Issuu

COFFS COAST

March 2017//issue 78

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Feature Story Jim Newton

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Welcome to the March issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

ow crazy has this heat wave been? But, we are so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world. The beaches are only a stone’s throw away, and the rivers are right in our backyard. We love the Coffs Coast. We wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. This Month’s Cover It is with great pleasure we present to you our annual “Women in Business” feature. The Coffs Coast is full of women living, sharing ideas and inspiring each other daily. These amazing women often juggle busy careers, run kids around and keep a house in order. This month’s cover showcases some pretty amazing ladies. Denise Knight (Mayor), Heidi Brett (Vast Interior), Nicole Donovan (Park Beach Surf Club), Jen Dowd (Rally Australia), Tracey Hynes (RSVP Bridal and Formal Wear),

and Cherie Parik (CPS Commercial Property Specialists) are the beautiful faces on our cover this month. We had so much fun shooting this cover. They are such a fantastic group of women! Inside this Edition Tom Woods is a talented local photographer who has turned his passion into a successful career. FOCUS caught up with him to find out about his recent travels with his family and to see what it takes to make a living with a camera. Sammy Ross is a talented and passionate performer who is making waves on the Coffs Coast. FOCUS went along to her studio, to find out more. Social Pages We were so excited to be part of the amazing Music in the Vines Festival at Two Tails Wines last month. Carole Beros was lucky enough to spend the day out in the winery

taking photos of the lucky punters who scored tickets. Check out Page 56 and 57. We are sure you will recognise a few faces. Next Month We are very excited to announce that for the first time we will be showcasing a feature dedicated to the “Young and Successful”. If you or anyone you know is under the age of 35 and has achieved great success or has a story to share, let us know! We would love to hear from you! Apology We made a bit of a boo boo in the February edition regarding the Taxi Ride Gig at the Hoey Moey. Our Coordinator, Nicci, put in the editorial that is was a “Free” gig, when in fact it wasn’t. Lucky for us, the gig was a huge success, and no complaints were made. Apologies to Twane and his team at the Hoey Moey. We love you guys!

Call us today on 6656 4664 or visit us online at ohanaelc.com.au

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2 centres located in the heart of Coffs: Ohana North Boambee 10 North Boambee Road, Coffs Ohana Scarba Street 13 Scarba Street, Coffs Enrol your child for 2017 today

nature based playground coffs coast focus. 3

INTRODUCING

SUGAR MILL RELEASE 3

FINAL LAND RELEASE NORTH SAPPHIRE BEACH Don’t miss the last opportunity to join the North Sapphire Beach community. Secure your lot today Sugar Mill Release 3 features: • 472sqm – 787sqm lots from $257,000 • Flat, easy build lots • Sunny backyards and entertaining spaces • Beautiful outlook to Sugar Mill Creek • Cycle paths and timber boardwalk connect homes with the beach • Registration expected 30th September 2017 • NBN connected

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TOM WOODS Tom Woods is a talented local photographer who has turned his passion into a successful career. FOCUS caught up with Tom to find out about his recent travels with his family and to see what it takes to make a living with a camera.

issue I S S U E

ROSHANI PRIDDIS. Roshani Priddis has possibly the most amazing voice you have ever heard. Add to that an enticing life story and a passion for living life to its fullest; FOCUS just had to find out more about this shining star ...

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M A R C H

10. WHAT’S ON FOR MARCH 22. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 54. BUSINESS MINDS WITH SAM WARDMAN 56. SOCIAL SCENE WITH CAROLE BEROS

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SAWTELL TOORMINA AFL CLUB.

The feeling of running on freshly cut grass, the lingering scent of liniment oil as players prepare for a big afternoon of running and the grip of leather in your hands … ahh, footy on the North Coast is well and truly back for another year!

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

coffs coast focus. 5

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JIM NEWTON

SURFBOARD SHAPER

JIM NEWTON IS ONE OF THE FEW REMAINING SURFBOARD SHAPERS AND REPAIRERS IN THE LOCAL AREA; CHEAP IMPORTED BOARDS HAVE MADE IT ALL BUT IMPOSSIBLE TO MAKE A DECENT LIVING OUT OF THE CRAFT. FOCUS WENT ALONG TO JIM'S SHAPING BAY, TO FIND OUT MORE.

urrently one of the only people offering quality repairs for surfboards and SUPs in Coffs, if you spend time in the sea you will find your way to his door sooner or later. Can you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast? During the 1990s I lived in the Grafton area and made a few surfboards for Paul Guthrie’s “North Coast Surf Company”, in Grafton, Woolgoolga and Toormina. I moved to Coffs Harbour in 1997 and I helped build the Christian City Church (C3) in June Street. I was employed by Peter Lubans of “The Promenade” to run the canoe hire there and manage the maintenance of the “The Promenade”. In 1994, I purchased the canoe hire and expanded it to include Coffs Kayak and Canoe Centre sales and hire. In 2012 I was compelled to look into the surf industry in the Coffs region. I discovered a lack of specialist surfboard repairers. Surf Craft Repairs re-emerged, and the desire to make surfboards again came as well. As a minor player in manufacturing, it does allow me to design new concepts and offer glassing services and tips to other young shapers around Coffs. I sponsor a couple of riders in Coffs Harbour, in varying degrees - Joel Brennan and Josh Burrows (a few others are on the watch list). Could you briefly explain what it is that you do? Surf Craft Repairs repair all forms of surfing craft, surfboards, SUPs and SLSC craft. Surfboards - new and second hand, plus accessories. Newton Surfboards makes surfboards from young grom size to Malibus.

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How long have you been involved in this line of work? Since 1970 and on through into the '90s. I sponsor a couple of riders I'm originally from North , Narrabean in Sydney, where I in Coffs Harbour s ee gr de g in ry in va made surfboards and repaired d an - Joel Brennan them, starting "Surf Craft w fe (a s Josh Burrow Repairs" in 1978. e th on e others ar During the '70s and '80s I watch list).” glassed surfboards for my brother, and Vietnam Bryan Newton, and other shapers on have damaged the the Northern Beaches of Sydney. local industry with I also a short stint at “Morning Star inferior product (some Surfboards” at Mona Vale in ‘79. improvements have been made, During the later 1980s, I spent time but nowhere near enough). at "Bennett Surfboards" and “Shane "Entrepreneurs" have thought more Surfboards” with Shane Steadman and Rod about making a buck, than looking after local Hocker, developing the epoxy systems some industries, having taken advantage of the "free manufacturers are using today. trade" - killing many small businesses. Where did you learn how to work with You also do a lot of repairs. Can you briefly surfboards, resin and foam? describe the range of what comes through I am self taught - knowing there has to be the door? better ways ... finding new ways to do things. The biggest change in the surfboard industry However, watching others in manufacturing since the 1970s has been the quality of the in the industry (covertly), had a lot to do with it. workmanship in making a surf craft. I learnt from some of the best: Col Smith, In the early years, surfboards were made to Bryan Newton, Barry Bennett, Shane Steadman, last. Rod Hocker and others, all legends. Today, many of the surfboards you buy have The industry was a lot more close-knit in a life span of three months (surf hard, you could those days. Although each had their way, many go through a few surfboards each year). still shared. The products I repair the most are "off the How have things changed in the industry? shelf" surfboards, most made overseas. Those who know have become more This includes surfboards, SUPs (Stand Up protective of their knowledge; in part, because Paddleboards), and SLSC paddleboards. we have seen many in the industry ripped off. Damage? Everything; I fix everything The Australian "Free Trade" arrangements polyester and epoxy. has not benefitted small business in Australia; What makes a good surfboard? it has put many out of business. So much Simply, a surfboard made to meet local for a government that says it prides itself on conditions, from local surfers with local supporting small business! knowledge. The imports from China, Thailand, Indonesia e.g. Why buy an $850 surfboard, when a

“

local guy can do it for less than $600? What advice would you give to someone who is looking to purchase his or her first board? It is all a "size to weight" ratio. If you’re small, you don’t need an 8 - 9 foot Malibu. If you’re big, maybe you do. However, something around 7 foot. A foamie is OK for about three months, then you’ll get frustrated. For a young grom (youngster surfer), no bigger than 6 foot, with some area in the shape. There are very few shapers left in the local area; why is that? I have covered that previously ... imports, disillusion. There are a few still holding to the vision: Ron Goddard, Richie West, Dennis Anderson. What do you love most about surfing on the Coffs Coast? Mateship sums it up. Much of that has disappeared in Sydney, where I grew up. Where can people contact you? Surf Craft Repairs / Jim’s Tradition Backyard Surf Shop / Newton Surfboards. Facebook. Ph. 0402 864 062. 4/6 Druitt Court, Coffs Harbour (directly behind "Lifehouse Church"). Thanks Jim.

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Coffs OCEAN SWIMS C E L E B R A T E S

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Y E A R S

COFFS HARBOUR’S ICONIC OCEAN SWIMS WILL BE CELEBRATING THEIR TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY ON APRIL 2, 2017. ENTRIES ARE NOW OPEN AND ORGANISERS ENCOURAGE ALL THOSE WHO HAVE PARTICIPATED PREVIOUSLY, AS WELL AS THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER DONE AN OCEAN SWIM, TO ENTER AND BE PART OF THE TWENTY YEAR CELEBRATIONS.

ocal identity Mick Maley has been the chief organiser of the swims since their inception and said the event has much to celebrate over the last twenty years. One of the most significant is raising over $200,000 for local charities and community groups, including Coffs Harbour, Sawtell and Woolgoolga Surf Clubs, who have been providing volunteers to assist with water safety every year. Other worthy recipients include the Disabled Surfers Association, Coffs Coast Autism, Camp Quality, Life Education and Early Connections. Mick said, “We initially used the event as an experiment to see if an ocean swim in Coffs would be worth pursuing. The event was a huge success, hence the Coffs Ocean Swims were born.” He reflects on a memorable moment

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from the inaugural swim. “The first swim I conducted was in conjunction with the official reopening of the Jetty after its refurbishment in 1996. The swim was around the updated structure, with a cash prize for the first back to the beach. There were no official rules, as I thought most people would start on the north side of the jetty, swim out around the end and finish on the beach on the southern side. However, a few young blokes (and I still remember them clearly), started on the beach then ran up onto the jetty, jumped in just before the end, and proceeded to swim around the end of the Jetty to the finish line. So technically they 'swam around the jetty'. They tried their best to convince me they hadn’t broken the rules, but needless to say, they didn’t win the cash.” Mick swam in the first eleven swims until they became too big to participate in as both

a competitor and race director. He said the biggest change he has witnessed since the swims began has been the increase in the number of people swimming in the harbour and around the Jetty purely for enjoyment. “It’s a big challenge for a lot of people just to swim around the jetty structure, and many save it for their once a year challenge. It’s a great feeling when you watch all the participants - young and old - run up the beach to the finish line with fantastic smiles on their faces showing their mission is accomplished.” Event sponsors Mike Blewitt Ford, Quality

Inn City Centre and Stocks & Hogan have been supporting the Coffs Ocean Swims since day one, along with Pacific Bay Resort. Mick said, “The event has been so fortunate to have had these loyal sponsors for so long, ensuring its longevity.” The Beachside Radiology Coffs Ocean Swims cater for ages eight and over, with the 2 km Harbour swim, the 600 m Jetty swim and the 150 m and 300 m junior swims. All events are held at the protected Coffs Jetty Beach on Sunday, April 2. For more information and to enter, go to villagesports.com.au

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focus_Whatâ€™s On Coffs Coast

March

BAG RAIDERS (DJ SET) When 1st March 2017. Where Coffs Hotel - The Local. Tickets $16.50 from www.stickytickets.com.au

ADAM BRAND

IWD COFFS HARBOUR WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD 2017

This is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women. It is also a day to review how far women have come in their struggle for equality, peace and development. Keynote speaker: SHIVANI GOPAL, founder of The Remarkable Woman. When 8th March. Where C.ex Coffs Harbour. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

THE EDGE CHARITY GOLF DAY

The Edge Coffs Harbour invites you to join them for a charity golf day to raise money for the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club. When 16th March. Where Bonville Golf Resort. For entry forms, please contact Jason Burnett on 6652 9888 or Sandie Robbins on 0499 119 919.

Where Moonee Beach Tavern. When Friday 3rd March. Time Doors open at 7:30. Tickets offbeatoperations.com.au

BCU COFFS TRI

Competitors will enjoy a 1.5 km ocean swim in the protected harbour, a 40 km cycle on a flat, closed course, finishing with a run around the picturesque Coffs Jetty Foreshores. With its beautiful location and world-class course, the bcu Coffs Tri is one of the must do events on the national Triathlon calendar. When March 5th 2017.

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CYBER SAFETY

Learn all about Cybersafety with Australia's Expert, Susan McLean. She will address what kids are doing online, online grooming, cyberbullying, sexting and potential dangers online, plus safety tips to implement in your home. When Wednesday 8th March. Where The Branson Centre, Bishop Druitt College, 111 North Boambee Rd, Coffs Harbour. Time 5:30 - 8pm; presentation begins at 6:30pm. Cost Free.

BUOYANT POOL PARTY Keeping the summer vibe alive, Buoyant promises to deliver a vast variety of fun! Two bars | two level dance floor | 10 acts I poolside. When Saturday, March 18th. Where Country Comfort Motel, Coffs Harbour. Time 2pm - 10pm. Tickets Limited tickets avialble. Go to http://bit.ly/ buoyantMAR17

in Grafton, and without the new clothing, the team felt less solidarised when receiving the trophy at the event. However, with their new uniforms, they can push themselves further with their transformed group identity.

support is a fundamental part of success too. The Smith Family After School Learning Club received a McDonald’s Junior Grant, which has enabled them to extend their service of support to several of their learning clubs in the Coffs Harbour district. When applying for Another hard worker is Mid North Coast’s Ben Gibbeson, who has been playing AFL the McDonald’s Junior Grant, one of for seven years and has been the Smith Family representatives part of the Sydney Swans stated that “not all students Academy for four years. have the necessary support Having completed ily m structures at home to Fa The Smith the Benchmark ol assist them in out of ho After Sc ed Program, Ben knows iv ce re ub Cl school learning”. The Learning the meaning of ni or learning clubs foster a McD onald’s Ju s teamwork, as he Grant , which ha a positive environextend was proudly seenabled them to ment for students to t suppor lected for the 2017 their service of complete their school r academy program. to several of thei e related tasks and th in Ben will use the Mclearning clubs .” ct ri st di assignments, as well as ur Coffs Harbo Donald’s Junior Grant providing them with the for essential footy gear materials and resource to be such as uniforms, football a successful student. The after boots, joggers, and for travel school group assists with one-on-one costs associated with travelling to and support, helping children understand key from Sydney to undertake training with concepts of being a successful student and the academy. Whether it be in the gym, as a result, the learning clubs contribute to a on the field, running or skill enhancement, rise in school attendance. Building on success Ben is a fantastic role model for his peers, as is just one of the rewarding factors of being a he trains each and every day, rain, hail or shine. Ben has a big year of work ahead of him, but McDonald’s Junior Grant Recipient, so, if you with the McDonald’s Junior Grants Program, are a local child or group who needs assisBen can happily work towards making his tance with your sporting, academic, cultural or dreams of being a professional AFL star a reality. community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the Grants website and apply today. The skills required for being a successful person start from a young age, and, of course, www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

“

MCDONALD’S GRANTS PROGRAM MCDONALD’S COFFS HARBOUR AND NAMBUCCA ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHILDREN AND GROUPS THROUGH THEIR JUNIOR GRANTS PROGRAM. ANYONE WHO HAS WORKED IN A TEAM, WHETHER IT BE FOR WORK, SPORT OR FAMILY, KNOWS THAT HAVING A STRONG TEAM SPIRIT IS ONE OF THE KEYS TO SUCCESS. FOR THE TS VENDETTA AUSTRALIAN NAVY CADETS UNIT IN COFFS HARBOUR, TEAM SPIRIT IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE.

he recent McDonald’s Junior Grants recipients feel that they have a stronger sense of team spirit and team identity as a result of being able to purchase specialised uniforms such as unified shirts, helping the cadets when representing their local area at regattas, excursions, and training exercises. With commendable teamwork alongside wounded

soldiers, and with recent travels to Nowra for training at the sister squadron, HMAS Albatross, there is no doubt that hard work pays off, as the cadets well know. With such training as team leadership, and the learning of skills in information technology, communications, cooking, first aid, seamanship, the cadets strive for excellence in their training. During 2016, the cadets won the Jacaranda Festival Regatta

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st images focusinterview.

S D O O W M O r p h e g r a o t p h o

TOM WOODS IS A TALENTED LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER WHO HAS TURNED HIS PASSION INTO A SUCCESSFUL CAREER. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HIM TO FIND OUT ABOUT HIS RECENT TRAVELS WITH HIS FAMILY AND TO SEE WHAT IT TAKES TO MAKE A LIVING WITH A CAMERA.

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Sherrin and I have lived on the Coffs Coast since 1999, after picking this as our ideal place to live in Australia after doing a 14-month “research” trip around OZ. When did you start taking photos? My parents brought me a Pentax SLR film camera when I was 19, and I very slowly started to learn the craft from there. It was when we did our big loop around OZ in 1998 when I really started to fall in love with photography. What made you decide to take it up as a profession? I made a choice when I was around 14 years old that I wasn’t going to do a job that I didn’t love. I didn’t personally know anyone who truly loved to go to work every day. It was all

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about waiting for the weekend and getting “Mondayitis”. I admired anyone I read about who defied society and lived a full life on his or her own terms. It took me years to make it into a profession, but I got there, and the leap of faith that Sherrin and I had to take is paying off so amazingly well now. Over the last few years you have travelled around the country. Can you tell us about that? Yes, Sherrin and I have been travelling with our two kids for over a year now. In 2016 we did photography jobs (mostly in tourism, resorts, magazines and holiday parks) from way down in Victoria right up the east coast to Cairns in Queensland, then ventured all the way back down and spent six weeks in Tasmania. The Tassie trip and the week swimming with turtles and Manta Rays on Lady Elliot Island were the definite highlights. Going somewhere different every week has been an inspiring, adventurous and

family bonding experience. We plan to keep people to explore, nurture and appreciate how travelling throughout 2017 and expand good we have got it. our library of images. Are there any photographers How would you you look up to or draw describe your style of influence from? photography? Adventure - Landscape Know that the Positive, with a photographer Chris deliberate use of Burkhard does road to success w o sl nature’s colours. jaw dropping e will probably b I am definitely photography fickle, and sometimes drawn to in challenging ou y if it h rt o w so t beautiful things climates and has an bu f o t u o g in p m in beautiful light. exceptional business end up ju h it w g There is so much plan behind his bed each mornin amazing art/ work. In Australia, fe.” a love for your li photography that guys like Sean Scott comes from grief, and Warren Keelan are injustice and misery, inspirations, because they and I do applaud the artist are so open with sharing their in communicating that, but I knowledge and ideas with everyone. want to show joy, inspiration and how They deeply love their craft, and you gorgeous this world is and encourage can feed off their energy. Matthew Smith

“

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tions “There are loca ast t co all along the eas e that have yet to b light, shot in the right re.” but I will get the

shoots astounding wildlife images from the water. He has a bluebottle jellyfish picture that will blow your mind. More than the pictures though, I’m inspired by the way of life that the photographers lead; that’s more important. Where is your favorite location to take pictures? In the ocean. Do you spend time looking around a location to choose the best time and angle to take the shot you are after? Yes, I do a lot more of that now. Sometimes I have to wait four seasons to get back to the place with the right light. There are locations all along the east coast that have yet to be shot in the right light, but I will get there. You spend a bit of time in the ocean taking surfing pics. How fit do you need to be to stay out there to get the shot? The fitter the better. You have to be in good shape; it's three times more taxing on the body than surfing. I have done breath-holding courses to help with heavy hold-downs and surf and swim as much as I can to keep in some sort of shape. I still would like to be 50% fitter than I am right now though. Is it difficult to get the right angle when you’re swimming?

Depends on the wave. Sometimes it's fairly easy, but I have had many sessions where I swim around chasing the shot for two - three hours and come in with only one or two good photos to go with my cramping legs and dehydration. Who are some of the local surfers you like to photograph? Anyone who loves to be in the ocean. You can’t beat that surf-stoke joy that beams through the lens when you get them at the right moment. There are five year olds up to 60 year olds along the Coffs Coast who all have that deep love for the waves, and they are the best to capture. The three most talented chaps I regularly shoot with are Brett Caller, Johnny Craig and Harley Ingleby. As far as equipment is involved, can you tell us about your tools of the trade? I shoot with Canon cameras and lenses and use Aquatech water housings. Is it an expensive business to be involved in? It is fairly expensive, I guess. Lenses last for a long time, but the digital cameras keep improving, so they need to be updated regularly. Also, hard drive storage and backups are a constant cost, and we go through a lot

of Mac computers and pay high insurances. How long do you spend retouching images after a shoot? All digital cameras have a wide latitude, so post editing the colour and contrast levels is required. With some of our wide format landscape images, stitching multiple pictures together is time consuming. Half the workload would be in basic post production. Is retouching a difficult process to master? I was so lucky to work in a photo-processing lab (Camera House) from 1999 - 2004. It was here I learned so much about getting correct colour balance and the entire photographic process from developing film to the printed product. It was in the transition time from film to digital, so I learnt both old school film practices and the new world of computer based editing. This experience was invaluable, as I moved into programs like Photoshop and Lightroom, because I had such a solid grounding of the principles. I'm still learning different techniques all the time. Do you take pictures when you're not working, or do you prefer to take a break from behind the lens? It's good to put the camera down at certain times and focus on other pursuits, but a lot of

what we are shooting lately doesn’t feel like work for us. What we love to take pictures of is now crossing over to paid work, and that will certainly be the model for our career moving forward. What advice would you give to someone who is considering photography as a career? Make sure it's something you absolutely love. Know that the road to success will probably be slow and sometimes fickle, but so worth it if you end up jumping out of bed each morning with a love for your life. What are your plans for the future? Keep travelling with my beautiful family making pictures along the way, but more importantly, making priceless memories. Where can people find out more? We sell our prints, canvases and glassmounted images through our online shop. Our website is updated once a week, with fresh pictures and travel blogs. You can email subscribe at www.stsurfimages.com - I deeply thank everyone who already has. You can also follow daily pictures on our instagram feed @stimages Thanks Tom. coffs coast focus. 13

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SAMMY ROSS IS A TALENTED AND PASSIONATE PERFORMER WHO IS MAKING WAVES ON THE COFFS COAST. FOCUS WENT ALONG TO HER STUDIO TO FIND OUT MORE ... hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and bred in Coffs Harbour and grew up here. I was born straight into my mum's dance studio, Julie Ross Dance Studio, so have been dancing since I was in nappies. I’m a Coffs girl at heart. The coast has my heart; that's why it made it so easy for me to come back to Coffs to share my creativity and movement. Can you tell us what it is that you do? I am a dancer, choreographer and teacher here in Coffs Harbour. I have just opened my own creative space in Coffs Harbour, Social Concepts, at my own studio called The Nest. It is Hip Hop, Urban Based and Creative Movement. I am a professional dancer and have moved back to Coffs to share my creativity. I have been based here for the last four years and am looking to expand Hip Hop, Urban movement in Coffs Harbour. I have an amazing following of very talented, committed movers who are so passionate about Social Concepts and the Nest, it's like their second home. It’s more of a family then just a dance space. 14 coffs coast focus.

