.

Tell us about what makes your business unique?

HARA at 2/1O5-107 West High Street is the only Coffs Harbour studio that combines Pilates, Yoga and GYROTONIC®under one roof. We teach the super fit to those who require rehabilitation.

What services do you offer?

Group classes in Pilates, Yoga and GYROKINESIS®. Private

You also have a family; how do you juggle it all?

Both Kim and Billy-Joh juggle families and work.

It’s a great area to work in, though - nothing like the beautiful coast and countryside for de-stressing!

and duo sessions in Pilates, Yoga and GYROTONIC® for

What is the best piece of business advice that you can offer to others?

Be authentic, follow your passion and give your all; the rest will follow.

We’re both passionate about securing work for jobseekers in our region; it gives us both a real buzz!

for 12 years in Europe . My dance career taught me about

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of business? Marketing, good team, customer service?

Customer service firstly; having a great team is essential for this.

Marketing is important, yes, but you need to deliver on your promises, and this is where we step in!

My lifelong experience in movement developed my

‘Creating Opportunities.

Inspiring Futures’.

No-Fee Recruitment Services.

Business Advisory Support.

Accredited Training.

Community Investment.

Looking for Staff?

Lodge online at www.nortec.org.au Or call BJ on 0408 897 589 Offices throughout the Coffs and Manning Regions 42 coffs coast focus.

Suzanne McCarty. OWNER

those who require or prefer individual attention.

What was your earlier career?

I danced from age 3 and was a professional ballet dancer the human body, refined movement, injury, dedication, commitment, discipline, endurance, team work and hard work. .

What makes you stand out above your competitors? attention to detail to meet the personal needs of each individual. I continually educate myself with leaders in the movement field so that I can offer high standards of training expertise to the Coffs Harbour community. I’ve been teaching movement for 17 years and am a Pilates and GYROKINESIS® teacher of teachers.

focus_technology

with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate

cyber mum.

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

O YOUNOW A 10 YEAR OLD GIRL SITS ON HER BED AND ON THE DESK BEHIND HER IS A FRAMED CERTIFICATE CLEARLY IDENTIFYING HER NAME, THE SCHOOL SHE ATTENDS AND THE CITY SHE LIVES IN.

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he girl innocently looks at her computer and responds to questions on the screen with no understanding that who she is talking to is clearly a stranger.

“Do you play sport?”

“Yes, I play soccer and I dance.”

“Do you have a boyfriend?”

“No, why?”

She is chatting online and is wearing only her swimmers, as it is a hot day.

What’s wrong with this picture? Mainly the fact that the girl has no idea who is on the other end of her internet connection. For example, she has no idea who I am, but I am looking into her bedroom watching her answer increasingly personal questions from hundreds of other anonymous viewers in the name of research.

Welcome to the world of “YouNow,” one of many online video chatrooms we parents need to be aware of. YouNow.com is a website self-professed to provide “the best way to broadcast live and get an audience to watch you”. At any given moment there are thousands of live video feeds, and watching them requires no registration, no age verification and no need for any identification of any sort.

Viewers communicate with the broadcaster through written comments. Broadcasts are organised under various categories sorted by a hashtag (#) with some of the most popular being #dance, #girls, #truthordare and #sleepclub. Broadcasters can earn “likes” from viewers and accumulate “fans”, while advancing in “levels” ultimately encourages or coerces children to do increasingly daring things to avoid losing the attention of their audience.

YouNow terms of use lists the behaviour and the content that they consider to be unacceptable. For example, the guidelines prohibit users

under 13, nudity or sexually explicit content, as well as “grooming and solicitations”, which are defined as “behaviour intended to manipulate another member into producing sexual images of themselves, or provide personal information”.

However, prohibited but commonly seen behaviours I witnessed include girls frequently flashing their breasts or underwear in response to viewers demands, threats, taunts and insults, swearing and underage drinking.

Whether YouNow’s lack of policing of their website is a deliberate choice by the developers or perhaps they would claim it’s the difficulty of supervising thousands of live streams simultaneously … I do not know? But what I do know and what is clear, is that their guidelines exist in theory alone.

What is also clear, is that many children are inviting the world anonymously into their bedrooms, naively sharing their identity, privacy and intimacy with strangers. YouNow also exists as a smartphone app, enabling children to broadcast from virtually anywhere and negating crucial parental supervision.

YouNow’s style of personal broadcasting represents a new kind of internet peril, and it is imperative that awareness among parents grows. Children need to be aware of the risks and to have clear guidelines for safe behaviour.

For a young child, in the safety of his/her own house and his/her own room, the adoration of strangers can hold strong allure and the unknown people at the other end of the internet might not seem real. But the risks being faced and the risks being taken are very real.

I hope that a serious or tragic event is not needed to trigger the much need scrutiny of this video chat site and many others like it. This, parents, is without doubt our worst nightmare! coffs coast focus. 43

healthprofessionals

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Daniel

Ryan

Leading local physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker catches up with Daniel Ryan, a passionate Accredited Exercise Physiologist who has recently joined the growing Mid North Coast Physio team.

T

ell us a bit about your background, Daniel? I am an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, having graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science degree. After growing up on a sugar cane farm near Yamba, I moved to Brisbane to continue my study before moving back to the coast. I’m passionate about helping people be the healthiest and happiest they can be, and I’m certain that exercise is one of the single best things to achieve this.

Can you please explain what an Exercise Physiologist does?

I know it can be tricky for people to pinpoint exactly what we do, because we work across a broad and varied spectrum of healthcare. Exercise Physiologists are university trained allied health professionals, certified by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). We specialise in using exercise as treatment for many chronic health conditions, as well as for those recovering from injury or living with a disability. We prescribe exercise programmes and lifestyle modification strategies, which are well backed up by research.

We aim to help you achieve personal health and lifestyle related goals that are meaningful to you.

We provide people with exercise programmes and assist in the implementation of these programmes to obtain gradual restoration to optimal physical function, health and wellness.

Who should see you?

Put simply, just about anyone who needs support with exercise! Some of the common reasons clients see me are for rehabilitation, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and lower back pain. It’s

44 coffs coast focus.

important to remember that exercise can be as fun as you make it and can bring about improved quality of life, pain management, improved immune system, greater self-confidence, improved body image and weight loss, increased independence in the home, and it can facilitate social and community involvement, reduce the risk of fracture through building bone density and reduce the risk of falls. The list goes on and on.

So how can readers benefit from your work with Mid North Coast Physio at Coffs Coast Health Club?

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

Thanks for sharing, Daniel. If you’re looking to solve your own health problems, call Mid North Coast Physio on 1300 273 747 to secure one of 10 FREE Exercise Physiology assessments with Daniel. Call NOW to avoid missing out.

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

ADRIANBETTS 38 YEAR OLD FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT SPECIALIST, PERSONAL TRAINER, ADVENTURE RACER AND NEW C O F F S C O AS T R E S I D E N T .

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about the terrific Tash. This month we are catching up with and profiling one of the newest sea change health professionals from Sydney, Adrian Betts, to hear his inspiring story.

T

ell us a bit about your background, Adrian?

I played sport my whole life and was pretty active. I have my dad to thank for that, as he was very supportive and encouraging. I played school sports as well Olympic weight lifting, which I got into seriously at age 13. I competed at two nationals and trained at the AIS in a Commonwealth Development Squad, which aimed to get us to the Commonwealth Games.

When I turned 20, I got into mixed martial arts and competed in some amateur fights. This was a safe and fantastic sport which many people are surprised about. I had more injuries from just a handful of rugby games. Now I’m more into my adventure and ultra-distance racing, races such as XPD.com, GeoQuest, 100 km runs, and 12 - 24 hour rogaining events. I love the physical but mostly mental challenge that they present.

Can you please explain what a Functional Movement Specialist and Personal Trainer does?

The meaning of functional movement or training has become a little lost over the years.

Some tend to call any type of training involving equipment like sand bags, ropes, balls etc. as functional training. Really, functional movement or training simply means that it is specific to the demands imposed upon you each day. This can be seen in general life or sport specific training. The aim is to strengthen the client’s ability to perform in their “natural world”. We also look other factors, such as nutrition, stress management, lifestyle, and fitness education.

What types of clients do you specialise in working with?

I specialise in a broad range of clients, from the general population to amateur sports people, to post rehabilitation of an injury or

illness. Again, it’s targeting the specific needs of the individual while working with other allied health professionals to deliver the best possible service. This is one of the great strengths of Coffs Coast Health Club, as we have massage therapists, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists and Healthy Inspiration nutrition coaches, who all work together to get the best outcome for our clients.

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

I work with both, as they both have their benefits. These two services can work hand in hand. A client may start in one on one while they are taught the movement patterns they will be using within the specific class they wish to attend. A client who may have been doing classes for a while may wish to step up the intensity a little or want to challenge themselves a little more. One on one can provide that specificity while they continue with their classes.

So how can we all benefit from your passion for healthy living?

Besides simply becoming a stronger human being? I have a ton of programme ideas that I will be running since moving up here. My big interest is getting people outdoors and outside their comfort zone to experience something new. With my background in adventure racing, I will be running some great outdoor events as well as educational seminars, and youth programmes. You can benefit by getting involved with me asap; you’ll never look back.

Thanks for sharing, Adrian, 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 Adrian directly on 0421 139 036 to get started today.

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& WELLBEING

hair

• but at what cost? •

The continuing rise in the demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures has led to an increase in the number of people administering these types of treatments at incredibly low prices.

goes into bringing you a treatment you can trust.

Research Companies that manufacture premium product for cosmetic use have invested millions of dollars in developing, researching and providing S T Y L E C O U N C I L • L I V I N G evidence D O L Lof its safety and effectiveness. They also continue to invest in further research and develWE LOVE HAIR EXTENSIONS, opment, AND THE discovering new ways their medicines be used and developing new products. The ADDICTION KEEPS GETTING can HARDER cost of this investment is reflected in its price.

