Coffs Coast Focus i92

COFFS COAST

May 2018. issue 92

Health Women's

Stories of our generation

1 coffs coast focus.

Feature Story

Aunty Bea Ballangarry

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Welcome to the May issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

I

f we had a dollar for every time we are asked how we find interesting people to interview each month, we would probably be rolling like kings and queens. Truth be known, we are in shock ourselves that there are so many fantastic people living here amongst us. People who truly believe in their cause … People who keep-on keeping-on. It’s inspiring.

We feel truly blessed to be able to present to you a positive, inspiring and beautifully presented magazine each month. The deadlines and late press days suck, but we love this job. Our days are spent chatting to people, great people that are doing great things! And how do we find them?

Well, we’re attracted to interesting people! So, if you know of anyone who is doing something completely epic, please contact us. FOCUS is your publication just as much as it’s ours. Send us an email.

On the Cover It has been taught for thousands of years that there are three phases of a woman’s spiritual life.

These three phases are Maidenhood, Motherhood, and the Crone/Sage phase. Maidenhood is fresh like spring; Motherhood is the full expression of life like summer. The Crone/Sage phase is like autumn, when the Earth has reached the climax of ripeness and begins to turn. This month’s cover demonstrates a clear representation of these three stages. Hayley Fischer (Maidenhood), Tigi Teresa (Motherhood) and Jane Tavener (Crone) are our beautiful faces of FOCUS this month. Aren’t they incredible women? Thanks again to Lauren from Living Doll, Cover Stylists, Carole Beros from Le Dain Designs and Sinclair Black from Coastal Media for your help styling and shooting the May edition front cover ... Another one we are extremely proud of!

Inside this Edition: Aunty Bea Ballangarry is an Aboriginal Elder and community leader. She is known for her tireless contribution to community development and positive social change, and she has recently been awarded the 2018 Coffs Coast International Women’s Day “Woman of the Year” award. Well

deserved, we think! Peter John Wood is a well known local businessman, owner of Coffs Jet Ski Hire, and legendary Ironman. For a bloke over 60 years of age he’s going strong, with two more Ironman races coming up this year and a huge number of achievements already under his belt, including the original and best-known Ironman Hawaii. He’s a lovable and inspirational local hero.

Spotlight on the Western Hinterland We are putting the spotlight on the Western Hinterland, showcasing Coramba, Orara Valley and Nana Glen this month. A short peaceful drive inland from Coffs Harbour will lead you to a number of rural communities in the picturesque Orara Valley with lots to see and do. Experience Coramba’s country charm and taste Nana Glen’s food and wine experience, as well hidden waterfalls and breathtaking swimming holes. Turn to page 41.

Final Say: ”Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together” - Marilyn Monroe.

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Coffs Coast focus 3

issue inside this

Issue 92 - May 2018

Meet

Charlotte Bennett-Hill is an HSC student here in Coffs Harbour whose father, Steve Hill, owns Coffs City Skydivers. Growing up around skydivers has inspired her to write her major work for Society and Culture about skydiving, the type of people who choose to participate in the sport, and the psychology of risk-taking.

8

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THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

Charlotte Bennett-Hill.

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Popla is a new and exciting restaurant destination for foodies here on the Coffs Coast. After the success of their first restaurant in Newtown, Sydney, the crew from Bloodwood have done the tree change to Bellingen and opened Popla.

Regulars 18. WHAT’S ON MAY 28. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 39. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI 40. SOCIAL SCENE CAROLE BEROS

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focusinterview.

Charlotte Bennett-Hill is an HSC student here in Coffs Harbour whose father, Steve Hill, owns Coffs City Skydivers. Growing up around skydivers has inspired her to write her major work for Society and Culture about skydiving, the type of people who choose to participate in the sport, and the psychology of risk-taking.

Charlotte Bennett-Hil

H

i Charlotte. Tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast.

I’m a Coffs kid, born and raised. I was born at Coffs Harbour Baringa Hospital and have lived my whole 18 years of life here. I go to Bishop Druitt College and am currently completing my final year. I love it here. I feel so grateful for living here, and all the opportunities that have come along with it. I’ve travelled quite a lot, and I guess that has put into perspective how amazing the Coffs Coast is.

You have recently written a body of work revolving around the lives of skydivers from around the world and why they do what they do. Tell us more about this project and what it’s about?

I’m in the middle of an HSC major work for Society and Culture, which is a written project about pretty much anything of your choosing. I decided to focus on skydiving, and the psychological and existential impacts it has on the lives of the participants. I chose to do this because my father owns Coffs City Skydivers, and I have grown up in the skydiving world.

I chose to base my question around the impact skydiving has on people for two reasons, really. Number one, being that I’ve noticed that all the skydivers, no matter where they come from, who they are or their age, they all have certain personality traits that seem to flow through all of them, and I wanted to know why this is. Reason two, is that the psychology of risk taking fascinates me, and I have abundant access to information and people I may need to interview, all around the world.

Have you found a common mindset or a certain type of personality that comes with the sport?

Absolutely. Whilst every skydiver I have ever met is so different, there are certain traits which almost every skydiver has. They often live life to the fullest extent, in all aspects, not just through skydiving. They often travel, and party, and live the opposite of a mundane life. They never get weighed down by the typical, working 9 - 5, boring kind of life. A

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that you are responsible for each lot of people think that they are just crazy adrenaline-junkies, which they other's safety turns you into the best The skydiving lifestyle is about obviously are to some extent, but of mates as soon as you’ve touched so much more than the thrill. people often confuse that with the It includes the thrill, but is also the ground again.” (Steve Hill, AKA mindset of "life is meant to be lived". about living life fully, making Dad).

Most of them also have really lifelong connections with How has your research influenced inclusive, open, friendly, funny people, loving the life you your own thoughts on skydiving? personalities that are so fun to be live, having fun and showing From my research, I have realised around. They are able to make other people that there is so much that the skydiving community and friends and connections with people more available to people than the individuals are so complex and more so easily. They are also the most average stereotypical life. fascinating than I had assumed ... approachable people who would And that the skydiving lifestyle is drop anything to look after each about so much more than the thrill. other, or anyone in need, which I It includes the thrill, but is also about think is really lovely and quite rare in today's society. living life fully, making lifelong connections with people, In my own experience, I have felt a strong sense of loving the life you live, having fun and showing other family among skydivers. How true is this, and why do people that there is so much more available to people than they connect so well? the average stereotypical life.

Oh definitely! Like I mentioned, I think it’s because It also helped me realise things about myself, like the fact of the open-mindedness in the skydiving community. that I leave my homework to the last minute because deep Everyone who skydives is so different, not only because down I enjoy the stress and adrenaline that comes with the of the different nationalities, but also personalities rush. It has also made me very keen to start my own AFF too. For example, we have a woman who is training in course, so I can skydive solo. As soon as I finish school! medical science, a French roof tiler, an Australian priest, a Personally, what do you enjoy most about skydiving?

Portuguese bar worker, a dad who doubles as an alternate In the actual skydive, I love freefall. You just feel so free psychologist, a full-time German competitive skydiver and so and amazing! You are one hundred percent in the moment; many more characters. there is no past or future, just now. You get into this state of But, skydiving acts as a common thread, tying all these complete euphoria, and it’s like nothing else you have ever people together. Because everyone is free and encouraged experienced! to be themselves, with no judgement from other skydivers, Every time I promise myself that I’m going to live everyone is able to be completely comfortable with each differently, focusing more on the important things in life, other. rather than all the material things and stresses that actually This question was actually one I have researched for my don’t matter.

But what I love most about skydiving is the body of work, and in an interview with my dad I think he lifestyle, the community.

Our skydiving family here at the summed it up perfectly: “Jumping out of aircrafts takes a lot of responsibility. You are literally trusting everyone else in the dropzone, are indescribable. We are all so close, and I am so lucky to have all those wonderful people in my life. plane with your life, and you can’t get a bond stronger than Thanks Charlotte. that. Even if you have only just met the person, knowing

Coffs Coast focus 9

focusinterview.

Aunty Bea Ballangarry Aunty Bea Ballangarry is an Aboriginal Elder and community leader. She is known for her tireless contribution to community development and positive social change, and she has recently been awarded the 2018 Coffs Coast International Women’s Day "Woman of the Year" award.

Well deserved, we think - here’s why.

H

i Aunty Bea. You were born in Bowraville but lived away from the area for some years.

What drew you back to the Coffs Coast and Gumbaynggirr Country?

After I got married, my husband and I moved our family to Western Australia. We moved because of his job promotion. While we were there, my daughter got very ill, and I found I needed my family around me. So, apart from coming home to Gumbaynggirr Country, which means a lot to me, I also needed to be around my family, so these were the things that brought me home.

You must have seen some significant changes here on the Coffs Coast and within the community over the years. What are some changes that really stand out to you?

From my perspective, I’ve seen changes in the way that our Aboriginal community have become more proactive in what we see as positive social changes. It feels like we have become more united in standing together in context to varying community developments, such as reviving our Gumbaynggirr language.

Again, in my perspective, I now see our Aboriginal community as advisories for future community developments.

You have recently been awarded the 2018 Coffs Coast International Women’s Day "Woman of the Year" award; what does that mean to you?

What that means to me is "opportunity".

I’m community development minded and passionate about positive social change. This award means that I have a better opportunity of

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being heard where my work is recognised and validated; therefore, I can continue to design and implement creative and meaningful projects that make a difference.

Could you tell us about some of the women who have inspired and influenced you?

I’ll start with Mother Teresa, how I aspire to her kindness, love and humility, whilst getting on with the job at hand. On the other hand, the women who truly influence me are from my family, my grandmother and mother from the "old ways", to my many women kin, my daughter with a disability, down to my granddaughter Darcie McInally, from the "new ways". Darcie is a dancer, as well as a school student. I’m continually inspired by how she remembers her dance routines from one dance event and Eisteddfod to the next, plus the work it takes to do well at school. This would need my daughter in-law Melissa’s creative planning to enable Darcie to be a dancer, student and enjoy life as a daughter and granddaughter. I’m inspired.

You have been recognised for your work in women’s health, mental health, and domestic violence issues, among many other things. Can you tell us about what motivates you to speak up about these issues and what you hope to achieve by doing so?

I’ve been recognised for my work in these areas, plus I work in other areas too, such as disabilities and any work pertaining to education and social health. I see myself as a quiet, confident, influential woman who is constantly involved with community groups to keep designing projects, establishing groups, events and camps, especially if they are relevant to and

MY MESSAGE IS, LET’S CONTINUE TO STAY UNITED, TO KEEP THE CONVERSATION ALIVE AND ONGOING FOR THE BETTERMENT OF OUR COMMUNITY.

address healing for social and emotional wellbeing.

I regularly hold poetry workshops, circle work, or invite women to join WOW (Women of the World) Coffs Harbour - a community group for regular events of ceremony, workshops, performances, sharing stories and to be together. I am motivated to speak up for and with other women, because I believe in improving the status of women through various mediums, and speaking out is one of them.

I share my story because of how I personally gained empowerment through support given to me when I needed it for strength, courage and resilience, to name a few, so I see my speaking up as a way of paying it forward, so others can grow as I did.

WOW Coffs Harbour was primarily created to give voice to women of Coffs Harbour and surrounding districts - a place of recognition for women’s contribution to community. At WOW’s inception, I personally hoped to see each woman reach her own individual goal and project authority, and that is in fact happening.

I would now like to see significant funds for WOW to grow to its full potential by hosting a major project that would give strength to families and real community solutions, starting from babies, to youth, to individuals, and to our Elders.

Can you tell us about Healing Circles and the role they play in women’s health in the community?

I practice circle work using story as a means

to heal. Circle work is a group practice of deep inner listening, self-reflection and accountability. Each circle will have a theme, determined by the facilitator in context with the learning outcome.

While in circle, we listen to others share their story without interruption, judgement or a need to fix things. Sharing stories and being heard is part of getting to know each other, recognising our needs if that be the theme of the circle, while developing what makes us and our community interconnected, united and resilient.

What are some of your plans and goals for the future?

Some of my plans for the future are to take ceremony and circles to other parts of Australia and other parts of the world. I feel that the next thing for me to do is to pass it on properly.

I would like to generate funds to make a manual accompanied by a video with a list of guides for circle work, that I could introduce to communities and then leave behind, so that they in turn can translate and run circles using their own languages and style, in their own way, for significant recovery work.

As an Aboriginal Elder and a leader in our community, what message would you like to share with our readers?

My message is, let’s continue to stay united, to keep the conversation alive and ongoing for the betterment of our community. We need to hold more adequately funded gatherings for community groups.

Thanks Aunty Bea.

Coffs Coast focus 11

the ins and outs of protein powder There is an overwhelming amount of information and product available now when it comes to protein powders, and many people can find it confusing as to what type is suitable for their own needs.

T

hankfully, there are proteins for everyone from vegans, to athletes and exercise enthusiasts, as well as breastfeeding mothers and children, and even the elderly.

These concentrated sources of protein come from animal and plant products such as dairy, rice, hemp and pea. Many now contain added beneficial superfoods, prebiotic, probiotics, vitamins and minerals to boost their therapeutic value.

Including a protein powder into your diet can have a positive effect on multiple aspects of your health, such as balancing blood sugar levels, increasing energy levels, building muscle, aiding in digestive function, weight loss, strengthening immunity and improving overall health, vitality and mood.

Protein contains amino acids, which are the building blocks for our cells. They are essential for every system in your body to function

12 Coffs Coast focus

effectively.

WHEY PROTEIN: The bi-product of cheesemaking, whey is a quickly digested and easily assimilated sources of protein, and one of the best protein forms for muscle growth and repair. Whey contains small amounts of lactose so for those who are avoiding dairy, plant protein may be more suitable. When buying a whey protein, be sure to buy grass fed or organic.

BROWN RICE PROTEIN: rice proteins are extracted from sprouted brown rice, which is high in antioxidants and nutrients. Brown rice protein can support weight loss, blood sugar levels and cholesterol, plus assist in heart and kidney health. Brown rice protein is easily digested and hypoallergenic, making is perfect for anyone with intolerances.

PEA PROTEIN: is also one of the most hypoallergenic forms of protein, and a great source of branch chain amino acids. For this reason, it is still a good option for people who are sensi-

tive to dairy, and are looking to maintain muscle mass after

Protein contains amino acids, which are the building blocks for our cells.

seeds. It is gentle on the stomach and easily digested, making it a preferred choice

for those with digestive issues. Just like Whey, Hemp They are essential supports weight loss is a complete protein source, for every system in and helps keep you your body to function which means it contains all feeling full for longer. effectively. nine essential amino acids This is because it slows that our body cannot prothe emptying of the duce, and must be obtained stomach and therethrough our diet. It is also fore lowers the levels of the hunger hormone, a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acids. Hemp “ghrelin�. powder may also have immune and energy enhancing properties.

HEMP: is a high fibre protein made from hemp exercise. Pea protein

Coffs Coast focus 13

Perry HOMES SEES AN INCREASE IN NEW HOME BUILDS IN THE AREA

Perry Homes has been building award winning homes for more than 25 years. A trusted builder, they have a well-earned reputation for delivering quality built homes that provide exceptional value for money.

T

he future is certainly bright for this solid builder. With new home builds on the rise, land opening up in the Northern Beaches and two new display homes planned, 2018 is proving to be a big year!

The Northern Beaches are a sought after destination for people looking to build a new home. Encompassing Emerald Beach, Sandy Beach and Woolgoolga right up to Mullaway and Corindi Beach, being located near the beach is an accessible lifestyle choice!

New Home Consultant Phillip Hitchins, who is based at Perry Homes’ Sapphire Beach display home, commented, “With land at Sapphire Beach now all sold, the market has been waiting for new releases of land. Land has now been released along the whole northern beaches corridor, with land also available in areas south of Coffs Harbour, including Macksville and Nambucca.

“Located right by the beach and within easy reach of local amenities and schools, the northern beaches estates are proving popular with a mix of first home buyers, as well as families and people wanting a sea change.”

Perry Homes has also seen a rise in new home builds in rural property locations. Phillip commented, “At Perry Homes, we have an extensive array of home designs available to choose from, which include acreage homes.

We are also quite unique in the fact that we are happy to amend our floorplans and even custom design the perfect home to suit our 14 Coffs Coast focus

clients' budget and needs. We want to deliver a home that our clients will be proud of for many years to come and work with them to achieve just that!”

Perry Homes builds from Newcastle right new Seacrest Estate in Located right by the beach up to the Sunshine Sandy Beach. Sprawling and within easy reach of Coast as well as 41 hectares, the local amenities and schools, regional New South masterplanned estate will the northern beaches Wales, with display deliver 125 homes over estates are proving homes located three stages. With blocks popular with a mix in Tamworth and ranging in size from of first home buyers, Armidale.

430 sqm - 1,345 sqm, the as well as families and Perry Homes’ New first stage is nearly sold people wanting a sea change.

Home Consultant out and the next stage Nigel Longstaff, who will soon be released to is based at their Coffs the market.

Harbour display home, sees a lot of benefits The Seacrest Estate provides the best to choosing to build with Perry Homes of both worlds. Just one kilometre from not just for their clients, but also the local the beach, you can spend your free-time community. He added, “We are proud of swimming in the ocean, enjoying picnics at the fact that we work with local trades. the beach and fishing. Or, you can spend Our Area Construction Managers and Site your time exploring the native bushland and Supervisors are local to each area and have a open spaces right on your doorstep. solid team of trusted tradespeople that they Phillip Hitchins added, “It’s an exciting rely upon. Furthermore, a stand out feature time ahead. The two new display homes will for us as a business is that we are a debt-free showcase new product for the Perry Homes family business. Our warranty insurances portfolio. We are confident that these homes aren’t capped like many other builders. will appeal to a wide audience, from young Subsequently, there are no wait times on families and second and third home buyers site starts and our ordering and scheduling right though to downsizers.” timelines are streamlined. “ The Azura home design with zoned kids' accommodation will showcase the on-trend Perry Homes is set to open two new Hamptons design, with light colour tones and display homes in the coming months in the

timber features to the facade. The rear of the home will certainly inspire a way of life, with the outdoor entertaining area overlooking a purpose built gazebo and swimming pool.

The stylish four bedroom Dune will showcase the sought-after Seaspray façade complete with Colorbond roof. Perfect for young families, this home provides zoned living areas and a luxurious mastersuite - a perfect escape after a long day.

