Coffs Coast Focus i77

COFFS COAST

February 2017/ 2017//issue 77

1 coffs coast focus.

Feature Story Kate Bolte

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focus COFFS COAST

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Welcome to the February issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

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fter a jam packed festive season, we are finally getting back into the swing of things. It has taken us a week or so to get our heads out of holiday mode, but we got there … Just in time to present to you the fabulous February edition.

Front Cover This month we have dedicated our front cover to our annual Ultimate Wedding guide.

How amazing does the bride look? A massive thanks to Leah Simpson for being our face of FOCUS for February. You make an absolutely stunning bride!

We also need to give thanks to Paul Murray from Arrive in Style for lending us his awesome 1958 Pink Chevrolet for the shoot.

Barbara from La Fleur D’Alyse did an amazing job with the makeup, Candice from Living Doll Premier Stylists nailed the hair, and the girls

at RSVP Bridal Wear were more than happy to lend us the amazing bridal dress, which we think steals the show.

Last but certainly not least, a huge thanks goes to Carole Beros for styling the shoot.

Carole goes above and beyond to help us almost every month. We don’t know what we would do without her. Thanks again, everyone involved.

Ultimate Wedding Guide February, the month of love and eight months out from the traditional commencement of wedding season, means this is a timely feature for the wedding industry to showcase what they have to offer future brides.

This beautifully presented Wedding Guide, as part of the FOCUS publication, will be sought after by local brides to be as the essential wedding planning tool.

Inside this Edition Kate Bolte is a gifted local designer who utilises words and typography in her art.

FOCUS found out what inspires her to create.

Nick Warfield’s work makes use of materials that society deems trash or rubbish. His creations are amazing and engaging! FOCUS visited him at his studio, to find out more.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, we spoke with lovers Renae Booth and Matt Donovan. It took Matt 10 years to propose to Renae!

Next Month - Women in Business It’s our annual editorial showcase featuring the talented businesswomen who live, work and play in Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Manning-Great Lakes and the New England.

Final Say: “Never look down on anybody unless you are helping them up” - Unknown.

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NICK WARFIELD

12

Nick Warfield’s work makes use of materials that society deems trash or rubbish. His creations are amazing and engaging! FOCUS visited Nick at his studio, to find out more.

I S S U E

BIGGART BROMELIADS. Adam and Jane Jones have a successful local business that most people wouldn’t be aware of. Supplying flowers and bromeliads from their farm to both the local market and to the cities, they have worked hard to build a loyal following of clients.

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issue

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F E B R U A R Y

10. WHAT’S ON

FOR FEBRUARY 24. EAT

FEATURING

LOCAL RESTAURANTS 66. SOCIAL SCENE

WITH CAROLE BEROS 76. BUSINESS MINDS

WITH SAM WARDMAN

2 0 1 7

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BARE BEAUTY.

Best friends create beauty products that are great for you; what’s not to love? Laura Blockley and Sarah Dugdale share their story with FOCUS ...

follow us on

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

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

coffs coast focus. 5

focusinterview.

KATE BOLTE IS A GIFTED LOCAL DESIGNER WHO UTILISES WORDS AND TYPOGRAPHY IN HER ART. HERE, KATE SHARES THE INSPIRATION BEHIND HER CREATIVITY ... hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I grew up in a small town called West Wyalong; it's about 860 km from Coffs Harbour. When I was little, my parents would make the drive every Christmas for the summer holidays. My grandparents have lived here for over 30 years.

It was a home away from home. I moved here from Sydney almost four years ago now.

Could you briefly describe how you became involved in visual arts?

I have grown up loving anything creative in most forms. I was a dancer, and performing arts was a huge part of my life going through school. I loved painting and using different mediums. However, my true passion was using words to create art.

What is that you do?

Technically, I am qualified graphic designer.

I studied my BA degree right after I finished school. I also love fine arts, drawing, painting etc. I love typography. All my work has words. I love how words can be their own piece of art.

Where do you find inspiration?

I am and will forever draw inspiration from my surroundings. The environment plays a huge part in what I create. Living in this 6 coffs coast focus.

beautiful town has helped me create some of grind and thought that goes into someone’s my favourite pieces. The ocean and the land work. It doesn’t necessarily mean it should be here are breathtaking. aesthetically pleasing to the eye to be As a designer, how would you good design. describe your style and If you could live anywhere approach to a subject? in the world to Experimental and experience a specific Living in this personal - I try to period of design or beautiful town connect with anyone art, which would you te ea has helped me cr ite that is looking at my choose and why? ur some of my favo work. My work is To be honest, I n ea oc pieces . The e ar drawn from a very wouldn’t change living re he nd and the la emotional level. Again, in the present - I can .” ng ki ta breath my connection to my experience design from surroundings and my eons ago by reading it in mood play a really big part books or visiting museums. in what I create. I will always That is the beauty of art and read the brief first over a couple of design. You don’t have to be in a times and have interaction with my client specific era to experience it. I would love to try and vibe off their mood. to travel the world and experience it in the Which designers do you admire and flesh, though. draw influence from?

What advice would you give to someone I absolutely adore Jasmine Dowling and the who is considering taking up design as team from Blacklist studios. their chosen profession?

I also love Frida Kahlo - who was Don’t go to a private college and create a unequivocally fierce and an empowering massive debt for yourself. Honestly, if I could woman. do this over, I would teach myself. An arts What, in your opinion, is good design? degree is a very expensive piece of paper. I I love simplicity over chaos; however, I believe you know design, or you don’t. At the love most kinds of design. I appreciate the end of the day if you have a happy client, then

“

you know what you are doing; you don’t need an arts degree to tell you that.

What have been some of the favourite works you have created?

A lot of my work has been experimental and using different methods; most of the time it’s what I didn’t mean to do that becomes what I love.

A couple of years ago I started using watercolour and inks - I made a range of feather prints, and to this day they are still one of my favourites.

What are your plans for the future?

I have been accepted into SCU to study becoming a primary/secondary school teacher.

I will continue freelancing and designing under Wood and Arrow Studios; I love design, and I will continue to create.

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

I have a website: www.woodandarrow.com for people who are wanting to contact me about my work or custom artworks. You can also find my work in Wrecked Vintage on Harbour Drive. Sophie, the owner, has been a genuine supporter of my work since she opened her doors.

Wood & Arrow Studios www.woodandarrow.com Thanks Kate.

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focusinterview.

SUPPORTING YOUTH OF THE AREA TO FIND THEIR WAY IN LIFE IS WHAT THE TEAM AT MOMENTUM YOUTH HOUSING SERVICE DO WITH PRIDE. FOCUS FOUND OUT HOW THE ORGANISATION HELPS ... AND WHY THE PROBLEM IS BIGGER THAN MOST REALISE.

W

hat does Momentum Youth Housing Service do?

We provide one to one support for young people who are experiencing particularly challenging personal circumstances - young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Our facilitators assist these young people to find and keep stable and safe accommodation, build skills for independent living and improve their health and wellbeing. We assist them to build positive relationships with their families and friends, work on their personal goals and overcome challenges such as drug and alcohol use and mental health issues.

We support young people to connect or reconnect with education and employment opportunities and to build positive relationships with landlords, real estate agents and government support services such as Centrelink.

We work with young people to build their skills and capacities for independent living, using a strengths-based, person-centered approach. We help young people by connecting them with supports and assisting them to find appropriate accommodation.

When was the organisation set up?

Momentum Youth Housing ("Momentum") started in 2015.

Who is it for?

Momentum offers housing support for young people aged 17 - 25 years. Our service is located in Coffs Harbour, but we help young people across the Coffs Harbour region, including Woolgoolga, Bellingen and Nambucca.

What are some of the services Momentum

8 coffs coast focus.

By assisting young people to address their n needs, accommodatio r te they have a grea pport, su ith w , ty ci capa sues is r he to address ot their g in ct pa that are im lives .”

“ can provide?

Momentum facilitators have excellent connections with other support services in the Coffs Harbour community. These connections mean we can successfully refer young people to other services for help. This can be anything from help getting white goods and furniture, to mental health support. We also work with local charities in the area for emergency food vouchers and support in paying arrears in gas and power through the EAPA scheme.

We offer programs that improve the living skills and self-esteem of our participants through the Groundworks Youth Centre.

One living skills program is the Rent It Keep It program, or RIKI. This program was developed by the Department of Family and Community Services as a concise “how to” guide for getting and maintaining private rental accommodation.

We deliver an adapted "youth friendly" version to young people from Momentum and other youth services in Coffs Harbour.

What type of situation would someone be in, when they could benefit from accessing this service?

Young people accessing our service are usually homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Reasons for this could include domestic and family violence, long term unemployment, family breakdown, mental health and substance abuse, young people leaving out of home care and a lack of suitable affordable housing for people on a low income.

In a lot of instances, homelessness is a large contributor to other issues, such as poor mental health, poor diet and substance abuse.

By assisting the young people to address their accommodation needs, they have a greater

capacity, with support, to address other issues that are impacting their lives.

How is the service funded?

Momentum is funded by the New South Wales Government: Department of Family and Community Services, to prevent and respond to youth homelessness.

Can you tell us about the transitional housing and how that works?

As part of Momentum we deliver a transitional housing program in partnership with Community Housing Limited. Through this program we house young people in subsidised rental accommodation and work intensively with them for up to 12 months. The young people build independent living and maintenance skills - anything from cooking and budgeting skills to mental health support.

Towards the end of the 12 month period we assist young people who are ready to move into stable and safe private rental accommodation.

They can do this successfully, because they have completed the RIKI course and have achieved a good rental ledger record and references - all excellent tools to be successful tenants.

Does the Coffs Coast have a very large number of youth who need support?

Yes, unfortunately the Coffs Coast does have a large number of young people needing tenancy and housing support. Last financial year Momentum supported 199 young people who were homeless or at risk of homelessness - this included 46 participants in our transitional

housing program.

The team at Momentum and the Groundworks Youth Centre work very hard with our participants to assist them when faced with barriers such as rising rental costs and a lack of affordable housing for low income families and individuals in the region.

What needs to be done by the wider community to help improve this situation?

Kindness and compassion from the community can really help to improve this situation. No one wants to be homeless - a whole range of issues can see someone wind up in a bad place. Recognition by the wider community that homelessness can be devastating for young people who find themselves in that situation will help. If someone in the community can identify that another person is struggling and ask them if they are okay and try to get them help, it can make a big difference. If help can be provided quickly, there is a better chance of turning things around and avoiding long term difficulties.

How do people contact the service?

The Momentum team can be contacted on 5632 4021, Monday to Friday, 9:00 - 5:00 or via email at alnorman@midcc.org.au Further information on Momentum and other services can be found on our website at: www.midcoastcommunities.org.au Thanks Al.

coffs coast focus. 9

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

February

COFFS COAST BWN

2

Coffs Coast BWN February Networking Breakfast Event - let’s kick off 2017! February networking events are one of the most popular on the BWN calendar; and this one is going to be FANTASTIC! Come ready to meet new people, reconnect with those you’ve already connected with AND BUILD THAT NETWORK! It can be a challenge to walk up to strangers or people that you don’t know very well and start talking about yourself and your business. When February 2 @ 6:45am 8:30am. Where Surf Club Restaurant, Surf Club Road.

Tickets www.bwn.org.au

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SYDNEY SWANS VS NORTH MELBOURNE KANGAROOS

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Coffs Harbour is lucky enough to see the first bounce of Sydney’s pre-season competition as the Sydney Swans play North Melbourne Kangaroos. When Sunday 19 February. Where C.ex Coffs International Stadium. Time Kick off at 2:05pm.

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VALENTINE’S DAY

Spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day. The Greenhouse Tavern is offering a complimentary bottle of wine or sparkling wine to help enjoy your special occasion. Why not celebrate your special someone by taking them out for a nice dinner to remember! When 14th February. Where Greenhouse Tavern, Coffs Harbour. Book now Simply book in before Sunday 6th to take advantage of this offer. Conditions apply. Contact the Greenhouse Tavern on 6651 5488.

BLUSH MAKEUP & BEAUTY 10 YEAR BIRTHDAY PARTY

All ticket proceeds will be donated to Pink Silks Trust.

When Saturday 25th February. Where The Pier Hotel.

Time 6:30 onwards. Dress Black and White with a touch of Pink.

Live Band Quick Fix. Tickets $10, available from Blush Makeup & Beauty in the Mall. Lucky Door Prize valued at $500.

RÜFÜS NEWCASTLE PERMANENT’S CINEMA UNDER THE STARS Returning for another stellar season to the Coffs Harbour Showgrounds. The free event kicks off at 5:30pm with a fantastic lineup of family friendly entertainment and activities, before the blockbuster animation Zootopia screens at sundown.

When 4th February. Where Coffs Harbour Showground.

Cost Free.

10 coffs coast focus.

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Fresh off the back of their five ARIA 2016 nominations, several laps of the globe including headline festival appearances in Australia, RÜFÜS have today announced an expansive 13 date regional tour of Australia, The Full Bloom Tour. This summer RÜFÜS will be hitting the road, stopping for shows in regional destinations previously missed during their sold out Australian tour in May this year. When 19th February. Where Phillips Lane Street Festival. Tickets http://tickets.oztix.com.au/?Event=67783

26

ELECTRIK LEMONADE Electrik Lemonade are nine individuals united by the cosmic collective boogie. Playing rump funkin’ live shows that feature a repertoire of original energetic funk and hip-hop tunes, infused with blues, soul, hip-hop and electronic elements.

When Sunday 26th February. Where Hoey Moey. Cost FREE.

focusshort.

focusshort.

TAXIRIDE CUTTING THEIR TEETH ON THE STREETS OF MELBOURNE’S ECLECTIC MUSIC SCENE IN THE LATE ’90S WAS THE BEST APPRENTICESHIP FOR FOUR LOCAL MUSICIANS: DAN HALL, TIM WATSON, TIM WILD AND JASON SINGH.

G

etting together to write and record a couple of days a week, the four members honed their distinctive sound.

Upon hearing the band’s demos, Seymour Stein, the president of US label Sire Records, immediately signed the band. Stein’s previous signings included Madonna, Talking Heads and The Ramones. The enormous success of Taxiride is well documented. Very few bands can lay claim to have had the impact the four members had in Australia and internationally.

Double platinum number one albums, seven top 40 hit singles, including Get Set, Everywhere You Go, Creepin’ Up Slowly, How I Got This Way, Oh Yeah and an ARIA Award. Worldwide tours throughout the US, Europe, Japan, India, and

Australia, including the 24/7 nal Tina Turner Tour, culminating with two sold out shows at London’s Wembley Stadium. Now in 2015, the original line up is back together. The amazing harmonies, the guitars, the hit songs and the unique sound that was and still is Taxiride are all there in a live show that takes you on a journey to a time where music and songs had meaning and emotion.

the plug!

Catch Taxiride at the Hoey Moey.

Sunday 5th February.

Free show.

THE PLANTATION HOTEL BECOMES A VENUE FOR LIVE THEATRE FOR THREE NIGHTS IN FEBRUARY, WHEN SEACREST PRODUCTIONS INC. PRESENTS A R GURNEY’S DELIGHTFULLY DOGGY PLAY, SYLVIA.

O

pening night on Thursday, February 2 will commence with a cocktail hour at 6pm. Patrons can get into a New York state of mind, while enjoying some of the Big Apple’s favourite cocktails, and then be seated to enjoy the fun of this crazy comedy, set in New York.

Heart strings will be tugged and hysterical laughter ensue as Greg (Michael Smith) attempts to resolve his mid life crisis with a stray dog he meets in the park. Sylvia, the dog (Rory Banwell) is

introduced to Greg’s wife, Kate (Amanda Scott), who does not share his enthusiasm, and thus begins a battle of the breeds. Three more characters (played by Billy White), interact in frenzied fashion to present this dedication to the delights of dog ownership. Directed by Peter Nunn, this is an event to mark on your calendar now! If you’ve ever loved a dog, this play is a “must see”. Cat owners, be prepared to be converted!

Audiences in Bellingen and Woolgoolga will also have the opportunity to see this production.

coffs coast focus. 11

focusinterview.

NICK WARFIELD’S WORK MAKES USE OF MATERIALS THAT SOCIETY DEEMS TRASH OR RUBBISH. HIS CREATIONS ARE AMAZING AND ENGAGING! FOCUS VISITED NICK AT HIS STUDIO, TO FIND OUT MORE. ick, can you tell us about your connecin, until I went to my first sculpture class and took to it like a tion to the local area? duck to water.

I have been living in the BellWhat are you working on at the moment? ingen Shire for the past seven I have just recently returned from the Woodyears, spending three of ford Folk Festival, where I was commissioned the last years in Hungry to do a whole range of artwork installay m of One e th is Head. I chose to move to the country tions, including the installation of three as tr an m ; if you lie r ve ne from Newcastle to be more connected large scale bird sculptures for one of ls al eb ey then to the bush, community and the wildlife the venues within the festival. The birds can trust them , s or they and have the breathing space that the were constructed out of a lightweight they will say ye as k will say no. I thin t, country offers to make art. metal frame and clad with bumper bars tis I mature as an ar ake How did you become involved in sourced from local wreckers. The pieces m my eyeballs will the visual arts? went down really well and I am really better decisions.”

I’ve always been handy from a very excited about this new material, as it is young age, but for years struggled to find durable, has an amazing scope for colour an outlet. After school I was working in the and can suit outdoor crowded environments construction industry and was keen to study arlike public spaces and festivals. It’s also fun going chitecture at uni. At the last minute, I kinda backflipped big! and decided to enrol in a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the What are the themes contained in your work?

University of Newcastle. I was unsure what I would major Birds are the main theme in my work and I consider them my

“

12 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

“

THE BIGGEST PLEASURE I HAVE IS STARTING THE WEEK WITH A PILE OF WHAT IS DEEMED BY SOCIETY TO BE RUBBISH OR WASTE, AND

BY THE END OF THE WEEK HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED AND USED TO CREATE USUALLY A BIRD OR ANIMAL WITH ITS OWN LIFE FORCE, CHARACTER AND CHARM.”

muses in a lot of ways, as I feel a strong affinity and connection to them. The three types of birds (Fairy Wren, Kingfisher and Willy Wagtail) were chosen based on their relevance to the local environment where they were to be installed. Using the car parts as materials was inspired by a collaborative sculpture I built at the Northbank Community Gardens with a mate. My mate had worked as a panel beater for years and cottoned on to the huge waste of bumper bars and the potential opportunity in it.

How would you describe your style?

My style is in a fluid state of change and adaptation, but the underlying thread that is always there is the idea of renewal, This can be due to the history, function or design of the object. regeneration and resourcefulness. I like to try and adhere to the When I am commissioned by a particular someone to make an laws of nature in my process in a metaphorical way. Be artwork, I like to use objects that connect to that pertrue to the material, be true to the environment son. If they’re a plumber, I’ll use a pipe wrench or you are in, and be true to yourself. Starting a copper pipe, for example. piece starts very simple, with an idea that Any artists who inspire you? sparks the motivation to do it. I begin to I find that the people who inspire me collect materials that respond to that the most are in my community.

There is initial spark and build from there. I don’t What about a specific period of art? nothing have the end destination in my mind, so There is nothing more exciting than more exciting there is a lot of dancing around in the right now! !” than right now dark feeling it out.

Do you have any advice for aspiring One of my mantras is the eyeballs artists? never lie; if you can trust them, then they My advice would be do it; do it now, and will say yes or they will say no. I think as think about what you are doing later.

I mature as an artist, my eyeballs will make What is the favourite piece you have better decisions. Also, I think art is intrinsically created? linked with spirit, so it is important to imbue your work My favourite pieces are the works I do for friends with a spiritual core. and family that have no monetary value Where do you find inspiration? attached, but are a gift that I am lucky Family, friends, in my backyard, and out the front door. enough to be able to give.

Where do you find your materials?

Plans for the future?

The world is full of trash if you are looking. Opportunities I have a two year old are everywhere: op shops, tip shops, hard rubbish, backyards, daughter and another bub markets, salvage yards, smash repairers, kitchen cupboards due in April. My plan is to you name it. strike a balance between being Do you get a kick out of using discarded goods to create a professional artist and being a your works? good dad and husband.

The biggest pleasure I have is starting the week with a pile Where can people find out more of what is deemed by society to be rubbish or waste, and by about your art? the end of the week has been transformed and used to create Website is www.nickwarfield.com usually a bird or animal with its own life force, character and Facebook: Oxheart charm.

Instagram: @NickWarfield How do discarded goods’ shape and form inspire your I will be exhibiting at Urunga Sculpture in the creations?

Park at the end of January, and hope to exhibit Serendipity plays a huge role in the construction of one of my once again at Swell Sculpture Festival and sculptures. The right piece, if I am open to it, will find me. EyeWoodford Folk Festival at the end of the year. balls are usually found in this auspicious way. Also, using found Plus, I will be seeking out opportunities to objects in my sculpture I can have a lot of fun in playing with exhibit locally and in the city. objects that have particular associations or points of reference.

Thanks Nick.

“

coffs coast focus. 13

Homes Ensuring the elderly can stay in their

and communities for as long as possible,

...whilst keeping their independence and sense of self, is one of the priorities of the Living Care philosophy.

A ministry of Fresh Hope (Churches of Christ), the group have been providing aged care services in New South Wales since 1938.

Caring for the elderly is helped by experience and Living Care certainly has that.

Living Care Home Care Coffs Harbour can assist with personal care and shopping, house work, hairdressing, chaplaincy, meal preparation or supply, clinical care and telehealth.

“Living Care has a unique approach that can give fresh hope for the future, helping you keep a zest for life,” said Area Manager Jodeane Anderson. “Our respect of different interests, customs, beliefs and backgrounds for all people, means everybody is welcome. We do this with joy in our hearts, so you feel the joy of life.

When did you start in the business?

Living Care has been providing aged care services in NSW since 1938. In 1999, Living Care was allocated home care packages and started providing home care services to people living in the Coffs Harbour region soon after. Home care services not only help people to continue living in their own home, but support people to stay connected with family, friends and their local community.

What services do you offer?

Services that may be available: • Home modification • Lifestyle assistance ( personal care and shopping) • Housekeeping • Gardens and lawn maintenance • Chaplaincy (spiritual care) • Hairdressing at home • Technology (supply and teach how to use technology,

IPAD , Facebook, Skype etc.)

• Staying Connected (social groups, transport and participation in community events) • Nutrition and dietary information (meal preparation or supply) • Clinical care (nursing, allied health) • Telehealth options

What is your approach to your business and your clients?

Within a person’s own home we aim to support consumers who are empowered to make their own choices and decisions about their care. All care services are delivered with re-ablement philosophy and an approach that keeps the person as independent as possible.

