Coffs Coast Focus i81

COFFS COAST

June 2017//issue 81

T H E 1 coffs coast focus.

T E S K E Y

B R O T H E R S

Feature Story 2017 Black Dog Kokoda Challenge

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ANIMAL SCIENCE AND ZOOLOGY Bachelor of Animal Science Bachelor of Science~ (Animal Science and Veterinary Studies, Zoology) Bachelor of Zoology

ARTS Diploma in Arts Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts~ Majors available: Majors available: Ancient History, Archaeology, Australian History, Chinese, Classical Languages,Criminology, English, French, German, History, Human Geography, Indigenous Studies, Indonesian, International History, Islamic Studies, Italian, Japanese, Linguistics, Music, Peace Studies, Philosophy, Physical Geography, Political and International Studies, Psychology, Screen and Media Studies, Sociology, Spanish, Stage and Screen Acting+, Studies in Religion, Theatre and Performance, Writing.

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ARCHAEOLOGY AND INDIGENOUS STUDIES Bachelor of Arts~ (Archaeology, Indigenous Studies) Bachelor of Science~ (Archaeology, Palaeobiology)

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE AND PHARMACY Bachelor of Biomedical Science Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours

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Diploma in Modern Languages Bachelor of International Studies Bachelor of International and Language Studies Bachelor of Languages Majors available: Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

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CLASSICS, HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY AND STUDIES IN RELIGION Advanced Diploma in Local, Family and Applied History Bachelor of Arts~ (Ancient History, Australian History, Classical Languages, History, International History, Studies in Religion) Bachelor of Historical Inquiry and Practice Graduate Diploma in Local, Family and Applied History Master of Arts Master of History

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Bachelor of Computer Science~ Majors available: Data Science, Software Development Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Science~ (Computational Science) Graduate Certificate in Information Technology Graduate Diploma in Information Technology Master of Computer Science Master of Information Technology Master of Information Technology (Business)

ECONOMICS AND AGRIBUSINESS Bachelor of Agribusiness~ Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource Economics Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Economics Bachelor of Economics~ Bachelor of Economics/Bachelor of Laws Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness Graduate Diploma in Economics Master of Economic and Regional Development Master of Economics

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ENGLISH, WRITING, MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS Diploma in Professional Communication Bachelor of Arts~ (English, Writing, Screen and Media Studies) Bachelor of Media and Communications Majors available: Media and Culture, Writing and Publishing.

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Bachelor of Arts~ (Psychology, Sociology) Bachelor of Psychological Science Bachelor of Psychology with Honours^ Bachelor of Social Science~ Majors available: Aboriginal Perspectives, Criminology, Health Management, Linguistics, Organisational Management, Peace and Developmental Studies, Political and International Studies, Psychology, Social Philosophy, Sociology, Urban and Regional Studies.

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NURSING, SOCIAL WORK AND HEALTH

Bachelor of Audiometry Bachelor of Nursing*~ Bachelor of Environmental Science Bachelor of Social Work Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor Graduate Certificate in Disability Management of Laws Graduate Certificate in Health Management Bachelor of GeoScience Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Practice Bachelor of Science~ (Geography) Graduate Diploma in Counselling Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science Graduate Diploma in Disability Management Graduate Certificate in Planning and Graduate Diploma in Health Management Management of Natural Hazards Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Practice Graduate Diploma in Planning and Management Master of Counselling of Natural Hazards Master of Health Management Master of Environmental Science and Master of Mental Health Practice Management Master of Nursing Practice (on-campus only) Master of Natural Resource Governance Master of Social Work (Professional Master of Planning and Management of Qualifying) Natural Hazards

EXERCISE AND SPORTS SCIENCE Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science

GEOGRAPHY AND PLANNING Diploma in Town Planning Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning Bachelor of Science~ (Geography) Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning Master of Urban and Regional Planning

PEACE, POLITICAL AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

Diploma in Arts Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts~ (Peace Studies, Political and International Studies) Bachelor of International Studies~ Bachelor of International and Language Studies Graduate Certificate in Arts Master of Arts

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Welcome to the June issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

W

ow! Can you believe we are already half way through the year? Time flies when you’re having fun, and boy does the FOCUS team have fun!

Our goal this year was to become more community involved and support different local events. So far this year we have sponsored some major events, like Music in the Vineyard, Screenwave Film Festival, Business Women’s Network and TAFE Awards, just to name a few.

We are going to be very busy in June, as we are sponsoring the Bello Winter Music Festival (as seen on this month’s cover), The Orara Valley Fair, Coffs Harbour Show ‘n’ Shine and the Grafton Truck Show. We are so excited to get behind these wonderful events. Who said things are quiet in winter?

Bello Winter Music Festival Music fans: get ready! The Bello Winter Music

Festival is certainly one festival to add to your bucket list. The festival kicks off on July 6th in Bellingen. Get your tickets today, because it is close to selling out.

The entire Coffs FOCUS office team is going along so if you see us out there, be sure to say hello. For tickets, please visit the website: www. bellowintermusic.com Inside this edition Nick Hardcastle grew up on the Coffs Coast and was always doing drama classes and plays.

His big break as an actor came with a recurring role on Home and Away and years later, after winning the U.S. Green Card Lottery, he moved from London to L.A. to continue his career.

FOCUS caught up with Nick, who filled us in on his show biz journey.

Tanja Kraus has a deep connection with horses and loves to share her horsemanship skills and philosophy with others all over the

world through workshops and events. FOCUS found out more about good horsemanship and how Tanja can help you and your horse better communicate.

Arts & Culture Feature The Coffs Coast is thriving with culture and amazing artists. This month we present to you our annual Arts & Culture feature, celebrating the creativity of our local artists and the colourful culture of our community.

FOCUS will be combining the Arts & Culture feature from ALL FOUR FOCUS publication regions to create a unique handbook that showcases the entire Mid North Coast and New England regions, to be delivered as a free e-book via social media.

Final Say If “Plan A” didn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters! Stay Cool.” - Unknown.

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TANJA KRAUS HORSEMANSHIP. Tanja Kraus has a deep connection with horses and loves to share her horsemanship skills and philosophy with others all over the world through workshops and events. FOCUS finds out more about good horsemanship and how Tanja can help you and your horse better communicate.

NICK HARDCASTLE. Nick Hardcastle grew up on the Coffs Coast and was always doing drama classes and plays. His big break as an actor came with a recurring role on Home and Away and years later, after winning the U.S. Green Card Lottery, he moved from London to L.A. to continue his career.

FOCUS caught up with Nick, who filled us in on his show biz journey and what he is up to now.

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30

AMY & GRAEME WRIGHT.

Amy and Graeme Wright are the owners of local streetwear store, Edegrees. They have the best range of footwear and streetwear on the North Coast.

FOCUS had a chat to the successful couple, to find out more ...

R EGU L A R S 10. WHAT’S ON JUNE 24. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 63. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI 64. SOCIAL SCENE CAROLE BEROS

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

No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au 4 coffs coast focus.

coffs coast focus. 5

focusinterview.

CRAIG SEMPLE

LEE-ANN LLOYD

IN APRIL, LEE-ANN AND CRAIG TOOK ON THE 2017 BLACK DOG KOKODA CHALLENGE TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE BLACK DOG INSTITUTE AND SPREAD POSITIVE MESSAGES ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES. FOCUS FOUND OUT ABOUT THE PERSONAL EXPERIENCES THAT INSPIRED THEM TO DO THIS AND WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO COMPLETE THE TREK.

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

Lee-Ann: I was transferred to the Coffs Coast about 1989, while working in the Police. Both of my kids were born here, and I love the sense of community that I feel.

Craig: I moved to the Coffs Coast with my wife and three sons back in 2002 as a result of my transfer to the area as a detective in the NSW Police Force. We have lived on the northern beaches ever since.

What inspired you to create the 2017 Black Dog Kokoda Challenge?

Lee-Ann: I worked with Craig in the Police in Redfern in the ‘80s. When I heard he was going to speak with kids, parents, teachers and other groups out in western NSW about mental health issues, I asked to tag along.

Here was this big motorbike riding man with tattoos way out of his comfort zone, sharing his own experience and giving people information and skills in relation to mental health issues. I was inspired and proud. It was that day that Black Dog Kokoda Challenge was born.

Craig: Scott Campbell from Kokoda Campaign Tours was present during one of my talks in Grafton and recognising the importance of what the Black Dog Institute is doing, he decided to make us the chosen charity for the year for his business.

Lee-Ann and I teamed up with him and launched the 2017 Black Dog Kokoda Challenge. Our goals are twofold. The first is to raise $50,000 for the Black Dog Institute over the full trekking year (ending in December).

The second is to use our fundraiser as a platform from which to raise awareness and spread positive messages about mental health issues.

What is the Black Dog Institute, and how 6 coffs coast focus.

will the money raised from this year's treks help them?

Craig: Established in 2002, the Black Dog Institute has become a world leader in the diagnoses, treatment and prevention of mood disorders, including Depression and Bi-Polar disorder.

The Institute is also heavily engaged in community education. All volunteers have a lived experience of mental illness and share their stories in an effort to break down the barriers of stigma that prevent so many people from seeking help.

All of Black Dog’s educational development and delivery is funded entirely from public donations. All trekkers involved in the campaign are fully self-funded, so 100% of the donations go to the Black Dog Institute to help with this.

Can you tell us a bit about your experience of mental health issues?

Lee-Ann: I was discharged from the Police Force with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression back in the days when there weren’t even that many women in the Police Force and certainly no one going on stress leave. There was so much stigma and fear surrounding it, which I think caused me to try and hide it. Having been in denial for so long has resulted in a slow road to wellness, but I am on that road and kickin’ it.

Craig: As a detective in the Police Force, I was required to attend and investigate all un-natural deaths, including suicides. A lack of education about mental illness led to my ignorant belief that suicide was the result of victims lacking the strength and courage to face their personal problems.

During my own battle with depression and PTSD, my understanding of mental illness and suicide has dramatically changed. Insight is a powerful thing, and I now understand that the loss of those lives had nothing to do with strength, courage or weakness. They simply fell

victim to an illness.

What was the Kokoda Trail like?

Lee-Ann: Tough, wonderful, emotional, risky and did I mention tough!

Craig: It is definitely a true test of physical and mental endurance. With 15 kg packs strapped to our backs, we trekked 120 km from a position north of Kokoda, over the Owen Stanley Ranges to Port Moresby.

Sometimes we walked through swamps, in the rain and nearly always we were walking in mud … And it was worth it! The effort involved served to heighten our sense of appreciation for what we saw and experienced, including tribal ceremonies, war history and artefacts, some of the warmest people on the planet and scenery so beautiful and incredible that words could never describe it.

How did you feel once you completed the trek?

Lee-Ann: Elated, emotional, buggered and a bit sad that it had come to an end. We were off the grid for nine days in the jungle, walking in the footsteps of our ancestors ... Who wouldn’t want a piece of that? I was grateful too, for the support of our local porters, the amazing Kokoda Campaign team and the people I now consider friends that undertook this journey with me.

Craig: When all seventeen of us walked together through the arches at the very end, the sense of achievement and the enormity of what we had accomplished together was so profound, that holding back tears soon became a fruitless exercise. I cannot understate how much facing and overcoming challenges builds self-esteem and self-worth in all facets of our lives. This trek, for me, is a good example of that.

How much money have you raised so far?

Craig: So far we have raised over $10,000.

Scott Campbell and Stuart Jonklass from our Trekking partner Kokoda Campaign Tours are generously donating one dollar for every

kilometre walked by each trekker during all three treks for 2017. This trek, seventeen of us walked 120 km, and there are two more treks planned this year.

We are also lucky to have the enormous support of a new local business, Sunburst Real Estate, located in Moonee. They have pledged to donate 25% of all their commissions for residential property sales for 2017. One of the principals, Darcy Kean, also joined us on the first trek.

Another local business sponsor is Geoff King Motors. Geoff, as always, is keen to support worthwhile local causes.

Do you have any advice for people living with mental health issues?

Lee-Ann: Never ever give up. You are not alone. Go to your GP and request a referral to speak with a psychologist/counsellor/ psychiatrist. Don’t be put off if the person you see isn’t a fit for you. Keep looking.

Craig: My biggest mistake was failing to seek help early. Early intervention leads to improved recovery time and outcomes. For anyone concerned about their mental health, I strongly recommend making an appointment with your GP as early as possible. Putting your hand up for help is not a sign of weakness; it is actually a sign of strength and courage.

Where can people find out more?

The Black Dog Institute has a fantastic website with loads of information on mental illnesses. If you are concerned for yourself or someone you care about, there are self-test links, which are really useful, in addition to lots of advice on what to do. www.blackdoginstitute.org.au For more on the Black Dog 2017 Kokoda Trek Challenge, go to: http://kokoda2017.gofundraise.com.au/ Thanks Lee-Ann and Craig.

SCOT T NOL AN

MELISSA NOLAN Principal

Licensed Real Estate Agent

CHERYLENE BURKE

JAKE WILLIAMS

GIORGIA FITTLER

NATAL I E SYK E S

LEESA WERNER

CHARLOT T E N O L AN

Principal

Licensed Real Estate Agent

Asset Manager

Residential Sales

Asset Manager

KE NDALL DE VI NE

Sales Associate

Holiday Manager

The previous Century 21 office has now become ‘Nolans’ Southern headquarters, servicing Sawtell/Boambee/Toormina & Bonville.

We are excited to now bring our fresh and innovative approach to buying, selling and leasing to the area.

We are a full service agency offering Residential Sales, Commercial Sales and Project Marketing along with Residential, Holiday & Commercial/Industrial Management.

We invite you to come and experience for yourself the Nolan Partners difference.

coffs coast focus. 7

focusinterview.

T A N J A

W

Horsemanship

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I moved to the Coffs Coast from the Gold Coast 11 years ago. My partner, Phil, and I had been doing the long distance relationship thing for some time, and someone had to move. I loved Coffs Harbour, so I made the move and have loved it ever since.

How did your passion for horses begin, and what part have they played in your life since?

I have been obsessed with all things animal for as long as I can remember and when I was three, my parents bought a block of land opposite the Currumbin Horse Club. While they were busy planning where the house was going, I was across the road visiting the horses.

I was horse mad growing up, following my friends around on foot while they rode their horses. When I was 12, my parents finally relented and bought me my first horse.

Can you tell us about some of your horses?

Between Phil and I we have 10 horses of varying ages. I own and use as four of those horses as part of my team. Cooper is a 10 year old Paint Horse and my number one demo horse and Boogie, my second in charge, is also a Paint Horse. Squizzy is a Quarter Horse X riding pony, who will come back into work in winter and Galliano, a Warmblood mare, is the latest addition.

How would you describe horsemanship? Is it something anyone can learn?

It is definitely something that everyone can learn, and I would say that it is simply a way for us to communicate with our horses at a deeper level. Whilst I teach skill sets at my 8 coffs coast focus.

KRAUS

Photo: Blue Fountain Photography

Photo: Kounelli Photography

Photo: Blue Fountain Photography

Tanja Kraus has a deep connection with horses and loves to share her horsemanship skills and philosophy with others all over the world through workshops and events. FOCUS finds out more about good horsemanship and how Tanja can help you and your horse better communicate.

courses, really I am sharing a philosophy and a "way" to interact with your horse. Once you understand how your horse thinks, and why he does what he does, it makes training him a lot easier.

Horsemanship is a philosophy that can be applied to any discipline, and it opens up ways to interact and enjoy your horse that we may not have thought of in the past. We go beyond having a horse to just ride it.

What is your philosophy behind good horsemanship?

Taking the horse into consideration and putting the horse first. We (the human) always seem to be able to tell people (or horses) what it is that we want to achieve, but often the explanation makes no mention of what is in it for the horse. Once we begin to realise that the horse is a thinking, feeling "being", and we want him to enjoy what we are doing, then we experience things we didn’t think were possible.

What kind of training have you done?

Because my parents had no idea about horses, they insisted that I got lessons each week, so from the time I was 12 I was training in dressage, jumping and flatwork. In my early 20s I bought an off the track Thoroughbred, whom I wanted to compete on in dressage.

He was not easy to train in the traditional way I had been taught, so we were struggling.

He led me to my first horsemanship clinic, because I wanted to try to "fix" him. This opened up an entirely new way of training and communicating with my horses, and I found myself getting to as many horsemanship clinics as I could. I did this for about 10 years, before I started taking in horses for training at home.

You have been travelling a lot lately.

Where have you been, and what have you been doing?

ng people

Teachi Horsemanship ideas.

Most recently I was in use their to w ho New Zealand teaching Starting in Europe and body language my first clinics there, with a strong e’s read their hors and attending their s influence from ay w al ge body langua first ever Vaquero Spanish and Moorish ty et pr e has som Gathering, where Phil .” lts horsemen, it was then su re g in amaz was a presenter. Most taken to the Americas, weekends I am teaching in where it made its way up different locations Australia through Mexico and into wide, and in July I head to the old California and developed United Kingdom for the first time. In into a cattle working system of August I head back to New Zealand, and in horsemanship as the need arose.

September I am off to the United States.

I have been passionate about this style of You offer quite a range of services for horsemanship for many years now, mainly due horse riders and their horses. What are to its empathy towards a gradual progression some of your favourites? of the horse. The other idea that is a little Starting horses under saddle is still one of different is that the hackamore and bridle my favourites, and liberty clinics (without leads are to be used for communication more so or halters) are always fun. Teaching people than control, with the equipment being signal how to use their body language, and read their devices, not leverage devices. horse’s body language always has some pretty As a means to bring other enthusiasts from amazing results. I also really enjoy helping around Australia together, we decided to hold competitive people get along with their horses a gathering last year. It was well received, and better, and showing them that there is a kind we plan to hold another event this year and way of creating a performance horse. have had interest from New Zealand and the How important is it for a young horse to USA. The concept behind the gathering is have a good experience when starting just that, to get together, have some fun and under saddle? enjoy our horsemanship, without it being a Giving a horse the right start can set them competitive environment. up for life and is something I consider to be Where can people find out more? one of the most important things we can do.

People can connect with us on You are basically showing the horse how to be Facebook and Instagram - Tanja Kraus when he is under saddle, so the way I see it is Horsemanship.

Our website is www. if the start is "rough and tumble", then that is horsemanshipforperformance.com and we what the horse thinks that riding is. also have a Youtube channel.

We are very You held the first Australian Vaquero active online.

Every Monday night at 7pm we Gathering in Australia with your partner, do a Live Show on Facebook, we send out a Phil Monaghan. Can you tell us more newsletter on Wednesdays, and every Friday about this? we upload a new YouTube video.

Phil: It could be said The Vaquero Traditions are the foundation of today’s modern Thanks Tanja and Phil.

“

coffs coast focus. 9

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

17

June

25

COFFS CENTRAL WAREHOUSE SALE

Hold on to your hats, fashion lovers, because the first ever Coffs Central Warehouse Sale Event is on. Up to 80% off - Uptown Local, Sensara, Seasons Boutique, Lily & Sapphire, Coopers Surf, Urban Life. Date 17th June. Time 6pm - 9pm. Reservations This is a FREE event, with only 300 spaces available. Call 5622 8900 or email customerservice@gowings.com to secure your ticket.

10

THE 2017 SHOW N SHINE FOR BLOOD CANCER

Setting up starts at 8am. To enter a vehicle is a $10 donation per vehicle! More than 3,300 people are expected to be diagnosed with a form of leukaemia this year - equivalent to nine people every day. Please help raise the funds to HELP CURE blood cancers by coming along to this year's Show ’n’ Shine. When 25th June. Where 65 Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour.

Contact 0432 380 423 or email lightthenightcoffsharbour@ gmail.com

9

2017 GRAFTON TRUCK SHOW

Celebrating 40 years. Parade starts at 10am at the Prince Street, Arthur Street intersection. Nominations forms are available and will need to be lodged before the parade. After the parade the convoy of trucks parks at the Grafton Racecourse, where there will be races, exhibitors, free kids’ rides, live music by Blake O'Connor, auctions and raffles. Food, drinks and TAB facilities available. After the last race, the Adam Eckersley Band will be performing into the night. When 10th June.

Where Grafton Racecourse. Contact Grafton Truck club via email: graftontruckclub@gmail.com

12

BELLINGEN READERS AND WRITERS POETRY SLAM

2017 40TH ANNUAL ORARA VALLEY FAIR

Always the highlight of the Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival, with your MC Elizabeth Routledge. The festival, for this year only, has slimmed down to a full schools program and the Poetry Slam. When 9th June. Where Bellingen Memorial Hall, 26 Birugan Close, Bellingen. Contact 0400 261 166 or email frogdownstairs@gmail.com Visit bellingenwritersfestival.com.au

Held every year on the Queen’s Birthday holiday - the perfect family day out. When: June 12th, 9:30am - 4pm. Where The Upper Orara Recreation Ground, Dairyville Road, Dairyville.

Entry fee The cost is $5 adults and $2 school age children, with younger children free.

Visit www.oraravalleyfair.com.au

10 coffs coast focus.

18

THE COFFS COAST CHARITY WALK A fundraising event for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service starts at Moonee Park Reserve in Coffs Harbour and follows the Solitary Islands Walk through to Lower Park Beach Reserve - a distance of 14 kilometres. Participants can enter individually or in teams of four to 20 people.

Minimum age is 12 years old (with a paying adult). When 18th June. Contact 6627 4444 or email events@helirescue.com.au Visit www.coastalcharitywalk.com.au

24 BARC MORNING TEA FUNDRAISER BARC is a no-kill shelter providing vaccination, sterilisation and other necessary medical assistance to all rescued animals in Bali. They operate a street sterilisation program to help stop the relentless flow of unwanted puppies. Come down and play a part in helping provide assistance for this great cause. When 24th June. Where Beachstone Café. Time 10am until 12pm.

Cost $15 per person. Contact Kim on 0433 965 805.

le , Like a lot of peop d te ar st my career young y rl ea - as a very d ce en ri and inexpe s it’ d an , ld 18-year-o eps and st y an m ed lv invo ences learning experi .” ay w along the

“

BWN June 1 Networking Event WITH LOUISE BEAUMONT

- FOUNDER & SALES MANAGER FOCUS MAG -

F

rom my first job in the hospitality industry, perhaps unknowingly at the time, I was developing relationships, identifying opportunities, and paving the way for future opportunities … This first job led into a telemarketing role with a foodservice company, then to another role in tele-sales with a different company.

Realising there was a market for a hospitality/ foodservice oriented publication, Cafe Culture Magazine was born. This became my first role that involved talking to customers about their advertising needs.

The groundwork was then set for FOCUS, which was established 11 years ago, and is still growing to this day.

Now I’m 34, and over the past 16 years, I’ve developed a good understanding of some key issues that relate to advertising and sales in general ... The main point being I’m passionate about “NOT SELLING”. This may not be what you’d expect to hear from someone who works in advertising, but my focus is on relationships

and finding solutions for customers that make us the perfect fit for each other.

How do you classify selling? Do we all sell in some way or another?

Selling to me is very simple - it’s an exchange between two entities - and to be honest, I really dislike the terms “sales” and “selling”. For me, it’s a much more simple process of finding a solution to someone else’s problem and being really excited about both the process of finding the solution, and the solution itself!

I learned very early on in my career that sales is not about me selling you what I have - it is about me finding out what you need.

When you focus on the other person, it’s a lot easier to form an honest connection.

There are definitely a number of different ways people “sell” - depending on the type of industry you are in. Some people follow very traditional “scripted” conversations; whereas, some people’s conversations are much more needs/solutions based.

How important is someone’s body language when selling? How do we learn to read it,

and what it means?

Body language contributes immensely to the relationship you build with anybody and everybody around you, so naturally it plays a role in sales. Simple gestures, movements, even what you wear impacts on how you connect with others and how they interpret you.

For me, self awareness and emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of body language - everything you exhibit externally comes from within; you just dress the outside up.

For example, you can put on a suit to “look” more professional, but if you don’t feel confident, then you are probably slouching in your suit … and that’s not a good look!

Being confident with yourself is the starting point in how you present to customers.

It’s also important to be emotionally connected to the person you are speaking with.

Do they look stressed? Rushed?

Simply being in tune with their emotions can help your sales conversations flow more effectively.

One of the biggest challenges is to just “sell

more”. What are the best ways to go about this?

Simple. Don’t sell more! Sell better. Target your “ideal customer”, work on ways to increase the value you can offer them, and then increase the value of what they spend with you.

Learn how to qualify customers better - know they type who are good for you, and the ones to stay away from.

Especially in regional towns and cities everything is based on relationships/referrals and creating resourceful networks that grow and work together.

Sales is an ever changing game. While some people are chasing money, others are chasing great clients who pay well and whom they have honest, rewarding relationships with.

plug!

Louise will be presenting to the BWN and their guests on 1 June at Pacific Bay Resort for their June networking lunch. Register now: http://bwn.org.au/

coffs coast focus. 11

Brad Pearce d e n t a l Brad Pearce Dental has three locations on the Coffs Coast; Bellingen, Woolgoolga and Coffs CBD. FOCUS popped in for a check up at the Harbour Drive office and were greeted with a smile and amazing service. We sat down with the front desk ladies, Charmayne and Jenny, to find out a bit about them and the dental industry.

H

ow did you get into the dental industry?

Charmayne - I worked for an Orthodontist for eight years, before starting here as a Dental Nurse, and for the last seven years I have been working on reception.

The front desk is really the engine room of the surgery. What do you enjoy most about it?

Jenny - Some patients come in after an accident and the damage to their mouth is extensive. But, after our skilled dentists

12 coffs coast focus.

have worked on them they are so happy, as it makes a huge difference to their confidence. I also enjoy watching our young patients grow up and have children of their own - it’s a privilege.

Regular dental care is the key lth to great oral hea l and your overal wellbeing.”

“

Being local ladies … What do you like most about our beautiful part of the world?

Charmayne - I love the outdoors, so Coffs is the perfect spot for that. Whether it’s

walking along the beach, 4WD or swimming in fresh water rivers, I’m there. We are so lucky to live here, as we have the best of both worlds.

Best dental tip you would pass on?

Charmayne - I am a huge fan of the floss.

I know it sounds boring, but it’s something you need to do at least once a day. Great for your teeth and gums.

Jenny - Regular dental care is the key to great oral health and your overall wellbeing.

