Coffs Coast Focus i71

COFFS COAST

August 2016//issue 71

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Feature Story Portia Briana

“You no longer have to lose any of your precious freedoms to get the care you need as you age” Pat 90

Freedom Family

We’re all on this ageing journey together.

What’s most important is that we don’t lose the one thing that really matters, just to get the care we all eventually need.

I mean, what’s life without freedom – the everyday freedom to come and go and be and do as you please in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

Why live alone when you can surround yourself with wonderful new friends in a vibrant, caring community that celebrates every day to the full and treats you with all the kindness, decency, love and respect you deserve. That’s what I call freedom.

If you would like to know how this can be a wonderful time of life, visit 92 Taloumbi Rd Coffs Harbour or call 1800 984 840 today.

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focus COFFS COAST

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts.

Welcome to the August issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING CONSULTANT:

Nicci Seccombe

nicole@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Natalie Hunt natalie@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jenni Saville jenni@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Jo Robinson jo@focusmag.com.au

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.

Y

es, August issue! That time when we ask ourselves where the year went and start thinking about winding up 2016.

Here at FOCUS, we have been really busy pulling together another action packed edition, with lots of things to and interesting interviews. We hope you enjoy our latest edition.

FRONT COVER This month our front cover is dedicated to our local men in business. Featuring Scott Nolan, Marcus Phillips, Ivan Beros, Bryn Goode, Dave Brighton, James Robinson, Steve Dorz and Gavin Louis, this was a really fun shoot to be a part of.

Our “Professional” Sons of Anarchy! A massive thank you needs to go to Ashley Beaton and his team at North Coast V-twins for lending us the amazing Harley bikes and Harley merchandise.

Also, a massive thanks to Scott Nolan and his team at Nolan Partners for helping us with a location to shoot and of course, the wonderful Carole Beros, who was in her element styling and

spending the afternoon with a group of strapping biker business men!

INSIDE THIS EDITION Elisa Hall is an inspired local artist who teaches and creates intriguing works with an old school approach. FOCUS went along to her studio in Bellingen to learn about her journey and where the inspiration for her art is found. Empowering others and challenging oneself is a noble pursuit.

Jacqui Jarratt is an amazing multi talented local woman, who is an inspiration and mentor to many. We recently caught up with her to find out how her journey through life has helped her to help others. David Barden is a skilled wood turner who creates amazing works that are inspired by nature. FOCUS recently went along to his workshop and gallery to learn about this art form.

FAREWELL JENNI FOCUS favourite Jenni Saville has decided to take a break and do some travelling. As envious as we are, we will definitely miss you J-bob and all of the amazing laughs and fun we had amongst

our FOCUS family. We wish you the best of luck and safe travels!

SIGNATURE DISH COMPETITION: This month we present our annual Signature Dish competition - a competition which gives YOU the opportunity to vote for your favourite dish that local restaurants, pubs and cafés have on their winter menu.

To vote: Select the dish of your choice from the photos on our signature dish pages in this issue.

Jump on to www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus Click on the “signature dish” album.

Click on your chosen “signature dish”.

Like and comment in 25 words or less why it’s your favourite dish!

Voting is open from 22nd July to 12th August; the winner is announced on 19th August at 5pm.

FINAL SAY “To be a great champion, you must believe you are the best. If you’re not, pretend you are.”

- Muhammad Ali.

MAKE OUR HOUSE A HOME

Where life meets style

P A C I F I C H I G H WAY N T H , C O F F S H A R B O U R

OP EN 7 DAYS SEE w w w.pa rkbea c h h omeba se. com . au FOR D E TAI L S

coffs coast focus. 3

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PORTIA BRIANA.

Portia Briana spent much of her youth exploring the ocean and hinterland of the Coffs Coast. After finishing high school, she travelled through Central America, where she found inspiration and discovered inner truths.

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I S S U E

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6. WHAT’S ON

FOR AUGUST 18. EAT

FEATURING

LOCAL RESTAURANTS

ELISA HALL. Elisa Hall is an inspired local artist who teaches and creates intriguing works with an old school approach.

FOCUS went along to her studio in Bellingen to learn about her journey and see where the inspiration for her art is found.

issue A U G U S T

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50.

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STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI SOCIAL SCENE WITH CAROLE BEROS BUSINESS MINDS WITH SAM WARDMAN

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JACQUI JARRATT.

Empowering others and challenging oneself is a noble pursuit.

Jacqui Jarratt is an amazing multi talented local woman who is an inspiration and mentor to many. FOCUS recently caught up with her to find out how her journey through life has helped her to help others.

57 follow us on

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

No matter where you are in the world, read FOCUS for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au

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focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

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August

THE COFFS HARBOUR & DISTRICT SPORTING CAR CLUB IS CELEBRATING 50 YEARS!

Come and join us in a night of laughs and stories, with guest speakers Dick Johnson and John Bowe from The V8 Supercar series, with MC Chad Neylon.

There will be a two course meal, along with a major raffle and a silent auction happening throughout the night. Members’ cars will be on display before the dinner for your viewing. When 13th August. Time 6pm. Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Contact 6652 1488. Tickets $55pp from web: http:// www.coffscarclub.com.au/event/50th-anniversarydinner/?instance_id=224

COFFS HARBOUR GOLD CUP CARNIVAL Join us for the biggest day of the year for Coffs Harbour, the Carlton Mid Coffs Harbour Gold Cup. A fantastic eight race card, with all the facilities. Bookmakers, tote and big screen vision for all the action and of course, we want you to dress to impress and maybe enter our Park Beach Plaza Fashions on the Field competition. When Thursday 4th August. Where Coffs Harbour Racecourse. Tickets available From the club.

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SAM DAWSON’S STARS OF THE COFFS COAST DANCE FOR CANCER MOVIE FUNDRAISER Live entertainment, bubbles, sumptuous snacks, plus giveaways and prizes galore! Plus a goodie bag to take home! Movie Absolutely Fabulous. When Tuesday 9th August. Where BCC cinemas, Coffs Harbour. Time 6pm function for 7pm movie. Cost $30. Purchase via sticky tickets: http://stks.be/absolutely-fabulous-the-movie or call Sam: 0417 861 045.

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11TH ANNUAL LIVING WELL EXPO 2016 This year’s expo will focus on older people and their families and carers. Ambassador Ita Buttrose AO OBE will be joined in the Blue Room by speakers Judy Gregurke, Marie Beswick and Rhonda Nay, to explore topics such as the latest on aged care reforms, accessing local services through the My Aged Care Portal, as well as ageing and sexuality. When 17th August. Where C.ex Coffs Harbour, Vernon Street. Time 10am - 3pm. For more information, please contact Deb Thompson: tel (02) 6651 1788 or debthompson@midcc.org.au

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COFFS HARBOUR GOLD CUP DAY

SAWTELL PANTHERS, LADIES NIGHT! WITH SPECIAL GUESTS, THEN JOLENE!

THE BEARDS FAREWELL TOUR

Coffs Coast BWN is here to help you get primed for Cup Day! Professional hair stylists, makeup artists and nail stylists will be on site to save you time on the day.

Eliminate the rush and treat yourself while networking over a delicious breakfast! When 4th August. Where Novotel Pacific Bay Resort. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

Come dressed in your best western attire and ride the bucking bull. You can bid to have a cowboy waiter for the night. Lots of prizes to be won. Amazing band "Then Jolene” will be playing on the night. When August 6th.

Time 6:30pm. Where Sawtell Hotel. Tickets $20, includes nibbles and sparkling wine on arrival.

The Beards Farewell Tour is heading to Coffs Harbour for a heart-felt evening of beard-based activist-rock at Hoey Moey. This will be one of the very last shows on Australian soil before The Beards Farewell Tour heads to Europe.

Where Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour. When Friday 19th August. Free entry.

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focuseditorial.

focuseditorial.

EKAM

IS ON IF YOU ENJOY YOGA, MEDITATION, THE SOUNDS OF GONGS AND SINGING BOWLS, AND HEALTHY LIVING, A VISIT TO PORT MACQUARIE FOR EKAM YOGA FESTIVAL ON SUNDAY 18 SEPTEMBER AND EKAM OUT & ABOUT ON SATURDAY 17 SEPTEMBER IS A MUST.

T

he festival has an incredible lineup of seasoned yoga teachers, musicians and natural health professionals from across NSW and Australia.

This year’s key teacher is Nicky Knoff, who will share from her 40+ years’ teaching experience. Nicky is a senior Lyengar teacher with a strong emphasis on alignment and holding postures for longer period of times.

Be inspired to fly with Zoe Braithwaite, an Acro-Yoga teacher from the Central Coast. The only thing Zoe enjoys more than facing her fear and achieving things she never thought possible, is celebrating and supporting other people doing the same, awakening a feeling of vitality and provoking a resonance in the heart.

Ekam Yoga Festival also presents a number of

gentle classes with a meditative focus, some using music or vibrational instruments to induce a state of peace and relaxation.

Soraya and Terry Oldfield will return form their European tour to perform soulful sounds from their latest album release, Namaste, at Ekam.

Kalray Menezes will introduce you to the benefits of meditation to the sound of singing bowls.

Ekam once again open its doors to the community with its Natural Health & Living Expo, a free community event with market stalls and talks, held on Sunday 18 September from 9am to 4pm at the upstairs foyer of the Glasshouse.

The Plug Tickets are $98 and available online now at www.ekamyogafestival.org.au - connect to the Ekam community on Facebook /ekamyogafestival

Star FM’s

Tulles Connor CHARITY FUNDRAISER

What’s your event?

It’s called Wine Dine 69, and it’s my fundraiser for Stars of Coffs Dance For Cancer.

I wanted to do something a little different and have an event that would be a nice way to wrap up people’s week.

What can we expect on the night?

It’s all about ending the working week with a few drinks and experiencing some of the great produce the coast has to offer. We truly have so many great local food businesses with delicious products, so it’s a really good opportunity for businesses to showcase it and for everyone to taste it!

There will also be local musicians playing acoustic sets and some awesome prizes to be raffled off.

Where and when is it?

It’s on Friday19th August at 6pm, and it’s being held at Opal Cove Resort, which is the perfect location for friends to get together for a laid back evening and to even get a room and stay the night! You can get tickets at: www.opalcove.com.au What would you like to achieve from this event?

At the end of the day, I just want people to enjoy the night and embrace what our local region has to offer. My dance partner, Cass Scully, has been working me to the bone, so I want to let loose too! And of course, I hope to raise lots of money for the Cancer Council, which is the whole point of Coffs Coast Stars Dance For Cancer.

coffs coast focus. 7

All photos were taken in Royal National Park by Claire Cook.

(Claire Cook is also a Coffs Harbour local)

focusinterview.

S A L T W A T E R

S O U L

C

an you tell us about your Where do you you find your inspiration? connection to the Coffs Coast?

I find inspiration when I have a calm mind and I was born and raised on the an open heart. This usually involves being twenty beautiful Macauley’s Headland in metres underwater or looking out over the ocean.

Coffs Harbour. I went to school at It’s incredible what a change of perspective can do St Augustine’s and graduated from for the creative process.

John Paul College in 2008. I spent my youth Currently you are recording; can you tell us freediving and spearfishing with my a bit about that? dad off the coast, exploring the I’ve spent the last ten days hinterland with friends and recording at a beautiful studio n io writing songs in my room. I in Bangalow in the Northern I find inspirat a received my first guitar when ve Rivers. I have been working when I ha an d I was seven and learnt to with Jazz/world musician and an calm mind is Th t. play at school with Mr Dent. ar producer Bart Stenhouse to open he es lv vo in I started learning piano lly create my first EP. An EP is usua etres around the same age with basically a showcase of your being twenty m oking underwater or lo ” Margaret Thandi in Korora. material, usually ranging n. out over the ocea Margaret was pivotal in between five - seven songs. I nurturing my relationship with wanted to create a conceptual music and songwriting over the approach to this EP in a way that years. takes the listener on a journey of self When did your songwriting journey and place, whilst simultaneously inspiring begin? introspection and momentum - a pretty high I wrote my first song when I was eleven years bar to set for a six song EP. old, as a means of trying to make sense of the We heard that you ran a successful world and a way to heal. crowdfunding campaign to finance it; how did How would you describe your style? you find that experience?

My experience with crowdfunding has been Alternative/Roots. It is honest, socially aware, really exciting. I had come across crowdfunding rhythmic and dynamic.

“

PORTIA BRIANA SPENT MUCH OF HER YOUTH EXPLORING THE OCEAN AND HINTERLAND OF THE COFFS COAST. AFTER FINISHING HIGH SCHOOL, SHE TRAVELLED THROUGH CENTRAL AMERICA, WHERE SHE FOUND INSPIRATION AND DISCOVERED INNER TRUTHS. CURRENTLY RECORDING HER FIRST EP WITH A BIT OF HELP FROM A CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN, FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HER TO FIND OUT MORE.

8 coffs coast focus.

Sneakers Clothing Records

Although it was paradise on this rough island , I went th times g some challengin nt the ro nf and had to co my of s ow ad darker sh mind and heart.”

“

campaigns quite a bit over the years. It is a popular platform for artists and musicians to engage with the community in getting creative projects off the ground.

I knew that I needed help to raise the funds for the recording process, and I was overwhelmed by the response. I had donations from all over Australia, as well as from across the world. People I had met travelling who had enjoyed and remembered my music donated generously. I had support come from Spain, Brazil, New Zealand, Germany Finland, Chile, Israel, the U.S. and Canada. I feel blessed to have had so much faith and support in my music from across the globe, and it has been the inspiration of a truly special project.

I am still shy of my crowdfunding goal of $4,500. If anyone has the means and would like to donate to this creative cause, you can donate at https://www.gofundme.com/grxcbuac Once you have completed recording, what is your next step?

The next step is to get all the tracks mastered, making them ready for airplay. Once the songs are mastered, I will put them up on Triple J Unearthed as well as submitting them to some national and international songwriting competitions, all the while working with a graphic designer in the production of the EP in preparation for to launch in early October in Sydney, followed by launches in Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay. If you could perform with anyone past or present, who would you choose?

This is a tough one ... Can I please narrow it down to three? I would love to perform with Gustavo Santaolalla from Argentina. I love his use of traditional and modern

instrumentation in his music and film scores. Dag Rosenqvist from Sweden, because his conception of sound, texture and dynamics is genius, and it is my escape from the madness of city life.

Lastly, I would love to work with Tullarra Connors from Grafton, because she is a phenomenal guitarist who inspired me to push myself with my own guitar playing.

In between leaving school and starting university, you did a bit of travelling. Tell us a bit about that experience ...

I grew up listening to my dad’s stories on his travels in Central and South America during the ‘70s and when I was twenty years old, I bought a one way ticket to Mexico City to go on my own odyssey. After a couple of months exploring Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, I found myself on an island off the Caribbean coast of Honduras. Having fallen deeply in love with breathing underwater, I decided to pursue this passion and spent the next year becoming a dive instructor. Although it was paradise on this island, I went through some challenging times and had to confront the darker shadows of my mind and heart. It was during this period of my life that I truly found my voice and my musical soul.

Plans for the future?

I will be organising an East Coast house concert tour from Sydney to Brisbane in January/February, all the while networking with different instrumentalists to lay the foundations for the next project.

Thanks Portia. coffs coast focus. 9

focusinterview.

Mel and John, 2016

Robbie and Carly, 2016

ew Happy Nners Home Ow

“

OWN

a home N O W

Own A Home Now is a local business looking to meet the needs of people who are genuinely interested in buying their first home, next home or investment property. We have put together a team whom we know we can trust and rely upon to always do the right thing by all those involved throughout the entire process.”

e work with an experienced and reputable builder, who has been building houses for over 38 years and stands by his product. We also work with trusted professionals in the areas of finance and legal representation.

We believe that together we can offer close to 100 years of experience to meet the needs of our clients. Own A Home Now is the exclusive agent for Hibbards in the Coffs Harbour and Grafton regions.

I'm a first home buyer with not much of a deposit. Can Own A Home Now help me?

Yes, we can help! It all starts with your affordability, to make sure you can service the loan. Once we know that your affordability is reasonable, we then look at government grants and stamp duty concessions and work out the shortfall required to get you into your new home.

We will then assist you to make a plan for the shortfall requirements. Because we are building new homes all the time, we have a large window of opportunity to put you on a savings plan, should this be necessary. We see it as a lay-by; $100 gets you started, while we start working together. You may also qualify for a rental assistance package.

What areas around Coffs Harbour and Grafton are you building your new homes in?

We are currently building in Moonee Beach, Sandy Beach and Grafton township. We also have future projects coming up in Emerald Beach and Coffs Harbour township, and we are particularly excited about some new homes soon 10 coffs coast focus.

to be available on acreage in Grafton.

Own A Home Now has helped many families, What price range are your new homes, and some immediately and others over time, to what are the weekly repayments? make their dreams become a reality. There is no Our homes in Moonee Beach start at better feeling knowing that you are in control of $399,000, where first home buyers can expect your family’s future and that you are no longer to make P & I (Principal and Interest) repayments wasting money on rent! from $430 per week. Our Sandy Beach homes Own A Home Now is located at Shop 20 are available from $495,000, where weekly P & Moonee Market Place, Moonee Beach. Call in I repayments start at $534 for first home buyers. and speak with Marty or Keith to see how we Our Grafton houses start at $339,000, where can help you to get into your very own home. first home buyers will pay as little as $365 per HAPPY HOMES OWNERS have their say: week in P & I repayments.

Lisa, June 2016 What's the minimum income It all started with a phone call, and required to purchase my first my life changed forever thanks to home?

Marty and Keith from Hibbards To be eligible for a home Homes. In March this year I Own A Home loan, all you need is 12 just rang to enquire about Now has helped months good rental Hibbards and within the some many families , history and a regular week I was looking at a d immediately an to source of income. If you home to purchase, and e, others over tim s m ea are a single person, you three months later I am make their dr .” will need to be earning at moving into MY OWN become a reality HOME. I had rented all least $55,000 pa and have my life and never thought I little or no debt. On a joint would have the opportunity to income, you and your partner will have MY OWN HOME, but with the need to be earning at least $27,500 unconditional support and exceptional pa each, with little or no debt and no service provided by Hibbards, they made my dependants. (Generally speaking; conditions Aussie dream come true. Today is the day for apply.) me to settle, 29/6/16, and I strongly encourage How can I apply to see if I can get into my anyone who is interested in purchasing a home own home? to contact Hibbards. I recommend them 100%; The easiest way to enquire or apply is to go to they are awesome. Don’t wait - ring them today! our website www.ownahomenow.com.au and Robbie and Carly, 2016 send an inquiry. We will then give you a call and We’d like to extend a huge thank you to take just five minutes of your time to ask you a Marty and the whole team at Hibbards, who few simple questions, and you could be on your made the process of buying/building our home way to owning your own home!

“

such an easy process. Being ineligible for the Government’s first home owner grant, we thought it would be quite some time before we would be in a position to purchase a new home.

We decided to give Hibbards a call, and we are so glad we did. After our initial meeting with Marty, we were provided with some options that might be suitable to our circumstances, and within a few short months we were picking up the keys to our new home.

The team at Hibbards were amazing throughout the entire process, from offering finance referrals, giving us regular updates on how the build was going and providing photos of the progress, to answering any of the many queries we had along the way; nothing was too hard for them. We’re so pleased to no longer be paying rent, instead paying off our own home and having the freedom to make our new house our own.

Mel and John, 2016 For the last couple of years we were on the lookout for our first home. We approached several banks and soon discover we needed a hefty $60,000 deposit before their consideration.

We heard the ads on the radio “if you have a steady job, good rental history and credit rating you could have your very own Hibbard’s home”.

We immediately approached Hibbard’s and met Marty and Keith who were amazing! They made the process of buying our first home simple and efficient. Between the two of them we were made feel fantastic. They were so happy to help and willing to meet our needs and wants.

Hibbard’s offers grate opportunities for all people where others may overlook them..

Thanks everyone.

Woolgoolga Curryfest As if the lure of sun, sand and beautiful beaches wasn’t enough, there’s another reason the little coastal town of Woolgoolga is garnering more and more attention from residents all over Australia.

Just 15 minutes north of Coffs Harbour, a cultural extravaganza is brewing.

Woolgoolga Curryfest is celebrating 11 years of culture, cuisine and good community fun and as things heat up towards the September festival, organisers are promising one of the biggest and best events to date.

The event, which is one of Destination NSW’s celebrated flagship events, has seen as many as 13,000 people flock to the seaside village, and this year it is expected that more than 15,000 will come and help celebrate their 11th anniversary.

On the northern reaches of the Coffs Coast, the town of Woolgoolga is home to the biggest Australian Punjabi Sikh population outside

of capital cities. This year the fun begins with the “Flavours of Curryfest” restaurant experiences. Starting on Saturday the 3rd of September at the Seaview Tavern. The flavours event has grown from the original “Tastes of Woolgoolga” into a full calendar of dining events from Grafton to Coffs Harbour, for all the details on the Flavours, Bollywood Movies, and Festival events follow us on facebook @ Woolgoolga Curryfest. On September 24, the whole town celebrates its unique heritage with Curryfest, a food and cultural festival that has grown into a flagship event.

Curryfest features curries from all over the world, ethnic foods, Punjabi music, dancing and other cultural displays … a feast for the eyes, ears and for the stomach. We have two special guests joining us at Curryfest this year: the very popular Nidhi, from this season of MasterChef; and the incredibly talented Sukhjit, a crowd and judge favourite who wowed the country on Australia’s Got Talent.

coffs coast focus. 11

focusinterview.

C H R I S

H E L B A C K

BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU HAS BECOME POPULAR OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS WITH THE RISE OF THE ULTIMATE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (UFC). OFTEN REFERRED TO AS “HUMAN CHESS”, WITH TECHNIQUE AND STRATEGY TRUMPING BRUTE STRENGTH, FOCUS CLIMBED INTO THE OCTAGON WITH LOCAL INSTRUCTOR CHRIS HELBACK TO LEARN MORE.

C

an you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I’ve been living on the Coffs Coast for 25 years now. I moved here from Sydney and can honestly say it’s one of the most beautiful places in Australia. I have been coaching in the area for over seven years now and have had the pleasure to teach not only kids’ and adults’ after school classes, but also host disability sessions, high school sport groups, and women’s only self defence classes.

Can you explain what makes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) different from other martial arts?

BJJ is predominately a ground grappling art; most of the techniques revolve around taking your opponent to the ground, controlling them there and then applying a submission of some kind (strangles or joint locks). What stands out in BJJ above other martial arts is its strong base in live sparring; at the end of every class we “roll” (live wrestling) for multiple rounds, testing our skills against other students who are actively trying to resist against us, and simultaneously, trying to apply their own submissions.

When did you start practicing BJJ? I started training in BJJ in late 2003.

What sparked your interest in the sport?

I became aware of the art of BJJ after 12 coffs coast focus.

watching the early tapes of the UFC. Back in the early days it was style vs style, and BJJ was consistently victorious; I was amazed how quickly and easily the fighters were taken to the ground and submitted. It became apparent that ground fighting was completely foreign to them. I thought this is definitely an art I have to learn.

Why do you think BJJ has become so popular a sport over the last few years?

Definitely the sport of MMA, and in particular, the UFC, has launched BJJ into mainstream, and with the recent emergence of “submission only” competitions, it has made the sport even faster paced and exciting.

What type of person shows interest in learning the techniques of BJJ? At my gym (C4 BJJ & MMA) I have a very diverse cross-section of people training in BJJ: doctors, lawyers, ex professional football players, hairdressers and mums!

Some people come in to learn to defend themselves, some to get into shape, others to compete in a new sport, or, even just for the social aspect; it is a unique martial art that appeals to a variety of people.

How difficult is it to learn BJJ? How often do you need to train to become proficient in the sport?

No more difficult than any other art. The trick is to find a good coach who can break down the techniques effectively. Training

D efinitely the d sport of MMA, an , FC U e in particular, th J into has launched BJ ith w d an , m ea mainstr nce ge er em nt ce the re ly” on of “submission s made ha it ns competitio ster the sport even fa ” g. tin ci ex d an d pace

“

twice a week is adequate enough to make sure your progression through the art is constant and doesn’t plateau.

All BJJ competitions have divisions to enter relating to your level of experience, so you won’t have to compete against someone with five years’ training experience if you’ve only had two.

From an outsider’s point of view, it can look a bit brutal and may deter some from giving it a try. How do you describe it to first timers?

Classes are very structured so students build up their skillset in a controlled environment, which I monitor constantly. New students are never “thrown in the deep end” so to speak; they usually practice techniques and pathways for a minimum of a few weeks before they can start controlled rolling (always with an assistant coach or high level student who will ease them into it).