What do you think makes your business unique?

Living Care has a unique approach that can give fresh hope for the future, helping you keep a zest for life. Our respect of different interests, customs, beliefs and backgrounds for all people, means everybody is welcome. We do this with joy in our hearts, so you feel the joy of life.

Living Care focuses on providing care that promotes physical, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing and supports individuals to stay connected with the community, friends and family.

Are there any products, services or specials you’d like to mention?

We offer complimentary in-home meetings to discuss your aged care requirements and inform you of what is available for private and Government subsidised care.

What do you love most about doing business in the coffs region?

We love working with the active older community that is part of the Coffs Harbour region. We count as a privilege to be able to support older Australians in this area and deliver our services with joy.

“

Within a person’s own home we aim to support consumers who are empowered to make their own choices and decisions about their care. All care services are delivered with re-ablement philosophy and an approach that keeps the person as independent as possible.

”

14 coffs coast focus.

Living Care Home Care Services Coffs Harbour Home Care Office 18 Sand Street, North Boambee Valley NSW 2450 www.livingcare.org.au | Phone (02) 6650 1107

L-R Daniel Thorneycroft & Michaela Pleasance (Photo by Ash Gersbach)

L-R Michaela Pleasance & Daniel Thorneycroft (Photo by Ash Gersbach)

NEXT LEVEL OF

BANKING O N

b

cu recognises that their customers want to engage with them increasingly via digital and online channels and have recently upgraded their mobile app, bcu Connect, to provide relevant, on the go banking functionality and features. bcu Connect makes day-to-day mobile banking more flexible and convenient and provides users with the tools and support required to take control of their finances, with enhanced self-service functionality. bcu Connect was designed and implemented by bcu’s local team based in their corporate head office in Coffs Harbour, which has recently been renovated and serves as their

T H E

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE USING THEIR SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS TO DO THEIR BANKING SHOWS NO SIGN OF SLOWING DOWN.

G O

main, professional hub. bcu Project Manager Michaela said, “It has been exciting to work on this project to help create a better mobile banking experience for our customers and highlights another way bcu continues to dedicate resources into improving our products and customer experience wherever possible.”

Daniel, bcu’s senior technical lead on the project, is a Coffs Coast local who has been with bcu for over six years and describes the new app as: “A fantastic addition to the services and products already available for bcu customers”. Daniel said, “We are really pleased with the new design and functionality.”

Some of the new and improved features and

functionality improvements customers can discover when using bcu Connect include: • Quick balance - allowing you to double tap on the home screen to quickly view the balance of your nominated account.

• PIN or pattern to log in - meaning you no longer have to enter your customer ID and password.

• Set and track savings goals - whether it be a deposit for a house, a new car or a holiday, you can set up your savings goal within the app, link it to your savings account and track your progress.

• Easy access to transfer money and pay bills - a transfer or payment can now be initiated

from the home screen or within the app.

• Full product and rates information on the home pages and an extensive collection of calculators, such as Borrowing Power, Stamp Duty, and even Income Tax - each designed to help you make the right financial decisions.

• Find bcu stores and ATMs - using the locator feature, quickly find the nearest bcu stores and ATMs. To help customers get the absolute most from bcu Connect, an online tutorial has been developed and is available to view at bcu.com.au/bcu-app .

With bcu Connect you can keep on top of your finances, no matter where life takes you!

Get going this summer with a bcu personal loan

from

8

.94%

Variable

9

Apply at bcu.com.au/personal-loans, in store or call 1300 228 228

.85%

Comparison Bananacoast Community Credit Union Ltd Australian Credit Licence Number 241077, trading as bcu. Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. The comparison rate is calculated on a secured loan of $30,000 payable monthly over 5 years. “WARNING:” This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges.

Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate.

coffs coast focus. 15

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coffs coast focus. 17

focusinterview.

Suzanne Maher is a driven and passionate businesswoman who likes to make a difference in the world.

FOCUS chatted to Suzanne, to find out what it takes to succeed and still maintain life balance and happiness.

C

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

To be honest, there wasn’t much of a connection. The Coffs Coast was a stop off between Sydney and the Gold Coast and beyond, a retirement hub, or the home of the Big Banana. Like many travellers, we paid it little heed. What a mistake that was. Then we met a friend in Sydney who was living in the Bellingen Valley, and we started coming up to for weekends. It didn’t take long for us to be hooked. I mean, what was there not to love!

Magnificent valleys and escapements. Crystal clear rivers, friendly people, stunning beaches and magnificent wild life. It’s close to perfect, and the synchronicity of the moment was indeed prophetic. When Daniel, my husband, and I met, we both said we wanted to live in the country. Something not too far from Sydney, not too "bush", a place that was creative and a place that promoted village life.

Bellingen ticked all the boxes for us.

You are the founder of a couple of great businesses that are based locally. Can we start with the publishing venture - tell us a bit about that?

We commenced Affirmations in Paddington in Sydney. I was madly designing greeting cards

18 coffs coast focus.

on our dining room table. Dan would then we opened an office in Auckland and now go out and try to sell them. At the time, we have five reps on the road over there selling to were waiting for a house to become available over 500 shops. in Bellingen. We wanted to rent first, to find What was the motivation behind starting the best place in the valley to live and work. the business?

We couldn’t afford an office, so we figured we Creativity is my thing. I am a calligrapher and needed a house that was an all-rounder. painter. I see the world in images and I’m a tad of a perfectionist who words. Indeed, my whole life loves great design and when has been finding words to it comes to where I live and fit into my creative ideas. en work, I’m happy to wait I have always been be s I have alway t ou for what’s right. We passionate about ab te passiona s, rm fo waited two years and design in all its its l design in al rior te in d an e then our friend, who forms, architecture ur ct archite , we are originally introduced us and interior design. design . My sister Forget e. m sa e th is to Bellingen, gave us My sister, we are s, in tw d dress his house. We moved twins, is the same. playing dolls an would ups. Carol and I as soon as could, just Forget playing dolls sign .” play interior de after our wedding. It and dress ups. Carol all sort of fell into place and I would play interior after that. I was designing in design. We both had a one of the world’s most creative focus on attention to detail environments.

- not that Mum or our teachers Daniel was on the road for two weeks out knew that. In fact, they would have of every month selling the products to shops thought we had no concentration span. all over the country. Suddenly I needed help Dad, who was a physicist, would just look with designs and Dan couldn’t be in the same at us and shake his head and smile. I love place at the same time, so we hired some sales transforming things. Making things look better. reps. We now have 12 reps selling to 1,500 Dan and I travelled around Australia and shops around Australia. About 10 years ago could not find decent greeting cards (in

“

1987). So, we decided to hand make some cards and send them home to friends and family, who said, "These are fantastic!

Why don’t you do this?"

We had a copy of A Guide for the Advanced Soul, a sweet little book with quotations on life, love and the universe. We thought greeting cards using these quotations could be a game changer. It didn’t quite change the game, but they sold really, well and gave us a starting point. We strive to improve everything we are doing and constantly learn from the past.

How important is it to pursue an ethical and environmentally sustainable business model?

We’ve always recycled. Always had a focus on improving the environment. Sustainability has always been our mantra. We are passionate about creating an ecologically sound business.

At our warehouse we recycle everything that comes in. All our power comes from renewable energy sources. We print on recycled paper using vegetable-based inks, shred all paper for packaging and use environmentally sound packing beads when we send your orders. Our office is powered by solar panels, reducing our carbon footprint outstandingly. And we are not stopping there. Each year brings new

focusinterview.

environmentally sustainable ideas that we are committed to integrating into our business model. Three months ago our office became Carbon Neutral.

What have been some of the hiccups you have had along the way?

• We lost a complete print run which was in storage at Dan’s sister's place in Sydney, where the landlord just dumped the contents of his garage in the tip.

• There was a spelling mistake in a book, so we had to dump the whole run (5,000 books).

That was hard to do; considering all the energy taken to make it, produce it, send it back to us and to discover the mistake was devastating.

But we made the call for excellence in our product.

You also own an amazing B&B called Cottonwood Farm; when did you set this up?

Cottonwood Cottage has been running now for three years.

What was the plan for it initially, and how has that changed?

We simply wanted to share our unique place with as many people as possible. It has turned into an award-winning guest experience and was awarded Top 10 romantic getaways in Australia 2016 - View Retreats.

We have so many plans still for Cottonwood

Farm. A sculpture park, a yoga and art retreat space, organic produce, another guest cottage.

In the eight years we have been there, the place has literally turned from an ugly duckling into a beautiful swan.

How important is social media to your ventures?

Social media plays an important role, but we don’t try to monetise it. Our strategy is to use all our social platforms to engage, rather than inform. Our vision, our mission, has always focused on inspiring people with positive, inspirational messages of Put a face on hope, love, respect and your brand understanding. and let your real To achieve all the personality take above, we use a tone about your stage in all your . and voice that matter. brand. Put a communications ” Make sure your brand is Speak the truth. face on your humanised. Be part of the brand and let conversations. Be real. People your real personality want authentic communication take stage in all your with brands. Maintain an authentic communications. Speak tone while posting and interacting with the truth. both your customers and potential ones. Take You have a very busy schedule the time to communicate directly with your with all the work that you do; followers as you establish your voice. Show what is the key to staying on top of it your personality. Maintain a voice that delights all? your consumers. Happy users will always talk When I moved to Bellingen, I thought life

“

would slow down, but if anything, it has got busier! A good busier. We have more purpose and vigour. We are more community orientated. Indeed, our lives have flourished in more ways than one.

I am now taking time off here and there to do something different (learning French, going to the beach). I went to the beach the other day and had lunch with a girlfriend and thought to myself, "Wow, it’s taken 30 years of toil, but it feels so good to be off work during the week". I love to swim and the beach and a walk to keep my mind focused.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

• The people who tell you your dreams are crazy and you should get a real job will still be stuck in the same place they are 10 years from

now. You don’t have to be, so keep pursuing your dreams and never give up.

• Your true friends are the ones who are there for you, who listen to you and who support you in healing. True friends empower you to grow.

• Your brain doesn’t fully develop until the age of 24. You’re going to make mistakes - a lot of them. Consider the possibility though, that your mistakes are lessons.

• Failing is winning. This might sound funny now, but believe me when I tell you that all your failures are laying out a path for you to succeed big-time. It’s better to fail before you make it and learn from those failures.

Remember, it’s not how many times you get knocked down that’s a problem; it’s not getting up that is the issue. Always get back up. Even if you lose everything, you can make it all back and then some. Life is full of surprises. Enjoy the ride.

Where can our readers find out more?

Cottonwood Cottage: Cottonwoodfarm.com.au Affirmations Publishing House: Affirmations.com.au I will be travelling later in the year to gather photographic images for products for the 2018 season.

Thanks Suzanne. coffs coast focus. 19

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Valentine’s Day Feature

FEBRUARY IS THE MONTH OF LOVE. WITH VALENTINE’S DAY RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, WE SPOKE TO LOVERS RENAE BOOTH AND MATT DONOVAN. IT TOOK MATT 10 YEARS TO PROPOSE TO RENAE!

H

ow did you guys meet?

Matt: Renae and I are both from Coffs Harbour, and we “dated” when we were 14 for a very short period, until I was “dropped” ha ha.

After both being married before, we found ourselves single in 2007 and ran into each other at

the Coffs Cup. This time around was a little different; Renae had six kids from her last marriage, and myself four. From that time on we have had a lot of ups and downs raising all our kids, as well as running two businesses, but plenty of laughs has seen us through.

What makes a good relationship between two people?

Renae: I think this means different things to different people; however for me, forming a trusting partnership is extremely important and requires time and work. A relationship between two people is where you will learn to negotiate and compromise in order to change, to build equal opportunities for each other. I also think having common interests is important. Matt and I love dining out at new restaurants and attend Crossfit weekly together, to keep active and healthy.

What advice would you give to your younger self about relationships?

Renae: I was always the girl who saw the glass half empty.

Matt is the guy who always sees the glass half full. If I could give my younger self advice, it would be to see more of the positives in life when challenging times arise. A happier outlook makes all the difference during times of stress.

You both have very busy work schedules. Do you set aside time to hang out together each week?

Matt: Having such a busy work schedule and crazy busy home life, it’s so important to try and keep a social life with friends and to try and go out for dinner together when we can. We absolutely love taking all the kids on holidays every year, but also ensure we plan time away from it all on our own. We schedule one day a week while the kids are at school to have off from work, where we go either stand up paddle boarding, to the beach, or just have a quiet picnic together.

Rumour has it that you are recently engaged; are you jetting off somewhere amazing for a honeymoon?

Renae: After taking him 10 years to propose, I jumped on him for a quick marriage ha ha.

We are marrying this March out of town, and it has been such a hectic time around Christmas to turn our thoughts into a celebration in less than four months, but lucky we have had the help of our children to make it happen.

At this stage our honeymoon is up in the air, but I’m sure I can come up with a few exotic places if push comes to shove.

Thanks guys.

coffs coast focus. 21

Valentine’s Day Feature

To o r m i n a H o t e l Come visit the Toormina Hotel.

Have you seen our new Bistro? With our passionate kitchen staff, they’ll cook you the meal you’ve been waiting for. Ribs, burgers, wings, steaks and seafood. A great place to dine with the family or enjoy a dinner for two with your partner.

What’s on at the Toormina Hotel.

Monday night is our pool competition, starting at 6:30pm. Tuesday

Have you seen our new Bistro? nate With our passio ’ll ey th f, af st n kitche l ea m cook you the g tin ai w en you’ ve be s, er rg bu , for. Ri bs d wings , steaks an seafood.”

“

night is Joker Poker cards drawn at 6:30pm and 7:30pm.

Wednesday night is our pool competition, starting at 6:30pm. Thursday we have trivia night. Do you know it all?

Mayhem commences at 6:30pm. Friday night we have Joker Poker, with cards being drawn at 6:30pm and 7:30pm.

Don’t forget we have our free courtesy bus running daily at 3pm, 5pm, 7pm and 9pm.

Our bus is on demand 5 - 9.30pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday! The best way to enjoy a drink; we drive for you!

Enjoy our newly renovated beer garden with music in the sunshine, with happy hours from Monday to Saturday. Book a booth with friends, play darts, or shoot some pool with numerous pool tables. Perfect for the whole family.

For Her

Love & Romance Gift Chocolate Bars Help spread the love with Vast Interior. Love and romance gift chocolate bars - who can ask for more! Join us to help spread the love by putting the romance back into Valentine’s Day - everyone loves getting a gift - especially when it’s great tasting Australian made chocolate! $9.99. Available from Vast Interior, Coffs Harbour.

For Him Uppercut Deluxe Gift Pack Inspired by the timeless style of the 1950s barbershop and its spiritual founder, Willy O’Shea, Uppercut Deluxe is an Australian-born brand, using the finest ingredients to deliver high quality male grooming products, without fancy embellishments.

Available from Edegrees, Park Beach Plaza.

22 coffs coast focus.

coffs coast focus. 23

Pan seared Duck breast with a hokkien noodle, wild mushroom & Asian green stirfry from horizons restaurant and bar.

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

24 coffs coast focus.

to seeing you.

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.

Chocolate Delice

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey the moey Welcomehoey to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Welcome thenewly Beachside Bistrokitchen. at the Hoey Moey withtoour renovated We Moey, newly renovated kitchen.

We are thewith onlyour hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct are theaccess. only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach Come and enjoy our beachside beach access.

Comebeer and garden, enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious hotel spacious alldrive weather open with plan bar, bistro, thru Beer bottleGarden, shop open planfacilities. bar, Bistro, Drive and TAB Havenew youKids’ triedRoom, our new Thru Bottleshop and TAB andisKeno facilities.

Gourmet Pizza range?

There a large selection

ed

e.

Pictured the Crispy Skinned Salmon to chooseis from and you can have thesewith eat grilled fennel salad andinlemon vinaigrette. in or takeaway.

Come and check out our takeaway specials or phone ahead pick-up.

Feeling extra hungry?

Then try our for NEW If a pizza is not what you are after our SUPERSIZE deal on our FAMOUS $7.50FAMOUS Feeds. $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily.

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

Y

g

mr. good beans horizons restaurant & product: bara finely We pride ourselves on bringing a personalised service and

flooded gums restaurant The spring menu at the Flooded Gums is in full flow. In the warmer months, there is no better place to be, as when the sun goes down, the Flooded Gums restaurant at Bonville Golf Resort is transformed into an intimate fine dining experience - the best Coffs Harbour has to offer.

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

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

tuned espresso coffee just how theDAY customer likes it, gourmet café food BOOK NOW FOR VALENTINE’S made our fromspecial scratch3 in house, and aand friendly, experience to all Enjoy course menu a glasscomfortable of champagne.

Just $65 per who walk through the café door. person.

Executive Chef: Darren Ryan.

Head Head Chef Chef David Ricketts.

Gus Prezioso.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 3833- Thurs www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 6652 days. Mon & Sun:12pm

- 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 7 days. Mon-Thurs & Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.

12pm-2:30pm; 5:30-8:30pm.

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

Try the mouth-watering chicken salad this spring,Why not stay the night -Mediterranean special ocean grilled view room packages available made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives à la carte bookings also available for Valentine’s Day. and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing.

Try Our New Dinner Menu Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring After the craziness of the school holidays, Horizons Restaurant and Bar is light, yet very satisfying. back to normal with its new à la carte menu featuring modern Australian Follow usThe oncreative Instagram and takes find our page @MrGoodBeans cuisine. menu fullFacebook advantage of the region’s freshest produce and seafood.

Head Chef Kristy ClintonDeveson.

Hunter Head Chef.

Bookings preferred.

Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach 6656 4511 Resort, www.mrgoodbeans.com.au Opal Cove Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm

andBreakfast, Sundays 8am 3pmdinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended. lunch– and coffs coast focus.

Seasalt fish and chips

33

Seasalt fish and chips, where some say you can “fine dine from a cardboard box“.

We pride ourselves on ”good old fashioned fish and chips“ with a healthy twist .

Fresh fish, salads, seafood, burgers and wraps, all with a fresh attitude to today’s tastes.

We source only the best fresh fish from our local seafood supplier “Hux Seafood“, straight from the trawlers to our front door, then cooked to your liking - either grilled with sea salt and cracked pepper, fried in a light, crisp beer batter, or tossed in K’pane organic sourdough breadcrumbs.

SURFST STCAFÉ CAFÉEmerald EmeraldBeaCH BeaCH SURF

Surf St Café hasthan new15 owners!

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

Chefs Kim and Sam invite you to come and meet the team and enjoy our pristineatviews and Beach locally with sourced We views are less minutes’ Located Emerald oneproduce. of the best onthan the 15 coast, drivethe from Coffs on whales the newwhile highway.

You can watch the surf roll in check surf and Harbour watch the you enjoy breakfast or lunch you enjoy some fresh seafood or even a relaxing Toby’s Estate coffee, onwhile the deck. prepared by our baristas.

Inside it’s cosy at night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to are open from 7am for coffee and 7:30am for brekkie, which is now beWe outside. available all day, as well as our sensational lunch menu from 12pm.

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

Our evening menu boasts a range of fresh, local seafood, as well as a range Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert of other culinary treats. $10, and the menu changes every week.

We are also cater to a range of functions, so give us a call and we can Taking bookings now for your Christmas party! organise the perfect party or corporate event.

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au www.surfstreet.com.au Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch. Thursday to Saturday for Wednesday - Sunday for breakfast & lunch dinner. -Hours extended during summer.

Thursday Saturday for dinner.

HeadChef Chef Head SamAllinson.

Allinson.

Sam

Shop 14 Jetty Village, Harbour Drive 6696 3223 29 1st Avenue, Sawtell 6658 9199 Open every day.

11am - 7:30pm. coffs coast focus. 25

Spinifex Restaurant 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! 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!

of The Head Chef Brendan Crawford.

• p-ink •

On the bar at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip sits this lovely little summer gin beauty, “P-ink”. With its delicate blend of North Coast NSW’s “Ink” gin, fresh lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, orange bitters and fresh raspberry syrup, it’s the perfect sip to chill out and relax on a warm summer evening!

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

Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

Palate & Ply “Palate & Ply’s” lunch menu is our pulled confit duck salad with baby rocket, orange segments, shaved fennel and beetroot.

Finished with a French style lentil vinaigrette and crushed roasted hazelnuts.

Enjoy this exciting new offering from a chilled out lounge corner, larger format tables or our 12 seat private boardroom table for your next lunch meeting in style!

With our complimentary 100/40 hi-speed Wi-Fi internet and fast, friendly service making “Palate & Ply” perfect for your business meeting, or just a quick bite to eat.

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.

Head Chef Matt Knight.

37 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour Wholesale HQ enquiries 0476 131 311 Palate & Ply Espresso Bar 0434 700 910 Monday to Friday, 6:30 - 4:30pm.

Saturday 6:30 - 2pm.

26 coffs coast focus.

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

A LIGHT AND CRISP WHITE WINE, VILLARD BLANC 2016 IS ENJOYABLE FOR ANY OCCASION. GROWN AND SOLD AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED TWO TAILS WINERY AT NANA GLEN; THIS WINE EXHIBITS FINESSE. Villard Blanc is an exceptional variety. A French born Villard Seyval hybrid known as Villard Blanc, it is a variety well suited to the humid coastal climate at the Nana Glen vineyard. Displaying a delicate and lightly fruity style; it is easy drinking, crisp, and refreshing.

CHARACTERISTICS This wine presents a pale straw colour with soft citrus and melon aromas with an elegant bouquet.

Crisp and light on the palate, with a hint of green apple, citrus and a touch of cut grass. Finishing with a lingering and fresh after taste.

GOES WITH: White meats: chicken, pork and turkey. Seafood: grilled prawns, snapper, mussels, crab and lobster. Fresh and soft cheeses love crisp whites, so enjoy with chèvre, feta, halloumi, brie or camembert.

with Madonna Bannerman from Two Tails Winery

VILLARD BLANC 2016

COST $20.

AVAILABLE Two Tails Winery cellar door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen.

PHONE 6654 3633.

OPEN Tuesday to Sunday: 10:30am to 4:30pm.

Call in at the winery and experience our friendly customer service and taste our unique varieties of white and red, sparkling and fortified wines. Stay awhile and enjoy our delicious cheese platters and relax overlooking the vineyard. You’ll be back for more!

LIVE MUSIC

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays

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With Hugh Crowley from Bello Food Box

WH

AT ’ S I N

MANGO Mangoes mean summer fun is here, and by the look of things we are in for an abundant summer fruit season.