TO KICK. HERE WE CHAT WITH LAUREN Training FROM LIVING DOLL ABOUT WHAT IT IS Responsible non-surgical cosmetic practitioners Whilst this might sound like good news for the THAT IS OH SO LOVEABLE. will invest heavily in training and ongoing educonsumer, unfortunately it’s far from it. cation in order to expertly deliver treatments and Non-surgical cosmetic procedures, and hen people ask, I say, “Yes, should try them: having received initial training, will continue to injectables in particular, arehair costly very good this is my (asfor I have paid 1. They don't look fake. Tape-in extensions invest in further education. reasons. for it)” ... But I can’t lie! I am really do look like your own natural head of A Safe Environment The expense involved in using quality products, too excited about sharing how hair. The bonds lie completely flat against the Practitioners must ensure that they comply providing excellent meeting the amazing they are, service so I willand fess up to having a head and are so comfortable. with health and safety are able necessary requirements is signifi cant, so in little help.safety Hair extensions have a reputation 2. Getting them putlegislation, in - and taken outto- is safely supply and store medicines and that they order to meet these costs, quality practitioners for being high-maintenance, damaging, and easy. Seriously. It takes an hour and a half can securely store medical records to protect have to set their prices an extravagance best accordingly. left to people who tops, no longer than a head of highlights. conAnd fi dentiality. must alsoI implement and uphold In orderthe to help educateBut the I've public about what frequent red carpet. tested a lot that’s for aThey whole head. stick to a schedule relevant policies andreapplication procedures toevery minimise exactly arethe getting their whento of themthey over years,forand I'mmoney a convert of removal and/or eightrisks. to Assessment they invest a quality non-surgical procedure, tape-in hairinextensions.

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tioners are unlikely to invest in any of the above, erly qualified practitioner; they will invest time in consultation and assessment to ensure that you as when offering cheap treatments, the cost of receive the correct treatment for your individual provision has to be minimal in order to make a needs. They will also take time to answer any profit. questions that you may have, in order to provide However, we strongly believe that profit should you with the information you need to make an never come before safety. informed decision about whether to proceed Practitioners who don’t invest in training, the with your treatment. clinic they work in, care standards and protection Registration with Regulatory Bodies are an accident waiting to happen. There are risks As well as the above mentioned costs, there involved in cosmetic procedures, and without the Hair extensions are other expenses involved in setting up, running necessary safeguards in place, side effects and a and maintaining a non-surgical cosmetic clinic, have g are more likely to occur. in be r n fo reputatiocomplications many of which underpin its safety. Registration , ce an en nt high-mai Patients receiving treatments have the right and revalidation with regulatory bodies such as and an g, expect ghd, scrunch, braid - I treat with care, tape-in damaginto a quality service in an appropriate The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation travagance best left ex my extension hair just as I extensions pose environment.

Injections should never be adminAgency (AHPRA) is mandatory, as this bodyto is people who freq ue nt would my own natural hair. no threat to theor istered at a party, in a hotel room, at a shop responsible for regulating medical practitioners the red carpet .”

Which is to say, as gently overall health of and your beauty salon. All patients, when researching and nurses. Like natural hair, as possible. natural hair. It's hard receiving these treatments, should expect to be: Serious practitioners often choose extensions are most fragile when to join proto accept your shouldertreated with respect; kept fully informed; and to fessional associations which provide peer-to-peer wet. I also always sleep with my hair length, thin ponytail be given time, care and attention throughout the support, education andprevent keep them in a loose braid. It and not training, only helps knowing there is waist-long entire experience. updated on industry standards, regulations and any tangling during the night, but also results red-carpet-worthy waves that are In order to ensure their safety, patients should policies as they develop. in the world's easiest waves. completely attainable. always select a qualifi ed,addictive. established practitioner Is “Cheap” Worth the Risk?

4. They don't cause damage. Really. In my Told you … Totally who hasDolls. built up a good reputation over time.

In order to ifoffer cheap procedures, experience, applied correctly and practitreated XO

“

coffs coast coast focus. focus. 45 coffs 51

46 coffs coast focus.

music nd e

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

When I trained (a while ago, admittedly, but Ibut don’t believe things have changed that much I don’t believe that things have changed since), hairdressers were taughtwere to shampoo that much since), hairdressers taught to and if required, hair. Cynics may shampoo and if condition required, the condition the hair. suggest thatsuggest this is sothat thatthis weiscan charge Cynics may so that we more - this ismore not so, nor it for can charge - this is is not so, reasons nor is it of for cleanliness. reasons of cleanliness.

Hair has an element of elasticity to it, whether curly or straight, and it is only when it is that this can bebe properly gauged. it wet is wet that this can properly gauged.Personally, I also findfind it much easier to maintain Personally I also it much easier to maintain tension to achieve an even cut. Even the traditional barber of old would use the clippers first first and then wash the hair before finishing finishing the

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

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

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

Get it done cheap, or get it done proper!

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

talks

out

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ct ook

coffs coast focus. 47

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

Spectacles frames need to be level on the face when fitted, particularly with multifocals and other advanced lens designs which rely on the eyes following the clear “zones”. This is similar to train rails having a constant separation, which prevents the train from leaving the track.

Some frames appear impressive when displayed, but less so on the face. Furthermore, certain designs have cosmetic appeal, but cannot be customised to fit facial features. Most people do not have symmetrical ears, with one frequently positioned higher than the other. This illustrates the importance of customised fitting of spectacles, particularly the need to adjust each temple individually, as well as providing maximum comfort while being worn.

Stepper have been designing stylish and extremely comfortable quality optical eyewear for over 40 years. Few prescription eyewear brands have this impressive heritage, which has been built on innovative and technically superior frames with an enviable reputation for quality and comfort.

Stepper designers have also incorporated years of practical experience in styles, which allow frames to be customised for a broad range of facial features.

To view the Stepper range, visit alanburrow.com.au, click on frames and then on Stepper.

48 coffs coast focus.

Toormina Physiotherapy Are you suffering pain during or after running, walking, sport or physical activity? From the way your foot meets the ground at heel strike, to the way it rolls in midstance, or the angle your back makes with your pelvis, a number of factors can influence the force through your body when moving. Does your pelvis drop to one side at heel strike, does your thigh internally rotate too far during stride or are your core muscles turning on at the right time? Is a short calf muscle causing shock through your leg and back, or is the balance between the different parts of your quadriceps muscles putting strain on your knee cap? Perhaps you are over striding, or not getting enough extension out of your hip.

New technology helps the team at Toormina Physio analyse your running or walking style to search for the cause of your problems, not just treat the symptoms. It’s not just for runners either. Maybe you have hip bursitis from the way you walk, shoulder pain from your golf swing, elbow pain from softball, back pain from fast bowling or plantar fasciitis from bush walking. Whether you have shin splints, runners knee, ITB friction, Achilles tendon pain, back pain or other symptoms during or after physical activity, the team at Toormina Physio can use slow motion analysis of your movement to help look for the source of your symptoms. Call us today on (02) 6653 3850 to book a running or movement analysis.

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COFFS

WHAT IS VI-TEA? Nature’s detox made easy. VI-Tea is a natural energy drink full of antioxidants designed to detoxify and cleanse your body of harmful toxins and create thermogenesis to assist in weight loss. VI-Tea is a low sugar, low calorie, easy to mix drink with an abundance of health benefits in every sip!

Why Is VI-Tea different?

VI-Tea is Australian made and has four active ingredients; whereas, most other products similar have only one active ingredient, being Green Tea. The reason VI-Tea is far superior then anything else on the market is because of these four super ingredients.

SUNDAY 3RD APRIL WILL MARK THE NINETEENTH INSTALMENT OF THE ANNUAL BEACHSIDE RADIOLOGY COFFS OCEAN SWIMS, MAKING IT ONE OF THE LONGEST RUNNING SPORTING EVENTS ON THE COFFS COAST.

T

he iconic event takes competitors around the Coffs Jetty and across the spectacular harbour, attracting swimmers from all over NSW and Queensland who make the annual pilgrimage to Coffs each year to take part.

Event organiser Mick Maley said, “There’s nothing like the exhilaration of competing in an ocean swim. For many people, it’s something to tick off their bucket list, and for others it’s the thrill of being connected to nature.”

Not only are the Coffs Ocean Swims a great fitness activity, they also support many local charities and community groups, including Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Sawtell Surf Life Saving Clubs, the Rotary Daybreak Club of Coffs Harbour, and the Disabled Surfers Association.

According to Paul Ellercamp, who runs an ocean swimming blog called "oceanswims.com", swimming is a sport that people can do throughout their lives. “Runners and triathletes often have use-by dates, and their bodies give up on them," he says. "Swimming is something they can do even when their bodies are worn out."

Ocean swimming is considered one of the fastest growing sports in Australia and according to figures from Ocean Swims, there has been a significant growth in the

sport, particularly over the past five years.

Wednesday and Thursday evenings as More women are rising to the challenge, well as Saturday mornings, with the now comprising 40 per cent of swimmers. main objectives being stroke correction, For those looking to enter the improving fitness and having nineteenth annual Beachside fun.

Radiology Coffs Ocean On Monday, Swims, there is a Wednesday and g in m im sw choice of a 600 Friday lunch an O ce e on ed er id ns m swim around times, you’ll find co is ing ow gr t es st fa the Jetty or a 2 the “Coffs Jetty e of th ia and al tr us A in ts km swim out swimmers” or sp ures from according to fig e has and across the making their er O cean Swims, th growth harbour, as well as way around nt been a significa ularly shorter events for the jetty and ic in the sport, part children aged 8-14. back.

There s.” e year over the past fiv Returning to Coffs is also a group as the 2016 event of swimmers ambassador is Olympic who leave from the gold and silver medallist and northern end of the Jetty one of Australia's most recognised Beach at 8am on Saturday and swimmers, Brooke Hanson, OAM. Sunday mornings for a social swim Brooke says she can’t wait to return in the harbour. to Coffs to take part in the annual Brooke encourages all those thinking Coffs Ocean Swims. “Coffs Harbour is about taking part just to enter. “Ocean my second home, and I’m really looking swimming is about taking the challenge, forward to the April 3 event. setting a goal and having fun.”

“I’ll be starting the kids’ races and The Coffs Ocean Swims cater for all handing out prizes and will be happy to ages and abilities, with the Beachside offer tips, sign autographs or just have a Radiology 2 km swim, the ANZ 600 m chat on race day,” she said.

Jetty swim and the Coffs Harbour Olympic For those interested in ocean swimming Pool 150 m and 300 m Junior swims. but not sure where to start, there are All events will be held at the protected many training options available in Coffs Coffs Jetty Beach on Sunday 3rd April.

Harbour. The Coffs Harbour Olympic Pool To enter and for more information, go to offers adult swim squads on Tuesday, www.villagesports.com.au

VI-Tea contains Green Tea and White Tea - because of Green Tea’s traditional benefits, and White Tea because it is the least processed with the highest level of antioxidants out of all the teas.

VI-Tea also contains two super foods, being Grape Seed and Lingonberry, because they are both rich in powerful antioxidants, with Lingonberry rapidly emerging as the new super berry!