Give our surgery a call, and I will be happy to book you in to one of our wonderful doctors.

Thanks Jenny and Charmayne.

focuseditorial.

bcu CONTINUES TO GIVE BACK TO THE

local community Since its creation in the early 1970, bcu have remained committed to providing banking products and services that are competitive while also ensuring the community has access to modern banking facilties.

b

cu also remain committed to helping local communities to prosper by supporting and sponsoring community events, activities and programs, giving back to charity, sporting associations, the arts and education.

Having been one of the key sponsors of the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea over the past few years, bcu are set to again get behind the important event this year.

In 2016, bcu raised over $6,000 which has been been allocated to help fund vital cancer research, prevention programs, advocacy and support services for those affected by cancer.

bcu have also been proud Bronze level sponsor for the Mother’s Day Classic, held recently in Port Macquarie. This event is a major fundraiser for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and has contributed more than $30 million to breast cancer research over the past 20 years.

The 2017 bcu Coffs Tri, held recently at the iconic Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore, racked up a record number of participants this year, with almost 950 individuals competing. bcu were proud to again be the main sponsor of the Coffs Tri, having supported the event since its inception.

Triathlon Australia officials who attended the bcu Coffs Tri were blown away by the sense of community at the event. Sinclair Black,

the Event Director said “We have the backing of

e The atmospher tors ta ec sp amongst e th in s or tit and compe as w ge lla vi athlete’s iathlon buzzing, and Tr present ls ia Australia offic ffs Tri Co u bc at the 2017 by the were blown away .” ity sense of commun

“

bcu, who started here on the Coffs Coast, their volunteers are here and without that kind of support we wouldn’t have this great community event.”

The success of the 2017 bcu

Coffs Tri, has allowed the event to

$20,000 donated this year alone to various local Surf Clubs, SES Groups, Cancer Council and sporting groups. bcu have also provided sponsorship to annual local events across its network area including the the Macksville

and Bellingen Shows.

Visit www.bcu.com.au for more

offer significant support to some

information on bcu’s range of great banking

great local charities and community

products and discover how they continue to

groups on the Coffs Coast, with almost

support the region.

Enjoy the simple life

with a bcu credit card from

11.8% p.a. *

Apply at bcu.com.au/creditcards, in store or call 1300 228 228 Banking products issued by Bananacoast Community Credit Union Ltd ABN 50 087 649 750 AFSL 241077 Australian Credit Licence Number 241077. *Ongoing interest rate is an annual percentage rate (APR) and variable rates are subject to change. Visit bcu.com.au/creditcards for terms & conditions and fees & charges applicable to this product.

coffs coast focus. 13

Nick Hardcastle grew up on the Coffs Coast and was always doing drama classes and plays. His big

break as an actor came with a recurring role on Home and Away and years later, after winning the U.S. Green Card Lottery, he moved from London to L.A. to continue his career. FOCUS caught up with Nick, who filled us in on his show biz journey and what he is up to now.

FR OM TH E

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14 coffs coast focus.

hat was the best thing about growing up on the Coffs Coast?

The Coffs Coast has the most beautiful beaches, hinterland and rivers. It also has beautiful people who were always willing to give me a chance whenever I expressed an interest in something. I’m still home regularly and always love spending time with my childhood friends and my family.

Where is your favourite place to visit when you come back?

I should probably say my mum’s place, right? I’m also "Uncle Nicky" when I get home, so it can be fairly dependent upon what my niece and nephew "allow" me to do!

I tend to head straight to 1st Avenue in Sawtell for coffee and to the beach or Boambee Creek Reserve for a long walk and a swim. I also really love the Promised Land and the Bellinger River.

How did you get started in show biz?

I was cast in a commercial in Coffs Harbour when I was eight years old. I did another one soon after and a bit of editorial and modelling work and then started at 2CHY when I was 13.

I was always doing drama classes and plays and worked with local theatre companies, including Bootlace Productions. When I left school, I was accepted in to NIDA’s Young Actors Studio, and my first TV job was as a promo host on Video Hits on Network Ten. Since then you have had an extensive career in entertainment, from stage, screen, radio, music and television. What have been some of the highlights?

My first recurring TV role was in Home and Away from 1997-98, which opened lots of doors for me. Hosting Creature Features on the ABC was the best job in the world, and being a part of the World Premiere cast of Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical is something I’m incredibly proud of.

Releasing my self-titled pop album was a huge achievement, and making my US Broadcast network debut last year on Pure Genius on CBS was very exciting as well.

There have been so many highlights, but being able to work all around the world has been an incredible gift that I never take for granted.

How did you end up in L.A.?

I was living in London and having a difficult time pany I started the com staying there with my s, ne with Nate Jo visa, when suddenly, out ie orburn and Jack Th sh Jo r of the blue, I received ou ith w 14 20 Diamond in the ng di a call from an agency Hol first production, provide that had been entering to Man . Our aim is ltural me in the U.S. Green a meaning ful cu ericans, m A ith Card Lottery. I’d won! w exchange soft landing a g in id ov I originally thought while pr hich has w , that if I did move to for ex-pat artists tion of a ea cr e the U.S. that it would resulted in th mmunity.” really special co be to New York, but when the Green Card finally came through, after five years of London weather, it incredible partners, was a no brainier to move to the L.A. we are still a very sunshine and be on the Pacific. It’s actually an grassroots organisation, awesome place to live, but I do need to get and it can be a struggle to raise away fairly frequently. the money we need in order to What is the Australian Theatre Company, keep going. and what led you to becoming a coWhat are you working on at the founder? moment?

Australian Theatre Company is a not for I’m always trying to generate my own work profit arts organisation that shares the best and creative opportunities. At the moment, of our Australian stories, talent, spirit and I have a limited TV series that I created with culture with American audiences through a friend being pitched. I’ve just finished world class theatrical productions and shooting a trailer for a new series that is programs. going to pitch and have an indie film called I started the company with Nate Jones, 12 Pound Balls out in May. I’ve just optioned Josh Thorburn and Jackie Diamond in 2014 a book, for which I’m developing a one-man with our first production, Holding the Man. show, and I’m working with Australian actor Our aim is to provide a meaningful cultural Hugh Sheridan to develop a live show. exchange with Americans, while providing I’m auditioning, I’m hosting events for a soft landing for ex-pat artists, which has the Television Academy, I’m going to class, resulted in the creation of a really special I’m writing grant proposals and constantly community. trying to raise money for ATC, so that we can Although we do amazing work with continue to grow. I coach content creators on

“

performance and media training. Occasionally I sleep …

Wow. If you get any spare time, what do you like to do?

Wine. Mostly wine. Oh, and I love to travel!

I am fortunate to have travelled around the world and create amazing friendships all over the planet. The travel I do is motivated by work, friends and family, food, or climate … and wine. Not necessarily in that order.

Who inspires you?

I take inspiration from anyone who is able to back themselves and has the courage to live their truth - whatever that is. Accolades, titles and financial status aren’t what impress me. My mum is still my benchmark for good behaviour - I always think just before I do something, "What would Mum think of this?" Then I do it anyway … ha!

What advice do you have for Coffs Coast kids who want to get into show biz?

The most important thing is that you love what you do. If being a creative or

performing artist is what drives you, then take every class you can, join local theatre groups and look for opportunities to develop your own work. Technology has allowed us all to be creators of content and broadcasters now - so we need to start utilising it.

You also need to appreciate that this industry is not like any other. There is no single path to success, no corporate ladder to climb, no rhyme or reason as to why you might or might not book a job, and dealing with all of that takes tenacity, patience, persistence and a strong sense of self.

Oh and finally, as we say in the theatre, "Chookas"!

Where can people find out more?

If you’d like to know more about Australian Theatre Company or donate, visit www.australiantheatrecompany.org You can Follow Nick on Instagram and Twitter @NickCastleHard or on Facebook @nickhardcastleofficial Thanks Nick. coffs coast focus. 15

19- 24 JUNE EXTENDED OPENING HOURS

BE WHATEVER YOU WANT TO BE. Whether you want to be qualified faster, be in a career you love, or be the boss – take charge of your career and explore your options at the TAFE NSW Open Week: Discover incredible courses Join interactive workshops Meet our experienced teachers Get inspiring career advice Tour our state-of-the-art campuses Live stream Open Week demonstrations and workshops online!

To learn more visit courses.tafensw.edu.au/open-week or call 131 601

16 coffs coast focus.

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coffs coast focus. 17

MJA Supports Coffs Coast Business Owners with Sponsorship Award

For the third year running MJA Business Solutions will be supporting a Coffs Coast business owner with the Business Excellence Sponsorship (BES).

As specialists in business, MJA offers business coaching, financial advice and accounting all under one roof. They have packaged up these services into a great 12-month program for one lucky business owner.

“It’s difficult for business owners to keep building their business when they are tied up in fighting the day to day fires,” said Mel Zander, founder of MJA Business Solutions. “We’ve developed this award so we can help deserving business owners to expand their horizons.

It’s good for the whole community for Coffs businesses to thrive.”

Past winners all sing the praises of the Business Excellence program, which includes 12 hours of one-onone business coaching, quarterly financial reviews and entry into the Sunnys Business Awards.

The Business Excellence Sponsorship has proven successful in breeding Sunnys winners, with Jasmin Adams, founder of fromZION and Krystie Boyes from Champ Cleaning both collecting gongs after

successfully completing the 2015 program.

Perhaps more important than awards, the program has helped business owners to develop their business skills, gain confidence and dream bigger.

“I now have a system for things and I know exactly what I’m doing and where I’m up to,” explains Mindy Bell, owner of @Mindys Hair Salon and 2016 BES winner.

The time spent developing systems with her coach has given Mindy the confidence to expand. “We’ve recently moved into the shop next door. I would never have had the confidence to move forward with the expansion if I hadn’t really got a handle on the money side of things and put strong systems in place”.

18 coffs coast focus.

The BES program is not restricted to small or start up businesses and has successfully helped even “old hands” in the quest for business excellence.

Craig Budden, franchisee for Aussie Home Loans in Coffs Harbour, had been in the game for a long time before winning the 2016 BES. He discovered that the accountability of having a coach helped him to stay focused on the big picture. “It’s so easy to think, ‘this is my business and I can do what I want.’ But the reality is the opposite. I was all ‘head down, bum up’ and wasn’t focusing on where I wanted the business to go.”

This year Craig will be entering the Small Business Excellence category of the Sunnys Business Awards, and feels confident that a year spent with his eye firmly on the big picture gives

him a good chance in this category.

“We get so excited when one of our graduates is recognised at the Sunnys,” says Mel Zander. “It’s incredibly rewarding to feel you have played a part in someone’s business success.”

Mel says that it’s particularly

rewarding to work with a business with a strong social vision. This was the case when MJA took on The Australian Centre for Eating Disorders, a local company that is working to improve treatments for people with eating disorders throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Two local women started the business: Kyla Holley and Allison Davidson. But perhaps three heads can prove better than two,

because both women claim that it was the fresh pair of eyes their coach brought to their business that helped the most.

“Our coach acted as an impartial third person when it came to making joint decisions,” said Holley. “That fresh perspective has helped us to consider every angle when making big decisions and also to compromise when we didn’t exactly agree.”

This year the program has

changed from a calendar year to financial year, so the BES will commence in July 2017 for the lucky winner. The award is open to any business owner on the Coffs Coast. You do not need to be a client of MJA Business Solutions.

To register for MJA’s Business Excellence Sponsorship go to www.mjabusiness.com.au/ excellence.

Reach for business excellence!

Apply now to receive: • 12 hours of 1:1 business coaching • Quarterly financial reviews • Feature article in the Advocate • Entry into the Sunnys Business Awards • Two tickets to the Sunnys Gala Awards Dinner Go to www.mjabusiness.com.au/excellence to apply.

Helping Coffs Coasts businesses to grow and thrive.

fli coffs coast focus. 19

focusinterview.

Dave Dave Brighton Brighton Floorsanding Floorsanding Dave DaveBrighton BrightonFloor FloorSanding Sandingisisexpanding. expanding.

We now have eight staff We now have eight staffmembers. members.We We have havefour fourflooring flooringspecialists, specialists,Dave DaveBrighton, Brighton, Mark MarkHiller, Hiller,Damian DamianKearny Kearnyand andDaniel Daniel Johnson; two apprentices, Tom Johnson; two apprentices, TomRevelly Revellyand and Daniel DanielBrighton; Brighton;and andour ourtwo twooffice officeladies, ladies,Sue Sue Stride Strideand andJavena JavenaVeale.

Veale.Thanks Thanksto toour ouramazing amazing team, team,our ourwait waittime timeisiskept keptto toaaminimum. minimum.

Dave DaveBrighton BrightonFloor FloorSanding Sandinghas hasalso alsoexpanded expanded their theirfleet fleetof ofcars, cars,so soyou youmay maysee seemore moreof ofour our vehicles vehiclestravelling travellingalong alongthe thehighway. highway.

We Wehave havecommenced commencedinstalling installingfloating floatingfloors. floors.

We can supply and install, or you We can supply and install, or youcan canpurchase purchase the thefloorboards floorboardsand andwe wecan caninstall installthem themfor for you.

We are still supplying and installing you. We are still supplying and installingour our

solid solidand andengineered engineeredtimber timberfloors, floors,as aswell wellas as sanding and polishing new and existing sanding and polishing new and existingfloors. floors.

We Weoperate operateon onthe theCoffs CoffsCoast, Coast,ininBellingen, Bellingen, Nambucca, Kempsey, South Nambucca, Kempsey, SouthWest WestRocks, Rocks, Macleay MacleayValley, Valley,out outto toDorrigo Dorrigoand andanything anythinginin between. between.

When Whenlooking lookingatatyour yournext nextflooring flooringproject, project, give giveDave Daveand andthe theteam teamaacall. call.He Hewill willcome cometo to your yourhome, home,listen listento toyour yourideas ideasand andgive giveyou you expert expertadvice adviceon onhow howto toget getthe thebest bestresult result ininyour yourhome, home,while whilekeeping keepingininmind mindyour your budget. budget.

Contact ContactDave DaveBrighton BrightonFloor FloorSanding Sandingfor foran an obligation free quote and expert advice obligation free quote and expert adviceon on 0447 0447683 683388.

388.

MCDONALD’S COMMUNITY INITIATIVES WOOLGOOLGA BOARD RIDERS CLUB, GEORGIA ENSBEY AND KEAAN VAN VENROOIJ, AND CHAYSE SMITH.

M

cDonald’s is proud to support local children and local groups throughout the NSW Mid North Coast community through their Junior Grants Program. Over one hundred children will smoothly surf their way into the local waves with their new microphone system, for being one of this month’s grant recipients. The Woolgoolga Junior Boardriders Club applied for the McDonald’s Junior Grant, as their audio microphone sound system was previously powered by an old generator that was running on empty - unlike their junior club members, who eagerly hit the surf in weekly and annual Junior Boardriders Competitions. The junior boardriders rely on their sound system, just as much as they rely on a good swell in the surf. Integral to the running and safety of each competition is the ability to communicate with competitors in the water. Participants commence the race in the water, and they rely solely on the audio system (siren) for competition instructions. The siren also allows the officials to communicate with volunteers and other members in the water. The speed of the communications process is critical and an essential part of the safety aspect of the club’s risk management strategy.

Another profound yet complex sport, comprising five separate events (fencing, 200 m freestyle swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting and a 3,200 m cross-country run) will have Georgia Ensbey, 16, and Keaan Van Venrooij, 18, testing their speed on a daily basis. These two locals have a big future at their fingertips, as both Georgia, from Sawtell, and Keaan, from Bonville, are outstanding and

20 coffs coast focus.

dedicated athletes who have been selected by the Modern Pentathlon Australia as members of the 2018 Youth Olympic Games Development Squad. Representing Pentathlon NSW, the pair must travel to Perth, WA, for the Western Australian State Championships to achieve qualifying times in their events. The costs associated with interstate travels will be eased with their McDonald’s Junior Grant.

McDonald’s likes to encourage sporting enthusiasts of all ages, and the youngest grant recipient of the month is eight-year-old Chayse Smith, who is one of 41 girls selected from an audition process comprising other contenders from across NSW. Accepting this once in a lifetime opportunity, Chayse will travel to America in April 2018 to represent The Edith Parsons School of Physical Culture, showcasing her talents in front of an audience of thousands at California Adventure World and Disneyland through Dance Around the World dance tours.

Chayse will work and train with the girls from across NSW, where she will be able to increase her fitness abilities, coordination, posture and build confidence and social skills with the making of new friendships. Chayse is one lucky local, who is embracing life’s incredible opportunities. Note: Chayse is able to take advantage of this opportunity due to the incredible genorosity of her friend, Halle Collett.

Halle gave up the grant for Chayse, as she was no longer able to attend the event.

If you are a child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you, jump on the Grants website and apply today. www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

coffs coast focus. 21

CHAMP CLEANING What services do you offer the Coffs Coast?

Champ provides professional cleaning services to commercial clients on the Coffs Coast. We service business, commercial and industrial premises, allowing the client to focus on their own company. Champ also does: window cleaning (with the big pole!) carpet extraction plus floor polishing, and strip and seal.

Champ is multi-skilled, and we try to provide many services for our clients’ needs.

Do you enjoy cleaning?

Funnily enough, I really do. It’s the self satisfaction of seeing the establishment clean ready for the client and their patrons. You have to have the right attitude to be a cleaner, ‘cause hey ... it’s cleaning dunnies! Not the most glamorous job out there.

What makes Champ Cleaning different from other cleaning companies on the Coffs Coast?

Champ only services commercial clients. We have multiple facets of cleaning services. I want Champ to be a one stop shop for commercial clients. We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of the cleaning industry in the means of technology, equipment and methods. Continuous education is important to me and my team. Work smart, not hard - but right!

22 coffs coast focus.

Mobile phone repairs Located in Central Arcade on Harbour Drive, right in the centre of town, Mobile Phone Repairs Coffs Harbour offers a friendly and professional service to repair your broken device or laptop, including warranty on all parts used and a 90 day guarantee on all repairs.

MPR Coffs stock a large range of high quality CMI and iFace phone and tablet covers, as well as Genuine Lifeproof and Otter box covers.

The popular Fidget Spinners are now also available in store, together with a great range of refurbished phones for sale.

Repair services include all makes of mobile phones, tablets, iPods, laptops, headphones and remote controls, and store owner Derek Anderson specialises in micro-soldering and tricky motherboard repairs.

If you need a repair or a free quote, call in and see Derek and the team …

Don’t let your phone croak!

focusinterview.

Photo credit: Brandt Mackney.

JENNIFER ARNOLD GREW UP IN PORT MACQUARIE, WHICH IS WHERE HER LOVE FOR THE BEACH AND SURF LIFESTYLE DEVELOPED. SINCE THEN, JEN’S MOVED A LITTLE NORTH (TO NAMBUCCA) AND SHE’S DEVELOPED A BEAUTIFUL RANGE OF JEWELLERY CREATED WITH SEA GLASS - TRUE SALTY SEA TREASURES!

H

i Jen. What's your background?

I moved to Port Macquarie at a young age, and it was where I discovered my love for the ocean! I've enjoyed working in the community of Port Macquarie surf coaching, running health programs and volunteering at various events.

I feel fortunate to have grown up and become who I am along this beautiful stretch of coastline.

I am now actually located in the Nambucca Valley ...

You're a beach lover (and keen surfer too!)

What is it you most love about our local beaches?

Yes! The ocean is a massive part of my soul!

There are a great variety of coastline walks, surfing beaches and captivating lookouts! It’s a truly lovely part of the coast.

You've started designing some stunning pieces of jewellery, under the name of "Salty Sea Treasures". Where did the idea for this concept come originate?

Thank you! Salty Sea Treasures is a creative way of expressing myself and my love for the ocean! On my beach walks I began finding sea glass and acquired a small collection. I decided they were too pretty to keep in my pocket or at home, so started turning them into jewellery - orignally just for me and gifts for friends, but then people started enquiring, so I decided to set up a small business.

Sea glass has a really interesting story behind it, because each piece is so unique and has been tumbled by the ocean for anywhere up to 50 years! There are so many colours and variations in shape and size, and it’s characterised by its smooth texture and frosted appearance. It’s also a fantastic demonstration of how nature is able to recycle broken glass into an exquisite gemstone like treasure! Therefore, you can see where the name has come from ... Salty Sea Treasures!

There’s something really special about finding the glass on the beach and knowing it was formed amongst my favourite place in the world!

What are some of the materials you use to create your designs?

I mainly use sea glass to create my pendants, necklaces and rings, but I sometimes incorporate crystals too, especially for custom orders. I wire wrap these pieces in various styles and am always looking to evolve and create new concepts. It is rare to see two pieces the same!

Describe a few of the favourite pieces you've created to date ...

Well, I was very humbled to be asked by my friend to create rings for their surprise beachside wedding! They were presented in abalone shells in a gorgeous ceremony by the sea.

I also love the wave style ring, which is quite popular. I get stoked finding aqua coloured sea glass, as it is super rare around the beaches I comb, and the colour is just stunning.

How long does it typically take to create

I was very humbled to be nd to d aske by my frie r ei th r fo create ring s e id hs ac be surprise e er w ey Th ! ng weddi e on al presented in ab us eo rg shells in a go e se a.” ceremony by th

“

your jewellery pieces, and what are some of the processes involved?

Depending on design and how intricate the details are, creation time can vary. You can generally guarantee your piece will be created and shipped to you within two weeks of ordering.

In regards to the process, I don’t like to make too many alterations to the sea glass, much preferring to emphasise the design and wire wrap around the original shape.

What do you feel your designs say about you, and your personality?

My designs are pretty unique and fun, and I just go with the vibe I am feeling for each piece.

I do enjoy making collections based upon wire colour, wrapping style or specific colour of sea glass.

I enjoy experimenting with different techniques; it’s all spontaneous and twisty and just like the ocean I guess - no wave is exactly the same! Same with the jewellery … I just have fun with it, and it’s a great way to express myself and share my passion.

Where can we see samples of your work, and make purchases?

I have lots of photos of my work and an online shop on Facebook and Instagram. Feel free to message me on there to enquire/order (details below).

As mentioned, I'm based in the Nambucca Valley and I have a store display in Macksville.

Also, I have just started building an Etsy page for easy ordering too (details below).

Final say …

One of my favourite parts of creating the jewellery is being able to give back to the community. I am grateful for the ocean lifestyle I live and get a kick out of giving back to the grassroots surf organisations/clubs/ competitions.

I am a sponsor of the Sawtell Boardriders Club.

I have also sponsored the LoggerHeads Malibu Classic at Scotts Head and the Barney Miller Surf Charity Classic. I am open to new stockists and would love to have my designs displayed in stores!

Thank you for this opportunity; I hope you enjoy my designs and keep posted for new treasures!

Stay salty!

Facebook Salty Sea Treasures Instagram: @salty_sea_treasures Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/ JenlovesSST?ref=hdr_shop_menu Thanks Jen. Interview by Jo Robinson. coffs coast focus. 23

thai pack from seasalt fish and chips.

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

24 coffs coast focus.

to seeing you.

a go at O.P 81 café.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011

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

Maple & Seeded Mustard Pork Sirloin

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey the hoey moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey

The Buddha bowl

Welcome the Beachside Bistrokitchen. at the Hoey Moey withto our newly renovated We Moey, Harbour’s onlyHarbour hotel with are the Coffs only hotel in Coffs withdirect direct beach access. access. Come Comeand andenjoy enjoyour a fantastic beach beachside meal with in ourspacious newly renovated all weather hotel beer garden, Beer Garden, bar, bistro, Kids' open plan bar,open bistro,plan drive thru bottle shop Room, Drive Thru Bottleshop and TAB & Keno and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new facilities.

Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection Sign up for a Hoey Members Cardeat today to choose from and Moey you can have these fororfantastic bistro, barinand specials. in takeaway.

Come andbottleshop check out our Visit our website all the ahead details.for pick-up. takeaway specials for or phone IfThe a pizza not what youFood, are after FAMOUS HoeyisMoey!

Great Live our Music, Good $7.50 Times.FEEDS are always available daily.

mr. good beans Palate We pride ourselves& on Ply bringing a personalised service and product: a finely As the espresso cooler weather approaches, so do your winter warmercafé favourites. tuned coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet food Palate and Ply Espresso Bar is running their in famous and Mars inspired Hot Chocolates.

Or, create your own flavour made from scratch house,Bounty and a friendly, comfortable experience to all sensation ourthe wide variety who walk using through café door.of flavour syrups.

Head HeadChef Chef David Ricketts.

Gus Prezioso.

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

Our chefs have been busy creating a Middle Buddha Bowl for your morning Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilledEastern chickeninspired salad this spring, energy boost.

This hearty dish uses a variety of fresh and local ingredients, made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olivesincluding quinoa, chickpeas, and roasted vegetables, all with a Moroccan twist, topped with a house made harissa and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet Chef a spiced dressing and chia seeds. The Buddha Bowl is full of flavour and will be sure Head to become Kristy Deveson. potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. winter favourite!

Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring We are open from 6:30am Monday through Saturday, so come in and see the team to kick off light, yet very satisfying. your day the right way.

Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans

Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach 37 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour 6656 4511 HQ www.mrgoodbeans.com.au Wholesale enquiries 0476 131 311 Palate & Ply Espresso Bar 0434 700 910

Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm andMonday Sundaysto8am – 3pm Friday, 6:30 - 4:30pm.

Saturday 6:30 - 2pm.

coffs coast focus.

Chargrilled eye fillet with kumera parsnip mash, broccolini, petit onions, blistered cherry tomatoes & horseradish jus

Balsamic glazed vegetable medley stack on a garlic herbed mashed potato, wilted baby spinach and a charming house red wine.

Spinifex Restaurant

horizons restaurant & bar

Spinifex Restaurant at The Coast Hotel Has a brand new menu coming out this month, with something to excite everyone’s taste buds.

Celebrate with Us! June is Birthday Month in Horizons!

If you dine in Horizons on your actual birthday, you will receive your main course free! Photo ID must be shown.

Friday and Saturday nights we have live entertainment provided by local singer songwriter Billie Jo in the Bistro from 6pm - 9pm, creating a relaxed vibe to your dining enjoyment.

Every Wednesday night with every full priced meal you can receive ONE kid’s meal for FREE.