Is there a level of fitness and strength

that you require to be good at BJJ? BJJ is about using leverage and technique to control and manipulate your opponent, so age, gender, fitness level or size isn’t much of a factor.

It looks like a sport where you need to combine mental strategy and technique as much as muscle and speed; would you agree?

Yes absolutely! BJJ is often referred to as “human chess”. After you have been training a little while, you quickly learn that if you don’t think ahead you will constantly be getting controlled and submitted by your training partners who use a more strategic approach in their training.

Where can people find out more?

People can find out more info on my website: www.c4brazilianjiujitsuandmma.com.au or on Facebook.

You can call me on 0402 572 316.

Thanks Chris.

coffs coast focus. 13

focusinterview.

elissa hall

Elisa Hall is an inspired

local artist who teaches and creates intriguing works with an old school approach.

FOCUS went along to her studio in Bellingen to learn about her journey and see where the inspiration for her art is found.

14 coffs coast focus.

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I’ve lived around Bellingen for almost 17 years. I moved up here from the south coast of Sydney, where I had been living by the sea. Like everyone else, I was drawn to the natural beauty of the place, as well as the idea of living in an alternative community. I spent the first ten years on a multiple occupancy in the Thora Valley, learning how to grow food, share resources and use a ride on lawnmower and solar power. I’m now in town trying to focus more on art.

Could you describe how you became involved in visual arts?

I’ve been painting and drawing for as long as I can remember.

My parents were in medicine, but loved and supported the arts, so it was always around. My dad would drag me around galleries and think nothing of throwing the three kids in the car to drive from Adelaide to Melbourne for a show. So they were great! They sent me to evening life drawing classes when I was 14. When I was 19 and bumming around, my dad threw me in the car (again) and drove me down to the art school and got me to enrol. I really

wanted to paint, but the department was a bit lacking, so I went into printmaking. I had an incredibly good teacher called Rob Jones, who encouraged me a great deal. We are still in touch, more than 30 years later, and I still value his opinion. Later I moved to Sydney and was fortunate to learn oil painting from Charlie Sheard, another invaluable teacher.

In the ‘90s I was very active in Sydney. I was part of a collective of artists who exhibited during Mardi Gras under the name “Word of Mouth”. We ran theatre and writing evenings, as well as visual art shows for quite a few years. It was exciting times! I also set up and ran a gallery with a friend in King St, Newtown, called Bare, which showcased many new and emerging artists. I had solo shows and was involved in group shows.

What are you working on at the moment?

Currently I’m working on a range of things. I recently had an exhibition at the Coffs Regional Gallery, so right now I’m between projects. There are a lot of works in progress. My show was depictions of beloved and inherited objects, specifically old tools and toys, so there’s definitely a continuation of that idea going on, but I’m heading towards different surfaces, so from metal and fur towards timber and leather. I’m also keen to head back to my first love, which is the portrait. I think all of my paintings are about that which we hold dear.

As an artist, how would you describe your style and approach to a subject?

focusinterview.

My style is definitely realist, but I do like to push that so you need to do it for yourself and not seek adulation. a little bit, and I really don’t like photorealism. I’d say There are many times of struggle, of blocks and frustramy work is pretty strong. My approach is completely old tion, but there is also soaring joy to be had. Of personal school traditional painting technique. First a coloured fulfilment and development. Of a deep sense of purpose. ground, then a tonal underpainting, followed by layers I would say work regularly and be disciplined. But don’t of opaques and transparent glazes, so they’re certainly be in it for the money! not quick to produce. But the technique is crucial to me What are some of the favourite works you have to get the surface looking how I want it. I like a fair bit created? of austerity too, simplicity over busyness. I always work My favourite work is always the one I’m currently from life, using natural light. working on! But there are some others. My parents’ Where do you find inspiration? wedding dinner set, painted after they died. A hammer I find inspiration all over the place. It might be which I found at the markets. Leather suitcases I colour, or particular things. I have many inherited. Things left behind. more ideas than the time to execute What are your plans for the future? them ...

My plans for the future are to keep What artists do you admire painting as long as I can. To see my I find and draw influence from? boy grow up. To have a voice and inspiration all I admire so many artists! The fight for what I believe in. To love over the place . It or Renaissance painters Velasquez, well and be loved in return. And might be colour, .

Carravaggio, Rembrandt, Titian, to grow flowers. particular thingsre Georgione, and Artemesia Where can people find out I have many mo me Gentileschi, for their astonishing more about you and your art? ideas than the ti ...” skill. Manet for his creamy paint.

I have a Facebook page which to execute them Egon Schiele and David Hockney has images from the last exhibition. for their beautiful drawings of their Next year I’m planning a show for intimate lives. Same for Frida Khalo, the Bellingen Brewery, and one for First and Kathe Kollowitz. I really love Barbara Avenue.

Hanrahan too. And Od Nerdrum for his post I have been hung in the EMSLA still life comapocalyptic visions, so incredibly painted. And all of the petition in Coffs every year. I’m currently in the middle of early Lucien Freuds … doing a painting for that.

If you could live anywhere in the world to expeI also teach and mentor other artists, both in a class rience a specific period of art, which would you situation, and privately. I currently teach oil painting choose and why? classes.

If I could live anywhere, it would be in the studio of Thanks Elisa.

Titian, in Venice, in the Renaissance. All roads lead back to Titian. The master!

What advice would you give to someone who is considering taking up art either as a profession or a hobby?

I would advise someone interested in art as a career to keep going. That it is a really long and wonderful road.

That where you are at with it at twenty will be vastly different to when you’re fifty. That the art world is fickle,

“

coffs coast focus. 15

Ohana Early Learning What’s all the buzz about Ohana Early Learning? This month we showcase their Turtle Cove (Toddler) Room Lead Educator, Leanne McMaster.

W

hat are some of your favourite aspects of working at Ohana?

There are many aspects of working at Ohana that I could highlight, but my favourite aspect of working at Ohana is being a part of something brand new. Not only are the buildings and the classrooms brand new, but the Ohana name and reputation is also brand new. I am enjoying being part of something very special, something that is just beginning its journey and something that I am proud to be connected with.

What makes Ohana stand out?

I think that the real grass and the amazing playground makes Ohana stand out from the many other choices in the area. Other services where I have taught have done away with real grass and opted for fake turf, which is not pleasing to the eye or fun to play on. I can choose to sit on the grass with children or kick a ball with them, all the while knowing that what I am playing on is all natural. The climbing structures are challenging, the gardens offer tactile and meandering paths to take the children (and me) on new journeys every day. I love being in the playground every day; it is my outdoor classroom.

And you have a family too; how do you

16 coffs coast focus.

juggle it all?

I have two grown teenage boys at home with me. The most challenging thing about teenage boys is listening to them ask me, “What’s for dinner?” As they grow up, I am finding it easier and easier to juggle teaching and mothering as they become more independent. My eldest has just celebrated his 18th birthday and is about to fly the nest and live with his grandparents in Newcastle. I can still remember beginning my university degree with two toddlers by my side.

That was the time to learn how to juggle with my hands full.

What is the best thing about your job?

I have been teaching for ten years now and the best thing about my job (wherever that may be) is actually being with the children. I have taught children from the nursery to grade six and have no preference or favourite age. I feel privileged to now be an integral part of the Ohana family, to help guide these children towards their futures, and that is the best thing about my job.

What are you looking forward to in 2016?

Professionally: I am eager to see Ohana flourish as a place of learning and a place where children, families and educators are happy to be each day.

Personally: I am already working on being

healthy and becoming fit. I am not sure if I am looking forward to my son moving away from home, but I am looking forward to him beginning his own career. Like all the children that I teach, I hope I have nurtured the skills and a positive attitude within my own child, so he can succeed in his own life now.

What are your favourite things to do with the children?

My favourite thing to do with the children is actually being involved with what the children are doing, rather than me telling them to do this or that. I also like promoting children to think and problem solve for themselves. Hence, my programme has science and math components that ask children to think about solutions.

My programme is also heavily influenced by nurturing “dispositions of learning”, which my teaching delivery and style promotes and encourages. Dispositions can include curiosity,

creativity, investigating and problem solving.

My programme sees children as capable, with amazing potential - both now and in their future.

How do you keep your team motivated?

It isn’t my team. I am a part of the team. I have never considered myself any more superior to other educators simply because I have a degree.

Everyone in the team motivates each other, every educator plans learning experiences, and every educator mops floors and cleans toilets. I always ensure there is a vibrant and happy atmosphere where I work and especially in the room where I teach; there are times to be serious and then there are times to simply have fun as a team.

Is there anything else you’d like to add before we finish up?

Teaching is not about filling an empty bucket, but the lighting of a fire.

Thanks Leanne.

Klaustel PHONES & DATA Starting a new business, relocating or upgrading?

Did you know here at Klaustel we personally organise your NBN, telephone and internet services, as well as phone systems small or large? At Klaustel, we are your one stop shop.

We give expert advice and offer an efficient, personalised and prompt service with ongoing support- and remember, at Klaustel the people who sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it. Locals looking after locals.

S ocial Media & email marketing th a t gets res ults

Supplying excellent quality at great prices, our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems means there is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment plans. Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer interest free payment plans if you prefer.

It has now been two and a half years since the NBN first started to connect in Coffs Harbour, with most of us coming through the NBN cutover without too much pain and getting on with business. Here at Klaustel we have been involved since the beginning. We have found the NBN speeds are a great benefit to all businesses and remember - there are a lot of savings to be made utilising the NBN.

Crea te a buzz

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coffs coast focus. 17

Butchers Duck, parsnip cream, wine soaked cherry, shitake and sauce von rouge from mont & sea.

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

18 coffs coast focus.

on (pork fillet rolled w uxelle, prosciutto & puff d with a seeded mustard herry tomatoes, baby een beans.

horizons restaurant & bar

Chocolate Delice

SUMMER IS ON THE HORIZON Try our new menu: be tempted with the grilled chermoula king prawns on a quinoa, sundried tomato and roasted pumpkin salad or chicken breast filled with wild mushroom, baby spinach and feta on Parties that are a whole “bunch” of FUN! baked polenta with a thyme lemon sauce.

Diddessert, you know Remember to leave room for withthat The Big Banana Café also offers catering?

When it comes to your event, the decedent dark chocolate mousse with it’s our pleasure! raspberry jelly and macadamia praline - From kids’ parties to school groups, corporate events and educational yum! tours, our team is here to make your visit a BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK super big day of fun and an experience you CHRISTMAS PARTY! won’t forget!

TAKE THE WORK OUT OF CHRISTMAS DAY We offer tasty platters, including fresh JOIN US FOR COFFS HARBOUR'S BIGGEST baguettes, gourmet wraps, cheese and dips CHRISTMAS PARTY ,WITH and A HUGE FESTIVErice paper rolls, as well Vietnamese BUFFET LUNCH AND ENTERTAINMENT taking and The spring menu at the Flooded Gums is in full flow. In the warmer as fresh fruit-platters banana inspired bookings now. months, there is no better place to be, as when the sun goes down, the desserts.

Flooded Gums restaurant at Bonville Golf Resort is transformed into an Book your next big event with us, or visit our intimate fine dining experience - the best Coffs Harbour has to offer. café for some of our delicious meals, banana Flooded Gums have received an Award of Excellence (Wine Spectator splits and famous chocolate coated bananas.

Magazine Wine List of the Year Awards - only property in Regional NSW to be awarded). A wine list featuring age release and current vintages from acclaimed producers in the greatest regions; the potential for serious food and wine matching is limitless.

THE BIG BANANA CAFÉ

flooded gums restaurant

horizons restaurant & bar Try Our Winter Dinner Menu Warm up this winter and get out of the cold. Be tempted with something different, like the salt and pepper crocodile with lemon myrtle mayonnaise OR roast pork cutlet filled with sage, pine nuts and prosciutto drizzled with a caramelised apple jus. Remember to leave room for dessert, with the decadent sticky date banana pudding with kahlua caramel and deep fried coconut ice cream, yum!

Join us for lunch! THE OC LUNCH DEAL Enjoy a glass house wine, domestic beer or soft drink, your meal and espresso or tea.

All for $25.50pp 11:30am - 2:30pm seven days.

Bookings preferred.

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

Executive Chef: Darren Ryan.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

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

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com

351 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour 6652 4355 www.bigbanana.com

Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

Café open 7 days from 9am every day except Christmas Day.

Warm citrus pudding, blood orange jelly, vanilla bean ice cream.

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH Our Winter Menu is Out Now! Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the new highway.

We’re located at Emerald Beach, with one of the best views on the Coffs Coast. You can watch the surf, while you enjoy a great coffee prepared by our Toby’s Estate trained baristas.

ds restaurant BAr deck

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH

r a fine dining experience or casual meals. d speaks for itself with our reviews. d setting is welcoming and stunning.

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

Located at Emerald Beach with one of the best views on the coast, check the surf and watch the whales while you enjoy breakfast or lunch ns, engagements ... We can tailor make to your budget. on the deck.

Charlie’s Restaurant, located at the beautiful Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, serving a wide Inside it’sthe cosygolf at night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to ddings ...selection Come in of and plan your perfect day in one international dishes using fresh local ingredients, with views overlooking be outside.

Head Chef course and the lagoon. Charlie’s has become a firm favourite with the “Coffs Coast locals”.

Kim Robson. izza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 - 8pm.

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

Join us in Charlie’s Bar for our daily happy hour from 5pm - 6pm.

charlie’s restaurant

The freshest local seafood is a feature of our menu, with daily specials of the local catch.

Call in late afternoon for a glass of wine, cocktail or beer, when the snack menu is available right through ‘til dinner time.

Book early for Thursday Blackboard night: entrees 10, mains 20, dessert 10.

We are proud to announce we have been awarded 5 star Scores on Doors by the NSW Food Authority.

Head Chef Sam Allinson.

n bookings are now being taken, so book early to get Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort - the ideal location for dining, conferences, admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au $10, and the menu changes every week. weddings and leisure.

Taking bookings now for your Christmas party!

ghway, Korora www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

m 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. ytime).

cus.

Cnr Pacific Highway and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour 6659 7000 www.pacificbayresort.com.au Daily from 7 am. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

Head Chef Sam Allinson.

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch. Thursday to Saturday for dinner. coffs coast focus. 19

So if a go

to seeing you.

8 6

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

7a

the hoey moey

Welcome Welcome to to the the Beachside Beachside Bistro Bistro at at the the Hoey Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen.

Moey, with our newly renovated kitchen. We We are are the the only only hotel hotel in in Coffs Coffs Harbour Harbour with with direct direct beach beach access. access. Come Come and and enjoy enjoy our our beachside beachside hotel with spacious beer garden, hotel with spacious all weather Beer Garden, open plan bar, bistro, thru bottle Bistro, drive new Kids’ Room,shop Drive and facilities.and Have tried ourfacilities. new ThruTAB Bottleshop TAByou and Keno Gourmet Pizza range?Then Theretry is our a large selection Feeling extra hungry?

NEW to choose from and you can have these eat SUPERSIZE deal on our FAMOUS $7.50 Feeds. in or takeaway. Come in and check out our In today’s photo we have one of our specials takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. from the specials board, mustard and maple If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS syrup glazed pork sirloin with roasted $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. vegetables and green beans.

The HOEY MOEY! There’s really no other place to be!

la hacienda 101 La Hacienda 101 is a restaurant with a difference. Walking through the front door is like walking into a cantina in Mexico; the colours, flags, aromas, as well as the drink selection, invite you in to feast and fiesta with family and friends. With dishes featured from various regions in Mexico plus a Texmex infusion, it’s hard to decide what to order. An ever changing specials menu makes those choices even harder. Boasting one of the most extensive Mexican beer and Tequila range, it’s not only the food that makes this cantina a must on any bucket list. Come and join us at Emerald Beach and enjoy the experience like no other in Australia.

We p tune mad who

Owners Michael and David.

Head Head Chef Chef David David Ricketts.

Ricketts.

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

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

7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun: - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 12pm-2:30pm; 5:30-8:30pm.

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

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

Open six days from 6pm - closed Tuesdays.

Spinifex Restaurant

plantation hotel

The Coast Hotel menu has something for everyone. Our new $10 lunch menu Monday to Friday offers great value meals with a choice of Chicken Schnitzel, Salt and Pepper Calamari, Rump Steak and Fish of the Day, all served with chips and salad AND a middy of Little Creatures Pale Ale!

The Plantation Hotel’s central CBD location makes for the perfect business lunch or dinner. Now with all day dining Friday and Saturday from our $9 menu, you can stay a little longer or start a little later.

Offering an extensive menu selection, wide range of beverages and not to forget Free WIFI and customer parking at the rear of the building, you can’t go past the Plantation Hotel for value and convenience.

Call our friendly staff to book your next business lunch or dinner.

Our delicious menu is full of great choices, ranging from seafood, steaks and pasta meals, as well as all your favourite pub fare - and a fun kids’ menu is also available.

Don’t forget our $8.50 coffee and cake deal and $15 roast dinners are all day Sunday, with a choice of lamb or pork served with steamed veg!

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour 6652 3007 www.coasthotel.com.au Lunch: 12pm - 2:30pm.

Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

20 coffs coast focus.

mr

Head Chef Brendan Crawford.

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour.

6652 3855 www.plantationhotel.com.au Sun - Thu Lunch 12 to 2:30pm, Sun - Thu Dinner 5:30 to 8:30pm, Fri & Sat all day dining.

Head Chef David Newick.

Try th mad and pota Med light

Follo

Sh 6

M and S

New at MUSIC FROM THE 60’s 70’s 80’s 90’ s

M usic al Bi ngo!

Mont & Sea is not just a seafood restaurant. Although our focus is on fresh local seafood filleted and prepared on site, we have a diverse range of meat options, from Japanese curry rubbed roast chicken, sousvide pastrami crusted eye fillet with traditionally prepared veal jus, salt cured genuine duck with Asian mushroom stir fry and flavour packed sauces.

Kids’ meals are also available on request using our fresh ingredients.

Great

Prizes!

Wednesdays Wednesdays from 6:30 6:30 from

mont & Sea

We also have vegetarian options on request - spontaneous creations using our lovely vegetables and creativity.

& TODAY!

LAMB CUTLETS Only $10!

Lunch Mon-Fri

Owner/Head Chef Ko Murakami

We are currently BYO.

78/746 Pacific Hwy, Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa, Coffs Harbour 0419 380 417 Dinner Tue - Sat, 5:30pm - Close.

EVERY FRIDAY ARVO $1 TICKETS

Sold from 4:30pm - First Draw at 5pm

$4 Schooners & House Wines 5pm-6pm

Saturday Nights

ribeye on vernon C.ex Coffs is excited to offer their twist on an American BBQ style steakhouse, Ribeye on Vernon. The team of chefs has created a delicious menu using premium cuts of beef, pork, lamb and chicken and accompanied them with delicious dry rubs, sauces and sides for your dining pleasure. As well as juicy steaks and ribs, the Chefs have also created some delicious gourmet desserts to finish your meal off. Bookings recommended; contact the club to reserve your table.

Head Chef Greg Watkins.

For Courtesy Bus bookings please call 6653 1213 1 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour 6652 3888 www.cex.com.au

51-55 First Ave Sawtell Sawtell Hotel & Fishtales Restaurant sawtellhotel.com

Thursday, Friday and Saturday for dinner, 6pm and Friday for lunch, 12pm. coffs coast focus. 21

22 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

Tony Gill N O V O T E L

C O F F S

H A R B O U R

P A C I F I C

B A Y

R E S O R T

EXECUTIVE CHEF TONY GILL (CHEFFIE) WAS BORN IN LITTLEHAMPTON, SUSSEX, ENGLAND. HE WAS ELEVEN YEARS OF AGE WHEN HE FIRST ENCOUNTERED THE ORGANISED CHAOS OF A RESTAURANT KITCHEN ON WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS, WASHING UP THEN HELPING WITH COOKING UNTIL HE WAS 16.

W

hat led you to become Well, the best things about working here is the chef at Charlie’s that I get to use the best produce, local meats, Restaurant? seafoods and vegetables from around the Coffs The experience in a Coast. restaurant owned by family Charlie’s is open breakfast, lunch and dinner friends convinced me that my destiny lay with seven days a week, so there’s lots to organise. food. On leaving school, I began studying as an Accor is a great company to work for, as I have apprentice chef and undertook further training an up to date kitchen and freedom to be creative with P&O, travelling the world aboard its cruise on my menus. liners for four years.

I thoroughly enjoy the diversity of our I then worked in a number of clients, from weddings, to large l restaurants in Sydney over a three al conference groups as well as r fo We cater nc year period. After working in private dinners. fu of sorts , as m st ri Ch Sydney, I moved to Surfers I have really enjoyed om tions , fr ay hd rt bi s, Paradise for a couple of years, ar dealing with all the sporting Ye New s ng di ed w s, working at a French restaurant ie groups over the years, rt pa ncand a seafood restaurant and of course , fu including the Wallabies, all 650 tions from 20 before being asked to move to the NRL teams as well as the .” rs cove Coffs Harbour, when I took up a Blues State of Origin camps. position as Head Chef at the city’s Each group is unique and brings Villa Nova restaurant. its own challenges, but knowing that I then gravitated through the Coffs we have exceeded their expectations is Harbour restaurant scene, working as Sous very rewarding.

Chef and Head Chef at some of its best known What does your winter menu consist of? eateries, such as Café Cezanne French restaurant, We cover most things, from lamb, beef, Bentleys and Coffs Inn before buying my own chicken, fish, kangaroo, seafood, to daily restaurant, Tomorgoes, which I ran successfully for homemade breads eight years.

What’s your favourite thing on the menu?

After this I worked full-time at Pelican Beach I find it hard to go past the rack of lamb, resort for nine years and casually at Pacific Bay which is a rack of Cowra free range lamb - honey Resort as Chef de Partie; I later joined Novotel mustard marinated lamb rack roasted served on Pacific Bay Resort full-time as the Sous Chef and butternut pumpkin, green beans and port wine then was promoted to Executive Chef. I have jus; yummy! proudly been with the Novotel Coffs Harbor Pacific Do you cater for end of year parties or Bay Resort for 19 years.

Christmas parties?

Under my guidance, the resort’s Charlie’s We cater for all sorts of functions, from Restaurant has twice won the Accor Hotel’s award Christmas, New Years, birthday parties, weddings for Best Dining Restaurant in a Novotel as well as and of course, functions from 20 - 650 covers. winning the award three times for best breakfast We will be providing a special menu for Christmas in a Novotel. parties, including all the traditional Christmas What do you like the most about working at favourites.

Charlie’s Restaurant?

Thanks Tony.

“

coffs coast focus. 23

CAFE O.P 81

MONT & SEA

Grilled Barramundi fillet on chili greens with beetroot hummus and ginger cream.

Eye fillet Tataki, pickled root veg and Ponzu.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE DISH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A $250 “DINNER FOR FOUR” VOUCHER AT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF YOUR CHOICE, SELECTED FROM RESTAURANTS ON PAGES 18 - 21!

HOEY MOEY

COAST HOTEL

Chargrilled beef rib-eye on crushed chats, broccolini, with charred marinated baby octopus, pan seared calamari and a garlic cream sauce

Prawn, smoked salmon, roast capsicum, cherry tomato with baby spinach, dill, and a lemon, cream and garlic sauce.

LA HACIENDA 101

HORIZONS

Chocolate Nachos - flakey tortilla chips dusted in cinnamon, Mexican chocolate and sugar, drizzled with chocolate ganache, topped with strawberries, blueberries and double cream.

Harissa marinated chicken supreme on a warm Moroccan salad of roast pumpkin, quinoa, rocket, sultanas, cherry tomatoes and almonds with lemon labneh.

24 coffs coast focus.

PACIFIC BAY/CHARLIE’S

PLANTATION HOTEL

Rack of Cowra free range lamb - honey mustard marinated lamb rack roasted, served on butternut pumpkin, green beans and port wine jus.

Rib & Wing Combo.

SAWTELL HOTEL

SURF ST CAFÉ

Herb crusted lamb rack on a red wine risotto with slow roasted field mushrooms, Dutch carrots, trellis tomatoes and a red wine jus.

Coffs Coast Blue Eye Cod on a potato and herb rosti, buttered broccolini, saffron hollandaise sauce and capsicum salsa.

BIG BANANA

C.ex

Tender burger pattie with crisp bacon, cheese, beetroot, lettuce and tomato, topped off with a grilled “Big Banana” banana.

Trio of Prawns.

focus

COMPETITION

vote to win VOTING OPEN FROM 22ND JULY TO 12TH AUGUST; WINNER ANNOUNCED 19TH AUGUST, 5PM.

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

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

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

FESTIVAL

Farewell Tour COMES TO COFFS!

FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH JOHN LOGAN FROM JLE THIS WEEK AND ASKED HIM WHAT HE HAD IN STORE FOR THIS YEAR’S BUSKERS FESTIVAL.

W

e’ve heard on the grapevine you are working on some really neat stuff for this year’s Buskers Festival. Tell us about

that ...

Well firstly, we are back in the city centre for three days and one night. We are also working on a totally new event with Christina Monneron from Kulturythmic for the Friday night at the Botanic Gardens. Tentatively called “Carnivale”, we will let you know more about that later. Kids’ Day this year will be the biggest ever, with two huge attractions being imported. Organisers have also secured a mini roller coaster for the day, and ticket prices will also be ridiculously low once again thanks to Geoff King.

Tell us more about those special attractions on Kids’ Day. I really wanted a hip hop group that could relate to young people and when someone suggested Phly Crew, I went after them. People

will remember them from Australia’s Got Talent 2015. We are also lucky to have secured for the first time ever a 40 strong cheerleading group from the Richmond Valley. Just Dance & Cheer will be bringing a bus load of young cheerleaders, all aged from twelve to sixteen years.

Great! Where can we get tickets: Early bird tickets are on sale now. Log on to the website: www.coffsharbourbuskers.com Thanks John.

BELOVED AUSSIE BEARD-ROCK BAND THE BEARDS SHOCKED THEIR FANS EARLIER THIS YEAR BY DECLARING THAT THEY WOULD BE CALLING AN END TO THEIR HARD-TOURING WAYS AND ANNOUNCING A HUGE FAREWELL TOUR.

W

e feel like we've achieved what Europe to say goodbye to fans in Germany, we set out to achieve through Denmark, Netherlands and the United music,” explained frontman Kingdom, before the four-piece hangs up its Johann Beardraven. “A lot touring boots indefinitely. more people have beards now than when “We'll still be actively propagating a we started out, and people now realise that pro-beard agenda - but don't expect us to beards are totally boss. We’ll now be moving be out there playing shows,” says bassist on to Phase Two of our pro-beard operation, Nathaniel Beard. “Now that beards have but not before we go around one been rightfully revived, it's time for last time and say a heartfelt us to take our crusade to the thank you to everyone next level. We can't be too who's come out to see specific about what this be ill w This us over the years, and will involve, but it may e th of e on s especially to everyone well include starting ow sh st la very il so n who's grown a beard, ia some kind of religious al tr us A on ds or adopted a pro-beard organisation, an armed before The Bear ads attitude.” military unit, or moving Farewell Tour he The Beards, who into the realm of to Europe to say ...” good bye to fans famously only ever children's entertainment. perform songs about one Whatever it is, you had topic, have been touring better believe it's going to throughout Australia since be very much about beards.”

January, performing two sets jamThe Beards are much-loved packed with pro-beard anthems from their by audiences around the world for impressive five album back-catalogue, their refreshingly original concept, highlyincorporating both the stripped-back interactive live shows and trademark sense of acoustic sound that saw them crack Triple J’s humour. Don't miss this hugely-entertaining Hottest 100, and the infectious pop-rock that Aussie phenomenon's victory lap around has won them a legion of fans worldwide.

Australia.

Now, The Beards Farewell Tour is heading the plug! to Coffs Harbour for a heart-felt evening of beard-based activist-rock at Hoey Moey. This The Beards Farewell Tour. will be one of the very last shows on Australian Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour. soil before The Beards Farewell Tour heads to Friday 19th August. Free entry.

“

26 coffs coast focus.

of The

mocktail of the month

• strawberry moscow mule •

The crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip have thrown a twist on a classic borne out of the 1940s Vodka craze. With muddled fresh strawberries, lime, Vodka and ginger beer over crushed iced, the Strawberry Moscow Mule sings out “put feet up and kick back”!

ARCHÈ

JETTY THEATRE In August Elegance, power, line and form at the Jetty Memorial Theatre.

The Melbourne Ballet Company (MBC) has grown to become one of Australia’s most loved dance companies. It has defined its own unique style of ballet, which is innovative and exciting, while paying respect to classical technique.

Local audiences will have an opportunity to see the company perform their 2016 touring season show, Archè, with matinee and evening performances on Sunday 14th August at 2pm and 7:30pm.

Gym membership, good $$ and other incentives available for successful applicants. Next round of auditions will be held at the Opal Cove Resort on Wednesday 3 August 2016 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Need to ring 0477 426 618 to claim a spot.

Under the leadership of Director Alisa Finney and Resident Choreographer Simon Hoy, the company has presented nine new programmes, incorporating over thirty original works.

MBC consists of a team of highly experienced classical dancers, who consistently deliver truly remarkable performances. These dancers have trained and developed their skills at some of the most prestigious and renowned companies in the world, including the Australian Ballet, the Paris Opera and the Royal Ballet Company.

Ladies, looking for local talent for that special night? Boogie Nights offers that something extra. The best male strippers are here in Coffs Harbour, ready to flaunt it for your special event.

Ring Boogie Nights now, or check out our Facebook page or website for more details.

Set to music by Jeannrenaud, Morricone, Einaudi and Tchaikovsky, the Melbourne Ballet Company’s latest production embodies much of the emotion, line and silhouette of the swan, whist exploring the elemental forces of earth, wind, air and fire.

We are good at what we do and that emanates to our clients, who can’t get enough!

To reserve tickets to Archè, call the Box Office today on (02) 6652 8088 or visit www.jettytheatre.com

Melbourne Ballet Company

Performing their new national touring program, Archè.

TOURING SHOW

Upcoming Shows

Always…Patsy Cline

By AFI award-winning Director Denny Lawrence, starring Courtney Conway.

Show: Fri Aug 26 + Sat Aug 27 8pm

Vive La France!

French Film Festival

A new film festival with a little “Ooh la la!” from Screenwave.

TOURING SHOW

Show: Sun 14 Aug | 2pm & 7:30pm

CINEMA SESSIONS

Currently recruiting in the Coffs Harbour area for male strippers and topless waiters who can flaunt and have fun.

Show: Thurs 1 Sep – Sun 4 Sep

The Winner’s Journey

Damien Leith

10th Anniversary Tour, celebrating the six-time platinum, Australian Idol winner’s music.

TOURING SHOW

UPCOMING Audition

Show: Fri 9 Sep | 8pm jettymemorialtheatre

@jettytheatre

Proudly supported by

Box office hours Tues to Fri 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 6652 8088 | 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour coffs coast focus. 27

6

THE GIG GUIDE

THEN JOLENE

6

BOW WOW

4

GIG GUIDE

BEN FRANCIS

Coffs

THE BEARDS

AUGUST 3RD

Erin – Element Bar Hit That Hit Musical Bingo – Sawtell Hotel

AUGUST 4TH

AUGUST 8TH

19

The Wiggles – C.ex Coffs

AUGUST 10TH Aqwa – Element Bar Hit that Hit Musical Bingo – Sawtell Hotel

Ben Francis – Element Bar The Stripes – Hoey Moey Coffs Cup After Party – Plantation Hotel The Funk Thieves – Sawtell Hotel

Derek F. Smith – Hoey Moey

AUGUST 5TH

AUGUST 12TH

AUGUST 11TH

Tullara Connors – Element Bar The Frapp – Hoey Moey DJ Brown Sugar – Hoey Moey Vikings – Plantation Hotel Renegades of Funk – C.ex Coffs Quick fix – Sawtell Hotel Bucko & Roo – Seaview Hotel

Dean Sharkey – Element Bar Hekyl & Jive – Hoey Moey DJ Layne – Hoey Moey Miss Chief Band – C.ex Coffs Bucket Hugger, Moonshine Run and Blacksnake Alley – Seaview Hotel First Avenue – Sawtell Hotel

AUGUST 6TH

AUGUST 13TH

Bow Wow – Coffs Hotel Then Jolene – Sawtell Hotel Owen Shannon – Element Bar DJ Ning – Hoey Moey DJ Skartlett Fever Yesterday’s Heroes – C.ex Coffs DJ Brown Sugar – Seaview Hotel

AUGUST 7TH

David Fahey – Element Bar Agent 77 – Hoey Moey

28 coffs coast focus.

Ben Francis – Element Bar DJ Layne – Hoey Moey Route 66 – C.ex Coffs DJ Ning – Sawtell Hotel

AUGUST 14TH Jim Bird – Element Bar Victoria Avenue – Hoey Moey

THIRSTY MERC

21

AUGUST 17TH

AUGUST 25TH

Yhan Leal – Element Bar Hit That Hit Musical Bingo – Sawtell Hotel

Soweto Gospel Choir – C.ex Coffs

AUGUST 19TH Josh Matheson – Element Bar The Beards – Hoey Moey Dj Ning – Hoey Moey Blood Sweat and Beers featuring Angry Anderson – Plantation Hotel Craig Stewart – C.ex Coffs Sabotage – Sawtell Hotel Misschief – Seaview Hotel

AUGUST 20TH Live Music – Element Bar DJ Brown Sugar – Hoey Moey Dj Alex Stein – Plantation Hotel Atmosphere – C.ex Coffs DJ Bisho – Sawtell Hotel Richie Williams – Seaview Hotel

AUGUST 21ST James Hickey – Element Bar Thirsty Merc – Hoey Moey

AUGUST 24TH Abraham & Benjamin – Element Bar Hit That Hit Musical Bingo – Sawtell Hotel

AUGUST 26TH Live Music – Element Bar DJ OB 1 – Hoey Moey Pace All Aussie Vacation Tour – Plantation Hotel Steve Taylor – C.ex Coffs The Downhill Bombers. Silverbeat and Blue Autumn – Sawtell Hotel Hekyl & Jive – Seaview Hotel

AUGUST 27TH Owen Shannon – Element Bar DJ OB 1 – Hoey Moey Vanessa Lea & Roadtrain – C.ex Coffs Kaha Band – Sawtell Hotel Dave James Karaoke – Seaview Tavern

AUGUST 28TH Siobhan Corcoran – Element Bar Hot Dog – Hoey Moey

AUGUST 31ST Live Music – Element Bar Hit That Hit Musical Bingo – Sawtell Hotel

coffs coast focus. 29

PORT MACQUARIE Beer & CIDER FESTIVAL Say cheers to the Port Macquarie Beer & Cider Festival 2016 ... For the second year, the country’s best boutique and craft brewers will be taking over the idyllic coastal town of Port Macquarie.

At 11am on Saturday 24th September, Westport Park will play host to the Port Macquarie Beer and Cider Festival, offering unprecedented access to the most exciting brews, tunes and food Australia has to offer.

The family friendly event will see the kids’ games arena blown out of proportion, with a giant double slide, mechanical bull for kids of all ages and countless games and activities to keep the small humans occupied while mum and dad enjoy all things beer and cider.

2016’s festival will showcase at least 20 local and national brewers, jostling to take out the inaugural People’s Choice Award and the coveted notoriety that comes with being crowned Port’s favourite brew. The Stunned Mullet VIP Marquee is also a new introduction, offering an exclusive experience for those with a taste for the finer things in life.

The Port Macquarie Beer & Cider Festival has

teamed up with Port Macquarie’s finest restaurant, The Stunned Mullet, to offer a trendy pop up restaurant and the ultimate festival upgrade. The first round of brewers have been announced, offering an unprecedented opportunity to engage with some of the country’s best and most passionate brewers, boasting Black Duck Brewey, Murrays Craft Brewing Co, Stone & Wood Brewing Company, New England Brewery, MooreBeer, Wayward Brewing, Pagan Cider, Dusty Miner Craft Brewery, Hopdog Beerworks, Four Pines Brewing Company, Frank’s Cider, and Hops And Tales Brewery.

The best of local food vendors will be on hand to ensure bellies are full; and after the raging success of last year’s inaugural Keg Toss, organisers have also introduced a far less physical option: “The Keg Roll”, offering prizes for individuals and taking registrations for corporate teams. A great opportunity to address any friendly rivalry that needs levelling.

Information on tickets, buses and VIP tickets available at portmacbeerandciderfestival.com

JODI MARTIN LIVE AT THE JETTY THEATRE Out of Ceduna’s coastal desert region, travelling singer songwriter Jodi Martin has been quietly clocking up miles with her suitcase and guitar since she was 17 years old.

Now she’s on the road again, kicking off a three month National Diesel Tour in August 2016, showcasing the second single from her Saltwater Extended album. Jodi and her sister, Robyn Martin, will travel Australia, weaving soulful guitar and bass grooves, poignant and hilarious true stories, and beautiful harmonies as only sisters can.

Jodi’s stunning new extended version of Saltwater is out through MGM, 5 August 2016, and consolidates her position as “one of Australia’s most talented singer songwriters” (The Weekend Australian). Boasting three self-penned bonus

tracks, this is goosebump territory.

Saltwater’s rootsy and richly layered sound features three co-writes, with folk legend Arlo Guthrie, including the first single Saltwater in My Hair, warmly received on several packed out regional tours last year, from Port Fairy Folk Festival, to Coober Pedy to Cairns. Jodi’s guest appearance on ABC TV’s Back Roads series featured Jodi singing Saltwater in My Hair by an oyster-laden hometown campfire.

And in every album and show, there is that trademark Jodi Martin humour too. The latest single, Diesel, is a classic example: a fun, toetapping yarn about op-shopping and keeping what you love on the road, despite the odds! With a Kombi-driven music video highlighting Jodi’s free spirit, the quirky single Diesel spearheads Jodi’s national tour from August to October 2016.

NEW SINGLE ‘DIESEL’

NATIONAL TOUR JETTY THEATRE

COFFS HARBOUR FRI 16 SEPT, 8PM

WESTPORT PARK • PORT MACQUARIE

FOR A LIST OF BREWERS, TICKETS BUS TIMETABLES VIP & ACCOM INFO VISIT...

“An Indie Folk Masterpiece... laced with humour and hope” Josh Cunningham, The Waifs

ADEL

21 Aug

CANB

3 Sept

SYD

11 Sept

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PERTH

22 Sept 30 Sept 6 Oct

DARWIN

21 Oct

HOBART

3 Nov

GET YOUR FREE DOWNLOAD AND BOOK NOW AT JODIMARTIN.COM

30 coffs coast focus.

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I N T E RV I E W W I T H P I P PA TA B O N E , C O F F S C OA ST C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S C O O R D I NATO R - CA N C E R C O U N C I L .

S

tars of Coffs Coast is more than just fundraising for a good cause; it’s a great night out and has become a real showcase of local dancing talent. Who is involved this

year?

The finest of Coffs’ dancing talent will be on show for the seventh annual Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer gala fundraiser, on Saturday 24 September at C.ex Coffs.

While the challenge has been set for our Stars to learn and perform a dance routine and fundraise, it is equally as challenging for our dancers to choreograph a routine and transform these eight business professionals into dancing Stars, all within 10 weeks! The success of Stars of Coffs Coast is a testament to the talent and dedication of our dance community, who have supported the event since its inception in 2011.

Hitting the dance floor in 2016, we have …

Sam Ross - Social Concepts. Growing up as part of the Julie Ross Dance Studio and having performed and assisted with choreography on Australia’s So You Think You Can Dance - at 24 years of age Sam may be our youngest talent in the show but is set to take the stage by storm! Sam recently returned to Coffs to teach her uniquely creative, contemporary dance style locally, opening her own studio, “Social Concepts”. A performance from Sam’s talented studio crew will also be featured on the big night.

Having lost close family members to cancer, Sam says, “It’s so great to see dance being used in such a positive way to raise money for such a worthwhile cause.”

Julie Ross Dance Studio has been a supporter of the event since its origin, providing dance professionals and the very memorable “Flash Mob” in 2015 featuring Mayor Denise Knight and Coffs Harbour City Council personnel.

North Coast Power & Water’s Brendan Graetz will be hipping his hop with Sam’s unique style.

Carol Myers - Pacific Dancentre. Carol is a seasoned veteran of the Stars event, having participated in each event, training two Stars with the assistance of her very successful competitive dance couple Melissa Thomson and Kyle Withers.

Having lost her father to Melanoma and her mother to Asbestosis two years ago, Carol knows the impacts of cancer: “It’s a great cause, as this dreaded disease can happen to anyone.”

Carol, instructing David Bourke from OOSH and Troy McKenna from MNCLHD, promises to produce some show-stopping performances!

Dale Smith - Razzle Dazzle Rockers. Dale and his wife, Sandy, have taught literally hundreds of dancers Rock ‘n’ Roll over the last 13 years, both winning a number of Australian and state titles on numerous occasions.

“Several family members have been touched by cancer, so we are very happy to help fund a cure for this horrible disease. It is a wonderful concept that raises money and is a whole lot of fun,” stated Dale.

Jenny Heslop from MNCLHD is set to razzle dazzle with Dale.

Cass Scully - Cass Energy. Cass is a two times World Aerobics Champion, nine times Australian Champion and 14 times NSW Champion. She trained in all genres of dance and was an elite gymnast prior to founding her studio, Cass Energy. Cass is passionate about health and fitness and having lost loved ones to cancer, she wants to see a world free from its effects.

Cass is paired with Tulles from Star FM’s breakfast show; they are guaranteed to put on an action packed performance and get the blood pumping!

Chris Pemberton-Lewis - Coffs Latin Rhythms.

Chris has been teaching Latin dancing for the past five years and is a passionate advocate for

the joy and health benefits that Latin dance Monneron of Kulturithmik; both ladies have brings to the mind, body and soul. participated in all six previous events, producing “My first wife died of lung cancer incredible performances each year.

10 years ago, aged 56. She Thank you also to our sponsors was a lifetime non-smoker for making the event possible, but still succumbed to this our major sponsor, the C.ex of s es The succ dreaded disease, proving Group along with FOCUS ffs Co of Stars t how indiscriminate and Southern Cross en am st te a Co ast is d it is. So in my mind, Austereo. an nt le ta e to th r dance ou Why is Stars of anything we can all of n tio ca di de have Coffs Coast such an contribute in battling community, who t en important event? this scourge is totally supported the ev in n Cancer is a concern for worthwhile,” Chris since its inceptio 2011.” our community at large, so remarked. it is wonderful to see everyone Chris is teaching Karen working together through Hacking from the C.ex Group the Stars of Coffs Coast initiative. the Latin moves to soothe and Cancer Council NSW is able to provide an groove the audience. extensive array of local information, support Jackson Potter - Coffs Latin Rhythms. A and prevention services using the funds raised, first timer in this event, Jackson trained in in addition to funding world-class research Cuba perfecting his passion, the fine art of Salsa. improving cancer outcomes for all people. This Jackson has returned to the Coffs Coast with his event promotes the array of dancing talent we Salsa expertise, ready to put Sam Dawson from have on the Coffs Coast, bringing the industry Rally Australia and Married by Sam through her together under one roof for a fantastic night of dancing paces. entertainment.

Kym Ferrington - Studio Moves. Kym, who How can people get involved? currently holds the Coffs Showgirl title, has been Get your tickets for this show-stopping, dance dancing since she was eight years old, competing extravaganza at C.ex Coffs or online at www.cex. in yearly dancing competitions and eisteddfods in com.au Grafton and surrounding regions.

Tickets start at $50 including canapés - all Kym’s loss of her grandmother 13 years ago proceeds go to Cancer Council NSW. For to lung cancer is her motivation to be involved in all event information, including our Stars’ the event and support such a worthy cause. fundraising events and online fundraising Kym and Tegan Ewart from Woopi Chamber pages, visit: www.everydayhero.com.au/event/ of Commerce will be presenting a modern dance starsofcoffscoast2016 masterpiece set to wow the crowd!

Follow us on Facebook - Stars of Coffs Coast I would like to thank these wonderful people, Dance for Cancer. along with those who have danced previously, Questions about cancer? Call 13 11 20. creating the wonderful event that is Stars of Together we will beat cancer!

Coffs Coast. A special mention to Carol Young Thanks Pippa. of Woolgoolga Dance Studio and Christina

“

coffs coast focus. 31

COFFS Picture Framing

Sawtell ART GALLERY Sawtell Art Gallery is inviting all artists interested in entering one of the region’s most popular art events; the prize money offered is $5,500.

Our 29th Annual Exhibition in 2016 will be bigger and better.

We would like to give everyone the opportunity to exhibit and be part of this great event, to be shared with artists and community members who have supported Sawtell Art Gallery since our inception. Hopefully we will have our new all weather room completed by opening night ... Another milestone for our gallery, this room will be called "Sawtell's Community Hub".

Coffs Picture Framing was established in 1990 and is experienced in box framing of football jerseys, medals and memorabilia. John’s experience and knowledge of the picture framing trade enables him to deliver an exceptional quality service, tailored specifically to you.

He will take the time to go through all the steps of framing your items, including matt selection, frame selection and the correct glass for your picture. He can supply frame lengths, matts and glass for you to complete your own project, and he can affordably repair your frames too.

QUOTA INTERNATIONAL Quota International of Coffs Harbour has been a dynamic part of the community since 1962 and is part of a worldwide network of service and friendship dedicated to making a difference locally and globally.

“We Share” Quotarians support deaf, hard of hearing and speech-impaired individuals, and disadvantaged women and children. Members of local clubs are invited to grow personally by helping others and making friends along the way.

Specialising in framing of pictures, memorabilia, oil paintings, paintings, photographs, posters and prints, certificates, war medals, coins, embroidery, maps and mirrors.

Quota’s annual Antique Fair - a vast array of antiques and

John has framed wonderful, interesting, exciting, beautiful and some very unusual objects. Custom framing will always create a frame perfect for your needs. Think about unexpected items you could frame that would make great, interesting pieces for modern art framing.

Showground - admission $5, with children under 12 free - no

Other projects include Christmas wrapping at Park Beach

Official Opening ... Thursday 22nd September 2016; 6.30pm.

We are easy to find on Lawson Crescent; we offer ample parking at the premises. Turn off Orlando Street into Lawson Crescent, and you will find us on the bottom corner.

For further details, email: sagexhibitions@gmail.com

Telephone: (02) 6651 3457.

Camp, school awards and aiding funding for anti-bullying

www.sawtellartgroup.com.au https://www.facebook.com/sawtellartgroup Phone Helen Goldsmith 6658 9596, Exhibition Coordinator or Colleen Davies 0422 122 456, President.

Email: coffsinteriorprints@bigpond.com

programmes at secondary schools. Quota also assists the

Website: www.coffspictureframing.com.au

Warrina Women’s Refuge, Otitis Media Testing Day (children’s

Address: 7/20 Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour.

hearing), Australia Day Awards, Senior College Scholarships

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm.

and the Eisteddfod.

We are very grateful to all our sponsors for the support and trust they put in us to provide our community with such an amazing event each year. These events bring communities together; we have made wonderful friends and supported each other by being part of many community events.

Closing date for entries ... Thursday 1st September 2016.

32 coffs coast focus.

collectables will be on sale by dealers from New South Wales and interstate. The venue is the Exhibition Hall, Coffs Harbour activities for children - wheelchair accessible. $50 voucher draws for buyers. Morning teas and light lunches available.

Proceeds to local charities.

Plaza, morning teas at Shearwater Lodge, Mother’s Day posies distributed to local nursing homes, supporting a Deaf

focusinterview.

DAVID BARDEN IS A SKILLED WOOD TURNER WHO CREATES AMAZING WORKS THAT ARE INSPIRED BY NATURE. FOCUS RECENTLY WENT ALONG TO HIS WORKSHOP AND GALLERY TO LEARN ABOUT THIS ART FORM. an you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I moved here from Sydney in September 2000, as a lifestyle change to spend more time with my family. My wife and I bought the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House. In the 12 years we ran this business, we grew and developed it to be a highly recognised and awarded tourism business in the Coffs Harbour area. Our involvement with the tourism industry in Coffs was started here. While I had a small gallery as part of this business, when it came time to sell the Butterfly House, I decided to follow my passion and start a woodturning gallery on the Coffs Coast - the place we as a family now call home.

When did you first start working with wood?

My first attempts at woodwork were at the age of ten, in the garage of my parents’ place making replica guns with a rasp and orbital sander, as I was too young to use “sharp” tools by myself. Woodturning wasn’t attempted until I was in high school. This interest progressed to an apprenticeship in Engineering Patternmaking when I left school. I definitely had found my place in life and purchased my first lathe and began my creative journey, which

still continues today. bowls. These include bowls that are turned Can you describe to the readers what it is and carved, that incorporate pyrography that you do? or decorative finishes. All of my pieces are At Wood We Create I produce fine beautiful yet useful, providing an item that will elegant handcrafted giftware that extends last for generations. from practical to artistic. The gallery is What is your favourite wood to attached to my workshop, which work with? allows me to make and sell to Redgum is probably my my customers, answering favourite, but there are questions that people others like Camphor Redgum is have with regard to my Laurel and Silky Oak probably my ere are pieces. Salvaged timber that are striking in their favourite , but th or ph sourced locally is cut, colours and opportunity others like Cam ak O Laurel and Silky their dried and created into for creativity. in that are striking these pieces of art.