With only five calories per serve and equivalent to 20 cups of green tea, this is one of the strongest and most powerful antioxidant blends on the market.

0.02 g of sugar in Fruit & Berry Blast; 0 g in the Natural.

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coffs coast focus. 49

Baringa Private Hospital ‌caring for the community In keeping with our commitment to providing quality healthcare services to the Coffs Harbour community, Baringa Private Hospital are pleased to announce a new dedicated Doctor Hotline to help with easy access to our medical, rehabilitation and short stay medical services.

Streamline access for private hospital admissions with a new dedicated doctor hotline

Easy Access 1300 742 475 Your credentialed GP or physician can now call our Easy Access 1300 number to organise a short stay (2-5 days) admission.

www.baringaprivate.com.au 31 Mackays Road, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 | Ph: 02 6659 4444 50 coffs coast focus.

SENIOR LIVING AND RETIREMENT

living AND RETIREMENT

Willaid HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT Retirement is a part of our lives that we dream about. A time hopefully free of work, when we can devote a bit more time to ourselves and ticking off some bucket list items.

At Willaid we would like you to enjoy retirement in comfort. If you are considering new chairs, or a new bed, you could consider our Topform recline and lift chairs and our i-care beds.

The Australian made Topform chairs are in five sizes to suit people of different heights.

They have great lumbar support, the fabric range is extensive, and there will be something to suit all décor.

FREEDOM AGED CARE

The i-care beds are a fully functioning electric bed with high low function and back and knee lift, but they do not look like

a hospital bed. They have an upholstered surround and bed head and when lowered, just look like a stylish addition to your bedroom. There is a range of visco and latex mattresses to suit. Great for watching TV or reading in bed.

We have these two comfortable items and many more on the floor at Willaid for you to try.

16 Isles Dr, Coffs Harbour. 8:30am - 4:30pm.

Phone 6651 7900.

Freedom Aged Care are not traditional nursing homes, nor can we be compared with any other aged care community, but, as our name implies, unique aged care communities dedicated to delivering unmatched levels of freedom, lifestyle and care.

E

very aspect of life in a Freedom built on passionate pillars of personal freedom, Aged Care community is based friendship and fun. At Freedom couples can around access to 24 hours a live together; even if one partner’s health deteday care and support, throughriorates, we simply increase the level of nursing out the day and night. Caring care to the partner requiring more care. And for you through your ageing journey is our at Freedom you can also continue to live passion and our promise. If and when with your pets in your own Freeyour health needs change, we dom home. Every Freedom will simply increase the level resident is recognised and m of nursing care you require respected as part of the do At Free n ca s le in the privacy of your own Freedom Family. up co if en ev ; er th ge Freedom home.

At Freedom our live to alth Every Freedom one partner’s he residents find more deteriorates , we e community has its own than a place to th simply increase re to Registered Nurse, with a live - they find a ca level of nursing g team of Personal Carers second family and in ir qu the partner re on site throughout the the support they need ” . more care day and night. On a dayto live independently to-day basis, every Freedom while they receive the resident has their own Personal care they need. Helping our Care Manager and a care plan specifresidents live a fulfilling lifestyle is ic to their individual needs. Freedom also has an important part of our mission. its own team of Diversional Therapists, who Freedom Aged Care has a community are on site seven days a week to coordinate right here in the heart of Coffs Harbour and and implement activities to contribute to your many more across Australia. Call us today on wellbeing.

1800 984 840. What’s life without freedom?

Each community is a vibrant social centre

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coffs coast focus. 51

" We get to keep the ounse. thing

tha t ’s most precious to

Each o ther ."

What’s 52 coffs coast focus.

life Without

freedom

SENIOR LIVING AND RETIREMENT

living AND RETIREMENT

Scooters and MOBILITY

Right AT HOME

SCOOTERS & MOBILITY PRIDE OURSELVES ON INFORMING OUR CUSTOMERS OF ALL THE ROAD RULES. The Australian Road Rules define a scooter driver as a PEDESTRIAN, so the rules for scooters are the same as the rules for pedestrians.

Since 1996, Right at Home has been providing quality support services to frail older people and younger people with disabilities and their carers on the Coffs Coast, with the aim of promoting independence and enhancing quality of life.

If there’s a suitable footpath, you MUST use it. You can only drive on the road if there’s no footpath. You MUST keep as close as practicable to the edge of the road. You must never drive out where the traffic drives.

A highly motivated and dedicated team are committed and passionate about providing personalised services for each individual and maintaining regular, ongoing contact with all clients.

You must obey the WALK and DON’T WALK signs at the traffic lights. You must never drive on a roundabout like a car.

Remember - you are a pedestrian, not a car. Top speed on a scooter is 10 km; by law, they are not allowed to go any faster.

Right at Home has a dynamic team of volunteers who willingly give their time to assist those in need. Their wealth of skills and life experiences, and their passion for giving, means they are able to really connect with service users. These connections foster true community spirit.

You will enjoy your scooter if you follow the rules. Don’t expect people to get out of your way; just say, “Excuse me,” as you go past. If you hit anyone with your scooter, you can be charged with assault, so be thoughtful at all times.

When you are in shopping centres, you MUST have your speed down as LOW as it will go. Don’t drive too close to doorways of shops in case someone is coming out - you don’t want them to trip over you. Follow these simple rules and enjoy your scooter.

Volunteers are given choice and flexibility, the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills through regular training and support, and remain active in the community.

Volunteers are reimbursed for all travel and out of pocket expenses.

For further information about receiving services or volunteering with Right at Home, contact Coffs Harbour on 6648 3650 or Woolgoolga on 6654 7221.

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SENIOR LIVING AND RETIREMENT

AND RETIREMENT

It’s amazing to find people living on the Coffs Coast who have achieved accolades at the highest levels. Merv Rose is a true tennis superhero, and he lives right next door. FOCUS grabbed a racquet and tried to return a serve to find out more ...

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hat is Merv’s connection with the Coffs Coast?

Born in Coffs Harbour in 1930, Coffs Harbour has always been Mervyn’s home. He always knew he would come back to Coffs. After moving to Melbourne in 1939, he spent most school holidays in Coffs. He then travelled the world, returning to Coffs in 1984. After 27 trips around the world, mostly travelling in summer, he still thinks Coffs Harbour has the best weather. He also loves the Coffs Coast for its beaches and golf courses.

When did he start playing tennis?

When Merv was 7 - 8 years old, his dad was the curator for two tennis courts located near Dolphin Marine Magic at the Jetty. His dad used to prop him up on a box at the net, so he could see him practicing volleys. He also loved to beat his older brother.

After leaving school at 16 years old, and after six months drafting school, Merv decided to pursue tennis full-time.

What is the most interesting aspect of tennis, in Merv’s opinion?

Visiting different countries and playing 54 coffs coast focus.

major tournaments around the world. cheating and his dad threatened to throw Tell us a bit about Merv winning the him off the court, Merv won eight games to schoolboys tournament with a borrowed five. This was Merv’s first major achievement, racquet ... and the first time he had played a proper Merv and his family moved to the game. After his win he decided to play tennis Melbourne suburb of Armadale, near as a hobby whilst studying at school.

Australia’s most famous tennis How many Davis Cups did he centre in Kooyong. Deciding win? to go into the Under 14 Merv has won five Davis boys singles following his Cups. a D eveloping friends, Merv got to the He has won seven strong volley to ve final. With a borrowed grand slams (Australian ha ’t dn di meant he as t ur co racquet from one of Single, French Single e th nd run arou pass er th ei his friends, he was and five Doubles). ey Th h. muc you or t ne e dressed in a white His style of playing th at u yo u only dress shirt, white boxer included a strong hit a winner; yo .” shorts with black socks volley; why do you had one chance (very unheard of, as the think that this is not so rules are for all white dress; popular in tennis today? however, as it was early in the It all started when his dad morning he got away with it). propped him up on a box at the Merv got to the final, competing net so he could see him. Developing a against Malcolm Mclean. With Malcolm’s strong volley meant he didn’t have to run dad owning 20 tennis courts across around the court as much. They either pass Melbourne and being the umpire of the you at the net or you hit a winner; you only final, he thought he didn’t stand a chance, had one chance. The only time players of as his dad would do anything to see his son today go to the net is to change ends. succeed; however, after Malcolm was caught Who were some of Merv’s mentors and

“

coaches?

The only coach Merv had was Mick Sweetman. Mick coached Merv for a couple of years when he was 14. He was more influenced by those around him, the players he played with, as well as just learning as you went. He had to; it was how it was back then.

What was it like to play tennis in the golden era of the 1950s?

In the 1950s he was king of the world.

Being amongst eight of the top ten players of Australia, Merv was ranked number three in his mid-20s. It was about travelling and meeting people. Back in Merv’s day, there was no money in tennis; it was about the fun of it.

There were no easy first rounds; you played hard each and every match. There was only a 30 second stop to rest. Merv recalls one game where he was playing on an outside court and was very fatigued; after his 30 seconds was up, the organisers took away his chair.

So, he cleared off under the umpire’s chair and sat under it. His opponent grabbed him by his left arm and pulled him out, cutting his arm in the process (he was a left handed player). With blood everywhere, Merv was

SENIOR LIVING AND RETIREMENT

Taking four days t and nights to ge ly on as w he , pe to Euro prepaid when he re e .H ia al sented Austr y, with da a $7 was paid ry ar H er ag his man m $2 hi g in fin an m Hop ” g. in ok a day for sm

“ trying all he could to get the opponent off him. The game ended up with Merv winning.

Tennis was fought like hell on the court, but off court tennis wasn’t mentioned; it’s how you kept friendships.

Taking four days and nights to get to Europe, he was only paid when he represented Australia. He was paid $7 a day, with his manager Harry Hopman fining him $2 a day for smoking. All other times Merv funded himself, making money anyway he could, even making bets as to who could jump over a broom.

His first overseas trip was when he was 20 years old. Playing the best in the word helped shape Merv into the player he was - players like Segman, Hoad, Rosewall, McGregor, Bromwoch, Worthington and Brown.

His first tournament in the pros was played on a swimming pool covered in boards because of the seating around the pool.

When Merv turned pro, he travelled around the world with Gonzales, Segura, Segman, Travery, Rosewall, Hoad, Cooper and Anderson. After one month on the trip

in New Zealand, Merv hadn’t won a match.