33

Head Chef Chas Vaughn & Sou Chef Kanella Ormsby

Try Our Winter Dinner Menu Warm up this winter and get out of the cold at Horizons Restaurant and Bar at Opal Cove Resort with a creative menu. Be tempted with the Hervey Bay scallops on a herb potato cake, crisp prosciutto and hollandaise sauce, OR chargrilled eye fillet with kumera parsnip mash, broccolini, petit onions, blistered cherry tomatoes and horseradish jus. Remember to leave room for dessert, with the decedent deep fried salted caramel ice cream balls with chocolate fudge sauce, yum!

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

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

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

Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

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

coffs coast focus. 25

JC ESPRESSO Jc Espresso is a boutique coffee shop hidden away in the heart of Coffs Harbour.

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

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

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

We source only the best fresh fish from our local seafood supplier “Hux’s 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.

The local team at Artisti Coffee Roasters provides Jc Espresso with their top quality signature blend coffee and by using top of the range equipment, each bean is roasted consistently and perfectly. The milk that ensures a quality cup of coffee every time is Big River Milk, which is a local independent farm

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

11am - 7:30pm.

of the • espresso martini •

The crew at Element Bar on the Jetty Strip are known for serving up an absolute gem of this all time classic, with their own special twist. With a blend of fresh espresso coffee, premium vodka, coffee liqueur and chocolate crème liqueur, it’s the perfect autumn evening indulgence.

26 coffs coast focus.

Nestled on the side of the Caltex on Orlando Street, Jc Espresso specialises in grab and go boutique coffee. Jasmine and Clark are a local Coffs Harbour family whose passion for coffee drove them to open their own takeaway coffee shop in December 2015, which has consistently grown from the efficiently delicious coffee, fast and friendly service that all customers receive.

located in the Clarence Valley.

At Jc Espresso we use top quality La Marzocco equipment, which ensures every cup to be consistent and delicious.

We don’t just sell hot coffee, we also stock the Chamellia Tea range, brew our own cold drip, serve locally made health balls and biscuits and sell a range of reusable takeaway coffee cups, both thermos and biodegradable keep cups.

Jasmine has also recently branched out by making her own all natural, no preservatives and no additives coffee body scrub. Coffee body scrub has amazing benefits, by tightening, toning, detoxifying and moisturising your skin. Jc Espresso is open Monday - Saturday ‘til 12pm, so if you’re a local or a tourist and have a love for good quality coffee, then Jc Espresso is a place you must visit!

Coffs harbour Fishermen’s co-op The Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-operative is the perfect meeting place between local fishermen and fresh seafood lovers.

We have been around since the early 1950s and are owned by about 50 local fishermen. They supply us with fresh seafood almost every day, which you can buy straight off their boats through our retail store, takeaway, and now directly from our website.

We sell all our locally caught fish, including our famous and award winning Snapper, Whiting, Flathead, Pearl Perch, Kingfish, Tuna (perfect for sashimi), Mackerel, Swordfish, Mahi Mahi, Marlin, and others. We also catch delicious prawns, lobsters, Balmain Bugs and crabs. In addition to locally caught produce, we stock the standard staples you’d expect to see, so that we can always provide you a full range of seafood.

What’s more, we deliver!

That’s right, we are the only seafood outlet in the Coffs Harbour area that delivers fresh seafood right to your door! You can order directly from our website, and we will leave you a cooler full of the very best local seafood at your home or business. There is no need to drive down to the jetty. We will deliver any day of the week, from Arrawarra to Nambucca!

twenty 46 Coffs Harbour’s newest café, located on the beautiful jetty strip. When looking for a bite to eat on the Coffs Harbour jetty strip, wander into Twenty46 on Harbour Drive for a gourmet style breakfast or lunch.

New to the café circuit, a wooden accented interior creates a cool, coastal vibe for easy, relaxed dining, or choose to eat outside and watch the world pass by. Early risers may be tempted by avocado crostini - toasted sourdough topped with avocado, rocket, tomato, goats cheese and served with paprika aioli, paired with an Adore coffee. Those dining later can wrap their hands around a Cape Byron steak sandwich with lightly toasted sourdough, house plum jam, steak, caramelised red onion and cos lettuce, finished with bacon aioli and served with hand cut chips. While for lighter eaters, the sticky pork and mango salad with noodles is a tempting option.

394 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales. @twenty46coffeehouse Call (02) 5615 8227.

coffs coast focus. 27

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

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coffs coast focus. 29

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

These brands have created a le , and lifestyle for peop e w this is something ffs Co to want to bring t our Harbour. We wan as be to s er custom t their passionate abou we as ns shoe collectio .” are of ours

“

AMY GRAEME

wright

AMY AND GRAEME WRIGHT ARE THE OWNERS OF LOCAL STREETWEAR STORE, EDEGREES. THEY HAVE THE BEST RANGE OF FOOTWEAR AND STREETWEAR ON THE NORTH COAST. FOCUS HAD A CHAT TO THE SUCCESSFUL COUPLE TO FIND OUT MORE ... hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

We’ve both grown up in the area and are proud to call the Coffs Coast our home.

We enjoy travelling, but it’s nice to come home to such a beautiful place.

Tell us about your business and what you specialise in.

We are a streetwear store specialising in footwear, clothing and records and other fun stuff. Over the years, we have worked very hard to build a collection of labels that reflect our passion for street culture. We like to be individual; why copy the store around the corner that’s unoriginal and boring! Our most specialised area would be footwear. Our labels are some of the biggest and most popular in the world: Nike, Adidas, Converse, Dr Martens and Vans. We focus on the street fashion side of these labels and offer styles that no one else in Coffs Harbour can. Most people will have also noticed we share our space with some of the Coffs Coast’s most talented barbers. Tim from Turnstyles Barbers shares our passion for street culture; this collaboration sets us apart from the rest and has created an amazing atmosphere in our store.

You have recently closed the doors to your Coffs Central store. Why? It’s a lot of work having your own business, but add 30 coffs coast focus.

in a second location, and your workload doubles. It’s been 10 years of having two stores, and we just felt like it was time. At some point you need to put your family first! Amy has lost both her parents to cancer in recent years, and it makes you realise that life’s short! Our Park Beach Plaza store has always been the stronger store, and we decided it was time to simplify our lives and downsize. We now have more time to focus on our business and time to spend with our kids, making memories and enjoying some quality family time. It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but now we look back and are so glad we did it!

Have you got any new plans happening in 2017?

We might have a few things up our sleeves, but for now we are focusing on our footwear section.

Having recently taken a trip to the US, we spent a bit of time watching people’s feet! The sneaker industry is fascinating. Sneakers can be highly collectable, and people will pay big money for rare Nikes and Adidas from years gone by. These brands have created a lifestyle for people, and this is something we want to bring to Coffs Harbour. We want our customers to be as passionate about their shoe collections as we are of ours.

What are the fashion trends for winter?

Well, you’ve probably already noticed pink is in!

Pastel colours are very prominent this winter in clothing and footwear. Lighter, washed out, torn denim is also in

the mix. Many footwear labels are seeing a resurrection of historic profiles, Vans with The Old Skool or Adidas with The Gazelle or Superstar. Converse One Stars are also making a comeback.

What makes your business different to other businesses in the same industry?

Hmm ... Well, I guess the fact that we strive for individuality and uniqueness to give our store its own identity. Being different to other stores is important to us; it makes us work harder! Because we are an independent store, we can, more or less, stock whatever we want, so this gives us the freedom to keep an eclectic mix, hopefully making your visit to eDegrees an interesting one! Whether it’s Calvin Klein underwear you’re after or your favourite NBA player as a figurine, a quirky book or a pair of bright and crazy socks, hopefully you’ll find something cool in our store! We don’t want to be just another clothing store. Retail has changed, so in order to compete with online shopping you have to make your customers’ shopping experience a unique one. Great products, great service and a welcoming smile!

Where else can we find more information?

We are trying to focus some time on building our online presence. Most of our time is spent posting on Instagram, so follow us; you won’t regret it!

Thanks Amy and Graeme.

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

J E T T Y T H E AT R E

I started photographing professionally in 2008, mainly specialising in family, children and wedding portraiture. I love natural light and the textures of the outdoors. We now have a full service studio, which means we can create amazing wall art, prints and albums for clients to enjoy in their homes. We also have loads of props for capturing those bumps, babes and little people.

I am accredited with the AIPP - Australian Institute of Professional Photographers. My promise to you is this: wonderful memories captured, professional service, and quality products.

We welcome any out of town clients to book a photography session with me. I would love to capture your family, your newborn baby, or be there to share in your special wedding day.

Are you a writer? Do you dabble with wordplay? The Sydney Writer’s Festival will be livestreamed direct to the Jetty Theatre (May 26 - 28) with panels, keynotes, and discussions live from the Sydney Opera House!

On May 30, the Griffin Theatre Company comes to Coffs Harbour for a quirky one-man show of Roald Dahl’s The Witches.

Cinematinee takes on a regional French flavour with drama The Country Doctor (June 1) and romantic comedy Un Plus Une (June 8) for French film lovers.

Tickets are also now on sale for the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow (July 1) and the Melbourne Ballet presenting their new touring program Empyrean (July 9).

For bookings and information, call the Jetty Memorial Theatre Box Office on (02) 6648 4930 or visit www.jettytheatre.com

Upcoming Shows ONE SHOW ONLY!

The Witches by Roald Dahl Griffin Theatre Company presents the incredible stage show!

Show: Tue 30 May

The Country Doctor (French with English subs)

Thu 1 Jun Screening: 10.30am, 1.30 & 6pm jettymemorialtheatre

OPEN DAY

Open Day & Fundraiser

A day of celebration and fundraising for our community’s beautiful theatre.

Show: Sun 25 Jun

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow The biggest, best, and funniest stand-up comedy tour!

Show: Sat 1 Jul jettymemorialtheatre

@jettytheatre

TOURING SHOW

I specialise in maternity and newborn photography, family portraiture and child portraiture. There is something about new life growing inside a mother that is miraculous and should be celebrated. Those first few weeks when a baby is born are so precious. “… Because they are only this little once” - Ali Russell

artREACH’s first performance is Tenori, three powerful tenors who met while touring internationally with The Ten Tenors. Tenori will perform at Woolgoolga Community Hall (May 26) and Coramba Hall (May 27).

CINEMATINEE

If you would like more information about our Bridal Fair or to book a last minute site, please phone Heidi on (02) 6569 5555 or email info@vallabeachtouristpark.com.au

RU S S E L L

Thursday fortnights

This year our fashion parade is proudly organised and presented

by Melanie Jayne, and it will be fantastic. Melanie creates beautiful wedding gowns for brides all over Australia, and they are exquisite. Valla Beach Bridal Fair will be a day full of colour, inspiration, fun and live entertainment - an event not to be missed. Entry will be by gold coin donation, which will be donated to a local charity.

ALI

Arts and culture comes to the outliers of the Coffs Coast with the new artREACH program, bringing an ongoing program of live entertainment performances to towns and hamlets around the region.

SPECIAL EVENT

The countdown is on for the Valla Beach Bridal Fair. It will again be held at the Valla Beach Tourist Park, on Sunday 16th July 2017. Come be inspired by our local area’s most fabulous wedding providers. Our creative exhibitors will be showcasing their work and showing off their wedding services. This down to earth event is filled with genuine, helpful businesses that will assist with all your wedding questions, big or small. Exhibitors include an array of local wedding services: stunning wedding gowns by Melanie Jayne, bridal hair and makeup, photographers, videographers, celebrants, stylists and decorators, catering services, car hire, gold flaked champagne, and much, much more.

JUNE LINEUP

TOURING SHOW

VA L L A B E A C H B R I D A L F A I R

Proudly supported by

Box office hours Tues to Fri 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 6648 4930 | 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour

coffs coast focus. 31

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

TAFE AWARDS BOTH GRADUATES AND CONTINUING STUDENTS OF TAFE NSW IN COFFS HARBOUR AND BELLINGEN HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED AT A RECENT AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE EVENT.

S

tudents were presented with awards portunity to study only a short drive from Bellof merit and awards of excellence in ingen, Dominic credits much of his expertise each teaching section represented and support in the profession to his teachers. across both campuses. Students “My teachers at the Coffs Harbour Education acknowledged for their determinaCampus have been extremely supportive of me tion and success came from popular areas of throughout my studies. They are always there study like aged care, business and accounting, for anything I need and have really helped construction trades, health, nursing, along me during my studies.” After completing his with the more specialised areas of study studies, Dominic hopes to open his such as furniture design and own establishment in Bellingen. visual arts.

Often asked about his age The Leader, Comand the desire to study munity & Business later in life, Dominic Students r their acknowledged fo ess Engagement, Megan offers some words of d succ determination an r areas Hill, says the event wisdom to others la came from popu care , reflected the unsure of whether ed of study like ag outstanding talent to start their study g, tin coun business and ac , th and achievements al later in life. “It’s he , es construction trad the of students from never too late in life ith w g nursing, alon of s ea ar across the Coffs to start something.” ed lis ia more spec re itu rn fu Coast and Bellingen Other award as ch su study arts .” al su vi Shire. “It’s amazing recipients included d an gn desi to see so many of our Willow Driver (2016 students acknowledged by TVET Student of the Year) their teachers for the efforts and Jo-Anne Bertram (2016 each put into their study. These Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander recipients demonstrate a quality approach Student of the Year). Recently featured to their education and reflect attributes in the April edition of FOCUS, Willow was sought after by industry.” Coupled with recognised for his outstanding commitment to the awards of merit and awards of excellence, the photography and videography profession. a select few students were presented with At just 17, he has started his own business major awards. and has worked on campaigns for clients such Apprentice chef and Certificate III Commeras Denise Knight, the World Rally Champicial Cookery student, Dominic Elmaloglou, was onship and TAFE NSW. Jo-Anne Bertram was awarded 2016 Apprentice of The Year and awarded based on the support she provided overall 2016 Student of The Year. After just fellow students throughout her qualification 18 months of study, Dominic was recognised in Education Support. Jo-Anne would often by the minister for Trade, Tourism and Major come into class early to support her peers with Events, Stuart Ayres, as a part of the 2016 technology, assessments and what she had Tourism and Hospitality Student Achiever learned throughout her own study. Her passion Awards at Parliament House. At 37 and after for supporting students was also evident with working for many years as a kitchen hand, the TAFE play session environment, where she Dominic decided it was time to finally become developed strong relationships with students qualified. “I moved to Bellingen with my family and teachers from local primary schools. Jo has from Sydney and wanted to ensure my skills completed work placement and has undertakwere formally recognised.” Lauding the open employment with a local school.

“

32 coffs coast focus.

COMICS

RUN

ON THE

ON SATURDAY 3RD JUNE 2017, CAMP QUALITY WILL HAVE OUR ANNUAL COMICS ON THE RUN FUNDRAISER AT SAWTELL RSL, TO SUPPORT LOCAL KIDS LIVING WITH CANCER.

T

ommy Dean genuinely missing out.

Headlining this year’s Comics Brett Nichols on the Run is the hilarious Brett has become a regular headline act on Tommy Dean! both the Sydney and national comedy circuits, Arizona raised, now resident as well as strutting his stuff on The Footy in Sydney, stand-up star Tommy Dean is well Show, Stand Up Australia, and Last Comic known amongst Australia’s headline comedy Standing. Brett’s versatility and ad-libbing artists. Tommy’s astute, clean, excellence see him transform every observational comedic style show into a night his audience consistently make him a will never forget. stand out winner with Sarah Levett audiences across his Sarah is widely d adopted nation.

On Saturday 3r regarded as comedy’s p Tommy Dean June 2017, Cam r ei th love child, having has a unique Quality will have on s ic m performed soldCo l ua understanding Ann raiser at nd Fu n Ru out tours from the e th of Australia, its RSL, to support ll te w Sa USA to the Sydney audiences and l kids living with ca lo and Melbourne above all, what

“

cancer.”

makes us laugh.

With his brilliantly insightful and clean humour, genial manner and hilarious routines, Tommy never fails to connect with and impress any audience.

Tommy is in high demand on the live circuit, and is a regular headline act in comedy venues around Australia. He has also performed in many of the leading comedy clubs in the USA as well as New Zealand, North America, Europe and South East Asia.

You would no doubt have seen Tommy on countless TV shows, including: Spick and Specks, Good News Week, Stand Up Australia, Joker Poker, Rove Live, The Sideshow, Sunrise, Thank God it's Friday, and The Today Show. He is a true master of observational comedy and if you have never seen Tommy Dean, you are

International Comedy Festivals. Amongst Sarah’s unique traits is her courage to never just “hide behind the funny” but to bare her soul to make a deeper personal connection with her audience.

MC Barry McLeod Tying the show together is one of Australia’s leading MCs and corporate comedians, Barry McLeod, whose knack to fuel the audience and bring them along for the journey is second to none.

Tickets are only $40 each and can be purchased at the Sawtell RSL or phone (02) 6653 1577.

Please join us in supporting local kids living with cancer! Together, let’s make laughter the best medicine!

focusinterview.

JAMES mifsud

WOOLGOOLGA LOCAL JAMES MIFSUD HAS BEEN A TATTOO ARTIST FOR TWELVE YEARS AND SPECIALISES IN BODY SUITS, FULL COLOUR AND JAPANESE AND NEO TRADITIONAL STYLES. FOCUS WENT TO HIS STUDIO TO CHECK OUT HIS WORK AND FIND OUT HOW IT’S DONE.

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I’ve lived on the Coffs Coast since I was young, going to Woolgoolga Public School and doing all of high school in Woopi too. It’s an awesome place to grow up and good to be classed as a local by the community.

What inspired you to become a tattoo artist, and how long have you been doing it?

I have always had a love for art. I drew any chance I had while growing up and did art all through school.

I started tattooing at Absolute Tattoo twelve years ago. I was in the shop from day one and am thankful for the opportunity. I now manage the shop, as well as being a fulltime artist, working alongside an awesome crew: Megan, Cameron, Shaun, Nick and assistants Rohey and Ben. What do you love about tattooing people, and are there any challenges?

Everybody is different in skin and life experiences. You make a connection with the client in the chair, and they all have story to tell. I have made many close friends over

the years with all my repeat customers. It’s the ink very well. a great experience when they are so happy My advice is look at the artist’s portfolio, with their tattoo. It gives them and myself a do a bit of research on them and then listen feeling of satisfaction. their advice, because a good tattoo artist There are challenges every day will want the tattoo to look even when tattooing depending better than you do. on the client’s skin, the Are tattoos becoming tattoo placement, more popular?

You make a design, and the list I think tattoos are connection with goes on. It's part and becoming more the chair, in nt ie cl e th parcel of being a popular, because it is story and they all have tattooist. seen more as a work e ad to tell. I have m s over What is Neo of art these days than nd ie fr many close y m l Traditional style in just a tattoo. It’s not al ith w s the year s.” er tattooing? just a bikie, sailor or om st cu at repe Neo Traditional bad boy thing; it’s artists tattoos are a modern doing what they love take on old school tattoos, doing, and people from all using more bold and thin walks of life getting ink is much line work and a bit more colour to more widely accepted. make it a little more realistic than the Can you tell us a bit about your traditional tattoo. They are fun to do creative process? How do you come up and look great forever. with new designs?

What advice would you give someone People who book in with me sometimes considering their first tattoo? leave the whole process and design up to A lot of people make the mistake of going me, which is challenging but also satisfying too small for their first tattoo or getting it at the same time. I do like to get some sort of in the wrong position. Tattoos change over reference from them, to get what is in their time, and some parts of the body don’t hold head into mine and vice versa.

“

We do as much custom work at Absolute as possible.

Giving our clients a one off piece is done in many ways, such as drawing or using Photoshop, depending on the style and clients’ needs.

You specialise in body suits. Are there special techniques or skills needed for this, and how long can it take to complete a full body suit?

Doing big jobs such as sleeves and body suits takes a lot of thought, preparation and commitment from both the artist and the client. Many hours are spent designing and under the needle, depending if it is colour or black and grey and what the theme is made up of. If it is detailed, smaller needles are used.

Covering large areas can take years and depends a lot on the client’s availability to get the work done.

Where can people see more of your work?

People can see more of my work on Instagram: jamesmifsud or on the Absolute Tattoo website: absolutetattoo.com.au I also have a portfolio at the shop in Woolgoolga.

Thanks James. coffs coast focus. 33

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

COFFS HARBOUR C R E AT I V E A RT S G RO U P Do you want to paint … to draw … and enjoy other creative arts?

Coffs Harbour Creative Arts Group Showground Gallery and Workshop is home to a community of artists with diverse interests, who meet to learn, experience and enjoy a variety of artistic pursuits and social interaction.

Classes and workshops are held throughout the year with experienced and visiting tutors in acrylics, pastels, oils, drawing, life drawing, watercolours, fibre arts, spinning and weaving, calligraphy, art classes for kids, photography and more.

There are social days too, where artists just meet and work together in a friendly, enjoyable atmosphere.

There is something for artists at all levels. You don’t have to be an experienced artist to join in, just willing to have a go - we encourage beginners …it’s where we all started!

In our small and intimate gallery, we hold member exhibitions, opening events and social functions as an active part of the local art community. Our exhibitions are always changing, with original artworks for sale.

COFFS HARBOUR

ADVANCE SCREENING Wednesday 14 June

Drinks from 6.30pm - Film starts 7pm

IN CINEMAS JUNE 15

TICKETS NOW ON SALE STANDARD TICKETS $26* Buy your tickets at eventcinemas.com.au facebook.com/chicksattheflicks

CHICKS AT THE FLICKS IS ASSOCIATED WITH:

@chicksattheflicks #catfevent

*PLUS ONLINE BOOKING FEE.

COFFS HARBOUR

34 coffs coast focus.

Classes run for eight weeks during the school terms.

Upcoming workshops: July 3 - 4 - “Flora Fantastica” - a Mixed Media two-day workshop with Sarah Mufford.

July 11th - a one-day workshop - Pen & Wash “Old buildings and Sheds” with Ivinnie Brown. August 26 - 27, for something different - Sketch, collage and paint, an Abstraction Workshop with Darryl Gibbs.

Learn to crochet on Saturday mornings, and other exciting workshops are being planned throughout the year.

T H E A R T FAC T O RY The Art Factory has been part of the Coffs Harbour community for 25 years. Our business focus is the making of quality custom picture frames. With over 30 years’ industry experience, we are able to offer our customers informed advice on a wide variety of treatments for the presentation of their favoured piece of artwork or memorabilia. We work with our customers to find a solution for their individual needs, taking into account the artwork, as well as considering their personal taste and décor.

Whether you require the mounting of an original painting or photograph on canvas, whether your artwork is a collectable piece, family photo or sporting memorabilia, it will be treated with the same care and attention to detail.

We offer advice on conservation and restoration, utilising both in house and external services.

With two exhibition spaces, we also showcase original work by local artists. We currently have an exhibition of work by well known sculptor John Van der Kolk, printed work on glass by JP Willis, paintings by Sara Bowen and sketches by Geogina Lucock.

Please call us if you wish to be added to our mailing list for exhibitions.

We are conveniently located in Orlando Street, with parking at our door, so calling in for a quote or collecting finished work is made very easy.

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

2017 ORARA valley fair

The fair celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, and it began as a picnic day for the locals. The reserve itself, which straddles the Orara River, was originally set aside in the 19th Century as a watering reserve for livestock.

Jo Fenwick tells us more about what we can expect at this year’s event ...

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ell us about the history of the Orara Valley Fair.

The President of the first official Orara Valley Fair, Doug Hoschke, said fundraising began because money was needed to pay back a bank loan taken out to replace the floor of the Historic 1908 Upper Orara Hall.

“We had to raise a hundred pounds a year, so we decided to run a sports day and once we paid off the money for the hall, we came up with the idea of smartening up the recreation ground and building new amenities,” Doug said.

And that tradition continues to today, where the money is put back into the community. Activities from early fairs which remain on the program today include woodchopping and children’s races and games, both still very popular. Over the 40 years the fair has grown from being a purely local outing to a major Coffs Coast event, attracting thousands of people to the riverside recreation ground, set among fertile farmland.

Many years ago, the fair outgrew the recreation ground itself, and today it is able to be run only by the grace and goodwill of kindly neighbouring farmers Troy Blackman and Waterfall Agriculture and Sharon and Steve Blackmore, who give up their paddocks so people can park their cars and tractor-

The wood chopping program will include drawn hay rides, pony rides, helicopter tree-felling, a special event which is rarely held rides and other space-hungry events can be today. Entertainment is by the ever popular included on the program.

Tallowood Bush Band, backed up by Sawtell’s Who are the organisers of the event? backyard balladeer Errol Gray and local The fair, which is non-profit, is still run dancers and performers. As well, the Upper by a community committee of Upper Orara Orara Hall will be open, with a quilt display in residents with the help of hundreds of conjunction with the fair. The fair other local volunteers on the day. will also showcase the work of We would still welcome more Landcare and Rivercare, with volunteers if anyone is e displays of local problem interested to help out on This year, for th ir is weeds, information on the day. first time, the fa EAP Food how to improve soils The event will be working with R ed the and biodiversity and Rescue to help fe ise celebrating its 40th im talks on a variety of hungry and min year this year. What ing waste by collect er for topics. can we expect? ov usable food left Can you tell us about The fair will be held meless ho to n tio bu distri the charities you will on Monday 12th June local people .” be raising money for? from 9:30am to 4pm and In four decades the is offering something for fair has raised hundreds every age. There will be the of thousands of dollars, not very popular working vintage farm only by donating the profits from machinery from the Orara Vintage Farm the fair, but also by paying community Machinery Museum, wood chopping groups to provide services and by allowing competitions, tractor-drawn hay rides, schools, preschools, community groups and farm tours with Waterfall Agriculture, horse organisations to raise funds through stalls and rides, whip cracking demonstrations, free activities. circus workshops, reptile and farm animals, Different local charities are selected for bungy bounce, children’s races, a guess-thesupport each year by the committee as weight of the steer competition, a jumping soon as the bills for the fair are paid and the castle, rural fire displays and lots of stalls, a amount available for distribution is known. In wide variety of food will be available.

“

2016, the fair donated almost $7,000 to eight local organisations, including Men’s Shed, Refugee Resettlement Services and Wildlife Rescue.

This year, for the first time, the fair is working with REAP Food Rescue to help feed the hungry and minimise waste by collecting usable food left over for distribution to homeless local people.