Perry Homes has a plethora of three, four and five bedroom home designs available to suit flat or sloping blocks, traditional or acreage properties - even knock down rebuilds. They also have a range of house and land packages available, with prices starting from $395,000.

If you are thinking of building a new home, or just looking for inspiration, call in to one of the Perry Homes display homes at 183 Rose Avenue, Coffs Harbour - open Monday to Wednesday, 10am to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm. Alternatively, contact Nigel Longstaff on 0459 320 029 or visit 11 Cherry Street, Sapphire Beach, open Friday to Wednesday, 10am to 5pm, or contact Phillip Hitchins on 0428 271 884. For more information, visit www.perryhomes.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 15

focusinterview.

Scott Donaldson S O L O

A C R O S S

T H E

T A S M A N

This month Scott Donaldson will be attempting to become the first person to kayak solo from Australia across the Tasman to New Zealand. We think it takes a brave and determined person to take on a challenge like this, and we were excited to talk to him about the preparation, what he’s learnt after coming so close in his first attempt, and what drives him to stay so motivated. Here is what he had to say.

H

i Scott. How did you become a part of the Coffs Coast community?

I came over to do a reccy for the last paddle and met some great

people.

We lived in Rotorua at the time, where the outdoor life is great but land-locked.

So, a dose of salt water lifestyle was ideal for us, but also to be close to forests and hills was such a bonus. Coffs Harbour was just a piece of paradise for us!

This month you will be attempting to become the first person to kayak solo from Australia to New Zealand. What inspired you to take on a challenge such as this?

That’s just it - the challenge! Being first is nice, but not really my drive.

It’s about applying all the concepts of sport and constantly breaking down limits.

I clearly find an obscene joy in wracking the body, but it’s the intricate workings of the mind that spins my whizzer.

The main drive for the exposure is to bring Asthma to the limelight. I have it, as does my 7 year old. I need to be clear in semantics and 16 Coffs Coast focus

attitude. We have Asthma and we own it. We do not suffer from it.

The air is the only downside to this area. Pollens and the burning make it challenging for Asthmatics.

AT ANY AGE, IT’S ABOUT That however, is the point MANAGING YOUR BODY. - Asthmatics must challenge the areas and spend themselves aerobically.

YOU CAN PADDLE ALL years on each one.

They are born with a DAY – THE TRICK IS The obvious area is weakness and unlike a lot physical endurance, FINDING OUT WHAT IT of ailments, over time, with and I have had a consistent effort, they can do TAKES TO DO IT AGAIN lifetime of that in something about it.

THE NEXT DAY ... various forms My lungs are now a swimming, triathlon, strength, and that should be multisport, adventure the goal of all Asthmatics. racing …

Swimming (well managed) At any age, it’s should be compulsory for all Asthmatics - and about managing your body. You can paddle all children living anywhere near water, for that day - the trick is finding out what it takes to do matter. it again the next day.

If you know an Asthmatic, I am sure you do, The mental game can be broken down into then click on Asthma Australia and show your many components. For example, you may support.

What sort of preparation goes in to getting not be comfortable solo, so you step your challenges accordingly. One night away from ready for a trip like this? loved ones and the couch and a screen, then It’s years, not months. You can break down

two nights, then a week. At that point, this just became impossible in most teen minds!

Mental flexibility and composure is the best way to make good decisions out there.

How long do you expect the trip to take?

Therein lies the secret to the Tasman. It’s not a great distance (2,200 km in a straight line but 3,000 km for me) in terms of adventurous activity, as greater distance bodies of water have been crossed. The Tasman is a tricky combination of wind, currents, waves and temperament. It took 84 days last time, but that was without a rudder and insane.

This time should be significantly faster, with boat, gear and strategy improvements, but I go into it expecting worse weather. Anything else is a bonus.

Tell us about the kayak you will be using for the trip. What sort of equipment and

focusinterview.

S O L O T H E

A C R O S S T A S M A N

MENTAL modifications need to be included?

It looks similar to the previous one but is made from carbon and weighs 70 kg, as opposed to 140 kg. To me, everything has changed. Each cm is accounted for and every movement and piece of equipment has been isolated and reduced to the minimum energy required.

The Coppins drogue is the same size, but with lighter and less bulky components.

The Feruno chartplotter from ENL is an older version, because the older screen draws slightly less power - and I don’t need to find fish; they find me!

Ballast and pumping systems are slightly different, but everything must be redundant to the most simple manual operation.

Sharkskin chillproof keeps my skin from falling off in the most inconvenient places.

When did you start kayaking, and at what point did you start to think about taking on such a big adventure?

I only started kayaking for multisport in about 2001. I realise that date is a relative term!

I was doing a length of NZ multisport race and the other paddler in the team was incapacitated, so I started the month of racing as an average paddler and finished with the elite by the end.

One of my training tricks (and also my idea of fun) was to paddle in a lake at night in 30

knots to improve my balance and gain a better feel for the water.

After coaching many people over the years, it was a case of wanting to talk less and do more, and the challenge surfaced from there.

What are some of the things that you learnt from the first attempt, and how do you plan on using these lessons to your advantage this time around?

That is also part of the drive for this. It’s a big body of information and last time we had to forge a bit of a path; now it is a case of having a fair idea of the actions and order of priority.

It will be an adjusted use of energy and refinement of technology. For example, I had a directive last time to be conservative at the start, to ensure the body was still in functional shape at the tricky NZ side. That was successful. The first 30% of the Tasman has the strongest currents and potential for lack of directional control, so this time that aim will be balanced with an objective to make faster progress through those currents.

What are some strategies you use to stay focused? Do you take anything along as entertainment to keep your mind busy?

I don’t require any motivation or entertainment, but I guess that’s being able to call on a lifetime of habits and attitudes.

The other side of the coin is life becomes pretty simple out there - just paddle! I want to ensure I appreciate every moment of this

FLEXIBILITY AND

gear really well, then trust in it unique adventure COMPOSURE IS THE and maintain the and your preparation. feeling of privilege Do you think you will be BEST WAY TO MAKE to be on the satisfied if you are successful GOOD DECISIONS sea, enjoying its in reaching New Zealand, or OUT THERE. stunning moods, do you plan on attempting from tempestuous any other major trips? to serene.

Reinforced from last time We imagine that is … it aint over ‘til … So as even things like before, I remain focused on the few hours sleeping become a challenge; how do you ahead only. I will think about the rest when I manage to get any sleep? get on land.

It’s a bit like sleeping in a washing machine!

You should ask my wife, Sarah, because she You get a couple of days of good progress has done the hard yards, so she gets the first with 16 hours a day paddling, then the Tasman say - as she did to get this one going. will try to push you backwards, so you might What local support have you received? manage 0 - 12 hours of paddling.

This is a huge undertaking with the aim to After about six hours in the cabin, it use the best gear. Most of the equipment and becomes harder to be there rather than technology is a custom build, which makes it outside. very expensive.

The health management is tough in there.

Local support has been great, although there How do you plan and prepare for things is still room for more sponsors on the boat! like bad weather or other issues that may Thanks to the many local businesses that put affect the trip? on our launch. Hoys physio have the impossible There will always be something that task of trying to put my body back together. goes wrong. It’s a case of planning the best AJ pipelines is Coffs' biggest supporter. They redundancy you can and then being flexible appreciate the work it takes to achieve a big enough to find solutions and create further challenge, and I hope they enjoy the show redundancy as you go. and look forward to a salty story and a beer Bad weather - start by calling it rough afterwards! weather, because if you think it’s bad - you are Thanks Scott. in the wrong place! You need to know your Coffs Coast focus 17

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

M A Y

25

BIG BANANA BIG DAY OUT

ANZAC DAY

The Centenary of ANZAC 2014 - 2018 is Australia’s most important period of national commemoration.

Marking 100 years since our involvement in the First World War, the ANZAC Centenary is a time to honour the service and sacrifice of our original ANZACs. Where C.ex Coffs. When 25th April. Time Dawn Service from 5:20am.

4

SYDNEY WRITERS FESTIVAL

One of Australia’s best-loved forums for literature, ideas and storytelling. Prepare to be stimulated and engaged by conversations, debates and discussions, as the festival brings the world’s finest authors to Coffs Harbour in real time via digital live-streaming project, Live & Local. When 4th until 6th May. Where Cavanbah Centre, Coffs Harbour. More Info Timetable and tickets available www.jettytheatre.com

18 Coffs Coast focus

BUTTERFINGERS Australia’s favourite musical misfits are back, breaking hearts and bones (mostly their own) after a ten-year long hiatus from the recording studio.

When 12th May. Where Hoey Moey.

Tickets $25 + BF. Visit www.hoeymoey.com.au

The Big Day Out deal! Get two Laser Tag admission, two Toboggan Rides, four Giant Slides, 18 holes of Mini Golf, one Ice Skating session, one Theatre and Tour Experience PLUS 10% OFF selected outlets for just $28.90!

(Conditions apply.) Where The Big Banana Fun Park. When 1-21st May. Price $28.90pp.

Contact (02) 6652 4355.

25 18

BUSBY MAROU

JULIA MORRIS

Julia Morris returns to the stage with her brand new, one woman show, Lift and Separate Golden Jubilee Tour.

When 18th May. Where C.ex Coffs Tickets Members $49.90 | Non- Members $54.90. www.cex.com.au

Flying high after an amazing 2017, their latest album Postcards From The Shellhouse debuted at #1 on the National ARIA charts and they sold 3,000 tickets to the first annual One Hot Night festival in Rockhampton.

When 25th May. Where Hoey Moey. Tickets $30 + BF. visit www.hoeymoey.com.au

of The • espresso martini •

image of the month.

Title: Beef cattle at sunrise on the Corfe family farm, Brooklana.

Photo by: Holly Corfe. Camera: Samsung Galaxy S6.

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see?

Just email nicole@focusmag.com.au

The crew at Element Bar on the Jetty Strip are known for serving up an absolute gem of this all time classic, with their own special twist.

With a blend of fresh espresso coffee, premium vodka, coffee liqueur & chocolate crème liqueur, it’s the perfect autumn evening indulgence.

Coffs Coast focus 19

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update.

U N D E R STA N D I N G B U Y E R B E H AV I O U R .

Understanding buyer behaviour will put you in the best position to achieve the highest possible sale price for your property with less stress. A carefully planned and executed marketing strategy will ensure you attract all buyers, leaving no stone unturned in the search for the best buyer.

20 Coffs Coast focus

Where are the Buyers?

We have researched our last 200 sales, and a clear pattern has emerged. Not surprisingly, we have strong population growth with buyers relocating primarily from Sydney, the Central Coast, Melbourne and Canberra.

This represents the strong attraction to our area from the retirement drive with baby boomers, along with young professionals who no longer have to work from an office base with the increase in cloud based technology.

The other strong area of enquiry is buyers’ relocation from the tableland region, making the sea change for lifestyle and climate change.

Buyer Behaviour Crucial to the success of the sale is a clear understanding of how buyers behave. There are three typical buyer behaviours, and understanding these behaviours creates the foundation for how we communicate the property to the market place and to ensure we attract the optimum number of potential buyers - who will ultimately compete to pay a premium price for your property.

Buyers Start Logical and Become Emotional Buyers generally enter the market with a clear and logical list of personal requirements for their future property. However, when they ultimately purchase, their choice of property is most often based on emotion rather than logic. Therefore, it is vital that we identify and showcase the features of the property that are most likely to spark the emotions of buyers.

Buyers Want To Exclude Properties From

Their List Buyers are time poor. They look at real estate advertising and come up with a list of possibilities. Then they short list, taking the time to only inspect properties that might fit their requirements, as well as being within their budget. Therefore, we need to ensure that we promote the property in a manner to ensure that we create the broadest possible appeal.

Buyers Buy Up Buyers typically pay up to 10% more for their properties than they had initially intended to spend when they first start looking. Therefore, we need to ensure that our pricing strategy encourages all potential buyers to inspect and then commit to the property, rather than exclude it from their short list.

Time is our customers’ most precious resource.

In an extremely competitive industry where consumers are digitally empowered, yet feel forever time-starved, there’s a fundamental responsibility for agents to be educated and informed about the properties they are selling.

Consumers also expect to be able to reach that information instantaneously. Traditional print media is still strong in our region; however, with 42% of our Langlands Property purchasers relocating from other areas, digital marketing is vital - not only to reach out of town purchasers, but to offer instant information to both relocating buyers and tech savvy locals. Customer experiences need to be time saving and well informed, providing value to the client.

H AR D G N I T T I H E V I T A E CR East Coast Cabinets The tradesmen of East Coast Cabinets are an integral part of the success of the business, ably assisted by designer and estimator Peter and manager Deb. Stephen (Smokey) joined the company in 1985 as an out of trade apprentice and quickly became an expert in post forming laminate, when the process was introduced to the North Coast in 1986.

After a serious accident, Tony was sent to us for rehabilitation and work place assessment. His motivation to return to work resulted in him coming on board in 1996.

Wayne came to us in 1992 and after four and a half years as foreman, took 18 months’ leave to travel around Australia. He returned just over 18 years later! His skill in training apprentices and attention to detail make him great to have back in the fold.

Our current installers, Brad and Chris, love being on site and ensuring that everything is spot on and the customers are happy.

“Professional” is the operative word. All of our employees have improved their skills during their years of service and take great pride in their achievements. Everyone has an important role to play and our tradesmen take theirs seriously, resulting in rewards for everyone associated with us.

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20 Coffs Coast focus 20 Coffs Coast focus

Coffs Coast focus 21

GO YOUR OWN WAY WITH THE 18MY ISUZU D-MAX

THE 18MY ISUZU D-MAX HAS ARRIVED AT COFFS COAST ISUZU UTE AND IS A STAND OUT PERFORMER ON OR OFF-ROAD. WITH OUR LEGENDARY ISUZU 3-LITRE TURBO DIESEL ENGINE, AVAILABLE IN A CHOICE OF 6 SPEED MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, BACKED WITH 5 YEARS OR 130,000KM WARRANTY, 5 YEARS ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AND 5 YEARS / 75,OOOKM CAPPED PRICE SERVICE INTERVALS. 10 years on and the Isuzu D-MAX has forged a reputation for itself not only in Coffs Harbour but Australia Wide. "Since the arrival of the D-MAX in 2008 its been right at the top of the customers shopping list now more than ever" says Carl Bennett. "I'm proud that after 10 years of selling this wonderful product it’s still going strong & setting records, I recall back to the early days when we would sell 3 to 5 a month, now we are averaging 30 a month."

The D-MAX is still powered by our Legendary 3 Litre engine producing 130kw

"It’s fantastic to see so many customers return to purchase a 2nd or 3rd Dmax as they have had such great motoring out of them, which is a real credit to the brand."

The range spans Single Cabs, Space Cabs and Crew Cabs and 4x2 or 4x4

The 18MY model has continued to raise the bar with the introduction of trailer sway control across the entire range of D-MAX & a 100kg GVM Increase*, new exterior colours and an extended capped price service plan of 5 years / 75,000km, not to mention a softer touch to the interior styling on selected models.

and 430Nm of torque, boosted by a variable geometry turbocharger, while running a heavy duty steel timing chain in place of a belt which lasts the life of the engine. It's then mated together with the option of a six-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual.

drivelines, in cab-chassis and pick up formats. Some 23 variants are now on offer.

Trim grades span EX, SX, LS-M, LS-U and and new top of the range model LS-T. With pricing starting at $26,990 drive away all the way through to $50,990 for the top of the range LS-T.

5-star ANCAP safety rating on all MU-X models and 4x4 D-MAX Crew Cab models built from November 2013 onwards and 4x2 D-MAX Crew Cab High Ride models built from November 2014 onwards. ^5 years/130,000km whichever occurs first, for eligible customers. Excludes trays and accessories. >The Capped Price Servicing Program ("CPS Program") applies to Eligible Vehicles with a Warranty Start Date on or after 1/1/15 at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers only. The 5 years Capped Price Servicing covers the first 5 Scheduled Services for 18MY and later vehicle models for up to 5 years/75,000km (whichever occurs first) and for 16.5MY and 17MY for up to 5 years/50,000km (whichever occurs first). CPS Program is subject to change. For full terms & conditions and current pricing visit isuzuute.com.au/service-plus. +3.0 tonne braked towing capacity on all MU-X models when fitted with an optional genuine Isuzu UTE tow bar kit. #Fuel consumption and emissions figures based on ADR 81/02 (combined cycle test) and are to be used for vehicle comparison purposes only. Actual fuel consumption and emissions will vary depending on many factors including, but not limited to, traffic conditions, individual driving style and vehicle condition. †Offer is limited to 17MY 4x4 D-MAX and 16.5MY/17MY 4x4 MU-X models sold and delivered between 1/5/17 and 30/6/17 to private and ABN holders only. Excludes demonstrators and X-RUNNER. The Scheduled Servicing offer covers standard items (normal operating conditions) as listed in IUA Warranty and Service Booklet for the first 2 years Scheduled Servicing (covering the first 2 Scheduled Services up to 24 months/20,000km – whichever occurs first). Offer does not cover any other Scheduled Service, Make-up Scheduled Service or any additional service items or requirements, which are at the owner’s expense. Only at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers. Not available with any other offer. §Seats have leather touches or accents (excluding third row), but are not wholly leather. coffs coast

22 Coffs Coast focus 18 focus.

CARL BENNETT Coffs Coast Isuzu UTE Sales Manager

D-MAX EX

Front bucket seats, cloth trim, vinyl floor, air conditioning, tilt adjustable steering, leatherclad steering wheel, halogen headlights, black bumper and grille, 16-inch steel wheels.

D-MAX SX

(IN ADDITION TO EX) Power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, colour-coded bumper and mirrors, driver and front passenger cup holder, cruise control, pollen filter, 15-inch steel wheels (LowRide) or 16-inch steel wheels (High-Ride). rear step bumper (pick up models).

INFOTAINMENT USB and Bluetooth connectivity, AM/ FM/CD, 7.0 inch touchscreen with DVD playback (SX) 8.0 touchscreen incl. satellite navigation (LS-U and above) four-speaker audio (single cab) six speaker audio (Space Cab) eight-speaker (Crew Cab).