He then travelled to Los Angeles, where Merv was the odd man out (as they only needed eight of the nine players). In the round robin first game, Merv watched Hoad v Gonzales, with the first set going to 21 games to 19. Famous tennis commentator, Allison Danzig, said at the time that Hoad only missed two first serves and Gonzales missed one, with Merv sitting in the stand dodging the hard hitting serves. This shows the skill of the players at the time, with today’s top ranking players only getting about 60% first serves. The next week Merv played Gonzales in Memphis Tennessee, with Merv being beat 6 - 0, 6 - 0, 6 - 1. The following week Gonzales drew Merv as his doubles partner; however, he never showed up for the game, as he didn’t think Merv was good enough. Merv called him a few choice words and told him to teach him how to serve, so he did.

Learning from the best, Merv perfected his

backhand with Tony Trabert in Perth’s 40 degree heat, was taught forehand by Hoad and when he played Gonzales again the following week in Sydney, the score was Rose - Gonzales 16 - 14, 13 - 15 and in the third set Merv was two points from winning and Gonzales called him to the net and said, “You’ve had enough” and served two aces, beating Merv.

Playing against the world’s number one players in his first year at Wimbledon, he got to the finals with his doubles partner, Nancy Bolton.

Players in Merv’s time were playing singles, doubles and mixed doubles - something that the top players of today don’t do. He also had to play matches back to back, and recalls playing a five set game, a four set game and a three set game on the same day, because it’s what you had to do. There was no money in the sport; the only time there was money was when they were fined for bad behaviour!

Nowadays players in the first round of the Australian Open make $38,500 just for showing up. With the prize money for winning the Australian Open nowadays over $3 million, when Merv won he received a hand shake and a trophy that was so cheap he threw it away.

After a successful career as a player, Merv moved into coaching. Tell us a bit about that experience ...

Being taught by the best made Merv a better coach. He coached three women’s champions, including Margaret Court, Billie Jean King and Arantxa Sanchez, all of whom have made it to number one in the world.

He remembers coaching Nicole Pratt, who came for a weekend and stayed for three months.

What advice would Merv give to a young tennis player looking to make a career in the sport?

Don’t jump when you serve! And find a decent coach.

After a lifetime of tennis achievements, both as a player and as a coach, Merv says that he is feeling good for 86 years!

Thanks Merv. coffs coast focus. 55

SENIOR LIVING AND RETIREMENT

— 88TH —

ACADEMY AWARDS

ON THE BIG SCREEN cinebuzz for seniors Cinebuzz for Seniors is perfect for those 6651 5568 or sue_amos@birch.com.au.

MONDAY 28TH FEBRUARY 60 and over who LOVE THE MOVIES! Collect your Cinebuzz for Seniors Members receive $8.50* movie tickets, fromprizes, the Cinema Box Join us for red carpet arrivalMembership with best Card dressed special screenings, points rewards, discounted Office today and enjoy FREE membership OSCARs tipping and champagne lunch, while viewing choc tops and more. for life.Awards If you have any questions or issues the 88th Academy Our second screening of the year is The Lady signing up, please speak to our friendly staff in the Van (CTC) on Wednesday, March 10am red carpet arrival at the cinema. We are happy to help, so you 9th. All members’ tickets are just $8.50 and TICKETS can start saving $6* per visit! include a FREE morning tea from 10am, with $22 / $18 for the film commencing at 10:30am.

FilmSeniors suggestions for you: The Academy Awards brings a wonderful BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Now Showing Brooklyn selection of films to the big screen, BCCbookings contact Forand group (M) The Big Short Now Showing Cinemas presents the OSCARs Awards Sue_Amos@birch.com.au • 02 6651 5568 Hail Caesar! (CTC) Feb 25 Ceremony on February 29th. Join us eventcinemas.com.au on the red carpet, watch the glamour Steve Jobs (CTC) Mar 10 and speeches and enjoy a chicken and My Big Fat Geek Wedding 2 Mar 24 champagne lunch. Tickets are $18 ($22 *Saving based upon a normal seniors adults) for the full day’s entertainment.

(M)

Bookings are essential; contact Sue on COFFS

admission.

HA R B OUR

Cnr Bray St & Pacific Hwy

56 coffs coast focus.

Managing your Medication with Pharmacist Michael

living AND RETIREMENT

Michael has recently joined the Palms Pharmacy and has been a pharmacist in the Coffs Coast Region for the past ten years, working at Good Price Pharmacy and managing Woolgoolga Amcal Pharmacy. He recently returned to pharmacy after travelling around Canada, Ecuador, Peru and the Galapagos Islands for the past six months.

Michael is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable pharmacist with a passion for helping people improve their health. Michael and his team are continuously striving to deliver a holistic approach to all his patients’ healthcare needs. He enjoys building relationships with the community and wants to help them manage their medication.

2. Missed and double doses are the cause of most errors; using a watch alarm is a helpful reminder to take any time-sensitive medication.

Almost half of all Australians over the age of 50 take at least five prescription or vitamins on a typical day, with one third of women aged over 75 taking 10 or more different medications per day*.

3. Keep lists of all medication including non-prescription medicines, vitamins and supplements. This is helpful for doctor’s appointment, hospital stays or other appointments with health professionals.

Medication errors are on the rise, with 20 - 30 per cent of all Australian hospital admissions in the 65-and-over age group estimated to be medication-related*.

4. Keep track of side effects and contact your treating doctor should side effects occur. We offer a free MedsCheck service for those with multiple medications.

Pharmacist Michael’s Five Ways to Manage your Medicines

5. Don’t take another person’s medication, don’t take expired medication and don’t skip doses. Do take medication as directed.

1. Weekly medication packs are a safe way to manage medications and avoid errors, as they indicate the day and time to take specific medication.

*Source: http://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/ wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Literature-ReviewMedication-Safety-in-Australia-2013.pdf

coffs coast focus. 57

focuskitchens.

focusinterview.

Marcus Phillips - Designer Living Kitchens

and s d n i l B rect i D s r e Shutt

PANDORA & MARCUS

DESIGNER LIVING KITCHENS PANDORA & PETER COLLEDGE MY BRIEF WITH MARCUS WAS ... “THERE ARE NO LIMITATIONS HERE. I DON’T WANT TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA ON DESIGN, AS THAT IS WHY YOU ARE HERE, BUT I HAVE CERTAIN NEEDS AND WANTS FOR MY NEW KITCHEN. I AM AN EARTHY AND HEALTHY PERSON WHO LIVES BY THE BEACH, AND I NEED THIS SPACE TO FIT MY CRITERIA AND MY HOUSE - AND THAT IS IT.”

I

am a passionate health foodie and Natural Nutritionist, so my kitchen is my go to Happy Place where I create, relax, entertain and enjoy family dinners.

My goal for 2016 is to start healthy and raw food cooking classes from my kitchen to small intimate groups and share my knowledge of healthy lifestyle and eating real food, so I was driven by this and the fact my kitchen was 18 years old and required updating. I also required my kitchen to not represent a commercial kitchen, but to still be the inviting and entertaining hub of my home.

My brief with Marcus was ...“There are no limitations here. I don’t want to give you an idea on design, as that is why you are here, but I have certain needs and wants for my new kitchen. I am an earthy and healthy person who lives by the beach, and I need this space to fit my criteria and my house - and that is it.”

Marcus really paid attention to the colour themes in our home, our sense of family and how much we like to socialise, my goal of sharing healthy cooking workshops in my own environment and our modern beach house.

I knew straight away Marcus was on the same

58 coffs coast focus.

page with me, and I was very excited to see what he would come up with.

We met with Marcus at the showroom, and he presented his design using three dimensional technology complete with colour, so that we could almost pull out a stool and sit in it. From that moment my first reaction was, WOW WOW WOW! I LOVE it. I could almost touch it and feel it. I did not need to overthink or correct anything in that design, as it was completely perfect. The price was a nice surprise, which allowed me to get some really top quality appliances.

Marcus suggested finishes and helped guide us through any other finishes that we wanted.

It was a very easy, enjoyable and extremely rewarding process. Abby kept us up to speed with the progress of installation every week, and it arrived and was installed exactly on target. They did not miss a beat.

The finished product was above and beyond my expectations and is my dream kitchen. My friends and family have all been very impressed with our kitchen, and the cooking has certainly reflected the tone - and dare I say gone up to 5 stars!

W

here did Blinds & Shutters Direct come from?

Purchasing Doors Plus 10 years ago, I very quickly found my customers wanting more than just doors. So I chose to diversify into window furnishings, adding to our already excellent products and customer service. I found most of our customers were renovating, building new homes or just updating, and we wanted to be able to give them the quality options for their window furnishings as we did for their doors. I had previously worked fitting blinds and shutters for several exclusive local interior design businesses, as well as being a licensed cabinet maker/builder for over 30 years, so it was an easy addition to my business.

How did you do that?

Doors Plus staff and I constantly source from industry qualified manufacturers using the best quality components, fabrics and fittings.

We are very aware of the need for affordable options. Our customers drive our business in that way; we listen to their needs and with our experience, source the best options. But we don’t leave you there ... We have a team of experienced fitters to complement your purchase. Just part of the service - all our blinds and shutters come with full installation included in the price.

What sort of things do customers want?

Basically, a wide range of window covering options. We are able to provide emerging products and new trending items to fulfil their needs. Roller blinds, vertical blinds, timber Venetian blinds, Roman blinds, panel glides, plantation shutters ... Come and ask how we can help! The latest trend is shutters.

Most customers don’t realise the range and options available for shutters alone. Thermal, aluminium, Bass Wood and composite ... Each with their own application, look and purpose.

I am proud to say that most of our blinds are manufactured in Australia. Come on down

to our new showroom on Cnr Pacific Hwy and Marcia Sts, and we can help you with your choices and show you the differences in products so you can make your informed decision, not based on price alone.

What about outside blinds and awnings?

We have a full range of Fabric or Screen external awnings which are adaptable to most applications from a simple pull down one to protect that West facing window to fully automated systems to fully enclose your Alfresco area and Retracting folding arm ones as well. We also do a full range of High quality Aluminium roller shutters including CycloneSafe and Bushfire Approved Aluminium roller shutters. Come in and see us today.

What if I don’t really know what I want?

We provide a free in house consultation measure and quote service. So we can come and see the area in need and talk with you about what you are trying to achieve and talk about what products may work best. Having someone with experience in a wide range of options for blinds, shutters and awnings opens up your choices and will leave you with the best solution and look possible.

What is different about Blinds & Shutters Direct?

Most other blind, shutter and awning suppliers DO NOT offer a happiness guarantee.

