COFFS COAST
August 2017. issue 83
Coffs Coast
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Feature Story Urunga Art Space
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Welcome to the August issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.
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es, AUGUST issue! That time when we ask ourselves where the year went and start thinking about winding up 2017. Here at FOCUS we have been really busy pulling together another action packed edition, with lots of things to do and interesting interviews. We hope you enjoy our latest edition. FRONT COVER This month our front cover is dedicated to our local Men in Business. Featuring Christopher Winn (Bonville Golf Resort), Brendan Graetz (North Coast Power & Water) Shane Hessenberger (Harcourts) and last but certainly not least, Matt Donovan (Surf Club Restaurant). Playing golf is a rite of passage for a lot of local businessmen on the Coffs Coast. In fact, it’s an ideal time to actually do business and network with fellow professionals and business owners. A massive thanks to Chris and his team at Bonville Golf Resort, for helping us with a location for the shoot. It is a simply stunning location, and we really appreciate all of your support.
INSIDE THIS EDITION Football has taken Dorrigo local AJ Gilbert all over the world. Now back on the Coffs Coast with his wife, Katy, and daughters Zara and Koby, FOCUS caught up with AJ to find out how it all began, what has brought him back to the area and the challenges and highlights in between. At the beginning of his dentistry career, Mark Spencer discovered a passion for the mysterious world under the ocean and has been splitting time between the surgery and the sea ever since. Twenty-five years on, he has even published a book about his experiences, and here he gives us an insight into the benefits of leading a double life. MEN IN BUSINESS FEATURE Local businessmen have been invited to participate in our annual “Men in Business” feature, which celebrates the drive, passion and involvement they have in our local business community. Keep an eye out for our online digital Mini Mag. We will be
combining the “Men in Business “ feature from all four FOCUS publication regions to create a unique handbook of the entire Mid North Coast and New England regions’ Men In Business participants, to be delivered as a free e-book via social media. NEXT MONTH Introducing the Coffs Coast’s 2017 Ultimate Food Guide. The seasons are changing, and it’s that time of year again where we showcase everything that’s yummy. Local cafés, restaurants, clubs, pubs, grocers, bottle shops, wineries, breweries, caterers, seafood suppliers, coffee roasters, sweets and treats, bakeries, butchers, delis ... basically anything food related ... YES PLEASE! The feature will include plenty of local editorials, recipes, and product reviews that will make you drool. FINAL SAY “The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.” - Walt Disney.
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issue inside this
Urunga Art Space. When local photographer Gethin Coles was asked by Council if he would like to use an old butcher shop in Urunga
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Issue 83 - August 2017
Matthew Begg.
Regulars
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14. WHAT’S ON AUGUST 22. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 34. SOCIAL SCENE CAROLE BEROS 38. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI
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Travelling the world and throughout Australia, Matthew Begg paints everyday scenes that other people might overlook. His work has a strong sense of
place, capturing details and light unique to that area. FOCUS went to his studio and gallery in
Coramba to find out more.
24 18
until they found a tenant and decided to turn it into a “Pop Up” art gallery, he could not anticipate the
positive change it would make to the town and local artists alike. FOCUS found out more about how the Urunga Art Space works, what’s on show now, and what is in store for the future.
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AJ Gilbert.
Football has taken Dorrigo local AJ Gilbert all over the world. Now back on the Coffs Coast with his
wife, Katy, and daughters Zara and Koby, FOCUS caught up with AJ to find out how it all began, what has brought him back to the area and the challenges and highlights in between.
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Triangle, Paul Miller
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Art Space Urunga
GETHIN COLES
Photos: Gethin Coles
When local photographer Gethin Coles was asked by Council if he would like to use an old butcher shop in Urunga until they found a tenant and decided to turn it into a “Pop Up” art gallery, he could not anticipate the positive change it would make to the town and local artists alike. FOCUS found out more about how the Urunga Art Space works, what’s on show now, and what is in store for the future.
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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I’ve lived in Urunga for the last five years. Before that I was in
Bellingen for 10 years. How did you get involved in the Urunga Art Space? I had done some photography work for the Bellingen Shire Council and was later approached by them to see if I was interested in using a building in Urunga that had been vacant for a couple of years. Once I saw the space, I realised it was far too big to fill by myself, so I contacted David Southgate, who organises Urunga’s Sculpture in the Park every year and is part of the local Chamber of Commerce. He then put me in touch with a local group of artists. Who else is involved, and how does the gallery work? We’re in the process of becoming an official not for profit organisation. David is President and I am Vice President. Adrienne Hmelnitsky is curating and Paula Whiteway and Danielle Hickie are handling publicity. We would like the artists who exhibit to have an active role in running each show and setting it up; this way, it runs as a series of “pop ups”. Having the exhibiting artists involved also has practical benefits, like being able to keep costs and commissions low, but also gives the space a different feel that is more like an artist collective 6 coffs coast focus.
not immodest to say it brightens up the centre of than a typical gallery. the town. Each artist is responsible for looking after the I hope that in a few years people won’t be so gallery one day a fortnight and will get involved in promoting the show and the opening. This also surprised that our little Urunga has a big gallery at the centre. means that visitors can talk to the actual artists Can you tell us more about the building about their work, which has been very popular. itself? Our curation team puts the shows together Before we moved in, it was a butcher’s shop, out of the submissions we receive from interested and before that is was a artists (usually locals), and we bank. We use the vault pick 12 or so artists whose occasionally as our multiwork is complementary. This media space. gives each show a flavour Being known as an Why is it important and increases the overall artistic area is one of the to have relevant and impact in the space. things that draws people affordable spaces for We also plan to have some to the Bellingen Shire, so artists? downtime between major it’s important both for our We live in an artist-rich exhibitions to run workshops sense of identity and for region - they seem to and to have community promoting the region ... grow particularly well in shows and events. this climate. Bellingen and What has the journey Dorrigo have several outlets been like so far? for artists, but there was very little in Urunga, It’s been great fun working with a bunch of which is seen as the slightly frumpy neighbour energetic and motivated people. A lot of time despite the fact it is ludicrously beautiful. Being and energy has gone into setting it up, but it’s known as an artistic area is one of the things great to see the ideas and direction emerge. that draws people to the Bellingen Shire, so it’s What has been the reaction from the important both for our sense of identity and for community? promoting the region and encouraging visitors. Unanimously positive! It’s quite a big space What is on show at the moment? and it’s on the main intersection in Urunga, so Our current show is More and features it stands out. Just the fact that the building is fabulous works from David Bromley, Paul Miller, occupied makes a difference in Urunga, and Helen Aiken, Jeremy Minogue, Mark Renshaw everyone seems very happy that there is a gallery aka Lunci, Chris Hundt, Brentyn Lugnan, Adam that’s occupying it. The windows are huge, so it’s
Baker, Cassandra Sutton, Carolyn Sharkey, David Southgate. What is the future for Urunga Art Space? At present, we have been allowed to stay in the space until a paying tenant turfs us out, but we are in the process of developing a business plan to submit to the Council, and everyone involved is hopeful that we can make a good case to continue into the future. We’re at the “no idea is too crazy to consider” stage, which is fun. We have to be creative in looking for revenue, because it is a big space and art sales alone will not support it, so courses, workshops and events feature in that plan. “Patron of the Arts” is a title that’s been falling out of fashion for the last 400 years or so. We’re hoping to bring it back. The website has information on how to become a patron, and what perks that brings. How can people get involved? Visit the website at www.urungaart.space Artists can use the form there to submit work for consideration. If you’d like to get involved in helping to manage the space, or if you have an idea for the space, you can also contact us through the website. Where exactly is the Urunga Art Space, and when can people view the exhibitions? The gallery is at 13 Bonville St, Urunga. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am - 4pm and the current exhibition is running until the end of August. Thanks Gethin.
T
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his year they are dancing in The Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer, which is the region’s biggest cancer fundraiser. Eight awesome local couples have come together to perform on one special night on October 28, to raise funds to support the Cancer Council. Russ and Kirsten have lots of exciting fundraising ideas, and they hope to raise $10,000 with your help on this journey. “We have ALL been affected by this disease, and your support will help the Cancer Council fight this disease and bring us ever closer to a cure,” said Kirsten.
dance cancer Russ & Kirsten
for
Russ Holland and Kirsten Howton have both been up way too close and personal with cancer, and they certainly don't want to re-visit this again anytime. The diagnosis, or loss of anyone to cancer, is devastating.
cinematography of adventures across the globe. He is one of only a dozen Australians who have climbed the seven summits, the highest mountains on each of earth’s seven continents. And he did them all in just seven years.
We have ALL “ been affected by this disease, and your support will help the Cancer Council fight this disease and bring us ever closer to a cure.”
Sadly in 2017, it is estimated that 134,174 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in Australia (72,169 males and 62,005 females). Fortunately, the mortality rates across a number of cancers are improving, but funding research is paramount for this trend to continue. Two of their major fundraisers follow a mountain theme, which is just perfect considering the local couple got engaged on the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro. A Conversation with Mountains - Cinema Evening with Neill Johanson and friends. Join Russ and Kirsten for drinks and canapés and see Neill Johanson and his amazing
The Seven Summits are Kosciuszko, Denali, Aconcagua, Vinson Massif, Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, and Everest. See and hear a real insight into the world of mountaineering, taking life to the edge and what it takes to achieve seven global summits.
Neill is an accomplished cinematographer, and on this night will showcase a world exclusive on the BIG SCREEN of his incredible adventures and experiences. From summiting Mount Everest to the devastating earthquake in Nepal in 2015; this is a night not to be missed!
plug! A Conversation with Mountains - Cinema Evening. When August 25, 2017, 5:45pm - 9pm. Where Birch Caroll Coyle Cinema - Coffs Harbour. Tickets are $30 (Early Bird), $35 (Standard) and $20 for Under 18s. Available from Sticky Tickets https://www. stickytickets.com.au/russkirsten
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illow Neal, (15 years in August), loves playing sport and understands the difficulties that her mother, Jodie, faces as a full-time student and single mother, in being able to afford to keep Willow active in the sporting lifestyle. Upon receiving the McDonald’s Junior Grant, Willow can afford to travel to Sydney to represent NSW for Cross Country in an aim to make it into the top 10 finishers, which would qualify her for the national representative level. Willow is a multi-talented athlete who proudly represented Bellingen High School in the National Futsal Championships in Queensland, and as a result, her team was awarded the Bellingen Australia Day Award from the Mayor for the high sporting achievement.
cob hopes to develop his love of refereeing into a career once he has completed high school. With a family of five, Jacob is grateful for the grant, which will likely transform his weekend sideline role into a full-time career in the coming years. Over 250 students from Corindi Public School, north of Coffs Harbour, will be holding their second annual "NEON WALK-A-THON", to raise much needed funds to assist with the construction of the new fitness and playground equipment. The annual project came about during 2016, as the school’s P&C committee felt that it is of utmost importance to promote fun and fitness within a school environment. With the encouraging grant approval from the McDonald’s Junior Grants Program, the school is one step closer to completing the fitness facility for their highly deserving students.
If you are a “ child or group who needs assistance
Community Initiatives
McDonald’s is proud to support local children and local groups throughout the NSW Mid North Coast community through their Junior Grants Program. Supporting children can often extend to supporting their families, as one youthful candidate communicated in light of getting the McDonald's Junior Grant to help with her sporting ventures.
with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the Grants website and apply today.”
Another hardworking and energetic local, Jacob Nelson (17), will be heading to Sydney as a result of receiving one of the McDonald’s Junior Grants in June for his dedication within the sporting field. However, a twist for this young man is that Jacob’s involvement in sport is as a referee. Jacob is enthusiastic about being a referee and takes pride in his role, to the point that this has enabled Jacob to become one of the state’s best U15s referees. Jacob has dedicated every weekend for over three years to be a Rugby League referee and branched out to referee the seniors in the 2015 season to further his experience. Ja-
Our local schools offer students on the Coffs Coast ample sporting opportunities, and Angus McConnachie, a keen runner, represented the Primary Schools State Combined Cross Country Competition after competing in Sydney in June for the Diocese of Lismore. “I am really excited to be able to compete at such a high level, and I really want to do my best,” Angus stated upon application of the McDonald’s Junior Grants Program. 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
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coffs coast focus. 9
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Artist Travelling the world and throughout Australia, Matthew Begg paints everyday scenes that other people might overlook. His work has a strong sense of place, capturing details and light unique to that area. FOCUS went to his studio and gallery in Coramba to find out more.
W
hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coramba five years ago with my family, after coming to Coffs Harbour for a holiday and discovering the Orara Valley. Have you always been an artist? What has the journey been like so far? I have drawn for as long as I remember and started painting when I was 18, living in Mudgee, NSW. Since then, I have travelled to India, Cambodia and throughout Australia drawing and painting streetscapes and landscapes that caught my eye. I am currently collecting images of Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas for paintings. What are your preferred mediums and why? I draw line drawings with sketching pens, some with a lot of detail and some just simple lines. Line drawings are quick and make you think about what the image is made up of; whereas, my paintings are more detailed and there is a longer process in producing them. For these I use acrylic on a soft canvas, because it can be watered down or used dry, almost like shading with a pencil; it is also quick drying, making it easier to apply
multiple layers. Can you describe your paintings? My paintings are from photographs of streetscapes and landscapes taken while travelling. They are scenes you would normally not pay much attention to, like shops, houses and roadsides. What inspires your photorealistic approach? I enjoy painting things I see every day and finding beauty in ordinary buildings and landscapes. I look for the way light and shadows change the way the view looks at different times of the day and the way the light spreads out in a streetscape at night. I enjoy the process of producing an artwork. I stumble across most images I paint by taking photos everywhere I go, from snapping out of a car window to walking down lanes in a country town. People ask me to paint from photos of portraits - old homes and farms that have mostly been sold. Where are some of your favourite places around the world to paint? I like travelling to places that have a landscape or architecture that is unique to that area. I have painted Darjeeling in India and temples and streetscapes in Cambodia and a group of paintings of streetscapes in the Central West NSW. I enjoyed of s es oc I enjoy the pr painting things that were familiar, everyday k. or tw ar producing an scenes from that area, and the reaction from t os I stumble across m king people seeing these ordinary country town images I paint by ta go, streetscapes as a work of art in a gallery. I photos ever ywhere a car You run Artspace on 45 in Coramba of t from snapping ou down with your wife, Megan. Can you tell us window to walking wn.� more about this? to lanes in a countr y Our studio is open by appointment, and we have an open day once a month. Megan paints as well, and these artworks and works from our children Temily, Elie and Oriel are also displayed on our walls. On our open days we have guest artists with paintings, sculpture and pottery. Coramba is a great place to visit, as it is only 15 km west of Coffs, and the town has good coffee, gifts and beautiful scenery. Do you have any projects or exhibitions planned? How can people stay updated? We are planning free creative workshops and other activities in the next few months and open days on August 12 and 13. You can find out about our projects on Facebook or Instagram and subscribe to our mailing list on www.artspaceon45.com.au Thanks Matthew.
“
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double life
S P E N C E R At the beginning of his dentistry career, Mark Spencer discovered a passion for the mysterious world under the ocean and has been splitting time between the surgery and the sea ever since. Twenty-five years on, he has even published a book about his experiences. Here Mark gives us an insight into the benefits of leading a double life.
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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? My wife, Becca, and I live in Boambee. We moved up from South Coogee in Sydney about 12 years ago. Coffs Harbour attracted us, because we loved diving on the nearby Solitary Islands and became familiar with the region on our regular visits. Can you tell us a little about your double life? What do you do? I followed my father and his father in dentistry, so I’m a third-generation dentist. I graduated in dentistry at the University of Sydney in early 1977. I had been a dedicated student and thought I should expand my life experiences beyond dentistry, so took on scuba diving. I became hooked on the adventure of diving and the discoveries I was making of wildlife I never knew existed. I soon discovered the attractions of shipwreck exploration, which took me even deeper into the ocean. I then took a camera underwater with me to better learn about this mysterious wildlife and share my underwater experiences with others. I’ve been living this "double life" ever since. What is the connection between being a dental surgeon and an underwater explorer? Dentistry demands a lot of concentration, continual learning and focus. It’s a fulfilling and rewarding profession, but can be stressful. I found ocean diving a routine that left me feeling more relaxed, healthier and a more "complete" person. Some of the diving I was doing also took me 12 coffs coast focus.
beyond my comfort zone, and I think that improved my ability to cope with new challenges. It also somehow expanded my view of the world and our relationship with the natural world around us. What do you find most rewarding about being a dental surgeon? I discovered that being a dentist, I could be a surgeon and an engineer of sorts, as well as a cosmetician. So, there actually is a bit of artistry in dentistry, but it is very much an art based on solid biomedical science. I also enjoy my regular interaction with fascinating and interesting people from all walks of life. What have been some of the highlights of your dental career? Setting up my own practice in Sydney’s Macquarie Street back in 1986 (with an associate) was one of the highlights. One of my elder trusted colleagues described that move as crazy, but it turned out well. Gaining fellowship to the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (through examination) in 1981 and then to the Pierre Fauchard Academy and recently to the International College of Dentists have been other highlights. Working with Coffs Coast Dental is a current highlight, as it is a very well run business with a happy, friendly atmosphere. How has your passion for the underwater world developed? I believe it developed and grew because of my innate sense of wonder about the world around us, and also because nearly every dive was an adventure where I made some discovery and learned something new. I also found underwater
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It’s important to take regular time-out from our demanding work schedule, constantly look at the bigger picture and revise our priorities where necessary.”
photography challenging, but very rewarding. Photography enabled me to share my discoveries and to "materialise" in a sense, those mysteries beneath the sea that would otherwise remain unknown. How does this balance out your dental practice? I have always thought I might be a more advanced dentist or even a leading academic if I had devoted most of my energy to dentistry alone. On the other hand, my other vocation (diving) has helped give me a broader and enthusiastic outlook on life, which I think helps me be a better health care practitioner. As I’ve now reached "senior" citizen status, I also believe it’s more important than ever to maintain balance in life to keep healthy both mentally and physically. That ideal balance is different for every individual, but certainly includes family and friends, exercise, rest and recreation. What are some of the most exciting
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underwater discoveries you have made? My most exciting experience with animals was riding on the backs of huge Manta Rays in the east Pacific Ocean off Mexico. The Manta Ray took the initiative for such an intimate encounter and always had the "upper hand" in deciding the degree of such intimacy. This experience reset my view of animal behaviour and my understanding of their ability to trust different creatures, express curiosity and even playfulness. I’ve had a number of exciting discoveries in shipwreck exploration, but the one that I think made the biggest impact on me was being among the first Australian team to make the 72 metre descent on to the Australian WWI submarine, AE2, in Turkey’s Sea of Marmara back in 1998. I led that expedition, which was supported by the Australian Government (through the Navy). The submarine wreck was in excellent condition at the time; it was so preserved, that I was able to imagine it lifting
Diving has helped give me a broader and enthusiastic outlook on life, which I think helps me be a better health care practitioner.”
off the bottom and continuing its mission. It had been down there, of course, since April 1915. Can you tell us more about some of your local discoveries? Most of my wildlife dives around the nearby Solitary Islands have impressed me with an appreciation of the richness and variety of tropical and temperate marine life we have right off our doorstep. I’ve dived a number of times on the Keilawarra shipwreck, also at a depth of 72 metres, just east and south of North Solitary Island, and brought back some interesting photographs. The stern gunwale is still intact, although collapsed down to the sand, so that it now sits outside the propeller. I know that passengers hung on to that stern gunwale to the very last second, before the ship disappeared beneath the surface in a similar manner to the Titanic. The photos I took of that stern give me pause for reflection. You have just published a book. What led you to writing Ocean of Self, and what is it about? After scuba diving earnestly since 1977, I then learned the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique in 1981. I had read in Readers Digest that TM was a much verified technique of meditation that resulted in improved self-actualisation, mental acuity, better work performance and improved health. All these self-development qualities interest young professionals, so I did a bit of background research and decided to introduce meditation into my daily routine. I’ve never looked back! As a regular diver in the ocean and also a diver in the fathomless ocean of consciousness, I began to see similarities in my experiences of both realms. Those comparisons intrigued me, so for some 25
years I’ve explored those correlations with the intention of writing a book about the concept of one "ocean of consciousness" underlying and giving rise to our individual "waves" of consciousness. It has only been in recent years that I have found the ability to communicate this knowledge in a way that I hope people will find enjoyable and uplifting. It’s a book about "connectedness" and our essential unity with everyone else and all things. It’s also a book about self-empowerment. It gets into spirituality, but not in a doctrinal/religious sense. Where can people find out more about this? The easiest way is to go to the book’s website: www.oceanofself.com I’ve posted all the reviews the book has received, and it also has links to various YouTube or other video clips referred to in the book. The website also has direct links to all the e-reader platforms where you can purchase the book. Presently, it is only available as an eBook, and I’ll print books as global interest grows. Do you have any advice for people trying to make more time for their various work and passions? Balancing life in a way that maximises our happiness (and the happiness of those we love) and our health and wellbeing, while still paying the bills, is always a juggling act! It’s important to take regular time-out from our demanding work schedule, constantly look at the bigger picture and revise our priorities where necessary. If we don’t do this, it’s very likely that we’ll regret not enjoying life to its fullest as we get closer to the end of it. Thanks Mark.
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A U G U S T
Living Well Expo 2017
Open Day Coffs Harbour Senior College In 2017 the college has combined the Enrolment Information Evening and Campus Tour into an afternoon Enrolment Open Day. When Saturday 29 July, from noon to 4pm.
The Delta Riggs
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Off the back of their psychedelic disco punk head-turner of an album, ACTIVE GALACTIC, and USA shows alongside their mates Eagles of Death Metal - The Delta Riggs will be landing back in Australia for select shows in August, with supports He Danced Ivy, Matty Effin Morison, Chilli Gomez, The Downhill Bombers. When Saturday 5th August. Where The Coffs Hotel. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au
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Carlton Draught 2017 Coffs Harbour Gold Cup
Join the avid racegoers, the fashion-forward and the punters, as they gather at Coffs Harbour's race grounds for this annual event of racing. This year, the race day has more to see, more to do, and more fun to be had on this designated public holiday. When Thursday 3rd August. Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Time 11am - 5:30pm.
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Gumbaynggirr Cultural Show
These shows take place at an important cultural site of the Gumbaynggirr people, within the Orara East State Forest. Bask in the ambience of 360 degree views and immerse in the culture of Gumbaynggirr people through stories, songs, language and the uses of native plants. When 12 August. Where Sealy Lookout, Orara East State Forest, Coffs Harbour. Time: 3pm - 5pm. More info 0409 926 747 or email visit@fcnsw.com.au
The expo will provide information for people living with disability and their carers through guest speakers, panels and exhibits by services available in the local area. It is free to attend, and there will be refreshments, entertainment and prizes on offer. When 16th August. Where C.ex Coffs Harbour. Time 10am - 2:30pm.
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A Conversation with Mountains - Lunch Join us for lunch and hear Neill Johanson, one of only a dozen Australians who have climbed the seven summits, tell of his adventures across the globe. The Seven Summits are the highest mountains on each of Earth's seven continents: Kosciuszko, Denali, Aconcagua, Vinson Massif, Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, and Everest. See and hear a real insight into the world of mountaineering, taking life to the edge and what it takes to achieve seven global summits in seven years. When August 25, 2017,12:30 - 2pm. Where Surf Club Restaurant & Bar. Tickets are $40 (Early Bird), $45 (Standard). Tickets are available from Sticky Tickets: www.stickytickets.com.au/russkirsten
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C.ex Group Offshore Superboat Championships
Come on down to the Coffs Harbour International Marina; see the boats, and meet the drivers. Then watch the boats thunder around the harbour and out the heads. Viewing from the Southern Breakwall and from the Marina Breakwall, as well as from the Coffs Harbour Jetty. This is an awesome spectacle to watch in Coffs Harbour. When 26 Aug 2017 - 27 Aug 2017. Where Coffs Harbour Marina. More information administrator@superboat.com.au, 0429 690 181. www.superboat.com.au
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Wendy Matthews
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One of Australia’s most prolific female musical influences, Wendy Matthews is back on the road with a full band behind her and a collection of her all time classics …
i Wendy. It's been a few years since we last chatted with you. I can imagine there are too many tales to be told from this time, but what have been a couple of special moments you would like to share? Well, I’ve travelled an awful lot. Life has changed personally for me; my 18 year old Border Collie, Bear, left me; she died last October. So life is pretty different at the moment, but I’m really trying to enjoy it as far as work and being able to pick up and go, get in my car, and do what I need to do. I’m feeling very creative these days, and doing lots of interesting gigs and travelling with my guys. We’ve got a full band thing going on at the moment, whereas for the last year we’ve been doing a slightly scaled down Billie Holiday show. This tour is a greatest hits tour, which
is very exciting for me! What are you looking forward to about dusting off the classics? They really do take on a life of their own, some of these songs ... I think if you don’t follow the absolute trends of music, some of them can be timeless. People go to hear songs; I know I go to a concert to hear songs that I know and loved at one stage! We stick to the basics, but musically I think it's a freshen up of everything for us, as well with the audience. I haven’t had some of those songs on record for around 20 years, so I’m just going on memory. Your songs have resonated deeply with many. Is there any music that takes you to a special place? Many, although I must say I don’t really listen to the radio anymore. I love things that pin me up against the wall the first time I hear
them; lyrics have a lot to do with it. And lots of women ... Annie Lennox, probably did that to me last, with her song, Love Song for a Vampire. What have you got planned once this tour wraps up? A few of us are heading over to Nashville for a couple of months to record a new record. I’m just writing for it now; I’ve only got a couple of songs so far, but I really don’t want the pressure ... We are just taking our time as far as being creative. I’m at the mercy of inspiration! I just sort of sit up at 4am after a dream or something; I’m not a structured songwriter. I just have to wait
until it comes to me. So anyway, I’m just hoping for the inspiration of a new place, nothing familiar. I'm heading over there for some inspirational vibe whilst recording! Thanks Wendy.
plug! Be sure to experience Wendy Matthews Performs Her Greatest Hits on Friday 11 August. Doors open 7:30pm. Where Sawtell RSL, The Princess Room. Cost $30 adults, $15 kids under 14 years.