LOAD AREA DIMENSIONS

D-MAX LS-M (IN ADDITION TO SX)

Reversing camera, Projector headlights with LED running lights, front fog lights, LED tail lights, lockable tailgate, chrome grille, 16inch alloy wheels.

1485mm long (minimum), 1530mm wide, 465mm deep, 1105mm between wheel arches.g (minimum), 1530mm wide, 465mm deep, 1105mm between wheel arches. 1485mm long (minimum), 1530mm wide, 465mm deep, 1105mm between wheel arches.

D-MAX LS-U (IN ADDITION TO LS-M)

THE DETAILS

Climate control, carpet flooring, aluminium side steps, chrome rear step bar, shark-fin antenna, 17-inch alloy wheels.

TOWING CAPACITY OF THE D-MAX IS RATED AT 3.5 TONNE+ WITH A 350KG DOWNBALL WEIGHT 5YRS OR 130,000KM WARRANTY (WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST)

D-MAX LS-T (IN ADDITION TO LS-U)

5YR 24HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 5YR / 75,000KM CAPPED PRICE SERVICE (SERVICE INTERVALS EVERY 12 MONTHS OR 15,000KM)

Leather appointed seats§, 6-way adjustable electric driver's seat, keyless entry and start, roof rails, 18-inch alloy wheels.

6 Tolhurst Place Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Phone 02 6648 3533 www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au

Coffs Coastfocus. focus 23 coffs coast 19

S T R AT TO N F I N A N C E

IAN SWANBOROUGH After 30 years of service with a national bank, Ian Swanborough has decided to bring his financial expertise and knowledge to Stratton Finance. Here’s what he has to share ...

Where are you originally from, and when did you first realise you had a strong passion for the finance industry? I grew up in a small rural area at North Star in North West NSW. It was when I was in Year 10 at high school I thought I would do my work experience placement in a bank. In saying that, I did enjoy the experience and completed two placements.

That was when I knew that a career in finance and relationship management was for me.

Who makes up the business - and what are the advantages of dealing with a local business? Stratton Finance is a franchise business, which is managed by myself and locally owned. It’s great to be part of a local business, as it promotes employment and regional growth. It builds strong relationships and community investment. When you deal with a local, they are there for you - not just once off.

What services do you offer? We offer a wide range of finance and motor vehicle insurance options to assist clients to purchase wheeled goods and plant

24 Coffs Coast focus

equipment. This can range from a jet ski through to heavy earthmoving equipment.

Everyone has a different need when purchasing motor vehicles and equipment, and financing can be seen to be difficult.

That’s where I come into it, to take away the running around, so the client can focus elsewhere.

What type of clients do you service?

Do you have to be a multimillion dollar business to benefit from your services?

I have a very diverse and dynamic client base. I have great pleasure working in partnership with people from all walks of life. From your first car purchase client to large companies, there is an option for everyone. The best thing is my clients deal with me, from the first call to the final settlement.

What is the most important thing one should consider when mapping one’s financial future? Everyone is different, but the one most important thing to consider is to determine what is important to you.

Once you understand that, the rest will follow.

How important is abolishing bad credit? What strategies would you advise for your customers who have the burden of bad credit? Very important. No one wants bad credit, but it does affect a lot of people. I would recommend they get a copy of their credit file, which will identify the problem area, then take steps to repair it. There are also businesses that specialise in bad credit, who will work with clients to assist them to repair their poor credit rating.

On a scale of one - 10, where would you rate actually sitting down and executing a budget with goals? I would say 10. Having a budget can be a very helpful tool to control your finances. The trick is to execute it and have a buffer for the unexpected.

How can we contact you ... do you offer obligation free consultations? We certainly do. We offer free consultations, so you can contact me on my mobile 0400 922 256 or email ian.swanborough@stratton.com.au

focusinterview.

Awesome

Kids Marg Hopper

Marg Hopper is an Occupational Therapist from AwesomeKids in Bellingen. She plays a very important role in the community, working with families and schools to support kids in doing all the things they want and need to do in life. We spoke to her about what her role involves, why it is such an important part of our health care system, and why she loves working with kids.

H

i Marg. Can you tell us a bit about AwesomeKids and the work you do?

We help children and young people successfully participate in their home, school and community life. Services are individualised to the child’s strengths and challenges and includes providing education, developing specific skills, and/or adapting the task or environment to better suit the child. Intervention incorporates physical, sensory, cognitive, social and emotional skills, provided in the context of play, because that’s the primary occupation of children and their key motivator. My typical day includes 1:1 sessions with kids, parent discussions, lots of email liaison, and school/home visits around our picturesque Coffs Coast.

How long have you been working as an Occupational Therapist, and what led you to choose this career?

Last year I had my 25th year as an OT. I feel lucky to be doing such interesting work, particularly as I fell into studying OT straight from school. Year 10 work experience in a bank spurred me on to Year 11 and 12 and thoughts of university. My dad was volunteering at a local hospital and one of the staff suggested Occupational Therapy. I visited the OT Department and saw all the nifty gadgets for helping people get dressed and accessing their homes safely. That appealed to my practical Taurean nature. At that time, I didn’t know OTs could work with children, but after a third year university placement at Westmead Hospital, I fell in love with the work.

Have you always lived and worked on the Coffs Coast?

My family moved to It’s absolutely essential.

Bellingen 14 years ago We promote “team around WE HELP CHILDREN after visiting Dorrigo the child”, empowering AND YOUNG PEOPLE and Bellingen for children and their parents SUCCESSFULLY many years. I distinctly to lead their team. We PARTICIPATE IN THEIR remember the big are “on their team”, HOME, SCHOOL AND relaxing “breath out” along with educators, COMMUNITY LIFE. as we’d turn off the speech pathologists, highway onto Waterfall physiotherapists, primary Way. In 2002 we took health nurses, psychologists, a year away from our GPs, paediatricians, etc. suburban life and ever consuming careers and Could you tell us about some of the travelled around Australia with our 2 and 4 year challenging and rewarding aspects of your old boys. It was a life changing experience. We role? returned to Sydney and started making plans to My work can be very fun and creative. I am move to Bellingen in 2004. Two of our babies always thinking and problem solving, finding are now adults, and we have a 13 year old boy engaging ways to challenge children to do too. It’s a dynamic and supportive community tricky things, whilst creating an environment for growing a family. where they feel secure to take a risk and maybe What are some examples of the kind of experience success. My most rewarding moment issues families come to you with? is hearing a child say, “I did it, Mum!” Families naturally want their kids to be happy, There are certainly challenging aspects to have friends, and grow into independent my role. Some kids have big and frequent and resilient adults. Some kids have a specific challenges, and supporting parents with this is disability or longer term challenges like Autism, especially hard. That’s where it’s great to have a ADHD, sensory or motor challenges, and other team approach. kids are having a particularly “bumpy time”, Do you require certain facilities or with parents keen to support them the best they equipment to help you provide the care can. Common goals include moving skilfully, needed by your clients? regulating emotions, navigating friendships, A therapist’s best tool is definitely him or concentration, organisational skills, handwriting, herself. It also helps to have some cool “old fine motor skills, dressing, and settling for sleep. school” toys and an awesome therapy space Do you ever work alongside other services that kids just relax into once they see how fun here on the Coffs Coast? it looks.

Do you only work with children, or do you take on clients of varying ages?

Karen Masson and I primarily work with children and adolescents. That’s what we do best, and it’s our passion. Occasionally we are the best placed professionals to work with young adults who have sensory processing challenges, which has typically been a specialisation of paediatric OTs. We also have Julie-Anne Rimanoczy, OT, who provides (NDIS) Home Modifications and Assistive Technology services to people of all ages.

Do you just provide Occupational Therapy, or are there other services accessible through AwesomeKids?

We are lucky to have Suzanne Douglas, Physiotherapist, on our team. Suzanne is particularly knowledgeable about vestibularbased (balance) challenges. We have two other services on-site: Kimberlee Soule, Mental Health Social Worker; and Amelia Bennie, Speech Pathologist.

Are there any particular goals you’ve set for yourself or things you’d like to achieve within your work in the future?

Our quality services are in high demand. I’d like to grow our awesome team of experienced therapists, so that we can provide services to more kids across the Coffs Coast and establish some much needed multidisciplinary clinics to assist kids with specialist needs, such as chronic sleep and eating challenges. We want kids to have great lives.

Thanks Marg.

Coffs Coast focus 25

focusinterview.

Peter John

Wood Peter John Wood is a well known local businessman, owner of Coffs Jet Ski Hire, and legendary Ironman. For a bloke over 60 years of age he’s going strong, with two more Ironman races coming up this year and a huge number of achievements already under his belt, including the original and best-known Ironman Hawaii. He’s a lovable and inspirational local hero.

H

i Peter. Tell us a little Sawtell Pizza. Then I started up the Whitewater about your relationship Rafting Professionals and rafted the Nymboida with the Coffs Coast.

River until 1989. We did Helicopter Rafting, I first moved to the and between the five rafting companies back Coffs Coast in 1980. I was in the late ‘80s we were taking 100 people enroute to the Whitsunday rafting a day in the peak season. I sold out of Islands for a winter break and stopped off here rafting in 1989, as my two daughters were for a short visit and am so glad I did. I was travelling two hours by bus to school and as a installing solar heating single dad, I decided to for swimming pools in move closer to Coffs for Melbourne at the time, convenience. I purchased and of course there a banana plantation in AS FOR SLOWING DOWN, was neither much sun Shephards Lane and I’M GOING SLOWLY nor work in winter in drove local tour coaches NOW, BUT WANT TO that field and I saw an during the day and CONTINUE COMPLETING opening here in Coffs, packed bananas by a THESE RACES FOR AS so I started up SPR Solar kerosene tilley lamp of an LONG AS I CAN! Services. The first three evening. I then bought jobs I obtained in Coffs another two old banana were bigger than any I plantations and ran had done in Victoria in organic chooks and free the previous three years. range eggs.

So, Coffs was a place of great opportunity!

I went further into tourism and bought Not only business-wise, but property was so Coffs Jet Ski Hire in 1993. Then because of cheap back then. I returned to university for restrictions on the age of school buses, there several years and became involved in tourism was a massive sell off of double decker buses. businesses. When I became single in 1984, I I couldn't let this opportunity go by, so a mate started eating lots of take away pizzas and I and I bought 11 of them and started up Coffs thought I would go broke if I kept eating them Explorer Double Decker Bus Tours in 1994. like I did, so I bought my own pizza shop ...

The parasailing business in the harbour was

26 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

I ENTERED HALF IRONMANS IN 1994 IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR AN IRONMAN, AND I DID MY FIRST IRONMAN IN 2001. I ALSO DO MARATHONS, AND THIS YEAR I WILL BE DOING MY 20TH GOLD COAST MARATHON IN JULY WITH MY DAUGHTER, SARAH.

closing up that year too, so another mate and I bought that as well. We continued parasailing in the harbour and then we had a winch boat that allowed us to do parasailing in the ocean, as well as whale watching. Both my daughters helped me in all these wonderful businesses, and they are successful in their own businesses now.

You are known as being a local Ironman legend! Where did your triathlon journey begin?

I always thought I was an OK runner and back in 1993 I was watching the Tooheys Blue Triathlon on TV, which was being held at Opal Cove, and when the ads were on I saw an ad for the Coffs Banana Coast Community Credit Union Triathlon, so I entered. I entered Half Ironmans in 1994 in order to qualify for an Ironman, and I did my first Ironman in 2001. I also do Marathons, and this year I will be doing my 20th Gold Coast Marathon in July with my daughter, Sarah.

What sort of training is involved before you enter an event?

slow down?

I have finished 35.92 Ironmans (I fell over in the run last year in Cairns at 20 km and couldn't finish for the first time ever), and I have another two Ironman races at Port Macquarie in May and Cairns in June for this year. I have completed over 30 Half Ironmans, as well as 15 Ultramarathons, 23 Marathons and numerous Adventure Races.

As for slowing down, I'm going slowly now, but want to continue completing these races for as long as I can!​ Is there a race that stands out as being particularly memorable to you?

The pinnacle of Ironman is Hawaii Ironman, where Ironman I’M STILL A MEMBER OF was first started back COFFS TRI CLUB AND I in 1978. I raced there RECOMMEND ANYONE TO in 2012 and of course JOIN ... YOU JUST DON’T would love to return KNOW WHAT POTENTIAL there at least one more YOU HAVE, AND THEY’RE time. There are also other THE BEST BUNCH OF overseas Ironmans that PEOPLE OF ALL AGES. I have done within the Coffs Triathlon Club, where up to 25 members travel to interesting overseas countries like Switzerland, Austria, UK, NZ and then holiday afterwards. During those holidays I've been convinced to Run With the Bulls In Pamplona, cycle 800 km along the Danube River and visit places I would never have gone to except for the organising of the wonderful Coffs Tri Club members.

Well, there's a lot of training necessary for an Ironman, as it incorporates a 3.8 km swim, a 180.2 km bike ride and a 42.2 km run, all to be finished within 17 hours. So, usually a 12 week heavy training program will help you get through it. However, if you consider it as just a long day at the beach with your mates where you have a swim, ride around on your bikes and run around until late and then get home in the dark ... well, it's just a return to your youth. I think a lot of chanting "I think I can, I think I can ...." also helps!

How many Ironman events have you been a part of, and do you ever think you could

You run the Coffs Harbour Jet Ski hire; where did that begin?

I had a day off from WhiteWater Rafting in 1989 and I went to Park Beach and hired a jet ski with my daughters. I couldn't believe how much fun it was. And there is always water in the ocean ... With the Nymboida River where we rafted, there were many dry times because of drought, so we couldn't raft until we got more rain. I asked the owner if the business was up for sale and it was, but it was bought by another person, whom I bought it from in 1993. I love jet skiing and my Facebook page shows many interviews with very happy people who agree.

When you’re not competing in Triathlons or riding jet skis, what are some other things you like to get up to here on the Coffs Coast?

I have a great group of friends whom I meet with every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and we swim at the Jetty at 7:30am, then maybe ride our mountain bikes around Coffs Creek or have breakfast together. I'm still a member of Coffs Tri Club and I recommend anyone to join ... You just don't know what potential you have, and they're the best bunch of people of all ages.

I'm also interested in nature and am involved in the Koala Count Run by the National Parks in Bongil Bongil every year, and I have a lot of rainforest and flora and fauna reserves around my property.

Thanks Peter.

Photos courtesy of www.nashyspix.com

Coffs Coast focus 27

Churros with Caramel and Chocolate Dipping Sauce, Fresh Cream and Strawberries from Velvets Restaurant - Two Tails Wines.

focus_contributor

W I T H S H E R E E J E F F R E Y F R O M L E O N E L L A PA S TA

Housemade Pot Pie w/ Beer Battered Chips and Fresh Salad

Roasted Pumpkin & Ricotta

R AV I O L I with a burnt butter sauce, cherry tomatoes & crispy sage leaves

Plantation Hotel If you’re looking for the best value in Coffs Harbour, look no further than the Plantation Hotel … The team at the Plantation pride themselves on offering outstanding service alongside quality food at an affordable price, that will keep you coming back time and time again.

Pop in and try something off our brand new à la carte menu, with a tasty selection of burgers, pastas, salads and premium grade steaks, plus all your pub favourites, cooked using fresh local produce and plated with the personal touches of head chef Dave Newick.

HEAD CHEF DAVID NEWICK.

The Plantation Hotel … Delicious Food, Friendly Service, Incredible Value!

88 GRAFTON STREET, COFFS HARBOUR. 6652 3855 WWW.PLANTATIONHOTEL.COM.AU 7 DAYS. MON - THURS & SUN: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5:30 - 8:30PM. FRI - SAT: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5.30 - 9PM.

Greek chicken with banana slordalia, blueberry tzatziki and green banana fritz

Ingredients Serves 4 Prep/cooking time: 15 min 500 g Leonella roasted pumpkin and ricotta ravioli 250 g salted butter Bunch fresh sage leaves Punnet cherry tomatoes, halved Parmesan and fresh rocket to serve

The Big Banana Café Get your taste buds ready and head to “Going Bananas Café” at The Big Banana Fun Park to try our delicious steeped Greek chicken with banana slordalia, blueberry tzatziki and green banana fritz, created by our Head Chef, Joe Fallon. Come and taste this delicious special today; it’s only available during May so be quick! While you’re here, check out our mouth-watering all day breakfast dishes, scrumptious lunches and indulgent desserts. If you prefer something light, we offer the tastiest salads, fresh juices and smoothies; there’s something for everyone! In a hurry or want to grab a delicious takeaway? Just give us a call and we will have your order ready to pick up so you can get straight on to all the fun activities the park has to offer.

The Big Banana Fun Park, delicious food and a whole ‘bunch’ of Fun! 351 PACIFIC HWY, COFFS HARBOUR 6652 4355 WWW.BIGBANANA.COM 7 DAYS, MON- SUN 9AM-5PM

HEAD CHEF JOE FALLON.

Method Bring salted water to the boil.

Melt butter in large fry pan. Once melted, add the sage leaves and cherry tomatoes heat until the butter starts to froth. When it goes a golden brown colour, turn off heat; ensure not to overcook, as is it will burn. The sage leaves will be crispy and tomatoes softened.

While the sauce is browning, add the ravioli to the salted simmering water.

Approx. 6 minutes to cook.

Strain and add to the fry pan and toss to cover all ravioli.

Serve and top with Parmesan cheese and fresh rocket.

Coffs Coast focus 29

focusinterview.

Popla is a new and exciting restaurant destination for foodies here on the Coffs Coast. After the success of their first restaurant in Newtown, Sydney, the crew from Bloodwood have done the tree change to Bellingen and opened Popla. We spoke to Simon De Graaff, the restaurant manager, about what drew them to the area, their vision for the restaurant, and the locally sourced, house-made (and delicious) menu.

Popla

H

Bellingen

i Simon. Popla has a sister restaurant in Newtown, Sydney. With Bloodwood already being so successful, what made you decide to open another restaurant here on the Coffs Coast?

Yes, the big sister is in Newtown and in her ninth year of service now and still going strong.

The success of the Bloodwood story meant that we wanted to spread the good word a little further afield. The truth is, we had been toying around with the idea of another restaurant for a couple of years, but could never commit to a site because of all sorts of reasons. We found this little gem of a site through Mitchell (Head Chef, owner). He’s spent a number of summers up here in this part of the world with family and friends, enjoying what the Bellingen Shire and Coffs Coast have to offer. It’s a bit of a cliché, but the tree change was the driving motivation.