Typically, their products do not allow returns or exchanges. At Blinds & Shutters Direct, we are different! Our commitment is to provide great products and service. We also pride ourselves on turning up every time and on time to our measure and quotes. Faulty items are unacceptable and therefore will be replaced, repaired or refunded - and service, well, we guarantee that you will be happy with everything we offer. With Blinds & Shutters Direct there will be no compromise; you will be looking up at your newly furnished windows, doors or patios in admiration for many years to come. We guarantee it!

Thanks Danny.

focus_real estate

Martin Wells from McGrath Estate Agents

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real estate update HARD TO BELIEVE FEBRUARY IS ON ITS LAST LEGS ALREADY. WHAT A WHIRLWIND START TO THE YEAR FOR THE COFFS COAST.

ost agents I have been talking to have indicated increased buyer activity, greater than historical averages, yet there is still somewhat of a stock shortage in some areas. At the other end of the spectrum, in some suburbs there appears to be somewhat of a “two-speed” market appearing within the Coffs Coast. Core Logic (RP Data) reports the following interesting statistics for the period 1/1/16 - 15/2/16: • 2450 has had 104 sales with 744 properties on the market (14% of the listed homes selling), • 2452 has had 37 sales with 119 properties on the market (31% of the listed homes selling), • yet 2454 has had just 18 sales with 154 properties on the market (just 11% of the listed homes selling) From these figures, you can see that 2450 and 2454 would appear to still be buyers’ markets, with supply dominating demand, and therefore we can expect to see some softening of markets in these areas in the short term. 2452 continues to have strong demand, with one third of all homes selling during the same period. It also highlights that it wouldn’t be wise to engage an agent who is adopting a whole of Coffs Coast approach, without having staff specialists in certain areas.

When engaging an agent in your area, ask to see their recent successes and case studies for sales immediately surrounding your home. Ask them details about their intimate knowledge of the local property market and how your home in particular fits into that market.

Ask them to nominate where the closest schools are, closest transport, and the council zoning of your property. These are all relevant questions that your potential purchasers will be asking, and expecting immediate responses to. Go to realestate.com.au and search their

agent profile to review their recent sales and testimonials. Send them an email enquiry for another property and gauge their level of professionalism in handling the enquiry in a timely and efficient manner.

Another fantastic opportunity to assist in the determination of who you will entrust to handle the process of selling your most valuable and emotional asset is to attend several open homes of the few agents you wish to interview. How they present the home, the way they set-up the marketing material, how they greet you, is their appearance that of a professional responsible for such a large transaction, and does their ability to respond to questions about the home, and their local knowledge fill you with a sense satisfaction that they are working hard to get the best result with transparency and integrity. All this can be achieved before you even have them at your own home. Finally, did they take the critical step of calling you back to discuss whether the property will be of interest to you going forward and ask for valuable feedback for their vendor?

I would encourage everyone to research and shortlist based on fact, data and referral. Ask around your network of friends and family locally. They are the most trusted source when it comes to accurate feedback about a property experience. Today more than ever before you can find out so much about an agent and their agency well before you make the commitment to hand them the keys to your castle. As always, feel free to drop me a line at martinwells@mcgrath.com.au if you have any particular property matters you would like us to cover.

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. 59

CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Michele and Jeffrey Hardcastle

Shannon Mitchell, Shawn Bergquist, David Hurley, Jane Surry and Scott Seccombe

The Sultana Family (Absolute Entertainment)

Rebekah Campbell and Tanya Watts

Margie and Melanie

Sam (The Sugar Kitchen)

Bonnie Woods and Jordon Oppy

Virgina Jolly and Drew Stever

SOCIAL/SCENE

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nly recently, when friends arrived from Sydney for a visit, a group of us strolled down to beachside Sawtell, three nights in a row and sat outside on First Avenue dining at a different restaurant every night! So many choices all over the Coffs Coast.

The Sawtell Summer Sessions could have easily been mistaken for the Antiques Roadshow just recently, when special guest Alan Carter paid us a visit! He was positioned outside the fabulous antique shop in Sawtell. The store, “La Bella Cosa” had a line up down First Avenue!

Alan is Australia’s foremost expert on antiques and collectables, enjoying over 50 years in the antiques industry. He is the publisher of more than 43 books on antiques and collectables and has produced more than 20 videos, DVDs and appears as an expert on several television programmes and radio shows. Visitors to the Summer Sessions had brought down their treasures for a complimentary appraisal.

Apart from being a writer for FOCUS, I am lucky enough to be the Fashion Shoot Stylist for the magazine as well. The team rocked up to the Racing Club to prepare for the shoot of the front cover this month. The theme was touching on the series Mad Men, and our fabulous four “Women in Business” were dressed up 1950s/1960s style.

Le Dãin Designs had styled and dressed the 60 coffs coast focus.

Nicole (Bower Bird and Browne Florist)

LONG SUMMER NIGHTS AND GLORIOUS BLUE SKIES ARE WHAT CREATE PERFECT TIMES HERE ON THE COFFS COAST. WE HAVE BEEN MAKING MORE OF BEING ABLE TO DINE ALFRESCO LATELY ...

ladies in the clothing and jewellery from the era.

Lucky our new label from “Miss Lily White” of Melbourne had arrived just in time! So much fun on the shoot with a fabulous team. Lauren from Living Doll perfected the styling with hair and makeup to complete the look. To add some feel to the shoot, we had Pat and Glenda O’Carroll from the C.ex Sports Touring and Classic Car Club. They delivered their glossy, bright red MGB to the Coffs Harbour Racing Club to make the perfect addition to an image for a sensational front cover!

Staying with the C.ex Coffs Sports Touring and Classic Car Club, we attended their annual event, which is held at the President Peter Titmus’ and Margaret Clare’s property in Heritage Park. On arrival, we perused the beautiful cars in all their glory, which were being showcased on a lawn with shade shelters and refreshment ready for the guests. The members had enjoyed a game of golf prior to the BBQ. There was a mixture of classic cars, from MGBs MX5s,Minis, Morris Minors, Holdens, Ford Falcons and others, making up 67 cars in total. As the sun went down, over 100 members and guests enjoyed their twilight dinner.

The car club has 120 members and meet on the first Monday of every month except January.

They have over 50 events a year. They are also involved in Charity Work, assisting the Men’s Shed and supporting Ovarian Cancer fundraisers.

For more information, visit their website: www.cexcoffsstccarclub.info The FOCUS team attended the offical launch of the two new offices for McGrath Estate Agents, Coffs Harbour and Sawtell. Over 100 guests, from clients, to business owners, to community leaders, builders and developers, to industry colleagues and media representatives had the opportunity to savour some of Bonville Golf Resort’s finest breakfasts and treat themselves to a dose of industry knowledge and predictions from Australia’s most sought after property and business speaker - John McGrath. Owner and Principal Martin Wells opened the proceedings with a brief history of their business growth, and the humbling experience of being chosen to represent the McGrath brand at a local level.

Martin commented that being associated with the McGrath brand brought so many positives and new opportunities to the Coffs Coast Market. John McGrath presented an enlightening presentation around the state of the market, anticipated head-winds and tail-winds, where we were in the property cycle, and firmly believes the NSW regional coastal areas may see between 20 - 30% growth over the next few years. This belief is based on the economic fundamentals of supply and demand, the expected population increases forecast and the continuing desire for home buyers to head to regional areas. All in all, it was

wonderful morning of great insight, glorious food and great people.

The FOCUS team attended the latest BWN Breakfast meeting just recently. What better way to start the day than with a scrumptious breakfast and million dollar views of the Pacific Ocean.

The room was a-flutter with conversation, as the Coffs Coast BWN kicked off 2016 with their popular networking event at the Coffs Harbour Deep Sea Fishing Club. The scenery added to the relaxed vibe of the morning, and exciting partnerships were formed which will further fuel business growth for a number of businesses on the Coffs Coast. Tuesday, March 8th marks 2016 International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. C.ex will host the Coffs Coast event, with the Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year awards recognising some of our wonderful and driven local community focused leaders. Post March, there will be an evening meeting at First Avenue Gallery with canapés and beverages - looking forward to that!

March brings autumn, but there is still time to enjoy the fabulous weather and relish in the great outdoors. Here is to making the most of it ...

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Peter Titmus and Margaret Clare

Pat and Glenda O’Carroll

Kevin and Gail Quinn

Luke, Erin and Maddison Smith

Phil Carmichael and Robyn Maskell

David and Roz Kennedy

B: Lee Fudge, Peter Titmus, Pat O’Carroll and Ian Sagaris F: Luke Smith, Glen Standoes and Jim Brown

Jade Woodward, Bonnie Cappell, Prue Sauerbier, Kyria, and Donna Alderman

Sandra Belling, Margaret Cameron, Anne Beasley, Sharon Pelt, Jacqui Barnett and Charmaine Tanner

Susan Douglas, Jennifer Down and Catherin Clyne

Focus ‘Women in Business’ cover shoot

My Holland and Emma Rhoades

Candice Weick and Sharon Peterson

Janelle Turner and Kyria

Margaret Bonfiels from Special Occasions

McGrath Coffs & Sawtell Launch

Sharon Palt and Bonnie Cappell

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tourism

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VISIT S AW ND

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SAWTELL

VISIT S AW

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with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast

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Vice President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Martin Wells

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COULD WE DO MORE? YOU KNOW IT’S HARD NOT TO JUST KEEP FALLING IN LOVE WITH THE PLACE WE’RE LUCKY ENOUGH TO CALL HOME AND HAVE BUSINESSES IN. WE SHOULD ALL BE INCREDIBLY THANKFUL FOR THE DIVERSITY OF GOODS AND SERVICES, MEALS AND ENTERTAINMENT, LOCATIONS AND ATMOSPHERE.

S

ometimes however, we just need that business community and provides a forum to stop and ask ourselves, “Is for all business owners to come together, there more I could do to make share ideas, speak freely, learn, leave prejudice, our business community better for jealousy and competitive egos at the door. As a all who come to shop, dine and Chamber of Commerce we strive to give back visit?” Absolutely, there is. Here are just a few to the community that rewards us for using suggestions: our services, or buying our products, • Imagine the impact on through sponsorships, commuincreasing repeat business if nity events such as Chilli you took the time to call Festival, Summer Sessions, every one of your custargeted marketing However, all tomers to say hi twice a and promotion, and ld ou businesses sh year to ask them how representation at y lit bi si take the respon l they’ve been, how government forums ta vo of playing a pi n is the product they across all levels aimed io ot om pr role in the e purchased going, let at improving our busith of s es and succ ork w ey them know about new ness community and th ity un m com t. ” en es products or services local community. pr re d an in being provided, and of However, all businesses course, when may we see should take the responsiyou back in Sawtell? bility of playing a pivotal role • Imagine the impact to the in the promotion and success broader local tourism industry if every of the community they work in and person that walked into your business represent. A Chamber of Commerce is walked out “raving fans” and vocalised to only as strong as the people from businesses their friends and family how amazing your who volunteer their time to improve and create business and the Sawtell people are. opportunities for all. Sadly, it is often left to the • Imagine if instead of being protective and few to create the opportunities for all. We eninsular around our businesses, if everyone courage all local businesses to join the chamber cross-promoted or offered suggestions from and have the input and sense of community. other business about how good, or what Together, we can achieve anything. products and services they could receive if they Being a community isn’t about how much can visited. you get out of a situation for personal gain. It • Imagine if every business was dedicated to is all about how much you put in to your compooling resources and business thinking in a munity with legitimate, value-add propositions constructive environment. and actions that set you apart as a community You see, being a business community is built, focussed individual and business that yields the and succeeds on the premise of “community”. greatest rewards.