Social Concepts is different from a dance movement and creative space. studio structure, as it’s more of a laid back How long have you been involved in the creative space. The biggest thing I push for at industry? this space is individuality, making sure everyone I moved away from Coffs when I was 15 to owns their own image and steps out of the study full-time dance in Brisbane and got my box of the norm. We definitely push Diploma in Dance and Performing the boundaries of movement Arts. I stayed in Brisbane for a and look to open minds and year, then moved straight hearts through our free, to Sydney when I was 16 st Highlights la g in be creative style. and started working in e ud year incl ith w I have dancers from So you Think you can ng ci part of 'Dan g in m or rf age nine years - 24 Dance as an assistant pe the Stars', etz. We ra G n da years. This space is choreographer and en Br with gh to ou en y ck open to anyone of all back up dancer. lu e er w e win , abilities and styles. I They were my first come out with th ts also ep and Social Conc love people coming to professional jobs in the event.” e th at ed m perfor classes who have never industry, and I have been danced before; you always working in and out of the find they are the most free industry every since. and are like a blank canvas to What do you love most about me. They have no training, which is what you do? perfect, as you can start them from scratch The results of putting my love and time with their individual style and build them up into dancers of this town is so rewarding. from nothing. You usually find these movers Seeing all the improvement people opening up, always end up the most unique, open and owning their individuality, is so refreshing. creative. I find movement to be one of the most open I have classes to cater for everyone, and hope positive outlets of creativity. Using tools that help I can get a lot of the Coffs youth a part of this people release and let go of expectations of how

“

a dancer should look, I believe that it can help people with personal confidence and self esteem in all areas of life. I have such a passion for teaching people about music and hearing more than meets the ear. I use tools like mind work to expand people's minds to imagine how they want themselves to look and guide them to manifest that. I feel it is such a privilege to be a mentor and creator; I am always working on myself as a creator and individual, to make sure everything I'm sharing is raw and fresh. Do you get an adrenalin rush from performing? You get such a buzz from sharing and performing. I guess I'm most passionate about opening people’s minds and really wanting people to feel something or reflect in what I've created. Outside of performing and dancing, what else do you do? I have such a passion for videography and photography, and they mould well with what I do. I have a little side project called Heart Space, which I see as healing through the lens with photography and creative dance video concepts. I have been getting a lot of interest in the raw photos I've been capturing, and the

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had a My brother has ce on en flu in ve massi as a dancer me in my growth lucky as w and a person . I Trav already ve ha to gh ou en du stry when working in the in , so it was ey I moved to Sydn k alongside or w to e om awes e of his crazy, m him and do so e projects .” amazing creativ

“ video concepts are a massive hit on social media. Excited to see where Heart Space is going to go this year. Also, I am absolutely animal CRAZY! I have animals from rabbits, chickens, ducks ... I also have two beautiful horses; they are another massive passion of mine that also had a lot to do with me moving back to Coffs. What work have you been involved in since returning to the local area? Social Concepts has been lucky enough to share and be a part of so many local performances. Highlights last year include being part of "Dancing with the Stars", performing with Brendan Graetz. We were lucky enough to come out with the win, and Social Concepts also performed at the event. We have been a part of local Buskers Festival performing around Coffs, and this was a massive highlight for us last year. We were a part of The Plantation Hotel Scene Saturdays, where we would put on performances, every Saturday night. I choreographed for local Band Ebb n Flo's Bump and Grind film clip. We performed for a professional conference at Opal Cove, with outstanding feedback and appreciation. We are so keen to perform in Coffs more this year at so many different events; we have so many

different things to offer, so hoping to get the word out there to anyone who wants to book us for entertainment. Have you travelled much, or are you planning to this year? As a dancer, movement is constantly evolving and changing, so it’s so important as a teacher to keep learning, training and travelling. I have been lucky enough to train in LA at some of the world’s best studios with well known choreographers. I plan on heading back to LA in the near future for more training and networking with artists of all types. We have featured your brother a few times in the magazine; has he had much of an influence on you? My brother has had a massive influence on me in my growth as a dancer and a person. I was lucky enough to have Trav already working in the industry when I moved to Sydney, so it was awesome to work alongside him and do some of his crazy, amazing creative projects. He has had such a massive influence on me in my movement. I have danced alongside him

since I was about six. When I was growing up, Trav ran a similar group to what I am now called Groove Lock. Groove Lock had such a massive influence on my life, along with a lot of youth in Coffs, so it definitely inspired me to want to bring that dance community back when I moved home. What advice would you give to anyone who is thinking about following a similar path to what you have chosen? I guess everyone who wants to take the performing arts path has this picture in their head built up of what it's like, and everyone is always saying they want to “make it”. The thing with this path is, it's never ending - there is no destination of “making it”. The performing arts journey is a constant, never ending journey. It definitely is a harder path, as there is not a lot of paid work in this country, but I think if you're passionate enough and want it bad enough, there is room for everyone to share creativity and dance. As much as you might get rejected and feel like you have failed, know that there is

a place for everyone in this world and what you want to create for yourself. Plans for the future? I plan on travelling a lot more this year. I also plan to bring a lot more artists to Coffs from all over Australia to share with the local community. I am lucky enough to know so many amazing artists in this country, and I feel The Nest is a door that could open up a lot of opportunities for local youth and anyone who wants to be a part of the creative process. I hope to travel with Social Concepts and get Coffs on the map this year. We are currently working on a new show called Beyond The Woods, which will be showcased at the Jetty Theatre at some point this year. It is a mash up of troubled toxic fairy tale characters with a twist; half the show is live, half the show is film. We hope to complete this and tour it around Australia. To follow upcoming movements: You can find me on Facebook and Instagram www.facebook.com/sammy.ross.96 Insta - sammyjaneross http://www.facebook.com/You can find Social Concepts on Facebook and Instagram www.facebook.com/SocialConceptsCoffs/ Insta - social.concepts Thanks Sammy. coffs coast focus. 15

focuseditorial. Back Row: (L-R) Taj Watson, Harley Ingleby, Ethan Stocks - Front Row: (L-R) Carly Shanahan, Ryley Smidt

LOCAL GROMS 2017 BCU JUNIOR AMBASSADORS

Four Coffs Coast local grom surfers were recently announced as the 2017 bcu Junior Ambassadors. Carly Shanahan, Taj Watson, Ethan Stocks and Ryley Smidt have signed on to a smart sponsorship deal with bcu, which includes the support of a surf pro mentor, Harley Ingleby.

riginally launched in 2014, the bcu Junior Ambassador program is a unique opportunity for junior surfers on the Coffs Coast. Unlike typical junior deals that include only merchandise, the bcu Junior Ambassador program also provides athletes with funding to be used towards competition entry fees and other expenses. As an accomplished bcu Brand Ambassador, Harley Ingleby has the knowledge and experience needed to help guide the Junior Ambassadors through the ropes of sponsorship. Harley commented on the merit of the program, saying, “These kids deserve to be supported, but it’s also important they know that they have a responsibility to represent bcu at all times and try to add as much worth to their sponsor as possible.”

bcu’s dedication to the Junior Ambassador program is one of the key factors helping the dreams of the local grom surfers become a reality. Taj, who recently took out the Under 16 MR Shield division at the Aussie Titles, said “I’m so honoured to be a part of the bcu Junior Ambassador program. Surfing is an awesome sport, but it’s very costly. I’d be lost without the support of bcu.” Thirteen-year-old Carly caught her first wave at just six, and was “hooked”. She competed for the first time less than a year later, and has consistently been making National Finals ever since. Carly said, “The bcu Junior Ambassador Program has helped me with surfing competition fees and travel costs. The financial support has played a vital role in helping me reach my goals.”

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Ethan and Ryley were also attracted to surfing at a young age. Both boys showed standout talent early on, with Ethan winning his first Coffs Harbour Boardriders under 14s division, at just nine years old. Ethan, who has been a part of the bcu Junior Ambassador Program since the commencement, credits the support of bcu to helping him come as far as he has, saying, “At 11 years of age, I was noticed by Harley and given the opportunity to be a bcu Junior Ambassador. It has been great having a local business wanting to support me and help me achieve my goals.” In the highly competitive world of surfing, it often takes more than just raw talent for a junior surfer to become a success. Even with the growing popularity of surfing on the Mid North

Coast and the region’s credible reputation for developing world class surfers, local groms are still often limited with regards to opportunities like those open to juniors growing up in industry hubs, like Gold Coast or Sydney. bcu however, are helping to change that, with Harley saying, “It’s great that bcu are supporting this small group of elite junior surfers coming off the Mid North Coast! With bcu’s support, they’re able to get more opportunities to get to events and hopefully make a career out of surfing. It’s great!” With an abundance of undeniable talent, the guidance of a local surf legend, and the backing of a true local business, it is definitely exciting times ahead for the 2017 bcu Junior Ambassadors.

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WO O L G O O L GA FO O D & W I N E F E ST I VA L I S A B OU T TO B L A ST O F F FO R T H E S E CO N D T I M E , A N D I T L O O K S S E T TO B E A NOT H E R A M A Z I NG E V E N T W H I C H F E AT U R E S A N A R R AY O F D E L I C I OU S D E L I CAC I E S F RO M A ROU N D T H E R E G I O N. FO C U S C H AT T E D W I T H T H E E V E N T O RGA N I S E R S ...

an you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Woolgoolga when I was five. My parents owned the Seabreeze Motel on Beach St in the late 1970s, then moved to the Seaview Tavern when they purchased the lease. I went to the Woolgoolga Public School, attended Nippers at the Surf Club and was heavily involved with the local dance school. When my parents sold the lease we moved on to the Sunshine Coast. We moved back to Woolgoolga 15 months ago, after life in Byron Bay became too hectic. Woolgoolga had maintained its seaside village feel and still having connections here with family and school friends, it was the obvious choice for a beautiful lifestyle. Where did the idea for the festival originate? Funnily enough, with my partner and I, over a glass of red wine at our kitchen bench. We love all things food and wine, so we thought we would create an event to showcase this. Aren’t the best ideas created over wine? Who are the organisers of the event? Myself, Sherry and my partner, Michael. Woolgoolga is fast becoming a food hub; why do you think this is? I think these days people are more interested in food, wine and cooking. We all seem more excited to experiment both when dining out or in our own kitchen. People also travel a lot more and as a result, are exposed to a wide range of food cultures and tastes. Our little village is growing, in a positive way. People are moving

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here from Sydney, Melbourne, Byron Bay and were overwhelmed with the public response even overseas, bringing with them a rich food and positive feedback. We are essentially a culture. The community is excited about events two person team, handling all the planning, like our festivals and food tours and seeking out bookings, online presence, marketing and quality and variety in their dining experience. helping set up marquees and stack chairs. We This is a perfect recipe to grow and invested our own money into the event, expand on what we already advertised in the local paper, have. social media and on a hot day, Market Street is fast walked the streets doing a We wanted to becoming the "foodie letter box drop. t en ev create an strip", and it has such We have no a lg oo lg for the Woo a great vibe. sponsorship and no huge at th , ity commun What were some marketing budget, but l al ed at celebr d of the highlights of an have been extremely od fo gs in th the first festival? grateful to have wine - something to It didn’t rain; we unbelievable support from we would want s.” placed our order with Charlie Nalder and The attend ourselve the universe for sunshine! Seaview Tavern, for all of our We wanted to showcase events. a wide variety of food, wine and We wanted to create an event beer all produced or directly linked to for the Woolgoolga community, that the Coffs Coast and Northern NSW region, celebrated all things food and wine and we achieved that. All our exhibitors something we would want to attend ourselves. were excited to be a part of our first festival What can people expect to see at this year’s of this type in Woolgoolga, which in turn created event? such a positive, happy vibe on the day. They all We have introduced an international flavour to complemented each other perfectly. this event to complement the wine and beer on Where is the festival held? offer. We have a celebrity chef from Byron Bay The Seaview Tavern, River Street, Woolgoolga. hosting cooking demonstrations. Was it more successful than you We will also be judging a "best plate". This is anticipated? to give a bit of healthy, fun competition between Yes, it was. We had no real expectation, given the exhibitors to showcase their best plate. it was our first event. We were a new business Most exhibitors from last year's event are in town, establishing ourselves. So to create returning; plus, we have some awesome new such a successful event for the community additions - the likes of Bellingen Brewery and The in a short time was extremely rewarding. We Picnic Van, Ink Gin from Byron Bay and the Byron

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Bay Brewery. This year we have an awesome new way for people to really immerse themselves in the spirit, with our taste wine glasses and taste tokens, which will allow them to sample beer, wine and food from all of the exhibitors, to their hearts, or bellies', content. Will this year’s event have more exhibitors? Definitely. We have doubled the number of exhibitors from our first festival. So, we are so excited about showcasing the range of food, wine and beer available this year. Where can people find out more? Head to our website www.tastewoolgoolga. com.au and follow us on social media @ tastewoolgoolga What are your hopes for the future of the event? For it to keep growing. We believe Taste Woolgoolga Food & Wine Festival will become a must attend event each year on the “foodie calendar” and attract visitors and tourists from around the country and the world. Woolgoolga and surrounds is such a beautiful part of the world, with so much food and wine culture to showcase. We would love to secure a major sponsor, so we can take this beautiful little festival to the world. Thanks everyone.

the plug! Taste Woolgoolga. February 26th, from 10am. Seaview Tavern.

S R E N T R A P T H G I F E H T IN H E M T S N I A AG March’s jetty theatre LINE-UP IS OUT! The Coffs Coast’s arts and culture scene is exploding in March, with a host of diverse shows gracing the Jetty Memorial Theatre. All About Women (March 5) livestreams three discussions from the Sydney Opera House. Screenwave presents Winter At Westbeth (March 9), a riveting documentary about a New York retirement home for artists and creatives as part of Seniors Week (tickets only $5, includes ice cream!) Australia’s largest short film competition, Flickerfest, stops by Coffs on its 2017 national tour with its Australian shorts program (March 10) and international shorts program (March 11). HIT Productions’ new travelling stage show Shirley Valentine (March 17 and 18) talks about rewriting the book of life through mid-life transformation.

FInd the floor You’ve been looking for At Choices Flooring Coffs Harbour, we know that good interior decorating starts from the floor up. Select from over 2,000 flooring options in the latest styles, designs and textures. We understand that purchasing flooring is a big decision, which is why we continually evolve our in-store experience to ensure we help you find the floor you’ve been searching for. The 2017 edition of Inspiring Choices is here! From greeting to completing a room, view over 100 pages of flooring designs and find out the latest styling tips from Australia’s leading decorators.

CHATS presents Wyrd Sisters (March 23 - 1 April), a stage show based on author Terry Pratchett’s take on Shakespeare.

Featuring luscious carpets to the natural beauty of timber and bamboo, whether your style is modern, coastal, or something in-between, you’ll find it in Inspiring Choices 2017.

Australia’s kings of comedy, the Doug Anthony Allstars (April 7 & 8), reunite for a national tour - including two shows only at Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Memorial Theatre.

Inspiring Choices 2017 provides you with a magazine experience like no other, as you see different flooring options transform rooms in the flip of a page.

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

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M O O N E E

B E A C H

Early Learning Centre MOONEE BEACH EARLY LEARNING CENTRE IS A NEWLY OPENED STATE OF THE ART CHILDCARE AND PRESCHOOL FACILITY, WITH INNOVATIVE IDEAS AND AN ATMOSPHERE THAT IS SURE TO STIMULATE AND EXCITE YOUR CHILD.

t Moonee Beach Early Learning Centre, we aspire to our vision of providing babies, toddlers and children with the best possible start in life. We believe that all children have an innate desire to discover, make sense of and learn about their world. At our Early Learning Centre, we know that children learn best in an environment that is safe and nurturing, where they can engage with their surroundings, explore and express their authentic selves. Our passion for providing high-quality education has driven us to create a state of the art, premium Early Learning Facility that exceeds standards in traditional long day care, service delivery and

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quality practice. At Moonee Beach Early Learning Centre, we value parents as the child’s first teacher. We also understand that beginning Care or Preschool can be overwhelming for the whole family. Therefore, we pride ourselves on continually going above and beyond to ensure your family’s journey is a magical and memorable one and will always be a key priority for our team. To help achieve this, we’ve created a community hub which gives families the opportunity to connect, contribute and relax in a beautiful environment. The hub provides an invaluable support network where parents can build lasting relationships and foster ongoing

partnerships with the learning community. At the centre of our community hub is a state of the art parent lounge, which offers families the opportunity to connect with other parents over a complimentary coffee made to order by our barista with freshly baked nutritious treats. Moonee Beach Early Learning Centre celebrates diversity and values the rich cultures and heritages that each unique child and their family bring to our learning community. We are committed to working collaboratively with our families to ensure our children are given the best possible start to their learning journey. We would love to take you on a tour of our Centre, so pop in or CALL US TODAY!

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ageing festival c r e at i v e

THE MID NORTH COAST CREATIVE AGEING FESTIVAL, MARCH 1 TO 14. A FESTIVAL OF IDEAS, INNOVATION, INSPIRATION AND IMAGINATION.

Australia’s Expert

CYBER SAFETY SUSAN MCLEAN

Susan McLean, Australia’s expert in the area of cybersafety and young people, will be presenting an informative and entertaining session for parents and carers on the Coffs Coast. Susan will address what kids are doing online, online grooming, cyberbullying, sexting and potential dangers online, plus safety tips to implement in your home. FOCUS chatted with Susan to learn more ...

he Mid North Coast Creative Ageing Festival is an innovative, and we hope, annual event which acknowledges the valuable role that seniors play in our community and highlights the importance of engaging in the arts and creative activities to foster good health and wellbeing as people age.

4655 or email admin@becc.org.au

The festival offers opportunities for older people to participate in the arts through exhibitions, performances, film screenings, dance, workshops, discussion groups, networking and sharing of experiences and information. There are also Open Days for many community groups and activities that people can participate in all year.

spective to the current exhibitions: pinned to the

There are more than 20 events across the Coffs Coast region, from smaller communities such as Urunga, Nambucca and Woolgoolga to Coffs Harbour. Some featured events include: March 1, Wednesday Artists of the Riverside Gardens Village, Stringer Gallery, 19 Ridge Street, Nambucca Heads. March 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11. This exhibition showcases the art of residents of the local Riverside Gardens Village. It is also a reflection of the valuable work members of Nambucca Valley Arts Council provide in supporting art in their community through tuition and guidance. Please note the gallery is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10am to 3pm and Saturday 9:30am to noon. Closed Monday/Tuesday.

March 8, Wednesday Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery Exhibitions Tour Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, Coff St & Duke St, Coffs Harbour. March 8, 11am to noon Join Gallery Curator Jo Besley for an insider’s perWall, Susan O’Doherty and 10 Years of EMSLA, celebrating 10 years of the Eutick Memorial Still Life Award (EMSLA), the gallery’s signature program and Australia’s leading award of the still life genre. Showcasing past winners and acquisitions form the first ten years of the award. Enquiries: 6648 4863. March 10, Friday A Taste of Nations Boambee East Community Centre, Bruce King Drive, Boambee East. March 10, from 10am Information and entertainment by Coffs Harbour’s multicultural community, who will assist in food preparation, providing a wide selection of foods, served by people in national dress, available to answer questions during the smorgasbord lunch. Gold coin donation. Bookings essential by Monday 6th March. To book or for more information, phone Boambee East Community Centre 6658 4655. March 13, Monday Creative Conversations

March 6, Monday Arts for Relaxation Boambee East Community Centre, Bruce King Drive, Boambee East.

Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, Coff St & Duke

March 6, 10am to 2pm Commencing with guest presenters introducing their “art genre”, participants have the opportunity over a four hour period, to move from table to table to try their hand at the various mediums, all of which encourage relaxation and enjoyment. Cost: $10 per person - includes morning tea, lunch and materials. Bookings essential - by Friday 3rd March. To book or for more information, phone Boambee East Community Centre: 6658

invited to join Alzheimer’s Australia NSW and the

St, Coffs Harbour. March 13, 10am to 11am People living with dementia and their carers are Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery for an informal guide of the current exhibition, followed by light

i Susan. Can you tell me about your background? I am Australia’s foremost expert in the area of cybersafety and was a member of Victoria Police for 27 years. Widely known as the “cyber cop”, I was the first Victoria Police Officer appointed to a position involving cybersafety and young people. In 2003 I was the Victoria Police Region Four Youth Officer of the Year. I have also been awarded The National Medal and the Victoria Police Service Medal and 2nd Clasp, and the National Police Medal. What made you decide to start offering information sessions to parents and carers? I am a passionate advocate for child safety online and have established an enviable working relationship with most of the key players in the online world, who value my extensive knowledge, balanced commentary and commitment. The major companies such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube defer to me with relation to issues affecting Australian children. I have been asked to review prior to launch in Australia, Google’s YouTube for kids. I started my consultancy, which has grown to the largest and most well known cyber safety organisation in Australia. I am passionate about making sure that young people have safe and positive experiences online, and parents are a key part of this. What qualifications do you hold? I was the first person in Australia to complete the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children’s (USA) Teaching Digital Citizenship Training (Nov 2015) and recently completed the CEOP (UK) training course on Keeping Children Safe Online. I have also successfully completed the “Univer-

Enroling Now for 2018

refreshments. Limited spaces. For further information and registration, please contact Marg Coutts 6651 7101 or email Marg.Coutts@alzheimers. org.au Festival program is available online at: www. midnorthcoastcreativeageingfestival.com.au

sity Certificate in Child Safety on the Internet” from the University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom. Can you tell us about some of the topics you will be covering? I will be covering: Wwhat are kids doing online, online grooming, cyberbullying, sexting, problematic internet use, gaming issues, potential dangers online, plus safety tips to implement in your home. What is online grooming? Grooming of children is a crime of opportunity. It is when an adult with a sexual interest in a child will connect online, gain that child’s trust and then introduce a sexual element to normalise the behaviour. Some online predators are satisfied with exchange of images. Others move on to contact offending. What is cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is when a person is repeatedly mean, nasty, horrible, harassing or threatening to another person using any form of digital technology. Cyberbullying is a criminal offence in every state and territory in Australia. You have also written a book, Sext’s, Text’s and Selfies. What is this book about? My book, published by Penguin, has now sold over 9,000 copies and is in its third reprint. It is the definitive guide for parents, carers, teachers and all those who work with and/or care for kids. Copies will be available to purchase after my talk. Cost is $33 cash/card. Where can parents on the Coffs Coast go to hear more about this interesting topic? I will be delivering a free information session for parents and carers on March 8 at The Branson Centre, Bishop Druitt College, 111 North Boambee Rd, Coffs Harbour from 6:30pm - 8pm. Thanks Susan.

Ph: 02 6651 5644

111 North Boambee Rd, Coffs Harbour

www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

Bishop Druitt College is enroling now for Kindergarten and Year 7 in 2018. Enrolment information is available by phoning the college on 02 6651 5644, alternatively they can be downloaded from the college website at www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/enrolment A Kindergarten to Year 12 school in the Anglican tradition coffs coast focus. 21

lemon pepper Atlantic salmon served on a pine nut, baby spinach, roasted pumpkin, danish fetta and spanish onion salad, bound with a red wine vinaigrette from Coast Hotel

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

22 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.

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 with spacious all weather open plan bar, bistro, drive thru Beer bottleGarden, shop open plan bar, Bistro, new Kids’ Drive and TAB facilities. Have you triedRoom, our new Thru Bottleshop and TAB and Keno facilities. Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection

Tuna Tataki: Lightly seared tuna w wakame, baby radish and ponzu dressing.

Feeling extra hungry? Then ourthese NEWeat to choose from and you cantry have SUPERSIZE deal Come on ourinFAMOUS $7.50 in or takeaway. and check out Feeds. our takeaway phonereally ahead pick-up. The HOEYspecials MOEY! or There’s nofor other place If abe! pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS to $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily.

mr. good beans horizons restaurant & product: bara finely We pride ourselves on bringing a personalised service and tuned espresso coffee just FOOD, how theCOLD customer likes it, gourmet café food GOOD FRIENDS, GREAT BEER & GOOD CHEER! made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience all Horizons Restaurant and Bar at Opal Cove Resort is the epitome of to relaxed who walk through the café door. dining at its finest. This Coffs Harbour Restaurant has welcomed visitors, locals even celebrities to come in and experience real this tastespring, of the Coffs Try theand mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken asalad Coast. As one of locally the best Coffs Harbour restaurants, Horizons utilises only made fresh from sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olivesthe fiand nestsemi localdried produce and fl ares it up so that it will tantalise your taste buds! tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet

Head Head Chef Chef David Ricketts. Gus Prezioso.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833- Thurs www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 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.

Ifpotato you’rewafer idea of dining Coffs Harbour is in asecret vibrant, busy restaurant thin chipsin and drizzled withas Chef’s zesty citrus dressing. with professional yet casual staff,blended exquisite exciting food, craft beers Mediterranean flavours expertly to and match the Australian spring and cocktails to write home about, then Horizons Restaurant and Bar is light, yet very satisfying. the obvious choice. Bookings for this busy restaurant in Coffs Harbour are Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans essential.

Head Chef Kristy ClintonDeveson. Hunter Head Chef.

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

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.

Palate & Ply

Palate & Ply is excited to welcome Sarah Pearce as our new head chef. Sarah brings so much knowledge to the kitchen that our mouths are watering with anticipation form her new offerings. This month’s signature dish is Bacon and Smoked Cheddar salad, served with Fresh crisp Apples, cherry tomatoes, crunchy pecans, mesclun and a lovely seeded mustard aioli. With new innovative specials your next coffee, lunch date or business meeting will be a fantastic experience as you soak up the atmosphere and aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans.’In a hurry? we offer our Grab and Go menu, now available until 11:30am. Free high speed NBN for all your business meetings on our large format tables.

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!

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour 6652 3007 www.coasthotel.com.au Lunch: 12pm - 2:30pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

Head Chef Brendan Crawford.

Head Chef Sarah Pearce.

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. coffs coast focus. 23

with Madonna Bannerman owner of Two Tails Wines, Nana Glen

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

WHITE VELVET

We pride ourselves on ”good old fashioned fish & 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 seasalt and cracked pepper, fried in a light, crisp beer batter, or tossed in k’pane organic sourdough breadcrumbs.

Shop 14 Jetty Village, Harbour Drive 6696 3223 29 1st Avenue, Sawtell 6658 9199 Open every day. 11am - 7:30pm.

Pan fried snapper fillet (gf) served with roasted herb potatoes, steamed seasonal green vegetables, lemon & mango salsa.

Greenhouse TAVERN Feel like a genuinely great pub meal? Look no further than the bistro at the Greenhouse Tavern! A comprehensive menu to suit all tastes at affordable prices, especially with specials every night, and a welcoming family friendly environment seals the deal. We are kid-friendly with a jumping castle, mini-movie theatre and playground, plus The Smileys visit every second Sunday lunch. For the more discerning, come in for a cake and coffee available all days, or stay after dinner on Fridays for $9 cocktails and chill out to the sounds from the live piano bar. Every day is a good food day at the Greenhouse Tavern - don’t just take our word for it, come and see for yourself!

Corner Pacific Highway and Bray St, Coffs Harbour 6651 5488 7 Days. Lunch Mon-Sun 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner Mon-Thurs & Sun 5.30pm - 8.30pm Dinner Fri-Sat 5.30pm - 9pm

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“WHITE VELVET” IS TWO TAILS WINES’ MODERN CONTRAST ON THE FAMILIAR AND PROGRESSIVELY POPULAR WHITE PORT. AN EXCITING FORTIFIED WINE, WHITE VELVET FEATURES WHITE VARIETAL GRAPES.

ts impressive individuality is from the hand-picked Chardonnay and Villard Blanc grapes joining together in harmony, to produce a lusciously smooth and fruity fortified wine. An aromatic sweet-smelling wine, displaying notes of ripe orange, raisin fruits with a hint of honey. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, with soft oak tones lending to a long and lingering finish. Enjoy chilled as a sweet treat at your summer party, with desserts, or sipping by the fireplace.

orange tart. Goes well

Characteristics: Light golden straw colour. The nose is sweet-smelling with lots of ripe grapey, toffee aromas. Soft and lush on the palate with orange, and raisin flavours with notes of honey. Finishing with a lingering and fresh aftertaste.

experience our friendly customer service and

Goes with: White Velvet is a light and refreshing style, an elegant change from the traditional heavier tawny ports. Why not try a splash over a citrus sorbet or sip slightly chilled alongside foie gras or a marmalade fig and

By: Madonna Bannerman, owner of Two Tails

with a blue cheese, figs and dates. Cost: $25. Available: Two Tails Winery cellar door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen. Phone: 6654 3633. Open: Tuesday - Sunday: 10:30am to 4:30pm. Call in at our newly renovated winery 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! Wines, Nana Glen. Email: admin@twotailswines.com.au Web: www.twotailswines.com.au

Crafty • FIXATION IPA •

Fresh and chilled on the taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this hoppy little beast from Byron Bay ... Fixation IPA. Four different new world hops have gone into this robust American style IPA to lend a big juicy, fruity aroma, huge flavour and a lovely firm bitterness. This baby is for those with great taste and who love a modern day classic IPA!