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W I T H S A M W A R D M A N F R O M C O R N E R P O S T C R E AT I V E
Getting
home finance MANAGERS
Introducing the new Westpac home lending team for the Coffs Coast! Joel Elbourne & Sharni Owen, Home Finance Managers.
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hat motivated you to take on a career in the finance industry? Sharni: The pathway to my current position as a Home Finance Manager was a natural progression, which centred on my passion and desire to help others. I find no greater motivation than being at the forefront of assisting someone securing their financial goals or realising their great Australian dream. Where do you find the most satisfaction and reward in your role? Joel: In the ability to interact with and share the delight of a customer throughout the process of the home loan cycle. Whether working with an experienced investor, or helping a family in to their first home, it is always a special journey. Without a doubt the most satisfying point of the journey is that first conversation after the customer has moved in to their new property, and being a part of that moment as they begin the next chapter in their lives. How would you describe a customer’s experience when dealing with you as a lender, and how does this compare to others? Sharni: Personable; I really pride myself on taking the time to understand what is important and assuring that this is taken care of. This sounds like such a simple idea; however, in this fast paced environment it is often the first thing forgotten by other lenders, and I pride myself on being there for the client every step of the way. With the recent changes and tightening of lending regulations imposed on banks, what opportunities do you see moving forward?
Joel: I believe the most exciting shift in focus is towards first home owners. Recently there have been favourable moves made that can bring the possibility of homeownership forward by years. I am passionate about helping people into their dream home; however, sometimes it is difficult to know where to start, and that’s where I like to step up. As a team, what does Westpac offer to Coffs Harbour and the surrounding areas? Both: Westpac has a substantial local footprint; you only have to walk through the shopping centres to see all the collection tins supporting our Westpac Rescue Helicopter. As a team we are able to provide a local service, with a national range ... Meaning, we have the flexibility and knowledge to help locally, yet also have the expertise and backing to provide a solution wherever it may be in Australia. Who would be best suited to come and see you? Both: Whether you are looking to purchase a new property, or already have a loan, we as a team are always looking to help, by providing professional service with fantastic rates. Our aim is to not only help save you time and money, but to also provide you with excellent service that is tailored to assist in helping our customers reach their long term goals. Where can we find you? Both: As a team we cover three branches, which service the Coffs Coast to Grafton and surrounding areas. How can we contact you? Our contact phone numbers: Joel Elbourne 0481 440 101. Sharni Owen 0481 906 163.
savvy
Here are our top tips for getting started in digital media. First, let’s define what digital marketing really entails. We’re referring to: responsive website design, mobile and video marketing, search engine optimisation, online advertising, content marketing, and social media as the main channels. Video marketing will dominate With a prediction that 80% of all web traffic will be video by 2019, you’ll reap the rewards if you start thinking seriously now about how to use video content in your business.
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keywords relating to your key products and services is imperative. Paid Social Gone are the days of organic reach with Facebook or Instagram. It’s important to have a strategy
Ensuring your website is mobile-friendly and is easily found by the likes of Google for the top keywords relating to your key products and services is imperative.”
Good SEO is crucial 93% of online experiences begin with a search engine! So ensuring your website is mobile-friendly and is easily found by the likes of Google for the top
to your social and ensure that there’s a paid component to it. That way you can target your message to reach the right people! Content marketing is king What information might your end customer need to help them make a purchasing decision with you? How about providing this to them in the form of a short how-to video, case study or
infographic? Trust me: if you start with content, you’ll always get rewards! Happy marketing!
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E V I T A E R C Klaustel.
N O I S I V
Starting a new business, relocating, or upgrading? Did you know here at Klaustel we personally organise your NBN, telephone and internet services, as well as phone systems small or large? At Klaustel, we are your one stop shop.
HAIR at the PROMENADE It’s our aim make your time in our salon your special time-out! Hair at the Promenade is a boutique hairdressing salon situated on Coffs Creek in the Promenade centre. Our aim is to always make your salon visit personalised, relaxing and fun. We pride ourselves on our excellent hairdressing skills and relaxing atmosphere. We offer extended trading hours for our busy clientele, as it’s always our aim to be as accommodating as possible, to fit in with the many and varied hours of the modern working family. Our small and intimate salon is flooded with natural sunlight and is a warm environment. Hair at the Promenade is pleased to welcome Jodie Miller to the team. Call us today and allow us to spoil you with a complete salon experience! 321 HARBOUR DRIVE, COFFS HARBOUR 02 66514228
®
We give expert advice and offer an efficient, personalised and prompt service with ongoing support; and remember, at Klaustel the people who sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it. Locals looking after locals.
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Supplying excellent quality at great prices, our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems means there is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment plans. Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer interest free payment plans if you prefer.”
It has now been three years since the NBN first started to connect in Coffs Harbour, with most of us coming through the NBN cutover without too much pain and getting on with business. Here at Klaustel we have been involved since the beginning. We have found the NBN speeds are a great benefit to all businesses; and remember, there are a lot of savings to be made utilising the NBN.
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adventures footballer OF A LOCAL
AJ Gilbert Football has taken Dorrigo local AJ Gilbert all over the world. Now back on the Coffs Coast with his wife, Katy, and daughters Zara and Koby, FOCUS caught up with AJ to find out how it all began, what has brought him back to the area and the challenges and highlights in between.
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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I'm a born and bred Dorrigo boy, so growing up as a kid I played all my weekend and school sport all over the Coffs coast. Every weekend was spent traveling from Grafton down to Port Macquarie and everywhere in between. What was the best thing about growing up in Dorrigo and surrounds? I loved growing up in Dozz, because you knew nearly everyone in the town and as a kid you really made your own fun with your mates, like swimming in all the beautiful rivers in the summer, fishing, building billy carts, riding bikes and exploring waterfalls. With not a worry in the world, it really was a great time. Who inspired you to play football and why? I started off playing cricket from the age of about five or six every summer, then soccer for a couple of years as a 10 and 11 year old, before finding my love of Rugby Union at 12 with Dorrigo Juniors. From 14, I played Rugby League with the Bellingen/Dorrigo Magpies on a Saturday and Rugby Union on Sunday with Dorrigo. I remember watching the Bledisloe Cup in 2001, when John Eagles kicked the winning goal to beat NZ, and from then on I fell in love with the Wallabies. From about the age 14 or 15 I was watching Toutai Kefu and George Smith play for the Wallabies, and that's when I decided I really wanted to do it for a living. From then I trained pretty hard and set goals every year to make the various rep teams I was aiming for. How did you get your first big break playing football? My goal in high school was to make the 18 coffs coast focus.
Australian Schoolboys team. I made it in Year 11, but didn't play due to breaking my jaw a week before the first test against the Ireland Schoolboys. Then, in Year 12 I injured the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in my knee, which put me out for the whole season. So I guess my first big break came from making the Word Cup Australian u/19s squad. Through a long rehab and hard training, I was lucky enough to make the 19s team, and we went to Dubai and won the Junior World Cup. From there, I got picked in the Australian 7s side to go to Paris and London on the World Series circuit, and from there I got my first professional contract with the Queensland Reds. After the Reds, I moved on to Sydney and spent four seasons playing in the Shute Shield premiership for Northern Suburbs, before playing for the Waratahs. How did it feel to be selected for the Waratahs, and what was it like being a part of the team? It was unbelievable to play for the Waratahs, and to represent my home state was definitely one of my career highlights - especially because in one of the games I got to play against the British and Irish Lions, who only play every four years and tour Australia every 12 years. What have been some other highlights of your football career? There's honestly so many. Captaining Norths in Sydney was a real honour, travelling to different parts Australia and the world, such as NZ, France, England, Fiji, Argentina, Dubai, Scotland and living
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three years in Japan playing professionally over there was unreal. More recently, since I've been back in Coffs I played with the Mid North Coast side that competed in the Country Champs, and we won our tier. That was pretty special, because my rugby journey started in a Mid North Coast jersey when I was 14. Are there any challenges you have had to overcome? Loads! Overcoming injury was a big one early on in my career. There were a few years where it felt like I wasn't going to get another crack at Super Rugby after the Reds, but I just kept training hard and playing the best I could for Norths, and then almost out of nowhere the opportunity came again from Michael Cheika, the current Wallabies coach, who gave me my shot with the Waratahs. What was it like living and playing Rugby in Japan? It was an epic experience, and I was lucky enough to bring my wife, Katy and kids Zara and Koby with me to share the experience. The culture, food and people were amazing; there were times where we would shake our head at the things and experiences. The best part was being able to experiment with my kids living in another culture. In her last year, Zara went to a Japanese primary school, which was difficult at first, because no one in the whole school could speak English, but after a few months she absolutely loved it - and it was tough to say goodbye when we moved back to Australia. In Japan you play for big companies such as
I loved growing up in Dozz, because you knew nearly everyone in the town and as a kid you really made your own fun with your mates.”
Panasonic, Toshiba, Toyota etc. and I was playing for the Mazda Blue Zoomers. The Rugby was at a pretty good standard. They are so committed in everything they do, which was frustrating at times, but I definitely came away with some great times and I do miss it. How do you prepare for a big game? Big game prep really begins at the start of the week with food, hydration and good training to get physically ready for the weekend. On game day I like to relax, have a stretch and a bit of a play with my girls, while closer to the game I zone out with music and start going over everything I have to do in my head. I like to get out early to have some individual prep time before the team warm up starts. I don't generally get nervous or anxious; I just look forward to getting out on the ground by the time the warm up finishes. What made you decide to settle back in Coffs for now? When I finished my three years in Japan, we moved back to Coffs to be closer to our families. My family still live in Dorrigo and Katy's family live in Grafton. I'm also working laying carpet for my cousin, Clancy, here in Coffs. So currently I am playing a bit of local Rugby League for the Woolgoolga Sea Horses and local Rugby Union with the SCU Marlins. I am really enjoying playing bush footy again and meeting lots of great people. What are your future footy plans? Our plans were going to be heading over to either France or Italy on a new contract, but we're really enjoying being back in Australia. Zara is enjoying school and Katy is studying beauty therapy, so the more we stay the more we don't want to leave. But you never know what's around the corner … Thanks AJ.
NOW OPEN
coffs coast focus. 19
Coffs professionals team up to keep us informed about buying property in your super fund. We Australians have always loved our bricks and mortar. So it’s not surprising that people are increasingly buying direct property inside a self managed superannuation fund, often setting up the fund specifically for this purpose. Like any investment strategy, this one comes with risks. It is also governed by tight rules and regulations. So how do you know if it’s worth the risk and how do you avoid falling foul of the ATO? Luckily three Coffs Harbour professionals have teamed up to help you answer these questions. They have recently published an eBook, The Ultimate Guide to Buying Property in Your Self Managed Super Fund, which offers a comprehensive overview of the many things you need to consider for this type of investment. We talked to each of them to get the low down on the eBook and this investment strategy.
Rod Cross
Cherie Parik
Melanie Zander
from Regional Finance Solutions
from Your Commercial Property Specialist
from MJA Business Solutions
Is borrowing in your super fund any different from getting a home loan?
Does it make more sense to buy commercial property than residential?
What made you decide to publish an eBook on this subject?
Oh yes! To borrow inside super you need to get what’s known as a “Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement” or LRBA. This type of loan is different from a regular mortgage in a number of important ways. For example, under an LRBA you cannot use the borrowed funds to improve the property and that can really tie your hands.
Not necessarily. However, the ATO does allow business owners to purchase commercial property inside their SMSF and then lease it back to their business. The ability to pay rent into your own superannuation is a very popular strategy. There are rules you need to adhere to though – so it pays to have good advisers before you embark on this option.
There is growing interest in self-managed super funds in general, and buying property inside your SMSF in particular. It’s a really complicated subject, so the community really needs an all-inclusive, but easy to read overview when they are considering this option.
How can a real estate agent help in this situation?
It’s important to really understand all the rules before you even approach a lender. There’s a really good section in the eBook about this.
A good commercial real estate agent will help you choose the right property from both an investment and a business perspective.
Our accountants and wealth managers are always here to provide assistance and advice. But you will always have greater confidence in your investment decisions if you have a solid understanding of the basics rather than blindly trusting your adviser.
With all these rules, are the banks even more difficult to deal with? I wouldn’t put it that way, but the banks are certainly more cautious with this type of loan. They usually require higher deposits and personal guarantees. Plus you should expect a great deal of due diligence. Every lender has quite different requirements. Some lenders simply don’t offer this type of loan. So it really pays to shop around. 20 coffs coast focus.
The ATO requires an “arms length” arrangement between your business and your fund. Your agent will help you determine a market rent for the property and help organise a formal lease arrangement to ensure you comply with ATO requirements. It can even be a good idea to appoint a commercial real estate agent to manage your property, as this reassures the ATO of your fund’s compliance. This is a tricky area and it’s so important that you manage it right. I recommend that people download the eBook for more information and surround themselves with a team of professionals who are experienced in this area.
Why do this with other professionals? This is a complex subject and a team of professionals is needed to ensure good management and wise decisions. By bringing together expertise in financial planning, effective borrowing, commercial real estate and taxation we are able to provide people with a truly comprehensive approach.
Tap into the knowledge of 3 professionals Download your FREE eBook mjabusiness.com.au/ ultimateguide
coffs coast focus. 21
Wild caught Barramundi on sweet potato mash, steamed asparagus, blistered cherry tomatoes and lemon butter sauce from Horizons Restaurant & Bar. 22 coffs coast focus.
Cajun Dusted Calamari served with salad, chips and chipotle aioli.
Torta DeSantiago with orange clotted cream.
Velvets Restaurant Located in the heart of the Orara Valley, Nana Glen. Velvets Restaurant at Two Tails Wines has something for everyone. Velvets Restaurant prides itself on freshly sourced produce and champions the local artisans and provedores, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community. Velvets have designed a Spanish tapas style menu, allowing its local produce to speak for itself. With both indoor and outdoor dining options available, Velvets Restaurant provides a unique Coffs Harbour dining experience that encapsulates the essence of the Orara Valley lifestyle.
Spinifex Restaurant Spinifex Restaurant at The Coast Hotel Has a brand new menu coming out this month, with something to excite everyone’s taste buds. 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 for your dining enjoyment. Every Wednesday night with every full priced meal you can receive ONE kid’s meal for FREE.
SOUS CHEF KANELLA ORMSBY HEAD CHEF NICOLE HATCH
963 ORARA WAY, NANA GLEN 6654 3633 WWW.TWOTAILSWINE.COM.AU
COAST HOTEL, 2 MOONEE ST, COFFS HARBOUR 6652 3007 WWW.COASTHOTEL.COM.AU LUNCH: 12PM - 2:30PM. DINNER: 6PM - 9PM.
WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY FROM 11AM ‘TIL 4:30PM.
Braised Lamb Shank, part of the Chef ’s Signature range.
Roast Lamb to share.
Plantation Hotel
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar
If you’re looking for the best value in Coffs Harbour, look no further than the Plantation Hotel … The team at the Plantation pride themselves on offering outstanding service alongside quality food at an affordable price, that will keep you coming back time and time again.
Our Winter Specialty! Roast Lamb To Share: four hour, slow roasted, garlic rubbed lamb shoulder with red wine rich gravy, roasted vegetables, garlic toast, house salad, seeded mustard and aioli. Available every day on our delicious and diverse menu.
Pop in and try something off our brand new à la carte menu, with a tasty selection of hearty winter dishes, as well as all your pub favourites, cooked using fresh local produce and plated with the personal touches of head chef Dave Newick. The Plantation Hotel … Delicious Food, Friendly Service, Incredible Value!
88 GRAFTON STREET, COFFS HARBOUR. 6652 3855 WWW.PLANTATIONHOTEL.COM.AU 7 DAYS. MON - THURS & SUN: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5:30 - 8:30PM. FRI - SAT: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5.30 - 9PM.
HEAD CHEF DAVID NEWICK.
Surf Club Restaurant and Bar Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club Coffs Harbour. On the beach, with gourmet quality food cooked by our Owner/Executive Chef Matt Donovan and his creative team.
HEAD CHEF & CO-OWNER MATT DONOVAN.
INSIDE THE COFFS HARBOUR SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB, SURF CLUB ROAD, PARK BEACH, COFFS HARBOUR 6652 9870 WWW.SURFCLUBPARKBEACH.COM SURF CLUB RESTAURANT AND BAR IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH.
coffs coast focus. 23
fHerb & pinenut crusted Barramundi fillet with steamed brocolini and roast capsicum sauce. 350 g Riverina Grass Fed T Bone Steak.
Locally Caught Salt-and-pepper Snapper, served with Dorrigo kipfler potato wedges and a pickled vegetable salad.
the pier hotel
café o.p 81
At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new “Cellar Lounge”. 350 g Riverina grass fed T Bone steak, cooked to your liking. Served with crunchy golden beer battered chips, fresh garden and your sauce. Come into the Toormina Hotel on We welcome youa to come downsalad and feast your choice eyes onofCoffs Tuesdays and receive mealabout for only Harbour’s mostFridays historicand hotel. Withthis our delicious winter menu to fi$18. nish up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our Our Toormina hotel bistro is open all day from 11am ‘til 9pm,new so come in and see our team and menu shortly. chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the also enjoy ourOur kid-friendly environment. great produce he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg. your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to the Pier Hotel.
Turmeric latte - cold pressed juice of turmeric root with ginger and a dash of Wow!and Looksome whatChai the spices. Greenhouse Tavern is serving up ontothe Chef’syour Suggestion Board with new honey The ideal caffeine free drink tantalise Head Chef Shirley Douglas and her talented kitchen team! Come in and try this delicious locally taste buds and also make you feel on top of the world. caught plate-size snapper,forcooked salt and style and served Turmeric is widely known its healing and pepper has a compound called with hand-cut Dorrigo kipfler potato wedges anddemonstrated a pickled vegetable salad. Wewith haveallspecials night of the week, $5 Curcumin, that has relief for people sorts ofevery disease schooners available all day every day, plenty of live sport, andand lot cancer. of entertainment for the kids. states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, No excuses not istoprotective - the Greenhouse Tavern the place to be there soon. Owners Also, Curcumin for the heart, theisliver, the skin andthis thewinter! brain bySee you
Toormina Hotel
We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.
Matt and Bree.
81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011 CORNER PACIFIC HIGHWAY AND BRAY ST, COFFS HARBOUR
6653 1039
6651 5488
lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm 8:30pm; 7 days a week. MON -- SAT 10:00AM - 12:00AM,
Crispy Skin Pork Belly with roasted chat potatoes.
quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear. So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes a go at O.P 81 café.
Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel: 6652PLACE, 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 13 MINORCA TOORMINA
SUNDAY 10:00AM - 10:00PM.
Greenhouse Tavern
7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.
the hoey moey
7 DAYS. LUNCH MON - SUN, 11:30AM - 2:30PM. DINNER MON - THURS AND SUN, 5:30PM - 8:30PM. DINNER FRI - SAT, 5:30PM - 9PM.
The Hoey Moey
Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We Whether it ishotel porkinbelly pumpkinwith anddirect sweet are the only CoffsorHarbour potatoaccess. soup, Come The Hoey daily specials beach andMoey’s enjoy our beachside boardwith is ready to warm soul this winter hotel spacious beer the garden, season. Come and enjoy fantastic open plan bar, bistro, driveathru bottlemeal shopin our TAB newly renovated weather Beernew Garden, and facilities. Haveallyou tried our our openPizza plan range? bar, bistro, Kids’ Drive Gourmet There is a Room, large selection Thru Bottleshop andyou TAB and Keno facilities. to choose from and can have these eat inSign or takeaway. Come in and check out our up for a Hoey Moey Members’ Card today takeaway specials orbar phone for pick-up. for fantastic bistro, andahead bottleshop specials. If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS Visit our website for more details. $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. The Hoey Moey! Great Food, Live Music, Good Times!
mr. good beans We pride ourselves on bringing a personalised service and product: a finely tuned espresso coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet café food made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience to all who walk through the café door. Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring, made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring • espresso martini • light, yet very satisfying.
of The
HEAD CHEF
GUS PREZIOSO. Head Chef David Ricketts.
84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 84 OCEAN PARADE, COFFS HARBOUR 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 6652 3833 WWW.HOEYMOEY.COM.AU 7 days. Mon - Thurs & 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.
24 coffs coast focus.
Head Chef Kristy Deveson.
Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans
The crew at Element Bar on the Jetty Strip are known for serving up an absolute gem of this all Moonee time classic, with their own special twist. With a Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Beach 6656 4511 of www.mrgoodbeans.com.au blend fresh espresso coffee, premium vodka, coffee liqueur and chocolate–crème it’s Monday Saturdayliqueur, 6am – 4pm and Sundays 8am – 3pm
the perfect evening indulgence. coffs coast focus.
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focusinterview.
focus focusinterview. interview.
shirley DOUGLAS
nicole
• GREENHOUSE •
HATCH
• V E LV E T S R E S TA U R A N T •
Hi, my name is Shirley Douglas, and I have been cooking for 30 years. I have been very lucky in my career so far to travel across the world, experimenting with many different food styles and working with some amazing chefs.
I
began my food journey as an apprentice in Brisbane, and then set off on a work visa travelling and cooking throughout New Zealand and then on to Europe. I have also lived and worked in some of the most beautiful places in Australia - the Whitsundays, Cable Beach in Broome, Kakadu, Sydney and Tasmania. One of my food heroes is Tetsuya Wakuda, and I had a wonderful opportunity to create and present a 10 course menu for him at the Franklin Manor in Tasmania, which resulted in him asking me to spend two weeks in his Sydney restaurant to learn some of his cooking techniqiues - a serious highlight of my cooking career, as you can imagine!
excited about the opportunity to reenergise the menu and dining experience there. We change our menu to reflect the fresh local produce available each season and update the chef’s suggestion board to showcase the new offerings. Rib-eye, whole Snapper and beef cheeks have been popular choices in recent weeks. All of our fruit and vegetables come from Tutti Frutti Wholesalers, a local family owned business, breads from K’Pane Artisan Bakery and seafood from Great Ocean Food and PFD Wholesalers here in Coffs Harbour. At the Greenhouse Tavern, we are proud to support local!
All of our fruit “ and vegetables come from Tutti
Frutti Wholesalers, a local family owned business, breads from K’Pane Artisan Bakery and seafood from Great Ocean Food and PFD Wholesalers here in Coffs Harbour. At the Greenhouse Tavern, we are proud to support local!”
I have cooked for John Farnham during the filming of an ad in the Whistundays, became the personal chef for Elle McPherson for three weeks in Broome, and won a cooking competition judged by Gordon Ramsay, and then joined him for dinner and a food ideas exchange as the prize. Other highlights include Restaurant of the Year awards at Isabella’s in Logan and Tall Timbers in Smithton Tasmania. Outside of work, I like to experiment with Thai cuisine, and I also have an interest in bush tucker from my Broome and Kakadu days. But that’s enough about me! I have recently joined the Greenhouse Tavern and am very
We have been busy with events and special occasion functions at the Greenhouse since I joined. We cater for groups of all sizes, and whatever occasion you are celebrating - you can choose how you want the food served, as shared platters, sit-down options or buffet service, and we can help you with theming and signage or decorations.
As Greenhouse Tavern has always been very family friendly, it has become a Coffs Harbour locals’ favourite - we now offer a “kids eat free Monday - Sunday 5pm to 6pm” deal for kids under 12 years old from the Kids Menu, with any main menu meal purchased. Come in an try our new menu - my kitchen team and I look forward to cooking for you soon! Open for lunch and dinner seven days and cake and coffee in between. See you soon!
The buzz around town at the moment is the new Spanish Tapas Restaurant out at Two Tails Wine. Velvets Restaurant has already got chins wagging with the view, customer service and of course, the mouthwatering menu created by head chef Nicole Hatch. FOCUS grabbed a wine with Nic to find out more about her passion for the plate ...
W
hen did you first become interested in cookery as a career? Coming from a large country family, we always put great effort into family mealtimes. Our Sundays were all about family time. My grandfather enjoyed cooking, and on Sundays he always did a roast with a poppy twist! We gathered vegetables from his garden, everyone had a part to play in the meal; drinking and eating, laughing and crying and celebrating each other is what makes a family real. Being the oldest and the only girl, my baby brothers are my world, and I love nothing more than to look after them. Whatever they feel like eating, I cook for them. The only thing is that now they have to fly to Coffs for the occasional weekends away; however, they are very spoilt and they love it.