A Chamber of Commerce is representative of Imagine that …

“

62 coffs coast focus.

COFFS COAST FIT FOR THE FUTURE FANTASTIC NEWS! OUR PIECE OF PARADISE HAS BEEN DECLARED “FIT FOR THE FUTURE” (FFTF) IN THE NSW GOVERNMENT’S RECENT ASSESSMENT OF COUNCILS THROUGHOUT THE STATE.

A

s a popular coastal destination, we can continue to promote our region offering a premium tourism destination experience and develop ongoing campaigns that will ensure the Coffs Coast region remains sustainable into the future. Although the FFTF report did not list Coffs Harbour City Council for merger, the report proposed joint organisational functions such as regional service delivery and sharing of skills and best practice. For local tourism this will create exciting new opportunities, including campaigns across regional boundaries that promote day trip experiences and target increased visitor nights to the region. Coffs Coast recently upgraded their online presence to be mobile friendly, using technology specifically designed to be modified at the click of button, with new destination and product information.

The Coffs Coast website: www.coffscoast. com.au is the region’s official tourism website, providing national and international visitors with all the information they need to not only plan their holiday, but book online and share information about our region. The Coffs Coast website includes the 101 things to do, with activities from “trails to driving”, “eco-tours to whale watching” and “skydives to camel rides”. The website lists over 200 places to stay, with lots of accommodation options from “beachside resorts, to farm stays” located in 14 destinations from Red Rock in the north, to Urunga in the south and Dorrigo heading west.

The website highlights the latest information on local events, including the BCU Coffs Triathlon from the 5 to 6 March and the Touch Football Australia’s National Touch League from 9 to 12 March. The website also provides information on regular events such as local markets and annual events, including our world class events World Rally Australia and the International Buskers Festival.

The Coffs Coast website uses social media channels to target across our region with information on accommodation, attractions, local events and imagery of local nature hot spots.

Our social media channels include Facebook to stay up to date with events, Twitter to join the conversation, YouTube to get a taste, and Instagram to be inspired with beautiful imagery.

To complement the website, we have also launched the Coffs Coast app, a free mobile application for Apple and Android devices. The Coffs Coast App is designed to help visitors organise their holiday across our regional locations, with mapping and touring trails to highlight the region’s beauty and diversity.

The app has over 200 local businesses listed as places to stay, eat, drink and play. If you wish to list your tourism business, just contact tourism@coffscoast.com.au and your business will be listed for a $150 fee.

The Coffs Coast App is FREE from iTunes or Google Play; download it today. www.coffscoast.com.au Where memories are made.

Come in and meet Ian and his friendly team at Escape Travel Coffs Harbour, located in Coffs Central Shopping Centre.

Ian and the fantastic team of experienced travel consultants pride themselves on customer service, have a genuine passion for travel and the sharing of travel knowledge to plan your amazing travel memories.

PL A N YOU R

E

scape Travel has everything you need for your dream holiday.

With affordable airfares to all your favourite destinations, fantastic accommodation, all-inclusive cruise packages, exciting tours and more, they can create your perfect escape. Whether you are seeking a big city break or a relaxing beach holiday, a close to home getaway or a trip right across the globe, Escape Travel Coffs Harbour is the place to start.

Snag a cheap flight to one of the 10 hottest destinations around the globe with our special escape fares. All you have to do is book any hotel for four nights at one of these destinations, and you will be eligible for our exclusive escape fare offers. Discover the wonders of New York, the sizzling beaches of Phuket or the magic of Paris. Make your holiday extra special with our wide range of tours and

local experiences - from a cooking class in Bali to a shopping tour in Singapore, we can help you discover both the highlights and the hidden gems in your dream destination.

If you would love nothing more than a cocktail by the pool while enjoying endless ocean views, then check out our all-inclusive cruise packages. Set sail on a river cruise through the famous waterways of Europe, or make your way through the idyllic South Pacific Islands. Admire the striking fjords of Alaska or simply cruise to the magnificent Whitsunday Islands in our own backyard.

However you see your holiday unfolding, we have cheap airfares, quality accommodation, excellent value cruises and popular tours all at the ready. The team at Escape Travel Coffs Harbour have travelled the world and love to share their insider knowledge, so why not take advantage of their expertise and speak to the

holiday people today!

Escape Travel’s new new Europe tailor-made holidays collections will bring your dream European holiday to life, with an itinerary that's created specifically with you in mind. If you prefer travelling at your own pace over sticking to a strict schedule or enjoy authentic local experiences over stock-standard sightseeing, then our tailor-made holiday collection is for you.

We can plan an itinerary that suits your interests, your style and your pace with a mix of boutique hotels and amazing experiences.

Get off the well-worn path and experience something different. From a week-long sojourn taking in the famous Rioja wine region in Spain to the raw beauty of cascading waterfalls and spectacular fjords in Iceland or island hopping your way around Croatia, we can tailor-make your holiday to for you perfectly. If you can

dream it, we can build it! Do you want to add an extra night? No problem. Do you want to stay in a villa in Tuscany or a restored castle in Spain? We can do that! Do you want to taste champagne at Moet & Chandon? You'd be silly not to. The possibilities are endless. Let Ian and his team at Escape Travel Coffs Central Shopping Centre help you create your perfect tailor-made holiday.

You also have access to exclusive holiday packages and premium airfares, 24/7 for assistance from Escape Travel holiday experts and flexible payment options with twelvemonth interest free packages, underpinned by the guarantee that Escape Travel Coffs Harbour won’t be beaten on price.

We look forward to speaking with you! Visit us in store at Coffs Central Shopping Centre, call us on 1300 650 326 or check out the website: escapetravel.com.au

WHY WAIT?

ESCAPE NOW WITH12 MONTHS INTEREST FREE^ Escape Travel Coffs Harbour Coffs Central Shopping Centre, Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

Your next holiday could be sooner than you thought. Talk to us today about planning your next getaway, cruise or tour.

1300 650 326

escapetravel.com.au

^Interest free: Approved applicants only on a Lombard 180 Visa card. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply including a $99 Annual Fee charged on the account open date and annually on the anniversary of the account open date. Minimum finance amount applies and is valid on holidays over $999. Interest, currently 22.99% p.a., is payable on any balance outstanding after the 12 month Interest Free period. Ask in store for details. Credit provided by Lombard Finance Pty Limited ABN 31 099 651 877, Australian Credit Licence number 247415. Lombard® is brought to you by FlexiGroup®. #Price Match: Applies to genuine quotes from airlines/Australian registered businesses/websites for travel that originates/departs from Australia. Quote must be in writing & presented prior to booking. Fare must be available. ~Seniors: $100 off available per person with presentation of Australian Seniors Card at time of quotation.

Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Escape Travel. ATAS Accreditation No. A10412.

ETCOH68872

coffs coast focus. 63

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with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

THE TWO GREAT LOVES Local tour company Quadrant Australia are excited to announce their Highlights of Italy and Spain Tour. This tour is being escorted by our very own travel guru and FOCUS travel writer, Kerry Moss.

Savour the cultural highlights, the regional produce and culinary delights of Italy, whilst at the same time gain an appreciation of the country’s agriculture. Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country, and the Quadrant Australia Highlights of Italy Tour will visit many of these.

The tour gets off the tourist trail in Southern Italy with visits to olive groves, vineyards and farms along the way. Soak up the sunshine on the beautiful Amalfi Coast, whilst enjoying delicious regional foods and local wines.

With an optional extension to Spain to take in

64 coffs coast focus.

some of the country’s rich cultural heritage and best loved sights, this farmers’ tour is a unique opportunity to experience two of the most incredible European countries on offer.

Neil, a past traveller with Quadrant Australia, said: “It was one of the best tours I have ever been a part of. I would highly recommend Quadrant Australia tours; they are a great mixture of farm visits and spectacular tourist venues with excellent local commentary, led by very talented and wonderful personnel.”

Quadrant Australia has been operating tours for over 30 years. They have tours to Europe, USA, Canada, South Africa, Asia and throughout Australia. They have an office located in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour, or you can find out more about their tours at: www.quadrantaustralia.com

LOOKING FOR TRAVEL INSPIRATION? DREAMING ABOUT MY NEXT HOLIDAY DESTINATION IS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE PARTS OF THE PLANNING. BUT ONCE YOU’VE TICKED OFF SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITES, HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHERE TO GO NEXT?

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ur FOCUS travel writer, Kerry Moss, has compiled a list of questions to help you.

Can you travel for a reason (other than the blatantly obvious reason that you like to travel of course)? Perhaps there is a festival or special event you can include on your travels.

Make a tropical holiday out of friends getting married in Fiji. Package up your desire to have a flutter on the horses with a city escape at the Melbourne Cup. Or find your spiritual (and colourful) self at the Holi Festival in India.

Do you choose the accommodation or the destination?

Maybe you want to stay in an indulgent spa resort or the world’s most luxurious hotel. Perhaps you like the idea of a themed hotel or a resort that offers all-inclusive packages. Sometimes the accommodation is the attraction, and it wouldn’t really matter where in the world the hotel was, it’s the accommodation that you are searching for.

Why not combine your two loves - travel and your hobby?

There are travel companies that focus solely on special interest travel.

Think yoga retreats in the hills of Bali or Foodie Tours of Italy. If your idea of a dream holiday includes a round of golf in the morning followed by drinks in the clubhouse, then there are loads of choices for you too.

If you’d like to go one step further and learn as you travel, then there are also companies who specialise in educational travel, where you can travel with an expert and learn as you go. Examples such as photography tours or farmers’ tours often give travellers the chance for training and learning from those in their industry.

Who are you travelling with? And what do you

hope to get out of the holiday?