DISH & SPOOn “Mother Nature makes it perfect; it is our job not to mess it up” - an anonymous quote I am sure I have heard sometime, but one that summarises specialty coffee so well ... A naturally occurring cherry that is affected differently by every stage in its life, from growing conditions to processing, roasting to brewing, finally to producing the cup of coffee you know and love. It is the understanding of each of these stages, the traceability of coffee from farm to cup, and all variables in coffee production which ensure the customer gets to enjoy an awesomely delicious coffee culminating from the experience of hundreds of coffee professionals in the chain. It is to this end and in keeping with the ideals of specialty coffee that we at Dish and Spoon Specialty Coffee seek to provide our patrons with not only a superior coffee product, but also one that is ethically sourced and continually innovated to be a market leader in the specialty coffee industry. Offering direct sourced specialty coffee from Sensory Lab, third wave filter methods, changing varieties of single origin coffee and a menu to complement these options. Come and check us out and relax with friends over a stunning cup o’joe.

Dark arts Coffee academy Dark Arts Coffee Academy is pleased to announce the inclusion of a cold-brew bar in-house, offering a selection of premium cold-dripped teas and coffees. This process delicately extracts the flavours, oils, tannins and aromas over a period of several hours by dripping ice-cold water over tea leaves or ground coffee in a very “science lab” looking apparatus called a drip tower. The process has to be very slow due to the use of cold water; however, the benefits of using this technique is well worth the wait. You will experience tea and coffee in the smoothest possible fashion, full of taste and body with absolutely no bitterness. Tea and coffee can be experienced in a whole new light and appreciation and is extremely enjoyable as a cold beverage. Dark Arts Coffee Academy is located on Cox Lane and is open for coffee, breakfast and lunch from 6:30am on weekdays and breakfast from 7:30am on Saturdays.

coffs coast focus. 25

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

MARCH 1ST

MARCH 9TH

Element Bar - Tommy Castles, 6:30pm

Coast Hotel - DJ Bisho

MARCH 2ND

MARCH 10TH

Coast Hotel - DJ Bisho

Coast Hotel - Secret Squirrel & DJ Bisho Element Bar - Owen Shannon Seaview - Agent 77 Hoey Moey - Spy vs Spy

MARCH 3RD Coast Hotel - DJ Bisho & Money Shot Element Bar - Live Music Hoey Moey - Benny Black Band + DJ Bisho Seaview Tavern - Marshall OKell Band Moonee Beach Tavern - Adam Brand

MARCH 4TH Seaview Tavern - 3 Band original night, Josephs Coat, Raging Oceans, Jaz Salasang Hoey Moey - DJ Breno Coast Hotel - Ella 7’s official after party with DJ upstairs and down Element Bar - Live Music

MARCH 5TH Element Bar - Yhan Leal Hoey Moey - Double Header Featuring Claude Hay, Marshall OKell Band

MARCH 8TH Element Bar - Billie-Jo Porter, 6:30pm

26 coffs coast focus.

MARCH 11TH Hoey Moey - DJ OB1 Seaview Tavern - DJ Helmy - Ladies’ night Coast Hotel - Cruisin’ the cosmos & DJ Bisho Element Bar - Raging Oceans

MARCH 12TH Hoey Moey - Reggae Legends, King Tide Element Bar - Josh Matheson

MARCH 15TH Element Bar - Vera Beach

MARCH 16TH Coast Hotel - DJ Bisho

MARCH 17TH Element Bar - Daniel Tuite Coast Hotel - White water and DJ Bisho Seaview Tavern - St Pat’s Day with Charlie Brown

Hoey Moey - St Pat’s Day celebrations featuring The Stripes and DJ Mark Moonee Tavern - St Pat’s Celebrations, Highlander Celtic Rock, The Leprechaun and the Petting Zoo

MARCH 18TH Coast Hotel - Car Ram Rod & DJ Bisho Element Bar - Ben Francis Hoey Moey - DJ Mark Seaview Tavern - Lazy Sundays Duo

MARCH 19TH Hoey Moey - Fat Picnic Element Bar - Craig Freeman

MARCH 22ND Element Bar - Live Music

MARCH 23RD Coast Hotel - DJ Bisho

MARCH 24TH Element Bar - Johan Danno Coast Hotel - The Bounty Hunters Farewell Tour & DJ Bisho Seaview Tavern - Matty Devitt Band Moonee Tavern - Brian Cadd & The Bootleg Family Band

Hoey Moey - Double Shot and DJ Lane

MARCH 25TH Hoey Moey - DJ Layne Seaview Tavern - Dave James Karaoke Coast Hotel - Phat Tracta & DJ Bisho Element Bar - Daniel Hopkins

MARCH 26TH Element Bar - Truman Smith Duo Hoey Moey - Lisa Hunt & Band + DJ Helmy

MARCH 29TH Element Bar - Yhan Leal

MARCH 30TH Coast Hotel - DJ Bisho

MARCH 31ST Element Bar - Ben Francis Hoey Moey - Misschief & DJ OB1 Coast Hotel - 1ST Avenue & Bisho Seaview Tavern - Sublime Tribute Show

coffs coast focus. 27

roshani

Michael Cuffe Photography. 28 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

ou have an amazing story. Can you briefly tell us a bit about your background? I was born in Sri Lanka, and I was adopted out to an Australian family at six weeks of age. My Australian mum and dad had tried having kids for many years, when they finally had my older brother, Justin, naturally. However they still wanted to adopt internationally, as adopting within Australia was really tough; it is to this day. Adopting internationally is equally as hard, and Mum and Dad had to go through many tough and sometimes heartbreaking experiences to finally be able to adopt a baby, and the thousands of dollars spent on legal fees etc. were astronomical. Mum and Dad were not rich people; they were hard working, working class people who just wanted to give a disadvantaged child a chance. I think they are amazing for that. They flew all the way to Sri Lanka to get me; they actually flew over, not knowing if they would even be bringing back a child, as there were still finalisations to be made with the Sri Lankan government. They were just hoping. But luckily for us, it all worked out. I grew up in Tamworth and found my baby steps in music growing up in the Country Music Capital. 60 minutes produced a story on your return to Sri Lanka; how was that experience? Returning to Sri Lanka for the first time in 28 years, and with a full film crew in tow was surreal. I was going to meet my Lankan mum for the first time, and I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that this story was amazing, the way in which it had all unfolded and that it needed to be told. I thought it might give other adoptees hope of finding their families also. I met not only my mother, but a brother and sister and their respective four kids, an aunty and uncle and their son - and some other extended family also. It completely blew my mind to have such a huge family, after spending 28 years not even knowing if my mother was still alive. It completely filled my heart with joy. I was wondering if we would “get along”, or if it would feel awkward of strange, but straight away upon the very first embrace it was like years of separation came crashing down and we picked up right where we left off … It was truly amazing. What do you love most about performing? Performing and making music is how I connect to the world. It is the pure joy that comes from performing that I love so much. Where do you find inspiration for your songs? It varies, really. In the past I have awoken from a dream with an entire song in my head, and I jump out of bed and run to my guitar or piano

ROSHANI PRIDDIS HAS POSSIBLY THE MOST AMAZING VOICE YOU HAVE EVER HEARD. ADD TO THAT AN ENTICING LIFE STORY AND A PASSION FOR LIVING LIFE TO ITS FULLEST, FOCUS JUST HAD TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS SHINING STAR ...

to catch it before it fades. Sometimes it’s just You. It was from that moment forward I wanted sitting quietly, and out of that still place comes to be a singer. Bonnie Raiit: she was the first inspiration. Sometimes it is something that has blues singer I ever heard and saw live; that conhappened, some life experience that causes deep cert hooked me into the blues forever. And from emotion, and the catharsis is to tell there I went on to discover Etta James, Koko Taylor, Big Mama Thornton, it, or reconcile it all through my Nina Simone … and the list goes music. For me, inspiration is on. Oh, and Tracy Chapman in everything. My definition of - songwriting wise, she has Do you work as a proa professional fessional performer? inspired me greatly. meone performer is so Absolutely. My defiGiven the chance to ing who makes a liv nition of a professional perform with anyone or off performing performer is someone of your choice, who am making music. I who makes a living off would it be? is at proud to say th performing or making Well, you know what, what I do.” music; I am proud to say since finding my Lankan that is what I do. family, I’ve also learnt a lot Did you have any profesabout my history. I have learnt sional training, or have you that my father was a singer and a learnt on your feet? drummer, and he used to hand make Both. I studied briefly at the Australian traditional Sri Lankan drums. He and my Institute Of Music, before I got an offer to mother would sing together at all the village get work in China on a music contract in a bar for togethers. He passed away three years ago, I four months straight. As a 19 year old and adnever got to meet him, but my family assure me venture calling, I promptly left my music degree I am like him in many ways. Maybe we’ll have a and moved to China. I have learnt on my feet jam in heaven one day. from then on. Can you tell us a bit about your experience How would you describe your style and performing on X Factor? approach to music? X Factor was a hoot. I snagged a free trip to I love that quote by Louis Armstrong: “There is London, and I performed an original song. two kinds of music, the good, and the bad; I play There is a great back story about how you the good kind”. I don't necessarily subscribe to stuck to your guns, to be able to sing your any one genre; I think the definition of “good” own song. Can you tell us about that? music is music from the heart and soul. It’s got The producers of X Factor asked me to audition, and I said I would audition on the proviso to have “feel”. I don't subscribe to any trends I could sing my own song, as I knew Chris Isaak either; I just write and create things that sound and James Blunt were judges, both internation“right” to my ears, and then hopefully that ally acclaimed singer-songwriters. Initially they translates to my audience. said I could not sing my original, so I declined the Who do you admire as a singer, and why? audition - only to be contacted one week before I’d probably need an entire page to list all the the live auditions at the Entertainment Centre in singers who have inspired me throughout the Sydney to say that the X Factor “headquarters” years; there are many. But I guess the top three had approved my request. Someone was looking are: Whitney Houston, because I heard her when out for me, that’s for sure. I was five years old singing I Will Always Love

“

What happened after you performed the song? I performed my first single, Paid In Ink. The judges Guy Sebastian and Chris Isaak became slightly adversarial. I had no idea how much of a stir it would create. Guy wanted the song to be “remixed” by a DJ to be more commercial. Chris thought the song was great in its pure form and to leave it how it is. I agree with both judges on that one. How long was it at Number 1? Paid In Ink remained at Number 1 for the next three weeks; this utterly blew my mind. Where has that journey taken you? Are you recording more songs, and has the X Factor experience opened doors for you? Since X Factor I have had a #1 album, Death, Love & Life, which I released on the back of my 60 Mins Australia episode. My partner and I sold our house, bought a Toyota Hiace Van and decked it out, so we could live out of it full-time. We have been touring the album since its release last year. We have been unconventional in our touring, however, and have been busking and street performing, instead of booking shows in venues. It’s been working marvellously. When people hear your music on the street, unexpectedly most of the time, they really “hear” you. The interactions we have with people are so authentic and beautiful, and people’s support is directly represented in the fact that we have been able to do this for almost two years now. I love the energy of street performing. Best advice you have been given? That the purpose of life is joy, the basis of life is freedom and the result of your life is expansion. Quote by: “Abraham & Esther Hicks”. Where can people find out more? www.roshanimusic.com or www.facebook.com/roshanimusic What are your plans for the future? To continue to live happily ever after. Thanks Roshani. coffs coast focus. 29

WELLBEING W I T H L AU R E N V E S T E Y F RO M L I V I N G D O L L

W I T H D R PA U L C R I C H T O N F R O M J E T T Y D E N TA L

A GOOD HAIRCUT IS REALLY EMPOWERING.

FOR HEALTHY TEETH

IT CAN NOT ONLY TURN ANY BAD HAIR DAY INTO THE BEST ONE EVER, BUT YOUR NEW ADDED LAYERS OR BANGS CAN COMPLETELY SKY ROCKET YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE, LEAVING YOU FEELING LIKE YOU CAN TAKE ON THE WORLD FOR WEEKS TO COME.

he big chop seems all the rage during the warmer months, but whether you’re thinking about a pixie or you’re just trying to take a few inches off your locks, there’s a thing or two you should know about cutting your hair. Below are six little known facts about cutting your hair, and some tips to help you get the best out of your hair. 1. Cutting your hair more often doesn’t make it grow faster: getting rid of the ends of your hair doesn’t directly affect hair growth. Trimming simply keeps hair healthier as it grows, by cutting off the split ends so that they stay intact, instead of fraying and breaking off quicker than your hair actually grows. Lauren explains, “Millimeter trims - I like to call micro trims - make a huge difference when trying to grow your hair.”

2. Layer accordingly: when cutting your hair, you should layer it according to your hair texture. Tighter curls work best with layers that aren’t perfectly even, while straighter hair works best with more even layers. However, don’t look past the very fashionable solid cut, at that LOB (long bob) length. 3. Love an (on-the-go) wash and wear hairstyle: it’s important to let your stylists know how you style at home, so that they can address this and cut accordingly. In most cases, wash and wear styles are best cut dry. 4. All bangs aren’t cut equally: if you’re thinking about getting bangs (fringe), know what works best for your face and for your hair texture. Long, wispy bangs usually work best for a long face or high forehead, while softer, shorter bangs work best to frame a round face. However, if you have a dreaded cowlick,

remember - is it worth all that work! 5. Short hair takes work: cutting off your hair doesn’t mean less trips to the salon. To keep it maintained, shorter cuts usually require more frequent trips to the salon to keep the shape and style fresh. But don’t despair - you’ll find it’s outweighed by the ease of styling it at home. 6. Bring options: sure, we’ve all got our Pinterest boards full of haircut inspiration, but make sure you bring multiple options. When you get to the salon, your stylist may explain that a certain cut won’t work with your texture, or that it will actually require much more work. So keep an open mind and trust the stylists, because that is what they are trained to do. Be brave, embrace a new you, and come and speak to one of the Premier Stylists at Living Doll today. XO Dolls.

probiotics & WHAT ARE THEY

PROBIOTICS ARE LIVE BACTERIA AND YEASTS THAT ARE GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH, ESPECIALLY YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM...

30 coffs coast focus.

FOR HEALTHY TEETH, FOOD AND DRINKS SHOULD BE FREE OF ADDED SUGAR WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

ooth decay (dental caries) is a diet related disease. Sugars in the food and drinks you consume mix with the bacteria in the plaque on your teeth and produce acids. These acids attack the outer layers of the tooth (tooth enamel). Consuming sweet food and drink between meals is a major cause of tooth decay; this is because there is no between-meal period for teeth to undergo recovery. The more often sweet foods and drinks are consumed, the higher the risk of tooth decay. What you can do to help maintain healthy teeth: • Limit how often you have sweet foods and consume them during meal times, rather than between meals. • Limit sweet drinks, including fruit juices (even if diluted, fruit juice contains natural sugars which can lead to tooth decay).

e usually think of bacteria as something that causes diseases. But your body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are often called "good" or "helpful" bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy. There is also some research to show they help with problems in other parts of your body. For example, some people say they have helped with: • Skin conditions, like eczema

• Choose healthy snacks such as fresh fruit, vegetable sticks, natural yoghurt, plain popcorn, soups or cheese. • Choose fresh fruit over dried fruit, as dried fruit will leave a sticky residue on your teeth and can contribute to tooth decay. • Cut down the sugar added to cups of tea and coffee. • Drink fluoridated tap water and plain milk instead of soft drinks, juice or cordial. • Have a piece of cheese after consuming sweet or acidic food, as dairy products assist in reversing the decay process. • Brushing your teeth and cleaning between your teeth is important, because it removes plaque. If the plaque isn’t removed, it builds up and can cause tooth decay and gum disease. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day.

• Urinary and vaginal health • Preventing allergies and colds • Oral health Probiotics are naturally found in your body. You can also find them in some foods and supplements. It's only been since about the mid-1990s that people have wanted to know more about probiotics and their health benefits. Doctors often suggest them to help with digestive problems. And because of their newfound fame, you can find them in everything from yogurt to chocolate.

Dental health for your children It’s never too early to begin teaching good oral hygiene to your children. Behaviours learnt when they’re young tend to stick with them throughout life.

Flu shots At Jetty VIllage Pharmacy Protect yourself from the nasty flu this season by getting a flu vaccination at Jetty Village Pharmacy. The flu (influenza) is a viral infection that can be spread through coughs, sneezes or by other direct contact with respiratory secretions. The flu is more than just a bad cold, and can occasionally lead to serious complications. Having an annual flu vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from getting the flu, and from then passing it on to someone else. Even if you're super healthy, your co-workers, friends, or family may not be. Flu vaccinations will be available in-store in March, so come and see us today! Our flu vaccine helps protect against four strains of influenza, providing your best defence against the flu. The vaccination is done by pharmacist PJ in the store, no appointment or script is necessary, and it only takes a few minutes.

Dental visits should start around the age of one, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. To develop strong teeth, your children need a healthy, balanced diet, along with a twice-daily regime of brushing and flossing. Try to limit their consumption of sugary foods and drinks such as lollies, soft drinks, and snack bars. Checking for decay You can easily check the state of your child’s teeth by lifting their top and bottom lips and checking for white patches, which are the early warning signs for decay, and can be reversed. Grey, brown or black spots indicate more serious decay; in either case, book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) For eligible children, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule is a dental benefits program that provides up to $1,000 in benefits to the child for basic dental services. If you would like to arrange a dental check for you and your family, give the friendly staff at Jetty Dental a call on 6651 7373.

coffs coast focus. 31

focus_interview

MARK MOWAT D E N T I S T

MARK MOWAT IS AN AWESOME DENTIST EXPERIENCED, SUCCESSFUL, AND HAS A DEVILISH SENSE OF HUMOUR TO TOP IT ALL OFF. FOCUS SAT DOWN IN HIS CHAIR AND OPENED WIDE TO FIND OUT MORE.

an you describe a typical day in the life of a dentist? I swim four laps of the Harbour, run 7.5 km, then a quick ride to Woolooglga and back … Then the alarm goes off, and I wake up! Every day is different. You have your routine treatments, such as check-ups and cleans, but each time the phone rings, it could be anything. You have to be prepared for whatever the day brings. Toothaches, trauma and complex restorative planning bring many varied decisions and outcomes to the everyday life of a dentist. Where did you study? I graduated from the University of Queensland in 1987 and moved to Coffs Harbour that same year. After originally practicing in Coffs and Dorrigo, I purchased Dorrigo Dental in 1991. Then in 1992, I purchased and relocated to Park Beach Dental. In 2011 I opened a practice in Queen Street, Grafton, NSW, a beautiful heritage listed building, “Clarence Valley Dental”. And now, our newly renovated practice “Coffsdentist.com”, which is located at 198 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour. How long have you been a dentist? I have been a dentist for 30 years and counting. What do you love most about the job? I love talking to the patients, knowing they can’t talk back. (Laughs.) Truly, the best part of my job is getting 32 coffs coast focus.

to know people. Every day I get the chance to offer real, concrete solutions; therefore, actually fixing real problems for people, making people smile. Do you have any amusing stories that you would like to share? Unfortunately, a day in the life of a dentist does not involve a day Unfortunately, too many amusing ntist de a of e lif e in th stories. I have some any m o e to does not involv what you hear! stories that would ve ha I amusing stories. ld Wait a minute, ou make your head w at th some stories , but in sp isn’t that a song? ad spin, but due to he ur make yo y lit tia en id How do you nf confidentiality co due to ories st e es th s, effectively market on reasons, these stories as re ed .” ar sh be ot nn ca your business to cannot be shared. new customers? The vault includes Our marketing target is many stories of grown both former customers and men crying! new patients. Our old patients What is the most satisfying know what to expect, so nothing has aspect of being a dentist? changed in that regard. New patients are Giving my patients the smile they want welcome and can take comfort that they are and getting them out of pain. in comfortable hands. The creativity of shaping a smile. It’s not as if everyone comes into the And, educating people that a healthy surgery singing and dancing, nor saying, “I lifestyle and good oral health is essential to love this place”. But we aim to make every your everyday wellbeing. experience as pleasant as possible. What services do you offer? What background experience do you We cover all aspects of general practice. From check-ups and cleans, right through to bring to your current role? implants and crown and bridgework. When I sold to and was working for The Saying that, if anything is outside our Dental Corporate, I was running one of, if scope of clinical expertise, we will refer you not THE most successful practice they had in to the appropriate specialist. the entire country. They took credit for it, but Best advice you have been given? I postulated it was the systems and set up Believe half of what you see and none of they had in place that had produced those

“

results. I believe dentists should be the ones running dental practices. At least you know where the buck stops, literally. I suppose time will tell who was correct. Experience is something that cannot be taught. After 30 years in the industry, I have seen just about everything. That being said, continuing education and state of the art equipment are also essential. It takes a long time to get that balance right and give you the confidence and ability to treat any problem or issue that patients present with. Best advice for someone starting out? Make sure you love what you are doing! You will be in this game for at least 30 years, so buckle up … You have to be able to communicate. Talk to people, in a more normal fashion that they can understand. I don’t mean dumbing it down, but if they have absolutely no idea what you are talking about, it can be confusing for everyone. Thanks Mark.

Plastic Cosmetic & Laser surgery Cryolipolysis - Non Surgical Fat Removal Cryolipolysis is the most innovative, safe, non-surgical body contouring treatment available. It is used to target annoying bumps and bulges of stubborn fat. Clinical studies have shown that this revolutionary technology is an effective means of targeting and freezing away unwanted isolated areas of fat within your body, such as love handles, tummy, back rolls, arms and knees. What is Cryolipolysis? Cryolipolysis is the non-invasive controlled cooling of adipose tissue (Fat Cells) to induce lipolysis (breaking down) without causing damage to other surrounding tissues. The result over time is a noticeable, natural-looking reduction in fat. How does Cryolipolysis work? Cryolipolysis is based on the principle that fat cells are more vulnerable to energy extraction (cooling) than surrounding tissues. A non-invasive applicator is attached to the targeted procedure area to extract energy from the underlying fat tissue, while protecting the skin, nerves, muscles and other tissue. The cooled fat cells undergo apoptosis (controlled cell death) and are gradually eliminated, reducing the thickness of the fat layer. Permanent results after the slimming treatment. Noticeable changes are often seen as soon as three weeks after treatment. Results will continue to improve over the following four months. Contact us for more information.

coffs coast focus. 33

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

LEANNEMCMASTER 44 YEAR OLD TEACHER AT OHANA EARLY LEARNING AND MUM OF TWO TEENAGE BOYS.

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Melanie Glanford. This month we are catching up with Leanne McMaster and her Healthy Inspirations Weight Loss Coach Simone Saunders, to hear her inspiring story.

efore joining Healthy Inspirations, what was your weight management background? After damaging my knee playing a competition game of basketball, I needed a full reconstruction. A year after the reconstruction and rehabilitation, I was still very nervous and anxious to join a sporting team again. This was where my weight management took a nose dive, along with my self-esteem. I slowly gained weight and reached 100 kg when I married. I was comfortable, but still had very low self-esteem and ate to be happy. I gained way too many kilos but because I was tall, I thought I could get away with it. Did you find the support from Healthy Inspirations (Simone) helped you achieve your goals? I am continually achieving new goals; I haven’t reached my final weight loss goal yet. There is no way I would have achieved anything without the support of Simone. I have numerous health issues and physical ailments that prevent me from doing everything at the gym. Simone was very supportive when I first started and ensured I began my exercise program slowly, to ensure I didn’t injure myself. Simone has been very responsive to my needs and to my developing positive mindset. She pushes exactly where I need it and waits for me to be ready for new exercise. She believes in me and encourages me to try new things, which sometimes I whinge about but I usually discover that I can do it, even if I think I can’t. I’ve set numerous goals, and today I reached one of my exercise goals today whilst training on my own. I know that Simone will be very supportive when I share this goal with her. What goals have you achieved so far in weight loss? Since I finally got myself in a positive mindset, l have lost 22 kg. I signed up to Healthy 34 coffs coast focus.

Inspirations in October 2015, but didn’t achieve any weight loss until my head was in the right space. The positive mindset finally reached me in May 2016. I finally chose to eat the foods set out in the Healthy Inspirations program, and in the correct proportions. I also began attending the gym more than just when I had my personal training sessions. In almost nine months I have lost 22 kg and feel fantastic. Did you find the Healthy Inspirations lifestyle plan easy to follow? It is definitely easy to follow. The food suggestions are real food. I hadn’t really eaten real food in a long time but once I got started, it was actually very satisfying to eat real food again. Simone is always adding recipe suggestions on to the Healthy Inspirations Facebook page. These are very helpful to someone like me who would rather dial for food than bother cooking. How does your new healthy lifestyle change help you with day to day activities? Well, I’m watching a lot less television! I’m active as much as I can and if I can’t be active one day, I make up for it the following day. I’m also sleeping so much better (oh, I’ve also kicked my caffeine addiction too, thanks to eating real food again and getting the nutrients my body needs). I can complete a full day at work running around with twenty preschool children. I even walk to and from work, which I never thought I would ever do. The best changes I’ve noticed is that my self-esteem and confidence is building again, which I love. Thanks for sharing, Leanne, 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 Simone directly on 0402 202 864 to get started today.

with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate

cyber mum.

Revealed:

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

Top Tips Exploding the myths about diets and nutrition

For many of us, between what you hear on television and the nutrition “advice” flooding social media, deciding what is healthy can be really confusing. The best way to filter fact from fiction is to hear it from an expert in the field. Leading local physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker catches up with Katie Drury, an Accredited Practising Dietitian who is a valuable member of the Mid North Coast Physio team.

xactly who needs help from a Dietitian? There are many reasons you can benefit from seeing a Dietician - here are just some of the most common conditions we can help: • Diabetics: if you are newly diagnosed, have irregular blood glucose levels or if you have recently had your medication changed. • People with heart problems: if you have high cholesterol, high triglycerides and/or high blood pressure. • People with allergies: if you suspect food allergies or intolerances i.e. suffering chronic abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea. • If you have difficulty preparing or eating food, or you require a texture modified diet e.g. swallowing difficulties, poor dexterity. • If you’ve lost weight unintentionally and/or have a poor appetite. • If you are trying to lose weight • Athletes: if you’re seeking to increase your athletic performance. Remember, performance is reliant on nutrition (almost as much as training). Why can’t I just look after my nutrition myself? The common approach to weight loss, diabetes and allergies and intolerances is to cut out whole food groups, for example, gluten, dairy, wheat, carbohydrates, fat etc. Unfortunately, nutrition is a complex science, and while this approach may achieve the desired results in the short-term, there are risks associated. Eliminating whole food groups can lead to nutrition deficiencies, which can cause health problems. It may also lead to a plateau in weight loss, which is often hard to address

on your own. I’ll make sure that your diet is nutritionally adequate, which will be a key point to achieving your health goals. The road to living a healthy lifestyle is not always an easy path, but with the right professional support you will be able to overcome barriers or challenges and develop effective strategies to feel great. Why choose you as my Dietician? Firstly, because I enjoy all things food - eating food, talking about food, cooking (especially baking) and experimenting with new foods. It was my love of food, along with my desire to work in the health profession that led me to make the move from my small, country town on the Lower Mid North Coast to Newcastle to study Nutrition and Dietetics. I am also an advocate of all foods in moderation (you can’t have a birthday with no cake!) and am passionate about providing realistic advice that will lead to a healthy lifestyle that is sustainable in the long-term. Thanks to my background in competitive sport, I have developed a strong interest in the area of sports nutrition to improve performance and give athletes the edge. You can also receive education on how to shop, cooking techniques, meal ideas and delicious recipes. You will be provided with credible sources of nutrition information and bust through any myths around health, lifestyle and diet. Thanks Katie. Mid North Coast Physio are offering 5 FREE assessments with Katie to help you reach your health goals and discover a happier, healthier version of you. Call 1300 273 747 NOW to secure your FREE assessment before they are gone. Isn’t it time you started feeling great again?