“
the kitchen with the chefs and staff, costing and planning menus, devising strategies and planning profitable events. For the past 16 years I have been catering for the discerning eastern suburbs clientele in fast-paced Sydney kitchens in catering contract management, event planning, banqueting, major functions and corporate catering. Tell us about the menu? What type of dishes can we expect to see? With a strong emphasis on “paddock to plate”, Velvets restaurant has focused on traditional Spanish flavours, embracing the shared eating style of modern tapas.
With a strong emphasis on ‘paddock to plate’ Velvets restaurant has focused on traditional Spanish flavours, embracing the shared eating style of modern tapas.”
What training did you undertake, and where was your first job? As a teenager I had a few jobs on the go, saving up to purchase my first car. On Thursday nights I worked in a gourmet deli and on weekends in a local restaurant. After finishing school, I completed a trade apprenticeship in commercial cookery, which gave me the necessary skill base to follow my two passions, cooking and travelling. I then completed an Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management, before attending Regency College of TAFE hotel school in Adelaide to complete Cert III and IV in Patisserie . I then went to university to complete an Economics degree. Whilst at uni, I worked both back and front of house in restaurants and found myself always at home in
I would say our most popular dishes at the moment seem to be the lamb cutlets with drunken figs, pan seared duck with spicy pears and tomato concasse and stuffed pumpkin flowers with saffron aioli. What local produce features on the menu?
It’s very important to support the local growers and businesses. Our suppliers have worked with us to offer only quality products, such as local honey, micro herbs, black garlic, organic farmed meats through to handmade olive oils and vinegars. Wine matching is important for restaurateurs - tell us about your wine choices. At Two Tails we grow chardonnay and villa blanc grapes for our whites, and chambourcin and jacquez for our reds and liqueurs. The delicate nature of these flavours is the perfect marriage for the colorful canvas of the modern Spanish tapas offering. The best idea is to have a tasting - that way you can find a wine you like to enjoy with lunch. There is something for everyone at Two Tails. coffs coast focus. 25
Twenty 46 Warm up this winter at twenty46; our new and exciting winter menu is packed full of culinary comforts, guaranteed to satisfy. “Twenty46” - the postcode of a small suburb in Sydney, Five Dock, where we spent years creating lasting memories and were inspired to achieve our dreams as a mother and daughter duo and create a place on the beautiful Jetty strip, where you, too, could create lifelong memories for years to come. When looking for a bite to eat in Coffs Harbour, wander into Twenty46 on Harbour Drive for a gourmet style breakfast or lunch.
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Coffs Harbour FISHERMAN’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.
New to the café circuit, a wooden accented interior creates a warm, homely vibe for easy, relaxed dining. Early risers may be tempted by our delicious “BREAKFAST CROISSANT” - with fried eggs, bacon, hash brown, baby spinach and hollandaise sauce, paired with an Adore coffee.
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!
Those dining later can wrap their hands around ”THE RAGIN CAJUN” - Cajun spiced chicken tenderloins with rasher bacon, avocado, house-made pickle aioli and snow pea tendrils on a triangle damper bun, served with sweet potato wedges. While for lighter eaters, you must try one of our famous antipasto plates.
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!
august Cinematinee also takes us to Turkey, as the roaming cats of Istanbul take to the screen in new documentary Kedi.
Jetty Theatre in August. Harvard’s beloved blonde takes the stage by glittery pink storm in this fun and upbeat adaptation of the hit film and award-winning Broadway musical, with the new CHATS production of Legally Blonde Jr. The Musical (Jul 20 - 30). Cinematinee takes us around the world with screenings of new David Wenham film Beyond The Known World (Jul 27) and critically acclaimed Turkish “catumentary” Kedi (Aug 3), following the connected lives of the stray cats of Istanbul. Due to popular demand, a third show has now been added for the live stage show of Michael Rosen’s children’s classic We’re Going On A Bear Hunt (Aug 11 and 12), with the first two shows now sold out. Also back by popular demand is the 2017 Vive la France! French Film Festival (Aug 23 - 27), a chance to immerse in French cinema and culture with Opening Night tickets and Festival Passes now on sale through vivelafrance.swiff.com.au Ooh-la-la! For bookings and information, call the Jetty Memorial Theatre Box Office on (02) 6648 4930 or visit www.jettytheatre.com.
It’s pink, it’s glittery, it’s Harvard law. Presented by CHATS. Show: Thu 20 – Sun 30 Jul
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
Michael Rosen’s classic children’s book live on stage!
TOURING SHOW
Legally Blonde Jr.
COMMUNITY THEATRE
Upcoming Shows
Kedi Screening: (Aug 3) Vive La France! French Film Festival
Year 2 of Screenwave’s French Film celebration – Ooh-la-la! Screening: Wed 23 – Sun 27 Aug jettymemorialtheatre @jettytheatre Box office hours Tues to Fri 12 noon – 4pm
CINEMATINEE
Screening: (Jul 27)
CINEMA
Beyond The Known World
Thursday fortnights
Show: Fri 11 & Sat 12 August
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
jettytheatre.com | phone 6648 4930 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour
coffs coast focus. 27
Coffs
GIG GUIDE
THURSDAY 3RD AUGUST
Coffs Cup Celebrations with the Stripes - Hoey Moey Kedi - Jetty Theatre
FRIDAY 4TH AUGUST
Benny Black + DJ OB1 - Hoey Moey DJ Bisho & DJ Breno - Coast Hotel Vanessa Lea & the Road Train - Seaview Tavern
SATURDAY 5TH
SUNDAY 13TH AUGUST
King B Fine & Afrikaya Band + DJ Helmy - Hoey Moey
THURSDAY 17TH AUGUST
DJ OB1 - Hoey Moey Magneto and DJ Flakey - Coast Hotel Ben Francis - Seaview Tavern Delta Riggs - Coffs Hotel
Hit that Hit Musical Bingo - Seaview Tavern The Eagle Huntress - Jetty Theatre
SUNDAY 6TH
FRIDAY 18TH AUGUST
Push - Hoey Moey Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern
THURSDAY 10TH
Hit that Hit Musical Bingo - Seaview Tavern
FRIDAY 11TH
Hit 1055 RNB Friday - Hoey Moey DJ Bisho & DJ Flakey - Coast Hotel Rowland & Shekinah - Seaview Tavern Wendy Matthews - Sawtell RSL We’re Going on a Bear Hunt - Jetty Theatre
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SATURDAY 12TH DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Occarock & DJ Rjay - Coast Hotel Raw Comedy Coastal Roast - Seaview Tavern We’re Going on a Bear Hunt - Jetty Theatre
Who’s Charlie + DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey DJ Bisho and DJ Smokin Joe - Coast Hotel Push Band - Seaview Tavern
SATURDAY 19TH AUGUST
DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey At the Bar & DJ Smokin Joe - Coast Hotel Mighty Ocean - Seaview Tavern
SUNDAY 20TH AUGUST
Bearfoot - Hoey Moey
WEDNESDAY 23RD AUGUST
Screenwave’s 2017 Vive la France! French film festival - Jetty Theatre
THURSDAY 24TH AUGUST
Hit that Hit Musical Bingo - Seaview Tavern Screenwave’s 2017 Vive la France! French film festival - Jetty Theatre
FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST
Vanessa Lea & Road Train + DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey DJ BIsho & Dj Flakey - Coast Hotel Secret Squirrel - Seaview Tavern The Voices of Taxi Ride, Choirboys and Boom Crash Opera - Sawtell RSL Screenwave’s 2017 Vive la France! French film festival - Jetty Theatre
SATURDAY 26TH AUGUST
DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Frogmouth & DJ Brandon - Coast Dean Dee - Seaview Tavern Screenwave’s 2017 Vive la France! French film festival - Jetty Theatre
SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST
King Social - special guest Might Ocean - Hoey Moey Screenwave’s 2017 Vive la France! French film festival - Jetty Theatre
coffs coast focus. 29
THE COFFS COAST Power couples line up for the annual gala fundraising event for Cancer Council NSW. This must see event, now in its second year, has collectively raised over $600,000; the C.ex Group is proud to be the ongoing major sponsor. This year the organising committee decided to shake up the usual formula of matching an individual with a teacher and instead, have matched couples with a teacher/choreographer. Eight high profile couples have now been teamed up with professional dance teachers from the Coffs Coast, to perform one dance on Saturday 28 October. This year’s dance styles include African, hip hop, salsa, musical theatre, jazz, cabaret and rock ‘n’ roll. With dance schools such as Pacific Dancentre, Woolgoolga Dance Studio, Julie Ross Dance Studio, Bellingen Community African Drum and Dance, Maverick Movement, and Urunga Dance Studio guiding the “stars” with choreography and training, it’s going to be a spectacular night. Three judges (including FOCUS’ very own Louise Beaumont) will choose a winner, and guests will have the opportunity to vote for the people’s choice, as well as supporting their favourite dance duo by donating
online or attending their fundraising activities in the lead up to the event. All funds raised support Cancer Council NSW’s services and research. Cancer Council is the only organisation that works across every area of every cancer. We are there not only for those touched by cancer today, but to prevent and manage cancer into the future. In the last twelve months, our local Transport to Treatment program provided 162 trips to treatment, and our specially trained volunteer team reached out to 2,386 patients, providing information and support to cancer patients receiving treatment at MNCCI. Don’t miss out on a great night; get in quick and secure your tickets to the event. The stars will take to the dance floor on Saturday 28 October at C.ex Coffs; doors open at 6pm for a 6:45pm start. Tickets are $65 each and include a drink on arrival and supper. Tickets are selling fast and are available at www.cex.com.au Call Sarah Whitaker on 6659 8402 for further information.
NICOLE DONOVAN (Surf Club Restaurant and Bar) CALLUM CLIFFORD (TJ Jung Quarries) This dynamic couple were already thinking about taking dance classes together when they were approached to be involved in this year’s event. Nicole, who is a Director of the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar said “I love dancing and Callum and I really wanted to learn to dance together. We also love our community and being involved in community events so this was a perfect fit for us”. Nicole and Callum have been teamed up with Michelle Warman from Julie Ross Dance Studio, who will be teaching them the finer points of the saucy salsa dance.
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ADRIAN BETTS (Bellingen Fitness)AMANDA BETTS (The Bello Cake Shed) Adrian and Amanda love nothing more than taking on a new challenge and going outside their comfort zones. This is how they ended up Australian Wife Carrying Champions! They will be learning a high energy African dance routine under the guidance of Janelle Turner from Bellingen Community African Drum and Dance School. Like some of the other stars, they are driven to make a difference through raising funds for Cancer Council.
CAZ HEISE (Mid North Cancer Institute) EVAN CLARK (NSW Ambulance) Life is a Cabaret for Caz and Evan ... or it will be, once they learn how to dance! Both work in the health care sector, Caz as the Manager of Nursing Services for the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute and Evan, a Paramedic with NSW Ambulance. They both work closely with cancer patients and feel this is a great opportunity to reach out to the local community and raise funds for Cancer Council. Rumour has it that Evan doesn’t mind hitting the dance floor, so hopefully their teacher, Carol Myers from Pacific Dancentre, can put his skills to good use!
ADELAIDE ZIETSCH & DANIEL BUTCHER (Le Dãin Designs) Music runs through the veins of Le in models Adelaide and Daniel, Dãin who are looking forward to taking to the floor. Musician Daniel has performed in numerous bands, and Adelaide learned dance as a child, and they are keen to test out their skills on the dance floor and support a cause close to their hearts. Like many others, Adelaide says she is fundraising for the Cancer Council because she knows many who have been affected by cancer. The model co-workers will be guided by dance teacher Emily McCarthy.
ALLISON WHAITES (McGrath Estate Agents)
ANDREW THOMSON (C.ex Group)
JULIAN BRYANT (Regional Australia Bank)
TRUDY THOMSON (St George Bank)
Allison and Julian love nothing more than rocking out on a Saturday night to Guns ‘n’ Roses, Cold Chisel and AC/DC, but how will they go bustin’ a move to the hip hop groove?
Andrew can’t dance. His wife Trudy can’t dance. But together, the C.ex Group employee and St George Business Banking Manager are willing to give it all they’ve got, in the name of supporting a great cause.
Dance teacher Hailey Croxton from Maverick Movement is charged with transforming the pub rockers into hip hop stars, as they prepare for the dance-off.
“We’re not going to go out and do a waltz for the Queen - it’ll be something lighthearted and entertaining,” Trudy says.
Allison jumped at the chance to volunteer herself and Regional Australia Bank lender Julian Bryant, when asked by her employer, McGrath Estate Agents.
The Thomsons suggest the 1970s could be the main influence when it comes to their dance style, and will be coached by the extremely talented Kym Ferrington. Like so many others, they have been inspired to support Cancer Council because of their personal experiences.
Both Allison and Julian are looking forward to encouraging people to talk more about cancer and supporting those who are affected.
THE COFFS COAST FELICITY COOK (Coffs Harbour Primary School) MAT COOK (Mid Coast Communities) When Felicity was approached to be involved in this fun event that raises money for the Cancer Council, both her and Mat couldn’t refuse. They have had close family and friends affected by cancer and want to show their support to those affected, including Mat’s mother, who is currently overcoming the diagnosis and the challenges of ovarian cancer. The couple of 13 years have a strong passion for basketball and want their fundraising to have a positive impact for patients and their families. They are excited to support the local community, and entertain them too on the dance floor! But will they be able to handle the moves without a basketball in hand? Felicity and Mat are being guided by dance teacher Sue Sharky from Urunga Dance Studio.
KIRSTEN HOWTON (Excel Property Agency) RUSS HOLLAND (Bishop Druitt College) Will Kirsten’s gym class fitness give her the edge on the dance floor? Will Russ be as comfortable in his dance shoes as he is in his mountain climbing boots? “Who knows what our dancing will be like ...” Kirsten says of their first-ever foray into the art form. Kirsten was inspired to fundraise for Cancer Council after losing her husband to cancer 10 years ago, and has since been a dedicated supporter of the cause. Russ is taking to the dance floor in honour of his mum, a breast cancer survivor. Together, they will explore the world of musical theatre, guided by expert teacher Carol Young from Woolgoolga Dance Studio.
coffs coast focus. 31
focusfashion
WITH LAUREN VESTY FROM LIVING DOLL
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Five reasons to wear hair extensions.
towards. All that, without having to worry about
Are you considering buying hair extensions, but not sure if it's worth taking the plunge? Living Doll is here to help make you make that decision easier. Everyone knows they're great for volume and length - that's no surprise. But did you ever consider that it's also a fantastic way to hide a bad haircut? Or experiment with colour without the damage? How about to achieve those #hairgoals you've been dreaming about for your wedding day or formal?
extensions? If you don’t like the results, you can
the long-term commitment, and without causing any damage to your hair. The beauty of hair simply take them out of your hair. No hassle! 3. Volume If you suffer from hair loss or thinning hair, we understand it can be a hit to your confidence. We’re here to help you - hair extensions are a great resource for getting back that volume that you once had. Feel comfortable in your own skin again by trying out hair extensions.
4. Style Change Up Your Look Fact: hair extensions instantly make any hair style more beautiful and interesting. With the additional length, volume, and even pop of colour to your hair, you can easily make any simple braid, bun, or ponytail more voluminous and intricate. You don’t even need to use a full head to achieve greater body in your hair; only using a few may be enough to add that length and volume you’ve been dreaming about. The options are endless! Special Occasions Hair extensions are always a great way to spice up your look for a wedding, graduation - basically any and every special occasion! Achieve those dream voluminous curls for your wedding day, or get those long luscious locks you’ve been eyeing for your formal night. Hair extensions will help you reach those #hairgoals you’ve been envying. 5. Ease of Use Let's be honest - we've all been in that situation where you're trying to decide whether it’s worth waking up early to put that extra effort into your hair, versus sleeping in an extra 30 minutes. The awesome thing about hair extensions? It takes literally no time, and how you style it is up to you. With hair extensions, you can save time trying to look good. The best thing about hair extensions is you get the best of both worlds - who doesn’t love having the option between long and short hair? If you have any questions about hair extension options for your hair needs, contact the Premier Stylists at Living Doll today on 6699 2122. XO Dolls
Join us for the social event of the year!
GOLD CUP
CARLTON DRAUGHT 2017 COFFS HARBOUR
THURSDAY, 3RD AUGUST 2017, FROM 11AM LAWN PARTY TICKETS $99 - GENERAL ADMISSION $20
PARK BEACH PLAZA FASHIONS ON THE FIELD REGISTRATION FROM 11AM GET YOUR PHOTO SNAPPED IN FRONT OF OUR INSTAGRAM GREEN WALL! #CoffsCup17 GETTING THERE: Parking is available: Western car park off Hogbin Drive. Howard Street is closed to traffic. SES gold coin donation. Shuttle Buses: From 4.30pm shuttle buses will run to the CBD, Jetty, Sawtell and Toormina.
coffsracingclub.com.au / 02 6652 1488
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coffs coast focus. 33
focus social
WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS
Benoit Giroud and Michael Marchment
Jordan Atkinson, Claire Dahistrom-Atkinson
Christopher, Carole, and Ivan Beros
Jayd Urquart, Tanya Johnson
Stacey Ellis, Jennifer Lock
Shelly Lewis, Christopher Beros, Max Wood, Emma Binns
Focus Fashions on the Field Judging Panel: Barbara Wenman, Kay Skinner, Simon Chladil, Denise Knight
Les Thornborough, Adelaide Zietsch, Michelle and Jeff Hardcastle
Tim Saladine, Russ Atkinson, Alice Williams
Emma Binns, Adelaide Zietsch, Erin Jackson, Sarvi Thompson
Jem Atkinson, Beth Holroyd, Trudy Thomson, Karen Jackson, Vicky Hunter, Nicole Moore, Kay Ryan
Kym Ferrington, Adelaide Zietsch, Emma Binns, Erin Jackson, Sarvi Thompson
Social /Scene
O
wners Madonna and Barry Bannerman are so excited to have such an amazing venue in the beautiful Orara Valley in Nana Glen. Velvets Restaurant prides itself on freshly sourced produce and champions the local artisans and provedores with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community. Guests got to sample the delicious Spanish Tapas style menu .With both indoor and outdoor dining options available, Velvets Restaurant provides a unique Coffs Coast dining experience that encapsulates the essence of the Orara Valley lifestyle. It is open for lunch at the moment and dinner during the warmer months. Bookings: 6654 3633. Hours are Wed to Sun 11-4.30 We attended the Farewell party at Lattitude 30 for Bill. It was a night of delicious food and fine wines overlooking the ocean. The evening was filled with mixed emotions: a celebration of
34 coffs coast focus.
Lots to enjoy as usual, so let’s get straight into it. We attended the launch of ‘Velvets’ Restaurant just recently. Velvet’s is at Two Tails winery and we walked into a ‘packed out event’ with over 100 business people and locals attending.
the years of dedication Bill has given to HQB and his clients. It But it was also a sad farewell after 31 years as a partner working in the accounting game. Bill has forged many lasting relationships with clients and staff alike. It was a fantastic turn out on the night to farewell a true gentleman and an accountant. Great night! Le Dãin Designs had its annual High Fashion, Hats and High Tea Event just recently which was staged at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Over 160 guests attended the ever popular event which is a lead up event to the Coffs Harbour Gold Cup Carnival and also part supports the Pink Silks Perpetual Trust. The club had gone all out and Russ, Jo, Karen and the team had created something more than Fabulous! Black velvet curtains graced the lit up catwalk stage and white linen clothed tables were set with black and white runners with boxes of vibrant yellow
flowers! Our lovely Mayor Denise Knight opened the event and the delightful Alice Williams was the MC for the event. The High Tea menu was delicious and guests enjoyed a performance from well-known artist Tommy Memphis. Guests were up dancing and singing along to his music. Lots of bubbles and lots of fun! Dancer Kym Ferrington graced the stage floor and performed a breath taking dance. There was a huge free raffle with fabulous prizes and of course a colourful fast moving Fashion Parade. The day was jam packed! There was the Le Dãin Pop up store with everything to dress you up for the races. Barbara Wenman and her staff from La Fleur D’Alyse Beauty Parlour were ready to pamper the ladies. There was even a mini hair salon with Stephanie from Solo Mobile Hairdressing. FOCUS photographer Michael Marchment from The Mil Studios was there capturing the memories.
It wasn’t just for the ladies though there were quite a few gentlemen in attendance. Simon Chladil was a guest speaker giving his advice on Race Day Fashions. Tim Saladine (Racing Manager) and Russ Atkinson (CEO) were also guest speakers filling us in with Racing and club information. To end the day there was of course the Major Sponsor FOCUS Fashions on the Field which lured in numerous well-dressed ladies (and gentlemen) to compete for sashes and a prize pool of over $3000! Thank you to sponsors FOCUS, Le Dãin Designs, La Fleur D’Alyse, Coffs Coast Health Club, Coffs Harbour Racing Club, The Mil Studios Photography, Raine & Horne Toormina Sawtell, Opal Cove Resort, Le Dãin Designs, Ladies in Racing Magazine and Racing Carnival Escapes. Here is to living in the moment... Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.
focus social
WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DĂƒIN DESIGNS
Kirsten Howton, Russ Holland, Emma Rhoades
Una McLeod, Jo Bennett
Heather Wallace, Margaret Bellamy, Glenda Heward, Julie Johns
Therese Barker Karen and Erin Jackson
Tommy Memphis
Stars of the Coffs Coast Dancing for Cancer
Kathy Meharry, Joey Wynyer, Don Cameron, Louise Cleary, Colin Taylor, David, Neyha and Robyn Laarhoven, Madonna and Barry Bannerman
Madonna and Barry Bannerman
Julie Gale, Tamara Humphries, Jess Higgins
Bill and Alison
Andrew and Tanya
Sam, Fran, Suzanne, Mick
Pauline, Mike, Manjut, Nicky
Garry, John, Kerry, Craig
Craig, Karla, Hailey, Kim
Chris Grieve, Tullia Conner
Madonna Bannerman and Terry Crowe
Neyha, David and Robyn Laarhoven
coffs coast focus. 35
The P
COME VISIT US AT
Coffs Harb ou r’s
Bo
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Beauty on the P R O M E N A D E Cos Harbour’s premier relaxation centre and waxing bar invites you to experience their friendly dierence today!
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ourishing beauty therapy and skin care to make you look and feel sensational ... Beauty on the Promenade provide a wide range of beauty treatments, including: facial; massage; manicure and pedicures; silk eyelash extensions and lash lifts; full range of waxing treatments; great value spa treatments and packages. Relax, unwind and indulge in our luxury day spa and experience our lash and waxing bar at Beauty on the Promenade. SkinJuice skin care is used in the salon and is an Australian organic, but power-packed skin care line to complement our popular Hydropeptides range.
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They have made their name over the past decade by believing that a visit to a beauty salon should be as easy as going to a friend’s house for coffee. You should always leave feeling relaxed, pampered and happy. READERS’ SPECIAL Focus on me Package Readers who mention the Focus on Me Package will receive a 1.5 hour treatment, including: customised facial treatment; eyelash tint; eyebrow shape and tint; rejuvenating full body sea salt scrub; deep hydration body massage plus scalp massage. All for just $149! For all your beauty treatments, contact Beauty on the Promenade on 6658 0950. Open six days a week.
Shearwater R E S T A U R A N T
COR NER POST
CREATIVE
321 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour info@coffspromenade.com.au www.coffspromenade.com.au
F
$1 Oysters on Friday afternoons! Who loves Oysters?
riday afternoon’s at Shearwater just got better with their “we shuck for a buck� $1 oyster special running from 4.306.30pm until sold out! Be sure to head down for an afternoon of fun; plus, they’ll have tasty share plates on offer, to go with a cheeky vino or beer. The much-loved Shearwater Restaurant is perched upon the picturesque Coffs Creek. The serene water views provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in a relaxed atmosphere and iconic location. Our $12 all-day breakfasts are popular with
36 coffs coast focus.
the regulars and include favourites like eggs benny, truffle mushrooms and nasi goreng, all made with the freshest, local produce where possible and serving Artisti coffee. Plus, our new menus are out now, serving modern Australian cuisine, the menus are full of delicious, tempting choices, and their bar is stocked with a great variety of beers, ciders and wines too. Come on down to Shearwater to relax by the waterside with a great meal and cold drink. For bookings and enquiries, please call 6651 6053. Fully licensed.
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. 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. Have a good month, Deb.
coffs coast focus. 37
with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343
August 2017
AQUARIUS.
JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19 Now is a great time to enjoy an activity that you may have been drawn to for a long time, but have not had the means to access. Write a list of all the things required to make it happen, and obtain something from that list. You will be surprised how easily things will fall into place. Enjoy! Citrine attracts an abundance of positivity.
PISCES.
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20 Congratulate yourself on how you have recently faced and grown through some challenging times. You are so much more powerful than you realise. You have probably outgrown some old beliefs. Try debating those beliefs by pulling them apart, and see how free you become. Ruby shatters self doubt.
ARIES.
MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 If relationships are proving to be a challenge, try having no expectations of each other and love unconditionally. Valuing your friendship can bring happy change and inner contentment. In times of turmoil, look inward at your beautiful qualities that you chose to incarnate with, to initiate self love. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.
38 coffs coast focus.
TAURUS.
APRIL 21 - MAY 21 Be patient with yourself, as big changes are coming. Your focus recently has been on the bigger picture of your life, so setting some fresh goals and challenging some fears or phobias will elevate you towards the rewards in store for you. Jade is great for self worth and healing.
