Issuu

COFFS COAST

October 2016/ 2016//issue 73

getting BACK

1 coffs coast focus.

Feature Story Breah Fischer

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Welcome to the October issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

T'S OUR 6TH BIRTHDAY! What an amazing six years it has been for Coffs Coast FOCUS. We would like to dedicate this edition to all of our contributors and advertisers. So from the FOCUS team ... thank you so very much for all of your support! I’d also like to take our hats off to Russell Pell, Carole Beros, Natalie Hunt and Lace Browning. Our FOCUS family work tirelessly, flying the FOCUS flag each month and thanks to their mammoth efforts, a great community spirit and genuine interest in business owners on the Coffs Coast, that in your hands right now is one of our favourite editions ever produced! We love what we do, but it wouldn't be possible without YOU, our dedicated readers. Thank you so much for continuing our FOCUS journey with us. THIS MONTH'S COVER Shane Dunlop and Rob Hoy are about to

change local basketball history! Basketball clubs from Coffs Harbour and Bellingen are working together to help put more youth on the courts. We interviewed Rob Hoy and Shane Dunlop to find out how they have helped heal an old rivalry and move the clubs towards a constructive future. INSIDE THIS EDITION It’s likely that sometime in the future, 10 year old Breah Fischer will have to choose what sporting pursuit to make her passion. Right now sport is all about fun and fitness for the multi-talented Year 5 student, who attends Kororo Public School. Alex Hicks has started a grass roots clothing label that reflects the lifestyle of his generation, influenced by growing up surfing the uncrowded waves of the Mid North Coast with his mates and generally digging deep and having a go. We caught up with Alex over a cold ale to hear more about his plans for the future.

ULTIMATE FOOD GUIDE The Coffs Coast is buzzing when it comes to finding the perfect place to eat, drink and relax. Restaurants, cafés, pubs, clubs, wineries, breweries, local produce suppliers and manufacturers, cheeses ... Anything that you can eat or drink! With an extensive range of businesses and services available all in the one area, this mouthwatering feature is one that will attract our readers to get out and about and enjoy the tastes of our region. On the back of this feature, we have our annual Formals and Functions feature. The end of the year is fast approaching, and with this comes the excitement of celebrations ... From school formals, corporate and private functions, to Christmas celebrations; it’s all happening! FINAL SAY “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible” - Walt Disney.

coffs coast focus. 3

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ALEX HICKS. Alex Hicks has started a grass roots clothing label that reflects the lifestyle of his generation, influenced by growing up surfing the uncrowded waves of the Mid North Coast with his mates and generally digging deep and having a go. We caught up over a cold ale to hear more about his plans for the future.

issue I S S U E

14. 24.

ILLY. Illy is back on the Coffs Coast and headlining our very own music festival, “Banana Field Festival”. We spoke to Al in the lead up to the festival and anticipated release of his upcoming album later this year…

SOUTHERN CROSS AUSTERO.

At FOCUS, we like to share the love with other media from the local area. Recently we caught up with the crew from Southern Cross Austereo, to find out more about them and what they do.

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WHAT’S ON FOR OCTOBER EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS

O C T O B E R

69. 74. 77.

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

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

coffs coast focus. 5

focusinterview.

“

Long term I would love to represent Australia and be a Hockeyroo at the Olympics one day, but that’s a little way off just yet.”

IT’S LIKELY THAT SOME TIME IN THE FUTURE, 10 YEAR OLD BREAH FISCHER WILL HAVE TO CHOOSE WHAT SPORTING PURSUIT TO MAKE HER PASSION. RIGHT NOW SPORT IS ALL ABOUT FUN AND FITNESS FOR THE MULTITALENTED YEAR 5 STUDENT, WHO ATTENDS KORORO PUBLIC SCHOOL. rom what I hear, you are involved in a lot of different sporting codes. Can you give us an idea of what they are? I participate in lots of different sports, but the main ones I love to compete in and train for are Hockey and Nippers. While they are not my favourites, I do OK at the school PSSA Cross Country, swimming and athletics too. You had a successful year with the hockey stick; can you tell us a bit about it? Earlier this year I was selected to represent North Coast at the NSW PSSA Hockey Championships and travelled down to Albury to play in a three day tournament. I also represented Hockey Coffs Coast at Tamworth, playing in the Kim Small Shield. This is a development tournament for junior players, umpires and coaches, where associations from all over NSW come together to play; it was heaps of fun. At the moment I’m training for the U13s NSW Indoor Hockey State Championships, which will be at the Central Coast in November, and I will be playing for Hockey Coffs Coast. Have you set yourself goals that you are working towards? Next year I will trial at the Under 13s NSW State Championships for hockey, and my goal is to be selected into the state team to play at the nationals. I have signed up for Centre of Development over the off season, to help improve my skills. I also muck around in the garage at home with my big sister, Hayley and little brother, Levi, setting up drills. It’s good to do stick skills on the concrete, because the ball moves a lot quicker and you need to have more control of the ball. You also had some great results in cross country; 6 coffs coast focus.

where did you place? Yes, definitely, and Mum spends lots of time driving Well, this is the third year I have competed at the me to all the different training sessions. You have to be NSW PSSA State Cross Country. The first year in the really fit for all of these sports and have a competitive 8/9 year olds I placed 21st; last year in the drive, especially when you need to push 10 year age group I came 8th and this yourself that bit harder in order to get year has been my best so far; I came selected for state. 6th and was first reserve to go to I wake up most mornings between I’m also hoping nationals. 5 - 6 to go to swim squad or that my And I’m not sure where “Flyers” (running), but on Friday ements will get ev hi ac you find the time, but you mornings I go for a social surf e Coffs more kids on th started the year off with with my “bestie” Tahli and our ve gi d Co ast to come an n ca success in the ocean in surf dads. In the winter months I have ey th hockey a go, so ve lo d life saving. Tell us about hockey training in the afternoons, an e learn the gam .” do I that ... but we are just going into Nipper as h it as muc Nipper season is just about to season now, so I have just started start again now, but I did compete back doing board training. I am at the NSW Country Championships in very lucky to have such great coaches. South West Rocks at the start of this year They all keep me motivated; I couldn’t do it and won gold in my board race, with a sprint up without them. the beach. The girl who came second, from Byron What are your dreams for the future? Bay, also competes against me in the cross country; Long term I would love to represent Australia and be we have fun racing each other. a Hockeyroo at the Olympics one day, but that’s a little I also won silver in my ocean swim and picked up way off just yet. Dad has coached and mentored me silver and bronze when I teamed up with my club mates since I was three, so I can thank him for getting me to for the relays. A month after, we travelled down to where I am now though. Thanks Dad… Umina to compete at the NSW State Championships, I’m also hoping that my achievements will get more for which I made finals this year in both my board and kids on the Coffs Coast to come and give hockey a go, swim. I’m aiming for a podium finish this season! so they can learn the game and love it as much as I do. Out of all of these sports, which is your favourite? My dad didn’t actually start playing hockey until he was It’s hard to pick a favourite just yet, but in summer I in high school and Mum only started playing a few years guess it’s Nippers and in winter, hockey. I have started ago, because the rest of the family were playing so she to do a little bit of each in the off seasons now; they are thought she may as well play too; so it’s never too late both great sports to be involved in. to start. Do you spend a lot of time training for them? Thanks Breah.

“

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coffs coast focus. 7

focusinterview.

ALEX HICKS HAS STARTED A GRASS ROOTS CLOTHING LABEL THAT REFLECTS THE LIFESTYLE OF HIS GENERATION, INFLUENCED BY GROWING UP SURFING THE UNCROWDED WAVES OF THE MID NORTH COAST WITH HIS MATES AND GENERALLY DIGGING DEEP AND HAVING A GO. FOCUS CAUGHT UP OVER A COLD ALE TO HEAR MORE ABOUT HIS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE.

an you tell us a about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born in a house on Mt Yarrahapinni and grew up around the Scotts Head area. I am now living in Valla Beach; I love the whole area and have spent my life surfing up and down the Coffs Coast. After spending a few stints in Darwin working, you are back on the coast. Can you tell us a bit about that experience? It was an interesting experience in Darwin. I ended a solid stint of living in Sydney and had some dreams I wanted to pursue but also had a lot of debt, so I chased the resources work up there. It’s not a bad town, but not being able to swim or surf in the ocean because of the crocs and stingers is pretty heavy! I made some good mates, payed my debts off, got over to Bali a bit and got the money together to start my clothing label. You have being working on your own clothing label for a bit now. What’s it called and why? It’s called Gritsta Apparel; it’s been up and running for around 18 months. “Gritsta" is local slang from the word Grit or Gritty. It started in the ‘90s surf and skate culture - it’s about being carefree, partying and enjoying life. I wanted to design clothes that reflected our lifestyle, and the name

8 coffs coast focus.

A P P A R E L

Photo of Zac at Puerto Escondido

G R I T S T A

suited it to a tee. Where did the inspiration come from for Gritsta? I wanted to start a clothing label for over 10 years. It became more serious around five years ago, after my mate Zech Abbott and I wrote a song called Gritsta for his band at the time, “The Slippery Gypseas”. It was based around the slang term and life growing up on the coast. What’s it all about? Is there a deeper meaning, or just pure fun? I wanted my mates and local crew to have clothes that truly represented them, steering away from current trend-based clothing. The concept has received really good feedback. It doesn't have a singular meaning; Grit is really about the strength of someone’s character and doing things with heart and determination. It is about having fun, but there is that deeper meaning too. How did you get started? I was in between work stints from Darwin for the 2014/15 summer, living back in my mate’s beach shack at Grassy Head. With the idea and name locked in, I finally had the money and a bit of time on my side. I was at Falls Festival in Byron Bay over New Year’s when it became a realisation. One of the girls in our crew was studying Fashion Design and was a self taught graphic designer. So after festivities wound up, I got her on board and after months of hard

“

really

Grit is work, Gritsta Apparel was Dave “Rusty” about the launched in May of 2015. Russel is a ’s eone strength of som Are you doing your photographer and g in character and do d own designs or good mate of mine an t ar things with he is collaborating with from Sydney. He’s It n. io determinat n, but other crew? spent the last few about having fu er ep de They are generally years following at th is e ther ” o. to my ideas that I’ve been big wave surfing in ng ni ea m getting other people to Hawaii and Fiji. Rusty create for me. I don’t really is currently working on have the artistic touch from a book about chasing the getting ideas onto paper yet. long awaited “Eddie Would Go” Monika Dyba from Scotts Head is in that ran last winter on the North control of the graphic design and Daniel Shore of Hawaii. His persistent efforts Henderson-Brown, an artist from Stuarts to capture big quality waves shows the Grit Point, has been creating the drawn artwork. that the label is all about. You have a few of the local chargers What are your hopes for the future of onboard; who are they - and why them? Gritsta? There are three guys in the Gritsta tribe I’d love it to become a solid business, for now, although I’m looking to get a few getting more mates on board that will allow more on board over summer. us to travel and surf where the label takes Zac “Stac Hat” Hughes, who is a local us. There’s a lot of work involved to get it to charger and absolute legend. We grew up that level, but I’m happy with the way it is surfing and did a stint in Hawaii together. moving forward. He’s one of my best mates and the only Where can people find out more? bloke I know to surf Pipeline with a broken Check out our website www. arm, so I couldn't not have him on board. gritstaapparel.com and follow the links to Zech “Blackrat” Abbott is another epic the shop to purchase some threads, or find mate of mine; he’s a singer songwriter from me at the monthly Bellingen Community the Coffs Coast now living in Byron. Zech Markets. writes songs that the common Gritsta can Instagram: @gritsta_apparel Facebook: Gritsta Apparel relate to - his storytelling music is legendary Thanks Alex. amongst the local ranks.

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focusinterview.

getting BACK

SHANE DUNLOP BELLINGER VALLEY BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION

BASKETBALL CLUBS FROM COFFS HARBOUR AND BELLINGEN ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO HELP PUT MORE YOUTH ON THE COURTS. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH ROB HOY AND SHANE DUNLOP TO FIND OUT HOW THEY HAVE HELPED HEAL AN OLD RIVALRY AND MOVE THE CLUBS TOWARDS A CONSTRUCTIVE FUTURE.

Rob Hoy - Coffs Harbour Basketball Association(CHBA).

ow long have you been playing basketball? I've been involved in basketball for 40 years and coaching for 38. I started down in Victoria with the Fosters Phantoms in 1976, playing and coaching a variety of teams. We moved to Coffs Harbour in 2002, when we saw the potential of the area from a business perspective but also as a fantastic place to raise a young family. My son, Blake, played for the Coffs Harbour Suns under 12 men’s team, before playing for the Bellinger Braves. Is the sport popular on the Coffs Coast and with the youth of the area? I believe basketball is one of the most popular sports in the Coffs Coast region, because you can play in all types of weather; it offers a diverse range for all skill levels. It gives children the opportunity to play sport in a happy and safe environment. Coffs Harbour basketball runs a primary and high school domestic competition, as well as ladies' and men's competition during the week to cater for everyone. Can you give us a brief description of your club’s history? In 2006 we started Bellinger Valley Basketball Association, to participate in the Northern Junior League competition. We started the club to give opportunities to players who still wanted to continue playing basketball that didn't make the Coffs Harbour Suns rep teams, and also we saw the

10 coffs coast focus.

At the end of the day, r we are all here fo s, on as re e m sa the which is the e children and th ll, ba et sk ba of sport .” ve which we all lo

“ opportunity to expand basketball to previously untapped areas with limited sporting participation. As a group, we strongly believed in the creation of a basketball "family", where the emphasis was on nurturing young people to achieve their potential. Our first year we had three teams: under 14 boys and girls and under 16 boys. Each year we continued to grow and field more teams; in 2016 for the first time ever we entered nine teams, one in each age group, with two under 14 boys' teams. All nine teams made finals, seven teams made the grand final and five teams took out first place. When did you take on your current role at the club? I took over this role when unfortunately our President and one of my closest friends, Bronwyn Vigors, passed away; I have actually been President previously. Since Bronwyn passed away, all teams have dedicated this season to her. We are also running a Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge, which is an odd age carnival. The Vigors family have also offered a scholarship to help out a player due to their family's economic circumstances and might be in need of some financial help, which I think is really important. I am also the Head Coach and Referee Coordinator, I believe it is just as important to develop our juniors in refereeing and as coaches, because they are the future of our sport. Many people expected that the rivalary that exsisted between the clubs would never be breached. What was the

motivation behind burying the hatchet? Bellinger Braves have always been about getting the kids on the court to play basketball. We believe that the future of basketball in the Coffs Coast and Bellingen region relies on the two clubs working together and promoting basketball to the children who are the future of the sport. I believe that together we can promote and sustain full associations and teams in all age groups. With the change of committee members and new blood in both associations, we have been able to achieve a very good working relationship. Working with Rob Hoy and Naomi Markham has been nothing but a positive experience. What do you hope will be some of the benefits of the two teams cooperating? There are many benefits of the two associations working and sharing our knowledge together. We can now share referees, which is something both clubs lack in quantity. Coffs also run a quality domestic competition, which we can enter teams into. It also gives the opportunity for advanced players to participate in higher premier league basketball and still return to play in Northern Junior League. At the end of the day, we are all here for the same reasons, which is the children and the sport of basketball, which we all love.

If we all focus and remember this, our sport will be in good shape in this region. What are some of the plans for the future? Our main aim is to develop and grow basketball in the northern region. BVBA has now had the approval of a feasibility study for the proposed stadium build in Urunga, which will secure us with a two court home stadium. This will provide not only a sporting opportunity, but cultural and social outcomes, ensuring a healthier and fitter community. In 2017, the two associations are planning to jointly run the annual Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge for odd age, which would help secure more major associations competing. We also plan to continue to field teams in all age divisions and secure a round of the NJL competition at Sportz Central. We are hoping to continue working together with Coffs Harbour Basketball in a positive manner for the future of the sport in a country area. Where can people find out more? We are always keeping our website and Facebook up to date with all information and upcoming trials, training and carnivals. We can be contacted on any of the below: bellingerbraves@gmail.com, www.bellingervalleybasketball.sportingpulse. net or https://www.facebook.com/ BellingerValleyBraves/ Thanks Shane.

ROB HOY COFFS HARBOUR BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION(CHBA).

ow long have you been involved with basketball? I first became involved 10 years ago, when my daughters began playing while at Mary Help of Christians School. I thought we were signing up for an after school activity, but soon spent Saturdays watching them play at Sportz Central. This included coaching one of their school teams with another dad. As they progressed to rep basketball, my wife managed their teams for a number of years, and four years ago I put up my hand to be a board member for Coffs Harbour Basketball Association (CHBA). Is the sport popular on the Coffs Coast and with the youth of the area? Basketball boasts one of the highest participation levels of any sport on the Coffs Coast. Coffs basketball has over 1,000 registered players, referees, coaches, managers and officials, with women playing Tuesdays, men Wednesdays, high school Fridays and primary school Saturdays. The junior representative programmes cater for about 150 players in 16 teams. Can you give us a brief description of your club’s history? The Coffs Harbour Basketball Association was first formed in the mid 1960s and has used Coffs Harbour High School, the Coffs Harbour Showground and Sportz Central as their "home" since that period. Coffs Harbour Basketball retains a reputation as one of the leading basketball associations

I think the nd motivation behi ns tio la re improving d older involved new an from bo ard members g to tin an both clubs w r fo st be as do what w ea ar e th of the kids simple as that .”

“

in country NSW. Opportunities have been provided for those wanting to take the step from our regular competitions to representative honours for players, referees and coaches. At a Senior Level we have won four State League titles in the Women’s (three) and Men’s (one) divisions. Over the years our junior players have achieved selection in Country, NSW and Australian teams and our junior representative teams have competed in National Championships, Northern Junior League (NJL), Country Championships, State Championships and more recently the Country Premier League (CPL) - winning numerous titles. Our referees have also officiated at the highest levels. We also have a long and proud history of volunteers helping to run and grow the sport, from mums and dads to grandparents. When did you take on your current role at the club? I was elected President in March this year after the previous President, Justin Baldwin, stepped down due to work commitments. This was after serving as a director for the previous three years, looking after the domestic competitions portfolio. Many people expected that the divide between the clubs would never be breached. What was the motivation behind burying the hatchet?

I think the motivation behind improving relations involved new and older board members from both clubs wanting to do what was best for the kids of the area - simple as that. Members from both boards sat down and talked and worked out more could be gained from working together then tearing each other apart. Bellingen were always planning to operate out of the Bellingen/ Urunga region; however, a planned multi-purpose stadium has not progressed over the last 10 years. Some of the issues related to Bellingen operating in the Coffs area as a result. Recognition of the need for Bellingen to develop players within the Bellingen shire and Coffs Harbour to help support these efforts has helped ease a lot of the tension and misunderstanding. What do you hope will be some of the benefits of the two clubs cooperating? The benefits will hopefully be improved participation, enjoyment and development pathways for kids in both shires, without the ill feeling that had developed, and instead encouraging a healthy rivalry and desire to work together. The benefits are already apparent, with Bellingen providing refs to accompany Coffs junior rep teams to allow them to fulfil our obligations. Coffs Harbour have permitted Bellingen players who have abilities beyond the

Northern Junior League to participate in our Country Premier League teams. Coffs Harbour are hoping to provide development support to Bellingen as they grow their player base in their shire as well. What are some of the plans for the future? Plenty of ideas are on the table, and these include possibly co-hosting a development representative carnival, working together to ensure domestic competitions have strong player and referee numbers and CHBA supporting Bellingen’s quest to have the promised indoor sports centre at Urunga become a reality. Sharing of development staff to grow the game in both areas and support of Bellingen’s quest to hold a round of Northern Junior League are also on the agenda. Hopefully approval and funding can be obtained from Coffs City Council for expansion of Sportz Central to at least five full sized courts, to allow for the expansion of player numbers and to be able to hold representative fixtures - with the support of both Coffs and Bellingen. Where can people find out more? CHBA website: coffsharbourbasketball.com. au Facebook: CoffsHarbourBasketballAssociation or by calling the CHBA office on 6651 1452 and speaking to Kim and Carlee, who will provide you with the right information or direct your enquiry to the right person. Thanks Rob. coffs coast focus. 11

focusinterview.

sunny cowgirls

Coffs Harbour

SUNS U/14

SPRINGTIME IS UPON US AGAIN, BREATHING FRESH LIFE INTO THE LAND FOR ANOTHER YEAR. FOR THE HARD-WORKING FARMERS OF AUSTRALIA, IT’S ALL HANDS ON DECK, AS CALVES DROP AND STAGGER TO THEIR FEET, SPRING LAMBS CAPER IN THE NEW GRASS, AND FALLOW PADDOCKS BECKON TO THE TYNES, JUST WAITING TO BE BROKEN OPEN AND PLANTED WITH ANOTHER RICH SUMMER CROP.

pringtime is a special time of year. It’s also the perfect season for tireless country duo the Sunny Cowgirls to shake off the frost, with a vibrant new collection of songs celebrating the unique rhythms of bush life. With their typically stunning eighth studio album and ABC Music debut Here We Go, the Sunny Cowgirls set about spinning 12 fresh new yarns rooted in the sun-kissed soil of rural and regional Australia. It’s a mesmerising dedication to the working men and women who keep the wheels turning and Australia fed, overflowing with fired-up summer anthems and hymns to mateship, hard work, and the incomparable Aussie summer. “We really wanted to get back to our roots and make this album sound like classic Sunny Cowgirls,” elder Cowgirl Sophie explains. Above all, Here We Go is invigorating proof that rough hands caked in soil, greased with lanolin or stained by sump oil are perfectly suited to the business of straight-arm drinking at the end of a punishing working week. “Work hard, play hard is our ethic!” says Sophie. It’s more than a mantra. The Sunny Cowgirls have always sung about the places and people they know best: Sophie herself calls the fertile plains of Gunnedah home, while younger sister Celeste has recently made the trek back west to childhood stomping ground WA. In reflecting on their lived experience, the eight-time Golden Guitar-nominated duo sing about who they are: sisters raised in both WA and regional Victoria - the Sunny Cowgirls take their name from family farm Sunninghill at Dunkeld, near Victoria’s picturesque Grampians for whom the bush has always held an irresistible pull. They cut their teeth performing at rodeos

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and agricultural shows across WA, before slinging their swags into the back of a ute and setting out across the vast expanse of the Nullarbor, working as rousabouts and farm hands along the way - experiences they immortalised in debut 2005 single Rousy’s Life. The long road and warm glow of stage lights inevitably led the pair to Tamworth’s illustrious Academy of Country Music in 2005, where they caught the attention of Adam Brand - who promptly invited them out on the road. The rest is history, written in countless kilometres of bitumen and dirt. “It’s 11 years - I can’t believe it!” Sophie reflects. “It was 2005 when our first album, Little Bit Rusty, came out. We were a couple of kids: we were working on farms, rousabouting, driving the Nullarbor. We were literally pulled out of a shearing shed and went out on the road for a big national tour with Adam Brand! We were so green - Celeste was only 17, I think, and I was 21. But we sang songs and we wrote songs about what we were doing as rural youth in Australia, and I think people really resonated with us - especially kids our age. Over the years, we’ve tried to stay true to ourselves.” Since then, the girls have carved out their own unique corner of the Australian country music landscape, crafting a songbook that perfectly captures the indefatigable spirit of rural Australia. And in singing about who they are, the Sunny Cowgirls have always been uniquely able to sing about who we are: theirs is the authentic voice of the bush. That the Clabburn sisters themselves are brimming with energy and an unflagging sense of fun is just the icing on the lamington!

the plug! Playing Sawtell RSL, Friday, October 7th. Tickets $32, available from the club. Over 18s only.

MCDONALD’S JUNIOR GRANTS PROGRAMME MCDONALD’S COFFS HARBOUR AND NAMBUCCA ARE PLEDGING TO DONATE $25,000 TOWARDS THE LOCAL COMMUNITY THROUGH THEIR JUNIOR GRANTS PROGRAMME 2016-17.

rant Recipient Coffs Harbour Suns U14 Men’s Basketball Team set themselves a goal of becoming the 2016 National Champions. It has been ten years since the last Coffs Harbour U14’s men’s team has achieved this feat. Team coach Blake tells us how the McDonald’s Grant is supporting the team’s quest to win at the National Championships this September school holidays. The team has achieved great success so far, recently ranked 2nd in NSW. What’s your team motto? A team that is a “FAMILY” always beats a team that is talented. In our family we understand no one person is bigger than the team; every member plays a crucial role in the way we execute our basketball. How did the team qualify for the National Championships? The team had to first qualify for the Country Premier League finals, then make the Grand final to ensure they qualified. After this, the team had to attend the State Championships to obtain a seeding for the nationals. What experience have the team members got in basketball? The team has eight top age players who played Under 14’s last year and two who came up from the Under 12’s. The team has two members who are playing their first ever year of Rep Basketball. What training do the team members do? During the regular season, the boys train twice, sometimes three, times a week. Once the finals began, the boys stepped it up to four sessions a week, including one starting at 6:30am. What role have the boys’ parents played in

the team’s success so far? The parenting group is the backbone of the team. With the support that they provide the boys and the coaching staff, it makes the task of playing that little bit easier. Where and when is the National Championships held? Monday 26th September until Saturday 1st of October in Newcastle. How will the McDonald’s Junior Grants Programme help the athletes? The McDonald’s Junior Grant will allow the team to meet the off court necessities needed to be competitive. The Coffs Harbour Basketball Association are very thankful for the assistance and are hoping that this is the extra support the team needs to go all the way! What would it mean to the team if they won the National Championships? Winning the National Championship would be an incredible achievement for this small town club. It would instil in these bunch of young men the true meaning of family. What plans have Coffs Harbour Suns U14 Men’s Basketball Team got for the future? The team is hoping that they can have a memorable tournament and continue on to attack the Under 16 age group next year for the Mighty Suns! Thanks Blake. 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 today. www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

Little Ones’ Adventures Little Ones' Adventures is an online store providing a range of quality, eco friendly wooden toys, free from chemicals and toxins. Our products are inspired by a great love for all things vintage, nostalgic, ecologically sustainable, and enduring. Our mission is to revive an old-world, nostalgic approach to toys - inspiring children’s growth organically through imagination and discovery. Today, we offer a range of beautiful, eco friendly wooden toys - using only the finest in organic, sustainable, and recyclable materials. Not only are they are a safe and sustainable alternative to plastic, they’ll also last forever - becoming treasured mementos for your children to keep long into adulthood.