Where is the festival held?

At the Upper Orara Recreation Ground, Dairyville Road, Dairyville.

How much is the entry fee?

The cost is $5 adults and $2 school age children, with younger children free.

Where is the parking?

Parking is on the land adjacent to the Rec Ground and is marshalled by volunteers to guide you to your spot. The fair aims to provide an affordable day out for everyone, so Glenreagh Bus Service is providing a free bus service to and from the Fair from Glenreagh, Nana Glen, Coramba and Coffs Harbour. Times and pick up spots will be on our website.

Thanks Jo.

the plug!

When: Monday 12th June. 9:30am to 4pm For more info visit our Facebook: Orara Valley Fair or at www.oraravalleyfair.com.au coffs coast focus. 35

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

BOURBoN STREET

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

JUNE 1ST

JUNE 11TH

JUNE 22ND

Big T - Seaview Tavern

Lisa Hunt - Hoey Moey Aqwa - Element Bar

Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern

JUNE 14TH

JUNE 23RD

Chris Grieve - Element Bar

Josh Matheson - Seaview Tavern

Jaz + DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Secret Squirrel - Seaview Tavern Kitty Flanagan - C.ex Milo Green - Element Bar

JUNE 16TH

JUNE 24TH

JUNE 2ND Josh Matheson + DJ Bisho Hoey Moey Car Ram Rod - Seaview Tavern Tullara - Element Bar

JUNE 3RD DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Matty Devitt Duo - Seaview Tavern Jim Bird - Element Bar

JUNE 4TH Mal Eastick Band - Hoey Moey Benny Black - Seaview Tavern Paul Clement - Element Bar

JUNE 7TH

JUNE 15TH

Scott Day-vee + DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Rowland & Shekinah Seaview Tavern The Bean Project - Element Bar

JUNE 17TH

DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Downhill Bombers the Fingers - Seaview Tavern Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar

JUNE 25TH Mason Rack - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Element Bar

Jake Davey - Seaview Tavern

DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Scott Day-vee - Seaview Tavern Killer Queen - Moonee Tavern Owen Shannon - Element Bar

JUNE 9TH

JUNE 18TH

JUNE 29TH

The Stripes - Hoey Moey Jaz Salangsang - Seaview Tavern The Wiggles - C.ex Jack Churchwell - Element Bar

Mighty Ocean - Seaview Tavern

Jesse Morris - Element Bar

JUNE 8TH Jake Davey + DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Charlie Band - Seaview Tavern Hillbilly Goats - Sawtell RSL Bri Green - Element Bar

JUNE 10TH DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Ladies night with DJ Bisho Seaview Tavern Benny Black- Element Bar 36 coffs coast focus.

JUNE 21ST Billie-Jo Porter - Element Bar

JUNE 27TH Kevin Bloody Wilson - Sawtell RSL

JUNE 30TH Quick Fix + DJ Brown SugarHoey Moey The Bondi Cigars - Seaview Tavern Celine Dion Tribute - Sawtell RSL Chris Wiggins - Element Bar

AUSTRALIAN FOUR-PIECE ROCK BAND BOURBON STREET (ALL ORIGINAL MEMBERS) FORMED IN BYRON BAY, NSW, IN FEBRUARY 1987. THE BAND ENJOYED IMMEDIATE SUCCESS ON THE LIVE CIRCUIT AS A ‘70S-STYLED HIGH-ENERGY COVER BAND AND SOON BEGAN WRITING THEIR OWN SONGS.

D

uring the next six years, Bourand Rosie’s Bar & Grill, all receiving extensive bon Street played more live airplay in the Northern Rivers region of NSW. shows than any other band in The group disbanded again shortly after the Australia. They won multiple album’s release, before being lured back to awards and released three the stage by organisers of the Airlie Beach albums, before disbanding in September Music Festival in 2013. of ‘93.

Since then, Bourbon Street Their debut LP, Stronger have regrouped on a Than Dirt, released in number of occasions for ’88, featured a cover special appearances in of Neil Young’s Powtheir Northern Rivers of y Like so man ic der Finger, which area. Like so many on ic ’s ar yesterye ed became the band’s of yesteryear’s on as se bands, the e rg la aw traditional opener iconic bands, the dr ill st rockers ith the w ay pl d for live shows. seasoned rockers an ds crow enthusiasm ke -li ild ch e A young Brisstill draw large m sa the map that put them on bane-based group crowds and play o.” over 29 years ag at the time was with the same childlargely influenced by like enthusiasm that Bourbon Street and put them on the map chose this song’s title over 29 years ago. Their as their band’s namesake repertoire features fan-faves Powderfinger. Meanwhile, Stronger from their albums and a mix of Than Dirt went on to become a cult high-energy covers from The Doors, classic. It was re-pressed four times and Led Zeppelin, Stones and AC/DC. Live on YouTube, When You’re Broke is still in popular demand. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQAxIn 2003, the band regrouped and toured WVZd2-c sporadically around their native Northern Rivers area for the next few years. Their fourth album, Banned for Life (co-produced the plug!

by Powderfinger’s Ian Haug) was released in February, 2007. The album yielded three Don’t miss Bourbon Street, playing at the Hoey minor hits, with Silver Dollar, Natural Blonde Moey on Sunday 28th May.

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coffs coast focus. 37

focusinterview.

T H E

T E S K E Y

B R O T H E R S

THE RUSTIC VINTAGE VIBE OF THE TESKEY BROTHERS WILL BE THE PERFECT ACCOMPANIMENT TO THIS YEAR’S BELLO WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH JOSH TESKEY ABOUT THE PROCESS OF NAILING THEIR LATEST ALBUM AND THEIR LOVE OF MUSIC …

I

ntroduce yourselves to us; when did your We got so into the sound on the album that through love of music first begin? doing bigger shows, we have brought more members in We’ve always kind of done it our whole lives. just to mimic the sound of the recordings we have done.

I’ve always been interested in Blues and Soul Tell us about your record, Half Mile Harvest, released music. I first started playing guitar and earlier this year. What was the creative process mucking around with harmonica behind producing this album? when I was about 12 years old, so all It was a lot of fun putting this together. throughout school. We’ve always My brother, Sam, takes a real interest in n ow bl ly al dabbled in it; it’s always been old analogue equipment, and he runs re as Iw ly there on the sideline. We got our his own studio; we are lucky like away - especial vocal e th of e m first couple of gigs when we that. We decided to do this whole so with e, were around 16 in our area, album completely in analogue recordings , for m l ra achieving a natu and before that we were just and tape - we have a big old tape und. breakup in the so ce I busking. machine from the late ‘70s in his , on With my vocals , I felt And it was just your brother studio there. We didn’t use any ck was listening ba and you for quite some computers for this whole album! om fr me like they had co time before getting together We tried to get it right the first time that era.” with Liam and Brendan, now and enjoyed mucking around with all branching out and incorporating that old equipment. more members than ever before …

Having recorded the album completely Well, I guess we still consider the main non-digitally, it really is reflected on the Teskey Brothers just the four of us, and then to add album with that old Bluesy vibe. Do you feel the horns and a few more members mainly because like you’ve nailed the sound you were going for? we are in a recording process; that’s how we have Totally! All our influences and all the stuff I’m really always recorded. into; all those old records have that sound ... And with this

“

38 coffs coast focus.

analogue recording, we discovered there’s not really any other way to mimic it.

I was really blown away - especially with some of the vocal recordings, for me, achieving a natural breakup in the sound. With my vocals, once I was listening back, I felt like they had come from that era. So, I was really happy with the process.

What are you looking forward to about playing Bello Music Festival?

We really can’t wait to get up there. We’ve heard some fantastic things about the festival, with all the bands that are playing. There are some friends of ours, and we can’t wait to mingle in with the other artists and check out what this thing’s all about. Not to mention, it’s going to be getting pretty cold around that time, so hopefully it’s a little bit warmer up north than down here in Victoria!

I’m going to be getting up and singing some songs with a whole bunch of other singers from around the festival, which sounds like an absolute blast.

Thanks Josh.

plug!

Don’t miss the Teskey Brothers at the Bello Winter Music Festival, July 6 - 9. http://www.bellowintermusic.com/

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

CHERYL Cooper

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

My parents emigrated to Australia from the UK in 1971, and we ended up living in Coffs Harbour later that year. I finished high school here, but went away for uni and work and returned in 2000 to make it my long-term home. I just love it.

How long has the Coffs City Choir been going, and who is involved?

Established in 1990, the Coffs City Choir is one of the oldest choirs in the area. The choir sings in four parts, soprano, alto, tenor and bass and our members all come from the Coffs Coast, from the northern beaches down to Sawtell.

Our members all love to sing, and it’s this love of singing that has seen the choir survive for so many years and through a number of conductors and venue changes.

Our oldest member and one of the founding members just retired aged 88, and we have a newcomer who would be in her late 20s or early 30s. There are no age barriers to the joy of singing.

Why did you join the choir, and what is your role?

I’ve been with the choir for 18 months, but have been singing now for about 10 years. I sing with the alto section, which is great fun as we generally sing the harmony, so it’s a challenge and sounds so lovely once we learn our part. I’m also the secretary and look after

Cheryl Cooper has always loved music, but was surprised at first when people told her she could sing. Nevertheless, she took up the challenge and has been singing in choirs ever since. FOCUS talked to Cheryl about her part in the Coffs City Choir, their need for more male members and bringing joy to residents of aged care centres. the social media and publicity.

When did you realise your passion for music, and how do you incorporate this into your life?

I’ve always loved music. Growing up, my father inspired me, as he had a large record collection with everything from opera to pop.

I came to singing later in life when a friend dragged me to a week-long singing course, and I was amazed that people felt I could do more than sing in the shower!

I couldn’t read music, so I have been teaching myself that and recently started piano lessons. I find music so good for my wellbeing too. If I am tired and don’t feel like choir practice, I know I will come out of it feeling great at the end.

How important is a conductor in a choir?

Personally, I think they can make or break a choir. We have been very lucky to find Linda Cochrane, who has really lifted both our skills and our spirits. Linda is the glue that takes twenty or so different voices and personalities and binds them into one beautiful harmonious sound. Our rehearsals are full of laughter and encouragement, and we can all hear how things are being polished. We do sing without Linda being with us at times, but it’s her skills that enable that to happen.

What does an accompanying pianist bring to the choir?

I’m not quite sure what we would do without our pianist, Annette. For developing the individual four part harmonies, an accompanist can play the individual pieces to ensure each part of the choir knows

exactly where their notes are. The piano background also provides an extra richness to a performance.

Where does the choir perform, and what can people expect to hear?

We go where people would like us to sing and love every bit of it. We regularly sing at local aged care centres, and we are also booked to sing at functions for various groups. We recently sang at a Joyland Carers fundraiser and an Anglican Church Palm Sunday concert. We sing Christmas carols for mid-year and Christmas functions, often appearing at the Moonee Beach Tavern, and we also sing for the council and at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus.

We are a very versatile choir and sing a wide range of music. At the recent Palm Sunday concert we sang many spiritual pieces; whereas, for the Joyland Carers the theme was love, so we sang many love songs, from a Beatles Medley to The Rose.

Can you describe the experience of performing at aged care centres?

This is one of my favourite things to do, and I always come out of a performance at an aged care centre feeling great. You see the residents come alive as they sing along or simply relax and enjoy being entertained by us.

Depending on the situation, we sometimes all move out of our choir formation and sing amongst the residents. I recall a time when I was singing with a gentleman, and he was moved to tears; he reassured me they were very happy tears. We also saw a dementia

patient enjoying singing along, and the staff told us afterwards that she usually doesn’t say a word and just taps the table all day long.

Do you need to have certain training or skills to be a part of the choir?

Not at all; we are blessed with a conductor who doesn’t mind whether you can read music or not. I have a friend who says, “If you can talk, you can sing” and I think that’s probably true, so if you love to sing - come and give it a go!

How can people join the choir, and what type of singers do you need?

The best thing for people to do is to come along to some rehearsals. We meet every Thursday from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church Hall at the corner of Valley Street and Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour.

We are happy for people to attend three rehearsals free of charge, to see if it works for them. If it does, the cost is $30 per year and $7 per rehearsal, and this covers the cost for our conductor and accompanist, as well as music, venue and equipment.

We welcome singers for all four parts of the choir, but are very much hoping to find a few more bass and tenor singers, as a number of men have retired lately. Come on fellas, where are you all?

Where can people find out more?

Our website: www.coffscitychoir.com.au Our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/coffscitychoir Phone Cathy (President) on 6658 1368.

Thanks Cheryl. coffs coast focus. 39

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

KRYS

merretT

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I arrived in Bellingen some 16 years ago on my own with three small children.

I couldn’t think of a better or more beautiful place to bring them up. It is a place of great beauty and a very strong energy of creativity.

Where did your journey as an artist begin?

I actually dreamt of paintings from a really young age, before I knew what they were. My creativity was well fostered by my mother, who always ensured that I had many arts and crafts available to me. Drawing was play to me; it still is! It has always given me a sense of opening a door into another world, and to this day it has kept the feeling of excitement, wonder and curiosity in me every time I paint or draw.

What does being an artist mean to you?

For me it is about taking a different view of life, seeing things not how they appear to be.

Art gives a backbone of spirituality to my life, another dimension, which is really important to me. I find the world a very shallow place, with little relevance or support to the human being or our evolution. Somehow art softens the blow of the harsh reality of life and the world around us.

How would you describe your work?

This is always a hard question. My artwork is symbolic and eternally feminine.

I am, for the most part, a painter of women.

Rather than a gender predisposition, it is about the symbolic nature of the female - spiritual, nurturing, transcendent, ephemeral and fertile.

Other symbols I use include opium poppies, which represent the unconscious and a deep dream state. In one of my paintings I use poppies with blades, which in essence is about cutting through the unconscious or making it

40 coffs coast focus.

Bellingen artist Krys Merrett creates art from the subconscious, combining fairy tales, spirituality and symbolism to tell unique visual stories. FOCUS caught up with Krys to find out more about her work, creative process and upcoming exhibition. more easily seen. And I use hummingbirds to symbolise wisdom that is whispered ... Secrets that only they can tell.

Can you tell us a bit about your creative process?

I tend to get impressions from something I have seen, heard or even smell, and it carries on from there. If it is a strong impression, I literally cannot stop thinking about it. It feels like a temptress beckoning you in. Sometimes one of those impressions can take years to develop into something plausible. I’ll then draw it up, and it will change a thousand times more until I get to the end.

I have three paintings on the go at the moment, which is a really new thing for me.

In order to fully immerse myself in the one subject, I used to only let myself concentrate on one painting at a time, to the very end. But I have recently discovered that I’m really good at multitasking and the more I open myself up to the creative process, more comes in.

What inspires your paintings at the moment?

Right at the very moment and with the current painting I am working on it’s fairy tales, folklore and Hinduism. When I say fairy tales, I’m talking about the original ones that were never ever told to children, which are incredibly violent and really twisted.

Can you tell us the story behind one or two pieces?

Creatrix is about the weaving of the fabric of life, all life and everything that could be conceived of in this existence.

She is represented here “knitting” the universal flower of life pattern together.

The hummingbirds are telling her secrets to help with her recipe. She sits in lotus inside a cosmic bubble, and the soles of her feet and her forehead have eyes to represent her omnipresence, omniscient nature.

In Harmony of the Spheres, the spirit or Do you have any advice for aspiring artists soul of the Earth (represented by a woman) on the Coffs Coast? plays the Earth like a harp, keeping the Earth Absorb yourself in your artwork, boots and in a type of stasis - a harmony that cannot be all! Always maintain the fascination, wonder and curiosity not only in your artwork, but the disrupted or negatively compounded in any whole of your life. The creative process way. happens much more easily if you In essence, it is a statement do this. to the apparently over Doubt is a huge aspect of powerful human who n Always maintai creating art; understand thinks that they can the fascination, that, but don’t let it disrupt this stasis or osity de won r and curi hinder your own belief harmony. When the not only in your hole in yourself or what you human race is long w artwork, but the eative create. This can be easier gone, the essence cr of your life. The h uc said than done. and the spirit of the m s process happen do.” u No one creates art Earth will live on. yo more easily if to be seen only by them; You also work as a get it out there, and know tattoo artist. What that some people will just hate influence does your art it, while others will love it and practice have on this and vice see something that moves them. And versa? that is the prize - that is the real worth of Coming from a creative background creating art. has had huge benefits to the art and You are having an exhibition this month; design areas of tattooing. The art of tattooing what can people expect to see? itself takes a very long time to “master”; You can expect to see a culmination of my though, I wouldn’t say I have mastered it. Like paintings of the last 10 years. art, you are always learning!

Where can we see more of your art?

Tattooing has had huge benefits to my Facebook: Sundaram artwork. It has pushed me and opened up my - Art and Tattoo by Krys Merrett creative view. Whereas painting is a loner’s job Instagram: krysmerrettartandtattoo (standing at an easel for six hours at a time Skin Wizardry Tattoo Studio, Bellingen, is not exactly a social event) tattooing is very 2/74 Hyde St, Bellingen different; it is, in essence, performance art.

Thanks Krys.

You have an audience, the person you are tattooing, and communication and rapport are essential to the tattoo being successful.

I feel very fortunate to work in an industry plug! that allows you to come into contact with people from all walks of life and many different Exhibition name: The Ephemeral Art of Krys Merrett. Where: Bellingen Art and Framing backgrounds and privileged to be allowed into Gallery, Hyde St, Bellingen. When: 2 - 23 June. these people’s lives and loves and sometimes Opening night, Friday 2nd June. sadness and grief.

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focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Vietnam Farm tour

Booking through a Local travel agent IN THE DAYS OF THE INTERNET AND ONLINE BOOKINGS, MANY PEOPLE ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, “WHY SHOULD I USE A TRAVEL AGENT?” WE SPOKE TO LOCAL TRAVEL COMPANY, QUADRANT AUSTRALIA, TO GET THEIR OPINION.

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ho do you call when a volcano erupts and your flight is cancelled?

What do you do if your hotel has burnt down when you arrive? These are all real stories from travellers who have called their travel agent for help. Booking through a travel agent means you have someone to call to help you if things don’t go to plan.

Travel agents have access to airfares, competitive hotel rates and group tour discounts that you won’t be able to access on your own. It’s not widely known that it doesn’t cost you any extra to book through a travel agent. In fact, a good travel agent will SAVE you money.

Travel agents spend all day, every day, reading, researching and booking holidays. They’re a wealth of information on destinations, airfare options, and well located hotels. They live and breathe it and if they haven’t been there, they probably know someone who has been.

Being a good travel agent takes training and practice. They are professionals in their field.

Have you ever tried to apply for a Brazilian visa on your own? If your sanity survives the process, your credit card may not. Travel agents provide assistance with the tricky things like visas and currency and which travel insurance policy suits your needs.

How do you know which airline flies to where and at what time? Instead of needing to visit five different websites to check all the flight options, travel agents are a one stop shop, with loads of choices at their fingertips. They

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

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

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

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

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

use tools that are not available to the general public.

Professional travel agents meet strict industry guidelines, which means you have the security of knowing where your money is going and talking to the person that you’re paying it to.

No need to put your credit card online and risk security concerns.

Some websites claim to be a one-stop shop, but truthfully, they only represent the airlines and hotels that partner with them. A professional travel agent will fairly represent a large range of options, without prejudice or bias.

If you’re one of those people who like to be involved with the planning and booking, then work with your travel agent. You can you can do as little or as much of the research as you want to. Professional travel agents want to work with you; it’s a partnership where you work together to create your dream holiday.

We’ve all heard it, but do we practice it …

Shopping local keeps the jobs local and helps support local business.

Quadrant Australia are a local travel specialist offering FOCUS readers and the Coffs Harbour community friendly and professional service to help you plan and book your next holiday. The team have over 50 years’ experience in the travel industry. Between them they have travelled to more 60 countries, and they never stop searching for the perfect solution for your dream holiday. With the local office located in Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour, why not drop in to discuss your next trip with them! coffs coast focus. 41

101 THINGS TO DO GO BUGGY

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Come out and relax at the Winery. Enjoy some wine, local produce and nibbles inside the newly renovated bar. Orara Vale Vineyard is located approximately 25km northwest of Coffs Harbour at Nana Glen in the heart of Orara Valley. Why would you want to be anywhere else?

TRADING Tues to Sun 10:30am - 4:30pm Open Monday during school Holidays ADDRESS 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen EMAIL admin@twotailswines.com.au PHONE (02) 66543 633 WEB twotailswines.com.au

A1 COFFS COAST TOURS

COFFS CENTRAL WAREHOUSE SALE

CHAUFFEURED HARLEY TOURS FROM AS LITTLE AS $99 In just one day you could be alongside Coffs Harbour Jetty overlooking Muttonbird Island with fish and chips in hand, and an hour later in Gondwana World Heritage rainforests surrounded by endemic flora and fauna.

Hold on to your hats fashion lovers, because the first ever Coffs Central Warehouse Sale Event is on. Up to 80% off – Uptown Local, Sensara, Seasons Boutique, Lily & Sapphire, Coopers Surf, Urban Life.

DATE 17th June 2017 TIME 6pm – 9pm Reservations: This is a FREE event with only 300 spaces available. Call 5622 8900 or email customerservice@gowings.com to secure your ticket.

TRAVEL YOUR WAY

See the majestic coastline, villages, attractions, waterfalls and lookouts of the Coffs Coast aboard a luxurious Harley-Davidson touring machine.

PHONE 0438 524 952 EMAIL info@a1coffscoasttours.com WEB www.a1coffscoasttours.com

www.coffscoast.com.au 16 42 coffs coffs coast coast focus. focus.

GREENHOUSE TAVERN

COFFS HARBOUR FISHERMEN’S CO-OP

We have the kids all looked after at the Greenhouse with every second Sunday from 11.30am being Sunday Funday. We have a jumping castle, face painting and special activities.

The Smiley’s will be here every second Sunday from 12 – 3pm. Bistro opens at 11.30am.

Kid’s meals $9.90 including a free kids drink!

We have your Family Sunday sorted!

ADDRESS Cnr Pacific Highway & Bray St Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450 PHONE 02 6651 5488 WEB www.greenhousetavern.com.au FACEBOOK @greenhousetav

The Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-operative is the perfect meeting place between local fishermen and fresh seafood lovers. We have been around since the early 1950s and are owned by about 50 local fishermen. They supply us with fresh seafood almost every day, which you can buy straight off their boats through our retail store, takeaway, and now directly from our website.

WHOLESALE SEAFOOD 7am to 2pm every day FRESH SEAFOOD RETAIL daily from 9am to 6pm HOT SEAFOOD RETAIL daily from 10am to 7pm PHONE (02) 6652 2811 ADDRESS 69 Marina Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 WEB www.coffsfishcoop.com.au

101THINGS TO DO ON THE COFFS COAST

SCENIC AND 4WD TRAILS

WATERFALL WAY

SOUTHERN BEACHES

Is a fascinating 185km scenic drive from Coffs Harbour to Bellingen, through to Armidale via the amazing wilderness of the New England tablelands. From Coffs Harbour take the highway south and turn inland to the funky town of Bellingen, with its many cafes and bohemian boutiques, then follow the road through green lush farmlands up to the Dorrigo Plateau. The Dorrigo area is famous for its waterfalls with the Newell and Sherrard Falls along the roadside escarpment on the way up. Just 2km outside of the Dorrigo town centre is Dangar Falls, a spectacular 30 metre drop with deep swimming pool.

Southern Beaches drive is a great way to spend the day meandering through the beautiful seaside villages of Sawtell, Repton, Mylestom and Urunga. The area covers a wide range of scenery ranging from stunning beaches, headlands, paperbark swamps, estuaries and rivers. The village of Sawtell is a great place to enjoy lunch or coffee, then cool off in the tidal enclosed river pool at Mylestom or drive to Tuckers Rock via the coastal forest of Bongil Bongil National Park. Further down the coast is the village of Urunga home to one of the best boardwalks on the east coast, with stunning views of the river, ocean and hinterland.

SEALY LOOKOUT

MOUNT CORAMBA

Forest Sky Pier is located at Sealy Lookout, within Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, Orara East State Forest – only five kilometres from Coffs Harbour. The Forest Sky Pier offers the visitor an amazing panoramic view from mountains to the Coffs Harbour coastline. The Pier extends 21 metres out from the Lookout and stands 15 metres above the forest floor. Access is via sealed road for the majority of the drive.

Head north from Coffs Harbour on the Pacific Highway, turn left onto Bruxner Park Road (just north of the Big Banana) then left again at the ridge top onto Scenic Drive, following the road up to the Lookout.

This fantastic 4WD trail is not for the faint hearted, starting just 10 minutes west of Coffs Harbour. Turn right onto Poperaperan Creek Road, you will pass through beautiful farmland, forests and some steep but stunning landscape. There are plenty of deep ruts but your hard work will be rewarded when you reach Mt Coramba, offering spectacular views of the Western Hinterland and Coffs Harbour coastline.

Then head back down to the Coramba village for lunch and enjoy the relaxed country atmosphere at the Coramba hotel bistro or café. This trail requires diif locks, a winch and a second vehicle in case towing is required.

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

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with Scott Bellamy, Raine & Horne Toormina / Sawtell

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NATURE WALKING TRAILS

DISCOVERING SAWTELL COFFS HARBOUR HAS ITS JETTY STRIP – BUT SAWTELL HAS SOME OF THE BEST EATERIES ON THE COFFS COAST. WHETHER IT’S A CUPPA WITH FRIENDS, A QUIET ALE OR A DINNER TO MATCH A SPECIAL OCCASION – SAWTELL’S RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS WILL DO THEIR BEST TO EXCEED YOUR EXPECTATIONS.

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or those coming along Sawtell and regional art, along with Aboriginal and Road, you have the “August Moon African art.

Chinese Restaurant”, on the top For our locals or tourists staying/living to the of the hill. Just a little further south of the town strip, you have the choice down towards the town of café style food overlooking the centre, you can stop for a fairways of Sawtell Golf Club, or boutique beer at “Mothers try Nelson’s Chinese food at Milk”, get some fresh the bowling club. Again, For our visitors e fish and chips from with some spar you have a choice of great nds, Viv’s, have some Thai time on their ha d coffee and superb meals at en at Thai Tales or wanI would recomm rly the cafés and restaurants ea ll der across the road to you visit Sawte se to the southern end of ow br Lime Mexican Burrito afternoon to s ue iq ut bo First Ave. s the variou Bar and Taqueria. .” op sh ue tiq and an Why don’t you make a From here on it’s “night out”, by catching a “Foodies’ Heaven”, movie at the Majestic Sawwith a selection of award tell Cinema either before or after winning restaurants and cafés, dinner?