The type of holiday you yearn for can sometimes be limited by your travelling companions.

Some destinations are more suitable to group travel; some are more appealing for individuals.

If you are travelling as a family, sit down and discuss it as a family. What does everyone like to do? Is there a destination that satisfies a diverse range of interests and activities? Or is this year you choose to keep the kids happy when the idea of Disneyland sends you cold?

If you are planning a romantic getaway, research the options. Your idea of a romantic weekend might be completely different to someone else’s. See what pre-packaged ideas are available. Packages with extra inclusions are only a good value if you use the extra inclusions.

If you don’t like the idea of a couples massage, then you’d be crazy to pay extra to have it included. Customise your getaway to meet your own needs.

A fast growing area of travel is volunteer tourism, where travellers give back to the community in which they are travelling. It could be as simple as using locally based tour guides or eating in local restaurants rather than large multi-national hotel restaurants, or as dedicated as being involved in the building of local school. Travelling with a conscience is good for everyone.

Visit a travel agent ...They’re the experts in travel. The good ones have travelled extensively and have loads of stories to share. Develop a relationship with your travel agent, and they’ll pretty soon be able to make recommendations based on your interests, budget and trends of upcoming popular destinations. They spend all day every day researching holidays for people just like you.

Whatever your inspiration, it is better to see and experience it just once than it is to hear about it a hundred times.

focusinterview.

CARING FOR THEIR OWN

MEN LEAGUE HELPING OUT YOUR MATES HAS BEEN A HUGE PART OF RUGBY LEAGUE SINCE ITS INCEPTION. IT WAS ON THIS PREMISE THAT THE MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION WAS FOUNDED. FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH PRESIDENT PETER BARRETT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT THEY DO.

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n 11th July 2002, Men members, which we formed six years ago. of League was formed to Our achievements include welfare visits to take care for those from hospitals, nursing homes and retirement the Rugby League family villages, and we always present them a in need and its other polo shirt and cap; the response makes it all charities. Support is given worthwhile. We have provided wheel chairs, to those from all levels of the game who have entry ramps, food vouchers and maintenance suffered an injury or illness and are in financial of properties and Sawtell RLC with a hardship, from the grass roots canteen staff Defibrillator for game days. through to former NRL stars, be it medical I am proud to have been President costs, respite care, food vouchers for the six years with a small or just providing support for hardworking committee, as I those who are entering a have always been involved This is an time in their life where in the game myself Australia wide loneliness is ever and last year coached sporting charity s present. Men of League Nambucca Heads to ha association and Welfare Manager Ben the Final in A Grade. ches . grown to 42 bran ted Ross is heavily involved This gives me the bu They have distri in mental health with opportunity to thank in over $4 million t or the young, and it has the game I enjoy. I must pp benevolent su � . ed taken over from the thank the great support ne to those in other issues. we get from sponsors for The forming of the our biggest day of the year foundation began with at Coffs Harbour Race Club in discussions between former the first week of December, having Judiciary Commissioner and Canterbury attracted up to 300 supporters for the Prop Jim Hall, Manly Back Max Brown luncheon and speakers. and the great Ron Coote AM and current To join or find out more, visit our website: Chairman, who expressed concern for former www.menofleague.com or contact me players doing it tough. through my email: barrettcoote@gmail.com This is an Australia wide sporting charity To join, just go online and be a part of our association and has grown to 42 branches. group for $20 annually.

They have distributed over $4 million in Men of League will continue to grow with benevolent support to those in need. Our more help from joining members, and its North Coast Branch ranges from Grafton future is very bright. to Kempsey and has over five hundred Peter Barrett - President.

“

coffs coast focus. 65

ED YOU'RE INVIT COFFS AMBASSADORs TOURS

FREE relaxing Tours for all ages

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 are designed to share our programme and the memories we have made.

Brighton FLOOR SANDING Timber floors: a lovely look for your home on the Coffs coast. Welcome to Dave Brighton Floor Sanding. I am a fourth generation timber flooring specialist. I have been operating on the Coffs Coast since 1996 however I have been working away on other projects and I am back on the Coffs Coast full-time. I have a wide range of experience when it comes to timber floors, and I am happy to speak to anyone in regards to their timber flooring problems.

Finished floors in the past The School of Arts building in Sydney, NSW, 1999 The Conservatorium of Music, Sydney, NSW, 2000 Brisbane Broncos Leagues Club (with Pro Line Timber Floors) 2002 Northern NSW school halls The rebuild of Newcastle after the floods in 2005 The rebuild of Bundaberg after the floods in 2011 and again in 2013. We are Members of ATFA and master builders.

When it comes to getting your job done by someone with knowledge of a timber floor, don’t go past a licensed and accredited member of The Australian Timber Flooring Association, where the standards are high and the reliability is everything.

Speak with us when you are in the market for a new timber floor or even a sand and polish on the Coffs Coast.

EXPLORE COFFS COAST THIS AUTUMN Discover some of Coffs’ best kept secrets – stunning headlands, beaches and gardens on a FREE Coffs Ambassadors Tour.

Nine unique tours are on offer this Autumn with the friendly Coffs Ambassadors tour guides: BUSH TUCKER AT WOOLGOOLGA LAKE Saturday, 19 March (10:00am – 11:30am) KOALAS IN OUR BACKYARD Sunday, 27 March (10:00am – 12:00pm) A SENSE OF MOONEE Saturday, 2 April (10:00am -12:00pm) CORAMBA RAINFOREST STROLL Saturday, 23 April (10:00am – 12:00pm) MAGICAL MULLAWAY Saturday 30 April (10:00am – 12:00pm) COFFS REGIONAL COMMUNITY GARDEN TOUR Sunday, 1 May (10:00am – 12:00pm) HARBOUR HISTORY WALK Saturday, 14 May (10:00am – 12:00pm) GROW YOUR OWN SUSTAINABLE FOOD Sunday, 29 May (10:00am – 1:00pm) FOR THE KIDS SCHOOL HOLIDAY WALK The Great Sea Turtle Adventure Tuesday, 12 April (10:00am – 12:00pm)

tour at u m n om.au t u A B o o k y o u r F R E E dors.c www.coffsambassaon Centre on 6648 4990 o ati r phone the Visitor Inform

COFFS HARBOUR

2030

66 coffs coast focus.

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Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

arrin, tell us a little about your working background …

I spent 25 years in banking and believe me, it’s not as boring as it sounds.

My whole career was spent working in the areas you see of a bank - branches, online, commercial banking and business banking.

My last few roles were running digital, call centres, retail and business banking. I’m not a finance geek - I don’t see banking as fundamentally any different to what I do here. It’s about providing great products to customers, wrapped around exactly what it is that they’re after. It’s also about constantly looking to find your point of difference. To me, that’s the fun part. You’re challenged with trying to bring something new and fresh to a long-established industry.

After 20 years with Westpac, I went to work at CUA, the largest credit union in Australia. That was probably the most fun I’ve ever had in my career. I was so passionate about my work and worked with a group of people really inspired to change the way the industry looked at things. And the fact that we were owned by our customers meant you only had the one stakeholder to look after - your customer - and all decisions were based around that. The CUA experience holds me in such good stead here, as we could be innovative, creative, and there was room to explore. It was a very different approach to the more traditional, stable and conservative cultures I’d previously experienced in the industry.

So why the decision to step away?

I loved what I was doing, but felt that it was time for a change. That sense had been building over time for me. I thought about all that I had learnt over 25 years and what fired me up each day, and there was a

burning desire to go do something completely part contributes to the authenticity. This place different. There comes a point when you ask is not about me - it’s a different experience for yourself if you should keep doing something each person coming here, and we have a very as part of an organisation, or whether you diverse customer base, so integrity has to be at want to explore the broader world out there. I the cornerstone of what we do. wanted to take a punt.

Does social media play an important part Tell us about how you came to own in your marketing?

Element Bar. Without a doubt, that’s our number one As it turned out, my partner, Christina, marketing tool. We use it to portray our found out the same day I left CUA that she personality. Our communication has to be was pregnant, so it was an exciting time in our aligned with our brand personality; it shouldn’t lives. We weren’t leaning particularly towards feel fabricated. The posts are informative but hospitality, but were keen are fun too and I’d like to try something away to think, relatable. We’re from Brisbane and on the newer to Instagram, but I’m inspired by those coast. I heard about this find it very effective. who think differently. space being available from What challenges have I can be a bit OCD an ex banking colleague, you faced? (obsessive compulsive) actually. I’d also lived You mean apart from and somewhat of a and worked in Coffs opening Element and perfectionist, so it’s really previously, so knew the welcoming my son within great to hear the point of region. I came and had a view of others. You can’t a three month period! be arrogant and lose sight look and had a sense right Let’s just say, last year was of the fact that you’re all away about what I could tough, and my partner working together. ” do with Element Bar, and Christina was absolutely it all went from there. amazing - overseeing We took on the lease and the move and adapting opened in February last year. to motherhood beautifully, even whilst I was What did you hope to achieve then - and knee deep in getting the bar up and running. has this changed?

My biggest challenge is not spending 24 It’s very much what I pictured and while hours a day here! Finding the right people to we’ve certainly had to adapt things along the work with can be another challenge. Also, way, I sit here a year later and I’m thrilled with finding the balance between needs and wants what we’ve created. We’ve remained true to can be difficult at times. There are always a our original vision. Of course, we also keep limited number of resources, so you have to very open minded - taking on board feedback weigh up the most important priorities to from staff and customers. A place needs to ensure you’re still delivering a great product/ appeal. It’s a cool place that people love the service. Consistency is hugely important. We look of, but it needs to have its own soul and like our winter months to be the benchmark, personality. It needs to feel authentic, and rather than relying on the summer/peak that comes down to how our people interact periods. with customers, the food, the service, the Can you share 3 top business tips with us? ambience, the entertainment - everything in You’ve got to have a vision and know what

“

you’re trying to create. Without this, how else do you get people to come along for the ride, or bring out the best in those working with you?

You need amazingly good people. That’s a constant challenge. I work hard to find the right people and recognise that it works both ways. They need to feel it’s the right fit for them too.

It’s one thing to be committed, but it’s a whole other thing to really bleed your vision and your place. I’m a big believer in the need to demonstrate your passion and be very hands on. People will give you so much more if they see how passionate and driven you are in your own business.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by those who think differently.

I can be a bit OCD (obsessive compulsive) and somewhat of a perfectionist, so it’s really great to hear the point of view of others. You can’t be arrogant and lose sight of the fact that you’re all working together. I never want to be a culture driven by fear, where people don’t feel that they can talk to me and share their opinions. In listening to others, you’re opening yourself up to great opportunities.