GEMINI.
MAY 22 - JUNE 22 If you are feeling unsupported, try to recognise what emotion will satisfy your needs, and activate it by using your breath. Draw it through every cell with each breath. Lighten up your energy by playing, pranking and laughing; you are taking things far too seriously. Ruby shatters fear.
CANCER.
JUNE 23 - JULY 23 Challenges from past relationships will soon be a thing of the past. Try to find positive outcomes from the challenging times you previously faced, and be grateful for who you became as a result. Love is likely to bring newfound joy to your reality. Clear quartz empowers us.
LEO.
JULY 24 - AUGUST 23 Avoid relying on another person to make you feel complete. This will only lead to disappointment. Instead, try honouring yourself a little more by smiling at your reflection in the mirror. This will enhance self approval, and your self esteem will grow. Turquoise is great for self esteem.
VIRGO.
AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23 Movement and change will settle some of your restless energy. Try working through any undigested emotions gathered over the past twelve months, and find something to satisfy your clever mind. Boredom in an active mind can be devastating for enthusiasm. Blue Lace agate clears the mind, as well as stimulating it.
LIBRA.
SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23 Enjoy your quiet before the storm. Now is a great time for fresh goal setting, as you might be feeling a bit idle. You are very gifted at manifesting; to strengthen this ability, you only need to recognise this and acknowledge yourself when you manifest something. Turquoise is great for self esteem.
SCORPIO.
OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 It is time for you to reach your potential; you only need to want this. Set some new goals, give yourself permission to receive them, and get ready. You will be experiencing some restless energy, and this can prove to be such a powerful mover and shaker if embraced and utilised. Rose Quartz is the empowering crystal of self love.
SAGITTARIUS.
NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 Don’t be hassled if you are feeling alone or experiencing loneliness. You are needing to see how independent and strong you are and how little you need from others. By reflecting on past hurts and gaining something positive from it, even if it’s understanding, you will clear past damage efficiently. Rose Quartz is the crystal of self love.
CAPRICORN.
DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 Calm reflecting time is required at present, to bring contentment back into your cells. You have been caught up in distractions lately that have hindered your personal power. Speak words of empowerment, and honour yourself by avoiding language that represents negativity, as your thoughts need happier influences. Citrine attracts an abundance.
Coffs Harbour Residential Care 4 5 V i c t o r i a St r e e t Co f f s Ha r b o u r Nestled between high mountains and breathtaking seaside views, Coffs Harbour Residential Care is an excellent choice for local residents requiring 24 hour nursing care in a family-friendly community environment. Our highly trained and caring staff provide individualized care for each of our residents, who can choose from a selection of single rooms with private ensuites or twin share accommodation, providing companionship for couples or friends, whilst receiving the benefits of 24 hour care. Facility Manager Virginia Podesta is a Registered Nurse and has worked at Coffs Harbour Residential Care for 26 years. A typical week sees Virginia oversee a team of 146 passionate staff, dedicated to the many aspects of a resident’s care. Virginia explains: “Coffs Harbour Residential Care is a community within a community. Our longest serving member of staff has been here for over 35 years. Many of our staff have family members also who work here, and even have family members who are residents here. It really is a home away from home. My
(L-R) Lynn Peel (administration), Virginia Podesta (Facility Manager) & Helen Martin (Deputy Facility Manager)
Aunt is a fine example of good living at Coffs Harbour. She is 100 years old and I’ve had the pleasure of overseeing her care for the past 9 years. Acquired by Japara Healthcare in 2015, Coffs Harbour Residential Care has exciting changes to look forward to. “We are excited about the new refurbishment this year, aimed at improving the amenities and accommodation for our residents”. The leisure and lifestyle program at Coffs Harbour Residential Care provides innovative, creative and stimulating events. Our program includes individual, group and community activities, and our lifestyle team is there to support residents in selecting activities suitable or appealing to them. To discuss your loved ones needs, or to book a personal tour, call (02) 6652 1494.
COFFS HARBOUR RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY
Limited places available now. At Coffs Harbour Residential Care, we offer 24 hour registered nurses working alongside dedicated and experienced staff offering individual care for each resident.
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24 Hour registered nursing care
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Single and companion rooms available
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.
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Accommodation tailored to your loved ones individual needs
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Flexible fees available
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Secure Dementia unit
Call and book a tour today on 6652 1494
45 Victoria Street, Coffs Harbour acsagroup.com.au coffs coast focus. 39
focusinterview
Go4Fun facilitator
karina rothacker
W
hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I grew up in Emerald Beach from the age of 8. After school I left Coffs and lived in Japan, Canberra, Ghana, Sydney and Germany. 18 years later I returned with a husband and kids to be near family, the wild ocean and the warm community. What is Go4Fun, and how is it funded? Go4Fun is a free, fun, after school program for kids to become fitter, healthier and happier! NSW Health fund Go4Fun as a healthy lifestyle program for children aged seven to 13 years who are above a healthy weight. Parents and kids come along to ten sessions run once a week over the school term led by trained, qualified health professionals. Each week there are fun games and activities for the children, as well as practical demonstrations, games and tips on healthy foods, label reading and portion sizes. At the beginning of Go4Fun, families set nutrition and physical activity goals that they would like to achieve over the 10 weeks. Through supporting each other, sharing information, having fun and making goals into habits, we see kids and families making empowering, healthy changes to their everyday lives. What is your role in the Go4Fun program? Go4Fun has two leaders, and I am the Nutrition and Mind Leader. This means I lead the family sessions which are designed to 40 coffs coast focus.
Many Australians of all ages are struggling to maintain a healthy weight, but with the right information and support, families can make better choices for healthier lives. Through the Go4Fun program, Karina Rothacker works with children aged between seven and 13 and their parents to do just that, having lots of fun while they are at it. improve nutrition knowledge. The families it is the children who set goals to become learn practical tips on shopping, cooking, label healthier, they really need their parents’ reading, fats and sugars and how to survive support in this journey to succeed. eating out and other tempting occasions. Why is it important to work with both We also de-mystify food and advertising to children and their parents? see what is really in what we eat and what is This is a family based program which going to make us healthy in the long run. Kids encourages the whole family to make changes get to see which foods have the most sugar in towards a healthier lifestyle. Parents usually them - it’s lots of fun, and we even get to go purchase the family groceries, so it’s really on a supermarket tour and be label reading important that they receive the same nutrition detectives! information as their children. Kids look up How does the program benefit children? to their parents and follow their examples in The kids love the games and activities. life, so having parents and kids participating Go4Fun operates like a big family, as there are together is what makes Go4Fun such a children from different success. schools and varying How are participants ages playing together. empowered While they play, they throughout the learn inclusiveness, program to make real The kids love the and to have fun in changes? games and activities. a cooperative rather The Go4Fun program Go4Fun operates like a than a competitive is structured so that kids big family, as there are environment. We focus and parents get all the children from different on participation, having information they need to schools and varying a go and most of all, choose to make positive ages playing together. having fun. change easy. Kids are When it comes to also encouraged to nutrition, the kids follow and reach their become pretty proud of goals by lots of small themselves when they realise just how much rewards and praise and boosted along by the they already know and can show us all how to fun of everyone striving together. put this knowledge into practice. What are some examples of achievable How does the program benefit parents? goals set by participants? Parents have the chance to discuss with As a nutrition goal, we have seen kids other parents issues that are close to their choose to drink water instead of juice or soft hearts: the challenges, happiness, health and drink, or replace processed foods with fresh wellbeing of their kids and family. Though fruit and vegetables in their lunch boxes. If
you do this for even four days a week for 10 weeks (or a lifetime), this has a really positive effect on a child’s health. Changing a simple habit like this could mean better teeth, healthy weight, better concentration and long term energy and possibly avoiding preventable chronic disease like Diabetes type 2 or heart disease later in life. An activity goal might be to take the dog for a walk with a friend three times a week after school, or jumping on the trampoline for 30 minutes a day before computer time. Whatever kids like to do best is a good place to begin. We have to do things we enjoy, so instead of being a chore, life is joyful. What kind of changes do you see in participants over the 10 weeks? Over the 10 weeks, the most noticeable change is that kids become more confident and believe that they have the power to make healthy changes in their lives. I think this selfbelief is the most important thing. The kids also make new Go4Fun friends, and we see children who might have been shy really getting involved and enjoying a wide range of physical activities. Parents often report that their kids are advising them on what is healthy and not so healthy to eat! The kids have the knowledge to make healthy choices and are not shy in expressing themselves. How can families get involved? Children often get a referral from a school or doctor. If you want to get involved in a local Go4Fun program, you can call 1800 780 900 or register online at www.go4fun.com.au Thanks Karina.
Before and after Blepharoplasty Surgery
Living Doll. Breast Augmentation.
The results give a very dramatic improvement in appearance as well as a significant confidence boost to the patient.
Dear Living Doll, Ever since I can remember, I've always wanted to have a thick head of voluminous, cascading hair, like the celebrities I watched on TV and the models I saw in magazines. Sure, I realised that they probably had some professional intervention to help make their hair look that great. Regardless, my thin, static-prone locks have always been a source of great frustration.
While there are various types of implants available, the safest and probably the best are the high cohesive silicon gel implants with a textured (rough) outer capsule. The great advantage they offer is the lack of gel dispersion in the unfortunate event of an implant rupture.
I had pretty long hair prior to getting extensions, so my primary goal was to increase the body and volume. The Premier Stylists at Living Doll recommended that I use only half of a package of extensions, which would not only be less expensive, but easier to care for.
Saline filled implants are rarely used as they carry a high (20%) risk of implant leak. There are round as well as biodimensional (natural looking) implants available. The biodimensional implants are preferred as they give a very natural look with or without clothes on, rather than the “breast implanted “ look with the use of round implants. The timing of breast implant surgery is variable.
Having a head of thick, healthy hair was incredibly exciting when it came to playing with fun hairdos. My hair looked great in its naturally straight state, but looked fantastic curled into loose waves. Fishtail braids looked fancy and dramatic. I could build a bigger top knot than anyone else I encountered. My previous limp, lifeless hair that looked awful air-dried suddenly looked earthy and cool without a blowout. Even lazy high ponytails suddenly looked fashion-forward and chic!
Breast Augmentation increases breast size and volume with the use of breast implants. It is also done to correct mild breast ptosis (breast droop) or asymmetry.
Many young women choose to have the surgery anytime after the age of 18 due to low breast volume causing great embarassment about their body contour. Others are those who have lost breast volume or have developed breast droop after pregnancies. Sometimes, there is a need to combine a breast lift operation with augmentation to correct post pregnancy breast volume and droop. Breast implants also have a role in breast reconctruction after surgery for breast cancer. Like all surgery, there are potential complications - please read details as listed on our website.
Thank you. Living Doll; you have truly changed my life. (Happy Customer.) As the fusion of hair and fashion has become more prevalent, hair extensions are not only about volume and length. They have become a fabulous fashion accessory to create highlights, fill in gaps, indulge in a non-committal fringe, fix a bad cut or inject your ponytail up-style with instant volume. Whatever style you want, Living Doll can help you achieve it. XO Dolls.
coffs coast focus. 41
focusfeature
Bruce wilson foster care support worker
Local Gumbaynggirr man Bruce Wilson works with Aboriginal foster carers, who play an extremely important role in providing culturally appropriate care for children and young people who are unable to stay in their homes. FOCUS spoke to Bruce about what this involves and why it is so important and met a bunch of dedicated staff and carers at the new Abcare offices in Coffs Harbour.
W
hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I am a Gumbaynggirr man with strong ties to the local community. I have lived in Coffs Harbour my entire life and really enjoy living in the region. It is great to work at Abcare with many staff members who have also grown up in this region and share the same passion for the local community. Who is Abcare, and what services do they provide? Abcare is an accredited Out Of Home Care (OOHC) agency through the Children’s Guardian. We are a community based, not for profit organisation that is governed by a Board of Directors, made up of Aboriginal community members. All Abcare staff are Aboriginal, and a majority of the staff come from the local community. The main purpose and objective of Abcare is to provide a quality service to Aboriginal children, young people, their families, carers and the wider community, whilst enhancing cultural values and empowering the Aboriginal community. We also have an Elders group program that helps to support the needs of the Elders, whilst promoting activities in the local area. The Elders also work with the carers to help with cultural engagement. 42 coffs coast focus.
What is the role of a foster carer, and why are more needed? The role of foster carer is very important. Being an Aboriginal carer is about providing a safe, culturally appropriate environment for our children and young people. The role of an Aboriginal foster carer is determined by our motto “Our Mob, Our Future, Our Way”. This means that our community needs to look after our own, to ensure they have a brighter future, but we need to make sure it is done within a culturally appropriate way. There are a number of different types of foster caring options, including respite care, short term care for up to twelve months and long term care for children through to the age of 18. What is involved in your role as a foster care support worker? My role as foster care support worker is to provide ongoing support and training to our current carers. I am also responsible for the recruitment and assessment of potential carers. I do carer reviews, as well as placement matching of children and young people. What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about this work? One of the major challenges, which ends up as a reward, is making sure that only people that are suited to foster caring become foster carers. Many people want to help, but it takes a major commitment to become a foster carer; we do not want to set people up to fail, as it
Being a n Aborigina l ca re r is about providing a safe, priate cult ura lly appro our environment for ng chil dre n a nd you people.”
“
may affect the child or young person’s life more. Why is it important that Aboriginal children needing out of home care are placed with extended family or Aboriginal carers? It is extremely important for Aboriginal children and young people to be placed with Aboriginal carers, to help them maintain their cultural identity. Legislation and Abcare policy prefers Aboriginal children and young people to go to extended family in a kinship care arrangement. This makes sure that the child stays with their family in a safe environment. If this is not possible, then we look for Aboriginal carers in the child or young person’s community. This is why it is extremely important that we start to get more Aboriginal carers, to support these children and young people and help keep them safe. Abcare is currently opening an office in Grafton. Why is this important for kids who need care in that area? We have a number of carers and children and young people located in Grafton and feel that having a dedicated office in Grafton will help support their needs locally. We have also recruited staff from the Grafton area. It is important to not only have a presence in the area, but to have familiar faces that people can
come to for assistance. How can people become carers, and do you have any advice for those interested? Becoming a foster carer is not for everyone. My suggestion is that if you are interested, have a talk to your family and friends about the idea of becoming a foster carer. You can then give me a call on 5915 8300 or drop into our new office located at 23 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour. We have information packs and experienced staff members who will assist you. Thanks Bruce.
The role of an “ Aboriginal foster carer is determined by our motto ‘Our Mob, Our Future, Our Way’. This means that our community needs to look after our own, to ensure they have a brighter future, but we need to make sure it is done within a culturally appropriate way.”
“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. 43
focusfeature
Trish Plunkett (Director) and Graham Shanahan (General Manager).
nsw home support services FOCUS sat down with Trish Plunkett from NSW Home Support Services, to find out about her amazing locally owned and operated business.
NSW Home Support Services is a leading provider of Aged Care Services on the Coffs Coast. Established in 1991 by business owner Trish Plunkett, the service has experienced many changes in the aged sector and meeting the challenges of the new aged care reforms is no different! Can you tell me something about the background of NSW Home Support Services (“NSWHSS”)? I am a Registered Nurse and the founding Director of NSWHSS established in 1991. After moving to Coffs Harbour in 1980 I worked as a Community Nurse for 10 years at the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital. Following my role there as Nursing Unit Manager of the Community Nursing Team, I identified a need for additional services in the broader aged care community. Since then, the organisation has grown to now employing over 50 staff members. Tell us about your management team? All members of the management team have strong backgrounds in community sector services and development. The strength of our team lies in
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its blend of Quality, Finance and Community expertise. We employ qualified and experienced staff such as Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses, Program Coordinators, Community Care Workers and Administration staff. What services do you offer? NSWHSS is predominately a provider of aged care services. We offer a variety of services under the following Government programs: • Department of Veterans Affairs (Community Nursing & Veterans Home Care) • Home Care Packages (Levels 1 to 4) • Commonwealth Home Support Program (flexible respite & group activities) • NDIS Service Provider Under these programs we offer a range of services including personal care, clinical nursing care, respite, social support, domestic assistance, home & garden maintenance and group activities. In addition, we offer private services including domestic assistance and home & garden maintenance.
What makes NSWHSS different from other community care providers? We ensure that we work closely with our clients and their families towards their health & wellness goals, whilst ensuring the support received suits the person’s lifestyle choices and daily routines. Our Program Coordinators listen to what’s important to our clients and develop Care Plans in consultation with them and their families and/or carers. We pride ourselves on our clinical expertise in the management of complex high care clients. NSWHSS strives to deliver a quality service while keeping overheads and costs to a minimum. We are a progressive employer supporting diversity, equity and ethical practice. Any new projects on the horizon? NSWHSS has recently been successful in securing growth funding through the Commonwealth Home Support Program targeting culturally diverse
groups. Our organisation is committed to providing culturally appropriate and inclusive services to all members of our community. We want to empower our older community members by offering services that they need, so that they feel valued, connected and supported. We can provide one on one support to people in their homes and are currently establishing community groups where people can connect, make friends and do something they enjoy. The recent aged cared reforms have been challenging for people wanting to access aged care services. Clients are able to select the provider of their choice according to their needs and preferences. These changes will see a less regulated, more consumer-driven and market based aged care system. We are happy to talk clients through these changes and how to navigate the aged care system.
focusfeature
dorothy lockhart
Daffodil friday 25 august
Day
Daffodil Day, a national day of hope for a cancer-free future, takes place on Friday 25 August this year. People across Northern NSW are encouraged to support the event by volunteering, buying merchandise or making a donation.
T
his year marks 31 years of Daffodil Day in NSW. As one of the largest national fundraising events in the Southern Hemisphere, this year Cancer Council hopes to raise $2.1
million in NSW.
In the Northern NSW region alone, it is estimated that approximately 2,476 people will be diagnosed with cancer in a single year. By supporting Cancer Council NSW this Daffodil Day, people will be helping to beat cancer by funding vital cancer research, support services, prevention programs and advocacy campaigns.
https://www.daffodilday.com.au/get-involved/ buy-merchandise
Dorothy Lockhart is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumour. FOCUS had a chat to Dorothy, to find out what Daffodil Day means to her. Why do you participate in Daffodil Day? What does the event mean to you?
support the day 110%. I have been doing this for around 17/18 years; it is such a great cause.
I feel that cancer is affecting too many people in one form or another. I had ovarian cancer in 2015 and was operated on in Newcastle. Following routine MRIs, a brain tumour was found. One off radiation in Queensland luckily shrunk it in 2016.
Do you participate in Daffodil Day on behalf of someone? I participate for the people in the community who are going through cancer in some form or another.
Is Daffodil Day symbolic for you and your community? Yes, very much so. On Daffodil Day people are so generous in the purchase of the flowers etc; they are usually waiting for myself and my team to open up. Everyone says it is for a good cause and
Tell us a bit about the day - what happens, how much do you hope to fundraise etc.? The day starts early; my team and I set up around 7:30 and finish at 4:30. We really do have the most fantastic support on our patch at "Woolworths Park Ave". We do very well and have been "congratulated" many times for our efforts.
Donate online To donate online, visit https://www.daffodilday. com.au/donate Buy merchandise Items from the Daffodil Day range can be purchased from stalls across Northern NSW on 25 August and at Coles Express throughout August.
This year’s “ theme is “For Someone I Know” -
by showing support for someone you know, you can help beat cancer and create a better, cancer-free future for all.”
This year’s theme is “For Someone I Know” - by showing support for someone you know, you can help beat cancer and create a better, cancer-free future for all.
Northern NSW locals can support Daffodil Day in the following ways: Volunteer Volunteers can give their time to help set up Daffodil Day stalls on 25 August 2017 and sell Daffodil Day pins and merchandise in locations across Northern NSW. To register as a volunteer, visit https://www.daffodilday.com. au/volunteer Order a merchandise box Merchandise can be ordered by individuals, clubs, schools or workplaces. To order, visit
Buy a daffodil on 25 August 2017
Daffodil Day stalls near local shopping areas, train and bus stations and other major locations will be selling fresh daffodils and other merchandise. Find a location near you: https:// www.daffodilday.com.au/ get-involved/where-to-buy/ For more information on how to get involved for Daffodil Day 2017, visit: www.daffodilday. com.au or call 1300 65 65 85.
plug! Cancer Council’s 31st Daffodil Day When Friday 25 August 2017. Who Everyone in NSW and Australia who wants to show support for someone they know who has been affected by cancer. Website daffodilday.com.au #DaffodilDay coffs coast focus. 45
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Flexible, Individualised Programs Waratah Respite Services. Waratah Respite Services is a unique service that offers a real alternative to permanent care. Our organisation has a long and proud history of providing a combination of flexible respite options for people who are frail aged and younger adults with disabilities. At Waratah Respite Services, we promote independence and individuality and support an individual’s choice to live at home. Our unique service model of centre based social support groups and flexible overnight respite provides significant health and social impacts for the community of Coffs Harbour and surrounds. The day program is delivered at the Waratah Centre, Coffs Harbour, Monday - Friday, and at the CWA Hall in Woolgoolga, Wednesday and Friday each week. Bookings for overnight respite are flexible; stays in our Maureen Guthrie Cottage can be as short as two days or up to nine weeks long. All clients are assisted to maintain the activities of daily living and enhance their social and community connectivity. Individual choice is acknowledged, respected and accommodated in the development of individual care and activity plans. Waratah Respite Services is an approved accredited provider of residential aged care, home and community care and disability services. Check out our website: warathrespite.org or phone (02) 6648 3610 for more information.
The Education Centre caters for students of any age and any ability. The dedicated teachers and tutors are experienced and educated in many diverse fields, including academic subjects, art, drama, music and languages. We also have an enthusiastic team of teachers who cater for students with disabilities. We develop flexible, individualised programs that cater to the specific learning needs of individual students, educationally, behaviourally and socially. Initial discussions with the student, parents and/or caregivers establishes individual, specific learning needs and requirements. Parental expectations for ongoing functional learning and development are also noted. Our teachers then base their programs on reports from specialists, such as speech pathologists, psychologists, doctors and other relevant service advisors. In addition to this, The Education Centre also offers a program of Life Skills for independent living, to engender further feelings of self-esteem and confidence for the student. Ongoing co-operative planning and assessment of student progress is carried out regularly, to ensure that the program is effectively providing for the changing needs of the student. A flexible and timely response allows for appropriate adjustment of the program when necessary. These programs are devised to assist students to cope with changing needs, so that they may develop and flourish as independent and contributing members of our society.
The concept of Disability Info Support Hubs (DISH) aims to empower and educate people with disability and their families, so that over time they become confident to be in control of their own lives, and in turn teach them to then go on and empower others.
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t is through lack of information, education, status and confidence that these people are often dis-empowered. The DISH concept aims to ensure people with a disability and/or their family members are empowered and informed, who ideally then become the most powerful stakeholders in their lives - which they should be. It is believed that for real change to occur in the disability area, greater education, resources and responsibility needs to be given to “family driven� groups in local regions, who will create the change that is required. It is believed that the long-term answer to an inclusive, empowered life for people with disabilities lies in the education and empowerment of individuals and families with a disability. Type of Carer Group Intellectual disability / Down Syndrome Autism Visual impairment Physical disability Contact details Email: noela.vanhouts@bigpond.com Phone: Rob Manwaring, 0402 993 173 The first Tuesday of every month at 10am www.facebook.com/disabilityinfohub/timeline
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Mental Health & The NDIS Services operating in the mental health sector have progressed the language around mental illness to promote recovery and wellness. With this culture of language in mind, the word “disability” is not often used by mental health professionals. Because of this, there has been some confusion within the mental wellness community surrounding its place in the NDIS. Can people living with mental illness work towards recovery within a scheme that only supports “permanent and significant” disability? The short answer is: they can and do! The scheme uses the term “Psychosocial Disability”. It is term that has not been overly utilised by mental health services providers in the past. Psychosocial disability describes the functional impacts of mental illness and a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks. This language is initially unfortunate for people living with mental ill health; however, the concept of
recovery can be applied as a participant in the NDIS. The NDIS supports people to outline their goals and aspirations and develop confidence, control and purpose in their lives. Recovery is making these goals happen, despite the challenges a psychosocial disability can bring. The provision of funding to assist people living with mental ill health through psychosocial support packages will promote the goals and aspirations of participants, while making sure needs are met. Local registered NDIS service providers are available to help people with psychosocial disability put their plans into action. CHESS Employment has been delivering mental health services such as life planning, mentorship and transition support to the community for over 21 years. These services are now covered by the NDIS. If you live with a disability that impacts you every day, visit www.chessemployment. com.au/our-ndis-services for more information.
East Coast Accessibility Experts We are a community based organisation embracing our core business of “Easy Affordable Solutions for living at home and in your community the way you choose”.
very responsive to your needs.
We are a not for profit organisation, with all contributions paid for your purchase in quality, experience and expertise going back into the service to provide ongoing and continuous, excellent, non-fail construction work.
Client testimonials provide evidence based best practice and the difference we make: • “Quality of life, health, wellbeing, inclusion and choices.” • “It is wonderful, so much bigger and safer; life is so much easier now bathroom modifications have been done.” • “I use a wheelchair, and I have not been outside in my favourite spot for five years. Now I can, and it makes me feel so good.”