They have the latest movies along with the Sawtell Hotel and Sawtell running, and you will love the ambience of RSL club. the theatre itself. Grab a bag of popcorn and For our visitors with some spare time choc top, and settle in and enjoy a movie. on their hands, I would recommend you visit It doesn’t matter what your taste buds desire Sawtell early afternoon to browse the various

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boutiques and antique shop. You could also spend an hour at The First Avenue Art Gallery - this is a contemporary art gallery located in the heart of First Ave and specialises in local 44 coffs coast focus.

or what budget your on, Sawtell certainly has an eatery or bar to put a smile on your face and complement the occasion you are celebrating.

COFFS COAST BOASTS SOME OF THE BEST WALKING TRACKS, WITH BEAUTIFUL NATURE SPOTS FOR PICNICKING AND SWIMMING. THE REGION OFFERS DOZENS OF UNIQUE COASTAL AND RAINFOREST WALKING TRAIL EXPERIENCES THAT NOT ONLY PROMISE SCENIC VIEWS, BUT ALSO GIVE YOU THE CHANCE TO ENCOUNTER WILDLIFE, VEGETATION AND BIRD WATCHING ALONG THE WAY. CHOOSE FROM WORLD HERITAGE NATIONAL PARKS, COASTAL RAINFORESTS, PRISTINE SWIMMING SPOTS AND WATERFALLS.

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ational Parks For lovers of bushwalking, the Dorrigo National Park World Heritage area should be on the top of your list. The National Park offers several walking trails, including the two hour loop to Crystal Shower Falls, where you can venture behind the waterfall, then follow the track along the Wonga walk to the skywalk, with amazing panoramic views. For the more adventurous, you can try the Rosewood Creek Track or the Red Cedar Falls Track, which leads you to the highest falls in the Dorrigo National Park.

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

Coastal Walks Explore Coffs Harbour’s “Giidany Miirlarl”, also known as Muttonbird Island, which is a significant site for the local Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people with dreamtime stories and cultural learning. The trail is a local favourite, with spectacular coastal views of the Marine Park and Harbour.

There are interpretive signage boards dotted along the path, with information on flora and fauna and the island’s heritage significance. The paved walk is very steep, but worth the effort, especially in the early morning sun.

Just south of Sawtell is the Bundagaree Rainforest walk, an easy trek near Tuckers Rocks in

Bongil Bongil National Park. The rocky shoreline is a great spot for exploring rock pools and spotting coastal birds soar and swoop in the sky, such as the White-bellied Sea Eagle. The coastal walk leads you through diverse rainforest vegetation, with Red Olive Berry, Coastal Banksia and impressive staghorns. There are plenty of great vantage points to spot whales during their winter migration or watch dolphins surfing the waves. You can also stroll along the coastal walk in shorter sections and enjoy swimming, surfing or a spot of fishing. The track allows you to loop back through the rainforest or return along the beach.

Waterfall Walks The Sherwood Nature Reserve is a local favourite, located west of Woolgoolga with an easy 3.5 km return walk along Woolgoolga Creek. Along this subtropical rainforest walking track you’ll see plenty of animals and a large variety of plants.

Heading towards the New England Tablelands, along the Waterfall Way you can discover bushwalking tracks that lead to some spectacular waterfalls, including Dangar Falls in the Dorrigo National Park, Ebor Falls in the Guy Fawkes National Parks and the Wollombombi Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Australia. So take a wild adventure walk, get out there and explore our local nature trails. www.coffscoast.com.au #createyourparadise

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THE URUNGA TITIVATORS DRAGON BOAT CLUB WAS INITIALLY FORMED TO SUPPORT SURVIVORS OF BREAST CANCER. THIRTEEN YEARS LATER, PEOPLE OF ALL BACKGROUNDS AND AGES HAVE JOINED IN THE FUN. FOCUS TALKED TO LINDA HUMPHRYS, TO FIND OUT WHAT DRAGON BOATING IS ALL ABOUT AND WHAT COULD BE IN IT FOR YOU.

Urunga

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I was born in Coffs Harbour at Sunnyside Maternity Hospital.

I love the weather, the people, and the natural beauty of the Coffs Coast.

Who are the Titivators? When and why did they come together?

The Titivators began as an idea in 2004.

With the help of our Breast Cancer Nurse, Lee Millard, it was decided to start a dragon boat club at Urunga for the health and wellbeing of all breast cancer survivors.

What is Lymphoedema, and how does dragon boating help?

Lymphoedema is a symptom associated with breast cancer surgery. The action of paddling and strengthening core exercises during dragon boat training have been documented as a beneficial complementary therapy for women who have experienced breast cancer, regardless of whether or not they have lymphoedema.

Do you have a personal experience with breast cancer? How has dragon boating helped you in this experience?

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 and had a radical mastectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiation before I started paddling. Dragon boat paddling is important to me, because it started to bring back much needed confidence after surgery and helped put me back in physical shape. I, like many others, am surrounded by support from a great group of people who just love life.

What is dragon boat racing?

Dragon boat racing began in China over 2,000 years ago. It is a popular sport worldwide for men and women of all ages and capabilities.

A dragon boat is about 12 m long and seats

20 paddlers side by side, one drummer at the front near the head and one steerer at the back.

At regattas we hold 200 m sprint events to compete with other teams on the day.

Who can join the Titivators?

Anyone that has an interest in fun and enjoys being on the water can join in.

Although Urunga Titivators began as a breast cancer support group, we are now a sporting club that has male and female members from 14 years to 78 years. Our local clubs are Urunga Titivators and Coffs Coast - combined we have a membership of over 100 members and supporters.

Do you need to be really fit to join in?

You just need to able to get in and out of the boat. As you become more experienced, the paddling sessions increase in intensity to help develop your fitness.

It is not hard to learn. Our qualified coaches take you through warm up exercises and the basics of paddling on land before boarding the boat to tackle the water. Learning takes place over a number of weekly paddling sessions to introduce you to the techniques and rules of dragon boat paddling.

How often do you train, and what does this involve?

The club currently has three training sessions a week, on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Times for the sessions change with the seasons.

New paddlers are offered three free training days to see if they are suited to the activity, then they can join for regular club sessions. Members can come as often or as little as they need, but be aware, paddling can become an addiction!

What is the best part about dragon boating for you?

Dragon boating is a great way to maintain general fitness, but is so much more being a

member of our club. We offer support and care for our members, as things come up in life that we don’t expect. We are a club that lifts each other up when we need it, and we always emphasise the importance of “what you can do, rather than what you can’t”.

Can you tell us about the Annual Titivators Regatta?

Over 300 people are drawn from The best thing is all over to that regardless attend our st , e, of ag size or pa annual Regatta, 22 e you can mak which is the ost new friends alm first to be held .” ly te ia immed after the National Titles in March.

There are usually We offer paddling days for a variety teams from Newcastle, of community groups and we recently have Forster, Taree, Port Macquarie, begun a program of Paddling for the Disabled Kempsey, SWR, Nambucca, Coffs, that has been popular with local support Grafton and Ballina. groups. We look forward to establishing more For the sporting clubs we hold a 7.5 km programs that interact with community in the long distance race around Hobson Island on the future.

Bellinger and Kalang Rivers on Saturday, and What do you find rewarding about 200m sprint races all day Sunday.

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Sunday’s events also include Community Teams from a variety of schools and local business groups.

What is a community team, and what do they get out of the experience?

Community teams are made up of nonclub members from any walk of life. We have university and high school students with teachers, as well as work colleagues and family groups. They come together as a team for the day, enjoying the camaraderie of participation and learning team-building skills.

How else do the Titivators get involved in the community?

bringing dragon boating to the wider community?

Dragon boat racing attracts people as a great opportunity for social networking. The best thing is that regardless of age, size or past, you can make 22 new friends almost immediately.

People of all fitness levels can participate and the longer you do it, the fitter you'll become.

How can people find out more?

We can be contacted through our Facebook page: TitivatorsUrungaDBC or our website: www.titivatorsurunga.com.au Thanks Linda. coffs coast focus. 45

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PAUL CRICHTON THE NEW FACE OF JETTY DENTAL

THERE HAVE BEEN SOME NEW FACES AND CHANGES AT JETTY DENTAL, WITH PAUL CRICHTON TAKING OVER THE PRACTICE IN DECEMBER 2016. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH PAUL TO LEARN A BIT MORE ABOUT HIS BACKGROUND AND THE NEW TECHNOLOGY HE HAS IMPLEMENTED.

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an you tell us a little about your background and experience in the dental industry?

After five years of study, I graduated from the University of Queensland in 1999 with a Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc) with First Class Honours. During this time I was awarded an undergraduate scholarship with the Australian Defence Force (Army) and after graduation, was posted as a Dental Officer to Lavarack Barracks in Townsville. I enjoyed my time in the Army immensely and was fortunate enough to be sent to East Timor twice as a Dental Officer.

In 2004 I discharged from the Australian Regular Army and was offered a job in private practice in Coffs Harbour. I have been here ever since, and my wife and I purchased Jetty Dental from Tony and Wendy Kershaw in December last year.

Who or what has been the biggest influence on your dental career?

We all graduate from Dental School thinking

we know it all; but in fact, we know very little. I have been very fortunate to have had two excepMy real passion tional mentors throughout my is cosmetic e dental career - one from the dentistry, and th ics m ra ce al nt military and one from private latest de e my id ov pr to le are ab practice in Coffs Harbour. look after the emely tr ex patients with Both of them are exceptional practice managed an e bl strong , dura practitioners who pushed me ment and of course, g in ok lo natural to strive for excellence and to the interior design .” ns io at restor not accept mediocrity. and decoration. Existing Since taking over the reins at patients may have noticed Jetty Dental, what are some of the the lack of orange in the things that you have changed or imwaiting room. proved?

What do you like most about denJetty Dental is already a well-established and tistry? Least? respected dental practice in Coffs Harbour, so I think the continual technological advances there was very little to change and we were able are the most exciting aspect of dentistry at presto hit the ground running. We have introduced ent. Dental materials and procedures are getting digital radiography to the practice, which means better every year, and I am fortunate to work in faster X-rays with a smaller radiation dosage for an era where we can offer patients such a vast range of treatment options. My real passion is patients. I am fortunate to have my wife, Selina,

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NEW I-MED Radiology clinic opening July 2017

cosmetic dentistry, and the latest dental ceramics are able to provide my patients with extremely strong, durable and natural looking restorations.

I am regularly able to save badly damaged teeth that may once have been destined for extraction.

My least favourite part of the job is the toll that dentistry can take on your body. As dentists, we all suffer from regular neck and back pain.

What do you like to do in your free time?

My obsession outside of work is offshore fishing. I have been addicted to fishing for as long as I can remember and am fortunate enough to own a boat that allows me to go far offshore chasing delicious deep water fish.

Thanks Paul.

Coffs Harbour Specialist Medical Centre

Features a brand new PET/CT scanner, a breakthrough in disease detection for Coffs residents.

The state of the art PET/CT scanner will deliver exceptional image quality, improve doctors’ ability to diagnose and monitor cancers and allow them to accurately assess how organs and tissues in the body are functioning.

Services: X-Ray • Ultrasound • CT • PET/CT • Nuclear Medicine Coffs Harbour Specialist Medical Centre Ground Floor, Specialist Medical Centre, 343 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 T: 02 6650 1700 i-medradiology.com.au

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HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

EVER WONDERED WHAT MINDFULNESS ACTUALLY IS AND HOW COLOURING IN CAN HELP? FOCUS SPOKE TO MARG COUTTS ABOUT THE PRACTICE OF ART THERAPY AS A FORM OF PSYCHOTHERAPY OR COUNSELLING, WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THIS, AND HOW IT WORKS.

MARG COUTTS

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

In October 2009, my family and I came here on a working holiday. We were living in Sydney and had no plans to leave, but after our holiday here, I applied for a job in Coffs Harbour. I got the job, and four months later we were living here.

We haven't looked back. I love the natural environment, the community, and the cultural diversity in the area.

How and why did you become an art therapist?

I completed a Masters degree in Art Therapy at Edith Cowan University in Perth in 2000. Prior to this, I was an art teacher. I loved working with kids, but felt more drawn to teaching them life skills, than art making skills. I knew from my own art making that it can help develop selfawareness and understanding. I was fascinated by this and wanted to explore it further.

What makes a good art therapist?

A good art therapist cares about another's wellbeing and is empathic. They are very observant and sensitive to subtleties in another person's expression and are a great listener. She or he is also comfortable with difficult emotions and non-judgemental of a client's values, beliefs or experience. They are curious about the client and receptive to whatever they seek to express or explore, are intuitive and have an understanding of symbols.

What is art therapy, and how does it work?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy or counselling. Instead of relying on talking, we use art making and other forms of creative expression to help us understand a situation, relationship or feeling.

When we make an image about something 48 coffs coast focus.

ART THERAPIST

that is concerning us, we are able to see it differently, and people often report understanding something they had not understood before. This then allows us to make clearer choices about our lives.

Art therapy is a quite flexible approach, in the sense that it is there for the client to use in whatever way they need. It is also an intuitive and organic process. While one person may discover answers to their questions in an image they have created, another may experience an internal shift by scribbling or painting with layers of a single colour.

Some clients find meaning through symbolic play or find unresolved emotion emerging as they have a conversation with a character in their painting. Some people gain insight into their relationships by choosing objects to represent themselves and other people in their lives.

Who can benefit from art therapy? Do you have to be good at art?

You definitely don't have to be good at art to benefit from art therapy. Rather than creating “good art works�, it is much more about people being able to express what they need to express in order to find the resolution, answers or internal shifts they seek. All you need is a willingness to understand yourself more deeply and the courage to explore.

Art therapy can be beneficial for anyone who seeks resolution to difficulties or challenges in their lives, especially for those who find it hard to express what they are feeling in words or have difficulty quietening their minds and tend to explain everything through analytical thinking.

Art therapy can help to by-pass this and make a more direct connection with what the person is feeling.

Mindfulness is a bit of a buzzword at the moment. What does it mean to you, and how does creating art help with this?

Mindfulness is an ancient traditional practice, originally taught by the Buddha 2,500 years ago. It is a practice that can help us create spaces between our experiences in life and our reactions or responses to those experiences.

When we are mindful, we have greater choice in our relationship with life. Instead of reacting automatically, we are able to pause and make a choice about how we want to respond.

Creating art, from my experience, enhances our capacity to be mindful. It can help us slow down, so that we become more aware of the internal chatter in our minds. From here, we are able to notice some of the thinking patterns that influence our behaviour and then begin to create some of those spaces, allowing us to choose to focus on the more empowering thoughts.

You have spent a lot of time working with people with dementia and their carers. How does art therapy help them specifically?

People with dementia face a lot of change and loss of ability that can often lead to loss of confidence. A meaningful art making experience doesn't rely on memory, or getting it right, so art therapy can provide an opportunity for people with dementia to have an experience of greater purpose, freedom and ability. This can lead to greater confidence and reduce the incidence of depression.

When I work with carers of people with dementia using art therapy, it is more a form of counselling. Carers often experience a complex variety of emotions, including guilt, grief, anger and sadness. Art therapy supports carers to explore these emotions, which is an important part of self-care. Through the art making process, carers can develop greater clarity

about their experience and relieve some of the emotional stress they often live with.

What role can art therapy play in healthy ageing?

How can we age in a way that makes the most of the great wealth of knowledge we have gathered over the years, while attending to the changes we encounter in our bodies, abilities and relationships? Art therapy offers a forum in which older people can explore these issues and in the process, are supported to find resolution and live with confidence and clarity as valued and contributing members of the community.

There is also some evidence which suggests that engaging in art appreciation and art making can promote brain-health and can therefore help reduce the risk of dementia.

Can you tell us about the workshops you run?

I generally run workshops for small groups of no more than 12 people, and they usually have a theme. I support the people who attend the workshops to explore this theme through art making processes. Some examples of these themes are self-care, mindfulness, visioning for the future and creating symbols for greater wellbeing.

I also tailor groups for specific needs such as loss and grief, parenting, carers and people living with life-threatening illnesses.

Where can people find out more?

People can go to my website www.margcoutts.com Details of my workshops are there, along with information about my art therapy practice at Harbour Therapy Clinic and my contact details.

Thanks Marg.

“At 91, Mum no longer helps out on the farm, but she’s still got h er freedom.”

Peter, son of Edna Freedom family

Until recently, Mum was still making meals for us shearing boys at the family farm. When she had a fall, I realised I couldn’t provide the care she needed and still run the farm, raise my family and work as a full time firie. My greatest fear was putting my fiercely-independent Mum in a nursing home. Thank heavens I discovered Freedom Aged Care. Today Mum enjoys the privacy of her own self-contained unit in a vibrant Freedom community. She’s making new friends, gets the nursing and personal care she needs - and wouldn’t you know it – she’s still making tucker for “us boys!”.

We have a community right here in Coffs Harbour and many more across Australia, feel free to call us on 1800 984 840.

What’s life without freedom?

Visit freedomagedcare.com.au coffs coast focus. 49

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

G O O D P R I C E P H A R M AC Y WA R E H O U S E L I V I N G W E L L C H I R O P R AC T I C Chiropractors Judith, Gillian and Bruce at Living Well Chiropractic are encouraging Coffs Harbour residents to seek help for chronic back pain.

with other healthcare providers where needed, Chiropractors also offer advice on selfmanagement through exercise and lifestyle changes.

Chronic back pain is a national issue. One in six Australians suffer from the physical and psychological effects of chronic back problems that’s an estimated 3.7 million people suffering.

We have welcomed a new, highly experienced Chiropractor, Bruce Ritchie from South Africa.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare defines chronic back pain as a health condition that lasts for three months or longer. Australian Chiropractors are five-year university trained healthcare professionals, regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, and must complete mandatory continuing professional development.

For chronic back problems, Chiropractors use a variety of treatments, such as spinal manipulation or manual therapies. Working

Why did he become a Chiropractor?

“Like most practitioners, I was once a patient.

I suffered considerably during my adolescent years from bouts of spinal pain, which I found only a chiropractic adjustment would relieve.

My experience made me realise how unique and special Chiropractic was, and I wanted to provide similar healing and comfort to others.

I consider myself a good listener and enjoy working through patients’ health issues. I like taking the time to explain clearly what their condition is and what might be done to set them on the road to recovery.”

Good Price Pharmacy Warehouse has all the new technology to help ensure you use medication safely, effectively and on-time. MedAdvisor is a tool using state-of-the-art internet and mobile phone technology. MedAdvisor’s home screen provides an automatic list of all your prescription medications, updated whenever you fill scripts.

Fill-My-Scripts automatically reminds you when to fill your recurring scripts, and chases you up if you forget.

When you are close to running out of a medication, MedAdvisor will send you a message providing information on the medication running low. Reminders arrive as push notifications (pop-ups) on your mobile device, or via email for PC/web users of MedAdvisor.

Take-My-Meds reminds you when to

take specific medications each day, at the appropriate times of the day.

The optional Take-My-Meds feature lets your smart phone or tablet alert you every time you’re due to take medication. The notifications include details of exactly which medications are due at that time.

Tap-To-Refill - Order prescriptions for you with a simple tap to have them dispensed in advance. When you arrive at the pharmacy, you can collect them immediately - no waiting! You’ll need to leave your scripts on file at the pharmacy to allow this.

You can even access MedAdvisor if you are a carer, to help manage accounts for kids or elderly parents.

Come in and talk to the friendly staff at Good Price Pharmacy at the Bailey Centre and join today.

Your Health in Your Hands FREE Medication Management App Skip the queue Tap-to-refill Script history & reminders

Ask us how to join today!

P: (02) 6651 1800 W: www.goodpricepharmacy.com.au A: Shop 6, 150 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour 50 coffs coast focus.

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

EXCERCISE IS MEDICINE WITH

PARKINSON’S DISEASE

CELEBRATING THE ART & SCIENCE OF

HAND THERAPY TECHNOLOGY, COMMUNICATION, FITNESS TRAINING - ONCE “STATE OF THE ART” APPROACHES BECOME SUPERSEDED, AS NEW KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING EVOLVE AT A RAPID PACE.

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edicine is no different and to keep abreast of these changes requires hours of dedication attending conferences, webinars and study - the reason why medical “Specialists” have evolved, whom you consult when needed, versus your regular GP. Hand Therapy is such an area. It is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper limb - from shoulder to hand - providing acute care following injury or surgery, wound and scar care, fabrication of custom made splints in acute, chronic, degenerative and congential conditions, exercise and strengthening programs, as well as ergonomic advice. Registered Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists through further education, clinical experience and independent study become proficient in the treatment of upper limb conditions resulting from injury, disease or deformity.

Such therapists can then qualify to become a full member of the Australian Hand Therapy Association or, by sitting a USA based exam, a Certified Hand Therapist. Both of these reflect the more advanced knowledge and skills of a practitioner of Hand Therapy, who can minimise any complications post-injury and maximise recovery time and outcomes.

A dislocated finger is often considered a

minor hand injury, and is “popped back in”.

Despite being able to fully move the finger, all may not be well. There could be a fracture through the joint or a rupture of the volar plate - a cartilage plate on the palm side of the joint which stops the joint from bending backwards (i.e. it stabilises the joint). Without appropriate follow-up, the finger then becomes progressively stiff as it heals, until exercises achieve nothing and longer term, more aggressive treatment is required. “Our hand has very intricate anatomy and complex mechanics, so the potential for any injury leading to ongoing disability is high,” explains Sean Wiffen, physiotherapist. “RICE after any injury is appropriate, but early assessment, diagnosis and expert management by someone skilled in Hand Therapy can avoid complications and prolonged rehabilitation. Early is certainly best when managing any hand injury.”

June 5th - 11th is National Hand Therapy Awareness Week. Coffs Shoulder to Hand Clinic will have an information open day to celebrate on Thursday 10th from 1 - 3pm. Faye and Sean, both experienced in Hand Therapy, will be available for any questions or demonstration of what Hand Therapy offers e.g. in painful arthritis in the hand. Alternatively, ring 6651 1745 to speak to Faye or Sean about any upper limb injuries.

SADLY, TOO OFTEN AFTER BEING DIAGNOSED WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE, ALL THAT IS SEEN AHEAD FOR PEOPLE IS “DOOM AND GLOOM”. SOME WANT TO BE PROACTIVE AND EXERCISE, BUT ARE UNSURE OF THE BEST WAY TO GO ABOUT IT. THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT NEW LITERATURE IS EMERGING ABOUT THE EXCITING ROLE OF EXERCISE HAVING POSITIVE EFFECTS ON PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S.

A

manda Sleeman at Coffs Neuro Physio is all for spreading this news. Amanda is a Senior Neurological Physiotherapist, who has recently returned from Sydney to the Coffs Coast. As a new division of Coffs Physiotherapy and Backcare, she has launched Coffs Neuro Physio, a service too long neglected locally. Amanda provides physiotherapy services exclusively to people with a range of neurological conditions. “It’s an exciting time to be working in neuro rehab, particularly with Parkinson’s Disease,” says Amanda. “To embrace this in my home town is even more rewarding!”

By the time Parkinson’s Disease is diagnosed, it is estimated a large percentage of important dopamine-producing cells have already perished. Medication can effectively manage symptoms, but can’t protect remaining cells, which continue to die and the disease is free to progress. Researchers are showing the potential for exercise to slow Parkinson’s down and protect remaining cells.

“But it’s not just any type of exercise,” explains Amanda. “It needs to be specifically targeted to Parkinson’s Disease and to each person’s unique presentation and goals. This is why one to one coaching by a skilled profes-

sional experienced in this area is so important.”

Amanda has worked extensively with Parkinson’s Disease and was involved in the development of PD Warrior: a revolutionary exercise approach spreading worldwide. PD Warrior is designed for early-diagnosed Parkinson’s and aims to build confidence and improve mobility. “But it’s more than exercise,” Amanda highlights. “It also involves helping people understand their condition, and changing their behaviours for the long term.”

Amanda has launched PD Warrior in Coffs Harbour, providing one to one coaching and classes. “It’s great to be working alongside Vince Carroll, Parkinson’s nurse and other dedicated health professionals, as well as local Parkinson’s Support Groups raising awareness for Parkinson’s Disease. My personal congratulations to the Coffs Harbour Support Group on their 30th anniversary this year!”

Treatment for stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions is also available. Amanda’s final advice is to act early on Parkinson’s for best results. Delaying may only make it harder to get started. Call 6651 1745 for more information, or to book an assessment.

coffs coast focus. 51

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

A

t Japara Healthcare’s Coffs regularly, in an array of beautiful patterns.

Harbour Residential Care, that They say they moved into the Coffs is exactly what Jim and Dorothy Harbour Residential Care Facility because have been able to of the amenities. Dot moved there in enjoy. In their companion November 2014, with Jim joining room at the residence, her soon after, in May 2015. they are able to “We had better choices ved live together We’ ve always lo here, and it better There’s comfortably, Coffs Harbour. suited our needs,” re and whilst receiving so much to do he friends, says Dot. y we still have man ve known all of the care e’ w Another great some of whom that they years, who ty en benefit of the tw er ov r fo require at this Moving facility is that it has live in the area . the area stage of their allowed Jim and Dot into aged care in can still we lives. has meant that to remain in contact and remain s see our friend Having .” with many friends mmunity active in the co connected as pen who also live in Coffs pals when Jim was Harbour. “We’ve always in the Army, the two loved Coffs Harbour. met upon his return, There’s so much to do here and after a shaky start, Jim and we still have many friends, won Dot’s heart, and the rest is a some of whom we’ve known for over wonderful history. twenty years, who live in the area. Moving into aged care in the area has meant that we The couple moved to Australia from can still see our friends and remain active in England in 1972 and lived up and the community,” Dot reveals. down the NSW and Queensland coast, before

“

JIM AND DOT

ENJOYING LIFE

AT JAPARA HEALTHCARE’S COFFS HARBOUR RESIDENTIAL CARE

WHEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP HAS LASTED 69 YEARS, YOU WANT TO STAY TOGETHER, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TIME TO MOVE INTO AGED CARE.

eventually settling down in Coffs Harbour.