What sets us apart? At a time when children are increasingly reliant on electronic devices for entertainment, we believe that providing children with quality, ageappropriate toys is key to fostering their creativity and imagination, and building confidence in their own abilities. Of course, kids won’t willingly put down the iPad for just any old toy - so we constantly review our range and carefully select only the best toys available, giving you a real alternative to the mainstream, toxic plastic products available at your local shopping centre. Most importantly, we run every toy past our toughest critics - our kids! - to ensure your children will love them as much as we do. Browse our website at: www.littleonesadventures.com.au

coffs coast focus. 13

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

THE SUNNY COWGIRLS

2016

October

When Friday 7th October. Doors open 7:30pm. Over 18s only. Where Sawtell RSL. Tickets $32 each. General admission seating. More info www.Sunnycowgirls.com

28 18

TASTINGS ON HASTINGS

CARERS’ DAY OUT

14 21

When 18th October. Where Boambee East Community Centre. More information Contact Julie on 6650 0512.

DARYL BRAITHWAITE

The Festival of Flavours returns to Port Macquarie. This year our “Fire, Water, Harvest”, theme will ignite the senses with a smorgasbord of offerings, including a night time festival, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and the popular main event. Featuring celebrity chef Matt Wilkinson. When Friday - Sunday 28 - 30 October. Where The main Tastings event will be held on Sunday 30 October on the Town Green from 9am - 4pm More info www.tastingsonhastings.com.au

When Friday 14th October. Where Moonee Beach Tavern. Tickets www.offbeatoperations.com.au

WALCHA MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

Enjoy the two day Walcha Mountain Festival and all it has to offer. When Saturday 15 October to Sunday 16 October 2016. Where Derby Street, Walcha. More info walchamountainfestival.org Phone (02) 6774 2460.

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DORRIGO FOLK & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL There is an extraordinary line up of Folk, Bluegrass and old-time artists from around Australia and overseas performing at this year's Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival. When 21st - 23rd October 2016. Where Dorrigo Showgrounds. Tickets www. dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au/dorrigo-folk-bluegrass-tickets.html Info www.dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au

BANANA FIELD MUSIC FESTIVAL Taking place at Coffs Harbour Racing Club, Banana Field Music Festival features three stages, with a bill of over 30 national and local acts. When 29th October. Where Coffs Harbour Race Course. Tickets www.oztix.com.au

focuseditorial.

Lantern

Killer queen

JAPANESE

FEST I VAL

COFFS HARBOUR BOTANIC GARDENS WILL BE GLITTERING WITH MORE THAN FLOWERS THIS OCTOBER, AS HUNDREDS OF LANTERNS ARE TO BE SET AFLOAT IN CELEBRATION OF THE JAPANESE LANTERN FESTIVAL.

osted by Coffs Harbour Daybreak Rotary and the North Coast Botanic Gardens, the Festival will offer Traditional Japanese cuisine, and a magical lantern launching ceremony to those lucky enough to secure a booking. Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards the completion of the Botanic Gardens’ Japanese Pavilion project and other Rotary charities. Following the spectacular success of last year’s event, the Lantern Festival FEAST will again be hosted on both Friday and Saturday nights to accommodate demand. By the light of an October full moon, guests will dine in the Japanese Waterside Pavilion and watch a flotilla of lanterns shimmering under the stars as they enjoy a sake tasting, followed by an exquisite degustation-style Japanese banquet served by kimono-clad waitstaff.

“We have a special treat planned for our diners on the Friday and Saturday nights,” says Ann Gee, Festival Coordinator. “We are expanding the Feast to include a Bonsai exhibition, and a traditional Guzheng performance of the Japanese Harp.” This year families will be able to share in the enchantment of the festival with a CHILDREN’S NIGHT picnic in the grounds of the Japanese Waterside Pavilion on Sunday evening. Each guest attending CHILDREN’S NIGHT will receive a traditional Bento Box to enjoy, and a Lucky Wish floating lantern to launch on the lake. For information and bookings go to: https:// www.facebook.com/japaneselanternfestival Tickets: Festival Feast 14th &15th Oct $75 P/H. Children’s Picnic 16th Oct $16.50 adult, $13.50 under 12 years - NOW SOLD OUT.

EXPERIENCE

JOHN BLUNT’S KILLER QUEEN EXPERIENCE HAS LAUNCHED INTO 2016 TAKING ALL BEFORE THEM, AS THEY CEMENT THEIR POSITION AS AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER INTERNATIONAL TOURING QUEEN TRIBUTE ... AND THEY ARE COMING TO COFFS HARBOUR.

lunt has been busy, spending February and March of 2016 in the UK filming a special project set for international release later in 2016 and recording a single, paying homage to Freddie Mercury due for release this month.

Two hours of Queen hits, numerous costume

Killer Queen respects the three special milestones of Queen and Freddie Mercury when performing in 2016. This year, on September 5th, Freddie would have turned 70. It is also the 30th anniversary of Queen’s tour of Australia in 1986, and the 25th anniversary of Freddie Mercury’s death on November 24th, 1991.

Queen and the legend Freddie Mercury.

changes that made the larger than life Freddie Mercury a chameleon to an MTV audience. Revisit your youth, before Snapchat, Facebook and Twitter, and experience the closest recreation of

If there is one thing Killer Queen promise, it’s that WE WILL ROCK YOU. Early bird tickets are just $10, and are available online. Just follow the links from the Coast Hotel’s Facebook page, or visit goo.gl/YJm4Q3

coffs coast focus. 15

NSW COFFS COAST, 17-20 NOV 2016

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS

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ON TRACK TO BE THE BEST YET NEW SPECIAL STAGES WITH EXCELLENT VIEWING CHOICES, WORLDWIDE LIVE TELEVISION COVERAGE, GREATER LOCAL SUPPORT AND A MORE OPEN FIGHT FOR THE FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP LOOK SET TO MAKE THE 2016 KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA THE BEST IN THE EVENT’S 25-YEAR HISTORY.

SAM PHILLIPS AND MATT WISE HAVE WORKED AS RIVAL PROMOTERS IN THE LOCAL MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR SEVERAL YEARS.

ecently joining forces to organise Coffs Harbour’s very first Banana Field Music Festival, they have only days until this almost sold out event is set to take place. Taking place at Coffs Harbour Racing Club on Saturday 29th October, Banana Field Music Festival features three stages, with a bill of over 30 national and local artists. Headliners include ILLY, BRITISH INDIA, ART VS SCIENCE, LDRU, THE DELTA RIGGS, HOCKEY DAD, PHEBE STARR,

MALLRAT and LUNAR GRAND. They'll be supported by a stellar local line up, alongside an Electronic Music stage featuring International Progressive Trance heavyweights Fabio & Moon and Interstate Made in Paris Gates open at 11:30am on Saturday and the party doesn’t stop until 10pm. Tickets to Banana Field Music Festival are on sale now! Visit www.bananafieldmusicfestival.com.au

he event on the New South Wales Coffs Coast on 17-20 November will welcome top manufacturer teams from Europe and the best competitors from around Australia to tackle a 315 kilometre course comprising 23 special stages, designed to challenge the world’s fastest rally drivers. “Our new Destination NSW Super Special Stage - at the Jetty precinct literally alongside Coffs Harbour - other special stage enhancements including to the exciting Flooded Gum spectator point on the final stage and truly spectacular opening and closing ceremonies will all be highlights for our ticket holders.

“Across the Coffs region, there has been a growing recognition in the past year of the benefits Rally Australia brings. It’s very pleasing that support from local businesses has increased significantly and will play an important part in ensuring the rally’s success and encouraging the wider community.” While most of the competition roads to the north and south of the Coffs Harbour base are unchanged from 2015, organisers have added a second Super Special Stage at Raleigh, a 1.37 km sprint at a multi-motorsports facility 20 km south of Coffs Harbour on the Pacific Highway.

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Our top-of-the-line workhorse is now in runout from only $53,990 driveaway and with free 8-speed auto# plus $2,000 cashback*, there’s never been a better time to own one. The Amarok Highline is packed full of premium features like Bi-Xenon headlights, rear view camera, stainless steel side Our top-of-the-line workhorse is now in runout from only $53,990 driveaway^ and with free 8-speed auto# plus $2,000 cashback*, there’s never steps & sports bar, Sat Nav and 18” alloys. So visit your nearest dealer today, because they won’t be around for long. Hurry, offer ends 31 October. been a better time to own one. The Amarok Highline is packed full of premium features like Bi-Xenon headlights, rear view camera, stainless steel side Find morebar, at vwoffers.com.au stepsout & sports Sat Nav and 18” alloys. So visit your nearest dealer today, because they won’t be around for long. Hurry, offer ends 31 October. Find out more at vwoffers.com.au Your Volkswagen Partner Your Volkswagen Partner Geoff King Volkswagen

6 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour MD1000 Geoff King Volkswagen Tel. 02 6659 1000 www.geoffkingvolkswagen.com.au 6 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour MD1000 Tel. 02 6659 1000 www.geoffkingvolkswagen.com.au ^

Manufacturer’s campaign driveaway price for vehicles sold and delivered by 31/10/2016. ^#*Available only on new and demonstrator MY16 Amarok Highline 4x4 stock vehicles. Run-out model, limited stocks. Options available for an additional cost.

available in conjunction with any other offers. Volkswagen Australia reserves the right to change or extend all offers. 18 coffs Not coast focus.

^ Manufacturer’s campaign driveaway price for vehicles sold and delivered by 31/10/2016. ^#*Available only on new and demonstrator MY16 Amarok Highline 4x4 stock vehicles. Run-out model, limited stocks. Options available for an additional cost. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Volkswagen Australia reserves the right to change or extend all offers.

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focusinterview.

CHILDCARE WHAT PARENTS WANT ANSWERED 3 BEARS COTTAGE Renae Knight has been involved in the teaching industry for two decades. FOCUS caught up with the inspirational teacher to answer the many questions asked by parents surrounding childcare.

re all Early Childhood services the same? What sets services apart? And what do you receive for your fees? With 2017 just looming around the corner, many services are looking to their waitlist applications for the coming year and with the recent influx of new services popping up around the Coffs area, a lot of parent inquiry into what exactly are they and their children receiving in the way of services for their fees has been asked. Every Early Childhood Service is unique, no two are the same, and while it is true to say that in NSW all need to comply with legislation, how and to what degree each service chooses to comply is what sets them apart. With this in mind, there are a couple of tips that families should be looking into when deciding on where to enrol their children. Educators! Highly trained Educators has long been attributed to high quality outcomes for children and with research continually indicating that the first five years of a child’s life is the most influential, with critical development taking place at a rapid pace, that will never again be replicated in their life. With “700 neural connections being formed every second during this five year span”, it is guaranteed that time spent in care will completely shape your child’s future. With this in mind then, it is more important now, than ever, that families are

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placing their children into services with a team of the most qualified Educators that they can find. At 3 Bears, our preschool room is overseen by two full-time university trained teachers, who are registered and accredited with BOSTES (Board of studies Teaching and Education Standards NSW) to ensure suitable teacher education programmes are supported. Registration with BOSTES requires maintenance through continual personal training and assures currency of professional knowledge to enhance outcomes for your children. At 3 Bears, our other two rooms, the toddler and babies rooms, are led by two Diploma trained Educators, with all other staff having completed or enrolled in the Cert III in Childcare. Our service is also led by the owner, working daily within the service, with over 20 years’ experience, teacher accredited and university trained. A highly qualified owner who works within their service can efficiently enlist, maintain, monitor and guide the talents and energy of their team and service, promoting positive outcomes for all stakeholders involved. The programme! Ask yourself this. What is more important to you: discovery based programmes, academic drill and practise, programmes that align with your parenting approach, or opportunities for children to make choices? We at 3 Bears believe that welladjusted, resilient and resourceful children will achieve all life outcomes and will rise above all that life can throw at them. Your children, while at 3 Bears, will be given a voice to express needs and contribute

ldhood Every Early Chi no , Service is unique hile w d an e m two are the sa at in NSW it is true to say th with ply all need to com and to what w ho legislation, ice choosdegree each se rv t se ts wha es to comply is t.” them apar

“

to decisions with wisdom and insight. Problem solving occurs through play, as they test theories, imagining and predicting how the world could work, and they will be emotionally supported and become mentally balanced as we promote connections with communities and recognise the importance of families. Gaining confidence and character in the early years at 3 Bears will have allowed your child to acquire the correct behaviours and attitudes to be fearless of failure in the years ahead and less anxious about academic achievement in the future. Family needs! Do you need care over school holiday breaks? Do you have time to pack nutritious fresh lunches, linen and a nappy bag each day? Family needs have been at the heart of 3 Bears’ philosophy since construction some 20 years ago. As a mum of six children of my own, I know first-hand that it does in fact take a village to raise just one child. Given that childcare services enable parents to engage in work, it only makes sense then to provide a service to meet these needs. Designing and delivering a flexible service with a focus on the whole family was formed.

We provide care 52 weeks of the year for 0-5 year olds and supply everything your child would need for a day of care, like nappies, linen, drinks and food. We provide a munch menu that has been endorsed by and follows the guidelines set by NSW Health for food and nutrition. Not a vegemite sandwich in sight; fresh food is delivered daily by Matt and his team from the Surf Club Restaurant. Children have unique nutrition needs, and these needs play a very important role in brain and behavioural development; this is why providing children with a well-balanced meal throughout the day while in care is so important for optimal functioning. Parents haven’t been forgotten either. No time for breakfast - grab a piece a fruit from our complimentary fruit basket on the way out. Need bread or milk for the next morning, also grab this from us; who needs to struggle with a store visit at the end of a very long day! Have further questions? Come give 3 Bears a visit. The number one thing that makes our centre special are our families, and so we welcome your family to walk through our doors and become a part of our community. We are conveniently located in the CBD and are open from 7:30am - 6pm, Monday to Friday.

R U O Y E V GI S S E N I S BU SUPER S R E W O P

east coast cabinets East Coast Cabinets has been a Coffs Harbour identity for over 40 years, and the current regime has been in place for 32 years. The name is synonymous with custom built kitchens, vanities, robes, as well as shop and office fitouts throughout the NSW North Coast. The receipt of several NSW Housing Industry Awards is testament to the respect that is held by them within the industry. Design assistance is readily available, either in our showroom or on site. However, we are also able to construct from plans provided from other sources. We are able to assist with clarifying the types of materials and hardware available, as well as colour selections if required. Only quality European drawers and hinges are used and, where available, all board products are “O” emissions in all of our cabinetwork. Everything complies with Australian Standards, and production takes place in our Coffs Harbour factory. For friendly personal assistance and/or for a quotation, please phone for an appointment at a mutually agreeable time. The Showroom is open from 7:30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 7:30am to 3pm on Fridays, plus at other times if required.

FAIRIES IN the glen @ Garden Mania If it’s inspiration you are after, the Garden Mania Lifestyle Centre is the destination for you. Garden Mania is so much more than just a garden centre. Come and meet the friendly new faces at Garden Mania - Fairies In The Glen, who sell clothing, jewellery, candles, incense, soaps, crystals, tarot, art supplies and much more - in the nursery we have outdoor and indoor plants, fruit trees, exotic plants, herbs, and we also have our own beauty therapy room. Steele Lovell is our beauty therapist; he will be very happy to pamper you, whether it be a facial, waxing, or pedicure etc. So drop in to the nursery and gift shop and meet the friendly staff, Deb, Keith, Starsha and Steele and while you’re there, meet the other residents of Garden Mania, Nicky and her lovely staff in Secret Garden Café, John in Ferryman’s Pots and furniture and coming soon, Peter in the Frog Aquarium. We are open seven days a week, 9am to 4:30pm. Looking forward to seeing you all there.

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Ohana Early Learning What’s all the buzz about Ohana Early Learning? This month we catch up with Sandra Green, Centre Director - North Boambee Valley.

hat are some of your favourite aspects of working at Ohana? Working for a family owned centre and being involved from the beginning and watching the centre grow has been exciting. Our natural playscape yard is also amazing, meaning we have a strong emphasis on nature based learning. The staff here at Ohana have come together really well, and being part of that team means I learn new and exciting things every day. What makes Ohana stand out, from your perspective? Again, being a family owned centre, we are not part of a large corporate company. The large open natural playground, allows children to explore and discover on their own, discovering risk and the beauty in nature, rather than an artificial environment. When parents are enquiring, we take the time to get to know them and their children before they enrol at the centre; this I feel is important, as some families rightfully find it hard to leave their children behind. But we have a strong focus on familial involvement, meaning we take photos and stories of each child’s day and deliver them to the families. This means that even when you leave your

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child with us, you get to be a part of their development too. What is the best thing about your job? I originally came from Queensland and have been a part of many centres with many differing roles, but I absolutely love being part of something new. Meeting new families and being a founding figure of the Ohana family, helping shape Ohana’s future is what I am enjoying. I love knowing that what I’m doing has a profound impact in shaping a child’s future and that the things we teach have lasting results down the line. What are you looking forward to in 2016 and forward into 2017? I continue to look forward to watching the centre grow and to getting to know the families. It’s not too far away that we have some of our older kids ready to graduate into big school, so I’m looking forward to preparing them for that and saying a teary goodbye as they enter the next chapter of their lives with the skills we have given them. We have come so far in the last six months; I am very excited to see what 2017 will bring. How do you keep your team motivated? Our staff at Ohana do an amazing job here every day. Staff members even come in over the weekends to show the centre to

families or friends. We are all very proud of what we do, and I am very proud of their constant enthusiasm. I always like to make sure that they know that, by being available to staff at all times and encouraging them to be actively involved in the every day running of the centre and to help solve the problems we may have together, so that everybody is involved. What do you think is the most important thing in your role as a care provider? I think it is of utmost importance that all families feel comfortable in leaving their children in our care, and to provide a safe environment that all children can continue to grow in, and have open communication at all times. But it is also so important for families to be a part of their kids’ lives in a time when they learn so much, so communication with families is an enormously important role in our jobs. Is there anything else you’d like to add before we finish up? I am enjoying my time here at Ohana, and would encourage anyone who is looking at putting their children in care to come down to the centre and have a look and see the wonderful things we are doing. Thanks Sandra.

focusinterview.

CREDIT UNION O F

T H E

Y E A R

BCU’S STORY IS AN INSPIRING ONE. ESTABLISHED BY THE LOCAL BANANA GROWERS OF MACKSVILLE IN THE EARLY SEVENTIES, IT IS NOW ONE OF THE LEADING CREDIT UNIONS IN THE COUNTRY AND HAS RECENTLY BEEN AWARDED MONEY MAGAZINE’S CREDIT UNION OF THE YEAR FOR 2016.

Left to Right: Jeleina Towler, Terri Murphy, Ashlee Walker

oney Magazine is the longest running, highest selling and most-read personal finance magazine in Australia. Runner up in 2015, bcu has risen to top spot this year in Money’s prestigious Credit Union of the Year category. bcu’s Chief Executive, Lyndon Kingston, describes the win as a huge honour. “There are some great financial institutions in the running for this award offering some fantastic products, and for bcu to top the list is a testament to bcu’s staff,” he said. “We are proud of all of our products and services as we believe they offer value, which is what we strive to achieve for our customers. This award helps support our commitment to providing trusted banking to customers at every stage of their life.” Mitchell Watson, group manager, research and ratings at Canstar said, “This outcome for bcu is recognition of consistently delivering relevant products with fair fees to their customers.” Watson believes the product line that stands out for bcu is its home loans. “It is currently advertising extremely competitive rates for its one, three and five year fixed loans,” he says. According to Watson, bcu also has a great rewards credit card. “The Rewarder offers one of the simplest credit card rewards programmes in the market. The interest rate of 16.8%pa on purchases and cash advances is far below that of its competitors.” Terri Murphy, Store Supervisor from bcu’s Coffs Harbour branch said, “We were thrilled to receive the Money Magazine award. It gives our customers the assurance that they are banking with a brand they can trust. Our aim is

to continue to attract more customers to take advantage of our great value products.” Kingston said that while bcu can’t be the best in every product, “We strive to offer genuine value across all of our products and across a customer’s life with bcu, as opposed to offering value in one product only, or for a short period of time.” Another example of bcu’s value products is its Scoot’s super saver account, encouraging young people to save. With no monthly fees and bonus interest, kids can earn up to 3.5%pa when they deposit $20 or more a month. Scoot is bcu’s children’s programme mascot and helps promote the benefits of being a super saver to children across the region. Scoot regularly visits schools and day care centres to present the super saver financial literacy programme, educating children in a fun way about finances. “Our aim with this initiative is to encourage children to become money-wise and financially savvy to ensure a healthy, financial future,” said Kingston. From its humble beginnings almost 45 years ago, servicing the banana growers and dairy farmers of the Mid North Coast, bcu has now expanded to 23 stores from the Sunshine Coast to Port Macquarie, delivering quality and value to its customers, as is evident in its receipt of the respected Credit Union of the Year award. bcu’s flagship store at Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour offers a new perspective on banking for all its members, with features such as a central café zone with complimentary coffee, dedicated internet area with iPads and iMacs for web surfing and a kids’ Scoot zone with touch screens and craft activities to keep the children entertained while you get down to business.

We are proud of all of our products and services as we r believe they offe t ha w is value, which e ev hi ac we strive to s.” er om st cu for our

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coffs coast focus. 23

have your tried the new menu from mont & sea.

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

24 coffs coast focus.

ice

d gums restaurant

u at the Flooded Gums is in full flow. In the warmer no better place to be, as when the sun goes down, the staurant at Bonville Golf Resort is transformed into an ng experience - the best Coffs Harbour has to offer. ave received an Award of Excellence (Wine Spectator List of the Year Awards - only property in Regional NSW PARTY, PARTY, PARTY! BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY! A wine list featuring age release and current vintages Executive Chef: Spring/Summer Dinner Menu roducers in the greatest regions; the potential for serious Darren Ryan. starts 12th October atching is limitless. What better way to celebrate a new season than to launch a new menu to take advantage of the best in seasonal produce!

horizons restaurant & bar

At Horizons, Chef Clinton Hunter has created dishes that are not only enhanced by quality, fresh and seasonal produce, but are absolutely delicious.

those who like desserts, leave room for the fantastic dessert selection. e Road,For Bonville www.bonvillegolf.com.au Christmas Day Bookings now available; get in early.

mont & Sea 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. Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

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

breakfast, lunch and dinner - seven days a week. bookingsOpen essential.

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

78/746 Pacific Hwy, Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa, Coffs Harbour 0419 380 417

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

Dinner Tue - Sat, 5:30pm - Close.

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH Spring menu out soon!

CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH

ss than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the

ald Beach with one of the best views on the coast, d watch the whales while you enjoy breakfast or lunch

Owner/Head Chef Ko Murakami

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

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. 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.

charlie’s restaurant Charlie’s Restaurant, located at the beautiful Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, serving a wide selection of international dishes using fresh local ingredients, with views overlooking the golf course and the lagoon. Charlie’s has become a firm favourite with the “Coffs Coast locals”. Join us in Charlie’s Bar for our daily happy hour from 5pm - 6pm. Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort the ideal location for dining, conferences, weddings and leisure.

night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to

, local, and prepared by award winning chefs.

Head Chef Sam Allinson.

kboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert nu changes every week.

s now for your Christmas party!

n Road, Emerald Beach www.surfstreet.com.au

unday for breakfast & lunch ay for dinner.

Head Chef Sam Allinson.

Cnr Pacific Highway and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour 6659 7000 www.pacificbayresort.com.au Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch. Thursday to Saturday for dinner.

Daily from 7am. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. coffs coast focus. 25

its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear.

We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

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

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011

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.

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey the hoeykitchen. moey Moey, with our newly renovated Welcome the Harbour Beachsidewith Bistro at the Hoey We are the only hotel in to Coffs Moey with newly kitchen. We direct beach access. Comeour and enjoyrenovated our arewith the spacious only hotelallinweather Coffs Harbour with direct beachside hotel beachplan access. Beer Garden, open bar, Come Bistro,and newenjoy Kids’our beachside hotelBottleshop with spacious beer and garden, Room, Drive Thru and TAB Keno facilities.open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TABThen facilities. Have you tried our new Feeling extra hungry? try our NEW Pizza range? There is a large selection SUPERSIZE dealGourmet on our FAMOUS $7.50 Feeds. and youpork can have these eat Pictured todayto wechoose have afrom chargrilled in or takeaway. and check out our cutlet with roasted vegetablesCome and aninapple takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. compote. If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS The HOEY MOEY! There’s really no other $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. place to be!

la hacienda 101 La Hacienda 101 gives you an insight into Mexican cuisine and cantina mr. good culture that you normally don’t find inbeans Australia. The music, aromas from

the kitchen, along with ourselves tequilas, Mexican beers and cocktails all make We pride on bringing a personalised service and this product: a finely a dining experience enjoy. From enchiladas toit,the fresh café food tunedto espresso coffeethe justTraditional how the customer likes gourmet aromatic aguachile such asinCamarones aguachile or Albondigas madedishes from scratch house, and de a friendly, comfortable experience to all (meatballs in chili sauce) ... all are tantalising! who walk through the café door. With the season changing, the specials board will lend itself to our ocean Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring, Owners Michael catches and seafood and salads that will complement the new menu, with made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata andolives David. freshness that we are renowned for. and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet Head Chef Bookings essential, especially for the Christmas party season, as well as Kristy Deves thin chips and Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. the weekends.potato Don’t wafer be disappointed, anddrizzled phone with ahead. Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring Head Chef light, yet very satisfying. David Ricketts.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 101 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com 7 days. Mon-Thurs & Sun: 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au Shop 1 Moonee 12pm-2:30pm; 5:30-8:30pm. Open six days from 6pm - closed Marketplace, Moonee Beach 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au Fri-Sat: 12pm-2:30pm; 5.30-9pm. Tuesdays. 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.

Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm

– 3pm Classic Fishand andSundays Chips -8am made with Australian Gold Band Snapper served with chips, salad and house made tartare.

coffs coast foc

plantation hotel

Spinifex Restaurant

Summer’s on the way, and so is our new summer menu … Head Chef David Newick and his team have designed a delicious menu packed full of healthy, light summer options, using the freshest local produce and ingredients. The new summer menu will feature zesty salads, juicy succulent steaks and for the late night weekend diners, Tapas from 7 - 11pm. If you just want to catch up with friends for a few refreshing beverages, try our new craft beers or an old fashioned cocktail.

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!

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.

26 coffs coast focus.

Head Chef David Newick.

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.

Head Chef Brendan Crawford.

GuS

Prezioso

GUS PREZIOSO HAS JUST BEEN NAMED THE NEW HEAD CHEF AT THE PARK BEACH HOEY MOEY. FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH GUS TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HIS LOVE OF COOKING ...