Outstanding early fruit quality, combined with a dry spring season, has enabled a lot of fruit to set really well, with all signs pointing towards one of the best seasons of quality affordable mangoes we’ve seen in a years! Delicious, healthy and a true Aussie favourite, mangoes are high in fibre, energy and packed with beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Mangoes, despite being sweet and notoriously yummy, have a very low GI, ensuring that all the good carbohydrates are slowly absorbed into the body, which maintains healthy blood sugar levels and ultimately keeps you nourished longer throughout the upcoming hotter days.

An early season go-to variety, the Kensington Pride or KP, has an amazingly strong aroma, golden flesh and sweet, tangy almost citric flavour - a real classic that’s hard to beat on a summer morning after a swim. An astounding variety of different mangoes thrive throughout the summer months, all with subtle differences, so mix it up and find your favourites.

WHERE

Enjoy delicious meals and the freshest fish in town!

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

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

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WHEN STARTING A COURSE AND WORK IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, YOU MAY NEVER THINK YOUR CREATIONS WILL BE CRITIQUED BY SOME OF THE BEST RESTAURATEURS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE.

F

or former Coffs Harbour TAFE commercial cookery student Beau Clugston, this is now classified as the “norm”.

Hailing from Sawtell, Beau dreamed of the opportunity to work in a profession where he could surf the breaks of the Coffs Coast but still earn an income to support the North Coast lifestyle. “I wanted to work at night, so I could surf in the mornings,” Beau says.

Before recently opening his own restaurant in Paris, Beau had been meticulously working away and honing in on his cookery skills all over the world. After working with the likes of Gordon Ramsay for several years in London, Beau was blown away by the flavours and produce he experienced after dining at one of the best restaurants in the world - Noma in Copenhagen.

“To go from Gordon Ramsay in London, where I used lots of fats, butter and a more heavy approach to cooking, at Noma (in Copenhagen), I could use lots of vegetables and was able to split sauces without fats …It was something I had never experienced before.”

Beau’s experience at Noma and his persistence to find out more eventually landed him a job in their test kitchen.

“I turned up at the back door every day for a week, until Rene (Redzepi) got sick of me and said, ‘Come in for a trial’.”

Working in the research and development team at Noma allowed Beau to “create a new alphabet” with food.

“I really developed my power and started to look at food in a different light. When cooking at Noma, you’re cooking without reference. You’re reaching for

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cook to my own standards now, not someone else’s. It’s new flavours and it means more to people; it’s done something to you … It’s touched you.” scary, because you have no limit.”

After the opportunity to work alongside Rene Redzepi, Beau often thinks about his hometown of Sawtell Beau got itchy feet and jumped at the opportunity to and lauds the produce on offer across not only the Coffs open a restaurant in the classy, fashionable and Coast, but the wider North Coast of NSW. hip 11th arondissement of Paris; Le 6 Paul “I travelled all of Australia on the Bert.

Noma trips, and we were in Dorrigo “A big reason why I ended up to look at the pepper, in the here (in Paris) was to work with I TU R N ED U P Byron Bay hinterland to look at the array of produce and be able AT TH E BACK the finger limes …There’s an AY to cook in the mecca of cuisine.

D O O R EV ERY D TI L incredible micro-climate in Coffs N FO R A W EE K , U OT You hear about the Michelin Harbour and the surrounding G ) PI ZE R EN E (R ED guide and the Top 50; a lot of D areas. The more time I spend in N A E M F SI CK O those things are in Europe. We’re R FO IN E Australia, the more I realise the M O ‘C , SA ID in the dead of winter and still amazing produce that is there.”

TR IA L’.”

A have access to incredible citrus, Beau hopes to one day flowers and tomatoes … The variety return home and open his own is amazing here.” establishment in Sawtell.

Working with ingredients that can be “I think about it a lot. I think about the enjoyed as bar snacks, a multi course menu or incredible products available in Coffs Harbour. I as à la carte, Beau tests various produce to create think about the café culture … There’s no real café amazing dishes for people interested in exploring an culture in Paris; we have more of a restaurant culture. array of different food pairings.

It’s hard to meet up with friends here and get a good One of his creations includes fish, bergamot, sudachi breakfast.

It’s my dream to one day come home and open (Japanese citrus fruit) and red peppers, paired with oil up my own café in Sawtell.” made from peppercorns and rose petals.

Anyone interested in a commercial cookery course at “They have a luxurious texture, and the brightness TAFE is encouraged to visit www.northcoasttafe.edu.au with the heat of the oil gives (the peppers) layers and If you are travelling to France in the near future, Beau complexity.” encourages people to visit his restaurant in Paris - Le 6 When asked about the future of his restaurant, he was Paul Bert. excited but also outlined the potential as being “scary”.

You can find out more at www.le6paulbert.com “It will be challenging, but I’m excited because I can

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Barista classes now enrolling Dark Arts Coffee Academy is now taking enrolments for barista classes, currently running on the first Saturday of every month. Classes run from 8am to 1pm and include breakfast. This class is suitable for beginners looking to get into the hospitality industry through to working baristas wanting to improve their coffee making skills and knowledge. Classes are $195, including breakfast.

A generous discount is available to job placement agencies.

Course Content: - Introduction to working in the hospitality industry.

- Overview of coffee making equipment and terminology.

- Understanding the principals of coffee extraction.

- Dosing, tamping, setting and adjusting the grinder.

- Coffee extraction techniques and practice.

- Understanding the principles of milk texturing.

- Milk texturing techniques and practice.

- Overview of different styles of coffee.

- Techniques to assist when working in a busy environment.

BOOKINGS Bookings are made through Dark Arts Coffee Academy in store or by calling 0401 942 143.

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Luke

Junita

Pankhurst AN O CE

STREET DINE

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Luke and Junita Pankhurst followed the well beaten path

of escaping the Mid North Coast in their youth to travel and work in the big smoke. They have recently

returned to raise their young family and to fulfil a lifelong dream of running their own seaside diner. FOCUS sat down with them to find out why people, like themselves, are drawn back to the area.

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hat is your connection to the local area?

We both grew up here and went to school in the area.

(Junita): My parents live at Grassy Head.

(Luke): My dad was a teacher at Macksville High School.

You both recently returned to live here; where were you previously?

We have both travelled since leaving, but Sydney is where we have spent the majority of the last 18 years.

What is it about the area that enticed you back?

When we found out we were going to have our first son (Arlo) in 2012, living in the city didn’t seem as appealing. We both thought what a beautiful place the Mid North Coast was growing up as kids here ourselves.

How long have you been operating the Ocean Street Diner?

Our doors opened in July 2015, after a month of renovations and the birth of our second son (Freddie Valentine). Obviously we were and still are a bit crazy!

However, we saw it as a great opportunity to fulfil a dream we had both always talked about.

30 coffs coast focus.

Do you have a background in hospitality and food?

(Junita): I have been in the industry since my early 20s. Also, in my childhood home life there was always a focus on homegrown quality food. (Luke): I have been eating and exploring food my whole life! hahaha.

When you decided to set it up, you had a fairly clear idea of what you both wanted to do. Can you tell us briefly about that journey?

In our time travelling we have witnessed the evolution of modern food trends and the development of the industry from more than just a “trade” or “job”, but somewhere you can have fun and be creative. We loved the idea of supporting local producers while bringing our style and a unique atmosphere to the table. It also gave us a space to display our many nick-nacks, trinkets and ornaments.

Growing up around here, there was always the missing ingredient of great places to eat or decent coffee; was this gap something that you could see that needed to be filled?

There are many amazing people and places; we just wanted to contribute to the growth and vitality of the area. If there was a gap, hopefully we are helping fill it!

Scotts Head and the surrounding area is

ea We loved the id g of supportin producers while l ca lo e and bringing our styl ere ph os m at ue a uniq to the table.”

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awesome; it seems to be becoming more popular with people building houses and the younger generation returning. How have had you seen it change?

Obviously it has grown and developed over the last 20 years, and the chance to create a sustainable lifestyle and business has improved. Younger people are choosing to stay in the area, as more opportunities become available to them (there still needs to be more).

What’s the best part of living in the area?

Anyone who lives on the M.N.C. could answer this - beautiful beaches and bush, great weather and people. Overall, an amazing canvas for adventure.

There is a trend to use local produce and seasonal foods in cafés and restaurants. Is that something that you actively pursue?

Absolutely. It feels great to support local producers and artisans. The less food has to travel, the fresher it is. It just makes sense to use local seasonal produce wherever possible.

What are some of the unique qualities about the diner that people comment on?

The quality of food, of course! Ha ha.

For travellers, the unexpected discovery of something a little “off beat” in a sleepy coastal

town like Scotts Head.

Working with people like Clayton Donovan doing a pop up event, is this something that we will see more of in the future?

Sure, if the opportunity presents itself.

We are always keen to learn and share the adventure with others. Clayton has been in the industry for 25 years and has worked all over Australia and the world. We are incredibly lucky to be able to work with him on this “pop up” restaurant weekend and to learn about local native foods that are right on our doorstep. It is also a great way to keep inspired and try something different.

What are your plans for the future of the diner?

Having a young family always keeps you on your toes, and life is unpredictable. Who knows what the future holds, and where the journey will take us! We are still learning every day.

Where can people find out more?

The usual social media outlets: Facebook, Instagram, oceanstreetdiner.com Or, the best way is come in and say hello!

We are always looking for enthusiastic staff.

Thanks Luke and Junita.

Beatles festival port macquarie is back in 2017 Lindsay’s Oyster barn 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

PIANO BAR Every Friday night from 8:30pm, The Greenhouse Tavern will present Mick Buckley playing on the baby grand piano in the Rainforest Bar. The multi talented Mick Buckley (Bucko) first found fame as the rockin’ drummer for the Radiators, but then returned to his childhood roots and reinvented himself as a swingin’, honky tonk piano man and successfully conquered the U.S., touring, writing and recording and playing residencies in places like Bourbon St., New Orleans, Nashville, Tennessee and capping it off by firing up for Smokey Robinson at the Common Ground Music Festival in Lansing, Michigan.

After touring the USA, Mick returned home to Australia and called on some old mates from Noiseworks, The Radiators, Ted Mulry, The Buddy Holly Show and The Patsy Cline Show to form The Yeehaa Boys. Mick has since moved on to continue with what he loves to do best - his piano show and writing songs.

Catch Mick every Friday night at The Greenhouse on the baby grand. $9 cocktails and pizzas from 9pm.

Contact the Greenhouse Tavern on 6651 5488.

Cnr. Pacific Hwy and Bray St, Coffs Harbour.

The Port Macquarie Beatles Festival is back in 2017, 9 to 12 February. This year’s special guests are Beatle Magic, who have been honing their musical skills and “authentic” sound on the high seas and around Australia for many years.

Beatle Magic were even asked by the Cavern Club (yes, the one in Liverpool, England) to contribute to the 50th Anniversary Celebration video of From me to you which was originally released on 11 April 1963 in the UK. There will be plenty of opportunity over the weekend to experience the ever popular sound of the Beatles performed by Beatle Magic and many local groups and artists. The challenge will be NOT tapping your foot when the music is playing.

Events include the Beatles Brain Bending Trivia Night at Bago Tavern, Fab Beatles Champagne Breakfast at the beautiful Roses Vineyard, free concert in the Forecourt of the Glasshouse, music and dancing at Laurieton United Services Club and Port Macquarie Panthers (including some Rock ’n’ Roll), and two days of markets and car shows plus free entertainment.

This year’s car shows include the themes Beetlemania and British Invasion, as well as the spectacular classics of yesteryear.

Car and motorcycle enthusiasts are welcome to bring along their own “pride and joy”, and should email the organisers at info@portmacquariebeatlesfestival.com or contact Chris on 0411 591 520 to ensure a space is reserved to display their vehicle. Prizes will be given for best in show. www.portmacquariebeatlesfestival.com

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Diesel H

i Mark. You’re playing A Day On the Green, which is a much loved festival. Why do you like playing them, and why do you think the brand is so successful?

Well, I think the formula of finding great locations is a recipe for success; they’re pretty careful about the acts they put together ...

I’ve never seen one that I thought was a jumbo gumbo line up. The combination of well curated bills and the location just make it a really good experience and as an artist, it always feel really good driving up and turning up to work at those places. I can only wonder why people haven’t in the past, with all the wineries that have always existed - and noone has really thought of doing it.

It’s been 30 years sine you started Johnny Diesel and the Injectors in Perth. If you could talk to that young guy back then, what advice would you give him …

Yeah, 30 years this year since we kicked off what we were basically doing as a hobby at that point. It was a hobby band, because we all came from other bands. I’d tell him to hang in there - something’s coming down the pipe …

Take us back to 1986; what were you playing for, and what was your goal?

I’d been in another band with the guys I was playing with at the time; it was called the

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ARMIDALE

T H I S Y E A R’S A DAY O N T H E G R E E N F E AT U R E S A ST E L L A R B I L L H E A D L I N E D BY J I M M Y BA R N E S A N D S H OWCA S I N G S E V E R A L OT H E R L E G E N DA RY P E R F O R M E R S. F O C U S CAU G H T UP WITH DIESEL, IN THE LEAD U P TO T H E E V E N T…

I was going to say anything to that guy back Innocent Bystanders. I was not the singer in then (Mark), don’t worry about playing to two that band, but we’d achieved some success as people on a Wednesday night, which is pretty an original band in a town heavily dominated much what we were doing there for a while. by cover bands. We made it across the We had this little residency, this little back Nullabor to work with some great producers: stage bar at the back of a night club, Peter Walker and Charles Fischer. We which was a huge night club that produced a couple of singles, had pumping big DJs. The one made it to number one stage we played on I think on the Indy charts, but was like a little trapment it just wasn’t meant to en be ly al I’ve re n area that people came be. The singer actually ig re ee fr n ve gi ted an w to when they got lost at fired me for playing e I’v re he w over er; that’s re the toilets; they would too loud! ca y m ke ta to I s. es gu I g, find this other bar. So, He was actually a good thin ul ef at gr ly ite essentially we were the doing me a favour; I am defin …” at band that played in the met him through the for th catchment areas when Sunday paper - I was people got lost on their 14 and he was 21 - so way to find the toilets! ... he kind of mentored me. I Over the years, you’ve gone think it was his way of going through many phases of playing “Go out on your own now”, and with bands and also on your own. that’s what I did! The very next day I had It seems like you’re at that stage now members of the band calling me, wanting where you’re pretty happy flying solo… to form a band with me. I didn’t expect Very much so. I’ve pretty much been left that - I really didn’t. to my own devices - I’ve only got myself to So, we put this band together - it had no blame, that’s for sure. name, and it ended up being named after the I’ve never been subjected to someone bass player from a joke that someone said. His going, “You’re going to have to do it this way name’s John Dalzell, so the name didn’t come or the highway”; I’ve never come across that. from me at all - it was just one of those funny I’ve come across some pretty strong-minded things we thought we’d put in the paper to people in the industry for sure, but no one humour ourselves, humour John the bass has ever given me the ultimatum to do what player - then I got stuck with it! So I guess if

“

they want, or I’ll never work in the industry again or something. I’ve really been given free reign over where I’ve wanted to take my career; that’s a good thing, I guess. I am definitely grateful for that - I’ve heard some horror stories from other people …

Americana the tour is going well, and the album has been a success. Are you going to be doing any new writing any time soon, or sticking with this one for now?

I’ll probably tour this one for a while. I haven’t been to Tasmania or Alice Springs, North Queensland, places like that, which I generally try to ... well, not Tasmania, but I keep those northern ones for the winter.

Tasmania is always cold, no matter what time of the year you go down there!

I am starting to work on a new record, which I had actually already started to do before I did Americana. It kind of went out the window when the idea of Americana came to me from my agent, whom I’ve been with for 28 years - it’s pretty amazing.

Thanks Mark.

the plug!

Jimmy Barnes, The Angels, Diesel, The Black Sorrows and The Badloves play Petersons Winery, Armidale, NSW. Saturday, March 4, 2017. www.adayonthegreen.com.au

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CH RI S TI NA MONNE RON

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WHITE MEN CAN’T JUMP...

BUT THEY CAN DANCE, AS OWEN GILLILAND HAS PROVEN AT A RECENT CUBAN DANCE EVENT. LEARNING HOW TO MOVE UNDER INSTRUCTION FROM LOCAL TEACHER CHRISTINA MONNERON, HIS TALENT AND PASSION FOR DANCING IS EVIDENT. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH THEM TO FIND OUT MORE. OWEN GIL L I L A ND

C

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

I grew up in the area. I have lived in different cities in the past few years, but each time I come back to the coast, I am reminded of how beautiful it is.

When did you become interested in Cuban dance?

About three years ago, a friend wanted to try to learn dancing. I went along to support her, and stayed on ever since.

How did you begin learning?

One foot in front of the other. As each class progressed, I found myself wanting to learn as much as I could to improve as fast as I could.

What do you love most; what keeps you going back for more?

Meeting cool people; learning more about the rhythm. Definitely the music - I love Cuban music.

Is it difficult to get the hang of?

A lot of dance teachers will tell you it’s just walking with attitude. It took me a long time to understand that, but it's true. I would say it’s different, but not difficult.

34 coffs coast focus.

As each class progressed , I anting d foun myself w h as I uc to learn as m e as ov pr im could to ” d. ul co I fast as

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Who has being teaching or instructing you in the ways of Cuban dance?

Christina Monneron.

She is amazing. I have learnt a lot and continue to learn and be inspired by her.

When you see native Cubans dance, are you blown away by how they move and how amazing they are?

Always. It is quite humbling every time I see them. I have a long path ahead of me, and I look forward to diving in and learning.

How long do dances go for; is it an all night event, or just a short after dinner exercise?

As long as music is on, there will be dancing.

Classes go for an hour, social events go for the night or the weekend. Once you start, you'll take whatever opportunity there is to dance.

Is it physically challenging; do you need to be fit?

I would say it makes you more aware of your body - to be comfortable with who you

are. The less tense you are, the freer you are to move.

You had a bit of success at a recent event. Can you tell us a bit about that?

Our team came third at the Sydney Rueda Championships.

It’s an event where truly incredible dancers and people come together to do workshops, learn more about the dances of Cuba and surrounding countries, and share their skills and showcase dances and choreography they have been learning. Awards were given out that night, and I was lucky to get one of the best male dancers. It was quite a shock, and again, quite humbling, as there are so many good dancers at these events.

I consider them my peers, and I continue to learn and be inspired by them.

What are your plans for the future?

For dancing, I plan to go to Cuba to experience the origins of the dance I love. I also look to learn more about the roots of Cuban Salsa, namely, the Afro-Cuban dances.

Thanks Owen.

hat is it about Owen that makes him a great student?

Owen is so open to learning new things and has totally connected to the roots of Cuban Salsa, so it’s been easy to teach him! He is also very analytical and technical and eager to breakdown the moves to gain a thorough understanding of the body’s connection to the rhythm.

Did he pick up the dancing quickly?

Yes, he picked up Salsa very quickly compared to most people - especially for the average Western man who was not brought up on dance! He was in his first Salsa performance with Kulturithmik only three months into his learning! That was at Utopian Dream Festival in 2013!

What makes a good student?

A good student to me is one who is fully open to the learning experience, who has emptied their cup of other learnings and is willing to take on new methodologies. You can be a total beginner dancer and “get it” after only a short time learning, like Owen, if you are open; or, you can be a more experienced dancer whose cup is already filled and you have no room for new teachings. I have been teaching Cuban dance for nearly 20 years, and yet I am still learning new things every year!

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of giving Cuban dance a go?

It’s as easy as walking with attititude - that has been my motto for years! You will also be transformed - rhythmically, physically and spiritually!

Where can people find out more about Cuban dance? www.facebook.com/kulturithmik/ is the Facebook page. kulturithmik@gmail.com for the email.

Thanks Christina.

Christina Monneron: I can’t speak highly enough of her. She is one of the greats in Cuban dance and culture.

Classes are Tuesday at the Bellingen Memorial Hall, 6:30 onwards, and Wednesday, Nambucca Heads, same time.

Coffs Harbour venue will be coming soon.

Coffs harbour Showground centre Entertainment for everyone Coming up at the Jetty Theatre there is a diverse range of shows in store for local and visiting audiences.

The stage spectacular Kings of Country Rock will be bringing the best of The Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival to Coffs on their Australian tour.

From the stage to the screen, Flickerfest, Australia’s most prolific travelling film festival, presents its 2017 program of the most captivating new short films in Australia and around the world.

HIT Productions, the producers of 2016’s Always Patsy Cline, present their 2017 touring show, Shirley Valentine. It is a wonderfully entertaining monologue by a 42-year-old Liverpool mother, whose self-esteem has been battered by school, marriage and life in general.

CHATS are bringing their innovative energy to the stage with a brand new production of Wyrd Sisters. Combine Terry Pratchett, Macbeth, and some wonderful local actors shining for local audiences.

For bookings and information, call the Jetty Memorial Theatre Box Office on (02) 6652 8088 or visit www.jettytheatre.com

Upcoming Shows Creedence Vs. The Eagles stage spectacular Show: Fri 3 Mar

LIVE MUSIC

Kings of Country Rock

Australia’s most prolific short film festival Show: Fri 10 - Sat 11 Mar

CINEMA

Flickerfest

HIT Productions present a new show about mid-life transformation

TOURING SHOW

Shirley Valentine

Show: Fri 17 – Sat 18 Mar

CHATS presents…

Wyrd Sisters

Terry Pratchett’s take on Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Show: Thu 16 Mar – Sun 26 Mar jettymemorialtheatre

@jettytheatre

COMMUNITY THEATRE

Pioneer Cottage The Pioneer Cottage is located 50 m from the Showground entrance, with plenty of shaded car parking and nearby facilities.

The Cottage is a single storey building and is an ideal venue for training groups and meetings of up to 15 people. The room features air conditioning, carpeted floors, kitchen sink, bar fridge, kettle, microwave, whiteboard, data projector screen, plenty of parking, undercover patio and has views of the main arena.

The room can be set up classroom, boardroom, theatre style, or however you like.

Arena Room The Arena Room is in a two storey building and has a great view over the main arena. The room is very popular with training groups, meetings and after school classes. The Arena Room accommodates 20 to 25 people, with ample parking. The room features air conditioning, carpeted floors, kitchen sink, bar fridge, kettle, microwave, whiteboard and data projector screen. The room can be set up classroom, boardroom, theatre style, or however you like.

Village Green The Village Green is located directly behind the Norm Jordan Pavilion and is close to amenities. With a length of over 100 m, this pristine grassed area is a much sought after outdoor venue.

Enchanted Garden The Enchanted Garden is set at the back of the grounds with surrounding trees and bushland - a perfect spot for your special occasion, with its own rustic outdoor charm and natural wooded surrounds.