Tell us a bit about the concept behind Popla; what do you hope to present to your customers?

Popla’s concept is pretty simple. Good food, designed to share, house-made, with a focus on flavours from the fire and promoting local ingredients and Australian products including organic wines, leaning towards minimal intervention. It’s, again, built on the success of 30 Coffs Coast focus

the concept for our sister in Newtown.

We found that having an easily adjustable menu for dietary requirements and having almost an entirely gluten free menu really helped us give our guests what they wanted and needed easily. We hope to bring an exciting and creative dining experience to a larger portion of the community, educating on the way about new flavours and ingredients.

We know you source most of your produce locally; does that determine what ends up on the menu from season to season?

Yes, sourcing produce as locally as possible, and adjusting the menu accordingly is what keeps us going as chefs and waiters. The excitement that comes with testing new products, ingredients, and seeing how we can bring that to the diner is what keeps the job fun and interesting.

We also want to have some fun at the end of the day, and keeping things fresh and different is the best way to do that. Of course, the favourites are hard to change around, but most of us should know by now that eating a local, perfectly ripe tomato in peak season is a way better way to enjoy your food than eating out of season from the other side of the country.

Your chefs do a lot of cooking on the original fireplace hearth. How does that differ to other cooking methods?

We all think the fire adds that extra element

The excitement that comes with

testing new products, ingredients, and seeing how we can bring that to the diner is what keeps

- a depth of flavour and we’ve given the old girl, character. For the chefs it’s quite evident. We have it’s much more tactile kept the exterior as simple the job fun and interesting. and involved ... Watching as possible, in accordance constantly, adjusting fire with the heritage listing temps, maintaining a of the building, but when vegetarian grill in time you step inside - it’s a very with the meat grill. different story. There’s very At the end of the day, it’s really all about the contemporary street art on the walls by Georgia flavour; we’ve just added the key ingredient Hill. We’ve knocked out one of the kitchen FIRE. walls, so you can see the action, and there’s What is your personal favourite dish on the a generous bar to showcase our all Australian menu? spirits and wine list. It’s the light, bright, breezy, Why’d you have to ask that? If I had to say younger sister. just one, it’s going to be the dumpling. It’s a What are some of the challenges and re-invention of something Mitchy’s done before rewards of running a restaurant? on the Sydney menu. I say just “The Dumpling”, Oh, my. Challenges are many and various. because it’s been through a couple of changes The unpredictability of the small country town in since we’ve been on the ground in Bello. comparison to the big bustling city is obviously Whatever the filling, whether it be garlic prawn, a huge hurdle, as we are now setting up a salt cod, oxtail ragu, or kangaroo tail (which it restaurant in a holiday destination. The rewards is at the moment) it’s that bath of butter and come in the strangest moments - middle of gossamer-thin pastry that seals the deal for me. service on a Saturday night, when someone is The restaurant building is quite well known really understanding and enjoying what you do. in the area and has been a restaurant for Being around the best food in town is always many years. How have you put your own a bonus. The list goes on; you just gotta find stamp on it? someone who loves what they do.

I think if you come and see the new face lift Thanks Simon.

It’s a protection racket...

Product protection, that is! The demand for effective reasonably priced protective packaging products, such as bubble wrap, cardboard rolls, paper rolls and pallet wrap is growing.

And at Direct Wholesale Services, we have it covered.

With an extensive range of competitively priced, quality products, we’re a one-stop shop to meet all your packaging and wrapping needs: • Bubble wrap - single sided, double sided, kraft paper backed, rolls, envelopes and more - just let us know what you need.

• Kraft paper rolls - Ideal for shipping, shop counters, schools or office.

• Cardboard rolls - add some structure and strength to your packaging - an ideal product to use for wrapping irregular shaped items.

• Pallet wrap - perfect for wrapping and securing pallets available in either black or clear.

And … we provide regular, free delivery to all customers between Port Macquarie and Ballina, including Tamworth and Armidale.

That’s a wrap! Do yourself a favour; call in or contact us today.

6 Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour.

Phone: 6652 1005 Email: info@dwscoffs.com www.dwscoffs.com

Coffs Coast focus 31

Dark Arts Brew & Bar are excited to invite you to a grand opening, showcasing two very unique local Coffs artists, who are set to surprise you in an unlikely thought-provoking exhibition.

Art Exhibition LO SCHIAVO & HICKINBOTHAM

M

artina Lo Schiavo and Andrew Hickinbotham have joined forces to bring you a moving cultural, spiritual and cosmic experience through two very different minds and mediums.

Martina Lo Schiavo has recently graduated after studying visual arts over the last seven years to the Advanced Diploma level. Her background as a fibre artist prior to her studies has been evident throughout her visual art journey, favouring colours and textures both in her 2D and 3D work. She uses a variety of recycled materials in an effort to tread gently on the planet and allow the materials themselves to direct and define the meaning of the work. Martina speaks highly of the works of Fiona Hall, stating Fiona’s art has been an inspiration behind this current project. Her current body of work is entitled Bridled and is a series of bride’s heads/3D sculptures. Each sculpture is woven using a variety of recycled and unusual materials and all speak to different aspects of the ritual of

marriage. The pieces have taken on an entity of their own and although silent, contain woven within very powerful messages. Martina’s work is deeply emotional and sometimes confronting - even tragic, yet powerful and beautiful at the same time. She has found a perfect medium to bring awareness to some of the challenges marriage presents throughout different cultures.

Andrew Hickinbotham has been a practicing visual artist for over 35 years and has exhibited widely.

Working across mediums as diverse as video, photography, and digital design, his work has been primarily focused in the area of visual metaphor and the great unexplained.

Andrew’s works are captivating and surprising. He uses a range of imagery derived from the classics through to scientific microscopy and natural elemental forms. The incorporation of back-lighting in his recent work renders them bold and unforgettable. Building on his current Dark Arts installation called Fruiting Bodies, in which a series of 20 light box portraits have been generated from the silhouettes of

SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL FRI 4 MAY- SUN 27 MAY

Proudly supported by

32 Coffs Coast focus

local Coffs Coast residents, Andrew will present a new light box triptych comprising three panels, entitled Gone Perfect World. The opening will be hosted in true Dark Arts fashion, with complimentary drinks and nibbles being served from 6pm, as well as live music by the lovely Artemisia. You are invited to join us for this free launch party - so come and meet the artists and enjoy a profound journey, as they share and discuss their works. You are also welcome to stay on afterwards for the exhibition special dinner, featuring Martina’s traditional Persian Love Cake for dessert. The Dark Arts Exhibition dinner is $40 and can be booked by calling 0401 942 143. The works of Martina and Andrew will remain on display at Dark Arts for eight weeks after the opening.

Lo Schiavo & Hickinbotham Exhibition When Friday 11th May - 6pm.

Cost Free event.

Where Dark Arts Brew & Bar.

focusinterview.

jon

Stevens

Jon Stevens is hitting the road for a Best Of tour, traversing all the hits of his career, from his solo work, right through to Noiseworks, INXS, The Dead Daisies and even Jesus Christ Superstar. With a back catalogue jam-packed with smash hits, and no shortage of great songs to choose from, the revered singer-songwriter is looking forward to reliving the different times of his musical journey, and sharing those experiences with audiences.

Hot off the heels of his latest release, Starlight, which received international acclaim after its release last year, Jon has picked 2018 as the time to embark on the tour that fans have been asking him to do for years.

Y

ou’ve had quite an illustrious music career. Talk us through some of the highlights of your time in the

industry?

Major highlight for me is to still be breathing - I’ve had a few close calls …

There have been so many, the latest one would be having Ringo Starr play on my last album and Dave Stewart, working with these guys was pretty amazing - obviously working with a Beatle doesn’t happen very often. We recorded at Ringo’s house, he played the drums; it was just amazing. He’s a wonderful guy. That’s probably a lifetime highlight, I suppose.

Tell us about your Best Of Tour.

The setlist for this must have been difficult to cut down into a couple of hours?

It wasn’t that hard, really. Obviously you have to play all the singles and the hits, the songs that people love, and I’m happy to do that. A lot of things

Did it take I’ve pulled out of you on an the cupboard emotional some of which I YOU HAVE TO PLAY ALL journey, going haven’t played for THE SINGLES AND THE back through around 25 years.

HITS, THE SONGS THAT the archives?

The tour has been PEOPLE LOVE, AND I’M It was great; everyone HAPPY TO DO THAT. A LOT definitely kind singing along to all OF THINGS I’VE PULLED OUT OF THE CUPBOARD ... of cathartic, I the old songs again. suppose to a After all this time, degree, because what is the one it took me song you still love back to so many different places and playing to your fans? different times. The body of work is There’s not really one in particular. massive; I’m the kind of artist where I’m The one I have been most requested is always thinking about what I’m doing R.I.P Nellie; I wouldn’t say it’s one of my today, and what I’m doing tomorrow, I favourite ones to play, because it’s so don’t look back ever … emotional and so personal, and I didn’t Thanks Jon. play it for a long, long time. But it really means a lot to people who have gone through losing someone to cancer. I lost my mum to cancer, and that’s what the song’s about. People relate to that; it’s Don’t miss Jon Stevens pretty emotional … I guess that song in on his Best of Tour. particular. This is the first time I’ve gone When Sun 29th Apr. through my whole back catalogue, Venue Hoey Moey Hotel. actually … www.hoeymoey.com.au Coffs Coast focus 33

34 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

Julia Australian comedy royalty, Lady Julia Morris is

kicking off her 50th birtday celebrations with a huge tour. Coffs

is lucky enough to be on her schedule … FOCUS caught up with the hilarious matriarch in the lead up to her much anticipated show.

H

Lift and Separate Golden Jubilee tour,

i Julia. You’re just about to kick off your Lift and Separate Golden Jubilee tour. Tell us a bit about the tour …

Well, the Jubilee tour has

come about because April 20 saw the click over of my 50th birthday - you’ve just got to get there and still be smiling! I’ll be telling lots of stories!

Traditionally when I tour I’m a story teller, recapping the too precious year.

This tour is a bit of a combination of my favourite stories, and a brand new show - there will be lots and lots of laughs, lots of awkward moments about dating the wrong thing at the wrong time, which seems to be one of my special gifts, and the joy of embracing 50 and saying goodbye to the 40s. It’s all about the panic that you’re ageing.

The “Lift and Separate” component of the tour’s title - is this referring to a bra, or does it hold a

WELL, THE JUBILEE TOUR HAS COME ABOUT BECAUSE APRIL 20

SAW THE CLICK OVER OF MY 50TH BIRTHDAY - YOU’VE JUST GOT TO GET THERE AND STILL BE SMILING! I’LL

BE TELLING LOTS OF STORIES ...

different meaning?

Well, one would think that’s what it may be about - to some level it’s definitely about that. But, it’s also about what you do about accepting the fact that you’re ageing. It’s a very tricky process; I did a lot of things to make sure that I wasn’t ready - like not think about it, be furious about it ... I think life is about lifting your spirit, separating yourself from all the BS. There’s something about raw honesty that hits you through your late 40s and early 50s, where you feel like, “I don’t actually care how people judge

me; this is what I am and not everyone’s going to like it” - so I also have to accept that. I am an acquired taste.

What has been your most embarrassing stand out

moment?

A gig on stage in London; the crowd were very weird. I didn’t understand why I wasn’t connecting with them. I had been seeing a friend who had broken up with someone, and I accidentally had four espresso martinis - and I am not a drinker - so four ... I can’t even imagine what state I was in! I told the same material four times, but I just kept thinking, “This audience is so hard to crack!” Apparently, they were just furious to hear the same

story four times! I also had my zipper down and I may not have had any underpants on …

Career and motherhood - how do you find a balance?

You don’t balance it! There’s no balance; we look for balance, and I would like balance ... What you just have to do is get to the end of each day without your eyeballs falling out of your head.

And something always has to give if you are going to be working and parenting at the same time.

Thanks Julia.

Don’t miss your chance to see Julia Morris on her Lift and Separate Golden Jubilee tour on Friday 18th May at C.ex Coffs. 1 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour. Tickets www.cex.com.au or juliamorris.com

Coffs Coast focus 35

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

2ND MAY

Pablo Blitzer - Element Bar Ben Salter - No.5 Church Street

3RD MAY

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

4TH MAY

Benny Black Band - Seaview Tavern “May The Fourth Party” With Aqwa Duo + DJ Ob1 - Hoey Moey John Curtin - C.ex Coffs Shanteya & Jo - Element Bar Club Retro Fridays with DJ Flak3y & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel

5TH MAY

Aqwa Duo - Seaview Tavern DJ Ob1 - Hoey Moey Fast Love - A Tribute To George Michael - C.ex Coffs Hekyl & Jive - C.ex Coffs Jimmy Davis (X-Factor) - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Dazed & DJ Rjay - Coast Hotel Annual 2018 Masquerade Ball ft Mood Swing & Chevy Bass - The Coffs Hotel Jordan Brodie - No.5 Church Street

6TH MAY

The Bondi Cigars - Hoey Moey Vanessa Lee & the Roadtrain Coramba Hotel Billie-Jo Porter - Element Bar

9TH MAY

Guthrie - Element Bar

10TH MAY

Chris Grieve - Element Bar The Party - Jetty Theatre

11TH MAY

Pink Zinc - Seaview Tavern 36 Coffs Coast focus

May.

Surf Report Duo + DJ Ob1 - Hoey Moey Conspiracy - C.ex Coffs Daryl James - Element Bar Club Retro Fridays with DJ Flak3y & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel Josh Rawiri - No.5 Church Street

12TH MAY

Surf Report - Seaview Tavern Butterfingers - Hoey Moey Beach Boyz - C.ex Coffs Benny Black - Element Bar The Glamstars & DJ Blakey - Coast Hotel Rave Radio - The Coffs Hotel Daryl James - No.5 Church Street

13TH MAY

Mother’s Day - Andrew Smileys Kids Show featuring Paw Patrol’s Chase & Sky characters - Moonee Tavern Mother’s Day With The Hussy Hicks Hoey Moey Tangle - Coramba Hotel Peter Barry - Element Bar

16TH MAY

Dr FeelGood - C.ex Coffs Yhan Leal - Element Bar

17TH MAY

Brenden Jenssen - Element Bar Earth - One Amazing Day - Jetty Theatre

18TH MAY

3 Band Showcase - Seaview Tavern The Lazy Sundays + DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Julia Morris - C.ex Coffs Ray Rider - C.ex Coffs Jesse Morris - Element Bar Club Retro Fridays with DJ Joe & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel

19TH MAY

Vanessa Lea & Road Train - Seaview Tavern Dj Layne - Hoey Moey Gunshy - Coramba Hotel David Hobson & Marina Prior - C.ex Coffs T K Reeve - Element Bar Powerhouse & DJ Joe - Coast Hotel

20TH MAY

P.Smurf, Dj Cost + Rates - Hoey Moey Who's Charlie - Coramba Hotel Joe Man Murphy - Element Bar

23RD MAY

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

24TH MAY

Kasey Chambers - C.ex Coffs Thor Phillips - Element Bar

25TH MAY

Misschief - Seaview Tavern Kerry Pike - C.ex Coffs Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar Club Retro Fridays with DJ Flak3y & DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel

26TH MAY

Mckenzie Band - Seaview Tavern Busby Marou - Hoey Moey Nightmoves - C.ex - Coffs Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Alter Ego & DJ Breno - Coast Hotel The Mid North - No.5 Church Street

27TH MAY

King Social + DJ Tarmz - Hoey Moey Jake Davey - Coramba Hotel Yhan Leal - Element Bar

30TH MAY

Pablo Blitzer - Element Bar

31ST MAY

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

Coffs Coast focus 37

Will your child be...

BDC is enrolling Now for 2019 Kindy to Year 12

An exceptional schooling experience is more than a collection of great educational outcomes, outdoor activities and camp, sporting and cultural events or tours. An exceptional schooling experience has social and emotional ties to the community.

“

BDC is a school that we are so proud of sending our children to, and today was a fine example of everything we love about it.

Current BDC Parent

”

College tours are available throughout Term 2.

We’d love to show you around, call us on 6651 5644.

Enrolling Now 2019 Kindy to Year 12 LIMITED places available in some year groups

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

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

38 Coffs Coast focus

Experience a new age in luxury cruising.

Dream Cruises aims to redefine cruising with inspirational luxury and transformational journeys at sea. Our two ships, Genting Dream and World Dream are vessels designed to make your dreams come true - featuring the comfort of authentic Asian hospitality combined with only the finest experiences from around the world.

Genting Dream and World Dream feature some of the latest and most unexpected, horizon expanding experiences on the planet. Explore deep beneath the ocean, dance under the stars at one of the top night clubs, savour new concoctions created at one of our bar concepts or sit back, relax and enjoy some exclusive pampering, the food lovers can tantalise their taste buds in one of our 35 restaurants - and that’s just the beginning…

Despite the name “Come with us Cruises”, you offer a lot more than just cruises -

don’t you? Can you tell us a little bit about what services you offer? Yes, we do. We can organise and sell all aspects of travel, from holiday packages like Club Med to sporting tours, flights - domestic and international, hotels, car hire, transfers and travel insurance.

You offer tours; how does that work? At the moment we have organised three cruise tours - one to Asia, another to New Zealand and a six day golf tour. Sue and I (Grant) will be travelling on all three tours as your hosts; these tours are on our web page at www.comewithuscruises.com.au It can be daunting planning a holiday, and adding young children to the mix can make it even harder. Can you help with planning a holiday for the whole family?

No worries at all. We can plan and organise family holidays in Australia or around the world from resorts, bus tours, car rental etc.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

May 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Your inner strength has been challenged lately.

Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends. By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength.

Herderite helps us to see our evolution thus making it less of a challenge.

Balance and equilibrium are about to enter your picture. Justice will be granted; you will have a positive outcome regarding a legal matter, but you can expect a series of delays first. Good news will be given soon.

Tiger Eye helps to maintain a sense of balance and direction.

The world is your oyster. You will soon be finishing off old business ties and making ways for new opportunities, so be prepared. Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak from the heart.

Topaz strengthens our self esteem and brings personal power to situations surrounding us.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Your emotions have been a little over sensitive lately as you have begun a cycle of self-discovery, where you will be letting go of a lot of passed hurt. Try to recognise all of your insecurities, so you can release them and their influence from your sphere of existence.