La Hacienda 101

DAVID AND MICHAEL ARE THE OWNERS OF THE VERY SUCCESSFUL MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN EMERALD BEACH CALLED LA HACIENDA 101.

hey pride themselves continued on for a few years after. on delivering authentic What do you like the most about Mexican cuisine, along working at La Hacienda? with exceptional service. Meeting people who enjoy food. To watch FOCUS caught up with a face light up when they see a dish or take them both to find out their first bite. The characters that stop and more about their passion for the kitchen … talk, or the Mexicans who say this is the best Where are you from? What they’ve eaten in Australia. What does your menu brought you to become the owners of La consist of? Dishes from all around Hacienda? Mexico - the regional Michael: My all om fr s he is D home town is cuisines you don’t - the around Mexico Leeton, NSW, normally see in that regional cuisines see in where I worked Australia; plus, a few ally you don’ t norm x in Charlie’s Tex Mex dishes and Te w fe a Australia; plus , e us ho Restaurant in house developed in d Mex dishes an l.” el w as es for nine and a ones as well. on developed half years, after What’s your favourite thing on moving back from Melbourne and parts the menu? of Victoria. La Hacienda Mmm ... that changes was a move where I have as we introduce new dishes. the opportunity of jointly owning At the moment it is camarones de our own restaurant and building it into aguachile, which is prawn ceviche served what we have today. cold in a fresh red or green sauce made with David: My home town is west blends of chillies, cucumber, lime juice and Wyalong, but I moved from Griffith to herbs. Or, the beef ribs with chipotle mash have a lifestyle change and fulfil a dream are always mouthwatering. of owning a restaurant. Coming from an Do you cater for end of year parties or agronomy and horticulture background, this Christmas parties? was a complete challenge. Yes all parties, whether birthday, When and where did you begin your Christmas, New Year’s Eve or just Friday or chef career? Saturday nights for friends. David: I’m not a chef, but a cook with Do you like television shows like passion. I learnt at home and from buying a MasterChef and MKR, and what do you restaurant. think these shows bring to the industry? Michael: I started my career in Albury, and We don’t actually watch them, as we are I soon moved to Melbourne - the Sheraton always busy with the restaurant. for the remainder of my apprenticeship and Thanks guys.

here are you from? Uruguay, South America. What is your role at the Hoey Moey? Head Chef.

When and where did you begin your chef career? I began my career back home in Uruguay in 1999. And your earlier career? I have worked almost 18 different jobs, most of which have been in hospitality. What was it about cooking that inspired you to become a chef? It was my grandma’s food. What are your favourite things on the menu? At the moment it would be the chicken breast served with risotto cake and creamy mushroom sauce and our gourmet pizza range.

What is new in the restaurant? We are recreating our Daily Blackboard Specials menu to incorporate more multicultural meals. Look out for some exciting new additions to this board. Do you like MasterChef and MKR - what do you think these shows bring to the industry? I don’t watch very much TV, but I guess people like it. When you’re at home, what do you cook? I have two children at home, so most of my home cooking is based around what they would like. What are your favourite things to cook, and what do you cook on special occasions? I really enjoy cooking everything, but on special occasions I cook paellas and do a lot of wood fire cooking as well.

with Steve Grace from Bello Food Box

“

AT ’ S I N

GINGER

The local ginger season is now in full swing, and we are are lucky enough in this region to be blessed with an abundance of organically grown, premium quality ginger at an affordable price. Ginger is one of the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet. Loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful detoxifying benefits for your mind and body, including ginger as a regular staple in your diet will go a long way towards ensuring long lasting health for you and your family. Grate it into your favourite stir fry or curry dish, add it to your morning juice, or enjoy it as a cleansing tea with lemon and turmeric - ginger is so versatile and easy to incorporate into your daily diet. However you like to use it, enjoy the goodness of this wonderful medicinal plant and reap the rewards!

WHERE

Find out more about Bello Food Box at www.bellofoodbox.com.au coffs coast focus. 27

With Lyndall Dykes – The Cheesemaking Workshop

CheeSe Month of the

WITH THE FIRST FLUSH OF SPRING GROWTH THE GRASSES QUICKLY TURN TO THE FLOWERING SEASONS OF LATE SPRING AND EARLY SUMMER, THESE PASTURES OFFER RICH GRAZING FOR OUR REGIONS BEAUTIFUL DAIRY HERDS.

hese good feed conditions mean healthy, contented animals, and this means great cheese! Using fresh local milk to turn into cheese is really quite simple. Firstly, you need to start with the best quality local milk available, then add in a starter culture to initiate the fermentation process, which gives your cheese its flavour and texture. Then we

add rennet, which sets the curd. The curd is then cut and turned to remove the whey, then hooped to give it its shape. Then depending on the style of cheese, the maturation process starts. At The Cheesemaking Workshop, we take advantage of this amazing season to teach our workshop participants how to make a beautiful range of gourmet cheese for the festive season.

W I T H QU I NOA A ND SWEET POTATO PAT T IE INGREDIENTS

(Serves 4)

Pattie (makes 8 - 10)

1 cup cooked quinoa 1 large sweet potato 1 cup cooked beans: Cannellini, Black Turtle Beans, etc 1 small brown onion or 4 spring onions ½ cup finely chopped coriander 1 tbsp smoked paprika 1 tbsp ground cumin

BLACK VELVET

IF YOU LIKE A SWEETER STYLE OF RED WINE, “BLACK VELVET” IS FOR YOU! GROWN AND SOLD AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED TWO TAILS WINERY AT NANA GLEN, THIS WINE DEMONSTRATES INDIVIDUALITY.

blend of Chambourcin and Jacquez (Le Noir) grapes grown at the vineyard, this wine displays both varietal styles to perfection. With the combination of distinctive dark colouring, herbaceous aromas and black cherry, plum flavours of the Chambourcin, to the lush fruit sweetness of the Jacquez grapes, “Black Velvet” is created.

Ripe and lush, this wine is bursting with black cherry and plum flavours for a soft and smooth finish. Low in tannin, with a hint of oak.

Perfect with family and friends at a BBQ, or sit back and unwind after a hard day with this lush and deliciously sweet, mellow red wine.

AVAILABLE: Two Tails Winery Cellar Door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen, NSW. Online at www.twotailswines.com.au.

CHARACTERISTICS: This wine presents deep red colours with berry driven aromas.

28 coffs coast focus.

GOES WITH: Game, Peking duck, BBQ ribs, gourmet sausages and grills. A match made in heaven with dark chocolate or blue cheese. COST: $20.

IGA Liquor Store, Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour, NSW. Phone: (02) 6654 3633. Email: admin@twotailswines.com.au

Optional - 2 jalapeno peppers, chopped, or garam masala Salt and pepper

Veggie stack Sliced roast butternut pumpkin, sprinkle with cinnamon

Roasted red peppers, skin removed and sliced thinly 2 zucchinis, sliced into 5 lengths each I eggplant, sliced about 1 cm thick 2 apples or pears, sliced Steamed asparagus Garnish Rocket Basil pesto Labne or plain yogurt Toasted cashews or dukkah Micro greens Pomegranate (if in season)

Chef & Nutritionist

Pandora Colledge 5 Surf Street, Emerald Beach, NSW 2450 Phone 0408 561 623

method Patties Cut sweet potatoes in large chunks and season with olive oil and a pinch of salt and place on baking paper on a baking tray in the oven for around 30 minutes, until soft. Let cook, then scoop flesh out and mash with a fork. Rinse quinoa and add to a pot of 2 cups of water and a pinch of sea salt. Quinoa takes about 15 minutes to cook using the absorption method. Remove from heat, and fluff with a fork to help cool. Add the cooked quinoa, beans, onion, coriander, smoked paprika, cumin and seasoning to the mashed sweet potato. Mix to-

gether until combined. Line oven tray with baking paper and form mixture into even sized balls. Flatten slightly to form a pattie shape and bake 30 minutes until crisp, and turn half way through. Prepare all roast vegies and toss with some olive oil and salt. Line two baking trays with grease proof paper. Heat oven to 220 degrees. Bake for 20 minutes. Assemble your stack Place rocket on plate, then stack the roast vegetables on top of each other and top with labne and drizzle with pesto and sprinkle with cashews. Add micro greens and pomegranate.

the cheesemaking workshop Artisan cheese maker and founder of The Cheesemaking Workshop, Lyndall Dykes and her team have recently opened a new location at the iconic Big Banana. The new location also includes a huge cheese deli, retail area with lots of cheesy gift ideas and all your home cheesemaking supplies. Now equipped with two teaching kitchens and a large dining room, The Cheesemaking Workshop is the ultimate cheese experience, welcoming group booking and individuals to their workshops. Workshop attendees learn how to make a number of cheeses with a minimum of fuss - it’s easy and fun. Plus, making your own gourmet cheese is also much more affordable, and you know exactly what is going into your food. The sense of achievement felt when seeing the finished products is incredibly empowering. Workshops are run on a daily basis from 45 minutes to their six hour signature Soft Cheesemaking Workshop, where participants learn to make their own camembert, fetta, quark, mascarpone, ricotta and yogurt. All workshop notes are provided, as well as cheese tastings, morning tea and a cheese inspired lunch and at the end of the day, participants take home a gift bag of cheeses made on the day. www.thecheesemakingworkshop.com.au

l i n d s ay 's f r e s h s e a f o o d Lindsay’s Oysters and Fresh Seafood MORE THAN JUST OYSTERS! Lindsay’s Oyster Barn is located on the Pacific Highway at the BP Service Centre, North Urunga. Our aim is to provide local fish to our customers wherever possible, both fresh and frozen, for easy meals at your convenience. John Lindsay has been growing oysters on the beautiful Bellingen River for over 30 years and is now the largest supplier of locally grown, delicious oysters on the Coffs Coast. We have an excellent reputation for quality and price. We also specialise in supplying local oysters to restaurants and clubs on the Coffs Coast. Products and Services • Oysters, including tray, bottled and unopened • Prawns, including green and cooked • Local fresh fish, including Blackfish, Yellow Fin Tuna and Atlantic Salmon • Fresh local deep sea fish • Salad dressing, Japanese wasabi sauces and mayonnaise • Tartare sauce and other delicious mayonnaises • EFTPOS

coffs coast focus. 29

With Phil Atkinson & Emma Knights – Results PT Studio.

KINMER

TOW

KIM TOWNER IS HELPING FEED THE HOMELESS BY PROVIDING A CHEAP AND EASY WAY FOR OTHERS TO PRE PURCHASE A MEAL FOR THOSE IN NEED. FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH HER TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS AMAZING PROGRAMME.

an you briefly tell us about the initiative, what it is called, how it works, and what the main aim of it is? Food for the Soul is a simple pay it forward scheme. If you buy a meal for yourself, you can choose to pay an extra $2.50, which buys a full meal for someone who needs it. When a customer pays the extra, they put their name on a voucher. Then we give the vouchers to Reap, the organisation that redistributes food that would otherwise be wasted. The Reap team gives the vouchers to the people who need food. They just bring the vouchers into The Happy Frog and hand them in at the counter to get their meal. Has it been a success so far? It has worked amazingly well. Everyone has been so generous. Each donation pays for most of the cost of the food. The Happy Frog supplies the rest and the labour. The system of giving the vouchers direct has worked, because recipients can just hand them in at the counter and then sit down with everyone else to enjoy their food. They don’t have to ask, and they have been very grateful. For some, it’s the only meal they get. Where did the idea come from? A lovely lady called Claire heard of this idea that a soup shop in Melbourne was doing, and 30 coffs coast focus.

she sent us a link on our Facebook. We thought it was a great idea, so we copied it. How long will it run for? Honestly, we didn’t think it would be this popular, but most people want to help others and sometimes just don’t know how. We have decided to just keep doing it while ever it keeps working. And unfortunately, while ever we have people who need food. All the food vendors at Harbourside Markets are making pay it forward vouchers available too. Starting this weekend, meals will be available down at the markets, so food will be available seven days a week. What are some of the other needs you have identified that could be addressed by programmes like this one? Some of the people sleeping outdoors have said they need insect repellant. So we are going to see if we can organise that. Haircuts, clothing, shoes, camping gear and especially clothes washing could all be paid forward. Where can people find out more and become involved? If there are any other businesses that would like to do something similar, we would be very happy to give more details. Just ask for Kim at The Happy Frog. Thanks Kim.

Healthy e ating and good nutrition

IF YOU ASKED 100 DIFFERENT PEOPLE WHAT A HEALTHY DIET WAS, YOU WOULD LIKELY GET 100 DIFFERENT ANSWERS. IS IT EATING LESS SUGARY FOODS? IS IT EATING MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES? IS IT AVOIDING BREAD, POTATOES AND OTHER CARBOHYDRATES? SOME PEOPLE WILL CITE A “BALANCED” DIET. BUT WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN? READ ON …

oes your current nutrition meet the following? • Good nutrition controls energy balance (no weight gain). • Good nutrition provides nutrient density. • Good nutrition achieves health, body composition and performance goals. • Good nutrition is sustainable. Healthy eating/good nutrition is often referred to as a “diet”. This is where things get crazy! All “diets”, when followed correctly, will have you losing weight - despite the different and often very unhealthy methods used to achieve this goal. Most “diets” are unsustainable and have you avoiding or even cutting out certain food groups, leaving you tired, hungry, irritable, and often depressed. However, the reason weight is lost, and the thing all diets have in common, is that they restrict your calorie intake; you either replace the calorie dense processed food with more unprocessed fruit and vegetables, or you starve. I am not a fan of calorie counting, as calories are metabolised very differently by individuals and food labels can be out by up to 20%! The type of calories consumed are metabolised differently as well - digesting 400 calories of pizza is a lot different to digesting 400 calories of broccoli. As a general rule, the more “processed” a food is, the more calories will be

absorbed. Precision Nutrition did an excellent article on the problem with calorie counting here http://www.precisionnutrition.com/ problem-with-calorie-counting-calories-in The problem with “diets” is that they don’t address your HABITS. Sure, they restrict calories and you lose a bit of weight, but eventually the old habits creep back in, because the diet didn’t address those habits and behaviours that got you there in the first place. The weight comes back with interest, until you reach the next snap point and you diet all over again. Healthy eating needs to be something you enjoy doing for the rest of your life. To identify if your nutrition needs an overhaul, ask yourself these questions … • Do I eat lean protein at every meal? • Does my plate contain lots of colour? (Sorry, Fruit Loops don’t count!) • Do I feel lethargic, sluggish and simple daily activities seem a chore? • Have I followed many “diets” before and regained the weight lost? • Am I completely confused and at a loss where to start regarding what I should and shouldn’t be eating? Perhaps it’s time to seek the help you need and obtain the health and body you never thought you would have ... Phil and Emma are Precision Nutrition Coaches, as well as Metabolic Precision Transformation Specialists. www.results-pt.com

P A

n nchors Wharf Cafe & Restaurant offers award winning meals and hospitality from

its spectacular position on the south bank

of the Kalang River at Urunga, NSW, Australia. The restaurant features open-air seating with broad river views. This location is an ideal stop for long journeys between Sydney and Brisbane. 20 kms south of Coffs Harbour.

RIDAY NIGHT F • •

Live Entertainment Join us every friday night from 6pm for live entertainment.

Open every day for Breakfast and lunch from 8.00am Dinner from 5.30 pm Wednesday – Saturday Please check for extended hours during School Holidays

Find us on Facebook

Ph (02) 6655 5588

www.anchorswharf.com 4 - 6 Bellingen Street, Urunga NSW 2455 focus. coffs coast focus

FUNCTIONS & FORMALS FEATURE

ESCAPING THE HUSTLE OF THE BIG CITY AND MOVING TO THE COFFS COAST IS THE DREAM OF MANY PEOPLE. PAUL AND VICTORIA HARPER HAPPENED UPON AN AMAZING BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY, WHICH LED TO THEM SUCCESSFULLY OPENING THE CEDAR BAR IN BELLINGEN. THEY ARE LIVING THE DREAM ...

Cedar Bar & kitchen

an you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast? Twelve years ago, in Sydney, I met Victoria, who was born and raised on the Coffs Coast. We have visited the area several times a year over that period. We talked for years about leaving Sydney, and the Mid North Coast was full of great memories for us both, then this business opportunity developed very quickly - so we jumped. When did you start the business? We opened the doors as Cedar Bar & Kitchen in mid December 2015. After months of setup and planning, we really wanted to start serving customers and getting some experience before the Christmas and January rush. To add to the excitement, Victoria gave birth to our twin girls three days after opening. So needless to say, the last nine months has flown by. With support from family, friends, our staff and customers, it has made the exhaustion lots of fun. What inspired you to start Cedar Bar & Kitchen? Aside from our love of food and wine, we fell in love with the 108 year old building and thought the space would be perfect for a restaurant and the large hall, ideal for functions. “The Old Church,” as people lovingly call her, really is beautiful, with 7-metre high ceilings and original stained glass windows; she has an incredible aura, which we knew would appeal to customers. Venues that have inspired us include The Grounds in Alexandria, The Farm in Byron and Harvest at Newrybar. We wanted to create an atmosphere where people can enjoy 32 coffs coast focus.

FUNCTIONS

an affordable dining experience, function or wedding. Have you had past experience in hospitality or is this new ground for you? This is a new venture for both of us. Victoria, with her background in marketing and events, and me with a sales and consulting career also having run my own business previously, I feel we both bring skills that translate really well to the management as well as the customer experience focus of what we are achieving here. When we were married two years ago, we found that experience of choosing a wedding venue very impersonal - we were handed a wedding pack with pricing, and that was it: “like it, or leave it”. We want to work with couples to create their own unique celebration. We understand that it is probably the most expensive party you will ever throw yourselves, so you want it to be right! How would you describe Cedar, and what are the key elements that attract your patrons? We set out to build a venue that Victoria and I would want to sit and relax if we were going out. We are like most people, so we’ve tried to create a space which is inviting for everyone, that profiles local food in a simple yet tasty way, a small changing wine list, relaxed surrounds and friendly staff. We also wanted to create a regular hang out for locals, through our pricing and that we offer most wines by the glass, also changing our menu seasonally; we aim to keep regulars coming back. Is there a theme or style of food on the menu? Our style changes with the season and what

produce is locally available. Customers have described the food as honest, clean and fresh. If we have a great idea to bring a Spanish influence to a dish, then we will. If we feel that the Snapper is best served with an Asian sauce, then we’ll do that too. Ultimately we believe in produce that comes straight from the ground, branch or beast, we believe in sourcing local, sourcing what is in season and then making everything from base ingredients, in-house. Since opening, I’ve slowly been able to build relationships with local producers for our pasture raised eggs, buffalo milk haloumi, micro-leaf greens, amongst others. Most importantly, our team of chefs are foodies too, and we bake all of our cakes and treats in-house, including gluten-free options. Are you open from breakfast to dinner? We are open seven days, serving all day breakfast and lunch, plus dinner from Thursday to Saturday. Do you have live music for entertainment at times? We were so glad to be a major venue for this year’s Bellingen Winter Music Festival.

Since then we’ve hosted a handful of live gigs, including live music every Friday night, and have more local, national and international acts planned for the coming months. What are you plans for the future of the business? We plan to be a buzzing event destination, create custom weddings and host unique functions. We are throwing a huge Melbourne Cup celebration in November, and tickets are selling fast. We want to be the first place people think of when they consider having a party or event. We encourage everyone to drop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a drink, and see what we’re doing with the space. What do you love about the Bellingen area? The people here make it a great place to be. As new parents, we love having the opportunity to raise our girls in the wonderful Bellingen community. We also love the local food scene and are passionate about contributing to the vibrant culture. Thanks guys.

coffs coast focus. 33

O'ZAPFT is oktoberfest in coffs harbour OKTOBERFEST is kicking off this month, and Edelweiss is saving you the expense of travelling to Germany. Instead, you can experience it for yourself, right here in the newly renovated Big Windmill in Coffs Harbour. From the 17th September to 31st October, Edelweiss Bavarian Restaurant is hosting its Oktoberfest parties every Friday and Saturday nights. On both nights you will also have a chance to participate in the the traditional Stein-holding competition. You raise your 1L stein and hold it out in front of you for as long as you can! The strongest of the month wins their very own original stein to take home. We have the original Spaten Oktoberfest brew on tap, directly from Munich, Bavaria. You can enjoy the very same special Oktoberfest beer you would get if you travelled to the

Wiesn in Germany! On top of that and only during the Oktoberfest, we offer some special meals and more games to round up the celebration of the traditional German beer fest. Naturally, you can still get the famous schnitzels, sausages, pork knuckles and all the other meals from the current menu. Are you looking to host an event or want to book the Almhuette for your own special occasion? Get in touch now to lock in your date! Visit the Edelweiss Facebook Page (http://facebook.com/edelweissAU) or website www.EdelweissRestaurant.com.au to see all the specials, current menu as well as all contact details. Don't miss out on visiting Oktoberfest at the only Bavarian place in Coffs Harbour! See you soon ... Prost!

GREENHOUSE TAVERN S P R I N G I N TO S U M M E R AT T H E G R E E N H O U S E TAV E R N - YO U R P R E M I E R FA M I LY TAV E R N ! T H E R E I S S O M U C H G O I N G O N AT T H E G R E E N H O U S E TAV E R N. A S W E H E A D I N T O T H E S U M M E R PA RT Y S E A S O N , N OW I S T H E T I M E TO STA RT P L A N N I N G TO B E A M O N G ST I T !

ook your table for Melbourne 3pm every second Sunday. Just another great Cup on Tuesday 1 November reason to visit the Greenhouse Tavern with the - come dressed for the races kids! As we head into the warmer months, and join the fun with a the outdoor area offers space to play; spot a gorgeous two-course lunch, water dragon or a turtle while you relax over a bubbles or beer, sweeps, delicious meal and your favourite drink. Enjoy prizes and live music following the race. a drink on the deck - $5 Coronas are back on Regular bistro menu running on the day too, Sundays, and how about some fun with Trivia? so don’t miss out! Get in early to Get down to the Greenhouse Tavern for reserve your seat for Christmas "Trivia Thursdays" - free to play, buffet lunch - let someone friendly competition and always else worry about the a laugh. For convenience, to y cooking this year (and the courtesy bus operates rl ea in et G at the clean up after!) Wednesday through reserve your se ffet and sit back and enjoy Sunday from 5:30pm or for Christmas bu ne a relaxed Christmassy by appointment. lunch - let someo e t th atmosphere, fun for else worry abou The Greenhouse Tavern ar (and cooking this ye the kids with Santa is your premier place r!)” the clean up afte promising to visit for family entertainment, and all the regular great food and specials entertainment for the right through the week. As little ones - jumping well as the full bistro menu, castle and outdoor covered Mondays and Tuesdays have a playground area. Last year was Pizza special, Wednesday is $11 Steak & a sell out, so don’t leave your online Ale, Thursday is Chicken Schnitzel for $11, booking too late! While you’re thinking possibly the best in town, and Kids Eat Free about celebrations, why not choose Friday, Saturday and Sunday night (conditions the Greenhouse Tavern for your work party, apply). Head chef Phil Mendoza is in charge birthday or engagement event, or perhaps of the kitchen and producing consistently Christmas drinks or end of year office break good food, keeping the regulars coming up? Call now to discuss your catering and back for more! Grab a group and head down function space needs - the staff at the to the Greenhouse Tavern - you won’t be Greenhouse Tavern will help you design the disappointed! Live sport on TV, great choice perfect occasion, whatever your budget, with of beer on tap, perfect place to unwind and extensive menus to select from and flexible catch up with friends and family; what more floor plans to fit your group size. do you need from your local? Make sure you

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Super exciting announcement! The Smileys’ Kids Entertainers are coming to the Greenhouse Tavern! Starting on Sunday 2nd October, The Smileys will appear from 12 34 coffs coast focus.

book early for all the key events, so you don’t miss out! The staff at the Greenhouse Tavern look forward to seeing you soon!

•21-23

OCTOBER •

The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass festival is an awesome event that boasts amazing performances by artists from across the globe. Focus made the trip up the mountain to find out what this year’s event has to offer.

ow long has the Dorrigo Folk and plenty of Australia’s top pickers and and Bluegrass Festival been songwriters will be featuring. running? When is the event occurring? The festival will be celebrating The dates for this year’s festival are the 21st, its 15th year this coming 22nd and 23rd October. October. We look forward to welcoming our Where is it held? patrons to an amazing weekend of acoustic The main programme is held at the music and workshops, dance, poetry picturesque Dorrigo Showgrounds. We and jam sessions. also have performers for café What can people expect breakfasts at various eclectic to see at this year’s eateries in the township. at th k We like to thin festival? The Poets’ Breakfast is e ar ts all our artis Dorrigo is all about held at The Heritage e m co ho headliners w ith music, and from Hotel; owner Peter w e ar sh to together on m 6pm on the Friday Ferros has been a m co e th s patron There . ic us right through until long-time supporter of m of nd grou l visitors Sunday afternoon the festival. We have are some specia ho will there are concerts, seven covered venues from overseas w ite is a Hoe Down and on site, and the whole be bringing exqu sh are.” to s ill sk l ca ni tech Scottish Ceilidh, area becomes one large interactive workshops friendly family. A vibrant for all levels of players, as camping ground spreads out well as songwriting and vocal to all corners of the showground. workshops. It’s a chance to hear and There are a small amount of market participate in an intimate concert, join in stalls, and delicious food is plentiful. a session or jam, sing in the choir, make How many people are expected to attend new friends at the dances, or laugh at the the event? wonderful circus folk. Last year just over 2,000 people attended Is there a headline act? the festival. Each year the numbers have We like to think that all our artists are grown steadily, and we are seeing a growth headliners who come together to share with in local attendance that is very encouraging. patrons the common ground of music. There We feel that the festival has become a major are some special visitors from overseas who event on the plateau and are proud that it has will be bringing exquisite technical skills to remained true to its roots. share. Where can people find out more? From Seattle we welcome Cahalen Morrison Information about our performers and Eli West, and from Nashville The 10 String and ticketing can be found at: Symphony. Mandolin Maestro Mike Compton www.dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au

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coffs coast focus. 35

TUESDAY 1 NOVEMBER FROM 12 NOON

MELBOURNE CUP LUNCHEON SA T UR DA Y 2 9 O C T O B E R 1 2 PM Join us on the lawn and celebrate Derby Day in style as you tantalise your taste buds with a gourmet BBQ and boutique beers from Lion Nathan. TAB facilities available, sponsored marquee, giveaways and plenty of screens to watch all the action

Enjoy all the action at the annual C.ex Coffs Melbourne Cup Luncheon. Includes a two course buffet including prawns, lots of giveaways, champagne on arrival plus all the action LIVE from Flemington on the big screens.

Live from Melbourne. *Includes 7 beer vouchers, non-alcoholic beverages available

TICKETS $39.90

Melbourne Cup Lawn Party JOIN US ON THE NORTH LAWN FOR THE 2016 MELBOURNE CUP ON TUESDAY 1 NOVEMBER

Includes gourmet hors dรณeuvres and beverage package, TAB facilities, fashions on the field and prizes for best dressed plus all the action live from Flemington.