How do you unwind away from work?

I’m loving time at the moment with our young son. I get such a kick out of watching him cruise around. We’ve got a good routine.

Sunday is our family day. I try to have two days off through the week - it helps that we’ve moved very close by now too. The three of us will often go out for breakfast together as well. We still enjoy coming to Element during our time off, seeing live music and having a drink. I also love to play the guitar. Admittedly, I play badly and can’t sing, but I find it really peaceful and therapeutic. It’s great to have such talented local entertainers - I watch them with a blend of admiration and envy!

Many thanks Darrin. coffs coast focus. 67

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H A

TYRERIGHT TYRE TIPS

ir Proper inflation is the single most when they are fitted to wheels for the first important part of tyre care. It is the time or after a repair. essential ingredient for keeping Have wheels and tyres balanced if there are tyres in good condition, to provide signs of vibration, wheel wobble or patchy tyre optimum performance and give maximum life. wear. Tyres should be balanced about every It is air that keeps tyres fit and safe and carries 20,000 km, and vehicle alignment checked the weight of the vehicle and its load, not the annually or every 25,000 km. rubber or the casing material.

Tyres lose air Tyres lose air through the proBalanced tyres Balanced tyres are important cess of permeation. Changes in temperature for driving comfort and long tyre life. Unbalcan also affect the rate at which your tyres lose anced tyres cause vibration, resulting in driver air. Generally speaking, a tyre could lose one or fatigue, and premature tyre wear to your two pounds of air pressure per month in cool THIS IS NOT BUSINESS AS USUAL vehicle’s suspension. Tyres should be balanced weather and even more in the heat.

with John Ragen from Coffs Coast Motors

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

ow often do you need to get your car serviced?

Different manufacturers recommend different intervals. Check your service book for the recommended times and km. Your first 1,000 km service is free on new cars, and some manufacturers recommend 10,000 km and some every 15,000 km, depending on your vehicle. If you are not sure, ring your brand’s service advisor for advice.

What fluids do I need to check?

Before going on a major trip, it is a good idea to check your fluid levels: dip and check your engine oil, check your radiator for coolant levels, and check your brake fluid levels.

How often do regular maintenance tasks need to be carried out, and what is included?

Depending on which service your vehicle is due for, it could be a minor or a major service.

ALL-NEW JAGUAR XF

Your local service advisor will inform you when you book your vehicle in, depending on your vehicle’s km at the time.

Is there anything you can do to help the brakes on my car last longer?

Avoid heavy braking where possible and keep a safe distance between you and the car in front in case of emergency.

Your tyre pressure is also important. Your recommended tyre psi pressure is displayed on your vehicle, normally on a plate inside your driver’s door.

How often does my car need a tune up?

Your tune up will be done at the time of service.

What type of fuel is best for my car?

The best fuel for your car is recommended in your car’s manual. Another way to check this is to open your fuel cap, and it will be displayed inside which fuel is recommend for your car.

ALL-NEW JAGUAR XF ALL-NEW JAGUAR XF THIS IS NOT BUSINESS AS USUAL THIS IS NOT BUSINESS AS USUAL

Its Lightweight Aluminium Architecture isn’t engineering as usual. Its Jaguar InControl Touch system isn’t technology as usual.

For a limited time, the all new XF comes with complimentary scheduled servicing for 5 years*. That’s not service as usual.

Plus, with Guaranteed Future Value available+, there’s never been a better time to visit your local Jaguar dealer.

Its Lightweight Aluminium Architecture isn’t engineering as usual. Its Jaguar InControl Touch system isn’t technology as usual.

For a limited time, the all new XF comes with complimentary scheduled servicing for 5 years*. That’s not service as usual.

Its Lightweight Aluminium Architecture isn’t engineering as usual. Its Jaguar InControl Touch Dealer NameFuture Dealer Address, Suburb.

1234 Plus, with Guaranteed Value available+, there’s never been aTel: better1234 time to visit your dealernamejaguar.com.au local Jaguar dealer.

system isn’t technology as usual.

Its Aluminium Architecture as usual.

Its Jaguar InControl isn’tservice technology as usual.

ForLightweight a limited time, the all new XF comesisn’t withengineering complimentary scheduled servicing for 5 Touch years*.system That’s not as usual.

John Patrick Prestige Cars John Patrick Prestige Cars 169 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie.

Tel: 02 6584 1800 jppc.com.au For a limited time, the all new XF comes with complimentary scheduled servicing for 5 years*.

That’s not service as usual.

Plus, with Guaranteed Future Value available+, there’s never been a better time to visit your local Jaguar dealer.

Plus, with Guaranteed Future Value available+, there’s never been a better time to visit your local Jaguar dealer. *Includes 5 years/100,000km (whichever comes first) free scheduled servicing excluding wear and tear items. Offer available for vehicles purchased and delivered from 1st Feb – 30th June 2016 +To approved applicants only. Guaranteed Future Value terms and conditions are available upon

Jaguar Financial Services is a registered trading name of Jaguar Land Rover Australia Pty Ltd. The registered trademarks of Jaguar Dealer Nameapplication.

Dealer Address, Suburb.

Tel: 1234 1234 dealernamejaguar.com.au Financial Services and trading name of Jaguar Financial Services referred to above are operated and used under licence by St.George Bank – Dealer NameA Dealer Address, Suburb.

Tel: 1234 1234 dealernamejaguar.com.au Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

THE ART OF *Includes PERFORMANCE 5 years/100,000km (whichever comes first) free scheduled servicing excluding wear and tear items. Offer available for vehicles purchased and delivered from 1st Feb – 30th June 2016 +To approved applicants only. Guaranteed Future Value terms and conditions are available upon *Includes 5 years/100,000km (whichever first) free scheduled servicing wear and tear items. available for vehicles purchased application.

Jaguar Financial Services is acomes registered trading name of Jaguar excluding Land Rover Australia Pty Ltd. Offer The registered trademarks of Jaguar and delivered fromand 1st trading Feb – 30th June 2016 +To approved applicants only. Guaranteed Future Value terms and conditions are available upon Financial Services JGAU-RTMT16-OLA1232_XF_HPC_Dealer_Temp_V1_FA.indd 1 name of Jaguar Financial Services referred to above are operated and used under licence by St.George Bank – application.

Jaguar Financial Services is a registered trading name of Jaguar Land Rover Australia Pty Ltd. The registered trademarks of Jaguar A Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

68 coffs coast focus.

Financial Services and trading name of Jaguar Financial Services referred to above are operated and used under licence by St.George Bank – A Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE

5/02/2016 1:17 pm

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A U T O M O T I V E

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PLAZA CAR WASH & DETAILING PLAZA CAR WASH AND DETAILING IS AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY, FULL SERVICE CAR WASH AND OFFERS A RANGE OF SERVICES TO SUIT YOUR BUDGET. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED, ADJACENT TO THE PARK BEACH PLAZA SHOPPING CENTRE, CUSTOMERS HAVE THE CHOICE OF USING ONE OF OUR TWO TOUCH-FREE AUTOMATIC EXPRESS WASHES OR ONE OF OUR COIN OPERATED AQUA JET WASH SELF-SERVE BAYS.

T

he touch-free automatic wash is a Mark VII GT500 fully optioned system that offers a complete exterior clean that will leave your car sparkling and includes an under-body rinse, which is especially beneficial for those beach-going 4WDs. If car washing is not for you, then we offer a valet wash and vacuum service that includes a free coffee at Morfish Café at Park Beach Plaza, adjacent to the Plaza Car Wash.

If you need to do shopping or attend a hair appointment, you can leave your car to be cleaned.

For those who are particular about their

car or have a special environmentally conscious. e occasion coming up, When you wash your car For those who ar t particular abou we also offer a mini in the driveway or on a special detail that takes the street, the grime their car or have g up, we occasion comin approximately two and silt that comes i detail also offer a min hours and brings off your car, which y imatel that takes approx gs the car back to a include oils, copper in two hours and br ell well maintained look. and lead, go directly w a the car back to Alternatively, if you into the stormwater ” . ok maintained lo are selling your car, a and are deposited full detail, that takes up straight into our rivers to four hours, will have your and oceans untreated. If car back to “showroom” clean. you wash in a commercial car Both these services include a free coffee. wash like Plaza Car Wash, you are Plaza Car Wash and Detailing are being environmentally responsible and

“

helping the local environment. Our specially designed bays collect the grime and silt. The water is sent into the sewerage system for treatment.

There are any number of services Plaza Car Wash and Detailing offer, including interior only detailing where you are then able to wash the exterior in one of our two touch free automatic bays.

For the elderly, infirmed or time poor, we are able to arrange for collection and return of your car. Plaza Car Wash and Detailing is located on Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour, with the entrance via Walter Morris Close and can be contacted on 6658 0199.

coffs coast focus. 69

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Tyreright has Coffs Covered

their ce, coml, Chris, ll value at they always ng new any way

TER SW

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E X P E R T S

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200+ Tyreright Locations All Major Brands & Sizes Monthly Deals & Specials

S&H motors S&H Motor repairs has been a leading independent dealer alternative for the last thirty years.Offering customers quality repairs and servicing on all makes of vehicles.

S&H Motor repairs is owned and operated

by Eamonn Mulhall.Eamonn’s background of 40 years in the motor trade includes preparing BMWs for race and rally applications, maintaining performance cars.

Since taking over the business, Eamonn grew the workshop with a shift in focus to European models like VW, BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Porsche, utilising the tools and techniques from a vast experience in automotive technology.

“We saw a newer breed of car lover who realise the economy of maintaining their vehicle’s technical performance through the computers that drive the car, as well as making sure all the fluids and parts are synced correctly,” Eamonn explains.

Expert Fitters & Advice

EST THE UCTS.

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A U T O M O T I V E

He assembled a team with equally impressive talents - professionals, rather than practitioners.

They have extensive experience in dealerships and independent facilities, but have also performed a wealth of other precision work including building touring cars, racing prep, luxury car performance road handling tweaks and even some 4 x 4 improvements.

S&H is continually investing in the latest equipment and diagnostic tools and has recently added engine optimisation through software upgrades by fine-tuning the vehicle beyond manufacturer specs.

Eamonn imports critical software advances from Europe from manufacturers and top trade developers and even distributes it Australiawide. “I spent part of last year in Italy learning how to write programs for modified software, but smart diagnostic machines and state-ofthe art tools are nothing without brilliant and dedicated operators,” he concludes.

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coffs coast focus. 3

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.