You also teach; what ity rtun colours and oppo Along with creating is the first thing you for creativity.” pieces for the gallery, tell your students?

I can make pieces to Probably the greatest order. Most of my salvage thing to remember is to timber is sourced from local tree enjoy what you do, and practice. surgeons, converted into blanks and Experience can’t be bought. Anyone slabs and carefully stacked to dry. Time is can learn woodwork, but it takes a taken to get the most out of the colour and lifetime to master it. figure of the wood, to allow the natural Why do you love to do what you do? beauty to be a feature of the piece.

Every time I produce something, it’s different.

What are some of the different objects Timber throws up many challenges, and each that you create? piece has different characteristics, even if it There are practical pieces such as chopping is from the same tree. Developing ideas and boards, kitchen utensils, jewellery and clocks. watching them come to fruition. People often I also produce creative pieces, particularly ask where I get my ideas from; it’s simple! Take

“

a look around; there is inspiration everywhere in nature. Making something with my hands has always been a love of mine … And of course, I get to work from home.

How do you approach making a piece; does the wood dictate the shape or your approach?

Often the timber can dictate, but taking time to cut my timber into useable sizes allows me to see the wood in its raw form and use it creatively to position highlights such as gum veins, knots, twisted grain where they will be best used. I tend to be a “patterns” person, so I draw rough ideas a lot on paper before incorporating these ideas into my pieces.

What are your hopes for the future?

To be woodturning and creating, as well as sharing with people the wonders of wood - a lifelong passion of mine.

Where can people find out more?

Drop in to the gallery, situated at 191 Lindsays Rd, Boambee.

Phone David: 0412 085 634 or visit www.woodwecreate.com.au Wood We Create is open Monday to Friday, 10am - 4pm, or by appointment at other times.

Group bookings are available and include live demonstrations, plus question and answer time.

Thanks David. coffs coast focus. 33

focusinterview.

ROLLING RESORTS PROVIDE MORE THAN A MOTORHOME. THEY ARRANGE THE LUXURY HOLIDAY OF A LIFETIME! TRAVEL ADVICE, DESTINATION IDEAS AND TAILORED HOLIDAY PACKAGES ARE ALL PART OF OUR PERSONALISED SERVICE. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE OWNER, KELLY RYNKIEWICZ, TO FIND OUT MORE.

hat prompted you to begin this new business?

When I was unable to find a local option for my family motorhome holiday, disappointment transformed into an idea, and Rolling Resorts was born. Helping locals and visitors explore our backyard and beyond is enormously satisfying.

Why is Coffs Harbour so ideal for motorhome holidays?

The climate is a major drawcard! Coffs is central to beautiful beaches, waterways and forests, is the gateway to the stunning northern rivers and midway between Sydney and Brisbane, and an adventure is around every corner.

Are customers able to travel further afield than the Coffs area?

Yes, as long as they remain on sealed roads!

Australia is out there waiting. The most common bookings are for the East Coast, but Tasmania and WA are also popular. Arrangements can be made for pick-up and drop-off at other East Coast locations.

Why travel in a motorhome?

Firstly, you only unpack once! You are then in your own self-contained private resort, with all the comforts of home. Stop where you want, when you want. If the weather turns nasty, swivel your chair, recline and relax. Step into your kitchen for a coffee break, take a nap in comfort or have a toilet break, all without stepping outside. And if the weather’s good, park at a lookout, brew a cuppa, stretch your legs and enjoy the view. What a way to explore your own back yard!

Why choose Rolling Resorts?

Convenience, luxury, cleanliness, personalised 34 coffs coast focus.

service, and it’s local! Rolling Resorts is more than a motorhome, offering brand new luxury for the price of ordinary.

Our priority is customer A standard satisfaction and driver ’s licence safety, taking pride teapot, games and yo is all u need in providing a firstpuzzles, camping guides. e nc but, for insura t us m class motorhome Can you describe the s er iv reasons, dr d an experience. We 25 layout? n ee be betw ” e. ag provide support The clever layout of s ar 75 ye before and during provides a space small your journey, and travel enough for couples but advice, destination ideas large enough for families, with and tailored holiday packages two living areas, a kitchen with are all a part of our personalised generous bench space and a separate service. Complimentary airport/train pickbathroom with shower and toilet. Sleeping ups are offered dependent on individual options include a queen-sized bed over the cab, circumstances. a rear double electric bed which lowers at the What are some standard inclusions? push of a button and can be stopped halfway • Comprehensive insurance to provide a double bunk option, which allows • Unlimited kilometres sleeping accommodation for a total of six.

• 24/7 roadside assist Is it hard to drive?

• GPS It is so easy to drive, you forget you are • Solar panel - free-camp ready driving a motorhome! At 7.17 metres in length, • Quality linen the vehicle is shorter than many rentals, making • Outdoor awning it easy to drive and manoeuvre. It’s a Fiat Ducato • Camping table and two chairs truck with a 3L Turbo Diesel motor - built for • Free car parking at pick-up point reliability, long distance travel, fuel economy, • Seatbelts for six passengers (two lap belts) and and it’s automatic! A bull bar and reversing facility for two car/booster seats to be fitted camera offer extra safety.

Tell us more about your luxury motorhome.

Do you need a special driver’s licence?

Built for comfort and style, with all the A standard driver’s licence is all you need but, “bells and whistles” - literally a Rolling Resort! for insurance reasons, drivers must be between Features include heating, air conditioning, Blu25 and 75 years of age. ray DVD player and TV, microwave, cloth seats, Is there a restriction on the length of a bike rack and plenty of storage. Adapted to booking? suit caravan parks or “free camping” and fully No; in fact, the longer the rental, the cheaper furnished with extra trimmings not typically the daily rate. Bookings exceeding two weeks offered e.g. a coffee plunger, stainless steel attract a discount. A minimum off-peak booking

“

of four-days is required with a 12-day minimum during peak season (NSW school holidays).

Three-day weekends/midweek options are available at short notice, and people can register to receive email notifications.

Who are your potential customers?

Not only do we attract families and couples, but we also appeal to small touring groups e.g. golfers, cheese and wine lovers, beach lovers, bushwalkers, “girls” or “boys” trips, groups of friends, and even honeymooners. Others simply want to explore the lifestyle before purchasing, or have crunched the numbers and found hiring is the better economic option compared with buying.

What happens in the event of a malfunction or accident?

A 24/7 roadside assist service applies for breakdowns. Insurance covers accidents, providing the terms of the contract are not breached, with an excess payable (via a credit card pre-authorisation) by the customer per accident. Liability insurance in the event of personal injury and/or property damage is also provided. Conditions apply and are comparable with other operators in the motorhome hire industry.

A motorhome holiday delivers the freedom to be spontaneous, enabling your journey to evolve at your whim.

Ready to roll? Call Kelly at Rolling Resorts and start planning your dream motorhome getaway today!

Thanks Kelly.

and WELLBEING

FOOD

for men TOP 13 WAYS TO AVOID A HANGOVER DON’T GET YOUR HOPES UP. TRADITIONAL HANGOVER REMEDIES OFTEN AREN’T EFFECTIVE, AND SOME OF THEM MAY ACTUALLY MAKE YOU FEEL WORSE. FIND OUT WHAT HANGOVER CURES WILL HELP, AND WHAT IS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE. MEN ARE DIFFERENT FROM WOMEN IN ALL KINDS OF WAYS - INCLUDING THEIR NUTRITIONAL NEEDS. JUST AS WOMEN NEED PARTICULAR NUTRIENTS DURING PREGNANCY OR FOR PROTECTION FROM BREAST CANCER, MEN NEED NUTRIENTS THAT CAN HELP THEM MAINTAIN MUSCLE MASS, PREVENT PROSTATE CANCER, AND MORE.

M

any foods that tend to be favourites among men are not the best choices for good health. Yet a healthy diet and regular physical activity can help prevent heart disease and cancer, the No. 1 and No. 2 killers for men over 35. They can also enhance performance, from the board room to the bedroom.

Quality nutrients are also critical for maintaining immune function and preventing bone loss, muscle loss, and oxidative damage from the environment. Of course, any one (or 10) foods can’t do the job alone. An overall healthy lifestyle, which also includes not smoking and getting regular physical activity, is what’s really important for health, say the experts.

Food for Men No. 1: Oysters Could there be something to the legend that oysters are the food of love? Well, it’s true that just a few oysters each day will deliver a full day’s supply of the antioxidant mineral zinc. Zinc is involved in hundreds of body processes, from producing DNA to repairing cells.

You can also get your daily recommended dose of 11 milligrams a day by eating other shellfish,

lean beef, lean pork, or legumes.

Food for Men No. 2: Bananas Bananas are a great portable source of quick energy and are rich in potassium, which is needed to regulate nerves, heartbeat and, especially, blood pressure. Diets rich in potassium and magnesium (which is also found in bananas) can reduce the risk of stroke.

As a super source of vitamin B6, bananas can also aid your immune system, help form red blood cells, ensure a well-functioning nervous system, and assist protein metabolism. So enjoy a banana each day, at breakfast on your whole grain-cereal or before your workout at the gym.

Not a banana fan? Orange juice, milk, tomato products, and beans are other good sources of dietary potassium.

Food for Men No. 3: Fatty Fish No list of superfoods would be complete without the healthy fat, omega-3 fatty acids.

These polyunsaturated fats are the preferred form of fats in your diet for many reasons. They can benefit the heart, circulation, and immune system and reduce the risk for prostate cancer, among other things.

Coconut Oil HAIR TREATMENT

B

but breathing and meditation exercises in yoga can get oxygen flowing and blood pumping to help relieve stress. Namaste!

1. Drink water. One for one. This is a sure fire way to avoid a hangover the next day. It’s no secret that drinking water can help deflect that pounding AM headache (pretty much the opposite of a good morning).

2. Chow down. Just because beer has calories, doesn’t mean it counts as dinner.

Drinking on an empty stomach will allow alcohol to absorb faster, so try getting in a good meal with lots of protein before breaking out the bottle.

8. Grab some potassium. When dehydrated, we lose not only water, but electrolytes, too.

Gain ‘em back by snacking on potassium-rich foods like bananas or spinach.

9. Scramble eggs. Eggs contain taurine, which has been shown to reverse liver damage caused by a night of heavy boozing. Scramble them up with lots of veggies for added antioxidant power!

3. Keep it light. Darker drinks like red wine or rum contain congeners (substances produced during fermentation), which may contribute to causing hangovers. Skip the whiskey in favour of vodka or a glass of white wine!

10. Sip ginger tea. Hangovers can sometimes come with a side of upset stomach. To settle that tummy, brew a warm mug of ginger tea. Ginger has been shown to help combat nausea.

4. Stay classy. More expensive liquors contain less filler congeners - a cause for headaches. So pass on the well liquor and take it up a notch with some top-shelf booze.

11. Refuel at the breakfast table. Alcohol will lead to a drop in blood sugar, so boost it back up with a glass of OJ in the morning.

5. Take a multivitamin. Drinking depletes nutrients in the body, including vitamin B12 and folate.

Try popping in a multivitamin to replenish what’s lost from a night of drinking.

6. Skip the bubbles. Opt out of champagne or other alcohol that’s mixed with carbonated beverages. The bubbles may cause alcohol to be absorbed more quickly.

7. Down-dog. Scientists have yet to prove that a few sun-salutations will whisk away a hangover,

ecause it is comprised mainly of smaller medium-chain fatty acids, the oil of the coconut penetrates hair more deeply and faster than other conditioners. To use coconut oil as a leave-in treatment to repair split ends, moisturise your scalp, and add a healthy glow to your tresses, just follow these easy steps: First make sure you have at least an hour or two for this treatment. (The longer you leave coconut oil on your hair, the more effective it will be!)

Wash your hair and let it air dry while you prepare the next steps. Gather your materials: a comb or hair pick, shower cap or small towel to wrap your hair in, two small bowls of different sizes (one should fit inside the other), and of course your jar of organic virgin coconut oil. Scoop a small

12. Get some fresh air. Oxygen increases the rate that alcohol toxins are broken down, so bundle up and get outdoors. A little exercise never hurt anyone - and it may even release some endorphins to boost that post-hangover mood.

13. The only sure-fire way to have a life without hangovers is to change the way you drink. This isn’t the end of the line, but rather the change you’ve been looking for. See Sunday in a different light and wake up saying hello to Sunday morning.

amount of coconut oil into the smaller of the two bowls. Set the smaller bowl in the bottom of the larger one. Fill the larger bowl with hot water so the smaller bowl is partially submerged, but not floating or taking on water. Once your coconut oil comes to temperature and is completely melted, use your fingers to gently massage the oil into your hair, then work through with a comb or hair pick. After you’ve finished applying the oil, wrap your hair up in a shower cap or small towel and allow it to soak in for thirty minutes or longer.

Shampoo to remove oil. Optionally, you may reapply a small amount of coconut oil to the ends of your hair and/or work a small amount through all of your hair again - just enough to give it a healthy shine. coffs coast focus. 35

With Lauren Vestey from Living Doll.

PRETTY PASTEL HAIR COLOUR IDEAS THERE WAS A TIME ONCE WHEN HAIR CAME IN FOUR MAIN COLOURS: BLONDE, REDHEAD, BRUNETTE AND BLACK. IT WAS MOSTLY NATURAL, SOMETIMES HENNA DYED, BUT NEVER IN SHADES OF BLUES AND GREENS OR PURPLES AND PINKS.

T

hese days, hair is not confined to the shades we are born with, or even bleached to. We now have the ability to pick up bright rainbow hair colors or even pastels that remind us of fairy tale worlds and anime characters. We can increase or decrease the intensities, highlight with whichever palette we wish and enjoy the unique individuality of our hair designs.

After visiting Melbourne’s hair expo this year over the June long weekend, which was located right next to Comic-Con, there was an undeniably similar trait to the people entering both. Obviously there weren't any super heroes entering HAIR EXPO, but the colours seen in hairdressers' and models' hair were far better than the mix of super hero wigs combined.

It’s interesting how each season brings on a new trend of hair colours. At the moment, many celebrities have set the fashion trends to pastel hair colors that remind us of mermaids

36 coffs coast focus.

from the deep blue sea. They are gorgeous, without a doubt, and the hairstyles sported with these hues are superb!

Pastel Pink Hair Rita Ora always looks amazing with her short pastel pink bob that frames her face beautifully. Her glossy luminous lipstick and seductively pale colors remind us of cotton candy princesses. Warm brown eyes framed with long lashes provide the perfect contrast against the pale pink sugar of the look.

Mermaid Blue Hair Rita Ora may rock the pink sugar candy look, but she takes on the seas with a mighty precious hairstyle, complete with blue hues changing to purple tips, starting from the high ponytail and all of it adorned with braided cornrows and more braids in between. Multiple jewellery accents, long lashes framing eyes and red lipstick just give her a more magical appeal.

Rainbow Hair If anyone can raise the bar for rainbow

coloured hair, it’s most definitely Hollywood’s

turning heads everywhere. Add a witchy black

darling Ke$ha, as she strolls about making us

felt hat to the mix, and the medium length

wonder what was on her mind when we went

straight locks simply look amazingly glamorous!

for the pastel pinks, blues, purples and yellows

A tan skin tone and large almond eyes give her

in her hair. Of course, a bejewelled dress and

a mesmerizing attraction.

multiple pieces of statement accent jewellery only enhance the ocean diva’s look.

Not feeling game enough to try it all over?

Why not put subtle tones of pastel in the ends

Witchy Blue Hair

for a soft change. It’s time to try something

Of course, the most talked about Kylie Jenner

new this season, but if it’s all too scary, there

really makes the witchy appeal glow, with her

is always hair chalk, that comes out with each

black moving into aqua green colour scheme

wash. Have fun, ladies. XO DOLLS.

MACRO YOGA THERAPY The yoga that’s more powerful than receiving a massage.

Ever treated yourself to a massage treatment, only to find you’re love & kisses feeling just as tight and sore-shouldered again within days? Or paid for a course of physiotherapy, and experienced exactly the Judy wasn’t joking when she said Love & Kisses would have same pain once it’s over? new stock arriving every day from now ‘til Christmas! This There a way had to enjoy and change in week isthey’ve a bigmore newpermanent delivery ofrelief the beautiful bright your body and not have to rely on expensive therapists.

It’s yoga. leather wallets and bags from the Italian mywalit company, But a style of yoga you’ve perhaps not come across before. and also lots of new Oran leather bags in black, browns and a Macro Yoga forest Therapy originates from Hatha and the powlovely new green leather.

There are yoga new watches for you erful known Oki, which via the body’s to try,Japanese and lotsstyle of new littleas“Paris Lady”works necklaces. acupuncture zones to strengthen organ function, wipe out stress But the biggest load to arrive was four enormous cartons of and rebalance the spine. Each class is a fun, grounding workout new jewellery boxes - and there are still more to come! So this that challenges your mind and body. year you can choose from the traditional leather-look in lots of Unlike manycolours, other forms of yoga, which often launch straight styles and or shiny lacquerware, or wooden musical into classic and advanced poses, Macro Yoga Therapy powerfully boxes, or rustic timber ... or for little girls there are dozens of builds your core strength towards them in steps over the full musical boxes with fairies and ballerinas and butterflies. Big hour of the class. girl boxes range from $13.95 to $80, and little girl boxes from This ensures that you receive the full and lasting benefits these $17.95 to $29.95. poses are meant for. And, unlike a massage, you create the Love & Kisses is renowned for their Christmas decorations, and change and the relief - and you get to keep it.

Judy says they’re all flooding in now, so it’s lucky she has plenty Within the first few classes, our students - aged up to 72 - report of storage space. They’ll all go out at the end of October, so feeling stronger all over, clearer-headed, fewer food cravings, hold off buying until you can look there first! pain-free backs and looser necks and shoulders. As the weeks For a feel-good shopping experience, & Kissesrelief is defi nitely progress, many enjoy significant changesLove - including from the place to go. long-term injuries and pain.

toormina physiotherapy Toormina Physiotherapy Retraining of core stabilisers through use of Real Time Ultrasound.

Why is the deep muscular so important?

Since 1985, Chris Duffy and the team corset at Toormina The deep muscular corset helps to protectto your spine from injury Physiotherapy have been dedicated bringing to the and works stabilise allSawtell, movement.

In individuals have people of to Toormina, Coffs Harbour, who Bonville, never experienced back the deep muscular Boambee and thelow rest of pain, the Coffs Coast an upcorset to date turnsenthusiastic on or pre-activates (starts working) prior to movement of and physiotherapy service. yourtreat armsallorsorts legs.of It has been shown in studies that the function We problems with your musculo-skeletal of the deep muscular corset may be stopped or altered, in the system, such as sore backs and necks, knee pain and shoulder presence of pain.

In individuals with low back pain, this prepain, ankle sprains, shin splints, sporting injuries, running activation is delayed or We in many cases, absent.

Current research injuries, work injuries. rehabilitate after fractures and car is demonstrating the importance of retraining the deep muscular accidents. corset after an episode of low back pain.

We look to find the cause of your problems and don’t just New technology images deep muscular corset. At Toormina treat the symptoms. For example, your knee may be sore Physio we are using real time ultrasound as a feedback tool to because you are rolling in on your foot, or your shoulder may teach and retrain how to contract the deep muscular corset. This be hurting because the muscles holding it in the socket are not ultrasound is used to view the deep muscular corset muscles and working in the correct way. shows the muscular contractions (or lack of muscular contraction!)

We make you understand what is causing condition, Using this sure technology can help you to visualise theyour activation of and we aim to help you to manage the problem correctly. your deep muscular corset muscles and start retraining your core Need help with an injury or long term pain? immediately.

Call ChrisChris Duffyand andthe theteam teamtoday on (02) Contact on6653 (02) 3850.

6653 3850.

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

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

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

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

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

coffs 19 coffscoast coastfocus. focus. 37

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

DUNCAN MARCHANT T U R N I N G T H E TA B L E S T O INTERVIEW THE INTERVIEWER

For years now, Duncan Marchant has interviewed local health and fitness enthusiasts or health professionals for FOCUS, but we thought it was about time we interviewed him instead.

D

uncan is the Founder and Managing Director of Coffs Coast Health Clubs, located in Toormina and Moonee. These clubs have been the trusted community health clubs since 2009, due to their comfortable and relaxed atmospheres and their team’s contribution to local community, schools, sports teams, events and charities.

Why did you choose fitness, and what have you done since making this choice?

I have played sport my entire life, representing at both club and state levels, but decided after school that fitness was my future. My first role was as reception/maintenance/cleaner/sales/ personal trainer and whatever else in the gym at Hyatt Hotel Canberra. I did all the shifts the manager would give me at any time, because I just loved the fact that I could have such a positive impact on so many lives. I started studying to be a personal trainer straight after school and then went on to study nutrition and business at uni after that.

My first gym here was Harbour Health Club in 1996, then Pacific Bay Resort, and then I was offered the opportunity to move back and manage the gym at Hyatt Hotel Canberra at the age of 21. Since then I have founded, bought and sold a number of fitness businesses, but Coffs Coast Health Club is my family’s home forever more. My kids love it (especially kids’ club) and Carla (wifey) is in her element teaching classes and helping everyone every day.

Your clubs are widely known as the region’s most awarded health clubs, but why is that?

I think it’s because since 2009 we have won various Fitness Australia and Coffs Chamber of Commerce awards, but we have also won a Telstra Business Award, which is a pretty big achievement for a local Coffs business. I actually think the main reason we won those awards is because everything we do is to empower the Coffs Coast to be the happiest and healthiest community in Australia. We love our members and our community, and each year our team donates over $50,000 to local causes and immeasurable time to support community events.

I think it’s about our culture; we attract caring individuals who see the bigger picture instead of just their own needs, and that goes for our

38 coffs coast focus.

members too.

You used to be the President of Fitness ACT; where do you see the future of fitness going?

When I first started running fitness businesses 20 years ago, the industry was pretty boring, with sometimes only one globogym in each area and the bodybuilders intimidating the general public out of the free weight area. Today, things are truly different, and we are blessed in Coffs to have such a diverse range of health clubs and fitness businesses. We have plenty of options, from our two clubs to Genesis, Beachbodies, Powerhouse, MyGym and the like through to crossfit and group training options like GirlFit, Vibe, She and FitFix. We all do business differently, and it’s just a matter of finding a fitness business that has everything you need and an atmosphere you can see yourself consistently exercising in. Hope you don’t mind me plugging them all but I believe when we all work together, we can do amazingly positive things with the community’s health - and the future of fitness is in collaboration. Online programmes, fitbits and apps all have their place in the future, but at the end of the day we are social creatures, and human interaction is critical to us all achieving our goals.

What services can we get at Coffs Coast Health Club? Our mission is to provide the region with a one stop shop for health and fitness services. This means we provide everything on site, from 24/7 memberships to physiotherapy, massage therapy, exercise physiology, nutritional consulting, weight loss programmes, group exercise classes, kids’ clubs, personal training and natural supplements, all under the one roof.

We also provide a real learning and training environment for anyone wanting to become a personal trainer through the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers, who chose our club for their registered training organisations base. I’m not sure everyone is aware that we do so many different things. We’re not just a gym.

Thanks for sharing, Duncan. If you’re looking to kickstart your own fitter future, drop in to see him at Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or Moonee! You can also contact him on 0411 103 867 or Facebook to get started today.

FINALLY...

The secret to

great health care Recent research from the World Health Organisation (WHO) has found the highest quality of health care comes from a collaborative team approach between a range of health care professionals.

I

f you’re not seeing multiple people within a team of health care providers, it’s highly likely you are missing out on getting what you really need to lead a happy, healthy life. We caught up with Aaron Hardaker, director of Mid North Coast Physio, to find out why putting your health in the hands of just one health professional can be harming your health.

Why should we care about having a team approach to our health care needs?

Because without it you could be putting your health at risk. The WHO describes it as “when multiple health workers from different professional backgrounds provide comprehensive services by working with patients, their families, carers and communities to deliver the highest quality of care.” In reverse, this means if you only see your doctor, or your physio, or any other individual provider in isolation, then you are missing out on receiving the best care available. You need to tap into the knowledge and skill of a range of providers to ensure you are getting the best outcomes possible.

In reality, how does this “Team Approach” work for me and my health care needs?

It works by saving you time - you get to see the right people with the right skills to address your specific problems. Let me give you an example - I recently saw a client for a painful, arthritic knee. She was in her fifties, diabetic and overweight. The old-school physio approach when working in isolation would have been to treat her knee, reduce her pain, and send her on her way with some maintenance exercises. Instead, in addition

to physio treatment she has since seen our dietitian for better nutrition options to control her diabetes and reduce weight. She has seen our exercise physiologist to assist with weight loss and improve her leg strength and flexibility to reduce to load on the knee, as well as consulting with our psychologist to assist with addressing some personal issues that have added to inactivity and weight gain in the past. You can see from this example that without a team approach this client would not now be pain-free, feeling great and likely to lead a much healthier and happy life from here on.

How can we access these team health care options in the Coffs Harbour area?

Mid North Coast Physio has fully integrated health care services to save you time and money while ensuring you get the best health outcomes. With four locations in Woolgoolga, Moonee Beach, Toormina and Urunga offering physiotherapy, exercise physiology, massage, occupational therapy, nutrition and dietetics, psychology, Pilates, yoga, personal training, weight loss coaching and 24/7 health club memberships, we are genuinely your one stop shop for health care. Any prospective clients who are unsure who they need to see to help them can request a free pre-assessment with any therapist to find out how we can help you.

To book your FREE pre-assessment and comprehensive health care plan from any Mid North Coast Physio health professional, call 1300 273 747. There is limited availability for free assessments, so call NOW to avoid disappointment.

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with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343.

AUGUST 2016

with Terri

Results PT STUDIO What if YOU never had to diet again? What if YOU learned and developed habits that put YOU back in control of your nutrition and got you off the dieting treadmill forever? What if YOU could shed the kilos, permanently and were able to have the body and lifestyle you desire?

It is possible.

At Results PT Studio we don’t believe in quick fixes; they don’t work. Change is achieved through consistently doing the little things right.

As a Precision Nutrition Level 2 coach, I am able to deliver the ProCoach online coaching programme personally. If you are tired of dieting, time poor, too self-conscious to go to a gym or go to the gym but don’t get results ... If you want a “road-tested”, evidence-based, real-world-proven system that has helped over 45,000 people lose over 900,000 Lbs of fat, then follow this link: http://www.results-pt.com/services/online_coaching to learn how to change your life.

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Your higher awareness is waking, and this aligns you with reaching or striving for your highest potential. Set your sights on a gift or talent, and develop it as much as you can. Be kind to yourself in thought, and avoid worrying about what people think.

Selenite shatters negative thoughts.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Justice can be expected to settle any outstanding wrongs. You will benefit by being aware of your fears, so you can become the answer to them, thus avoid facing them for personal growth or evolution.

Amethyst reconnects us to our personal journey.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 You have carried a dream from a long time ago or for a long time, and you are aligning for another chance to access it. Be prepared and give yourself permission to try it; the confidence it will offer will heal any esteem issues.

Rose Quartz is great for self love.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Your thoughts have lately been focusing on cycles that repeated in your past, although when you reflect on these things, they don’t seem to have the same affect on you as before. You have healed or changed your views. Thank yourself for your growth, and watch what comes. Malachite brings past hurts to the surface for release.

40 coffs coast focus.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

As your beliefs and foundations in life have recently been in question, it is a great time to establish new ones to cater for your future. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to achieve them. Enjoy!

Citrine attracts abundance.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Listen to your wise words when you are giving advice, as you will hear some wise words also meant for yourself. This is how your divine self talks to you. Avoid any selfdegrading thoughts or what you think other people think of you.

Turquoise is great for self-worth.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 You will benefit by practicing patience at the moment. The universe has the bigger picture in mind, and it’s easy to be caught up in impatience. Just relax and set some goals and try using some visualisation to see yourself walking the walk.

Citrine shatters frustrations.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 You may be feeling a little suspended at present.

This won’t last long. You are discovering what your role in the bigger scheme of things is.

Take some comfort, and free yourself from any undigested emotions from the last 12 months.

Citrine is great for clearing.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Self worth and self-approval are subjects that may benefit from a little empowering.

Life has been a bit challenging for you in these areas of late, and it is likely that these qualities need to be restored.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Prepare for the unexpected. The universe is aligning for you to reach full potential and to connect with the bigger purpose in life. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to succeed. Then have fun.

Ruby shatters fears great for adventure.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

You are aligning with reaching full potential where career is concerned. Expect a promotion or transfer, or even a new position. Set some fresh goals concentrating on how you wish to feel in the workplace.

Citrine shatters self doubt.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Self worth and self approval are subjects that may benefit from a little empowering. Be kind to yourself, and avoid sharing your personal mistakes or imperfections with others.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

A L L A B I L I T I E S feature.

MID COAST

COMMUNITIES DID YOU KNOW THAT ONE IN EVERY THREE PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY EITHER HAS A DISABILITY OR CARES FOR SOMEONE WHO DOES? THE ABILITY LINKS PROGRAMME IS AVAILABLE ACROSS THE MID NORTH COAST FROM COFFS HARBOUR IN THE NORTH TO GREAT LAKES AND GLOUCESTER IN THE SOUTH. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH THE TEAM AT MID COAST COMMUNITIES TO FIND OUT MORE.

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eople with disability are just like everyone else in our communities.

Many people with disability are working, studying and taking part in everyday community activities, just like the rest of us. And like everyone else, people with disability also have dreams and aspirations for their lives and the desire to be equal and valued members of our communities. People with disability have the right to live a full and valued life, to make their own choices, to learn new things, to build friendships and relationships, to contribute to community life, to pursue passions and interests and to lead a meaningful and satisfying life.

From time to time, people with disability may like assistance to achieve their goals and dreams.

On the Mid North Coast, we are fortunate to have a range of wonderful disability services that provide invaluable assistance to people with disability and their carers. One great programme available for people with disability is the Ability Links programme, which is funded by the NSW

Department of Family and Community Services and delivered on the Mid North Coast by Mid Coast Communities Incorporated.

Ability Links is a free service for people who identify as having On the Mid a disability. Coordinators North Co ast, we open up connections (called Linkers) work in have are fortunate to and opportunities. And ul partnership with people rf a range of wonde that they are passionate es with disability and their ic disability serv about what they do. le ab lu carers to assist people to va provide in le The difference that the op pe to live the lives they want to ce assistan d their an Ability Links approach y lit bi sa live within our communities. di with can make is most Linkers also support people carers .” apparent in the experiences in our communities to be of participants. What’s as welcoming and inclusive as really exciting to see is how a possible. ‘link’ can lead to so much more. A Anna Thompson, Ability Links newfound sense of confidence can lead Programme Manager, says: “Linkers take the to a new job. A volunteering role can enable a time to listen and check back with people participant to contribute and connect. A different to ensure that they are at the very centre of way of seeing things can open up an alternative decisions about how they want to live their pathway.” lives. Linkers assist people to build networks. They

“

“Ability Links one of the most exciting programmes we’ve been fortunate to deliver,” says CEO Ruth Thompson. “We love hearing the many stories of success told to us by people who have used this service and how making new connections and linkages have changed their lives!”

The Ability Links programme is available across the Mid North Coast, from Coffs Harbour in the north to Great Lakes and Gloucester in the south.

If you would like some assistance to reach your goals and realise your dreams, you can access Ability Links by contacting us by phone on (02) 6650 9771, by email abilitylinks@ midcc.org.au or by finding out more at our website: www.midcoastcommunities.org.au

coffs coast focus. 41

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A L L A B I L I T I E S feature.

Coffs HOME MODS Did you know that 30% of people over 65 fall at least once a year? Once you have had a fall, you are twice as likely to fall again within 12 months. Fall injuries can have a serious impact on your quality of life and independence.

We can advise on safe home practices and provide quality modifications and maintenance services that will make your home environment safer.

We can help with every step, from arranging an accredited Occupational Therapist Assessment through to design and construction. Only experienced, licensed and skilled tradespeople will be engaged and quality new materials used.

Whether you require bathroom grab rails, access ramps or a full kitchen or bathroom modification, be confident that we can help.

42 coffs coast focus.

Maintaining your property and ensuring it remains a safe and comfortable environment is important. We can help you with plumbing, electrical, garden redesign, security and lighting.

“It gives our daughter independence; she needs to be able to look after herself, as we get to the stage where we’re not going to be able to. She’s now got a wheelchair accessible bathroom; in 30 years of her life, she’s never ever been able to use a basin in the bathroom.” - client’s parents.

Coffs Home Mods are hosting the Coffs Coast Accessibility Expo, held on October 20th, 2016.

We are currently looking for organisations that would like to be stall holders for this event; give us a call today on 6651 2143 to book your spot.

All are welcome.

EARLY CONNECTIONS coffs coast THE NATIONAL DISABILITY INSURANCE SCHEME IS SET TO SHAKEUP THE INDUSTRY; WHAT IMPACT DO YOU THINK IT WILL HAVE?

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his is an exciting time for people with disabilities and their families. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the new way of providing individualised support for people with a disability, their families and carers. The NDIS will ensure that people with a disability and their families are given every opportunity to make their own decisions and exercise choice and control. This means that families of children with developmental delays will be able to access reasonable and necessary supports to assist their child to develop. Families will have the ability to choose who provides support to them and their child and how this will look.

There will be a wider range of organisations offering supports to assist families of children with developmental delays. Overall, the market will look dramatically different; however, it will not impact on the high level of support this programme is known for. We will continue to offer supports to families and to be guided by those issues the parents identify as being most important to their family. In order to do this, we will continue to collaborate with all other organisations involved in supporting the family.

Tell us a little bit about Early Connections...

Collaboration is nothing new for the Early Connections Network. Given the new approach to supporting people with disabilities (NDIS), it makes good sense to form an official alliance such as Early Connections.

Early Connections will incorporate: Early Childhood Intervention Programmes from Coffs Harbour, Manning and Great Lakes, Hastings, Kempsey and Nambucca Valley.

We will continue to provide a wide range of supports to our families, including: Early Childhood Intervention, Better Start and Helping Children with Autism, Splash & Play, Gumnuts and My Time programmes, among others.

We utilise the Key Worker and Transdisciplinary models when working with families, as well as providing individual

therapies. These models and therapies are available to children from newborn to the age of eight years.

What can Early Connections offer families of children with disabilities/delays?

The philosophy of all Early Connections Programmes is to support families of children with delays/disabilities to build their capacity and be included in their local communities.

All programmes have highly qualified and dedicated teams, including Early Childhood Special Education Teachers and Educators, Speech Pathologists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Family Support Workers. We have long-term staff who are very loyal, caring and truly committed to making a difference in the families they support, as well as the community at large.

Our teachers and therapists deliver support to families that enable positive outcomes for young children with developmental delay or disability. We know that this early intervention approach will improve long-term outcomes and assist children to have more meaningful participation in their communities.

What is your approach to delivering your Early Childhood Intervention programmes?

Our model is inclusive. This means that we work to support all children with disability or developmental delay, as well as their families, to achieve better outcomes through supports in their local communities. We focus on greater inclusion in mainstream community settings, including home, school, and early childhood education settings. Our aim is to build capacity of children, families and those who work with them.

Contact: Early Connections - Coffs Coast.

Phone: (02) 6652 8080.

Website: www.earlyconnectionscoffscoast.org.au

focusinterview.

E M P OW E R I NG OT H E R S A N D C H A L L E NG I NG O N E S E L F I S A N O B L E P U R S U I T. JAC Q U I JA R R AT T I S A N A M A Z I N G M U LT I TA L E N T E D L O C A L W O M A N W H O I S A N I N S P I R AT I O N A N D M E N T O R T O M A N Y. F O C U S R E C E N T LY C AU G H T U P W I T H H E R T O F I N D O U T H O W H E R J O U R N E Y T H ROUG H L I F E H A S H E L PE D H E R TO H E L P OT H E R S.

C

C O F F S C OA S T B U S I N E S S W O M E N ’ S N E T W O R K F E AT U R E

an you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast?

This connection came about after a holiday here with family and then a promise of a job for my husband and me in our industry. Simple as that. Who could

resist?

What is it that you do?

I’m a mum to four, grandmum to three, personal trainer, pilates instructor, wellness coach, course facilitator, kinesiologist, wife, daughter and friend.

You wrote a book after going through several life challenges. Can you tell us a bit about that experience?

My short book, called Unfamiliar Mirrors, came about when I had a real need to get a story out of my head. It is about my battle with and recovery from anorexia, bulimia and self worth. It is also about my observations of women, over my 25+ years in the fitness industry, and how we can be our own worst enemies and how some of our thoughts and behaviours will never serve us well.

Would you think of writing another book about the experiences you have had since then?

I have two books in mind. My 50s were going to be a time of ticking things off my bucket list, but this was interrupted when I naturally fell pregnant at 50 and gave birth to my third child at 51 - a completely beautiful blessing. This inspired me to put together a book called 50 Interrupted, yet to be completed. The other book which I’m looking for contributions for, is going to be about the amazing women in our region, so many of whom have overcome adversity in their lives. Wouldn’t it be great to pick up a book on local women, open it to a page where there is a story and outcome that inspires you to overcome your challenges?

They all keep me motivated.

This book is open to any woman to contribute to. It will be a community book, with proceeds going to a local Wellness Coach and Kinesiologist. Even though the fitness charity. industry has been a 30 year integral part of my world, for What advice would you give to other women who me wellness crept into my life around 10 years ago. It makes might be experiencing similar challenges? so much sense to me to gain wellness from the inside out, Try and step away from your challenge, even if it’s just for rather than working on the outside first or only. Applied a short 30 minutes to breathe and to see the challenge for Kinesiology never ceases to amaze me with its effectiveness what it really is. List what you can and can’t control. Discard as a wellness tool. the can’ts and work on the cans. Know your core Heal to Love Workshop Facilitator values and be true to yourself. Let go of your first this is a monthly workshop I run, world problems and love and respect yourself, where I blend all my wisdom, warts and all! education and experience ts As an active member of the BWN Discard the can’ together to help women let and work on the and IWD committees, what positive go of their stuff, to change core influences do you feel they bring to cans . Know your to their thoughts so they can ue tr be d values an the Coffs Coast? your of go change their world. It’s very t Le lf. se your Well, both committees support lems ob pr ld cool. or w st fir a diverse range of women. I love spect What plans do you have and love and re seeing women acknowledged for their d all!” an ts ar w yourself, for the future? achievements, and I love seeing women I intend to continue my gain confidence in themselves. Both the studies with wellness therapies Business Women’s Network and the International and take full advantage of being a Women’s Day committee in affiliation with Zonta mum to my big kids and my little one, and Business Professional Women, assist women of all plus a foster mum and also nanna to my ages and backgrounds to do all this. It’s very rewarding for grandbabies. everyone involved.

I love community and being involved, so I will You wear a lot of hats. Tell us about a few of the continue to support my husband and our businesses while different roles you have and what they help you keeping my heart and senses open to all opportunities that achieve ... become available to me.

Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor - through Where can people find out more?

Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina. I train inspiring women jacqui@beyondintensity.com.au or 0421 971 155.

- from my incredible never-say-can’t-do-it “oldies” to my Thanks Jacqui. younger mums doing the hard yards with little kids in tow.

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C O F F S C OA S T B U S I N E S S W O M E N ’ S N E T W O R K F E AT U R E

MEET KRYSTIE BOYES How do you create a positive environment for your team?

Cleaning isn't glamorous by any means, so by having a positive attitude and healthy, fun working environment we keep the team motivated to achieve the job that the client expects.

What new products or services are you developing in 2016?

Microfiber is the new direction that the commercial cleaning industry is gravitating towards, as it’s "green" for the environment.

Smarter cleaning chemicals and effective cleaning equipment is keeping cleaning at the forefront of technology.

Define Success ... When you dedicate yourself to a project from its absolute creation like I have with Champ Cleaning and see it now 6 years on, my partner Justin and I now service 17 sites and have nearly 20 employees.

How do you evaluate customer satisfaction? Cleaners are the unsung hero of the trade industry, as you can always tell when a bad job’s been done, but they never think to thank the cleaners when they're done.

Do you have any awards or accolades to boast of lately?

ETC preferred employer, Sunny's Business Awards finalist and winner for 2014/15 and now 2016, Sponsorship for Joyland Carers Retreat functions, Diploma of Hospitality and Business Operations, Cert 4 Bookkeeping, Cert 3 Business Admin, MJA’s Business Solutions ‘Excellence in Small Business Scholarship’, and since 2010 I have worked in the Functions Department at Bonville Golf Resort... just to name a few!

Tell us why you are a member of the BWN? There are so many wonderful business-minded women in this group, which you would struggle to find in any other social network in the Coffs region.

TRAVEL COUNSELLORS Tracy loves all things travel ... No wonder, with over 13 years’ experience and the last two years running her own successful Travel Counsellor franchise. Combined with eight years of Hotel Management, you know you’re in safe hands.

COFFS HARBOUR INNOVATION CENTRE Julianne McKeon has been the Coordinator of the Coffs Harbour Innovation Centre for five years. She has seen the growth of a number of new businesses who have been tenants at the Centre based in the Technology Park on the Coffs Harbour Education Campus.

When it comes to awards, the most prestigious in the world of travel are the National Travel Industry Awards.

In late 2015, a new opportunity arose for those who wanted to work in a connected and convivial space. The Six Degrees Co-working Space @ the Innovation Centre was born!

Tracy was honoured to attend the awards in July as one of four finalists in the category of Best Corporate Travel Consultant in Australia.

Co-working spaces are membership-based communal workplaces used by diverse groups of freelancers, remote workers and other independent professionals.

Tracy has worked in travel for over 13 years, with the last two years running her own successful Travel Counsellor franchise.

Having a workplace community helps co-workers create structure and discipline that motivates them. By bringing work out of the home office, a mental space is provided for people to “legitimise” the time spent on the business and also gets them away from household distractions that can eat into the productive hours of the day.

“I pride myself on the highest level of customer service possible and I think it was this that the judges were so impressed with.”

With corporate travel especially being driven by automation, and click and book systems, it’s refreshing to have a professional who offers a voice on the end of the phone, 24 hour coverage and someone that truly cares about your bookings on a personal level. It’s good old fashioned service with a smile - being not only happy, but willing to go the extra mile that keeps clients coming back year after year.

Features of co-working at the Centre include access to fast speed NBN Wi-Fi, a breakout room for meetings, networking opportunities and business mentoring and support.

To find out more, phone Julianne on 6658 8199, and visit www.coffstechpark.com.au.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level?

Try co-working at the Coffs Harbour Innovation Centre Co-working spaces are membership based communal workplaces used by diverse groups of freelancers, remote workers and other independent professionals.

For more information contact: Julianne McKeon coordinator@coffsinnovation.com.au

02 6658 8199

Education Campus 363 Hogbin Drive Coffs Harbour

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C O F F S C OA S T B U S I N E S S W O M E N ’ S N E T W O R K F E AT U R E

COFFS COAST FAMILY LAW CHARMAINE TANNER My colleagues, Julieann Marshall and Anne Beasley, help keep our large number of matters on task and organised. We know our input can have a huge impact on people’s lives, and that they are depending on us to stay on task.

We are attuned to people’s needs, and we are always conscious of the emotional impact of our recommendations. We respect the feelings of our clients, who are usually experiencing an emotional time in their lives.

Success is measured by our clients’ acknowledgment of our efforts. When they thank us for being sensible, compassionate and realistic to help them come to a settlement of their matter, we know we have succeeded. There are no winners in family law. It is about helping clients separate from their past and allowing them to start the next chapter of their lives.

Our success is our clients’ acknowledgement

that we worked as sensibly, quickly and efficiently as the legal system allows. Bunches of flowers and chocolates are, of course, always welcome!

I attended BWN when I was first admitted as a lawyer. As a teacher for many years, I was new to promoting myself as a legal professional, and BWN allowed me to meet many and varied business women, both owners and employees.

They knew a lot more about business, and I was glad to speak to experienced owners.

I started my own business after first working for large legal companies. Now I don’t have to answer to a corporate head office, whose focus tends to be on the bottom dollar. We are happy that we can focus on the individual, rather than trying to meet corporate budgets.

Coffs Coast Family Law now has three lawyers who exclusively deal with Family Law matters.

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C O F F S C OA S T B U S I N E S S W O M E N ’ S N E T W O R K F E AT U R E

JADE WOODWARD. PRESIDENT OF BWN

And so we begin a fresh financial year! New goals, aspirations and growth to be chased down with fervour. A new financial year

brings with it excitement for the impending year ahead, and here within Coffs Coast BWN, members and guests have so much to look forward to from the new-look organisation.

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women take on the role of mentor to new e've just launched our enhanced website, and growing businesses and business women. courtesy of our Premium Announced at our July Launch event, the Partners ASIT-Group, and programme has received great interest from both the new digital hub is filled sides already, and it is clear that this is something with many benefits for members and guests. that is going to significantly fuel growth and An in-built social networking platform further build relationships within our community will provide an easier, more efficient way for of business women on the Coffs Coast. members and guests to meet and chat in Discounted ticket prices, special dedicated addition to events. If you happen to have missed offers, gifts, and a whole host of incredible the opportunity to talk to someone at the last benefits are set to be included with the event, you can log on via the members’ section introduction of the Financial to your own personal profile and send Membership, which is next on a message to other members the list to implement, post to further the networking Special General Meeting opportunities. This also There will soon to be held Wednesday, m ru helps to “break the ice” be an open fo on July 27. Particulars will si us sc for those who may be area , where di n ca rs be be posted on the new em less outgoing, yet who between m ith w st si as to ly website and via email. ee want to gain the benefits occur fr cs pi to or s ea ar n As a collective, certai that a networking scussion , di e ot om pr d we really have the an organisation offers. r as well as furthe opportunity to grow There will soon be an networking .” with and through each open forum area, where discussion between members other and boost each other can occur freely to assist with up for the betterment of our certain areas or topics, and promote whole community. We hope you discussion, as well as further networking. are looking forward to this financial year Another benefit of the new website is that ahead as much as we are, and we are excited members will also be able to promote goods to share an amazing journey ahead with you all, and services to others via a dedicated page. side by side.

Member profiles, blog posts on topics of interest A heartfelt thank you to our Platinum Partner, and the opportunity to submit written articles Coffs Coast FOCUS, and to our Premium Partners which may benefit the organisation’s members ASIT-Group, Advanced Technology, Opal Cove are all included.

Resort, ETC and Coffs Coast Health Club. We This financial year will see the inaugural Coffs look forward to a great year ahead with you all.

Coast BWN Awards Night take effect, which will Next Event - join us on Cup Day at Novotel add further value to our membership and assist Pacific Bay Resort for a networking event to the businesses and personalities behind them to assist you in preparation for the Coffs Cup. Enjoy increase their profiles within the community and a scrumptious breakfast courtesy of Charlie's help to fuel business growth. Six categories will Restaurant, and have your hair, make up and be decided by an independent body of business nails primed to perfection by a selection of the experts, with each award given naming rights Coffs Coast’s finest hair stylists, makeup artists, from each of our six respective Partners for and nail technicians. Save a whole lot of time, 2016/17. This is a fantastic addition to the list of and look pretty damn fabulous in the process benefits available for members this financial year. too!

Another great benefit will be through the Thursday 4th August, 7am - 9am. Tickets introduction of our Mentorship Programme, which will see a selection of established business via www.bwn.org.au.

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46 coffs coast focus.

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are pledging to donate $25,000 towards the local community through their Junior Grants Programme 2016 - 17.

Grant recipient North Coast Special Olympics tells us how the grant supports local children with an intellectual disability achieve their personal bests.

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ell us a bit about North Coast Special Olympics ...

Special Olympics provides opportunities for people with an intellectual disability to achieve their personal best through weekly sports training and regular competition in communities across Australia.

While some Special Olympics athletes strive to win medals, others enjoy the chance to get active, have fun, make friends and be part of a community. Whatever their motivation, our network of volunteers deliver great sports programmes in an environment where people with an intellectual disability are accepted and can feel proud.

Special Olympics groups are run all around Australia; how many local children are involved in the North Coast group?

We currently have 10 children involved in Special Olympics on the North Coast. The children who access Special Olympics North Coast range in age from 7 - 18 years, and all have an intellectual disability and/or physical disabilities.

What’s your motto?

Let me win, but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt.

What sports and activities do your athletes participate in?

North Coast currently offer two sports, ten pin bowling and golf, and we are looking at recommencing our swimming programme in the summer.

What training sessions do you run?

Athletes participate in weekly training for all sports on a Monday and Wednesday afternoon.

What competitions do you have coming up?

We have an upcoming state ten pin bowling tournament in Campbelltown in August and state golf to be hosted in Sawtell in November.

Both events are selection rounds for the

National Games.

Are there enough competitions locally, or do you need to travel?

Most tournaments are not held locally, with the closest event two hours away in Port Macquarie. The cost to attend regional and state level tournaments does add up, and we want to give each athlete the opportunity to attend, so that’s when we applied for the McDonald’s Junior Grants Programme.

How will the McDonald’s Junior Grants Programme help the athletes?

All of the athletes who participate at Special Olympics are on disability support pensions and have limited funds; any kind of subsidy we can offer goes a long way in supporting these amazing athletes to achieve their personal bests!

The grant will subsidise uniform, travel and accommodation costs for the athletes to attend regional competitions. The next event for the North Coast group is the Campbelltown ten pin bowling tournament, held this month.

These events give many athletes their first taste of competition and an opportunity to be part of a team.

What plans have North Coast Special Olympics got for the future?

North Coast Special Olympics are looking at expanding the sports we offer and plan on recommencing our swimming programme once we are able to source a volunteer swimming coach.

For more information, North Coast Special Olympics: www.specialolympics.com.au McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Programme.

If you are a local child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the grants website and apply: www.mymaccas.com

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with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

The best of tasmania Quadrant Australia is offering FOCUS readers the chance to join their comprehensive tour highlighting the clean and green farming practices that have made Tasmania the envy of the farming world on the Best of Tasmanian Farming. It is a fabulous tour that includes some of the spectacular natural beauty that has put Tasmania right at the top of many people’s “bucket list”. A wonderful tour that encompasses the extraordinary innovation and artistic talent that the island state is known for.

Highlights include visits to artisan producers, cheese, chocolates and cider and sightseeing in the beautiful Cradle Mountain and spectacular Dove Lake. The tour will also visit the well-known historic sights of Hobart, including Salamanca Market and the Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur Historic Site. The chance to visit producers in the Huon Valley

and Walk the Tahune Forest Airwalk above the forest canopy helps make this tour both memorable and breathtaking.

The unique island state of Tasmania officially has the cleanest air in the world.

The rainwater is so pure, it’s harvested and bottled. This, combined with the fertile soil,

TOP TIPS for travelling

gives rise to world-renowned produce. Locallygrown apples, walnuts, wasabi and cool climate wines are all featured on local menus.

If that isn’t enough, then try the fine cheeses, crayfish, oysters or the famous salmon.

The Quadrant Australia, Best of Tasmanian Farming Tour departing in November is an excellent opportunity to see this wonderful state at its best. If you would like to know more, then drop it to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbor to find out more. www.quadrantaustralia.com

THERE HAS BEEN A LARGE INCREASE IN PEOPLE WISHING (OR NEEDING) TO TRAVEL ON THEIR OWN. IN FACT IN 2015, MORE THAN 1.7 MILLION AUSSIE TRAVELLERS DECIDED TO GO IT ALONE.

T

he accessibility and opportunity for young people to travel after many years of study has seen a growing trend in young Australians jetting off in search of the freedom and flexibility solo travelling can bring.

As a parent, it can both delight and distress you, so whether you’re looking at travelling or you’re the white-knuckled parent waiting at home to hear from the travellers, here are some tips to ensure single and young travellers stay safe.

Kerry Moss from Quadrant Australia tells us that she advises solo travellers to make sure they have a backup. It’s wise to travel with a mobile phone to stay connected, cash in case of emergency, some basic knowledge of the local language and an understanding of the laws of travel.

Connect It’s important travellers stay connected while travelling. Having a mobile phone and a suitable plan (or access to Wi-fi) whilst away will ensure family and friends are just a phone call away.

It will also allow access to valuable tools like maps, internet banking and social media. Make sure you look into the costs before you travel though. You definitely do not want to use your mobile phone in the same way as you do back home, or you will be in for a severe case of billshock when you eventually get home.

Communicate Making the smallest effort with the local language will make the world of difference.

Learning one or two common phrases will help travellers communicate with locals and get their way around places such as train stations or tourist attractions. Being able to communicate effectively when alone in a foreign country helps put your mind at ease. If travellers can learn a small selection of the local language, then everyone finds it easier to communicate. If

all else fails, there are plenty of phrase books or apps that can help ease you in.

Cash and Cards There are endless options for travellers today when it comes to carrying money. Some are better than others, however. Generally the dedicated travel money cards are a safe and secure way to spend funds whilst overseas in foreign currency. It is important to check out the fees and conversion rates before committing. Travellers should also always carry some cash on them in case of emergency, or in case technology lets them down.

Check With so many online options available now for accommodation, tours and travel plans, meeting new people and trying new things has become part of the adventure. When travelling solo though, it is important that you double check the authenticity of the people, the tour or the place you plan to lay your head. No need to be paranoid, but be diligent and take advantage of the many online forums that discuss personal experiences, and don’t put yourself in vulnerable positions that don’t have a Plan B. Cover If you aren’t a believer of the benefits of travel insurance, then ask someone who has needed it! Better still, ask someone who needed it, who didn’t have it and then ask them how much their unexpected bill was.

As the saying goes, if you can’t afford travel insurance, then you can’t afford to travel. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and for the safety net of having someone to rescue you if things don’t go to plan.

If you’d like to know more about travelling or talk to a friendly team of travel experts, drop in to see the girls at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St. With more than 25 years of experience, they can guide you through creating the holiday that suits you. coffs coast focus. 47

New Name - Same Dedication to Local Business

Starting this month, well known local firm MJ Accountants is rebadging to MJA Business Solutions.

W

e’re so much more than just accountants,” said founder Mel Zander, when asked about the name change. “The old name just didn’t communicate the breadth of our offering to small business

owners.”

The company Mel started a decade ago in her living room has expanded to offer accounting, tax consulting, business coaching and wealth advice. It’s a local success story, but Mel says her focus is more on ensuring all her clients are local

48 coffs coast focus.

success stories.

“As well as providing all the traditional services you can get from any accountant, we decided we would offer whatever solutions our clients needed to achieve success,” she explained. Hence the name, MJA Business Solutions.

Business coaching, a service MJA launched 18 months ago, is central to helping clients achieve success. A team of trained business coaches work one-on-one with small business owners to provide strategic guidance, increase business confidence and teach practical skills.

“We’ve seen some incredible personal and financial growth with our coaching clients, and it’s just so rewarding,” said Mel. “Two of our coaching clients were winners in last year’s Sunnys, so the community is recognising their hard work.”

At the end of the day, most people own businesses to provide lifestyle and security for their families. So accumulating and managing personal wealth is critical to small business owners.

Recognising this, MJA established the Financial Services division last year. With a trained team of wealth advisers and a partnership with AMP’s SMSF Advice, MJA is now helping clients to grow their own wealth, while they grow their businesses.

“We are so excited to be working with clients in such a holistic way,” said Mel. “The new name just puts a label on what we’ve been trying to do all along: help local businesses to grow and thrive.”

Check out the new website: www.mjabusiness.com.au MJA Business Solutions.

02 6652 8788

We decided we would offer ons our whatever soluti achieve clients needed to success.”

“

We're proud to introduce MJA Business Solutions. We've changed our name from MJ Accounting, because we are more than just accountants. We offer our business clients the complete package.

coffs coast focus. 49

CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Professional Social Photos by Meraki Images

Kim Bellamy, Margaret Bellamy, Brett Bellamy

Maureen, Dympna, Maureen

Adelaide and Leanne Zietsch

La Fleur D’Alyse Team

Erin Jackson, Therese Barker, Karen Jackson

Carole Beros, Simon Chladil

Kulthurithmic

Kathryn White, Tianda Mack, Rachael Kee

Mel Crossland

SOCIAL/SCENE

I

am so lucky to be part of the FOCUS team and when it comes to doing front covers, it always turns into a mini event! This time Nicci, Russell and I rocked up to see Mr Ashley Beaton, who is the owner of North Coast V Twins. This was something new and exciting for me. Of course, this front cover has absolutely nothing to do with fashion ... But I am a mad rally supporter and love vintage prestige cars, and anything fast and flashy in general! So when it was decided that we were getting a group of our local business men together (one of them being my husband, Ivan Beros from Country to Coast Pest Control) to feature in a shoot with some EXTREMELY fast and flashy Harley Davidsons ... It was all systems go! Ashely and his team loaded us up with armfuls of sharp looking leather jackets, helmets, the odd prop or two, and sent us off with a couple of the slickest looking Harleys I have ever seen! After lots of fun, some great images and definitely some great FOCUS memories, we ended up with this amazing front cover you see showcasing this fabulous edition. After winding up the shoot, Nicci couldn’t help herself and had a few pics taken on one of the speed machines! I must admit, it suited her! Living the dream, Nicci Seccombe ... Living the dream!

The FOCUS team rocked up to the Coffs Coast BWN’s July event, which was staged at the Beachfront Opal Cove Resort, which is one of the Premium Partners. The event went off with an 50 coffs coast focus.

ALWAYS SOMETHING INTERESTING HAPPENING ON THE COFFS COAST, AND THERE IS CERTAINLY ALWAYS SOMETHING EXCITING GOING ON AT FOCUS.

absolute bang; members and guests mingled over champagne and delicious canapés, before taking their seats for a night of high impact entertainment! Local Woolgoolga band and headline act at the forthcoming Banana Field Music Festival, Then Jolene, entertained guests with their unique and refreshing swamp gospel sounds to kick start a night filled with way too much fun and musical entertainment. President Jade Woodward ran the crowd through the BWN organisation’s new look for the future. She commented that there are to be many enhancements and benefits, attracting great interest and excitement. The incredible Platinum and Premium partners were officially welcomed in, with each making an incredible offer to members and guests on the night.

Two hilarious mavens of comedy then took to the stage. The honest and somewhat outrageous humour of Mandy Nolan had the guests in stiches, as did the ever popular Bev Killick with her bawdy and real stand-up act. Opal Cove once again pulled out all the stops, dressing the room in a spectacular fashion, as well as delighting guests with chocolate sweet treats at the end of the evening. To finish off the night, Then Jolene topped off the evening, as the ladies hit the dance floor for a dance! Fantastic night out!

Staying with BWN, they were a sponsor of another fab event just recently ... Le Dãin Designs had the pleasure of once again staging an event that assists in launching our Racing Carnival. The

Le Dãin Designs High Fashion, Hats and High Tea Event also helps support the Pink Silks Perpetual Trust. This year the event rose over $1,200 to support the charity. The Coffs Coast is always so generous and if you can throw an event, get dressed up to the nines, have fun and raise money for a registered charity such as this ... It’s nothing short of fabulous!

Over 170 guests attended this event, which was staged at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Double the attendees of last year’s event! Simon Chladil and his team turned the venue into something which was nothing short of spectacular! Black and gold drapes with enormous gold cups adorned the space. White clothed tables with boxes of opulent white flowers from Freelance Flowers dressed the tables. Guests walked onto the red carpet, whilst harpist Peter Kaukianen softly played. Christalina Cocktails were served to excited guests as they were escorted to their tables by our very own proudly sashed Coffs Harbour Showgirl, Kym Ferrington. The effervescent Alice Williams was the MC for the day, and our lovely Mayoress Denise Knight opened the event. This day was full to the brim! Guest speaker, local trainer Brett Bellamy, gave a talk, and Simon Chladil covered the fashion tips. A red carpeted stage centered the room, ready for the Fashion Show, which consisted of models of all ages gracing the catwalk. Millinery and fashion from Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell delighted the guests with a touch of cheeky fur.

Major Sponsor, Emma Rhoades from Meraki Images, was there to capture all the memories.

No tickets had to be purchased, but there were plenty of great prizes. Thousands of dollars worth of prizes were won by excited guests. Some of the prizes consisted of a full Hypoxi package for two valued at $1,600, beauty packages from La Fleur D’Alyse, Jewells from Le Dãin Designs, accommodation from Opal Cove and restaurant vouchers from Kimono at Sawtell. Gifts from Troy’s Catering, Blooms Sawtell gift pack and fine wine from the Pier Hotel.

A scrumptious high tea was served, as guests were entertained with dancing from Kulturithmik and sounds from the ever popular Benny Francis.

Guests were treated to a fabulous beauty parlour from major sponsor La Fleur D’Alyse and a mini hair salon from another event sponsor, Michelle from Hair at the Promenade. FOCUS was the major media sponsor, and we had the pleasure of founder Louise Beaumont attending the event and sitting on the judging panel, with Kay Skinner and Barbara Wenman. Fantastic prizes were won, and sashes were presented. Congratulations to the winner of the FOCUS Fashions on the Field Svetlana Burrows and runner up Jill Bale; winner of the best millinery went to Tanya Johnson.

Great afternoon, and a fabulous way to kick start our Racing Carnival!

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Tullia Conner, Adelaide Zietsch, Cat Reeves

Marissa Kaanthorp, Tegan Ewart, Mel Crossland, Kym Ferrington

Beth, Karen Jackson, Jill Bale, Kay Ryan, Jenny Evans

Debra Burnett, Tanya Johnson, Svetlana Burrows, Jill Bale

Carole Beros, Nicci Seccombe, Louise Beaumont, Natalie Hunt, Jenny Saville

Jess Tan, Cat Reeves, Sarvi Thompson, Adelaide Zietsch, Erin Jackson, Tulles Conner

Tanya Watts, Carmela Falzon, Donna, Fiona

Leanne Gray, Simon Chladil, Raegen Morrison, Stacy Jessup, Nic Pymont, Nicole Moore

Coral Wheatley, Christine McGregor, Trudy Thomson, (Back) Danielle Single

Eileen Dalrymple, Jodi Wittenberg, Jullianne McKeon, Nicole McKeon

Debra Burnett, Deborah Burnett, Joanne Vines

Bec Bailey, Nessie Kovac, Christine Gardiner, (Back) Leeanne and Bronte Lloyd

Steve and Denise Ryan

Barbara Wenman, Louise Beaumont, Kay Skinner

‘Then Jolene’

Alex Sexton, Glen Barnett, Alec Shaw

Focus Front Cover Shoot

Ivan Beros, Kathryn and Craig Black

coffs coast focus. 51

focus_tourism

with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast

tourism UPDATE

focus_tourism

with Tegan Ewart, Vice President Woolgoolga Chamber of Commerce

WOOPI tourismupdate

WELCOME TO YOUR PARADISE THE NEW COFFS COAST DESTINATION TELEVISION COMMERCIAL WAS RECENTLY LAUNCHED AS THE FIRST MILESTONE TO REPOSITION OUR REGION AS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO VISIT, LIVE AND INVEST.

T

he commercial is the start of holes. a series of campaigns that The commercial was shot at several locations, have been developed as part including Dorrigo National Park and Dangar of the Coffs Coast Tourism Falls, Bellingen, Boambee Beach, Macauleys Strategy process to position Headland and the International Marina in Coffs Coffs Coast as a nature based destination.

Harbour, Emerald Beach “Look At me Now The TV commercial is the key marketing tool Headland”, Sandy Beach Blueberry Farm and developed to promote Coffs Coast as a Red Rock. The Coffs Coast Destination place that you can “create your Marketing Plan, “Create your paradise”. The extensive paradise” includes regional marketing campaign TV, Prime7 and NBN, digital The new video includes regional video, digital billboards, was created television broadcasts, social media and some r to showcase ou metro advertising outdoor signage to e, diverse landscap on displays and online target visiting friends is as with an emph s ce en digital components and relatives. The ri pe ex hinterland e, nc re ffe using the elements campaign launched di of t as a poin t bu h, ac be of paradise such as early July and will e th st not ju ains nt ou m e rainforests, waterfalls, continue until October. th re he w rivers, beaches and The new campaign has meet the sea.” sunshine. been implemented as part The commercial was a of the Coffs Coast destination major project developed over strategic plan, which includes several months and aims to cut key management directions around through a very competitive market with marketing activities to increase visitor a strong nature themed message. The numbers, target repeat visitors and encourage concept was developed with a “paradise” longer stays through the promotion of quality theme, as something that is evocative from nature based experiences. statements you hear every day about “living in The next steps are the provision for future paradise” and “another day in paradise”. The planning that will include supporting the new video was created to showcase our diverse development of infrastructure, so that Coffs landscape, with an emphasis on hinterland Coast remains an attractive place to visit, experiences as a point of difference, not just to live and to do business. This strategy the beach, but where the mountains meet the was developed to support tourism product sea. This means that you can be at the beach development and upgrades that will provide snorkelling in the morning, then within a 40 visitors with quality experiences in the region. minute drive you’re bush walking through lush www.coffscoast.com.au rainforest and swimming in crystal clear water #CreateYourParadise

“

52 coffs coast focus.

WOOPI STYLE LAST MONTH WE SPOKE ABOUT RELAXED WOOLGOOLGA, THIS MONTH IT’S TIME FOR ADVENTURE … WOOPI STYLE!

B

ack in the day, people used to travel up and down the Pacific Highway looking for somewhere they could stop and relax under a shady tree with a good book. These days, however, there is increasing demand for holiday destinations that offer outdoor adventures and recreational opportunities for the whole family to enjoy.

WELCOME TO WOOLGOOLGA! We’re fast becoming the adventure capital of the Coffs Coast.

You only need to look at the traffic moving through our town to see that many cars are jammed packed with bikes, boards, kayaks, SUPs and anything else that gives a healthy thrill. Woolgoolga is perfectly situated as a launching point from any adventure you have in mind, and the options are wide and diverse.

The area has more than its share of good surf, and the Solitary Islands Surf School can get you up and going on the local uncrowded waves.

If pedalling is more your thing, it is a wonderful place to ride bikes. Whether it is a ride around town with the family or a serious road ride, there are many great routes.

If you prefer off-road, then the adjacent Wedding Bells State forest has some world class mountain bike trails, ranging from the easy and scenic to eye watering descents.

Drop by Woodsey’s Wheels for maps and trail information.

For those wishing to paddle, there are both estuary and open water options, which give unrivalled views of our coast and waterways and also open up some very good fishing

opportunities. Drop by Skee Kayak Centre for the best advice. They can also sort you out with a Stand Up Paddle board (SUP) to enjoy a wave on a right hand point break, or to simply float up the creek.

For the runners, there is a great cross country run loop which hugs the edge of Woopi lake and loops in and around the lake and ovals. The bush is native and lush, and the trail is well maintained. If your idea of adventure is a little more slow paced, then Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches features some of the best sections of the Coffs Coastal Walk. Take in the stunning views from the headland and head north or south on an all day adventure of coastal discovery. If you want a walk in the forest, then the waterfall walk will leave you feeling like you are lost in a tropical paradise. It is mostly flat, and the dense canopy keeps things cool. If you do heat up, then you can always step under the fresh flowing water or enjoy the rock pools that collect at the top of the falls.

For those who prefer their recreation with an engine underneath them, then the 4WD and Dirt Bike options west of town are limitless. Explore pristine sub tropical forest and take in views that will stay with you long after you have washed the mud away.

Woolgoolga truly is an outdoor paradise and serves as the perfect starting point for a day, week, month, or a lifetime of adventure and exploration. Grab your favourite adventure gear (or hire some when you get here) and come join us - a great healthy way to spend your down time.

focus_technology

with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate focusinterview.

cyber mum.

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

Tyreright has Coffs Covered

200+ Tyreright Locations All Major Brands & Sizes Monthly Deals & Specials

WHAT’S IN A MUSICALY.LY VIDEO CLIP?

Expert Fitters & Advice

I OFTEN GET ASKED BY PARENTS WHICH APPS THEY SHOULD BE ALLOWING THEIR KIDS TO BE USING, AND ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR FURNITURE &IS MANCHESTER APPS I’M ASKED ABOUT AT THE MOMENT MUSICAL.LY.

A

beattie’s

BEATTIE’S FURNITURE MANCHESTER LARGEST • 18+ contentARE in the THE songs lyrics, including ll apps pose significant risks to& kids, so my role in advising parents is all swearing and adult concepts in the provided STOCKIST OF LA-Z-BOY RECLINERS AND LOUNGES ON THE reducing the risks.

I try toSELLING do music e.g. thereQUALITY is no profanity PRODUCTS. filter.

NORTHabout COAST AND LOVE THEIR

T

this by helping parents make informed • Musical.ly users can search for other users to offer warranty on Are sleeping well?own Waking with aches decisions and helphey them putlifetime some safety view oryou follow near their location/city. mechanism 10 years and• User pains?

Then drop in to Beattie’s to ask measures in place.their In the digital age,and passive generated videos can be viewed andtheir warranty on their frame and professional advice on which mattress is right parenting is not an option. I believe parents who shared onto other social media and messaging foam. and Dropinformed in and see thehave for you to offer the perfectwhich support from their are observant, engaged often apps, increasing exposure, teens strive for latest in recliners and lounges King Koil and Domino range.

All their mattresskids who learn to use technology well. and parents worry about. forMusical.ly superb comfort, whether es •are Australian made and supported

by AusSo let’s talk about this month.

Users can comment on videos; this leaves you are average build, short or tall.

Browse tralian companies.

To complement the mattress Musical.ly is a social media music app where users the potential for online bullying or negative the huge range of fabrics and leathers that are they carry a wide range of bedroom suites, can watch user generated lip sync videos and comments. available to own find music the right one Itfor your décor. colonial modern, to messenger suit all tastes. create their videos. is hugely popular from • Users can to publicise their They also come rocking, fi xed or swivel What about the dining? have Taswith young teens but there is an alarming usernames or social media profilesThey on their and have the easiest reclining manian Oak or delightful Chestnut number of young children also using this app.

Musical.ly profile. mechanism on the market dinings with leather chairs and In the App Store, Musicaly.ly is Rated 12+ for • Users can search hashtags and easily stumble with their patented system. matching buffets, or sleek the following reasons, as disclosed by the app across inappropriate content.

Having trouble getting with a For the The last thing I wantwhite developer: Infrequent/Mild Alcohol, Tobacco, or to dogloss is be dining the person ng hi out of the chair?

Try one modern buffet to make is fin Drug Use or References, Infrequent/Mild Mature/ who ruins However, my advice , your child’s fun. om ro a to s of Beattie’s 15 different the room.

From small he touc Suggestive Themes, Infrequent/Mild Sexual to parents is that younger teens should only be one of thei r 150 La-Z-Boy lift chairs to three settings to big 12 place or Content and Nudity, Infrequent/Mild Cartoon able to use the app when privacy settings are gs on the floor to help you on your feet ru seaters, they have it all.

Fantasy Violence, Infrequent/Mild Profanity or e coset upsso ofthat they only share with friends, and lour tie in th or to recline back for a They also have a Crude Humour. with thelimit exposure, which is not dissimilar the lounge therefore nanna nap. large range of outdoor .”

However, Musicaly.ly’s “Terms of Use”rest of the ro to om my thoughts on Instagram and Facebook. I Beattie’s are also the furniture and umbrellas. specifically state that: “THE SERVICE IS NOT FOR personally feel the adult content in the music is largest stockist of Tessa Soak up the sun in a comfy PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 13 OR FOR ANY not suitable for younger teens or children, nor is furniture in the area. Tessa lounge chair, or enjoy a meal USERS PREVIOUSLY SUSPENDED OR REMOVED the increasing amount of inappropriate content, is an Australian company based outside with friends sitting at a FROM THE SERVICE BY MUSICAL.LY. IF YOU ARE so you need make your own judgement call on in Melbourne. The company was lovely dining suite. They are proud UNDER 13 YEARS OF AGE, YOU MUST NOT USE this. What I think is disturbing is that Musicaly.ly is started by designer Fred Lowan in the late stockists of Shelta outdoor furniture, who OR ACCESS THE SERVICE AT ANY TIME OR IN trending with under age users in primary school, sixties and was renamed Tessa in 1970, are known for their quality.

ANY MANNER. Furthermore, by using the Service which is seeing younger kids at risk of being when they won the Dunhill design award.

Beattie’s Furniture & Manchester put their you affirm that you are at least 18 years of age.” exposed to inappropriate content and as a result, Come in to Beattie’s and have a seat in their success down to offering superior service, comUmmm? … So in my opinion, it would appear younger kids seem to be actively participating in classic Monaco lounge, of which each piece is petitive prices and free delivery. Michael, Chris, that neither Musical.ly nor the App Store have creating it. There is also a huge risk for users who loving hand crafted in their Melbourne factory Alan and Darren at Beattie’s Furniture all value any idea what the rating is or should be! I think publicise their other social media accounts or

by Australians. Available in a large range of their customers and the contribution that they parents therefore need to interpret this to say messenger user names, leaving them open to be leathers and fabrics, Tessa recliners and lounges make to our society. Their friendly staff always we most probably need to take precautions and approached by strangers. make a statement to any home of class and has time for customers and enjoy making new ensure we at least review and discuss this app My view that while at a surface Musical. elegance. Beattie’s also stock Moran lounges friends withisthem and helping themlevel in any way with our kids.

Dangers for parents to consider: ly is fun and could be used in a controlled with distinction from Melbourne as well. possible.

• Bythe default, all Musical.ly accounts public. environmentFURNITURE with parental it is For finishing touches to a room,areplace BEATTIE’S & supervision, MANCHESTER • By default, the “hide location info” feature definitely NOT for underage kids, and younger one of their 150 rugs on the floor to tie in Pioneer Street, NAMBUCCA HEADS, NSW is switched which means users their teens need supervision on this app with the the colours off, of the lounge with theshare rest of 2448 location when they post a video. privacy settings set 67 up. The app is stacks of fun the room. Or see them about their range of ABN 714 189 517 • Increasing incidence of pornographic material and if used appropriately, curtains, either made to measure or readymade Phone (02) 6568 7484 the level of creativity on Musical.ly due to users uploading their own displayed by some kids is very impressive. So off the shelf - just the thing to help keep the Fax (02) 6568 6023 content which appears toroom. be creating a culture parents, stay involved if you’re going to let your summer heat out of the Email beattiesfurniture2@bigpond.com amongst teens to do similar. teen use Musicaly.ly!

“

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2015 AMCN MOTY AWARD WINNER We are very excited to announce that the S 1000 XR has won the 2015 MOTY award!

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As an adventure sports bike, the S 1000 XR is highly versatile by its very nature, and it can be perfectly adapted to the rider's individual preferences with optional extras. The HP Shift Assistant Pro minimises clutch use between setting off and stopping, making every gear shift faster and easier. Electronic suspension control

via Dynamic ESA ensures optimum suspension performance. And those who want to get the very most out of their bike will opt for the Pro riding modes - available from BMW Motorrad for the first time - with two highly dynamic set-ups plus ABS Pro for maximum braking safety in the curves.

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54 coffs coast focus.

focus_interview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

- G E N E R A L M A N A G E R W.H. BAILEY & SONS ENTERPRISES

A

lan, tell us about your background. I gather you’re a Coffs boy, born and bred?

I was born in Coffs in 1962 but moved to Dorrigo as a toddler. My primary schooling was all in Dorrigo, although most weekends were spent at my grandparents’ home at the Jetty in Coffs Harbour.

Our family moved back to Coffs in 1973, and I finished high school here. Following school, I attended UNE in Armidale, graduating with a degree in Financial Administration. I then worked for Deloittes in Brisbane and became a qualified Chartered Accountant and specialised in audit and small business accounting. After several years with Deloittes, I returned to Coffs in 1988.

Soon after my return to Coffs, I met my wife, Cathy, and we’re proud parents to Jake, Jasper and Jacoa. My oldest son, James, completes the family.

Looking back on my younger years, the beach and the golf course occupied most afternoons and weekends. I spent most weekends fishing with my dad on numerous beaches along our wonderful coastline. Grassy Head was a favourite spot.

Tell us about more about your role and the business?

Since my return to Coffs about 30 years ago, our family has been involved in a number of businesses, but the two businesses that we still actively own and operate are the 24 hour Liberty service station at The Bailey Centre and our specialised bulk cement distribution business. The cement distribution business operates in Coffs and Wauchope in association with Boral Ltd. We are currently helping to

anges whose customer supply bulk cement to all Keeping staff ch eping ke , um im base is local. We the upgrade works on to a min separate greatly appreciate the Pacific Highway private expenses ations er the support that between Urunga and from business op r la Coffs Harbour Port Macquarie. and making regu e my top ar financial checks businesses and On a daily basis, I am d hing an tips for establis motorists give to involved with both of l al sm a g in successfully runn our fully owned and these businesses, with business .” operated independent a focus on administration station. I don’t see the and compliance activities. bypass as a negative for What major changes have our business, but as a huge you observed in Coffs over your positive for the city and those of us many years in business? who reside here.

As Coffs Harbour has grown, we have What do you see as the most important struggled with employment opportunities, elements in successfully managing a which has resulted in many of our children business and its staff? leaving for the capital cities.

Keeping staff changes to a minimum, The reduction in banana plantations and keeping private expenses separate from timber harvesting greatly affected our local business operations, and making regular agricultural economy. The current growth in financial checks are my top tips for establishing blueberry activity will hopefully reverse the and successfully running a small business. If trend. you’re fortunate enough to have a passion for The creation of the education campus has what you do, that makes a huge difference as been fantastic, and the opportunities for more well. Too many people see small business as a study options at the university in Coffs are great. The development of the sporting fields at way to buy a job or a lifestyle, and this often leads to failure.

Stadium Drive and the countless visitors sport What challenges do you face in business? brings to the region is beneficial for all of us.

One of the greatest challenges we face as The single biggest change to Coffs that I a small business is attempting to differentiate notice each and every day is the explosion in ourselves from the increasing competition of heavy vehicle movements through the city, as large multi-nationals. Our greatest asset in this the main freight corridor moved from the New regard is our staff, who continue to provide the England Highway to the Pacific Highway, as the personal touch - a touch that I sincerely hope highway has been upgraded. has been part of the customer experience at A timely commencement of the Coffs Bypass our service station since it first opened in 1986. will, in my opinion, be fantastic for our city. It What’s something about you that might will give the city centre an opportunity to be surprise people? fully revived. Even though we operate a 24 After working with my uncles, cousins and hour service station that draws business from some wonderful staff for nearly 30 years, travellers, we are predominately a business

“

people may be surprised to know that from an early age I said I would never work for the family business! The opportunity to do so and raise our family in this wonderful region has been fantastic. We’re all so lucky to have access to the amazing beaches and hinterland that, far too often, we take for granted.

You’re a family man - what does your work/life balance look like?

Working with family members allows some flexibility as far as being available for those special and important family occasions. I’ve been fortunate in being able to spend a lot of time with my children, and not just on weekends. If I’m in Coffs for the weekend though, my kids wonder why I always venture into the service station.

I believe it’s important to recognise your staff even with a quick hello, especially when they’re working long hours. Besides, there’s always something for me to do there. I try to play golf on a Thursday at least every couple of weeks.

Most weekends are spent with my family, and we usually manage to get away on an annual holiday, so I’d say my work/life balance is pretty good.

How do you most enjoy spending time off?

I’m a bit of a homebody, but I still have a passion for golf and have passed the love of the sport to Cathy, Jasper and Jacoa. I started golfing here when I was about eight years old, and our youngest two have followed in my footsteps - learning the game and etiquette with the sub juniors of the Coffs Golf Club. It’s great to play together as a family.

I also enjoy cooking - I do a mean surf and turf, and we all love making, cooking and eating sensational pizzas.

Thanks Alan. coffs coast focus. 55

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Scott Nolan from Nolan Partners

real estate update TIPS FOR BUYING AT AUCTION

www.seashellsparkbeach.com.au

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s the Coffs Coast real estate market matures, we are beginning to see more sales by way of auction. Although this form of selling is the norm in capital cities, it’s not as common in regional areas. For this reason, some property purchasers shy away from buying at auctions. This month I hope to dispel a few myths and show you why auctions work just as well for buyers as they do for sellers; it’s just a matter of being prepared.

If you avoid properties that are up for sale at auction, you will miss out on a lot of good buying opportunities, as many of the best properties in the area are offered for sale by auction.

Why you should like auctions If you’ve got a good property for sale, the auction process is usually the best way to sell it. Buyers are forced to judge the property and not the price and use their own research methods to determine what they believe it is worth. On the other hand, auctions are also the most transparent way to buy property. It is good to know who else is interested in the property and what they’re prepared to pay. It is also good to see your competition at an auction, try to read their body language, watching for the signs that

(they’re inspecting the contract, saying

they are close to their limit.

Preparation is key If you’ve done your pre-auction due diligence, such as getting your finance in order, pest and building reports, had your solicitor check over the contract and determined your maximum price, you can then just consider the auction as the venue where you execute the decision you’ve already made.

Pre-auction must dos • Get finance pre-approval, so you know your budget and attend the auction ready to write a deposit cheque.

• Attend a few auctions to experience the atmosphere and observe different bidding strategies • Do your research by inspecting many properties and seeing what they sell for (not just the asking price). Know the market, know the value of the property in question, and be armed with that power so you can identify the highest price you’re prepared to pay.

• Show your solicitor the contract and organise any amendments to the contract they suggest prior to auction day.

What to do on the day • Arrive early - survey the landscape see who else is there.

Do they look like serious bidders

the right things), or are they just onlookers?

• Use the psychological advantage of projecting confidence - make the other bidders think you have deep pockets and no limit.

• Open the bidding high, close to where you think the reserve will be, and make your bids fast and assertive.

Procrastinating or agonising over your next bid is a sign of weakness.

• Call out your offer in full (say $550,000 instead of the increments, just $5,000).

• If it’s going to pass in, make sure you are the highest bidder, as this allows first right to negotiate with the vendor.

• Be prepared to miss out.

If you’ve done your homework properly, then you know what this particular property is worth to you.

If you miss a property at auction, accept that it wasn’t meant to be and look forward to finding something better soon. I hope this helps show the other side of auctions and remember, if you need any real estate advice on any matter, just pick up the phone and call one of our friendly team. We always love to chat about real estate, and our advice is free!!

Redefining luxury apartment living on the Coffs Coast

123 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour Studio Apartments

$299,000 to $319,000

2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments

$525,000 to $915,000

Penthouses & Skyhomes

$995,000 to $1,650,000

FOR ALL ENQUIRES PLEASE CONTACT:

SELLING FAST! 60% SOLD OFF THE PLAN

Shane Hessenberger

Scott Nolan

0405 313 272

0418 527 914

shane@nolanpartners.com.au

scott@nolanpartners.com.au

02 6650 0655 321 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

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Featuring Barry Hockey, Marc Zaeczky, Marty Brandon, Jarod Louis, and Nic Derrin.

A special thanks goes to Total work wear for lending us there clothing for the day and to Steve and his team from Speedy lube for helping us out with a location. Focus truly value's your support and appreciate's your help.

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JAMES DAVIS H Q B C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N T A N T S

HAVING SPENT THE MAJORITY OF HIS WORKING CAREER IN SYDNEY WITH ERNST & YOUNG, JAMES DAVIS, BELLINGEN LOCAL, ACCOUNTANT AND PARTNER OF HQB, TALKS TO US ABOUT HIS EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND IN THE ACCOUNTING INDUSTRY.

S

How do you effectively market your business to

in mind, we are conscious of supporting many Coffs

Although not quite born and bred in the region, I spent most of my childhood and teenage years in Bellingen. Weekends were spent swimming in waterholes, fishing the river (albeit unsuccessfully) and giving every sort of weekend sport a go!

new customers?

Harbour community events and organisations. To name

I’ve always considered Bellingen to be our home, so after a stint in Sydney studying and then beginning careers, the country called. My wife, Ashlie, and I returned in 2014 with our two children. We’ve since very much established ourselves back into the community and look forward to raising our family here. Since coming back, I’ve noticed how much Bellingen business has grown and as a Partner of HQB, I’m eager to assist in growing business in the region.

What is your area of expertise?

us well for future growth. I strongly feel that

o tell us a bit about yourself, James.

My time in Sydney was spent firstly studying a double degree at Macquarie Uni - accounting and finance. I have therefore always enjoyed the entire financial industry, not just accounting.

From there I worked for a number of years at Ernst & Young, one of the world’s largest accounting firms.

Although clients were of a different scale to what I now see in HQB, the time gave me excellent experience. I dealt daily in complex accounting matters, learned how successful businesses are conducted and of course, how to provide first class service to my clients.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

Despite accountants being the butt of many jokes, my job is both challenging and rewarding, and therefore satisfying. If I had to pinpoint one thing, it would be that I am helping small businesses with real solutions to their very real problems or concerns. It’s been encouraging to see over the past couple of years a number of very exciting businesses established by some ambitious Coffs Coast locals. I am proud to play a small part!

58 coffs coast focus.

At HQB, our most effective form of marketing has been

just a couple, we support the Coffs Surf Life Saving Club

word of mouth - clients who feel our service was worth

via our sponsorship of the annual Australia Day fun run

mentioning to their friends and family.

and this year have joined the list of major sponsors for

Having said that, in recent times we have had success building an online and social media presence that places

the Coffs Cycle challenge, an event we hope will bring many visitors to the region.

How do you encourage a positive working environment?

any business that ignores this form of advertising is missing out.

For an accounting firm, the single

What background experience

most important key to success

do you bring to your current role?

Although I grew up in Bellingen, the majority of my career has been in Sydney, where I worked with an international accounting firm, Ernst & Young. Although my early career was spent

It’s been encouraging to couple see over the past of r be of years a num nesses si bu g very excitin e m so by d he establis ast Co ffs Co us tio ambi d to locals . I am prou !” rt pa l play a smal

“

provided an excellent all round platform

Business/personal goals for this financial year?

As a new partner, my main focus for this year will

work/life balance and regular training. Flexible working hours are offered where possible, and we make sure there is time for some fun, with some unique staff social nights. starting out in your industry?

(as opposed to taxation), this time

business.

staff. Our staff enjoy a healthy

Best advice for someone

mostly in audit and assurance

of experience being immersed in a client’s

is the skills and efforts of our

The key to success is an ability to learn how to ask the right questions.

Mistakes happen, but learn which questions to ask next time!

I would also say that it is no longer the case that “Ps

be building the trust of all of my clients as they build their

make degrees” - it is important to put in the effort during

businesses. At the same time, I’ll be constantly on the

study to not only land the right graduate role, but also to

lookout for quality new clients and looking to build on

make sure you understand your profession.

our small but dedicated team of accountants and staff at

Lastly, I would also encourage young accountants to

HQB.

spend some time working in a big firm. By surrounding

How does your business give back to the

yourself with many other ambitious professionals, you

community?

will quickly grow, have access to quality training facilities,

HQB Chartered Accountants is a Coffs Harbour based firm which has a history in excess of 60 years. With this

and have a lot of fun along the way.

Thanks James.

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RYAN MCCARTHY - COFFS HARDWOOD -

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? To be able to provide a customer with quality timber products that makes them happy and know that their project was worthwhile, especially when they can see the warmth and beauty that timber has added.

How do you effectively market your business to new customers? We do this by focusing on the things that we are able to do that a lot of the others can’t. Even if others can partially do some of the things we do, not many are able to provide all the same products from the one place like we can.

What background experience do you bring to your current role? I have been with the business since 1998. I left for a period to study, and then came back. I have moved through the business in various roles, to where I am now as the sales manager.

Business/personal goals for this financial year? As a business, we’re aiming to continue our growth throughout the Coffs Coast region.

How does your business give back to the community? We provide donations to different organisations, as well as sponsoring a number of different sporting teams and other activities or events.

How do you encourage a positive working environment? By encouraging staff members to work as a team and to maintain a friendly and professional working environment.

Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? Learn the products. Timber comes in different species, sizes, grades, strengths, etc. and can be used for both structural and aesthetic purposes. Knowing the products helps eliminate any problems when the customer receives the timber.

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MARCUS PHILLIPS

T A L K S

K I T C H E N

D E S I G N

T R E N D S

THE PROCESS OF BUYING A NEW KITCHEN MAY SEEM DAUNTING TO THOSE BRAVE FOLKS THINKING ABOUT IT. AFTER ALL, IT’S A MAJOR SURGERY TO THE HOME.

T

hat’s why I have, over the years, developed a smooth, hassle-free process, whereby you will feel you have been listened to and received relevant design input, including advice on colours and finishes. With unique and cutting-edge design software, our combined ideas come to life with a virtual walk-around your new kitchen. By giving you a number of pricing options for various finishes, you are able to make informed decisions based on your needs.

Kitchen trends Trends of course come and go, though classic staples such as satin polyurethane “Shaker” doors leading into full “French Provincial” will always impress. Flat panel polyurethane high gloss doors giving a sleek, upmarket feel that has been very popular over the last 15 years, providing a seamless, “no edge” appearance.

Solid timber doors have always had a place in kitchens, with the natural rich lustre and a range of stunning Australian timbers available. Having said that, it’s quite unusual to see full timber kitchens these days.

Timber veneers and lookalikes are holding their own and they’re still widely used to great effect in commercial applications, however, they’re not as widely used in kitchens as they were a few years ago …

Lamiwood doors are and have been for years the most popular finish, with greater and more interesting varieties coming onto the market, including the new semi and full gloss lamiwoods. With great flexibility and an endless design options, as well a favourable pricing point, lamiwoods will rule into the future.

Bench tops have evolved over recent years from mostly laminate, then to natural granite, solid

timber, Corian and now predominantly manmade or “engineered” stone. As this has become more popular, the pricing has become reachable for most new kitchens buyers and adds considerable value to the home. Engineered stone is less porous, a lot stronger than real granite and is 97% quartz.

Having said that, real granite has an amazing depth and uniqueness to it. Marble can be used to great effect as splash backs and special features. Not practical as a bench top as such, due to its porosity.

There has been, in recent years, huge leaps in lighting technology for kitchens, with the advent of LEDs and low voltage lighting. Now more than ever before, we are able to “light-up” our work surfaces, as well as create amazing atmospheres at night that will turn a working kitchen into the entertainment centre of a home. There are now lighting solutions for every aspect, including under cabinet, internal cabinet, under bench and kick board lighting. Due to the low power draw, LEDs can be utilised for longer periods, without the dreaded power bill woes.

Cabinet hardware technology is turning our kitchen spaces into ergonomic masterpieces. With inventive slide out mechanisms that literally bring everything out to you, the “dead corner” is becoming a thing of the past. Soft-close drawers and doors are standard now on most kitchens.

Advanced lift and sliding doors, as opposed to hinged, for overhead cabinets are taking hold in Europe. Sliding doors can be used to great effect by simply sliding to reveal an alternate finish, colour and feel.

With great design, imagination and attention to detail, the kitchen becomes the centre of your living space, where you entertain your family and friends, and is something that you’ll be proud of for many years to come.

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LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

de to t grin and attitu perm anen out more. cter, with a one to find enga ging chara playe d some one on and energetic and Yusu f is an the Nike Airs S duste d off match. FOCU

BARRY HOCKEY

- BARRY HOCKEY ACCOUNTANTS Tax time is here - what’s new? It is hard to

If this all sounds a bit daunting to you, then

believe how quickly the year has gone and tax

seek the assistance of a tax professional.

time is here again.

Remember that the cost of managing your

If you are a self-preparer, the myGov website

tax affairs is fully tax-deductible.

provides a gateway to many Government

It will also give you piece of mind in getting

agencies, including preparation of your tax

your tax affairs in order.

return.

We can assist with “on the spot” tax

The previous E Tax system has been removed

returns. So if you are time poor, call us for an

and replaced with myGov.

appointment.

Do you use your car for work?

At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a

Motor vehicle expense claims are now limited

dedicated team to assist you.

to two methods only. Cents per kilometre @

We not only specialise in taxation, but we

66 c and log book method.

have extensive background skills in finance,

You need to ensure receipts are held for all

banking and small business.

tax deductions, including up to date logbooks

Our firm is big enough to get the job done

for car claims, work related travel, seminars,

and small enough to care. Personal service

union fees, tools and equipment etc.

and attention to detail is our business.

Playing with Melbourne Tigers was amazing. I learned a lot from guys like Dmack, Anstey, Rashad Tucker, Corey Williams and Julius Hodge, Matt Burston and my favourite, coach Al Westover.

What is the training regime like?

I go to the gym about three times a week and also workout on the basketball court about four times a week, to stay sharp.

Weekends usually include a beach session with sprints and parachute workout. I try to do something every day. No days off!

You are also the captain of the Somali National Team. Do you travel back to Somalia often, and how is the level of playing there?

No, we don't actually go back to Somalia; we meet about four days before tournaments at the location of the tournament and train.

We don't have the funds to travel back, and I help pay my way with some support from the Somali community in Melbourne.

Is it an honour to be the captain of your nation’s team?

The position of captain, for my country is a great responsibility and a great honour, one that I take very seriously.

What makes a good captain?

The role of captain has its challenges, because you’re dealing with a lot of egos and personalities, and it requires a lot of patience and listening. You must be able to solve conflict on the fly and keep everyone on the same page.

On top of all that, you can’t take things people say personally and need to try not to be too sensitive.

Lead by example: that’s what Nathan Buckley told me at my time with Collingwood F.C, right before I played for my national team in 2014.

Where around the world do the rest of

the Somali team come from?

Most of my teammates live in Canada and America. They play for colleges and teams over there.

One must stretch What is your a lot to remain favourite memory to flexible and loose from playing There prevent injuries. basketball? is also the ice bath, a My first NBL which I hate with one game, the very first passion, but it’s possession I crossed of the best recovery up and scored on a guy methods. ” who later became like a brother to me. The crowd went crazy every time I touched the ball after that; it’s an amazing memory.

What are some of the skills you need to have to play the position of guard?

To be a really good guard, one must have: Vision - to be able to see everything on the composed at all times. court, teammate cuts to basket, shooter is As a guard, are you still attacking and open, big man stealing. shooting?

Creative - to be able to make plays for not Attacking the basket and creating is my only yourself, but also all of your teammates. bread and butter. I can shoot fairly well, but I Ball handling - must be able to take care don’t live and die by my jump shot. of the ball and with little flair, because that’s Have you had any injuries throughout the beginning of all skills. If you can’t dribble, your career? then you can’t play.

I have been fortunate enough to never Shooting - must be able to shoot the ball having a serious injury up until last year after from layups to 3s at a good percentage. the first three games. It’s mentally challenging Layups, floaters, jump shots, step backs and to overcome, not so much the injury, but many more. the doubts about how you are playing.

Defence - must be able to lock down his Confidence gets really low and it’s really hard defender and also be able to help teammates. to overcome, but I just stayed positive - and Pick and Rolls - must be able to use screens coaching the kids helped me get my mind at a high conversion rate. right again.

I.Q - must be very smart player and thinking How important is flexibility and the game. stretching?

Heart - must be brave and never have fear.

Mistakes are inevitable, so a guard must stay One must stretch a lot to remain flexible and

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INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG

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an you tell us about where you’re from originally?

From Somalia, which is in East Africa.

What is Somalia like as a place?

Somalia is an amazing country with great buildings and scenery (Google it) that is full of wealth, with natural resources as well as oil.

Unfortunately, Civil War destroyed everything.

Right now, the country is growing and recovering at a rapid pace and is much safer.

How did you come to live in Coffs?

I moved from Melbourne in February last year to play basketball for the Brisbane Spartans in The South East Australian Basketball League, which is Australia's Premier

After school and weekends we played until

“

Winter Basketball develop ball handling, sunset. It was very League. Then I shooting, plus all the tough, and we had stayed in Brisbane ‘til other skills, and this a ‘no blood no foul’ rule. ” September last year helps with mental and moved to Coffs toughness. It's open to Harbour. all kids, and I train them I began working with pretty hard so they can better the Coffs Harbour Basketball themselves.

Association to try to help develop When did you start playing the hard working country kids and also basketball? run my own academy, called "Hard I started playing ball at 12 and learned Knockz Academy”, for the kids who pretty quickly - always asking questions and want to be beasts. training about eight hours a day, before What is your current role, and how are school at 5:30am, during school, after school, you helping kids learn more about the and then with my team. sport?

When did you realise that you had talent I run the Hard Knockz Academy to help and skills?

When I made my first rep team and I noticed I had speed and then skills that I learned playing on the streets of Heidelberg Heights against older people.

In Melbourne?

The streets of Heidelberg are in Melbourne, Victoria, where I learned to play ball, playing outdoors at the local primary school. After school and weekends we played until sunset.

It was very tough, and we had a “no blood no foul” rule.

What do you love most about the game?

I love the competition, the hard work which is fun to me and also crossing people up.

You spent time playing for Melbourne Tigers and Brisbane Spartans; can you tell us about those experiences?

loose to prevent injuries. There is also the ice bath, which I hate with a passion, but it’s one of the best recovery methods.

How important is teamwork?

I think teamwork is very important, but you still have to have an individual’s work ethic.

That way everyone improves individually, hence makes the team better collectively.

You need to be selfless and pass on a good shot for a better shot - also to be in sync offensively and defensively.

What advice would you give to young players who want to make it to the top?

I'd tell any individual who wants to be a professional athlete to work harder than the hard working, sacrifice going out with friends but instead work out, be persistent every day, have faith in yourself and in a higher power, and you will be successful.

Thanks Yusuf.

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JAMES ROBINSON - CHOICES FLOORING -

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The most satisfying aspect is to help a customer find the right product for the right area. There is nothing better than seeing the enthusiasm on their face and the gratitude you get when they say, “Wow, it looks great!” Also, being a great leader for the team and teaching them from my vast experience in the industry.

How do you effectively market your business to new customers? The key to any successful business is ensuring customers are at the heart of all decisions.

As a Choices Flooring member, I benefit from their integrated marketing communication initiatives and campaigns that are run on both a national and local level. These incorporate a mixture of media channels,

including TV, home magazines, radio, press and online.