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FUNCTIONS & FORMALS FEATURE

FUNCTIONS

Formals

THE STYLISH CAMPING COMPANY Bellingen-based business, The Stylish Camping Company, has recently launched the ultimate in pop-up “glamping”, with a fleet of luxury bell tents available for hire across the Coffs Coast and Bellingen Valley.

guests, allowing everyone to stay in the one

Providing a stylish temporary accommodation option for events, festivals, weddings, retreats, or group getaways, The Stylish Camping Company takes all the hassle out of camping, pitching the bell tents at your location, and fully furnishing them inside and out with everything you need for an unforgettable stay under a billion stars! The side walls of each tent can be rolled up on warm days (and nights), and each tent is fitted with an optional zipped-in flyscreen wall to keep out uninvited guests!

unfurnished. Their versatility and vast internal

Create a unique festival-style camping experience for your friends, family, clients or

location. No driving home, the tents are pitched and furnished for you, and everything is taken down again after you leave! The “bells” can also be hired pre-pitched but headspace enables you to create intimate and beautiful weatherproof indoor spaces at any outdoor event … chillout lounges, photobooths, kiddies’ areas … Contact The Stylish Camping Company to discuss a custom bell tent hire package for your event, or browse their online store, where you can shop for your very own bell tent, or choose from their unique range of attention-grabbing festival tents and seriously cool yet functional camping accessories.

coffs coast focus. 37

FUNCTIONS & FORMALS FEATURE

FUNCTIONS

Formals Miss saigon 25th Anniversary concert MISS SAIGON: THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE is proudly presented by BCC Cinemas Coffs Harbour for three very special screenings.

$10 Lamb Cutlets

Lunch Mon-Fri

Mondays

$15 Steak or Schnitzel + FREE Schooner

This acclaimed new staging of Boubil and Schönberg’s Miss Saigon was one of the most highly anticipated musical events the West End had seen in recent years; smashing box office records and winning numerous awards, it was described by The Daily Telegraph UK as “the most thrilling, soaring and emotionally stirring musical which speaks afresh to our times”. Shot in front of a live audience at the blockbuster musical’s sell-out 25th anniversary performance at London’s Prince Edward Theatre, MISS SAIGON: THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE gives cinema-goers the chance to enjoy a major West End production right here in Coffs Harbour, and for a fraction of the

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

$15 Burger & Beer Chicken or Beef

$18.50 Ribs & Shank + FREE Schooner

Saturdays

LIVE MUSIC FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

$12 Roast Lunch Specials

For Courtesy Bus bookings please call 6653 1213 51-55 First Ave Sawtell Sawtell Hotel & Fishtales Restaurant sawtellhotel.com

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price! With music by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil (Les Misérables) and lyrics by Boublil and Richard Maltby Jr, Sir Cameron Mackintosh’s MISS SAIGON is loosely inspired by Puccini’s Madame Butterfly. Set in 1975 in Saigon, at the tail end of the Vietnam War, it tells the dramatic tale of Kim, a young bar girl orphaned by war, who falls in love with an American GI, only for their love and lives to be torn apart by the fall of Saigon. This special production sees original cast members Jonathan Pryce, Lea Salonga and Simon Bowman appear on stage for the finale. Tickets are on sale now: eventcinemas.com.au or the box office! Saturday 15th October - 2:30pm Sunday 16th October - 2:30pm Wednesday 19th October - 10:30am.

FUNCTIONS & FORMALS FEATURE

FUNCTIONS

Formals Red carpet Limousine Service Welcome! Red Carpet Limousine Service. Chauffeured stretch Limousines and wedding car specialists. Available for weddings - school formals - special occasions traditional - super stretch Limousine service. Affordable luxury ... Full chauffeur/butler personal service DVD and video - triple screens - Stacker CDs Dual two way air conditioning Two spirit and wine bars Theme fibre optic lighting Seating for up to eight passengers Why not a little fun!Try our Red Carpet Limousine THEME Service. Arrive.. or Leave, in a rare 68 Firebird or a 77 Pontiac Trans Am, Hot Rods, Classic Muscle Cars or a 69 Beach Buggy! Have your Chauffeur dressed how You want .. Have Batman.. or Batman and Robin or even Batgirl direct from Gotham City, pick you up or Darth Vader! Do a Movie Theme of your request Be different! Photo Shoot Included. (Conditions apply) Coffs Coast region - NSW, Australia. Fully accredited by the NSW Ministry of Transport. On your special day, let us transport you in style! Mobile - 0411 862 496. Office - (02) 6658 2898. Email - m.c.staging@bigpond.com Website - www.rclimousines.coffs.com.au Facebook - Type in: Red Carpet Limousine Service. Fully accredited by the nsw ministry of transport

get red carpet ready with holly Having been Gold Coast based for the past 11 years, Holly Readett is enjoying settling back into the wonderful lifestyle of the Coffs Coast. The Gold Coast provided many great work opportunities for Holly, and she was fortunate to work with the likes of Jennifer Hawkins and Shelley Craft. Excitingly for Holly, her return to Coffs has resulted in something she’s long aspired to do - establishing her own business. Holly has over 15 years’ experience in the beauty industry as a beauty therapist, makeup artist and cosmetic tattooist. Makeup has always been her great passion, and that creativity has led to cosmetic tattooing as well. Holly also specialises in beautiful eyebrows! She says, “I love helping women transform their eyebrows, which can really highlight their eyes and often gives women extra confidence in their appearance. It’s so fulfilling to empower women with that self-confident spring in their step. Makeup can be a powerful tool in that sense.” Holly offers makeup services for special occasions, formals and weddings. She loves sharing her expertise and enjoys teaching too. Holly hosts one on one and group tutorials and has recently added online classes and corporate workplace packages to her services. Her teaching enables women to learn some very handy skills. Holly says that there are lots of simple tricks with makeup, be it for everyday wear or for that special event. She loves helping everyone to feel red carpet ready! With her beauty products, Holly is a very proud ambassador for Arbonne, which is vegan certified and PETA approved. She says that in all her years of industry experience, she has never come across products such as those from Arbonne which are so easy to apply and look flawless on everyone.

Coffs harbour Function centre Norm Jordan Pavilion The Norm Jordan Pavilion is the perfect venue for all occasions. The function room has two identical sides, both seating more than 200 people, a handy bar area and air-conditioning. The north room features a garden lined patio with a western wall, perfect for a stage or presentation area. The south room has easy access to the open grass area of the grounds and parking through the southern doors. Whether you choose the north or south room, the Norm Jordan Pavilion Rooms are the ideal venue for training seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, wedding reception, private function, auction or exhibition, or just about any other type of event you could imagine. The possibilities really are endless! Our enchanted garden of the Norm Jordan Pavailion will make your special day one to remember. Our professional and friendly staff will be happy to provide you with detailed information on our venue to help you successfully plan your event. For further information, please visit our website at www.coffsshowground.com.au or phone us on 6652 8401.

coffs coast focus. 39

FUNCTIONS & FORMALS FEATURE

D I

E S E L

DIESEL “REFUELLED” AND READY TO LIGHT UP THE HARBOUR. LEGENDARY AUSTRALIAN MUSICIAN “DIESEL” HAS HAD COUNTLESS HIT SONGS AND ALBUMS AND HAS NOW RETURNED TO THE TOP OF THE AUSTRALIAN MUSIC SCENE WITH HIS AMAZING NEW RECORD, AMERICANA.

he impressive new album pays tribute to some of his biggest influences. He is returning to Coffs Harbour for a special show at Coffs Harbour Golf Club on Saturday 5 November. FOCUS caught up with him to talk about the record, his life as a musician and the upcoming show. Tell us about your new album. What inspired you to record it? The whole idea came from my agent of 27 years, Tony Grace. My guess is, it was an idea that was “in his pocket”, and he was waiting for the opportunity and right artist. As soon as I saw the list of artists he had prepared on the table at the meeting he called me in to, I was in. I had no idea at that time it was going to be an autobiographical musical timeline of my life. But that’s what it ended up as. What are your favourite tracks on the album and why? I really like Circle Game, the Joni Mitchell track. It’s the earliest song memory I have, thanks to my sister being obsessed with it. I’m guessing she (Joni) was barely 20 when she wrote about the journey of boyhood to manhood. Having had children, I’m dumbfounded how fast this all happens, and Joni manages to capture this. Of course, I was clueless as a 2 - 3 year old as to what the lyrics were about. I just liked the melody probably, but it resonates now. How did you become a musician? It was a slow process, starting with cello at the age of eight, picking up a guitar around 14 years of age and entering the

40 coffs coast focus.

pub scene shortly after. My father was a this quite a few times. musician and so were some of my older What do you enjoy about the Coffs siblings, so it seemed natural in my mind Coast, and are you looking forward to follow that. to your show here in November? We know you have an impressive I have described the coast around guitar collection. How many guitars Coffs as some of the most beautiful in do you own, and which are your the world. It’s no wonder so many peofavourites? ple are drawn to it. It’s also one of the I have accumulated about 30 now and earliest touring destinations I can recall they are all very different, apart ... Probably because of the Big from the workhorses like Banana; is that a bad the mini Matons and thing! Fender StratocastWhat do you ers that I might love most n io pt ri sc de have multiples about being My job of - purely a musician? to me is someone ealthy ‘h es id because they Playing to ov pr ho w ople . Muget used so people and escapism’ to pe for me much. feeling them sic has been that womb r’s It’s in the react. My from my mothe studio where job descripto now.” the array of tion to me is guitars I have someone that get used. When provides “healthy I’m building a track, escapism” to people. it really helps to have Music has been that for guitar sounds that range from me from my mother’s womb polar opposite, to slight variation, to now. and having a wide pallette of guitars Thanks for chatting to us. helps me to achieve that. They also Thanks guys! look great in a room! Tickets are now on sale and selling Who is your favourite musician fast for the November 5 show at you’ve ever shared the stage with? Coffs Harbour Golf Club directly from When it comes to sheer energy that Club Reception, Earl Street, Coffs is inspiring, it’s hard to imagine anyone Harbour. Ph: 6652 3244 or online via else other than Jimmy Barnes. Here’s the Moshtix at http://www.moshtix. scenario: the gig is going really well ... com.au unbeknownst to the audience, Jimmy is Doors open at 7pm. Support act is about to join the stage, taking it to a levBenny Francis. el seemingly impossible. I’ve witnessed

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FUNCTIONS & FORMALS FEATURE

Mary Poppins The musical

FUNCTIONS

It’s Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

When Mary Poppins suddenly leaves the position, and Mrs Banks hires Mr Banks’ childhood nanny to take on the job, sending George and the children fleeing from the house, Mary Poppins becomes more valuable than ever. With patience, kindness, and a little bit of magic, Mary and her friend Bert help the family set things right - maybe more right than they’d ever been before. The production is directed and choreographed by Donna Fairall, with Musical Direction by Tim Egan and features both well-known local talents and new faces. Running at the Jetty Memorial Theatre November 4 - 27, tickets are on sale now at http://jettytheatre.com/mary-poppins-the-broadway-musical

Following up, Coffs Harbour Amateur Theatre Society presents TWELFTH NIGHT OR WHAT YOU WILL, as actors from Bellingen, Dorrigo, and Coffs Harbour pay ode to The Bard’s work on the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death. In November, Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company bring one of the most beloved Disney classics to Coffs Harbour audiences. MARY POPPINS THE MUSICAL brings the sets, the costumes, and all the unforgettable crowd favourites to the Jetty Memorial Theatre for your spoonful of musical sugar. Come and support Coffs’ live, local theatre productions in October and November and see the stars in our community shine! For tickets and information, visit www.jettytheatre.com or call the Box Office on (02) 6652 8088.

BOOGIE NIGHTS Boogie Nights offer the best male strippers and topless waiters and are right here situated in Coffs Harbour. Local talent and all class, the Boogie Nights team are only too happy to make your next event worth bragging about. Our team cater for hens’ nights, ladies’ luncheons, birthday or farewell parties and girls’ nights in. We are flexible and prepared to travel to your special event. The Boogie Nights team are fully trained and insured, with a strong client focus. Here’s what our clients say: “Boogie Nights boys were absolute rockstars! They were so lovely and fitted in perfectly with our group; they made perfect cocktails and were helpful with everything. They were so easy to deal with, as well as pretty damn good looking! Thank you so much for your help, will be sure to recommend you guys to anyone.” We are good at what we do and that emanates to our clients - who can’t get enough! Phone 0477 426 618. www.boogienights.com.au

Upcoming Shows Grease The Musical

Coffs Harbour Arts Council presents the much-loved hip-shaking musical Show: Fri 23 Sep – Sat 8 Oct

Cinematinee

Fortnightly Thursday film screenings presented by Screenwave Show: Thursday 6 & 20 Oct

Twelfth Night or What You Will “CHATS celebrates 400 years of Shakespeare” Festival Dates: Thu 13 – Sun 23 Oct

Mary Poppins The Musical

CHMCC presents the classic Disney musical live on stage! Show: Fri 4 – Sun 27 Nov jettymemorialtheatre

@jettytheatre

COMMUNITY THEATRE

Enter Mary Poppins, the “practically perfect”, rather unconventional nanny, who bonds with the children as no other nanny has.

It’s all hoop skirts and leather jackets as Coffs Harbour Arts Council brings GREASE THE MUSICAL to the stage with a talented local cast of T-Birds and Pink Ladies. The longest running musical of all-time hits the boards at JMT. Go Greased Lightning!

CINEMA SESSIONS

The Banks family live at Number 17, Cherry Tree Lane with their children, Jane and Michael, whose mischievous behaviour has just caused yet another nanny to leave in a hurry.

Community theatre is thriving in Coffs Harbour. Arts and culture is going from strength to strength, with the Jetty Memorial Theatre as the hub for performing arts.

Formals

COMMUNITY THEATRE

This magical family musical is based on the series of children’s books by P.L. Travers and the 1964 Disney film starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke.

Locals go live in october

COMMUNITY THEATRE

Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company is proud to announce its November production - MARY POPPINS.

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. 41

THE GIG GUIDE

Coffs

SATURDAY 1ST OCTOBER

DJ OB1 HOEY MOEY Double Shot + DJ COAST HOTEL Then Jolene + Orca SEAVIEW TAVERN Chocolate Starfish Bat Outta Hell Concert SAWTELL RSL Bellingen Turtle Festival BELLINGEN SHOWGROUNDS Fat Albert SAWTELL HOTEL

SUNDAY 2ND OCTOBER

GIG GUIDE

SATURDAY 8TH OCTOBER

DJ Brown sugar HOEY MOEY Gotcha Covered + DJ COAST HOTEL Craig Freeman SEAVIEW TAVERN Irish Mythen NO. 5 CHURCH STREET DJ Marcus SAWTELL HOTEL

SUNDAY 9TH OCTOBER

Sublime Tribute Show HOEY MOEY Ball & Chain CORAMBA HOTEL Blue Triangle COFFS HOTEL

The Accidents HOEY MOEY DJ Ning HOEY MOEY Tony Harvey COFFS HOTEL Bellingen Turtle Festival BELLINGEN SHOWGROUNDS

THURSDAY 13TH OCTOBER

THURSDAY 6TH OCTOBER

1ST Avenue COAST HOTEL RNB Fridays COAST HOTEL Misschief HOEY MOEY DJ Bisho HOEY MOEY The Frapp SEAVIEW TAVERN Daryl Braithwaite MOONEE TAVERN Kiara Jack Trio Plus Yhan Leal NO. 5 CHURCH STREET The Roys SAWTELL HOTEL

DJ Bisho COAST HOTEL Twist Tops SAWTELL HOTEL

FRIDAY 7TH OCTOBER

The Funk Thieves SEAVIEW TAVERN Whoâ€™s Charlie HOEY MOEY DJ Ning HOEY MOEY RNB Fridays COAST HOTEL Killer Queen Show COAST HOTEL Sunny Cowgirls SAWTELL RSL Empire SAWTELL HOTEL

42 coffs coast focus.

DJ Bisho COAST HOTEL Matty Devitt SAWTELL HOTEL

FRIDAY 14TH OCTOBER

SATURDAY 15TH OCTOBER

DJ Ning HOEY MOEY DJ Bisho SEAVIEW TAVERN Dazed COAST HOTEL

DJ Smokin Joe COAST HOTEL Gunshy SAWTELL HOTEL

SUNDAY 16TH OCTOBER

Declan Kelly Band HOEY MOEY Ball & Chain COFFS HOTEL

THURSDAY 20TH OCTOBER

DJ Bisho COAST HOTEL Haywood Billy Goats NO. 5 CHURCH STREET Josh Matheson SAWTELL HOTEL

FRIDAY 21ST OCTOBER

RNB Fridays COAST HOTEL Money Shot COAST HOTEL The Funk Thieves HOEY MOEY Heckyl & Jive SEAVIEW TAVERN Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival DORRIGO SHOWGROUND Charlie Band SAWTELL HOTEL

SATURDAY 22ND OCTOBER

DJ Ning HOEY MOEY Red Light Special + DJCOAST HOTEL Bobby Lea Coulton SEAVIEW TAVERN Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival DORRIGO SHOWGROUNDS The Foo Fighters Show SAWTELL HOTEL

SUNDAY OCTOBER 23RD Lisa Hunt HOEY MOEY

30 Young Anthony COFFS HOTEL Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival DORRIGO SHOWGROUNDS

THURSDAY 27TH OCTOBER

DJ Bisho COAST HOTEL Scott Dayvee SAWTELL HOTEL

FRIDAY 28TH OCTOBER

Blank ID Band COAST HOTEL RNB FRIDAYS COAST HOTEL Hekyl & Jive HOEY MOEY Pink Zinc SEAVIEW TAVERN Sabotage SAWTELL HOTEL

SATURDAY THE 29TH OCTOBER

DJ Ning HOEY MOEY Dave James Karaoke SEAVIEW TAVERN Double Shot PIER HOTEL Whole lotta ACDC SAWTELL RSL Pink Zinc + DJ COAST HOTEL Banana Field Music Festival COFFS RACE COURSE First Avenue SAWTELL HOTEL

SUNDAY 30TH OCTOBER

Big Announcement! GANGGAJANG HOEY MOEY Craig Freeman HOEY MOEY DJ Bisho HOEY MOEY Ziggy COFFS HOTEL

focusinterview.

illy

ILLY IS BACK ON THE COFFS COAST AND HEADLINING OUR VERY OWN MUSIC FESTIVAL, “BANANA FIELD FESTIVAL”. WE CAUGHT UP WITH AL IN THE LEAD UP TO THE FESTIVAL AND ANTICIPATED RELEASE OF HIS UPCOMING ALBUM LATER THIS YEAR…

i Al. Congratulations on the success of your latest release, Papercuts. Did you expect it do be so well received?… It’s been crazy! No, I mean you can’t expect your song to do that, but it’s amazing. I’m over the moon about it, really. Explain the meaning behind the song … It’s basically about a relationship ... I’d say love/hate, but it’s not really that. It’s like a loving relationship, but you know that you push each other to the absolute brink and you might not be the perfect match, but you are the perfect match - if you know what I mean? You’re perfect together, but you’re probably going to end up destroying yourselves. It’s kind of like a bittersweet love song. It seems like your songs are moving in a melodic pop inspired direction; would you say that this is true? Yeah definitely. I love pop, I love melody - all my albums, all my songs, have always had it. I’m able to write music that I think is really good and isn’t relying on stuff that I’ve done in the past. That is the conscious move; it’s something I find a lot more challenging. Well, you’re definitely owning it … There’s been a bit of controversy around the direction you’re going on your social media

etc. Fans of your older music are not quite connecting with newer stuff… How do you feel about that? Well, I think people are entitled to have their opinions. Everyone is going to like their own thing and people are going to like my old stuff and not my new stuff, and that’s cool. I wish that everyone loved everything I did, but the reality is that’s just an impossible target to have. I just write stuff that I love and hope other people love it as well. The only thing I have a real issue with is when people try to put my motivations for doing that if they try to create their own narrative - because the truth is I do this because it’s more challenging and more rewarding. It’s harder to write a song like this than it is to write a 16 bar verse. So, people are like, “Oh, he’s doing it to make money, or to sell out or whatever” ... I’m doing it because it’s way harder to do. That’s why way fewer people do it, and I think they’re better songs. So, I guess it’s about being true to yourself … Yeah, that’s it. Hilltop Hoods are one of my favourite artists. Sia is one of my favourite artists, and she is someone whose career I love; she’s having the biggest moment of her career now, she’s 40, but because she’s so good at writing songs, nothing else matters. Being able to write those kinds of songs is something that I’d love to be able to do.

Your collaboration with Vera Blue has been Who are you bringing along to accompany beautifully received. Can we expect to your set? see any other collaborations on As far as guests, I’m not sure the album? if we’re bringing anyone, but Yeah, there’ll be a few we’re bringing my boys I E R A others. There are parts that play with, and we always E ER TH I can’t sing; I wish I could put on a good show A LOT O F GS IN TH G N sing better than I can, ourselves. TI CI EX IT H but the bad reality is You wrapped up H A PP EN IN G W F TH E that I can’t. So, I’ve got Season two of Friday TH E TI M IN G O G O IN G FE ST IVA L; IT ’S other people on tracks Flips last year. Will we F TO BE A LOT O who have all killed it, and be seeing the release FU N !” I’m really excited about of Season three any collaborations on the album. time soon? Headlining our Banana Field I don’t think so; I gotta finish Festival, what are you looking this goddam album. I’m not sure if forward to about the gig? there’ll be a Season three, but if there Just being back on stage. It’ll be one of is, it’ll either be next year or the year after. the first shows since Papercuts came out, I think that (Season two) was cool ... Because so I’m really looking forward to playing that. it’s taking me so long to get the album out, now It’ll be close to the release of the new album, so that the album’s getting close, I want to focus on hopefully there’ll be another single out by the some touring and the fun side of it. time it (Banana Field Festival) rolls around, and Thanks Al. that’ll be the first show we will play after the release of that single. the plug! There are a lot of exciting things happening with the timing of the festival; it’s going to be a Catch Illy at Banana Field Music Festival. lot of fun! I always love playing in that part of the October 29th. country; we’ve always had good times there, and www.bananafieldmusicfestival.com.au I’ve got some great memories.

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coffs coast focus. 43

meet our

C O F F S C O A S T F O C U S C E L E B R A T I N G 6 Y E A R S T H I S M O N T H !

Samantha Wardman b u s i n e s s m i n d s .

CAROLE BEROS &

S O C I A L f o c u s

S C E N E s t y l i s t

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I was lucky enough to be born and raised on the gorgeous Coffs Coast. I grew up in Sapphire on a great little hobby farm with my family.

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I am originally from Jersey, which is one of the Channel Islands off the coast of France. I arrived in Australia in the eighties and made my home in the Northern Beaches of Sydney. My husband and I then decided to buy a house and start a business, and we moved up here to Sawtell. Lucky us!

Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS? I have loved the FOCUS publication ever since I came across it in Port Macquarie, probably a decade ago now! There are some many talented people on the Coffs Coast who are humble about their success. FOCUS has a great knack of getting them to talk about it, and this is why it’s a wonderful publication for the area.

Name five things you like doing on the Coffs Coast. I love being close to the water, so love everything about the beach. I really appreciate that everything is so accessible; one minute you can be on the coast, and then hop in the car and take a drive to the countryside.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Ooh, this is a hard one, but I guess it would have to be the creation of my marketing and creative agency, CornerPost. I started it after I returned from New York and didn’t have a brass razoo to my name, so it’s amazing what you can create when you have a little passion and time.

Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS. That’s easy! I have been with this publication from the beginning and totally enjoy being able to connect with people on so many levels.

Clive greenway s a w t e l l

T o u r i s m

U p d a t e .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. My family and I moved to the Coffs Coast from Sydney in 2005 to be closer to both our families, who had lived here for many years. Name five things you enjoy doing on the Coffs Coast. Spending time with my family, watching our son swim competitively, travelling and assisting at district swimming carnivals, working with our Sawtell Chamber volunteers and others in the community to improve our village ... and any possible down time I can find! Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS? The connection FOCUS has with the local community and the fact it’s a monthly publication, which keeps it current and contemporary. If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be and why? My wife, as it very rarely happens, and she is interesting, intelligent, funny and beautiful. 44 coffs coast focus.

Scott nolan r e a l

e s t a t e

u p d a t e .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I was born and raised in Coffs Harbour. I attended St Augustine’s Primary School and Orara High School in my youth. My wife, Melissa, and I have raised four children locally and have been in real estate on the Coffs Coast for the past 28 years. Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS. I love the fact that it’s about local people, local events and what’s happening in our local area and not full of trashy sensational journalism. I read it front to back every month! It always has a positive vibe and full of interesting stories and people. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Professionally I’d have to say starting Nolan Partners from scratch with Melissa 11 years ago and seeing where we have taken the business to today. It’s obviously not just Melissa and I; it’s the great people we’ve had working alongside us throughout the journey and helping them grow and succeed along the way.

kerry moss T r a v e l

T I M E .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. We used to come here for holidays as children and after moving more than 20 times and living in some exciting places, I realised that what I was searching for could be found right here. Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS. I enjoy the diversity of articles and getting to know the people in our neighbourhood. I am constantly surprised by the interesting people who make up our community. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I grew up in a small country town, and I remember how much courage it took to pack up my life, not knowing a soul, and move to the city. Now I travel the world leading groups of people through foreign cities, offering unique experiences. If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be and why? My dad. I feel so much wiser now than when he was alive, and I’d like to another chance to tell him that he did us proud.

meet our contributors

LAUREN VESTEY H A I R

b e a u t y

Caroline bleechmore

T R E N D S .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I have always been drawn to the Coffs Coast area, as I have fond memories of visiting the beach when I was a child. I am now fortunate enough to have found the love of my life in the area and now call the Coffs Coast home. Name five things you enjoy doing on the Coffs Coast. I love dining out at many of the wonderful restaurants and cafés the area has to offer. Plus, I love taking in the views of the beautiful beach with my two dogs. Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS. I love getting to know the community through the FOCUS articles; they are so personal and friendly. I look forward to reading it each month with a nice cuppa out on our balcony in the sun. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I am very proud of what Living Doll Premier Stylists has become - a community of real women and men who really have become a family to me.