They are also now proud great grandparents, with Dot still knitting the children jumpers

To hear more about Jim and Dot, or to find out more about what is on offer at Coffs Harbour Residential Care, call on 6652 1494.

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

52 coffs coast focus.

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

HAPPY SPINE Celia, can you tell me a little bit more about yourself?

Where are you originally from? I was born and raised in Kenya but as I got older, I decided I wanted to travel and after sampling life in Switzerland and the USA, I decided to settle in England for the next 11 years.

That sounds amazing! What did you spend your time doing in England? My time in England was spent at Chiropractic College for five years, followed by work in Oxford and Reading.

What was your next adventure as an accredited Chiropractor? In 1995 I relocated to Africa for nine years, where I worked as an accredited Chiropractor at the All Africa Games in Zimbabwe. I also established a practice in Cape Town and successfully competed in Triathlons, Ultra-marathons and Ironman.

What originally brought you to Australia?

I originally came to Australia on a six week working holiday in 2000 for the Sydney Olympic games, where I was a member of the Chiropractic team. It was actually the first Chiropractic team to be accredited to work at an Olympic Games.

Wow, what an experience! Did you then decide to settle in Coffs Harbour? No, no ... My wanderlust for new adventures then took me to New Zealand, where I worked in two multi-disciplinary sports clinics with people ranging from weekend warriors to elite athletes, that also included wheelchair athletes.

How did you come to eventually open Happy Spine here in Coffs Harbour? Well, I actually moved to Melbourne for nine years and gained experience in all facets of Chiropractic whilst working in clinics throughout the Mornington Peninsula. I then decided to invest in my business and make Coffs Harbour home.

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We are a new generation in PREMIER Stylists, with the utmost skill, passion and enthusiasm for our craft. Living Doll believes knowledge is the key, and we continue to encourage ourselves to learn more, providing all the training that is necessary to be at the top of your game, with opportunities to travel around Australia for training and to take part of special events such as Fashion Week and Hair Expo.

We are looking for someone who shares our passion but is also open to learning new things. We have a flexible position for the right person; casual, part-time or full-time available.

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So, if you’re a hairdresser who’s looking for a change and excited about what you do, please contact Lauren via email info@livingdollstylists.com.au or 0413 006 696 to arrange a confidential interview. XO Dolls.

coffs coast focus. 53

54 coffs coast focus.

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

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

C

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

From Somalia, which is in East Africa.

What is Somalia like as a place?

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

Unfortunately, Civil War destroyed everything.

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

How did you come to live in Coffs?

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

After school and weekends we played until

“

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

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

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

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

In Melbourne?

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

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

What do you love most about the game?

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

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

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

What is the training regime like?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What makes a good captain?

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

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

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

Where around the world do the rest of

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

“

12 coffs coast focus.

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

J E T T Y D E N TA L

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download...

NOW ONLINE + FREE

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

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

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

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

VIEW THE MINIMAGS ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGCOFFS GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

JANIETAVERNER A 48 YEAR OLD, BUSINESS OWNER AND MOTHER OF TWO, WHO ONLY JOINED THE GYM THREE MONTHS AGO BUT HAS ALREADY TAKEN GREAT STRIDES TOWARDS ACHIEVING HER GOALS.

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Simon Fabian. This month we are catching up with Janie Taverner and her Personal Trainer Amanda Dean to hear her inspiring story.

B

efore you joined Coffs Coast Health Club, what was your exercise background?

Before I joined Coffs Coast,

when Amanda pushes me and says, “I CAN DO IT ... I’VE GOT THIS.” What are your health and fitness goals?

To decrease my body fat, feel strong, toned,

my exercise was minimal. Previously I was a

and fantastic.

member of the gym in Bellingen. The past

How has your Personal Trainer, Amanda,

few years I have done little exercise. I have

assisted you in reaching those goals?

my own cleaning business, which keeps me

Everyone needs a little Amanda in their

active; however, I would always find myself

pocket. She’s my smiling assassin, giving me

tired.

tough love and motivation. I still have a long

Why did you decide to change your

way to go. I appreciate Amanda teaching me

lifestyle?

how to lift weights and push myself. I love the

I was feeling tied, and suffering with

consistency I have meeting up with Amanda

insomnia. I had been thinking of exercising

twice a week. She makes our sessions fun,

for a while; thinking and deciding are very

and she’s encouraging.

different emotions. I wanted to make a

What goals have you set for the future?

lifestyle change to help myself. I wanted to

To stay motivated, because it’s paramount

feel good about me and not feel sluggish

to my wellbeing, as I suffer from mild anxiety.

and fatigued; I wanted to feel strong and

What is the most useful advice you could

comfortable in my clothes.

share?

Has the lifestyle change assisted you in your day to day activities?

Yes! I have more energy, I feel happier in

Exercise regularly, because it is great for your physical, social and emotional health.

Thanks for sharing, Janie, and if you

myself, and I am sleeping better. I have the

are looking to kickstart your own

fitness bug, and I’m motivated again.

inspirational fitness story, drop in to

What is your favourite part of working

see me at either Coffs Coast Health

out?

Club Toormina or Moonee! You can also

That feeling of accomplishment is awesome. I feel capable and strong. I like it 56 coffs coast focus.

contact Amanda directly on 0439 079 664 to get started today.

W I T H L AU R E N V E S T E Y

Is your

headache coming

neck?

F R O M Y O U R

A GOOD HAIRCUT IS REALLY EMPOWERING. You might be surprised to learn that an estimated 15 - 20% of headaches actually come from the neck, and not from the head. Leading Physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker shares all the information you need to know about getting some relief from these types of headaches.

A

neck headache (formally called a cervicogenic headache) results when your nerve system gets a bit confused. The upper three cervical spinal nerves share the same pathway to the brain as the nerve that carries messages from your face to your brain. So sometimes the pain in your neck is misunderstood, and the brain “feels” as though the pain is coming from the head.

What causes a neck headache?

This type of headache can originate from dysfunction in the neck joints, muscles, the vertebrae in the spinal column, or the spinal covering; so, the possible causes are many and varied.

The most common cause is dysfunction in the upper three neck joints. Headaches can result if these joints are too stiff or locked into an abnormal position due to poor posture. Too much joint movement is also a problem, so you can get a headache if your neck muscles are weak, allowing the joints to become wobbly.

The neck and shoulder blade muscles that originate in your neck can also cause headaches if they become overworked, knotted or go into spasm. A fall, sports injury, whiplash or arthritis may also result in a neck headache.

What are the symptoms?

Most commonly these headaches feel like they are radiating from the base of your skull to the front of your head. Normally the pain will be worse on one side of your head or face.

One sign of a neck headache is pain triggered by sudden movement of your neck, such as when you sneeze. Another is that you get a headache when your neck remains in the same position for some time, such as sleeping on your stomach, with your head turned to one side.

Frequently, neck headaches are accompanied by tenderness at the top of the neck or base of

the skull. However, you can experience a neck headache even if your neck isn’t sore, which is why these headaches are often misdiagnosed as a migraine or a cluster headache.

How is it diagnosed?

A thorough examination by a physiotherapist is usually the best way to diagnose cervicogenic headache. You can experience a neck headache with or without abnormalities showing up in a scan or X-ray. So, a physical examination is the best place to start.

In some cases, an X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be needed to identify the precise structural cause of your neck headache, but this is much less common.

How do you treat a neck headache?

The really good news about neck headache is that relief is often immediate, once diagnosed and treated.

The precise treatment will depend upon the source of the problem. Stiff neck joints may need to be loosened using gentle joint mobilisation techniques. Hypermobile (or unstable) joints may require deep neck muscle strengthening exercises to stabilise and limit joint movement. Stretching, massage or acupuncture may be used to relax tight or over active muscles. Weak muscles may require specific strengthening exercises.

Your physiotherapist will work with you to determine a program of stretches, massage, joint mobilisation and exercise that will alleviate the problem with your neck … And ultimately, will relieve the pain in your head.

If you suspect that you might be suffering from a neck headache, then book a FREE Physio Asessment with one of Mid North Coast Physio’s professional physiotherapists.

Find out if they can help, without spending a cent. Call 1300 273 747 to secure an appointment in Woolgoolga, Moonee, Toormina or Urunga.

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.

T

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 little known facts about cutting your softer, shorter bangs work best to frame a hair, and some tips to help you round face. However, if you have a get the best out of your hair. dreaded cowlick, remember - is 1. Cutting your hair it worth all that work! more often doesn’t When you get 5. Short hair takes work: make it grow fastto the salon, cutting off your hair er: getting rid of the your stylist may doesn’t mean less trips rtain explain that a ce ends of your hair to the salon. To keep with cut won’t work doesn’t directly affect it it maintained, shorter that your texture, or hair growth. Trimire qu re cuts usually require more ly al tu ac will ming simply keeps hair k.” or w e or frequent trips to the salon m h uc m healthier as it grows, to keep the shape and style by cutting off the split fresh. But don’t despair ends so that they stay intact, you’ll find it’s outweighed by the instead of fraying and breakease of styling it at home. ing off quicker than your hair actually 6. Bring options: sure, we’ve all got our grows. Lauren explains, “Millimeter trims Pinterest boards full of haircut inspiration, but - I like to call micro trims - make a huge make sure you bring multiple options. When difference when trying to grow your hair.” you get to the salon, your stylist may explain 2. Layer accordingly: when cutting your that a certain cut won’t work with your texhair, you should layer it according to your hair ture, or that it will actually require much more texture. Tighter curls work best with layers work. So keep an open mind and trust the that aren’t perfectly even, while straighter hair stylists, because that is what they are trained works best with more even layers. However, to do. don’t look past the very fashionable solid cut, Be brave, embrace a new you and come and at that LOB (long bob) length. speak to one of the Premier Stylists at Living 3. Love an (on-the-go) wash and wear Doll today. hairstyle: it’s important to let your stylists know how you style at home, so that they can XO Dolls.

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

“

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HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

PETER

BEFORE

SUMMERHILL

REMARKABLE WEIGHTLOSS STORY. HE LOST 33 KG.

S

o you have quite a story about your weight loss journey! Can you tell us about that? What made you decide to change your life and lose weight?

I had always played sport since I was at school. Basketball, touch football, indoor and outdoor cricket, rugby league, to name a few. Never the greatest sportsman ... But would work my tail off.

In 2009, I suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon playing cricket and was given a gym membership as part of my rehabilitation. The surgeon told me I would never be able to play those explosive movement sports again - cricket and touch football.

My father began to suffer from some lung problems, from smoking cigarettes for many years. A couple of years later, he was put on oxygen 24 hours a day. I was a 20 a day smoker, and enjoyed a few beers or bourbons most days.

But with my Dad’s illness fresh in my mind, I tried to quit smoking. It took three or four tries, and I succeeded successfully in December 2012.

My Dad was then told he had a cancerous tumour in his colon, but they were unable to operate because his lungs were not strong enough to withstand the anaesthetic. Sadly, he passed away on Australia Day 2016.

When I was giving up smoking, I tried to give everything up at the same time and ended up putting on 5 kg or so. I was 105 kg.

It has taken me three years and loads of commitment plus hard work to make the changes to lose 33 kg. I have also changed my career to help others and got into the health industry.

What was your motivation to start working in the fitness industry?

To share my experiences with weight loss, injury rehabilitation and lifestyle changes, because that is the biggest thing. It’s your lifestyle - eating, drinking and smoking - that’s what got me to 105 kg. I was exercising several times a week, and still putting weight on.

What exercise do you do now to maintain your weight loss?

58 coffs coast focus.

I cycle between 150 to 300 km per week, sometimes by myself, but also with a group of guys called the Coffs Harbour Hubbards. I also incorporate two sessions per week at Anytime AS WE ARE APPROACHING THE WINTER MONTHS, Fitness to maintain good strength and lean IT'S TIME TO WORK ON YOUR BODY FOR THE muscle mass, and I am working on my running SUMMER. IT'S PERFECT TO START NOW AND PLAN at the moment.

AHEAD, AS SUMMER WILL BE BACK BEFORE YOU What goals have you achieved with your KNOW IT. FOCUS WENT OUT TO ANYTIME FITNESS, fitness?

I was able to get my body fat percentage TO CHAT WITH PERSONAL TRAINER PETER down to a much healthier level. That was my SUMMERHILL ABOUT HIS WEIGHTLOSS JOURNEY main goal from the start.

AND TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE CLUB. I have completed my first Olympic distance triathlon event in Coffs in 2015, which included a 1,500 m swim, 40 km cycle It has taken me and a 10 km run. three years and ent My new goal is lo ads of commitm ake m to k or w to do the Tour de plus hard se 33 the changes to lo ged Cure (cycling) and of the day. We have classes for the early risers What are some of the an ch kg . I have also the Tour de Rocks features and benefits lp at 6:30am, mid mornings at 9:30am and after he to my career (mountain biking). e th to in t of being a member of go d work at 5:30 pm. There’s even a lunch-time others an They are multi day .” ry st du Anytime Fitness? in th calorie burner on a Wednesday. heal cycle events raising Well, there are plenty.

We have High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) money for cancer It is air conditioned, 24 hour style classes. They are 30 minutes long and are research. access, your membership fees designed to get the heart rate pumping, which What is your favourite include access to over 440 clubs in in turn burns calories. thing about being a personal Australia, over 3,000 clubs in the world, The Boxfit sessions go for a little longer, trainer? the members can control the music in the club nearly 45 minutes, but are a great way to get all Seeing the joy on a client’s face; when from their phone, over 1,100 workouts on the those frustrations and stresses from life out of they reach a goal that you know that Anytime workouts app, the new Life Fitness they have really worked hard for, or when they your system. and Hammer Strength equipment (with access perform an exercise they said they couldn’t do The new Complete Core class on Wednesday to the LF Connect app), it’s light and spacious or lift a weight they said they couldn’t lift. is proving a big hit, with the numbers being in ... Look, I could go on, but the best way is for You are working at Anytime Fitness now. the double digits every week. you to come down and have a look around for What’s your role there?

And the new beginners’ weights and lifting yourself.

I have quite a varied role, which I love. I am a workshop on a Thursday evening is growing in Does Anytime Fitness have group classes? personal trainer, group instructor, administrator, numbers.

Can you tell me a bit more about them? sales assistant, and cleaner.

Thanks Peter.

We do. As a matter of fact, we have just I also am the Retention Manager. This involves released our new timetable. We call them Group getting to know our members, what they do, the plug!

Personal Training. The numbers are between what they want and what they need out of two and 12, and they are very personal, the club, to get them to their goals. It might Pop into Anytime Fitness, Upstairs in The Vault with the trainers walking in and around our be something as simple as booking them into Building, 92 - 96 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour to members, helping them with the workout. one of our group personal training sessions, or see Peter and check out the amazing facilities.

We currently have 12 classes at various times sitting them down for a fitness consultation.

Contact the club on (02) 6650 9088!

“

coffs coast focus. 59

focus_editorial

focus_technology

With Melanie Lock ND BHSc

with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate

m dern

from the

cyber mum.

I AM WEAVING THE MANIC DANCE OF MOTHERHOOD INTO OUR DAY, WHEN THE NEWS ERUPTS: RUSSIAN PLANES IN AMERICAN FLIGHT ZONES. MY YOUNG SON BESIDE ME LISTENS SILENTLY AND SADLY. THIS IS EVEN TOO MUCH FOR ME; HOW CAN I EXPECT A NINE YEAR OLD TO UNDERSTAND HOW UGLY THE WORLD CAN BE?

T

media. Urrrgh - it’s inescapable. Statistically, ension is building globally, and what Putin, Trump, Jong-un, al-Assad don’t our teens are experiencing more mental health know is that life is tough enough issues than ever before, much more than five without their “nuclear” warfare. Boys years ago. Which equates to 2012 - wasn’t fisty-cuffing boys across man-made borders that yesterday? If this trend continues, then has a resounding impact on the primal need to Trump can take a sizeable side-step, because protect my children, family, and peace of mind.

I have two young boys whose mental health I Stress hormones are already attacking the would go to war for. Wouldn’t you? cells of my body already - I live in the 21st Those of us lucky enough to remember a Century … Don’t talk to me about Anthrax; time before the i-World (iPod iPad iTouch) the bio-chemical response I have to my might recall the wonder of actual children’s snail-like pace getting wall-paper - circa 1984, ready for school is enough to undulating scenes of assassinate a whole army. autumn parks and And this is the thing, And this is the deciduous trees that e thing, isn’ t it? W isn’t it? We are living you could spend hours in e th r are living unde under the insidious p um -p re staring at. Everything su es sidious pr pressure-pump of social al ic lit po d an unimaginable was al of soci and political distress, wearre e’ w d an , ss re “Beyond 2000”. We dist and we’re wearing k furing it - like a thic believed the future ” it - like a thick fur-coat co at of anxiety. brought innovation, of anxiety. Busyness is not civilian invisibility. We the new thing, and we’re were not prepared for the uncomfortable admitting when insidious warfare technology we’re not busy - like it’s some would have on our bodies - the strain of leprosy that may be contagious. tragedy of a world in turmoil. The There is a social expectation of productivity, overstimulation, the rushing about and the so we move faster and faster at a pace that desensitisation of big egos fighting over only defeats us in the long run. But we run borders we may never see. anyway…

“

To stop would mean to think, and to think would mean to consider the dismal lack of power we hold against ego-maniacs who run the planet.

Hey, I recycle my household waste. I turn off lights. I am doing my bit, so meet me halfway, fellas.

We are mostly unaware of the miracle matrix of our bodies. We operate from a headspace distracted by technology and social 60 coffs coast focus.

I hope to find peace with the powers that be. Undoubtedly, it will start with the peace I make with myself and the home I make for my children - so they believe in a planet that exists in the natural world beyond Microsoft and Apple Mac. For now, I think we’ll plant a herb pot and chat over a pot of tea …

Melanie Lock ND, The Hollow Store. www.thehollowstore.com.au

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

13 REASONS WHY YOU NEED TO CHECK YOUR CHILD’S DEVICE! THE CURRENT HOT TOPIC THROUGH THE MEDIA IS THE APPROPRIATENESS OR OTHERWISE OF THE NETFLIX SHOW 13 REASONS WHY. NOW, YOU MIGHT WONDER WHAT THIS HAS TO DO WITH CYBER SAFETY, SO I WILL HIGHLIGHT THE ANGLE I’M COMING FROM UPFRONT ...

I

f your child has a smart phone and your home has a Netflix account, it is exceptionally easy for your child to be accessing age inappropriate content without your knowledge. Trust me, they do and will, because with all the media surrounding 13 Reasons Why and all the kids talking about it, there is a natural curiosity factor amongst tweens and teens to find out what all the hype is about.

Just in case you haven’t heard about 13 Reasons Why - it is the Netflix teen soap opera based on a novel, about a teen girl who commits suicide, leaving behind a box of cassette tapes explaining why she did it, and these cassette tapes make up the somewhat disturbing story. It has been available to stream on Netflix since March 31, but only in the last few weeks has the mass media decided to make comment about the appropriateness or otherwise of the show.

I’m not about to tell you that your teenager should not be watching the show; however, I am going to highlight that it is rated MA15+ for numerous reasons, which therefore means that your 10 year old daughter should not be obsessing over it as I know many are, nor should your 14 year old daughter be secretly viewing it in her bed at night and then having issues sleeping because she is so freaked out.

On the other hand, your 16-year-old daughter might find the show educational

but confronting on some level, so I would therefore suggest that it is the sort of show to be watched by older teens with an adult and used as a conversation opener for a tough topic to raise with your teenage kids about depression, suicide and the issues they face sometimes in silence as they struggle through this challenging and sometimes difficult age.

From a cyber safety perspective, my advice to parents is that with all the hype surrounding 13 Reasons Why, it’s a good time to check the settings on your child’s device.

Have you set up the parental restrictions on their iPhone to exclude age inappropriate videos, music and apps? This is very easy to do within the device settings. Simply go to Settings>General>Restrictions; you will then need to enter a password which your child should not be familiar with, and then you need to remember to adjust settings as they mature.

Then you can simply enable and disable as you see fit. Alternatively, you can set up Parental Controls for your entire Netflix account by adding a PIN code that only the adults know or set up a profile for your child that only shows age appropriate shows.

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, call Lifeline 13 11 14.

Cyber Mum Australia, www.cybermumaus.com www.facebook.com/cybermumaus

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

LIVING CARE

SERVING THE COFFS HARBOUR COMMUNITY FOR 43 YEARS OVER THE PAST 79 YEARS, LIVING CARE HAS GROWN FROM A FOUNDATION OF A SINGLE AGED CARE SERVICE AT PENDLE HILL, SYDNEY, TO WHERE WE ARE TODAY A RESPECTED, PROFESSIONALLY OPERATED SERVICE PROVIDER.

L

iving Care offers a consistently high standard of care that is widely recognised within our nine Residential Services, seven Retirement Villages and our diverse range of in-home care services delivered across New South Wales.

Living Care was established during the “Great Depression” by a number of visionary men and women of faith, who had a dream to express God’s love to transform the lives of older people in desperate need.

Living Care takes seriously its responsibilities to care for those who choose our services, offering quality care to the aged, frail and all people in need in our communities. It is a passion that comes from a strong Christian base, supported by, Fresh Hope (Churches of Christ in NSW).

Today, Living Care offers the Coffs Harbour Region: • A comprehensive range of personal support and clinical services provided in both Private

Services and Home Care Packages, from Level 1 to Level 4, on a Consumer Directed Care basis, giving more choice and control to consumers.

• 24 contemporary, one-bedroom villas offering plenty of room, bright outlooks and low maintenance, making Dalpura Retirement Village a great lifestyle choice.

• Coffs Haven Residential Service accommodates 100 residents in single rooms, with private ensuites for singles or couples. For those residents experiencing significant memory loss, our self-contained dementia unit has 10 rooms and features its own private garden.

Coffs Harbour 1974 to Today 1974 - a local committee overseeing “Dalpura House” contacted Living Care with a request to take over the assets of their property in Coffs Harbour.

1979 - 24 independent living units were built on the Dalpura site, known today as Living Care’s Dalpura Retirement Village.

An activities hall also built on the site

was used for some time by the church and provided opportunity for the connection to be established between the church and the community living at Dalpura.

2000 - Living Care was successful in its application for 30 high care places and Home Care received 20 Community Aged Care Packages (CACPs) for the Coffs Harbour region.

Land was purchased on which to build a new aged care residential facility.

2001 - Construction started on the 60 bed facility.

2002 - The first residents move into Living Care’s Coffs Haven Residential Care Service.

2003 - The Living Care Home Care office

moved to the residential site and expanded from 20 to 50 home care packages.

2004 - 40 additional residential places were allocated to Coffs Haven; 30 high care and 10 low care.

2007 - A 40 bed extension to Coffs Haven was approved.

Living Care has been proud to serve the Coffs Harbour community for the past 43 years, and we look forward to continue to provide services to those in need in the Coffs Harbour region and surrounding areas.

Information sourced from the Living Care 75 Year Anniversary Booklet.

1800 005 484 livingcare.org.au

coffs coast focus. 61

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

DR TRIVENI NANDA WOMEN’S HEALTH AND FERTILITY SPECIALIST

WHEN HER CHILDREN WENT TO UNIVERSITY, DR TRIVENI NANDA MOVED TO COFFS HARBOUR FOR SOME “ME TIME” AND CONTINUED TO FOLLOW HER PASSION FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH BY SUPPORTING WOMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGH PRE-PREGNANCY, PREGNANCY AND BIRTH. WHEN FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH DR NANDA, SHE SHARED MORE ABOUT HER LENGTHY CAREER AND GAVE SOME ADVICE FOR PEOPLE TRYING TO CONCEIVE.

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I’m a country girl and have always wanted to settle in a country town. Once my children finished high school and moved on to university, I wanted to have “me time”, so I chose to move to the beautiful Coffs Coast due to its warm weather and multicultural community, where I felt at home.

Where does your passion for women’s health come from?

My passion for women’s health comes from being a woman of many roles - a mother, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend and a colleague. I believe that I have a greater understanding of women and their needs, and this allows me to relate to each individual in a non-judgemental way and offer the best support and treatment.

You speak other languages besides English. What are they, and how does this help you look after more women in the Coffs Coast community?

I speak Hindi, Kannada, Telugu and Tamil.

Hindi is the national language in India and is widely spoken and understood by most Indians. My mother tongue is Kannada, and I also speak the language of the neighbouring states - Telugu and Tamil.

Being multilingual most certainly helps make an impact in the Coffs Coast community, as it is difficult to find interpreters in emergency situations and women feel at home and more comfortable if you can relate to them in their own language.

Coffs has a huge Punjabi community, and there are many women in this community who don’t speak English. Being able to speak Hindi has helped immensely to serve this segment of the community.

How long have you been working as an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, and what have been some of the highlights?

I completed my postgraduate degree in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Mysore 62 coffs coast focus.

You work with all aspects of pregnancy, Medical College in April 1992 and worked as from conception to delivery. What do consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist for you find rewarding about this holistic many years in Bangalore, India, before moving approach? to Australia in 2003.

I consider supporting women and their Moving to Australia has without a doubt families through pre-pregnancy, pregnancy been the greatest highlight of my career. I and birth as a privilege and love being enjoy being able to practice part of that beautiful journey. I’m research and evidence passionate about providing based medicine with patients with the highest an amazing team quality, evidence based of midwives and I consider women centred en patients from all om w supporting antenatal care. walks of life, who es ili and their fam y, nc na I believe in informed are part of the eg pr ethrough pr h rt bi d patient choice and decision-making an y nc pregna d an ge meeting the unique ile process every step iv pr as a of that rt pa g in and challenging needs of the way. be ve lo y.” of women. Respecting I had to beautiful journe women’s choices is of partially retrain in greatest importance to me in Australia and was helping them achieve a healthy fortunate to have the and happy outcome. opportunity of working at Fertility is an important issue for Royal North Shore Hospital and many people hoping to have a child. its secondment network from 2003 How can couples increase their chance of to 2009, where I could further hone conceiving naturally? my skills in urogynecology, high-risk General lifestyle measures for both the obstetrics, infertility, laparoscopic surgery, female and male can help improve natural gynaecological oncology and colposcopy. fertility. These include diet, exercise and aiming Have there been any challenges along the for a weight in the healthy range. Smoking way? cessation and minimising alcohol intake has As much as moving to Australia was my also been shown to boost fertility. It is also very greatest highlight, it has also been one of my important that anyone planning for pregnancy greatest challenges - after all, immigration is should be on some form of folic acid and not for the faint hearted. On top of cultural iodine supplementation. Having some idea of changes, I too struggled with the work-life timing for conception is important, and your balance, especially being a mother and a local GP or gynaecologist can help give further professional. I could not have achieved that advice on this. without the support of my wonderful children.