SAFETY WARNING AS TEEN DATING APP GROWS IN POPULARITY IF YOU THOUGHT SNAPCHAT WAS OCCUPYING THE ONLINE TIME OF YOUR TEENAGER, THEN THINK AGAIN - OR AT LEAST DOUBLE CHECK! WHY? WELL, THE TEEN DATING APP CALLED “YELLOW”, WHERE YOUR TEEN “MAKES NEW FRIENDS”, IS GROWING IN POPULARITY AMONGST AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL-AGED TEENAGERS, WITH MORE THAN 7 MILLION USERS NOW MAKING NEW FRIENDS DAILY.

he app is popular, as it connects with both Instagram, and which means with “Yellow” any matches your teen makes they can automatically add this to their Snapchat contact list. So with geolocation functionality on, your teen is therefore potentially opening their front door to strangers. Anyone can set up a “Yellow” account, as there is no verification required; users simply need an email address, a phone number and a profile picture. The app is being referred to as the Tinder for young people, as it features the same format of viewing photos of potential friends and then swiping left or right if you like the look of the person. Not only is it encouraging our teens to be more superficial and judge people by what they look like, but it appears the app is notorious for large volumes of nudie pics being sent amongst so called friends. To date, there have been multiple cases of child grooming via this app reported in Australia, including children being pressured to send nude photographs and being coerced into explicit sexual conversation while using the app. Interestingly, if you were to go to the App Store or Google Play and review the app, this is what you would find: “More than 7 million users are making new friends every day on Yellow! Join the community right now. “Yellow is an easy and free way to make new friends and chat with them. • SWIPE - Swipe right to like and left to pass. • NEW FRIEND - If it’s a mutual like, you get a new friend • FRIENDS - All your Yellow Friends are here • CHAT - Have a great conversation with your new friend

“Rated 12+ for the following: Infrequent/ Mild Sexual Content and Nudity, Infrequent/ Mild Profanity or Crude Humour, Infrequent/ Mild Mature/Suggestive Themes, Infrequent/Mild Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drug Use or References.” Despite this rating, most parents are unaware that our teens are probably already using the app and we have no idea or no way of controlling which apps are in use and which are not - unless of course, you have Family Zone or a similar online protection system in place. So as always, I strongly recommend talking to your kids about the potential danger of this sort of app, whether they are currently using “Yellow” or not. Talk about why they feel there is a need for it in their life, about how easy it is for anyone including paedophiles to use it and impersonate another person, the potential of inappropriate content and how easily kids are being coerced into sending illegal nudie pics. It’s also worth understanding that as the explosion of the use of emojis in text chatting continues to grow, I also think it’s worth ensuring your kids realise that all may not be what it seems when getting messages from strangers or supposed friends. These days emojis make up a huge component of the “conversation”. For example, the eggplant, peach, purple devil and surprised cat do not mean what you think they mean, and the list goes on. So talking about how to respond to these potentially inappropriate requests may be something your child needs some help with. Good luck! Cyber Mum Australia www.cybermumaus.com www.facebook.com/cybermumaus Email: cyber-mum@hotmail.com

coffs coast focus. 35

36 coffs coast focus.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

MARCH 2017

with Terri

Photo credit: Will Eades Photography

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You are likely to stumble into an opportunity to access some gifts or talents. This timing will be perfect for entertaining the feeling of true destiny. You will also benefit from intellectual stimulation, as your mind might be a little bored at present. Citrine attracts positive experiences.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 You have recently been remembering past hurts, because you are being given opportunity to release them and the effects they have had on you. Look at any difference you have made, even new attitudes, and give yourself the gift of gratitude to release those fears from reemerging in your future. Ruby shatters fears.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Your fears may be playing with you at present. Don’t give into them, because they can potentially stop your progress. They may seem justified; however, they only sabotage your success. Identify them and laugh at them, to allow your subconscious to transform them. Ruby shatters fears.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

You are so clever at manifesting all that is needed. If you can acknowledge your ability, you will surprise yourself with further success. Try wishing for something, then fill yourself with the excitement of having it already and think a big thank you to the universe for it, then FORGET about it. Citrine attracts an abundance.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Make some wishes or set some fresh goals. You can’t fail at present and if you are aware of your motive, more good luck will be attracted to you. Simply think about what you want, fill yourself with the excitement of already having it, think a big thank you to the universe for it and forget about it then. Citrine attracts an abundance.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Relationships are giving you opportunity to reflect your divinity, as well as offering joy and beautiful energy. Keep connected to your gratitude, especially for those close to you, and this will keep your heart singing. To obtain the most satisfaction from your intimate relationship, speak from the heart. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 You are embarking on a journey of emotional self discovery. Reflect yourself in your partner to find answers to challenges that belong to you. If your partner is doing something you are challenged by, ask yourself why are you challenged? Once you have the answer to that question, your problem will be solved. Rose Quartz connects us to our pure love.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 If you have been feeling unsupported lately, try identifying what emotion you are hoping to feel and wake that up internally by activating it with your breath. By breathing it through every cell in your body, you will not need to rely on an external source to fulfil your internal need. Citrine shatters negativity.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Identify a dream you have carried for a long time. Write a list of all the things needed to make it happen, and take action get a couple of things from the list. The universe is giving you another shot at it, and you will be less likely to sabotage the opportunity if you are already in active mode, prepared and ready. Clear Quartz amplifies strength.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Set some fresh goals, especially from your emotions. Write a list of every feeling you would like to experience and pray or wish for them to be lived out in your physical world. Avoid stressing about your ability to support yourself in the future; this will only act to block your success. Ruby shatters fear.

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

To satisfy some of your restless energy, try to become a little more physically focused. Do some rigorous exercise and sweat out the frustration. Fill your mind with empowering compliments at least five times a day for the next few weeks, and see the difference you will make for the better. Turquoise is the crystal of empowerment.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

To be able to move beyond torment, you will need to set some fresh goals. Don’t feed your fears by entertaining them; simply replace them with empowering loving thoughts. Think about your gifts and talents you incarnated with, and pay attention to how this changes your mood within minutes. Rose Quartz initiates self love.

coffs coast focus. 37

women in business

38 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

Bernadette Divola knitted and crocheted a rainbow teepee for her daughter’s wedding with the help of 100 people. FOCUS found out more about this amazing project ...

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I grew up in Sydney, but my brother married a girl from Bellingen when I was 10 years old. I came to visit her family after the wedding and it obviously made an impression on me, because I returned here 15 years later with a small family. I have raised my five children in Bellingen; it is my paradise. Where did the idea of the rainbow tent come from? I was inspired by an internet post that a few people shared with me. I didn’t for one minute think that I could knit/crochet a whole tent, but the idea just wouldn’t go away. My youngest daughter, Millicent, was getting married on the October long weekend and I jokingly shared the post and suggested that I make a “chai tent”, and so it began. I started working on it on the first of January 2016. How did the project develop? I originally intended to attempt the teepee by myself. I thought that the best case scenario would be that it might be big enough to serve as a children’s play tent. Millicent was to be married at her grandparents’ property in Gleniffer in a paddock, and she was hiring some tents as venues and accomodation. The wedding concept was “The Festival of Love”; it was to be a two day event in the style of a music festival. Once I started the project and posted

love. Teepee of

photos on Facebook and Instagram, to my How long did it take to make? surprise people from near and far offered to At exactly eight months, I put down my make squares. They rolled in from around the needles. I felt like Forrest Gump when he world: America, England, France, Germany, decided to stop running! Holland, Finland, to name a few places. Do you have a favourite square? Some squares were the product of small Not really, I have such an affection for all children learning to knit. A sweet lady in a of them. However, my friend Marion was local nursing home made 35 squares, whilst diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and she a lady in the Blue crocheted me some Mountains fighting squares knowing that cancer crocheted she would not be alive in her bed. Some for Milli’s wedding; that Love - it was the most people contributed meant a lot to us. loving and inspiring one square, while How many squares project. More than 100 others made many. are in the teepee? people contributed A friend of mine, I’m really not sure, but Christine, made of all ages, sexes and I’d say there’s more than hundreds. There 2,000. I sewed every nationalities; some were are so many stories one of them together. family, some friends surrounding the So, how was the and acquaintances, contributions; it was wedding? and some complete a true community Amazing! You can’t strangers. effort. go wrong when your I left a basket with venue is an emerald wool and needles paddock in the Bellinger in my local café, Valley. All the men in my Hyde, and I’d pick up immediate family wore dozens of squares each week. lederhosen as a cheeky homage to the groom, Are all the squares really different? Scott’s, German heritage and my partner, Absolutely! They are all roughly 12 cm and Troy, and I made up a German drinking song knitted or crocheted, but they are very unique. as a speech. The teepee served as a coffee Some are full of (endearing) holes knitted by and tea tent and was much admired (and novices, whilst others have patterns or even photographed) by all. words worked in; some people even used Do you have a mantra or motto? sequins and beads. If it’s worth doing, it’s worth overdoing! I

live by this. What did you take away from the experience? Love - it was the most loving and inspiring project. More than 100 people contributed of all ages, sexes and nationalities; some were family, some friends and acquaintances, and some complete strangers. Milli and Scott were bowled over by the generosity and kind regards of so many. Did you aknowledge the contributors? Yes, I wrote the name of each contributor on a ribbon and tied the ribbons to a bamboo pole so they fluttered in the breeze at the top of the hill. What will you do with the teepee now? That’s the question everyone asks me! I’m sure it will have an outing at some point, but for now it is safely stored at my house. I made it for Milli and Scott’s big day, and I’m happy that it turned out so well. Do you make other things? Yes, I’m prolific. I love making, I love knitting, crocheting, embroidering, drawing, weaving, sewing, cooking - you name it. At the moment I’m working on some funky little clay dolls, doll’s houses and furnishings to sell on Etsy. Where can people see your work or find out more about you? Anyone can follow me on Instagram and see the #festivaloflovebellingen photos. My Instagram name is Queenbernie; I’m always happy to connect with people. Thanks Bernadette. coffs coast focus. 39

women in business

When you find a great team, you know you are on to a winning formula, because everything just works.

Cathy and Billy-Joh NORTEC STAFFING SOLUTIONS

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Having worked in the Employment Services Industry for over 20 years, the most satisfying aspect of my role is to see people who have been job seeker clients, working in the local community. It is wonderful when I am shopping or visiting local businesses and I get a chance to bump into some of these people. Assisting people gain and sustain employment changes lives and the community for the better. How do you encourage a positive working environment? Teamwork is everything to me. Building a connected company comes from building your team to ensure every person has the best opportunity to be the very best they can be. That means ensuring all staff are recognised and supported.

How do you evaluate customer satisfaction? We have a well-used mantra at NORTEC, that is “Listening to Understand”. I do this daily when meeting with customers and candidates alike. For me, when meeting new customers it is vital to gather and retain as much information as possible about the business owner or manager and also the culture, background and day to day running of the business. This ensures we are correctly screening and matching the right candidates. In recruitment, a great way to evaluate your customer satisfaction is when a new customer gives you a call and asks you to recruit for another position in their business, or even better, refers you to another local business to help with their recruitment needs.

We Listen to Understand your Business Staffing Needs! Permanent, Temporary & Contract Staffing 1 staff member or 100! Access to Australian Government funded programs with no-fee recruitment & wage subsidy advice* Vocational skills training & support

Seeking real solutions!

* Eligibility criteria applies

Lodge a job vacancy online at

www.nortec.org.au or call

1800 667 832 40 coffs coast focus.

‘Creating opportunities. Inspiring futures.’

Heidi Brett VAST INTERIOR

What is the point of difference between you and your competitors? I believe being able to individually source and pick unique designs and quality furniture that suits the diversity found on the Coffs Coast is a plus that other retailers don’t have available to them. Most of the furniture you see in my store is created from either recycled or upcycled timbers, such as old boats and housing materials creating stunning unique and one off pieces not found anywhere else, or sustainable timbers such as mango wood. I love that since Vast opened in Toormina in 1999, we were one of the first Australian furniture manufacturers to start using solid mango timber in our signature furniture designs; before then, it was often burnt on the side of the road as scrap timber. What really sets us apart is when we design a dining table etc. we also must specify the material and the thickness

required for each piece. Timber is priced according to its weight, so, invariably we always go for the more expensive and heaviest option. The key difference between Vast and many other furniture retailers ... Quite simply, our furniture is unique, well made and weighs more (and on top of that, we use up to 12 coats of lacquer to preserve the grain). This gives our pieces a much better chance of lasting several generations, and they’re built to last. Plus, if it’s on the floor you can take it home today, no waiting - that’s hard to beat. What’s the best business idea you have that you’ll never use? Incorporating a Vast Café into the store. A hidden oasis surrounded by our beautiful homewares, furniture and a secret garden - a destination to meet up with friends, a sensory overload ... Maybe one day.

women in business

“I did this program in 1998 and it literally changed my life.” - Marilyn Brien.

Kate Cooke FLUSHED WITH HEALTH

Marilyn Brien

Krystie Boyes

LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA

Kate Cooke at Flushed With Health invites you to experience the fabulous sense of wellbeing that comes with having an optimally functioning bowel! Have you ever wished you could bounce out of bed, head to the loo, do your morning business, and skip out with an even bigger bounce to embrace the new day? Well, that’s your birthright, and if you feel maybe you were robbed at some stage in life, know you can reclaim it. If you’ve ever felt you’re not quite “finished”, or constipated, or have regular headaches, or bad breath, or bloating, or hormonal problems, or trouble losing weight, or sinus issues, or skin breakouts, or chronic tiredness, or just want to feel GREAT, consider a series of colonics.

About Leadership Management Australia: Leadership

Colonic Irrigation at Flushed With Health uses state-of-the-art equipment, including twice filtered, warm, gravity-fed water and sterile, disposable, pencil-thin rectal tubes, to ensure a comfortable, professional and private service. Kate is a certified Nutritionist and Colon Hydrotherapist with over twenty years of experience. Located in an accessible yet private location in Sawtell, Kate is available to support your GUT health five day per week and Saturdays by appointment. A healthy bowel can add years to your life and life to your years!

making sure all our participants enjoy the LMA journey and

www.flushedwithhealth.com.au

New opportunity in 2017:

e: kate@flushedwithhealth.com.au

The second half of 2017 sees the return of our well sought

m: 0448 554 096.

after program, Effective Personal Leadership.

Management Australia (LMA) is a registered training organisation that has been creating exceptional results through people for 45 years. It is through our unique learning and development process that we provide professionals with the tools to create the “total person” in their workplace. I have been working with LMA for 19 years on the Mid North Coast. I have an award winning, dedicated team of facilitators and coaches. These highly respected and sought after facilitators show their commitment to excellence by get the most out of our adult interactive workshops. What is our point of difference? We don’t train people - we develop them. We change and improve the way people think, interact, work, and behave - providing our participants lasting behavioural changes, and our clients exceptional, ongoing value, and return on investment.

CHAMP CLEANING

What background experience do you bring to your current role? Over 10 years of commercial cleaning in various establishments, from distribution warehouses to RSLs. I have also obtained Cert III Asset Maintenance which is the equivalent of a commercial cleaning degree. Champ’s staff is provided with continuous training. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Clients saying, “WOW - this place looks wonderful!” I have a fantastic team who gets in and work as one to turn around an establishment ready for trade. We perform a Quality Assurance check right before doors open, which is the best part of my day. What do you enjoy most about what you do? Champ has systematic cleaning methods in place - we work smart, not hard – this means that I’m able to knock off at 10am and enjoy the rest of my day. What systems have you set up in your business to help it grow? Champ chose to downsize in August 2016. Champ was subcontracting and handed back those sites to a company which I felt ran their business operation unethically. I didn’t want to be associated with a negative company. I realised it’s not volume but quality of service that helps your business grow in the long run; we decided to focus on developing professional relationships with local businesses who also have the long term goal of growth in the region.

The Effective Personal Leadership The EPL course from Leadership Management Australia (LMA) builds on existing strengths and focusses on the required attitude and behavioural changes needed to cope with the pace and fast-changing nature of modern life and business.

“A leader’s personal motivation, emotional intelligence and self-image are key to how they perform, respond and lead.” Marilyn Brien, Leadership Management Australia - Brien

Understand and implement actions to strengthen attitudes and behaviours Strengthen Emotional Intelligence Create a culture of inspiration and motivation. Take charge of their own personal development Become strong leaders, mentors and coaches

LMA also provides FREE resources on our website www.lma.biz for any professionals looking to review their management, and team analysis processes. RTO #3908

Marilyn Brien M: 0418 693 914 E: mbrien@lma.biz

Creating exceptional results through people.

coffs coast focus. 41

women in business

Bev Dyer. Bev Dyer is a hardworking mother of three young boys, who has somehow found the time to launch her own lifestyle label. FOCUS spoke with Bev, to find out where the inspiration came from and what the experience has been like so far ...

Chasing Sundays.

i Bev. Can you tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I have lived on the Coffs Coast since I was eight years old. My family moved to the area when my dad got a job doing the Raleigh bypass. What do you love most about living here? What is there not to love? We live in such a friendly, creative community. If you ask me, we have the best climate in Australia, we are spoilt with the picturesque countryside and rivers, and our coast boasts some of the cleanest, unpopulated beaches our country has to offer. Coffs Coast is small enough but still big enough, with opportunities and resources everywhere. I couldn’t imagine living and raising my kids anywhere else. You recently launched your own label; can you tell us about that? It’s a lifestyle brand that brings products together to represent and support our Australian laid back lifestyle, called Chasing Sundays. Through my products I aim to connect family and friends, so we can bring a slice of that Sunday vibe into every day. It’s all about practical, affordable and stylish basics that absolutely anyone can enjoy. Where did the inspiration for the label come from? With three young boys, I was struggling with the beach juggle and was often put off going. I love the Kids’ Poncho Towel, but I could never 42 coffs coast focus.

and family; can you tell us a bit about how seem to find any that were stylish and suitable they all supported you? for a broad age range, especially catering for the They have been my models, they’ve allowed pre teens/teens. I have an eight year old, and I find there is a gap in the market for children aged me to bounce ideas off them, given me honest feedback, and attended markets with me in the seven and up. sweltering heat and purchased from me! I have always been a visual person and love I have friends helping me with IT, photography pulling things together. and just generally cheering me on, supporting All of a sudden, I had a sourcing, researching, and motivating me. Their support has helped me sampling obsession, and from that I found a love immensely, and I am so for Turkish Cotton - and grateful. Chasing Sundays was Your young family born. and husband must What have been some keep you busy. How I have friends of the hiccups you do you organise yourhave had along the helping me with IT, self to have time to way? photography and just work on your label? Sourcing trustworthy generally cheering me We have always manufacturers was chalon, supporting and enjoyed routine in our lenging. Investing time motivating me. Their family; we try to keep and money into having support has helped a happy balance. My samples made, to receive me immensely, and I husband works during a product that was not am so grateful. the day, so late afterup to scratch and having noons and weekends he to start the sampling entertains the kids so I process all over again. can work. Our parents I also underestimated help out with the kids how much work was too when they can. It involved in creating the takes lots of late nights and dedication. website, especially having no experience. I am at How was the response to your products a point now where my website needs updating, after you launched? as the functions are too basic for what I want and I had products sell out on my website within need now. days. The feedback I received on the overall qualiYour website features images of your friends ty and branding was fantastic.

Were you pleasantly surprised by this reaction? Absolutely. I knew the quality was there, but I did not expect a sellout or the demand that has followed. What advice would you offer to others who might be thinking about starting something similar? Invest in learning. I attended a start up conference in Sydney when I was in idea phase and a creative seminar in Sydney while I was planning my range. The knowledge, ideas, contacts and confidence I gained from those is invaluable. Network, hustle, and barter. Don’t be scared to ask for help, tips or feedback from established brands. Be prepared for a big workload and most of all, believe in yourself and your ideas. What are your plans for the future? To add more products. I am in the process of pulling together the winter range. I hope to branch into clothing and work towards picking up more stockists. Where can people find out more? They can head to my website: www. chasingsundays.com.au and they can be kept up to date by following my Instagram and Facebook accounts - @chasing.sundays Thanks to the support of some local Coffs Coast stores, you can find my products at Mini Mojo in Coffs Harbour, First Avenue Boutique in Satwell and Ocean Street Diner in Scotts Head. Thanks Bev.

women in business

Holly Readett

Jennifer D owd

Robyn Simon & Bonnie Capell

COSMETIC TATTOO BY HOLLY

ETC BUSINESS ADVISORS

What background experience do you bring to your current role? I bring over 15 years of experience in the Beauty Industry as a Beauty Therapist, Make Up Artist and Cosmetic Tattooist. Before moving back to the Coffs Coast and establishing Cosmetic Tattoo by Holly I was based on the Gold Coast, and it was during this time I developed my passion for cosmetic tattooing and became qualified in all cosmetic tattoo procedures.

What new products or services are you developing in 2017? There is huge demand from small to medium businesses wanting to learn more about social media and digital marketing, so our focus for 2017 is on organising more of these workshops.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The

In addition, we will continue to help start-up and existing small and medium sized businesses with one-on-one business advice.

motor racing event.

What do you believe is an important criterion to your business’ success? I believe in continuing to refresh and further develop my skills, to ensure I am up to date with the latest techniques on the market. This involves attending many training courses and allows me to provide these services to clients. I see this as an ongoing goal and strength for my business. Most rewarding part of your job? I love giving women that extra bit of confidence! It’s important that my clients are happy and satisfied with their new look. To see them with a big smile on their face and know it has positively impacted the way they feel about themselves is such a fulfilling and encouraging experience - it’s the reason I love what I do. What differentiates you and your business? I pride myself on quality service and customer care. I believe in providing genuine recommendations for each individual’s needs, giving clients additional attention, and never rushing the service.

Define Success ... Bonnie - Listening and making sure both the client and I understand their market is often an essential first step. It’s amazing how once they understand some of these business basics, they feel much more empowered. Robyn - I love working with clients who are passionate and determined to make their ideas grow into a successful business. I enjoy helping them to identify their unique opportunities and seeing them grow in confidence and take those next steps. How do you evaluate customer satisfaction? Bonnie - A significant amount of the work I do is through referrals from a previous client. I see this as a clear indicator that my customers have found my assistance useful. Robyn - Regularly receiving positive comments on our service is very inspiring and very motivating!

RALLY AUSTRALIA GM

most satisfying aspect of my job is the diversity of my role. I’m continually looking for new opportunities to strengthen the rally brand and build awareness of the event (held annually on the Coffs Coast 16 - 19 Nov). It is extremely interesting and challenging working on an international Most rewarding part of my job? Is when the event is running. It’s really satisfying seeing all the pieces of the puzzle come together. It is a huge adrenalin rush, like no other job I’ve done. How does your business give back to the community? Last year accommodation was sold out on the Coffs Coast. The influx of volunteers, spectators, competitors and their teams is of great economic benefit to the Coffs Coast. Petrol stations, supermarkets, fast food outlets, hotels, clubs all benefit from the influx of visitors to our town. We utilise the services of businesses on the Coffs Coast wherever possible. Business/personal goals for this financial year? Secure the event for another three years on the Coffs Coast for 2018,19 and 20. On a personal level: landscape our backyard!

16-19 NOV 2017, NSW COFFS COAST

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS tm

RALLYAUSTRAL

IA.COM.AU

coffs coast focus. 43

women in business

Kellie Pearce.

hy did you become a financial planner? Quite a few years ago, I was looking for some financial advice, and I couldn’t find a professional and approachable financial planner who spoke to me in a way that made sense to me. Eventually I sought advice from a person who talked me into an investment I didn’t really understand. Subsequently, that investment failed, and I lost a lot of money and ended up with a nasty tax bill. I decided then that this “learning experience” would not happen to me again, so I embarked on an education course and learnt about investing, how it works, and what to look for. Since then, after talking with many of my friends, I realised I was not alone. Many of my friends were so busy working or looking after everyone around them - loved ones, children, parents - that they didn’t have time or knowledge to look after their own finances. They did not see a financial planner, as they didn’t think they were important enough. I am here to bust that myth and help everyone, men and women, take control of their financial future and own their tomorrow. Why did you choose Bridges Coffs Harbour? After spending many years working for the larger banks, coming to Bridges was like a breath of fresh air. What I really like about it is that we’re large enough to offer complex advice on all financial matters, but small enough to care for each client on an individual level. This was something I was not able to offer before. We have a great team of people here who all work together to ensure we are proactive with our clients. This means we can look after all of our clients’ needs, ranging from investment advice and share purchases all the way to updating

There are many women in business on the Coffs Coast; it is great to see successful women dominating in the business sector. FOCUS stopped in to chat with Kellie Pearce from Bridges Financial Services, to learn about her road to success in financial planning.