C Y B E R M U M .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. My career has me linked to the Coffs Coast, as my real job is Group Marketing Manager for the Bachrach Naumburger Group owners of Park Beach Plaza and Park Beach HomeBase. Cyber Mum is my passion, or my way of doing my bit for the community. Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS. I love how FOCUS manages to unearth local talent, local interesting people doing amazing things - and my column, of course! What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? A long time back now, I won the Property Council of Australia National Shopping Centre Marketing Award. That’s probably hard to top! If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be and why? George Clooney … But more seriously, Richard Branson - his mind fascinates me.

duncan marchant h e a l t h

F I T N E S S .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I’ve lived here at three different times in my life - primary school, early twenties, late thirties, and now we will never leave Coffs again. There is simply no better place to raise children and live a well balanced, high quality life. Whenever I have lived anywhere else, I have always yearned to be back here as soon as possible. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Helping so many locals live a better quality life through providing employment for them and providing members with a safe, comfortable environment for them to exercise in. If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be and why? My beautiful wife, because we don’t get to do it often enough.

tegan ewart W o o p i

T o u r i s m

U p d a t e .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I grew up in Grafton, but spent most weekends at Red Rock in the summer at the surf club. My family had a house at Arrawarra Headland. When I was 18, they sold the farm out at Kungala and made the move to the beach full-time. I was studying at SCU, so I began to call the Coffs Coast my home. I have lived in Mullaway for the last 10 years. Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS. I can find out everything that’s happening in Coffs in one easy place. I love reading about locals and local life (especially while sitting in a café drinking coffee). What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? The growth of Curryfest over the past four years, from a small community event to a Destination NSW Regional Flagship Event encompassing a month of events, activities and the big festival day, where 15,000 people are expected to flock to Woolgoolga.

Stephen saunders c o f f s

T o u r i s m

u p d a t e .

Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I have the best job in the world - no, seriously, I get to promote the stunning Coffs Coast region and attract visitors and investors to our piece of paradise. Name two things you love about Coffs Coast FOCUS? 1. The local flavour delivered in an upbeat, stylish manner. 2. The layout makes for a great read. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I once took on a challenge to start a business from a zero base, and grew it into a substantial retail business with 36 stores within a three year time frame. The most exciting day was when we repaid shareholders’ loans after 18 months, and continued to deliver profit growth. We ended up a long way from two men, two mobiles, two laptops and a desk!

coffs coast focus. 45

101 THINGS TO DO BUNKER CARTOON GALLERY

CAROBANA CONFECTIONERY

School Holiday Workshops

We manufacture a range of fine quality Carob Chocolate confectionery, Honeycomb, Rocky Road, Nut Brittles and also Dark & Milk Chocolate confectionery. We offer (at no cost) factory tours, product samples, tea and coffee. Our spacious grounds are there for you to enjoy (as well as your pets on a lead). TRADING Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm ADDRESS 125 James Small Drive Korora, Coffs Harbour PHONE 02 66 536 051 or 1800 700 118 EMAIL info@carobana.com.au WEB carobana.com.au

Thursday 29th Sept 10-11.30am Drawing “weirdo” for weirdos Ages 6-15 years 1-2.30pm Drawing animals Ages 6-15 years 5.30-7pm Caricatures and human body Ages 16+ years

Friday 30th Sept 10-11.30am Basic caricature for kids Ages 6-15 years 1-2.30pm Creating comics Ages 6-15 years 5.30-7pm Illustrating books for kids Ages 16+ years

OFFICIAL WEIRDO 7 BOOK LAUNCH - 29TH ADDRESS John Champion Way Coffs Harbour PHONE 02 6651 7343 bunkercartoongallery.com.au bookings@bunkercartoongallery.com.au

CLUB 300

DORRIGO RAINFOREST CENTRE

Whether you’re a social bowler wanting a fun night out with friends to enjoy our licensed bar, bistro and pool tables or looking to join a Competition League Team, or a family fun night. TRADING See our website for details ADDRESS 74/76 Grafton St (via Cox Lane) Coffs Harbour PHONE 02 6652 5666 WEB club300bowling.com.au

The Dorrigo Rainforest Centre is the best place for Dorrigo National Park visitors to begin to explore the Gondwana Rainforests. Take the Skywalk for stunning views over the rainforest, relax in the Canopy Cafe or walk to the magnificent waterfalls. TRADING 9am-4.30pm Monday to Sunday (closed Christmas Day) ADDRESS Dorrigo Rainforest Centre Dome Road, Dorrigo NSW PHONE (02) 6657 5913 WEB nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

TEN PIN BOWLING, BAR & PIZZA CAFE

2 GAMES FOR $20

(CONDITIONS APPLY)

PACIFIC EXPLORER

TWO TAILS WINES

Come down to the Coffs Marina and go whale watching with the experts on the Pacific Explorer. Departs daily at 8.30am – weather permitting. Bookings essential. PHONE 0422 210 338 WEB pacificexplorer.com.au

Come out and relax at the Winery. Enjoy some wine, local produce and nibbles inside the newly renovated bar. Orara Vale Vineyard is located approximately 25km northwest of Coffs Harbour at Nana Glen in the heart of Orara Valley. Why would you want to be anywhere else? TRADING Tues to Sun 10:30am - 4:30pm Open Monday during school Holidays ADDRESS 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen EMAIL admin@twotailswines.com.au PHONE (02) 66 543 633 WEB twotailswines.com.au

WHALE WATCH EXPERIENCE

CUT ME OUT FOR $5 OFF

www.coffscoast.com.au 16 46 coffs coffscoast coast focus. focus.

OFFER

Purchases $25 or over will receive 1 retail packet confectionery free

101THINGS TO DO ON THE COFFS COAST

BOAMBEE

BRUXNER PARK

Boambee is a short drive about 10 minutes south of Coffs Harbour and is a perfect location to rest at one of the areas great resorts. There is a picnic area on Boambee Creek which has barbecue shelters and a playground that is great for families. There is a small fee for car entry. Close to beaches, heritage reserves and numerous attractions. Boambee beach is situated between Coffs Harbour and Sawtell beaches and is a long straight stretch of beach which is 4WD accessible and dog friendly. Coffs Coast Camel rides operate along Boambee Beach during school holidays offering a unique ride experience through the waves.

The Forest Sky Pier is located at Sealy Lookout, within Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, Orara East State Forest – only five kilometres from Coffs Harbour. The Forest Sky Pier offers the visitor an amazing panoramic view from mountains to the Coffs Harbour coastline. The Pier extends 21 metres out from the Lookout and stands 15 metres above the forest floor. Access is via sealed road for the majority of the drive. Head north from Coffs Harbour on the Pacific Highway, turn left onto Bruxner Park Road (just north of the Big Banana) then left again at the ridge top onto Scenic Drive, following the road up to the Lookout. Parking, walking tracks, new under cover picnic tables with wheelchair access and toilets are available at the site.

SAWTELL

WATERFALL WAY

‘Sunny Sawtell’ is an attractive beachside town just 10 kilometres south of Coffs Harbour. This cosmopolitan seaside village has always been a favourite destination with visitors thanks to its pretty setting between two headlands, an attractive main street with great cafes and restaurants that are just a stroll from the popular swimming and surfing beach, and easy access to creeks and a National Park. Sawtell’s First Avenue is characterised by the huge Moreton Bay fig trees in the colourful garden dividing the street. They protect and shelter not just the benches underneath but the entire main street. Take your time exploring the many specialty shops and boutiques as well as the Aboriginal Art Gallery and historical twin screen Cinema along this charming street. The Sawtell RSL provides plenty of entertainment options, while your dining choices are endless with anything from spicy Thai, Japanese and traditional Chinese to fresh local seafood and modern Australian cuisine.

This is a fascinating and scenic long day’s discovery of the New England Tableland. For a shorter alternative, see the spectacular Dangar Falls near Dorrigo then return to Coffs via Cascade and Coramba. Better still, stay a night in Dorrigo and explore further afield. Take the highway south from Coffs and turn inland to Bellingen. Take a break in this fun and funky country town. Between Bellingen and Dorrigo, pause at the first of the waterfalls – the Newell and Sherrard Falls – then visit the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre with its visitor information centre, forest walks and breath taking Skywalk. Fabulous waterfalls to enjoy within Dorrigo National Park include Tristania Falls and Crystal Shower Falls, both viewable from raised bridges along a 6.8km (2-3 hour) Wonga Walk loop. Casuaina and Callicoma Falls are also accessible from the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre on a 6.4km (3 hour) one way walk to the Never Never picnic area. Alternatively, view Coachwood Fallson the 5.5km (2 hour) circuit along Rosewood Creek Track starting at Never Never picnic area at the end of Dome Road. From here Red Cedar Falls can be visited via a 2.2km (2 hour) walk down a steep incline.

DISCOVER THE BEST PLACES TO STAY, EAT, DRINK AND PLAY! Download the FREE Coffs Coast travel APP for apple iPhones, iPads, android devices and tablets.

CoffsCoast

CoffsCoastNSW coffs coffscoast coast focus. focus. 47 17

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with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast

focus_business

Martin Wells, President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce.

tourism UPDATE

OME A LO • C

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second Super Special Stage at Raleigh and a 1.37 km sprint at a multi-motorsports facility 20 km south of Coffs Harbour on the Pacific Highway. Our event is the closing round of the WRC season, which will increase our worldwide exposure and further popularise the event. The additional Super Special Stages will give spectators more viewing choices and stunning close up action from the world’s fastest rally drivers. There are hundreds of local people involved in hosting this prestigious motorsport event, but we need more ongoing local support to ensure our participation for the 2018 and 2020 events. This year, tickets are sold at the gate for $10. The Rally Australia event attracts thousands of visitors, delivering widespread economic benefits to local businesses, including accommodation, supermarkets, petrol stations and transport companies. The Rally event is a direct boost to tourism valued at over $10 million each year, creating local employment opportunities, including a local Rally office. The growing recognition of the event will further increase these economic benefits, which are dispersed across the region, with many local businesses playing an important part in ensuring the rally’s success and encouraging the wider community to get involved. The rally routes include the Jetty Foreshore, where the event will start and finish, the historic mountain town of Ulong and the beautiful state forests of Lower Bucca, Upper Corindi and the Nambucca Valley. Visit our website for more event information, or choose from over 200 places to stay with lots of accommodation options from “beachside resorts, to farm stays” located in 14 destinations from Red Rock in the north, to Urunga in the south and Dorrigo heading west. www.coffscoast.com.au #CreateYourParadise

he success of our major events can be measured though the ongoing improvement year on year, not only promoting our region, but also creating economic benefits for local businesses and gaining increased community support. Our major events offer quality tourism experiences that celebrate our relaxed community spirit with a mix of culture, food and music. Other regional events such as the Woolgoolga Curry Festival continue to evolve and grow through local community support, which has now resulted in the event being announced as a Regional Flagship Event by Destination NSW. The International Buskers Festival promotes our region to a broader market, with a distinct newsworthy story of quality tourism experiences that attract both local and international visitors. The Coffs Coast has been recognised as an event friendly city, winning the globally acclaimed International Festival and Events association (IFEA) world class Festival and Event City award in 2015. October is a busy event period, with major events such as the International Buskers Festival 25 September to 2 October and the new Bellingen Turtle Festival on the October long weekend, 30 Sept to 2 Oct. The next major event is the Kennards Hire Rally Australia, which will be held from 17 to 20 November. The FIA World Rally Championship promotes our region to a global market, beaming into over 68 million households around the world and national broadcasts on the Channel Nine television network. The harbour front super special stage will once again be the main hub, featuring the stunning jetty waterfront, international marina and coastal features as the stage background. The daytime filming will offer a selection of coastal and hinterland shots from across our region. This year is on track to being the best event yet, with new stages for better viewing options, a

THE COFFS COAST DESTINATION IS STRIVING TO ACHIEVE A REPUTATION AS AN “EVENT FRIENDLY” CITY, WITH THE PROMOTION OF SEVERAL SUCCESSFUL KEY EVENTS INCLUDING OUR FLAGSHIP EVENT, THE KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA, ANNUAL LEG OF THE FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP.

SAWTELL

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VISIT

THE ENDLESS SUMMER GREETINGS TO THE FOCUS READERS FROM THE BUSINESSES AND TRADERS IN SAWTELL. THE SAWTELL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WOULD LIKE TO OFFER OUR MOST SINCERE CONGRATULATIONS TO RE-ELECTED MAYOR DENISE KNIGHT AND THE COUNCILLORS WHO WILL REPRESENT OUR BEST INTERESTS FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS.

he Chamber looks forward to working with everyone in council in order to deliver common objectives, and we wish them every success on their journey. The importance of local government is paramount. A wide range of critical functions is undertaken by the Coffs Harbour City Council, including planning, waste disposal and infrastructure provisions such as roads and footpaths, parks and sporting grounds and sewerage management. If it was not for local government, many of the services we often take for granted would not exist. Council is also instrumental in actively promoting tourism to our region, providing foundations and services to support tourism and managing the impacts of tourism. Tourism is a major economic driver for the Coffs Coast, and there are many current and untapped opportunities that will strengthen our local economy by leveraging and growing our tourism assets. The Chamber looks forward to working with our newly elected Councillors to support and develop tourism and drive visitation in our local area. Congratulations also to our own Events Coordinator, Sarah Jones from J Society, who has just won the Australian Aveda colour harmony competition. Sarah is off to Milan in October to receive her award. We are very proud of her! Before she leaves, however, Sarah has been

very busy organising the first of the re-vamped Sawtell Summer Sessions to be held on First Avenue on Thursday, October 20th from 4pm, with the street closed to traffic. The October session is themed around breast cancer awareness and will feature live music, entertainment for the kids, late night shopping and as always, will deliver great atmosphere. This year tables and chairs will be provided under the fig trees, so patrons can enjoy the fabulous food on offer in comfort. There are a lot of plans in place for the six Sawtell Summer Sessions 2016/17, so as to ensure that every event will offer something a little different from the previous one, and each promises to entertain patrons of all ages. The Sawtell Summer Sessions will be held on the third Thursday of every month, starting in October and finishing in March. Sawtell is never more alive than in spring and summer, so come and visit us soon. You will be surprised; you will be delighted. We look forward to seeing you in First Avenue. Find SAWTELL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE on Facebook for up to date information about activities happening in Sawtell, or visit the website: sawtellnsw.com.au. The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is a not for profit organisation run by a committed group of volunteers and meets on a monthly basis. We are always grateful for any support or assistance that is offered and welcome any enquiries.

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T H E

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BRIAN marshall A CAREER IN ACCOUNTING

A career in accounting has taken Brian Marshall places that he never imagined. Working as a teacher at North Coast TAFE, he is handing on the lessons he has learnt to his students.

i Brian. Can you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and grew up in Coffs Harbour, attended both primary and high school locally, before moving away to study my Bachelor of Business (Accounting) - after which I returned to the Coffs Coast to start my professional career as an accountant with the DKM Group. How long have you worked at TAFE? I have been with North Coast TAFE only since June 2010. Why did you decide to become a teacher? Teaching was not a career path I thought accounting would take me to. Initially, it was a stepping stone to move back to Coffs Harbour. However, after seeing the difference you make in students’ lives and helping them take a step in their journey, it is a real buzz. Could you give our readers a brief description of your career path? After finishing high school and not sure of what to do, I finally decided to complete my Bachelor of Business (Accounting) qualification. I worked at DKM Group as a Tax Accountant for six years, where I also gained my qualifications as a Chartered Accountant and a Justice of the Peace. The family and I then decided to take a working holiday, when offered a position as Financial Accountant at Perisher Blue Ski Resort, where I worked for six years as a Tax and Management Accountant,

50 coffs coast focus.

prior to the role changing into a Commercial Can you tell us a bit about how students Manager’s role. I had a six month contract can incorporate studying accounting role with the Snowy River Shire Council, then whilst at high school and how it can help I worked as Financial Controller at Kosciuszko them transition to further studies and a Thredbo Ski Resort for four years. At Thredbo career? I worked for a company that is High school students can select to listed on the Australian Stock study business or accounting Exchange and includes as part of their High School Rydges Hotels, and Certificate. The results Birch Carroll & Coyle can contribute to Cinemas. It was a their ATAR results. Accounting and pretty interesting There is also a ke business can ta company to work study pathway r of you in a numbe ths and for. At Thredbo post High School pa different career I completed Certificate through combine is a good way to reer.” my Masters of Certificates 4 with your ca el av tr Government and and Diplomas Commercial Law. all of which have After 10 years in work outcomes and the snow, it was time also can be used as to defrost. I was lucky a stepping stone into a enough to find work back university pathway. It can be a on the Coffs Coast, and I can now good option to take some pressure share my work experiences with students off the HSC. who are just starting their accounting Many courses are now available online. journey. Is this a popular choice, rather than the Why is a TAFE course such an important traditional delivery of face to face? part of a career in accounting and With the delivery of online courses, there business? has been a growth area for North Coast TAFE. The TAFE courses are an important step in However, students need to be self-motivated a career in either business or accounting, as it and organised, as there is the content of the teaches the students so very practical skills that course to get through. We have found that this have our students work ready or ready to take is a good way to assist students if they cannot the step to further their study at university. make it to class all the time, or if they gain

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employment part way through their course. We have a lot of options to assist students in achieving their goals. If you could give advice to someone considering studying accounting and business, what would it be? Come and try it. Accounting and business can take you in a number of different career paths and is a good way to combine travel with your career. It still amazes me where it can take you. What are some of the other benefits people can gain from studying in this area? Business and accounting are areas that impact on so many different areas - from hair dressers thinking of starting their own business, and understanding their compliance obligations, to business owners just wanting to understand their budgets and monthly financials that they receive from their accountant. These are all really practical and useful skills that they will learn. Where can people find out more? Come down and see us at the Glenreagh Street Campus and talk to us about what you are thinking about. We have options and courses starting all the time, so you don’t have to wait until the New Year to start your study. If you are in Year 12 and would like some exposure to Office Software to assist you when you go to university, we have a course starting in November. Thanks Brian.

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INTERNATIONAL TEACHER

TRAINING ACADEMY You are known as one of the niche quality training organisations delivering TAE and Leadership and Management - how did the Academy evolve? The Director and staff are all highly experienced Vocational Education and Training professionals who believe that teaching is much more than a career. We believe that great teachers inspire learning and can really make a difference. This concept is the foundation on which the International Teacher Training Academy (Australia) was established. Our vision is to provide an environment which encourages excellence in learning and to develop teachers and leaders who are passionate about people and learning. We want to inspire and help others to be the best that they can be. Where are you located? What type of training do you offer? We are based locally in Coffs Harbour. As a nationally recognised training organisation, we offer quality training and assessment in various locations. Our delivery modes include group face-to-face workshops as well as distance delivery where participants are provided with 1:1 mentored support throughout their learning journey. We specialise in the Diploma of Leadership and Management, Training and Assessment (Certificate IV and Diplomas),

Language, Literacy and Numeracy, Developing and Using Emotional Intelligence, Myers Briggs Personality Testing, Real Skills for Work and customised workplace training programmes. What are some of the challenges that you have had to overcome? One of the greatest challenges has been to promote ourselves as a quality training organisation in the current Vocational and Education and Training sector, where there has been much publicity around “tick and flick” training organisations who offer the same qualifications as we do for a cheap price in a much shorter timeframe. We are now reaching people who are genuinely wanting to learn, gain real skills and knowledge and who are looking for quality education. One of the challenges that we continue to encounter is how to change the focus of potential learners away from the end result being the piece of paper (i.e. Certificate or Diploma) to the actual process of the learning itself and the skills and knowledge they will gain on the way. In the Vocational Education and Training sector, quality and responsiveness are critical to success. What are your tips for getting it right? Keeping the customer as the focus and ensuring that our learners have an experience

that encourages the desire for further learning. We adhere to the national standards, ensuring volume of learning is provided, which means that any qualification gained through ITTA is recognised as a “qualification well worth having”. Setting up a nationally recognised training organisation would be quite a challenge in the current Vocational Education and Training environment. Can you share your experience with us? It has been quite a journey, where our vision has been anchored by faith and hope. The Academy would not be where it is today without the wonderful team who share in every experience and who have been loyal from the beginning. I would personally like to thank those who have helped us in our journey and continue to walk with us today: Julie Aldridge and her wonderful team at Avide ELearning, Sandy Welton from Welton Resources, Carmel

Thompson from Southern Cross Connections, Fiona Jeff from Quality Accounting, Matt Angel from Online Publishing and Marketing and our band of supportive family and friends. How do you deliver your training? We try to cater for individual and organisational learning needs. We have found that many adult learners do not feel comfortable learning online, therefore, we organise face-to-face workshops combined with individual mentoring and support. We contextualise learning resources, delivery and assessments for specific industry areas to ensure the experience is relevant. As face-to-face training is less accessible in today’s world of technology, we have found that there is demand for face-toface delivery in locations all over Australia, which means we are required to travel and are happy to do so, in order to meet the needs of our learners. Thanks Carolyn.

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JAKE williams A MAN ON A MISSION

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WITH A PLAN FOR HIS FUTURE AND A LEVEL HEAD, JAKE IS SURE TO GO FAR. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HIM ON THE FIRST DAY OF HIS HOLIDAYS AND THE MORNING AFTER HE HAD PROPOSED MARRIAGE TO HIS BEAUTIFUL FIANCÉE ... WHO, BY THE SMILE ON HIS FACE, HAD ACCEPTED ...

an you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast? My family and I moved here from Sydney on my 11th birthday, meaning I have now spent exactly half my life on the beautiful Coffs Coast. I have found that coastal living suits me much better than the hustle and bustle of city life. I went to Urunga Public School and moved on to Coffs Harbour Christian Community School for high school, where I completed my HSC. During this time I was also involved with Urunga Surf Club and the Bellingen Braves basketball club. When you finished school, you chose to study at Southern Cross University, rather than move away. Can you tell us why that was? When evaluating my uni options, I found no real reason for me to leave the Coffs Coast and plenty of reasons to stay. Having a fantastic campus to study at locally meant that I could stay with my family and friends, keep my employment at the time at a local business in Urunga, and maintain other commitments including Red Frogs and youth leadership. All this was achieved thanks to the flexibility of the external classes that SCU offers their students. What did you study, and what do you hope that the degree will help you achieve? I studied a Bachelor of Business and completed this degree at the end of 2015. I initially had selected human resource management as my major, but changed to a marketing major at the end of my second year when I realised my passion for that area. As much as I would have loved to continue with human resource major, I decided to strengthen my marketing major with a wide variety of elective units, including accounting, law, leadership and teaching. I hope the studies I have undertaken allow me to differentiate myself in any career that I undertake and that I can apply the skills learnt in a variety of environments. You work as a mentor for young people in the local area. What are some of the issues that you feel need to be addressed? Being a mentor in the local community through Harbour Church and Red Frogs allows me to connect with a wide variety of young people and understand the issues affecting them. The major issues that I have seen affecting young people today is self identity, depression and anxiety. There is major expectation laid on youth in today's society which comes from peers, role models and the media. What advice do you try to give those that you mentor? For young people, the biggest thing I try to help them with is their identity, self worth and who they are as a person. This is done through

regular conversations to help them figure out product. However, after starting in the role I who they are, what their hobbies and interests quickly learned the ease of selling a product that are and what their morals are. I suggest that you truly believe in and appreciate. Knowing the young people have a positive role model in product was going to contribute to their health and comfort proved to be very rewarding for their lives that they can go to for advice and me. When moving into residential sales, I used help when needed. Helping young people the experience of retail sales and my tertiary understand that there is more to life than education in marketing to create my unique conforming to social pressures is important to sales style. I hope this will continue to allow me me. to differentiate myself in the market and provide Can you tell us a bit about the Red Frogs exceptional service to my clients. To me, the programme and how it benefits the most important component of my job is honest students? communication to all parties involved Well, the Red Frogs programme is in the sale or purchase of a a chaplaincy network which property. started in 1997 on the Gold A lot of younger Coast, after a youth people either move pastor came to visit U D IE S ST E away from the TH his graduated youth PE O H I TA K EN area as they can’t students who had I H AV E U N D ER TO E M find work in their travelled down for W O LL A E M YSE LF chosen field or schoolies. This is D IF FE R EN TI AT R TH AT I feel the need when he saw a lot IN A N Y CA R EE N D TH AT U N D ERTA K E A to experience of young people E SK IL LS I CA N A PP LY TH IE TY O F life further in need of help R LE A R N T IN A VA .” afield. What has at schoolies. Not TS EN V IRO N M EN influenced your just the schoolies decision to stay on themselves, but also the Coffs Coast? the hotel managers, I do understand why some paramedics, police officers young people feel the urge to and hotel security. From this, Red leave Coffs Harbour to experience Frogs has grown internationally, and we life if they have grown up their entire life don't just serve at schoolies - now we reach here on the Coffs Coast. However, I do believe out to young people at universities, high the Coffs Coast allows all types of people the schools, music festivals and sporting events. chance to experience life and expand their Since completing your studies, you have gained employment in the local area; where education and careers. We have an amazing culture and diversity in Coffs Harbour, with a is this, and what is it that you do? variety of events that are offered throughout After finishing my studies at SCU, I had the the year. task of seeking full-time employment. Because We have an amazing landscape and unique of my passion for the local area, I only looked positioning, where we can be on farm land one at positions on the Coffs Coast. After only minute and be on the beach the next. On the one month out of uni, I approached Century issue of finding work, when we study we have 21 Foreshore 2 Farms (Sawtell) to complete a a blinkered perception of what we can do with couple of days’ work experience. After a few our studies. What a lot of graduates do not days’ work experience, I was offered a full-time know is how we are able to take our studies position as a real estate sales agent. This meant and apply them to a variety of roles and careers. I had to complete further study to acquire my Being able to adapt your studies to a particular certificate of registration to be able to work in career is major advantage in the application the industry. After I completed the certificate, process. I was introduced to the market as a sales In your opinion, what needs to be improved consultant, where I was fortunate to be able in the local area to help make it easier for to work in areas I grew up, including Urunga, younger generations to stay and enjoy Repton, Mylestom, Bellingen, Bonville and decent careers? Boambee East. More knowledge and encouragement Was it difficult to understand what was is needed for young people to stay on the required of you when you first started this Coffs Coast. We are blessed with an amazing position, or did your studies and mindset environment and culture, but we are not give you confidence taking on the role? encouraged to stay and develop/grow that Before I worked at Century 21, I was in a diversity. Another thing that needs to change sales position at a local footwear business for would be the idea that graduates must land two and a half years. Before working there I their dream job straight away. It may take a was nervous about the idea of selling products little longer, as it takes more than studies to be to customers based on my knowledge of the

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successful. It takes hard work, time, a positive attitude and determination for a graduate to acquire their dream job. We can encourage this patience and determination to help young people stay on the Coffs Coast. We can show them that there are many avenues that can help them reach their desired career! There seems to be a trend of younger people venturing into politics; could we see you one day running for council? At this current stage I haven't thought of venturing into council; however, I do believe there is a need for fresh ideas and a younger perspective in all areas of our local community. But like I said, at this current time in my life it has not crossed my radar to run myself. You also are an active member of Rotary. What is it that attracted you to this organisation, and how do they help the local community? Rotary is an organisation that doesn't just focus on an international level, but on a local level as well. As a current youth leader for Harbour Church, I found it important to look for different organisations that are passionate for young locals and helping them with their variety of needs. I found Rotary are very passionate in helping local youth as well as many other areas of our local and international community. Assisting in both areas allows me to give back to the community. If you could have lunch with one person from the past or present, who would it be and why? Simon Cowell, The Britian's Got Talent producer. I find his story very interesting - he has created and branded the biggest boybands, girl groups and solo artists the world has ever seen. In his early 30s he was completely broke and reinvented himself to be highly successful. I am interested in knowing how he overcame his situation and how he pushed himself to be where he envisioned. I have no desire to be a millionaire, but I do believe there is an advantage to understanding how successful people conduct themselves, because they have goals, drive and purpose. These attributes can be used in any aspect of life, be it sport, study or work. What are your plans for the future? My current plans for the future are to continue working as a youth leader, with the desire to go further in this role and to continue to be a part of the great work Red Frogs are doing in the local area and nationally. I will be focusing on building my real estate career in the local area with the skills I have from SCU, previous employment and on site training at Century 21. In my personal life, I am beginning to plan a wedding with my fiancée, and setting up the opportunities for our future. Thanks Jake. coffs coast focus. 53

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NOVASKILL AUSTRALIAN UNITY

Novaskill has been been working closely with local individuals and businesses to help people gain qualifications and also develop staff training through workshops. FOCUS chatted to Petah Russell, Regional Coordinator of Novaskill, to get the latest on recent courses on offer and to talk about their latest graduates.

ovaskill has been working closely with Australian Unity to gain qualifications; can tell us about that? First thing is a big congratulations to the trainees at Australian Unity (formerly Homecare). Australian Unity have put over 40+ of their staff through training with Novaskill to increase skills and develop their workforce. They are a proactive organisation when it comes to training. Rosemarie Honore, Upper Mid North Coast Branch Manager, and Kerri Burley, Administration Assistant, have been so supportive of Novaskill and the training opportunities and are always positive about new changes in the training field. There have been some big changes within the community services sections, with the new Certificate III Individual Support qualification coming in to replace Certificate III Aged Care and Certificate III Disability, and Australian Unity have

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continued to ensure their staff are transitioning in to the new qualifications and keeping their skills and knowledge current. Many people have the misconception that you are an employment agency; what exactly is Novaskill? A lot of people assume we are a Job Active Provider, but we are not. Novaskill is a not-forprofit organisation with 35 years’ experience in training, trainee and apprentice management excellence. What courses do you offer? Novaskill are your training specialists, delivering training to meet your needs, whether you’re a student, a trainee or an employer. Novaskill operates training all along the east coast, from Sydney to Mackay and online! Novaskill can customise training to meet your needs and offers accredited training, leading to full or partial qualifications. We also offer skills training designed to boost productivity or

efficiency in the workplace You can learn at our place, or at your place! Online and “mixed mode” delivery options are available for most courses - even for workbased trainees. Call us to see how we can meet your needs. Novaskill has been operating successfully as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) since 1995. We offer courses linked to Business Services, Retail, Community Services, Warehousing, Hospitality, Construction, Management, Food Processing, Property Services, Horticulture and Training and Education. We can also provide specific skills training

to boost the capability of your existing staff or assist with induction of new staff. Our business skills can be customised to suit you, no matter how big or small your organisation. Whether through on the job traineeships for new or existing workers, or delivery of workshop training at your premises or ours, Novaskill’s experienced trainers and assessors at each of our locations focus on ensuring that our skill development services are tailored to meet your specific needs. Where are you located? Come and visit us at the Coffs Harbour branch, Suite 201-203, 24 Moonee Street, Coffs Harbour, or call 6601 7000.