We can project manage and construct, install and guarantee all environmental changes to your home and/or workplace. We pride ourselves on effective, consultative, cooperative relationships, ensuring the best outcome for our elders and people with disabilities. What environmental outcomes do you need to make life safer at home, at work and provide access to your community? We are the provider of choice, making this happen for you, and are
We can organise an Occupational Therapist with experience in complex modification to assess how you mobilise around and in your home.
• “The fellows are wonderful; they let us know what is going on all the way.” Check out our videos available on East Coast Accessibility Experts - YouTube. EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS (FORMERLY Coffs Home Mods).
Life Planning & Skills Mentoring Employment Accommodation Assistance and more! coffs coast focus. 47
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Do you often find yourself looking up and wondering what that bird is? Like getting outdoors and appreciating the local environment?
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hen, the Coffs Coast Bird Observers may be the group for you. FOCUS met with Terry Evans on his balcony in the trees to get some tips on photographing birds and find out about the next bird observing expedition. What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Back in the dim, distant past (the early 1980s), we owned a property on the Corindi range, but eventually sold it with the idea of returning later in life. So when I retired in 2000, that's just what we did. How long have you been observing birds? When we first came back to Coffs, I think I knew what a Magpie looked like and what colour a Galah was, but that was about it. While building our home, I started to notice the local birds and more particularly the raptors (Sea Eagles, Goshawks etc.) and I realised how little I knew. That's what started it all, and I guess it just grew from there. Hearing a birdcall helps identify and locate a bird, but as I am a bit hard of hearing I went down the photography path. Now, I'm no expert and almost everyone I know is still learning, but the best part is that the birds don't know that. Can you tell us more about the Coffs Coast Bird Observers (CCBO)? CCBO is a special interest group of about 40 like-minded individuals who meet on the fourth Friday of the month and go on outings to observe birds in the wild. They come from all walks of life and age groups and generally have an interest in the environment. Everyone is welcome. CCBO is also an affiliate of the conservation 48 coffs coast focus.
group, BirdLife Australia. What is the difference between Twitching and observing? A Twitchathon is a competition where with your wife, Anne, this month. Where Twitchers try to sight and record the greatest will you go, and what do you hope to find? number of species of birds in a set period of We usually do a reconnaissance trip just time. Some travel great distances to cover before an excursion, knowing that things as many diverse habitats as possible to try to can change, but we are proposing to go to achieve the highest tally. On the other hand, Bruxner Park and then wander down the road Birders are more interested in what you might towards Glenreagh and end up at Smiths call “a walk with a purpose,” where they Lake or Moonee Beach. Given that the winter observe, photograph, months are upon us, record and identify birds visiting diverse habitats in their natural habitat, should provide a bit more cognisant of the changes variety. As to what we in the seasons and their Birders are more may see, that is the great food sources. interested in what you unknown. Where are your might call 'a walk with What are the favourite places to a purpose' where they considerations for watch birds, and what observe, photograph, a successful bird species do you find record and identify birds observing trip? there? in their natural habitat. Seeing a few different Australia has almost birds, maybe something 800 recorded species of less common or more birds, both endemic and colourful, preferably from migratory. The Coffs Coast and hinterland has reasonably close but without disturbing them. recorded more than 150 of them. They can be Good company, morning tea and maybe lunch, categorised broadly into sea birds, shore birds, and some nice Coffs weather always helps. waders, bush, grass, rainforest, and waterbirds. Do you need any special equipment? The CCBO range anywhere between Grafton Binoculars are pretty essential, but it's to Nambucca and inland to Dorrigo; it is quite important to know what suits you best. So if common to see some of us on outings with you are starting out, get some sound advice and Bellingen Birders and the Clarence Valley Birdos. try as many different pairs of binoculars as you We usually manage a couple of overnight trips a can, before you splash out on a purchase. You year, a few camp-outs and of course, the more will have them for a long time. adventurous of us frequently travel interstate Bird photography is actually quite specialised and overseas. and difficult and is extremely frustrating if you You are leading a group CCBO excursion don't have the right equipment. Again, get
advice from someone familiar with the topic, so that you don't buy something that doesn't suit your needs. Otherwise, all you need to get started is some comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun screen and sometimes insect repellent. What are your top tips for photographing birds? There are accepted rules for bird photography, which are basically to ensure that you do not unduly disturb the bird. If it is agitated, holding food or seems reluctant to leave the area, it probably is trying to avoid disclosing its nest or young. So, just be aware. A long lens is essential, but it reduces the available light. Light is always your biggest challenge. Birds live in foliage, and that creates shade, obstructs focus and dulls colour. Keep the sun on your back and don't expect miracles on a grey day. Experts only expect about one in a hundred photos to be “good” by their standards. Can anyone join the Coffs Coast Bird Observers, and how can they find out more? The CCBO is an informal group and there are no fees or obligations; however, most people eventually join BirdLife Australia. To get emails about future outings, send an email to whipbird08@gmail.com or phone or leave a message at: 6653 6948. If you can't come out with us but would like to see some more bird photos, try: www.flickr.com/photos/terryevans_birds/albums Thanks Terry.
FOOD EXPERIENCES ON THE COFFS COAST
GUMBAYNGGIRR CULTURAL SHOW Presented by Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan - 2 Path Strong The showcase takes place in the Orara East State Forest which is an important cultural site of the Gumbaynggirr people. This unique food experience allows visitors to learn about native plants and berries that are used for medicinal benefits and includes a cooking lesson from Aunty Jenny on how to make damper over an open fire. The showcase starts at the Sealy lookout, followed by a guided tour along Gumgali Track which is a unique trail experience in itself with murals and art sculptures designed to tell the dreaming story of the black goanna. Book into the next show and soak up the culture stories, songs and language in a tranquil bush setting with amazing coastal views. Check their Facebook page for the next show. www.facebook.com/Bularri
COFFS HARBOUR FISHERMEN’S CO-OP COOKING WITH COOKIE Every Saturday from 10.30am till 11.30am Cookie and Anna show you how to prepare fresh, locally caught Coffs Coast seafood. These fun and free demonstrations take place at the Fishermen’s Co-op, in the heart of the Coffs Harbour International Marina. You will be inspired by your surrounds: the sea, the salty air and the fishing boats which have unloaded their latest catch early that morning. Learn from chef Cookie just what seafood is in season and how you can bring out the best in this local produce using simple techniques along with beautiful uplifting flavours. And of course, you can buy fresh and cooked seafood at the Co-op every day! www.coffsfishcoop.com.au
THE CHEESEMAKING WORKSHOP
WATERFALL PRODUCE FARM OPEN DAYS
The Cheesemaking Workshop and retail store is conveniently located at the Big Banana. They have the biggest cheese deli on the north coast and sell regional and local cheeses. Artisan cheesemaker, Lyndall Dykes, loves to share her passion of cheese making. There are many workshops to choose from including Soft Cheese workshops were you can learn how to make Camembert & Brie or Fresh Cheese, Ricotta and Greek Style Yoghurt. After mastering soft cheeses, book into the Advanced workshop and make some Farm House Cheddar with 2 different types of Blue Vein, Havarti, Haloumi and Mozzarella. This 6hr workshop includes morning tea and a delicious cheese inspired lunch for only a $195. www.thecheesemakingworkshop.com.au
Located in the picturesque Orara Valley on Friday Creek Road, Waterfall Farm host regular open days to showcase their sustainably-farmed top tier beef and pasture raised eggs. With gorgeous views for miles, experience walking through lush green paddocks where the gentle Charolaise cattle come up to the fence to greet their visitors. Farm manger Troy Blackman says, “We encourage people to come to our open days to learn more about sustainable and organic farming. And the kids love feeding and holding our shiny black chickens and exploring the caravan nesting boxes for eggs.” Check details of their farm tours and where you can purchase their produce at www.waterfallaustralia.com.au
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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focus_travel W I T H K E R R Y M O S S F R O M Q U A D R A N T T R A V E L If you’ve ever wanted to visit WA, there’s no better time than in the spring, when the wildflowers are at their most spectacular.
Tips for Travellers
Join our Western Australia Farming Tour. Local tour company Quadrant Australia is offering FOCUS readers the chance to join their Western Australia Spring Farming Tour, departing in September.
diverse range of visits to farming and fishing enterprises - sheep and cattle, cereal cropping and dairy, vegetables and olives, crayfish and yabbies.
Western Australia offers so much: hundreds of kilometres of spectacular coastline, amazing rock formations, long sandy beaches, great food and wine, and the lion’s share of native flora. Add to that, rich agricultural farmland and innovative farmers, including the Benedictine monks in Australia’s only monastery town, and you have all the ingredients for a wonderful experience. If you’ve ever wanted to visit WA, there’s no better time than in the spring, when the wildflowers are at their most spectacular.
Travellers get the chance to travel with like-minded people from regional Australia and New Zealand, with an enticing blend of agriculture and sightseeing. The tours provide a wonderful opportunity to see Western Australia from a different perspective and combines agriculture, history, culture and fabulous scenery.
This tour includes highlights such as the historic and vibrant port of Fremantle, the popular Margaret River wine region and a
Quadrant Australia have been operating special interest tours for more than 30 years and have a local office located in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour. The friendly team have many years of experience and have travelled extensively; drop in to see them to help with all your travel needs.
Travel Insurance. Travel is unpredictable. That’s what we love about it, but it can also mean that you are presented with unfamiliar circumstances when travelling. You might be asking yourself, “Do I really need travel insurance?” Insuring your trip is one of the best ways to help make sure it isn’t ruined by expensive emergency bills or sudden expenses. We asked our travel writer, Kerry Moss, to tell us some more compelling reasons for why she never travels without it.
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t’s your help line for getting medical assistance overseas. Thousands of Australians fall ill or have accidents when holidaying overseas each year. Having the right level of travel insurance cover is critical when travelling. The right travel insurance can ensure that you get the best quality of care and you can be moved, either back home or to a better medical facility, if needed. They can even provide translators in foreign countries to help understand what the doctors are telling you. You could go bankrupt without it … or worse! Australia is fortunate to offer medical care to those who need it, but some other countries are not so lucky. In some countries, unless you have insurance or can pay the huge upfront costs, then you can be refused life-saving treatment. Even if you’re healthy before you depart, anyone can slip down a gutter and break their ankle or get dehydrated from a tummy bug. Cancellation Costs can be crippling. More painful than suffering a last-minute injury that ruins your trip can be the realisation that you can’t get back the big bucks you paid for travel arrangements or a tour. Travel insurance provides peace-of-mind coverage that protects you from the non-refundable costs of cancelling your trip Ever lost your bag? You leave Australia in your winter clothes, knowing that when you arrive in the tropics you’ll change into your bathing suit and head straight to the pool. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than
lost, damaged or stolen luggage. Travel Insurance can help with reimbursement for some of the things that you’re forced to buy upon arrival. Stress free car hire. If you’ve ever hired a car, you’ll be familiar with the spiel that if you have an accident (your fault or not) then you’ll be stung with a hefty excess of up to $5,000. Comprehensive travel insurance has car hire excess reduction built into it, which means you’re covered without having to take any additional insurance from the car hire companies. The cost of travel insurance varies depending on your age, your current health status, the length of your trip and your destination, but with the average insurance policy costing a few hundred dollars and the average travel insurance claim coming in over $10,000, the numbers make sense. There are plenty of horror stories of travellers who didn’t take insurance and ended up with bills well in excess of $100,000. You’re on your own without it. Unless you have a trust fund and a banker on call to transfer thousands of dollars into your account to access for unexpected travel expenses, then you’re on your own. The Australian Government will not pay for travellers’ medical treatment overseas or medical evacuation overseas. Travel insurance is sold by reputable travel agents and other insurance providers. Speak to trained professionals to make sure you get the best advice. Truth is, if you can’t afford travel insurance, then you can’t afford to travel.
Australia is “ fortunate to offer medical care to those
who need it, but some other countries are not so lucky. In some countries, unless you have insurance or can pay the huge upfront costs, then you can be refused life-saving treatment.”
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Dave Brighton
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DAV E BRIGH TON F LOOR SA NDING
What background experience do you bring
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The finished product. When you have a floor that is tired and run timber floor specialist and down, then you seen the have been operating here comparison with the finished in the Mid North Coast area product - and the floor looks since I haveFloor a vastSanding and When it comes to getting your Dave1996. Brighton is expanding. solid and engineered timber floors, as well as amazing! I love that. I also wide rangehave of experience job done withand polishing We now eight staff members. Weby someone sanding new and existing floors. love my customers’feedback knowledge within the flooring timber floor have four specialists, Dave Brighton, and experience, We operate on the and Coffsreaction Coast, to in the Bellingen, finished you can’t go past a licensed Mark Hiller, Damian Kearny and Daniel Nambucca, Kempsey, South West Rocks, industry. product. and accredited member Johnson; two apprentices, Tom Revelly and Macleay Valley, out to Dorrigo and anything in How do you effectively I am a member of The of The Australian Timber Daniel Brighton; and our two office ladies, Sue between. market your business to Australian Timber Flooring Association, Stride and Javena Veale. Thanks Flooring to our amazing Whenwhere looking at your next flooring project, new customers? We use Association. When it comes standards are give highDave and and the team a call. He will come to team, our wait time is kept to a the minimum. various forms of media to to getting your job done by is everything. Dave Brighton Floor Sanding hasreliability also expanded your home, listen tomarket your ideas and giveWe you our business. someone with knowledge their fleet of cars, so you may see more of our expert advice on how to get the best result find FOCUS is a very valuable and experience, youalong can’tthe highway. vehicles travelling in your home, whileplatform keepingand in mind youra has been go past a licensed and budget. great tool for our business. We have commenced installing floating floors. accredited member The Australian Timber We have Dave also branched to Sanding Facebook, We can supply andof install, or you can purchase Contact Brighton out Floor forand an we Flooring Association, standards upload regularly with before and after images the floorboards and where we canthe install them are for obligation free quote and expert advice on of floors 683 we have high is everything. you. and We reliability are still supplying and installing our 0447 388.completed. to your current role? I am a fourth generation
Dave Brighton Floorsanding
As an Interior Designer, Marcus has always maintained a focus on creating aesthetically pleasing, practical kitchen design that takes into account how it relates to the lifestyle of the owners.
Marcus Phillips
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DE SIGNER LI V ING K I TC HENS
OCUS grabbed a coffee with Marcus, to find out more about his professional background and current kitchen trends.
Four years ago, Designer Living Kitchens opened their brand new showroom in Coffs Harbour, adding to the existing locations of Port Macquarie, Laurieton, Ballina and Central Coast. Designer Living Kitchens says that although the company had been servicing the builders on the Coffs Coast for thirty five years, the new showroom also needed to cater for the renovation segment of the market. With this in mind, they enlisted the services of Marcus Phillips, an award winning interior designer with 28 years’ experience in Kitchen Design. Marcus started his career in design after attending Julian Ashton’s Art School at The Rocks in Sydney, where he completed a fine arts course. He later went on to complete advanced interior design studies. In the mid 1980s, Marcus commenced his kitchen design career with one of Australia’s best known kitchen companies in Sydney and a few years later, took up the position of Head Designer in Brisbane. Marcus then went on to hold that position nationally (Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane). As head designer, he was responsible for training designers and running the design
team in three states Marcus won his first Kitchen Design Award in 1989 and a number of awards since then, including outright winning Kitchen of the Year. Moving to the country three years ago, he has designed two complete showrooms, the last of which won Showroom of the Year 2013. Marcus says: “It’s important for me to find out how many are in the family, how they like to entertain their friends and relatives, and how the new kitchen should relate to the adjacent areas.” After working for a German kitchen company a few years ago, Marcus says that the European experience has reinvigorated his desire to create functional design along with a “wow factor” in every kitchen. The Design Process The process of buying a new kitchen may seem daunting to those brave folks thinking about it. After all, it’s a major surgery to the home. That’s why Marcus has, over the years, developed a smooth, hassle-free process, whereby you will feel that you have been listened to, received relevant design input, including advice on colours and finishes. With unique and cutting-edge design software, our combined ideas come to life, with a virtual walk-around your new kitchen. By giving you a number of pricing options for various finishes, you are able to make informed decisions based on your needs.
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Barry Ford //
DIREC T WHOLE SA LE SERV IC E S
What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I originally came to the area in 2009, having been appointed the CEO of the Bowraville Local Aboriginal Land Council.
Peter Bulanyi Peter Bulanyi is is the director of Si Clean Energy (wholesale) and Mega Watt Power (installation). FOCUS had a chat with Peter to find out more about his business and background. hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? We moved to the Mid North Coast in 1989 to be with family. We purchased a remote 100 acre farm with no power to raise our two young sons. After a couple of years, we were running our own inverter service and repair business, which included solar power installation. What background experience do you bring to your current roles? Having been an Australian Airforce Electronics Technician and the 14 years we spent independently supplying our own power needs has provided us with the knowledge and experience needed to successfully expand our business and to pass the knowledge we have gained to our customers, so they can make the best choices for their solar power needs. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Knowing that not only are we helping people to reduce their energy bills, but that having installed over 2,500 quality solar power systems across the Mid North Coast also means we have played a big part in reducing our community’s green house gasses emissions by around 7,000 tons per year. How does your business give back to the community? We have supported many local community events over our 28 years in business. Our last donation was a medium size OffGrid Solar Power System complete with solar panels, inverter and batteries to the local Coffs Community Gardens. Helping when and where we can is always a pleasure for us. Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? Make sure you are up-to date with the latest standards and technology available. 54 coffs coast focus.
What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? We have always treated all our staff like family. We have employed people whom we believe are an asset to our business and the community. We have trained more than 10 apprentice technicians and electricians and fostered the development of many people in our company, who have gone on to become industry leaders across Australia.
Previously I had no connection, but we had friends who lived at Valla Beach, and they told us it was a really good region to live. What background experience do you bring to your current roles? One significant thing I did was to study accounting as a mature age student and become a Chartered Accountant, working in both public practice and industry. I have worked in a wide variety of industries, generally in regional Australia and for small to medium sized family companies. All of these things, combined, have helped me in the current role.
In five years’ time our energy management services will have outgrown our solar power operations. We are presently contracting with both residential and commercial clients to monitor and report on their energy costs. Our reporting and consultation forms the basis for energy efficiency solutions. These services are proving highly effective in driving our clients’ electricity costs down. The more electricity prices increase, the more we are called to help out.
What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? Maintain my sense of equilibrium as much as possible, no matter what is happening.
What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? It’s our home. We have been lucky to travel to many countries over the past 28 years for work. Every time we come back home, we just feel so lucky to live in this wonderful place. Thanks Peter.
Since our family purchased the business four years ago, it has grown by almost 50%, and I think this current financial year will see continued growth. There are a couple of areas of the business we can concentrate on to improve and promote, one of which is the supply of roasted coffee beans and associated products.
In five years I see the business as having established branch operations in other major centres in the broader region and being a major supplier in our area of business and employing a growing number of young locals.
Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years? We have developed a range of our own locally manufactured products. This includes the PowerCab (see picture), which is the basis for our Grid Connected Hybrid and Off-Grid energy storage systems. The next 12 months will see us install growing numbers of PowerCab systems.
Ten years is a very long time in our industry. It is our sincere hope that the grid will have significantly transformed to one based on renewable and stored energy and that Si Clean Energy and Mega Watt Power will have played a significant local role in achieving what was once thought impossible - a pollution free electricity grid.
has been operating in Coffs Harbour for over fifty years now, and I think we are the fourth family to own the business.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Finishing the week with happy customers and staff.
Not take myself too seriously and enjoy the day at work and laugh as much as possible. Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years? Direct Wholesale Services
In five years I see the business as having established branch operations in other major centres in the broader region and being a major supplier in our area of business and employing a growing number of young locals.
Most rewarding part of your job? Helping the customers to solve their problems, providing good service and the staff enjoying their jobs. What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? There is so much to enjoy here. The weather is amenable almost all year round, there is the sea, the coastal strip and the mountains for variety, and the people are easy to get along with. Sometimes you might think it would be nice to go somewhere else ... But really, having lived here, where else could you go? That’s the really hard question.
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The outcome is most satisfying when you see happy clients, you know that nothing has been left on the table and you have done everything possible to get the best possible price.
Shane Hessenberger What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? My family and I moved to Coffs Harbour in 2009 for the lifestyle and the best climate in Australia.
Chris B O N V I L L E
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Chris Winn is the Marketing Manager at Bonville Golf Resort. With 15 years of marketing experience under his belt, FOCUS had a chat with Chris to find out more about his passion for tourism and the hospitality sector ...
hat background 15 or 20 years. It’s rare that you come across experience do a company like ours, and it’s due to a fantastic you bring to your culture that everyone is a part of creating. It’s current roles? infectious! Developing a culture like this is all My experience about inclusion. spans 15 years as a Where do you see your business in the next marketing professional. The organisations and year? In the next five years? The next ten brands I have helped to shape have largely been years? Most people probably don’t realise how in the tourism and hospitality sector, with a lucky we are to have Bonville Golf Resort here in focus on customer loyalty. In my first marketing Coffs Harbour. It’s a very important asset to the role, I was a part of the team who launched region and one that many places would love to Virgin’s Velocity Rewards program. I was also have. The property is listed in the TOP 10 public lucky to head up the re-branding and marketing access golf courses in function for a group of Australia, and golfers from over 200 caravan and all across the nation travel camping parks throughto tick it off their bucket out Australia and New list. Bonville has been Bonville has been voted Zealand, before spending voted Australia’s Most Australia’s Most Beautiful time working for myself. Beautiful Mainland Golf Mainland Golf Course 16 years To Bonville Golf Resort, Course 16 years running running by The Golf Course I hope I bring a fresh set Guide and in early 2017 was also by The Golf Course Guide of eyes to the brand as named Australia’s Favourite Golf and in early 2017 was a whole and a customCourse by popular vote in Golf also named Australia’s er centric approach to Australia Magazine. Favourite Golf Course building an understandby popular vote in Golf ing of our customers. Australia Magazine. The Marketing is not about next decade is going to be creating television adverts, it’s not about posting a definitive one for the whole of Coffs Harbour, on Instagram, it’s not about graphics. The core not just Bonville, and I am very excited about function of a marketer is to understand customseeing it unfold. Plenty of locals will tell you ers’ needs and wants - end of sentence. I try to that there just seems to be an air of confidence come at it from that angle. about the place, investment is strong, we have What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? The team at Bonville is unlike many I have seen. Staff turnover is very low, the respect given to every team member is genuine, and I couldn’t even count on two hands the amount of people that have been with the organisation for 10,
What background experience do you bring to your current roles? I have been working in the real estate industry in Coffs Harbour since 2010, gaining experience with some of Coffs Harbour’s leading agents, who provided the platform for me to grow and learn the trade. My past policing background in the NSW Police has given me various skills to be able to read a situation and deal with people’s emotions and concerns in a measured way. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The outcome is most satisfying when you see happy clients, you know that nothing has been left on the table and you have done everything possible to get the best possible price.
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H A RC OUR T S C OF F S H A RBOUR
Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years? I have no doubt that the Coffs Coast is where I want to live life - I’m fully in. Our office is located in the Jetty precinct above the Supply Specialty Coffee & Bar, where hundreds of locals and visitors to Coffs dine daily. We have a five-year plan in place, where we can see that we are able to employ 10 locals and provide high end real estate services. Most rewarding part of your job? I feel most pleasure when reflecting on my work and how I put a deal together, knowing that I have established a price or outcome that no one else could have achieved. What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? My partner, Donna Tozer, and I really enjoy time-out on Sundays, where we spend the afternoon walking down to Latitude 30 for some down time relaxing and enjoying the unique location.
a “Yes” council and slowly but surely Coffs Harbour is transitioning from a regional town into a regional city. Bonville will continue to grow sustainably as a business and continue to ensure the delivery of a premium product across golf tourism, functions and events, weddings and food and beverage. coffs coast focus. 55
Electricity, water and hot water are very emotional products, so when you do it right, and you hear about it - it can make your day!
Brendan Graetz
What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Our family moved to the Coffs Coast from Darwin back in 2000, when my father first purchased NCPW. I did move away for five years, but the coastal lifestyle is perfect for bringing up a young family so we did what most do and moved back!
ENERGY COSTS ARE RISING.
Brendan Graetz N O R T H
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With announcements that energy costs for NSW Homes were on the rise - FOCUS caught up with Brendan Graetz, the owner of North Coast Power & Water, to give us a local, expert opinion as to what Coffs Coast residents should do to combat these rises. e’ve heard electricity prices are increasing up to 20% - is it true? Yes, it sure is true! Pricing from July 2017 increased quite dramatically with most retailers, but not all - there are some new energy retailers on the block who actually dropped their pricing in July! What about businesses; will their
Powershop, Energy Locals, Alinta Energy and Red Energy. Based on the information collected online and in conversations with their consultants, we have built a simple comparison table of current offers hosted on our website that cuts through the marketing and shows the important information, like cost per kilowatt, solar feed in tariff, daily connection charges and lock in contracts, to give a better side-by-side comparison for the Coffs Harbour region.
So what is the verdict, Brendan? Who have you chosen as your preferred energy hit, but are also in provider? Everybody’s the best position to situation is going to be save by installing solar The price rises can be different, but I have done power. The majority combatted in a number of ways; the numbers on our of their energy usage the cheapest way to save may business electricity costs is during daylight be as simple as switching and by switching to our hours, allowing them energy companies … Other new energy supply partner, to realise some of the methods may be installing smart we will save $100/quarter quickest paybacks, energy monitors, solar power or on electricity and receive even using the highest a solar hot water system, all of an extra $100/quarter which our team can help with. quality products. from our solar feed in Is there a way to tariff. That $200/quarter combat the price saving didn’t even take rises? The price rises into consideration the July can be combatted in a number of ways; the increase from our existing large energy retailer. cheapest way to save may be as simple as I will be sharing the details on my findings, switching energy companies … Other methods and an easy way to switch on our website and may be installing smart energy monitors, solar social media too - so be sure to look us up if power, or a solar hot water system, all of you want to find out our choices/preferences which our team can help with. and more. electricity costs also rise? Small businesses are among the hardest
There is a lot of media and marketing spin about the electricity price rises; what is your advice for Coffs Coast locals? I personally have been reviewing some of the popular energy companies like AGL, Origin, 56 coffs coast focus.
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Find NCPW in store at 13 GDT Seccombe Close, Coffs Harbour (02) 6651 4333, or online at www.ncpw.com and by searching North Coast Power & Water on Facebook or @ncpwcoffs on Instagram.
What background experience do you bring to your current roles? I worked for about seven years within the family business learning the ropes, before I moved north and spent five years working for Apricus solar hot water. The experience of working alongside a team of dynamic, driven professionals in a large company gave me the confidence that I could not only run the NCPW business, but grow it! What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Many of the products we sell are very technical and can be confusing at times, especially with the wealth of information online. I get great satisfaction out of investing time into our customers, to ensure they understand
NOR T H C OA S T P OWER & WAT ER
the products, enabling them to make smarter, informed decisions. Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years? The NCPW business is constantly evolving, and in one to five years you will see a swift change in the demand for the “internet of things”, smarter energy and water management systems and energy storage solutions. In 10 years … Well, I’ll hopefully be driving an electric dual cab ute; actually, it will probably be driving itself! Most rewarding part of your job? Receiving feedback from a satisfied customer is extremely rewarding … Electricity, water and hot water are very emotional products, so when you do it right, and you hear about it - it can make your day! What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? We are so spoilt here. My wife and I spent our honeymoon in Hawaii and although it was great … Our beaches and mountain ranges are just as special!
Matt Donovan R E S T A U R A T E U R / E X E C U T I V E
C H E F
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar is our second venue after running the highly successful Deep Sea Fishing Club restaurant from 2000 until 2008. We love the ocean views, the happy, warm atmosphere and our ever growing loyal customers. I have lived in the Park Beach/Jetty area of Coffs Harbour for most of my life, and my entire family were involved with the Coffs Harbour SLSC in the ‘80s/’90s. It just felt right that we (me and my business partner, Nicole) take up the offer to start a new restaurant/venue within the Surf Club. I love living,working and raising a family on the Coffs Coast and believe in supporting our community by giving back. I’m very proud that we have gone from employing ten local people to 35 staff in the eight and half years we have been operating Surf Club Restaurant and Bar. We support numerous local sporting groups, Surf Lifesaving, and more recently, Clark Webb’s Aboriginal language education program (BMNAC). We give to many charities, including Cancer Council, Special Children’s Xmas Party and the Red Cross, also offering vouchers to help with many local fundraisers. Having a large family, we are involved in a variety of sporting groups, including soccer, surfing, rugby league and our family’s obsession, Crossfit! We also support BWN, Coffs Tourism, Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. All our suppliers are local, and we prefer to buy produce that is grown in our region. We have so much to be proud of. We all need to get behind our local businesses wherever possible, so we may all thrive and help each other grow.
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, 23 Surf Club Rd, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubcoffsharbour.com coffs coast focus. 57
You always have to reinvent yourself and keep things exciting. Before signing up, whether it be freehold or leasehold, check all the pitfalls. If you succeed in this business, it can be very satisfying.
Michael C H E R O T E T H E
C O A S T
H O T E L
Michael Cherote is the Licensee of the Coast Hotel. The hotel has had an amazing amount of growth and success over the years. FOCUS grabbed a lager with the man himself, to find out about his background and future plans. hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and bred in Sydney. Over ten years ago I decided to buy a hotel; however, Sydney was too expensive. So, I spent eight months scouting NSW for a venue that suited what I was looking for and found the Coast Hotel in Coffs Harbour. I have travelled back and forth from Sydney to the Coffs Coast over a ten year period. The Coffs Coast has a great deal going for it and a better paced lifestyle as you get older. I’ve met a lot of good people up here and enjoy being close to the beach and hinterland. What background experience do you bring to your current role? I have been in business for the past 30 years, and in that time have gone through many ups and downs. My previous business was a nightclub in Kings Cross (Sydney) and was quite profitable. That’s what urged me to buy a larger business, even though it wasn’t in Sydney. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? It is a very complex business these days, with all the rules and regulations. Staff management and responsible service of alcohol are very challenging in the way you run your business. What satisfies me is when you see all the patrons enjoying themselves at your venue and the staff are all harmonious, and you actually turn a profit at the end of the day. Business/personal goals for this financial year? My business goal for this financial year is to draw new 58 coffs coast focus.
What is the point of difference between you and your competitors? It’s important to have a point of difference. I sincerely believe that the Coast Hotel is the most up-market hotel on the Coffs Coast. We have a good selection of craft, premium and normal How does your business give back to the commubeers, along with a wine list that should please all. nity? It's very important to be involved with the local Our new menu comes out this month, with something community. I sponsor all sorts of sporting teams, we to satisfy everyone. We have live music and we're the have raffle nights to raise money for junior developonly hotel in the area with three levels to entertain the ment, and we're always donating to different charities and functions. e.g. Children’s patrons with bands and DJs. Our Hospital, Westpac Lifesaving pricing is competitive, and you Helicopter. can wine and dine in the relaxed atmosphere. Best advice for someone What satisfies me is when you starting out in your indusMost rewarding part of your see all the patrons enjoying try? Be prepared to work job? In summary, it’s very rewardthemselves at your venue and hard. It’s an industry that you ing in any industry to see people the staff are all harmonious, and seem married to. Live, work enjoying themselves. The hospitaliyou actually turn a profit at the and breathe the venue, until ty industry gives you the chance to end of the day you have it running smoothly; make that happen. It allows you to if that’s possible. You always be creative and try many different have to reinvent yourself and things on all different levels. keep things exciting. Before signing up, whether it What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? be freehold or leasehold, check all the pitfalls. If you I mainly live on the Coffs Coast these days and after succeed in this business, it can be very satisfying. living in Sydney for most of my life, I can see why city What creative things do you do to develop a folk move for a sea change. Less is more, as they say, likeable company culture? It’s a great challenge to and up here you have less noise, less pollution and less be creative and keep people interested. We don’t do it traffic and less stress. enough ... However, staff Xmas parties, nights out for I thank you, and look forward to seeing you all at the dinner and drinks. Keeping up with the times in music, Coast Hotel. food etc. Staff are your front line, so it’s always good to get their input. Thanks Michael. clientele to the hotel and improve turnover in all areas. Personally, I’ve been here for over 10 years and if I do decide to sell, I would like to leave knowing I have done my best.
focusinterview.
Aaron Hardaker M I D
N O R T H
C O A S T
P H Y S I O
Having been the driving force behind the growth and development of Mid North Coast Physiotherapy from a one-man-band to four multidisciplinary
Ivan C O U N T R Y
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clinics around the Coffs Coast, Aaron Hardaker is not scared of hard work. his drive was recently recognised by the NSW Branch of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, where he was selected as a finalist for his contribution to healthcare in regional areas. FOCUS caught up with Aaron after he returned from the awards night in Sydney, to find out more about it.
the standard of healthcare in regional areas is
case of “watch this space”!
hat did it take to fashioned service. We pride ourselves on being get the business consistent, professional, friendly and … on started? A lot of time! hard work. I never What services do you provide? Our services wanted to take on range from General Pest Treatments (domestic a franchise; I wantand commercial) as well as all aspects of termite ed to build up my own business and make all work. We are also members of the AEMPA, the decisions! We had a set budget, as we had which keeps Country to Coast Pest Control just bought a house; we had to do it the hard up to date with all the latest information and way and start from scratch. We kick started technology. Country to Coast Pest Control in two separate Which areas do you cover? As mentioned, we areas at the same time; one being in Sydney on run our business in two areas, one being down the Northern Beaches and also here, where we on the Northern Beaches live on the Coffs Coast. of Sydney.Down there That was pre children we link up with another days, and we travelled up business to help manage and down the coast, canWe had a set budget as we had it. We are predominantly vassing both areas. just bought a house; we had to based up here on the My wife did some serious do it the hard way and start Coffs Coast. The business door knocking in many from scratch. We kick started is based in Sawtell, but different areas, slowly Country to Coast Pest Control we cover areas from in two separate areas at the building up a clientele Nambucca through to same time. that to this day we still Grafton, and no job is too provide our services to! big or too small! We also go out there and Have you any words had some promotional of advice for customers needing your displays, which included live Funnel Web, Red services? We just advise them to make sure Back Spiders, a vast array of creepy crawlies you have a regular termite inspection. You and an odd rodent or two. We still believe that home is your castle! Early detection of termites a person to person approach works wonders. is a must, and a thorough inspection from an Also, word of mouth is still one of the strongest experienced, fully qualified and insured Pest forms of promotion for your business. Technician can literally save you thousands! Are you a solo operator? We are a family We have some really good specials running run business and our son, Christopher, has throughout the year, so give us a call and we been with us for a couple of years. Family can come by and give you a free quote. Online businesses can provide that something extra for services are fast and convenient, but sometimes the customer, in that you can build up a solid people just like to meet the tradesman and have relationship; you know exactly who is going to a chat! be providing a service for your property. It’s a
Thanks Aaron.
trust thing; we work on providing a good old
never done - but there’s some outstanding work happening. It’s nice to know that the work my team and I are doing at Mid North Coast Physio is being noticed and is helping to transform ideas at a higher industry level - we all need to accept that things can always be done better. Being able to work as part of a team who share my vision for improving the quality of life of our clients is
the most rewarding part of my job - the awards What award were you a finalist for? I was are just a bit of fun on top of that. nominated for the Contribution to a Regional or Where to from here for you and the Mid National Group state award. This award focused North Coast Physio team? on physios who have done a significant amount of work in a regional The focus now, and always, setting or on a national is to keep finding better front to progress the ways to do things, to ensure profession and develop our clients are reaching It was great to hear more about a stronger healthcare their goals and living the the ongoing work from the system. The judges lifestyle they want. Having other finalists on the night it’s commented on my work progressed from being reassuring to know there are with improving access to simply a physio clinic to now some outstanding people high quality healthcare working tirelessly to improve having exercise physiology, in regional areas, as well not only physiotherapy, but nutrition and dietetics, as a commitment to healthcare in general for our psychology, massage, new graduate education communities across the country. Pilates, yoga, hydrotherapy, and professional development. It was great to hear more about the ongoing work from the other finalists on the night - it’s reassuring to know there are some outstanding people working tirelessly to improve not only physiotherapy, but healthcare in general for our communities across the country. What did being recognised in the NSW awards mean to you? It was a real honour to just be nominated, let alone selected as a finalist. To be recognised alongside some outstanding leaders in healthcare was great, but it’s obviously not why I do what I do. The nomination highlighted to me that the job of improving
falls prevention classes, personal training, weight loss coaching, health club memberships etc across our four locations - our goal is to provide all the services clients need to feel happier and healthier. We’re currently working on some exciting products and services to support older adults to live a better quality of life and remain active in the community. We’re also registered providers for the NDIS, to help support people with disabilities access good quality care to achieve their goals. I guess it’s a
Thanks Ivan. coffs coast focus. 59
Gary Evans //
F UJI X EROX BUSINE S S C EN T RE
Tell us a bit about yourself and FXBC? I’ve been a part of Fuji Xerox for over 24 years, and my wife and I purchased the local dealership 12 years ago. We now employ 20 staff and have been locally open for 35 years this year. We still offer quality photocopiers and printers, but now incorporate a whole business solution which increases businesses communication, connection and work through our software, which has been able to create a 95% time saving on current processes. What do your customers think? We have very well established loyal clients: “Gary and his Fuji Xerox team have provided us a superior service. I consider him and his team an intrinsic part of our business and would recommend him to anyone requiring printing solutions for their business. The quality of both the product and service is first class, and his support team are both expert and eager to provide varied solutions to our needs.” Chris Hines, Unreal Estate. What other services do you provide? We recently opened a scanning service, Elite Scanning Solutions. We offer scanning of documents that are often taking up unnecessary space in your office and use state of the art software so that we can digitally return the files to you. You will then be able to search and retrieve them electronically, finding a specific document in under one second! This solution offers the elimination of offsite storage costs, reduced use of valuable office space, instant access to information and improved disaster recovery. If you would like your office to be more organised and have staff working even more efficiently, please contact us to find out more.
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Barry Hockey //
BA RRY HOC K E Y AC C OUN TA N T S
Douglas McDonald //
BUSINE S S BROK ER S & C ONSULTA N T S
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? I get a great deal of satisfaction in seeing our business and primary production clients prosper to success.
The Australian Institute of Business Brokers (AIBB) is the peak
Their accounting and banking needs play a key role in their ability to succeed.
facilitation of business ownership from one party to another.
It can be stressful for some people to wade through the ever-changing tax and commercial world, so I enjoy helping people through this and easing their mind.
all disciplines in the transfer of assets from one party to
What background experience do you bring to your current role? I have been working as a Public Accountant and Tax Agent for the past 16 years. Prior to that I worked with a major bank for 23 years as a Business Banker.
educational programs to its members, to keep them abreast
How does your business give back to the community? We are actively involved in the community through schools and sporting clubs, such as Coffs Rugby Club.
fied Practising Business Broker” (CPBB) accreditation.
industry body formed in 1989 to represent and provide support services to Professional Business Brokers involved in the Business Brokerage is regarded as the most demanding of another. It arguably requires the greatest skill set and in this regard, the AIBB is the premier provider of training and of industry trends, legislation and best practice procedures, to ensure positive outcomes. Douglas Mc Donald has recently completed the “AIBB CertiThis ensures Doug has the knowledge and expertise to work with you through the whole process, to achieve the best possible price in the shortest possible time with the least amount of stress.
Our business provides an accounting and tax service to not only assist our clients comply with the law, but to also grow and prosper their business and financial situation.
With our help, we believe most businesses are saleable; if the owners take the time to prepare their business for sale properly. At Business Buy or Sell we schedule a free consultation to
Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? Find a good mentor. If you have someone that has years of knowledge, they can guide you to success.
discuss how we may be able to help you prepare, list and sell your business for your greatest advantage. The only obligation is one hour of your time.
There is nothing better than seeing the enthusiasm on their face and the gratitude you get when they say, ‘Wow, that looks great!’ Also, being a great leader for the team and teaching them from my vast experience in the industry.
James Robinson
Laarz A 1
C O F F S
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T O U R S
If we had to nominate someone for a Nobel Peace Prize, it would have to be David “Laarz” J Laarhoven. Laarz has more passion for this community than anyone we know. We think Laarz is an absolute legend! Our Monthly Motormouth columnist sat down with us to fill us in on the life of Laarz ... hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Having spent my formative years here, and continuing to work in and with the business/ community here on the Coffs Coast in an array of roles, I have a deep appreciation for the lifestyle and the close bonds that this region forms with its inhabitants or visitors - albeit for a short or long term period.
on relationships with other operators; be proactive and stimulate good communication amongst industry about your product, and take the time to assist their business by offering tactile opportunities to them and their clients. What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? We ride for leisure, we ride for pleasure, we ride to socialise, and we ride to commute. If you haven’t tried touring or exploring on a motorcycle, I encourage you to try it.
What background experience do you Take a test ride! bring to your current role? I had a PR/ Most rewarding part of your job? We Communications company for many years, enjoy seeing the smiles assisting external and hearing of the industries such as deeper connection that media, tourism our clients get with the and benevolent We also work closely with fellow region, verbally and on organisations get tourism operators, to ensure our our Facebook reviews. Our exposure, insight and clients are well informed and clients all find a greater traction in the region. directed to their business to connection to the region, I have held numerous enjoy their friendly services inducing their return or roles in state and whilst they are on the Coffs extension of stay, spending local government Coast. money locally and going organisations, with an home to tell friends and emphasis on tourism, family of their evocative events and community and sensory experience. engagement. Find me on LinkedIn > David “Laarz” J Laarhoven JP. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Presenting clients with insight or background - giving them a deeper appreciation and scope of the region. Allowing them to gain insight into the region’s broader community networks, lifestyle attributes, economic drivers and potential opportunities. Allowing them to consider the region for future movement. Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? The tourism industry relies
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The most satisfying aspect is to help a customer find the right product for the right area. There is nothing better than seeing the enthusiasm on their face and the gratitude you get when they say, “Wow, it looks great!” Also, being a great leader for the team and teaching them from my vast experience in the industry. How do you effectively market your business to new customers? The key is ensuring customers are the heart of all decisions. As a Choices Flooring member, I benefit from their integral marketing communication initiatives and campaigns that they run on both a national and local level. These incorporate a mixture of media
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C HOIC E S F LOORING
channels, including TV, home magazines, radio, press and online. Business/personal goals for this financial year? Business goal is to have set growth targets met and to provide even better service. Personal is to take more overseas holidays (making it to Vietnam, Bali and Fiji last year), and to do more surfing. How do you encourage a positive work environment? Acknowledge all staff members’ efforts, and encourage further training, so the team are more confident in their daily roles. Show appreciation and listen to everyone’s ideas. Best advice for someone starting out in your industry? Hard work pays off. Under promise; over deliver. Go with your gut. Lastly, remember customers always come first.
Up to 50% off * selected products
What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? I have to say the climate and geography is my most enjoyable appreciation of the greater Coffs Coast region. The climate drives our social lives; it creates liveable and extended periods to enjoy the outdoors, whatever the season. Whilst, the geography allows us a chance to get to some of the world’s best beaches, world heritage rainforests, crystal clear waterholes and eclectic villages within a short distance of our growing regional city.
*Offer valid from 25th July - 31st August 2017. Terms and conditions apply, see in-store for details.
Thanks Laarz. coffs coast focus. 61
focusinterview
Through setting up the Coffs Community and Connections Groups, PJ and Tod have become a local force to be reckoned with, bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate diversity, share experiences, fight feelings of isolation and strengthen our community from the ground up.
F
y t i n u m m o C groups
OCUS attended the Ref-YOUgee Week Freedom Feast to see them in action, chat about what led them to start the groups and hear about all the exciting projects they are currently involved in. What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? PJ: Coming from India and having lived in Italy, UK, and a few other parts of the world, I moved to Coffs about 10 months ago as an Endeavour Scholar studying Community Services Work at TAFE - and boy, am I loving it! I already feel like I belong. Tod: I was born in Sydney and have been coming to Coffs Harbour for about seven years. I moved here two years ago and never want to leave. The diversity of the people and the landscape in the surrounding areas is just stunning. What are the Coffs Connection and Community (CCC) and LGBTIQ CCC groups? CCC and LGBTIQ CCC groups were created as a space for people to come together in a spirit of celebration and be more engaged and active in community. In essence, we are a partnership hub collaborating with organisations to create bigger, better community events, as well as a communication hub that can be seen as a "what’s on" page in Coffs, so our members are aware of how to get more involved in community - thus fighting isolation and the whole connected spectrum of mental health issues. We focus on the strengths in our area and the skills of our members and see how they can be used for the benefit of our community. We don't have all the solutions, but know that all of us together can solve any problem in the world - so we listen, listen more, and listen deeply! Can you share your personal journeys that led to starting these groups? PJ: Being born in India and seeing disadvantage up close, I always knew I had
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to do something meaningful and helpful for now look at all my traumas as gifts of learning community. After working at the top end along my life journey and feel I can now of private corporations and government relate to a lot more things on a deeper level, organisations across India and Europe, I came with a lot more awareness around emotional to understand that real change only occurs intelligence. at the grassroots level, when citizens get I can fully relate to how men think together for a common cause. vulnerability is a weakness and expressing Feeling disillusioned by corporates and your feelings is hard, and my passion is to be governments, I decided to move to the Arts involved in helping men to relate better to and did my MA in Film and TV from the their suppressed feelings. UK, then worked there as an independent It is in this spirit that we set up our groups, filmmaker. As satisfying to help people of all as this was, there kinds connect better came a point in life and be more fully that I started asking engaged in community. the bigger questions What a great blessing Whatever the project, it in life, and my work it has been that Parul is always people’s stories in cinema led me on a and I connected while and the connections that spiritual path living with studying at TAFE last develop that really stand monks in the Himalayan year and really clicked out for us. wilderness, sometimes together, and now our sleeping under the stars ideas have come to life. in freezing weather or What kind of hidden in caves. It was tough, but enriching. programs do the groups run? The monks really grounded me in the ideal So far, we have been involved in many of service and showed me how to truly enjoy exciting projects and collaborations, working life by staying fully present in the moment with a range of local and international and doing all I can for the benefit of fellow organisations. beings. It was in a monastery that I met a We run the Peace Education Program, friend, who insisted I come to Australia and a series of 10 workshops focused on study community services. I was extremely participants discovering their inner peace and fortunate to receive the prestigious Endeavour The Science of Happiness, a 10 week scienceScholarship and found myself here doing based program based on the positive effects what I always wanted - bringing community of social connections, kindness, compassion, together through uplifting programs on the mindfulness, gratitude, awe etc. ground. We were one of the main organisers for this Tod: I started work in the building industry year’s Ref-YOU-gee Week and put together and was quite the workaholic when I was the Constance film screening and helped young. I bought my first house at 19 and by organise the Freedom Feast, which was my late twenties I had built up a property massive. For Youth Week, we were involved portfolio, met a girl, and had a son. The in the Youth Homelessness Matters Day 2017, relationship ended when my son was just one, an educational and entertainment event and I went through a nervous breakdown. aimed at challenging people’s stereotypes on I now call it a "breakthrough", as it led youth homelessness. me on a journey over the past 14 years of At the moment there are also regular, working on myself with a lot of therapy and free, guided meditations on the beach, or personal growth courses. Through this work I social bush-walks, kayaking days, celebration discovered many of my childhood traumas. I dinners etc. for our members to come
together and connect. What have been some of the highlights so far? It has been one highlight after another. When we reached 100 members in less than six months, we knew our work was needed and we put together a massive dinner to celebrate, which was warm and touching. Whatever the project, it is always people’s stories and the connections that develop that really stand out for us. What are the future plans for the CCC groups? The vision is big and we have a few projects in the pipeline, but we try and stay in the present as much as possible, taking things one step at a time. It’s part of the groups’ philosophy! At the moment, we are trying to get different groups to work together to create a large-scale LGBTIQ+ festival, allowing us to celebrate our diversity. We would also like to take the Peace Education Program, the Science of Happiness course and other uplifting projects to the local correctional facilities and refugee communities. We’ve recently won some federal funding and should also be organising a fundraiser soon. You’ll definitely be seeing more of us, so keep an eye out! How can people find out more and get involved? People can log on to meetup.com and search for Coffs Connection & Community (CCC) and LGBTIQ Coffs Connection & Community or find us on Facebook. There is no fee whatsoever to be a member, and we try to keep most of our events free by finding sponsorship, so everyone can participate. We see our groups as belonging to the whole community, so become a member, come along to one of our gatherings, or create your own community event and we’ll support you in the process. Thanks PJ & Tod.
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W I T H C A R O L I N E B L E E C H M O R E , C Y B E R S A F E T Y A D V O C AT E
WITH STEPHEN SAUNDERS OF TOURISM COFFS COAST
tourism UPDATE
cyber mum.
Online Safety Tips for Parents
Snapchat Warning.
Wonders of Nature.
Last month Snapchat unveiled a new feature that has serious security implications for the welfare of your kids. As one of the top five social media platforms used by kids, the upgrade has raised serious safety concerns - and rightly so, as Snapchat now reveals a user’s exact location with everyone on their “friends” list.
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he update now sees Snapchat leverage your location data in a whole new way, and it’s understandably got a lot of people freaked out. The new feature known as Snap Map tracks your current location and places it on a map like a pin. Others can zoom in and find exactly where you, or more concerning, where your kids are, down to the street address, the time of day and the speed of travel. It’s sort of like Apple’s Find My Friends and Facebook’s Live Locations feature only on Snapchat, which has fast become so popular with teens. Obviously, Snapchat sees Snap Map as a fun and convenient way to connect with friends. But for plenty of people, the new feature is just plain creepy. Some worry about the “stalker factor,” particularly for Snapchat’s younger users, who might not fully grasp the implications of a technology that constantly broadcasts their location. It’s different from other apps, as you don’t have to check in your location; it is automatically updated as soon as the app is open. The good news is that now you know about
it, you can ensure that your kids opt out. The upgrade automatically takes effect when you update the app, and therefore it is easy for it to go unnoticed. To turn of the new updated function, go into your child’s Snapchat account and follow these steps: 1. Open the app and immediately scroll down. 2. Click on the settings button (the gear icon) in the top right hand corner. 3. Scroll down and under the “Who Can ...” section, click on “See my location”. 4. Turn on “Ghost Mode”.
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Some worry about the “stalker factor,” particularly for Snapchat’s younger users, who might not fully grasp the implications of a technology that constantly broadcasts their location.”
If the settings are not visible, you may need to pinch the screen when the camera is open in the app to access it. It is imperative to do this on your child’s Snapchat account as soon as possible and to talk with other parents to ensure they are aware of the this potentially dangerous Snapchat
update. As always, I also suggest that you discuss the dangers with your kids, so they are fully aware of the potential threats and why as parents we care. It’s also a timely reminder that they really should only be friends with people online that we actually know! Cyber Mum. www.cybermumaus.com
From June to October, locals and visitors to the Coffs Coast are treated to a remarkable wonder of nature … the annual mass Humpback Whale migration.
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he Coffs Coast offers a selection of stunning elevated headlands and lookouts that are ideal for watching the whales head north to give birth to their young, and later in the season, spotting the often playful activity between the mums and bubs as they head south. The migrating whales frequently put on spectacular displays as they frolic off the coast on their round-trip journey between Antarctica and North Queensland. For the second year, Coffs Coast has partnered with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service in their Wild About Whales (WAW) campaign, to encourage increased visitation to the region during a traditionally quieter time of year for holidaymakers. With a selection of great coastal vantage points to see these majestic ocean giants, and the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk which links these headlands, whale watching offers a unique incentive to visit the Coffs Coast. Local operators also provide a relaxed short trip on the water, and the Wild About Whales campaign leverages the significant community interest to promote the protection of these wonderful creatures with education and safe approach zones. Now in its seventh year, the WAW campaign has grown to become an integrated, multichannel, collaborative partner campaign, with a key focus on engaging nature lovers through digital technology. Since its launch, the Wild About Whales digital community has grown to include: 700,000+ website visitors; 41,000+ highly engaged social media fans; and 40,000+ active app users, where visitors can find out where migrating whales are, share their own sightings and learn about whales and marine
wildlife. In 2016, the WAW campaign was successful in putting the spotlight on the Coffs Coast as a premium whale watching destination, as well as featuring a number of local tour operators and experiences to be had in the region. Content featuring the Coffs Coast was viewed by as many as 500,000 people across the WAW campaign’s multiple digital platforms, providing significant exposure for the region as a whale watching hotspot, and economic benefits for tour operators and other businesses. Some of the best viewing locations for whales on the Coffs Coast include Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, Look At Me Now Headland at Emerald Beach, Sawtell Headland and Woolgoolga Headland, which has one of best viewing locations in Australia. Whale watching is also great from the air, so try a helicopter tour with Precision Helicopters to increase your chances of seeing a whale while enjoying magnificent coastal and hinterland scenery. To really get up close and personal, book a trip on the water with one of our local operators: Jetty Dive Centre’s Adventure Whale Watching; the Cougar Cat-12 Whale Watching trips; and Pacific Explorer Whale Watching Experience. Within minutes you will be gliding across the water and travelling peacefully along with the whales … A truly special experience! Make sure you download the “Wild About Whales” app, register your sightings and use our local hashtag #coffs4whales on your images and social media posts. Get out and about at this special time of year to #createyourparadise. www.coffscoast.com.au coffs coast focus. 63
Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative
focusinterview
BUSINESS MINDS
SALLY TAYLOR RACING
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ally, you are quite young to be a professional horse trainer. How did you get into horse training? I first started out riding in Pony Club locally and competing predominantly in show jumping and eventing from two years of age. My father, Brian Taylor, always had a few racehorses in work over the years, so quite often I went to the races with him and worked his horses on the beach from the age of 10. I went on from there. I started riding track work when I moved to Seymour, Victoria, for John Symons and Sheila Laxon firstly, and then moved home to Coffs and was offered a training position with Peter Wood and his horses. I worked with Peter for just over 12 months. We shared in plenty of success too, winning the Grafton Cup in 2016 and then went on to to win at Doomben in Brisbane with Rednav two weeks later. Grafton Cup was a big thrill, being a listed race and beating some very good horses from Sydney and abroad, as well as some well known trainers. It was a great experience. I officially started Sally Taylor Racing in February 2016, and so the journey began … What’s involved in training horses? Lots of early starts! My morning consists of riding 6 - 12 horses at the track and at the beach, as well as feeding, rugging, washing and cleaning stables - all seven days a week, morning and afternoon. Once the horses are up and racing, that means travelling to the races a few days a week at times, anywhere from Brisbane to Sydney - depending on the horse. So it’s a pretty full on career, but very rewarding all the same. Tell us about the services you and your
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business, Sally Taylor Racing, can offer? business? I offer full race training, spelling and preI have set up a Facebook page “Sally Taylor training for race horses. All my horses are Racing”, and from this I have gained a lot of subject to swimming, track work and beach followers. I think that it’s a great way to keep work. I ride all my own track work, so I know everyone interested in my horses, what they are how each horse is feeling and going at all times. up to, and to share their results. There is a good Currently we have eight horses in work and racing community on the Coffs Coast, with one another six in the paddock, spelling, waiting of the best regional race courses. We’re lucky to to come back into the stables. My horses all live here with these facilities. receive a very one on one environment each day Other than Facebook, what else have you and enjoy A+ care, with done to grow your a team that go the extra business? What are mile. And I feel it pays off some of the challenges with results in many cases. you have faced setting From a business point up your business? Each horse is different, so it’s of view, what are the Getting your name important to tailor the training key goals you look to and business out there to each individual horse. A ‘one achieve with your race is a big thing to achieve, size fits all’ approach horses? as I’m really just a “little definitely does not work The key goal from an guy” amongst some big in this industry. I really enjoy owners’ perspective and names. the time spent getting to know my perspective is always Another challenge I and develop each horse to their to have a happy, healthy have found is finding full potential. It’s very rewarding. horse and then leading reliable “horsey” staff. on the journey towards Since Coffs Harbour a horse that is winning isn’t a well-established races. I know what is feels horsing area, unlike like to be on the other side of the table; not places like the Hunter Valley, there aren't a great just the horse has to be happy, but the owners deal of skilled people in the area who know as well. A good relationship with a trainer and about handling racehorses. So, it’s a constant owner will involve plenty of communication challenge to find staff. and always a fair environment. Each horse is What are the best advantages to doing different, so it’s important to tailor the training business on the Coffs Coast? to each individual horse. A “one size fits all” I love the Coffs Coast! We have beautiful approach definitely does not work in this weather, besides all the rain Mother Nature industry. I really enjoy the time spent getting has sent us recently! Plus, we have the best of to know and develop each horse to their full both worlds, the beach and the bush. Coffs is potential. It’s very rewarding. perfectly located, as we don't have to travel How have you used social media in your far to go over the border to provincial and
PHOTOS BY BRUCE THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY
metropolitan meetings, such as Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or Sydney, depending on the level of horse. What features are the making of a good race horse? This is always hard to pin point, but in my experience temperaments, breeding and confirmation are key, plus a few other factors such as good wind, and being sound. Getting into horse ownership can be a difficult area to navigate. What are your suggestions for anyone looking to own a race horse? Ask! If you don't ask, you won’t know. A lot of people think being involved in a racehorse is too expensive and only for the rich, but it can be quite affordable and rewarding - especially if you have a few mates or family members that want to get involved as well. It’s lots of fun and can get a great return; just look at Takeover Target or Makybe Diva! I currently have shares available with no upfront costs! What does the future hold for Sally Taylor Racing? Sally Taylor Racing will keep moving forward, obtaining new horses and potential new owners. I have set plans for my horses, so my aim is to keep following those dreams and keep the plans alive, which will in turn, keep my business going for years to come! Lastly, Coffs Cup is on in a matter of days. Got any hot tips you can share with our readers? Hoping to start a couple of my horses for the upcoming race days: Sawtell Cup and Coffs Cup Events, so keep an eye out for Lolly Shoppe and De Joux! Thanks Sally.
focus real estate
AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY
real estate update. As they say, the only constant is change - and this is certainly true in real estate. While real estate trends tend to evolve more slowly than those affecting fashion or food, when they do, they tend to have significant impact on how buyers view properties, which is why “Green” has become the new Black.
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hat are the four trends set to influence real estate in Australia: 1 TOUGHER, MORE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN We are seeing a trend towards the use of more environmentally friendly and renewable
materials. Australians are becoming more aware of the scarcity of resources and the effects of climate change. The push for sustainable building practices, the popularity of products made from renewable resources and the use of natural, ecologically friendly material will
continue to change the real estate industry. Sustainability is also set to influence the generation of power. Solar and wind power will start to become the norm, rather than the exception, and a push away from electricity draining inclusions such as electricity hotwater units. Not only will we see more existing homes with solar and solar hotwater, but other technologies will become standard too. Examples of an architectural approach which focuses on sustainability are already cropping up across Australia. Eco-friendly passive homes blend environmental sustainability with contemporary luxury, showcasing how natural materials are increasingly being used in interior design. Australians can look forward to a trend that sees more natural and sustainable materials being used in properties in urban areas. You may find that the trend towards sustainable design will allow sellers to charge a premium for their properties and that buyer demand for authentic Australian designs and interiors will continue to grow. The move towards solar and other alternative electricity-generation systems will be seen as adding value to homes by reducing costs. 2 AFFORDABILITY With property prices skyrocketing, buyers are demanding homes that boast the best quality materials, despite many having a limited budget. This has led to the development of materials with a luxury look and feel, but costing far less.
A good example is the use of natural stone. This option is expensive and adds significantly to construction costs - but alternatives such as stone veneers are becoming increasingly popular. Affordable quality is becoming the norm, rather than the exception. These cheaper options are making it more affordable for buyers to take on renovation projects. 3 WATER-SAVING MEASURES AND APPLIANCES With the effects of El Niño and climate change becoming more pronounced, it seems likely that the country will continue to experience periodic dry conditions, making water conservation an ever-present worry for those purchasing property. Water efficient water systems in the home and rainwater tanks are becoming more popular with home owners. A trend is also being seen for smaller swimming pools, which take less water to fill. 4 RECLAIMED BUILDING PRODUCTS For most homeowners, there’s no substitute for authenticity. It is all very well and good for the introduction of modern materials that are durable and light on the pocket, but many still crave the real thing. Recycled timber flooring and “retro” materials for many buyers is a way to bring a piece of history into their homes, while providing an opportunity to express their individual style and taste. The real estate market is changing, and it is very exciting to see a greater focus towards giving back to our environment.
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Pavan
Discover
Singh
DFM Financial Group Accounting.
We pride ourselves on providing a professional service with an attention to detail and accuracy. All our accounting staff attend regular training seminars and are passionate about maintaining their knowledge and qualifications. This enables us to provide a quality service to our clients, while keeping our accounting fees at very competitive rates.
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makes me want to play to the best of my abilities. I love the fact that netball is a team sport and I get to train, play and celebrate as a team. It’s a great experience!
What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and bred on the Coffs Coast.
When did you get selected to play at state level? I was 12.
OCUS went out to chat to one of Woolgoolga District Netball Association’s younger successful netballers, Pavan Singh, who is coming through the ranks, to talk of her successes. Team: Woopi under 15s and North Coast under 16s.
When did you start playing netball? I first started Net Set Go at the age of eight. What do you love most about the game? I love the fact that it brings out the best in me physically and mentally. When I’m on the court, it gives me such an adrenaline rush and
How often do you train? I train four to five times a week - not just netball - but I also train at Woolgoolga CrossFit, to keep up my fitness.
What position do you play? GK and GD. What makes a good netball player? Regular training and maintaining a healthy diet. Mentally and physically preparing yourself before a game and also having a well planned recovery after the game.
CO OL
Our principle accountant, Julie Svikis, has had 30 years of experience in accounting and taxation, as well as providing financial advice for Self Managed Superannuation Funds.
The team at DFM Financial Group Accountants welcome new business consultations and can provide the expertise and advice needed to make the right business decisions. We encourage our clients to talk to us about strategies and tax structures that can significantly minimise taxes, increase cashflow and build wealth.
Woolgoolga District Netball Association have made the news, with the successful fourth place finish of the Women’s Open Team recently at the NSW State Netball Championships.
IS
DFM Financial Group Accounting are business and personal taxation specialists. We also offer a complete Self Managed Superannuation Fund service, including regular transaction processing, reporting, taxation and SMSF Audits.
Our auditor, Suzanne Sloan, has in excess of 20 years’ experience in accounting, taxation and auditing, specialising in Self Managed Superannuation Fund Audits.
TH IS
DFM Financial Group Accounting is a branch of the DFM Financial Group. This business began as Woolgoolga Accounting & Taxation Services, later abbreviated to WATS Accounting. In 2014, the firm amalgamated with DFA Financial Planners, later forming the DFM Financial Group. We offer a wide variety of services from our Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour offices, including Accounting and Taxation, Financial Advice and Mortgage Broking.
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IN PRINT AND ONLINE
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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
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Winter Basketball develop ball handling, sunset. It was very League. Then I shooting, plus all the tough, and we had stayed in Brisbane ‘til other skills, and this a ‘no blood no foul’ rule. ” September last year helps with mental and moved to Coffs toughness. It's open to Harbour. all kids, and I train them I began working with pretty hard so they can better the Coffs Harbour Basketball themselves. Association to try to help develop When did you start playing the hard working country kids and also basketball? run my own academy, called "Hard I started playing ball at 12 and learned Knockz Academy”, for the kids who pretty quickly - always asking questions and want to be beasts. training about eight hours a day, before What is your current role, and how are school at 5:30am, during school, after school, you helping kids learn more about the and then with my team. sport? When did you realise that you had talent I run the Hard Knockz Academy to help and skills?
When I made my first rep team and I noticed I had speed and then skills that I learned playing on the streets of Heidelberg Heights against older people. In Melbourne? The streets of Heidelberg are in Melbourne, Victoria, where I learned to play ball, playing outdoors at the local primary school. After school and weekends we played until sunset. It was very tough, and we had a “no blood no foul” rule. What do you love most about the game? I love the competition, the hard work which is fun to me and also crossing people up. You spent time playing for Melbourne Tigers and Brisbane Spartans; can you tell us about those experiences?
Playing with Melbourne Tigers was amazing. I learned a lot from guys like Dmack, Anstey, Rashad Tucker, Corey Williams and Julius Hodge, Matt Burston and my favourite, coach Al Westover. What is the training regime like? I go to the gym about three times a week and also workout on the basketball court about four times a week, to stay sharp. Weekends usually include a beach session with sprints and parachute workout. I try to do something every day. No days off! You are also the captain of the Somali National Team. Do you travel back to Somalia often, and how is the level of playing there? No, we don't actually go back to Somalia; we meet about four days before tournaments at the location of the tournament and train. We don't have the funds to travel back, and I help pay my way with some support from the Somali community in Melbourne. Is it an honour to be the captain of your nation’s team? The position of captain, for my country is a great responsibility and a great honour, one that I take very seriously. What makes a good captain? The role of captain has its challenges, because you’re dealing with a lot of egos and personalities, and it requires a lot of patience and listening. You must be able to solve conflict on the fly and keep everyone on the same page. On top of all that, you can’t take things people say personally and need to try not to be too sensitive. Lead by example: that’s what Nathan Buckley told me at my time with Collingwood F.C, right before I played for my national team in 2014. Where around the world do the rest of
the Somali team come from? Most of my teammates live in Canada and America. They play for colleges and teams over there. One must stretch What is your a lot to remain favourite memory to flexible and loose from playing There prevent injuries. basketball? is also the ice bath, a My first NBL which I hate with one game, the very first passion, but it’s possession I crossed of the best recovery up and scored on a guy methods. ” who later became like a brother to me. The crowd went crazy every time I touched the ball after that; it’s an amazing memory. What are some of the skills you need to have to play the position of guard? To be a really good guard, one must have: Vision - to be able to see everything on the composed at all times. court, teammate cuts to basket, shooter is As a guard, are you still attacking and open, big man stealing. shooting? Creative - to be able to make plays for not Attacking the basket and creating is my only yourself, but also all of your teammates. bread and butter. I can shoot fairly well, but I Ball handling - must be able to take care don’t live and die by my jump shot. of the ball and with little flair, because that’s Have you had any injuries throughout the beginning of all skills. If you can’t dribble, your career? then you can’t play. I have been fortunate enough to never Shooting - must be able to shoot the ball having a serious injury up until last year after from layups to 3s at a good percentage. the first three games. It’s mentally challenging Layups, floaters, jump shots, step backs and to overcome, not so much the injury, but many more. the doubts about how you are playing. Defence - must be able to lock down his Confidence gets really low and it’s really hard defender and also be able to help teammates. to overcome, but I just stayed positive - and Pick and Rolls - must be able to use screens coaching the kids helped me get my mind at a high conversion rate. right again. I.Q - must be very smart player and thinking How important is flexibility and the game. stretching? Heart - must be brave and never have fear. Mistakes are inevitable, so a guard must stay One must stretch a lot to remain flexible and
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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
KABOODLE Body Beauty. My daughter and I moved to the Coffs Coast 30 years ago, to be closer to family, and fell in love with the area. Kaboodle Body Beauty was opened in the beautiful Sawtell village in 2006. In 2016 I saw the opportunity to expand to the Northern Beaches, so in May 2017 my team and I opened Kaboodle Body Beauty Moonee.
INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG
Our mission at Kaboodle is to provide a friendly, personalised experience through a team of highly skilled professionals, using pure, organic and natural products.
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All of your beauty needs can be met at Kaboodle, including: waxing, facials, lash and brow tinting, facial peels, Swedish massage, hot stone massage, Indian head massage, manicures, pedicures, sugaring, and tanning.
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...
Recently we have added Emerge Fractional laser for skin rejuvenation, and we have had amazing results. We exclusively use Pelactiv skin care products, which are Australian made and owned, and Inika Organic mineral cosmetics. For healthy gel manicures we use the Bio Sculpture Gel, a revolutionary oxygenating gel system. Kaboodle can be found in two great locations: 2/10 First Avenue, Sawtell. Shop 4, Moonee Beach Professional Centre, Moonee Beach (the shops behind Moonee Tavern).
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W I T H D U N C A N M A R C H A N T , C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B
Pat Allen A 31 year old pizza store manager and father of two, who is getting married soon and wants to get in shape for his big day ... Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Diane Scanlan. This month we are catching up with Pat Allen and his Personal Trainer Kylie Calder, to hear his inspiring story.
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hat is your diet and exercise background, Pat? I don’t really have a background in diet and exercise, to be honest. I was reasonably unhealthy and did not eat well. I did try going to the gym a few times in the past, but always ended up lacking in motivation, letting my membership lapse and going back to my “old ways”. So where do you think it all went wrong? I didn’t really have a good basis to start with, and this, in combination with working a job where I would change from night shift to day shift up to three times a week, made it hard to eat at “normal” times. Add that to a lack of motivation, and it kind of snowballed into me weighing around 115 kg. What motivated you to find a solution to the problem? Tia and I are getting married in September of this year, and I set myself a personal goal of getting to 95 kg. The main motivation was to look good for my beautiful fiancée on our special day and to be able to look back on our photos and be happy with the way that I look in them. How did you go about making that positive change? After talking to Tia, we decided to start looking for a gym, so that we could start heading in the direction of the goals we had set ourselves. After talking to someone at her old job, she recommended we look at the Moonee branch of Coffs Coast Health Club. Once we did and saw the quality of the gym, the professionalism of the staff and the child minding services they offer, we couldn’t say no. We also decided to look at getting some personal training, as Tia had done so in the past, and it had worked for her. Why did you choose Kylie as your 70 coffs coast focus.
personal trainer? The Moonee Beach Club Manager, Lee, recommended Kylie to us, after we talked to him about our goals and the kinds of ways we wanted to train. As I had never done any kind of personal training before, I didn’t really know what to expect from our first session. Kylie incorporates weight loss and core strength training into our sessions and always does things a little bit differently each time, so that we aren’t just doing the same thing. What goals have you achieved so far? While my overall goal is to achieve a weight of 95 kg before the wedding, a little goal I set myself was to first get below 100 kg. I achieved that on the 19th May, and while I still have a little way to go, I now have the confidence and knowledge to lose those remaining 5 kg. What are your goals for the future? A future goal is to continue on this fitness journey to become a fitter and healthier person. I can then help show my children and friends that it doesn’t matter where you start, if you have the determination and are willing to put in the hard work, you will be able to achieve the goals you set for yourself. What is the most useful advice you could share with other readers? Don’t listen to the people who say you can’t do something, even if it is your own voice saying it. Push a little harder, work a little bit more each time, and always remember to never give up, no matter how tough it may seem. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel, even if you can’t see it from where you’re standing right now. Thanks for sharing, Pat, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, call Kylie directly on 0414 257 086 or drop in to see the team at either Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or Moonee, to get started today.
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who you gonna call ...
pain busters? With a lot of new types of providers in the health market promising to fix your pain, it’s difficult to know who to turn to. Thankfully, Mid North Coast Physio is making it easy for you on the Coffs Coast with a range of healthcare services available from their experienced team. Their director, Aaron Hardaker, caught up with Jack Gillingham, a leading local physiotherapist, to find out more about how he can help you get rid of pain and improve your quality of life.
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hy should I see a physiotherapist? As a physio, I have a detailed understanding of the human body and am highly experienced in assessing and diagnosing your injury. There are lots of reasons you should consult your physio, including: • If you have sustained an acute injury • If you experience acute or chronic lower back pain • If you are experiencing any pins and needles or numbness • If you have problems with your joints hurting, locking or giving way • If you would like to increase your balance, strength, and flexibility • If you would like to improve your performance in sport • If you have aches and pains in your muscles and joints • If you have had recent surgery e.g. hip or knee replacement It’s important to remember that you don’t need to be injured to see your physiotherapist. I’m here to help you to achieve your health goals and aid in the prevention of injury as well. What can I expect in a physiotherapy consult? During a consult with me there’s a range of things we’ll cover, including: • A discussion about your reason for coming to a physiotherapist, your goals, and what you would like to achieve from the service. • A thorough assessment to diagnose the cause of your issues. This may include: measuring your movement and strength; a postural
assessment; special tests to check your ligaments, tendons, and nerves; a balance assessment; a biomechanical and gait analysis • A recommended plan of action advising you the key issues, your diagnosis and what needs to be done to address the problems to achieve your best outcome. • Treatment, which may involve any of the following: soft tissue releases; joint mobilisation and manipulation; trigger point dry needling; taping; a personalised exercise program; custom orthotic prescription; referral to one of our other health experts. • Education - during your consult you can expect a clear explanation of what’s wrong and what needs to be done, so you leave knowing what is the problem, why it has occurred, and how you can prevent it from happening again. Don’t leave feeling like you’re left in the dark! Tell us a little more about you, Jack. I have a wealth of experience as a physiotherapist, after graduating from the University of Newcastle with honours. I grew up in Sawtell and jumped at the opportunity to come back to the area to work in a field where I can give back to the Coffs Coast community. I have always played sport throughout my life and especially enjoy Aussie Rules, surfing, and mountain biking. I love that I get to go to work each day and help people to make an improvement in their lives and get them closer to achieving their health goals. Thanks Jack. If you would like to see how Jack can help, Mid North Coast Physio is offering 10 FREE physiotherapy assessments this month. To secure a spot, call 1300 273 747 and mention Coffs Coast FOCUS. Call NOW, before they are all gone.
BRAD PEARCE Dental I have heard great things about Brad Pearce Dental and the Woopi Practice. What is your winning formula? Bec: Bel and I love our jobs, which is very important. We both share nursing and admin duties, so it’s a great mix. The team we work with are highly skilled, which makes it that much better. Our patients are wonderful, and we look after a lot of families here at Woopi. We have built strong relationships with our patients, both in the practice and the local community. What is the best part about working at Brad Pearce Dental? Bel: Our practice has the latest state of the art equipment, so our customers get the best care possible. Our dentists are extremely skilled, which is why I enjoy working here. The great reputation of Brad Pearce Dental is the reason I wanted to work in the dental industry.
So Dr Gino, tell us a little about yourself? I was born in Seychelles, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean. It sits off the east coast of Africa and only has a population of just under 100,000. It was a great childhood in an idyllic location. The ocean and wildlife are amazing. I graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Otago in 2006, after spending five years in New Zealand. I came to Australia because I love the outdoors, and it was always a country I wanted to visit. I started working in Newcastle, then Tamworth, and in 2008 I joined the Brad Pearce Dental team in Woolgoolga. Our team are all locals, and the Woolgoolga community are fantastic. We are always welcoming new patients, so give us a call and speak to Bec or Bel and make an appointment to see me today.