Business/personal goals for this financial year? Business goal is to have set growth targets met and to provide even better service. Personal is to take more overseas holidays and to do more surfing!

How do you encourage a positive working environment? Acknowledge all staff members’ efforts; encourage further training so the team are more than confident in their daily roles. Show your appreciation, and listen to everyone’s ideas.

Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? Hard work pays off. Under promise; over deliver. Go with your gut.

Lastly, remember customers always come first.

MATT DONOVAN

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APART FROM THE GLARINGLY OBVIOUS ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT LOCATION, SURF CLUB RESTAURANT AND BAR OFFERS A MENU WHICH COMPLEMENTS THE AMAZING LOCATION AND IS BURSTING WITH THE FRESHEST LOCAL PRODUCE. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HEAD CHEF MATT DONOVAN TO FIND OUT MORE ...

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hat is the most satisTo keep on coming up with fresh and new fying aspect of your ideas to keep the business thriving, and on a role? personal note, I’d like to get a bit more time Creating food I can off! be proud of in our How does your business give back to the amazing restaurant. Giving our customers an community? enjoyable experience, making them happy We are major sponsors of Coffs Harbour and coming back for more. Being near the Boardriders, and help sponsor various other beach and water is also very satisfying; even small sporting groups. Our chosen charity is though we work very hard, looking out at the Coffs Caring Community, with $1 from all our view makes everything OK. cold pressed juice sales being donated.

How do you effectively market How do you encourage a positive your business to new cusworking environment? tomers?

Communication is key.

Nicole, my business With 36 staff on our sful partner, looks after the books, we need to To run a succes marketing and sales make sure everyone restaurant and skills side of things. We is heard, is undervenue, you need u yo advertise continuin all areas, and stood and is trained s on job can’ t beat hand so need ally to keep in the effectively. We also al experience . You forefront of our try to work around work be prepared to to s, customers’ minds, staff’s personal comshift weekends, split s, ng ni or using Facebook, local mitments and lives m y rl ea , nights ays.” lid ho radio, our three brand as much as possible, ic bl pu d an new TV commercials and we are rewarded

by Coastal Media and of with loyalty and commitcourse, FOCUS. ment. We have a great team.

What background experience Best advice for someone startdo you bring to your current role? ing out in your industry?

My first job was washing dishes for To run a successful restaurant and venue, Swiss chef Martin Moser at Avanti Restauyou need skills in all areas, and you can’t beat rant in Coffs Harbour when I was 15. I was hands on job experience. You also need to his apprentice for four years, and he taught be prepared to work weekends, split shifts, me all the essentials of fine European cooknights, early mornings, and public holidays. ing. I also worked in Melbourne at the GeeYou give a lot of yourself, but the rewards are bung Polo Club, and various other restaurants great if you have the right formula. We have in Coffs before running the Deep Sea Fishing succeeded with lots of hard work and lots of Club kitchen for eight years. We have been at persistence, but in the end we wouldn’t have the Surf Club for nearly eight years now, and it any other way. You need to love it and be have never looked back. passionate about food and people, otherwise Business/personal goals for this financial don’t bother. year?

Thanks Matt.

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NICK DERRIN - STAIRMASTER -

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Innovating!

After spending my entire working life in the same trade, I have often found the cycle of work quite boring.

Doing one task after another, sometimes the same 10 minute task for weeks on end, can be tiring for anyone.

I’m now in a position that I have the freedom to take the outdated procedures of those tasks and put to the test every idea I’ve ever had to make them more efficient.

It’s even more satisfying to have my employees trying these new procedures, because it motivates and encourages them to be innovative themselves.

Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? Make sure it’s something you have a passion for, make the most of every opportunity, and listen without trying to think of what to say next.

A lot of time, young people go out looking for an apprenticeship without any experience in the chosen field they’re pursuing, and expect an employer to “give them a chance”. There are many ways of showing your passion for timber to a prospective employer, from joining the Men’s Shed, to volunteering at a local woodchopping event.

The opportunity to learn at either of these places are endless, and all you would have to do is listen.

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TWANE VOGLSINGER

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HOEY MOEY’S TWANE VOGLSINGER HAS OWNED AND MANAGED HOTELS FOR THE PAST 25 YEARS. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH TWANE TO FIND OUT WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL HOTEL DIRECTOR.

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hat is the most community. We pride ourselves on being a satisfying aspect of part of the community and giving back as your role? much as we possibly can to help others.

Smiles on people’s We have a great surfing culture here in faces is what this is Coffs Harbour, and we are closely affiliated all about. Providing a venue where everyone with many of the surfing, boardriders can feel safe and comfortable and come to and boating groups that rely on funds to for any occasion with the whole family. increase the offering and exposure to the How do you effectively market community. With sporting a real focus for your business to new customers?

I have a marketing team I work closely the Coffs Coast, we provide sponsorships with on marketing the business to new and assistance to help these groups grow customers. and develop.

We blend our marketing We have a close affiliation across all mediums and with the Westpac Rescue although marketing Helicopter, running these days is very myself nd ou rr su I promotions such as social media positive ith w the Joker Poker each driven, we like to sitive people and a po e keep consistent week to help raise th team , who have is across social th r much needed funds same passion fo . do I media, television, at th ry st du so that these worthy in tes radio and print This then resona nd causes can help the ou advertising, so that with everyone ar community, as well as them .” we capture a greater other local charities. share of the market.

How do you encourage But it really is all about

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the customer’s experience.

Anyone can make a drink or a meal, but not everyone can provide great customer service. It’s all about comfortability and that personal touch.

What background experience do you bring to your current role?

I have owned and managed hotels for over 25 years, as well as owning businesses outside of hospitality. All the business that I have been a part of have been very customer focused.

Business/personal goals for this financial year?

We will continue to further develop the business. There are more renovations on the cards in the foreseeable future as well.

How does your business give back to the community?

It’s all about giving back to the 62 coffs coast focus.

a positive working environment?

I surround myself with positive people and a positive team, who have the same passion for this industry that I do.

This then resonates with everyone around them.

Best advice for someone starting out in your industry?

You need commitment, passion and hard work. Long hours are a fact of life in the hospitality industry.

Seven days per week, week in, week out, and it’s more common than not to do the 18 hour days. It’s also an industry where you learn to roll with the punches very early on, so you need to be flexible.

Thanks Twane.

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THE TEAM

- MID COAST PRINTING -

- EAST COAST CABINETS -

How do you effectively market your business to new

The men of East Coast Cabinets are an integral part of

customers? We do a small amount of advertising in the local

the success of the business.

papers, but it is mainly through word of mouth, our website -

Peter Farquhar and wife Deb purchased the business 32 years

www.midcoastprinting.com - Local Search and Yellow Pages.

ago, and Peter is responsible for design and quotations for

What background experience do you bring to your

the duration.

current role? I started work in Bellingen in 1978 at the

Stephen (Smokey) Dawson joined the company in 1985 and

local newspaper as an apprentice printing machinist; we did

quickly became an expert in post forming laminate when the

commercial printing, as well as a weekly newspaper. I have

process was introduced to the North Coast in 1986.

JAMES SANDERS & JAKE BIRDSALL - COFFS COAST CROSSFIT -

been there for 38 years now.

After a serious accident, Tony Beverley was sent to us for

In 2000 my wife and I bought the printing side of the

rehabilitation and work place assessment. His motivation to

business, and then in 2006 we purchased Mid Coast Printing

return to work resulted in him coming on board in 1996.

in Coffs Harbour as well.

Wayne Collins came to us in 1992 and after 4.5 years as

Being from a small printing office, you get to do it all, from

foreman, took 18 months leave to travel around Australia.

sweeping floors right up to running the presses and doing

He returned last year - just over 18 years later! His skill in

artwork and everything in between.

training apprentices and attention to detail are great to have

It gives you a good background as to how the whole

back.

business works, all the way through. Even now after 38

Our current apprentice, Trevor Law, moved here with his

years, I still get my hands “inky” on occasions.

young family last year. We have recently been joined by

How does your business give back to the community?

Steven Rossiter, and Craig Maher is excited to be moving

We sponsor Bellinger Valley/Dorrigo Football Club and also

from Tamworth to join the team.

NC Football.

“Team” is the operative word. Everyone in a team has

We also do reduced rates for sporting and not-for-profit

important roles to play, and our men take their roles seriously

groups.

- resulting in rewards for everyone associated with us.

CrossFit has a magic way of drawing people in and keeping them for life.

It sounds a little scary, but if you could find and enjoy something that strengthens you in day to day life while keeping you fit and healthy, why wouldn’t you give it a go?

What have you go to lose? You might have tried all the gyms and their classes and found that results seemed like they were impossible to achieve.

Well, we jam pack all styles of training into one programme. In fact, the training has nothing to do with getting you to reach your goals. In a Crossfit Gym, it’s the people you are surrounded by and the strength of the community. People who care about you and you finishing your workout.

The members push you and themselves well past the limits you thought you had. We are so proud of the community we have built. Our members embrace new members every day of the week. The no one gets left behind attitude is much stronger than we ever intended it to be.

Our members have made lifelong friends amongst each other, and that’s a powerful and not so common thing these days.

Come and see us for all your Printing and Promotional Products • Business Cards • Programs • Letterheads • Raffle Tickets • Invoices • Calendars • Order Books & Quote Books • Manuals • With Compliments • Flyers • Books • Brochures • Presentation Folders • Magazines • Newsletters • Digital Printing • Posters • Photocopying • Comb Binding • Rubber Stamps . . . . and much, much more

www.midcoastprinting.com Printed by LocaLs for LocaLs 100% LocaLLy owned and oPerated

23 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour 6652 1633

38 Hyde Street Bellingen 6655 9414 coffs coast focus. 63

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GAVIN LOUIS AND JARROD LOUIS - COFFS COAST AUDIO -

Opening in August will be the North Coast’s premier destination for quality audio/video equipment. Coffs Coast Audio will showcase the latest in wireless hi-fi and smart home technologies, along with wired and wireless networking solutions.

Coffs Coast Audio will represent the world’s best hi-fi and visual brands, backed by honest, knowledgeable service and professional installation.

Store owners Gavin Louis and Jarrod Louis have worked in the audio/video industry for more than 20 years, with the latter part of that as part owner and installer at Park Beach Music and Hi-fi. We are now looking to not only continue, but also build on that high level of service.

Coffs Coast Audio will be a quality interactive environment where you will be able to see, use and most importantly, listen to the latest in Wireless hi-fi technology. Integrated systems from Bose, Sonos, Yamaha and Control 4, are ready to show

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you, the customer, how this technology can work in your home, with solutions personalised to fit your lifestyle.

For those of us who like vinyl and CDs, we have a complete range of turntables and accessories, hi-fi equipment from specialist companies such as NAD, Rotel, Yamaha, Marantz, Musical Fidelity, along with Rega and Project. These quality brands will be complemented by quality speaker manufacturers such as Bowers & Wilkins, Orpheus Audio, Focal, and Richter.

If you are building a new home, upgrading your old hi-fi equipment or looking to step into the exciting world of wireless music streaming, Coffs Coast Audio can design a system for you.

Located behind McDonald’s South right next to Andersen’s Carpets new store, Coffs Coast Audio is the North Coast’s premium integrated AV specialist.

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RICHARD JOHNSON AND CRAIG JACKSON - HQB FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS -

Craig Jackson with concerned clients.

Richard Johnson* What is the most satisfying aspect What is the most satisfying aspect of of your role? Every individual your role? Advising customers of an and couple is different and reapproval for their finance. quires a unique plan. I enjoy ur Yo How do you effectively market the challenge of making it clients are your business to new customall fit together and seeing your biggest ers? Referral and word of mouth is advocates. Look the relief as it unfolds. ur clients, yo r te af always the best source.

How do you effectively d they will look an What background experience do market your business after you.” you bring to your current role? to new customers? Your Years of experience with the major clients are your biggest advobanks, NAB and CBA commercial, business cates. Look after your clients, and lending, home loan and personal lending; GE they will look after you.

Commercial Finance business, equipment and What background experience do you cash flow lending, plus being a Certified Practicing bring to your current role? 16 years’ Accountant. I understand how the banks work experience in financial services, all in financial and what is required to secure a loan. planning. I have seen two major market down-

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turns and gained heaps of experience in dealing

*Richard Johnson is Credit Representative No. 403747 authorised by Connective Credit Services Pty Ltd under ACL No. 389328.

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DAVE BRIGHTON

- DAVE BRIGHTON FLOOR SANDING What background experience do you bring to your current role?

I am a 4th generation timber floor specialist and have been operating here in the Mid North Coast area since 1996. I have a vast and wide range of experience within the timber floor industry.

role?

The finished product. When you have a floor that is tired and run down, then you seen the comparison of the finished product and the floor looks amazing! I love that. I also Are you in love my customers feedback the market r and reaction to the finished for a new timbe floor, or even a product.

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sand and polish

I am a member of Australian How do you effectively on the Coffs Timber Flooring Association. market your business to Co ast? ” When it comes to getting new customers? your job done by someone with We use various forms of media knowledge and experience you to market our business. We find the can’t go past a licensed and accredited Focus Magazine is a very valuable platform member of The Australian Timber Flooring and has been a great tool for my business.

Association, where the standards and high We have also branched onto facebook and we and reliability is everything. upload regularly with before and after images What is the most satisfying aspect of your

of floors we have completed.

Shop 26 Park Beach Plaza 253 Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 PH: 02 6651 6677

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ROBPHILLIPS K I C K S T A R T

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PROFESSOR ROB PHILLIPS STARTED A SUCCESSFUL AND INNOVATIVE HEALTH MONITORING COMPANY IN COFFS HARBOUR A DECADE BEFORE THE TERM “START UP” BECAME A POPULAR CATCH CRY. FOCUS RECENTLY CAUGHT UP WITH HIM TO FIND OUT WHAT IT TAKES FOR A LIGHT BULB IDEA TO BECOME A FULLY FLEDGED ASX LISTED COMPANY.

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an you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast?

My parents moved to North Sapphire in about 1980, and I visited my parents in Coffs many times during my university years and spent a lot of time surfing in the area.

Its natural beauty and good surf attracted me, and I intermittently spent holidays in Coffs and doing locums at the Coffs Harbour Hospital.

After working at the Children’s Hospital in Sydney and studying paediatric ultrasound at the National Acoustics Laboratory, I moved to Coffs Harbour with my wife. We settled in North Sapphire and had three children, Liberty, Nelson and Rosie, and they each attended Bishop Druitt College. I have many great friends and memories from my 20 years in Coffs Harbour, and I really look forward to spending more time with them and in the Coffs area in future.

What is USCOM, and what does it do?

USCOM stands for Ultrasonic Cardiac Output Monitor, and is a novel application of Doppler ultrasound which provides more accurate and non-invasive measures of cardiac function than current invasive catheter based methods. This allows for improved cardiovascular management, without the risks of infection or vessel tears, and it can be used in the elderly, adults, children and babies. USCOM was founded on the mission of developing manufacturing and marketing accurate non-invasive medical devices that replace less accurate invasive devices.

What do the devices look like?

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programme as a noninvasive monitor of cardiac The device is a small monitor about the size function during space flight. These projects are of a personal computer, with an ultrasound driven by innovative scientists and researchers, transducer connected to a Doppler ultrasound who depend upon new devices to demonstrate processer and a small computer that analynew information on physiology and disease. ses and displays the signals for analysis and As far as market for your products are conarchiving to patient records. The devices are all cerned, do you look outside of Australia digital, allowing for wireless transfer of patient and if so, why? data via the internet.

Our products have global apWhat are the diseases and plication and so, as a start causes of death that a is up, it’s logical to head to USCOM can help to ce vi de The out ab r ito on m the largest and most monitor or iml al sm al on rs pe a of accessible markets. prove? ze si the an China has aspirations The USCOM computer, with ucer sd ultrasound tran to improve health improves the d to a D oppler te ec nn co care and so is inmeasurement of esser and ultrasound proc creasingly investing cardiovascular at th r te pu a small com ys la in new technologies function and is sp di d an analyses ysis al an r and medical eduused to improve fo s al gn the si patient to g in iv cation.

The Chinese the use of fluid, ch ar d an trade relationship with the detection and records.”

Australia is strong, and management of sepsis with a population of 1.38b, in adults and children. It is it is nearly 60 times greater than also particularly useful for the Australia’s 24m, making it a priority detection and management of heart target for us. We recently signed an agreefailure and hypertension, particularly in ment with CIIC, a huge state owned Chinese pregnancy, and improves the guidance of company, to sell A$56m of USCOM devices all cardiovascular treatments.

USCOM’s devices have been on some amaz- over the next five years.

In this age of “innovation” and “start ups”, ing journeys to exotic locations; can you what advice would you give to anyone tell us about some of these? with a great idea and an itch to launch into The USCOM BP+ is on the International the health sector?

Space Station, and currently there are 10 units In the globalised world, the opportunities in a study of hypertension on Mount Everare amazing, limited only by your imagination; est. The USCOM 1A is in the Russian space

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there is nothing to stop anyone with a good idea taking it successfully to global markets. The process takes much longer and is more costly than ever anticipated, and perseverance and diligence is vital for success.

What are you plans for the future of the company?

We have acquired two separate international companies in the last three years with new world leading innovative technologies to complement the original USCOM products and contribute to improving global cardiac vascular and pulmonary care. With the support of investors and using operational cash flow, we acquired the companies debt free, and now are preparing to release the products to global markets. This, combined with our new CIIC agreement, will transform USCOM commercially. I will continue to aim to grow USCOM off great science and improved health outcomes, to become a strongly profitable, billion dollar global healthcare company.

Where can we find out more?

USCOM - Prof Rob Phillips PhD(Med), MPhil(Med), FASE, DMU(Cardiol) Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Scientist, USCOM Limited.

Associate Professor, Critical Care Research Group, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-phillips479bb922?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rob_ Phillips Thanks Professor Phillips.

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PHIL ATKINSON

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ONE OF THE LEADING “MEN’S HEALTH” ISSUES FROM MY PERSPECTIVE AS AN EXERCISE PROFESSIONAL IS THE RISE OF THE “DADBOD” IN MIDDLE AGED MEN AND THE DECREASING QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR SENIORS.

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rocedures such as knee and also the maintenance of healthy blood glucose hip replacements that were and triglyceride profiles that reduce the risk of once the domain of the eldercardiovascular disease and Type II Diabetes ly are now common in middle two conditions that account for over 75% of aged men. Australians are the all premature deaths in this country. gold medal winners in obesity, Type II Diabetes IMMUNE FUNCTION and cardiovascular disease. Whilst diet is a Your muscles and your immune system are cause, so is the lack of exercise - specifically intimately related. Muscle is the main reservoir exercise to develop muscle. and synthesis site of proteins (amino acids) Our muscles influence so many key aspects that are constantly exported to meet an array that govern health and vitality, such as of physiological demands. One hormone profiles, fat metaboexample is the amino acid glulism and immune function. tamine: the essential fuel However, as adults, with that powers immune The average every passing decade ct pe function and cell repliadult can ex we lose the ability to 25 kg 0. nd cation. Muscle tissue ou ar se lo to preserve our muscle every must constantly of muscle mass 60 mass. This age relatyear from 30 to synthesise and export gain ed decline in muscle years of age and that glutamine that half a underlies many approximately drives all facets of imfat kilogram of body of the undesirable at mune activation and th er ov ar each ye conditions that we .” an sp cell reproduction. e tim e sam associate with “getting However, building old”, such as osteoporomuscle and sculpting a sis, diabetes, cardiovascular great body doesn’t happen by disease, unwanted weight gain, chance or by simply going through and increased susceptibility to illness. One the motions in the gym. A testimony to of the leading reasons people enter care this is the amount of people you know that facilities is the inability to get off the toilet train diligently every week, every month, year without assistance. after year, and their physiques never change!

The average adult can expect to lose around The majority of gym classes promote cardio0.25 kg of muscle mass every year from 30 to vascular health, not changes in body composi60 years of age and gain approximately half a tion by building muscle. kilogram of body fat each year over that same Therefore, once you decide to incorporate time span. That’s a 7 kg loss of muscle and weight training into your programme, it a 15 kg gain in body fat! These age-related

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changes in body composition have serious repercussions on our metabolism and health.

Muscle tissue is the primary site of ATP (energy) turnover and therefore, the prime determinant of metabolic rate. Muscle tissue is not only important for maintenance of a healthy weight, by virtue of its mass and mitochondrial content, it is also the largest site of lipid oxidation and glucose disposal. This means that muscle not only plays an integral role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, but

makes sense to commit to a programme that is designed to build muscle. A programme designed to build muscle will give you the health benefits you need and the body shape improvements you want.

Muscle mass matters; it’s the “fountain of youth”, regardless of sex or age.

Phil Atkinson and his staff at Results PT Studio are body transformation specialists. Phil can be contacted on 0414 232 830, or visit www.results-pt.com for a free consultation.

IVAN BEROS

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I HAVE BEEN IN THE PEST CONTROL INDUSTRY FOR 30 YEARS AND OUR BUSINESS, COUNTRY TO COAST PEST CONTROL, HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED FOR 25 OF THOSE.

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as your family grown our services to, right to this day! We also with your business; do got out there and had promotional displays, you have any family which included live Funnel-web and Redback members involved? spiders, a vast array of insects and a rodent I always wanted to or two. establish my own business and I am proud I still believe that a person to person apto say we have just expanded, with our proach works wonders. Also, word of mouth son, Christopher, joining us. Family run is the strongest form of promotion for your businesses usually work well, as there is no business. one to blame except you. I think it helps to Which areas do you cover? motivate you just that little bit more As mentioned, we run Country and gives you an edge! to Coast Pest Control on If you had the choice of the Northern Beaches of another profession, Sydney. what would you be In Sydney we have We had a set e doing? a qualified and exw budget , so d an ay w Everyone has their perienced operator did it the hard h! tc ra sc dream. I started out servicing that area started from as a panel beater, for us. Here locally, We kick started t Pest Country to Co as and I always fancied the business is parate se o Control in tw my chances of based in Sawtell, and areas at once .” becoming an aircraft we cover areas from engineer for Boeing.

Nambucca through to But there is a great satGrafton. isfaction about being able What services do you to start up your own business, provide? watch it grow, then have your son join The services range from General you.

Pest Treatments (domestic and commerWhat did it take to take to get the cial) as well as all aspects of termite work. business started?

We are also members of the AEMPA, which A lot of hard work! I never wanted to keeps Country to Coast up to date with all take on a franchise, as I wanted to build the latest information and technology. up my own business. We had a set budget, Have you any words of advice for cusso we did it the hard way and started from tomers needing your services? scratch! We kick started Country to Coast Make sure that you have a regular termite Pest Control in two separate areas at once inspection. The use of a thermal imaging one being the Northern Beaches of Sydney, camera is a bonus for any termite inspection where we moved up from, and here locally. completed.

That was pre children days, and we travelled Early detection is a must and a simple, up and down, canvassing both areas. thorough inspection by a fully insured, fully My wife did some serious door knocking trained and experienced Pest Technician can and canvassed many different areas, slowly literally save you thousands. building up a clientele that we still provide Thanks Ivan.

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coffs coast focus. 67

Coolum Coolum 268.

268.

Allow yourself to imagine the lifestyle you’ve always wanted, to in imagine the homethe you deserve!

Allow yourself lifestyle you’ve always wanted, the home you deserve!

The Coolum range, exclusive to G.J.in Gardner Homes, has been created with the needs of every family

Give us a call or drop in and ask Coolum Give usabout a call our or drop in design range. and ask about our Coolum

member in mind, resulting in spaces which are so abundant, any room will be a joy to live in.

The Coolum range, exclusive to G.J. Gardner Homes, has been created with the needs of every family

Call us on (02) 6691 3509 or

member in mind, resulting in spaces which are so abundant, any room will be a joy to live in.

Coolum 268 - Beach Facade Coolum 268 - Beach Facade

design range.

email coffsharbour@gjgardner.com.au Call us on (02) 6691 3509 or email coffsharbour@gjgardner.com.au Office 171 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour NSW Office Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm 171 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour NSW Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Display Home 3 Cherry Street, Sapphire Beach NSW Display Home 7 3days 10am to 5pm Cherry Street, Sapphire Beach NSW 7 days 10am to 5pm

Photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. Excluded items include but are not limited to landscaping items such as planter boxes, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, screens, Photographs may depictitems fixtures, finishes and features not supplied driveways and decorative such as fencing and outdoor kitchensbyorG.J. Gardner Homes.

Excluded items include butGardner are not limited landscaping barbeques.

Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Homes to Coffs Coast. items such as planter boxes, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, screens, Builders Licence 191313C. driveways and decorative items such as fencing and outdoor kitchens or barbeques. Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast.

Builders Licence 191313C.

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