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. 35

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Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Your Perfect Venue for your Perfect Day Surf Club Restaurant and Bar, inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, is in such a unique location - we call it our hidden bubble of paradise.

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ituated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Coffs Harbour, NSW, the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is on absolute beachfront. Overlooking the Solitary Islands Marine Park, and the beautiful Coffs Creek, Muttonbird Island lies just off in the distance. It’s surrounded by picturesque parklands, walkways, natural bush and secret photo spots.

The restaurant is personally run by Matt Donovan and Nicole Donovan, so the experience is authentic and heartfelt.

They have run their own venues in Coffs Harbour for over 16 years and have an excellent reputation and a wealth of local knowledge. Matt is Executive Chef, and Nicole is your Events Manager. There is a staff of 35, including three Head Chefs, a Restaurant Manager as well as numerous supervisors, most whom have been with

them for many years.

When you book, you have the entire venue for your exclusive use … yes, all of it! Two huge beachside balconies, Two huge one totally enclosed, one beachside tally open, and both capturing on balc ies, one to , en op e captivating sea views and enclosed , on you are welcome g in ur pt ca the crisp ocean breezes. and both to add your own s view There is a large main captivating sea special touches n ea dining area, the club bar and the crisp oc if you so wish. breeze .” and the parquetry dance Sharon has been floor. There is no one else working with Matt around, except the staff. It really and Nicole for over 10 is the most private of occasions, years, and her price point and what most guests remember is … is very reasonable. Decorating the intimacy and the closeness of holding is already included in the menu your own private party and special prices available in the Wedding Kit celebration! (email info@surfclubcoffsharbour.com).

The venue is decorated using local This includes bridal table, cake table, wall company Styled by Sharon, and of course, draping, chair covers, tables and fairy lights.

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There is a Head Chef dedicated to making your menu delectable, and an experienced supervisor to run the show and look after your every need. The bar is run by the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club and drinks are at club prices, with an extensive wine list available.

Surf Club Restaurant and Bar, inside the Coffs Harbour Life Saving Club, 23 Surf Club Rd, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. surfclubcoffsharbour.com (02) 6652 9870.

Photo by Mike & Amy Photography

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Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

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

C

an you tell us about where you’re from originally?

From Somalia, which is in East Africa.

What is Somalia like as a place?

Somalia is an amazing country with great buildings and scenery (Google it) that is full of wealth, with natural resources as well as oil.

Unfortunately, Civil War destroyed everything.

Right now, the country is growing and recovering at a rapid pace and is much safer.

How did you come to live in Coffs?

I moved from Melbourne in February last year to play basketball for the Brisbane Spartans in The South East Australian Basketball League, which is Australia's Premier

After school and weekends we played until

“

Winter Basketball develop ball handling, sunset. It was very League. Then I shooting, plus all the tough, and we had stayed in Brisbane ‘til other skills, and this a ‘no blood no foul’ rule. ” September last year helps with mental and moved to Coffs toughness. It's open to Harbour. all kids, and I train them I began working with pretty hard so they can better the Coffs Harbour Basketball themselves.

Association to try to help develop When did you start playing the hard working country kids and also basketball? run my own academy, called "Hard I started playing ball at 12 and learned Knockz Academy”, for the kids who pretty quickly - always asking questions and want to be beasts. training about eight hours a day, before What is your current role, and how are school at 5:30am, during school, after school, you helping kids learn more about the and then with my team. sport?

When did you realise that you had talent I run the Hard Knockz Academy to help and skills?

When I made my first rep team and I noticed I had speed and then skills that I learned playing on the streets of Heidelberg Heights against older people.

In Melbourne?

The streets of Heidelberg are in Melbourne, Victoria, where I learned to play ball, playing outdoors at the local primary school. After school and weekends we played until sunset.

It was very tough, and we had a “no blood no foul” rule.

What do you love most about the game?

I love the competition, the hard work which is fun to me and also crossing people up.

You spent time playing for Melbourne Tigers and Brisbane Spartans; can you tell us about those experiences?

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

12 coffs coast focus.

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

“

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 best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download...

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38 coffs coast focus.

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Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Two Tails Wines The new look Two Tail's Winery has had a complete makeover, making it one of the best wedding locations on the North Coast. FOCUS spoke with owner Madonna Bannerman, to find out more about what's in store for 2017.

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I had lived in Coffs Harbour for many years and wanted to come home to the Coffs Coast. After spending over 15 years in Sydney and then marrying Barry, who works on the Pacific Motorway construction and moving every few years, it was time to return to the area. Two Tails Wines was the perfect opportunity with us to fulfill our passion for a return to the Coffs Coast.

As soon as we saw the property, we fell in love with it and knew that the ideas we had would work really well.

We loved the small village atmosphere that Nana Glen offered, with the rural lifestyle we craved.

What’s new at Two Tails Wines?

We have recently finished renovating the cellar door, with the addition of our new deck and bar area. We are

also in the process of adding a Tapas Restaurant to the venue and are hoping to have this completed in the coming months.

Can you tell us about the wedding packages you have on offer?

Two Tails Winery has a number of options for all budgets, for outdoor ceremonies amongst the vines or in a garden setting. We have packages available from Bronze to Platinum.

Over the next few months we will also have our receptions packages available.

Can you book your reception at Two Tails, as well as the ceremony?

Yes. We will be offering receptions on site once the restaurant is completed. We are also putting in a marquee to hold weddings for up to 100 guests, as well as smaller receptions on our deck at the cellar door.

At Two Tails Winery we aim to create an amazing atmosphere that will be

remembered by you and your guests forever. To us, every wedding is unique, and we will work with you to design the best day possible - from a simple celebration to a lavish wedding day.

How do you go about booking?

Please contact the winery and speak with Madonna to discuss the options, available and special requirements, to ensure your day is spectacular.

Phone (02) 6654 3633 or email us: admin@twotailswines.com.au.

Do you have any advice for a new bride?

Remember that this is your day in a new chapter of your lives together, so make sure you spend time together on this day, as a lot of brides and grooms spend more time with the guests than each other. They often say after the event that, “I hardly saw my new bride/ groom on our wedding day”.

coffs coast focus. 39

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Bromeliads.

Adam and Jane Jones have a successful local business that most people wouldn’t be aware of. Supplying flowers and bromeliads from their farm to both the local market and to the cities, they have worked hard to build a loyal following of clients. FOCUS sat down with Adam and Jane at the end of a long, hot day to find out more about what they do.

H

i, can you tell us a bit about your connection to the local area?

We moved to beautiful Coffs Harbour after a three year stint in Far North QLD. We had relocated from the Tweed Coast to Mission Beach to focus on our tropical range. In 2011, Cyclone Yasi literally flattened our flower farm, so we turned tail and ran back to NSW! We came to Coffs Harbour due to the sub-tropical climate, proximity to Sydney and Brisbane, and the fantastic amenities that Coffs has to offer families.

What is it that you do?

We grow flowers, foliage and unusuals on our property in North Boambee Valley, which we sell directly to florists on the Coffs Coast, Clarence, Mid North Coast and New England regions.

We also sell to Sydney and Melbourne flower markets via our agents.

How did you become involved in this industry?

Adam always had a strong interest in landscaping and garden design. He studied at TAFE, three nights per week, to complete a Diploma of Horticulture, whilst still working as a veterinarian. We relocated to our 10 acre property on the Tweed Coast after I fell pregnant with our daughter, Annalise.

From there we started a very successful landscaping business in Casuarina - Kingscliff.

Adam was keen to utilise some of our 10 acres to grow bromeliads, which he then sold at the Sydney flowers markets. And the rest, as they 40 coffs coast focus.

say, is history.

10am Tuesday.

When is the busiest time of year?

However for weddings, we might have a These days, it’s every day! florist order weeks or months before hand, but Traditionally, Mother’s Day is our biggest we’ll pick those flowers 24 hours before the one off shipment. However, spring - summer is florist requires them. crazy with brides wanting their perfect flowers.

Brides that use our in season flowers are Early spring provides us the most diversity therefore assured that when their big day in flowers, with the spring bulb lines such as comes around, their flowers are the freshest ranunculus, freesias, chincherinchees and they can get, which makes for a delphiniums making an appeartruly spectacular wedding ance. day!

What types of flowers do It is a wholesale only d ha s you grow? business, is that ay Adam alw in st re te in We grow traditional correct? a strong en rd ga d an g flowers such as snapEssentially, yes. in landscap at d ie ud st e H dragon, stock, lisianthus, This is simply . design ts per gh ni e re th , freesia, ranunculus, because our “girls”, FE TA ea matricaria, dianthus, as we call them, week, to complet ulture , tic Diploma of Hor aster and hydrangea. We are our customers. ng as a ki or w ill st whilst also grow an abundance We rely on our local veterinarian .” of tropical types such as florists to showcase bromeliads, gingers, helicoour flowers to the nias and ornamental pineapples. general public. So the more We have a series of more unusual locals and tourists support our varieties and foliages too. Variety is the florists, the more flowers they buy spice of life, after all. from us!

Who do you sell these to?

We strive to supply our florists with the We sell directly to the majority of the wonfreshest, highest quality and widest variety derful florists on the Mid North Coast and over possible. the mountain.

How long has the business been running?

And the fact that we’re so close in locality We started Biggart Bromeliads in 2005, to our florists gives us the edge over a large adding traditionals when we realised there was wholesaler from Sydney or Brisbane. What a niche market here in Coffs that we could fill. makes us so unique is that our flowers are We’ve got massive plans for the next 5 - 10 picked on a Monday, kept in the cool room years, and are really excited to commence the overnight and on the florists’ doorsteps by next phase of our long term business plan.

“

This summer will see us constructing a hydroponic gerbera tunnelhouse, as well as another to extend plantings of our favourite flower lines.

Watch this space for further developments!

How many people do you employ?

We have our amazing full-time farm hand, Marty, and the gorgeous Ali, who is our flower power girl.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy the flexibility and not having to run out the door to clock on at a certain time! I’m home for the children before and after school, and we reap the benefits of all of our hard work.

Adam loves the challenge, as well as the satisfaction of selling something that he has grown and nutured.

What is your favourite flower and why?

I like sunflowers, because they’re really bright and cheerful, and from a business perspective, super easy to grow and a fast turnover.

Adam’s favourite flowers are freesias - bright, cheery colours and a beautiful fragrance, and stocks - because he likes to see just how big he can grow them!

In a world where we spend $5 on a cup of coffee or Coke, pay a visit to your local Coffs Coast florist shop, and find out what their favourite flowers are; you will be amazed what they have on offer.

Where can people find out more?

Contact us on 0409 522 126 or follow us on Facebook.

Thanks guys.

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

With Lauren Vestey from Living Doll.

Wear it up or down?

Meet Kelly Finley

It’s a big question: should you wear your hair up or down for your wedding day? It seems like it wouldn’t be so difficult to decide,

but something this simple has a big impact on your wedding day look, so it can be a tough decision.

M

yself and the stylists at through hurricanes - go for it! Wear it down Living Doll have done our and flowing. However, if you have anything like fair share of weddings, my hair, I’ll spend hours working on the perfect and we’ve seen it all curl-to-volume-to-wave ratio, only to have my when it comes to hair manicured locks barely last through cocktails, styles. And friends, I’ve formed an opinion on much less appetisers or dinner. I feel like my hair this. My friends always tell me that I need to knows exactly when I step out the door, and it share more of my opinions, so here it goes… begins a five-minute countdown to “blah”.

In my opinion, the most successful option is Also, if you’re at all nervous about frizzy to wear your hair UP on your wedding strands in the humidity, the breezy day. beach having its way with Your hairstyle needs to your locks, or curls falling last a long time at your re So, if you’re unsu flat, then find a gorgeous wedding - at LEAST six of how long your up do that will fit your llow my or eight hours - and hair will last , fo in n he personality and style. w b: it needs to be able um le of th

“ ru

e

. Th We’ve found over the to endure all kinds of doubt, wear it up ere th at th is s w ne od years that wearing your conditions. Think sweat, go tive are so many crea hair humidity, sun, breeze, hair up will last longer ur ways to wear yo and hugs from many, and stay intact through up these days .” many loved ones. The the celebration and doesn’t chances of your hair staying in have to be too rigid, stiff and beautiful shape when it’s down is formal looking. It can still be very much lower than when your hair is up. soft and at times not look like it has Now, I must say that this has a LOT to even been pinned up. We can work our do with your particular hair. I’ve had many magic for you. brides wear their hair down, and they’ve So, if you’re unsure of how long your hair will looked gorgeous until the epic last song. But last, follow my rule of thumb: when in doubt, those certain brides have a certain type of hair wear it up. The good news is that there are so that holds their shape extremely well. Most many creative ways to wear your hair up these of us girls know if our hair can hold curls or days. Come and have a chat with one of our volume for an extended period of time - and we also know when it can’t.

If you are one of those lucky girls who has that seriously GORGEOUS hair that can last

Premier Stylists at Living Doll for some ideas, and we can try a few different styles on you.

XO Dolls.

Kelly Finley is the owner of Flowers on First in Sawtell. She is by far one of the Coffs Coast’s leading experts in all things flowers.

FOCUS sat down with Kelly to find out more ...

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hat is your connection the creative process, without all of the pressure. to the Coffs Coast?

Wedding flowers are special, and a lot of time I grew up in Sydney, and consideration goes into them. but as a kid spent every What flowers are in season at the summer holiday that I moment? can remember at Coffs Harbour and each day In summer there is an abundance of at Sapphire Beach. My grandfather was the flowers: lissianthus, roses, gloriosa lily, silocia, Publican at Coffs Harbour Hotel, so we would hydrangea, chincherinchee, freesia, and so stay at the pub, right in town. Great memories many more. lots of sand and sunburn.

Where do you source your How long have you been a flowers from? florist?

We source flowers from ke I have been a florist Brides should ta Boambee, Bonville, e now for 14 years, nine of advantage of th Dorrigo, Eungai Creek, s er w flo l ca lo those being at Flowers ul beautif Macksville, as much t. ge on First, Sawtell. I that we can now t ar gg locally as possible, but Bi d an Hilliar Roses’ studied floristry in e ar s er w we do get some in from flo s’ Bromiliad Sydney through TAFE we d an , ne no to Brisbane to maintain second and then worked for a have to y ck lu ry ve our stock levels and are huge Sydney based florist, ffs Co ast.” them on the Co to be able to offer our where I was a member of customers a good variety the wedding team - it was of flowers. Being an Interflora a workroom environment, so Member, we are required to stock a we had no customers, just worked on wide variety of blooms. our flowers all day. It was hard work, but I Brides should take advantage of the learned so much in a short amount of time,

“

and I loved going out to the the venues around Sydney Harbour to set up the flowers.

beautiful local flowers that we can now get.

Do you specialise in weddings?

Yes, we do specialise in weddings, preferring to do only one or two each week to maintain the quality of flowers we produce. Taking on only one or two each week allows me to enjoy

are second to none, and we are very lucky to

Hilliar Roses’ and Biggart Bromiliads’ flowers have them on the Coffs Coast. Keep it simple, keep down your costs by supporting our local growers; the quality is wonderful.

Thanks Kelly. coffs coast focus. 41

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Your Perfect Wedding Venue Opal Cove Resort specialises in wedding ceremonies and receptions, making it the perfect venue for your special day. Let us make this day one you will remember forever. Say “I do� surrounded by nature, your family and friends.

At Opal Cove Resort, we offer exclusivity; we have only one ceremony per day, ensuring that you and your guests can relax and enjoy the facilities.

With an idyllic beachside location and fabulous views to the Solitary Islands, look no further than Opal Cove Resort Coffs Harbour. Capture the moment on your wedding day with a variety of ceremony locations, featuring amazing views of ocean, lagoon and garden backdrops.

Our picturesque and stylishly appointed reception venues make the perfect location to celebrate your special day. If natural lighting and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean are what you want, then Opals function room is ideal.

For larger weddings our ballroom will be sure to impress, featuring high ceilings, endless theming options, it can accommodate up to 300 guests, with plenty of room for dancing and entertainment.

A spectacular backdrop for photos and special memories is right here at Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour. Set in an idyllic location, with luxury accommodation options, exquisite cuisine and quality service from a professional team, you and your guests may never want to leave!

Our dedicated Wedding Coordinator will guide you in making the most important day of your life stress free and memorable.

Contact Chelsea today on (02) 66 510 510 or email weddings@ opalcove.com to tailor a wedding package just for you!

42 coffs coast focus.

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

La Beauté Du Monde Located in the Old Council Chambers at the top of the vibrant town of Bellingen, La Beauté du Monde Beauty Salon offers a wide range of services for brides, bridesmaids, mothers of the bride and hen’s beauty days.

Owned and operated by experienced therapist, Nadira since 2011, La Beauté du Monde offers luxury French skin care brand, PAYOT to deliver exceptional treatments, tailor-made to suit each skin condition.

Previously trained in Paris, Nadira is a wealth of beauty knowledge and loves working with brides leading up to their wedding. For glowing bridal skin, Nadira recommends a skincare program such as PAYOT Pure White Experience or Intense Collagen facial to ensure a hydrated, smooth, plump and flawless complexion. For optimum results, it is recommended that such

treatment be started six months prior to your big day.

In 2017, the salon has expanded into a brand new room in the Old Council Chambers to offer even more comfort and wellbeing during body treatments. La Beauté du Monde offers an extensive range of body scrubs and wraps tailored to each skin type to help reduce cellulite and firm the silhouette. Moreover, a full compliment of services from customised facial treatments, waxing, tinting, relaxing massage,Shellac manicures and pedicures are available in a beautiful, hygienic environment as well as special occasion make-up using 100% Mineral Youngblood Make-up products.

Let Nadira and her growing team at La Beauté du Monde cutomise your bridal beauty treatments and give you the best, relaxed and most beautiful you on your special day!

RSVP Expert Stylists RSVP are expert stylists for your bridal and formal occasions. Locally owned and operated for the past 12 years, RSVP has the outfit to match any occasion. Whether you need to be outfitted for a school formal, formal occasion, as a bride, mother of bride, bridesmaid, wedding guest, or party girl, you can be sure to find that perfect dress at RSVP. Bridal labels include Alfred Angelo, Brides Desire, Q'NIQUE, Stella York. For the maids and special occasions, Paco, Alfred Angelo, Jadore, Miss Anne, Tania Olsen Designs, Tina Holy, Honey & Beau, Romance.

“We offer the largest selection of bridal, bridesmaids' evening wear, cocktail dresses and a mother of the bride range that has been

expanded to be the biggest and best in the area,” says Tracey Hynes of RSVP. Tracey and her staff promise personalised service for the bride, bridal party and guests, ensuring everyone is looked after.

Appointments are preferred, especially on Saturdays, allowing staff to offer quality one on one service.

For alterations, RSVP recommend their talented seamstress, Donna, who has been altering bridal and formal wear for over 30 years and is available to meet with customers at the store.

Make sure you check out RSVP’s Facebook page, which regularly updates clients on the latest store arrivals.

coffs coast focus. 43

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

RSVP

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Meraki Images hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I grew up here in Coffs, and moved away as soon as I finished my HSC.

How long have you been a photographer, and where do you draw your inspiration?

I started photography in Year 11 and continued for my HSC. As we have a team of photographers, we all draw our own inspiration from our clients themselves.

Do you specialise in weddings?

We also do family portraits and newborns in our studio at Toormina. However, we have also

introduced our new in home newborn photography, as we recognised it’s hard to get out of the house when you’ve just had a baby! So we come to you, to photograph you all in your own environment.

Tell us about your packages.

We understand the individuality of couples, and their approach to their wedding day. We tailor packages to suit budgets and to make sure you aren’t paying for something that’s not that important to you! You get to choose how long you want us for, and then add on to create something just for you. We offer monthly payment plans as well, so you can spread the cost out, and ask us about our pay AFTER your wedding service!

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coffs from Sydney with my parents and two younger sisters when I was 13; the folks were after a sea change, and this is exactly what we got.

How long have you owned a bridal shop?

Whilst working some three very different roles over a 10 year period, I definitely learnt varying skills from each position, all of which had a positive impact of me owning and running my own business. I had always imagined myself having my own business. I spent several years researching and analysing existing businesses and franchises for sale.

Eventually a bridal store came up for sale and I looked at purchasing this business; however, after much deliberation I opted to open my own bridal store. So after many months of planning, RSVP opened at the Jetty, February 2005.

Do you have any advice for a new bride?

When looking for your “dream” dress, I definitely suggest booking an appointment and allow approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. This ensures you receive the attention you deserve.

Keep the number of people that you invite to go with you to a minimum of no more than two or three people. When a bride comes in with an entourage and everyone has an opinion, it can be quite difficult for the bride to express her actual opinion.

Keep an open mind. More often than not, brides choose dresses that look nothing like what they think they walk in wanting. So try everything the bridal consultant brings you.

Celebrant Kellie

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to this wonderful area in 2002 after escaping high pressure corporate life in the big smoke. I knew I’d made the right choice, but the removalist made a bet with me that I’d be back in Melbourne in less than five years. He was wrong! Here I am 14 years later and still loving this area. I live in Nana Glen on my own little paradise acreage, with dogs, cats, goats and even alpacas. Why would I ever want to leave the best place on earth?

Why did you become a celebrant? It’s hard to describe in just a few words the privilege I feel in being able to conduct a ceremony that expresses so much love and joy that couples feel on their wedding day. Before I became a celebrant, I had attended some wedding of friends where the celebrant was a bit bland, and couldn’t be heard, and I decided then that I would do my utmost to become the best celebrant possible and help couples express their feelings on one of the most important days in a person’s life. As a celebrant I work with my clients to write a ceremony which is beautiful and touching and funny and expresses their

44 coffs coast focus.

Red Carpet Limousines

personalities. In other words, a ceremony which is just right for them.

Wedding days can be stressful; how do you help to ensure the day is as relaxed as possible? Sometimes things go wrong. It’s important for a celebrant to take things in their stride and smile and keep everyone relaxed.

The most common problem is weather, so it’s very important for couples to have a back up plan if they want to get married outside. A less common problem is forgetting the rings (which does happen from time to time). I remember one wedding where we used substitute rings from the bride’s mum and dad.

Looking back, it probably made the wedding ceremony even more special.

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Being with family; I’ve raised my beautiful children and worked as a respected

businessman and mechanic in the automotive industry here on the Coffs Coast for over 30 years.

My hobbies are building and restoring racing and muscle cars; I also enjoy playing in a local rock/ show band, for around 20 years now.

How long have you owned Red Carpet Limousine Service? More than 15 years.