Centrelink of any changes to circumstances - an changes to the superannuation rules that we additional service we provide and our clients love, have seen in the last ten years. On top of this, we as who likes sitting on the phone for hours with have seen the amount of assets you can own to Centrelink? qualify for the Age Pension slashed. How can financial advice help me? You combine these changes with the record At Bridges, we believe that financial advice low interest rates that we are experiencing, and makes a difference. In fact, a recent study by the retirees especially are being squeezed everywhere. Finance Services Council showed that people who So where should I be investing then to receive financial advice were almost $100,000 counteract low interest rates? better off in retirement. Well, that’s the million dollar question! A financial planner offers advice, or rather You can take on more risk to counteract low sets out a road map returns but in doing so, for you to follow. If you will also take on more you think that visiting volatility of capital, which us in our office will may be unpalatable to the Our first meeting is be grey suits, boring investor. complimentary and investments and other Everyone has different we have a chat over a humdrum information, tolerances for risk and as cuppa about what’s then think again! First an planner, it is our job to important to you and of all, we have a great find out what that is and looking office, with invest people’s money in your family and what great looking staff (am a way that allows them you’d like your financial I allowed to say that?) to “sleep at night”. My future to look like. but more importantly, advice is to turn off the we help you create the TV at night and ignore the lifestyle you want and background “noise”. then apply it to your You should be able to specific circumstances wake up in the morning that exist now. and know that even if the US President has Financial advice will help you to mouthed off at Iran, China and Mexico and upset • Set and achieve your financial goals and make his closest allies with his 3am “tweets”, the world the most of your money will continue to spin and companies will continue • Get any government assistance you're entitled to trade, and in twenty years it will all seem like a to bad dream! • Feel more in control of your finances and your Are there many women in the financial life planning industry? • Avoid expensive mistakes (I wish I had known It is an unfortunate statistic of this industry, that!) that just over 20% of advisors in Australia are • Protect your assets women. It’s interesting that when I meet with Right now we are going through the largest clients, men and women often have very different

BRIDGES 44 coffs coast focus.

desired outcomes from our meetings. Whilst men tend to be more interested in numbers and the stockmarket, women on the other hand are more interested in ensuring that their family will be looked after and that there will be enough money to pay the mortgage. Often they are looking for the same result, but approaching it from different sides of the same coin. I really enjoy working with both men and women, and I can obviously relate to women with many things. However, it is funny as to where a meeting’s conversation can go and as a keen motorcyclist and car enthusiast, and dare I say a Richmond tigers supporter (oh, the pain), we often cover a broad range of topics in our meetings. What happens at a financial planning meeting? Our first meeting is complimentary, and we have a chat over a cuppa about what’s important to you and your family and what you’d like your financial future to look like. During this meeting, we will discuss options, in a way you can understand, to ensure you are confident you can reach these goals. Then if you’re comfortable, we will tailor an individual financial plan for you with personalised strategies on how you can move towards achieving your goals and objectives. So, don’t be shy, give us a call and take control of your financial future. You’ll be glad you did. Thanks Kellie. *The ‘Better off with savings advice’, 16 February 2011, research shows that a 30 year old would save an additional $91,000, a 45 year old would save an additional $80,000 and a 60 year old would save $29,000 more than those without a financial planner. Disclaimer: Bridges Financial Services Pty Limited (Bridges). ABN 60 003 474 977. ASX Participant. AFSL No 240837. This is general advice only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation and needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consult a financial planner. Bridges is part of the IOOF group.

women in business

There are lots of opportunities here; you just need to have a plan, be consistent and determined, and go for it!

Nicole Donovan

Graziella G arrett

Sandra Vout

SURF CLUB RESTAURANT AND BAR

BELLINGEN VALLEY REAL ESTATE

BANKSIA PRESCHOOL

What background experience do you bring to your current role? My first job was photocopy girl in multinational advertising agency Leo Burnett, straight out of school in Sydney. I worked my way up to be PA to the National Creative Director within six years. I grew up fast! I then moved to Coffs Harbour, and fell into hospitality, working for Mal Fittler in his brand new Aanuka Beach Resort in 1988. I’ve waitressed, cooked, supervised and managed in various restaurants in Coffs Harbour, Melbourne and London, completing many management, marketing and motivational workshops and courses. I continually challenge myself to learn new skills. I have co-owned (with Matt, my business partner) our own restaurants/function venues for the last 16 years. I’ve had 28 years in hospitality and know it like the back of my hand.

What's the best part of working and living in the Coffs

How do you stay motivated? Having a big picture puts everything in perspective and gives you a purpose. Exercise, yoga and meditation help enormously.

entire process. I am confident that it is possible to be an honest

What is the best advice you could give other women looking to succeed in their chosen field? Sexism and discrimination can take many different guises. Be vigilant and deal with it immediately; you are not imagining things! What's the best part of working and living in the Coffs region? Beauty, beach, relaxed lifestyle, safety, sense of community, freedom. There are lots of opportunities here; you just need to have a plan, be consistent and determined, and go for it!

region? Raising my two sons in the Bellingen Shire has given me a direct insight into how special this part of the Mid North Coast really is. What do you enjoy most about what you do? My passion for helping people find the right property that best suits them, and seeing the delight on both sides after completing a transaction, is why I love what I do. How do you evaluate customer satisfaction? My belief is that good customer service is about open and honest regular communication, active listening, ability to offer alternative solutions, and to provide a positive experience throughout the and reliable real estate agent, and this is not something that I will compromise on. How do you effectively market your business to new customers? Online advertising and social media has really changed the way people buy and sell real estate. They are very powerful tools and should not be underestimated. If you would like to enjoy the process of buying or selling a property, then I would love to help make the journey as easy and enjoyable as I can for you.

I am the mother of three. Have been a Family Daycare Eductor and I'm currently the Director of Banksia Preschool & Long Daycare Centre in Toormina. I have worked at Banksia Preschool for 17 years and have been the Owner/Director for 12 years. Over that time I have had the pleasure of educating a lot of children and meeting a great many families, who have also become great friends. Choosing a centre for your child can be a very daunting process for parents and carers. We are there to help you make that transition easier. Banksia Preschool & Long Daycare Centre is a small centre that provides a fun, friendly environment that builds trust and security for every child. Families recommend and come to us, as they understand what we offer is real. What I love so much about my career is being there for the children in every way. Watching them grow as well as nurturing their love of learning. 2017 has seen us open with some new playscapes and additions to our centre environment. I may be the “Woman in Business”, but it’s the people there with you that get you through, such as my team of educators at Banksia Preschool and my family.

coffs coast focus. 45

women in business

I have extensive experience in business taxation compliance within different industries, as well as assisting clients with enhanced strategies to minimise tax, increase and protect wealth.

Tracey Hynes RSVP

New products and services 2017: We are currently in the process of reviewing a new formal wear label, which is exciting; with it brings a great price point that our Coffs Coast customers will love. Along with this we will be introducing two new bridesmaid labels to further increase the choices we provide to our bridal community. In particular, one of these labels offers a favourable ordering time, which will see the time frame from order reduce from a three four month period to two - four weeks. We want our customers to shop local; it’s very important to me, and I am very passionate about keeping our dollars locally. Business/personal goals: The assessment of my Advertising and Marketing expenditure is

46 coffs coast focus.

definitely top of my list to improve on, it always pays off to analyse and fine tune this area on a regular basis. This is especially true given the rapid increase of Social Media, I am definitely looking at ways to increase and improve Social Media interactions. On a personal level I am currently working on achieving the ultimate level of organisation.... this seems to always be a work in progress, having never felt I have achieved this, so 2017 bring it on! Most rewarding part of my job: Seeing the big grin spread across my bride’s face as she stands in the mirror viewing herself in the gown she has just realised is “THE ONE”... Very exciting, and more often than not gives me goose bumps!

Veronica Bruce

MTaxFP BBus CPA SMSF Specialist

BENTLEY BRETT & VINCENT

What background experience do you bring to your current role? I have worked in the accounting and taxation industry since 1985 and began my current role with Bentley Brett & Vincent (BBV) in 1993, becoming a partner of the firm in 2006, at the same time qualifying as a financial planner. I have extensive experience in business taxation compliance within different industries, as well as assisting clients with enhanced strategies to minimise tax, increase and protect wealth. What qualifications do you have? I have a Masters Degree in Taxation and Financial Planning, a Bachelor of Business Degree and a Diploma of Financial Services (FP). In addition, I am a Tax Agent, a CPA member and an Accredited CPA SMSF Specialist. What is the point of difference between you and your competitors? At BBV we pride ourselves

on building and nurturing client relationships and incorporating the simple touches clients value, such as responding to them in a timely manner. In addition, at BBV there is a high level of professionalism, with a number of our accountants holding Masters Degrees and SMSF specialisations. Our commitment to further education ensures clients deal with highly trained, experienced and knowledgeable professionals. Due to recent legislative changes, not all accountants can provide advice to Self Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs). However, because we are licensed in both taxation and financial planning, holistic advice can be provided under the one roof. Obligation Free One Hour Appointment If you would like to discuss your taxation and/or financial planning needs, please contact Veronica on (02) 6652 3160 or at vbruce@bbv.com.au

women in business

Shine Lawyers.

Lisa Flynn.

hat is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The most satisfying part of my role is the feeling that I am really helping someone trying to get their life back on track after it has been derailed. I am currently representing a number of people who have suffered childhood abuse and although the work is challenging, it is extremely rewarding to be able to stand beside these courageous clients who are taking a stand against what has happened to them. I really feel it is a privilege to have the opportunity to change their lives for the better. What background experience do you bring to your current role? I have been working at Shine Lawyers since 1999, when I commenced as an Articled Clerk. I have been admitted as a Solicitor for 14 years. For the past 10 years I have been in a management position, leading teams of lawyers and support staff to deliver results for our clients. How do you encourage a positive working environment? I think it is important to have rituals within the workplace that encourage positive interactions. For example, we have a weekly morning tea, where we all down tools for half an hour to share food together and get to know whom we are working with through the sharing of stories. We also have daily “huddles” at the start of each working day, which are short, sharp meetings designed to ensure that we all

FOCUS sat down with successful Coffs Coast businesswoman, Lisa Flynn from Shine Lawyers, to find out her secrets of success. focus on the “big rocks” first. I know that I know what each other are working on, am at my best in the mornings, so I do the where people may be stuck and need some big, important jobs first and then leave the assistance. I try to foster a real “team” afternoon for the smaller jobs that don’t approach in any workplace that I am in. require as much brain energy. Often things Best advice for someone starting out in happen in a day that are not planned and your industry? expected, so as long as I get the “big rocks” I often say to people who are studying done - I can feel pretty satisfied that things law, to try to get some experience in a are on track and organised. law firm so that they know what law is How do you stay like “in practice”. motivated? I think it is great if I don’t find that people studying law motivation is very get some work as I don’t find that hard, as I really love an Administration motivation is very what I do. I have Assistant or Paralegal, hard, as I really love three young children so that they can what I do. I have whom I love and see how a real life three young children adore and if I didn’t law firm functions. whom I love and love my job, I don’t Alternatively adore and if I didn’t think I could bear to do some work love my job, I don’t leave in the morning. experience in a think I could bear to I think a big part law firm or with a of motivation is barrister. This is a leave in the morning. finding work that great way to not only has a purpose that see what it is like, is connected with but also ensures that my values. I am at you are starting to my best when I fully build your “contact” believe that the list - you have access work I am doing is making a difference and to people in the legal profession to ask is channelled towards the purpose I have questions of. Relationships are important bought in to. in this industry, as is the case in a lot of What is the point of difference between industries! you and your competitors? What’s your best tip for staying on task I believe that the values and the purpose and organised? of Shine is front and centre which drives I am a “lists person” - I make lists of everything that we do. We don’t just have things that I need to get done each day values that sit up on the wall. Everyone and take great delight in crossing things off believes in our values and shares the same the list as they are done. I also ensure that I

ones themselves. I think this is our main point of difference. Most rewarding part of your job? Helping people and making a positive difference to their lives. What’s the best part of working and living in the Coffs region? Apart from the most awesome beaches and working in the best main street ever (First Ave, Sawtell) I think what makes life on the Coffs Coast so great is the sense of community that exists. I love raising my children in a small, coastal community where they are active, can appreciate their beautiful, natural environment and have people all around them who know them and care for them. What is the best advice you could give other women looking to succeed in their chosen field? I think a good mind frame is to always do your very best at whatever job you are doing. There is always somebody watching the work you do, the hours you put in and your commitment to achieving. I also believe that your reputation is really important. People want to be around and follow people who work hard and are good at what they do. I think it is also important to have a good attitude, especially if you are a leader - leaders can’t afford to have a bad day, as they are being watched all of the time. What do you enjoy most about what you do? Working with people. I get my energy from working with clients and also the great people in my team and the broader firm. Thanks Lisa. coffs coast focus. 47

women in business

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

focusinterview.

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

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

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

“

develop ball handling, Winter Basketball sunset. It was very shooting, plus all the League. Then I tough, and we had other skills, and this stayed in Brisbane ‘til a ‘no blood no foul’ rule. ” helps with mental September last year toughness. It's open to and moved to Coffs all kids, and I train them Harbour. pretty hard so they can better I began working with themselves. the Coffs Harbour Basketball When did you start playing Association to try to help develop basketball? the hard working country kids and also I started playing ball at 12 and learned run my own academy, called "Hard pretty quickly - always asking questions and Knockz Academy”, for the kids who training about eight hours a day, before want to be beasts. school at 5:30am, during school, after school, What is your current role, and how are and then with my team. you helping kids learn more about the When did you realise that you had talent sport? and skills? I run the Hard Knockz Academy to help

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?

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

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48 coffs coast focus.

Cherie Parik

Emma Rhoades

YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SPECIALIST

NORTEC STAFFING SOLUTIONS

We can talk about what we do all day long … We love what we do! For this interview though, I’d love to share our passion, our beliefs, our purpose and our mission with you … We’re property professionals - passionate about commercial real estate.

What background experience do you bring to your

We believe in making a positive contribution to the Coffs Coast; it’s our home, our passion and the place we know best.

photographers and opened a retail premises in The Links

Our purpose is to work with our clients, tenants, contractors, affiliate professional service providers, wider Coffs community and even our competitors - to continuously raise the bar on the standard of how commercial property is managed, sold and leased on the Coffs Coast. Our mission is to share our knowledge of commercial property, apply the learnings gained during our careers and provide value for our clients’ benefit ... To show everyone the respect they deserve and to never lower our standards, levels of enthusiasm or dedication. We’re dedicated to improving the way we do business together; but we’re unable to achieve this on our own. We need to work together, collaborate with and support each other. If you’re a landlord, a tenant, a contractor or a professional service provider - imagine working with a proactive commercial real estate agency - call us today ... (02) 5606 2444 or 0423 369 999.

current role? I have six years in business, starting my photography studio - Meraki Images - with just myself and my camera. I have learnt so much about business over this time, and have grown my studio to include three other Centre, Toormina. In my new role as Business Advisor with NORTEC, I bring knowledge of the startup phase of business, along with marketing, systems, customer service, and digital marketing. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Watching the “light bulb” moments happen! Sometimes, when we are in business by ourselves, we need someone else just to bounce ideas off, or to talk through issues. Two heads are always better than one, and being that one person to help people navigate through those first few years in business is extremely rewarding. How does your business give back to the community? NORTEC is a for-purpose organisation that invests back into our community through various sponsorships, donations and community grants. I like to think my role contributes through supporting small business owners and their development, and ultimately, a thriving Coffs region.

Photo by Ellen Koester

La fleur D’ALYSE Barbara Wenman has been a registered nurse for 46 years. She has over 20 years’ experience in cosmetic medicine, having trained in Australia and overseas. Barbara is passionate about the cosmetic industry, safety and expertise and regularly attends conferences and training meetings in order to keep up to date and increase her skills. She established La FLeur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser And Medispa in 2006, extending an already thriving cosmetic practice to include luxury spa treatments for individuals and couples. Barbara takes a holistic approach and understands that not everyone is ready for injections or a face lift and offers a full range of nonsurgical rejuvenation treatments. In skilled hands, cosmetic treatments can turn back the hands of time and create natural looking results. Together with skin treatments such as laser, IPL and peels, injectable dermal fillers and anti wrinkle injections create an

effective and relatively simple way to refresh the ageing face. Barbara specialises in the rejuvenating affects of cosmetic injections; she creates a natural, nonsurgical face lift, restoring youthfulness to

CAROL HARRISON

the face, eyes and lips. Having her clients’ interests foremost in her heart and thoughts, Barbara is a qualified Angelic Reiki professional practitioner and a qualified Isagenix nutritional consultant. Barbara is an associate member of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australasia and a member of the Australasian college of Medicine.

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR AND TINGLES OF WELCOMENESS IS WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT, CONFERENCE OR OFFICE SPACE AT THE PROFESSIONAL CENTRE IN PARK AVENUE.

hat services do you We offer so much, that you will never want offer? to leave! Business cannot thrive Tell us about your virtual offices ... in isolation; at The ProVirtual offices are handy for people working fessional Centre you will from home or a company that has branches in connect with all different types of the city but would like a regional base. businesses that will support your We offer a business registry address, business growth, so your busibusiness cards displayed, personal ness will thrive. telephone answering for Your From seminars company & diaries taken to presentations, care of and different levom Fr board meetings to els of service, depending seminars to interviews - The , ns tio ta en on the requirements es pr to Professional Centre bo ard meetings needed. will make you feel interviews - The Where are you re nt right at home. Professional Ce located? el fe We offer full acwill make you The Professional Cenright at home.” cessibility, including tre is located at Level 1, wheelchair access, 9 Park Ave in the heart of undercover parking, the CBD, next to Woolworths full kitchen facilities, Carpark. 24/7 access, not to mention Do you have any vacancies? whiteboards, projectors, full office Two suites are currently available for support, your suite is cleaned five times two four people. One treatment suite is a week and all maintenance is taken care ideal for Acupuncture, Bowen or any natural of, ready for you to move in and work on therapy; also, the conference suite is available your business immediately. for bookings. The Professional Centre will make you feel How can we get in touch? comfortable, welcome and chilled out. Call Carol on (02) 6659 2000, or you can Do you cater for conferences and events? have a look at The Professional Centre’s Yes, we absolutely do! website: www.theprofessionalcentre.com.au or The conference suite can be booked for your pop in and feel the tingles when you walk in … meetings, training sessions, and presentations Written by Nicole Danzey. and is available evenings and weekends.

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with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast

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with Scott Bellamy, Raine & Horne Toormina / Sawtell

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COFFS COAST SOLITARY ISLANDS THE COFFS COAST REGION BOASTS THE UNIQUE SOLITARY ISLANDS MARINE PARK, WHICH IS A GROUP OF 13 ISLANDS LOCATED 18 KM FROM COFFS HARBOUR.

he Marine Park is a popular location for both locals and visitors who enjoy nature, water based activities and discovering some amazing local maritime heritage. The Solitary Islands Coastal Walk offers dozens of walking tracks, diverse coastal experiences, wildlife spotting and stunning beaches. Coastal Walks The Solitary Islands coastal walk is a string of golden beaches, rocky headlands and lush rainforest tracks along the Coffs Coast. This 60 km walk trails from the Yuraygir National Park in Red Rock, through Coffs Coast Regional Parks, 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, book some accommodation, pack your backpack full of supplies 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 fishing. Marine Park The Solitary Islands Marine Park is known for its underwater diversity of marine life, with tropical, temperate and sub-tropical species of fish, coral and algae being the main attraction for divers. The Marine Park extends along 75 kilometres of coastline and is the third largest marine protected area in New South Wales. It covers a total area of 71,000 hectares, from Coffs Harbour north to the Sanden River mouth. The marine park includes the tidal waters of estuaries, beaches and headlands within its boundaries and is covered by a special zoning scheme designed to protect fish habitat.

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North Solitary Island is recognised as being home to the densest “carpet” coverage of anemone and anemone fish from anywhere in the world. South Solitary is renowned for its “big” species including schooling pelagic fish, Grey Nurse sharks, turtles and the breeding site for Giant Cuttlefish. The best places to dive or snorkel with manta rays are off the North West Solitary Islands. Cultural Heritage The largest Island, South Solitary, is famous for its 19th Century Lighthouse with kerosene light and signal station. The light station was automated in 1975. National Parks & Wildlife allow visitors once a year, with helicopter tours held over two weekends in July. The local Aboriginal communities of the Gumbaynggirr Nation and Yaegl Nation have strong cultural links with the Solitary Island Marine Park and Coastal Walk and are actively involved in conservation. The park’s northern estuaries are some of the state’s most pristine, with the area bordering on the Yuraygir National Park. The Solitary Islands were named by Captain Cook in 1770 and are rich in maritime history. There are eighteen shipwrecks recorded in the area, mostly from the 1800s. The Buster shipwreck is buried on Woolgoolga Beach near the mouth of Woolgoolga Lake and is uncovered during king tides. There is also the passenger shipwreck, Keilawarra, which was found in 2000 near North Solitary Island in about 70 m of water. Coffs Coast is also home to the Solitary Islands Aquarium, at Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre, which is focused on regional species, resource management and conservation. The aquarium also provides an intimate experience to learn about and to interact with marine life of the Coffs Coast. www.coffscoast.com.au #createyourparadise

ONE OF THE BEST PLACES ON EARTH YOU CAN BE AS ACTIVE AS, OR JUST SIT BACK AND RELAX IN ONE OF SAWTELL’S AWARD WINNING RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS. FOR THOSE WHO HAVE TRAVELLED SOMEWHAT AROUND OUR GREAT NATION OR OVERSEAS, YOU WOULD HAVE TO AGREE “WE LIVE IN ONE OF THE BEST PLACES ON THIS EARTH”.

ristine beaches and waterways at our doorstep, world renown National Parks to the west and for those who like to dive, some of the best diving with crystal clear water on the right days and plenty of sea life. To quote one of my friends, “Think about it”! You can be marlin fishing at sunrise and by sunset, dangling your legs in a creek around Dorrigo fishing for trout. According to this mate, this is unique to our coast and he doesn’t know of any other place he would rather live. Our area has any amount of activities and sports to keep the bodies and minds active for the young and not so young. There is so much to do to keep you fit and agile, whether you are just starting out or you’re a champion at your chosen sport or activity. Clubs in the area that cater for everyone would be the Sawtell RSL club, Sawtell Golf club, Sawtell Bowling & Recreation Club, along with the Sawtell Surf Lifesaving and Swimming Clubs. Whether it’s a gourmet dinner or a quick take away or a boutique beer, the Sawtell strip caters for everyone. So I encourage everyone where possible to get off the couch, get outside and enjoy one anothers’ company - whether it is a walk along the beach at sunrise, enjoying a meal at one of our restaurants or competing with friends under our 2452 banner.

The 2452 area has always had a huge rivalry with the Coffs Harbour Clubs. The league games between the local Sawtell Panthers and the Coffs Harbour Comets continues year in, year out. Neither team gives an inch or takes a backward step in these exciting encounters. The Panthers’ last senior premiership was in 2009, with their 2016 under 18s being the reigning premiers. The same rivalry happens at an AFL level. From personal experience, the games between the local Sawtell/Toormina Saints and the Coffs Harbour Clubs are always harder, faster and more bruising than any other game. From its humble beginnings in 1985, the Sawtell’s Saints have established themselves as one of the most successful clubs on the north coast. Their hugely talented side are the 2016 premiers and have won seven of the last 10 grand finals played. From a local’s point of view, this fierce rivalry will continue between the local teams from Sawtell and Coffs Harbour. It happens across the board, from lawn bowls, soccer and swimming, right through to a game of bridge at the local clubs. But after the competition, we are only too happy to sit back, put our rivalries behind us and have a cooling ale or a cuppa and a biscuit. All the best to our local teams, over the next 12 months. Enjoy our lifestyle and live the moment!

with Lisa Flynn from Shine Lawyers

Back to school Coffs Coast It’s 2017, the year you promise you’ll get your children on-track with homework, the year you promise you’ll wake up early enough to prepare school lunches, the year you promise you’ll always make it to school on time. As we return to the new school year, Shine Lawyers has cast its focus on ensuring all road users are safe and observing 40 zones around schools. In the past year alone, n The gap betwee NSW Roads Safety Data r ca a d an you has shown a total of e as dent is as simpl ci ac 193 road injuries in in e ps a split-second la a hand is Coffs Harbour alone. It n. concentratio grab your Sadly at our firm, reaching out to bag. It beyond. We want road accidents make phone from your is one It . ge sa you and your children es m xt te a up a large percentage is ad to change ro e th to arrive alive at your f of e ey of our claims. The o station. ” di ra ur destination. yo gap between you We want every family in our and a car accident is as region to thrive and to consider simple as a split-second lapse the safety of the mother, father, in concentration. It is a hand brother, son, daughter and grandparent reaching out to grab your phone from on our roads. It’s time we all worked your bag. It is a text message. It is one eye together for a safer Coffs Coast. off the road to change your radio station.

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Coast beat media arrives in coffs central Coffs Central prides itself on being a community hub and is pleased to announce the launch of “Coast Beat Media”, an initiative designed to help support and promote the success of local businesses and community groups in the Coffs CBD and surrounding region. Using the digital screens within the shopping centre, you can cost effectively reach your audience, with more than 100,000 locals passing though the centre every week. Your message will be displayed across 17 well positioned TV screens through the centre on

both floors, including the huge LED 6 m x 3 m screen situated above the travelator. Media is available in 15 second bookings and can feature static or video content, with or without sound. Your ad will appear no less than four times per hour during centre opening hours every day, seven days a week. Media bookings are per fortnight at a cost of $495 ex. GST. For more information, contact Olivia Hannah on 0416 388 562 or email Olivia@gowings.com

While our firm is always available to help motor vehicle claims, we’d rather you all stay safe on the roads this new school year and

I know as a mother of three children, I’ll be thinking of you and yours on school drop-off this year.