Rose Quartz attracts us towards loving experiences.

You have answers to other people’s dilemmas.

This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher and other people are drawn to you, because they know you have their answers. Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive.

Phenacite helps us to release other people’s worries from our energies.

You are entering a new cycle, with lots of excitement and laughter. At first your 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.

Snowflake Obsidian is wonderful for shattering negative thoughts.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

You are about to embark on a journey. For some this will be literal, for others, an inward journey of self discovery. During this time, you will make new friends and acquaintances who will mirror your lessons in life perfectly.

Carnelian helps us take active steps towards change.

Goal setting at this time will benefit you mostly. New beginnings are at hand, so make the most of this creating time. You can have what you want, but you need to know this.

Give yourself permission to receive your wish, and enjoy it when it gets here.

Turquoise and Rose Quartz will enhance your loving charisma.

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.

Sugilite would be of great benefit at this time, as it helps us face our challenges with a joyful outlook.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Your soul is calling out for your attention.

Listen to your needs. Some personal nurturing is required. Release other people’s stress and problems, as these weigh you down. Set some personal goals and enjoy what is about to befall you. GOOD LUCK! Tourmaline amplifies your inner peace, playful inner child energy and settles restlessness.

You are currently involved in a cycle of family or group healing. Listen to your words of wisdom, as these words will contain your own answers.

Removing any prejudices or judgements will assist you further. Look for the outcome of your magical words.

Azeztulite allows us to explore alternate realities comfortably.

Choice is upon you. Your talents have been activated, which will wake up new gifts. Some direction is needed now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside you have your own answers, but unfortunately you are lacking the confidence to listen. Trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong. Rhodonite helps us to discover new talents in the workplace.

Coffs Coast focus 39

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Adam Denman and Adelaide Zietsch

Heather Attwill, Christine Irvine and Kathleen Cochrane

Afternoon drinks at Split Cafe

Julie and Richard Van Elst

John, Grahame and Les

Chris, Di, Cheryl, Wendy and Marg

Allana Beltran and Helen Moors

Gloria Johneson, Lorraine Murray, Annette Brian and Kileen Grant

Guy and Janine

T

Social /Scene

he Bunker Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour has always got something on offer to keep us all entertained. FOCUS attended the latest and one of the most unusual exhibitions, this being the Cartoon Symphony, which runs until the 20th May 2018.

The Cartoon Symphony showcases the talent of local artist Tanja Ackerman. Seeing sound is how her work is being described for her latest body of work at the Bunker Cartoon Gallery.

Tanya drew inspiration from cartoon soundtracks, which are refreshingly unique! You can experience cartoon imaginary and music in a completely novel way. Tanja has extended her work beyond the traditional cartoon stereotypes, portraying not only superheroes and pop culture, but musicians as well. Many of us share the experience of a special cartoon character, be it heroic, inspirational or comical. They have the power to transport us back to that time in childhood and those wonderful memories.

The process of observing music and natural sounds is described by Tanja: “I see music, when I hear music, birdsong etc. I literally see moving colours, patterns and textures in my visual field.

I have been seeing sound for as long as I can remember.” This ability is known as Synesthesia.

It is a gift in which stimulation of one sense (auditory) leads to a sensory experience in a

40 Coffs Coast focus

What an amazing place we live in, here on the Coffs Coast! You can be enjoying the buzz of the town, then take a ten minute drive and you are cruising through beautiful serene countryside, or take another fork in the road and you can be walking on the white sands of our sensational beaches ... We are definitely blessed!

different sense (visual). Don’t miss this exhibition; it is such a great experience for all ages.

We certainly have a variety of musical talent perform here on the Coffs Coast! We can enjoy performers from all over the country and all over the world! Make a note of the date and time - 4pm, 29th April at the Toormina Sports and Recreational Club. Go and enjoy celebrating the culture, food and the launch of a debut EP Upendo from a Boy Band from Africa called “The Brothers”. The word “Upendo” is Swahili for “Love”.

They are a group of young men who were originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Eritrea. The boys now reside here on the Coffs Coast and are proud to call it their home.

Their passion for music, creativity and their experiences in coming to Australia as refugees have drawn them together. Three of the band members kick started the group whilst in a Malawi refugee camp in Africa.

The EP was recorded and produced in Coffs Harbour by GTM and mastered by producer Jeremy Allom, and each song demonstrates their talent for harmonising, along with African inspired beats and rhythms.

We are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out. Whether it be for breakfast lunch or dinner,

there are so many places to enjoy, delicious dishes, that it’s so hard to choose! We always try to go out to dine on a regular basis. I feel we deserve to treat ourselves when we work so hard.

Last week we dined at the restaurant at the Best Western Zebra Motel.

Owners Darryl Brown and Simon Chladil welcome locals and visitors to the Coffs Coast, as well as offering tailored function menus for your special occasion. We were celebrating a friend’s birthday, and the atmosphere at the Zebra Restaurant was perfect! It’s a little old school without the bright lights, and that makes for a perfect dinner party!

They let us “theme” the table, to add to the fun.

The restaurant have just started their Autumn Menu, which is delicious! Their new chef, Aaron Lowe has a diverse menu, catering for all tastes.

With duck, seafood, Asian style dishes and classic steaks, it’s hard to choose! The Zebra is open seven days a week for breakfast and dinner.

Here is to … The Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery always offers a variety of exhibitions and programmes, featuring highly regarded national and local/emerging and established artists.

We attended the gallery just recently, which is currently showcasing the works of Suzanne Archer. Totally enjoyed the visit and looking forward to attending a magical evening of music, poetry and art with renowned classical guitarist

Meredith Connie on the 25th May. After enchanting audiences across the United States, Meredith will be performing her celebrated show, In the Wild, in the region where she grew up. Having studied at both the Sydney and San Francisco Conservatoriums of Music, Meredith developed her career in the US for 17 years and has cemented her reputation as a leading composer, performer and educator.

As a devoted music teacher, Merdith is passionate about inspiring the next generation to listen to music and pick up an instrument. I personally say a big YES to this, as even though we are a slave to our devices on a work and social level at times, it is so sad to see so many of the young practically living their lives on their phones! So, encouraging us all to learn to play an instrument, pick up a book (not on your laptop) and read it or write a letter by hand is definitely good for all of us. This is why FOCUS is amazing; yes, it is online, but we can still pick up this big glossy publication in our hands, sit down, relax and enjoy the read!

Take a walk on the wild side …

Put down your device!

Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DĂƒIN DESIGNS

Helen Weavers and Kaye Child

Photo credit: The Moores Photography

Danny and Di Lupinski

Jillian Clack and Beth Lynch

Brian Zironda, Linda Zironda, Amelia Hill, Isobel Hill and Leone Rollard

Scout Bourke and Nick Bamford

Kenny McAllister and Avon Medway

Pam Ferguson and Dot Russell

Ray and Phil

Open Air Picnics

Joan Somers and Pamela Ballard

Shaun McCarthy, Andrew Mc Carthy and Michael Alexender

Sue and Andrew Wheeler

Danah Partington and Michelle Storr

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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

Fiji - the heart of the South Pacific Fiji is blessed with 333 tropical islands and with a flight time of 3½ hours from Brisbane, it’s no wonder it’s one the most popular Pacific island holidays for Australian families and couples looking for a tropical paradise.

Tips for Travellers

Choose from a diverse range of accommodation, from exclusive 5 star resorts through to hostels or if budget is not an issue, then book an entire island just for yourself. Fiji has somewhere to suit everyone.

How to avoid the top travel mistakes.

If you’re a first time traveller, then keep reading. These tips could help make or break your upcoming trip. If you’re a seasoned traveller, you’ll probably recognise some of these rookie mistakes. As they say, experience is the best teacher.

Should I pre-book, or leave it until I get there? There are lots of great reasons why you should pre-book some of your travel plans. Book ahead for the big things such as airfares, hotels, airport transfers.

$25 each time you catch a taxi, then the savings are quickly eaten up.

But there is no need to plan everything. Leave some spare time to discover the real location and the authentic people. Leave some time to dine in the restaurant that was recommended by the locals.

Travel is a product where you can very much rely on the price being an effective indicator of the experience. It might cost you more for a harbour view room, but if this is the only time you will ever visit this harbour, then it could be money well spent.

Overpacking? Do you really need four pairs of shoes, and a selection of fancy clothes? Plan ahead and take only what you need. You want to leave plenty of room to pick up some local wares, and you don’t want to spend every morning trying to force your suitcase closed because it’s so full.

If you need even more incentive, some airlines charge exorbitant excess baggage charges. You want to be sure that each extra kilo or two is worth the hundreds of dollars it might cost you.

Respect the local customs Just because it’s acceptable in your country, doesn’t mean it’s acceptable in another. In some countries, something as simple as kissing in public or taking a photograph of a guard in front of government building can land you in hot water. It can not only ruin your holiday, but you can end up with a criminal record.

Even if it’s not illegal, it can still be offensive.

Personal space and contact can vary greatly between countries. A simple pat on the head can be interpreted as rude and offensive in countries where someone’s head is viewed as sacred.

Saving money at the expense of time It might seem like a good buy when you find a hotel that is $100 cheaper than a similar standard hotel but when you arrive and that hotel is located on the outskirts of town and it costs you 42 Coffs Coast focus

Value for money is defined by a range of criteria.

No point buying a reduced price ticket, if the experience is also greatly reduced.

Check, check and check again It might be a simple error, but it can have devastating results.

Make sure any bookings that are made are correct; including the names, dates, destinations and details.

Airlines will not accept you if your identification is different to the booking. And if you are expecting Sydney, New South Wales, then you you’d be sadly disappointed if you arrived in Sydney, Canada.

Would you like insurance with that? The saying goes that if you can’t afford travel insurance, then you can’t afford to travel. Travel insurance is designed to bail you out of the unexpected situations. It doesn’t just cover the cancellation costs, but also the unpredictable cost of health care overseas. A simple cold that turns into a chest infection can result in an unexpected bill of $20,000 for a three day stay in hospital in the Swiss Alps.

It’s just not worth the risk.

Ask the experts What do you do when you need to service your car? You go to a mechanic.

Your hair needs attention … You visit your hairdresser! You’re planning a holiday, then visit your trusted travel agent. They are experts in their field, with networks and systems to ensure you get the right information at the best price.

One of the joys of Fiji is that it has something for everyone, families and couples. The family friendly resorts on the Coral Coast, action packed adventures available in the Mamanuca Island and exclusive couple-only resorts with luxurious overwater Bures that remind me of the more expensive options of Tahiti and the Maldives.

Further off the beaten track, there is still some traditional culture to be found, but rarely are those travelling to Fiji searching for it. Travellers are hypnotised by the white sandy beaches, swaying coconut trees, pristine oceans and coral

reefs waiting to be explored. It really is a water activity mecca; snorkel, dive, surf or kayak the pristine oceans, white-water raft the clear and clean waterways, cruise the ocean around the mainland and outer Fiji Islands or if you need a break from the water, trek through the rainforests or visit the welcoming villages and experience sustainable living with a unique culture and history.

If you need extra incentive to visit, then ask someone about the Fijian hospitality. The Fijian people are welcoming, affectionate and sincere.

They don’t operate on the same time schedule that the city dwellers do and as a result, travellers find themselves slipping into ”Fijian time” quickly upon arrival. After all, it is the Fijian way!

Fijian is an ideal winter holiday, with warm, dry sunny days throughout May to September. Drop in to see the team at Quadrant Australia in their new office in Harbour Drive (opposite the Book Warehouse) Coffs Harbour to find out about the latest deals.

Photo credit: Tony Lopes Photography www.tonylopesphotography.com Coffs Coast focus 43

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Nesting Needles Fabric & Patchwork

STEPHANIE LUCK

H

Orara Valley Progress Association

ow long have you lived in the Nana Glen area? About 13 years. We initially had a property at Central Bucca, before Nana Glen, and we are now at Coramba.

help me. I love the clean, fresh water and the clean air. I love that someone always beeps and waves every time I’m putting my bin out! I love that everyone knows my kids' names and keeps a watchful eye out for them. I couldn’t possibly wish to live anywhere else.

Tell us about your community involvement. You mention you have a family as well.

I’ve been involved in the Orara Valley Progress How do you juggle it all? The kids come Association for about eight years, as President along to most meetings with us, and between for about five years. We manage the Coramba my (very patient) husband, Brendon and I, we Sportsground, and work with groups within the just make it work. I think it’s important that valley that are looking to get particular projects they see us being involved in the community happening. We apply for quite a bit of grant and taking an active responsibility for what funding to get projects happens around us. They going, and have been need to know that things successful in several grants don’t "just happen"; there’s “I love that we for the Sportsground, which someone there making it haven’t lost too is fantastic, because it’s used happen! by so many families across much of the ‘small I just have to be careful the whole valley. I’m very town’ attitude. You’ll with time management, lucky that the other people and never commit without always get a smile involved in the Association checking the diary! and someone will are very dedicated, and we The kids are all heavily genuinely ask how all bounce off each other involved in sport, so the your day is going really well. juggle is certainly real! I when you go to get Being a bookkeeper, I work a lot at night, and some milk.” naturally get roped into with emails being so easily being Treasurer a lot! I am accessible on phones, I’m involved with our P&C, and generally half watching one of my favourite groups soccer training, and I am involved with is Mountain Preschool at emailing someone at the same time!

Lowanna. My youngest and I head up there What plans do you have for the future? each week; he attends the preschool, and I do Nana Glen needs a playground! the accounts. I love it up there.

I would love to see some limited casual What do you love most about Nana Glen camping back at Coramba to help our local and the surrounding communities? I love businesses and to bring in extra funds for more that we haven’t lost too much of the "small local projects. town" attitude. You’ll always get a smile and I do plan on saying "no" a little more often, someone will genuinely ask how your day is so that I spend more time simply enjoying going when you go to get some milk. I love the valley with the family, instead of going to having the confidence in the people around meetings! me that no matter what, someone will have Thanks Stephanie. my back; I just have to ask, and someone will 44 Coffs Coast focus

Nesting Needles Fabric and Patchwork carries a large range of fabrics, patterns, pre-cuts, bias binding, yarn, knitting, crochet and sewing accessories.

Paulien Barkmeyer teaches crochet from beginners to advanced and makes crochet easy.

We host a wide variety of classes daily from local and guest tutors, including patchwork, quilting, fashion design, embellishment, crochet.

Vivienne Crisell has over 25 years' experience in the fashion industry as a pattern-maker and designer, with companies such as Sportscraft, Saba, Network/New York, Trixy of London and Sussan.

Owner Lisa Peterson is a TAFE qualified teacher.

She teaches all aspects of patchwork and quilting and has a vast knowledge of the industry. Lisa offers colour and pattern advice and has won numerous quilt awards with her attention to detail and unique pattern ideas.

Chris Timmins is a long time teacher of all levels of sewing and quilting, who is excellent with children.

Jeni Hudson teaches great beginners' sampler quilts, American hand piecing and has a fantastic sense of colour and mood.

Discover the joy of creating truly individual garments that fit you perfectly.

A lecturer at TAFE, she is fully qualified with a Diploma in Fashion and a Diploma in Technical Teaching.

“At Nesting Needles I teach patternmaking, fashion design and embellishment. I am committed to excellence in design and finish to the highest professional standards. My aim is to pass this on to you as the student in a friendly and creative environment. My classes cater for beginners to advanced levels.” For further information, contact Vivienne on crisions@optusnet.com.au

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Chelsea

CROWE What is your relationship to Nana Glen?

My family moved here when I was 7, and I went to Nana Glen Public School. Whilst my family are still on the same property, I moved interstate for a time. We then moved back with our daughters, Aria and Scarlett, as it is such a wonderful area to grow up in. We were very fortunate to secure 10 hectares out here and then built a beautiful house with Toscan Homes.

Tell us about your community involvement.

My daughters attend Nana Glen Public School and Country Cubs Preschool in Coramba and love being close to home. My husband, James and I are both Community First Responders for the NSW Ambulance, providing immediate pre-hospital care in the gap between someone calling for an ambulance through the 000 system and the arrival of paramedics on scene in the valley. I am the purchasing contact for our family raised Organic Angus at Black Standard Beef, and I work full-time as an Operations Manager in Nana Glen, as well as being the Secretary and playing ladies league tag for the Orara Valley Axemen. In between my commitments, I also coordinate the sales for the amazing artist, Gabrielle Pool.

The Coramba Hotel Coramba General Store & Providore The father/daughter team, Paul and Claryce Phillips, took over and renovated the Coramba General Store just over a year ago.

The café boasts a relaxed, rustic style with country comfort, award winning coffee, tasty homemade pies, mouth-watering burgers (including the beetroot, lentil and goat cheese vego option), friendly service and prices to match.

There is a great range of locally grown and handmade produce for you to take home too!

They will be heating up this winter with wood fire pizza nights, so keep an eye on the Facebook page!

This family owned, country style café is located in the beautiful town of Coramba, just 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Come in and experience for yourself - tantalising food and coffee, relaxed atmosphere with great customer service ...

You just can't go wrong!

Do you ever dream of escaping the hustle and bustle, but don’t want to drive for hours to do so?

Then I have the answer for you! Enjoy the short but scenic drive to one of the Coffs Coast’s best kept secrets, Coramba Hotel.

Brett and Sandy have recently taken over the hotel and with plenty of experience under their belt, they’re ready to get this historic gem back to what it once was. With live music to entertain you, trivia night to keep you on your toes, amazing food and the best rural outlook in Coffs Harbour, the Coramba pub is guaranteed to keep you coming back for more ... and don’t forget the kids!

They’ll love the park and wide open spaces.

The Broadaxe Bistro is open seven days a week, with lunch from noon to 2pm daily; dinner from 5:30pm to 8:30pm daily.

- $12 lunch specials Monday through to Friday.

- $15 lunch AND dinner specials on weekends.

With friendly, helpful staff to assist your needs everyone is welcome at the Coramba Hotel and if you’re brave, challenge the publican in the pool comp ... but beware! I hear he’s pretty good.

What do you most love about Nana Glen and the surrounding communities?