Do you specialise in weddings? Most certainly ... This is what we do. Making the day even more special for the bride and groom means a lot to me, and it’s a privilege to be a part of the bridal party’s special day.

What is the favourite when it comes to wed-

ding cars? The “Stretch Limousine”. It’s hard to beat cruising around in a luxury Limo with dual air conditioning, entertainment, optic lights, two bars and the service from an expert Chauffeur, who is more like a Butler.

Do you have any advice for a new bride?

Commitment and patience comes to mind.

Marriage isn’t 50/50; you both have to give each other 100 percent. Always respect, support and be honest with your partner. Choose to love each other, even in those moments when you struggle to like each other. A “perfect marriage” is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other. Enjoy your time together to the fullest and make laughter the soundtrack of your marriage ... Share moments of joy, even in the hard times. Find reasons to laugh. If you do that, it will all work.

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Le Dãin Designs

Romance Crew

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First Avenue in Sawtell. We have a number of experienced stylists who can style ladies

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I was born and raised in this beautiful part of the world and have been lucky enough to enjoy raising my own little family here also.

How long have you been a wedding stylist?

A little over two years since lovely Kiri from Rosie Pose Event Hire offered me my dream job! However in my mind it feels like I have been doing this for a lifetime. Scrawling pictures of tablescapes, wedding dresses and ceremony designs in my ‘wedding book’ since I was a little girl. It’s still

W

A

side from being a writer and a front cover fashion stylist for FOCUS, I own Le Dãin Designs, which is situated on picturesque

very surreal for me to have realised my childhood dream.

Do you have any advice for a new bride?

The weddings that pack the biggest visual and emotional punch are those that maintain a clear vision. The endless trends out there on Pinterest and Instagram make it easy for brides to get overwhelmed and for their designs to become confused and lose their essence. Find what you love, that one inspo pic you are obsessing over and run wild, extend upon it and make it even better.

Whether you decide to hire a stylist to help with this or not, that’s always a good foundation for creating an unforgettable wedding.

of all sizes at any age for every occasion.

We pride ourselves on dressing bridal parties and wedding guests. We can provide a personalised service, which takes the stress

code is. We have a check list of questions

out of dressing for the wedding and turning

to help you. Is it a daytime or evening

it into a memorable experience. We have a

reception? Do you have to change, and

fabulous selection of millinery, jewellery and

also weather conditions? Then there is

beautiful dresses. We can even organise your

the clashing of the colour schemes. This is

makeup for the day. We will welcome you

important ... what colour are the bridal party

with a smile, refreshments and style you up in

wearing?

a relaxed atmosphere. Dressing for a wedding

Whatever it takes, we are there to assist you

is always daunting. Sometimes the invitation

on every level. Call and make an appointment

isn’t always very clear as to what the dress

and we can even fit you in after hours.

Photo Shack hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? The PhotoShack is locally owned and operated By Hannah

What are the various services the company offers? The business offers an open air style Photo Booth, which allows you to fit more people in the photo. The Photo

and Daniel. Hannah was born in Coffs, and

Booth runs a Canon Digital SLR Camera, so

Daniel has been here for 13 years. With three

the photo quality is awesome and the Dye

young boys in tow, Hannah and Daniel love

Sublimination printer prints out the photos on

the fact that they can bring their boys up on

the spot in the same quality as when you have

the beautiful Coffs Coast.

your photos printed in a shop. Each client gets

How long have you been in the wedding

a copy of all the photo strips and the single

industry?

Hannah has been running the Photo Booth since 2014 when Emma Rhoades owned it,

photos in high quality at the end of the event, to see what their guests got up to!

S

Surf Club Restaurant and Bar

urf Club Restaurant and Bar is the most stunning beachside venue on the Mid North Coast, with panoramic absolute oceanfront views of rolling surf and picturesque islands.

Surrounded by pristine beaches and parklands, the view from our restaurant will literally take your breath away!

business. They both love being a part of their

this year, their Hashtag Printer might be the

clients’ special day. Check out their reviews on

choice for the social media savvy wedding -

You and your guests can enjoy your own completely private venue for up to five and a half hours, which boasts two amazing outside decks and a parquet dance floor.

the Facebook page from past clients.

and another YET TO BE ANNOUNCED!

There is a full bar run by the Coffs Harbour

and in 2016 Hannah and Daniel bought the

With another type of Photo Booth starting

Surf Life Saving Club, with drinks at reasonable club prices and charged on consumption only (no expensive packages).

Our gourmet menu prices include most of the decorating you will need, excepting centerpieces and other personal touches.

You are welcome to arrange your own entertainment, or we can certainly help you with recommendations. Tables are round, square or long, depending on numbers. We can seat up to 140 guest sitting down, or up to 200 guests for a stand up cocktail reception.

Private Function Venue: 5:30pm until midnight every night by private arrangement.

coffs coast focus. 45

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

INSTA LIKE

0

More magical back-yard weddings please.

Daveymoorephoto: More magical back-yard weddings please. #magicalwedding #backyardwedding #floralarbor #leicaq #leica #diywedding #coffsharbourwwdding #heyheyhellomay #subjectlight

Pasfields Restaurant Indulge yourself and your guests in the first class food at Pasfields Restaurant ... Whether it be for one or 300 guests, no function food - just first class food.

With beautiful landscaped grounds, Pasfields offer stunning outdoor weddings in various backdrops and the added bonus of the beautiful chapel as either your ceremony venue or a quality wet weather back up.

0

Being a smaller local business, Kylie Pasfield offers a very personalised service, with the ability to tailor make your day just as it should be ‌ special, and with no other brides or their guests peeking around corners.

Stefanie & Nathan

lotusfloralstudio Stefanie and Nathan... Her gorgeous unstructured bouquet of vendella Ivory roses... Fluffy Spring ranunculas... Flowering wax .... And silver blue mini gum perfect for gorgeous Glennifer farm nuptials..

Stunning photo b: @scottcarle florals by us @lotusfloralstudio

With the huge additional expenses of theming required for most venues not required at the stunning Pasfields, you save a fortune on this alone, but it looks second to none with its polished floor boards instead of swirling carpet, quality neutral tones, new quality amenities and sweeping floor to ceiling chiffon curtains, set off by the shimmering chandeliers.

Make your wedding that little bit different than everyone else’s and build your dream day that all your guests will talk about forever, at Pasfields!

Confetti Daveymoorephoto: Confetti #awesomewedding #thegrovebyronbay#byronbayweddings #leahdagloria#subjectlight #heyheyhellomay

From a trip to Yamba!

Merakiimageser: From a trip to Yamba! www.merakiimages.com.au #yambaweddingphotographer#yambawedding#weddingphotographeryamba#weddingsonthebeach#weddingphotographer #merakiimages

46 coffs coast focus.

coffs coast focus. 47

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Cedar

Bar and Kitchen

Cedar Bar and Kitchen reached its first year milestone in December. We chat with co-owner and Events Manager Victoria Harper about hosting weddings, parties ... anything in the 108year old church in Bellingen.

H

ow is the business going since we last spoke to you guys?

It’s been a non-stop first year, and we’ve loved getting to know the locals and hosting some great celebrations. The business is growing, and at the head of that growth are our functions and events. We’ve hosted every type of party at Cedar - engagement cocktail parties, sit down 50th anniversary, first birthdays for little bubs and even a great grandmother’s 90th birthday party. There have been high tea baby showers and glamourous hens’ parties, but my favourite has been hosting the beautiful wedding ceremonies and receptions.

The location and building must make for an idyllic wedding celebration?

Yes, the old church makes for such a picturesque setting for a wedding. The 7 metre high ceilings and original stained glass windows provide a backdrop of a traditional white church, but our venue has all the modern touches that today’s couples demand.

Aside from our grand function room, there are our lovely wide undercover balconies, perfect for cocktail hour, our stylish front bar for drinks afterwards, and our outdoor terrace, where you can get your boogie on under the shade of fig tree lit up by twinkle lights.

Our decor is modern with a rustic edge, and we

48 coffs coast focus.

The 7 metre high ceiling s ned and original stai ovide pr s w do in glass w a backdrop of a church , traditional white all s ha e nu but our ve s he uc to n er the mod s le that today’s coup demand.”

“

provide all celebrations with a huge range of included furniture, such as banquet tables, bar tables and chairs.

What can people expect from the culinary side of things?

For cocktail hour we like to offer our grand style grazing platters - with local and imported cheeses, cured meats, house pickled vegetables, plus an assortment of tasty canapés utilising the best of the local produce that we have on the Mid North Coast. For sit down receptions, it’s all about sharing. Our entrees and mains are served in the middle of the tables, so guests can enjoy sharing, feasting and chatting together. It’s always an icebreaker and so much nicer than alternate serve, when you are trying to barter with your dining companion about who gets to have the fish and who ends up with the scotch fillet!

Cocktail receptions are definitely growing in popularity, and we offer a range of canapés, standing mains and help-yourself dessert bars.

We appreciate that every celebration is different -

so menus can easily be customised to suit the tastes of the couple.

It is the perfect place to include live music at your reception; do you find that this is popular?

Yes, we have had some incredible musicians play at our wedding celebrations and with our high ceilings and timber walls, the room has fantastic acoustics. When a musician kicks off, it just changes the atmosphere in a room. I believe live music can really make an event, and you don’t need to spend much to give the party an extra edge.

Do couples need to book well in advance to be able to reserve the venue?

Although we have only been open one year, word has been spreading, and weekends in May and September are already booked with limited availability in July and October. Midweek weddings are a great option too, and we have plenty of spots available throughout the year.

Where can people find out more?

For more details, visit our website at www.cedarbar.com.au or email info@cedarbar.com.au to set up a meeting, so I can show you around our beautiful space.

Thanks Victoria.

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Cosmetic Tattoo by Holly Looking for perfect eyebrows?

Ceremonies by Kellie Wade Wedding Choreography Welcome to Wade Wedding Choreography. My name is Corrie Wade, and I have been providing choreographic services to wedding couples since 2002. As a dance teacher and performer, assisting the bride and groom with their first dance has been one of the highlights of my dancing career.

Why have bridal lessons with Wade Wedding Choreography? Do you want to dance with your partner on the Big Day? Have you always wanted to learn to dance?

Perhaps you want to surprise your friends and family - you can keep the lessons secret and amaze everyone on the day.

I specialise in taking absolute beginners and getting them dancing (and feeling good) in the first lesson.

Not just a series of dance lessons, but a memorable journey where you and your partner can connect and de-stress in the pre-wedding months. Many couples are surprised to discover the intimacy and enjoyment that can come from learning to dance together, and many continue dancing after the wedding! Man doesn’t want to dance? Ladies, have you thought about asking your father? Want to pull the heartstrings on the day? Dance with your dad! Different packages are available to suit your needs, including bridal party lessons.

I just love weddings! I feel so blessed that not only do I live in one of the most beautiful places on Earth, I also get to marry people here.

The Coffs Coast creates a perfect backdrop for a couple; whether you are looking for a beach, garden, waterfall or river setting, the Coffs Coast has it all.

I’ve been a wedding celebrant for over five years, and during that time I’ve married everyone from young couples just starting out to more mature couples who have found love again after facing various challenges in life. True love knows no boundaries.

When you are choosing your celebrant, it is important to ensure your style matches theirs. I have an outgoing, lighthearted and professional approach to marriage ceremonies.

At Ceremonies by Kellie, we also offer an end-to-end service, so that you don't have to worry about a thing.

From your songs for your ceremony to filing of your legal documentation, I will guide you through the marriage process.

When getting married, the most important thing to remember is that it’s your day. Lots of people will offer advice, which is great, but ultimately you need to decide on what it important to you, not everyone else. Trust yourself, relax and enjoy. Oh, and wear comfortable shoes!

Are your brows in need of a makeover? Or do you have gaps or sparse hair that you would like to look fuller or more shapely? Consider tattooing your eyebrows. Holly Readett from Cosmetic Tattoo by Holly is a fully certified and trained cosmetic tattooist, specialising in creating amazing eyebrows.

Eye brows are the most important aspect to your facial symmetry. Holly says that with the process of measuring and lifting the eyebrows, the perfect facial symmetry is created resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Holly’s clients love her work. A recent client, Laura said, “I had my brows transformed by Holly today, she was so amazing and explained everything. I’ve been considering feather brows for a while and couldn’t have chosen better with Holly. I absolutely love them and would recommend her to anyone looking at getting it done.”

The Feather Touch Brow Tattoo is a semi-permanent treatment which involves applying pigment to each hair stroke individually. This results in a very natural look and lasts 12-18 months. It’s completely safe and the process is done utilising the best clinical practices.

For truly beautiful eyebrows call Holly for an appointment.

Holly is located at The Salon by Nikki Williams at 88 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour For more information, call or email Holly Ph: 0433 329 746 E: makeupartistrybyholly@gmail.com

coffs coast focus. 49

Coffs Coast Wedding Edition

Valla Beach Bridal Fair Back again by popular demand, after a hugely successful 2016 bridal expo, the newly named Valla Beach Bridal Fair will again be held at the Valla Beach Tourist Park, on Sunday 16th July 2017.

The Valla Beach Bridal Fair is a brilliant platform for wedding industry professionals to showcase their latest bridal goods and services. It is an amazingly cost effective way to reach your target market in a very personal and relaxed atmosphere. The Fair will give brides-to-be the chance to sample the best of our local wedding industry under one roof.

The unique, historic buildings and surrounds of the Valla Beach Tourist Park is the perfect setting to hold this function. It has a long history of hosting wonderful, memorable events. It will be an excellent day to inspire, enthuse and engage with all things wedding.

If you are wedding industry professional and would like to be a part of this fabulous, fun and informative event, please book your place now. To book or for more information about our Valla Beach Bridal Fair, please phone Heidi on (02) 6569 5555 or email info@vallabeachtouristpark.com.au

50 coffs coast focus.

WELLBEING

BY T H E CA NC E R COU NC I L

CHIA

seeds

leaves NSW red-faced NATIONAL SKIN CANCER ACTION WEEK PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON SUN PROTECTION.

C

ancer Council research shows fewer NSW adults are using hats to protect themselves from the sun and getting sunburnt on their face, head, ears and nose as a result.

The data from Cancer Council’s National Sun Protection Survey reveals that just 42 per cent of NSW adults wear a hat when exposed to UV on summer weekends, down from 47 per cent in 2003.

Tim Chapman at Cancer Council NSW Lower Mid North Coast said that with 237 people in Lower Mid North Coast expected to be diagnosed with melanoma this year, and 24 deaths expected, the results show that too few adults in NSW are understanding the importance of a combination of sun protection measures.

“A five per cent drop in hat usage over the past ten years may sound small, but any downward trend is a concern. This latest decrease shows that more than 240,000 people in NSW have stopped wearing a hat to protect themselves when exposed to UV on weekends.

“Fewer than one in five adults in NSW used three or more sun protection measures during summer, which is a real worry given the prevalence of skin cancer in NSW and across Australia,” continued Tim Chapman.

“Yet most skin cancers are preventable by the use of comprehensive sun protection. There can be a tendency for many Lower Mid North Coast adults to slop on some sunscreen and think they are protected all day long. But sunscreen isn’t a suit of armour. It should be your last line of defence - a hat, clothing, sunglasses and shade are also key to protecting your skin. ” The data also showed some worrying trends

indicating that the lack of broad-brimmed hats was translating to the places on the body where people across Australia are sunburnt.

“The national research also shows that the face, head, nose, or ears are the most common places on the body that Australians get sunburnt, alongside the arms and hands,” Tim Chapman said.

“There’s no doubt that by neglecting a range of sun protection measures, including slapping on a broad-brimmed hat, all Aussies are putting themselves at risk of a potentially deadly skin cancer.”

Australasian College of Dermatologists' President, Associate Professor Chris Baker, said that dermatologists regularly treated skin cancers that could have been easily prevented through proper sun protection.

“Dermatologists see a lot of skin cancers on the face, ears, head and neck,” Associate Professor Baker said.

“These skin cancers are particularly concerning, because they can arise quickly and are more difficult to treat. Surgery is the most common treatment, with visible scarring often unavoidable. Other treatments include topical therapy for some early skin cancers through to radiotherapy and chemotherapy for more advanced cancers. Sadly, we don’t always get them in time.”

He also urged Australians to keep a close eye on their skin, know what normal spots they have and to keep a watch for any changes.

“It’s important to remember that skin cancer can be prevented and, if detected early, can often be successfully treated. If you notice any changes in size, shape or colour of an existing spot, or the development of a new spot, you should get it checked as soon as possible.”

ONE OF CHIA SEEDS’ GREATEST QUALITIES IS HOW EASY THEY ARE TO USE. THEY HAVE A MILD FLAVOUR THAT MAKES THEM ADAPTABLE TO A VARIETY OF RECIPES, AND THEY’RE GLUTEN-FREE, WHICH IS PERFECT FOR THOSE WITH COELIAC DISEASE, GLUTEN INTOLERANCE, OR FOR THOSE WHO ARE SIMPLY TRYING TO AVOID GLUTEN. 1. Chia Seed Pudding When chia seeds are soaked in water overnight, they take on a tapioca-like texture.

Add some cinnamon or other spices and a bit of stevia, if you like, for sweetness and you’ll have a pudding-like treat that can be eaten morning, noon or night.

2. Toppings Chia seeds can be added to virtually any dish, from raw yogurt to applesauce to smoothies. Keep in mind that they will take on a gelatinous texture after they mix with a liquid, so if you prefer a crunch, sprinkle them on just before eating.

5. Healthy “Breading” If you’re looking for a healthy, gluten-free breading for fish, meat, or vegetables, chia seeds make an excellent addition. Try them blended with finely ground nuts and your choice of spices for a delicious breadcrumb replacement.

6. Body Scrub Chia seeds work well as an exfoliant and buffing agent to add to your beauty care routine.

7. Fuel Up After Exercise Chia seeds are known for enhancing strength

3. On-the-Go Snacks While I suggest you use chia seeds in homemade items, there are ready-made pouches that contain chia seeds as a primary ingredient. Watch out for the sugar content of these, but if you’re in a pinch they can make a decent snack on-the-go, even for kids.

and vigour, so try adding them to your post-

4. Chia Spread You can blend chia seeds with berries and stevia to make your own homemade jam. You won’t need pectin, because chia seeds gel-up just fine on their own.

Many of the benefits of sprouts relate to the

workout whey protein shake.

8. Chia Sprouts Sprouts may offer some of the highest levels of nutrition available, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes that help protect against free radical damage. fact that, in their initial phase of growth, the plants contain more concentrated amounts of nutrients. Chia seeds are no exception, and you can easily grow chia sprouts at home to use raw in salads and sandwiches. coffs coast focus. 51

focusinterview.

niks cinagro

Laura B L O C K L E Y

Sarah D U G D A L E

Best friends create beauty products that are great for you; what’s not to love? Laura Blockley and Sarah Dugdale share their story with FOCUS ... an you tell us a bit about your connection to the local area?

We both grew up in Coffs. Sarah spent her childhood on the farm in Glenreagh, which really inspired her connection with nature, as well as helping her parents sell their farm produce and herbs at the local market. Laura mingled with many local faces through her family’s antique business, Yesterday’s Gems, for 30 years.

What is it you do?

Two years ago we created a small all natural skin care company - Bare Beauty Essentials. This is our passion and interest we share together. During the week Sarah also runs Family Day Care. Her herbal nursery also keeps her busy, not to mention being a mummy to two gorgeous kids. Laura practices Rosemond Muscle Neurology Therapy at her home, when she isn’t making potions.

How did you become invoved in this?

We have been best mates for over 25 years and have always had a deep interest in living clean. After years of spending huge amounts of money on "Natural Skin Care" that still had preservatives and other harmful ingredients, we decided to have a go at making a few products for our own use. We started with body butter and lip balms and after thousands of hours of research, progressed from there.

52 coffs coast focus.

You both have interesting stories and chemical free products for home and family. backgrounds. Can you briefly tell us How did your previous experience help in about them? this venture?

Sarah grew up going to markets selling Laura was a chef for 10 years before produce from the farm, sparking her passion becoming a massage therapist; she is the one for medicinal herbs - which she who formulates our recipes, as what ended up selling for many we make is basically food for years. Laura would go to your skin! She also has been help her father with their making natural soy candles bee hives and hives for a few years. Sarah We started with from the surrounding ran her extensive herb body butter and area and Sarah’s market stall at several ter lip balms and af s of grandfather also local markets and has ur thousands of ho ed kept bee’s, hence our a huge knowledge ss research , progre business' support of base regarding what from there.”

"Save the Bees - Bee botanicals and oils The Cure Australia". should go in our skin care After finishing high products and therapeutic school, we both moved salves. away. Laura eventually lived in What do you love most about Avalon, Sydney working in a café called what you do?

Alive, which focused on eating for your We love that we are leaving as small an wellbeing - with everything being seasonal ecological footprint on the earth as possible. and organic. This is where she developed Many skin care and soap maker use pre-made a strong passion for healthy eating. When bases and palm oil in their products; we she moved back to Coffs, she studied at the make everything from scratch, infusing our Rosemond Clinic and Academy, developing oils with herbs from Sarah’s garden, buying knowledge of nurturing yourself both inside ingredients locally and Australian wherever and out. possible. We even render our own beeswax Sarah moved back from the Gold Coast to from Bowraville. start a family with her husband. Having two What was the inspiration behind getting children made her passionate about using together and working on this?

“

Sarah has always has always had an obsession with looking after her skin naturally. Laura has endometriosis and can’t use chemicals. She now lives pain free and stopped cysts from growing as a result of going chemical free and changing her diet.

We wanted to know exactly what we were putting on our skin to help improve our health and provide affordable natural skin care for ourselves and everyone.

How important is it to use natural ingredients?

It has been found that our bodies absorb over 60% of what we put on our skin, so obviously it is better for your overall health to only use chemical free products if possible - not to mention what impact it has on the environment.

Where can people find out more?

We have a website: www.barebeautyessentials.com.au and we stock our products at Go Vita Toormina and Port Macquarie, Two Tails Winery Nana Glen and Liberty Provedores in Urunga. You will also find us at Urunga Markets on the second Sunday of every month. Laura will also be holding small fun workshops at Melting Pot Yoga Studio Sawtell, the next one being make your own organic lip balm and lip and cheek tint, held on Saturday 28th January.

Thanks ladies.

Before

After

Dr Arianayagam Cutting Edge Nonsurgical Technologies Available at the Plastic Cosmetic Laser Surgery in Coffs Harbour The Cosjet Nd:YAG laser for removal of pigment, including melasma and tattoos.

The UltraFormer 3 for high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for skin-tightening in the face, neck and body.