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CornerPost

CornerPost Creative is the new look and name for the CornerPost Team. Celebrating their fifth birthday earlier this year, the transformation to a creative agency has been in the making for a little while. Sam Wardman, Principal of CornerPost Creative and our Business Minds feature writer, is here to share the journey so far. i Sam, it’s nice to have you on the other side of the interviews this month. Tell us a little about the new look CornerPost Creative? It’s been an exciting few months with this little baby in the works. We're excited by our move to a creative agency. Although we have been providing creative services in the form of website design, graphic design and branding to clients for the past few years, we have now made the formal move to be a creative agency offering, moving away from the consulting framework. We’re still marketers foremost, which we see as a distinct valueadd for clients. The creative side is our passion, so understanding how it all fits into the big picture is what makes us different from most. You recently celebrated your fifth birthday; how did it all begin? Well, I’d be lying if I said champagne wasn’t involved … But really it started as a lofty goal way back in the year 2000, when I was a budding uni student. Fast forward a decade and various marketing roles … I was sitting on the roof top of my apartment building in New York City with a bottle of 52 coffs coast focus.

champagne in hand and the New York skyline a plane to visit them when we can. as the backdrop. It was here the idea to start We're excited to hear that you will soon a marketing agency really came to fruition. be launching marketing workshops; can Within three months of returning to the you tell us a little more about this? Coffs Coast, I established CornerPost, with Yes, this is very exciting. One of our the encouragement of a few pivotal aims is to educate our clients on how people and as they say, the to market and present their rest is history! business better. Sharing our What services knowledge, tips and tricks can CornerPost with them is what we ves el rs Creative offer do … it’s our way of ou e id pr e W ns local businesses? spreading the love. on finding solutio s to er om Our creative So, it makes good st cu r ou r fo les. Our services have sense to extend meet their lifesty help ill grown to include: the education to informed staff w ect rf branding, graphic businesses and you create the pe ilored n ta flooring solutio design, website professionals outside s.” need to your specific design, digital of our immediate marketing including: CornerPost family. social media and Kicking off in March, email marketing, we will hold a series of full plus content writing and day and half day workshops printing. Of course, we still focusing on marketing planning, provide marketing strategy and social media, email marketing and planning advice to clients; it will always any other interest areas our attendees and underpin what we do. clients request. Workshop dates and course We’ve worked with many clients from small information on how to register is all on our businesses and start-ups to larger corporates website: cornerpostcreative.com.au and not-for-profits. Our clients are based all We look forward to developing this creative over NSW, and we love to jump in a car or on hub more in the coming years.

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Are there any other surprises in the pipeline for CornerPost Creative? We are always looking for better ways to help our clients become the best version of themselves. In keeping with this, I started studying a Diploma in Interior Design as a personal interest of mine in 2015. It quickly became clear to me that adding commercial interior design into our suite of creative services made a lot of business sense. It completes the creative circle and allows us to be imaginative beyond the printed page or written words: to create spaces that embody a business’ brand and craft experiences for customers to connect with the brand ethos in a sensory way. Our commercial interior design services will launch later this year. What can clients expect when working with CornerPost Creative? We’re a very down-to-earth bunch of fun people. We don’t take life too seriously. It has always been a core promise of ours to speak the truth and to communicate it in a way that everyone can understand. We don’t use technical lingo, and if we must, we teach you what it means and how it fits into the mix. 'We love our clients. Helping them to do awesome things in their business is what we are about. We work collaboratively, communicating the process and always with the client’s needs at heart.'

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Sam Wardman

markell Hughes

Tony Colley

Sammi Doran

Karen Lock

Phoebe Ledger

Marketing Guru / Boss Lady / Interiors Addict / Belly Laugher / Dog Lover / Globe Trotter Besides a great laugh you’ll hear a mile off (and under water!), Sam loves the world of marketing and being a trusted advisor to clients. With extensive experience working for a large range of clients across NSW, her expertise is in branding, strategic marketing and making us all laugh. Clients love her honest and straightforward approach to marketing, branding and developing cultures that reflect a brand.

Graphic Designer / Serious Creative / Antipasto Queen / Cross Fitter / Beachgoer / Reality TV Lover We feel lucky to have discovered the creative gold that is Markell. She brings to the team 14 years of graphic design experience and spent many years working on publications with Pacific Magazines and Australian Consolidated Press, such as Girlfriend, NW and TV Week, as well as Coast Living, Catalogue and Sneaky Magazines. Markell loves the creative process and dynamic nature of CornerPost and handles everything with a level of calm that we all wish we had! Needless to say, she’s your go-to person for anything design related.

Website Master / Code King / Game Creator / Dream Dad / '80s Music Lover Tony is CornerPost’s techhead mastermind, with a talent for building websites, creating software and designing apps. He might not be a morning person, but he sure is set on building the perfect software solution for our clients. Originally based in print design, Tony jumped on the website bandwagon nearly 20 years ago and hasn’t looked back since. In his spare time, Tony loves creating comics, tinkering with technology, and can often be found developing and playing video games. Hand him a strong coffee and some '80s music, and you’re in business.

Marketing & Social Whiz / Miss Giggles / Chocolate Addict / Gossip Queen / Tinytot (Short Sam) It’s no wonder that our social butterfly also doubles as our whiz kid at all things social media and digital marketing. Being a GenYer, Facebook, Instagram and the rest come naturally to her. Sammi can often be seen fanatically tapping away at her iPhone on social media. But she’s not all strawberries and cream, she’s tough too, with hockey and touch footy her sports of choice. It’s also best practice to keep her away from the shops and chocolate … Sammi can do some serious damage!

Accounts Aficionado / RNB Dancer / Quad Mum / Bubbles Chick / Twerker / Camilla Lover Karen looks after the accounts side for CornerPost. She’s organised and always calm, and tells us "no" when we need to hear it! Her expertise is in Xero and making sure the team are paid on time - one responsibility that they are all happy to keep as her priority! When she’s not crunching numbers, Karen is busy being a mum to four kids! Yes, four of them. Talk about a super mum! And when she gets a break from the kids, she likes nothing better than a glass of bubbles and dancing to RNB.

Communications Creator / Proofreading Eagle Eye / Word Wonderer / Salad Guru / Life Enthusiast Phoebe is the freshest of the faces at CornerPost Creative. With a passion for the marketing industry and creative flare, Phoebe thrives on a challenge and is no stranger to a fast-paced environment. From brainstorming to collaborating, proofreading and asking the important questions, Phoebe sees the untapped wonder in every project. How lucky are we! Plus, we hear she makes a mean salad, so she’s got our thumbs up.

COR NER POST

CREATIVE

Creating the best version of your business Book a Free Consultation today! cornerpostcreative.com.au DESIGN - WEB - MARKETING - SOCIAL - TRAINING coffs coast focus. 53

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Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

BUSINESS minds

TacMed AU ST R A L I A

JEREMY HOLDER & BEN DAVOREN

elcome to Business Minds. Both of you are new to the Coffs Coast; share with us a little about how you came to call the coast

home? Ben: TacMed Australia was started by Jeremy in a backyard shed in Sydney, when he began importing specialist medical equipment into Australia for special forces medics who were actively deploying to Afghanistan as part of the Special Operations Task Group. Jeremy had been overseas on operations when he first saw the massive gap in the market for equipment for frontline medical providers from Australia when compared to our allied partners. When Jeremy discharged from the Army, he joined NSW Ambulance and continued to run TacMed Australia from his home in his free time. His goal was to leave the big smoke and relocate to Coffs Harbour for the coastal family lifestyle. When an opportunity presented for him to transfer to Coffs Harbour in his role as an Intensive Care Paramedic, he jumped at it. After my discharge from the Army in 2015, I was working for TacMed out of Townsville as a Specialist Tactical Medical Instructor on courses TacMed run across Australia. When TacMed moved to Coffs Harbour in 2016, I was offered a full-time position, and the chance to relocate my family down to the Coffs Coast (which I didn’t give a second thought!) TacMed Australia is a super interesting business; tell us a little about what you do? Jeremy: TacMed Australia is a certified Australian Veteran Owned Business (AVOB) that specialises in emergency medical training and equipment. Since our inception in 2010, we have positioned ourselves as the leading supplier of tactical medical training and equipment within Australia. TacMed Australia’s primary mission is the delivery of specialist medical training and equipment to empower first responders “so others may live”. Our initial clients were 54 coffs coast focus.

can teach a young person the discipline, respect, Police Tactical Groups and Other Government confidence, teamwork and leadership that the Agencies; however, it was soon recognised that Army does. many of the skills required to medically support Jeremy: turning 22 years old whilst in tactical operations are the same involved in Afghanistan as the sole medical provider to 40 supporting a multitude of our clients in the other men certainly matures you very quickly. corporate and private sectors. These unique experiences have driven us to With the rise of terrorist events and an deliver a product and service to the highest increase in violent atrocities being committed standard. in places of mass gathering worldwide, we With your main clients being in the military, have adapted training and equipment packages police or armed services areas, what to assist government and businesses develop marketing do you find most effective for preparedness for these types of unfortunate this audience? events. We have our own Registered Training Jeremy: In regards to marketing, our key Organisation, allowing us to issue qualifications strategy has been to provide value to our against the National Training Framework customers. We have done this in a number and are aligned with the Council on Tactical of ways, but our most effective method has Emergency Casualty Care, which sets the been producing high quality FREE content. standard internationally for medical first We publish blogs on topical (and response in high threat situations. often gory) medical cases, Which means we can deliver experiences and skills that not only the speciality pertain to our target courses for military and ive Our most effect market. We push this government officials d marketing metho content out via email and the like, but also ing high has been produc ent … on and social media. By first aid training nt quality FREE co gory ) providing such highfor businesses n topical (and ofte s ce en quality content, and community ri pe medical cases, ex ain to our at no cost, it has rt individuals too. and skills that pe abling us en … enabled us build a Our training t target marke g in in w llo fo od good following in team consists of go to build a t.” ke our targeted market. industry leading ar our m On top of that, by pre-hospital clinicians providing our product and other professionals, above expectations has given primarily with deployed us the best advertising available … special operations experience. Our Word of mouth. approach to training is “reality based”, so What do you think local businesses attendees really get an understanding for the could gain from undertaking one of your emergency environment. First Aid training courses? You’re both ex-military personnel. How Ben: TacMed Australia is committed to has that experience shaped what you do helping people save lives; this includes in your today? workplace and home. Our courses will not only Ben: The Army has, without a doubt, given give participants national accreditation but us many experiences and attributes that have more importantly, the skills, knowledge and shaped us into the people and business that we confidence to help someone in need. All of are now. We both joined the Army at a young our instructors are not only very experienced age and believe there are very few places that

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educators, but they are highly experienced Medics and Paramedics. They really practice what they preach! We strive to work towards our motto: “Depend on us when lives depend on you”, and through our experience and our reality based training approach, anyone on our course will be empowered with the ability to make a difference. Knowing you both personally, I have seen just how passionate and enthusiastic you are about what you do. How do you stay motivated? Jeremy: We both absolutely love what we do, so it’s not hard getting up in the morning to do what we do. We look forward to Monday. Is that weird? Being able to help people and make a difference in their lives through our skills and knowledge is an amazing feeling. When we get a phone call or email from clients telling us how one of our kits or something we have taught them saved someone’s life, that is the best fuel you can get to stay motivated and enthusiastic. What challenges you both? And I don’t mean physically, because I am not sure anything could! Ben: Ha ha! I’m not sure about that! Honestly, both of us are very hands on and whilst we’d love to be on the tools every day teaching people life-saving skills, our biggest challenge is stepping back to work on the business and not in it. Thankfully, our business coach Sean (Business by Design) is good at keeping us accountable to the vital tasks such as budgeting and cashflow etc. so we make that time. Balance is key in today’s connected world; what do you do in your spare time for fun? Jeremy: What’s spare time! We are both family men and when we aren’t away running training, we like nothing more then to relax with our beautiful wives, our gorgeous children and our dogs. Many people ask us, “Why did you set up shop in Coffs?” Our answer is simple; it’s because when we aren’t working we can ground ourselves and recharge with family adventures in the best part of Australia. Thanks Ben and Jeremy.

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with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Eastern canada Tour

Beautiful japan JAPAN IS BURSTING AT THE SEAMS WITH NATURAL BEAUTY, ENCHANTING CULTURE AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. IT’S THE CONTRASTS IN JAPAN THAT MAKE IT SO EXCEPTIONAL.

andering the busy streets of Tokyo provide glimpses of an unchartered future. Surrounded by neon lights and pop culture, people watching in Tokyo takes on a whole new meaning. Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city is also home to fascinating history and many excellent museums and historic temples. Contrary to popular belief, Tokyo also offers a number of stunning gardens and attractive green spaces within easy reach of the city centre.

springs. They form part of the daily ritual, with

Canada is a great country for beef cattle, so to provide an overall appreciation of Canada’s cattle industry, the group will visit a number of progressive beef operations in Ontario, which produces a quarter of Canada’s beef. In addition, there are some unusual operations including a cropping enterprise growing ginseng, tobacco and sweet potatoes, as well as fruit orchards and greenhouse enterprises.

An optional seven night Alaskan Cruise follows the Western Canada tour, where passengers can relax onboard whilst indulging in world-class restaurants, sipping a favourite after-dinner drink and mingling with new friends. There are opportunities to view amazing wildlife and scenery, meet the locals in historic Alaskan towns and relax and enjoy the myriad of entertainment and services on board.

In the spectacular Rocky Mountains, the tour travels along the Icefields Parkway, which National Geographic describes as “the most scenic highway in the world” and visits the Athabasca Falls, before stopping at the Columbian Icefields to ride a Sno-Coach over the moving 1,000 footthick Athabasca Glacier. Then it’s on to Banff, the highest town in Canada.

Quadrant Australia offer agricultural tours across the world and with an office in Coffs Harbour, if you’d like to hear more about this tour or any of their special interest tours departing in 2017, drop in to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour or visit their website at: www.quadrantaustralia.com

Japan has wonderful diverse cuisine. For much of the last decade, Tokyo, the capital of Japan, has held the record for the most Michelin starred restaurants within a city throughout the entire world, beating even Paris. The Japanese are passionate about their food and its presentation. Each plate is presented as an art form with local and seasonal ingredients. Rice and fish form staple ingredients, and yet Australian Wagyu beef is still highly acclaimed. Japan is rightly famed for its cuisine and gracious hospitality.

A few hours further down is the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto, filled with World Heritage sites, shrines and temples, teahouses and gardens. It is true that you can lose yourself in the streets as you wander and explore the city’s gardens and monuments. Catch a glimpse of a beautiful Geisha on dusk in the Geisha quarter of Gion, made famous in Memoirs of a Geisha.

with snow falling regularly across the country.

Japan is a hotbed of geothermal activity, with over 25,000 naturally occurring mineral hot

The highlight of the tour is Calgary and the Calgary Stampede. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”, the Stampede offers all things agricultural and cultural, as well as the traditional side show alley, but there are also concerts and ring events, cattle judging, displays of local Indian history and plenty of unique Canadian food.

locals bathing in the traditional Japanese Onsen.

Less than an hour by bullet train is the tranquil location of Hakone, where visitors can take a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi-no in the foot hills of Mt Fuji. Get up closer with a trip on the Hakone Ropeway and aerial cable car with spectacular views of Mt Fuji and Owakudani, where steam can be seen spurting from the volcanic activity.

If military history piques your interest, then a visit to Hiroshima is a must. Well known as the atomic bomb site, Hiroshima has reinvented itself to become a thriving seaside city with stylish atmosphere. A visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum is both sobering and educational.

Eastern Canada is known for its spectacular natural beauty and rich farm land, which makes it a perfect destination for the local tour company, Quadrant Australia’s agricultural group visiting in June this year. When the snow has melted, the weather is beautiful and views are spectacular!

A visit to Japan is possible in any season. The delicate cherry blossoms occur for a limited season in spring, and in autumn Japan is ablaze with colour. Winter however, is spectacular for all the right reasons. The days are clear and cool, Japan has a credible reputation on the world ski slope stage, where travellers come from across the globe to experience world class skiing. So, if you’re looking for a winter getaway in the middle of our Australian summer, then Japan is both fascinating and intriguing. Local tour company Quadrant Australia is offering a Farmers Tour of Japan departing in May. If you are interested in seeing the incredible sights of Japan and being able to get off the beaten track and on to farms, where you can meet the farmers and hear their stories, then contact the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St or visit their website: www.quadrantaustralia.com coffs coast focus. 55

CarolE Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Natalie Hunt and Alan Rootes

Renee Bailey, Jenni Graetz, Megan Simpson, Jenny Davis

Nicci Seccombe, Madonna Bannerman and Carole Beros

Music in the Vineyard

Minnie Marks

Nicci seccombe and Micci Atkins

Dana Brown, Bec Bowen,Megan Beker, Marni Leigh and Anna McAllister

Music in the Vineyard

Megan Simpson and Renee Bailey

Amy Goode, Alicia Davies Ryan, Jenny Davis

Music in the Vineyard

Lisa Nichols and Lisa Funnell

Naomi Crawford and Amanda Nunes

Music in the Vineyard

Karina Menzies and Paul Gobbert

Nicci Seccombe and Denise Knight

56 coffs coast focus.

CarolE Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Sammy, Michelle, Kailee, Kelis, Alisha

Lisa Jones and Todd Booker

Music in the Vineyard

Robyn Scully, Robyn Eagles and Judy Coombes

Coling Scully, John Eagles and Paul Coombes

Melisa Dummer, David Veivers and Pete Nicholls

Nicole Taylor, Bonnie McGowan, Nicole Cardow and Callan Bailey

Karla Hannaford, Felicity Cook and Marni Leigh

Kamie Kennedy and Nicci Seccombe

Music in the Vineyard

Barry, Kenny, Dan, Chris and Jo

Nicole Moloney and Michael Hansen

Music in the Vineyard

Screenwave

Leonie Henschke and Mark Henderson

Jenny Gall and Zara Kavanagh

Cornerpost Creative Team

coffs coast focus. 57

Seniors

Week

Coffs Harbour

residential

care

Nestled between high mountains and breathtaking seaside views, Coffs Harbour Residential Care is an excellent choice for local residents requiring 24 hour nursing care in a familyfriendly community environment.

ur highly trained and caring staff provide individualised care for each of our residents, who can choose from a selection of single rooms with private ensuites or twin share accommodation, providing companionship for couples or friends, whilst receiving the benefits of 24 hour care.

community within

Facility Manager Virginia Podesta is a registered nurse and has worked at Coffs Harbour Residential Care for 26 years. A typical week sees Virginia oversee a team of 146 passionate staff, dedicated to the many aspects of a resident’s care. Virginia explains:

family members also

“Coffs Harbour Residential Care is a

a community. Our longest serving member of staff has been here for over 35 years. Many of our staff have

Coffs Harbour is Residential Care a ithin a community w longest ur O . ity un m com staff has of r be serving mem er 35 years. been here for ov f have Many of our staf so who al family members en have ev d work here , an ho are w rs be family mem residents here .”

“

who work here, and even have family members who are

Lynn Peel (Administration), Virginia Podesta (Facility Manager) & Helen Martin (Deputy Facility Manager) I’ve had the pleasure of

residents.”

overseeing her care for the

The leisure and lifestyle program at Coffs

past nine years. Acquired by Japara Healthcare

in 2015, Coffs Harbour Residential Care has exciting changes to look

Harbour Residential Care provides innovative, creative and stimulating events. Our program includes individual, group and community activities, and our lifestyle team is there

forward to.

to support residents in selecting activities

away from home. My aunt is a fine

“We are excited about the new

suitable or appealing to them.

example of good living at Coffs Harbour. She

refurbishment this year, aimed at improving

To discuss your loved ones’ needs, or to book

is 100 years old and

the amenities and accommodation for our

a personal tour, call us on (02) 6652 1494.

residents here. It really is a home

COFFS HARBOUR RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY

Single and companion rooms available now.RE Call and book a tour today on 6652 1494

At Coffs Harbour Residential Care, we offer 24 hour registered nurses working alongside dedicated and experienced staff offering individual care for each resident. We offer the choice of single or companion rooms, so singles and couples can enjoy accommodation best tailored to their needs. With flexible fees, Coffs Harbour Residential Care is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains of the Bindarri National Park, offering amazing views in every direction. See it for yourself today. 45 Victoria Street, Coffs Harbour acsagroup.com.au

58 coffs coast focus.

Seniors

Week

alan rootes

FOCUS chatted with Alan Rootes, a registered nurse at Pacifica Uniting Aged Care Facility, to find out about his role as a nurse and what it is like working with the elderly.

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I have lived on the Coffs Coast since 2010. I moved here from Kempsey to start studying Nursing at Southern Cross University. I graduated in 2013, and got my post graduate position at Pacific Uniting Aged Care Facility in 2014. Tell us about a day in the life of a registered nurse? My typical day starts off with a handover from the registered nurse from the shift before me. I then prepare medication for diabetic residents. I manage and direct AINs, EENs and other staff and delegate daily tasks out to them. I then do my rounds, checking patients’ wounds and reapplying dressings. Throughout the day I will oversee all clinical aspects of aged care. This includes medication administration and care plans for development of the residents. My shifts range from morning, afternoon and night across the week, with each shift varying from the next depending on the day to day activities for the residents. What motivated you to start a career in nursing? My Pop was an ambulance officer, which I

originally wanted to do. I could not start off at home, or require full-time assistance with doing ambulance officer training, as I didn’t your health and care, we can tailor a solution have my full licence, so nursing was the stepping that’s just right for you and your family. stone I decided to start with. I love working in What is the best thing about your job? the aged care sector of nursing, as it my way of I like working with a diverse range of giving back to the elderly. people and finding out who they I enjoy making a difference in the are. I love listening to them residents’ lives and making them and learning about what able to live as if they were lives they have lead in their own home. I pride At Uniting, we before moving to our believe in taking myself on delivering the facility; some have seen e th e real steps to mak e. highest standards of care to and done such amazing ac pl r world a bette our residents and treat them ire sp in things! to We work as family, as our facility is en liv en , I like working with my people their home. d communities an ” team of staff, as they are e. What is Pacifica Uniting all confront injustic passionate about nursing about? and caring for our residents. At Uniting, we believe in taking What does the future hold real steps to make the world a better for you? place. We work to inspire people, enliven One day I would like to continue my communities and confront injustice. training and become an ambulance officer, Our services are in the areas of aged care and but at the moment I love my job and want to disability, community services, and chaplaincy,

“

and we get involved in social justice and advocacy issues that impact the people we serve. Uniting is passionate about helping older people to lead happy, healthy lives. Whether you are looking to downsize for a more relaxing retirement, need support to remain independent

continue looking after my residents here at Pacifica Uniting. What is your advice to someone thinking about starting out in nursing? Go for it! It is such a rewarding career. Thanks Alan. coffs coast focus. 59

Seniors

Week

Olga and Hilma’s new friendship blossoms at Freedom Aged Care.

freedom aged care

Freedom Aged Care is a network of ground-breaking Home Care Communities that are transforming the very way we think about - and deliver - aged care in this country.

ith their focus firmly nursing homes as you can possibly imagine. on freedom of choice, Everything about Freedom Aged Care is designed togetherness, independence exclusively around meeting your physical, emotional and care, Freedom Aged and spiritual needs. Every level of personal and Care communities are nursing care, from low to high, dementia and vibrant social hubs where residents palliative is available to you through every own their own self-contained stage of your ageing journey. units, live together as couples, Behind the everyday functioning regardless of their changing of each Freedom community care needs and are free to is a seamless support team Those who k ea bring their pets. comprising Registered Nurse, sp re live he t ou ab ly Unlike nursing homes, Village Manager, Carers, te passiona g and in ar sh g, in at family and friends are Diversional Therapists or br cele ent to om m y er ev g in actively encouraged to Lifestyle Coordinators, Cooks, liv ” ll. fu e th stay over and share the Gardeners, Maintenance and Freedom amenities and Admin staff. For those who call activities, which include Freedom “home” of course, these happy hour, movies, hair dedicated individuals are simply and beauty services and even “family” just like you! vegie gardens and chook pens! At Our commitment is to every ageing the heart of the Freedom experience is a Australian who deserves not just good aged care powerful promise that sets this inspirational or even better aged care, but the very best aged aged care network apart - “What’s life without care this country can provide. freedom?” What indeed? Those who live here Freedom Aged Care has a community right here speak passionately about celebrating, sharing and in Coffs Harbour and more communities across living every moment to the full. Built on three key Australia; feel free to call Freedom on 1800 820 pillars - Care, Lifestyle and Community - and four 170 or visit www.FreedomAgedCare.com.au sacred values - Love, Decency, Kindness and Respect What’s life without freedom? - Freedom Aged Care is as different from traditional

“

60 coffs coast focus.

Monty enjoys the continued love and cuddles from his owner, Jean, at Freedom Aged Care.

seniors

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, itâ€™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 â€“ 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. 61

Seniors

living

Linked to

life

Linked to Life is a community based organisation dedicated to enabling older people and younger people with disabilities to remain independent in their own homes and maintain their social connections with others.

ith over 20 years’ social outings with clients or attend informative experience in the local and interesting workshops where health and community sector, Linked lifestyle issues are points of topic. to Life offers personalised Linked to Life is keen to welcome those services that are flexible wishing to remain active in the community and and tailored to individuals. We specialise in who have the capacity to spare two to three providing regular housekeeping, assistance with hours each week or fortnight. Volunteering shopping and a large variety of individual and is a terrific way to meet new people and add social group activities. interesting new stories and experiences to your Our quality of service is second to none. day-to-day life. Jean has been accessing Linked All of our volunteers receive to Life for many years and ongoing training, support describes her experience … and reimbursement for e m “The calibre of Linked to any travel and any out to Happiness in ng ni Life staff and volunteers of pocket expenses, ai is rem I d an e, m ho n is always exceptional and we regularly one’s ow nefit of and encouraging of recognise and reward have had the be ugh ro achieving this th es independence. Happiness our volunteers for their rv ic the excellent se to me is remaining in dedication. they provide.” one’s own home, and I It’s evident that have had the benefit of Linked to Life volunteers achieving this through the love what they do, with excellent services they provide.” one third having been involved Our main focus is ensuring that with the organisation for over people who have difficulty with tasks of daily a decade. Volunteers describe their living, or who experience social isolation and involvement as positive and rewarding, and loneliness, have opportunities to access the many new volunteers come to Linked to Life community and develop their social networks after learning how enriching an experience it is with the encouragement and support needed. through a family member, friend or colleague. Linked to Life is about “helping you live life your So whether you’re young or young at heart, way”. why not consider becoming part of the special We have a wonderfully dedicated team of Linked to Life volunteer team, where you really volunteers who currently support over 200 can make a tremendous difference to the lives of individuals and make the world of difference to others in our region. the people they help with tasks most of us take To find out more about services or for granted, such as buying groceries, paying bills volunteering with us, go to or attending an appointment. www.linkedtolife.org.au; call our Coffs or Often volunteers simply brighten up Woolgoolga offices or pop in for a chat at the someone’s day by sharing a cuppa or chat. It’s Community Village at 22 Earl Street, Coffs not surprising that wonderful friendships can Harbour. Coffs Harbour: 6648 3650. Woolgoolga: 6654 7221. develop too. Volunteers may also go along to

“

62 coffs coast focus.

Seniors

Week

living care home care

services coffs harbour

FOCUS sat down with Jodeane Anderson from Living Care Home Care Services Coffs Harbour to find out more about what they do and the services they offer.

hen 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 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. 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.

Home care services not le to he only lp peop in g continue livin but e, m their own ho stay to le op pe support m fa ily, connected w ith r local ei friends and th .” community

“

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 it as a privilege to be able to support older Australians in this area and deliver our services with joy. We also now can provide services in the Bellingen region too. coffs coast focus. 63

ADVANCED

BCC CINEMAS

M E C H A N I C A L

We are making Cinebuzz for Seniors THE essential FREE membership for those 60 and over who LOVE THE MOVIES! The most talked about feature is the Morning Tea Screenings and our new Club Ambassador, Lorrinda, creates a friendly and welcoming atmosphere featuring a mouth-watering table of treats. All members’ tickets are just $9, including the morning tea from 10am (movie at 10:30am). Please come along with your friends and meet Lorrinda at one of our upcoming events:

membership for life. If you have any questions

Hidden Figures (PG) - Wednesday 22nd February. Beauty & The Beast (CTC) - Wednesday 29th March.

Jackie (CTC) March

Other great membership benefits are: $9* movie tickets, points rewards for free movies, discounted choc tops and more. So collect your Cinebuzz for Seniors Membership Card from the Cinema Box Office today and enjoy FREE

64 coffs coast focus.

or issues signing up, please speak to our friendly staff at the cinema. We are happy to help so you can start saving $5.50* per visit! To celebrate NSW Seniors Festival, BCC Cinemas are offering free coffee, tea and biscuits each morning from Monday 6th to Friday 10th March. Film Suggestions for you: Lion (PG) Now Showing Hidden Figures (PG) Now Showing Manchester by the Sea (CTC) March *$9 tickets are for standards sessions only; online booking fees apply. Cinebuzz for Seniors Membership Terms and Conditions are available at www.eventcinemas.com.au *Saving based upon a normal seniors admission.

FO C US W E N T OU T TO A DVA NC E D M EC H A N ICA L S E RV IC E S TO C H AT TO C R A IG A N D C H R I S A B OU T B E I NG M EC H A N ICA L T R A DI E S WOR K I NG ON T H E COF FS COA ST.

ow long have you been a mechanic? Craig - I started out as a Toyota mechanic 25 years ago, and I hold my certificate in Nippondenso air-conditioning as well. Chris - I started taking an interest in mechanics when I was 11 years old, and I worked on my uncle’s taxis with him. So from 11 years old until I was 16, I worked weekends. When I turned 16, I decided to become a full-time mechanic. I have been in the mechanic industry since then, so that is a total of over 36 long years of experience. How long have you been on the Coffs Coast? Craig - I have been living on the Coffs Coast for four years. My family and I moved here from inland NSW for the beautiful coastline and weather. Chris - I have been in Coffs for six years. I sold my mechanic workshop in the UK and moved across to Australia. Coffs suited everything I was looking for, with climate, beaches, work-life balance and everything my family was after. I worked locally at another mechanic as a workshop manager, but decided to venture out to our own business alongside Craig. How long has Advanced Mechanical Services been servicing the Coffs Coast? Advanced Mechanical Services has been servicing the Coffs Coast for over two years now. We are located at 6/163 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. Why did you become a mechanic? Craig - Simply put, I just love working on cars and anything mechanical. I like getting to the bottom of everything and fixing things. Chris - It started off as a hobby; it really really interested me. I can work out what

is wrong with the car or engine and put it back together. It all rolled on from there. The more I worked with people, the more I learnt, especially the awkward stuff that people walk away from - which I love to do, as I love the challenge. It’s great, as you never know what is going to walk to through the door next. What do you like about being mechanic? It is rewarding learning new things about various car makes and model. It’s enjoyable meeting new people and helping them out. We love the versatile nature that every day is different and the new things that come through the door. How does Advanced Mechanical Services give back to the community? We are actively involved with supporting the local schools with their fundraising events and golf days. What new services or products will Advanced Mechanical Services be introducing in 2017? We have just started air-conditioning servicing, including re-gasing. We have recently got a blue slip station authorised as well. Our workshop is a distributor RDA/EDC Brakes. We are also an authorised fitter for Monroe shocks. We can also rego classic cars with historic plates. What are Advanced Mechanical Services’ strengths? We are your one stop mechanical shop for all your mechanical needs, including - windscreen, tyres, batteries, caravan brakes, trailer brakes. Our main strength is our years of experience. We love looking after the locals, ensuring it is a great mechanical experience and that problems are found and solved! Contact us today on 0431 231 920. Thanks Craig and Chris.

Meet a local TRADIE

MEET A LOCAEL TRADI

Advanced mechanical Services

Red dog Mobile blast and Paint We operate on the Mid North Coast, servicing areas from Ballina to Port Macquarie and inland. We provide mobile dustless blasting and painting services. Our aim is to provide a reliable and efficient service to all types of industries, including construction and renovation projects, auto and marine industries, farmers and residential home owners. Dustless blasting is perfect for all substrates and is ideal for working with fibreglass, aluminium and the removal of old coatings on weatherboard, without damage.

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.

Our process has no impact on the environment, using the latest technology.

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 over 30 years’ experience and offer free onsite quotes.

We have an unrivalled understanding of anything mechanical and just what locals need to keep them motoring!

Give Jerry a call on 0401 278 229 or email info@reddogblastandpaint.com.au

No more “it’ll be all right, mate ... give it go” - get it fixed right first time and at the right price!

East coast cabinets Around about 1975 two local lads, Terry and Mark, commenced trading as East Coast Cabinets in the Coffs Harbour Jetty area. Sometime later they moved the business to a newly built section of Lawson Crescent. In 1984 the partners decided to cash in on their investment and sold to a young family from Canberra for the recorded price of $45,000, including stock. Like many young families of the time, Peter was working two jobs - as a draughtsman in the public service and a part-time builder working on small house renovations and commercial fitouts at weekends. Deb was managing overseas aid construction projects, as well as a mother of two young children. Within a few years the business was continually expanding to a total of sixteen employees, including tradesmen and at least two apprentices. At the beginning of 1988 everything was packed up and moved from “down the laneway between Coffs Harbour Power Tools and Comet” (both now businesses of the past) to another new building at the end of Lawson Crescent ... to be continued in April edition ...

coffs coast focus. 65

interview.

Meet a local TRADIE

meet a

local.

MEET A CAL a Watts LO TRADIE

s and Marketing pal Cove Resort - a a says is both busy exciting!Reg Latter Electrical

Reg Latter Electrical has been providing electrical installations and maintenance I lobbied the student body to form Southern Opal Cove? As Sales CDK KITCHENS services for over 38 years - and is as always er, my rolecommitted is diverse University to deliveringCross the best service to in the mid ‘90s when I was Coastal Designer Kitchens is a locally owned and interior spaces design and is available to ith a greatour team at customers, employing highly trained and President of the Coffs Harbour Campus of business that prides itself on a personalised assist you with the entire design process of your staff for your HOME, COMMERCIAL the Resortqualified to new UNE. The land swap between the Council and approach to its work. project.Mel is qualified in kitchen, bathroom Coastal Designer Kitchens is a locally owned design. or INDUSTRIAL property, which will be her aspects of my C.Ex Group to build the Education Campus, Andrew anditself Mel manage small team of offer finance to design their customers, they business that prides on aapersonalised andCDK interior spaces and is so available to attended to in a timely manner with repairs the Leisure Clubout effectively. along with ensuring the Campus met the specialised and experienced tradespeople, are able to get their kitchen now and pay it off carried approach to their work. assist you with the entire design process of your enabling CDK to provide a more personalised and models - electric and solar hot water ocals can experience over time, with a take home lay-by payment plan Offering the following services: needs of the student body. The flow on effect project. which ensures thatteam their exceptionally Mel manage a small of systems. Also, tank replacements. Andrew and service, with no interest. This is a fantastic option for PACIFIC POWERLINES - Level 1 Service $250 per•couple, to the local economy is massive, along with highexperienced standards are always met. CDK’s impeccable CDK offer finance to their customers, so they specialised and tradespeople, renovators, as you can include appliances, glass Workplace Safety Services Provider Accreditation No. 3450, providing ia and website reputation across the Coffs Coast is testimony to cultural and social benefits! all of your network infrastructure requirements splash andnow your built-in enabling CDK to provide a more personalised are able backs, to getlaundry, their vanity kitchen and pay it off • Thermal imaging - saves costs by repairing their professionalism and commitment to their within the Essential Energy area. robes as part of the package, and pay it off with prior to major failure. service Reduces which ensures that their exceptionally over time with a take home lay-by payment plan On a professional level,components working with the work, customer deadlines, and treating their nvironment of the one easy fortnightly repayment. They can also down time through a planned maintenance • Level 2 Service Provider - Accreditation No. high standards are always customers’ needsmet. as theCDK’s utmost of importance. with no interest. This is a fantastic option for Marriot Group overseas was a fantastic y industry, 3141 meeting programme. - “A”new Grade Level 2 Service Providers in co-ordinate other trades, such as plumber and impeccable reputation across the Coffs CDK are on top of current trends Coast in the industry renovators, as you can include appliances, glass learning experience, where I was heavily the Essential Energy area. ivity and promoting electrician, and manage your entire project for • Test and tagging of appliances. andtheir are constantly researchingand and updating the splash backs, laundry, vanity and your built-in is testimony to professionalism involved in the marketing and opening of a you. Drop in to the showroom and ask about • Electrical installations and repairs lights, efreshing to work in a • Emergency and exit light - testing and latest products and designs. They understand commitment to their work, customer deadlines robes of the pay Plan. it off with power points, fans, data, TV points, pumps, howas youpart can apply forpackage the Ezi-Payand Payment new hotel in the heartrepairs. of London. ho value their staff, are that this is essential to offer their clients modern motors, oven and cooktops. and treating designs, their customers’ needscraftsmanship. as the easy fortnightly repayment. They you can also CDK would love the opportunity to provide as well as superior Mel one Employing highly d support new ideas! What do you love about living onqualified the staff, who are • Hot water repairs - warranty agents for with a quoteother on anytrades project such you may in the and utmost as have plumber committed to maintaining the highest qualityof importance. has a particular eye for colour and a passion for co-ordinate always a new exciting I love everything about the Rheem and Vulcan andCoffs repairs Coast? to other makes of workmanship and site safety. future. design. Mel is qualified in kitchen, bathroom electrician and manage your entire project for

biggest achievement hievement is a work e able to reveal in the

ude the formation of the Coffs Harbour, where

COASTAL designer kitchens

Coffs Coast, living in paradise surrounded by amazing clean beaches, stunning rainforests and national parks! Creatively, Coffs is bursting with talent, and there is something for everyone! I met my partner when I moved back to Coffs a few years ago, so there is plenty to love about living on the Coffs Coast!

tary police awards

Coffs Clarence Local Area Command celebrated in style at wards Dinner organised by the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour al Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour, on Saturday 26th September.

d and respect the work rrific and traumatic men and women have gular basis. However the aken is not always fully fficers are on the beat matters such as traffic ug incidences, domestic pending days, and 66 months coffs coast focus. on forensic evidence or sses into murder cases or

presented the awards to the officers nominated by their peers. The winners were Senior Constable Joleene Brooker for the specialist section, Senior Constable Matt Conroy, the southern half of the command and Senior Constable Scott McLean from Yamba in the northern half. The Community Award judged from nominations submitted by members of the general public was presented by Deb Thompson, Community Director of the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak, to a stunned Detective Senior Constable Tony King

CDK are on top of current trends in the industry and are constantly researching and updating the latest products and designs. They understand that this is essential to offer their clients modern designs, as well as superior craftsmanship. Mel has a particular eye for colour and a passion for

you. Drop in to the showroom and ask about how you can apply for the Ezi-Pay Payment Plan. CDK would love the opportunity to provide you with a quote on any project you may have in the future.

Meet a local TRADIE

MEET A LOCAEL TRADI

TAFE T R A D E

E D U C A T I O N

COFFS HARBOUR

T H E B U I L D I N G A N D C O N S T R U C T I O N I N D U S T RY I N C O F F S H A R B O U R I S O N T H E C U S P O F A B O O M , W I T H S TAT I S T I C S S H O W I N G 1 3 , 0 0 0 N E W H O M E S A R E N E E D E D T O K E E P U P W I T H P O P U L AT I O N G R O W T H F O R THE AREA WITHIN THE NEXT 20 YEARS.

ith this information, it’s expected that there will be a rise in demand for skills, training and work across the plumbing and construction trades. Whilst these trades are growing in popularity and in demand for workers, how do other traditional trades fare across the Coffs Coast? TAFE NSW at the Coffs Harbour Education campus offer an array of courses, in both the Engineering, Welding & Metal Fabrication, and Automotive teaching sections. The automotive section at TAFE has been a quiet achiever amongst the trades in recent years. Boasting innovative facilities in a workshop that has recently undergone a renovation, students who complete an automotive qualification gain work locally and excel in their courses under the expert guidance of industry professionals. “We offer qualifications in heavy and light vehicle technology, automotive courses for apprentices in the local area, as well as entry level qualifications for students hoping to start their career in the industry,” head teacher of automotive, Garrie Crossingham explains. Coupled with strong industry relationships and state of the art facilities, the automotive section welcomes the World Rally Championship organisation on an annual basis on to the campus, for the scrutineering of vehicles used in competition. “We’re lucky we have great facilities right on our doorstep (here at the campus) and organisations with such a high calibre (such as

the WRC), continue to use our workshop. fabrication in Coffs Harbour are also in demand. “One of the official scrutineers said he has Head teacher of the section, Paul Leete, travelled all across the country, in and out of outlines the need for these skills, as well a great different workshops, and says this is by far the local success story of a former apprentice, taking most relevant when it comes to industry on two apprentices in his business. standards.” “We have a fully equipped Coffs Harbour Automotive workshop where students apprentice Nelson Mooney gain skills in welding, recently performed well metal fabrication, e TAFE NSW at th at the regional and engineering, Coffs Harbour national WorldSkills manufacturing and pus Education cam competitions, gaining the use of CAD offer an array of e invaluable experience, (computer-aided th courses, in both assisting him in his design) software, & ng di el Engineering, W d study and practice of that allows an n, io at Metal Fabric ng hi the industry. creation of two or ac te e iv Automot “I placed first at the three-dimensional .” ns sectio regional competition, representations of allowing me to compete physical products. against the nation’s best “The industry is one of at the national competition in the less-sexier of the trades; Melbourne last October,” Nelson says. however, the courses we offer “We were set the task of finding the give graduates useful skills that can problem in a car engine, and then having to be applied in work or leisure. Welding is rectify it. It was pretty stressful, but a great especially in demand across the Coffs Coast, due experience nonetheless.” to the amount of rural property owners looking With a rise in the amount of new vehicles to produce material suited to their property.” purchased across the country, the Motor Trades Owner of a local engineering firm, Cain Association of Australia identifies this as an Lynwood, started his apprenticeship at TAFE opportunity for the automotive industry to grow. before going on to gain employment locally in New car sales are important, as this increases the industry. the number of cars on the road, with consumers “I started my studies and worked closely more likely to spend money on repairs and service alongside my extremely experienced teacher, Rob of a newer vehicle, rather than an older vehicle. Blake, at the Coffs Harbour Education campus. Qualified tradespeople with skills in “The skills and industry relevance that were engineering, welding, manufacturing and metal incorporated into the course was of extremely

“

high quality. This allowed me to put the theory into practice when working as an apprentice at McMillan Engineering.” After gaining the skills throughout his apprenticeship, Cain went on to purchase the business from the original owner, renamed it CJ Engineering and has since diversified the offering in his business, now providing services in hydraulics. “Only recently, we have started to offer services in hydraulics, responding to the market need for these services in our local area.” Cain has also been able to “give back” to TAFE and the community by hiring and teaching two apprentices the ins and outs of the engineering industry. “I have since taken on two apprentices in my business as work starts to increase. Offering two employees the ability to learn not only in my workshop, but at the workshop I used to learn in, know and trust, gives me confidence that the skills and abilities they learn will contribute successfully in the work for my business.” Entry level and pre-apprenticeship courses at TAFE can be a pathway into apprenticeship work for locals across the Coffs Coast. Skills in these fee free courses allow people to build the foundation for a more in-depth understanding, and most of the time, gain stable work in the trade industries. If you or someone you know are interested in studying an entry level engineering, welding and metal fabrication, or automotive course at TAFE in Coffs Harbour, drop into the Coffs Harbour Education Campus, visit www.northcoasttafe. edu.au or call 1300 628 233. coffs coast focus. 67

focuseditorial

THE FEELING OF RUNNING ON FRESHLY CUT GRASS, THE LINGERING SCENT OF LINIMENT OIL AS PLAYERS PREPARE FOR A BIG AFTERNOON OF RUNNING AND THE GRIP OF LEATHER IN YOUR HANDS … AHH, FOOTY ON THE NORTH COAST IS WELL AND TRULY BACK FOR ANOTHER YEAR!

SAWTELL/TOORMINA

club.

easoned veterans who come back for “one more season” along with the budding AFL players of the future have hit the ground running, ready for another huge year in 2017. Players at the Sawtell/Toormina Australian Football Club have returned to Richardson Park, all saying a cautious “hello” to their old friend “pre-season”. What seems like never-ending running and the core strength activities older players battle with, are well and truly in effect as the start of the season looms. 2016 proved to be quite a momentous year for a club that doesn’t have a fully lit field, a clubhouse or pay any of their players. After forming just over thirty years ago, the club has deservedly etched its name in local AFL history. After winning a third successive North Coast AFL (NCAFL) senior premiership last year, the small club equalled the record of the now defunct Woolgoolga AFC, winning the most premierships of any club in the history of the league, currently flying nine flags. The reserves also proved to be quite successful, winning back-to-back premierships; hoping that the success continues in 2017 with a three-peat. Boasting more than 250 members and without a solid avenue to generate sufficient revenue, the not-for-profit club relies heavily on the families of players, sponsors, volunteers, supporters and the local Sawtell and Toormina communities to ensure the club can remain viable. “The players obviously do a great job on

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the field, but it’s the people off it who really contribute the effort to make our club what it is today,” President and Jim Woodlock medallist (grand final best and fairest) Alex Pearson outlines. “We have received amazing support for many years from the club’s major sponsor, Greg Costello at The Sawtell Hotel, plus ongoing financial and in-kind sponsorships from our platinum sponsor Shine Lawyers, as well as our gold sponsors in Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast, DentLogic, Hoys Physiotherapy, Beachside Radiology, Coffs Coast Health Club, Sawtell Dry Cleaners & Laundromat, Allways Party Hire and Programmed.” As a standalone competition, the North Coast AFL league currently has four teams competing in the senior grade level of the competition. As well as the Sawtell/Toormina Saints, the Grafton Tigers, Port Macquarie Magpies and Coffs Harbour Breakers round out the competition. The introduction of the cross-conference playing fixture throughout the 2016 season has allowed Australian Rules football to grow exponentially right from the Mid North Coast, all the way up to the border of NSW and QLD. “It gives us the opportunity to play against different teams in the most northern part of the state. Travelling north to play different competitions every few weeks helps us adapt to different team playing styles and allows us to test our game on a variety of different opponents. Their league (Northern Rivers) is quite strong, with teams like Byron Bay, Ballina,

The players obviously do a field , great job on the off it le op but it’s the pe bute ri nt co ly who real our e ak m to rt fo the ef y.” da club what it is to

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Lismore and Tweed all very competitive. Although the travel can be arduous at times on the way there, we always have a great time on the bus trips back.” This year sees a slight changing of the guard at the club, with extra coaching staff, new players and supporters coming on board. Long time senior stalwart, multiple premiership winner and the undoubted inspirational leader of the club Luke Matthews will this year be sharing the coaching reins of the senior side with 2016 leader Jim Angel. “I’m stoked to be able to help lead the next generation of players coming through this proud club,” Luke says. “We’ve been successful in recent years with some of the boys winning two, three, four, even five premierships. It’s great for the older guys like Matthew Flynn, Daniel Johnson and Mark Couzens to be so successful, but there are younger juggernauts like Callum and Lachlan Day, Dylan Darby, Brandt Lee, Leif Stuart and Hamish Bird coming through that are also hungry to win … It’s exciting, because it keeps you motivated for more success. “There’s something about Aussie Rules in this area … Traditionally being Rugby League heartland, both the local league and the AFL have placed a huge emphasis on growing the game at

the grassroots level. “The extremely popular Auskick program is a coup by the AFL for the younger demographic, but it’s the other successes that puts AFL on the map in this area. “Having the Sydney Swans come up and use the Coffs Coast region for pre-season training, the ability of AFL clubs to engage with families through open training sessions and the emerging success of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy is continuing to ensure AFL will remain successful in our area.” When asked about predictions for 2017, Luke wasn’t having a bar of any speculation. “You can’t predict anything in this competition … Look at us last year; we finished third out of four teams and stormed back to win the premiership … It’s really a mixed bag.” Sawtell/Toormina AFC are always looking for new members to join the club. If you’re interested in playing either Under 18s, Reserves or Senior grade Australian Rules football in 2017, please contact the club via their Facebook page (SawtellSaintsAFL), email sawtellafl@hotmail.com or phone 0432 588 121. Similarly, interested sponsors are welcome to join and support the successful club. If your business or the business you work for are interested in joining as a new sponsor, feel free to contact club President Alex Pearson on 0438 403 008.

focus_real estate

Scott Nolan from Nolan Partners

Real estate Myths. THE REAL ESTATE PROFESSION IS ONE OF THE OLDEST IN THE WORLD, YET IT REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST MISUNDERSTOOD INDUSTRIES. THERE ARE PLENTY OF PLACES THAT YOU ACCESS INFORMATION ON THE REAL ESTATE MARKET, CURRENT PROPERTY SELLING PRICES, METHODS OF SALE, PREDICTIONS ON WHERE THE MARKET IS HEADING ETC. ETC.

B real estate update

ecause information is so readily available and widely reported, everyone has an opinion - some of it informed and well researched. Other opinions are less about facts and more about personal interpretations. What I would like to do this month is explore a couple of the common real estate myths that we regularly hear in the market place or read about in the papers. Let’s start with an oldie but a goodie: Out of town buyers: We often hear the phrase, “I need a Sydney or Melbourne buyer because they have more money; therefore, they'll pay me more for my home”. Whilst it’s true that metropolitan buyers probably have more money in their pocket, it doesn’t necessarily translate to them paying more money than local or other buyers. Nowadays every buyer can research a wide array of information about the market place, what's selling, how much it is selling for etc. Just because someone is from a city and has more money in their pocket doesn’t mean that they are any less intelligent or informed about the local market or that they are happy to pay over market value. Franchises get more referrals for buyers: This one has been around for decades and was one of the biggest

reasons that franchise offices started out 30+ years ago. The advent of the internet has destroyed this myth. I should know, as I was a partner in a franchise office for 10 years and hardly saw a referral in all that time. Over 90% of buyers now use the internet as their first source of enquiry. Regardless of what brand is selling the property, they simply call the number of the agent that has it listed for sale. It’s what happens after the phone call is received that makes the difference between the top agents and the lesser agents, not the name of the brand. A cheap agent will save me money: If a lesser agent can’t compete with the top agents on service, results, market knowledge, technology etc., the first and only thing they can do is cut their fee. If an agent can’t negotiate a proper fee for their own service, then how are they going to negotiate the best price for your property? Or to put it another way, if they’re happy to give away their own money, then what regard will they have for yours? The difference in commission between a top agent and a bottom agent may be a few hundred dollars or a couple of thousand dollars, but the difference in the price a top agent can achieve through superior negotiation skills could be ten times that amount back in your pocket! Have a great month!

coffs coast focus. 69

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B U S I N E S S North Coast Power and Water are pleased to announce that the family run business has changed ownership. Keeping it in the family, Ashley Graetz has

Businessprofile.

taken a step down and handed over the reins to his son, Brendan Graetz. To coincide with this change, Brendan and his team partnered with FOCUS to showcase their team, suppliers and products. an you tell us a little bit about vast range of products. I spent about seven your background and experience or eight years full-time in the family business, in this industry? before opting for a sea change for five years, As with most people involved in when my wife and I moved to Brisbane. family businesses, I started work when You left the family business for five I was a teenager on weekends, years? What did you learn during helping out cleaning, your time away? sweeping floors etc. After I was lucky enough to land a few months I began a National Marketing role for It was a great assisting in servicing and Apricus Australia - our solar experience repairing water pumps, hot water system supplier. l al sm coming from as well as helping in It was a great experience ound business back gr cing the showroom learning coming from small en ri pe ex en and th bal lo the various products on l/g business background and na tio na a how es .â€? show, before starting then experiencing how business operat full-time after graduating a national/global business high school. I always had operates. I spent most of my a passion for technology time working alongside the and marketing, so I naturally MD, which taught me a lot about progressed into working alongside business, marketing, sales and working my father and managing the marketing with a large team, which gave me the and advertising for the business, while confidence to return home and take over the continuing to grow my knowledge on our family business from my father.

â€œ

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Businessprofile.

We work hard to understand the ts and customers’ wan ide a ov needs, and pr them .” to d ite solution su

“ What does it mean to you to take over the family business? I’m extremely proud to say that I’m the second generation to run the business. My father has built a great business here and has built some really strong relationships with his customers. It seemed like a very natural progression for me; most of our long-term customers had already dealt with me, and I’d also worked alongside the current staff members too, so everything just seemed to fall into place. Since taking over the reins at NCPW, what are some of the things you have changed and improved? We’re putting a lot of time and effort into creating a more inviting, informative and

comfortable space for our customers in store. I felt like our previous showroom was more about “our suppliers” than “our customers”, and every supplier was fighting for a voice, so we ended up with a space that was a little inconsistent and confusing - the new space we are creating will allow customers to touch, feel and learn more about our products much easier, without compromising the level of stock we hold. What makes NCPW different from other companies in the local area? NCPW has a long history here on the Coffs Coast. Even before my father took over in

2000, the business was actually one of four BP Solar outlets established in 1990, and we don’t plan on going anywhere any time soon! I believe NCPW’s secret to success lies in our company values, which are to provide “Valuable, Honest Advice and Great Products from Great People”. We work hard to understand the customers’ wants and needs, and provide a solution suited them. It’s funny, because doing this sometimes actually ends up in us talking the customer out of a sale, because what they “want” isn’t actually what they “need”, but I believe it is this transparency that helps us to build

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stronger and longer term relationships with our customers. So, you’ve talked about the business and the history - can you tell us a little more about the products you carry and their benefits? We have two major divisions in our business - the “power” division and the “water” division. The power division products include solar panels, solar inverters, batteries, as well as a range of diesel and petrol generators, both portable and commercial. Our water division encompasses our water pumps, water tanks, irrigation, filtration and more. We then have products that cross over to both divisions, like our solar pumping and solar hot water solutions.

focusbusiness.