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s been a Music has alway over d part of my life, an ed at ul m cu ac e I’v the years pment and knowledge, equi s allowed ha experience that d create me to record an Having the . ic us my own m help others do opportunity to excites me.” the same really

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BEN NEAL LOVES THE SOUND OF MUSIC, CREATING, PLAYING AND RECORDING IT. WITH THE RECENT LAUNCH OF HIS BOUTIQUE RECORDING STUDIO HE HOPES TO BE ABLE TO SHARE THIS LOVE WITH COFFS COAST LOCALS. FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH HIM TO LISTEN TO A FEW TUNES AND FIND OUT MORE.

an you tell us a about your connection to the Coffs Coast? Well I was born and raised on the Coffs Coast, and have lived here my whole life, so I guess it’s really apart of who I am. How did you become involved in sound recording? It was a natural progression really. Growing up playing guitar in bands and then picking up bass, drums, and piano, and starting to write and arrange, it really just made sense to want to record my ideas, but it quickly became a passion of mine. Would you describe yourself as an audiophile? Haha yes, to a degree. I’m definitely not one of those insane old dudes who owns every set of monitors under the sun and sits in a room listening to white noise, lining up their speaker system with a measuring tape, just for the sake of it. But when it comes to the production of a song, then yeah, I guess audiophile is an appropriate term. What inspired you to set up a recording studio in Coffs? To be honest it just felt right. Music has always been apart of my life and over the years I’ve accumulated knowledge, equipment and experience that has allowed me to record and create my own music, and

having the opportunity to help others do the same really excites me. Who would you like to see using the facility? Anyone! The Guest Room Studio is a place for creativity and musical expression for artists of any age or stylistic preference. Whether you’re an experienced band or a young singer/songwriter, The Guest Room Studio is definitely for you. What kind of service will the studio offer? Audio Engineering, Producing, Mixing and Instrumental Backing. Basically if you’ve written and produced and arranged a song, we can simply record what you’ve done or mix what you’ve already recorded, or if you’ve got a song on an acoustic guitar or piano we can turn it into a full band or orchestral arrangement. Where do you find inspiration for your personal projects? Hard work really… I know it sounds like a bit of a cop out, but I really do believe that most good ideas come from really hard work. Yes there are those gifted few who wake up in the morning and know exactly what to do on a song, or have a melody in their head, but I think for most people, it’s about digging deeper and finding those diamonds. Try everything, experiment, tinker, muck around, have fun; eventually

something will come to you and you’ll get that perfect idea! Another super important thing that I do is listening to my clients. Talking to them, getting their ideas, talking about the emotion behind the song, reading the lyrics and understanding the message that I’m trying to get across. That often brings all the inspiration I need. What is your favourite instrument to play and why? I would probably have to say Piano; it’s percussive, harmonic, melodic, and it’s all there at your fingertips. I find it very satisfying on a playing level, but the piano is such a great gateway into composing and just being able to access so many different sounds from the keyboard; that combined with todays ever evolving technology is actually really exciting! What genre of music excites you and why? I really like genres of music that have a broad appeal when it comes to musical and stylistic expression. Genres like jazz/fusion, pop/rock and music for film and television really excite me, as almost anything is possible and they are not limited to specific instrumentation or production. What advice would you have for someone who is looking towards sound recording as a career? Listen to heaps of music! It’s so important

to have vast musical interest and to listen to music with a critical ear, and deconstruct things while you listen. I think even more importantly, learn an instrument, or two, or three… As a recording engineer or producer, actually knowing music is incredibly important. I think you’ll find that most producers were musicians in bands first, and I think it is really important to have your roots in the art. The reason you produce or record is for the end product; at the end of the day it’s all about the music! If you could have a coffee with any artist past or present, who would it be and why? Probably Hans Zimmer (Film composer: Gladiator, The Lion King, Inception, Pirates Of The Caribbean etc), because he has been such a pioneer in the world of film music, production and audio engineering, among other things. I would love to pick his brain on how he can continually create memorable movie themes as well as the way he can tinker with an instrument or a sound and really find the gold in anything. Where can people find out more? www.guestroomstudio.com.au www.facebook.com/guestroomstudio Thanks Ben. coffs coast focus. 55

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with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate

cyber mum. ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

HOW YOUNG IS TOO YOUNG TO BE ONLINE? WHAT SUPERVISION SHOULD FAMILIES HAVE IN PLACE? THESE ARE THE SORTS OF QUESTIONS I GET ASKED A LOT AS A CYBER SAFETY ADVOCATE AND WHILE THERE IS NO RIGHT OR WRONG ANSWER, THERE ARE A NUMBER OF VALID VIEWS AMONGST INDUSTRY EXPERTS, MEDICAL SPECIALISTS AND RESEARCHERS.

n my opinion, the key is to ensuring that regardless of ages, kids are accessing the internet with adequate protection in place, and that’s the responsibility for us, the parents, to ensure that we are providing a safe environment for our kids. There is no doubt that mobile technology and the internet has introduced many exciting opportunities into our children’s lives, from education to games to social engagement. However, it has also introduced a range of new threats and dangers - cyberbullying, sexting, pornography and violence - right into the home. In August 2016, Family Zone released a Cyber Safety Report after interviewing over 800 Australian families. They asked families about their relationship with technology, which helped gain valuable insight into what is happening across homes in Australia and what challenges and issues Australian families are facing when it comes to technology and their kids. As a snap shot, some of the findings were both interesting and some concerning; - Children are starting to spend time online from as young as one year old - More than half (53%) of Australian kids are actively online by the age of seven - Three quarters (76%) of Australian parents said they were unsure or unaware if their children have accessed pornography or violent content online - While almost three-quarters (74%) of Australian parents claim they know how to protect their children on their digital devices, the majority still had no parental controls in place to monitor content or limit screen time. It is a worrying combination; unrestricted access to the internet and lack of parental controls are creating a generation of children who are accessing adult content from a young age, which can have a devastating effect on young minds. The Cyber Safety Report supports that there

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is a misalignment between what parents think their children are doing online versus what they are actually doing online. But it is not always deliberate, especially when it comes to younger children. On many occasions, inappropriate content is accessed by young children entering the “tween” phase and accidentally stumbling across inappropriate content using innocent search terms, which have adult connotations; for example, common search terms that frequently turn up adult content include “wet and wild”, “pussycat”, “pussycat dolls”, “big girls’ toys” and “big puppies”. The rise of mobile phone use for children and the amount of time kids spend on their digital devices is another area of concern for Australian families. Results from the Family Zone Cyber Safety Report showed that the number one concern parents have in regards to kids using digital technology is that they are missing out on physical exercise and playtime. The second and third top concerns were children accessing pornography and being targeted by pedophiles. With an ever changing digital landscape, it is easy to see why parents are anxious and have concerns. For parents with teenagers, I strongly encourage an open dialogue about online activity and it’s not about stopping access, but more protecting them from excessive screen time and disturbing content because as your kids get older, they are increasingly susceptible to a myriad of online dangers and addictions. Protecting your family from the dangers associated with technology can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. There are some helpful systems available on the market that can help look after your kids both in and out of the home. If you’d like to find out more, contact me at cyber-mum@hotmail.com or go to www.cybermumaus.com Cyber Mum Australia.

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RECRUITMENT SERVICES Our recruitment services focus on careers for unemployed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We place the unemployed into careers and coach each career seeker to achieve great retention results and career development. This services is one to one engagement and focuses on cultural identity, review of skills and experience, review of education and training credentials, working history, voluntary activities and other key personal attributes of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander career seeker. Our proven business model:

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R E N T I N G YO U R F I R S T P RO P E RT Y CA N B E DAU N T I N G F O R T H E Y O U N G E R G E N E R AT I O N . WITH A LITTLE HELP F RO M T H E E X P E RT S, SOME OF THE U N C E R TA I N T Y C A N B E R E M OV E D. F O C U S S AT D O W N W I T H M A D DY C L A R K E A N D M AT T O ’ G A R E Y T O F I N D OUT MORE.

an you briefly explain what the rental advice programme is about? The Coffs Harbour region is home to a number of institutions, such as TAFE, universities and further education options. We are also home to a varied demographic, including a growing number of residents with English as their second language. The result of this is that a number of first time renters are new to the responsibilities and intricacies of renting a property through an agency. The rental advice programme aims to assist first time renters in securing and maintaining a rental property. We have found this programme informative and very useful in assisting both the prospective tenants and agencies in securing quality tenants. How important is the perception that an agent has from a renter’s social media, when they apply for a property? More and more agents are relying on the internet and social media as an essential tool in processing and making decisions on a tenancy application. Whilst Facebook and Instagram status and uploads might be a fun and harmless idea at the time, remember some may come back to haunt you when looking for a property to rent, or applying for that dream job!

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Little things like arriving on time to inspect a property must be important from an agent’s point of view; is this something you explain in the presentation? When showing a property, agents do notice the behaviour and presentation of prospective tenants. These include, as you mention, turning up on time, if not early! In addition to this, presenting nicely and respecting the property you are viewing shows a mature attitude toward the process, and that you are taking the inspection and application process seriously. When you’re young, most people pay little attention to whom they choose as housemates. Why is this an important consideration? A Residential Tenancy Agreement is a legally binding agreement. Every occupant on the lease is therefore judged as a whole, on how they can maintain a tenancy. Choose your housemates wisely, as any breaches such as non-payment of rent, noise complaints or damage will effect everyone on the lease agreement, regardless of who is at fault. A negative tenancy experience will impact on your future ability to rent a property, and this can be quite disheartening - especially if you were not personally at fault. How important is your initial tenancy in

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When st the way it can affect rental commitment. a lease, as future rentals? When selecting a lease e mentioned, mak Once you become start date, keep in to sure you take in day a tenant, this is your mind your pay day, or e consideration th opportunity to make a a day this financially do of the week you lasting impression and re works best for you, to su this , to best en u yo showcase your ability enable you to manage r fo this works .” to maintain a property. your funds in the best ly al financi A positive experience will manner. result in great references and Paying your rent on assist when looking for future time is another aspect of a rentals. Tenants listed on National tenant’s life that needs serious Tenancy Databases such as TICA will find consideration. What is the best way it very difficult to be approved for a rental to prepare for this? property. These databases work to help Paying your rent on time is the single agents identify high risk tenants when they best way to show you are an organised and apply. mature tenant. In order to prepare for this, Bond and other upfront costs can be a the best option is to set up a direct debit from big commitment for many renters. What your account to your agency. This ensures advice do you offer of how to deal with your rent will be paid at the same time each it? week. When starting a lease, as mentioned, Accommodating the upfront costs of a make sure you take into consideration the lease can be daunting. It is important to make day of the week you do this, to best ensure sure you are financially able to make these this works for you financially. Paying your rent upfront commitments, as you cannot start a will become part of your payment history. tenancy without them. These include four x This can be used when assessing your credit weeks’ rent as a Bond, and two weeks’ rent rating. When it comes to getting a loan in advance (including the holding deposit). Be down the track, this is very influential, so it prepared and financially ready to commence is wise to have a plan in place to ensure your a tenancy, as you don’t want this initial outlay payments are on time. to jeopardise your ability to pay your ongoing Thanks Maddy.

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Nexus/ Ostara Australia Employment Specialists TAILORED, QUALITY SOLUTIONS NEXUS/OSTARA HAS BEEN PROVIDING FEE-FREE PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICES TO EMPLOYERS AND INDIVIDUALS ON THE MID NORTH COAST SINCE 2009. With offices located in Macksville, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga, Grafton and Tweed Heads, we provide a comprehensive range of support services to assist clients with a physical or mental health disability to find and maintain ongoing employment in the region. Some of our team, pictured, include: Lynne Parnell, Regional Manager NSW; Nathan Veverka, Employment Specialist Grafton, Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour; Rose Gow, Intake Officer Grafton, Woolgoolga, Macksville, Coffs Harbour; and Michael Morgan, Employment Specialist Coffs Harbour and Bellingen. Our team has more than 15 years’ experience in the Disability Employment Services sector and is passionate about our culture of collaboration, which ensures our job seekers have the skills, ability and up to date training to add value to any employer they join. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for our clients and managing their employment journey at every stage.

Our purpose is to support both the individual and Our purpose is the organisation in the to support both d the process of implementing the individual an e th in n a specific employment organisatio enting em pl im of s solution, that will proces ent m a specific employ achieve a positive, ill with other employment w solution, that long term outcome for e, tiv si providers previously, I po achieve a everyone involved. r fo e om tc ou have found Ostara to rm long te Over the past nine .” ed lv vo in ne yo be the best and most ever years, we have assisted comprehensive service so more than 3,000 clients into far. I was able to meet with a employment and have partnered range of candidates and conduct more than 200 employer organisations interviews at a time that suited me.” across the region in delivering specialist At the heart of everything we do is our employment services fee free. focus on clients, and we’re fortunate to have A great piece of feedback recently from experienced many positive outcomes together. one of our employers, Michelle Ferguson from Some recent feedback: “One of the best (if not Coles Express Grafton: “I found every interaction the best) services I’ve tried; I enjoy my fortnightly with Ostara was easy to manage; all questions rev ups that fire me up when I’m depressed were answered, and Nathan made the whole always positive and helpful. Follow up is great; process of hiring staff very easy. Having dealt my experience with Ostara has been extremely

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beneficial in my job seeking experience. The ‘can do’ attitude gave me the confidence I needed to be able to gain employment. My experience with Ostara has changed my life and made me a better person. Continued support; fantastic - a service that Centrelink or counsellor could not provide.” At Nexus/Ostara, our focus is on ability, rather than disability; we believe our clients’ skills and experience can add value to any employer prepared to embrace a diverse workforce, and we work closely with them to achieve the best result for all. Contact us on (02) 5632 4814 or call into our office at 47 Moonee Street, Coffs Harbour to discuss your employment needs.

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S O U T H E R N

C R O S S

AUSTERO AT F O C U S W E L I K E T O S H A R E T H E L OV E WITH OTHER MEDIA F ROM T H E LO CA L A R E A. R E C E N T LY W E C A U G H T UP WITH THE CREW F ROM S OU T H E R N C ROS S AU S T E R E O, T O F I N D OUT MORE ABOUT THEM A N D W H AT T H E Y D O .

AME: CHRIS GRIEVE. Position: General Sales Manager. Why have you chosen the Coffs Coast? My question to you is,

why not? Coffs Harbour is one of the most beautiful places on the eastern coastline, with so much commercial opportunity and marketing potential. It brings together everything I am passionate about in alignment with a lifestyle that can’t be beaten. How long have you worked in sales, and what do you love most about the media industry? I have been in sales for over 12 years, with my experience ranging from retail through to selling houses. Four years ago I was lucky enough to start working within the media industry for Southern Cross Austereo and have never looked back. It was here where I found my passion. Why do think it is important to support local business with media solutions? Typically, we are dealing with small to medium businesses that the owner works in every day, where every dollar is crucial. Therefore, it is imperative that we are able to provide a tailored solution to attract their potential customers and maximise their return on investment. Too often I have seen people get caught up in the fluff of marketing; they buy on emotion, and hence it's not a logical marketing solution that will benefit their business. What are you passionate about? Ask my team, and they would say sales. Besides that I love music, the beach and spending time with friends. I have performed

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gigs as a soloist for eight years and Establishing your brand identity love to bring my passion and is paramount. Making sure all love of music to those graphics, fonts and imagery around me. In 2008 I are aligned with your print ve lo I g watched Aussie advertising is key to in th e Th legend Diesel play. achieving cut through the most about e th is n tio At the end of his with your brand uc od pr ed from set, he said some recognition. People may satisfaction gain ning ful profound words, producing mea ss not want to buy your ne content for busi g “Music is good product immediately, in owners and driv therapy” and I but if you can ensure well.” their success as couldn’t agree more. they remember your NAME: LOCKIE branding, you’ll be top of WHITE. their mind when they’re ready Position: Commercial to purchase. Content Producer. What’s your favourite thing about Why have you chosen the Coffs working for Southern Cross Austereo? Coast? Once again, the people! We have a great That’s easy; the people and the team, not only in Coffs Harbour but also lifestyle. Everybody in the Coffs Coast across Australia. There is an immense amount community are down to earth and friendly; of support from the whole team, whether it it’s a great change from the rat race I’m used be from Canberra, Newcastle, Gold Coast or to in Sydney! I also feel that the Coffs Coast even Port Macquarie. We are driven by our is growing at such a rate that it now feels like success in the marketplace and enjoy being a cosmopolitan city in itself, with so much to the number one provider of entertainment offer culturally and professionally. across Australia. How long have you worked in the NAME: GREG LAWS. production industry, and what do you Position: Social Media Digital Specialist. love most about production? What has been the most satisfying I’ve been in the production industry for achievement in your life? about 20 years. I’ve worked across many That’s easy. For me, it was being a part of facets of the industry and love working with the whole birth process, not only bringing different people in different places - it keeps a new life into this world but having the things interesting and fluid. The thing I love opportunity to do so with my own hands. the most about production is the satisfaction Men need to be involved, see what a gained from producing meaningful content woman goes through and stand in awe; for business owners and driving their success it is an achievement we as men will never as well. understand, yet it can still be one of the most Why do think it is important to have a satisfying to be part of. quality TV commercial? I hear you once dragged your

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family across the middle of Australia in 42 degree heat with an eight week old baby. Why? Ha ha … To get to the other side! … I have always been adventure bound, and it seemed like a good idea at the time. I like to challenge myself, whether that be in business, my career or personally. I also like to teach my kids how to achieve goals, whilst having fun doing so. Besides that, collecting different coloured red dirt was definitely a drawcard. So, explain this digital thing … Well for starters, it’s not new and it’s not just the internet. Digital technologies have been around since 1948. Digital media is about embracing digital technologies and leveraging them in such a way as to communicate, engage and respond to the dynamically changing consumer market space. Putting it simply, digital enables everyone to connect to anybody, anywhere in the world … instantly! If we did this again a year from now celebrating how amazing the year was - what would this look like, and what would we have achieved together? I guess I would be answering different questions for starters. But OK, what did we achieve: 1. Digital acceptance within the community. Workshops and consulting. 2. The larger population of small business embracing digital and social, with evident increase in business wealth. 3. SCA Digital Banner recognised as the leader in regional and national digital media advertising. 4. Dramatic increase in the Coffs Coast regional digital footprint. Thanks guys.

T H E

C O F F S

C O A S T

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

LET’S TALK APPRENTICESHIPS TOM REVELLY & DANIEL BRIGHTON

pprenticeships are the best way to get the training and skills that are required for a trade. FOCUS caught up with two young floor sanders, who are learning from one of the Coffs Coast’s best, Dave Brighton Floor Sanding. TOM REVELLY What is your profession, and how did you get your start? After finishing my HSC in 2015, I sat back and wondered what was I going to do for a career. I had a few ideas and knew that I wanted to get a trade certificate. Dave offered me some labouring work, which led into an apprenticeship. I am currently completing a Sand and Floor Apprenticeship, which will take about four years to complete. How long have you been an apprentice? I commenced my apprenticeship in January 2016. Were you nervous when you first started out? I sure was. Even though I had worked parttime whilst completing school, I was nervous, as I had no idea what I was doing and what was exactly involved in this type of trade. Having someone who has years of

experience showing you the tricks of the trade must help; do the older guys give you pointers on how to do the job right? They sure do. With Dave’s experience and the other employees, who also have many years of experience, they show me lots of pointers they have learnt over the years - which is helpful, and I am able to learn quickly. What do you love most about your job? I would say the end result. The floors look amazing when they are sanded and polished. You walk into a job and see how the floor looks and after the job is done, it looks a million dollars. It’s a sense of completion, and the owners are so happy. Is it difficult, or does it require a lot of strength to sand floors? Yes, those sanding machines are very heavy, and the little machines for edging require strength to keep them steady, so they don’t run away on you. I have gained a lot of upper arm strength over the last 12 months, particularly when I have to hole punch an entire house, which is all part of the job. When you finish your apprenticeship, do you think you will start your own business? I would like to, but I want to gain as much

experience as I can whilst completing my apprenticeship. You never know where it can lead to. DANIEL BRIGHTON What is your profession, and how did you get your start? I got my start with Dad and when I was 11 years old. I went to help out and enjoyed it. How long have you been an apprentice? I started my apprenticeship in February 2015. Were you nervous when you first started out? No, not really, because it was my dad I was working for and I had a lot of experience to start with. Having someone who has years of experience showing you the tricks of the trade must help; do the older guys give you

pointers on how to do the job right? Although it’s a help when someone has more experience than me, I am pretty good at my job and know a lot about floor sanding. What do you love most about your job? The end result is absolutely amazing. All your hard work pays off in the end. Is it difficult, or does it require a lot of strength to sand floors? Yes and no. Some machines are that heavy, you would not need to go to a gym after lifting them, and then some are quite light. When you finish your apprenticeship, do you think you will start your own business? I think that I would be able to start my own business with some more experience. Thanks guys.

A Smarter Alternative

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coffs coast focus. 61

WELLBEING M A K E U P A R T I S T RY B Y H O L LY

MAKEUP CAUSES OF

HOW TO GET GLOWING SKIN THROUGH MAKEUP THIS SPRING!

tep 1 Primer - Primer is going to create the perfect canvas for the longevity of your makeup all day! It will help to reduce reddness, fine lines and enlarged pores. Step 2 Foundation - Use a foundation brush to apply foundation. This will stop transferring dirt and oils from your hands to your face and also create a more even coverage. Apply your foundation to the centre of your face, then blend outwards. Using a liquid foundation will achieve a more dewy effect for your skin. Step 3 Concealer - Using a concealer around your eyes, highlights your eyes. This makes your eyes appear wider and more awake. Use a small foundation brush to apply your concealer around your eye area; this can also be applied to hide blemishes or dark spots. Step 4 Get sun kissed - Bronzer - Apply your bronzer where the sun would naturally hit, like

your cheekbones and temples. Tired skin can often look washed out, so the warmth of a bronzer will immediately liven it up. Step 5 Blush - Not all shades of blush suit all skin tones. As a general rule, cool undertones should stick to a blush with pink undertones, and warm tones should favour blushes with peach undertones. Apply softly and layer if needed to build the colour. Step 6 Highlighter - Add some extra glow to your look with a liquid highlighter. To create that dewy look, apply to the tops of your cheekbones and underneath the brows for an instant lift. If you’re really wanting that extra glow, add a smidge to the inner corners of your eyes and Cupid’s bow. Step 7 Finishing touches - To complete your look, apply some mascara to the tops of your lashes to open up your eyes and gloss to finish off.

AUSTRALIA HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST RATES OF SKIN CANCER IN THE WORLD. ANYONE CAN BE AT RISK OF DEVELOPING SKIN CANCER, THOUGH THE RISK INCREASES AS YOU GET OLDER.

he majority of skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight. Sunburn Sunburn causes 95% of melanomas, the most deadly form of skin cancer. In Australia, almost 14% of adults, 24% of teenagers and 8% of children are sunburnt on an average summer weekend. Many people get sunburnt when they are taking part in water sports and activities at the beach or a pool, as well as gardening or having a barbecue. Sunburn is also common on cooler or overcast days, as many people mistakenly believe UV radiation is not as strong. This is untrue - you can still be sunburnt when the temperature is cool. Tanning A tan is not a sign of good health or wellbeing, despite many Australians referring

to a “healthy tan”. Almost half of Australian adults still hold the misguided belief that a tan looks healthy. Tanning is a sign that you have been exposed to enough UV radiation (from the sun or solarium) to damage your skin. This will eventually cause loss of elasticity (wrinkles), sagging, yellowish discolouration and even brown patches to appear on your skin. Worst of all, it increases your risk of skin cancer. A tan will offer limited protection from sunburn, but usually equivalent to SPF3, depending on your skin type. It does not protect from DNA damage, which can lead to skin cancer. Some people who use fake tans mistakenly believe it will provide them with protection against UV radiation. As a result, they may not take sun protection measures, putting them at greater risk of skin cancer.