I love when visitors come and say how clean the air is, how beautiful the water tastes, and how lush the land is. We really are very lucky here in the valley to have such friendly members of the community and a variety of social spaces; with two cafés, a swimming pool, and the winery just in Nana Glen alone. It is always lovely to go with friends for a bush walk to Scouts Falls in Glenreagh or for a swim in the river at Coramba. It is a lovely place to grow up in and to raise a family.

Tell us about some of your most notable achievements.

One must be being extremely organised and to be able to juggle all of our commitments and be a super mum! I had a blast working with Gabrielle Pool on showing her Halcyon Exhibition at Two Tails Wines, which was something I hadn’t been a part of before. Not many people know, but I also have a Bachelor of Science majoring in Zoology and Marine Biology - still yet to put that to good use!

What plans do you have for the future?

To go on more holidays with my family, explore the world, read every day and to embrace what each new day brings.

Thanks Chelsea.

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Chris French HWH STABLES

H

i Chris. What was it about the Coffs Coast that inspired you to move here? It was actually an easy decision choosing the Coffs Coast; it is where my parents had settled to retire, having lived in Sydney for most of their lives. The decision to be near my parents was based on my ideas of what was best for my family. I was planning for the future, as my wife is diagnosed with Huntingtons Disease and knowing her condition would deteriorate as the symptoms took hold, and I would increasingly require assistance from my mum to help me with Nicolle, my wife, and our two young children.

Could you tell us a bit about HWH Stables, the riding school and the trail rides you run? HWH Stables prides itself on offering its guests and students highly unique experiences, with safety and education our highest priority at all times. Our guests are often living out an experience that is on their bucket-list, like swimming your horse in rivers, waterholes, ocean surf and lagoons … cantering along a beach … running free through rugged ranges, or simply learning to ride with confidence, athleticism and strength via our clinics and lessons.

As owner and instructor of HWH Stables, I personally conduct all lessons and clinics providing students of all ages with relevant theoretical knowledge and practical skills that will cover both horsemanship and riding techniques that can be applied in a variety of equine disciplines for leisure, sport and work.

Our friendly horses are clever and brave and operate very well together as a cute

46 Coffs Coast focus

little herd or out by themselves, assisting and guiding our guests through some of Australia’s iconic scenery, while almost always enjoying the added highlight of spotting dolphins, whales and other native wildlife and flora.

Orara Valley rainforest and river trails in addition to our popular Boambee Beach and lagoon rides are available all year round, and suitable to all levels of riders, from absolute beginners to the more experienced. Minimum age for trail rides is 7 years old, and maximum weight is 100 kg, group size is from one to six riders for all trail rides. If you have a larger group, we can discuss this upon application.

For children younger than 7 years old, we highly recommend applying for lessons at our riding school, or a led beach ride with a guide walking your child while the family rides unassisted is also suitable. Lessons for young children start from 4 years old. We will always do our utmost to accommodate our guests in a fun, safe and practical manner that creates memories to cherish forever. On this, HWH Stables is renowned for providing quality photography of your ride to our guests as a complimentary service.

We have caught you as you are about to head off to do the 2018 Eidsvold Charity Cattle Drive in support of the Flying Doctor Service. Is this something you have taken part in before? And what inspired you get involved? This is my first time. I am accompanying one of my clients, who has become a good friend.

I always say everybody has a story to tell; her story is one of survival and bravery and passion to live life to the fullest. So I’m going there for her, as well as for my wife

and kids, who will join us - and of course for myself, as I love pushing cattle around and working from a saddle.

When did you start riding? Is it something you’ve always had a passion for? I started riding horses properly as a young child and more seriously as a teenager. I bought my own horse by myself from a sale yard in Windsor, Western Sydney, NSW when I was just 16. My nonhorsey parents had no idea what I was up to - I thought it was terrific winning the auction and paying $500 that I had saved from my three casual jobs. The horse I bid for and won was an enormous 16’2hh Anglo Arabian grey gelding that I called Sire. Sire was a great first horse. It was soon after that, once completing tertiary education, that I decided I wanted a job that somehow included horses.

It sounds like you have a lot of experience in the industry. Could you tell us a bit about some of the properties you’ve worked on and some of the roles you’ve had? As mentioned, I relocated my family from the Kimberley of WA, where I was managing a 3.5 million acre cattle station which incorporated pastoral-based tourism activities, including scenic rides, overnight packsaddle rides, cattle musters and five-night cattle drives, as well as an on-site training facility for Indigenous trainees. I have also held positions as an instructor and tour guide with various horse riding establishments over the years, including Moore Park Stables in Sydney.

Where can people find out more about HWH Stables? Go to www.hwhstables. com.au or visit our Facebook page www. facebook.com/HWHSTABLES or call us!

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PETE SPINKS PRESIDENT O R A R A VA L L E Y AXEMEN RLFC

Kafe Kookaburra Debbie Worldon The Orara Valley Axeman have a proud history dating back over 30 years, with multiple premierships, a strong emphasis on family entertainment and a focus on building their club from the ground up through the Tomahawks junior rugby league club. The 2018 season brings an exciting time, as we build on our strengths developed throughout 2017. FOCUS had a chat to Pete Spinks to find out more.

W

hat plans does the club have for 2018? To increase our club’s profile in the community. We want to provide greater exposure for our sponsors and supporters by regular updates of our games or photos on our Facebook page. I guess we are giving everyone a window into our club for those who either are unable to make a game or live outside the area.

We also have plans to provide some new experiences when attending games through corporate boxes or “tradies” boxes.

preparation both physically and mentally, and a positive attitude being instilled across the club, to ensure success on and off the field. We want players to be drawn to our club because of the family and community-minded culture of the club, and I think we have achieved that.

Micheal and I have come to know what this beautiful little town needs. Being a mother of many and a grandmother to many more, I know myself how important it is to be able to go somewhere to eat or have coffee and feel secure that your kids are safe and they have things to do to keep them entertained. Our aim is to put in a play area under our big shady trees, for the kids. We also have a small play area for littlies.

Micheal has been in the food industry for 15 years, so it’s important for him to make good food and coffee. We would like to be somewhere you can get great food to eat here or

take home, whether that’s from our takeaway menu or our café menu. We aim to see our little piece of paradise become a sanction to relax, eat, drink and be happy. We have a Melbourne tram that we have plans to transform into a holistic healing centre. We are looking for massage therapists, psychic readers or any other alternative practitioners who would like to rent some of the space. We will be open for breaky from 6am until 7pm for dinner in the winter months and 8:30 in the summer months. We also plan to introduce a delivery service in the summer on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm to 7:30pm.

Who are some of the major sponsors this year? When mentioning sponsors, it’s difficult not to name them all, as every single one of them is valued by the club immensely, but our Major Sponsors this year include Two Tails Winery, Coffs Hotel, Coramba Hardwoods, “We also have Coramba Hotel, Chris Beslic plans to provide Excavations, Country Cubs some new Child Care Centre, and Blue Water Mechanical. experiences when

A special mention must also attending games Tell us about the growth go to IGP as another longof both your junior and through corporate time sponsor of the club, who senior programmes? boxes or ‘tradies’ probably doesn’t get noticed The junior club is separate boxes.” as much as some of the to the seniors club in its others, but they are always administration, and that there supporting us. committee is doing great Tell us about your senior things to boost team and men’s and women’s line-up for 2018. I’m really player numbers in the junior ranks. In saying that, proud that our men’s First Grade currently boasts we do work closely with them to support where at least seven former Orara Valley Juniors in the we can, but also to look at how we are creating team. We have also recruited quality players who pathways for the juniors to move up into the complement the team’s push for playing finals senior ranks when the time comes for that. footy this year.

The senior programme focuses on a couple of areas. The inclusion of the women’s league tag into the senior competition is reasonably new, with this being the second year of that locally, and we have the desire to ensure this is an ongoing growth area in our sport. On the men’s side of things, we are looking to continually improve the “professionalism” of the team, for want of a better word. This starts with knowledgeable and capable coaches in all grades, and we have that in place, good preseason

Our women’s team is also shaping up well for this year. We have been very fortunate to have a number girls come along who have brought some great experience and skills to share. I expect that we will see a big improvement in our standings come the end of this season.

Four of our first grade team and three girls have been named in the Group 2 representative squads in 2018, and I would say that’s a great achievement for our small club.

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Two Tails Wines RIKKI CETINICH O P E R A T I O N S

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E V E N T S

C O - O R D I N A T O R

rikki N A N A GL E N ’ S FAVO U R I T E SW E E T H E A RT R I K K I C E T I N I C H H A S TA K E N OV E R T H E R O L E A S O P E R AT I O N S A N D E V E N T S C O - O R D I N AT O R AT T WO TA I L S W I N E S . F O C U S H A D A C H AT W I T H R I K K I, T O F I N D O U T M O R E .

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hat is your connection to Nana Glen? I’ve lived in the area all my life, having grown up here alongside my sister and amazing parents. My mother was on the committee to raise the funds for the pre-school to be built, and I was in the first intake of children. Growing up, I worked in the local pub and cafés, and my husband Stevan and I have recently built a beautiful new home in the village. The ladies at the café know my coffee order off by heart, the gents from the general store keep me updated on people’s comments about our beautiful gardens, and my 5th grade teacher from the local school still smiles and waves as he passes by.

country atmosphere, the sunrises looking over the valley on our morning runs, the sunsets on my mum’s verandah, knowing everyone on a first name basis, the rivers, creeks and green fields. Most of all, I love the fact that we are far enough from town that people won’t spontaneously knock on your door … They just walk in!

Tell us about your community involvement.

I have my fingers in many pies! I am the Treasurer at Orara Valley Axemen Rugby League Club, and I’m also a member of the Orara Valley Progress Association. I love working with passionate locals who have the same vision to build a safe and providing community for our children to grow up in.

You have recently taken on a new role at Two Tails Wines. Tell us about that. I’ve recently taken on a really exciting role as Operations and Events Co-ordinator here at Two Tails Wines. I jumped at the idea of being closer to home and getting back to my grass roots in event management. I manage the front of house, but a significant part of my role is to co-ordinate the functions and events held at the winery.

What do you love most about Nana Glen and the surrounding communities? Being able to raise my young family where I was brought up and experience the same local environment is very important to me. I love the 48 Coffs Coast focus

Tell us about some of your most notable achievements. Whilst I’ve achieved some great things in my professional life, undoubtedly my greatest achievement is our beautiful 2 year old son, Tariq.

a workplace dinner, hen’s party, high tea, degustation night or community event. Two Tails Wines is the perfect place for a vintage vineyard wedding. We have just completed our new wedding packages, and I’m looking forward to working with brides and grooms to help them create their special day. We have also expanded our menu to soon include breakfast on the weekends and opening some Friday working with nights for dinners.

“I love passionate locals who have the same vision to build a safe and providing community for our children to grow up in.”

My goal is to put Two Tails Wines on the map for events, whether it is a birthday lunch,

You’re heavily involved in the Orara Valley Football Club. Tell us about that. I have been involved with the Axemen for some years now. I play for the ladies league tag team; I’m the events coordinator and the Treasurer. Being the Treasurer for a small community club is tough work - juggling the accounts, gathering sponsors and raising funds to keep us powering along.

Recently another member of the committee and I won the club a $29,000 grant to go towards building new grandstands at our home fields, the Coramba Sportsground. Having outcomes like this makes it easy to deal with the blood, sweat and tears you put in as a volunteer!

You have a family as well. How do you juggle it all? Want to know my secret?

Sometimes I don’t, and that’s OK! I have learnt you don’t have to be perfect; you just have to turn up and do your best and if you put in your heart and soul, the rest comes along naturally!

I am very lucky to have a very supportive husband, family and friends who always lend a hand. They say it takes a community to raise a child, and that’s something I do believe! Tariq has a beautiful day care mum in Upper Orara and when he is not enjoying school, he comes along to training nights at football, sits in on the boring committee meetings, or has sleep overs at Nanny and Poppy’s, just so I can complete a project that I ever so eagerly put my hand up for … and then asked why!

What plans do you have for the future? As much as I love routine, I often don’t plan too far ahead, unless it is for an overseas holiday. My definite plan for the future here at Two Tails is to win the fight and provide music and events in the Orara Valley for the locals to enjoy, such as our previously successful Music in the Vineyard.

My personal plan is to pull my fingers out of all those pies and concentrate on my own little family, which Stevan and I want to grow. Of course, that will require a bigger house … still right here in Nana Glen.

Thanks Rikki.

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Orara Valley Honey GLENN LOCKE What is your relationship to Nana Glen?

The Orara Valley has been home since 2009, and I moved to Nana Glen about five years ago with my partner, Anne Webster. We couldn't imagine living anywhere else.

Tell us about your community involvement.

I’m fortunate to be a member of the Nana Glen Rural Fire Brigade. We have an amazing team of volunteer firefighters led by our Captain, John Lardner. In addition to local brigade activities, I also assist with training at a district level throughout the Coffs and Bellingen Districts.

What do you most love about about Orara Valley and the surrounding communities?

I value the friendships that I have made.

When we need something done, I can always find someone to help. Anne and I have five

beautiful acres on the Orara River. Plenty of room for our horses, chooks and Alice the dog.

The area is beautiful and peaceful.

Tell us a little about Orara Valley Honey and how it was started.

I've had bees since I was 14. The business produces local honey, which is available from retail outlets in Nana Glen, Coramba and Karangi. We also produce queens and nucleus hives. I also specialise in removing bee colonies from wall cavities.

What plans do you have in the future?

The Rural Fire Service has me hooked and I want to keep building on my skills and contribute as a volunteer. Hopefully in a couple of years the beekeeping business will be my full-time job.

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TAILS two tails WINES

Discover a local favourite in the heart of Nana Glen. A warm and friendly welcome awaits you, overlooking our vines with views extending out to the mountains.

A wide variety of wines are available for tasting and sale at the cellar door. Enjoy lunch at our fabulous restaurant, Velvets and an overnight stay in our newly renovated selfcontained B & B. What style of wines can people enjoy when they visit?

We have a large selection of wines here at Two Tails, with Villard Blanc, Chardonnay, Charvill Blanc, Sparkling White, Traminer Riesling and Moscato in our whites. Our reds are Chambourcin, Black Velvet, Blush and

Red Bubbles and our famous Lizards Blood (Vintage port), along with our fortified wine range Forte Blanc (White Port), Ginger Wine, Le Noir Liqueur, Valley Mist, as well as some being quite unique - like our Blueberries in Wine and Raspberry Fortified Wine with local berries.

Open Tue - Sun, 10:30am to 4:30pm.

963 Orara Way, Nana Glen NSW 2450 T: (02) 6654 3633 Email: twotails@twotailswines.com.au www.twotailswines.com.au

Josh Allen SYNCHRONICITY FARM T H E M A N T R A " K N OW YO U R FA R M E R , K N OW YO U R F O O D " H A S B E E N GA I N I N G M O M E N T U M OV E R T H E PA ST F E W Y E A R S , A S H E A LT H Y E AT I N G A N D F O O D P R OV E N A N C E D R I V E U S T O S E E K O U T N E W F O O D R E L AT I O N S H I P S . F O C U S H A D A C H AT T O FA R M E R J O S H A L L E N T O F I N D O U T M O R E . . .

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hat is your relationship to Nana Glen?

Our family moved here 10 years ago in April 2008, with a vision to create a sustainable organic farm and grow food for the community. We were looking for a region with good weather and rainfall in a rural environment about 20 minutes to a good sized regional town.

Tell us about your community involvement.

We help people live longer lives by growing, sourcing and distributing organic food all over the region. We also have a not-for-profit enterprise called Giving Tree Australia, which has run over 50 workshops in agriculture, cooking and food related skills that sustain life. Families, garden clubs, schools and holiday care groups have been connecting with Synchronicity Farm to design, host and run tours and excursions that are connected to specific learning objectives.

What do you most love about Nana Glen and the surrounding communities?

Being here at this time is exciting, because there are so many creative, talented and passionate people moving to the area and building great businesses. There are many young families in the area, and we are among like-minded people.

Tell us a little about Synchronicity Farm and how it was started.

We left Sydney to reengineer our life after studying Permaculture and then Social Enterprise. This ignited a desire to create positive change in the world through our actions. Our social impact measurements include: “How many people can we divert from shopping through conventional outlets

to having a direct connection with farmers?”

“How many people can we help acquire a skill that sustains their life?” “How many meaningful connections to the food cycle can we create for kids and their parents?”

Can you tell us about the Raw Food Hub? One successful model growing in Australia that is meeting the need for a real Farmer to Consumer connection is Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), which is well known in Europe and the United States. In a CSA model, members buy a share of the annual harvest of the farm and connected farms to the hub.

The new member then receives a weekly organic food box for 52 weeks of the year which contains a diverse selection of the freshest seasonal produce harvested at its prime, including fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices and specialty products selected by customers such as mushrooms, eggs and honey.

This type of relationship goes way beyond what most people experience today in conventional shopping environments. When you really know your farmer, you can confidently trust the food you eat. It feels good to know each other by name and be able to walk around the farm and witness the food cycle first hand.

As modern day hunters and gatherers, Raw Food Hub at Nana Glen is a new social enterprise and a recent grant recipient of the Regional Jobs and Investments Packages, that has embraced the CSA model by growing and sourcing the very best organic food and delivering boxes all over the region to new members and casual customers.

See produce available at: www.rawfoodhub.com or Visit the farm at; 632 Orara Way, Nana Glen Coffs Coast focus 49

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ArtSpace on 45

MAT T BEGG IS A LOCAL ARTIST WHO CREATES THE KIND OF LANDSCAPE PAINTINGS THAT MAKE YOU WANT TO TAKE A DRIVE AND APPRECIATE THE EVER-CHANGING BEAUTY OF THE AUSTRALIAN SCENERY. HE AND HIS WIFE MEGAN HAVE A STUDIO, ARTSPACE ON 45, AT CORAMBA THAT EXHIBITS THEIR OWN AND OTHER ARTISTS’ WORK , AS WELL AS HOLDING WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES F OR THE COMMUNITY TO ENJOY.

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i Matt. Can you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coramba about six years ago with my wife, Megan and our three children from Central West NSW. We had visited Coffs Harbour and really liked Coffs for its natural beauty, and we loved the quiet of Coramba.

that inspired me to paint and capture these colours.

painting, drawing, clay and craft. We like to give our students the

Do you have anyone that you would say particularly inspires or influences you and your work? I really like Jeffery Smart; his paintings have inspired a lot of my earlier works. I like to paint realism, with interesting things for the viewer to find in the small details.

opportunity to be creative and explore different techniques and

You are predominantly a landscape artist. Can you describe You are obviously very inspired by the Australian landscape. your style of work and tell us what drew you to this type What are some of your favourite places or types of landscapes of art? My paintings are a true representation of what the subject to paint? I like to paint the wide open and dry landscapes of actually is. As time goes by, I get curious about different subjects, Central West NSW and New England. I take styles and perspectives and eventually try photos from the roadside everywhere that I go. them out, and my direction in art slightly You have a gallery in Coramba, Artspace shifts. Earlier I painted and sketched many on 45. Tell us about the gallery and how “I really enjoy streetscapes and only within the last few it came about ... Artspace on 45 is a studio years moved towards landscapes. I really searching for I share with my wife, Megan, who is also enjoy searching for sceneries to paint while sceneries to paint an artist; we live here and create our art in driving through different towns and seeing while driving through this space. It is inspired by the open studios the changes that happen through the different towns and we have visited while seasons. I look for interesting features, light, seeing the changes travelling before we had shadows and depth. I look at colour and our children; we always with seasons.” cloud formations that I can capture in my dreamed of and planned paintings. to own a studio that is What sort of mediums do you most like open to the public and to use? I usually use acrylic on canvas or gives other artists the paper; I like its versatility. I can achieve many different effects with opportunity to exhibit their work. acrylic paints.

Have you always loved to paint? And what do you think sparked your interest to start painting? I have been painting for nearly 20 years and have sketched for as long as I can remember.

My interest in painting started while living in Mudgee. I had moved from Sydney and was living and working on farms. Mudgee has beautiful landscapes, where artists would visit to paint the colour as it changed through the seasons from oranges and reds in the autumn to purples and greens in the spring. It was this experience 50 Coffs Coast focus

We believe that as well as running exhibitions you also run art workshops and classes for both adults and kids. What kinds of activities do you offer? We run weekly classes for adults and children, and monthly themed workshops. Our adult classes include acrylic painting, pen and wash, and clay building. Our children’s classes range from

mediums during our weekly classes. The workshops are more so a step by step tutorial on a particular technique.

You are also part of the Mad Hatters Markets at Coramba each month; how are you involved? Artspace on 45 and a handful of other Coramba business owners and community members collaborate to organise the market. Artspace on 45 and other local businesses host free (or low cost) arts/crafts and other activities on the market day. Artspace on 45 is responsible for promoting and advertising the market, creating advertising material ready for print, and making props to add colour and vibrance to the market.

Where can people see your work? You can see my work at our studio every weekend, 10am - 4:30pm. You can also find my latest work on our website: www.artspaceon45.com.au on Facebook and Instagram.

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Alison and Rod Johnson IDLE IN CAFE A T

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hat is your connection to Nana Glen?

Touring throughout the region on our motorbikes for the last 15 years, we’d always held a special affection for Nana Glen, with its rolling green hills and valleys.

In early 2012 we rode to Nana Glen to visit friends, where we discussed our dream of establishing a quiet little country café somewhere and the rest, as they say, is history.

Why did you decide to move from city to country?

We had moved around Australia for 20 years, while Rod was in the Army and I was an Executive Assistant. Brisbane is my home town, and we settled back there for a period, but it became too crowded and stressful, so we decided to search for a quieter lifestyle. By then I had traded my corporate life for a mobile coffee van, which I enjoyed, and the seeds were planted for a rustic country style café.

How long have you owned Idle In Café?

We purchased the property in early 2012. It had previously been the general store and post office and then went through a few hands as a café. The building had been sitting empty for over 12 months when we decided to breathe some life back into her. The high timber beams and warmth caught our imagination, and our aim was to bring her into this century, without losing that old world charm. After months of renovations, we opened the doors in September 2012, and the Idle In Café was born.

You attract a lot of motorcycle riders.

Tell us about that ...

Being motorcycle riders ourselves, we wanted other riders to feel welcome, and the Orara Valley presents some of the most enjoyable winding roads for riding. We

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also recognised that this back road offers community projects, and we host the Nana a scenic alternative to the highway and a Glen Community First Responders (formerly convenient stop for “grey nomads” and Heartstart) for their monthly meetings, as other weary travellers alike. The design of well as providing storage facilities for their our logo reflects this broad welcome - a non-essential equipment. We welcome the bike rider will see a motorcycle and think Community Transport and Senior Citizen “idle in” in terms of their throttle, while a bus groups here throughout the year and traveller will see an old fashioned sidecar enjoy hosting these events.

What do you love most about Nana with a dog, and the words “idle in” will Glen and surrounding communities? offer a friendly place to rest while on the We love the welcome we were extended road. Whilst we’re biker friendly, we’re not when we made the move from Brisbane. motorcycle-centric and warmly welcome Taking on an iconic property in such a families and our older customers, who feel prominent location in comfortable with the the village, we were café’s historical, rustic unsure how our arrival charm.

“We’re proud of What can we expect would be perceived, our home cooked to see on your but we have been meals and baking, menu? embraced by locals, and we’ve built a We’ve taken our who were excited to strong reputation home cooked meals have their meeting and baking to the place back again with for excellent and next level and we’re such a high quality of consistent quality proud of the strong coffee and food. coffee.” reputation we’ve We’ve seen many built for excellent and young families move consistent quality into the area in the coffee. I employ a last five years and talented team of locals. Everything is made witnessed children being born and reaching fresh on the premises, from scones, lemon milestones. We love being a regular fixture meringue pies and apple and rhubarb in their lives, and our fridge is covered with crumbles, to corn fritters, honey roasted drawings and cards from the local kids.

What plans do you have for the future? pumpkin salad, lamb and minted yoghurt We secured our liquor licence late open burgers and roasted vegetable tarts. last year to coincide with our fifth We offer all day breakfast, which is very anniversary and celebrated with live music popular, and cater for vegetarian and in our outdoor courtyard. It was a great gluten free.

Tell us about your community atmosphere, and the locals are keen for involvement. us to create regular weekend live music We offer a central point for our small events. Mother’s Day is just around the community to meet and use the café as a corner, and our rustic charm is always very gathering point. We regularly contribute popular with families. We’ll be offering to fundraisers for the local school and our special Mother’s Day breakfast buffet preschools and have previously sponsored again this year and lunch specials, so we the local football team. A group of locals encourage guests to book in early. meet here monthly to discuss ongoing Thanks Alison.

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WITH STEPHEN SAUNDERS OF TOURISM COFFS COAST

tourism UPDATE

Mad Hatters Market Coramba On the fourth Sunday of each month, the gorgeous village of Coramba transforms as you are transported to the Mad Hatters Market. You might see Paul from the Providores in his red hat, Brett from the hotel cooking up a storm on the BBQ or a big magic chair out the front of Artspace on 45.

Coramba plays host each month to the Mad Hatters Market, building on themes related to Alice’s famous Tea Party. Focusing on sections of the well-known story, such as teapots, clocks and hats, the businesses along Gale Street provide fun and creative activities for the whole family, which will lead to an end of year Tea Party planned for November 25th.

Along with an opportunity to explore the charming businesses of Coramba, including Miss Libby’s Sewing Shop, Artspace on 45, Coramba Store and Providore and Nesting Needles, a number of market stalls line the footpaths on each market day. Stalls vary for

Boosting Business From Beach to Bush each market, but include a sausage sizzle (to support the local RFS), fresh plants and produce from local growers, health and beauty applications, second hand books, and live music from Cobweb Collections throughout the morning. And at the end of all of the activity, you can relax and take in the gorgeous views at the Coramba Hotel, enjoying a meal and drink while listening to the live music.

Monthly activities are posted on the “Coramba - What’s Happening” Facebook page or general enquiries answered by phoning 5606 2046 or 0421 676 469 for information about becoming a stallholder.

10am - 2pm 4th sunday of every month @Corambawhatshappening 52 Coffs Coast focus

One of the great opportunities available on the Coffs Coast is the varying precincts that exist that incorporate our beach culture, our city needs and our rural landscapes. Between villages, towns and city that enable a variety of experiences, activities and services, we are spoilt for choice. Recently there have been a number of activations enabled within our broader community to grow the opportunities available to visitors and locals alike.

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ommenced in October 2017, been delivered through this program. this program initiated a new This digital activation has enabled a number approach for managing of start-up and entrepreneurial businesses to footpath activities to encourage establish and develop within the Woolgoolga more vibrancy in the Coffs City community, including a Youth Entrepreneur Centre Precinct. Through replacing rules and program in conjunction with Woolgoolga regulations for footpath use with a more High School. common-sense approach, the end goal of Coramba Place Activation making CBD footpaths more colourful, lively, A place activation opportunity was entertaining and interesting has unfolded. commenced and grown in the hinterland This vibrancy encourages people to stop, village of Coramba, west of Coffs Harbour. look and linger for longer.

Place activation aims to position Coramba A wide variety of activities, including things as a must-see village on the Coffs Coast, such as live music, meditation tents and showcasing the rich natural assets of the skateboarding activities township, along with the have been delivered vibrant local community. through this program so Through small activities, “Place activation far, along with additional a large community event aims to position dining opportunities and ongoing monthly Coramba as a and pop-up shops. By markets, the small must-see village registering, an individual businesses of the town on the Coffs Coast, or business within the have been given a chance showcasing the rich CBD is included in this to grow and develop natural assets of the activation at no cost, but new opportunities for great benefit to regular township ...” their local and visiting shoppers or visitors of the customers.

Coffs CBD. Working together as a Woolgoolga Digital business community, the Readiness Campaign activation has allowed the development Enabled through State Government funding of some new part-time businesses, the and in partnership with the Woolgoolga and initiation of ongoing business mentoring and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce, a fabulous fun-filled day out for local and the Six Degrees program came alive in visiting families on the fourth Sunday of each Woolgoolga. Six Degrees involves comonth. working spaces, programs and events that As our precincts develop, grow and change, are designed to accelerate start-up success I encourage you to take in the sights, explore and support freelancers of the Coffs Coast. the opportunities and share the paradise An opportunity to prepare and ready local created here on the Coffs Coast.

Northern Beaches businesses through #createyourparadise training, networking and space provision has

Health Women’s

The three stages

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h p e s o Jbeaini

Dr.

Zinc Clinc

Dr Jospeh Beaini from Zinc Clinic is one of the most experienced cosmetic surgeons on the North Coast.

FOCUS was lucky enough to catch up with Dr Beaini to find out more about his knowledge, advice and expertise in the industry ...

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re you risking your health for a quick cheap cosmetic jab? Patients may be risking their health by having cosmetic treatments at illegitimate clinics.

Without the expected safety standards in place, blindness, allergic reactions and other major complications may not be able to be addressed. This is due to “loop holes in safety standards” being exploited in the cosmetic industry.

Did you know that anyone with an Australian medical degree is legally allowed to perform cosmetic injectable and surgical procedures in Australia? Is the person treating you a registered practitioner in Australia and specialised in cosmetic medicine? Are the products used real or fake? The growing importation of products bypassing the approval standards set by the TGA is of major concern.

The regulations state that there must first be a consultation with the prescribing doctor, but technically, on a Skype call, you are face-toface, receiving a consult, just not in person.

How can an accurate medical assessment of your skin and face be made over a Skype connection? How can the doctor make a three-dimensional assessment of your face on a two-dimensional device and correctly instruct the nurse on the best treatment for you?

Lack of regulation clarity has created mega clinics where they will have one doctor available for multiple clinics and a harem of remote nurses in clinics, beauty salons and hair salons to perform the injections. The doctor is the one who remains legally responsible for the patient, the treatment, the purchase and safe custody of the drugs used and responsible for addressing any adverse reactions. And yet, the doctor could be thousands of kilometres away, unable to attend should an emergency arise.

This is not considered best practice for cosmetic medicine, as the patient cannot 54 Coffs Coast focus

be examined properly and there is no direct medical supervision of the nurse carrying out the treatment. If something were to go wrong, you are only relying on the skills of the nurse, assuming they have the skills and equipment on site to deal with any complications. In medicine there is an inherent relationship between a nurse and a doctor, and they should work together as a team.

Do not forget: cosmetic procedures are medical procedures, and all medical procedures come with some risk attached.

Your doctor must explain all associated risks upon consultation prior to any treatment and informed consent obtained from you, the patient.

AHPRA regulations “ state that Law always overrules regulation. There are potential breaches of the NSW drug laws in both the cosmetic and beauty industry.”

By having treatments in beauty salons and the like, these medical procedures have been cheapened in perceived risk to that of having a facial, your hair styled or having makeup applied.

AHPRA regulations state that Law always overrules regulation. There are potential breaches of the NSW drug laws in both the cosmetic and beauty industry. Drugs used in cosmetic medicine are S4 controlled substances under the law. These controlled substances cannot be transported just by anyone. A doctor can only transport what is required in his emergency bag to attend to house calls. A nurse cannot transport prescription medicines at all. Transportation or supply of these drugs without a wholesaler’s licence is illegal. We have both doctors and nurses travelling around going from town to town, salon to salon transporting prescription medicine, but no action being taken.This restriction is to maintain the quality and

integrity of the product being used. Do you really want to be injected with a product that has sat in the back of a car in 50-degree heat for hours on end?

Ask, where is the emergency resuscitation equipment? Most cosmetic treatments require the use of sedation, anesthesia and/or analgesia and is often in the products being used. National regulation states: “When a patient may need sedation, anesthesia and/or analgesia for a procedure, the medical practitioner who is performing the procedure must ensure that there are trained staff, facilities and equipment to deal with any emergencies, including resuscitation of the patient”.

In order to replicate medical procedures, beauticians are illegally obtaining and applying numbing creams. NSW health states “The beauty salon cannot under any circumstances supply or apply a topical anaesthetic cream (such as Lignocaine, Emla cream and Xylocaine)”. These products are medicines and have risks involved with their use and

restrictions under the NSW drug laws. Misuse of these products can have dire consequences, leading to death.

The challenge for the patient is making sure they choose a qualified practitioner.

Firstly, check that the person is currently registered with AHPRA by using their website search tool. Ask about qualifications and experience. Do they have an established clinic that you can go back to if there are any problems that need following-up? Stay clear of the fly in fly out practices. They are not available if a problem develops after treatment and another doctor will not necessarily be able to help you out if they do not know what has been done, what has been used or where a product was placed.

Ask if they are a member of a Cosmetic College such as the CPCA or the ACAM. Membership ensures that the doctors have continued further education in the field of Cosmetic Medicine, keeping them up to date with treatments and standards on a yearly basis. Standard medical registration has no such requirement to keep up to date with changes in cosmetic medicine.

Choose wisely.

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H E A L T H

Living Doll.

At Living Doll, we hear a lot of women say that they don’t like this and that about themselves and their hair. I think in this busy world today, women don’t have time to be over analysing their look, or comparing themselves to others - because life is short, so let’s do the best with what we are given. Really, health and happiness are the key, right? At Living Doll, we believe looking after yourself first and then everyone else second on the occasion is the key. Now I know this one is a hard one, especially for mums, but ever wonder why on an aeroplane they say; you must put the oxygen mask on yourself first and then assist others, because you are no good to anyone if YOU can’t breathe.

I think this is a little true for life; everyone’s else’s needs are met, leaving little left over for ourselves, which over time can really make you feel quite dull and lifeless. You must take that time out for yourself ladies; you are worth it!

Living Doll is here to help; May is “Me Month”, and we would like to spoil you with a Pamper Package with our newest Premier Stylist, Chloe. All colour packages will include eyebrow wax, eyebrow tint, eyelash tint, intensive treatment with shiatsu head massage, when booked with Chloe in the month of May, plus a little take home surprise. Chloe is a passionate hairdresser: “I love the relationship you build with your clients; to be able to have their trust with their hair, is a great privilege. Knowing at the end of the day you have made people feel and look great is very rewarding.”

Come in and see Chloe for the much needed “ME TIME”.

XO Dolls.

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er jan ne

tave

Jane Tavener is a mother, health practitioner, winner of the 2017 Coffs Coast International Women’s Day, Woman of the Year award and founder of the Heart and Soul Foundation.

As an ambassador for empowering women, Jane shares some of her words of wisdom with us ...

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? My parents moved to Coffs from country Victoria when I was in Year 8 at high school. I left again when I finished school to attend university and explore the wider world, returning many years later to raise my children.

Briefly tell us about yourself and your interests. I am passionate about women’s business and anything that supports women becoming empowered and inspired, because this has a flow-on effect to the whole community.

I love yoga, all things health and healing, our planet Earth and of course, my two amazing daughters. I love to think and live creatively and work on creative projects with likeminded people. I’m fortunate that I have these opportunities often!

Can you share with us some of your greatest achievements? Raising two incredible, passionate and intelligent young women; this is what I am most proud of. Creating Heart and Soul Foundation a few years ago pushed me beyond my comfort zone and continues to do so. The vision of Heart and Soul is to support women who have been through domestic or sexual violence and are recovering from trauma.

The support comes through free programs conducted in a safe space that allow women access to a range of workshops, which all lead to women building more confidence and a stronger connection to themselves. This requires all my skills - I fundraise, coordinate, market and develop the programs. I rely on community to spread the word and support financially and in other ways. So far, I have been very fortunate, but can always do with more help!

Why do you think it’s important for women to prioritise their health? Without your 56 Coffs Coast focus

t s i tig a s e r e t FOCUS sat down with Tigist from Mana Chita Coffs Harbour to find out more about her amazing restaurant and her culinary journey ...

physical, mental, spiritual and emotional health, you are not able to live to your full potential and are less able to care for others. When you walk the path to full health, this leads you to learn about yourself and what you are truly capable of.

This is how to become empowered and stronger.

Eating healthy is also important for good health. What advice would you give to women your age, looking to eat better? Eat natural unprocessed foods as much as possible; stay away from refined carbs and dairy. Don’t be too restrictive; remember to have some fun.

It’s not always easy to stay calm and relaxed. What are your favourite ways to de-stress and take time for yourself? Yoga is my medicine, so I make time for this in my week, no matter how busy I get. I am fortunate to live near the beach, so at the end of a long day, or if I am experiencing something challenging, the beach is the place I go. There is something healing about sitting looking at the ocean or having my feet in the sand or my body immersed in the water; this simple activity shifts something in me and allows me to release. Of course, time with girlfriends, a good belly laugh and some silly dancing always works!