D I V I S I O N

olar Hot Water - Those who have dealt with us know we are very passionate when it comes to solar hot water systems, especially with Apricus evacuated tubes. Since we were first introduced to evacuated tube solar hot water systems about 12 years ago, we have not looked back. An early memory I have was at one of the first Coffs Coast Home Shows, which was held at the showground at the time. The weather was horrible - it was pouring rain, there were muddy puddles all over the ground, and we had virtually no sun all day. The NCPW team at the time were all shocked, because although we were standing there with no shoes, in the mud, drenched from head to toe, the evacuated tube solar system display we had set up was still producing steam from the collector. It was that point we realised that evacuated tubes were the future of solar hot water in the region. There were definitely some teething issues in the early stages, as you would expect with any “new technology” - but 12 years on, the Apricus solar systems we supply have improved in leaps and bounds. I have personally spent the last five years working all across the country with retail outlets, plumbers, builders, architects and homeowners on all aspects of solar hot water systems - including custom sizing commercial heating systems for commercial applications, general sales, troubleshooting, installation and technical support. And it feels great to bring the wealth of knowledge back to my home town of Coffs Harbour.

It’s great to see that now, from our shop in Coffs Harbour, we are supporting businesses both large and small, around the country with advice, supply of systems and spare parts. This month alone, we had customers as far away as South Australia and North Queensland! Solar Pumping We are starting to see some great things in the solar pump market. I feel this is a market we excel at, as we specialise in solar, as well as pumping. Other companies that supply solar pumps are either pump suppliers, or solar installers; it’s not often you come across a business like ours that specialises in both! The solar pump products are improving, and the residential solar market driving down the prices of panels is making solar pumps much more affordable than they were five - 10 years ago. To put the change in price in perspective, in 2000, if you were to purchase an 80 watt solar The applications ng panel it would have cost for solar pumpi you around $1,000; now are endless, but on the most comm acing we sell them for around pl re is application $200! mps pu el es di petrol or The applications tired g that are becomin for solar pumping are ” or have failed. endless, but the most common application is replacing petrol or diesel pumps that are becoming tired or have failed. The biggest advantage with a solar pump is once it is set up correctly, there is very little interaction and maintenance required. There is no need to switch them on and off, service oil, fill up fuel etc. so many farmers are switching to solar, as it is much more user friendly.

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Businessprofile.

STICK IT WHERE THE SUN SHINES Turn to solar for efficient, reliable water pumping solutions. Proudly available from NCPW www.lorentz.de

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We are also supplying many farmers with solar pumps for irrigation purposes - as As land land becomes scarce in populated becomes scarce areas, more and more farms are eas, in populated ar without power and need a reliable farms more and more source of water, so they’re turning er are without pow to the sun to provide it. When it’s bl e and need a relia not sunny, it’s generally raining, so , so source of water e th to irrigation is not as important! g they’re turnin ” it. e Solar Power - The solar industry is id sun to prov evolving at an extremely rapid pace at the moment, with the removal of the “60c Feed in Tariff” in January this year, the price of solar panels dropping and the introduction of companies like LG and Tesla fighting for the “home energy storage/home battery” market. A lot of people have been rushing in to get on to “the solar train”... But unlike the previous scheme, where you simply purchased a system, exported all of your energy and got paid a premium price for what you produced, your usage needs to be carefully considered to allow you to self-consume as much energy as possible, as THAT is where you will get the best savings … As well as residential systems, we also stock a range of the smaller 12 and 24 volt panels, as well as high quality batteries, inverters, solar regulators, fuses and cable for the stand alone community as well as the boating/camping/

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Businessprofile.

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caravan and RV market too! We have some great local partners who can assist with the installation too if required! Generators - Power is something we all take for granted; we just flick a switch, and on goes the TV, the food stays cold in the fridge, air conditioner keeps us cool etc. What we don’t often plan for is the times a car accident causes a power outage for 12+ hours, or a large storm knocks out power to half of the town. In a home, it’s generally not too critical, and we can get by with some candle light and a few bags of ice - but for farmers that may need irrigation systems running and businesses that rely on power to maintain their income or essential services - having a backup generator is an important requirement, rather than an optional extra! Generators are also a critical component to a stand-alone solar power system to keep batteries topped up during bad weather and on the family camping trip, to keep the beer and wine cold! But many people don’t realise that out of our shop in Coffs Harbour we not only supply small engine petrol generators for camping, but can supply up to 1,000kVA+ automatic start diesel generators to provide mains power failure backup for large businesses.

focusbusiness.

sizing and supply - but also in service and technical support. Many people don’t realise that we have a fully equipped workshop to service water pumps, and can even conduct on-site call outs, repairs and provide loan water pumps if water is critical! ater Pumps - Choosing a water Water Tanks - Poly tanks are still the most pump can feel like an overwhelming common and best value for money experience. Water pumps water tank in domestic and rural come in all shapes and applications - however, we sizes, and we stock, sell, service and also supply a new range of repair almost any pump you can s Davey ha st ju steel tanks for fire prone think of! Our new water pump ly actual e fir w ne areas and those wanting display allows customers to a released at th p m pu larger capacities than the compare pumps of different g in fight ith an w t ar st n ca standard poly tank. We models and brands side-byu yo ts actually recently supplied side and learn the features and SMS, or that star ce automatically on a local farmer with a benefits of each, without being re a high temperatu 240,000L steel tank, which overwhelmed with information. is sensed!” was the largest tank we’d ever The types of pumps we keep supplied to the Coffs Coast! To in stock is pretty impressive when complement our range of water I think about it; there are pressure tanks, we also have a full range of rain pumps for the home, pool pumps, water harvesting and filtration products, to ensure transfer, bore and submersible pumps, as well as that the water you capture is always safe for high temperature wash down pumps, deep well use! pumps, and with the hot weather we’ve been Round water tanks are always the best value for having - many people are also getting prepared with money in terms of dollars per litre, but sometimes our range of petrol and diesel firefighting pumps. round is not an option, so we offer slimline, under Davey has actually just released a new fire fighting ground and even square or rectangle tanks custom pump that you can start with an SMS, or that starts built to your requirements. automatically once a high temperature is sensed! Our team is experienced in pump system design,

D I V I S I O N

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Businessprofile.

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Businessprofile.

Our team has plenty of local is experience and rately cu ac to e bl availa e th size and quote e ar at products th job and suitable for the now, its requirements .” re and in the futu

“ Water Filtration - A healthy family starts with healthy drinking water. Customers can now drop into our showroom and see the full range of filtration options on display. Our experienced team will help select the filtration system that is right for your family and your situation. If you’re on town mains and just want to remove the chlorine taste from your drinking water - a simple undersink filtration system could be right for you. However, if you are on tank water and/ or have young children or are sensitive to bacteria - you may opt for a whole-house

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Ultraviolet (UV) water treatment system that can virtually eliminate all bacteria from the water! We only sell standard housings, which allows you to adjust your filtration to your needs - for example, if the cartridges you get first are not quite fine enough, you may opt for a finer filtration cartridge when you next change them without having to change your entire filtration system. We’ve

also just launched our online auto-delivery service, where you can simply order your filters online, and have them delivered to your door at intervals you choose, so you always have fresh filters when you need them, without the hassle! Irrigation - Irrigation is a large part of our water division, and we pride ourselves on having a vast range of irrigation products in stock. With the growing farm industry in the

region, we have increased our stock holding, with poly pipe up to 75 mm and fittings up to 110 mm kept in stock in our warehouse. To complement our range of pipe and fittings, we also keep drip line and drip fittings in bulk for irrigation, grey water and garden use. Our team has plenty of local experience and is available to accurately size and quote the products that are suitable for the job and its requirements now, and in the future.

focusbusiness.

Do you offer solutions for budgets of and the rise of building/renovating shows on different sizes? mainstream television - consumers have an We only sell products we believe in overload of information available to them, products we would happily install in our own which results in a lot of “desires” when homes. An example of this is that all of our designing and building their new home. sales staff has an Apricus hot water Builders are being pushed to offer system installed in their own homes that not only look great, home! but are also low maintenance Quality does come and energy efficient, eer at a price, but I do without compromising on We definitely st ap clear of the “che believe we cater to all space and style, which n budgets across our is not an easy task! and nasty” optio ays - but we are alw product ranges. We We have partnered ucts looking for prod ity definitely steer clear with a number of local al that are good qu of the “cheap and builders, plumbers and d at reasonable an .” nasty” option - but we electricians to assist with es competitive pric are always looking for the sizing and selection products that are good of the water and power quality at reasonable and products in the home, and competitive prices. our goal with the new showroom How has the local building and is for home-owners and their tradies construction industry changed over to be able to drop in and speak with our the last few years? team before, during and after their new home We have noticed that in new home construction, which gives peace of mind to the construction, consumers are becoming customer that they will always have the local more and more energy conscious and are showroom to visit for support, while freeing demanding much more from their builders. the tradesman up to concentrate on the With the age of the internet, social media, project at hand.

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Back (left to right): Brett, Rod, Emely Front: Brendan and Ashley

Businessprofile.

What services and products do you offer to the tradespeople on the Coffs Coast, and how will this new showroom help to improve these? Recently becoming a small business owner myself, I am very passionate about small businesses and helping support other local businesses to grow … Apart from the obvious products that we offer, we are really trying to build an environment where local tradespeople can feel comfortable to ask for advice on specialty projects or issues, or send their clients in directly to get the honest, local advice they

78 coffs coast focus.

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cently

Re back and speak can’t get from an internet l becoming a smal to us in six - 12 search. We have even helped f, el ys m business owner te months before build customised sales na io I am very pass es ss ne I’m ready to literature and price lists for si bu l about smal t or pp su reveal. We are tradespeople to keep in g in and help sses ne si bu l taking it one step their car, to make quoting ca lo r othe …” ow at a time, and our the products and services gr to short-term focus we supply faster and more is on finishing our efficient. renovations and getting What are your plans for the the foundations right. Our future of NCPW? team is working hard to get the We have a lot of exciting plans for the showroom and warehouse operating future of NCPW, but you may have to come

efficiently, to ensure we continue to offer the same great service to our existing customers, while embracing new customers and their wants and needs as well! Where can people find and connect with you? You can call us on (02) 6651 4333 or drop in and see the team at our Showroom: 13 GDT Seccombe Close (Off Orlando St) between 8 - 4 weekdays and 9 - 12 on Saturday. Find us online at www.ncpw.com We’re also on instagram (@ncpwcoffs) and Facebook!

HOMES PE R RY HOM E S C E M E N TS I TS P OS I T ION A S ON E OF NSW L A RG E ST A N D MOST T RUST E D HOM E BU I L DE R S

At Perry Homes we understand create it t wha takes to spaces . g beautiful livin lio of fo rt po We have a signs de e m ho over 50 s.” an and 150 floor pl

“ erry Homes has been building award winning homes for more than 25 years throughout New South Wales and Queensland. Ranked as one of New South Wales’ top 15 largest builders, they have a well-earned reputation for delivering quality built homes that provide exceptional value for money. North Sapphire Beach Sales Consultant Phillip Hitchins commented, “Our research has shown that people want to build a new home with a company they can trust. Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments that people make. It is important to us that our clients enjoy the building experience and really make their new house their home. “At Perry Homes we understand what it takes to create beautiful living spaces. We have a portfolio of over 50 home designs and 150 floor plans. Our clients can choose from one of these plans, or we can custom design a home that is perfect for their requirements. We understand that there isn’t one perfect fit for all. That is why we take the time to get to know our clients and come up with a house design that is just right!” Perry Homes builds along the coast from Newcastle right up to Bundaberg, as well as

regional New South Wales, with display homes in Armidale and Tamworth. With two display homes in Coffs Harbour, clients are able to see two of their most popular house designs - the Aspen and the Palazzo. The Aspen 249 located in North Sapphire Beach provides a highly functional layout with zoned kids’ accommodation to the rear of the home and the master suite located at the front of the home. There is a separate media room - perfect for snuggling up and watching a movie or reading a book, plus a multi-purpose room ideal for a kids’ retreat. The Aspen Series ranges in size from 208.44 sqm (22.448 sqs) to 248.58 sqm (26.76 sqs). The Palazzo 278 located in the heart of Coffs Harbour is designed for the family that loves to entertain. It’s not surprising that HIA awarded the Palazzo “Display Home of the Year”, with a large open plan kitchen, living and dining area opening out onto an outdoor summer lounge and entertaining area that runs the width of the living space. There is a separate media room, plus a kids’ activity room, with sizes ranging from 227.49 sqm (24.49 sqs) to 311.23 sqm (33.50 sqs). Mitch Ferrett, Coffs Harbour Sales Consultant, has been keeping his eye on the local market, and commented, “We saw new

build activity pick up towards the end of the year - particularly in November, with a number of people looking to secure their new home purchases before Christmas. Now that the Christmas period is over, people are once again eager to start the New Year with dreams of a new home. The property market is strong, and people feel safe investing their money in a secure environment.” In New South Wales there are still a number of property grants available for either first home purchasers or new home purchasers. Mitch commented, “It’s great that there are still grants available for home purchasers, particularly first home buyers. These grants provide that little bit of financial help that allows people to get onto the property ladder sooner and afford their dream home.” Currently, first home buyers can benefit from both the First Home - New Home Scheme plus the First Home Owner Grant, meaning that first home purchasers are exempt from stamp duty (on land valued up to $350,000) and are eligible to receive $10,000 towards their build costs.

If you have previously purchased a home and you are looking at building a new home, then the New Home Grant Scheme gives purchasers $5,000 towards the purchase of a new home. For more information about the grants available, please visit www.osr.nsw.gov.au/ grants. Perry Homes has a plethora of three, four and five bedroom home designs available to suit flat or sloping blocks, traditional or acreage properties - even knock down rebuilds. They also have a range of house and land packages available in Coffs Harbour, Sandy Beach, Macksville, Woolgoolga, Bonville and Sapphire Beach starting from $365,000. If you are thinking of building a new home, or just looking for inspiration, call in to one of the Perry Homes display homes at 183 Rose Avenue, Coffs Harbour, open Saturday to Wednesday, 10am to 5pm, or contact Mitch Ferrett on 0405 174 608 or visit 11 Cherry Street, Sapphire Beach, open Friday to Wednesday, 10am to 5pm, or contact Phillip Hitchins on 0428 271 884. For more information, visit www.perryhomes.com.au coffs coast focus. 79

Design Studio 22 has had a recent restructure, with Tony Ross and Andrew Wilson taking over the business. Design Studio 22 has been working on numerous projects through this past year, with many residential and commercial structures showcased through Design Studio 22 being our Designer of the Month. FOCUS caught up with Tony and Andrew to talk business and look at these projects.

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hat is the history behind Design Studio 22? Founded in 2004 by Rick and Lyn Malcolm, the business offered a holistic design service for predominantly residential clients. With the arrival of Tony Ross and Andrew Wilson to Design Studio 22 a few years ago, we looked to broaden our horizons to include more commercial projects, and this is now gaining some momentum. In the last few years we have accumulated a portfolio of various commercial projects, and we are fortunate to have more

coming up this year. This is an area of our business we would really like to expand. The restructuring was recently finalised, with Tony Ross and Andrew Wilson taking over the business. We hope to continue the success Design Studio 22 has had over the years and also build on our reputation for producing quality work. Rick and Lyn moved to Brisbane a few years ago and following our restructure, they are now running Design Studio 22 Queensland. For any of Rick and Lyn’s former clients who would like to keep in touch with them, we would be happy to provide their new contact details.

Hi Andrew and Tony. You have recently moved premises. Where are you located now? After many years in the Jetty precinct and following the restructure of the business, it was time for a move. The building we were in before was a great space, and we loved it, but it was a bit bigger than we needed - plus, it was also put up for sale. Our new office is located at 4/11 Murdock Street, up the Scarba St end. It’s just the right size, and we’ve made it a comfortable new home for our team to do their thing.

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OUR CURRENT TEAM

ROSS

D I R E C T O R

Tony commenced his building design career with Ross Associates working in partnership with his father, Barrie, for 18 years.

WILSON

D I R E C T O R

“For the last eight years he has been working at Design Studio 22. In that time Tony has gained extensive experience in school and church projects, residential projects including townhouses and multi storey, and various commercial projects.”

NSW & QLD Registered Architect, ACAA Associate Disability Access Consultant. For the last 30 years Andrew has worked in Sydney and the NSW North Coast as architect and project manager on a broad range of projects in the public and private sector. These include office buildings, sports facilities, schools, health care, aged care, retail, commercial fit out, heritage and residential buildings.

Tony has been a member of the BDA NSW for 18 years. In 2014 Tony became a director and partner of Design Studio 22.

“Andrew joined Design Studio 22 in 2012 and became a director and partner in 2014.”

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I N T E R I O R

CHUDZIK

D E S I G N E R

Jayne joined Design Studio 22 in 2010. Previously she ran her own interior design and decorating business for 20 years gaining experience in commercial, corporate, health, aged care, hospitality and residential design.

“One of Jayne’s great skills is how quickly she interprets her clients’ needs and tastes and combines them with their existing furniture, furnishings and possessions to create inspiring new spaces.”

OUR CURRENT TEAM

GOLITSYNSKAIA

I N T E R I O R

D E S I G N E R

“Tash” is the newest member of our team, joining Design Studio 22 in 2016. She has a Bachelor of Design degree from QUT, majoring in Interior Design (with Honours), with a second major in Industrial Design and a Diploma in Graphic Design. Tash has a passion for all things design and has a great eye for space, colour and composition. Tash is very quickly learning the skills of an architectural technician and when combined with her interior design and graphic design skills, she is becoming a great all rounder and an important member of our team.

D E S I G N

RADFORD

P R O F E S S I O N A L

Nick is a highly qualified design professional with strong interest in sustainable and natural systems. He has Bachelor degree in Environmental Science, certificates in Horticulture, Permaculture and Organic Farming, and completed three years of the Architecture course at UNSW. He has received an award from OTEN in Sustainable Building and is a member of the Australian Institute of Landscape Designers and Managers.

“One of Nick’s specialties is easy maintenance native gardens and creating ‘mini ecosystems’.”.

P R O J E C T

HOY

M A N A G E R

Nat is an experienced Project Manager with a background in the retail and construction industries.

“For 12 years prior to joining Design Studio 22, Nat was the Client Service and Office Manager for a prominent Coffs Harbour building company”. This experience gives Nat a good understanding of what the team needs to keep projects running smoothly and also keep clients informed how their project is progressing.

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COMMERCIAL

What services does Design Studio 22 provide? Design Studio 22 provide an integrated design solution for our clients’ entire site, and for our commercial clients we can extend that to include their corporate identity as well. Our design services include: • Architecture • Interior Design • Landscape Design, including permaculture and WSUD concept plans • Environmental Consultancy services • Disability access design • Graphic Design For most people, building or renovating their home or business premises is one of the most important projects they will ever undertake and potentially one of the most stressful.

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at Apart from all th f, uf st e iv legislat oble m architects are pr rrow solvers, or to bo ard, he a quote I once . It’s m le ob ‘It’s not a pr r fo ity un rt an oppo t of os M t’. en em ov impr ing lv so t our job is abou nts.” ie cl r ou r problems fo

“

Engaging a professional team like Design Studio 22 can take a great weight off your shoulders. We can guide you through the entire process from pre purchase to completion, ensuring you plan your project effectively, and that your hard earned dollars are invested in a project that is designed well and will function well for many years to come. What is the difference between an architect and a draftsperson? We get asked that a lot. An architect is a trained, accredited and registered professional. Architects provide professional services in connection with the planning, design, construction, enlargement, conservation,

restoration or alteration of a building or group of buildings. These services include, but are not limited to, planning, strategic land-use planning, urban design, preliminary studies, models, drawings, specifications, coordination of technical documentation prepared by other professionals such as consulting engineers, landscape architects and other specialist consultants, contract administration, and project management. While a draftsperson may provide building design services, there is no guarantee they have any formal qualifications or training. It’s interesting that people will negotiate fiercely

on the cost of a TV. Yet when it comes to the biggest investment most people make in their entire life, some are prepared to gamble their life savings to save a few dollars in design fees. Architects provide a level of consumer protection to their clients that can’t be matched by a draftsperson, as our work is governed by a Code of Conduct under the Architects Act. Architects must be insured and registered with the Architects Registration Board in the state or territory in which they practise, plus you need to undertake Continuing Professional Development every year to maintain your registration as an architect. Apart from all that legislative stuff, architects are problem solvers, or to borrow a quote I once heard, “It’s not a problem. It’s an opportunity for improvement”. Most of our job is about

solving problems for our clients. We spend a lot of our time assisting our clients to find the right site, assess the potential of the site, design a building to satisfy the end usersâ€™ requirements, find solutions to tricky council requirements, add another storey without taking views away from the neighbour, squeeze an extra room in while still maintaining efficient flow, natural light and ventilation, provide disability access in an integrated and efficient manner, deal with bushfire requirements, underground services,

overhead services, flood prone land, heritage listings, and the list goes on. What is the process to become an architect? After completing a degree in architecture, you have to accumulate professional experience in every aspect of the profession before being able to register. You cannot legally call yourself an architect until you have completed the registration process and registered as an architect. The registration process involves submitting a statement, a logbook detailing

the experience you have accumulated, passing both a written examination set by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) and a verbal interview, and then applying to join the register. On average, this process takes about 12 - 13 years. What sort of work does Design Studio 22 do? We are a general practice; being in a regional area, it is difficult to specialise. We find that to be a good thing, because it means we get to

work on so many different types of projects. That keeps us interested and broadens our knowledge base. In the last three years we have worked on new homes, home extensions, new commercial buildings, commercial office refurbishments, retail shop fit outs, high rise luxury apartments, shop top housing, townhouse developments, master planning, heritage adaptive reuse, schools and TAFE, restaurants, fast food shops, cafĂŠs.

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But one of the differences between us and a draftsperson or er ild project home bu e th gn si de so al e w is e th nd spaces arou ” building.

“

Tell us about some of the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. We do have some good projects on at the moment. We are currently working on Two Tails winery and Synchronicity Farm, both located at Nana Glen. We have some interesting new houses and renovations on the drawing board and under construction. We are working with a Sydney company assisting with the project management of some school projects, and we were lucky enough to recently be awarded the job of designing a masterplan for the future expansion of one of the schools in our region. What makes you stand out above your competitors? Service, mostly, and the complete design package we can offer under one roof. There

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are other architects and interior designers in our region who are quite skilled and do a good job, so we try to distinguish ourselves by going that extra mile with the service we provide to our clients. We want our clients to feel that what they are getting is worth far more than they paid. What are some other benefits of working with Design Studio 22? We design buildings, internally and externally, and we can manage their construction. We think most people know that about us. But one of the differences between us and a draftsperson or project home builder is we also design the spaces around the building. These spaces are often neglected in the overall design, but are just as important as the spaces inside. If done properly, they can capture cool

breezes in summer, or capture the sun in winter, to provide a comfortable place to sit all year round. We use a range of design tools for these spaces, which may include plant selections, water features, gardens and lawn, paving, seating, shade structures, and a range of soft and hard materials. Most end users enjoying these spaces don’t realise the thought that has gone into creating them. How important is sustainability when designing a new home or commercial space? Vital; it’s an integral part of all our projects. What are the top three things that people should consider when looking to build a new house or renovate an existing home? • Engage with their architect and interior designer early in the process, even before you purchase the property.

• Get independent costing advice from a builder or quantity surveyor. • Establish a realistic budget at the start to avoid disappointment later on. This is probably the most common cause of stress in a building project. How important is it to support local businesses? We are big believers in supporting local businesses. Using local trades and services and buying from local retailers not only improves the local economy, but it also gives you a more personalised service when you know the people behind the business you are dealing with. We have a lot of local businesses we deal with, and we try to share the work around as best we can. Thanks Tony and Andrew.

TESTIMONIALS

JON & JESSICA DOLAND As owner builders embarking on quite a substantial renovation, we decided to seek expert advice on our interior and exterior design and finishes, and that is exactly what we got. Jayne was amazing! From our initial consultation, Jayne was approachable and professional. She was very thorough and really listened to what we wanted; her selections and recommendations for our design were exactly what we had envisioned. Jayne went above and beyond in sourcing particular items, and her expertise was

invaluable throughout our whole process. Having such a well-planned, comprehensive interior/exterior design package has made our renovation process so much easier, not only for us, but all of the contractors we have engaged on our build. Our experience with Jayne was outstanding, and we would highly recommend her. Thank you for helping us transform our house into a beautiful home that we will enjoy raising our family in for years to come.

KAY & TONY JACKSON

TOM & KERRYANNE

Please accept our appreciation for your help with our new â€œbuildâ€? design at Valla Beach. It has been a pleasure to work with you. You have been and are professional, have come up with great ideas and have been easy to work with. Feedback from proposed builders has been the great detail for plans (thanks Andrew) and interiors (Jayne). Looking forward to the next part, the build!

We had the privilege of having Jayne from Design Studio 22 help us with our recent house renovations. With her knowledge and wonderful ideas, she made our renovating experience a pleasant one. Nothing was any trouble, even down to bringing product samples to our house, as we both work full-time. We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Jayne and Design Studio 22 to anyone who is thinking of renovating ... Thank you Jayne, the best decision ever!

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Before you build, be certain. For award-winning customer service and quality homes, get Before you build, be certain. in with the team at G.J. service Gardnerand Homes Coffs Coast.get Fortouch award-winning customer quality homes, in touch theorteam at G.J. Gardner Coffs Coast. Call 6691with 3509, visit 171 Orlando St,Homes Coffs Harbour

Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast. Builders Licence 191313C.

Call 6691 3509, or visit 171 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour

Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast. Builders Licence 191313C.