NOW THAT WINTER IS OVER, IT’S TIME TO FRESHEN UP FROM THE INSIDE OUT. SPRING INTO HEALTH THIS SEASON WITH OUR SPRING SMOOTHIE BOWL.

SMOOTHIE

BOWL

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1 cup mixed frozen berries Handful of ice cubes Coconut milk (just to get things moving in your blender) 1 tablespoon nut butter of your choice Handful of spinach or kale 1 teaspoon acai powder Maple syrup or sweetener of your choice, to taste Topping options: Pepitas, hemp seeds, crushed nuts, blueberries,

raspberries, chia seeds, coconut flakes, cacao nibs, oats, bee pollen (get experimental!) Instructions 1. Place the frozen berries, ice cubes, coconut milk, almond butter and greens in a blender. Add acai powder and sweetner. Blend until smooth, adding additional coconut milk as needed. 2. Pour into two bowls and top with toppings of choice.

BEFORE

AFTER

the Coffs Coast Foot Clinic Why did you ladies decide to open a podiatry clinic together, and why in Coffs Harbour? Jacqui: Storm and I have been best friends since high school and have dreamt of our own clinic since our uni days. It was just a matter of finding the right spot! Storm: I spent some time working in Coffs Harbour a few years ago and absolutely loved it here. It didnâ€™t take long for the Coffs Coast to feel like home. What do you feel you can offer the Coffs community? Storm: We are very passionate about educating our patients and making sure we spend the time to explain treatment options to them. If possible, we donâ€™t want you to depend on us - we want to give you the skills to be independent of us. Jacqui: We really want to become an integral participant of the Coffs community - in health, as well as social and sporting events. What areas of podiatry do you enjoy? Jacqui: We really enjoy the variety - we see everything from patients with problematic nails, corns and calluses, to children with walking difficulties, to sporting injuries, to assessing blood flow and nerve health - there is never a dull day!

Meet Kate Collins RESULTS PT STUDIO What are you looking for in a fitness facility? Do you want fun workouts that are designed to maximise fat loss, or workouts that feel like a chore? How about supportive trainers who help motivate, correct form and encourage maximise results, or someone that stands on a stage yelling at you to keep up with them? Do you want to feel healthy, fit and have lots of energy, or feel out of control? Do you want to be part of a supportive, friendly community, or a stranger in a big box?

What do you love about Living Doll? I was first attracted to Living Doll because I was looking for a salon that knew how to create amazing modern colour work. What I found was a professional sanctuary that knew exactly how to pamper its clients, creating beautiful hair and happy clients along the way. What makes you a great stylist? I love guiding clients through seasonal and fashion trends, by really listening. By getting to know clients, I can use my skills and knowledge to create an individual style just for them.

At Results PT Studio, we use research backed principles in nutrition and exercise to get members results. We know that to transform your body is a combination of the right exercise, resistance training and nutrition to support energy levels and fat loss.

What do you love about being a hairdresser? I love the Saturday morning buzz of a busy salon, as well as knowing my clients have had a relaxing time being pampered. I love gaining the confidence and loyalty of my clients, so I can be creative and take their styles to another level. I love how colour can completely change a style for a client, knowing other people will compliment them, making them smile and walk prouder.

We aren't selling workouts, or nutrition, or anything fluffy like that - we're selling solutions.

I look forward to working with the team at Living Doll and showing the Coffs Coast what I have to offer.

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By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

NATHAN MYERS 46 YEAR OLD, SPARE PARTS S A L E S M A N , H U S B A N D & F AT H E R OF TWO BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN.

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about getting started in fitness. This month we are catching up with and profiling “The New” Nathan Myers and his personal trainer Simone Saunders, to hear his inspiring story.

efore joining Healthy Inspirations, what was your weight management background? I didn’t really have any, but did watch what I ate to a degree. I’ve never really been on a weight management plan such as Healthy Inspirations, which involved the exercise, and thought I could manage it myself. But, over time the management slips away, and it becomes harder to control. You get into set ways and think you’re doing well, until one day you hop on the scales and shout, “How did that happen!” Your weight has gone from A to Z without realising. How has your weight management changed since joining Healthy Inspirations? I now plan my meals and portion size, but mostly it’s the exercise I’m doing which is complementing the change in eating habits. By exercising more and changing my food intake, I’m finding my weight dropped off and now is more manageable than ever before. It’s taught me to eat in moderation, but exercise is the key, which wasn’t what I have done in the past. So how did you go about making your positive change? I was feeling sluggish and unhealthy and didn’t have the energy to run around with my kids like they wanted me to. My kids noticed my body getting “rotund”; basically, I’d grown a “beer belly”, where there wasn’t one before. My wife had completed the Healthy Inspirations programme with Simone and had a fantastic result, so I decided that I could do it too. I wasn’t happy with what I had become and wanted to join my wife in the healthy lifestyle arena. Did you find the support from Simone at 64 coffs coast focus.

Healthy Inspirations helped you achieve your goals? Simone and the Healthy Inspirations programme have done wonders for our family. By retraining us in the importance of healthy eating and exercising, I’ve now exceeded my goals and fitness level. Simone has pushed me to my limits; if I had trained by myself, I most likely wouldn’t have succeeded. Simone doesn’t take it overboard, but gauges you on how far she can take you, and that helps you accomplish goals. Without her help, you definitely wouldn’t have reached that goal. How has your exercise changed since joining Coffs Coast Health Club and doing Personal Training with Simone? I was so unfit, but I didn’t realise until I started my personal training with Simone, and then I really noticed it. Simone eased me into the training and took me to a level I could cope with, and then as my fitness improved, she changed the plan to push me harder. Having both the Coffs Coast Health Club and Healthy Inspirations in the same building is fantastic, because they complemented each other’s programmes and could be customised to my needs on the day. I’m now going more often than I ever thought. I was never into gyms before, but am enjoying the availability of training early mornings or late at night. And, Simone has been available to work around my schedules, especially if I was finding it hard to get to a session. Thanks for sharing, Nathan, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or our NEW CLUB in MOONEE! You can also contact Simone directly on 0402 202 864 to get started today.

secret to UNLOCK THE

happiness

you’re going to get wet, dirty, and have fun DOES YOUR MENTAL HEALTH NEED ATTENTION? In a world where depression is epidemic, chronic pain is all too common, and stress and anxiety feature regularly in everyday life - where do you turn to seek help? Unfortunately for many of us, the answer is “nowhere”.

owever, help is now more readily available on the Coffs Coast, with Dr Claire Rowsell, clinical psychologist, joining the team at Mid North Coast Physio. Managing director of Mid North Coast Physio, Aaron Hardaker, catches up with their newest team member to discuss the importance of getting professional help with your mental health. Claire, exactly who needs help from a clinical psychologist? There are many reasons you can benefit from seeing a clinical psychologist. Some of the most common issues I see clients for are: • Depression, anxiety and stress - leading to poor quality of life and feeling overwhelmed. • Chronic pain - reducing family time and stopping you from doing your favourite activities. • Eating disorders and food obsessions, taking your focus away from important things like relationships, family and career. • Family, couple and relationship difficulties, causing distress for you and your children. • Obesity and overweight issues - causing depression, negative self-esteem and health issues. • Borderline personality disorder, making life unbearable for the sufferer. Many people find that working with a clinical psychologist is beneficial for clarifying goals and sticking to positive lifestyle changes, such as coping with stress more effectively, quitting smoking, developing better relationships or dealing with anger in a healthier way. Why should I seek professional help for mental health? Put simply, sometimes we just need some assistance. A clinical psychologist can give you the knowledge, skills and strategies to help overcome major challenges in your life

and live a happier and more fulfilled life. Unfortunately, the incidence of mental health problems is on the rise, but you can manage many conditions well with the right support from a professional. For example, you may be suffering with depression, which has led to a decrease in activity levels, weight gain and reduced self-worth. By seeking out support from a clinical psychologist and developing strategies for change, you can break through many of the issues that are holding you back and start to rediscover exercise, feel positive about weight loss and find new energy to enjoy life again. Why choose you as my psychologist? Firstly, because I have a wealth of experience to bring to the table for you. I have worked with adults, adolescents and families in a range of different settings, most recently as the Clinical Team Leader for headspace in Mount Isa. Secondly, I am a strong believer in the benefits of a healthy lifestyle on mental health, so being part of a team that includes physios, exercise physiologists, dietitians and massage therapists among others allows me to provide you with all the tools you need to get successful outcomes. I am passionate about helping you find real world solutions for your concerns, rather than using a whole lot of textbook jargon. To do this, you’ll always receive a clear plan of treatment based on your goals to ensure we achieve what you want, not what I think you should want. Thanks Claire. If you are struggling with mental health challenges and aren’t sure where to turn, Mid North Coast Physio are offering 5 FREE pre-assessments with Claire to help you reach your health goals and discover a happier, healthier version of you. Call 1300 273 747 NOW to secure your FREE pre-assessment before they are gone. Isn’t it time you started feeling great again?

This is the third year of the Port Macquarie Sand Mudder, and it will be bigger, more interesting, more challenging and certainly more fun than the previous two events. Held along the foreshore of Port Macquarie from Town Beach to Rocky Point and back; it will include 21 obstacles of varying difficulty. There will be the Tunnel of Love on the flat below Gaol Point. There will be the new monstrous Mt Everest on Town Beach. There will be pole dancing in the ocean, water fighting in the fish nets, stairs to both Heaven and Hell and climbing walls and ramps, and just when you thought that’s OK, there is the mud pit at the finish, along with spectators attempting to flour and slime you as you cross the finishing line. It’s not about the time it takes to complete the course; it’s all about completing each of the obstacles

along the course and having fun along the way. Every competitor will receive a free photo at the finishing line from Nashyspix, to remind them of what a great day they had. This year we really want to encourage familes to take part, mums, dads and their kids (eight years and older); it’s a wonderful experience and a great way to spend quality time with your family. The event is run by the Tacking Point Lions Club, with the assistance of Marine Rescue and headspace, and the event is sponsored by Hastings Council, Coles, Hogs Breath Café, Hookers Port Macquarie, Greater Bank and Laing and Simmons. All monies raised from this charity event stay in Port Macquarie and go to supporting those vital headspace and Marine Rescue programmes within the local Hasting area.

coffs coast focus. 65

With Lauren Vestey from Living Doll.

THIN HAIR SKINNY IS GREAT FOR JEANS, PASTA AND MARGARITAS. BUT FOR YOUR HAIR? NOT SO MUCH. AFTER ALL, IF RAPUNZEL HAD FINE, THIN HAIR, HER HOTTIE PRINCE COULD NEVER HAVE WORKED HIS WAY UP THE TOWER TO HER RESCUE.

ut the reality is, fine, thin hair happens. Blame it on heredity, blame it on hormones, blame it on the passage of time, blame it on abuse. Regardless, more stylists report that clients bemoan their fine, thin hair than any other situation in the salon. So what’s a princess with fine, thin hair to do? Check out these volumizing hair tips for the best way to thicken your fine, thin hair from the premier stylists at Living Doll. First things first ... 1. Get a check-up. While it’s rare, sometimes fine, thinning hair can be caused by a medical condition. If you’re noticing an unusually large amount of hair in the shower drain, if your part is getting wider or you’re experiencing patches of hair loss, it could be due to a condition called androgenetic alopecia. While this genetic condition can begin as early as your 20s, it’s most common after menopause. In fact, about 50% of all women experience some kind of hair loss by the age of 50. This type of alopecia is usually rooted in genetics. Medical issues that relate directly to hair loss include thyroid problems, iron deficiency or anemia and a spike in male hormones - all of which

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can be treated. 2. Try massaging your scalp. Healthy circulation can nourish the hair follicles in the scalp where hair growth begins, and massage is an easy, excellent (and delightful) way to rev up circulation. Treat yourself to regular scalp massages to stimulate blood flow into those follicles and plump up your fine, thin hair. Simply work a few drops of a our Biolage Advanced Full Density Scalp oil into your fingertips and rub all over your scalp in a circular motion for a few minutes after you shampoo and condition. 3. Boost Volume as You Cleanse and Condition Volumising shampoos and conditioners like our Advanced Full Density Scalp Range are formulas of choice for most women and men with fine, thin hair. These shampoos cleanse gently without stripping the hair or leaving unwanted build-up; plus, they actually make hair feel thicker and look fuller. The conditioners soften and detangle, also without build-up. One tip: place conditioner only on the mid-shafts and ends of your hair and avoid your scalp, where the conditioner could trap oil and weigh hair down. XO Dolls.

focusinterview.

L I V E R P O O L I N T E R N AT I O N A L

academy

NSW LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL CLUB AND SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY HAVE JOINED FORCES TO BUILD A WORLD CLASS TRAINING PROGRAMME. FOCUS SPOKE TO SCOTT COLLIS, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE INTITATIVE.

i Scott. Can you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast? Coffs Harbour is a very special place for me. I moved there after school in the late eighties, playing football for North Coffs, where I met my best friend and wife, Jo. When North Coffs pulled out of the Premier Division, I moved to Coffs City United. I found myself playing with some amazing players. We won a few titles, and I made some lifelong friends. It was a great time. I still feel a strong connection to the place, although I am not back as often as I would like. Could you briefly explain a bit about the programme that you have helped set up with Liverpool Soccer Club? Liverpool FC International Academy NSW is an Australia first collaboration, bringing together the proven football education methodology and philosophy of the world famous Liverpool Football Club, with the facilities and teaching resources of Southern Cross University. Our intention is to offer a range of coaching and education programmes around NSW that bring authentic LFC Academy philosophy and practices to young players of all ability levels. Where did the idea originate, and how long did it take to get it up and running? Southern Cross University’s Southern Cross Football Centre in Lismore is a purpose built football education facility operated as a community initiative, promoting education and participation through sport. I was employed to get the facility operational and contributing both to the university and the community. Through their International Academy programme, Liverpool delivers programmes around the world, which teach young players how to play “The Liverpool Way”, as a way to bring the club to the fans - regardless of how far they live from the iconic Anfield stadium.

I took a chance contacting the club about visiting Lismore and over about a year’s time, it became clear the missions of the two organisations fitted. I can imagine people asking the question, “Why Lismore and Coffs? Why not Sydney or Melbourne?” What do you think attracted them to our region? I get asked that a lot. But the answer is clearly that while we are based on the North Coast, we are Liverpool FC International Academy NSW and in time, we will be delivering the most authentic club coaching programme all over the state. Liverpool International Academy focuses on teaching players how to advance both on and off the pitch, through development of key life skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving and goal setting. We can tend to sell ourselves short in regional areas. Working with one of the world’s great sporting families is amazing, but I think we bring a lot to the partnership. What are the plans for the future of the initiative? The Coffs Harbour region is a big focus, and our plans are to expand here and in other areas of NSW over 2017. We have had huge interest from all over the state, but especially from Sydney. We know people in Sydney especially are anxious for us to bring the Liverpool Way to their area. Taking Liverpool International Academy to Australia’s biggest city is a huge responsibility, but we are confident we can offer something special, and making that ambition a reality will be a big focus for us in 2017. Where can our readers find out more? Go to our website at www.LiverpoolAcademyNSW.com.au or find us on Facebook. There you will see our programmes and where we will be as we lock in visits to different areas. Thanks Scott. coffs coast focus. 67

68 coffs coast focus.

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

OCTOBER 2016 focusinterview.

focusinterview.

with Terri attitude to ent grin and er, with a perman one to find out more. engagin g charactplayed some one on and energet ic and Yusuf is an the Nike Airs dusted off match. FOCUS

After school and weekends we played until

“

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

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?

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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12 coffs coast focus.

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

A lot of people will be drawing on your strength and wisdom this month. Protect yourself by thinking you are inside a bubble, as this will create a barrier between their stress and your divinity, allowing you to offer guidance at no personal cost to your energies. You will hear yourself speak wise words; hear these for your guidance also. Turquoise is a great crystal for communication. Carry some when counselling.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Time to make decisions and set some new goals. Don’t allow your challenges to interfere with your heart’s desire. Keep the bigger picture in mind as you are at a time of discovering your role in the bigger scheme of things. Ruby is wonderful for shattering fear.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 You are so clever at getting what you want. Victory involving an important speech is at hand, and this will alleviate the feeling of waiting and wanting change to come forward. You are not on your own; there is a wonderful support system available to you. Ruby helps us attain our highest ambitions.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Set some fresh goals to maximise on the creative and artistic influences affecting your sign. Leadership qualities can be tapped into this month and offer self-enlightenment. Travel is likely to be high on the agenda soon. Herkimer diamonds are terrific for all kinds of change.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Change is coming to any circumstance where entrapment is concerned. Being unable or afraid to express yourself will soon be something of the past. Justice will be served and a new sense of freedom will be enjoyed. Set some new goals and enjoy. Clear quartz amplifies strength.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Celebrations are coming, so don’t give up your dream. You have needed to recognise your own strength and independence, so you can succeed. Don’t allow the frustration of feeling suspended to spoil your passion or focus. Ruby worn daily energises the aura with passion and persistence.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Love is in the air. Honest and open communication needs to be a high priority in relationships. Major life changing decisions need to be completely thought through, so avoid any hasty choices this month. Justice and peace will be a strong influencing factor where career is concerned. Rose Quartz is a wonderful soothing crystal; carry it.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Plans to travel may be interrupted, or may not flow smoothly. You have been gifted with an acute sense of intuition, so use it to live by and all fear will dissipate, leaving you only in the right place at the right time. Record keepers are great to travel with.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Your personal strength is guiding you to a more determined and independent you; however, you may be feeling disconnected from your family and or loved ones at present. This will soon pass, leaving you in a confident, motivated and creative manner.

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. coffs coast focus. 13

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our monthly feature from the print edition of each region! United in one flip book and delivered online for you to download... for free.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Recently “love” represented heartache and hurt, but now your disconnection has aligned you with change. There are some magical rewards coming for home, work and in matters of love and friendship over the next few weeks, so enjoy! Turquoise is great for fun and friendship.

COFFS COAST ARMIDALE NEW ENGLAND

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

Your new sense of personal power has recently shifted, and you are vulnerable to being domineered if you don’t stand your ground. You are such a wonderful, gentle example of love personified; this is your strength. Good luck will come through work soon. Carnelian can evoke creative energy quicker than many other crystals.

MANNING - GREAT LAKES

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Congratulations -your recent hard efforts at work have paid off. A newfound respect has been activated from your personal changes. You have the ability to puppeteer people at the moment, so use this skill with the highest intention for all concerned and enjoy the success you deserve. Apophyllite tip placed on

VIEW THIS MONTH’S FEATURE ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGCOFFS GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

the third eye helps to visualise.

coffs coast focus. 69

focusinterview.

coffsdentist.com D R

M A R K

M O W A T

DR MARK MOWAT IS A DEDICATED AND TALENTED DENTIST WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE UNDER HIS BELT. WITH STRONG FAMILY TIES TO THE LOCAL AREA AND A PASSION FOR HIS PROFESSION, FOCUS JUMPED INTO THE CHAIR FOR A ROUTINE CHECKUP AND A CHAT TO FIND OUT MORE.

70 coffs coast focus.

ou have a pretty solid team. personality, Mark has a passion for people Tell us who they are and their which can’t be matched. He not only looks backgrounds? after his patients, but his staff too. We like to Miss Kirsty Hayton - Kirsty has her think we combine brand new equipment and Certificate III in Dental Assisting, with more than technology with good old fashioned know-how, five years of experience because you can’t teach in the dental industry experience. with both front office What is the best advice and assisting. Her main you can give to a BEING A LOCAL focus is on the patients’ prospective customer? BUSINESS comfort and care. “Prevention is better OURSELVES, WE KNOW Mrs Della Stokes - An than cure”. Regular HOW KEEPING MONEY experienced dental nurse check-ups can often FLOWING THROUGH THE who understands the detect issues before they LOCAL COMMUNITY industry, Della relishes become a problem and IS VITAL. WE PRIDE the variety of procedures are a lot easier to deal OURSELVES ON THE carried out with Mark. with at this early stage. FACT THAT ALL OF She especially likes But if something is not OUR TRADESMEN ARE working with children. quite right, you need the LOCALS AND ALL OF OUR We believe it takes a confidence that it can be TEAM ARE LOCAL. ‘MADE dedicated team, working treated appropriately and efficiently together, to accordingly. ROUND, TO GO ROUND’, make a practice feel like What facilities do you THEY SAY! ” more than just a clinic. provide for health We are so glad to have funds? Kirsty and Della, and We have Hicaps can’t wait to see what the future brings! facilities available for private health funds, and What makes coffsdentist.com different from we are a HCF preferred provider. We welcome other dentists in the local area? eligible Children Dental Benefit Scheme and Mark, of course! More than just a big Department of Veterans’ Affairs patients too.

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coffsdentist.com D R

M A R K

M O W A T

coffs coast focus. 71

focusinterview.

coffsdentist.com D R

How and why has the local dental industry changed over the last few years? Big corporate players have taken over some local practices, and the profits finish up overseas. At coffsdentist.com, the buck stops here - literally. Also, some practices get so big, patients seem to be just a number on a computer screen. We like to connect with our patients on a personal level. How important is it to support local business? Being a local business ourselves, we know how keeping money flowing through the local community is vital. We pride ourselves on the fact that all of our tradesmen are locals and all of our team are local. â€œMade round, to go roundâ€?, they say! What are your plans for the future of coffsdentist.com? Reconnecting with the people from our former practice in Park Beach and hopefully expanding our team to accommodate future needs.

Where can we find you? Our new practice is located at 198 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour. This is the corner of Wentworth Avenue, in the premises previously occupied by Coffs Orthodontics. Give our friendly staff a call on 6651 5550, or check out our informative and fun social media pages!

BATHROOMS | INDOOR LIVING | OUTDOOR

indoor

outdoor

COFFS HARBOUR 72 coffs coast focus.

28 Isles Drive p: 6651 4133 www.ambertiles.com.au

M A R K

M O W A T

with Tegan Ewart, Vice President Woolgoolga Chamber of Commerce

WOOPI tourismupdate

Dog friendly Forests State Forests in NSW are dog-friendly forests. That’s right, besides being free-to-visit, you can bring your best buddy with you when you visit your local State Forest.

DINING IN, EATING OUT THE NORTHERN BEACHES IS A HOT SPOT FOR MULTICULTURALISM, AND THE DINING OPTIONS WITHIN THE REGION ARE ABSOLUTELY REFLECTIVE OF THAT.

ith everything from Market Street has recently become a hub curry to cocktails, for dining at any time of the day; along the comfort food to fine restaurant strip you have a choice of raw, dining, the melting vegan, wholefoods, Mediterranean, Korean pot of diversity that is and Indian. Evening dining is a must on this the Northern Beaches has definitely shown quaint strip, within walking distance to the itself in the offering of delicious cuisine in caravan park. restaurants and cafés alike. While eating in is always a great In the past few years, the option, we also get that there’s culinary scene has grown nothing quite like some into an impressive delicious takeaway food OW industry, and it’s not down by the beach (or KN L AL WE U SO M E DAYS YO surprising that chefs on the sofa at home). PA ST JU ST CA N’ T GO R with exceptional Of course, there are TE A GO OD CO UN E experience and a TH many options to LU NC H, AN D D AN BS PU L passion for quality CA choose from that can LO OW CLUB S SU RE KN .” food are drawn to the satisfy your takeaway SE EA HOW TO PL area. This means even needs - from traditional the most fussy of eaters fish and chip takeaway will have something to shops to gourmet seafood tantalise their tastebuds. and yummy pizza. Phone them We all know some days you just ahead of time to just pick up and can’t go past a good counter lunch, and head off, or head down and order on the local pubs and clubs sure know how site and enjoy the bustling vibe and meet to please. Offering good old favourites some of the locals. like the chicken schnitzel to more elaborate It’s not just Woolgoolga CBD that has dishes such as Thai beef salads and even a great offering of dining options. Just a Chinese cuisine, you can definitely find a few minutes both north and south, you’ll delicious meal in a laid back atmosphere any find great restaurants and cafés open for day. Take the kids, enjoy a meal with friends, you to visit at your leisure. Emerald Beach and leave the dishes to someone else. has its own restaurant strip on Fiddaman Heading down into the CBD, the toughest Rd, Sandy Beach and Mullaway both have decision will be deciding where to go. takeaway stores, and Arrawarra has its own There are plenty of cafés within walking restaurant. distance of one another, all of which serve Near or far, no matter your budget or delicious breakfasts and lunch, along with what you have a taste for, there will be tasty coffees and some sneaky sweet treats something in Woolgoolga and surrounds to should you want a relaxing afternoon tea. satisfy your cravings.

In celebration of our dog-friendly status, and in response to a request for this unique event, the inaugural Dirty Dog Tail Run was held recently in Coopernook State Forest. Set amongst towering eucalypts, the event offered entrants the opportunity to walk or run with the canine member of their family. Starting from Coopernook Forest Headquarters, entrants participated in either a 4 km or 8 km course, taking in some beautiful forest scenery in the process. Forestry Corporation of NSW was very proud

to partner with Fully Rad Adventures to host the Dirty Dog Tail Run, and we hope to see more of them in the future. We hope to see you and all the members of your family visiting NSW State Forests in the future. Dogs under control of their owners are always welcome. Forests - fun, free and yes, you can bring your dog! #visitnswforests For further information on Coopernook State Forest, go to: www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit For further information on Fully Rad Adventures, go to: www.facebook.com/fullyradadventures

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coffs coast focus. 73

CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Maria Grau Colum, Kirsty Pursch, Susan Marte

Cass Scully, Tullia Conner

Jayden O’Connell, Jane Hudson

Kaylene Cutmore, Deborah Pollack, Jill Bale

Andrew and Trudy Thomson, Chris and Kerry Hines, Yvonne Anderson

Chris Grieve, Samantha Williams

Cherie Parik, Drew Stever

Andrew and Trudy Thomson, Hughie Murray, Tanya Watts, Greg Agar, Murray Sheridan, Ivan Beros

Lace Browning, Natalie Hunt, Nicci Seccombe

SOCIAL/SCENE

ally time soon. Dust will be flying, and the town will certainly be abuzz with all things fast and furious! I always remember the first time Rally

HEADING TOWARDS THE SCHOOLS HOLIDAYS, AND THIS IS DEFINITELY A REMINDER OF HOW POPULAR THE COFFS COAST HAS BECOME. WHERE THIS IS A HOLIDAY DESTINATION FOR SOME, IT’S A PLACE CALLED HOME FOR US ... HOW LUCKY WE ARE!

were St George Bank, The Hoey Moey, The

There are still a few tickets left for another

support the cause. In attendance were sponsors,

Seaview Tavern, Coffs Racing and The Moonee

great Charity Movie Premiere Night … seems

including Matt Loretan Jewellery, Le Dãin

Tavern. It was, as usual, a “full house” event,

like it’s all the rage! The Rotory Club of Coffs

Designs, Copy Centre Coffs and Ella Baché. Lots

and the ladies enjoyed champagne and canapés

Harbour Daybreak is staging a Magnificent

of fun was had by one and all - great night out!

was in town, and our Editor at that time was

whilst viewing the latest Renee Zellweger

Seven flick event. It is a fundraiser to secure

Celebrations were in order for the Coffs

Kim Gould. She was a Rally fanatic like myself,

movie, Bridget Jones’ Baby. Great night out for

a PET scanner for the Coffs Harbour Hospital

Harbour Bunker Cartoon Gallery just recently.

and we ran straight out and bought flash

the girls.