What is your advice for couples having Coming to Coffs Harbour three years ago, trouble conceiving?

I had to start my private practice from the If someone has had difficulty falling ground up. Learning the business side of pregnant for more than 12 months if under 35 running a practice was a huge challenge, as I years of age, or more than six months if over prefer to be only a clinician.

35 years age, they should seek help from their I am grateful for the unconditional support local GP. Usually at this stage they will have of the GPs in the area, all the amazing women some basic investigations performed and be in the community who have faith and belief in referred to a fertility specialist, who is usually a me and the wonderful midwives and staff at gynaecologist or endocrinologist. the hospital who helped me find my feet.

“

Is IVF treatment the only way to conceive once fertility issues have been identified?

No, there are many other options prior to IVF. Fertility issues can be multifactorial and often just by making some minor lifestyle adjustments, treating medical conditions and performing some surgical corrections, a patient’s natural fertility can be given a boost.

If that is not successful, there are a range of artificial reproductive techniques, one of which is IVF. Can you share any success stories?

I believe that every healthy and happy baby delivered is a success story. Every time I have helped a woman improve her quality of life by offering access to the latest therapies and technologies in pelvic floor disorders, reproductive disorders or gynaecological surgery is also a success of its own.

Do you think it is important for people to be more open about fertility and why?

Fertility issues can be very distressing for a couple, and having a supportive network is very important. Having a more open discussion about fertility issues in the community will encourage people to access the appropriate resources and ask for help at the appropriate time. It will also help lift the mystery and isolation that many couples feel.

Can you recommend any local support networks for people experiencing fertility issues?

There are many online forums where one can share personal experiences and ask questions to other people experiencing difficulty with fertility. Usually when you are linked with a fertility specialist, a counsellor will be a part of the team taking care of you.

In Australia a counsellor who is certified for fertility issues is ANZICA qualified. In Coffs Harbour we have Genea IVF nurse coordinator Sarah Attwood, who can be contacted for appropriate directions.

Thanks Dr Nanda.

JUNE 2017

with Terri

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Your wisdom from every existence previously experienced is coming back for you to access. You may hear yourself speaking a truth and be filled with wonder as to its origin, because you won’t have learnt it. Your mind is connecting to thoughts beyond time.

Enjoy!

Blue Lace Agate is great for intellectual stimulation.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Your faith has been tested, as has your patience.

Don’t give up so close to receiving your success. The wait will be well worth it. An opportunity to further educate yourself and gather new friends will soon present itself.

Turquoise gives self confidence a boost.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Now is a perfect time to stop, sit back and re-evaluate your situation at work. Your leadership skills are yearning to be used, and your creativity has suffered from “mundane burn-out”. Listen to your own inner voice, as you know your answer clearer than anyone.

Turquoise is great for self-validation.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

A clear conscience is a soft pillow. There are words you need to express to ease a loved one’s anxiety. Be objective, not judgemental, if you wish to be heard.

You can claim your future by being the person you want to be. Play in nature, take a bush-walk, or stroll along the beach and “De-stress”.

Moonstone will help with your mood swings. Hold it and think of three things you are grateful for.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 You don’t need to worry as much as you do. You are currently being given the opportunity to find your inner strength. You are much more capable than you realise. Work with your self-esteem by thinking three compliments to yourself three times a day for three weeks, and marvel at the difference.

Chrysocolla is wonderful for new discoveries.

Wear it on your being, whilst thinking about what you want.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Good news is on its way - more than likely bringing cause to celebrate. Kick up your heels and party; celebration is good for the soul. Your writing skills are suffering from boredom lately, so pick up that pen and put your creative self to good use.

Citrine attracts an abundance of positive energy and shatters negativity.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Even though you may have been feeling rejected lately, just look at the new attitudes and selfconfidence you have gained. New friends are coming into the picture. Work opportunities are likely to offer a nice distraction to your sadness.

Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Avoid arguing the point at the moment, as this behaviour is stopping you from seeing the bigger picture. Your position is far more valuable as the wise “peace-keeper”, not the enemy. Soon change will show you how important your values really are. Be kind to yourself.

Clear Quartz gives our confidence a boost.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 An exciting adventure is on the horizon. If this opportunity has never been available to you before, shouldn’t that mean something? Don’t allow other people’s worries to spoil your exciting adventure.

Listen to your intuition, and you can’t go wrong.

Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Your personal strength is inspiring to those close.

Avoid heavy discussions or bullying energies at the moment, as your reserves are affected by other people’s needs. Place yourself in the company of light happy people, where you will shine.

Citrine shatters negative energy and attracts an abundance of positive energy.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Your genius mind is about to find an exciting new challenge. Pursue something that gives you creative satisfaction, as this will feed your drive and motivation in other areas as well. Don’t say yes to any offer; know your worth. This is the difference between happy and sad, at the end of the day.

Rose Quartz connects us to what really is important.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

There is much comfort for you to be found in your relationship at present. Your support is vital to each other’s success at the moment. Keep bouncing ideas off each other, as you can see the benefits of this.

Herkimer Diamond, the soul connecting crystal, would be ideal.

coffs coast focus. 63

CarolE Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Shelli Van-Santen, Jessie Carter, Keyalah Hannessey, Brenda Prior

Brian Marshall, Tony McGowan

Tiebe Gebreslase, Jane Gusta-Callanan

Courtney Kibble, Luke Wright

TAFE Awards Event

TAFE Awards Event

Julie-Ann Willis, Jake Cosmai, Lisa Taffe, Priscilla Scanlain

Jake Cosmai, Julie-Ann Willis, Christopher Anderson

Karen Spring, Rayti Collins, Dale Johnston, Deb Collins

SOCIAL/SCENE

T

he Coffs Harbour Show is an event that goes on whatever the weather. This year is the 103rd!

This massive event usually draws in over 12,000 people. As usual, this event attracts plenty of tourists to our beautiful Coffs Coast, to attend this super popular, family friendly show. The Showgirl competition is a crowd favourite and had lots of lovely young ladies competing for the sashes. For the children, there was a sideshow alley with exciting rides and lots of tempting showbags. The family farmland is always a delight, where the children get to pet and feed the baby animals. Also for the kids there were jumping castles, face painting, and they could even get their picture taken with Peppa Pig. So much to choose from; no wonder it is never just a one day event!

There is certainly no chance that anyone could have gone hungry, as The Show Society staged an all-day BBQ, with tasty steaks and sausages a plenty. As always, the Ladies Auxiliary Canteens were providing tempting home cooked delicious offerings, which kept those ladies busy all day.

Outside there were all the usual attractions, including the guide dog obstacle course and an area where the vintage cars were showcased.

There were horses ridden and shown, show jumping, cattle shows, cat display area (favourite of mine) and so much more! Inside the Craft and Produce Pavilion there was an abundance of 64 coffs coast focus.

WINTER HAS FINALLY HIT THE COFFS COAST! THIS IS A LOVELY SEASON, WHEN IT’S NOT TOO HOT AND NOT TOO COLD. OUR WEATHER UP HERE RARELY SEEMS TO STOP ALL THE EVENTS THAT WE HOLD AND ENJOY OUTSIDE.

fresh local produce showcased. From scrumptious homemade cakes to beautiful flowers, I could fill this whole column up with what went on at the Coffs Harbour Show! Wonderful!

Nicci and I from FOCUS attended the TAFE NSW Awards of Excellence event just recently.

It was a night where both graduates and continuing students were recognised and presented with awards of merit and excellence in each teaching section represented across both campuses. Some of the awards came from popular areas of study such as aged care, business and accounting, construction trades, health, nursing, along with specialised areas of study such as furniture design and visual arts.

Megan Hill, who is the leader of Community and Business Engagement, said, “The event reflected the outstanding talent and achievements of students from across the Coffs Coast and Bellingen Shire. These recipients demonstrate a quality approach to their education and reflect attributes sought after by the industry.”

Coupled with the awards of merit and awards of excellence, a select few students were presented with major awards. Dominic Elmaloglou, an apprentice chef and Certificate III Commercial Cookery student was awarded 2016 Apprentice of the Year and overall 2016 Student of the Year. It was such an uplifting night, showcasing our local graduates’ and

students’ efforts, with amazing catering for the attending students and guests. It has been a busy month for Tourism and events on the Coffs Coast. The Annual Waste Conference was held at the Beachfront Opal Cove Resort, with over 500 delegates in town. The welcome event for the conference included a Welcome to Country from Uncle Mark Flanders, Yidaki from Ben Ferguson, entertainment by Matty Devitt and a touch of excitement for the guests, with fire twirlers performing around the grounds of the resort.

We attended the Bunker Cartoon Gallery this past month, where it has been showcasing The Phantom exhibition. Great fun for everyone with this exhibition! A little touch of humour occurred when our delightful Mayor, Denise Knight, was seen to be rescued by “The Phantom”! Following this exhibition is, of course, the ever popular “Bald Archy”, which is a satirical take on the Archibald Exhibition!

We attended the second Annual Pink Silks by the Sea event, which was once again a huge success! All these events are backed up with the generosity from local businesses. This event is supported by Marcus and Colleen, who are the amazing team at Lattitude 30.

The popular event is a definite highlight on our local ladies’ calendars and was once again a sell out, with funds raised for local women’s health and research. Just under one hundred guests attended this year, with Latitude 30 creating a

new open plan layout. The delicious afternoon tea consisted of sweet and savoury temptations.

President Tanya Johnson made an exciting announcement on the day: there will be a “Healing Garden” created at the Coffs Harbour Jetty. There will be an opening on the 2nd September of the Pink Silks Perpetual Trust Health Garden. It will be located alongside the Waybe Glenn Walk and Gallows Beach. The garden has been given special approval, with builders donating their expertise and time in preparation for the project. The “Healing Garden” will include species of plants with healing properties. What a wonderful idea! Beautiful afternoon for a great cause!

Staying with High Teas! The next one on the calendar to look forward to is the Le Dãin Designs High Fashion, Hats and High Tea. Where this is not a full charity event, it in part supports the Pink Silks Perpetual Trust and is for the ladies and the gents. This is staged at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. This event kick starts the Coffs Harbour Racing Carnival and gets everyone geared up for some race day fun. While this is a non race event, there certainly is a fabulous “FOCUS Fashions on the Field”, with an amazing prize pool! See advertisement in this edition of FOCUS or for enquiries, contact the Coffs Harbour Racing Club on 6652 1488 or 0417 471 019. Here is to living life to the fullest ...

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

CarolE Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Brenna Smith, Katherine Welsh

Di Miller, Kelly Booth

Tori Clark, Kirsty Fikkers, Andrea Giacopazzi

Kerstin Thode, Sheree Soderlund, Sandie Robbins

Leah Daniels, Mel Browne

Tracy Dodsworth, Ellen Dalrymple, Sonya Elley

Lydia Twiddle, Sharon Pelt

Maryann Heslop, Janet Ray

Barbara, Danni

April Briscoe, Annie Blair

Lisa Daniel, Svetlana Burrows

Kerry Hines, Gael Drum, Julie McAnally

Kelly Booth, Bonnie Capell

Amy, Betty, and Grace Weick

Wayne Adnam, Michael Hill, Christopher Anderson

Ilan Kidron Lead singer of the Potbelleez and Singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer, Milan Ring

Wayne Nagle, Denise Knight, Luke Hartsuyker

coffs coast focus. 65

MOTOR 66 coffs coast focus.

Australasia’s largest tinting network.

MOTOR

COME IN AND SEE THE TEAM AT

MOTO SCAN Karl, can you tell me a bit more about what you do and what services you provide at Motoscan? We are honest and qualified technicians who offer you a competent and reliable service. We are also a Coffs local business and pride ourselves on building trust and maintaining professionalism at all times. Some of our services include: Roadside Assistance If you’re ever stuck on the side of the road with that dreaded flat tyre, or the kids didn’t shut the car door properly and now you have a flat battery, or perhaps it’s something more serious? We can help!

Fully Qualified Mechanic Coffs local, fully insured, licensed technician, so trust that you will be given the right information!

TINT A CAR COFFS HARBOUR

Program a Remote Key If you have a car remote key that needs programming, Motoscan can do that for you as well.

DPF Regeneration If your Diesel Particulate Filters become blocked, Motoscan can empty it for you, to maintain good performance Calibration of Clock Springs Clock spring calibration is done to remove the supplement restraint system dashboard light.

All your Auto Electrical Needs

Car Health Check Motoscan will perform a car health check, to ensure your vehicle is running at its optimum, for peace of mind.

Electric window won’t go up, and it’s about to rain? Motoscan can help with all your electrical needs.

Scan for Fault Codes We can perform vehicle diagnostics, to find out “What is that light on my dashboard?”

So be sure to give Motoscan a call for all your automotive needs, because even if I can’t help, I can certainly point you in the right direction.

Add a dark side to your vehicle’s windows.

A once-off treatment for a super-stay shine.

Protects your vehicle against stone chips, scratches and nasty scrapes.

Tint a Car Coffs Harbour

1/10 Marcia St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 call: (02) 6651 6466

coffs coast focus. 67

G R A F T O N

MOTOR

The Grafton Truck Drivers Social Club originated in 1978, when Don Wall hired out the Golf Club for a night with the help of Stan Rose, Gordon Warrell, Max Oxenbridge, Johnny Tibbs, Terry Hargans, Don Power, Judy Ward and Ben Kelsall for a Truckers’ Ball. It was a complete sell out! FOCUS had a chat with Danielle Richards, to find out more about the club and their upcoming Truck Show on June 10 ...

W

here did the idea for the show originate, and what’s its purpose?

It was originally organised to help families with funeral costs if a loved one passed away due to a truck accident, a theme which is still present today. There was no parade as such, until about three years after the first ball. The idea behind it was to bring everyone in the trucking community together for a night of fun and for the drivers and wives to let their hair down and have a good time. Don Wall was President for the first six years, before he had to step down due to work commitments. Don is a Life Member of the Club and is still involved to this day.

Nowadays, the event is organised by a much bigger club and the executives, who are elected at an annual AGM, held in July.

What can we expect at this year’s show, and what are some of the highlights?

This year’s show venue is at the Grafton Racecourse. It’s the 40th anniversary, and we want to make this year one of the best there has ever been! A parade will proceed down the main street of Grafton, Prince Street, commencing at 10am. From there the convoy will head back to the racecourse and park for the day. In conjunction with the Grafton Truck Show, there will be a TAB race meet at the racecourse.

There will be live entertainment throughout the day, with Blake O’Connor performing and supporting the Adam Eckersley Band, who will be performing into the night. There will also be free kids’ activities. We auctioned off two skydiving tickets, sponsored by North Coast Heavy

68 coffs coast focus.

Towing. Daniel & Son Transport bought judging work? the two tickets and will be landing in the The judges are kept secret; only a very middle of the racecourse. few people know who the judges are.

Will this year's event have exhibitors?

There is a specific criteria the trucks have There will be a variety of exhibitor stalls. to meet, and the judges decide who the We still have spots for stalls; please email winners are. graftontruckclub@gmail.com if you are More information? interested in having a stall. They start from The parade starts from the corner of $100 for a 3 x 3 metre site.

Prince and Arthur Streets at 10am. They Can you tell us about the awards will do a lap of Prince Street and then head categories? back to the racecourse.

This year is the first year we We are a not for profit are offering prize money. organisation, and There is $1,000 on proceeds from the day e offer for Truck of the go to the Westpac There will be liv Show, sponsored by Rescue Helicopter. entertainment day, the Village Green Since 1997, we throughout the nor Hotel, and $500 with Blake O’Con have donated performing and on offer for Best $160,000 Adam supporting the Fleet, sponsored by back into the , who Eckersley Band Ford Optometrist. community. ing will be perform There are a total Nomination t.” gh ni e th into of 32 categories, forms are ready and well as five Highly to be handed out, Commended trophies up so if you would like a for grabs. Thirty-seven trophies nomination form, or have any in total will be given out on the day, as other questions about the Truck well as $1,500 in prize money.

Show, please email graftontruckclub@ Included in the categories are Best gmail.com Kenworth, Western Star, Freightliner/ Nomination costs are $30 per truck.

Mercedes, Sterling/Ford, Isuzu, Daf, Mack, Where can people find out more?

Scania, Volvo, Iveco/International, Hino We have a Facebook page, which is kept and Best Other Makes. There are also four up to date with what’s going on. You can Memorial Trophies given out, which are also send an email to graftontruckclub@ Andrew “Buzzard” Burrows Best Bush Log gmail.com and we will answer any Truck, Noel Rose & Barney Palmer Best questions.

Livestock Carrier, Neil Pearce Best Member’s Thanks Danielle.

Truck and The Rex Wright Memorial Trophy.

These trophies have a long history with the plug! club.

Saturday 10th June - Grafton Racecourse.

Who are the judges, and how does the

“

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SAY HELLO TO THE NEW-LOOK, PUMPED-UP, 7-SEAT ISUZU MU-X

THE NEW-LOOK ISUZU MU-X HAS ARRIVED AT COFFS COAST ISUZU UTE AND IT'S A STAND OUT PERFORMER ON OR OFF-ROAD. WITH OUR LEGENDARY ISUZU 3-LITRE TURBO DIESEL ENGINE, A BEEFED UP 430Nm OF TORQUE AND AN INTUITIVE 6-SPEED TRANSMISSION, THE MU-X IS ALL YOU NEED TO PUMP UP ANY ADVENTURE. The MU-X has forged a reputation for itself as a dependable and rugged SUV since its arrival in late 2013 and still claims the title for the Number 1 selling SUV on the Coffs Coast. It now meets Euro5 emissions compliance and produces 130kW/430Nm – that’s 50Nm more peak torque than our previous model, and as before is boosted by a variable geometry turbocharger and runs a durable steel timing chain in place of a belt.

A new 6 speed automatic or manual transmission replace the previous 5 speed versions. The front-end has been restyled, with a new grille and bonnet complemented with Bi-LED projector headlights which incorporate Daytime Running Lights and an auto levelling feature, as well as a new tailgate and tail lights.

Carl Bennett says Isuzu UTE Australia have listened to our customers requests and have produced a far nicer dual-tone cabin including lots of soft-touch trim and contact points and better plastics, much more comfortable seats, plus new infotainment screens which all incorporate rear view cameras.

Every model in the MU-X range receives 7 seats standard, 6 airbags, ISOFIX anchors, Bluetooth and iPod Connectivity, 3 USB points (including 1 for middlerow occupants), 3 12V outlets and a full-size spare wheel. The MU-X line up consists of 3 levels and are available in 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, with Manual transmissions also offered in the 4x4 LS-M and LS-U models.

Pricing starts at $38,990 Drive Away for the 4x2 MU-X LS-M, all the way through to $52,990 Drive Away for the top of the range 4x4 MU-X LS-T.

70 18

^5 years/130,000km whichever occurs first, for eligible customers. Excludes accessories. >The Capped Price Servicing Program ("CPS Program") applies to Eligible Vehicles with a Warranty Start Date on or after 1/1/15 at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers only. The 5 years Capped Price Servicing covers the first 5 Scheduled Services for 16.5MY and later vehicle models for up to 5 years/50,000km (whichever occurs first). CPS Program is subject to change. For full terms and conditions and current pricing visit isuzuute.com.au/service-plus. +3.0 tonne braked towing capacity on all MU-X models when fitted with an optional genuine Isuzu UTE tow bar kit. #Fuel consumption and emissions figures based on ADR 81/02 (combined cycle test) and are to be used for vehicle comparison purposes only. Actual fuel consumption and emissions will vary depending on many factors including, but not limited to, traffic conditions, individual driving style and vehicle condition. †Offer is limited to 17MY 4x4 D-MAX and 16.5MY/17MY 4x4 MU-X models sold and delivered between 1/5/17 and 30/6/17 to private and ABN holders only. Excludes demonstrators and X-RUNNER. The Scheduled Servicing offer covers standard items (normal operating conditions) as listed in IUA Warranty and Service Booklet for the first 2 years Scheduled Servicing (covering the first 2 Scheduled Services up to 24 months/20,000km – whichever occurs first). Offer does not cover any other Scheduled Service, Make-up Scheduled Service or any additional service items or requirements, which are at the owner’s expense. Only at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers. Not available with any other offer. §Seats have leathercoast touches or accents (excluding third row), but are not wholly leather. coffs coast coffs

focus. focus.

CARL BENNETT Coffs Coast Isuzu UTE Sales Manager

ISUZU MU-X LS-M 16 Inch Alloy Wheels, Air Conditioning, Cruise Control, Hill Descent Control, 7.0 Inch Touch Screen with Reverse Camera

THE DETAILS

ISUZU MU-X LS-U

TOWING CAPACITY IS RATED AT 3 TONNE ACROSS THE RANGE WITH A 300KG DOWNBALL WEIGHT+.

OUTSTANDING FUEL CONSUMPTION FROM 7.9 LITRES PER 100KM COMBINED#.

(In addition to LS-M) 18 Inch Alloy Wheels, Front Fog Lights, Side Steps, Privacy Glass, 8 Inch Touch Screen with Satellite Navigation, Climate Control with vents for all 3 rows in roof for rear passengers.

ALL ISUZU MU-X MODELS COME WITH A 5 YEAR/130,000KM^ WARRANTY (WHICH EVER OCCURS FIRST)

ISUZU MU-X LS-T

5 YEARS 24 HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 5 YEARS CAPPED PRICE SERVICING> (EVERY 12 MONTHS OR 10,000KM) FOR THE MONTHS OF MAY AND JUNE WE ARE GIVING AWAY 2 YEARS FREE SERVICING WITH EVERY PURCHASE OF A 4X4 MU-X†.

CALL IN TODAY TO CHECK OUT THE NEW MU-X AND ARRANGE YOUR TEST DRIVE.

(In addition to LS-U) Leather Accented Seats§, Push Button Start with Keyless Entry, Electric Driver's Seat, Roof Rails, 10 Inch Roof Mounted Entertainment Monitor, Rear Spoiler.

6 Tolhurst Place Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Phone 02 6648 3533 www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au

71 coffs coast focus. 19

VEHICLE ISUZU - MU-X LS-T 4X4 REVIEWED 12TH MAY 2017 DEALER COFFS COAST ISUZU UTE

MOTOR W I T H

L A A R Z

I TOOK ON A SHORT OFF-ROAD SECTION DURING THE TIME I HAD IT, NOTHING TOO GNARLY, AND THE MU-X HANDLED IT ALL EASILY. n The touchscree is media system e; it is pl sim e to operat ht , ig br d big, clear an ot sp to sy ea making it ur yo in h nc and pu options .”

“ suzu has just updated its seven-seater MU-X with an exterior facelift and a smarten-up of the interior atop the new built-for-Australia engine and new six-speed transmissions.

The MU-X interior is neat and tidy.

There may now be a dual-tone dash with softtouch finishes, new chrome and piano-black trimming, and also new soft-touch armrests and console coverings, but the cabin has a real unfussy feel about it, which stands in its favour.

There’s hard plastic here and there, but inside the MU-X is a pleasant place to be.

How practical is the space inside?

All 17 model MU-X cabins have 12 cup holders, 18 storage area/ solutions, three USB and three 12V power plugs.

The layout of the cabin is practical and user-friendly; from the entertainment system controls through to seat adjustment, everything is a breeze to locate and operate.

The six-way adjustable electric driver’s seat is easy to adjust; mirrors are power adjustable and the air-con’s control dial is a big one, so there’s no fumbling around to get the in-car temperature right.

The touchscreen media system is simple to operate; it is big, clear and bright, making it easy to spot and punch in your options.

The front seats are supportive, but there could be more side bolstering for taller people.

There is plenty of space inside, and it is used well. I sat behind my own driving position and 72 coffs coast focus.

had plenty of room at head, knee and shoulder height. The second row is a 60:40 split-fold with a fold-away centre armrest.

The third row is a tighter fit - but it’s roomy, if not more so, than its rivals - and it’s easy enough to access for most nimble grown-ups.

Getting out is a bit tougher.

“When the second and third row seats are folded down, you could host a party in the 1,830 litres of space.”

Does it represent good value for the price, and what features does it come with?

There are three trim levels in the variants. All models have seven seats.

The LS-T’s features include the new 8.0-inch touchscreen, cruise control, USB and Bluetooth audio streaming, rear parking sensors, autolevelling Bi-LED projector headlights, keyless entry, front fog-lights, hill descent control, airconditioning, power windows, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather accented seats, roofmounted 10-inch DVD screen for the secondrow passengers (third-row passengers can see it as well), passive entry and start system, six-way adjustable electric driver’s seat, roof rails, tailgate spoiler, chrome muffler tip and more.

What are the key stats for the engine and transmission?

The new Euro5 emissions-compliant 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine produces 130 kw@3,600 rpm (the same as before) but it now yields 430 Nm@2,000 - 2,200rpm - that’s 50 Nm more than it previously punched out.

The new MU-X comes armed with a new sixspeed Aisin automatic transmission.

How much fuel does it consume?

The MU-X LS-T’s fuel consumption is claimed to be 8.1 L/100 km (auto, 4x2, combined) or 7.9 L/100 km (auto, 4x4, combined).

What’s it like to drive?

It’s a big rig, but it has well-balanced steering, only taking on a looser feel when pitched into corners. The turning circle is 11.6 m.

Open-road driving is a treat in this thing, because the new engine’s ample torque is available across a broad rev range.

The suspension set-up is independent, with high-ride coil springs and gas shocks, at the front, and multi-link coils at the back end.

For the off-roading most people will do in their MU-X, the current set-up is adequate.

Case in point, at the top of a steepish hill, I hit the hill descent control button - it’s positioned just to the right of the steering wheel and easy to not notice - and ambled down the slope, no worries.

What safety equipment is fitted?

The MU-X has a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating. Safety gear includes six airbags (dual front, front side and full-length curtain), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution,

Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control and Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, plus three top-tether points and two ISOFIX child-seat anchor points in the second row.

What does it cost to own? What warranty is offered?

The LS-T is the top-shelf MU-X variant, and it is only available with an automatic transmission.

Pricing is $48,800 for the 4x2 version, and $56,100 for the 4x4.

Basic warranty Five years / 130,000,000 km warranty with five years of roadside assist and five-year / 50,000 km capped price service costs. Servicing is recommended at 12-month / 10,000 km intervals.

Verdict It’s not exactly a game-changer and certainly not as sophisticated as its rivals like Fortuner and Everest in terms of driver assist technology and more but, with its great engine and six-speed auto, as well as a neat interior and stylish exterior, this 2017 MU-X is at a big step in the right direction.

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focusinterview.

MOTOR

WHITMORE 2017 SHOW ‘N’ SHINE FOR BLOOD CANCER

By single-handedly organising the 2017 Show ‘n’ Shine event, Jason Whitmore has combined the Coffs Coast communities’ love of cars with his passion for raising money to help find a cure for blood cancers. Get on down to the Coffs Harbour Leagues Club to enter your vehicle, or take a close up look at the best cars in town, and support a very worthy cause. hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I have family on the Coffs Coast and moved here from Penrith in 2001. The Coffs Coast is one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in New South Wales. Being near mountain ranges, the clean air and the ocean breeze makes it a great place to enjoy life.

How long have the Show ‘n’ Shine for Blood Cancer events been happening, and what inspired you to create them?

The Show ‘n’ Shine for Blood Cancer started in June 2016; this is our second year.

I have lost a brother-in-law to leukaemia and great friends who have had other types of blood cancer. Knowing what it is like to lose someone inspired me to raise vital funds to help people with leukaemia and other blood cancers. Over the years I have lived here, I noticed the Coffs Coast has a large car loving community, so I thought a Show ‘n’ Shine event would reach a wide range of people.

The money raised on the day goes towards Light the Night Coffs Harbour. Can you tell us more about that?

Light the Night is an inspiring twilight walk to help the Leukaemia Foundation to raise funds for research, to cure blood cancer forever. Gather with family, friends and colleagues to shine a beautiful lantern of hope: gold to remember a loved one, white to reflect on your life with cancer, and blue to support others.

Why is it important to raise money for blood cancer and the Leukaemia

74 coffs coast focus.

Foundation?

Decades of research has improved survival rates and treatment for people with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders. However, blood cancer remains the third biggest cause of cancer death in Australia, claiming a life every two hours, so ongoing research is vital. We firmly believe that one day, everyone with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders can be cured.

The Leukaemia Foundation is Australia's peak body for blood cancer, funding research and providing free services to support people with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders, and their families. They have an unwavering focus on reducing the impact of blood cancer and related blood disorders by providing free practical and emotional support, and funding research to improve treatments and find cures.

Their work also includes raising awareness of the impact within the community, advocacy, and contributing to the international blood cancer sector to improve quality of life for the person and their family.

They receive no ongoing government funding and rely on the generous support of the community to fund their Vision to Cure and Mission to Care initiatives.

What do you find most rewarding about doing this fundraising work?

The most rewarding part is getting to meet new people and knowing the funds we have raised has gone into supporting patients helping find a cure for leukaemia and blood cancers.

When blood cancer changes the lives of thousands of Australian families every year,

the Leukaemia Foundation is ready to help transport that is special to their owner is worth them to face the challenges ahead. showing to others.

Many simple aspects of life become complex There are two ways people can enter their when a person is diagnosed. The services vehicles. help to reduce the burden on the 1. Download the entry form by individual and their family, so going to http://bit.ly/2pJj5es that they can focus on their Fill it out, then hand treatment and the things it in at the marquee it t ha I know w they enjoy. All support is next to the Shannons se lo to is like is provided free of charge, marquee on the oval. th d an , someone e m d thanks to people like 2.

Register on the ire sp in t is wha s nd fu l ta myself helping to make day by picking up an vi e is ra to these services available entry form from the to help people and to the patients by marquee next to the with leukaemia ers.” nc ca d oo bl r running fundraisers. othe Shannons marquee.

What type of vehicles The people at the main will be on show, and gate can direct you there. where do they come from?

What do you see for the At last years Show ‘n’ Shine there future of the Show ‘n’ Shine where up to 50 cars on show from places for Blood Cancer? like Newcastle, Grafton and Coffs Harbour.

I had a vision the Show ‘n’ Shine for We are expecting a mixture of classic, Blood Cancer will get bigger and better each vintage, modern, rally and racing cars, trucks year, with entertainment for the kids and much and bikes on display. There will be prizes and more. trophies up for grabs for best club display, a We are currently looking for a sponsor to people’s choice award and lots more. provide kids’ entertainment for next year’s The wicked Holden Ute was the most event. popular car last year, for its very nice Thanks Jason. modifications. It was also extremely tidy and clean.

What else will be happening on the day? plug!

Three man band Out of the Blue will be there When Saturday, June 25 - 8am for show playing live music, and Flash Food 2 U will be vehicles and 9:30am for the public. there serving coffee and great food. It is an Where Coffs Harbour Leagues Club. alcohol free event.

Cost $2 donation for spectators; $10 donation How can people show their cars? Are there to show a vehicle. any particular categories or criteria?

Proudly supported by Shannons Coffs All cars are welcome. Any beautiful piece of Harbour & Gizmos Electronics.

“

barry hockey accountants

Baratza Sette 270w + Wega IO

Make the most of it!

As those in the know will tell you - the grinder is the rock star of any espresso show. *

It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. We have seen the Government deliver another budget and there are several changes to consider that may impact directly you, particularly small business owners and superannuation.

From 1 July 2017, there have been some significant changes to superannuation, mainly contributions into super and transition to retirement income stream rules. A cap on retirement income stream balances has also been introduced, which will impact some retirees.

Individuals need to ensure receipts are held for all tax deductions, including up to date logbooks for motor vehicle claims, work related travel, seminars, union fees, tools and equipment.

Small businesses should ensure that their financial information is up to date, so that important decisions can be made prior to June 30. If you are looking for new finance arrangements, it is a good idea to have your accounts finalised, so that the bank has up to date information.

East coast Cabinets A recent survey just completed has brought to our attention the differences between Sydney and the regional areas. Our main sources of work are commercial projects, new homes and renovations of homes and units.

This area has some new unit development, but it’s a very small percentage of the market as a whole. However, in the capital cities, units and apartments are currently the major focus of both new work and renovations.

How will this affect the developers, building trades, local business and/or owners and tenants in the future? Are our local officials looking at these things and planning accordingly?

Are we asking the right questions and following up for answers, or are we all drifting? Think about it.

At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. We not only specialise in taxation, but we have extensive background skills in finance and banking.

Congratulations go to the owners of 43 Ocean Street, Woolgoolga on the completion of their prestigious home and best wishes with the sale. Solitary Designer Homes have used their expertise to perfection in the whole building process, and we thank them for including us in a wonderful opportunity to do something different from the norm. Projects such as this one benefit the status of the whole area, affecting valuations and overall outlook.

Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care.

Have a good month, Deb.

Choosing an Accountant - why use one?

If you are self-employed, an accountant is an essential part of your team.

OK, quality, fresh roasted coffee, good water and some espressomaking skills don’t hurt - but if you really care about consistently making the best coffees, then without a decent grinder, you’re pretty much wasting your time.

And right on cue … the Baratza Sette 270W is available right now at Direct Wholesale Services. The Sette Series debuts a revolutionary new grinding technology, with the Sette 270W grinding by weight and offering a macro/micro adjust for grind size, as well as three programmable settings for dosing.

The series features a revolutionary burr mechanism with rotating ring burr and fixed cone burr. A unique, built-in, convertible device holder allows the user to grind directly into a portafilter, the supplied grounds bin, or most of the popular brewing devices.

Sharing the stage and also ready to perform for you at DWS is the new Wega IO espresso machine.

IO brings style and energy, a fun, young look, and attractive design in vibrant colours. Available in one-group, two-group compact, and two-group standard sizes, the IO features Wega’s standard group with thermosiphon circulation.

The machines can be programmed to four doses per unit and group heads can be adjusted from 82 - 122 millimetres in height at any time. Work area LED downlights are standard.

The perfect accessory for small spaces with big personalities - come in and check us out! *http://coffeegeek.com/guides/howtobuyanespressomachine/getagrinder

coffs coast focus. 75

focusinterview.

LUMINOSITY YOUTH SUMMIT Constable Jarryd De Castro from the Surry Hills Local Area Command is a Port Macquarie local who was the captain of his year at St Columba Anglican School. Since then, he has studied a Bachelor of Justice Studies and Policing at Charles Sturt University Bathurst for two years, followed by studying at the NSW Police Force Academy in Goulburn, receiving the Associate Degree in Policing Practise.

O

ver the four years of being in the Police Force, Jarryd has been involved in many challenging incidents, with the main to date being the Martin Place Siege - as one of the first officers on scene. Jarryd will be sharing his experiences at the Luminosity Youth Summit from 19 - 21 July.

What did you most enjoy about growing up in Port Macquarie and attending St Columba?

One thing I enjoyed about Port Macquarie was obviously the location. I was born and bred on the coast, being so close to the beach and having good friends around me. We moved up and down the coast a lot, but I was based in Port Macquarie from 2005 and went to St Columba, starting there in Year 8.

St Columba was still quite a new school at the time, so there only about 14 of us in my year. I have a musical background, so St Columba gave me a really great opportunity for that, and I did music and drama for my HSC in year 12. I was school captain in 2009 and had a really close connection with my year and a few of the senior teachers. I really enjoyed how close everyone was with each other, being a small and accepting school. I don’t think I would recognise it today!

Why did you want to become a police officer?

It’s actually a funny story; I always wanted to join the force. Growing up, I was interested in police shows and Mum would get me those police packs. On my 21st birthday, Mum brought a poster out that I had made when I was only six years old, and I had written down that I wanted to be a policeman with a little stick figure drawing underneath. Seeing this and realising that I had those ambitions when I was six, it is something that I’ve grown up with and has been embedded in the back of my mind. As the years went on, that was the main goal I had.

76 coffs coast focus.

We pulled up directly on the e eastern side of th café e th re building whe illips Ph on ed was situat d out St , and we jumpe hicle ve r not realising ou five or was parked only om the fr ay aw s ten metre the to or do y tr front en Lindt Café .”

“ It’s funny, as St Columba is predominantly a creative arts school. It was an interesting thing when I did quite well in my HSC in music and drama, then told my teachers that I was going to pursue a career as a police officer!

Your first posting as a police officer was in Surry Hills LAC. How much of a culture shock was it for a lad from a regional coastal area to move to a busy city district like this one?

It was May 2013 that I started in Surry Hills. I'd had a bit of exposure to the city before - Sydney in particular. A lot of my family still reside in Sydney, so coming in and out of the city was a day trip I would do growing up. But to then go to Surry Hills and see that historical side of the city was really interesting. Historically it was considered the slum of the CBD, and there are still aspects of this that you see in Surry Hills today.

It was a massive culture shock. I still remember doing my first shift one day, and we actually got escorted around the Local Area Command, the area that our station covers. Words can’t describe it; it was something that was quite surreal and very overwhelming, to see people from many different cultural backgrounds. You’ve got that vast difference between social economic status, so it was a big culture shock. And here I am from a small coastal town - all of sudden my bubble had been popped.

How have you adapted to that situation over time?

This May will be my fourth year, and over time I’ve really just learnt to throw myself in the deep end. Listening to the local people that run the cafés and other local businesses, elderly people who have lived here for the past 50 years and seen the change, and other officers who have been working here for five or ten years. I really listened and took their views on board, in order to adapt to the area.

How did you respond to the Martin Place Siege as one of the first officers on scene?

That day was actually my first day back from annual leave, and I was rostered on with a friend of mine from my same class in the academy. It was one of those things when you get back you go out and grab your morning coffee and come back before work starts for the day, and I remember sitting in the muster room and hearing the call over the police radio.

Because it was in the city, it was actually out of our immediate jurisdiction, so we were waiting for the city crews to copy it ... But there was a slight delay, so we ended up taking the call. We were the first vehicle on the scene, and I had never actually been exposed to the CBD a lot, so I was only familiar with Surry Hills. I had no idea that a café would look like a 1950s bank building.

We pulled up directly on the Eastern side of the building where the café was situated on Phillips St, and we jumped out - not realising our vehicle was parked only five or ten metres away from the front entry door to the Lindt Café.

Due to the situation, we put our Kevlar vests on and made our patrol right down to the front entrance to the café, and the area was put into immediate lockdown.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

One aspect of my job that I find rewarding is being a Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer, which is GLLO for short. In the Surry Hills area the majority of the population are part of the LGBITQ community, so to be able to be a Liaison Officer and draw the bridge between the gay community and the police force has been very rewarding, in regards to seeing the different aspects of both groups here and moving forward. I’ve been at GLLO for the past three years and have taken on the coordinator role for the Surry Hills region,

and have been able to engage personally with that community and assist them with whatever they need, making them aware that the police force actually do care, and that we have a program in place to increase understanding and awareness towards different aspects of the ever growing community.

What are you looking forward to about speaking at the Luminosity Youth Summit this year?

Firstly, it was a massive honour to be asked to this growing event. I’m looking forward to being back in my home town speaking with people whose shoes I’ve been in before. Past experiences, current incidents and my ability to face fear is what will be covered in the session. Courage can be seen as just a word, but if you concentrate on your ability to overcome your fears, then that word will be your all.

Don’t listen to people saying that you have to move to a big city to get the full benefit of uni; I went to school in Bathurst ... I want to get across to people that you don’t need to go to a big university to have the same opportunities; my study years in Bathurst were some of the best of my life. I want to show that if you believe in yourself and fight that fear, you can pop that bubble and find so much more out there ...

Thanks Jarryd.

plug!

Be inspired by Jarryd at Luminosity Youth Summit.

19 - 21 July 2017. www.luminosityyouthsummit.com.au

focus_real estate

Amanda Langlands from Langlands Property

How does the 2017 budget affect you?

I

real estate update

f you’re a first-home buyer ...

First home-buyers will be able to use their superannuation as a savings account, benefiting from tax incentives.

Saving for a deposit using your superannuation will begin from July 1, giving the ability for savers to salary sacrifice from their pre-tax income additional amounts on top of the compulsory employer superannuation contribution, topping up to a maximum of $30,000 per year.

You will then be able to withdraw that cash,

along with any investment earnings from 1 July 2018. This money will be taxed at the same tax benefits of superannuation; the contributions and the earnings will be taxed at 15 per cent and withdrawals will be taxed at 30 per cent below the marginal tax rate. This first home buyer savings strategy is expected to accelerate savings by at least 30 per cent compared with a traditional deposit savings account.

If you’re a Baby Boomer ...

Baby Boomers are being encouraged to sell their family homes, creating buying opportunities

for the new generation of growing families.

The budget allows seniors to make an aftertax contribution of up to $300,000 into their superannuation from the sale of their family home, provided they have lived there for at least 10 years. Both members of a couple will be able to take advantage of this “downsizer” contribution.

Exempting some sale proceeds from the assets test would remove the largest barrier to downsizing for people receiving the full age pension. The move is to help address the issue of older downsizers potentially losing part or all of their aged pension entitlements, given the sale of proceeds are included in the aged pension assets test, while the family home is not included.

If you’re a property investor ...

The big deal is that negative gearing is still in place. The ability to borrow money using equity in real estate, claim tax deductions on investment loans and other expenses, earn income from tenants and build a larger asset base using other people’s money remain big positives for property.

Negative gearing rules for property investors

are being tightened. You will no longer be able to claim tax deductions for travel expenses related to owning and renting an investment property, due to widespread abuse of the system, with people claiming deductions for private travel.

And rules are also being tightened around depreciation deductions for equipment items such as washing machines and ceiling fans. From budget night, you will only be able to claim the deductions if you actually purchased the item yourself. In the past, successive investors were able to claim depreciation on the same items, well in excess of their value.

If you’re a foreign investor ...

Foreign investors will be limited to 50 per cent of purchases in new developments, increasing the buying opportunity for Australian buyers.

Foreign investors will no longer be able to claim primary residence exemption for capital gains tax purposes. And with the introduction of a “ghost tax” if you buy a property only to leave it empty or fail to rent it out for at least six months of the year, you’ll be hit a fee equal to the foreign investment application fee you paid at the time of application.

coffs coast focus. 77

focusinterview.

Julie Carlyle Coffs Coast Boomerang Bags

Are you passionate about reducing waste, interested in sewing and enjoy meeting like-minded people? Well, Boomerang Bags might be the new community for you. FOCUS spoke to Julie about what this environmentally friendly sewing movement is all about and how we can all reduce waste in our daily lives.

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I grew up on the Coffs Coast, then moved away for uni and work. I resettled in Coffs about 15 years ago to raise my own family. I can’t imagine a more beautiful, peaceful place to live. We have the most beautiful beaches and unspoiled hinterland.

What is the Boomerang Bag movement?

Boomerang Bags is a movement aimed at shifting societies’ throwaway mentality to a more sustainable revolution of re-purposing and re-use. The circulation of re-usable bags within a Boomerang Bag community creates an opportunity to spread an important social message. Conversations about Boomerang Bags engage the community, creating awareness about the importance of finding sustainable solutions and fostering conscious habits that extend past replacing plastic bags.

What inspired you to help set up the Coffs Coast Boomerang Bag Community?

I saw an image of a beautiful boomerang bag on Instagram and instantly wanted to make some to use for my own shopping. I went along to the first Coffs Harbour meeting of Boomerang Bags and was inspired to help grow the group locally.

You recently met the founder of Boomerang Bags. What insight did you gain from this?

Tania is so passionate about sharing the Boomerang Bag philosophy, that you cannot help but be inspired to create and engage with others in the community to spread the now 78 coffs coast focus.

global movement. Our group has really embraced the “Borrow and Reuse” and “Bring Your own Bag” messages, and we are so excited to be able to share this in the wider Coffs Coast area and work with other Boomerang Bag groups in our community.

How often do you meet, and what is involved?

We have had a wonderful response to our first sewing bee, and we are planning another for Saturday 17 June at the Coffs Harbour Community Village in Earl Street from 10am to 3pm.

Woolgoolga Boomerang Bags also have a free community screening of the movie Bag It and a sewing bee on Sunday 17 June at the Mud Brick Hall, 8 Boundary Street, from 10am to 4pm.

We are also encouraging our Boomerang Bags community to do home workshops. These could be for screen-printing the pockets, sewing the bags, making handles, cutting the patterns and so on. This involves a member of the group advertising the type of workshop they will be doing and inviting other members to come along and lend a hand.

How is a Boomerang Bag made? Do you need any special skills?

Boomerang Bags are really easy to make, strong and look great. No special skills are needed. The beauty of making these bags as a group is if you can’t sew or over lock, you may like to screen print the pockets, or cut and pin the bags, or even iron the handles and the pockets to make them easier to sew on.

There is literally a job for everyone, and the only

equipment needed is relative to the task being undertaken.

What do you enjoy most about making bags?

Making time for my own hobby without feeling guilty is great, and I enjoy the sense of being part of a like-minded community and doing something positive for the environment. I enjoy sitting at the sewing machine and chatting to other ladies, having a laugh and a bit of fun and meeting new people.

What happens to all of the bags the community makes?

When we have 100 bags we will be distributing them to local businesses. So far we have all three Go Vita Stores (Coffs, Plaza and Toormina), the Happy Frog, Affordable Wholefoods and MeHealthy Farm at Coramba on the list to host a Boomerang Bags box.

What impact do re-usable bags have on reducing waste, and how important is this?

Plastic bags don’t break down. By using reusable bags we are dramatically reducing this volume of plastic bag waste. Boomerang Bags are made using unwanted materials and fabrics - so this also keeps fabrics out of landfill - textiles can fill up to 8% of the red bins on the Coffs Coast.

Clean Up Australia estimate that Australians use 3.92 million plastic bags per year - over 10 million new bags being used every day - most are used for around just 12 minutes then go in the bin. This is around 20,000 tonnes of plastic bags per annum going into landfill - if they make it that far. Plastic bags that end up as litter and eventually in the marine environment have

devastating consequences to marine life.

What do you think about banning plastic bags?

Our group fully support banning the plastic bag. Many of us have written to the NSW Premier and the Premiers of WA and Victoria asking them to ban the bag. Many members have also seen the documentary A Plastic Ocean and feel very motivated to reduce our use of plastics, especially single use plastic bags. Banning the bag will go a long way to reducing plastic waste; however, people need to be more educated about not littering and better ways to purchase to reduce their waste.

Do you have any tips on how to reduce waste in our daily lives?

The biggest impact we can have on reducing waste is to avoid buying products that have excess packaging, and refuse plastic bags.

Buying bulk using your own containers and taking your own produce bags along shopping is another great way to reduce waste. You can also get completely compostable bin liners that break down naturally and quickly in landfill and are a much better option than other plastic bags.

Where can people find out more?

There are Boomerang Bags groups in Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Bellingen.

Website: boomerangbags.org Facebook page: BoomerangBagsCoffsHarbour Instagram: @boomerangbagscoffs Email: BoomerangBagsCoffsHarbour@gmail.com Call: Julie on 0458 522 915 or Leanne on 0409 921 505 Thanks Julie.

focus_interview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

BUSINESS minds

Aaron Hardaker.

Mid North Coast Physio

A

aron, tell us how you came to call Coffs home?

I’m a third generation local.

I was born in the old Coffs Harbour Hospital, and I went to school in town. I moved away to study, then spent time living and working abroad, before settling back on the Coffs Coast. I had planned to come back for three - six months, but I’ve now passed 10 years and have no intention of leaving again!

You run a successful healthcare business with multiple locations across the region; tell us how this enterprise began?

It started in a small rented room in the old gym in Woolgoolga. I’d returned from working in Ireland and saw a need on the Northern Beaches for better access to good quality physio care. I was working with a colleague at the time, and we decided to allocate an afternoon per week to get it started. However, demand grew quickly, and I realised that this was the start of an exciting road ahead.

Since then, we moved a few times, added three new practice locations and have had close to 40 team members involved in the business along the journey. In recent times, the business has transformed to become a one stop shop for healthcare - we now offer 15 different healthcare services, including exercise physiology, nutrition and dietetics, massage, yoga, pilates … and the list goes on.

How do you effectively market your business to new customers?

The business is built predominantly on referrals from past and present clients, which is really satisfying. It tells us we are doing the right thing if people are confident to refer loved ones to us. We utilise a lot of different media as well to connect with people - internet marketing, social media, print, sms, internal marketing in our partner locations at Coffs Coast Health Clubs, e-news, Your Health Experts publications etc.

Building relationships throughout the community is also what’s important to us, whilst also being a key part of attracting new clients. Whether it be with doctors, other health professionals, community events, seminars we run, business networks - they are all important activities in building trust, credibility and sharing our passion for great health outcomes for our

clients.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

There are two key things that I find most satisfying. Firstly, I love seeing the progress for clients who come to see our team with a range of health issues and leave a healthier, happier version of themselves. I know it sounds corny, but when you can create genuine improvement in the quality of life people are living, then you can’t help but love it.

Building The second aspect relationships that I find really ug thro hout the satisfying is working so community is al with my team to t to an rt what’s impo help them reach ing a be so al t us , whils ting their personal goals. many people face when key part of attrac We do a lot of work moving from running new clients.” on personal and a one person show professional development, to genuinely running a to ensure the team are business - you need a new providing the best care possible, set of skills to be able to do this while also being the best they can effectively. I’ve spent a lot of time be. Whatever their goals may be, I love and energy in recent years learning all helping in any way I can to see them achieve I can to develop new skills and knowledge, great things. to ensure my team are well supported and the How do you stay motivated? business continues to stay true to our values.

My motivation comes from being very goalThe other great challenge in the past has oriented, not just from a business perspective, been recruitment, a common story for business but also in my personal life. I find I lack focus owners in regional and rural areas. Thankfully, without goals and clear direction. Whether it we have developed a really strong team, so was at school, in sport or personal pursuits, people want to be a part of our business. We I’ve always been competitive, so setting myself are also very clear on the attributes our team challenges is always a good way to drive members need to be successful with us. This motivation. has made recruitment a lot less challenging, as My main driver personally is to provide a safe we continue to attract people who want to join and secure lifestyle for my family. My wife, Liz, us - the vision we have for quality healthcare and two daughters, Elsie and Sadie, keep me really resonates with them, to the point that they focused, grounded … and busy! They are the would love to be a part of it. most important people in my life, so I want What’s the best part of working and living to make sure I’m a great husband, father and in the Coffs region? role model. I don’t think you need much more That’s easy - the lifestyle and the people! I motivation than that! love the fresh air, the active outdoor lifestyle, the What challenges have you faced in running weather and the beaches - it truly is paradise. I your business? also love the diversity of the people on the Coffs Two things stand out for me. The first has Coast - we have people with such a wide range been the transition from a solo operator, doing of backgrounds, skills, knowledge and passions what I was trained to do and treating clients, to who call the area home. becoming a business owner, manager, mentor, How does your business give back to the marketer and leader. I think it’s a challenge that community?

“

We’re really active in the community in a whole number of ways. From sponsoring sporting teams to being a founding supporter of the soon-to-be-officially-launched parkrun Coffs, we love seeing the community get active.

We also provide support to many local charities as well, including getting involved in school events like the upcoming careers days for high school students in Coffs and Woolgoolga. We are always happy to support, promote and participate in local and national events, and partner with organisations, that share the same core values as us.

Most rewarding part of your job?

I really believe the greatest reward comes from seeing people bounce back from injury or illness to really enjoy the life they want. It might be something small, like recovering from an ankle sprain more quickly than expected to get back to sport, or it might be seeing a grandmother recover from a shoulder problem to be able to pick up and play with her grandkids.

The personal reward for me comes from seeing these successes for our clients and getting to share in their happiness. I also love seeing our team be a part of those wins and feel the satisfaction of a job well done. Being able to provide our clients and referrers with a range of different health professionals with diverse skills and knowledge to suit their needs is a real win. It’s what I’ve set out to create, and I am now even more passionate about continuing to develop and improve it.

Thanks Aaron. coffs coast focus. 79

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