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beach street
Family Practice
Beach Street Family Practice was founded by Dr John Kramer in 1981. In those early days, he ran a solo practice out of 41 Beach Street. In 1985 he moved up the road to 49 Beach Street. Other doctors joined the practice for varying periods. Training of future GPs (GP Registrars) began in 1988, followed closely by medical students from a variety of universities. It has become regarded as one of the best teaching practices on the North Coast. Planning for the new surgery building began around seven years ago, with the purchase of the old house next door at 51 Beach Street. It housed medical students for several years, whilst planning for the new building proceeded. Zoning changes in the Woolgoolga Town Centre came along at just the right time, allowing for more efficient use of the site. Construction began under the direction of Coffs Harbour builder Ray Rogers, on 1st July 2015. Exactly 13 months later, on the 1st August 2016, the first patients were seen in the new practice. Three townhouses were built as part of the development, being sold upon completion to help fund the rest of the $4.2 million project. A further grant of $190,000 was successfully tendered for through the Rural and Regional Teaching Infrastructure Grants (RRTIGs) programme. This programme provides funding to upgrade and/ or extend general practices in rural or regional locations to provide additional consultation rooms and space for teaching medical students and supervising general practice registrars. Coffs Harbour Architect, Sarah Armstrong, designed the building, working closely with Kristie Peel from Two Birds Design on interior fittings. The practice occupies the whole of the first floor level, accessible via both stairs and lift. Here there are spacious reception and waiting areas, six consulting rooms, a nursing department
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with three separate bays and finally, a Minor Procedures Room. CLINICAL STAFF Our current medical team comprises the following doctors: A/Prof John Kramer MB BS(UNSW), FRACGP, FACRRM, OAM; Dr Judy Haines MB BS(Monash), FACRRM; Dr Janet McLachlan MSc., MBBS (Syd Uni), FRACGP; Dr Harjinder Singh MB BS, FRACGP; Dr Harriet Playle MB BS (UNSW), FRACGP; Dr Ashley Sood MB Ch B (Aberdeen), GP Registrar; Dr Orlaith Finucane Mb BCh (RCSI, Dublin), BAO, MICGP/FRACGP,FAEG, DRCOG; Dr Ashlea Broomfield MBBS (UNSW), FRACGP, DCH.
to the practice on the first floor. Use of the stairs is encouraged wherever possible. A separate lift is provided for the occupants of the townhouses above the practice. ALLIED HEALTH PRACTITIONERS Dr Stuart Mann, Clinical Psychologist; Tracey Adendorff, Psychologist; Linda Ezzy and Jacqui Heward, Dieticians; Alissa Tapper, Exercise Physiologist; Aditi Ghandi, Speech Pathologist; Kate Mackay, Speech Pathologist; Alan White, Podiatrist; Australian Hearing Bay Audio.
Coffs Harbour “ Architect, Sarah Armstrong,
designed the building, working closely with Kristie Peel from Two Birds Design on interior fittings.”
BUILDING The ground floor has staff and resident parking, pathology collection rooms (Sullivan & Nicolaides Pathology), and two consulting rooms with discrete reception and waiting area. The latter rooms are occupied by a variety of Allied Health Practitioners. A lift is available to carry patients and their relatives from the entrance at ground floor level
STAFF Some of our staff have been here for a long time. Dr Judy Haines started in 1986. Lee Hayes and Sally McCann (RN) began in 2003 and 2004, respectively. We have also developed a very strong sense of family amongst our whole staff, inspiring our name, Beach Street Family Practice. Our administrative staff have a collective experience of almost eighty years in General Practice! Patients appreciate and trust the familiar faces of Lee, Jo and Sue and welcome the youthful enthusiasm of Daniel, Amanda, Damien
and Allison. Sally leads a team of three other nurses, RN Lucy and ENs Jody, Ebony. SERVICES A very broad range of services are provided by the practice. These include maternal and child health, women’s health, immunisations, indigenous health (registered with CTG), mental health (incl. Mental Health Plans), men’s health, travel medicine, skin cancer assessment and treatment, geriatric care, palliative care, acute care, preventive care, wound management, Chronic Disease Management (GPMP/TCA), counselling, medical examinations, WorkCover and Third Party. A/Prof Kramer has a special interest in children with learning and behavioural disorders. This sometimes involves school-based case conferences and video consultations with Royal Far West Children’s Health Scheme in Sydney. Home visits are available to elderly and palliative care patients who are already attending the practice. Strict policies are in place limiting the prescription of opiates and other potentially addictive drugs to patients. Woolgoolga has long been a multicultural town, with the hard working Sikh farmers having been established for over 60 years with their families. More recently have come refugees from Africa and Asia, often seeking work on the blueberry farms. When significant communication
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The Surgery then and now
difficulties are present, the practice is able to access phone-based interpreter services via TIS.
many of whom require stabilisation prior to ambulance transfer to the nearest hospital in Coffs Harbour.
The surgery is open on Saturday mornings from 9 - 12. Recruitment of further doctors is underway, with the aim of extending our hours of opening to include Sundays and public holidays, together with extended weekday hours. After hours attention is available via a town roster: Phone 6654 0655.
Emergency appointments are set aside for each day for acute medical problems. These can be booked by ringing the Surgery at 8:30am each working day.
The practice is accredited by AGPAL, which means that it consistently complies with the Standards for General Practice as laid down by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. New patients are welcome at the practice. Typically these will be seen by one of the younger doctors, as the older ones are slowing down in order to ensure their longevity! APPOINTMENTS Patients are usually seen by appointment, unless in extreme circumstances. For those with chronic problems, who need to attend regularly, it is often best to book the next appointment when completing your previous one.
Discover
If patients have complex needs, they need to book longer appointments, or sometimes our doctors will run late. This is usually because they have been dealing with acute, unbooked medical patients,
Procedures such as removal of skin cancers, 24 hour blood pressure monitoring, Holter monitoring, annual health assessments, ECGs and spirometry, work medicals, etc. must all be booked via the nurses, as they are involved in all such activities, as well as the doctors. If you are unable to attend your appointment, please give at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel. Repeated non attendance will often attract a financial penalty. Script only appointments are available to regular patients of the practice, subject to confirmation by the doctor seeing the patient. BILLING Beach Street Family Practice is a “mixed billing practice”; that is, some services are privately billed, with partial reimbursement available from Medicare. Other services, such as most consultations with children aged 12 years and under, and pensioners aged over 80 years, are bulk billed.
Prescriptions, brief medical reports, pathology and radiology requests may be provided for a private fee at the discretion of the doctor concerned. Bulk billing can be provided in cases of extreme financial hardship at the discretion of the individual doctor. It can also be applied when Care Plans are being initiated or reviewed. The long standing freezing of the Medicare rebate has forced all General Practices to reduce their bulk billing rates as much as possible. At current levels, a bulk billed consultation represents a 50% discount of the fee owed to the practice. It is not sustainable for any General Practice to continue with high levels of bulk billing. FIRST ANNIVERSARY It is exciting to realise that the first anniversary of our wonderful new practice will be celebrated on 1st August. It’s been a great 12 months; the dream of bringing an integrated, multidisciplinary health centre to Woolgoolga has been realised! But we aren’t resting on our laurels. We hope to have a visiting Geriatrician starting in the near future, and have also been negotiating with a Gynaecologist. Recruitment of further GPs to our team is an ongoing and high priority.
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To celebrate the expansion and new premises of Vision Property Sales, the FOCUS team drove out to Woolgoolga to see Brad, Tammy and the team. The
new premises has been completely renovated and is now a modern office, allowing the Vision Property sales team to expand and cater for the growing Northern Beaches market.
E
stablished in December 2008, Vision Property Sales began due to a driving desire to work in an unrestricted environment, where company owner Brad Vines could apply his many years of sales industry training and experience to his own market leading agency. Brad saw a niche in the real estate game, where he could provide a real estate agency that offers so much more to clients. A fresh approach, including innovative marketing
and providing a more personal connection with clients was offered when Vision Property Sales was established, and the agency has never looked back. Starting out with a team of two sales agents and one office manager, Vision Property Sales’ reputation for providing quality service with outstanding results quickly saw the word spread, and business was booming. Property Management was incorporated into the services soon thereafter, with
immediate results, built on strong attention to detail, consistent feedback and providing a property manager with a vested interest in the business. As a couple, Tammy and Brad have invested hours and hours of sweat, blood and tears, growing and further improving Vision Property Sales to where it is today, and while juggling work, life and a family (they have four children between them) has been hectic, their passion and desire for the real estate industry has made it all worthwhile.
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desire to offer a real estate experience no other In August, 2016, Brad and Tammy purchased agency on the Coffs Coast can. the commercial property, previously known as Allowing for future growth, this state of the art the Beach Street Medical Centre, in Woolgoolga property agency offers interview and conference and with the support of local builder and good rooms, waiting rooms and an incorporation of the friend, Luke McCluskey from M5 Building & Co, lifestyle and history Woolbegan a transformation from what was merely goolga and the Coffs Coast a vision to what you see has to offer. today. Having significant At Vision Property Sales, ... the team who work experience in building they know only too well within and the staff at and renovating prior to that a business can only be Vision Property Sales this acquisition, Brad and as good as the team who have been carefully Tammy combine to form a work within, and the staff selected to meet the values formidable team in creative at Vision Property Sales and standards both Brad design. Their designing have been carefully selected and Tammy stand by. skills, teamed up with the to meet the values and expert knowledge, advice standards both Brad and and craftsmanship of Luke Tammy stand by. McCluskey of M5 Building & Co. is profoundly The staff includes a sales team of four, with evident in what is seen in the final product. This Brad Vines, Drew Vines, Sarah Hannaford and stunning commercial premises directly reflects Alex Douglass combining a wealth of experience their easygoing, approachable natures and their with a fresh and enthusiastic approach to selling
Choices Flooring Coffs Harbour is proud to be associated with
Visi on Proper t y and would like to congratulate Brad, Tammy and the team on their new premises! Choices Flooring Coffs Harbour 48 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour • 6652 2473 choicesflooring.com.au
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of 4.2% (Source: realestate.com.au). real estate. The property management team is headed by Tammy Locke and is supported by Laura This push in housing prices has been a flow-on Fowler and Rebecca Atkins, who manage both effect from the Sydney, Melbourne and other metro property markets, where people are selling up and moving to management and first imour beautiful beachside repressions. gion - although the highway The past two or so years upgrade and bypass, plus have seen have major the opening of Woolworths Nobody knows real estate changes and growth in the Supermarket in Woolgoolga in this region better Woolgoolga - Coffs Harbour were also major contributing than the staff at Vision region. For example, the factors to people seeing this Property Sales. median sales price for as their top choice in places houses in Woolgoolga, to live. NSW in the last year was Nobody knows real estate $459,000, based on 90 home in this region better than the staff at Vision Property sales. Compared to the same period five years ago, Sales. Local knowledge, extensive local experience the median sales price for houses increased 22.7%, and highly qualified agents, striving to succeed for which equates to a compound annual growth rate you!
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Whatever the project, it is always people’s stories and the connections that develop that really stand out for us.
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Vision Property Sales Staff
Vision Property Management Division
Rebecca Atkins Reception/Administration Support Laura Fowler Property Management Tammy Locke Principal/Property Manager Sarah Hannaford Property Sales Consultant Drew Vines Property Sales Consultant Alex Douglass Property Sales Consultant Brad Vines Principal/Licensee/Property Sales Consultant
Vision Property Sales has built a reputation of being the market leaders in managing and maintaining properties at the highest of standards - led by agency principal Tammy Locke, who has been Property Manager since inception, some none years ago. Our current landlords are testament to our professional standards and dedication to manage properties as if they were our own.
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Alan
wright BIOMASS SOLUTIONS
H
i Alan. Can you tell us a bit about what Biomass Solutions does? Biomass Solutions (Coffs Harbour) Pty Ltd is a world leading alternate waste treatment facility that is unique in being able to process three waste streams under the one roof. Through autoclaving technology and advanced composting processes, we are able to process well over 50,000 tonnes of material per annum, with an incredible diversion rate from landfill of over 72%. When combined with the recycling facility at Handybin Waste Services, the diversion rate from landfill on the whole site is over 80%, which is fantastic for the community. Biomass Solutions is an amazing facility. Can you give our readers a brief overview of the compost you provide to consumers and local farmers? Compost from Biomass Solutions is produced from the organics collected from the three Council local government areas (Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca). It is composted through an agitated compost bay system, that significantly speeds up the composting process and produces compost free of weed seeds and pathogens and meets Australian Standards. Education on the environment is key to the red bin, yellow bin and green bin process. Can you tell our readers about the most common error we make with our waste? Contamination is a significant and ongoing issue in the waste streams; one plastic bag in the green bin can turn into hundreds of smaller pieces of contamination; one glass bottle in the
Coffs Coast locals will remember the fire that engulfed Biomass Solutions in July last year. One year on, Alan Wright, Sales Manager of Biomass, invited FOCUS out to see how the plant has recovered and to chat about the amazing processes that take place to make the organic renewables. green bin can shatter and go into the compost composting on the Coffs Harbour landfill site. products, causing problems. If people could just Other staff were utilised by helping with fire take a bit more time and ensure the right thing repairs, others with painting and cleaning tasks goes in the right bin, it makes it easier for all of within the facility, and some staff were able to us. assist with other associated waste companies Last July, your business unfortunately had during the shut down period. quite a significant fire. Can you tell us a bit Biomass Solutions has worked with a lot of about this? local trades to get back on track. Who have A fire in the building’s you worked with and ducting system caused would like to thank? extensive damage to We made a major areas of the facility. commitment to source It is composted through This caused the plant to all the work we could an agitated compost bay be shut down for over locally, and we have system, that significantly 10 months, whilst repairs always had loyal speeds up the composting were completed. tradesmen who have process and produces Your business was been available for us at compost free of weed seeds fortunate to keep all all hours should we need and pathogens and meets staff on while the plant help. Particular mention Australian Standards. was shut down. How should go to the did you achieve that? Piggott Electrical Team, Our staff have always Advanced Pumping been loyal to us, and we and Irrigation, Steeline, believed it was the right thing to do by returning Lysaght, Coates Hire, Kennards Hire, JCB the favour. We made a commitment very early Creations, Coffs Coast Fibreglass, Harbourside on to keep all staff gainfully employed, and the Refrigeration, Hawkins on Fire and North Coast benefits were being able to start up again with Cranes, but many other local businesses were staff trained, committed, and ready to go. also involved in a huge rebuild. A special thanks It has been a long process getting the plant also to the three Councils, Coffs Harbour, back up to full functioning capabilities, due Bellingen and Nambucca, who were sympathetic to waiting on equipment from overseas. and understanding during this difficult period. During the plant shutdown after the fire, It’s probably not often said, but our insurers what did your staff do? have also been a huge help and assisted Through help with Coffs Council and the local throughout the entire process. Environmental Protection Authority, we were Thanks Alan. able to keep staff employed in open windrow
Biomass Solutions’ composts are a fantastic product for your garden. Whether it be flowers, trees, lawn, fruit and vegetables or commercial applications, your garden can benefit greatly from using our composts throughout the entire year ... But in particular, with the garden season fast approaching, a good dose of compost now will ensure you’re the envy of the neighbourhood. We have many regular customers who are thrilled with the results of our products and often comment it is the best value garden product they have ever used. Our site is open seven days a week, 365 days a year between 8am and 4pm, and we sell compost by the bag, trailer, ute, small and large trucks and can also organise delivery to anywhere locally or throughout the state. Our standard compost product sells for $30 for a trailer/ute (1 m³) and reduces to $24 for quantities over 10 m³. Our compost plus product sells for $40 for a trailer/ ute (1 m³) and reduces to $35 for quantities over 10 m³. Our friendly staff are always willing to help with customer orders, and our sales team can be contacted on (02) 6691 8000 or 0428 116 589.
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Mel Croucher COFFS HARBOUR SENIOR COLLEGE
Lace from FOCUS sat down with Mel Croucher, the Music and VET Entertainment Industry Teacher at Coffs Harbour Senior College, to find out about the exciting celebrity visitors they’ve had at the school recording an album with the music students recently.
C
an you tell us about the exciting visitors you had come to Coffs Harbour Senior College, and how did this opportunity come about? I applied for the APRA Song Makers program late last year, which is funded by APRA, and I forgot about it until I was contacted in April to say we were selected to be one of only seven NSW schools this year. As part of this initiative, they sent two renowned Australian music songwriter/producers to the campus for two days to mentor 19 of our Year 11 and 12 students through the songwriting process and then the recording process. The first day the students were grouped into teams of four/five mixed instrumental groups with at least one vocalist and music producer. They were coached in songwriting and lyric writing. By the end of the second day, we had an EP of four original tracks written and recorded by the students and produced by their celebrity mentors, Ilan Kidron from the Potbelleez and Milan Ring. It was a whirlwind process, and I'm so blown away by the quality of the songs written and recorded. The songs are all so diverse and relate to themes and issues faced by young people today. Now I know the students loved the experience, but how do you think this will broaden their horizons for a future career in the music industry? I think the experience itself was the most important thing they shared. It can be a huge
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challenge opening yourself up creatively and that’s happened lately at Coffs Harbour then being vulnerable within a group of your Senior College. I hear our talented music peers. They all gained confidence and a kinship students also brought quite a crowd on foremost, but also, a realistic insight into the their trip to the big smoke? song making process and how to write, record Yes, it was quite funny and sweet, actually. and produce an original song. Every year we take a large group of our Seniors Many of them have gone on to write and to Sydney to sing at Town Hall, and after the record new music since this program and have live streamed show we were walking home to started preparing themselves for a career in the hotel and the students saw a lone busker the music industry. For any teacher, it is a huge on George Street, with no one listening to him. positive to know that an opportunity opens They begged to go support him, and this turned up many doors for your into an epic karaoke party students. with the Japanese tourist They have performed busker, lasting one hour. live on 105.5 and have What started as just the By the end of the second been hired for SCU 25 CHSC students soon day, we had an EP of performances and TAFE became a street party four original tracks events this year, where with 150 plus people written and recorded they are able to gain and street police coming by the students and valuable performance to keep the crowd safe, produced by their experience. as we sang and danced celebrity mentors, And the album they to the cover songs on Ilan Kidron from the recorded; how can we George St. It was one Potbelleez and Milan get a copy? of those moments as a Ring. We have loaded teacher that moves you ... them on the Coffs As a human, it moves you Harbour Senior College to see the humanity and SoundCloud page; just open the page or app happiness so alive in complete strangers. This and search for Coffs Harbour Senior College. all started because of some country kids, who Also, they are available on our Coffs Harbour have big hearts. I was so proud, and surprisingly Senior College YouTube channel. You may also the media got hold of some videos, and it was hear them played on local 105.5 radio station, shared on ABC Sydney and the ABC Mid North and we will be performing them at our 2018 Coast pages. Enrolment OPEN DAY on July 29th between 12 From the students of Coffs Harbour Senior - 4pm at CHEC. College ... We chatted to Lily D'Adam, a I hear this isn’t the only exciting thing talented vocalist in Year 12 at the Senior
College, and asked her how the students enjoyed these amazing experiences. Lily said, "Being a part of the music scene at CHSC has been one of the most amazing opportunities I’ll ever get. Collaborating with other students and being able to attend a wide variety of events such as the Song Makers workshop and our showcase evenings has made our experiences in the classroom a fun filled adventure, while still learning all of the vital information we need to complete our HSC and further our music endeavours. “I feel I can confidently approach my own original songs, and I am feeling equiped to chase my dream of being a singer songwriter thanks to these experiences." What the artists had to say (Ilan Kidron and Milan Ring) ... “I wish I had gone to a School like this! With such a nurturing and unique environment, the possibilities for these students are endless! Whether you are budding musician actor, artist, mathematician, writer, engineer etc ... The sky’s the limit at Coffs Harbour Senior College.” Coffs Harbour Senior College will be holding their OPEN DAY for all 2018 enrolments between 12pm and 4pm on Saturday, July 29th at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus. All interested parents and young adults are welcome to attend this fun event, to see their state of the art facilities and meet the impressive staff. You will also get a chance to hear these talented musicians on stage! For more information, see the Coffs Harbour Senior College website, Facebook or call 6659 3054. Thanks Mel.
TAFE Students From Coffs Harbour
Awards win Major
Two Coffs-based students were announced as major Award winners at TAFE NSW’s North Coast Student of the Year Awards.
T
he awards recognised the efforts in 2016 of top-performing TAFE NSW students studying either on-campus, on-the-job, or online on the North Coast. The winning students studying at TAFE NSW’s Coffs Harbour campuses were Apprentice of the Year Jacob Owen, who studied Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Coffs Harbour Education Campus, and Education Employment and Support Student of the Year, Esmaeel Arab, who studied the Certificate III in Spoken and Written English at Coffs
Harbour Campus in Glenreagh Street. The Regional General Manager for TAFE NSW North Region, Elizabeth McGregor, said that she was inspired and moved by the dedication and commitment shown by the winning students and the finalists. “They’ve all decided where and what they want to be, and they have gone for it with great ambition and confidence,” said Ms McGregor. “They are doing what they love and are passionate about, and are contributing to their local economy and community as a result,” said Ms McGregor.
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Jacob Owen.
My interest to become a chef commenced in my high school years, when I undertook my Food Technology class in Years 9 and 10. I then enrolled to complete the Hospitality TVET course in Years 11 and 12, to enhance my future employment opportunities and gain practical workrelated skills. I started with my employer, Bonville Golf Resort, in 2012 as a casual kitchenhand. Given my hunger to grow and develop my skills, my employer offered me a full-time apprenticeship, which I eagerly accepted and commenced in 2014. I was promoted to full-time Commis Chef at the completion of my apprenticeship in 2017.” (Pictured with Alicia Bales, TAFE NSW North Coast Director of Industry Services.)
Esmaeel Arab. Esmaeel won this award because of his ability to work with teams, to take the lead when necessary and to pitch in and help fellow students and teachers. He is intelligent, diligent and resourceful and able to engage with people in an authentic and affirming manner.
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I finished my course quicker than what I was supposed to, and I’ve been employed by TAFE now as an interpreter and assistant for new arrivals.”
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Motor mouth rating
DRIVEN 2017 RE-INVENTED HYUNDAI i30 DATE 3RD JUNE 2017 DEALER COFFS HARBOUR HYUNDAI
focusMotoring. WITH LAARZ
7.5/10 Low down torque is ful, and there ti en pl sh to is a spirited ru R S e th as e redlin wer po lays down its ont fr e through th wheels.”
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2017 Re-Invented
HYUNDAI REMEMBER THIS POINT IN TIME. IN FACT, bookmark it as a step change in Hyundai’s Australian transformation. THE NEW, THIRDGENERATION I30 HAS ARRIVED AT COFFS HARBOUR HYUNDAI, AND IT PROMISES THE BEGINNING OF ANOTHER PARADIGM SHIFT FOR THE SOUTH KOREAN BRAND.
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ore than a bulk-selling hatch with a price to match, the newest iteration sets itself apart with excellent equipment levels, safety tech, cabin refinement and driving dynamics. The i30 is available across three grades - Active, Elite and Premium - and with three engine choices. The first impression is strong. The i30 offers equal parts value and quasi-European levels of polish. Stepping into the i30 is impressive. I encourage you to go and sit in one; it’s a tasty place to be. The interior feels well considered and comfortable, much closer to the Volkswagen Golf. The outlook from the driver’s seat is open. This is partly offset by large side mirrors. A digital instrument cluster, including a digital speedo, streamlines the driving process. A swish 8-inch touch screen sits atop the dashboard of every model, conveying key functions including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, a reversing camera, sat-nav and digital radio. It is surrounded by stylish LCD displays for the climate control, and an assortment of dashboard materials, along with contact points that are soft to touch. New front seats are likewise soft and
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well-padded, comfortable for longer ISOFIX points are fitted. journeys and accessed via generously-sized Those features are bolstered by door apertures, which make ingress and automated emergency braking, forward egress a cinch. collision warning, blind spot detection, lane Storage is equally well considered; there change assist and active cruise control on are three bottle holders in either of the SR automatic, Elite and Premium models. front doors, two central cupholders, a A five-year unlimited kilometre warranty glovebox and a small cubby area for odds is offered across the range, as is a lifetime and ends. service plan and up to 10 years’ roadside Cabin room is par for the course given support and a dedicated customer care the i30’s 4.3-metre length website exclusive to and 1.79-metre width, owners. larger than before. The i30 SR is spirited, In terms of Front-seat passengers with a 150 kW and 265 safety, all have decent head, shoulder Nm 1.6-litre turbo-petrol models get seven and leg room, and the engine. It uses fuel at a airbags and have rear is equally amenable rate of a five-star ANCAP to passengers, with a 7.5 L/100 km. decent array of storage and The mid-range SR, which safety rating.” enough room for two fullis the one I drove - and I sized adults. mean DROVE - offers more Boot space is rated at thrills. 395 litres, with a full-size spare wheel Low down torque is plentiful, and there underneath the floor. is a spirited rush to redline as the SR lays On the tech connectivity front, the i30 down its power through the front wheels. offers a lone USB point and two 12-volt It lacks the synthetic pop and bang of outlets as standard. That’s before you other warm hatches, but its rorty exhaust go delving into wireless phone charging note still lends it a sporting edge. available standard on certain models. A torsion-beam rear axle is fitted to all i30 In terms of safety, all models get seven variants; however, the SR and SR Premium airbags and have a five-star ANCAP safety get an upgraded multi-link rear suspension rating. Three child tether points and two that delivers a more athletic experience.
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Supremely quiet on all surface types, only the occasional road join, cat’s eye or breakaway section of road tends to upset the cabin ambience. The i30 is a seriously good car, and deserves its place among Japanese and German contemporaries. It paves the way for a promising chapter in the Hyundai story.
Tech Specs. 2017 Model PRICE $20,950-$33,950 (plus on-road costs) ENGINE 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel OUTPUT 120 kW/203 Nm, 150 kW/265 Nm, 100 kW/280 Nm TRANSMISSION Six-speed manual, six-speed automatic, six-speed manual, seven-speed dual clutch automatic, six-speed manual/sevenspeed dual clutch automatic FUEL 7.3-7.4 L/100 km, 7.5 L/100 km, 4.54.7 L/100 km (ADR Combined). SAFETY RATING Five-star ANCAP.
1800 422 805
LIC No MD13859
coffs coast focus. 83
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