Campus. This event is on 29th September at the

They were celebrating their 20th birthday!

Birch, Carroll & Coyle cinemas in Coffs Harbour.

Guests enjoyed birthday cake, which was cut

cameras to catch all the action! Whilst she slid

The Pink Silks’ next event to look forward to

down embankments and got covered in mud

will be their “Ladies & Tradies” cocktail night

This will commence with hors d’oeuvres. Looks

by President Fran Stephenson, and a glass of

and dust to catch all the best shots, I on the

on Friday 21st October. Sounds like a lot of fun!

like fun! Please contact Katrina on 0435 870

bubbles or two.

other hand, decided to snap all the drivers and

For more information, see pinksilks.com.au

751 or Liz on 0414 229 328.

the cars at the start and the finish ... fun times! The Waratah Gadabouts staged a fashion

The FOCUS team is certainly looking forward

We recently attended the BPW Red Gala Ball.

There is always something exciting going on at the Cartoon Bunker. We had recently met

to attending the Stars of the Coffs Coast Dance

Guests arrived dressed up to the nines in their

the guys from the “Stomping Ivories”, when

parade just recently at the Sawtell Anglican

for Cancer evening. FOCUS is a sponsor and

finest shades of red, to socialise and dance the

we attended a fundraiser at Opal Cove Resort.

Church. It was a fab affair, with models of all

loves supporting the cause. Of course, the

night away to sensational live music. This was

We had decided to stay after the event, and

ages strutting their stuff modelling fabulous

venue will be packed to the max, as it is one of

their annual fundraiser and as usual, it was a

the boys had returned after a performance. The

clothes from all the stores in town. The day was

our most popular events.

roaring success! The Red Gala was hosted by

three piece musical sensations have an extensive

Kim Connolly, who is the BPW President, along

repertoire of over 350 songs! The band features

with her husband, Brian Hopwood.

Duelling Pianos (Hugh Scott Murray III and

to raise funds for the choir from Sawtell Public

Leading up to this event were so many

School. After the fashion parade, guests got to

fundraisers - one of them being for dancer Tullia

enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea and listen

Conner, who is the effervescent announcer

a performance from the school choir. Lovely

at Southern Cross Austereo. The venue was

Pay Day that is marked in September. BPW

Sheridan) who returned for a second year to

afternoon out.

Beachfront Opal Cove Resort, and the foyer

Coffs Harbour puts on a fantastic event each

perform at the bunker. These talented musicians

was buzzing with excited guests waiting to

year to raise funds sufficient for various projects

performed a musical extravaganza without

they do best once again just recently. It was an

sample delicious dishes from local suppliers.

to support local women. It is in particular for

music pages, or reference to “cheat sheets”.

exciting charity movie night out for the girls at

To complement this, Opal Cove’s Restaurant,

those who are striving to empower themselves

They kept up a frenetic pace, delivering justice

Birch, Carroll & Coyle Cinemas in Coffs Harbour.

Horizons, had laid on scrumptious canapés with

through higher education. The 2016 scholarship

to the many requests from the audience. They

The Coffs Coast businesses and locals are

bubbles and fine wines. Lots of fun was had at

participants were in attendance. Past parties

will be returning, so don’t miss out!

always so very generous with their support and

this night, all whilst raising a fine amount for a

have been extremely popular, because of the

Carole Beros,

sponsorships. The major sponsors for the event

great cause.

diversity of males and females who came out to

Le Dãin Designs.

The Pink Silks Perpetual Trust was doing what

74 coffs coast focus.

The red reflected the colour theme for Equal

Greg Agar) with a red hot drummer (Murray

CarolE Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Waratah Gadabouts Fashion Parade

Brian Hopwood, Kim Conolly

Jodi Wittenberg, Kim Conolly, Linda Macneill

Laura Ratten, Jess Gillies

Jodi Wittenberg, Matt Loretan

Richard Colton, Jess Gillies, Paul and Julianne McKeon

Warick and Crystal Mead

Mary Deans, Kay Morrison

Andrew Vivian, Helen Morschel, Margaret Cameron, Hal Snoograss

Eileen Dalrymple, Andrea Cross, Marianne Jackson, Megan George

Sarvi Thompson, Trudy Smith

Richard and Julie McAnnaly, Kerry and Chris Hines

Sawtell School Choir

coffs coast focus. 75

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Join us in mauritius Local tour company Quadrant Australia are offering FOCUS readers the chance to join them on their Farmers Tour to Mauritius.

AVOIDING TOP TRAVEL MISTAKES IF YOU ARE A FIRST TIME TRAVELLER, THEN KEEP READING. THESE TIPS COULD HELP MAKE OR BREAK YOUR UPCOMING TRIP. IF YOU’RE A SEASONED TRAVELLER, THEN YOU’LL PROBABLY RECOGNISE SOME OF THESE ROOKIE MISTAKES. AS THEY SAY, EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST TEACHER.

hould I pre-book, or leave it until I get there? There are lots of great reasons why you should pre-book some of your travel plans. Book ahead for the big things such as airfares, hotels, airport transfers.

No point buying a reduced price ticket, if the

But, don’t plan everything within an inch of your life. Leave some spare time to discover the real location and the authentic people. Leave some time to dine in the local restaurant that was recommended by the locals.

view room, but if this is the only time you will

Overpacking? Do you really need four pairs of shoes, and a selection of fancy clothes? Plan ahead, and take only what you need. You want to leave plenty of room to pick up some local wares, and you don’t want to spend every morning trying to force your suitcase closed because it’s so full.

Make sure that any bookings made are correct;

experience is also greatly reduced. Travel is a product where you can very much rely on the price being an effective indicator of the experience. It might cost you more for a harbour ever visit this harbour, then it could be money well spent. Check, check and check again It might be a simple error, but it can have devastating results. including the names, dates, destinations and details. Airlines will not accept you if your identification is different to the booking. And if you are expecting Sydney, New South Wales, then you

If you need even more incentive, some airlines charge exorbitant excess baggage charges. You want to be sure that each extra kilo or two is worth the hundreds of dollars it might cost you.

you’d be sadly disappointed if you arrived in

Respect the local customs Just because it’s acceptable in your country, doesn’t mean it’s acceptable in another. In some countries, something as simple as kissing in public or taking a photograph of a guard in front of government building can land you in hot water. It can not only ruin your holiday, but you can end up with a criminal record.

The saying goes that if you can’t afford travel

Even if it’s not illegal, it can still be offensive. Personal space and contact can vary greatly between countries. A simple pat on the head can be interpreted as rude and offensive in countries where someone’s head is viewed as sacred. Saving money at the expense of time It might seem like a good buy when you find a hotel that is $100 cheaper than a similar standard hotel, but when you arrive and that hotel is located on the outskirts of town and it costs you $25 each time you catch a taxi, then the savings are quickly eaten up. Value for money is defined by a range of criteria. 76 coffs coast focus.

Sydney, Canada. Would you like insurance with that? insurance, then you can’t afford to travel. Travel insurance is designed to bail you out of the unexpected situations that travellers can find themselves in. It doesn’t just cover the cancellation costs, but also the unpredictable cost of health care overseas. A simple cold that turns into a chest infection can result in an unexpected bill of $20,000 for a three day stay in hospital in the Swiss Alps. It’s just not worth the risk. Ask the experts What do you do when you need to service your car? You go to a mechanic. Your hair needs attention … You visit your hairdresser! You’re planning a holiday, then visit your trusted travel agent. They are experts in their field, with networks and systems to ensure you get the right information at the best price.

Mauritius is unforgettable! Blessed with a mild climate and surrounded by turquoise sea, it offers a sublime holiday experience, with white, sandy beaches, lagoons and reefs contrasting with rainforest and waterfalls in the mountainous interior. The local language is French, despite the fact the British Navy beat the French in the 1800s and it became a British colony until 1960, when it gained its independence. Located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Madagascar and 2,000 km off the coast of south east Africa, local Mauritian crops include sugar cane and rice, as well as citrus and soft fruits, which are often grown with vegetables and flowers for export. If you are looking for a relaxing break with an agricultural flavour, then speak to the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St Coffs Harbour to find out more.

This tour has some amazing highlights, including a diverse range of agricultural and horticultural enterprises. Travellers will also have a guided tour of Port Louis and its harbor and market place, together with the opportunity to see the giant turtles of Aldebra at Vanilla Park turtle reserve. Quadrant Australia have been organising tours for more than 30 years. Their office in Coffs Harbour has a dedicated team to help you organise your leisure, group and business travel. The fully trained team has a wealth of knowledge and as a member of Australia’s largest travel buying group, they have access to a diverse range of cost-effective travel products. The team can assist you with additional travel arrangements either before or after your Quadrant Tour, or are able to assist in flight bookings, accommodation, package holidays, tours, cruises and travel insurance.

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Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

Entrepreneur Siimon Reynolds has achieved extraordinary success in business and has now turned his attention to mentoring and coaching others. We chatted to Siimon from his Los Angeles base just prior to his late September visit to Coffs Harbour to present for ETC Business Leaders.

BUSINESS minds

With digital advertising you with can experiment ur yo e low spends , se away results straight ur yo ge and chan nsively. artwork inexpe et the You can also targ ry ve t an w people you tightly.”

“ ou achieved remarkable success in advertising at a young age. Tell us about suddenly being thrust into the limelight with the huge success of the groundbreaking Grim Reaper campaign? The agency did incredibly well, and we had a multi-million-dollar company by the time I was 24 or 25. The interesting thing is that just before I opened my own advertising agency, I had written the Grim Reaper campaign for another agency, so it was the perfect way to launch it. The campaign really did throw me into the spotlight. Suddenly, I was invited to parties, people wanted to know me and I was being recognised. It was an extraordinary period to go from zero to hero, as they say, and to become known nationally. What inspired you to move away from running your own business, which you’ve done for almost three decades, to mentoring and coaching with The Fortune Institute? I’m a co-owner of The Fortune Institute, and what motivated me was that rather than running different marketing companies, I thought I’d step back and do some mentoring. It’s very interesting to mentor entrepreneurs from all over Australia and indeed the world and help them build their businesses. It’s extremely satisfying, and I’ve enjoyed it immensely. What might surprise our local business owners about some of the world’s most successful CEOs and entrepreneurs? In addition to the work I do at The Fortune Institute, I coach a lot of people in America

and in other countries too. What may surprise people is how human top CEOs and entrepreneurs are. Not only do they have the same fears as many of us, many of them have greater fears: fears of failure, fears about looking bad, fears about whether their decisions are in their company’s interest are whether those decisions are going to be correct. Yet despite these fears, rather than shy away from confronting them, they jump right into it and have enormous commitment when trying to solve them. So these highly accomplished people are very human, with very human fears. Much has changed in the world of media and advertising, particularly in the past decade. What’s your perspective on these changes? I think there are two primary changes. The first is the rise of the ad blockers and watching recordings of TV shows so you can fast forward the ads. That puts a lot of pressure on advertising agencies, and it’s made it even more important to create interesting ads because when someone can fast forward them, why should they listen to them or watch them? The ad needs to be worth watching. But by far the biggest change of course, is the rise of internet advertising, which for many companies is clearly superior to many types of traditional advertising. You can experiment with low spends, see your results straight away and change your artwork inexpensively. You can also target the people you want very tightly. As a result, digital advertising has grown so quickly, but the reality is that there are still great opportunities to advertise in newspapers, on radio and on TV. These mediums are not going away and will always be strong.

Your book is about overcoming failure, which you consider part and parcel of achieving success. What are your key messages to people in business for achieving success? The reality is that it’s a complete myth that there are business people who don’t fail. Generally, the best business people are probably failing more than others - they’re trying more things, they’re failing at a lot of stuff, but perhaps a small amount of it is leading to success. It’s so important to remember that failure is normal, failure is good, as long as we learn from it and move forward. Some of the world’s biggest companies and the world’s richest people in business have failed in the beginning and then changed their strategy. My advice for business people is that if things aren’t going so well, that’s good; that’s giving you information you can use to change your company and create an even bigger and better company. One of your past clients is Donald Trump. Any predictions on what November 8 will bring him? It’s hard to tell with Hillary’s sickness, as it could change the whole course of the election, but my opinion is that even if he gets in, he’s not going to be the wild person that so many people think. I think that in becoming the US President, people adapt to the job accordingly and they become more “presidential”, so I’m not too worried if Donald Trump wins. I think Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton would both do a do a very good job, but do a very different job and in a very different way.

You’re a firm believer in business (and many other things in life) being “learnable”. Tell us about your thirst for knowledge? I probably have a thousand books on science and art and the success of human achievement in all its forms, and I’m a massive believer in the continuing of learning. I was hopeless at school. I was bored by school, but after school I realised that there are so many exciting books on human potential, and I became totally addicted to reading. Right now, I’ve got a pile of books on my desk that I’m hoping to get to. I find it exciting to learn. I also think that “readers are leaders”. People who lead society are almost always readers and students, and that really separates the masters from the rest. All the masters of any field behave like students, in that they are constantly open to learning. What does your work/life balance look like? It’s pretty good at the moment. I work eight and a half hours a day, five days a week and eighty percent of the things I do are things that I want to do, so I’ve got good work/life balance. I could always exercise a bit more, but generally speaking, at this stage of my life, if I can’t get balance then that’s my own fault. As I grow older, I value and enjoy every day as much as I value getting ahead in my career. I don’t want to continue looking twenty years down the track for some nirvana. I want to make sure that I get pleasure out of each and every day. Thanks so much for your time, Siimon. coffs coast focus. 77

Business Buy or sell? Helping people prepare, sell or buy a great business. The team at Business Buy or Sell are trusted advisors, who provide an unprecedented level of quality, service and professionalism in order to assist people to buy, sell or build a business. When we decide to buy or sell a business, most of us simply donâ€™t know how or where to begin. We lack the strategies, tools and knowledge required to make the correct decisions in what can be a complicated procedure. At Business Buy or Sell, we simplify these processes and obstacles and help you to avoid the stress, pain and confusion often associated with buying or selling a business. Our systems of preparation and marketing are innovative, cutting edge and unique, tailored to each individual or business to provide maximum exposure to potential buyer or seller. We guarantee to keep you informed weekly and return phone calls, texts, emails or any other correspondence within one working day and are contactable Monday to Saturday. It is not our goal to list as many businesses as we can, but to specifically qualify potential buyers and sellers. We take the opportunity to serve you and meet your needs very seriously and personally. Having lived and worked in the local community for over 30 years, we believe that a reputation is something that you cannot buy; it must be earned.

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TAX TIME DEADLINE IS LOOMING FAST Tax Time Deadline is looming fast - 31 October It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. If you prepare your own tax return, then you need to complete and lodge your tax return by 31 October. If you have not been to a tax agent before and would like your return completed by a professional, then you need to see them prior to 31 October. You should ensure that your tax professional is a registered tax agent. Do you use your car for work? A deduction for work related car expenses may be claimed for eligible motor vehicle expenses incurred in deriving your assessable income. Motor vehicle expense claims has now been simplified under two methods, being log book and set rate per kilometre methods. The logbook allows a claim based on the business use of the vehicle but you need to keep written evidence for all expenses, including estimates for fuel & oil used. The set rate method is now a flat rate of 66 cents per kilometre up to 5,000 kilometres, regardless of the engine capacity. You can claim the method that gives you the best deduction. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. We not only specialise in taxation, but we have extensive background skills in finance and banking. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

Did you know here at Klaustel we personally organise your NBN, telephone and internet accounts, as well as supply, install and maintain 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. 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. 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. Our plans our customised for each customer and their needs. The key to Klaustel's competitiveness has always been the personal approach, with direct access to a personal service being the key.

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Scott Nolan from Nolan Partners

real estate update WHERE IS THE MARKET HEADING?

here is obviously a lot of “buzz” around the Coffs Coast real estate market at the moment, with activity at its highest level in over 10 years. External factors such as record low interest rates, high prices in the major capitals and an influx into the market of “baby boomers” have all contributed to a strong market in 2016. The questions everyone is asking are, “How long will this current market last?” and, “What does the future hold for real estate on the Coffs Coast?” The answer to the first question is difficult, as there are many factors at play. Most business analysts and economists are predicting that there’s still at least another 12 - 18 months of strong market conditions if the current low interest rate environment continues. In relation to the question regarding the long term future of the Coffs Coast market, my prediction is that we are on the verge of some very exciting times. As the “baby boomers” retire over the next 10 - 15 years, lifestyle markets such as the Coffs Coast are expected to attract a large percentage of these retirees. Apart from retirees, our excellent medical facilities, transport infrastructure, educational facilities and shopping continue to attract professionals, trades and general buyers from across the nation. In the “online age” that we now live in, we are also seeing many new local “start-up” businesses emerge and others move here as they can simply work from home or a small office and

www.seashellsparkbeach.com.au

still reach the entire world. As our local market matures and buyer types change, so does the style of property we see being developed. In the future we will see apartment living become very attractive to many retirees looking for an easy lifestyle where they can lock the front door and head off travelling or enjoying leisure activities. In fact, this market has already started to emerge, and the success of developments such as “Seashells” @ Park Beach, where 29 apartments out of 44 have been sold “off the plan” before construction has even started, would have been unheard of just a few years ago. Similarly, we have seen most new projects across the Jetty, Park Beach and Woolgoolga markets sell out well before they are finished, as buyers flock to these lifestyle areas. At the luxury end of the market we have seen some exceptional sales in the past few months. As new successful businesses, professionals and wealthy retirees move to the area, this section of the market should see even more activity in the years ahead. The only factor I believe holding us back from a new “Golden Age” is our old “Achilles heel”, the Coffs by-pass! There is a lot of talk around that it will start in 2020 and be completed by 2024. If this is true and it does happen, then we are in for some really exciting times! Have a great month and remember, we all live in “the best part of the best country in the world”.

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: Shane Hessenberger

Scott Nolan

0405 313 272

0418 527 914

shane@nolanpartners.com.au

scott@nolanpartners.com.au

29 SOLD ONLY 15 LEFT !

02 6650 0655 321 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

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Hopwood Homes INTRO Brian Hopwood started his career at the age of 17 as a carpenter in Aubrey over 42 years ago. In his 3rd year he moved to Orange and completed his apprenticeship there. He became a licenced builder at 23. After building over 125 houses in Orange he decided to make the move to the Coffs Coast in 1988 and has since

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About. brian Everybody dreams of owning their own home and getting out of the rental rat race, and Brian is continually

working to bring affordable house and land packages as well as custom design homes to those ready to see their dream realised.

rian Hopwood started his career 42 Personalised service is a big part of what years ago in Albury and then later makes Brian Hopwood Homes such a on moved to Coffs Coast in successful home builder, and the 1988. weekly onsite meetings are a Many years of experience in great way for the clients to the building industry and a see the progress and how positive approach is what everything is coming Brian Hopwood Homes will gives Brian Hopwood and along on a regular basis. continue to build able his team at Brian Hopwood Clients are able to rd quality and affo Homes the edge needed work side by side with ffs homes on the Co ars to build quality homes the builder for the entire ye Co ast for many and ensure clients get a length of the build and to come.â€? happy and stress free build know right from the start experience. that their thoughts and any Having built over 800 homes concerns they may have are a for families in the Coffs Coast region priority for Brian, who is always and not ready to slow down any time available to chat with clients and soon, Brian and the team will continue to build resolve any issues as they arise. homes well into the future.

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These photos show the amazing house that has now been handed over to a very happy owner - her new home is everything she asked for and more! â€?

At Brian Hopwood Homes we do extra at the start of the build to make the house stronger by placing our studs and joists on the frames at 450mm centres not 600mm which is the standard in addition we build to a N3 wind rating which is higher than the standard required N2 and we also rebate all our slabs in the wet areas so no step up is required. K O R O R A S P E C TA C U L A R There is an amazing house we have just finished in Korora which we are proud to be showcasing is in this issue of Focus, as it is a free design that was drawn exactly to what the client wanted. It includes a northerly aspect, to take full advantage of the spectacular ocean views over the Split Solitary Islands. This home is a very

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individual house with a sophisticated, classy yet relaxed feeling, with the amazing staircase being a major highlight of the home. H O U S E A N D L A N D PA C K A G E S We currently have a range of home designs and block sizes to go with the many house and land packages now available at Moonee, Coffs Harbour, Boambee East and Bonville, starting at $519,000. Our house and land packages are fully complete and include tiles to the living areas, carpets to all bedrooms and the lounge, along with quality fittings throughout. Plus, a solar electricity system, to save you money for years to come! House and Land Packages are now available in the Elements Estate 4 bedroom, 2 living areas , double garage and ensuite.

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When you n purchase a Bria en ev e, om H d Hopwoo ing, turf the blinds , fenc are e and clotheslin icing pr e th in included s to - no hidden co st .â€? nt ie cl the

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When you purchase a Brian Hopwood Home, even the blinds, fencing, turf and clothesline are included in the pricing - no hidden costs to the client. We differ from other companies, as we include everything in our pricing, so it is a turnkey agreement, instead of the start price and add on approach many other companies seem to use - which makes the final cost much more than anticipated. Tell us about some of the new and exciting

projects you are working on now and in the future? Currently we are undertaking the build of a new home for a family with a child who has a disability, so doing the design for that was quite interesting and challenging. This home is on the large side and has many extras, including an indoor therapy pool, and the build is all going to schedule. We will be happy to hand over the keys to such a wonderful family to enjoy their life together.

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Every house we build is unique, even if it is not a custom design, so we look forward to all future projects. We are ready to start the Forest View Close development any day now. When we work with new home owners, it is always fun, as they get super excited and you can see the passion and enjoyment in each choice they make. We only just recently finished building a home for an couple in their 80s, who have commented on how much they love their home and found the process so stress free. THE TEAM Brian Hopwood is the company director and in-house draftsman, who plays a

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very hands on management role in the team. Brian likes to keep on top of what is happening on job sites and does so weekly, when he meets onsite with clients. This practice keeps the clients heavily involved in the build so if they want to change things as the build progresses, they can, and they are kept informed as to what is happening on site. Mark Bohringer is the numbers man and is in charge of estimating job costings and getting orders processed and out to suppliers. He is mainly based in the office, but from time to time is also required out on job sites when an unusual situation arises, or if a job has an intricate detail that

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Brian likes to keeps on top of what is happening on job sites and does so weekly, when he meets onsite with clients.”

needs to be sorted out. He has a very close relationship with all the contractors and suppliers, to keep the jobs flowing smoothly. Andre Battig is the onsite supervisor, who spends his days going from job site to job site, ensuring each build is going ahead as per the specifications and requirements, as well as co-ordinating the contractors and ensuring supply deliveries are onsite when required. Andre works closely with both Brian and Mark to make sure all details are attended to and that the homes are being built to the standard expected of a Brian Hopwood Home. Brian, Mark and Andre are all qualified builders and have over 40 years’ experience each in the building industry, starting their careers as apprentice carpenters and progressing on to builders and then into onsite supervisory roles.

The many roles they have been in gives them a great understanding and knowledge about what works and what doesn’t, so all Hopwood Homes’ clients can be happy to know we have a team working together that can achieve the best results for each individual home. In the office is Angela Smart, who is both the accounts manager and does all things financial, plus being the in-house consultant who assists all clients with the selection process. Out front is Leanne Partridge, who takes care of reception and also attends to all the documentation that comes with building a home, such as the council applications and building contracts. The entire team work closely together to ensure a smooth and successful build for all clients.

Reece Coffs Harbour and Coffs Harbour South proudly supports Brian Hopwood Homes Reece Coffs Harbour - 177a Orlando Street - (02) 6652 4277 Reece Coffs Harbour South - 12 Isles Drive - (02) 6651 9444 www.reece.com.au

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focusabode.

D on’t get caught up in the sales re h pitc - make su tails de e th l al t ge u yo big a ch su r needed fo .” on si life deci

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Four things that people should consider when looking to build a new house 1. Affordability. Don’t get caught with hidden costs or building more then you can comfortably afford. 2. Must get on with the builder. Feel comfortable with whom you are building with and build with someone you can trust. 3. Don’t get caught up in the sales pitch - make sure you get all the details needed for such a big life decision. 4. Build with someone who wants you to have the house you want - not what the builder wants. Tell us about your community involvement ...

Proudly supplying Lighting and Electrical to

Brian Hopwood Homes Cetnaj Coﬀs Harbour 151 Orlando Street Ph: 6691 6100

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Brian is actively involved with coaching the under 14 year Rugby side. He also plays Oztag. Brian Hopwood Homes proudly sponsor Sawtell Rugby League Seniors and Juniors, Woolgoolga Public School, Relay for Life, Coffs Harbour Comets, and the local Oztag competition. Recent awards? Walking into Brian Hopwood Homes’ office, you cannot help but be impressed by the many awards which hang on the walls, with the most recent being in 2015, where they were winners of the HIA Townhouse/Villa Developments and Bathroom Project of the Year.

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I N C L U D E S 2 N I G H T S F R E E C A M P I N G • u p g r a d e f o r t h u r s d ay c a m p i n g A C C O M M O D AT I O N a n d t e n t c i t y PA C K A G E S AVA I L A B L E f o r 2 0 1 6 • k i d s u n d e r 1 0 f r e e v e n u e - s u n d o w n e r t o u r i s t pa r k , P o rt M a c q u a r i e • t i c k e t i n g s u p p o rt e d b y o z t i x . c o m . a u

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Building together.

Your trusted local. We’re real locals. Not ‘employed by the large corporates’ locals, but the 100% locally owned locals. We’re the ones helping people realise their dreams and building the communities where we live. Call 132 789 or visit gjgardner.com.au

Susan and Rick Fischer Owners - G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour