Coffs Coast Focus i87

COFFS COAST

December 2017. issue 87

1 coffs coast focus.

Feature Story

Mark and Lucy Singh

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team

Welcome to the December issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

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his is our last edition for the year - our 87th edition. It’s a nice time to reflect on the year that has been. We would like to say a massive thanks to our wonderful advertisers, who help keep FOCUS in circulation. Without your support, we would not be able to produce such a fantastic publication each month. We look forward to working with you all in the New Year and producing some amazing content throughout 2018. We would like to wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas and a fantastic New Year! ON THE COVER This month’s cover is one of our favourites. Good looking people, a big inflatable gold swan, infinity swimming pool, sunshine and the view of the Coffs Coastline … I bet you can guess where it was shot? The cover is dedicated to our fabulous travel

feature. The feature kicks off on page 58. Thanks to our stunning models, Billy Kean, Sam Phillips, Hunter Martin, Jake Stitt and Riley Florentine. We would also like to thank Micha and Ang from Uptown Local for styling the shoot, Brett from Clark Rubber Coffs Harbour for the fabulous gold swan and of course, the team from Villa Vivante … What a way to spend the morning! WELCOME PIPPA AND GAVIN FOCUS would like to introduce you to our two new team members, Pippa Tabone and Gavin Moroney. Pippa will be sharing her expertise and knowledge in marketing as an Advertising Consultant, and Gavin will be sharing his expertise in photography and will double as our editorial contributor. These two are the perfect fit for our small Coffs Coast team. INSIDE THIS EDITION

Photographer Alyssa Evans, of Lyss And Her Camera, grew up with a camera never far away and is now known for her beautiful, natural light, storytelling images. She specialises in (but is certainly not limited to) weddings and families. When it comes to Christmas trees, Wayne Duver and his family are experts. They have been growing Christmas trees in the Coffs region for over a decade, supplying local families with Christmas cheer year after year. From Bellingen to The Arctic Circle - Bruce Jacups tells us all about the holiday of a lifetime, where he travelled and what made it so special. Swapping the Australian winter for a European summer and weeks of 24 hour daylight in Norway, he talks to FOCUS about what inspired the trip. FINAL SAY “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” - Buddy the Elf.

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issue inside this

Issue 87 - December 2017

The

Christmas A special focus feature

Regulars 16. WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 22. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 48. SOCIAL SCENE CAROLE BEROS 56. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI

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4 Coffs Coast focus

Watercolour Artists.

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When we spotted local watercolour artists Darren and Trevor painting at the Coffs Harbour Jetty, we just had to stop for a chat and to check out their work. They shared their thoughts on painting “en plein air”, the parts of the Coffs Coast where they like to set up their easels, what inspires them at the moment and how their entries in the Sawtell Art Gallery’s 30th anniversary exhibition were received.

Alyssa Evans. Photographer Alyssa Evans, of Lyss And Her Camera, grew up with a camera never far away and is now known for her beautiful, natural light, storytelling images. She specialises in (but is certainly not limited to) weddings and families. Alyssa tells us what it means to be a part of her clients’ lives at those special times, capturing their most important memories for them, and how that gives her such a strong connection with her local community.

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Wayward Trails.

The team at Wayward Trails believe the Coffs Coast has some of Australia’s finest cafés, boutique bars, seafood and dining experiences. We ask them about some of the highlights from the tours and tips on where to eat and drink in the region.

focusinterview.

Mark Lucy

Before

Singh

Mark & Lucy Singh are a total inspiration! The couple recently decided to introduce a complete lifestyle change. The results are amazing! These two lovebirds are the happiest and healthiest they have ever been. FOCUS had a chat to them both to find out what inspired them to make a change ….

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Lucy: My grandparents were Coffs locals. I used to visit from Mittagong on holidays a few times a year. I fell in love with the area and knew I’d settle here one day. I’ve lived on the Coffs Coast for almost six years now. Mark: Originally moved up here from Camden to run the Plantation Hotel in 2011, moved away to Mackay for a short time, and then came back to run Moonee Beach Tavern. When and how did you first meet each other? We met in 2012 at a mutual friend’s 21st at the Coffs Rugby Club. Tell us about your wedding day.... We were married October 2015 at Marlowe House in Woolgoolga. It was important to us to have all our family and friends present on our wedding day. It was not a small event! The celebrations lasted over about four days, and we incorporated a number of local live music acts. It was unforgettable, and just so completely us. Tell us about your two beautiful daughters ... Matilda is three and a force of nature. She has an incredible imagination and loves being the centre of attention. Cadence is 16 months and loves her food and cuddles. Her favourite word is "mermaid". You have recently transformed your body 6 Coffs Coast focus

and lifestyle. How has that changed you as a person, partner and parent? Mark: As person, I’m open to new ideas and that there is no one solution, as a partner I feel I’m more in tune with my wife’s needs and am more involved, and as a father, it makes me proud to want to be a positive role model for them. Lucy: Since the program I now have the energy to do the things that I love. I always thought I was being a hero by putting myself last. But by not looking after myself, I could not care for my family. I’m a much more present mum for the girls, and Singha absolutely loves my new glow. So where do you think it went wrong? Mark: In the wrong career, bad eating habits and not really putting value on my health. Lucy: I gained a lot of weight during pregnancy. My energy levels were so low, I wasn’t looking after myself. I’d look for easy food options, which were often unhealthy. What is your diet and exercise background? Mark: I’ve always stayed active and played rugby since school, but the diet was never really a priority until I made it one. Lucy: In the past I’ve been a yo-yo dieter. I tried some crazy things, but never found something sustainable that I could stick to. What motivated you to find a solution to the problem? Mark: Weighing in at over 200 kg was the turning point; I suffered from sleep apnoea and during my first visit to the sleep clinic, I

I was introduced to nutritional cleansing by a friend who reached out to me via Facebook. I was

stepped on the scales limited time for exercise. in front of Lucy and felt Luckily, the nutritional sceptical, expecting the so embarrassed. program fits easily into program to be yet another Lucy: After Cadence our routine. We do our ‘diet’. But, I gave it a go anyway. I was born, I was at my cleanse days together and saw the physical results so quickly, heaviest weight ever. support each other. and within days my energy had My energy levels were What goals have you returned and I was feeling like so low; I just wanted achieved so far? myself again! everyone to leave Singha: Lost 76 kg, me alone, so I could had to buy a whole new sleep in bed all day. wardrobe, and I'm still My relationships with playing rugby at 40. Singha and my friends were suffering, and I Lucy: I have lost 32 kg and feel happy in wasn’t being the mum I wanted to be. my skin for the first time in years. But I think How did you go about making that the biggest transformation for me has been positive change? my energy results. I’m a completely different Lucy: I was introduced to nutritional person to the shell I was nine months ago. cleansing by a friend, who reached out to What are your goals for the future? me via Facebook. I was sceptical, expecting We want to help as many people as possible the program to be yet another "diet". But, I to change their futures like we have ... To gave it a go anyway. I saw the physical results inspire them to want to achieve their own so quickly, and within days my energy had health goals, be it weight loss, more energy or returned and I was feeling like myself again! just better overall health. Mark: After having elective surgery, I used What is the most useful advice you could the nutritional cleansing program to ensure share with our readers? I was getting the best nutrition possible and If nothing changes, nothing changes. Take to help me continue to reach my weight loss the first step; don’t put off something that you goals. could have started yesterday. What have you been doing together to For those who might be interested in achieve your personal goals? finding out a bit more about the program, we Singha: Lots more family activities, gym, are having an information night on Tuesday still playing rugby and keeping each other 28th November and Tuesday 5th December motivated and on track when it comes to from 7pm at the Coffs Rugby Club on Hogbin following the nutritional cleansing program. Drive. Lucy: We live a very busy lifestyle, so have Thanks guys.

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focusinterview.

Watercolour artists

When we spotted local watercolour artists Darren and Trevor painting at the Coffs Harbour Jetty, we just had to stop for a chat and to check out their work. They shared their thoughts on painting "en plein air", the parts of the Coffs Coast where they like to set up their easels, what inspires them at the moment and how their entries in the Sawtell Art Gallery’s 30th anniversary exhibition were received.

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Darren: I have lived here 14 years now. I was a gardener and maintenance supervisor locally and the President of Coffs Harbour Baseball Association for three years. I have only recently picked up my art again after a workplace injury sat me down and slowed me up. I joined the local art group at Woolgoolga and go at my own pace. Trevor: My wife, Lizzie, and I have lived and worked in Coffs for over 40 years. Lizzie worked as a piano teacher and I worked as an architect, often drawing by hand. For the last five years I have been associated with the Sawtell Art Society, which has not only been a catalyst for my art, but has provided a continuing broadening of my life. How did you meet, and why do you paint together? Darren: We met at an art class and became friends quickly, as we shared a cheeky personality. I enjoy Trevor’s company, but he also has a wealth of artistic talent he is busting to share. Trevor has much more experience than I do, and he has a great ability to mentor and share his skills. Trevor: We were fortunate to share a table this year at a painting workshop run by Helen Goldsmiths. We enjoyed each other’s 8 Coffs Coast focus

art and decided to go painting together. We and we recently went to the Woolgoolga like meeting at the Jetty for its hustle and foreshore for a change of venue. Another bustle. prime location is, of course, Moonee. It’s just What do you like about painting "en stunning. plein air"? Does painting outdoors bring Trevor: I also like to find the places where specific challenges? stories can be captured, such as the markets, Darren: Keeping it simple and capturing the Jetty area and the busy beaches. the moment pushes creativity. The light is What is it about watercolour painting forever changing and that appeals to you? people are constantly on Darren: I like the the move, forcing you pace; you can paint to get your ideas down slow and test your as fast as possible. patience, or you can I like the pace; you can Even simple scenes can go “hell for leather” paint slow and test your be brought to life by and still get wonderful patience, or you can go utilising composure. results. It can be terrible 'hell for leather' and still It sure is a challenge and difficult some get wonderful results. taking it from real life as days, or it can be so it happens, but it’s also simple and produce a very rewarding. wonderful piece of art Trevor: I like the on others. It is also very wisdom and the learning process that comes portable, which means you can travel and from observing real nature rather than paint very easily, as opposed to oil paints, photographs. With the ever-changing light, that take so long to dry and require much colours and shadows, you need to omit 30% more infrastructure to use outdoors. A of what you see to capture the story. small palette of paint, a bottle of water and Where are your favourite places to paint brushes and paper, and you’re set. on the Coffs Coast? Trevor: When I was about seven, I Darren: We enjoy Sawtell, as it has completed my first watercolour painting many varied, idyllic locations. There is the of the mountains around the beautiful beach, the river, the hustle and bustle of Capertee Valley near Mudgee, where my the shops and cafés, as well as the bush, family are from. I love the bush and the all in a short walk. The Jetty is an obvious seascapes of the Coffs Coast and find choice for its sea scenes and fishing boats, watercolours to be the most appropriate art

medium to capture the light and shadow. In 2004 I held a successful watercolour exhibition of 38 paintings at Nick Rachel's First Avenue Art Gallery in Sawtell. Since the early 1990s, I have produced my annual watercolour calendar for family and friends. Who inspires you at the moment? Darren: I am loving the hinterland when we are out and about. I have recently painted several landscapes of the Woolgoolga surroundings and of course, the water is very special. I’m nuts for doing portraits of ugly, old, craggy faces but also love painting old outback pubs or Australiana, such as The Rocks in Sydney or Balmain. Trevor: My fellow painters are always an inspiration, including Winslow Homer, the American water-colourist who always captured the human story in front of his wonderful landscapes. I have recently been influenced by German impressionists, who painted between the two great wars. You recently entered watercolours in the Sawtell Art Gallery 30th anniversary exhibition. How did you go? Darren: My submission this time was in the portrait section. It was well received and got favourable comments, but failed to mesmerise the judges this event. Trevor: I submitted a piece entitled Jetty Beach Sailing, which won best watercolour of the exhibition. Thanks Darren and Trevor.

Coffs Coast focus 9

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focusinterview.

Silly

season

M O O N E E

B E A C H

T A V E R N

The Moonee Beach Tavern is renowned for being one of the best family friendly hotels in NSW. FOCUS had a chat to Harry Barry, to find out more about what is happening throughout the festive season …

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ell us briefly about the Moonee having kids’ entertainment, as well as a visit from Santa. Food Truck Christmas Festival … This is a great event for those who love food, craft beer, This is an exciting new event for Christmas carols and live music. Moonee Beach. The Moonee Beach Will there be entertainment? Tavern is hosting a festival for the Most definitely! During the festival we will have live festive season. We will have food music out in the car park, plus Christmas carols. Later trucks and vendors travelling in to get your taste buds that evening inside the tavern we have the Australian going. There will be craft beer, wine, cider, market Eagles Tribute Show. This is an epic show and a must stalls, kids’ activities, live music, Santa, and the big see. finale is the Australian Eagles What else is happening Tribute Show. December 9 is the at the Moonee Tavern in date to save in your calendar. Bring December? your family and friends, and most It really is the “Silly Season” The event is free and will be in importantly ... bring your appetite. at Moonee over December! On a family friendly environment Who are the organisers? the 9th we have the Australian in the car park of the tavern. The festival is being coordinated Eagles Show, on the 16th we We will be having kids’ by Taste Coffs Coast in conjunction have the Raise your Glass “Pink entertainment, as well as with the Moonee Beach Tavern. Tribute” and on the 23rd we a visit from Santa. This We have also enlisted the help of have the biggest Christmas party is a great event for those who our neighbours at the Moonee of the lot, with Lisa Hunt. love food, craft beer, Christmas Marketplace and the Moonee Vet We also have heaps on for Carols and live music. Centre. the kids too; we have our new What sort of food and drink will beach soccer/beach volley be available? ball area and a new jumping We have a great variety of cuisines castle that must be seen to be that will cater for all tastes and all ages. There will be believed! We pride ourselves on being one of the best Italian, Hungarian flat breads, Turkish gozleme, curry, family friendly venues in the country, so we will have a Thai, ice cream, churros and everyone’s favourite, few visits from Santa and from the Coffs Choir during woodfired pizza. December. There will be a selection of craft beer, wine, cider, Where can we find out more? mocktails and soft drinks on tap for the kids. All details of the event can be found on our Is it all ages? Is there a cost? website: www.mooneebeachtavern.com.au or head The event is free and will be in a family friendly to our Facebook pages @MooneeBeachTav and environment in the car park of the tavern. We will be @tastecoffscoast

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focusinterview.

HOCKEY Coffs Coast

coff coast hockey

with Rick Fischer and Jonathan Williams

SEASON WRAP UP FOR JUNIORS AND MASTERS

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hat is Hockey Coffs Coast, and how can people get involved? Hockey Coffs Coast is one of Northern NSW's premier sporting organisations. We're Hockey's home for the Coffs Coast region, encompassing the Councils of Coffs Harbour City, Bellingen Shire and Nambucca Shire. Our members come from as far as Woolgoolga and Corindi in the north, to Urunga, Nambucca Heads and Macksville in the south and to Dorrigo, Coramba and Nana Glen in the west. What have been some of the highlights for Hockey Coffs Coast over this season? The overwhelming highlight has been the growth in the number of junior players taking up the sport - particularly in the U7 and U10 age groups. We’ve also seen an increase in the number of junior representative teams travelling to state championships, which really helps put Coffs hockey on the map. Can you tell us more about the premier Division 1 comps and the representative and academy programs? The "Premier" divisions are basically A-Grade men and A-Grade women. These are the best senior players in our area, and the hockey is fast and competitive. Hockey Coffs Coast has developed an academy-style program where talented athletes are selected to take part in high-intensity training sessions. The end result is a higher standard of hockey, an increase in local representative teams, and ultimately the selection of players into state teams. Are there competitions for people who would prefer to play socially? Hockey Coffs Coast offers a summer "twilight" competition, which is a perfect 12 Coffs Coast focus

introduction to hockey in a social atmosphere. Twilight hockey is 8-a-side "half field", with push-passing only. It’s also a great way for existing players to sharpen their skills and keep fit during the off-season. The other option is indoor hockey! It’s played out at the SCU basketball stadium and is a fast and furious brand of the game. What age groups and competitions do the juniors play in? At a local level we start with "minkey hockey". It’s for kids age 4+ to help them learn the basics of hockey. Games start for the U7 age group and progress through U10s, U13s, U16s and then seniors. In terms of representative hockey, there’s a number of age-based carnivals, and they start with the U11 Kim Small Shield (girls) and York Cup (boys) in Tamworth. The Coffs boys played extremely well and won the York Cup B-Division this year. The next age group up is the U13s, where Coffs were again successful in winning the state championship in their division. State championships follow in U15s, U18s and then into opens. Can you tell us about the junior members who have made successful teams this year? We’ve had four players excel at representative level and gain selection into New South Wales squads. Squads consist of 45 players, who enter an intensive training camp to gain further selection to represent New South Wales at the Australian National hockey titles. Hayley Fischer has been selected in the under 15 squad. Hayley will travel to Maitland in December for a training camp and then Newcastle in February to gain selection for the under 15s New South Wales team. Breah Fischer has been selected in the U13 girls' state team to play at the national championships in Perth. Breah has also been

The overwhelming highlight has been the growth in

the number of junior

Hobart. What was this selected in the New South players taking up the for, and how did it go? Wales school team to play sport - particularly in the U7 The Coffs Coast had in Adelaide in December and U10 age groups. 15 representatives (across at the Pacific Games. multiple age groups) There will be numerous compete at the national international teams also championships in Hobart playing at this carnival. recently. The competition ran over three weeks, Josh Perry recently gained selection in the and during this time there’s plenty of hockey New South Wales PSSA boys’ team after an action and sight-seeing. Several Coffs players outstanding state tournament. Josh is generally brought home medals, including gold, silver and a goalkeeper but opted to play on the field this bronze. year - good choice, Josh! Are there any standouts from the Masters Aston Jackwitz also gained selection reps this year? into the New South Wales Squad to trial in Keith Jervis is the standout. He was selected Newcastle, but unfortunately missed out on to represent Australia in the O65 age group - a selection to the New South Wales team. We’ve fantastic result. Another highlight for Coffs Coast also had Jamin Govan, Kaemon Smith, Adam was the selection of father and son combination Fuller, Levi Fischer, Steele Jackwitz, Sumara Grahame and Adam Ellison. Adam represented McLaughlin, Dylan Nicol, and Ella-Ruth Whitelaw NSW in the O45 competition, with Grahame selected in various regional representative teams. representing the ACT in the O70 age group. It’s Who are the standouts from the group in a wonderful achievement and a great example of between juniors and Masters? the family nature of our sport. The standout player is Justin Alford, who How do the Masters work with the juniors regularly represents NSW Country and Australian during the hockey season? Country in the open age group. We’ve also got A lot of our Masters' players are coaches, guys like Kieran Marshall, Chris Shipman and managers or committee members at their local Aidan Neaves, who’ve all played representative clubs. They spend a lot of time working with hockey at a very high level. In the women’s junior players throughout the regular season, competition we’ve got Talissa Alford, Emma helping improve their skill base and knowledge Osland, Hayley Fischer and Sophie Watt - all of the game. highly talented players. How do the juniors and Masters usually What age groups and competitions do the spend their time in between seasons? Masters play in? We’re lucky enough to live in a great part of The Masters groups start at O35 and the world. Some go fishing, others hit the beach progresses through O40s, O45s, O50s, O55s, and some hang up their hockey sticks altogether. O60s, O65s, O70s and even O75. There are For those who are mad about hockey, there’s state-based competitions (where the Coffs Coast playing, coaching and umpiring for indoor and is represented) and it’s from these carnivals that twilight! the NSW teams are selected. Thanks guys. Some Masters have recently made a trip to

Coffs Coast focus 13

focusinterview.

Eloise Lydford is a local tattoo artist at Samsara Tattoo Studio. We talk to her about the industry and how it’s evolved here on the Coffs Coast, her artwork and what inspires her, and what sparked her to offer free day sessions to people with scars from trauma.

Eloise

Lydford Tattoo Artist

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i Eloise. Tell us a little about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to the Coffs Coast when I was seven, and grew up around Urunga and Bellingen. I then moved into Coffs after I finished school and have been living on and off between here and overseas adventures ever since. What does a typical day hold for a Coffs Coast tattoo artist? When I get to work, I usually hit the ground running, straight into introducing myself to my client, going over their custom design and making sure it’s perfect for them. Then the rest of the day is filled with lots of laughter and storytelling between myself and the rest of the team at Samsara, while we all tattoo away. Once I'm finished for the day, I usually go home for dinner and then spend a few hours a night drawing my next day’s designs. All of the tattoos I do are custom pieces as standard, which means a lot of extra work, but it's definitely worth it. How long have you been tattooing for? On and off for seven years, but I just reached a stage where my thirst for tattooing became hard to ignore, and I went full-time three years ago. What inspires you as an artist? Two major things. The first one is adventure. If I were to lay out my favourite artworks, they would be the pieces I did on the many flights I've taken between here and New Zealand, or where I've been hanging in my hammock mid 14 Coffs Coast focus

I knew instantly that transforming her scars from reminding her of a traumatic time in her life, to bringing

joy every time she saw You also specialise in hike in the mountains, her beautiful tattoo and donate your time or where I've sat alone was worth more than offering free tattoo in a café all day drinking any money I could transformations. Can tea and smashing out a make in a day. you talk further to us watercolour painting in a about this? town I've never been to I am currently running before. a program where I offer a The second is definitely free day session to clients with scars from traumy colleagues at Samsara Tattoo Studio. They ma - not limited to, but mainly scars from self are like family to me. I never thought in this harm. It started last year when I was approached industry I could find a whole studio of artists as by a young girl looking to get a quote to cover talented, nurturing and fun as they are. Every her forearms. I just thought, you know what? day I'm inspired to grow and challenge myself, Let's do this without getting money involved. I and there is never a dull moment. I don't think knew instantly that transforming her scars from I've ever laughed as much in my life as I do at reminding her of a traumatic time in her life, to work. bringing joy every time she saw her beautiful How would you best explain the type of tattoo was worth more than any money I could work you do? make in a day. Essentially, I've been trained as a “Jack of all The program has created an overwhelming trades”, but my favourite genres to tattoo are response. I never anticipated how many people black and grey realism, and watercolour pieces. from all ages and all walks of life were in need. I'm an animal lover, so I love doing animal I'm definitely not the first artist to offer this; portraits, and I love tattooing eyes. Generally there are a few in Australia now and overseas, though, I love that each client is completely all doing amazing work. And while I can see it's different and I get to change up what I'm doing making a difference in a lot of people's lives, on a daily basis. I never began to imagine how much it would Is there any advice for people looking to change me as a person. I've definitely gotten get a tattoo? just as much out of being a part of this as my The main thing I can say is do your research clients have. and be patient. Look for artists who have done How has the industry changed on the Coffs good quality work similar to the style you are afCoast since becoming a tattoo artist? ter. Try to check out their healed work too. And The biggest thing I can notice is how differalso, don't be scared to go and meet your artist before you decide. You're going to be spending ently I've been treated as a girl from the start of a lot of time in their personal space, so make my career to now. I remember in my third year, sure it's someone you feel relaxed with. I was working up north and one of the most

common things I heard from people coming by the shop was, “OMG, that's a girl tattooing in there”. I've been told that my place is behind the mop, not a tattoo machine. I've been told that the only way for me to be successful is to try and sell my “look”. Now I work in a studio where my boss is a talented and strong female artist, and out of my five colleagues, four of us are girls. I feel like for the first time in my life, I work in an environment where clients measure us on our attitudes and achievements, rather than what gender we are. What's the best part of your job? I always say to people, if I wasn't allowed to talk to my clients during our tattoo sessions, I would find a new career. Making beautiful artworks in skin for a living is pretty great, but the best part is definitely hearing all the amazing stories my clients have to share. Sometimes I think I'll have a client all figured out, and then they'll share a story with me that will blow me away. It's so refreshing to be reminded on a daily basis that you should never judge a book by its cover. Thanks Eloise.

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McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Ph 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au DL7571 *The collection and delivery service in the Coffs Harbour area is complimentary for BMW vehicles only. Prior bookings are essential. McGuigan BMW reserves the right to withdraw or refuse this service at any time.

THE ALL NEW BMW X3. ARRIVING NOVEMBER 2017. The most accomplished BMW X3 is coming soon. With class leading technology, stunning performance and luxury at the highest level, the all new BMW X3 is set to rewrite the rules of desire and versatility. Register your interest at www2.bmw.com.au/x3/mcguiganbmw.html to learn more.

McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Ph 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au DL7571 Coffs Coast focus 15

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

D E C E M B E R

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Dark Arts Murder Mystery Night

Coffs Jetty Family Carnival Family friendly carnival with rides, games and food located in the jetty area. Operational from 6:30pm daily until late ... Weather permitting. When 18th December until 20th January. Where Jetty Foreshores. Time 6:30pm until late. More Info Phone 0404 739 413 / marchsamusements@yahoo.com.au

So, you’ve decided to take part in our Murder Mystery ... What now? Each of you will receive ahead of time (via email) an outline of your character. Three course dinner included in ticket price - gluten free and vegan options. When Thursday, 23rd November. Time 6:30pm - 10pm. Cost $65 per person. Bookings www.stickytickets.com.au

Moonee Food Truck Festival

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Bring the kids along to see Santa. We will have food trucks, food stalls, craft beer, wine, market stalls, live music, Christmas carols and the night will finish off with The Australian Eagles Show. When Saturday 9th December. Where Moonee Beach Tavern. Time 4pm until 9pm. Cost FREE. More information Phone 6653 6199 / enquiries@mooneebeachtavern.com.au

23 Violet Vibes Music Festival Grafton’s very first all ages music festival. Jump on to the website for the full line up. When Saturday, December 23rd. Where Grafton Race Course. Cost $49.99 + bf Tickets www.violetvibesmusicfestival.com

The Jetty Food & Wine Festival

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For the first time ever, the Jetty Foreshore will host a Food and Wine Festival for all ages. Get in quick though, because tickets are selling fast. When Saturday 25th November. Where Jetty Foreshore, Coffs Harbour. Time 12pm - 9pm. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

What Women Want Jewellers Michaela, Nicholas, Sally and Cindy invite you to our Grand Opening Day. When Thursday 30th November. Where Shop 3, 108 Harbour Drive. Time 9am to 8pm.

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2017 Coffs Coast Carols by Candlelight

Coffs Coast Carols is a favourite amongst the community, and we are expecting to see even larger crowds embrace the festive spirit at this year’s event. The fun-filled evening will feature local performers, singing and dancing, a visit from Santa, all capped off with a grand finale fireworks display. When Saturday 16th December. Where Brelsford Park. Time 6:30pm until 9pm. Cost FREE. More information Phone 6648 4954 / ebonie.phelps@chcc.nsw.gov.au

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Pantaenius Newport to Coffs Coast Yacht Race

This will mark the 37th running of the Coffs Harbour race, and in its new format it will be named the "Pantaenius Newport to Coffs Coast Yacht Race". When 28th and 29th December. Where Coffs Harbour Yacht Club. More info Phone (02) 9998 5503 / rob@royalmotor.com.au

Two Tails Wines, Opal Cove and The Cheesemaking Workshop joined forces for the first time to showcase the Coffs Coast and all it has to offer at the 2017 Wine Heroes event in Sydney.

T

he event was a showcase of boutique wineries across the region, whilst also highlighting what visitors to the area can expect to find when they visit ... FOCUS had a chat with Maddi from Two Tails Wines, to find out more about the event ... Wine Heroes sounds exciting; what is it all about? Wine Heroes is an inaugural event held in Sydney as a unique cellar door experience for three days. As Sydney’s newest wine show, the event saw local and national wine makers showcasing the fruits of their labour, with unlimited wine tastings. Where was the event held, and who was involved? The event was held in one of Sydney's newest event sites, the Cutaway at Barangaroo - it’s an international event site. Wineries that joined in the event included:

Tempus Two Hunter Valley, Politini Wines King Valley, Summer Hill Road ACT, Taylor Wines Clare Valley, Kiss O Fire Hunter Valley, Eden Valley Barossa SA, Two ELK Cider Sweden, Mr Black Spirits ... just to name a few producers of fine wine. How many people attended the event? The event was held over three days, 27th, 28th and 29th October. Each session was four hours, allowing people to enjoy the tastings and the food offerings typical to a cellar door experience. The event attracted over 33,000 people over the three days. Were their celebrity guests attending? The event master classes were held, and the special guests were Tyson Stelzer, Jeremy Oliver, Karen Martini, and the VIP tent was sponsored by Riedel. What was the main purpose of the event? This event was primarily to promote the best

local growers and their produce. For us, it was to promote the Coffs Coast as an enjoyable holiday experience, showcasing the best of the local regional produce. Tell us about the team that represented Coffs Harbour … We had a great response from the business operators to promote the region, from Opal Cove, Coffs Harbour City Council, The Cheesemaking Workshop, Wayward Trails, Dolphin Marine Magic, Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours and Culture Tours, The Big Banana, A1 Tours and Velvets Restaurant, as a where to go coastal tourist destination on the lovely NSW North Coast . It was a great opportunity for us to promote the Coffs Coast as a unique tourist destination; people were amazed that Coffs Harbour had so much to offer. What is it like to be part of such a massive

event? It was fantastic to be involved in showcasing the region and all it has to offer. A lot of organisation went into planning this event and to cater for the volume of people that attended the expo. What was your favourite part about being involved? Our favourite part of the event was meeting people from all over the world who attended. It was overwhelming to speak with those who had previously holidayed in Coffs and those that are now booking their next holiday to the region and having more knowledge on what is on offer in the area. We gained a number of bookings and enquiries from those who attended and look forward to welcoming these visitors to the region in the coming months, which was a great success for the area. Thanks Maddi.

Coffs Coast focus 17

focusinterview.

Alyssa E VA N S

P H O T O G R A P H E R

Photographer Alyssa Evans, of Lyss And Her Camera, grew up with a camera never far away and is now known for her beautiful, natural light, storytelling images. She specialises in (but is certainly not limited to) weddings and families. Alyssa tells us what it means to be a part of her clients' lives at those special times, capturing their most important memories for them, and how that gives her such a strong connection with her local community.

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i Alyssa. Tell us a little about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I grew up out at Mullaway, moved away for uni and travel and returned here about eight years ago. I now have a family and am well and truly settled in Emerald Beach. What's your “back story” behind the lens … What inspired you to first pick up a camera? To be honest, I’m not sure! My mum always had SLRs and lenses and camera bags and photography books etc. around the house. I loved to play with them whenever I got the chance. I can’t remember a time that I didn’t have a camera of my own of some sort. I have a memory from when I was a little kid, maybe seven or eight, where I was experimenting with focusing my eyes on and through a screen and noticing depth of field and points of focus and just "getting" it. I loved the darkroom in high school; my aunt was a family portrait photographer at the Gold Coast, and I spent a 18 Coffs Coast focus

lot of time with her as a teenager. I then went convince people that everything is beautiful off to uni eager to learn all the technical stuff. just the way it is, if they just let me show them At that time there was a Bach. of Photography through my eyes. at James Cook Uni, and it was all film and Where do you draw your inspiration from? darkroom and very Life, relationships, strict! I think it really nature and LIGHT. Life is set me up to be trained beautiful! Eye contact, well and follow the physical connections, rules. Then I went in layers in an image and the I have a memory from when I the complete opposite light catching in leaves, was a little kid, maybe seven direction and did a hair and of course, the or eight, where I was Bach. of Visual Art at beautiful locations we are experimenting with Curtin University, where surrounded by in this area. focusing my eyes on and there were no rules and We are very lucky! through a screen and rules were for breaking! You are known for your noticing depth of field I guess I landed here in wedding photography; and points of focus and just the middle of the two what are some of your ‘getting’ it. worlds. other favourite things How would you best to capture? describe your style of When asked, I reply, work? “Weddings and Families”; however, perhaps I like to think of it as story-telling. I’m like all regional photographers I truly end up constantly working hard to move people doing a bit of everything! My heart belongs towards natural. It can sometimes be hard to to story-telling of families and wedding days.

I have lately noticed a new niche coming in of creating beautiful content for small business to use in their social media presence, which I’m really loving and hope to do more of. For example, a local (totally bodacious) café had me come in and just spend the morning hanging out while they did their thing on a typical day. They trusted me 100% and just let me do my thing, and I think we were both really happy with the outcome. I called it a “Café Story”. I’ve created content for a few other local small businesses and enjoy seeing it gradually coming through on their Instagram accounts. What are some of the most memorable photos you have taken on the Coffs Coast and why? My passion and true satisfaction comes from

focusinterview.

It can sometimes be hard to convince people that everything is beautiful just the way it is, if they just let me show them through my eyes.

doing work for Heartfelt (please look it up! www.heartfelt.org.au). Being able to create beautiful images for a family in the short time they have with their baby is truly the most rewarding work I have ever done in my life. I hope that in future all families are given the opportunity to access this charity in their darkest hour. I often develop a special relationship with my repeat clients and end up photographing them from before their wedding through to when they have had children and are in the midst of chaotic family life! Every new chapter in their lives that I get to be a small part of is

I cringe when I hear the saying 'Have the job you

memorable and really stressful. The digital age love and never work a special; I feel honoured, means I can be confident day in your life'... I love and it makes me feel and sure that I can deliver my job; however, whoever very connected to the the images to the client coined that quote was community. that they expect. It also obviously never very busy! I Coming from a means I can sleep at night! certainly work every day. film background, I really love seeing things how have you seen heading towards natural photography change and documentary style. through the years? The first photography And where do you see it heading? that ever really grabbed me was the work Well! I actually shot my first wedding on film of Magnum photographers, and for a time I and after vowed that I would never ever be a wanted to be a journalist. Film will always be wedding photographer, as it was just way too The Magic, but digital frees us up to take more risks photographically while being less risky as a business owner, I suppose. What personal projects have you been working on lately? Unfortunately there is absolutely no time for that in my life! Sad but true. Perhaps that is typical 30s family/small business life though? I recently went on a family trip, that of course included a laptop and editing, but I took some personal photographs on my "real camera" while we were there (instead of my usual lazy iPhone snaps) ... That’s about as close as I get these days! What advice would you give to photographers who are starting out? Your time is worth as much as anyone else's! Photography can be deceptive …

People only see the time when you are out shooting, smiling and interacting, but most of a photographer's time is spent doing much less glamorous work. I think as a creative and perhaps a dream job for many it is often forgotten that it is still, at the end of the day, work. I cringe when I hear the saying “have the job you love and never work a day in your life”... I love my job; however, whoever coined that quote was obviously never very busy! I certainly work every day. When you’re not shooting, what are you doing in your spare time? Definitely no spare time available at the moment ... But I have fond memories of earlier times in my life when I could read a book or spend lazy days at the beach surfing and looking for cowrie shells! I often daydream about having enough time to do regular mum things like cooking good family food and getting my crazy messy house in order! I get The Mummy Guilts a lot - always having to push everything else aside for work. I try to have a two week holiday in winter, and that is my happy place for sure. Where can people see more of your work? Instagram, Facebook and lyssandhercamera.com Thank you! Thanks Alyssa.

Coffs Coast focus 19

COFFS COAST COMMUNIT Y COLLEGE

COFFS COAST ALESCO SCHOOL

Coffs Coast Community College is proud to offer a range of education and training programs at many levels.

Coffs Coast Alesco School is now accepting enrolments for 2018 for Years 9 and 10.

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e are dedicated to the provision of relevant, affordable and accessible lifelong learning opportunities that contribute to the development and enrichment of the Coast Coast Region.

Located in the middle of the Coffs CBD, the college is ideally located to cater for a range of students. We offer a range of accredited vocational education and training (VET) qualifications in such areas as Ages Care, Individual and Disability Support, Business, Information Technology and Foundation Skills. Enrolments are now being taken for Certificate III in Individual Support for 2018. We also offer specific programs providing support to disadvantaged groups such as refugees and students with language and literacy barriers. Coffs Coast Community College is a not for profit, registered training organisation, run by a board of management from across the community. We welcome the support of volunteers to assist us in delivering a range of programs and activities.

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hat students would you encourage to enrol for 2018? If you are interested in learning in an innovative environment that provides small classes taught by passionate and skilled teachers who really care about individual students, then come and talk to us about a place in our school.

Coffs Coast Alesco School was established in Jan 2017 to provide an alternative choice of learning and education for students in Years 9 and 10. The school is a registered and accredited independent school offering an innovative program of teaching and learning to students who may not have found success in the traditional school environment. There is a strong commitment to student wellbeing across the school, with specialist staff available to provide a range of support services. The Alesco model was developed over a decade ago and now operates in 10 regional communities in NSW. What are students and parents saying about Alesco School? In 2017, over 50 students participated in our program and the feedback from students has been very positive. Comments include: “Alesco creates an environment where we can actually learn” - “Everyone is so accepting” - ”We get respect” - “I love it”... All prospective students will participate in an interview to determine their suitability for the program.

E V I T A E R C Klaustel. 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. We give expert advice and offer an efficient, personalised and prompt service with ongoing support; and remember, at Klaustel the people who sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it. Locals looking after locals.

Supplying excellent quality at great prices, our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems means there is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment plans. Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer interest free payment plans if you prefer. 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.

Our Christmas Message

N O I S I V

We would like to wish all of our clients, family and friends a happy and safe Christmas and prosperous New Year. Please note that our office will be closed from 21 December 2017 and reopens 8 January 2018. The festive season is traditionally a time to spend with family and loved ones. It is also a time to reflect on the year that has gone and focus on your plans for the New Year.

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I find that many people think about their financial situation over the holiday period and how they can do things differently or improve their situation in the year ahead. New Year’s Resolution - complete a budget. Set a realistic savings goal, such as salary sacrifice into super or save for a rainy day or a holiday. Our New Team Member. We also welcome and introduce Samantha Liddell to our team. Samantha is our “concierge” and happy to assist with your enquiries. If you call into our office, you will see her smiling face at reception. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

X A M T E ME E R U S O P EX R BRAND’S REVEAL YOU WERS SUPER PO DESIGN, WEB

YOUR CALL US TO DISCUNSESEDS u AND MARKETING sasocreative.com.a

6658 7666

WINNER 2016

WINNER 2016

WINNER 2015

Coffs Coast focus 21

Grilled Snapper with caper, cherry tomatoes and garlic butter with parmesan and rocket salad from Yachtie Restaurant.

Berry Bliss, charlotte with a light coconut meringue, crunchy crumble, vanilla cream and ruby jaffa.

Blackboard special: oven baked Atlantic Salmon served on beetroot puree and a crispy cos, cherry tomato, beetroot and grilled haloumi salad drizzled with balsamic dressing and hollandaise sauce.

Velvets Restaurant Located in the heart of the Orara Valley, Nana Glen. Velvets Restaurant at Two Tails Wines has something for everyone.

fHerb & pinenut crusted Barramundi fillet with steamed brocolini and roast capsicum sauce.

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 Our new menu selections have been flying out the door, with something for everyone’s tastebuds - from the usual classics such as the chicken schnitzel with gravy to our Thai coconut fish of the day meal or balsamic vegetable stack. We pride ourselves on sourcing fresh and local produce to complement our menu.

café o.p 81

the pier hotel

This month in the bistro weAthave live entertainment for your dining enjoyment the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new HEAD CHEF on Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm 9pm; come check it out. “Cellar Lounge”.

Turmeric latte - cold pressed juice of turmeric root with ginger and a dash of honey and some Chai spices. The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise your taste buds and also make you feel on top of the world.

KANELLA ORMSBY

$10 weekday lunch specials arewelcome a big hit,you with to feast choose from We to four comeselections down and your eyes on Coffs and includes a free middy of Little Creatures pale ale! Weekly Harbour’s most historic hotel. With blackboard our winter menu about to finish specials, à la carte menu, bar kids’ menu, $10 lunch menu up menu, and summer approaching quickly, weand will$12.50 be kicking off our new night specials, $15 steak and eggshortly. Thursdays bestWittenberg, for last ... $15 menu Our and chef,the Blake is very excited with all the Sunday roasts. What moregreat couldproduce you ask he for? gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make COAST HOTEL, 2 MOONEEyour ST, COFFS HARBOUR way down and have 6652 3007 WWW.COASTHOTEL.COM.AU the Pier Hotel.

a look at the new and upcoming changes to

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg.

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY LUNCH 12:00 - 2:30PM, DINNER 5:30 -for 9PM. We are open seven days a week lunch and dinner; to make a SUNDAY TO THURSDAY LUNCH 12:00 - 2:30PM, DINNER 5:30 - 8:30PM. reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward

Owne Matt a

FROM 11AM ‘TIL 4:30PM.

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

to seeing you.

Delicious platters available now your Christmas function. CnrforHarbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222

Turmeric is widely known for its healing and has a compound called HEAD CHEF Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people withNICOLE all sortsHATCH of disease states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer. Also, Curcumin is protective for heart, the liver,GLEN the skin and the brain by 963the ORARA WAY, NANA 6654 3633inflammation. Ginger is also known for quenching free radicals and reducing WWW.TWOTAILSWINE.COM.AU 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. WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY

Crispy Skin Salmon served with sweet potato chips Coffs Harbour 81 Ocean Parade, and snow peas, drizzled with6652 béarnaise sauce. 9011

lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection to choose from and you can have these eat in or takeaway. Come in and check out our takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS If you’re looking for the best value in Coffs Harbour, look no further than Top off your next celebration with our delectable function platter menu. $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily. the Plantation Hotel … The team at the Plantation pride themselves on Catering for small to large gatherings, our platters include a tempting array offering outstanding service alongside quality food at an affordable price, of treats: satay chicken skewers, spicy chicken wings, chili pork belly bites, that will keep you coming back time and time again. handmade spring rolls, minted lamb skewers, garlic prawn skewers and samosas, just to name a few! Give our friendly staff a call and book your Christmas party, Pop in and try something off our brand new à la carte menu, with a tasty birthday party or Buck’s/Hen’s nights NOW at the famous Hoey Moey! selection of burgers, pastas, and premium grade steaks, plus all service and product: a finely Wesalads pride ourselves on bringing a personalised HEAD CHEF HEAD CHEF your pub favourites, cooked using fresh local produce and plated withlikes theit, gourmet Complete your night with an icy beverage in the best beer garden on the coast, tuned espresso coffee just how the customer café food DAVID NEWICK. GUS PREZIOSO. personal touches of headmade chef Dave Beachside Bistro, kids’ room, drive-thru bottle shop and TAB and Keno facilities. from Newick. scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience to all who walk through the café door.Incredible Value! The Plantation Hotel … Delicious Food, Friendly Service, Sign up for a Members Card today for fantastic daily bistro, bar and bottle shop

The Hoey Moey

Plantation Hotel

mr. good beans

specials. Visit our site or email bistro@hoeymoey.com.au to make a booking. Great Food, Live Music, Good Times. 84 OCEAN PARADE, COFFS HARBOUR 6652 3833 WWW.HOEYMOEY.COM.AU 7 DAYS. MON - THURS & SUN: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5:30 - 8:30PM. FRI - SAT: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5.30 - 9PM.

Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring, made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives 88 GRAFTON STREET, COFFS andHARBOUR. semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet 6652 3855 potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. WWW.PLANTATIONHOTEL.COM.AU Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring Head Chef light,12PM yet very satisfying. 7 DAYS. MON - THURS & SUN: - 2:30PM; 5:30 - 8:30PM. David Ricketts.

FRI - SAT: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5.30 - 9PM.

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

Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans Coffs Coast focus 23

Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au

Head Kristy

Crispy duck leg, grilled peaches, mint and rocket, pearl barley, pickled onion, radicchio and shaved parmesan

A simple guide to giving. It seems more and more of us have the urge to create a simpler life to enjoy the good feelings we imagine go along with it ... A life that isn’t constant busy-ness, but allows time for contemplation, creation and connection.

Toormina Hotel

Welcome to the new and improved Toormina Hotel - your ultimate familyfriendly destination. Try our delicious new summer menu, available from 11am until 9pm daily, with delicious pub classics and gourmet pizzas, as well as great specials every day. One of our favourites this summer is the sensational new crispy duck leg, cooked fresh to order and served on a salad of grilled peaches, mint and rocket, pearl barley, pickled onion, radicchio and finished with a touch of shaved parmesan.

HEAD CHEF ISTVAN KATONA

We look forward to seeing you at the Toormi! Your family-friendly destination on the Coffs Coast!

13 MINORCA PLACE, TOORMINA 6653 1039 MON - SAT 10AM - 12AM, SUNDAY 10AM - 10PM.

Crafty Hop Nation, The Punch, Mango Gose

Fresh & icy cold on the taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this cracking little summer gose from award winning craft brewers, Hop Nation in Vic. With it’s beautiful mango & passionfruit aroma, refreshing citrus acidity & a deliciously zingy tart finish, this golden hazy german style gem was perfectly crafted for the sun, sand & saltwater!!

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A life where we have less, but everything is purposeful or meaningful. A life where we choose gifts carefully and there is greater joy in giving and receiving. Where we can enjoy special occasions with beautiful food and each other’s company. Maybe we can find those good feelings if we can just make some better choices. Spending time instead of money, and buying less but buying better. Buying handmade, local and ethical products to support people, communities and the planet. Hand made products feel different. Buying handmade celebrates people,

not machines. It’s about the skill of each maker and the magic of that individual’s imagination. Now, that’s something to treasure. Goods that are ethically produced, made by people who are paid a fair wage and help to protect our natural resources all feel good to get and good to give. Lets not forget food. The best rule of thumb is that if it’s simple, fresh and local, it’s bound to be lovely! Choose to keep it real and live the simple life; leave space for what really matters. The Happy Frog and Harbourside Markets offer you hand made, local and ethical products to see you through the holiday season. We are taking orders now for The Happy Frog salad catering trays. Order yours for Christmas. Large trays only $45 (feeds 10 people).

Coffs Coast focus 25

focusinterview.

d r a w y wTaR A I L S

The team at Wayward Trails believe the Coffs Coast has some of Australia’s finest cafés, boutique bars, seafood and dining experiences. We ask them about some of the highlights from the tours and tips on where to eat and drink in the region.

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i Deb. What is Wayward Trails? Wayward Trails is a local food, produce and beverage tour showcasing the best the Coffs Harbour region has to offer. We use our local knowledge to give you the best bang for your buck, whilst focusing on fresh produce, quality venues and an awesome experience. Simply put, our trails are like a wine tour … on steroids! What’s your relationship with the Coffs Coast? The Coffs Coast has always been a place close to our hearts. We lived in Coffs for many years and got to experience all its wonders. When we decided to expand our business from Armidale, it was a natural progression to head down the hill. We believe that Coffs is on the cusp of something very exciting when it comes to food and beverage and frankly, we wanted to get in on the ground level. Just have a look around; Coffs is a natural food bowl with more natural assets than you can poke a stick at. How long has Wayward Trails been servicing the Coffs Coast? Basically, we are brand spanking new. Wayward Trails has been operating out of Armidale for a couple of years now and on the back of our incredible success up here, we have decided to expand into Coffs Harbour and showcase through our tours the best food and beverage Coffs and Bello has to offer. You offer both a day and twilight trail with Wayward Trails. What are the differences between the two? Our day trails start at 9:30am and finish at approximately 3:30pm. We travel to Bellingen 26 Coffs Coast focus

and back for the day, eating and drinking all the way. It is a lovely day out, with a lot of behind the scenes food experiences. Our Twilight tours (starting at 1:30pm) are a little more focused on the beverage side of things, showcasing our wonderful wineries. Throw in some Dark Arts cocktails, ciders We use our local knowledge and dinner, and you to give you the best get a pretty awesome bang for your buck, afternoon out with whilst focusing on very much a festive fresh produce, quality atmosphere. venues and an awesome Tell us a little about experience. Arts! Seriously, the place just some of the highoozes with atmosphere, and lights we can expect the coffee is extraordinary! from the tour? How did you decide on Where to start … the places you include on the tour? Personally, I love the behind the scenes tour of Our “Dream Team”, as we call it, are the the Fisherman’s Co-op. We feel very privileged venues and businesses we showcase on our to have this access and are extremely proud of trails. Aptly named by us, as they are all a dream the fact that Coffs Harbour has some of the to work with and produce the best the region best and freshest seafood in the whole of the has to offer. We were not interested in having a country. venue on the trail just because it fitted in with a The sourdough and fruit loaf at Hearthfire is schedule or location. We wanted the best of the literally to die for! As previously mentioned, our best, and we truly believe that is what we have wineries are pretty amazing (Two Tails and Raachieved. leigh Winery) and I have a bit of a thing for craft Another criteria was a cellar door that gave beer and cider, so for me a visit to the Bellingen our customers some insight as to why that Brewing Co., Mother’s Milk and Element Bar are particular product is the best of the best - the an absolute must. What’s wine without cheese, makings of that product, the process and the or should I say, the cheesemaking workshop? ingredients used. I believe that people are The thing I love about our tours is that we truly starting to realise that big is not always take visitors and locals alike to the secret spots better. They do not want the same old tasteless … down the dark alleys and back lanes, to pre-packaged stuff; they are moving towards these spectacular places you never even knew flavour and buying local produce and the closer existed. For this, how can you go past Dark

the paddock is to the plate, the better the flavour and quality is going to be. We believe people want to experience food and beverage, not just consume it. Who can book with Wayward Tours? As the trail features a fair bit of beer, spirit and wine tasting, I am afraid it is for the adults only. We pride ourselves on flexibility, which means that our trails can cater from group sizes of just two people to however many you would like (we have no maximum limit). How the Trails work is that we operate from Wednesday to Sunday each week, and you just book in on a date that suits you. We specialise in group bookings and are a great option for office work parties, bachelor/ ette parties, birthdays and celebrations of all kinds. We are also a fantastic option for our smaller groups, singles and couples wanting to meet other like-minded people. Thanks Deb.

We’re doing things a little differently soon...

at the Jetty Memorial Theatre

2018

Season Program Out Dec 8

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

are now open for the Mid North Coast’s premier artistic showcase – NORTHERN EXPOSURE 5!

Upcoming shows Fri Dec 1 Elvis, American Legend Thu Dec 7 Madame (Cinematinee) Fri Dec 15 SWIFF 2018 Preview Gala Sat Dec 16 Menopause The Musical

Call for

ARTISTS

2018 Expressions of interest close: 1 February 2018 Exhibition: 14 July – 9 September 2018

Christmas Gift Cards now available jettytheatre.com/venue/gift-vouchers

jettymemorialtheatre

For more information visit www.glasshouse.org.au/ northernexposure2018

@jettytheatre

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

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence and Hay Streets Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Coffs Coast focus 27

focus coffee.

CAKE

Product Review

with Piccolo to go

Ecoffee cup is a new generation of reusable takeaway cup. Created with the world’s fastest growing, most sustainable crop - bamboo fibre (as well as corn starch and strengthening binder), Ecoffee Cup is BPA and phthalate free. It has a re-sealable no-drip lid, making it perfect to take with you everywhere you go. The whole product (cup, lid and sleeve) is dishwasher safe and should last you for years. Available in a wide range of fun, contemporary patterns - bright, vibrant colours or classic prints - there’s one to suit your style, wardrobe or mood. That’s why we think Ecoffee

ECOFFEE CUP

Cup packs just a little bit more style than its plastic, ceramic or stainless steel cousins. Piccolo to go are currently the only stockists in Australia and Coffs Harbour. They are embracing the cups with open arms. Piccolo to go are entering their 10th year of business, and they have finally found a reusable coffee cup they are happy to stock and sell. Conscious of the waste disposable cups present, Piccolo to go want to offer their customers an alternative: ”Piccolo to go have an exclusive offer - buy five coffees and get the sixth coffee FREE when you purchase your reusable Ecoffee Cup from us”.

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar Our delicious cakes and desserts are all made in house by our dedicated pastry chef, Gay. On any given day there is a selection of baked cheesecakes to choose from, as well as healthy carrot cake, decadent chocolate mud and gluten free orange and almond torte. This week she is making chocolate caramel tart with pistachios. Celebration cakes are

also made to order for in house parties, or to take home. Our favourite is lemon meringue cheesecake … It literally walks out the door!

23 SURF CLUB RD, COFFS HARBOUR (02) 6652 9870 WWW.SURFCLUBCOFFSHARBOUR.COM INFO@SURFCLUBCOFFSHARBOUR.COM

Roaster’s REVIEW. with Luke Floyd from Artisti Coffee Roasters

Artisti HQ, Unit 3-11 Craft Close, Toormina It’s buzz time in the coffee industry, as roasters are busy preparing for the largest coffee roasting competition in Australia, the Pentair Everpure Golden Bean. Roasters submit their beans to be judged in a blind tasting format in 10 different categories and various brew methods, from milk based, espresso, single origin and filter brews. Held in Port Macquarie over four days starting the 21st November, the winners in the categories and the overall champion will be announced at the gala themed party on the Saturday night. The Artisti team have been analysing every part of the process from green bean origins, roasting profiles and the perfect age for coffee to be 28 Coffs Coast focus

assessed, because it really is an art in roasting coffee. There are many variables, including external factors such as humidity, temperature, time of day, because as the industry says anyone can turn beans black! We wish all fellow roasters success in this fantastic industry event; we are truly blessed to have it on our doorstep, run by industry professionals. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30am - 3:30pm. Closed public holidays. UNIT 3-11 CRAFT CLOSE, TOORMINA (02) 6653 1182 WWW.ARTISTI.COM.AU

focus coffee.

Dish and Spoon.

Piccolo To Go. For people on the go - Piccolo To Go

now too, with our fantastic range of Ecoffee

espresso bar is conveniently located at

cups exclusive to Piccolo To Go. High quality,

the Bailey Centre Liberty Service Station

fab designs, biodegradable, reusable,

on the Pacific Highway, opposite the

organic bamboo cups - a great Christmas

Coffs Harbour Showground. Look out for

gift too! #stopthe100billion

the modified shipping container staffed with our professional baristas, ready to deliver the best coffee fresh to you! We offer two blends of DiBella coffee and fabulous iced coffee frappes to keep you cool this summer. Love your coffee? You can love the planet

THE BAILEY CENTRE 153-156 PACIFIC HIGHWAY, COFFS HARBOUR 0431 142 597 FACEBOOK.COM/PICCOLO.GO

“Coffee made perfect” - the slogan of Sensory Lab, our coffee supplier, resonates so deeply with the way we view and prepare coffee.

equally awesome coffee. Have you made us you favourite coffee haunt yet?

Come in and try the difference that specialty coffee, from farm to cup, can have on your coffee experience. Of course, it isn’t all about the coffee; we also offer a menu that calls back to fresh ingredients and old skool cooking techniques, to pair amazing food with

384A HARBOUR DR, COFFS HARBOUR 0477 600 640 FACEBOOK.COM/DISHANDSPOON

Excuse me? They can’t be RAW! CAKE

We are so please to be able to offer our customers with such a healthy treat that is left field but totally awesome, from The Raw Eatery in Sawtell. All the goodies are raw, gluten-free, dairyfree, vegan, and made with wholesome, natural foods in their raw state, that not only look amazing, but taste delectable. For the perfect, guilt free indulgence or everyday treat to satisfy those sweet cravings,

while being healthy for you at the same time. Made with the highest quality ingredients, to nourish and replenish your body with what it deserves; there is no compromise for the quality of ingredients used. Suitable for people of all ages, children, vegans, and those with allergies to dairy. Try for yourself - you won’t believe they are healthy! We dare you!

37 VERNON ST, COFFS HARBOUR, NSW 2540 PRE ORDER: 0434 700 910 WWW.ARTISTI.COM.AU

Coffs Coast focus 29

Dark Arts

MURDER M Y S T E R Y The BCU Jetty Food and Wine Festival is an initiative of local regions to produce an event that showcases the talent of the local area to the local people.

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e welcome all people to attend the event who value buying and tasting local produce, enjoying an abundance of wine tasting and relaxing while listening to the smooth sounds of musicians. Showcasing a handpicked collection of sought after vendors in the food and wine field, the BCU Jetty Food & Wine Festival is a fun way to spend a Saturday with the entire family. The festival kicks off on Saturday 25th November from 12pm until 9pm. Located at the brand new Jetty Foreshore; entertainment includes The

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Groove Robbers, Then Jolene, D'Boyzos, The Big Quarries + many more. We would like to thank our sponsors, BCU, Coffs Coast FOCUS, Coopers, Bailey Centre Liberty and Two Tails Wines. For more information, please head to our Facebook page. Tickets from www.stickytickets.com.au GA - DAY PASS - $15 + BF (booking fee) GA - DAY/NIGHT PASS - $20 +BF CHILDREN PASS - $5 + BF V.I.P PASS - SOLD OUT V.I.P TABLES - SOLD OUT

Someone is going to die at Dark Arts Coffee Academy on the 23rd of November, with a Dark Arts Murder Mystery Dinner. A lush three course meal and murder is included in the ticket price!

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et ready for a night of conspiracy, deceit, rumours and stacks of laughs as this role-playing evening unfolds. Participants will be emailed prior to the event with a brief on their character, so that they can get in the role, right down to getting dressed up on the night. This murder mystery is set in western times, so get those petticoats and cowboy boots ready. You will make discoveries about yourself and others as the night progresses and (of course) some one

will die … Participants will work to figure out “who done it”. Will you be the murderer? Will you die? Will you figure out who the murderer is? The suspense is killing me! The night is facilitated by an experienced Murder Mystery host. Tickets are $65, including dinner, and are available at www. stickytickets.com.au/60876 or by calling 0401 942 143 and booking over the phone. Dark Arts Coffee Academy is located on Cox Lane in Coffs Harbour.

Direct

Wholesale Services S I N C E

1 9 6 5

Direct Wholesale Services (DWS) is a local, family owned business that has been serving commercial customers and the general public in Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas since 1965. FOCUS caught up with the company owner, Barry Ford, to find out more …

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hat is your area of expertise? I’m from a business background, having been CFO of a number of family owned businesses in Australia and overseas I’d say my area of expertise is problem solving. I’ve many years’ experience solving day to day problems that occur in many businesses - and a strong desire to help our customers solve their problems. DWS has been around for many years. What are some of the things you have changed and improved? Yes, we’ve been operating in Coffs Harbour for over fifty years yet, disappointingly, there are still people who are unaware of what we offer or that we are even here. However, I think we’ve improved our exposure to the market in the almost five years we’ve owned the business. As part of our commitment to help our customers solve their problems, we’ve streamlined our processes to make dealing with us as easy and efficient as possible; we’ve increased our product range in response to customer feedback and we’ve established an online presence, so customers can deal with us at a time that best suits them. You have quite an extensive showroom; how does this help to improve the way people can learn about your services and products? The showroom is a definite plus for the business. The opportunity to be handson with products is very important for customers in assessing various options, and it enables our customer service staff to demonstrate the relative merits of particular products on site. What makes DWS different from

other companies in the local area? We like to think our willingness to help in any way we can and our friendly, positive approach. What is the best advice you can give to a prospective customer? Good question. I think it’s different for each customer, particularly if they’re new to business. Knowing exactly what you want and how many is a big help, but we offer so many different products and alternatives, it can be hard. A detailed explanation of what you want to achieve is helpful. Do you offer solutions for budgets of different sizes? Yes, we can help anyone who comes to us, no matter the size of their budget - from large customers such as hotels, motels and clubs, to someone with a home coffee machine who might want 25 takeaway cups, so they can walk out the door each morning with a cup of coffee in their hand. What services and products do you offer to businesses on the Coffs Coast? A large range of products to support almost anyone who operates a business in this region. Our Jacobs Douwe Egberts range of products includes five different coffee bean brands, Moccona instant coffee and Pickwick tea. We supply and install coffee machines, espresso and bean to cup, and grinders at a competitive price - and of course, all the coffee-making paraphernalia and accessories! We specialise in disposable packaging, wrapping and catering solutions, including tableware - tablecloths, napkins, cups, glasses, cutlery, plates, bowls and party accessories in a variety of materials, including enviro friendly materials, paper,

plastic, foil and foam. We have paper and plastic bags, re-usable, biodegradable and recyclable - a functional bag range including garbage and kitchen tidy bags. We have commercial and domestic cleaning products and equipment, washroom and allied health products including toilet rolls, hand towels, soaps and deodorisers. We supply Wild juices and mineral waters, Nippy’s flavoured UHT milk and Byron Bay Cookies. We now supply a wider range of hospitality equipment and general supplies, from refrigerators to uniforms. We provide regular, free delivery to all customers between Port Macquarie and Ballina, including Tamworth and Armidale. How important is it to shop and support local? It is important for the locals to support each other. Local businesses need the support of the customers, and the customers need the support of the businesses by providing a good range of products and services at fair prices. Tell us about your community involvement. I’m a student of the Japanese martial art Aikido and teach classes twice a week. I’m Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee of the CHCC and Treasurer of the Coffs Harbour Golf Club. We support Sherwood Cliffs Rehabilitation Centre with product from time to time. What are your plans for the future of DWS? We plan to keep growing the product base and the business with a focus on the Coffee Companions arm of the business, which deals particularly with coffee machine sales and maintenance. Thanks Barry. Coffs Coast focus 31

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

Dec.

FRIDAY 1ST DEC

FRIDAY 8TH DEC

SATURDAY 16TH DEC

SUNDAY 24TH DEC

Mick Bateman - Sawtell RSL Elvis! American Legend!The Elvis Concert Experience - Jetty Theatre The Refreshments - The Pier Hotel Benny Black Band + DJ Brown Sugar Hoey Moey Who Remembers The 80’s - C.ex Coffs Pink Zinc - Seaview Tavern DJ Brandon & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel Dean Sharkey - Element Bar

Doug Savage - Sawtell RSL First Ave - The Pier Hotel Miss Chief + DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey John Curtin - C.ex Coffs The Funk Thieves - Seaview Tavern DJ Rjay & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel Chris Rose - Element Bar

Troubadeurs - Sawtell RSL Menopause the Musical - Jetty Theatre Magic Mojo - The Pier Hotel Pink “Raise Your Glass” Tribute Show Moonee Tavern DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Atmosphere - Don’t Lock Up Your Granny Rock N Roll Show - C.ex Coffs At The Bar & DJ Chill - Coast Hotel Akova - Element Bar

Fat Picnic! + DJ Little J - Hoey Moey Dean Sharkey - Element Bar

SATURDAY 2ND Willy Wag Tail - Sawtell RSL Pink Zinc - The Pier Hotel Dj Bisho - Hoey Moey Rumours - The Fleetwood Mac Show C.ex Coffs Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern The Throwdowns & DJ Breno - Coast Hotel RagingOceans - Element Bar

SUNDAY 3RD DEC Quick Fix - Sawtell RSL Lisa Hunt & Forever Soul - Hoey Moey Peter Barry - Element Bar

MONDAY 4TH DEC Rebecca Lloyd - Sawtell RSL

WEDNESDAY 6TH DEC Shanteya & Jo - Element Bar

THURSDAY 7TH DEC Mick Bateman - Sawtell RSL Madame - Sawtell RSL Live Jazz - Element Bar

32 Coffs Coast focus

SATURDAY 9TH DEC Fabian - Sawtell RSL Top Shelf - The Pier Hotel The Australian Eagles Show + Carols By Candlelight - Moonee Tavern DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Duelling Pianos - C.ex Coffs DJ Bisho - Seaview Tavern Dazed & DJ Breno - Coast Hotel Owen Shannon - Element Bar Busby Marou - Coffs Hotel

SUNDAY 10TH DEC Push - Hoey Moey Aqwa - Element Bar

WEDNESDAY 13TH DEC Stone Age Man Solo - Element Bar

THURSDAY 14TH DEC Mick Bateman - Sawtell RSL Live Jazz - Element Bar

FRIDAY 15TH DEC Tim Pike - Sawtell RSL Scott DayVee - The Pier Hotel The Funk Thieves + DJ FMK - Hoey Moey Paul Dempsey - C.ex Coffs Thorazoo - C.ex Coffs DJ Bisho & DJ Chill - Coast Hotel Jaxon Pollard - Element Bar

SUNDAY 17TH DEC Mark & Alice - Sawtell RSL Uncle Jed! + Special Guests D’boyzos Hoey Moey Daryl James - Element Bar

WEDNESDAY 20TH DEC Tom Laan - Element Bar

THURSDAY 21ST DEC Mick Bateman - Sawtell RSL Live Jazz - Element Bar

FRIDAY 22ND DEC Mick Bateman - Sawtell RSL Whos Charlie - The Pier Hotel Hekyl & Jive + DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Conspiracy - C.ex Coffs Josh Matheson - Element Bar

SATURDAY 23RD DEC John Curtin - Sawtell RSL Lisa Hunt & Forever Soul - Moonee Tavern DJ Little J - Hoey Moey Shuffle Boys - C.ex Coffs DJ Flakey & DJ Chill - Coast Hotel Owen Shannon - Element Bar

TUESDAY 26TH DEC DJ Helmy + Electrik Lemonade! + DJ Bisho Hoey Moey

WEDNESDAY 27TH DEC Shanteya & Jo - Element Bar

THURSDAY 28TH DEC Mick Bateman - Sawtell RSL Live Jazz - Element Bar

FRIDAY 29TH DEC The Stunned Mullets - Sawtell RSL 2 Way Street - The Pier Hotel Charlie Band + DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Craig Stewart - C.ex Coffs Mason Rack Band - Seaview Tavern DJ Flakey & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel Craig Freeman - Element Bar

SATURDAY 30TH DEC Twist Tops - Sawtell RSL Matty Devitt Duo - The Pier Hotel Who’s Charlie - Moonee Tavern DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Long Gone Daddys - C.ex Coffs Frenzal Rhomb - Seaview Tavern Frogmouth & DJ Breno - Coast Hotel Benny Black - Element Bar

SUNDAY 31ST DEC Top Shelf - Sawtell RSL With Or Without U2 - C.ex Coffs Ebb n Flow - Hoey Moey Doubleshot & DJ Breno - Coast Hotel Peter Barry - Element Bar Owen Shannon - Element Bar

Coffs Coast focus 33

The

Christmas A special focus feature

34 Coffs Coast focus

A special focus feature

The

Christmas

Coffs Computing Services Coffs Computing Services is getting Christmas ready. Our Christmas catalogue is about to drop, and we have some amazing products that are sure to put a smile on everyone’s dial. Featuring the DJI Spark Mini Drone! Capture everything this Christmas with your DJI Spark Mini Drone - the 12 MP still camera and full HD video feature will ensure you capture your family’s magic moments this Christmas. You don't have to be a pro; obstacle detection with flight autonomy will help you fly and capture those precious moments. The DJI Spark Mini Drone offers incredible image quality and stabilised videos; you can fly continuously for up-to 16 mins! HD WiFi video transmission of up-to 2 km means you can fly even further whilst reaching speeds of up-to 50 km/h. The DJI Spark Mini Drone will “fly” out of store this silly season - place your order now! In addition, Coffs Computing Services is offering free Christmas gift wrapping and is now taking pre-orders to help you tick off your Christmas wish list! For more information or to secure your Christmas order, contact one of our team.

What Women Want

Kombu Christmas

What Women Want Jewellers, one of Coffs Harbour’s most respected jewellers, has moved around the corner to Shop 3, 108 Harbour Drive in the City Centre. A much bigger, brighter shop will give all our faithful and our new customers a much more pleasant and comfortable shopping experience, with the same famous, warm and friendly customer service. And all our beautiful, unique, quality stock now gets the limelight it deserves. Australian opals and highest quality German silver jewellery and watches with reliable Swiss movements are our new lines. Something for everyone! Your jewellery is in good hands with our trusted jewellers. They have many years of experience and can repair and remodel your jewellery exactly how you want it. We specialise in custom making that special piece for you. You can even trade your unwanted gold towards anything in the store or against any work done by our workshop. Restoring antique jewellery and precious family heirlooms is what we do best. Come have a look and tell us what you think of our new logo, new shop and our new location.

In a time where many small businesses seem to be struggling, it is great to be able to celebrate a healthy Coffs Coast success story. Kombu Wholefoods is an affordable organic grocery store which first opened its doors in Bellingen in September 2004 - and has been growing ever since. The store has always had a policy of utilising local chemical free and organic fresh produce and working with local growers and the community to further develop a sustainable local produce market. The aim of the store, however, goes beyond local produce, as Lowanna explained to FOCUS: "We have always worked hard with local growers and suppliers to ensure that not only were they getting a living wage for their produce, but also that we could retail those products at a price that was as affordable as possible. Healthy food should not be a luxury only available to those with money to spare. As a mum with four hungry children, I know only too well just how much food they can get through, so need to be able to source really fresh local and organic produce at a good price. This is what we work hard to achieve with the store." Kombu is open in Bellingen from Monday to Saturday and can be found at the end of Church Street, next to the lookout.

Affordable Healthy Living | Organic Groceries | Local Produce

Open Monday through Saturday @ 1 Church Street Bellingen 02 6655 9299 www.kombuwholefoods.com.au Coffs Coast focus 35

A special focus feature

The

Christmas

Love & Kisses THEY’RE THE TALK OF THE TOWN! If you haven’t seen them yet, don’t miss the Christmas Reindeer in the Love & Kisses windows - you’ll wonder how Courteney ever got them in there! This great little shop certainly does go all-out to make Christmas something special. From Tamworth, Armidale, Kempsey, and Grafton, loyal customers are making their November trip back to Love & Kisses for their Christmas shopping and some end-of-year-cheer. The shop is buzzing with happy people thrilled with their purchases and carriers rushing in and out delivering more new stock. Just arrived this week are: • At last … another delivery of KEEP CUPS ... from $13.95, many varieties and colours.

Flowers on First

• New French earrings from Orieult of Paris. • More Lava Lamps $19.95 • More light-up Christmas lanterns $12.95 • And on the way from Italy and arriving any day - more of the lovely Quill Pen sets in every colour.

Chubby Bird is a small shop owned and run by local

At Flowers on First we do Christmas in a “big way”, we have the cutest collection of Christmas ornaments and tree decos, including our much loved light up caravan tree deco.

couple Yiqing and Liam.

This year we also have Kombi vans, caravans, fairies and the prettiest glass baubles we could find.

blankets, all handmade on a loom, as well as pottery such

We have imported handmade glass lamps, chandeliers and candle holders from Turkey, all brass plated and with Australian standard wiring, Turkish cotton towels and as hand painted bowls and plates of the highest quality. We have hand embroidered bags and pillows from Yunnan, with the brightest and most intricate patterns, Nepalese

• Massage Gloves - $11.95 - brand new item, looks great. • More of the gorgeous bags and wallets from Vendula London.

Chubby Bird

Our Shop Window on First Avenue showcases our huge range of Christmas stock, so you can always window shop in the evening or after hours for inspiration.

woollen bags and jewellery, all handmade, hand carved jade pendants from Nanyang, as well as other interesting authentic items and jewellery from Japan, Tibet, Bhutan and many other cultures. We have researched and travelled to find the best quality items sourced straight from crafters around the world. All of our individual pieces are hand selected by us, so you can

You’ll find lots of lovely gifts for teachers, and Judy has found some really fun stuff for your work Secret Santa gifts, at prices you’ll love.

This year, back by demand is our Wreath and Garland Workshop, which we will be hosting on Sunday 26th November. See our Facebook page or Instagram for details and remember to book early; this one will be a sell out.

So bring your list, and enjoy a happy half-hour in Coffs Harbour’s favourite shop.

Happy Christmas, and thank you for supporting our shop again in 2017, from Kelly and the team at Flowers on First.

Christmas. We always leave the lights and chandeliers on

36 Coffs Coast focus

be sure to find only the best quality and most interesting items at a range of prices. We’re sure to have something special and unique for you and the people you love this ‘til late at night, so you can really see the colours.

A special focus feature

UNCLE JED It's been a whirlwind couple of years for Uncle Jed, from winning a reality TV show to going through a major record label and starting side project Luna Grand.

N

ow Uncle Jed are back There are some carols we've explored some and doing what they love new sonic flavours with, and some others most - making sweet music! we've kept true to song. Hopefully our fans In 2017 the family band don't mind our risky arrangements. Carols are putting their creative are so well known and have been sung for energies so long, we know that into a Christmas album changing the sound is and a tour in December, very risky, but we all so expect there to be a love the end result. few festive delights in Can we expect some ...a Christmas album the mix! In the words of old favourites at the would be more suited front woman Laura Stitt, show, along with the to the Uncle Jed sound, “It has been a dream festive cheer? also Uncle Jed are known of mine for a very long Absolutely. We'll be for taking a well time to make a Christmas playing some of the known song and album, and finally it's songs we played on putting their own spin happening.” Don’t miss AGT, along with other on it so it seemed perfect for this special festive show, songs fans have heard us to take this on as Uncle Jed. where you can also before. It will be nice to expect to hear some of play them again after a the songs that captivated little break. the nation’s hearts on Australia's Got Talent. Top three favourite Christmas carols? You’ve spent a couple of years working Thats a tuffy! Three songs I know we all on Luna Grand; what inspired you love that are on this album are 1. Silent Night to produce a Christmas album under 2. O Come all ye Faithful 3. The Christmas the Uncle Jed brand? Song The idea of a Christmas album got thrown Are you working on any new material around a bit at the start of this year and moving into the new year; what’s on the the more we thought about it, the more horizon for the next 12 months? it sounded like a good idea to us. Having The Christmas album has inspired us to performed on AGT as Uncle Jed, we felt like release some more Uncle Jed music, so we'll a Christmas album would be more suited have a quick holiday after this tour and get to the Uncle Jed sound. Also, Uncle Jed are working on some more Jed music. We have known for taking a well known song and some new Luna Grand songs to record and putting their own spin on it, so it seemed release too, so we'll be busy come next year. perfect for us to take this on as Uncle Jed. Thanks guys. Luna Grand will continue to be our side project, where we work on purely original songs and give ourselves the freedom to be as artistic as we like. 18 DEC: XMAS HOMECOMING PARTY WITH What’s the vibe of the album? UNCLE JED (opening 4pm) at the Hoey Moey We have written one original, This Christmas Love, and apart from that they're all Hotel, Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour. www.hoeymoey.com.au$10 + Booking Fee Christmas songs. Most are well known carols. Coffs Coast focus 37

The P

COME VISIT US AT

Coffs Harb ou r’s

Bo

r o m ena

utiq

g ue Retail, Dinin

&

A special focus feature

e d

E T R E AT

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tre n Ce s s ine Bus

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Retreat and Pevonia Botanica, their treatments will deliver visible results with radiant and wellnourished skin. Looking for gift ideas? Why not treat that someone special with a beautifully presented gift voucher. Choose a treatment, a pamper package, or they will tailor something just for you. Rejuvenate, relax and pamper yourself (or someone special) today!

FOCUS readers’ offer: Experience amazing results and pure relaxation with our brand-new product, One Blossom, with a relaxing and rejuvenating facial for 60 mins for $69, normally $97, only for the month of December.

For bookings and enquiries, call 6651 2511 or email info@retreatdayspa.com.au Visit www.retreatdayspa.com.au and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Opening hours Open Tuesday to Saturday

Melanie

Jayne

Relax by the Waterside...

Sign up to receive our e-news at coffspromenade.com.au Follow us on or

COR NER POST

CREATIVE

321 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour info@coffspromenade.com.au www.coffspromenade.com.au

For a unique and individually designed wedding gown or for the perfect outfit for a formal occasion, visit Melanie and Kimmie from Melanie Jayne.

S

pecialising in bridal couture, Melanie Jayne has dressed many brides and their guests over the years. When Melanie and her family migrated to the sunny shores of Australia from across the pond (New Zealand) in 2004, she brought her skills and expertise to our little spot of paradise here in Coffs and established her own small bridal boutique. Melanie designs and creates beautiful wedding gowns for brides from all over Australia, made from the finest silks, satins, exquisite laces and intricate beading. She always designs her gowns to suit the personality and shape of the wearer - delicately moulded around the body and paying great attention to the final fit. Her designs are truly exquisite. Melanie hopes that her daughters will one day play their part in the art form of bridal

38 Coffs Coast focus

couture. Melanie’s daughter, Kimmie, grew up under her mother’s sewing desk and has gone on to study fashion at NSW TAFE. Kimmie has now joined forces with Melanie and brings her valuable skills in concept drawing, pattern making, fashion illustration and fine hand finishing skills to the business, complementing Melanie Jayne’s beautiful designs. Stocking gowns, shoes, veils and accessories, the ladies welcome any bride-to-be and their guests to come in and have a look. Phone (02) 6651 6048 or head to www.melaniejayne.com.au

FOCUS readers’ offer: All brides who purchase or order a Melanie Jayne Gown over $2,000 for the month of December will receive a FREE pair of bridal shoes.

JEWELLERY BOXES from $11 to $90 FRENCH NECKLACE from Ikita of Paris $44.95

The

Christmas

KATE FINN HANDMADE DOLLS from $39.95

GIVING BEAR $49.95

Leather TOOL KIT $29.95

LITTLE SUN $39.99

Little Sun Solar Light by world famous Danish artist Olafur Eliasson - for every one you buy, another is made available in a part of the world without electricity, at a fair locally aï¬&#x20AC;ordable price.

MUSICAL JEWELLERY BOXES from $18.95

Christmas MUSICAL SNOW GLOBE - $39.95

AZTEC HANDBAG by Nicole Lee USA $69.95

GOLF BALL FINDER GLASSES $14.95 Coffs Coast focus 39

A special focus feature

Sawtell RSL helps Coffs Harbour’s Soup Kitchen stock up this Christmas.

Fillforthea year! pantry

The

Christmas

Sawtell RSL Club is calling on Coffs Harbour locals to help them spread some generosity and Christmas spirit with their “fill the pantry” food drive, supporting the Coffs Harbour Uniting Church Soup Kitchen this November and December.

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ocated in Gordon Street, the town’s only soup kitchen operates a five day per week lunchtime meal service for up to 60 diners daily, who rely on the

service. As a result of the “fill the pantry” food drive, Sawtell RSL Club hopes to see the soup kitchen’s pantry filled with enough nonperishable food items to last them a year! “The volunteer team at the soup kitchen do an incredible job, and we just want to help them out any way we can,” said Sawtell RSL Club Marketing Manager, Kate Baldwin. “We are asking everyone in the community; when you are out buying your groceries in the lead up to Christmas, please put a few extra items in the trolley that we can add to the soup kitchen’s pantry, so that they can continue to provide this valued community service,” said Kate. The club will be collecting non-perishable items on behalf of the soup kitchen until Sunday 17 December, with all donations able to be dropped off into the club’s reception any time. Veteran soup kitchen volunteer Audrey Wright, who has been working in the kitchen since its first week 27 years ago remarked, “We are wonderfully supported by the community”, explaining that the service operates without government funding, surviving entirely upon donations from individuals, churches, schools and local businesses to continue to feed the needy. The soup kitchen committee are thrilled to be benefactors of the “fill the pantry” food drive, with one of the team leaders, Alan Freedman, explaining the items would be used for preparing the daily meal service but also for the crisis packs the soup kitchen prepares

40 Coffs Coast focus

for individuals or families who need something extra to take with them. The demand on the kitchen has grown over time, but the volunteer team have a policy that “no one is refused a meal. You come in, you sit down at one of the tables, and we will serve you. No questions asked,” said Alan. The Uniting Church Soup Kitchen is led by over 50 volunteers, who design the menu, cook, serve and clean up daily and is supported by donations from individuals and businesses in the form of financial donations and a food drop off service with the “overs” from bakeries, local clubs, Coffs Harbour City Council, Oz Harvest and some very generous individuals. The food donations provide the soup kitchen with the ingredients they require to create nutritious, tasty meals for the local homeless who use the service, but they can always do with some extra support. It is hoped that Sawtell RSL Club’s “fill the pantry” food drive will relieve some pressure on the soup kitchen and assist them in being able to provide even more meals and crisis packs to those who need the service. Coffs Coast locals can donate items to the appeal until Sunday 17 November by bringing the goods into Sawtell RSL reception’s collection bay. The soup kitchen has requested that all items be non-perishable and that any canned items have a ring pull seal, including canned meats, fish, fruit, vegetables, custard, long life milk, noodles, pasta, coffee and tea bags, sugar, corn flour, cereal boxes (individual serve boxes), mayonnaise, pickles and paper towel, to mention a few.

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The

Christmas

Oxley Club Chair - $1,895

this is cool Christmas

Cocoa Balls

INGREDIENTS

1 X 250 g packet of plain biscuits (like Marie)

Cargo Lane - Authentic Home - Bellingen www.cargolane.com.au

METHOD Place the biscuits into a food processor and process until they resemble fine crumbs (you could also use a rolling pin instead). Place the biscuit crumbs into a large bowl. Sift over the cocoa powder. Add the coconut and condensed milk.

1 X 395 g tin of condensed milk

Thoroughly mix together all of the ingredients.

1 cup of desiccated coconut

Roll heaped teaspoons of the mixture into balls.

Âź cup of cocoa

Roll in the extra coconut to coat.

Extra coconut for rolling

Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Coffs Coast focus 41

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BOWL $399

VA ST INTERIOR COFFS HARBOUR

The

Christmas Gift Guide

INFLATABLE GIANT GOLD SWAN $69.95 CLARK RUBBER

ISO MAC PRO 6.1 - $2575 ARTISTI COFFEE ROA STERS

TURKISH SWANNECK TA BLE LA MP $120

CHUBBY BIRD COFFS HARBOUR

SU NDAY SOMEWHERE “ROCKY” - $369 UP TOWN LOCAL

AZTEC H A NDBAG BY NICOLE LEE USA $69.95 LOV E & KISSE S

42 Coffs Coast focus

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R ACE DAY GIFT PACK $POA LE DÃIN DE SIGNS

DJI SPARK MINI DRONE from $729 COFFS COMPUTING SERVICES

CANVAS BEACH BAG $29.95 THAT BEACH SHOP TOORMINA GARDENS

GOLD DI A MOND PENDANT GIFT PACK $POA WHAT WOMEN WANT

WEBER PREMIUM Q BBQ from $329

VILLARD BLA NC $22 SPA R K LING WHITE $25 T WO TAIL S WINE S

MORRISON’S BE T TA HOME LIV ING

Coffs Coast focus 43

FOR TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES TO ATTEND EVENTS CONTACT

0417 471 019

CELEBRATE SUMMER AND NEW YEAR EARLY ... Coffs Harbour Racing Club - Friday 29th December FUN FAMILY & FASHION DAY 8 RACE TAB PROGRAMME GENERAL GATE ENTRY $10.00 - KIDS FREE GATES OPEN NOON ATTIRE — CASUAL OR RACE DAY FASHION FAMILY FRIENDLY — FREE KIDS ENTERTAINMENT JUMPING CASTLE - FACE PAINTING - BISTRO LUNCHEON PACKAGES AVAILABLE ENQUIRIES 6652 1488

Le Dãin Designs Fashions On The Field

PHOTO BY FAB PHOTOS

44 Coffs Coast focus

LE DÃIN DESIGNS FASHIONS ON THE FIELD. THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN PRIZES!

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look

with Uptown Local

THE ACADEMY BRAND HAMPTON LINEN SHIRT $89.95

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ZULU & ZEPHYR EAVES DRESS $220

THE ACADEMY BRAND MARCO LINEN SHORT $89.95

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who made the December edition cover possible! VALLEY EYEWEAR ADCC III - $280

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Clark Rubber - Ride On Giant Gold Swan - $59.95

ZULU & ZEPHYR VIVIENNE ONEPIECE $180

ZULU & ZEPHYR SUNTAN ONEPIECE $180

Coffs Coast focus 45

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focusinterview.

Wayne C O R A M B A

The

When it comes to Christmas trees, Wayne Duver and his family are experts. They have been growing Christmas trees in the Coffs region for over a decade, supplying local families with Christmas cheer year after year.

Christmas

W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? We moved here in 2002 from the UK, where I had lived for the past 18 years with my wife and two children, Kimberley and Andrew. First we went to my family farm in Victoria, but we were keen to go somewhere warmer and the Coffs Harbour region seemed ideal, so we started our search for a property here. We were lucky to find an ideal properly, close to good schools and an airport. Can you tell us how you came about growing and selling Christmas trees? Our first venture was growing strawberries on the farm. However, we soon realised that Queensland produces large amounts of strawberries at the same time of year, so prices were very unstable and we needed to find a new venture. For our first Christmas, I found a tree off the roadside, and my wife complained that it didn’t smell like Christmas. The second year she spent a fortune on buying a ridiculously expensive tree from a garden centre, which had floppy branches and not many needles. I found a supplier of root stock trees that were suitable for Christmas trees, but had to buy 500 of them. That was the start of the business. We eventually stopped growing strawberries and continued with just the trees. We now have around 25 acres of them. How long have you been servicing the Coffs Coast? We began selling our trees at the local markets and direct to the public from the farm in 2006. Families seemed to love being able to come out to the farm and pick their 46 Coffs Coast focus

F A R M S

There is still a buzz

and nutrients can own tree, so this is the of excitement about leach out and cause area we concentrated the trip to our farm environmental problems, on. Many children who for many local and too little will result came out to the farm families, who return in trees with weak as very young children year after year. branches that are are now teenagers, and susceptible to disease. they know exactly what We then have to prune makes a good tree and them regularly and where the best trees are ensure they are the in the paddock. perfect shape, and weed them to ensure Picking up the Christmas tree is a ritual of the trees do not have any competition for the season. It may not be a case of trekking nutrients and water. We take great pride into the snowy woods, boots crunching on in the sustainable nature of our business. frozen ground to the distant sounds of carols, Over the years, our soils have improved but there is still a buzz of excitement about dramatically, and we can see the result of this the trip to our farm for many local families, in the improvement in the consistency of our who return year after year. trees. How many people are employed at Why should you buy a real Christmas Coramba farms? tree and not a plastic one? It is just me most of the time. When the The first thing to remember is that, rather children were at home, they also helped out, than being virgin forest, Christmas trees are especially during the busy Christmas season. a crop like any other, albeit one with a long Occasionally, we have students who stay with rotation time. They are also biodegradable us and help us out. My wife also helps when and recyclable. Once a tree is cut down, we she has to; she is a school teacher, so tells check the soil nutrient status and then replant me she is always busy marking and preparing a new tree nearby the following winter. lessons. In December she has no excuses Artificial trees are sometimes sold as the not to help, as her reports are done and her greener option, the argument being that lessons are all prepared; I think she enjoys they may be used for many years. However, being with the many children who come to they are typically plastic based and there are the farm! pollution implications in their manufacture What is the process from start to finish and disposal. They are not biodegradable when it comes to growing Christmas or recyclable and most end up in landfill, trees? taking hundreds of years to break down. We buy the trees as root stock and plant Furthermore, they are usually made in China them out in the winter. It is important to take and transported to Australia, burning fossil soil samples before planting, to ensure we fuels in the process. Studies have shown that provide the trees with the perfect conditions an artificial tree would have to be used for for optimal growth. more than 20 years to be a greener option Too much fertiliser is a waste of money,

than buying a fresh-cut tree once a year. What makes the perfect Christmas tree? A nice straight trunk with a full stem of bushy green leaves. Stiff branches to hang ornaments from, and that magnificent pine smell that fills the house. They also need to be that perfect Christmas tree shape. What’s the best way to care for your Christmas tree? As our trees are living, it is important that they have a constant supply of water. If the tree has been cut down for several hours, it is a good idea to cut about 2 cm off the base of the trunk, as sap tends to seal the base and prevent the uptake of water. Once this is done, put the tree in a bucket of water with stones around it to hold it up, and then decorate the bucket with wrapping paper. Decorate the tree and top up the water in the bucket every couple of days. If you do this they should last at least four weeks (many people tell us theirs last for six weeks). Many people come out to the farm and purchase their tree early; we will tag the tree and leave it growing until two - three weeks before Christmas. We will open for the last two weekends in November (10am - 4 pm) for tagging trees and then will start cutting them down for people in December. In December we are open from 10am - 5 pm on weekends and from 4 - 6pm on weekdays. We have thousands to choose from, but the earlier you come out, the more chance you have got of getting the very best trees. Our web site is www. northcoastchristmastrees.com.au and you can also find us on Facebook “North Coast Christmas Trees”. Thanks Wayne.

Coffs Coast focus 47

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WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Ian and Helen Bamford

Leanne Gray, AJ, Simon Chladil

Stacy Jessup, Deb Gooley, Alison Blanshard, Caroline Bleechmore, Nicole Pymont, Tanya Johnson, Chrissy McGregor

Deb Gooley, Sophie and Maddie Parkes

Alison Blanshard, Stacy Jessup, Chrissy McGregor

Caroline Bleechmore, Tanya Johnson, Nicole Pymont

Kyanne Kachet, Lee Budd

Natalie Carah and Sharon Reeves

Alan Johnson and Brett Dodson

T

Social /Scene

hat’s never a great idea for one’s stress level, especially when you have absolutely no idea what to buy everyone!

The FOCUS team attended the ever popular Stars of the Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer at the Coffs C.ex just recently. Apart from FOCUS being a sponsor, our “Boss Lady”, Louise Beaumont, was on the judging panel with last year’s winner Brendan Graetz and Paul Mercurio. I certainly would not have wanted that job … Far too hard to decide upon a winner, as so much effort was put into every single performance! This was a night for everyone to get dressed up in evening wear; glittery, frilly and long dresses were the attire for the ladies and suits for the gentlemen. It’s always lovely to get dolled up and go out to watch a show …and what a show it was. The winners of Judges’ Choice on the evening were Russ Holland and Kirsten Howton, who wowed the crowd. The highest fundraising winners went to Andrew and Trudy Thomson, who raised $15,859 dollars! and the People’s Choice award went to Caz Heise and Evan Clark. Overall, the stars raised $93,000 for the Cancer Council - such an amazing effort for all involved. Such generosity here on the Coffs Coast! 48 Coffs Coast focus

Festivities are happening everywhere, with the lead up to Christmas and New Year. Our tree is already up (so I am feeling very organised on that level!) but the job of Christmas shopping is always left until the last minute!

It may have been freezing in Melbourne for “The race that stops the nation”, but here on the Coffs Coast, Mother Nature had a smile on her dial and the weather was ... just dandy! Little bit windy, but tourists, locals and avid race goers got dressed up to the max to attend our very own version of The Melbourne Cup Race Day. Sponsors Le Dãin Designs and Racing Carnival Escapes had window tables inside and had a fabulous view of the Fashions on the Field and the local races. With a few flutters and a lot of fun with friends and family, a great day was had by one and all.

There were numerous Melbourne Cup events around the town, that was for sure. The Sawtell Hotel was packed to the max, with lots going on. They even had their own Fashion Parade. Ladies from the hotel doubled as models and paraded the fashions from local boutiques in Sawtell. There were fabulous prizes to be won, a delicious lunch, entertainment and certainly lots of fun to be had on the day. I heard that the crowd at the Pier Hotel were certainly enjoying the Melbourne Cup celebrations as well. We all work so hard, why not kick up your heels and enjoy yourselves.

The next race days to pop on the calendar are the Men of League Christmas Race Day on December 15th and for a good excuse to celebrate New Year early, there is the Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup. This day is for everyone. It’s a Family and Fashion Day, so for the ones who love to dress up and compete, there is a fab Fashions on the Field competition, with amazing prizes to be won, and if you just want to rock up casually dressed with the family, that’s absolutely fine as well. Free entry and entertainment for the children, and the bistro is open for relaxed dining. Luncheon packages are available for both race days - ideal for work place celebrations. Call the Coffs Harbour Racing Club for all enquiries on 6652 1488.

The Coffs Harbour Jetty Memorial Theatre never fails to provide nonstop entertainment. We have recently attended the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company’s version of The Sound of Music. What an amazing production. I remember seeing the movie when I was a child and reading the book by Howard Lindsay and Russell Crouse when I was young. It brought back lovely family memories. All the rehearsals and effort put in has certainly paid off! The Pink Silks Trust recently held their “Ladies and Tradies Night” at the Hoey Moey in Coffs Harbour. The event was to raise funds to purchase the very FIRST All Terrain Medical Rescue Vehicle for the Coffs Coast. When these ladies throw an event, they go all out. This was

a night for the guys and the girls. FOCUS was there to cover the event and whilst there was a lot of pink going on, the guys certainly had heaps to keep them amused. Great night out to raise funds for a great cause. Everyone enjoys being outdoors, and the crowds headed down to the Jetty Foreshores for the “Community Fun Day”. All you had to do was bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the day. It was an event to celebrate the completion of the Jetty Foreshores Stages 2 - 4. Entertainment was provided by Luna Grand in concert (formerly Uncle Jed) and supported by D’boyzos. Everyone got to view the boardwalk, new esplanade, pathways, shelters, excercise equipment and lots of other attractions. There was face painting for the children, and you could bring your own picnic. Great day out. Whatever you do over the Christmas and New Year period, don’t get caught up in the speed of the silly season. Remember to stop and enjoy the moment, and this is also the perfect time to realise how lucky we are. Make this the time to do a good deed; make someone else’s Christmas the one that was special for them … Have a blast … Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃ&#x192;IN DESIGNS

Kim Fuller and Ros Taekata

Karen Fuller and Mandy Nicol

Mick Carah, Twane Voglsinger, Tanya Johnson, Martin Wells

Sally Simmon and Carole Beros

David and Heidi Brett

Raelene Risby, Shelley Turner, Leanne Zietsch and Karen Jackson

Elliot & Lisa Daniel, Barry France, Svetlana Burrows, Lara and David Barry

Tim Saladine and Jack Hunt

Glenn and Jacqui Barnett

Jennifer Lock, Katie Mead, Kate McBride

Brendan Graetz, Kym Ferrington

Kate Streatfield, Robyn Israel, Ashlea Dwyer, Rachean Boyce

Robyn Israel, Gladys Gleeson, Dianne Davison, paul Israel

Sean Cook, Dianne Cook, Ian Cook

Lacee Sara Browning, Jaimee Seccombe, Paul Mercurio, Louise Beaumont, Nicci Seccombe

Jane Butcher, Trevor Butcher

Coffs Coast focus 49

Health Wellbeing focushealth

and

WITH NOURISHED EARTH

WITH LAUREN VESTEY FROM LIVING DOLL

Silver

season

Hair

With summer celebrations and Christmas just upon us, here are some

healthier recipes that you can share with friends and family. Dairy free, raw, gluten free, paleo and vegan options will ensure that your whole family and your guests are catered for this Christmas.

Christmas Trufffes INGREDIENTS 1 cup hazelnut butter 3 tbsp Maple syrup 2 tbsp chopped, dried cranberries. Pinch of sea salt 3 tbsp raw cacao 1 cup chopped dark chocolate or buttons METHOD • mix together nut butter, maple syrup, sea salt and cacao. • roll mixture into balls and place on tray lined with baking paper for an hour. • melt chocolate gently until smooth and dip each ball into melted chocolate. Balance on a fork and let the excess drain off, and then place on tray to freeze. • freeze chocolate dipped balls for 10 minutes, and then store in sealed container in refrigerator to enjoy with guests!

Gluten Free Raw Apple Pie INGREDIENTS FOR FILLING 1 cup organic Medjool dates 2 teaspoons coconut oil Squeeze of lemon juice

4 tbsp coconut oil 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder 1 cup walnuts INSTRUCTIONS FOR CRUST Put all the crust ingredients into your food processor until it becomes crumbly in texture. Divide mixture evenly between individual small dishes or a larger pie dish. Press base firmly and evenly, covering the bottom and sides of dish. METHOD - FILLING Place all the filling ingredients into food processor and pulse until ingredients are in small pieces, but not blended too much. Evenly fill pie or pies with your filling and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can top with cinnamon and whipped coconut cream if you desire!

Festive Mocktail Punch INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup fresh of lime juice 1 cup of chopped fresh mint 1 cup of blueberries 1 cup of raspberries 1 litre of cranberry juice

Pinch of cinnamon

½ cup of Herbs of Gold Probiotic Coco Berry Concentrate

¼ teaspoon vanilla paste

1 litre of mineral water

Pinch Himalayan salt

METHOD

4 organic apples

Mix ingredients in a large bowl and serve with ice and slices of lemon and lime.

INGREDIENTS FOR CRUST 1 cup Medjool dates 50 Coffs Coast focus

Silver hair has become one of the most popular hair colour trends over the past couple of years, and silver success shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Here, you’ll discover whether silver hair will suit you, how to achieve the best colour, as well as some top tips on caring for silver hair.

H

ow to get Silver Hair: Go porosity of your hair. You want to avoid any Professional ... yellow undertones, without going too grey. The secret to the perfect A successful silver hair shade is one that has silver hair lies in the hands very subtle purple undertones, which brings of your professional hair warmth to the hair and contributes to the colourist. Why? Silver hair shimmery, metallic effect that makes silver hair is not simply grey hair, although as they grow so popular. older some women do find their hair colour "Will I suit silver hair?" naturally evolves into the perfect silvery shade. This is one of the most common questions This is not the case for that professional hair everyone, and the latest colourists get asked, and silver hair trend can be the answer is usually seen on women who "Yes!" However, the haven't even seen their success of your silver Without the expertise first grey hair! hair dye all depends of a professional, you If you're starting with on the undertones and risk not lightening dark hair, or hair that's how complementary the hair to the desired been coloured repeatedly they are against your level, and possibly over the years, your skin tone. Tone is causing damage to hairdresser will have to all-important when it the fibre. gently take you up to a comes to colouring clean, light colour for the your hair, otherwise you silver shade to show and risk washing out your hold. Without the expertise of a professional, complexion. you risk not lightening the hair to the desired If you are one of many trying to embrace level, and possibly causing damage to the your natural highlights (grey hair) as I like to fibre. Even hair that's naturally very light will call them, but there isn’t quite enough coming still need to be coloured carefully to avoid through, a Living Doll Premier Stylists will be unwanted hues showing through. able to discuss with you how to create the look Your colourist will ensure that, together, you using some simple micro foils. Metallic, shiny choose the perfect shade of silver, taking into silver; let’s embrace it, ladies. consideration the natural colour, thickness and XO Dolls

Living Doll Loves Grey Hair Kaboodle Body & Beauty At Kaboodle Body Beauty, we care about you. We select the finest of brands, thinking of our clients’ wellbeing, as well of the benefits they can receive from these products. Our skincare: Pelactiv is created by Australian Skincare Therapists. Pelactiv incorporates the purest Australian native plant extracts in combination with the prime active ingredient, Lactic Acid. A 100% Australian made and owned product, Pelactiv is non-comedogenic and nonallergenic, has no artificial colour or fragrance and is not tested on animals. The Pelactiv range is not a large, but it delivers results that suit every client’s needs. Pelactiv’s starter kits are only $140, containing full size Cleanser, full size Toner, full size Moisturiser and two sample size products. There is also a selection of active treatment products available to complement the starter kit. Mention this ad to receive a 10% discount for the month of November only. Merry Christmas from your Kaboodle Team.

How to care for silver hair every day ... The beauty of silver hair lies in its shimmering texture, which requires a tailored haircare routine. As with any coloured hair, especially after being lightened and when hair goes naturally grey, the cuticles change texture, and hydration is essential. When the cuticles of hair fibres are dry, they stick up from the surface of the strand. But when they’re hydrated and healthy, they lie flat, which reflects the light and gives the hair an overall glossy look. Therefore tired, dry hair can often look dull. Prevent this by using a Loreal Shine Blonde or Silver Shampoo and Condition formulated for silver hair, and applying a hair mask once a week or whenever your hair feels like it needs some extra care. Hair oils can also be a great way of adding shine to your silver hair, whether after washing or on-the-go. Just rub a few drops between your palms (with clean hands) and smooth over the lengths and ends, avoiding the roots. To get the most out of shimmering silver hair, trust the Premier Stylists at Living Doll and feel completely confident with your new look! XO Dolls

Coffs Coast focus 51

focusfitness

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

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s inspirational fitness story comes to us courtesy of Amanda “Mandy” Leaderman. Mandy has been training at Coffs Coast Health Club since April 2016. She is 58 years of age, semi-retired and does volunteer work in the local community. She loves to be active and is always out riding her bike or walking her dog.

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

I have been a dragon boat paddler for eight years ... regular bike rides, dog walking, sometimes aqua aerobics and gym sessions, mowing lawns and gardening. Why did you decide to change your lifestyle? I wanted to be the fittest and healthiest I could be for my age. If you are not fit and healthy by the time you hit your 60s, it is very hard to get fitness and maintain it.

early next year. I have already paddled in the World Masters Games and the Australian Masters Games and have brought home medals, but this is the one I want. It’s a team effort, and every member of the crew gets a medal for placing in their category. I just want to give it a go; if I don’t get in, then that’s OK - at least I’ve worked hard beforehand and tried my best.

How has your Personal Trainer, Amanda, assisted you in reaching those goals? Having someone to motivate and push me beyond my limits is sometimes challenging but at the same time, is very rewarding. Amanda Has the lifestyle change assisted you also has a great sense of in your day to day humour; we laugh a lot activities? Yes, I feel throughout my training strong, fit and have so session, and this helps much more energy. At the end of the day I things along. Having someone to motivate have accomplished so What goals have you and push me beyond much more and feel set for the future? my limits is sometimes fulfilled - when my head To keep going with challenging but at finally hits the pillow, I the same time, is very my fitness and health sleep with contentment. rewarding. regime - “I want to wear My overall outlook has out, not rust out”. become more positive, What is the most and I am now more of useful advice you an encourager to others could share? No matter what your goals are in my age group who want to change their or no matter what sport or activity you do, lifestyle. keep on going, keep trying, don’t give up. If What is your favourite part of working you need help along the way, don’t be afraid out? To be honest, I do not have a favourite to ask for it. part of working out. I think seeing and Thanks for sharing, Mandy, and if knowing that I am stronger and fitter, you are looking to kickstart your own particularly over the last seven months with inspirational fitness story, call Amanda the help of Amanda, my Personal Trainer. directly on 0439 079 664, or drop in to see Seeing the look on her face when I have done the team at either Coffs Coast Health Club more than she expected, is reward enough. Toormina or Moonee, to get started today. What are your health and fitness goals? Currently it’s to try out for the State Dragon Boat Squad - the State Regatta will be held 52 Coffs Coast focus

More Inspirational Fitness Stories can be found at www.myfitnessstory.com.au

focus_contributor

The Coffs Coast

OUTRIGGER CANOE Have you ever looked out over the harbour and seen some people paddling around in a 50 foot canoe and thought, “I’d love to try that”? Well, now is the perfect time!

revealed: top tips to

beat the christmas bulge

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n average, Australians gain 0.8 - 1.5 kg over Christmas time; and it’s not often easy to shift the excess weight once the New Year rolls around. So, what can you do to beat the Christmas bulge? Mid North Coast Physio’s Accredited Dietitian Katie Drury reveals her top tips to eat healthy, while still enjoying the Christmas festivities. Why is it important to remember nutrition over the festive season? Research has shown that weight gain over the holidays usually occurs around the mid-section; and while a few kilograms may seem quite harmless and easily reversible, unfortunately the reality is this weight is not often lost. Carrying weight around your mid-section is associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as well as increasing the load on your lower back, which can cause or worsen existing back pain. Through implementing a few key strategies, you can decrease your risk of developing chronic lifestyle diseases and still enjoy the yummy foods that are available at this time of year. What are some strategies that can be used to make Christmas eating healthier? • Don’t skip breakfast: instead, opt for a filling and healthy breakfast to start the day off on the right food, and avoid over-eating when it gets to lunch and dinner time. For example, eggs on wholegrain toast, a wholegrain cereal, such as Weetbix with low-fat milk or fruit and yoghurt. • Stick to healthy plate portions: aim to have half your plate filled with non-starchy vegetables or salad vegetables (i.e. everything but potato, sweet potato and corn). • Avoid Boxing Day over-eating by freezing leftovers on Christmas Day in individual portions

that can be defrosted when required. • Take time to appreciate the foods you are eating; put your fork down between bites and take notice of the flavour and texture of foods when you are eating. • Drinking alcohol can add to the merriment of the festive season, but you don’t need to drink in excess to be the life of the party. Aim to have at least two alcohol free days per week, and try not to have more than two alcoholic drinks per day. • Keep up your exercise over the holidays! Ask for a gym membership for Christmas - many local health clubs, like our friends at Coffs Coast Health Club, have 24-hour access even if they aren’t staffed over the festive period. Also, get outside on Christmas Day with the family for a game of backyard cricket or touch football between courses. Who can benefit from seeking help from a Dietitian before and after the festive season? If you are someone who finds that you do so well with your weight loss goal throughout the year, then by the time it gets to the New Year you must start all over again as you’ve regained all or most of the weight you had lost. In this sort of case, you often require more support and motivation to get you through the festive season, as well as education about healthier choices to make. In addition, through developing the skill of mindful eating and portion control, you will often find it much easier to continue your weight loss throughout the year. If you would like to find out more about how a Dietitian can help you, call 1300 273 747 to request a FREE pre-assessment appointment with Katie. These appointments are strictly limited so call now to ensure you avoid the extra kilos this Christmas.

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Photo by Kevin Vandermaat

With Christmas just around the corner and the many eating (and drinking) occasions that accompany it, you have probably started to think about the few extra kilograms that generally come with this period.

he Coffs Coast Outrigger the return journey!” These days, the fleet of Canoe Club has just seven canoes have a home at Jetty Beach and launched into a new season a clubhouse based at the Coffs Harbour Yacht of paddling, which continues Club. through summer and finishes Over the years, the club has had many prior to the winter months. successes at national and international level, To kick off the season, they are holding their and whilst the club continues to compete, it Coffs Outrigger Challenge, and invite teams has a more relaxed and fun focus. The club to head down to the gets on the water on Jetty Beach on Sunday Monday and Wednesday 3rd December for a fun afternoons at 6pm, and day on the water. “Get Saturday mornings at five of your friends or 6am to kick start the The club will be offering a workmates together, weekend. Also, the Monday morning social and throw down the club will be offering a session with a more civilised challenge to a team of Monday morning social start time for people who would your choice for a light session with a more like to go for a relaxed paddle hearted challenge to and coffee afterwards. civilised start time for see who is boss!” says people who would a club representative. like to go for a relaxed The club provides an paddle and coffee experienced steersman afterwards. and all equipment, so all you need to do is Paddling is a great way to get in some low organise a team of five members. If needed, impact exercise and see the coastline of Coffs additional paddlers can be provided by the Harbour from a totally different and beautiful club if you are short on numbers. Included in perspective. Getting out on to the ocean is the $100 entry fee are training sessions prior a wonderful experience; it is ever changing, to the event to familiarise yourselves with invigorating, and there is plenty of sea life to paddling, and a presentation and BBQ lunch keep us entertained. Don’t worry, though; for some post race banter! The club was incorporated close to 20 years that doesn’t include sharks!” If you would like to enter the ago and has grown from humble beginnings Coffs Outrigger Challenge, or of a single canoe and a few members getting enquire about paddling with the together on the weekend for a paddle. “Back club, you can contact us by emailing: in those days, we borrowed a truck with secretary@coffscoastoutriggers.com.au, racks that could carry the canoe down to the or by phoning Gail on 0412 215 666 or beach, where it would be rigged for an hour’s paddle, and then unrigged and loaded up for Matt 0408 898 728. Coffs Coast focus 53

Community Initiatives

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Program. Twenty-four children who make up the girls and boys softball teams from Narranga Public School have made it to the grand stage of the NSW State Finals in Blacktown, Sydney.

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onths of training, mentoring and coaching paid off in the PSSA statewide competition for the two teams, and receiving the McDonald’s Junior Grant will allow Narranga Public School to hire a bus and provide two nights’ accommodation for the teams, some of whom come from financiallychallenged homes.

accommodation costs. Raising funds to participate in extra-curricular activities can be a fun yet challenging task, and to help 13-year-old Olissa Onley on her journey to Adelaide as a qualifier for the National School Sports Athletic Championships, the McDonald’s Junior Grants Program awarded Olissa funds to assist her athletic commitments. Sponsorship can play an integral role in raising awareness for our community’s sporting youths.

“Narranga Public School Sawtell’s James Hill applied has a proud tradition of for a McDonald’s Junior promoting inclusiveness Grant in the hope to build throughout various his public profile, with a The Coffs Harbour community academic, arts and has excellent ambassadors goal to gain professional sporting opportunities. proudly flying the local sponsorship as a pro surfer. Our two softball teams with Narranga Primary flag, are evidence of this, with “I love what the ocean School being the only school students from diverse offers and the challenge represented in Northern NSW backgrounds, cultures, of catching the best wave. at the 2017 PSSA titles. countries and local Part of my quest is to be indigenous communities part of a sponsored team, proudly representing the and to do this I need to school at these events,” produce quality video footage and photography mentioned staff from Narranga Public School. showcasing my skills,” James stated. The Coffs Harbour community has excellent ambassadors proudly flying the local flag, with Narranga Primary School being the only school represented in Northern NSW at the 2017 PSSA titles.

James’ passion, adventurous spirit, ability and

Another avid athlete who will represent the Coffs Coast and who won a place at the BJP Physical Culture National Championships in Sydney is eight-year-old Remy Goudge. Remy is excited to perform her award-winning routine at Sydney Olympic Park and with the expenses of the National Event requiring Remy and her mum to stay in Sydney, the McDonald’s Junior Grants Program has been happy to jump onboard and support Remy with the travel and

pursuing their dreams.

54 Coffs Coast focus

zest for life are positive characteristics towards creating a prosperous future, and we look forward to hearing how James and the many other grant recipients go in their quest of The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes that building a successful generation comes from supporting our great locals, so, if you are a local child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the Grants website and apply today: www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Program because sometimes, while sport might mean everything to the children who participate, their families might not always be able to afford such sporting opportunities.

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ye Murphy applied for a McDonald’s Junior Grant in hope to surprise her son, Finn Murphy with the grant, allowing Finn to participate in some of the offseason competitions and school holiday training camps. “Finn lives for basketball and works very hard physically and academically to achieve. He poses great sportsmanship and enjoys his time on the court. He is currently training as a junior referee, in an aim to earn money to help reach his goals,” said Kye. Finn plays in three basketball teams in Coffs Harbour and is one of three children. Finn’s family knows the financial pressure that comes as a result of a young and committed basketballer. With the basketball season in full steam, it is no surprise that other grant recipients this month are also outstanding basketballers; Jemimah Andrews and Isla Juffermans. Isla is a member of the Coffs Harbour Basketball Association, having represented Coffs Harbour for the past three years. Isla recently competed in Canberra, in a threeday tournament against other school teams from across NSW. From this, Isla was chosen for the NSW Basketball Team. The NSW Team additionally provided Isla with a fantastic opportunity to compete in Adelaide for the Pacific School later this year. “I just love basketball. I started playing when I was seven years old, and I was nervous and scared. I have always been tall, and when I was younger, it made me feel shy to be so much taller than everyone. Basketball changed that.

Being tall is GREAT!” said Isla. Jemimah shares the passion for basketball, having played for the Coffs Harbour Basketball Association for two years and is a 2018 Australian Junior Country Basketball Championship representative for the U14 division. The McDonald’s Junior grant will help Isla and Jemimah with their related sporting and competition costs. Another lucky McDonald’s Junior Grant recipient this month was Rose Light, a 12-yearold violinist. “Rose has always achieved honours for her AMEB exams, receiving many trophies from the Coffs Instrumental Eisteddfod in 2017, including Most Promising String Player,” said Maria Light. Rose led the Bishop Druitt College Primary Orchestra for several years and currently plays in the school’s Senior Chamber Group and orchestra, as well as in the Coffs Harbour Music Conservatorium Youth Orchestra and the Coffs Conservatorium Academy, busking for several years to pay for her violin lessons. In her endeavours of high achievement, Rose was also the Captain and Dux of Bishop Druitt College Primary School in 2016. The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes that building a successful generation comes from supporting our great locals, so, if you are a local child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the Grants website and apply today: www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

“You no longer have to lose any of your precious freedoms to get the care you need as you age” Pat, 91

Freedom family

We’re all on this ageing journey together. What’s most important is that we don’t lose the one thing that really matters, just to get the care we all eventually need. I mean, what’s life without freedom – the everyday freedom to come and go and be and do as you please in the privacy and comfort of your own home. Why live alone when you can surround yourself with wonderful new friends in a vibrant, caring community that celebrates every day to the full and treats you with all the kindness, decency, love and respect you deserve. That’s what I call freedom. It’s easy as calling us on 1800 984 840 to confirm a day you would like to visit your local Freedom community and we will help with the rest.

Visit freedomagedcare.com.au Coffs Coast focus 55

You never know what You’ll discover at VAST.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

find your next treasure today!

December 2017

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A nice feeling of personal satisfaction can be anticipated this month - the opposite of feeling you need support from others; in fact, you’re quite chuffed with yourself and independent. You are very inspirational to others as when you are confronted with challenge, you have the ability to rise above it and only allow it to make you more powerful. Garnet will enhance your passion for living.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

A gift is about to be bestowed upon you. This was your creation through a wish made several months ago. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months. Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life.

Fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths. Calcite brings spontaneity into the picture.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

An opportunity to access something from your past will be likely to present itself. Be prepared for it by identifying what it may be and write a list of all the things required, then take action and get some things from the list so you can achieve full success. Avoid sabotaging it by thinking, “Too hard; can’t do”. This opportunity will greatly benefit your self esteem and self worth. Citrine is a very powerful motivator; carry some.

You are good at manifesting your desires, but you are trapped by your old beliefs. If you debate your old beliefs and create new ones, luck will follow. The universe is offering a path of cleansing through a purging of anything or anyone not serving the highest good for your future. Selenite is a very powerful cleanser.

Your focus lately has been inward. Don’t be worried if you have not felt involved lately; life has a funny way of unfolding opportunities. You needed to regather yourself. Make a list of your strengths and watch them fulfil you. Turquoise has a confidence boosting effect.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Avoid being caught up in how you will be able to support yourself comfortably in the future; you have always been able to progress from one opportunity to the next with perfect timing, so see this as a gauge in how you manifest and thank yourself for being self sufficient. Avoid placing emphasis on negative possibilities. Turquoise sustains our confidence.

56 Coffs Coast focus

Connect with a passion you have. Your love of life needs satisfying. Change is coming forward, and this is a natural challenge for the Libran. Start a project or play with your creative energies. You will soon offer your family members some profound healing advice, so don’t be afraid to speak. You would benefit from spending some quality time expressing some thoughts and feeling into poetry or words. Topaz strengthens our self esteem and brings personal power to situations surrounding us.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Avoid taking life too seriously; all this is doing is bringing out a grumpy you which isn’t you. You are the practical joker, the fun loving one, so lighten up and watch your spark affect everyone else. Rose Quartz is a wonderful crystal for self esteem and unconditional love.

Coffs

Avoid taking life too seriously at present; this is why all your fears and insecurities are playing with you. This is leaving you feeling trapped in life, instead of owning it and creating it. Try to connect to your silly self and do some pranking to lighten up your energy and brighten your world. Ruby shatters fear and leaves us feeling safe and comfortable in our reality.

Your attention is drawn to your beliefs and rules by which you live. As you have changed, your reality is beginning to change. Don’t be afraid of the differences life will offer; be excited. There are new friends approaching and your intellect will have stimulation, so look for that perfect class to join and enjoy new talent and associated experiences. Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

Listen to your “gut feelings”, as they will lead you into an exciting experience that is a “meant to be” one. You will enjoy playing with gifts or talents that will relate to this opportunity, and your confidence and self esteem will benefit enormously. Have fun discovering something new you are already very good at. Apophyllite is a great crystal for aiding in reaching full potential in projects.

A S T H E B C U C O F F S H A R B O U R T R I AT H L O N I S FA S T BECOMING ONE OF THE NORTH COAST’S PREMIER T R I AT H L O N E V E N T S , T H E W O R L D C H A M P I O N S H I P Q U A L I F Y I N G R A C E TA K E S P L A C E M A R C H 2 0 1 8 .

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hat makes the Coffs Tri so special? The bcu Coffs Tri is just five years old and has already doubled in size since its inception in 2013 and achieved World Championship Qualifying status for the second year running. What makes this race so popular? Organisers say it’s the spectacular course, as well as the unique community vibe. The event is run by locals and gives generously back to local community groups, who all pitch in to help make it happen. The weekend of events on 3 - 4 March 2018 includes kids’ races for ages six and up, as well as an “enticer” triathlon for those new to the sport, and the headline Standard Distance event (1.5 km swim/40 km cycle/10 km run) for individuals and teams. The ocean swim is held at the protected Jetty Beach, which rarely sees waves, so swimmers get to experience the thrill of an ocean swim in

clear, calm conditions. Competitors swim around ocean breeze and water views for the duration. Coffs Harbour’s iconic As they make their first jetty structure, which is turnaround, competitors perfect for spectators, are greeted with views who get a bird’s-eye towards Coffs Harbour The run heads south from view of the swimmers and its scenic mountain transition, hugging the below. backdrop. At the end of The cycle course their first lap, runners are picturesque harbour takes the riders south encouraged with cheers foreshores towards towards sunny Sawtell from the crowds, as they the break wall, which and includes a fast, run along the wooden is a long peninsular at the flat section, perfect jetty structure lined with southern end of the harbour. for seeing what the TT spectators. bike is capable of. It is Race Director Noel a fully closed course, Phillips said, “Our aim ensuring it is safe and enjoyable for all levels of is to deliver a professional event on a quality experience. course in a beautiful location, whilst maintaining The run heads south from transition, hugging affordable entry fees and a great community the picturesque harbour foreshores towards the vibe. We want to attract the elite of the sport as break wall, which is a long peninsular at the well as those just starting out.” southern end of the harbour. The harbour vista The Standard Distance event on Sunday, is spectacular, and runners are rewarded with an March 4, 2018 is an Age Group ITU World

Championship Qualifying Race and will double as the NSW State Championships. With the 2018 World Championships being held on the Gold Coast, we are anticipating record numbers and encourage competitors to enter early to avoid missing out. Early bird prices are on offer until December 8, with great savings to be had. The bcu Coffs Tri is offering a total of $4,500 for the top three overall male and female place getters and is expecting to attract a high calibre of professional athletes. With its natural beauty and world-class course, the bcu Coffs Tri is one of the must do events on the national Triathlon calendar and is ideal for competitors and spectators alike. And of course, there is plenty to see and do on the stunning Coffs Coast while you’re here. Entries for the bcu Coffs Tri on March 3 - 4, 2018 are now open at villagesports.com.au Early registration is encouraged, due to the anticipated sell-out.

3 -4 March 2018 rd

th

ENTRIES NOW OPEN

www.villagesports.com.au Coffs Coast focus 57

travel World A special focus feature

...or discover your own back yard

58 Coffs Coast focus

focus_tourism

WITH STEPHEN SAUNDERS OF TOURISM COFFS COAST

tourism UPDATE

Spending time with your visitors on the Coffs Coast Is finding new things to experience a challenge for you and your visitors over the Christmas and summer holiday season?

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he Coffs Coast is blessed with a diverse range of natural settings, so why not take advantage of the great outdoors. Go for a bush walk in one of our many stunning National Parks, take a drive and enjoy the magnificent views from our Headlands and Lookouts, or make the time to explore a mountain bike or cycling trail. There are options available for all ages and levels of fitness.

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

NEW TOURS Can’t get FAVOURITE TRAILS there yourself? Take a Want to explore the Coastal sightseeing tour hinterland? Experience with Coffs Coast Scenic the Waterfall Way Between Bellingen and Dorrigo, Tours and explore the country drive. Take the pause at the first of the waterfalls waterside highlights highway south from - the Newell and Sherrard with your very own tour Coffs and turn inland to Falls - then continue on guide. Stroll along the Bellingen. Take a break to the Dorrigo Rainforest Solitary Islands Coastal in this fun and funky Centre with its spectacular walk, and enjoy some country town to enjoy views from the Skywalk, the forest of the region’s seaside some icy cold gelato or walking trails, gift shop, or Canopy villages. refreshing local food and Café. drink. Between Bellingen LOVE THE FOOD and Dorrigo, pause at CULTURE? Wayward the first of the waterfalls Trails has a local food, - the Newell and produce and beverage tour showcasing the Sherrard Falls - then continue on to the Dorrigo best the Coffs Harbour and Bellingen areas Rainforest Centre with its spectacular views have to offer. There are day or night tours from the Skywalk, the forest walking trails, gift available to help you enjoy everything foodie of shop, or Canopy Café. You can explore the the destination. Crystal Shower Falls Walk as it winds through HAVE YOUR OWN VEHICLE, BUT NEED the rainforest and hills. SOME HELP? Open Air Picnics specialise in BRUXNER PARK Looking for a bird’s eye view? The Forest Sky Pier is located at Sealy Lookout, within Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, Orara East State Forest - only five kilometres from Coffs Harbour. The Forest Sky Pier offers the visitor

creating a variety of fresh, healthy, delicious picnic hampers for you to enjoy for any occasion. They’ll even hire out any of the accessories you might need to enjoy a picnic anywhere on the Coffs Coast. Coffs Coast focus 59

101 THINGS TO DO THE BIG BANANA FUN PARK The Big Banana Fun Park is the BIGGEST Fun Park on the Northern NSW coast! It boasts 8 fantastic attractions including a 17.5m tall Giant Slide, Toboggan ride, Laser Tag arena, 36 hole Mini Golf course, Theatre and Plantation Tour, Ice Skating rink, Family Fun Zone and the biggest Water Park between Sydney & the Gold Coast! TRADING: Open 9am to 5pm 7 days (Attractions time vary) ADDRESS: 351 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 66524355 WEB: www.bigbanana.com

RALEIGH WINERY Located just 15 minutes south of Coffs Harbour the award winning Raleigh Winery is a great spot to visit. Whether you are holidaying here or a local the Raleigh Winery is a destination with the lot; a scenic drive, great views and free wine tasting on arrival! Sample the range of unique Boutique Wines, Red and White Fortified Wines and their famous handmade Brandy Cremes. Relax with a tasty cheese platter on the riverside deck and soak up the breathtaking views across the Bellinger River to the mountains. TRADING: Open Wed to Sun 10am-5pm. 7 days during NSW school holidays. ADDRESS: 36 Queen Street, Raleigh NSW 2454 PHONE: 02 6655 4388 WEB: raleighwines.com.au EMAIL: info@raleighwines.com.au

www.coffscoast.com.au 60 Coffs Coast focus 16 coffs coast focus.

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

COFFS JETTY

STAND UP PADDLE BOARD HIRE All you need to get started is a little balance and a appetite for fun. TRADING We are available 7 days Mid week by Bookings only SET UP AT TWO LOCATIONS - Coffs Harbour Jetty and Boambee Creek Reserve. Every weekend, School and Public Holidays. PHONE 0422 391 951 or 0407 386 338 EMAIL info@coffsjettysup.com.au WEB coffsjettysup.com.au www.facebook.com/coffsjettystanduppaddle

GREENHOUSE TAVERN

COFFS COAST CAMELS

We have all the kids looked after at the Greenhouse every Sunday. Jumping castle, face painting and a special drop in from The Smiley’s every fortnight with a themed event and activities. Bistro opens from 11.30am with great counter lunch specials and $5 schooners all day everyday. Kids meals $10 including free kids drink, drop in we have your Family Sunday sorted! ADDRESS Cnr Pacific Highway & Bray St Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450 PHONE 02 6651 5488 WEB www.greenhousetavern.com.au FACEBOOK @greenhousetav

Be Amazed!! Hop on board the Coffs Coast Camel Train for an unforgettable experience these school holidays... our friendly staff and gentle camel family will take you on a magical ride on beautiful Boambee Beach. Rides available from 28th December. Book your ride now!! PHONE 0447 070 128 FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/CoffsCoastCamels WEB www.coffscoastcamels.com.au

101THINGS TO DO ON THE COFFS COAST

WITH YOUR VISITORS ON THE COFFS COAST Is finding new things to experience a challenge for you and your visitors over the Christmas and summer holiday season? The Coffs Coast is blessed with a diverse range of natural settings, so why not take advantage of the great outdoors. Go for a bush walk in one of our many stunning National Parks, take a drive and enjoy the magnificent views from our Headlands and Lookouts, or make the time to explore a mountain bike or cycling trail. There are options available for all ages and levels of fitness.

FAVOURITE TRAILS

BRUXNER PARK

NEW TOURS

Want to explore the hinterland?

Looking for a birds eye view? The Forest Sky Pier

Can’t get there yourself? Take a Coastal sightseeing

Experience the Waterfall Way country

is located at Sealy Lookout, within Bruxner Park

tour with Coffs Coast Scenic Tours and explore the

drive. Take the highway south from Coffs

Flora Reserve, Orara East State Forest – only

waterside highlights with your very own tour guide.

and turn inland to Bellingen. Take a break

five kilometres from Coffs Harbour. The Forest

Stroll along the Solitary Islands Coastal walk, and

in this fun and funky country town to

Sky Pier offers the visitor an amazing panoramic

enjoy some of the regions seaside villages.

enjoy some icy cold gelato or refreshing

view from mountains to the Coffs Harbour

local food and drink. Between Bellingen

coastline. The Pier extends 21 metres out from

and Dorrigo, pause at the first of the

the Lookout and stands 15 metres above the

waterfalls – the Newell and Sherrard

forest floor. Access is via sealed road for the

Falls –then continue on to the Dorrigo

majority of the drive. Head north from Coffs

Rainforest Centre with its spectacular

Harbour on the Pacific Highway, turn left onto

views from the Skywalk, the forest

Bruxner Park Road (just north of the Big Banana)

walking trails, gift shop, or Canopy Café.

then left again at the ridge top onto Scenic Drive,

Air Picnics specialise in creating a variety of fresh,

You can explore the Crystal Shower Falls

following the road up to the Lookout. Parking,

healthy, delicious picnic hampers for you to enjoy

Walk as it winds through the rainforest

walking tracks, new under cover picnic tables

for any occasion. They’ll even hire out any of

and hills.

with wheelchair access and toilets are available

the accessories you might need to enjoy a picnic

at the site.

anywhere on the Coffs Coast.

Love the food culture? Wayward Trails has a local food, produce and beverage tour showcasing the best the Coffs Harbour and Bellingen areas have to offer. There are day or night tours available to help you enjoy everything foodie of the destination. Have your own vehicle but need some help? Open

CoffsCoast

CoffsCoast

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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

Tips for Travellers

Quadrant Australia. Quadrant Australia has been tempting travellers with special interest tours for more than 30 years across five continents. As a travel specialist, the experienced team can assist you with all of your travel needs, including flights, packages, cruises and coach touring.

Travel Japan. Japan is bursting at the seams with natural beauty, enchanting culture and unique experiences. It’s the contrasts in Japan that make it so exceptional.

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andering the busy streets of Tokyo provide glimpses of an uncharted future. Surrounded by neon lights and pop culture, people watching in Tokyo takes on a whole new meaning. Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city is also home to fascinating history and many excellent museums and historic temples. Contrary to popular belief, Tokyo also offers a number of stunning gardens and attractive green spaces within easy reach of the city centre. Less than an hour by bullet train is the tranquil location of Hakone, where visitors can take a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi-no in the foot hills of Mt Fuji. Get up closer with a trip on the Hakone Ropeway and aerial cable car with spectacular views of Mt Fuji and Owakudani, where steam can be seen spurting from the volcanic activity. A few hours further down is the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto, filled with World Heritage sites, shrines and temples, teahouses and gardens. It is true that you can lose yourself in the streets as you wander and explore the city’s gardens and monuments. Catch a glimpse of a beautiful Geisha on dusk in the Geisha quarter of Gion, made famous in Memoirs of a Geisha. If military history piques your interest, then a visit to Hiroshima is a must. Well known as the atomic bomb site, Hiroshima has reinvented itself to become a thriving seaside city with stylish atmosphere. A visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum is both sobering and educational.

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Japan is a hotbed of geothermal activity, with over 25,000 naturally occurring mineral hot springs. They form part of the daily ritual, with locals bathing in the traditional Japanese Onsen. Japan has wonderful diverse cuisine. For much of the last decade, Tokyo, the capital of Japan, has held the record for the most Michelin starred restaurants within a city throughout the entire world, beating even Paris. The Japanese are passionate about their food and its presentation. Each plate is presented as an art form with local and seasonal ingredients. Rice and fish form staple ingredients, and yet Australian Wagyu Beef is still highly acclaimed. Japan is rightly famed for its cuisine and gracious hospitality. A visit to Japan is possible in any season. The delicate cherry blossoms occur for a limited season in spring. and in autumn Japan is ablaze with colour. Winter however, is spectacular for all the right reasons. The days are clear and cool, with snow falling regularly across the country. Japan has a credible reputation on the world ski slope stage, where travellers come from across the globe to experience world class skiing, so if you’re looking for a winter getaway in the middle of our Australian summer, then Japan is both fascinating and intriguing. Local tour company Quadrant Australia is offering a Farmers Tour of Japan departing in May. If you are interested in seeing the incredible sights of Japan and being able to get off the beaten track and on to farms, where you can meet the farmers and hear their stories, then contact the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St, or visit their website: www.quadrantaustralia.com

Quadrant Australia share their knowledge and contacts, to allow the traveller experiences that they can’t get on their own. It might be dinner at a local farmhouse in Ireland, or preferred seating at the World’s Greatest Rodeo, The Calgary Stampede, but on average with over 20 special interest tours departing each year, Quadrant Australia are sure to have an option for you. Kerry Moss from Quadrant Australia tells us that the 2018 tours are out now. One of the popular tours has been the Farmers Tour of England and Scotland departing in June 2018, where travellers enjoy a leisurely tour to the United Kingdom and Ireland, visiting farming enterprises and taking in the breath-

taking scenery of the UK. Travellers tour in beautiful Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England, visiting major historic and cultural sites. The tour highlights include the elegant cities of Bath and Edinburgh, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, the fascinating history of Northern Ireland in Belfast and the stunning region of the Cotswolds. Coach touring takes all the worry out travelling. It’s an opportunity to travel in comfort and style at an all-inclusive price, including airfares from Australia, accommodation, transport, entrance fees and the majority of the meals. Travellers enjoy the freedom to make their own choices, with the support of qualified and knowledgeable tour leaders. Quadrant Australia also operate special interest tours to Canada, USA, Europe, South America and Africa. If you’d like to find out more, visit their website www.quadrantaustralia.com or drop in to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour.

Nature never felt so good Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re preserving 37 of the best coastal and inland reserves so your family can recharge the way nature intended. Relax at a camping spot, caravan site or cabin just right for you. Experience a break youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll all remember for a lifetime.

reflectionsholidayparks.com.au

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Financial tips for your next trip Want to travel the world or take the family on an amazing holiday? These easy to follow financial travel tips will help get you on your way sooner and make the whole trip smoother. Automate your savings Use your bcu Connect App to create a personalised saving goal, linked to a dedicated savings account and set up an automatic transfer every pay day. Save on foreign currency exchange Don’t wait to get to the airport or your hotel to exchange your currency, as these will usually charge more commission. Visit the bcu website and order your foreign currency online, then simply collect it from your local bcu store before you leave.

Give your bank a heads up before you leave It might be the last thing on your mind, but if your bank is unaware that you are travelling overseas, any purchases you make may be identified as a potentially fraudulent transaction – and lead to a stop on your card. A quick call to your bank before you go away can ensure that you shop hassle-free while you’re away. Consider travel insurance Make sure you’re covered should something unexpected happen! bcu has fantastic Travel Insurance options, that you can tailor to suit your needs and budget. All of bcu’s Travel Insurance is underwritten by Allianz Australia Insurance Ltd, a member of the Allianz Group which is one of the world’s largest insurers.

The freedom to take the road less traveled

9 .99 9

.08% Variable1

%

Comparison2

All interest rates are annual percentage rates (APR) and are based on secured variable rates which are subject to change. Comparison Rate calculated on a loan amount of $30,000 over a term of 5 years based on monthly repayments. Rates quoted may vary depending on loan purpose and security offered. WARNING: This comparison rate applies only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different Comparison Rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the Comparison Rate but may influence the cost of the loan. A Comparison Rate Schedule for a wider range of loan types, amounts and terms is also available. 1

2

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Travel insurance tips and advice

If you don’t have travel insurance, you should not be stepping out your front door with suitcase in hand ... but travel insurance has its own ifs and buts that can strip your coverage and leave you without the compensation you might be expecting.

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hances are you aren't going to wade item purchased several years before might be through your travel insurance policy's worth only a fraction of its original price tag. It product disclosure statement that might even be less than the excess that comes spells it all out, so here's a short, with your travel insurance policy. If you want plain-speaking guide to some of the potential to lower the excess, expect to pay a higher traps, and what you really need. premium. THE CATCHES 7. One of the most common claims is for 1. Claims for loss submitted without an loss of a smartphone. Not all policies provide official police report. If your belongings are lost cover for lost or stolen phones, laptops, or stolen, you need a stamped and certified cameras and computers. Some do, but apply report from a police station in the region a higher excess to those high-value items. where the incident took place. If they're part of your travel kit, know your 2. Not lodging your coverage. claim in time. The usual 8. Most travel limit is 30 days after your insurance policies trip ends. exclude disruption to If you go to Istanbul, which 3. Lack of relevant your travel plans resulting currently has a ‘reconsider documentation to from a terrorist event. substantiate ownership. your need to travel’ Military action is another You need a receipt to warning on the Australian exclusion, as is an prove that you actually Government’s Smartraveller epidemic. bought that Prada website and you make a claim 9. If an airline or a backpack, if that's what against your policy, your insurer travel operator becomes you're claiming for. insolvent after you've might not come to the party. 4. The concept of already paid for their “unattended”. If you services, you've probably stow your bags out of done your dough, with sight on a European no compensation from train and they disappear, if you leave them on your insurer. a table by the pool or on the beach while you 10. If an 85-year-old parent falls sick and take a dip, they're unattended, and any claim you need to return home in a hurry, that's for loss might be denied on the grounds that not an unexpected event and you won't be you did not take reasonable care. compensated for any additional expenses or 5. Lack of cover for all your travel loss of travel bookings. destinations. If you transit through Asia or one 11. You're supposed to take all steps to of the United Arab Emirates en route to Europe avoid purposefully putting yourself into a but your cover applies only for Europe, you situation that could result in a claim. If you go can't expect compensation from your insurer to Istanbul, which currently has a "reconsider if something untoward happens during your your need to travel" warning on the Australian transit stop. Government's Smartraveller website and you 6. Depreciation. That Burberry trench coat make a claim against your policy, your insurer you bought for $1,500 eight years ago and might not come to the party. Fall down stairs which was lost is no longer worth what you and fracture your humerus after one too many paid for it. Rather than full replacement value, slivovitzs and your insurer might say, "Tough insurers apply depreciation, and that means an break, but that's down to you."

A special focus feature

focus_interview

travel World

... or discover your own back yard.

My Happy Place.

Let’sgo Motorhome Hire. WATSONS LEISURE CENTRE

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F O C U S S AT D O W N W I T H A N G E L A , T H E L E T ’S G O M O T O R H O M E H IR E A G E N T AT WAT S O N S L E I S U R E C E N T R E .

atsons Leisure Centre has been an agent for Let’s Go Motorhomes for approx 18 months. After endless amounts of local enquiries about motorhome hire, Watsons have decided to take it onboard. Let’s Go Motorhomes is backed by Jayco and is one of Australia’s leading motorhome and campervan companies. What is the range of hire vehicles? We are acquiring new Jayco motorhomes every month, giving us one of the newest motorhome rental fleets in Australia. We have vehicles to suit all budgets, ranging from campervans, two berth, three berth, and four berth motorhomes and for larger families the six berth. What is supplied in the motorhome? Each motorhome comes with air-conditioning, TV/DVD and solar panels, fully equipped kitchen, shower and toilet, awning and reversing camera (campervan excluded). We supply all bedding and linen, cooking and eating utensils, outdoor table and chairs, campground guide, road atlas.

Optional extras include bike hire, GPS, WIFI, Coles online delivery service. What is included in your rates? Our rates include unlimited kilometres, 24 hour road side assistance, backed by the Jayco dealer service and repairer network; no matter where you are, you are never far from one of our support team. Do you need a special licence? All of our vehicles can be driven with a standard car licence. Where are your depots located? We also have depots located in all major cities. That's fantastic; where can we find out more? Come and see our fantastic range for yourselves. Visit Watsons Leisure Centre; we are located at the Cnr of Pacific Highway and North Boambee Road, Coffs Harbour. Talk to Angela for an obligation free quote and a tour of the motorhomes, or visit our website at watsonsleisurecentre.com.au

Nestled at the bottom of the Himalayan Mountains between China and India is the Kingdom of Bhutan, the last remaining Buddhist Himalayan Kingdom and Julie Larkey’s “Happy Place”. With over thirty years’ experience in the travel industry, having visited seventy-six countries across her illustrious career, Julie holds a special connection with this majestic kingdom and the honour of the most travelled Australian to Bhutan. “You get off the plane, the mountain air hits you, and it’s like stepping back; there is a quietness, a stillness. I fell in love with the mountains, the scenery, the simplicity and the people,” says Julie.

land area under forest cover, it is one of few countries to have negative carbon emissions. Boasting only organic produce, and mainly vegetarian fare, this is a holiday for those who seek to cleanse the body and the mind.

Whether it be the Himalayan treks, sacred sites or the festivals, Bhutan is like no other place on Earth. With approximately 72% of its total

“When you realise how perfect everything is, you will tilt your head back and laugh at the sky.”

Julie will return to Bhutan with an exclusive small group tour in March 2018. Over 10 days one can experience a complete cultural immersion, including the highlight event that is the Paro Festival. A fusion of food, colour, dance and song culminate, making this the highlight event. For more information on the tour, call CFS Travel and request an appointment with Julie.

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A special focus feature

travel World

... or discover your own back yard.

From Bellingen to the Arctic Circle, Bruce Jacups tells us all about the holiday of a lifetime - where he travelled and what made it so special. Swapping the Australian winter for a European summer and weeks of 24 hour daylight in Norway, he talks to FOCUS about what inspired the trip and some of his most memorable experiences.

Bruce Jacups

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M Y

H O L I D A Y

i Bruce. You have recently been on an interesting holiday; can you tell us a little bit about it and where you went? Well, I spent our winter in Europe. I’m a photographer, mainly of festivals and culture, so I travelled to experience and photograph parts of Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Austria and Svalbard (Norway) in the Arctic Circle (latt 74 81 deg). What inspired you to travel through Europe to the Arctic Circle? A number of reasons. I wanted to see the global seed vault, which is a secure seed bank in Norway. It was started by conservationists to preserve a wide variety of seeds in the event of a global crisis. I also wanted to experience and photograph the remote Arctic landscape and wildlife, and I really wanted to experience the “land of the midnight sun” - 24 hour daylight. What was it like being without darkness for weeks on end? I am usually in tune with navigating my day by the sun here in Australia, but this went totally awry in Svalbard. I had taped cardboard over the windows at my BnB, but that still didn’t help with the distraction of the sun. I didn’t sleep much whilst there, that’s for sure! You sort of feel like you are in some sort of time warp. I

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IT ’ S A WO R L D FILLED WITH L I F E , D E AT H A N D WO N D E R S. YO U W O N ’ T E V E R F O R G E T I T.

remember walking through the main town at 2 or 3am, and the only reason it felt different was due to the lack of people around. What were some of the challenges you faced when travelling through the Arctic Circle? For starters, you can’t just wander off outside settlements without a guide and/or a gun, for protection against polar bears. So that immediately challenged me and my tendancy to roam free. I love the cold; however, being in the Arctic (even during their summer, which is much colder than most of our Australian winter) gave me an appreciation of anyone or any wildlife having to exist within this cold, dry desert landscape. I’d also love to experience a long, dark winter there. How was your experience with the locals? The locals are great! There are three main industries of Svalbard … coal mining, tourism and research. NASA does research there, as do many other world scientists. There’s a mixture of Norwegian, Soviet and other European workers in all of the above industries. The population is only around 1,000 permanents. So you can’t get sick, be more than six months pregnant, or die on Svalbard! There are no hospitals or cemeteries. I was informed that the permafrost is not such a great place to bury the dead,

as learned from past experience ... Eventually the bodies rise to the surface due to the mechanical pressure, over time, of the frozen ground. I did many small eco tours and made some great friends with the fun, informative guides and operators. Tell us about some of the cultural experiences you've had? I’m the kind of guy who wanders around and stumbles upon new people and experiences … I went walking around the town of Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen Island, where I was staying and met a man tending to his Husky dogs in a compound. He invited me in and told me to come back in an hour and he would take me for a summer sled ride, as he needed to exercise his hounds. We did a 15 km run, where I got to control 10 vibrant, eager Huskies through icy streams and incredible landscapes … All at the drop of a hat! I also met some wonderful local tour operators, shopkeepers and teachers. What were some of your most memorable moments and why? Experiencing Blue Whales circle us in a small

boat, it was so humbling being that close to one of Earth’s giants! Trekking Fuglefjella (Bird Mountain) with Phillip and his Malamute. Visiting Pyramiden, an abandoned Soviet mining town, and the dog sledding of course. These moments were so different to anything I’ve experienced at home here in Australia. For anyone wanting to travel to the Arctic Circle, what advice would you give them? Go, do it! It’s a world filled with life, death and wonders … You won’t ever forget it. It was such an incredible and unique experience. Where do you plan to travel next? I’d love to go back to the Arctic, maybe in Russia at a different time of year, to experience a different season and light. However, I think Sri Lanka beckons for early next year. How does travelling affect how you feel about living here on the Coffs Coast? I really appreciate living on the Mid North Coast. Seeing what it’s like to live in such a harsh environment makes me feel lucky to live where I do. On my trip I was inspired by some of the more clean/green infrastructure, which would be great to implement here, like making it much easier to cycle everywhere. Thanks Bruce.

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focusinterview.

DRONE USE IS ON THE RISE, AND WITH THEM TIPPED TO BE MORE POPULAR THAN EVER THIS CHRISTMAS, WE ASKED DRONE/UAV PILOT JAYDEN READ OF MILE HIGH AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY TO GIVE US SOME INSIGHT INTO THE INDUSTRY AND WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GET STARTED.

MILE HIGH J A Y D E N

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R E A D

hat’s your association with the Coffs Coast? I have lived in Coffs Harbour most of my life. The first time I ever came to Coffs was for a holiday; I was only six years old at the time. Coming from Broken Hill, Coffs Harbour was an amazing place and was definitely a change of scenery from what Broken Hill had to offer. After visiting Coffs, my parents decided to sell up and move me and my two older brothers, Josh and Johnathon, to here. We have been here for 22 years now and love the coastal living. What’s a typical day for a drone pilot? For Josh and myself, a typical day consists of quoting, completing risk assessments, job safety assessments, communication with CASA and AirServices Australia, filming and taking fantastic aerial images. As well as photography and videography, we also use our drone for 3-D mapping, LIDAR surveying, overlay mapping and more. We also do all our editing in-house. With drone accessibility and technology on the rise, where do you see the industry heading? Drone technology is getting more advanced every year. I see drones changing the way we do things in the future. But I can also see a lot more accidents happening if CASA and AirServices Australia do not tighten up 68 Coffs Coast focus

As a hobbyist you can operate a drone, although there are still rules and regulations that need to be followed. If you are operating a really small drone under 2 kg for a commercial purpose, you don’t need a ReOC RPA Operator’s Certificate, although you must notify CASA, complete online forms and have an ARN number. By doing this, it means you are restricted to operating under the standing operating instructions, greatly limiting where and how Drone technology is you can fly. on some regulations. getting more advanced Also, by not having a ReOC Drones are not only used for every year. I see drones means you will be unlikely to get photography/videography; changing the way we insurance, leaving you solely liable what are some of the other do things in the future. for any incident or accident arisapplications they are used for? ing from flying your RPA/Drone. That is correct. Drones are not Clients/employers are also only used for photography and less likely to hire you if you’re videography; they are also being uninsured. used for the following: mapping, surveying, spotting, Mile High Aerial Photography have an RPA Operator’s sporting events, emergency rescue, military, and some Certificate (ReOC) and also Aeronautical Radio Certificountries are even using them to deliver parcels. cates. This gives us significant privileges, such as: Where are some of your favourite spots to fly on • Being able to operate larger more commercial drones the Coffs Coast? up to the weight of 27 kg. Coffs Harbour is in controlled airspace, which a lot • Permission to operate closer than 30 metres from a of unlicensed operators don’t understand. Flying within person 3 Nautical Miles, which is 5.5 km of our air tower, is • Night time flying (with night approval) not allowed. Even though we are licensed, we still have • Certain Area Approvals and Exemptions to operate in certain times and also do radio calls and • The ability to get approval to the regulations e.g. notify our local tower etc. We love flying in Sapphire beyond-visual-line-of-sight. Beach and Moonee. We have photographed some • The ability to apply for a range of different additional amazing high end beachfront properties there. approvals as well. What are some of the challenges you’re faced What advice can you give to beginner pilots? with when flying a drone? For any beginner pilots looking at getting into One of the challenges we are faced with is the drones, I would say check the rules and regulations weather. We have also had birds swooping our drones with CASA before flying. Keep safety in mind and have during certain times of the year when the nesting a great time! season is on. Thanks Jayden. Can anyone operate a drone?

focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

A special focus feature

EJMerrick

BUSINESS MINDS

4WD UTE & EXTRAS COFFS HARBOUR

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J, tell us how you came to call the Coffs Coast home? I met Karen in London in 1983 (now my wife) and we moved back to a Melbourne winter out of the London winter. I had two brothers living here in Coffs at the time, and I suggested if anything came up job wise, we would be keen to get out of the cold. So, when Ron, my brother, phoned me and said how about we go into business and start a convenience store in Woolgoolga, I said that sounded great! But I just had two questions: “What is a convenience store, and where the hell is Woolgoolga?” Starting the business was hard work. Twelve - 14 hour days were standard and being a new start-up, we did whatever we could to make the seven to seven store grow. Karen turned 21 in our first year of business, and we realised we liked to work for ourselves and that we loved Woolgoolga. So, we never left! Your business 4WD Ute & Extras is a mecca for lovers of all things 4WD. Share with us what this business provides its customers? We are the ARB stockists in the Coffs Harbour region. With ARB being the market leader in all things 4WD. It has allowed us to cover everything for the tourer, family and tradie to set up their vehicle to enjoy this amazing country. We have a range of maps and books that take people on a discovery tour of our region too. Our fitting workshop is second to none and allows us to customise jobs to suit a customer’s needs. And our accessory fitting team are qualified in fitting, mechanical, auto electrical and panel and welding. They’re the best around! We really take pride in helping our customers find the best solutions for their vehicles and needs, which is probably why we are still here in business and loving it some 14 years on! You’ve been in small business for years;

What has changed with online

sales is that there is no

what are your tips to and that keeps us ‘touch and feel’ that a continued success? working on providing the retail store gives the Business is pretty basic best service and provision customer, and we provide that when you boil it down. To of exclusive products, like with our comprehensive store be successful, you need the ARB product range. displays and product knowledge to have: products/services What has changed with - which we believe gives us an that there is a need for; online sales is that there is advantage over a mouse click. a profit margin to cover no “touch and feel” that your costs; and give the a retail store gives the best service you can to customer, and we provide customers and enjoy it. that with our comprehensive store displays and We have found that there is strength in product knowledge - which we believe gives us diversity, and by that we mean that the Coffs an advantage over a mouse click. region is a smaller population and we have Plus, we fit what we sell to the customer’s collected a stable of products that has helped us vehicle, so we know it works! to cover all aspects of the 4WD industry and not It is the fact we have local knowledge of miss a sale. 4WDing in our region, and it’s our passion for 4WD & UTE EXTRAS is our sixth business this industry that keeps us in touch with our over our business owner journey, and customer customers. service and quality products are the key to In saying that, we are continuing to grow our continuing success. online presence and social media to provide our In a predominantly retail based business, customers an up to date platform to view our tell us how you managed to create a good products and services. and consistent customer experience? Also, being in partnership with my brother, The experience we provide for our customers Tim, and my wife, Karen, is amazing! And we starts from the moment the customer pulls up all still get on! But seriously, always having an outside our store. We have a display outside the owner in the shop at all times means we can store, a rooftop tent display, toolboxes, canopies do deals and make decisions on the run, so the and more in the under-awning area and then customer always gets the best outcome. 360 sqm of a new air-conditioned showroom, What would you say are the biggest keys to showcasing every product that is available for your success? your ute, SUV and 4WD. It’s about picking the trends, taking a risk by Understanding our products and how they having new and innovative products on display benefit the customer comes through product and for sale. It wasn’t that long ago the 4WD/ knowledge and team training and foremost by SUV new car sales were 22% of all new car being passionate about your business. We also sales; this is now up over 45%, or nearly half a like to have a bit of fun too! million sales each year. These days with so much competition We are part of our peak industry body online and otherwise, how do you stay organisations and really enjoy offering the latest ahead and appeal to your customer base to and best products and services on the market to keep them coming back? our customers. You are right about the online competition, But it really is our staff, our people, who make

it all possible. It is a serious business that we are in, but we enjoy what we do and understand that work is only a small part of our life. Good leadership is critical in any business; how do you approach this in your business? We have recently completed part of the Emotional Intelligence Leadership course, which was supplied and delivered by Kerry Hall from the ITTA Academy. This training follows our commitment to personal and business development. It allows us to be more open to other ideas and opinions, and it also continues to remind us all of each other’s feelings and goals and that this is our one and only life and to make the most of it. We are also very organised. We follow our procedures and systems; we know where we are going and why! This is crucial to any business, to keep it running efficiently and effectively. How do you keep yourself motivated? We have had continued growth since we set this business up in December 2003, and growth is important, but achieving a great outcome for our customer each day is motivation enough. Plus, we love business. We are very lucky to live in such an amazing, clean, natural environment, knowing that you can go for 4WDing, swimming, surfing … Well, it’s just not all about work. We love it! Lastly, what do you get up to in your spare time on the Coffs Coast? I have been involved in setting up the Woolgoolga Community Regional Gardens, with an amazing group of people. It has been a wonderful experience engaging with our local community and creating a space that is there for everyone to use. Thanks EJ! Coffs Coast focus 69

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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

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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

12 coffs coast focus.

the Somali team come from? Most of my teammates live in Canada and America. They play for colleges and teams over there. One must stretch What is your a lot to remain favourite memory to flexible and loose from playing There prevent injuries. basketball? is also the ice bath, a My first NBL which I hate with one game, the very first passion, but it’s possession I crossed of the best recovery up and scored on a guy methods. ” who later became like a brother to me. The crowd went crazy every time I touched the ball after that; it’s an amazing memory. What are some of the skills you need to have to play the position of guard? To be a really good guard, one must have: Vision - to be able to see everything on the composed at all times. court, teammate cuts to basket, shooter is As a guard, are you still attacking and open, big man stealing. shooting? Creative - to be able to make plays for not Attacking the basket and creating is my only yourself, but also all of your teammates. bread and butter. I can shoot fairly well, but I Ball handling - must be able to take care don’t live and die by my jump shot. of the ball and with little flair, because that’s Have you had any injuries throughout the beginning of all skills. If you can’t dribble, your career? then you can’t play. I have been fortunate enough to never Shooting - must be able to shoot the ball having a serious injury up until last year after from layups to 3s at a good percentage. the first three games. It’s mentally challenging Layups, floaters, jump shots, step backs and to overcome, not so much the injury, but many more. the doubts about how you are playing. Defence - must be able to lock down his Confidence gets really low and it’s really hard defender and also be able to help teammates. to overcome, but I just stayed positive - and Pick and Rolls - must be able to use screens coaching the kids helped me get my mind at a high conversion rate. right again. I.Q - must be very smart player and thinking How important is flexibility and the game. stretching? Heart - must be brave and never have fear. Mistakes are inevitable, so a guard must stay One must stretch a lot to remain flexible and

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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

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WHERE HAS 2017 GONE?

COFFS MECHANICAL REPAIRS

Another Christmas is upon us, and it feels like the year has just started. Now is the time to organise your Christmas and New Year activities and to start planning for all those jobs required in 2018.

Coffs Mechanical Repairs is a well-established, one stop shop for all your vehicle needs. We are a genuine, family run business, where you speak to the owner and see who is working on your vehicle.

The local building industry is ticking over nicely and everyone is predicting good things for next year, which means that lead times will increase and there will be complaints about shortages of tradesmen.

Coffs Mechanical Repairs can provide all your vehicle maintenance and servicing needs, including log book servicing for new vehicles, tyres, exhausts and much more.

We live in a great part of New South Wales, and hopefully others from anywhere else will realise that they can move to join us. New arrivals from “the big smoke” are amazed at how much they can do in a day, as they are not spending hours per day travelling to and from work, giving them more time to enjoy family time, the climate and environment, as well as our sporting facilities. A growing population supporting locally owned businesses and services result in a growing economy. What more is there to wish for? For those who have been following our journey through the 2017 NSW Housing Industry Awards, none of the Northern NSW Winners were successful in Sydney. However, we should all be proud of our achievements.

As a member of the Carline team, we can offer great prices through the buying power of the Carline Group. We also have a great passion for performance vehicles, classic vehicles and people’s pride and joy, no matter what vehicle that might be. The Fathead Racing team is an integral part of the business, with weekends often being taken up with motorsport. Mark and Mick are quite competitive and, supported by Chris and Steve, this results in a great deal of study, investigation and testing to get the best results for all vehicles - not just race cars. This extensive knowledge in diagnostics and product testing ensures our customers always receive excellent service and cost effective repairs to their vehicles. Our team takes great pride in assisting all customers, no matter how big or small the problem. Ph: 6650 9370 for enquires.

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update. A R E YO U C O N S I D E R I N G W O R K I N G I N R E A L E S TAT E ?

Real estate is a very well paying industry for those who are prepared to work hard, or low paying for those who don’t.

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here are few ways to climb out of a stagnant wage rate; owning your own business is one that works and can provide a lifetime of benefits. The thing about starting a new business though, is that it can be expensive. The good news is that becoming a real estate agent can get you started in a business style employment at a very low relative cost. The

cost of a real estate licence course and an employer who is prepared to give you a go is really all you need. Being in real estate, whilst still being an employee, is a lot like being your own boss. You primarily set your own work schedules, develop a client base, decide on personal marketing investment and grow a “business” as your own.

Your growth is all up to you. There are no limits for growth of your real estate business. Couple a good attitude with a superior work ethic, and you can realise fantastic rewards. You’ll need to incorporate good business skills and develop effective marketing. While the agency you choose to work for will supply you with an office space, corporate guidelines to follow, support, training and prospects, you should always be thinking of it as your business to grow and develop. The harder you work, the more reward you will see. The key to any customer based business is excellent client service. This will yield future rewards. It’s a huge benefit of this industry to be able to reap future business from the good will of past clients. So pay as much attention to the nuts and bolts of the job and to customer service as you do to marketing and promoting yourself. Too many agents focus on how great they are, rather than how good their service is. Focus on the details, and you will see great results later. Your “business” can be as large as you like, as there is huge potential for expansion from your “one person show” beginnings to bringing in personal support members and leverage agents. As an agent, your income is controlled in large part by the time you invest and the strategies you implement. There are many exceptional training organisations and industry trained business coaches that you can employ and learn from. I’s Not Easy Money!

While it can be inexpensive to gain the qualifications and entry into the industry, this can often create false expectations for those who aren’t prepared for the grit involved. There is a prevailing attitude out there that real estate is fast, easy and big money. A large percentage of new agents often do not remain after the first or second year. They find that the easy, big money just wasn’t there, or complacency after a sale instead of the discipline of chasing the consistency in listing new properties dropped off. They struggled and worked long and hard and took home very few commissions as a result. Their costs to market themselves, network, present themselves and run their phones, laptop, iPad and cars was higher than they anticipated, and they learned to hate working in the industry. Successful agents maintain the discipline in making the calls daily, being informed of the market, working their farm area to become a recognised “trusted agent”, which results in consistent pipelines for listings and sales results as a by-product. Even for those who turn out to be the most successful agents, it takes a while until commissions start flowing. Repeat business occurs when all the mechanisms are in place at once. It’s not fun when you’re working hard and long and not bringing in the bucks, but it’s worth sticking around if you can. If you’re considering a career in real estate, you need to ask yourself, “Do you have the grit to be a success?”

Coffs Coast focus 71

e

Early Childhood

EDUCATION WEEK CELEBRATION DINNER Early Childhood Education Week occurred from 7th - 11th August and had many stages to address before reaching the Spectacular Celebration Dinner on Saturday 28th October in Sydney at the Shangri-La hotel.

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ast month 3 Bears Cottage Early Education Service was selected as a finalist in the awards in a whopping 19 categories, and therefore was identified as a potential winner for the 2017 program, which provided an opportunity for the 3 Bears team to celebrate with like minded people in the industry, in recognition of the enormous responsibility as educators they have in helping to care and educate our young children. This year’s theme was “Every Child is Exceptional”. Early Childhood Education Week provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise the great work that educators do and the role they play in the lives of children, their families and the broader community. The program involves, celebrates and promotes our industry, highlighting the benefits of early childhood learning. Services planned their

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activities using ideas based on the Early Years Learning Framework and the National Quality Standards. Hundreds of activities were held involving families, the community and most importantly, the children. The independent judges then had the difficult responsibility in selecting winners after reviewing the activities and submitted award entries. 2017 finalist in “Best Program Highlighting Inclusivity Practices” goes to 3 Bears Cottage EES. It is with great excitement that we accept this award and congratulations to each Educator, child and family/community members that participated in all the activities that we ran during the week. Your dedication and your perseverance with our service is what make us who we are and the benefits are endless to our future, Australia’s children. Our Inclusivity program highlighted many aspects of “big school” through the

eyes of a primary school confident and 2017 finalist in ‘Best special needs child. In involved learners who Program Highlighting partnership with a local can connect with and Inclusivity Practices’ Primary School and an contribute to their goes to 3 Bears Cottage ex-student of 3 Bears world, if we focus on EES. Cottage, we were able to their strengths and engage in a “transition to what they can do. A school program” that was supportive, multiinclusivity rich in depictingfaceted environment Every Child is Exceptional. With the was created for the program to ensure the assistance of the school, Educators, students needs of all the children was catered to, by and family our Early Education program was using pictures, printed and spoken words, developed, presented and promoted through children’s voices, intentional teaching and our preschool room. Our program shared in past experience to show how “Every child is real life fears and anxieties around change Exceptional”. from a peer and past student, at a time when It has been a pleasure being part of the many of our own children will embark on a Education Week Awards and satisfying to transitional journey themselves to primary see the positive results achieved from the school. program for our service. The enthusiasm of I believe our inclusivity program was our team illustrated the passion they have successful in showing that children of all ages for the industry, all for the benefit of our and all abilities are effective communicators, children.

A Free Education Series for 3 to 5 yr olds

language Program GROOVER PROGRAM RUGBY PROGRAM BOOK BUG PROGRAM To register for Little Movers email littlemovers@bdc.nsw.edu.au

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Schoolies is not a Rite of Passage W I T H

B D C

P R I N C I P A L

n today’s society there are a number of concerns plaguing our teens; they can be social issues such as relationship issues, social media concerns, pressures about making decisions, examination pressures. They are even concerned about adult issues such as terrorism, climate change, and Donald Trump. Research conducted by Dr Tomyn from RMIT indicated that our children are happiest as 12 year olds, and this dips to its lowest point at 16 years of age. The happiness ranking then recovers by the time the students finish school. There are obvious reasons why this occurs in adolescents. Things like the change in hormone levels in teens and changes in social groupings going from primary school to high school spring to mind. These issues are also obvious to their parents ... The series of grunts that occur in the house instead of cheerful conversations that were experienced in their younger years. Parents have also started to action their concerns. The Independent Schools Council of Australia (ISCA) recently released a report comparing results of parent surveys on school choice undertaken in 2007 and in 2016. The report indicated a shift in parental expectation when it comes to choosing a school. The increase in the pastoral elements like providing a "supportive and caring environment" had the most significant growth in this report - moving from 17% in 2007 to 24% in 2016. I was speaking with Dr Arne Rubinstein recently about these issue. Dr Arne is an expert in childhood development and in rites of passage as a tool for moving teens through these difficult years more successfully. He used the phrase - “thriving not just surviving” to describe the skills and rites of passage teens need and desire. Dr Arne highlighted resilience (the ability to bounce back from a failure), curiosity (the desire to seek new experiences), adaptability (change is the only constant in the 21st Century), entrepreneurial thinking

N I C K

J O H N S T O N E

(the mindset to spot and seize opportunities), emotional intelligence (the ability to read and manage emotions in yourself and others) and the ability to pursue convictions (doing what you believe in, doing what is right). These skills or traits are being recognised time and time again by professionals and employers as being the skills that our young people need. From a student wellbeing perspective, I see resilience as the key element in this whole process. Life can be difficult, and life will have bumps. As part of the process of building resilience, Dr Arne noted that rite of passages are often missing in the lives of teens, and this then develops into risk taking behaviours. He noted that he would often see in the emergency room young boys, who were engaging in serious dangerous play as part of their own rites of passage. The skateboard jumps, the quad bikes, drinking games, teen fights, trials with drugs are all part of boys seeking to be recognised as men and no longer being boys. Dr Arne noted that teenage girls appeared in emergency, because they got themselves in difficult situations. Year 12s also identify their end of school experiences such as “schoolies” as a rite of passage. Typical rites of passage are baptisms and confirmations, school graduation ceremonies, 18th or 21st birthday parties, weddings, retirement parties, and funerals. These intentionally ritualised ceremonies help the individuals making the transition, as well their relatives and friends, pass through an emotionally charged, tense time. Most rites of passage are religious ceremonies and with the steady retraction of religious influence in our modern western society, these rites of passage are not being reinforced. I argue that it is the responsibility of our community, including parents, grandparents, and schools to help develop the appropriate rites of passage for our teens. Our children need us - all of us.

To find out more about a BDC education, register for a tour or receive an information pack please email enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au or phone 02 6651 5644

Enrolling Now 2018 Kindy to Year 12 LIMITED places available

Bishop Druitt College | 111 North Boambee Rd. Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6651 5644 | secretary@bdc.nsw.edu.au | www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

Nick Johnstone. Coffs Coast focus 73

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Coffs Coast

Climate ACTION GROUP S A R A H

W O O D

FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH

Sarah Wood from Coffs Coast Climate Action Group TO FIND OUT ABOUT THE WONDERFUL THINGS THEY’RE DOING HERE ON THE COFFS COAST.

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an you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved here with my family from Victoria as a teenager and went to school here, met my husband here and now have my little boy growing up here! My family has lived here for over 20 years. Great, and how did you become so heavily involved in the Coffs Coast Climate Action Group? I watched Al Gore’s first film, An Inconvenient Truth in 2007 and was very moved by the urgency of Climate Change and how it impacted so many areas of our lives. This was really the first time I became aware of how rising global average temperatures were critically impacting our ocean temperatures and marine life, while creating conditions for stronger and more significant weather events, as well as having impacts on our health, food security and economic certainty. When I had my son in 2012, I felt compelled to be more active and was thrilled when the Coffs Coast Climate Action Group was formed in 2013, following a gathering of 300 people for the National Day of Climate Action at the Harbourside Markets. Can you tell us about the breakthrough the Coffs Coast Climate Action Group along with Coffs Harbour City Council have recently had? Absolutely! The Coffs Harbour City Council has now joined 30 other Councils Australia wide, representing $6,984,961,346 in committing to divest from financial institutions that continue to fund the fossil fuel industry - a significant 74 Coffs Coast focus

This was an incredible experience and was where I learned first

hand Al Gore’s climate

divestment against contributor to climate reality presentation as arpartheid in South seen in his movie, ‘An change. The Coffs Coast Inconvenient Truth’. I also Africa. It also encourages Climate Action Group, spent four days with experts from investment into more together with Councillors the CSIRO, renewable energy sustainable and long Tegan Swan and Sally industry leaders and expert term solutions. Townley, were able to communicators. You didn't become show that the Council so extremely can continue to meet knowledgeable on its obligations under your own. Can you its current Investment tell us about the big names who helped you Policy Guidelines, whilst also addressing wide along the way? community concern over the impacts of Climate I was very fortunate to have trained with Change, by preferencing financial institutions former United States Vice President Al Gore as that do not fund the fossil fuel industry. a Climate Reality Leader. This was an incredible This was a practical way to align the Council's experience and was where I learned first hand finances to its commitment to addressing Climate Al Gore’s climate reality presentation, as seen Change, whilst also meeting current NSW Local in his movie An Inconvenient Truth. I also Government investing policy guidelines. As at 30 spent four days with experts from the CSIRO, April 2017, the Council had over $175 million renewable energy industry leaders and expert invested in 29 financial institutions. The CCCAG communicators. Al Gore is committed to training were able to assist the Council in identifying regular people, who can then be a voice in the financial institutions that Council already had community to bring about action on climate a financial relationship with that have a stated change. position on not financing the fossil fuel industry. Wow, what an incredible experience! What Importantly, this preference takes into account can locals expect leading into the new year where the rate of return is the same or higher, so from the Coffs Coast Climate Action Group? there is no financial detriment to the Council and Following an amazing turnout of over 800 is in line with its risk assessment policy. people at our recent “Stop Adani” event And how will this massive divestment held at Park Beach, the Coffs Coast Climate change things as we know it? Action Group is continuing to engage with our This sends a strong message to financial Government representatives and to educate the institutions that the community and Council do public on the importance of stopping the Adani not want to continue supporting the funding coal mine from going ahead. The proposed mine of fossil fuel companies with the knowledge we has unacceptable climate impacts, with plans have today regarding climate change. Divestment to mine 2.3 billion tonnes of coal, resulting in is a very powerful tool, as has been seen in other emissions of 4.6 billion tonnes of CO2, at a time divestment campaigns, such as the protest of

when we must reduce our burning of fossil fuels as quickly as possible to limit the impacts of climate change. Adani’s project could also result in over 500 extra coal ships travelling through the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area each year, risking ship groundings, coal and oil spills, water contamination and destruction of important habitats. When you take into account the people power along with many selfless organisations, what’s your overall goal for not only the Coffs Coast, but the world? We want to be a source of inspiration for our community with a positive vision of our future one that is powered by clean, renewable energy, with opportunities for the Coffs community and local economy in sustainable jobs, regional development, cheaper electricity and increased energy security through decentralised energy production. We can do this by being a source of local information on climate change, promoting energy efficiency, solar uptake, divestment and other climate-friendly practices, as well as continuing to engage with our local representatives and decision makers. How can locals get involved with Coffs Coast Climate Action Group? We have our planning meetings on the first and third Thursday of each month, 5pm at the Cavanbah Centre, Room B, 191 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. All are welcome! You can also “like” our Facebook page and subscribe to our email list by going to our website http:// coffsclimateaction.weebly.com Thanks Sarah.

focusMotoring. WITH LAARZ

DRIVEN HARLEY-DAVIDSON 2018 STREETGLIDE SPECIAL DATE 31ST OCTOBER DEALER NORTH COAST V-TWINS

Motor mouth rating

10/10

H A R L E Y - D A V I D S O N

STREETGLIDE Special

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can still remember it like it was yesterday: ripping up the Waterfall Way on a demo Harley-Davidson from this very same dealer some 20 odd years ago. It wouldn’t take too long before my passion for this brand became an obsession and many acquisitions across the marque later, I have been struck by the love bug once again. After clocking up almost 50,000 km on my own Streety; this is a revolution too good to pass up. Without trying to sound cliché, the new Street Glide rides like a dream. Every once in a while I find a motorcycle that does exactly what I want it to do when I want it to do it. The previous incarnation was like this for me, after riding it daily for so many years with my chauffeured "A1 Coffs Coast Tours" Harley sightseeing/tour experience. The 2018 Street Glide Special was like this for me right out of the box. I looked forward to getting on this bike every single stop on my two day tour. In fact, each time I would park it, I found

The power was there

myself disappointed used to for a Street whenever I needed that I didn’t get to ride Glide. I love the it, but it wasn’t longer. timeless look of this too jumpy when I’ll start with the iconic bagger, and if I didn’t. It remained new Milwaukee-Eight’s you’ve made it this smooth and consistent 107 cubic-inch engine. far into my article, as the tacho climbed Harley-Davidson has odds are that you do and made for a lot of fun improved performance, too. But don’t let the whenever I opened it up. durability, and styling classic look fool you; with its new powerplant. it’s still packing the This thing sounds technological punch fantastic, idles cooler than previous models, Harley-Davidson debuted with its Project and delivers a fantastic amount of torque Rushmore models: the ride is unmatched, 10 per cent improvement over previous-year thanks to the fully adjustable rear suspension, models. The power was there whenever I responsive front suspension and Reflex™ needed it, but it wasn’t too jumpy when I linked Brembo® brakes. You also get a didn’t. It remained smooth and consistent BOOM!™ Box stereo that pumps out a as the tacho climbed and made for a lot of mean sound, navigation, a fully functional fun whenever I opened it up. The eight-valve 6” touchscreen, and voice activation for engine is counterbalanced to cancel 75 per music, phone, and GPS. All the controls are cent of engine vibration at idle, which has positioned where you would instinctually want dropped from 1,000 rpm to 850 rpm. I predict them. If you don’t want to toggle a thumb the Milwaukee-Eight will fit its way into the control to make a selection on the screen, you legendary category years from now. can just touch the damn thing, which doesn’t Styling is pretty much what we have been get much more straightforward than that.

The BOOM stereo wails and provides as much sound as you can hope for highway speeds. The 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special did something for me that I haven’t experienced in a long time. It brought me to a place where regular, daily riding was an adventure. It was that same feeling that that I had all those years ago. So often while reviewing motorcycles, I struggle to find a good balance between the positives and negatives. I’ve thought about this a lot, and to be perfectly honest, I can’t think of anything bad to say. If there are negatives, I didn’t find them. Harley-Davidson has dialled in this Street Glide to the point where I would personally consider buying one … Oh, I actually couldn’t resist - I did! Drop into North Coast V-Twins for a test ride or jump on the back with me, and you’ll understand. M O T O R M O U T H R AT I N G

For further info/test ride, call 6650 4200. Coffs Coast focus 75

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Brian Hopwood H O M E S

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BrianHopwood H O M E S

Brian Hopwood Homes has nearly thirty years of building experience on the Coffs Coast. The last twelve months have been massive, and the Brian Hopwood Homes team has seen some really beneficial changes occur. What hasn’t changed is the team’s passion for clients and ensuring they continue to work closely with them throughout the build process, from enquiry to completion. The team has always prided itself on the relationships formed, whether they are with first home buyers, downsizers or investors. FOCUS had a chat with Brian to find out more …

A

bit about Brian (written by Brian, himself) ... I moved to Coffs Harbour in 1988 from Orange, with my then wife, Sandra, and my three children, Peter, Renee and David. I played Rugby League with the Coffs Comets (not very well) touch football, as well as indoor cricket (slightly better) and quickly made a lot of friends. Within a short amount of time, I began to love the Coffs area. In 2004 I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. The doctors removed my entire stomach and said I might only live for another nine months ... 14 years later, I think I am going pretty well. I am healthy, happy and still love living here on the Coffs Coast. I still play OzTag (again, not fantastically) and take my wife of 10 years, Kim Connolly, down for a walk and a

swim at Sawtell Beach every weekday morning. I thoroughly enjoy my work and the friends I have made, from co workers, contractors and clients, who are a blessing. Life moves on, and the Coffs Coast keeps shining. Kim and I are expecting our 11th grandchild, and we so love every single one of them. They are a revitalisation of your life and excite us every time we spend time with them. I have enjoyed having my son, David, join our amazing team; he brings a youthful enthusiasm to the business and is a breath of fresh air. We believe the next 30 years will be as exciting and as fulfilling as the last 30, and who knows - maybe then we will have hover houses ... I am very much looking forward to building many more homes for many more years to come ... What services do Brian Hopwood Homes

In 2004 I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. The doctors

removed my entire stomach and said I might only live for another nine months ... 14 years later, I think I am going pretty well. I am healthy, happy and still

to date on the progress of provide? Here at Brian their home and to tend to Hopwood Homes, any queries that may have we do more than just arisen. build your house. From Clients are more than love living here on the Coffs Coast. the start, Brian will welcome to come in personally sit down with and speak with Angela, clients and talk through our in-house design and their ideas, desires and selections consultant, as many times as they needs. want, as we understand that getting the Our team is always happy to provide aesthetics right for each individual home is customers with expert opinions and insights on crucial in making it your own. construction methods and design concepts that may not even have been thought of. During the construction period, Brian will meet with his clients on site each week, to keep them up

Even after your home is complete and a client has moved in, we are always happy to help out and answer any questions you may have.

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The team here at Brian Hopwood Homes is a closeknit, dynamic and hard working group of people. Everyone has their own unique set of skills, which, when combined, makes a productive and efficient unit. From go to whoa, the team is there for you; no question is too big or too small and no job is impossible.

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BRIAN HOPWOOD.

MARK BOHRINGER.

MARK ROSE.

DIRECTOR

E S T I M AT O R

ON SITE SUPERVISOR.

At the head of the table is Brian Hopwood himself; he has been building dream homes for more than 35 years and for over 1,000 families in the Mid North Coast region. Brian’s extensive knowledge of architecture and carpentry, when combined with a client's desires and needs, produce precise and wonderful designs, from our standard plans to sleek modern homes to grand double storey mansions. Brian’s attention to detail and big picture vision for each individual build ensures that the client gets exactly what they “order” and more. Once plans come to fruition, Mark Bohringer and Mark Rose are at the helm of construction.

Mark (Bozza) has been with Hopwood Homes for over 12 years, and his prior construction experience of being a subcontractor and Construction Manager has led to him now working in the office as a Building Estimator. This role entails providing specific house quotes, quantity take offs and all purchase orders for subcontractors and suppliers. Mark’s excellent organisational and quantity surveying skills make certain that the lego pieces to your home build are on site and on time.

Mark (Rosey) is a new addition to the “on-site” team and although previously working on our sites as one of the company’s sub-contracting carpenters, Mark has now taken on the role of Site Supervisor. Mark’s construction experience and knowledge of the building process ensures that the build will run on time and meet deadlines, as well as each step being completed to the highest standard and the finish being of the best quality.

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GREG ARTHUR.

DAVID HOPWOOD.

ANGELA SMART.

ONSITE LABOURER.

MARKETING & SALES.

Greg’s meticulous inspections

David is our Marketing guru, as well as our Enquiries Agent. David has close to 10 years’ experience in retail banking and the home finance management industry..

ACCOUNTS MANAGER & CLIENT SERVICE OFFICER.

and eye for safety ensures our sites are clean, well maintained and can be accessed by our tradesmen and team with ease.

Without him we would have tradies falling over one another and the build site would look more like a bomb site.

this allows him to have fantastic communication and customer care skills, as well as an updated knowledge of current marketing and building trends. David’s role is fundamental; without him we would not be able to get all the marketing material we need or be able to source the indispensable industry connections we have now.

Angie is our resident Accounts Manager and in house Selection Specialist of four years. With over 10 years of hands on experience in the accounting industry, Angela is able to produce exact figures for each stage of the build, so you know what it’s going to cost straight from the get-go. Angela’s artistic flair, excellent customer service and insight into styling trends are crucial when it comes to choosing colours, fittings and finishes; with a vast range of choices, she will be able to source and point you in the right direction, stress-free.

CASSANDRA COLLETT.

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N .

Cassandra is the newest member of the team here at Brian Hopwood Homes. With previous experience in the real estate industry in sales support and administration, she is now taking those learnt skills and tackling the role of Administrator here. Cassandra will be your first point of contact when you walk through the door or call the office phone. With hands on experience and knowledge of the real estate industry and its processes, she will able to compile and handle all the required paperwork to get your home up and going from start to finish.

Proud to suppo

HOPWOOD HOMES

1/22 KEONA CIRCUIT COFFS HARBOUR PH: 6652 4866

COFFS HARBOUR

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Tell us about some of the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. The “Elements Estate” is the company’s newest, most exciting project. We currently have 16 lots in both Stages 1C and 9 of the estate, with three of the 16 already sold. The estate is in a prime location just off Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour, so the location is perfect, with any buyer lucky enough to secure a house and land package will be within minutes of the airport, university, reputable schools, the sporting stadium, Coffs Harbour Health Campus, as well as shopping centres - and let’s not forget to mention the five beautiful beaches that a purchaser will have at their fingertips. Each block captures elevated mountain and ocean views, as well as cool, sea breezes on a

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summer’s day and the warm westerly sun on a winter’s morning. With such stunning aspects, Brian is very excited to build and design homes that feature and showcase these million dollar views. This estate is absolutely perfect for everyone; families, first time home buyers, relocations, investors and retirees. With so many amenities at your fingertips, what more could you ask for? Another estate that has Brian chomping at the bit is the William Sharp Estate. With only two lots remaining out of the original eight, we are excited to start collaborating and constructing some marvellous homes with our clients in the New Year. The estate is also in a fantastic location in one of the newer developing neighbourhoods; again, any purchaser will be within minutes of shops,

Pool Pump Automation

Our team will partner with pa you and your builder, to develop a solution that will secure your energy future and reduce your homes ongoing running costs. Partnering with NCPW for a total solution ensures your home electrical and water systems work in harmony, and allow you to take control of your Water, Energy and Life.

Water Filtration

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6651 4333

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Brian Hopwood H O M E S

schools, parks and beaches. and this has a massive impact on how the As always, Brian is in talks with local land build progresses, as Brian can talk directly with holders, and we hope to be releasing new lots of contractors about how work is to be performed house and land packages and the clients can have in 2018. We are always input if they have any new happy to discuss plans on ideas they want to discuss any block of land, whether with Brian. This allows it’s ours or yours, and if everyone to be aware of We are always happy to you are thinking that the what stage construction is discuss plans on any Boambee area might just up to, and any additions block of land, whether it’s be right for you, please or issues can be actioned ours or yours, and if you are don’t hesitate to contact immediately. thinking that the Boambee area us, as we have a new Some of our clients have might just be right for you, please estate coming up in a very built two or three homes don’t hesitate to contact us ... popular and sought after with us over a period of location! years, and other situations What makes you have seen multiple family stand out above you members sign up with competitors? Brian Hopwood Homes for their new home. This, Brian Hopwood Homes have been and always we believe, is a testament to our great reputation will be a local, honest, trustworthy and quality and the clients’ positive experiences when company. building with Hopwood Homes. Brian meets on-site weekly with all clients,

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What to consider when looking and building a new house ... There are many things people should thoroughly consider when looking at building a new house; in this process, every single detail is important. But, everyone has different priorities and values, so what does our office think? Many people think price is the most crucial part when considering building, and often this is the pivotal point when it comes to making a decision. Yes, price is important, but quality, honesty and trust are paramount. The price is not going to be worth it if your house is

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Another thing to take into consideration is ‘Lifestyle Design’. This simply refers to the design and layout of your home and whether it will accommodate your current lifestyle and the lifestyle you want to have.

falling down in a year’s time; people need to trust their builder and know that they are going to look after them through the whole operation. Location, location, location ... You have probably heard it all before, but it is in fact as important as they say it is, and it’s not just about which suburb or which street you build in ... It’s about precisely where on your land you build the home. When looking

at purchasing land, you need to envision the spans and layout of where ideally you would like your home to “sit pretty”. Now, you need to imagine Mother Nature at her worst. No one wants an indoor swimming pool during the wet season, and no one wants a sauna during the hotter months. The location of your block and the placement of your home on that block will

determine whether you are getting the most out of it, and whether it is going to last the test of time. Another thing to take into consideration is “Lifestyle Design”. This simply refers to the design and layout of your home and whether it will accommodate your current lifestyle and the lifestyle you want to have. When you are looking or are in the process of building your new home, you need to think about the here and now, as well as the future ... A few of the questions you need to ask yourself are:

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Brian Hopwood H O M E S

• Do you prefer open plan or separate rooms? • Would you like to be able to entertain from the kitchen, but be able to see the kids in the lounge room? Or do you prefer keeping the sound of the kids and TV dulled behind a wall? • Would you like to be able to serve coffee and platters of food flawlessly like a champ out to the undercover alfresco area via the openstack sliding doors and not have to pinky wrestle with slippery door handles? • Will the amount of bedrooms you have in mind accommodate friends or extended family staying, or are you OK with sharing a bed with

your snoring relative? • Have you allowed enough back yard for the dog to run around in? • What about a future pool; have you thought about that on a summer's day? • Will the yard be too big and too much to maintain? • Are you OK with guests walking through bedroom areas to use the bathroom, or would you prefer them to have access to a tucked away wall closet? • Does the garage have enough room for you to store your push-bikes, surfboards and

So when researching and

speaking to a builder

fishing gear? have seen a design on a reabout these things • Will you be buying ality TV show does not mean people need to consider furniture for your it is suited or right for them, supply and material quality, new home, or shiftand just because something and whether it last the test of ing what you already is pretty, does not mean it is time. have? And will it all going to do the job. fit? What makes up your • And will you still house is just as important love those bright red retro subway tiles in six as who! So when researching and speaking months’ time? to a builder about these things - people need Suppliers and materials play a vital role in the to consider supply and material quality, and quality and finishes of your home, so people whether it will last the test of time. need to remember that just because they may

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When everyone works professionally together, the

results are a smooth, problem free build, and

How important is build, and we like to put we like to put on an end of year it to support local on an end of year casual casual get together to show businesses? get together to show our our appreciation of everyone’s We have a wonderful appreciation of everyone’s efforts, that assist in making our working relationship with efforts, that assist in business such a success. all our contractors and making our business such suppliers, and we are a success. proud to be able to use Where are the hot local companies where we can in our business. spots to build on the Coffs Coast? Supporting local businesses has a massive There are very few quality lots of land left in impact on the Coffs Coast, as it means we all Coffs Harbour; they have been either already succeed and that benefits not only us directly, snatched up, or the land holders don’t want to but the future generation and Coffs Coast as a let go. great place to live and work. The Elements Estate will be the hottest spot When everyone works professionally to build, if not already one of the hottest spots together, the results are a smooth, problem free on the Coffs Coast, with multiple lots sold or

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Brian Hopwood H O M E S

With many new homes finished or under construction, this

area is ideal for first time home buyers or new families. Once again, it is close

under offer. It is in an ideal location close to all the amenities you could want and need, without being in the hustle and bustle of the CBD. We currently have in total 16 lots in the estate, with three already sold before registration ... Now with Stage 1C (Moonlight Crescent) registered, we have noticed a fast and growing increase of interest due to the fantastic qualities the estate has to offer. Another popular developing location is around the Loaders Lane, William Sharpe Dr and Pearce Dr area in the western side of Coffs Harbour. With many new homes finished or under construction, this area is ideal for first time home buyers or new families. Once again, it is close to

Sapphire, Corindi and Moonee Beach. These northern communities to all the necessary conveniences, all the necessary now have the ease of without all the houses being on conveniences, without instant access to the top of each other. all the houses being highway, which takes you on top of each other. straight into the Coffs In mid 2017 we had harbour CBD in under seven blocks for sale 15 minutes. In the last in the William Sharp Estate, and six of them 12 months we have built approximately nine were sold just like that! With the amount beautiful homes north and at present have of interest circulating in that area, the last four jobs under contract. remaining lot is currently under subdivision to Finally, as always, are the Toormina, meet the needs of potential purchasers. Boambee and Bonville areas; they may not There is a growing demand north due to always be the hottest spots, but always rank the recent highway upgrade between Moonee number one for the most popular areas to Beach and Corindi; many people are choosing build and live in. Located 5 - 10 minutes to relocate for the convenience of developing outside of Coffs Harbour, these are the most neighbourhoods in fantastic suburbs such as affordable areas to purchase and live in,

with their own access to local supermarkets and shops, as well as reputable schools and public transport. There is no doubt why it is a popular location. During 2017 we constructed in total 18 homes in the area and currently have five under contract. In the past 18 months the Coffs Coast has seen in influx of “tree changers” from big cities. With the medium prices in larger cities sitting around the $900,000 - $1,000,000 mark for minimal space, the Banana Coast is a very attractive $469,000 - $550,000 average ... No wonder the demand for new housing has increased and hot spots have been snatched up! So if you’re considering building, now is the time to get in and get your slice of land, before they are all gone.

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How important is sustainability when building a new home? Sustainable houses are cheaper in the long run, because they are much more energy efficient; a sustainable house will have fewer and lower utility bills. All Brian Hopwood Homes come with solar hot water and a 1.6 kW Solar Power System, which is a great way to help our clients start to save on energy bills that seem to be always on the rise. Those clients that are able to upgrade to either 3.24 kW or 5.13 kW will see the benefits immediately and may avoid paying power bills all together. Although initial startup costs may be an additional expense, the systems quickly pay for themselves. Water tanks and insulation are also required inclusions that add to the sustainability of a

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BASIX is one of the strongest sustainable planning measures to be

account the region's Brian Hopwood Home. weather conditions and BASIX is one of the undertaken in Australia, and orientation on the land strongest sustainable it aims to make all residential is done correctly, the planning measures to be dwelling types in NSW energy building is able to let undertaken in Australia, and water efficient. the sun in during cold and it aims to make all seasons and shut it out residential dwelling types when it’s hot; hence, in NSW energy and water you create homes that efficient. BASIX applies to require minimal active heating or cooling. all new Development Applications in NSW and Tell us about your community involvement. sets sustainability targets for water and energy, Brian Hopwood Homes has been sponsoring as well as minimum performance levels for the the Coffs Comets Junior Rugby League for thermal comfort of the proposed development, over 20 years and has had much pleasure thus making homes far more energy and water in sponsoring some great organisations and efficient than they were 10 years ago. events in 2016 and 2017. Sustainable homes cost much less to heat and cool in the winter and summer respectively, • Business and Professional Women (BPW) Coffs Harbour • Social Concepts Dance Studio and when the home is designed to take into

• Sawtell Panthers • Mothers Milk Sawtell Tim Roger’s performance • Oz Tag Men’s team Coffs Harbour - National Titles • Joe Vallance, Sam Parkes and Zane Misios - three local boys who have been selected to tour in 2018 with the NSW Country Team. Other news Forest View project at Bonville was completed, which saw Brian Hopwood Homes build 10 beautiful homes, all in the one street. To ensure our clients got to meet their new neighbours and had a catch up, Hopwood Homes put on a street BBQ - a great afternoon was had by all. Our relationship with our clients does not end when the home is complete; it goes into the future.

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TESTIMONIAL When it comes to building your dream home, there's no better builder to place your trust in and make your family dreams come true than Hopwood Homes. Brian was involved in the design of our new home, and the experience was stress free and seamless - nothing short of perfection from beginning â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til hand-over of the house. Brian and his team not only delivered on time with a quality finish, but displayed the utmost care and professionalism. They provide a level of personalised service that is second to none. The entire team, including the office staff, were very approach-

able, flexible and willing to adapt to change. The quality of service during the design, construction and completion of our new home was exemplary. Brian has a very hands-on approach and due to our work commitments, we were unable to meet during the week, but Brian made himself available to meet on Saturdays on-site. The follow-up from Hopwood Homes after completion was amazing. Thank you so much for the spectacular job you ALL have done. You have not built a house for us, but a beautiful HOME. Â - Graeme & Nikki, Korora.

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