The HIRONIC for CryoLypoLysis which involves non-invasive cooling of fat cells to induce fat breakdown in the treatment of stubborn fat deposits.

The Pentagon Grand CO2 Laser with fractional and cutting modes. Besides using for facial-rejuvenation, the Pentagon Grand comes with specialised vaginal probes for vaginal rejuvenation to assist in the treatment of premenopausal and menopausal vaginal atrophy.

For more details on the above technologies, please contact: Phone: (02) 6651 5611 Email: info@pclscoffsharbour.com.au

coffs coast focus. 53

BE WHERE YOU WANT TO BE AGED CARE IS CHANGING.

Now you have a choice who provides care in your home.

WE CAN HELP YOU. CALL US TODAY.

1300 698 693 www.homenursinggroup.com.au

exceptional care in your home

54 coffs coast focus.

Jetty Dental Dr Paul Crichton has been practicing dentistry since 1999, and in that time has taken a special interest in cosmetic dentistry involving crown and bridgework, dental veneers and teeth whitening. Crowns, bridges and veneers are all fixed prosthetic devices.

A crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth and is used strengthen the tooth whilst enhancing its appearance, shape and sometimes alignment. Bridges are often used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space of the missing teeth and are fixed to existing teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. Veneers are thin facings made of ceramic that are bonded to teeth to

improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.

Most crowns, bridges and veneers are made from ceramic material that can matched to the colour of the patient’s teeth to create a natural looking smile. This is often done in conjunction with teeth whitening that is used to lift and improve the colour of a patient’s smile. At-home teeth whitening is a simple, safe and predictable way to improve the appearance of your teeth and can be done in the comfort of your own home.

If you think you might be interested in any of these services, give our friendly team at Jetty Dental a call on 6651 7373 or visit our webstie at www.jettydental.com.au to book your consultation today.

because we owe them Though they may now be old and frail, let us not forget that it was they who built our nation with hands of hope.

And fought for our freedom with hearts of courage.

And though they may now need our care, it’s not care that defines them but love, togetherness, freedom and choice. Happiness.

And this is why we created Freedom Aged Care.

Because we owe them.

Dedicated to our Freedom family – the beautiful residents we have the privilege and honour to care for at Freedom Aged Care.

Freedom Aged Care Call 1800 984 840 or visit freedomagedcare.com.au coffs coast focus. 55

focusinterview.

FS COF

COAST

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN

'S D AY

Year award 2017

T

I N T E R N AT I O N A L WO M E N ’ S DAY ( I W D ) C E L E B R AT E S A N D AC K N OW L E D G E S T H E AC H I E V E M E N T S O F WO M E N G L O BA L LY O N 8 T H M A RC H E AC H Y E A R .

he three major women’s groups in Coffs Harbour; the Zonta Club Inc., Business and Professional Women (BPW) and the Business Women’s Network (BWN) will again be holding their very special breakfast on the morning of 8th March 2017 to allow local girls, men and women to come together to share in the successes of our local women and girls.

The International Women’s Day - Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year Award was set up to acknowledge the positive contribution of women in the region of Coffs Harbour. It aims to recognise outstanding women working for the betterment of women and girls in business, education or community.

CRITERIA FOR THE AWARD WERE THAT THE WOMAN: • Resides in the local electorate • Has demonstrated significant leadership and/or achievement • Has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of women and girls in the community.

Four inspiring finalists have been recognised by their peers for the 2017 Woman of the 56 coffs coast focus.

Year Award. The finalists and the eventual bour Business of the Year and was Employer winner of the Award will be presented at the of Choice-State Finalist. Deb was recently IWD Breakfast, at C.ex Coffs, on International awarded the NSW Not-For-Profit Leader of Women’s Day, March 8th, 2017. the Year Award (AIM) and won Coffs Harbour THE FINALISTS ARE: Business Leader of the Year Award KARYN FLANAGAN 2016. Deb is a champion of Karyn Flanagan is a very advancing women in their active community spirited careers, mentoring and l The Internationa person, including being a promoting women to Women’s Day member of school P&C leadership positions. an om Coffs Harbour W was organisations, WOMB’S She has accessed d of the Year Awar dge (Women on Motor funding for girls' le ow set up to ackn n tio BikeS) fundraising and Links–to-Learning as bu ri nt co e the positiv on gi re Woolgoolga Women’s well as the pilot proje th in en of wom .” ur ect, Women’s Circle.

Circle. Karyn volunbo ar H ffs of Co tarily ran Lower Bucca ELLEN SLATER Community Playgroup and Ellen Slater provides was a counsellor for the Coffs respite for carers, through Harbour Flood Recovery Centre. funding provided by nine fundraising events in 2016 alone. Carers Currently, Karyn works with the refugee are often sleep deprived, depressed and community. She has organised two SurfGrom days for the children of refugees and not adequately taking care of him/herself, supported Afghani women to attend WOW so Ellen provides respite, family counselling, (Women of the World) events in 2015. and the carers leave with strategies to help DEB RYAN them cope differently. She has also provided Deb Ryan is the CEO of Community Care funding to allow young carers to attend an Options. In 2016, C.C.O. received Coffs Haradventure camp. Ellen runs a free community

“

group held once a month called Goddess Sisters, which is open to all.

JANE TAVENER Jane Tavener established the Heart and Soul Foundation specifically for the betterment of women and girls. The Foundation supports women through the availability of programs allowing nourishment of heart, body and soul. These programs bring together a diverse range of women from the local community, women who have been through trauma, violence, or are suffering from mental health issues. Jane is also a founding, and an active, member of the WOW (Women of the World) committee.

• Are you ready to #BeBoldForChange this IWD 2017 and beyond?

• Make sure you come to the 2017 IWD Breakfast event on Wednesday 8th March 2017, C.ex Coffs, to congratulate the winner of this prestigious award. Along with a very special guest speaker, you will be inspired by female future leaders who were recipients of the 2016 Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs Award. Tickets can be purchased at www.stickytickets.com.au/47634

Beyond Intensity Our world’s health, fitness and wellness needs have changed significantly over the decades and generations.

In your grandparents’ and even parents’ day, less time was allocated to getting fit and healthy, and wellness wasn’t really a word in our vocabulary.

Being a member of a gym or having a personal trainer was not common practice. They drove less, and walked more. Communities relied less on machines for their daily tasks, because jobs were performed manually. There were less weight and dietary issues, because the food being eaten was scarcer, “cleaner” and actually food. Ingredients lists on packaged food had the ingredients you would expect in the product, and not the numbers and unpronounceable names that we see today.

the amount of likes on Facebook, a catchy social media status, the need to be contactable 24/7, the desire to meet higher social expectations and get up to speed quickly on the intricacies of the latest smart phone. It is fair to say, and probably no news to you, that our modern world and lifestyles have made us unhealthier, lazier and stressed, and in saying that, it is timely to remember that we have brought it all on ourselves - because we are the creators of it all.

The question is then raised, now we are in the midst of it, how do we get out of it?

Of course, they had their own stressors, but their stressors were probably more life significant, like world wars and unemployment, as opposed to

We have bigger houses but smaller families, more conveniences but less time …

You may have read the 14th Dalai Lama’s The Paradox of Our Age, where he talks about:

And goes on to say:

These are times of fast foods but slow digestion…

kids kick the footy in the street and climb trees.

Our modern world created smart phones, smart cars, smart stuff but when you think about it, it is ironic, because the smart stuff has contributed to us being sick, fat, stressed and lazy.

that long to ingrain it in to your life. Once you’ve

The solution? Look at how our forbearers did things. Real food, active daily, face to face relationships, less excuses and more patience.

around today to educate you to become more

Turf out the food items that aren’t real and those with ingredients you can’t pronounce. Think healthy and active - make them your default setting. Disconnect the need to be contactable 24/7 and reconnect with the real world around you. Turn off social media. Lose the desire for instant gratification. Learn patience and gratitude. Socialise with your neighbours, let the

your food and even apps to make you calmer.

Make one good change monthly, because it takes ingrained one, add another.

In saying all of this, there are some good tools aware of your health needs. Apps to measure how many steps you take, how much sugar in You will, of course, need to download them onto your smart phone and check in with them regularly to get the answers. You could, of course, just go for a walk, eat an apple and breathe in and breathe out with patience.

The change starts with you - the choice is yours.

coffs coast focus. 57

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

MELANIEGLANFORD OUR 39 YEAR OLD BUSINESS OWNER AND MUM OF TWO KIDS UNDER 5

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Cheryl Hughes. This month we are catching up with Melanie Glanford and her Personal Trainer Kylie Calder, to hear her inspiring story.

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hat is your diet and exercise background?

I’ve always been aware of what I’m feeding my family and fuelling my body with. I try to stay balanced with food and have a healthy relationship with it. If I feel like having and enjoying a piece of cake, I’ll eat it and really enjoy it. The same goes for having a glass or two of wine. I will say that since working out with Kylie I think more about how many treat foods I put in my mouth, as I know how much work it takes to keep fit and healthy. Exercise wise I’ve been up and down.

I’ve always enjoyed exercising, but it has never become routine for me. More stops than starts.

Ten years ago, I was at my peak. I had no kids; exercise was easy, as there was a gym at work.

So what went wrong?

It’s been a combination of two kids, working, and juggling time and not feeling like I had time to exercise, but wanting to for my mental and fitness health.

What motivated you to find a solution to the problem?

I visited my girlfriend in Sydney who had two kids - a very busy working mum with a busy social life as well, and she managed to find time to go to the gym and she looked great. I thought, if she can do it, why can’t I? Why did you choose Kylie as your personal trainer, and what have you been doing together to achieve your goals?

Kylie was recommended to me by one of the staff, as she uses weights to get results, so at first I didn’t know what to expect. I told Kylie that I wanted to look like one of the inspiring women at the gym and she said, “No worries - we can do that.” I warm up for 5 - 15 mins by myself, and then we get straight into it.

We started out with lighter weights and easier 58 coffs coast focus.

exercises, which have built my strength to where I am now. I really enjoy and look forward to our sessions. We do different exercises and movements which I’ve never done before, so it’s exciting and never boring. Were mainly working on thighs, bum, mummy tummy and firming up the guns. Pretty much everything from the neck down. We still have a bit more work to do.

What goals have you achieved so far?

The joy of exercising has come back, especially when you see results. I’m amazed that just 2 x 30 minute sessions per week has made changes to my body shape. I didn’t weigh myself before I started PT, as I’ve always worked out my weight by how my clothes fit me. I can now do my belt up one more notch and my legs have toned up, so that I feel confident enough to wear shorts again. My clothes are fitting so much better, and I don’t have to worry about selecting the right clothes to cover my trouble areas.

What are your goals for the future?

To keep exercising! It is so important to move our bodies, and it rewards us for doing it by working better, feeling good mentally and looking great. To encourage other mums that we can fit exercise in our budget and busy lives.

Keep moving, so I’m an active, fit, healthy and a happy mum and wife.

What is the most useful advice you could share with other readers?

It can all seem too hard, but all you have to do is start moving that beautiful body of yours.

If you need help, call Kylie and she will tailor exercise around you and your busy life.

Thanks for sharing, Melanie, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at either Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or Moonee! You can also contact Kylie directly on 0414 257 086 to get started today.

Photo by Carl Muxlow

Revealed:

Top Tips

The secret to pain free living may be happy feet.

Are you frustrated by ongoing foot, knee, hip or back pain? Do you feel like you’re in the dark about what the cause of the problem is?

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id North Coast Physio continues to utilise state of the art technology in healthcare across their fours clinics on the Coffs Coast and can help you find the answers others miss. By using computerised foot scanning with the Gaitscan system, along with a thorough physical assessment, their team can solve your ongoing pain for good, rather than just give short term, quick fixes.

Owner and leading physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker tells us why technology plays an important role in finding the cause, rather than just treating symptoms.

How can having a computerised foot scan help solve my pain?

By getting all the information, it’s then much easier for to find the right solution for your pain. All too often complaints like bursitis, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, low back pain and many others can be because of poor foot mechanics - you end up like a car with a bad wheel alignment, which leads to excessive wear and tear. By finding what’s going wrong, you can then treat the cause, rather than just symptoms. There is nothing more frustrating than having the same problem coming back again and again because your therapist is focused on what hurts, rather than what makes it hurt. At Mid North Coast Physio we want to make sure you are fixed for good,

not just for now.

What is Gaitscan?

Gaitscan is a computerised foot scanning system that is used at Mid North Coast Physio to get a very detailed analysis of your foot and lower limb movement and load. The problem with just watching you walk, or even videoing the movement, is that you aren’t able to measure the impact on the joints or where the impact occurs. Also, on average the foot is only in contact with the ground for about 0.7 sec with each step, so using state of the art technology allows much better assessment of what is going wrong in a very short space of time.

How can I get a FREE Gaitscan computer foot assessment?

With clinics in Woolgoolga, Moonee Beach, Toormina and Urunga, we are able to organise an appointment at the most convenient site for you. As a special offer for Coffs Coast FOCUS readers, we are offering a FREE Gaitscan computerised foot assessment to the first 10 callers on 1300 27 37 47. And as an extra bonus, if you require custom made orthotics you will get $50 off your orthotics purchase.

This is a strictly limited offer, so call now to book and find out how to get rid of your pain for good.

MCDONALD’S GRANT PROGRAM MCDONALD’S COFFS HARBOUR AND NAMBUCCA ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHILDREN AND GROUPS THROUGH THEIR JUNIOR GRANTS PROGRAM. ROSIE, AN ENTHUSIASTIC 11-YEAR-OLD SURFER FROM SUNNY SAWTELL, BEGAN SURFING THE WAVES WHEN SHE WAS SIX.

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mong many other lunch breaks, as well as at other times during accomplishments, Rosie recently their school week and are thrilled at having achieved some extraordinary results received the McDonald’s Junior Grant, as it in Sydney. Competing in the Under covered travelling and accommodation costs, 12s NSW Grommet State Titles, Rosie proudly allowing them to follow their sporting goals took out fourth place, which is an outstanding and dreams. achievement. Rosie has a natural ability Another successful grant recipient is and is extremely motivated St Patricks Primary School of to achieve her best. As the Nambucca/Macksville a passionate young region. Tiana, a student surfer, Rosie is driven e at St Patrick’s who has th Competing in to be a great role SW spastic quadriplegia N Under 12s model, both in and s, tle Ti cerebral palsy as a e Grommet Stat out of the water. t ou ok to y dl result of being born Rosie prou Assisting Rosie is an ch hi w e, ac pl with a congenital fourth with the travelling ement. ev hi ac g in nd ta heart defect, has a outs costs associated ral ability Rosie has a natu otivated new sense of freedom ym with competing and is extremel as she plays with her st .” be r interstate, Rosie he e ev to achi peers on a safe and and her family are therapeutic tricycle. The elated, having received specially adapted tricycle a McDonald’s Junior Grant. enables Tiana to interact with The grant is also helping Rosie her peers in a fun and relaxed way, to access high-level coaching, and while stretching her muscles, building opening the doors to quality training muscle strength and increasing coordination. opportunities.

The school is of a caring nature, allowing Tiana Opportunities are sweeping the Coffs to take the tricycle home with her during the Coast with the McDonald’s Junior Grants school holidays. “Tiana is a valued part of our Program, as a local public school recently community, and each interaction creates an discovered. Narranga Public School’s talented awareness of cerebral palsy, teaching those Girls and Boys Softball teams were runners up around her of love, compassion, kindness in the NSW State Softball Titles at the end of and acceptance of people with disabilities,” 2016, which left the school on a winning note, mentioned one of the staff members of St as they celebrated the end of the school year Patricks Primary School. Part of the McDonald’s with an abundance of cheer for each of the Junior Grant was used to purchase awards and two teams. Supported by dedicated teachers, vouchers, which were handed to children who who volunteer their time and their supportive demonstrated exceptional qualities of compaspeers, who happily applaud the teams from the sion, kindness and acceptance, not only with sidelines, it seems that the Narranga Softball regards to Tiana, but in their daily lives as well. teams are equally as skilled as one another. The

“

McDonald’s Junior Grants Program has allowed the softball teams to strive forward as they continue on their path, achieving greatness as they proudly represent the Coffs Harbour region. The dedicated teams train during their

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 coffs coast focus. 59

Do you like to run, ride or swim? Have you ever thought about doing a triathlon, but you’re not sure if you’re up for all three disciplines? Or perhaps you just need a bit of encouragement?

With only a few weeks remaining until the 2017 bcu Coffs Tri, now is the time to grab some friends, workmates or family members and enter a team in the March 5 event.

The aim of the p RETRO Teams Cu e ag ur co en to Challenge is entries in as many teams ible and the event as poss ants for ip ic to reward part ed te am at in m beating a no ants .” ip ic rt pa of RETRO

“ he Standard distance race comprises a 1.5 km swim at the Jetty Beach, a 40 km cycle out along Hogbin Drive and a 10 km run around the Jetty foreshores. It can be done as an individual or as part of a team.

The weekend of events also includes races for children and an enticer triathlon, with participation encouraged from all age groups and fitness levels.

The annual event is being held for the fifth year, and event director Sinclair Black said, “What better way to kick start your New Year’s resolutions than by entering a local triathlon.”

To make the team option even more enticing, a challenge has been thrown out by local training group, RETRO - Rowlings Endurance Triathlon & Running Organisation.

RETRO will enter a team in each of three team categories on offer - male, female and mixed - comprising locals who are proficient in their respective fields.

RETRO spokesperson Andrew Rowlings said, “The aim of the RETRO Teams Cup Challenge is to encourage as many teams entries in the event as possible and to reward participants for beating a nominated team of RETRO participants.”

“The challenge is out there”, said 60 coffs coast focus.

Rowlings, “throw a team together and see if you can knock off the RETRO combination in any of the team categories. If you enter a team and you beat the RETRO Team in your category, your team swimmer will receive Budgy Smugglers, goggles and a swim cap; the cyclist will snare a cycle kit consisting of a jersey and bib nix; while the runner will be awarded a two-piece triathlon kit.”

In addition, if your team wins its category, each member of your team who out splits the corresponding RETRO team member will receive $100 cash. So, if your swimmer beats the time of the RETRO swimmer in your category, they will be $100 richer! The same applies for the rider and runner. So any team that beats a RETRO team could walk away with brand new triathlon gear and up to $300 cash.

Event Director Sinclair Black said, “While the RETRO teams are expected to finish at the pointy end of their respective divisions, we are looking forward to seeing some healthy competition from rival teams, and it will certainly make for great viewing.”

Coffs Harbour has some extremely talented individuals who have achieved national success in swimming, cycling and running, and we would love to see these people come together to challenge the RETRO athletes.

We also encourage those less experienced triathletes to put a team together and enjoy great day out. Doing your first triathlon as part of a team is a great introduction to the sport.

A lot of people are confident in one or two disciplines, but not all three, so competing as part of a team can be very rewarding and lots of fun.”

He urges people thinking about entering the event not to delay, as entries are filling fast and spots are limited.

To date, about twenty teams have signed up for the bcu Coffs TRI teams event, with quite a few entries made up of multiple family members. “We have mums, dads and their children filling many of the team entries,” said Sinclair, “and for those who don’t have a full team, Village Sports can help put individuals in touch with each other to find a swimmer, cyclist or runner.

“It’s that time of year when everyone is

trying to stick to their New Year’s health and fitness goals and work off some off their holiday cheer. Committing to an event with others is a great way to stay healthy and fit, with the added incentive of not wanting to let down your team mates,” said Sinclair.

The bcu Coffs Tri has three team categories: male, female and mixed, with prizes for the first three teams in each category. Every team member entered in the event also receives a registration pack, which includes a quality visor, finisher’s towel and the opportunity to take home some fantastic random prizes.

For those looking for training options in the lead up to the event, the local triathlon club holds races every fortnight from the Yacht Club. There are also evening swimming squads at the Coffs Harbour Olympic Pool and group ride and run sessions held in various locations around town.

All bcu Coffs Tri events on the weekend of 4 - 5 March start and finish at the Coffs Harbour Jetty. There is something for everyone, with races for children aged 6 - 14, an Enticer event for those new to the sport, and the Standard-distance race with individual and team options.

Don’t delay, as entries for all events close on 20th February. Enter now at www.villagesports.com.au

focus_technology

with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate

cyber mum.

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

Beyond Intensity Jacqui and Glen Barnett, owners of Beyond Intensity Health, Fitness and Wellness, believe by making one good change it will lead to another. Move more: stress less. Eat better: sleep better. Breathe in: breathe out. Lose the frown: gather smiles.

Coffs residents for nine years, Glen and Jacqui have worked from a few local health and wellness facilities. Recently they’ve proudly opened their own Personal Training and Wellness Studio in Isles Park Industrial Area.

Offering 1:1 and small group Personal Training, Jacqui and Glen also offer Wellness Coaching, Applied Kinesiology, Event Preparation (e.g. fun runs and triathlons) and various workshops/ programs at their studio and around Coffs. Some include: TeenFit: seriously fun fitness for Teens 12 - 15 years, two locations.

ReStarts Term 1.

WHAT’S YOUR PROFILE PIC SAY ABOUT YOU?

TimeTraveller: Compare your chronological age with your biological age, then work with us to close the gap. Starts 1/3/2017.

PilatesFusion: Wednesdays 9:30am.

DOES YOUR TEENAGE DAUGHTER HAVE HER CLOTHES ON? WHAT DOES YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILE PICTURE SAY ABOUT YOU? OR MORE IMPORTANTLY, WHAT DOES YOUR TEENAGER’S PROFILE PICTURE SAY ABOUT THEM?

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y apologies in advance if this offends some readers, but I’m going to risk being straight to the point, as I

am once again concerned that the online safety message is simply not getting through to parents!

I spend a considerable amount of time checking out the online activities of our local kids. Surprisingly, this is relatively easy to do; just follow or friend a few of your kids’ friends, then before you know it, anyone who is anyone chimes into the conversation and you get to see who’s who, who is posting what and how they present themselves online in kids’ social media land!

The one constant in monitoring online activity is how quickly you form an opinion (rightly or wrongly) about a person by their online profile picture, let alone what they post. The best example I stumbled across was a 14 year old girl, whose profile picture was a close up of her cleavage in a lace bra! Call me conservative, but my reaction - amongst other things - was, “Come on, parents?

Seriously not good enough!”

So, I put my profile pic concept to the test, and changed my Instagram “Profile Picture” to a photo of myself in a bikini when I was 12 years old! Admittedly, I was not quite the sexually developed teen in the example above (more like a lanky,

awkward baby giraffe). But needless to say, the exercise proved to me that what you put out there can and does have an immediate effect on who you attract online!

Keeping in mind my account is private, to my surprise I was suddenly inundated with follow requests from complete strangers, friends of friends of friends of my daughters, plus men, boys and I’m sure men posing as boys, none of whom I know or intend to know, all thinking I was a young teen/tween. I then liked a few random photos of stranger’s pages, strangers that, well, weren’t really strangers in the minds of our kids, as they were friends of my friends, friends’ friends who also followed this page. Sure enough, more follow requests flowed into my account like a virus or pyramid selling scheme gone mad! I have to say for a moment I thought I was “so cool and oh so popular.” I really began to understand the psychology that goes on in a teen’s quest to increase their social standing by the measurement of how many followers they have.

So parents, what this exercise demonstrated is ... we need to get vigilant! Stop and take a look at how your kids are presenting themselves online! Is it appropriate? Are they sending the right message about themselves to the world of strangers? Most importantly, does your 14

year old daughter have her clothes on?

As the school years start, so does the need for our kids to feel socially connected their friends. So at the risk of repeating myself, now is a great time to

Beyond Intensity is different. They believe a healthy body + positive and clear mindset = wellness.

IT’S COMPETITION TIME - look for the Beyond Intensity Van, take a photo, upload to FB, comment where you saw it, tag Beyond Intensity Fitness, Health & Wellness, and you will go in the draw to win a Wellness Pack including Personal Training, Wellness Coaching, T-shirt and Cookbook. Competition ends Feb 28, 2017.

Glen 0411 037 097, Jacqui 0421 9711 55 or visit www.beyondintensity.com.au

check in with your kids and see what they are up to online, particularly if your kids are starting high school this year, as the whole online ball game changes as they are legally old enough to access popular social networking sites such as Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook.

It’s worth thinking about the fact that social media is an adult world that your minor is playing in and what you, and more importantly, what your kids put out there is potentially what or who they will attract. It is a world that should really be rated at least M. It is the big league full of uncensored material and uncensored predators.

I can assure you that your child does not fully understand this, because to them the people they are friending and following are friends and friends of friends of friends, so that makes them OK ... or does it?

Cyber Mum Facebook: www.facebook.com/ cybermumaus Instagram: cybermumaus Blog: www.cybermumaus.com Email: cyber-mum@hotmail.com coffs coast focus. 61

focus_tourism

with Scott Bellamy, Raine & Horne Toormina / Sawtell

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with Tegan Ewart, Vice President Woolgoolga Chamber of Commerce

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tourismupdate

HAPPY NEW YEAR HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL. I HOPE YOU HAD A WONDERFUL FESTIVE SEASON. THE WEATHER GODS HAVE BEEN GOOD TO US OVER THE HOLIDAYS, WITH PLENTY OF SUNSHINE AND VERY LITTLE RAIN. I THOUGHT I WOULD GIVE A LITTLE HISTORY LESSON AS TO HOW WE BECAME SAWTELL & TOORMINA ...

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he original inhabitants of the land were Aborigines of the Gumbaynggirr clan. The Aboriginal name for the land where the town now stands was Bongil Bongil.

In 1863, a cutter carrying a load of cedar logs ran aground on what would become Sawtell Beach. A Coffs Harbour farmer named Walter Harvey assembled a team of workers to salvage the logs, and a small settlement developed near the site of the wreck. Forty years later, the land around Sawtell Beach was purchased and subdivided by Oswald Sawtell for housing and farmland. A railway station, post office, school and hotel followed soon thereafter, and by the 1930s Sawtell had become a thriving coastal village in which we all enjoying living.

The suburb of Toormina was developed in the 1980s by Mr Patrick Hargraves, a local landowner who owned a large amount of land within the Coffs Harbour and Sawtell area. Hargraves holidayed in Sawtell with his family annually for Christmas during the 1960s and says that he "saw the opportunity for expansion in new subdivisions to the west of the existing centre and slowly bought the land that now is Toormina".

The suburb’s name, "Toormina", was inspired by local residents. Some of Hargraves' clients, who were Italian residents living in the area, suggested the name Taormina based on the famous resort area in Sicily, Italy. Hargraves decided that the name sounded better without the "a" and changed the name to Toormina.

62 coffs coast focus.

Our 2452 postcode has a population as at 2011 census as 15,012 people.

We are lucky to have in Sawtell many events throughout the year, with the recent annual Super Sawtell Fun Day including the fun run of 5.5 km that is on the first day of the year and has been running for 97 years. Lots of holiday makers and locals mark New Year's Day by taking part in the community’s biggest day. The athletes pulled on the runners for the fun run and sprints, the car buffs tuned their engines for the street parade, and the wood cutters sharpened the axes in what was a hive of activity on the village green.

Competing for his sixth year in a row and coming in first on the run was Jordan Gusman, in a personal best time of 15 minutes and 24 seconds. Second place went to Bryce Anderson in 16.21 and third was Reece Edwards in 16.32.

The first woman to cross the finish line was Jan Rooney in 21.31.

Dating back to 1987, the title of Sawtellian of the Year has this year gone to Mr Arthur Smart, for his tireless work with the Sawtell Cricket Club.

Mr Hollyman and his (Sawtell Super Fun Day) committee are on a mission to make the event bigger, brighter and more fun every year until they hit the centenary in 2020.

We hope you have all enjoyed the summer holidays in beautiful Sawtell and welcome back to school all the children in the area.

SHOPPING #WOOPISTYLE WE HAVE SO MANY AMAZING BOUTIQUES AND UNIQUE SHOPPING OPTIONS ON THE NORTHERN BEACHES. THIS MONTH WE THOUGHT WE’D CATCH UP WITH TONIA FROM SECOND BEST FRIEND IN WOOLGOOGLA, TO HEAR HOW THIS FUNKY CONCEPT CAME ABOUT.

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econd Best friend opened in August 2016, with the aim to provide top end quality preloved clothing at very affordable prices. They are into sustainable eco recycled and up cycled bespoke pieces. How cool is that!

Tonia is the owner and was raised on the Gold Coast, but she has lived in Sandy Beach now for the past 16 years.

She lives with her husband, Gary (Nobby, as everyone knows him) and two sons, Jack and Tom.

Second Best Friend unique.

“I love Woolgoolga and wouldn’t dream of having a shop anywhere else. This is my second pre loved clothing outlet in Woolgoolga. I previously owned "Frenchys Down Under", which was the old pink shed opposite

d I think fashion an ily ar ss ce ne t no is e styl e th at is what the trend ore about m t bu t, en om m d an u what suits yo as an u yo on od look s go individual .”

“

Tonia’s love of all things preloved came from a very early age from her mother, Loretta, who inspired her to appreciate the quality in top end label clothing and accessories. Second Best Friend reflects that inspiration by providing top end labels at affordable prices to their customers in Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches.

Tonia and her mother hand pick all their stock from the Gold Coast, and this is what makes

where Woolworths is currently located,” Tonia says.

Helping people put things together that makes them feel a million dollars is a big part of the business and Tonia loves doing it: “I think fashion and style is

not necessarily what the trend is at the moment, but more about what suits you and looks good on you as an individual.

“I really believe in good old fashioned customer service. If you are into preloved clothing shops, you will love Second Best Friend. Come in and say hi, because I want my business to become your second best friend.”

Sounds good to us!

focus_tourism

with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast

tourism UPDATE

WILD NATURE WALKS COFFS COAST BOASTS SOME OF THE BEST BEACH AND WILD FOREST MOUNTAIN WALKING TRACKS WITH RIVERS AND CREEKS IN NSW.

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he region offers dozens of walking trail experiences that not only promise unique scenic views, but also give you the chance to encounter wildlife along the way.

You can choose from challenging four day trails through to family friendly walks to local favourite swimming holes and waterfalls.

National Parks Coffs Coast is home to several National Parks with diverse walking tracks, bird watching, beautiful nature spots for picnicking and swimming. For lovers of bushwalking, the Dorrigo National Park World Heritage area should be on the top of your list. The National Park offers several walking trails, including the two hour loop walk to Crystal Shower Falls, where you can venture behind the waterfall, then follow the track along the Wonga walk to the skywalk with amazing panoramic views.

For the more adventurous, you can try the Rosewood Creek Track or the Red Cedar Falls Track, which leads you to the highest falls in the Dorrigo National Park.

The closest major park to the Coffs Harbour CBD is just 20 km inland and is the Bindarri National Park, with walking tracks through the rainforest on the Bangalore Track. The trail offers views of the dramatic gorge, upper Urumbilum River, and the Bangalore Falls is a “must-see”.

A significant site for the local Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people with Dreamtime stories and cultural learning is Muttonbird Island. The walk is a local favourite, with spectacular coastal views of the Marine Park and Harbour.

There are interpretive signage boards dotted along the path, with information on flora and fauna and the island’s heritage significance.

The paved walk is very steep, but worth the effort - especially in the early morning sun.

Just south of Coffs Harbour is the Bongil Bongil National Park, which is home to one of NSW’s largest koala colonies and offers great

walking tracks, including guided tours by an Aboriginal NPWS ranger.

Coastal Walks The Solitary Islands coastal walk offers plenty of nature experiences, linking a string of idyllic golden beaches, rocky headlands and lush rainforest tracks along the Coffs Coast. This 60 km walk trails from just south of the Yuraygir National Park near Red Rock, through Coffs Coast Regional Park including Moonee Beach Nature Reserve and Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, before winding up at Sawtell, next to Bongil Bongil National Park. If you’re feeling energetic, pack your backpack full of supplies, book some accommodation and do the whole walk over four days. Make sure you include binoculars for bird watching to spot little terns and white bellied eagles, which are often seen along the shores. There are plenty of great vantage points to spot whales during their winter migration or watch dolphins surfing the waves.

You can also stroll along the coastal walk in shorter sections and enjoy swimming, surfing, or a spot of fishing.

Waterfall Walks The Sherwood Nature Reserve is a local favourite located west of Woolgoolga, with an easy 3.5 km return walking along the Woolgoolga Creek. The walking track offers plenty of nature, with animals and a large variety of plants along the subtropical rainforest walk.

Heading towards the New England Tablelands along the Waterfall Way, you can discover bushwalking track that leads to some spectacular waterfalls, including Dangar Falls in the Dorrigo National Park, Ebor Falls in the Guy Fawkes National Parks and the Wollomobi Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Australia. So, take your local wild adventure to the next level and get out there and explore nature. www.coffscoast.com.au #createyourparadise coffs coast focus. 63

focusinterview.

BELINDA DONOVAN BELINDA DONOVAN IS TOURISM MANAGER FOR UNKYA AND HELPS RUN THEIR CULTURAL ECO TOURS PROGRAM. GUIDED BY LOCAL GUMBAYNGGIRR PEOPLE, VISITORS CAN LEARN ABOUT THE LOCAL LANGUAGE, STORIES AND BUSH TUCKER. FOCUS TRAVELLED TO THE GAAGAL WANGGAAN NATIONAL PARK TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE TRUE HISTORY OF THE AREA.

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

All our guides are descendants of the Gumbaynggirr Nation. We have a strong cultural connection to our Dreaming and the cultural landscape that surrounds us.

Our spiritual link is our land, waters and ocean, which we believe is all one entity - nothing is separated.

What is Unkya?

Unkya is a Local Aboriginal Land Council.

The organisation was established back in the ‘80s by Indigenous community members through the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983. Unkya LALC strive for preservation, restoration and protection of cultural heritage in the local area they cover, which is achieved through Land Claims.

When were Unkya’s Cultural Eco Tours established?

Unkya LALC formed the Cultural Eco Tours through their community land and business plan in 2015 to create employment opportunities for Aboriginal people and also to share and make people aware of the cultural knowledge of the Gumbaynggirr people, bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

Michele Donovan, our CEO, is also a 64 coffs coast focus.

Gumbaynggirr woman, who grew up in consists of a 1.5 hourr leisurely stroll on Scotts Nambucca Heads.

Head Little Beach, the iconic whale table and Lisa Wilson, a local Gumbaynggirr artist, headland. created the two tours to give people the What can people expect to experience on cultural experiences they had as children. these tours?

How often do the tours run?

People can engage in the Both tours operate every day Gumbaynggirr language, except Sunday. We have participate in traditional scheduled tours running ceremony, taste our n ca le as well. Our Gaagal delicious bush and Peop Wanggaan National sea tucker, learn our engage in the r ir gg yn ba Park Tour is every traditional hunting Gum ipate Thursday, and our methods, hear our language , partic in traditional Gurruuja Juun (Whale creation story of the our ceremony, taste Tail) Tour is every ocean and how the first d delicious bush an Saturday, both at 10am. wave was made, get sea tucker ...”

Who are the guides an insight of the cultural that host the tours? landscape that surrounds All our guides are you, and get a sense of Gumbaynggirr people and local traditional self and wellbeing. to the area.

What can people learn about?

Michael Donovan is our lead Tour Guide.

The local area and its cultural Kerri Anne Jarrett - Tour Guide; significance, traditional cleansing ceremonies Angel Williams - Tour Guide; - a method used for mental health and self Steven Wilson - Tour Guide; wellbeing - and also about the Gumbaynggirr Belinda Donovan - Tourism Manager. people and their way of life.

Where do the tours take place?

What is unique about these tours?

Our Gaagal Wanggaan Tour is a 3.5 bush Our tours contain authentic content from and beach walk through the pristine Gaagal the Gumbaynggirr Nation and its people. In Wanggaan National Park. Our second tour our tours everything is done in a traditional is the Gurruuja Juun (Whale Tail) Tour, which culturally appropriate manner, as our ancestors

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did in the Dreaming. The location is so unique in itself. Gaagal Wanggaan is also an Aboriginal Owned National Park, one of the first in the state of NSW. Are the tours available to school groups?

We do cater for school groups. We have an educational program that covers most of the new curriculums.

We run cultural educational based tours and incursions just for schools. We invite schools to immerse in our rich, vibrant culture.

The program meets the new curriculum educational requirements and is also a great learning experience for both the students and teachers.

This is a more practical approach to learning outside the classroom. Students can listen, learn and discover the creation stories of the Gumbaynggirr people, passed down from our ancestors from generation to generation.

This is an authentic Indigenous experience where students can listen to our trained and accredited guides, and share the knowledge of the Gumbaynggirr people through story and language.

Where can people find out more?

You can check out our deadly website or give us a call on 0428 080 994, visit the office, or pop online. We have social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Thanks Belinda.

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Vietnam Farm tour

the legend of Blarney stone HAVE YOU HEARD OF THE LEGEND OF THE BLARNEY STONE? HAVE YOU WONDERED IF YOU WOULD REALLY BE BESTOWED WITH THE GIFT OF ELOQUENCE IF YOU CLIMBED THE STEPS OF BLARNEY CASTLE AND KISSED THE MYTHICAL BLARNEY STONE? OUR REGULAR TRAVEL WRITER, KERRY MOSS, TELLS US ABOUT HER EXPERIENCE WITH THE LEGEND OF THE BLARNEY STONE ON HER TRIP TO IRELAND.

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reland is breathtakingly beautiful, with rolling green hills and picturesque farming land, so it’s no surprise that on my Quadrant Australia Tour of Ireland and the UK that we didn’t head straight to Blarney in County Cork. We meandered along dramatic coastlines and through quaint villages; we sampled Guinness Beer at the storehouse in Dublin; and we stood in awe of the amazing Book of Kels at Trinity College.

We explored Ireland, North and South. We met some wonderful locals, including Eamonn, our black cab taxi driver in Belfast, who bravely shared his stories of the conflicts in years gone by and Brendan, a local bus driver who’d grown up on farming land in County Kerry. Despite these characters and the fresh, clean air, I couldn’t help but feel impatient at the chance of ticking another item off my bucket list, so it was off to Blarney we went.

On arrival, I was surprised at just how spectacular the castle and gardens were; for a moment I had forgotten that somewhere within reach was the infamous Blarney Stone. I followed the crowds and the glaringly obvious signs and arrived at the foot of Blarney Castle. For over 200 years, world statesmen, literary giants, and legends of the silver screen have joined the millions of pilgrims climbing the steps to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence, and here I was, ready to do the same. As I climbed the steps and secretly cursed myself for not wearing more appropriate shoes, the staircase got narrower and steeper. Before long, the dark, damp stairwell spilt out onto the open roof of the castle and there it was;

Local Tour Company Quadrant Australia are offering readers a chance to visit Vietnam with their Vietnam Farm Tour, departing in November. Travellers will get the chance to visit Vietnam to experience the country’s vibrant culture, its food, history and its people. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the contrast of tranquil villages with the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) whilst visiting small scale farms growing tropical fruits, sugar cane, rice, sweet potatoes, corn and vegetables and learning about the cooperatives that are the basis of agriculture in Vietnam.

Travellers will get to observe rural life in picturesque villages and be inspired by breath-taking scenery on a cruise through Halong Bay. If you like the sound of visiting colourful local markets and participating in a Vietnamese cooking school, all in a country with fascinating history

and architecture, then be sure to drop in to see the team at Quadrant in Vernon St., Coffs Harbour, to find out more about this tour.

Quadrant Australia has been operating international tours for more than 30 years. Some of their tours, like the Vietnam Farm Tour, are specially designed for people from the land who enjoy meeting with local farmers and learning about farming methods in Vietnam.

The Quadrant Australia office located in Vernon St., Coffs Harbour has a fully qualified team to help you with all your travel needs. In 2017, Quadrant will be offering more than 20 specialised tours to countries such as Italy, Spain, USA, Canada, Japan, UK and South Africa. If you would like to be placed on the exclusive list to be one of the first people to find out about these tours, give the team a call on (02) 6651 1555.

the Blarney Stone. I lined up with the hundreds of other tourists who also wanted to benefit from the gift of the gab, but I fooled myself into thinking that I’d be the only one who had a childhood dream to kiss it.

In the line-up, conversation flowed freely, and stories were shared. There was the old Scottish man who despite living so near had never been to Ireland and wanted to visit the places he learnt about at school. Tom from the USA had been brought there by his wife; he had no interest in the fantasy of the Blarney Stone, but felt compelled to do it now that he’d come this far. Catherine was there with her daughter, teaching her the family history dating back hundreds of years, and I was there living out a childhood memory.

There at the top of Blarney Castle overlooking the fields of lavender dotted with ancient ruins whilst I stood with a melting pot of cultures, it struck me. The legend of the Blarney Stone had evolved from the days of medieval knights and witches. The modern legend was unfolding right before my eyes. The Blarney Stone, if only for a moment, allowed people from all over the world to stand beside their neighbours and share stories of their lives - creating new memories for the next generation to create their own legend.

Local tour company Quadrant Australia are offering this tour again in 2017. The Agricultural Tour of UK and Ireland departs in August and has a diverse range of visits, both farming and sightseeing. Contact Quadrant on (02) 6651 1555 or visit their website: www.quadrantaustralia.com to find out more. coffs coast focus. 65

CarolE Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Karen Jone, Lorraine Booth

John Parker, Jane Wilson, Andrew Ramsay

Graham and Jill Taylor, Robyn Jackson, Reiner Schiminger

Dr Christopher and Mayor Denise Knight, Leonie and Dr Hensheke

Jake Cosmai, Phil Greed

Di and Anthony Lamont, Kym and Elizabeth Muir

John and Barbara Wenman, June Lamont, Alicia Wenman

Kasie Landrigan, Penny and Rick Johnson

Dr Carol Chan, Dr Anand Naidoo

Katrina Tonniges, Kymberlei Goodacre, Robin Laarhoven

Gabrielle Pool, RZA and Family, Madonna Bannerman, Nicci Seccombe

Terry and Jeff Crowe

Nonie and Bill Widders, Carol Smith, James Widders

Chelsea Crowe and Taryn Sopher

Zoe Sparks, Karen Kennedy, Annie Chladil

Simon Chladil, Marissa Kaandorp

Kerry Gately, Emma and Danny Rhoades

Kay Ryan, Jill Bale

66 coffs coast focus.

CarolE Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Maria Cook, Nicole Moore

Carole Beros, Vicky Hunter

Jenny Evans, Wendy Mason

Erin Jackson, Therese Barker, Karen Jackson

Adelaide Zietsch, Tuilu Conner, Emma Binns, Max Woods

Cheryl Monro, Alan Johnson

Maureen Donnellan, Dympna Keogh, Maureen Ewer

Alexandra and Gabrielle Wenman

Joe and Marina Tesoriero

Tanya Watts, Russ Atkison, Cathryn Meredith

Adelaide Zietsch

Scott Bellamy and the Raine & Horne Staff

Craig Black, Ivan Beros, Kathryn Black, Christoper Beros

Abbey and Mason Peronchik, Belinda Lemair, Katherine Foote, Shelley Turner

Abbey, Greg, Mason and Wendy Peronchik

2017 Pink Silks Committee

All female Jockeys’ race riders with Pink Silks Committee

Melanie, Kimberly, Emma and Chelsea

coffs coast focus. 67

MJA Financial Services: A partnership to change lives Mel Zander, founder of MJA Financial Services, this month announced that experienced financial adviser Brendan Hoy is to become a partner in the business. Brendan brings over a decade of financial planning experience. Born and raised locally, he understands the way we Coffs Coasters think, and has helped many in the community to get on top of their financial affairs.

We spoke to Brendan about being a financial adviser, and discovered that he is motivated by a desire to change lives.

> What do you enjoy most about being a financial adviser?

I enjoy helping people. I like teaching people things they didn’t know before, and taking people to places they might not have been able to get to on their own. > A lot of people don’t trust financial advisers. What do you say to that?

Our industry has a reputation for being product floggers. That’s probably fair enough because historically there have been plenty of advisers who simply pushed the insurance company or bank product they were being paid to push. But nowadays we are moving toward a fee for service structure, which encourages more strategic financial advice.

It pays to examine an adviser carefully before taking them on. Check with the regulatory authorities to make sure they don’t have any black marks against their name. Ask for references and call their clients.

68 coffs coast focus.

I would recommend that you only move forward with fee-based advice. Your adviser should provide you with a detailed explanation of the services they will provide and the fees you will pay.

If you aren’t 100% sure, don’t sign. > How much money do I need before I see a financial adviser?

Everyone seems to think that you need a lot of money to see a financial adviser. That’s not true.

Advisers help on many different levels.

Personally, I think everyone needs financial advice – including myself. We all have emotional hangups when it comes to our money and how we spend it. The most important thing a financial adviser does is look at your financial situation unemotionally. Without all those personal hangups an adviser can give you sensible, objective financial guidance.

Financial advisers aren’t ing . just about invest estate We also handle nce , planning , insura debt refinance , tax planning , budgeting …”

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> What if I have no savings and I’m spending more than I earn? Does it really make sense to see a financial adviser?

Yes, I think so. We may not end up working together right away, but normally if you sit down with me you will come away with some extra knowledge and some plans to get your spending under control.

Financial advisers aren’t just about investing. We also handle estate planning, insurance, debt refinance, tax planning, budgeting… Everyone can benefit from these things. The first session with most advisers

is free – and I can tell you there have been very few people who haven’t got something out of an initial meeting with me. > What are the biggest financial mistakes people make?

The first thing most people do is to think about what investment to go into. This is important, but it should be one of the last things you consider. First you want to consider where you are now and where you to get to financially. Only then should you start working out exactly what investment strategy will work best.

> What is the most important thing you can do for a client?

Removing financial stress. I often have clients come to me in a lot of financial pain at the beginning.

When we get 2 or 3 years down the track and that client is not experiencing financial stress anymore, then I know that I have changed their life.

Fifty percent of marriages fail, and 50% of the time financial stress is the main reason they fail. If you can take financial stress out of a person’s life, you add a lot of value to a person’s life. Makes me feel really good about my work!

Want to get your finances under control?

Contact MJA Financial Services and book an initial appointment with Brendan Hoy. www.mjabusiness.com.au 02 6652 8188 Helping businesses to grow and thrive.

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coffs coast focus. 69

new year’s resolution Happy New Year to all of our clients, family and friends.

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.

70 coffs coast focus.

The festive season has gone quickly, and I hope it treated you well. It is now time to reflect on the year that has gone and focus on your plans for the New Year. I find that many people think about their financial situation over the holiday period and how they can do things differently or improve their situation in the year ahead.

Business owners - why not start the New Year by conducting a waste audit on your business. If you can identify waste in your business and put a value on it, then corrective action can be taken.

Employees - complete a budget. Set a realistic savings goal such as salary sacrifice into super, or save for a rainy day or a holiday.

Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement, and even small changes can lead to bigger and better outcomes. You need to “plant that seed” if you want to grow. We have a range of packages of services that can be tailored suit your needs for both business and personal clients.

At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

Advanced mechanical Services Advanced Mechanical Services Coffs Harbour is your one stop shop for all your mechanical and automotive needs. We cater for all makes and models of cars, light commercial, trailers and caravans. The team of fully qualified automotive technicians are focused on providing high quality customer service, with an emphasis on systematic and organised checks conducted in a diligent and professional manner. We do car servicing, including grease and oil change, plus diagnostic tune-up and safety inspection, including a report on your car’s overall mechanical condition.

We are a rego inspection specialist. We do pink slips, blue slips and historic rego for cars over 30 years old.

We also offer log book servicing, so if your car is new or still under its warranty, it’s your choice where to have it serviced. We can service it without voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.

We have an unrivalled understanding of anything mechanical and just what locals need to keep them motoring!

No more “it’ll be all right, mate ... give it go” - get it fixed right first time and at the right price!

Shine Lawyers 2017 is a year I hope that will be filled with promise for abuse survivors around the country.

Last year, we saw historical progress in relation to how the nation, including the courts, have responded to survivors of abuse. It is important that we reflect on the lessons that we have learnt and that we resolve to keep doing better to stop child abuse in its tracks - responding to survivors positively and compassionately.

This is the line of work that I have dedicated myself to. As Sawtell’s main point of contact, my work at Shine Lawyers is focused on bringing institutions and individuals to account when they have wronged our nation’s most vulnerable people. By standing up and speaking up, people are listening, legislation is changing and many more survivors of abuse are winning their battles and achieving vindication. Whilst much work has gone on - there is still much more to do.

East coast Cabinets Have a happy, healthy New Year!

At this time of year, hopefully everyone will enjoy a wellearned break and quality time with family and friends.

Thank you to all of our wonderful customers for their business, contractors for their work and assistance and suppliers for their support.

After a few weeks’ rest and respite, we will commence the new year with a restored supply of vim and vigour. Although the factory is in full swing, now is a good time to start planning and organising your jobs for next year. With January being a short production month, February will be on us before we know it.

Planning is the most important part of your job. Think carefully about what you wish to achieve in not only looks, but practical design as well.

This year, I’m looking forward to this progress continuing. It must. I hope that survivors know that there are people who want to hear them and help them.

Select (not necessarily purchase) all of your appliances and fittings, as well as the colours and materials, before finalising the design and quotation.

All the best for 2017, Lisa Flynn, Principal and Manager National Abuse Department.

Ensure that your appliances will be available when required, so as not to create delays on the job.

coffs coast focus. 71

simply conveyancing

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

Matt Snell, principal and founder of Simply Conveyancing here on the Coffs Coast, remembers the criticism he received when he first started working in the property industry over 30 years ago. Several industry peers told him, “You are spending too much time with your clients!” and at first this concerned him; but he soon realised that this was the best thing he could do for both his clients and his business

H

is philosophy and reply to his critics soon became “Well, I call it customer service” and it is this genuine, helpful approach to his conveyancing that has ultimately become the primary foundation for Matt and Simply Conveyancing’s popularity and success. Matts professional growth in the conveyancing arena has gone from strength to strength based on his genuine ‘customer service’ path and ultimately led to the creation of his own firm, Simply Conveyancing, on Valentine’s Day in 2002.

Sadly, in the commercial business world, genuine customer service can be a rare commodity these days, but this has only served to inspire Matt even further in his quest to provide the best customer service possible.

Quote: “It is the foundation stone that has become

72 coffs coast focus.

the Simply Conveyancing business model and it is our entire team’s priority to offer and deliver genuine helpful assistance and professional advice to all of our clients on a daily basis”. Matt emphasizes the importance not to waver from this commitment, as buying and selling a home for most people is amongst their most important decisions in life.“Of course, despite best efforts, we also realise that we are only human and there are rare occasions where a client may view things differently to us or we have to jump a few hurdles, but keeping our cool and taking the time needed to achieve the best outcomes for our clients remains our absolute focus.”

Perfection is elusive in business and in life, but Matt says that he and his team are always aiming for this goal. They continue to learn invaluable lessons from every client

Main Branch: Coffs Harbour

P (02) 6652 4233 | F (02) 6652 4266

Ground Floor, 24 Moonee Street

M 0405 386 165

P.O.Box 546

www.simplyconveyancing.com.au

Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

matt@simplyconveyancing.net.au

www.simplyconveyancing.com.au

interaction, no matter how small, to further improve all their customer service techniques and to cement positive, helpful attitudes.

Simply Conveyancing turns 15 on Valentine’s Day, and it is clear that Matt is a very proud owner of such a truly local business that has grown strong and delivered so many exceptional outcomes for people since opening its doors back in 2002. Simply Conveyancing is reputed for being amongst the most prominent and well respected businesses in the region, and in this modern ‘fast and furious’ world where many fickle businesses come and go, Simply Conveyancing has stood firm to become what many consider to be the most consistent, reliable and trustworthy conveyancing establishment on the Mid North Coast. Simply Conveyancing has remained a rocksolid ally for all of their clients who are taking that often precarious step of buying or selling property, and Matt still exudes the same passion and enthusiasm he had for the business back in 2002.

Matt grew up in Elizabeth Street, Sawtell, and his parents still live in the original family home there. It is said quietly that Matt’s dad is the ‘not so silent Mayor of Sawtell’ Matt takes his family history on the Coffs Coast seriously and knows it is something very special. Matt Quote: “It does make me very proud to be a member of such a wellrespected local family, and I attribute my genuine caring approach to all of my clients to being firmly rooted in that family home at Elizabeth Street, Sawtell. I am so privileged that my parents gave me a wonderful childhood that I will never forget, and I want to do the same for my own 3 beautiful children in this amazing place” Many Simply Conveyancing clients will affirm that it is all about the client experience at Simply Conveyancing, and there are many caring hands at the business to help with all of their needs along the way. Matt believes that modern technology has greatly assisted the conveyancing industry, but emphasizes just how important it is that this new technology is used for the greater benefit of

clients, and not just a business’s bottom line. Simply Conveyancing use modern connectivity to do more than just conveyancing through many of their own unique initiatives. In fact, they can assist clients to obtain finance with their ‘property loan assessment service’; find their dream home or investment property with their ‘property seeker service’ and provide education and invaluable information via their amazing new website and step by step instructional video series. Matt engaged the professional services of local visual media consultants Eco Media Production Group to plan, structure and produce a range of exceptionally informative ‘plain English’ videos to seamlessly guide buyers and sellers through all aspects of the process.

Most would agree that there is always potential problems in any sale or purchase of property, and it is with this in mind that Simply Conveyancing is a ‘solution based’ operation; They approach every client’s matter or query with all the respect and diligence that is required. They will always look for and discuss a solution or options with their clients to ensure they are well informed to make the next step forward to securing the sale or purchase of their

property.

The best advice that Matt can ever give to any potential client is ‘never assume anything’ when buying or selling a property and if you don’t know something, always ask the question. I think there is an old Chinese proverb “One who asks a question is perhaps a fool for five minutes, whereas one who does not ask a question can remain a fool forever.”

All the team at Simply Conveyancing wish to thank all of their clients and service providers over the past 15 years, and, together with our wonderful referral sources, it has been an outstanding and most enjoyable journey. For all you who are considering real estate dealings, take the pressure off yourself and connect with Simply Conveyancing, for they know every challenge and interaction intimately, and will be your totally affordable, professional safety net from start to finish.

For more information and to view Simply Conveyancing’s video series, visit www.simplyconveyancing.com.au

simply conveyancing coffs coast focus. 73

Dave Brighton Floorsanding Dave Brighton Floor Sanding is expanding.

We now have eight staff members. We have four flooring specialists, Dave Brighton, Mark Hiller, Damian Kearny and Daniel Johnson; two apprentices, Tom Revelly and Daniel Brighton; and our two office ladies, Sue Stride and Javena Veale. Thanks to our amazing team, our wait time is kept to a minimum.

Dave Brighton Floor Sanding has also expanded their fleet of cars, so you may see more of our vehicles travelling along the highway.

We have commenced installing floating floors.

We can supply and install, or you can purchase the floorboards and we can install them for you. We are still supplying and installing our

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solid and engineered timber floors, as well as sanding and polishing new and existing floors.

We operate on the Coffs Coast, in Bellingen, Nambucca, Kempsey, South West Rocks, Macleay Valley, out to Dorrigo and anything in between.

When looking at your next flooring project, give Dave and the team a call. He will come to your home, listen to your ideas and give you expert advice on how to get the best result in your home, while keeping in mind your budget.

Contact Dave Brighton Floor Sanding for an obligation free quote and expert advice on 0447 683 388.

focus_real estate

Scott Nolan from Nolan Partners

Who is the best buyer for your property TO ENSURE YOU ARE ACHIEVING THE BEST PRICE POSSIBLE FOR YOUR HOME, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT UNDERSTANDS THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF REAL ESTATE BUYERS IN THE MARKET PLACE AND HAS A CLEAR STRATEGY ON HOW TO MARKET TO, AND NEGOTIATE WITH, EACH BUYER GROUP.

A

real estate update

pproximately 80% of buyers are ACTIVE buyers, who are regularly attending open homes, viewing property websites, reading property guides in newspapers, and driving around their desired neighborhoods searching for the property that best suits their needs. These buyers are very well educated on which properties are currently for sale and what price properties are selling for. On average, these buyers view between 12 - 20 properties over a two to three-month period before making the decision on which property to purchase. When they do make an offer, they will provide plenty of comparable sales and statistics on why they believe they are making a fair offer.

The second type of buyer is termed a PASSIVE buyer and generally accounts for about 20% of the buyers in the marketplace. Typically, these buyers are not actively searching the real estate market on a regular basis; however, when a certain property becomes available in a location they have always desired to live, they will suddenly become interested. These buyers are also very likely to be lifestyle buyers, who become emotionally attracted to a property and the lifestyle benefits it offers.

There are several other differences between these

two buyer types; an experienced professional real estate agent will be able to convey these differences to you and explain which buyer type will pay you the best price for your home and why. If the agent you’re talking to does not have a buyer strategy that targets both groups, then it is possible that the best buyer for your property may not find it.

Once the ideal buyer is found, then it is imperative that you know that your agent is working to get the maximum possible price for your property. To do this an agent must have a clearly defined “negotiation strategy” and explain to you how this will be applied to get the best possible result.

If the real estate agent you call in simply talks about commissions and price but does not present a proper “buyer strategy and negotiation strategy” on how they will find the ideal buyer and get you the maximum possible price, then it is definitely worth calling in another agent.

When selling a property, some property owners will assume that all agents do the same thing. Whilst it may appear like this on the surface, it is important to remember that there are layers and layers of differences between the best agents and the rest. Put simply, this is why the top agents sell more property and achieve the best results!

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focus_interview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

BUSINESS minds

The best tip I can give would the be to learn from t on fr lesson put in ol co a ep of you, ke s, head and alway to ck ba r fe re s ay alw the pl an . ”

“ YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SPECIALIST

Y

ou have kicked off 2017 with a bang with your new business; tell us a little about it?

Yes, we have indeed. Late last year we started Your Commercial Property Specialist, providing a one-stop, peace of mind shop for all your commercial real estate needs.

We operate exclusively in commercial real estate: commercial office, retail and industrial property … sales, leasing, consultancy and property management.

We’re looking forward to working with commercial clients to help them achieve their goals with commercial property.

You have worked in commercial property for many years, but people might not know that you have a corporate real estate background. Tell us a little about that.

I love, love, love what I do, and I am grateful for my corporate real estate background.

I went to uni in Brisbane to complete my property economics degree, with the idea I would return home as a rural valuer, but then I discovered the wonderful world of corporate real estate and was taken under the wings of some amazing mentors.

For nearly a decade, I was fortunate to work with owner fund managers - this instilled in me a high level of accountability and responsibility for managing property assets. Straight out of uni, I was moulded to understand the importance of managing property as though it were my own.

Forming good tenant relationships, knowing what to look for on property inspections and smart budget management!

And boy, did I get to manage some awesome properties - mostly large CBD office high-rise complexes, industrial warehouse distribution centres and regional shopping centres. This often involved a lot of travel around the country working with a large pool of property lawyers, accountants, facility managers, sales and leasing 76 coffs coast focus.

agents. I Iearned a great deal about commercial property during that time and gained invaluable experience that I’m now really enjoying applying to the local Coffs commercial property market.

In making the move to set up your own business, what have you found to be the most challenging?

I think too many small businesses fail because they open their business on a romantic idea of what owning your own business is all about … and this too often “rose-coloured glasses” the nitty grittiness of owning a business.

My husband and I had already gone through the process of setting up our construction and carpentry business a few years ago - so I was able to apply a lot of those learnings to setting up the commercial real estate agency.

For me, it’s about sticking to your plan …

Things don’t always turn out the way you think they will, and it’s easy to go into reaction mode.

But, by having a good plan in place and sticking to it, you can manage (or avoid) the spot fires!

Life is going to happen, so enjoy the journey. The best tip I can give would be to learn from the lesson put in front of you, keep a cool head and always, always refer back to the plan.

What excites you about owning your own business?

It’s a long list, but here are a few: #1 is definitely helping our clients … Improving our clients’ lives through the simple act of providing good customer service. #2 Being the expert our clients deserve …

They’ve entrusted us to manage, sell or lease their property - treating our clients with the respect and delivering the results they deserve. #3 Relationships … Strong, solid, respectful, mutually beneficial relationships.

The local property market has experienced great growth over the past few years. What do you forecast for 2017 and beyond for the commercial property market?

In terms of industrial sales, moderate growth is expected, as people realise we’re running out of

industrial zoned land.

A tightening of yields and increase in price for industrial stock as supply is absorbed can be expected. Now may be a good time to get in and buy what stock is available, before interest rates rise …

With new industrial lease stock coming on the market over the next 6 - 12 months, we’ll see a bit of supply and demand impact on rents, but this should level out and progressively improve into 2018 and beyond.

Owner occupiers remain active in securing available commercial stock. We saw a large volume of properties purchased in Self Managed Super Funds last year, with no sign of this easing in 2017. As available stock is absorbed, prospective owner-occupiers will need to remain on as tenants.

We are also seeing confidence return to the market, with tenants prepared to sign longer term leases. Longer term leases provide more room to negotiate favourable lease terms for both landlords and tenants alike.

The investment made by Gowings (Coffs Central) and other major building refurbishments in the CBD such as “The Vault” has seen the image of the CBD improve - this is encouraging other owners to improve the façade and fitout of their buildings, which will in turn attract better quality tenants and improve rental returns long term (be mindful not to overcapitalise).

Whilst we will need to see more realistic asking rents to fill retail vacancies - particularly in the CBD … with no sign of Gowings giving up on their vision for the CBD, Vacinity Centre’s commitment to Toormina and Bachrach Naumburger’s growth plans for the Plaza and Homebase, new opportunities opened up in the old Masters site and Government infrastructure spending in the pipeline for the Jetty precinct we’re excited to see continued improvement of the Coffs retail market in to 2017 - 2018.

How important is business development and

relationship marketing to your business?

Important! I can’t stress enough just how important it is … for any business.

While I have a great deal of experience in commercial real estate, I will never claim to know everything - I am oddly addicted to continuous learning. I’m always sending myself off to seminars and doing courses, to broaden my knowledge and stay up to date with current legislative requirements.

Relationships are the backbone of any business. It’s about sharing knowledge amongst your business affiliates for the benefit of your mutual clients … Working together for the betterment of our local economy.

What tips have you got for us budding property investors?

Get the right team of experts around you from the start … a good solicitor, accountant and property agent.

If you haven’t already appointed them, interview them before you do, and in person preferably. Tip - ask the professional service provider if they have invested in property themselves or how many property investor clients they have. Don’t recreate the wheel - work with professionals who are already in the game, and this will save you time and money down the track.

It might seem cheaper doing a lot of the work yourself - but the money it could cost you by getting the purchase wrong will far outweigh the investment spent on appointing a good team of trusted professionals in the first place.

Finally, make sure your team of professionals believe in you and work hard for you … if not, find someone who will!

Do you a have a motto that you live by?

I love this quote: “A bird sitting in a tree is not afraid of the branch breaking - for her trust is not in the branch, but in her own ability to fly …”

Thanks Cherie.

coffs coast focus. 77

MAP Training MAP Training is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that was established in 2002 and has consistently been providing quality training and assessments for the general and civil construction industries.

MAP Training specialises in onsite and site specific training and assessments, as well as classroom based training. Our services cover a large-scale area ranging from Northern NSW to the South of Sydney. MAP Training is accredited to deliver Australia wide.

Our courses include a range of High Risk Licences (SafeWork NSW approved), Plant Operations, Traffic Control, General construction and specific short courses.

MAP Training has a strong focus on delivering excellent training and customer service. Our Trainers and Assessors are highly experienced and renowned experts in their fields. They have a proven track record in working across all levels of learner competency within the industry.

WHY CHOOSE US? At MAP Training, we believe that adequate training by qualified and experienced trainers is paramount to a safe workplace, and by enrolling in one of our courses you can achieve your goal right here on the North Coast.

Don’t leave yourself open to hazards in the workplace and potential accidents. Cover all bases and ensure both you and your employees are fully trained and qualified to carry out the work that will be undertaken.

78 coffs coast focus.

Granite Transformations ... We are more than just benchtops!

Granite Transformations Coffs Harbour is your one-stop destination for quality kitchen, bathroom and laundry renovations, whether it be starting from scratch or a makeover of an existing room.

Granite Transformations opened its doors in Coffs Harbour in 2004. During this time, we have gained a solid reputation for providing creative design solutions, quality workmanship, attention to detail and excellent customer service.

We have a team of fully qualified and highly skilled tradies, including a registered builder. Our project management service takes care of everything for you, including arranging all the trades from rip-out to completion.

Our whole team takes pride in their work, so rest assured of a first class job, one that will give you years of pleasure.

Granite Transformations is the sole agent for Kleenmaid appliances in Coffs Harbour. Kleenmaid is an Australian owned domestic appliance brand and is renowned for quality and reliability for over 20 years. See our website: www.gtcoffs.com.au for Kleenmaid’s special offer.

So if you want to work with a company that’s main aim is to make your renovation as easy as possible, deliver on time and on budget and have you thrilled with the end result, please call for an appointment on 6652 2022, or call into our showroom at 2/26B Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour.

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Neil Perry Neil Perry Neil Perry Kitchen Kitchen Kitchen upgrade upgrade upgrade worth $7,500! worth $7,500! worth $7,500!

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* DISCLAIMER: 1. Promotion commences 16th January 2017 and concludes on 28th February 2017. 2. To qualify, customers must pay deposit between 16th January and 28th February visit gjgardner.com.au DISCLAIMER: 1. Promotion commences 16th January 2017 and concludes on 28th February CLAIMER: 1. Promotion commences 16th January and concludes on31st 28th*May February 2017 and then proceed to sign2017 a building contract by 2017. 3. Offer only 2017. 2. To qualify, customers must pay deposit between 16th January and 28th February 2. To qualify, customers must pay deposit between 16th January and 28th February applies to initial deposits paid within this period and to those clients who proceed 2017Omega and then proceed and then proceed towith signthe a building 31st May 2017.

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4. 3.

Package includes Brands Neilto sign a building contract by 31st May 2017. 3. Offer only applies to initial deposits es to initial depositsPerry paidKitchen within this period and to those clients who proceed 90cm Electric Oven (NP090), Omega Brands Neil Perry Kitchen 90cm paid within this period and to those clients who proceed the building of(NPR90). a G.J. Gardner home. 4. Package includes Omega Brands Neil he building of a G.J.Gas Gardner home.

4. Package includes Omega Brands Neil with Cooktop (NPC90G), Omega Brands Neil Perry Kitchen 90cm Rangehood Perry Kitchen Electric Oven (NP090), Omega Brands Neil Perry Kitchen 90cm Kitchen 90cm Electric Oven (NP090), Omega Brands Neil Perrymay Kitchen 90cm Total package value $7,597.

5. Photographs depict fixtures, finishes90cm and features Gas Cooktop (NPC90G), Omega Brands Neil Perry Kitchen 90cm Rangehood (NPR90). ooktop (NPC90G), Omega Brands Kitchen 90cm Rangehood (NPR90). not supplied byNeil G.J.Perry Gardner Homes.

Fischer Built trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Total package value $7,597. package value $7,597.

5.

Photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features Harbour Builders Licence 191313C.. Visit gjgardner.com.au for full terms & conditions. 5. Photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. Fischer Built trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs upplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. Fischer Built trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs 80 coffs coast Visit focus.

Harbour Builders Licence 191313C. Visit gjgardner.com.au for full terms & conditions. our Builders Licence 191313C. gjgardner.com.au for full terms & conditions.

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