What advice would you give to women who want to take steps for better health?

Put yourself first. Follow your heart in all things wherever possible; when we follow what we love, then we will be happier overall, and this inspires others around you to do the same. The connection of our emotions to our physical bodies is strong, and I believe it’s important to nurture yourself and treat yourself to being happy. Choose your words and your thoughts carefully, because these become your beliefs and your reality. Love yourself and those around you unconditionally and start to see the lighter side of this crazy life that we live.

Thanks Jane.

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I’m from Ethiopia and my husband, Marcus, is from Coffs. We met while he was doing wildlife research in Ethiopia and came back to Coffs after we were married. I love it here, and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else in Australia.

foundation. When your health is sorted out, you can focus on things that you want to achieve. As a woman you need to keep in mind that keeping healthy is not just for yourself, but for your family. It’s a gift.

Eating healthy is also important for good health. What advice would you give to women your age, looking to eat better? Know what’s in your food. Read the ingredients and if you don’t know what something is, then you probably shouldn’t be eating it. Try to make everything yourself from the raw Whatever you ingredients. At want to do in the restaurant we life, your health is your make everything foundation. When your from scratch, health is sorted out, you except for the ice can focus on things that cream (Ethiopians you want to achieve.” don’t do ice cream).

Back home we even grow the ingredients ourselves.

Briefly tell us about yourself and your interests. I grew up on a farm in the mountains of Ethiopia. It was there I learned to appreciate simplicity and the importance of community. After I married and came to Australia, I started a business and around the same time, had a beautiful baby girl. I love the beach and going camping with my family. I love growing and cooking food.

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Can you share with us some of your greatest achievements? I started selling food at the growers’ market and grew my business into a restaurant and mobile food van. Over the last five years I have served more than 60,000 customers across markets, festivals and in the restaurant. I’ve only been in Coffs for five years, but I know hundreds of people through my business. Connecting with all of those people is my greatest achievement.

Why do you think it's important for women to prioritise their health? Whatever you want to do in life, your health is your

It's not always easy to stay calm and relaxed. What are your favourite ways to destress and take time for yourself? I go to the gym or ride my bike or march up Mutton Bird Island until my legs are wobbly.

After exercise, I just feel so relaxed and contented.

What advice would you give to women who want to take steps for better health?

Do exactly that: take steps. Find excuses to walk. Park your car a little further away from the café. Go to the beach. Walk to work or the gym or wherever you’re going. Coffs is small, safe, and the weather so perfect, that it’s the ideal place for walking.

Thanks Tigist.

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Health Wellbeing and

WITH LAUREN VESTEY FROM LIVING DOLL

r e h c s fi y e l y a h Hayley Fischer is a rising star in the making when it comes to playing sport. We are proud to call her a Coffs girl and wanted to share some of her recent success...

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born in Coffs Harbour in 2003; I think the Coffs Harbour Health Campus had only just been opened when I was born. My family moved away for a few years, but thankfully we came back to Coffs when my mum and dad took on a local building business in town. I love the Coffs Coast; I spend a lot of time at the beach surfing and swimming with my friends and family.

Hayley, tell us a bit about yourself and your interests. I’m definitely an outdoors kind of girl. Being outdoors, playing sport and travelling is what I enjoy most. I play a lot of competitive sport, so it’s important for me to stay fit and healthy while my sport takes me to so many beautiful parts of Australia.

I’m also really proud to have just completed my SRC (Surf Rescue Certificate) through Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club. I am now a patrolling member for the club and love that I am able to give back to the club and the community by helping to keep our beaches safe, while also having fun with my friends.

Can you share with us some of your greatest achievements? I would have to say my greatest achievement would be my recent selection to play in the NSW Under 15s team at the Australian Hockey Championships in April. I set myself a goal last year to make the NSW side; I had to put in a lot of extra time and commitment during the off season to keep my skills sharp for the trials, as well as maintain the health and fitness required to play hockey at this level.

Why do you think it's important for teenage girls to prioritise their health? If you make it a priority to eat healthy and stay active

now as a teenager, hopefully these habits will stick with you through to adulthood, leading a healthy, active lifestyle for many years to come.

You also feel better within yourself when you lead a healthy, active lifestyle, giving you the confidence to be yourself, make your own choices and having a greater chance of achieving your goals.

Eating healthy is also important for good health. What advice would you give to girls your age, looking to eat better? You don’t need to go on some fancy diet to eat healthy; you just need to limit the amount of junk food and processed food you eat. Think clean basic non processed food like eggs on toast for brekky, salad wrap for lunch, meat and vegies for dinner and healthy snacks in between like fruit and nuts. It’s also OK to have a few treats occasionally, but remember - everything in moderation.

It's not always easy to stay calm and relaxed. What are your favourite ways to destress and take time for yourself? I love the ocean; surfing and swimming with my friends or just chilling out listening to my favourite music is what I do when I get some time out. Also sleep … I love sleeping and it is so good for you when you are feeling a bit tired and run down; it’s often the best medicine!

Take some “me” time.

Because you’re worth it, why not take a little “me time” in the hair salon today! Taking a little time for yourself refreshes and reenergises you. It allows you to think more

clearly and make better decisions, plus have a new fresh look to boot.

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aking “me” time also builds your self-esteem over time, as you come to realise that you are important and deserve to have a little time to yourself. While you

are in the salon, why not have the satisfaction of reading that book or watching that series (why YES, Living Doll has Netflix), finishing that project, or writing that poem. But be careful that you use your “me” time in the salon for leisurely activities and don’t push yourself to complete anything. Simply enjoy the time out, close your eyes and breathe.

Other benefits include the ability to sleep better, less fatigue, help fight the effects of depression and anxiety, greater resistance to sickness, and less tension. You’re thinking, all

What advice would you give to young women who want to take steps for better health? Take five minutes every day to reconnect with their hopes and dreams. Find a moment away from the “busy-ness” of the day to ask themselves, “What do I want from my life?” and “What am I going to do to make it happen?” Everyone has the power to bring positive change into their lives, whether it be big or small - just believe in yourself.

this from just a haircut - and we say, YES. Your

Thanks Hayley.

Jane from the Heart and Soul Foundation

hair is part of you, and if it isn’t right or not cared for, it reflects on you as a person. If your hair looks great, you feel more motivated to get up and go out, be social and take on the day.

Indirectly, taking time for yourself may also improve your interpersonal and business relationships, making you a better partner, parent, or employee.

posted this amazing comment on Facebook recently (Yesterday, hair and makeup done by the truly welcoming and talented ladies at Living Doll Premier Stylists … what a treat! I felt so special and so very pretty, thank you.) It was so wonderful to have Jane as our client; we tried something a little different than she has had before and as you can see “On the Cover”, she looked naturally beautiful.

So, calling all you Coffs Coast women out there that put their family’s needs first, or their friends, or work, or even cleaning the house (which we are all guilty of), all of this before time for your hair, we say May is your “ME TIME”. Book a fresh new style cut, an uplifting colour or even a relaxing moistening treatment with Living Doll’s Premier Stylists - you won’t regret it. Then the easiest way to remember to always look after yourself is to rebook while you are there. That way it’s in the diary and when something comes up, you can simply say, I’m sorry I already have an appointment at that time - can we make it another time!

Only you can truly look after yourself, so you ARE number one! When you are happy, feeling and looking great, you can pass that on to everyone around you. May is “Me Month”.

XO Dolls Coffs Coast focus 57

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Skinner

Kate Skinner is a local midwife who was one of the founding staff members of the Aboriginal Maternal Infant Health Service (AMIHS) here on the Coffs Coast. The program has been extremely successful, and there are now 40 AMIHS sites throughout New South Wales based on this original model.

i Kate. Can you tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast?

I grew up in Sawtell, then after finishing high school I moved to Sydney to study nursing and midwifery. After working in Sydney at St Vincent’s Hospital ED and the Royal Hospital for Women as a midwife for a few years, I moved to W.A. and worked in a remote Aboriginal community with the Pitjantjatjara people for seven years, which was an amazing experience and where my passion for Aboriginal health began.

I returned home to Sawtell to be closer to family, and this is where I now live with my husband, Nat and four beautiful children, Victor, Meg, Ella and Archie. I have been working for the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) for 20 years this year in both AMIHS and child and family health nursing. I feel I have done the complete circle from Saltwater country to Spinifex country and back.

What is AMIHS? The Aboriginal Maternal Infant Health Service (AMIHS) is a community based maternity service that aims to improve the health outcomes of Aboriginal women and women with Aboriginal partners during pregnancy and birth, and to decrease maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. AMIHS Aboriginal health workers and midwives work collaboratively with other relevant services to provide continuous, high quality and culturally safe antenatal and postnatal care.

Coffs Harbour AMIHS is one of the first and most successful programs of its kind 58 Coffs Coast focus

in New South Wales. Why has it been so other agencies that she is also able to provide successful? support for families in preparation for their There are a few reasons why it has been so new baby. She is responsible for facilitating successful. The first one is that it is based at the AMIHS Aboriginal Women’s Reference Galambila Aboriginal Health Service, where Group, conducting the AMIHS monthly playgroup at Kulai Pre-School, Jinda and Jarjums the community have access to health serWalking Group, as well as vices in a culturally safe environment. various health promotion We have a long and rich history activities throughout with Galambila, and AMIHS the year, such as is a great example of a NAIDOC. successful partnership AMIHS Aboriginal Eli has also between MNCLHD, AMS health workers recently and community. We facilitated work closely with all and midwives work the Materof the Galambila staff, collaboratively with other nity Cultural including GPs, Aborigrelevant services to provide Inclusiveness inal health workers, continuous, high quality project at child and family health and culturally safe antenatal CHHC Maternurses as well as visiting and postnatal care.” nity Unit, which specialists. AMIHS procommissioned lovides accessible and flexible cal artists to provide antenatal and postnatal home artwork for a mural in visiting, with a continuity of care. the maternity unit.

The second is the longevity of the Who was involved with putstaff. Suzi Hoff and I have worked together ting the program together? for over 10 years in the midwife position, jugThe AMIHS program was implementgling young families and workloads together. ed by the Mid North Coast Area Health Suzi has worked in midwifery caseload models Service in 2001, where the program started as and homebirth and has a strong interest in one of six original three year pilot sites in the community midwifery models of care. state in response to the Aboriginal perinatal Eli McGuire is the Aboriginal health worker report, which highlighted the huge gap in - a local Aboriginal woman who had her Aboriginal Women’s perinatal mortality and three sons on the AMIHS and has very strong morbidity. Janelle Powell, Ivy Ferguson and I connections with the local community through were the founding staff who implemented family and her community work. Eli has a the program in 2001, while Janelle and I both social work background, and her role includes had three month old breastfeeding babies! As social support, community development and there was such a huge need in the community, health promotion. It is through Eli’s work with

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the program was extremely successful, meeting all of the benchmarks early in that three year period - such as women accessing antenatal care before 14 weeks. Consequently, the program was refunded recurrently, and there are now over 40 AMIHS sites throughout NSW. What is a typical workday for you?

It may involve antenatal check appointments or doing postnatal home visits. We cover from Bellingen to Corindi and up to Ulong and Glenreagh. We are also a shop front for advice on pregnancy, women’s health issues, breastfeeding advice, contraception, parenting and immunisations.

Some days may include attending the Kulai Playgroup, which we attend monthly, or the weekly Jinda and Jarjums walking group with the Quit for New Life worker. It can be quite unpredictable also dealing with obstetric complications, liasing with other services that may require urgent follow up and referral. Or, there may be social issues such as adequate housing, which is a huge problem in Coffs Harbour, or basic family support, such as accessing food and baby goods. AMIHS is also a representative on various committees, which involves attending meetings with other services and agencies.

Where is the best place to find out more about AMIHS? We are a Mid North Coast Local Health District program based at Galambila Aboriginal Health Service Monday - Friday and can be contacted on 0408 617 391, or contact Galambila on 6652 0800 re eligibility for AMIHS. Thanks Kate.

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W O M E N ' S

TotalLiteracy LiteracyPsychological Psychological Solutions.

Services Total Jane, what’s your background? I am a Registered Psychologist with a Masters in Child and Adolescent Welfare and have long term experience working with children in schools and child protection settings.

At Lighthouse Health and Education I provide complete psychological assessment and intervention services, such as: IQ and specific learning disorder assessments, Autism Spectrum Disorder and behaviour assessments, and individual therapeutic intervention.

That’s fantastic. Can you tell us a bit more about your specialities? I have a passion for working with children, teens and their families, with a particular interest in working with those living with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Helping people to work through their emotions, face their fears and overcome their individual challenges

to see the value in their lives is very rewarding.

I also love working with clients on the Autism Spectrum; they often have such an alternative perspective on life, that I learn something new every session. Helping clients to engage with their school and community or to embrace their skills and talents is another bonus of my work.

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

You don’t need a referral to see a psychologist; however, if you are supported by your GP you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, which can significantly reduce out-ofpocket expenses. We also offer private health fund claims.

Is Lighthouse Health and Education NDIS approved? We are approved NDIS Providers (NDIS ID: 4050028165) for Early Intervention and Therapeutic Supports.

H E A L T H

Southern Cross University Sports & Fitness Centre.

As the winter months creep in and mornings and evenings begin to grow colder and darker, everyone’s motivation to exercise can wane.

Here are some tips to either get you on the right track or keep you on the right track in the weeks and months ahead.

Buddy up Get a group together of like-minded and supportive friends that are going to get you out of bed or make you pack your gym bag for after work. Even elite athletes who are super motivated engage training partners. Set yourself up for success and tick this box early.

Find your routine Some people are morning trainers, some squeeze it into a lunch break, others at the end of the day. Find the routine that works best for

you and make it part of your daily ritual.

Get a professional to write you a program With so much information available on the dos and don’ts of exercise, it can be hard to determine what works and what is best for you.

Find the best qualified and most experienced industry professional and get them to write you a program.

At Southern Cross Sports and Fitness Centre, we have memberships starting at $6 per week and are open from 6am - 8pm Monday to Thursday and 6am - 7pm on Fridays. Programs are included and while all of our staff are qualified, many have tertiary credentials. If you are after a gym, or just a change of scenery consider our team.

Let’s get started

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W I T H D U N C A N M A R C H A N T , C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s inspirational fitness story comes to us courtesy of Sam Wooldridge. Sam is Coffs Coast Health Club’s amazing Personal Training Manager, who is leading a terrific team of professional trainers to new heights in 2018.

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efore you joined Coffs Coast Health Club, what was your fitness background? I started in the health and fitness industry as soon as I finished school; I’ve loved it forever! I am part of a very healthy and active family, always playing sport when I was younger, so fitness is in my veins. I’m really passionate about helping people, so it felt very natural for me to become a personal trainer and nutritionist.

I’ve worked in some of the most successful clubs in the world, like Virgin Active and Fitness First Platinum and have seen some pretty amazing achievements - but having the ability to come home, have my family around and work so closely with the Coffs Coast community is really special.

What’s so special about your Coffs Coast Health Club Personal Trainers? Our team is hand selected from the best trainers in the region. It’s a lengthy process before we give someone the green light to represent us; there are particular characteristics that we look for in each person to make sure that they are going to deliver personalised world class service in one-onone, group and team sessions. Our PTs represent our ethos of empowering the local community to be the happiest and healthiest in Australia.

We are continuously educating ourselves, upskilling and re-training, so that we can bring knowledge from all over the world to our corner of paradise. We are also the only health club in the region to become a registered training organisation through the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers.

What areas do your trainers specialise in?

Our team is awesome! Each person does really well to perfect their craft in different areas, making our team one of the best all round teams I’ve ever worked with. It’s really important to us that we can cater for every single person that wants to enrich their lives by becoming healthier and happier. No matter what the goal, we can help. Our trainers will supercharge your efforts 60 Coffs Coast focus

and have you feeling great in no time!

Our team specialise in: • Weight loss • Hypertrophy/muscle gain • Rehabilitation and corrective exercise • Sports specific and performance enhancing training • Increased mobility and flexibility • Functional training • Body transformation Our trainers are the only ones on the coast with access to the Healthy Inspirations weight loss program, and we have helped more than 450 men and women lose over 6,500 kilograms in the past six years!

Why would anyone use a personal trainer?

The great thing about having a personal trainer is that you will constantly learn and improve!

Having a trainer will challenge you and keep the workouts unique, whilst fast tracking your results.

A PT will keep you accountable and motivated when you feel like giving up, and a good PT will do everything they can to get you to your goals.

Our trainers also work collaboratively with other health professionals like physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, dietitians, psychologists, massage therapists conveniently for you, on site, at both clubs.

What is your philosophy when it comes to exercise? Movement heals. Our bodies thrive on movement; it’s the best medicine and can positively change a person’s physical, mental and emotional state. Movement is a key pillar in having a happy, healthy, balanced life and creating longevity.

Thanks for sharing, Sam, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story with the personal training team, call Sam directly on 0432 380 841 or drop in to see the team at either Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or Moonee, to get started today. More inspirational fitness stories can be found at www.myfitnessstory.com.au

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europe’s to grandeur Coffs Coast backpain from

For many of us, seeing some of Europe’s most recognisable attractions is definitely on our bucket list. And, you would be forgiven for finding it hard to get back into the routine of work again. Thankfully, this is not the case for Matt Lee, physiotherapist at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy.

After spending nine months travelling the world, he has recently settled on the Coffs Coast and is more motivated than ever to share his experience and help you be happy and healthy. Aaron Hardaker, director of Mid North Coast Physio, caught up with Matt to find out more about how he can help you.

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ell us a little about your background ...

Whilst growing up seeing those close to me experience a range of injuries, both acute and chronic, I became interested in the idea of helping people with physical ailments. As a result, I studied a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science and Master of Physiotherapy degree at the University of Sydney and have since worked in some major metropolitan hospitals and highly regarded private practices. I’ve just moved to Coffs after travelling the world and am loving being part of my new team.

How can you help?

• Fix the Pain - our initial focus on treating any injury is reducing your pain. We can do this in several ways, including manual therapy techniques, deep tissue massage, passive stretching, taping and dry needling. Once the pain has settled, we aim to address the cause of your pain.

• Improve Posture - sustained positions at work and home can cause increased joint stiffness and muscle tightening that can create pain in certain conditions, such as the neck and low back pain.

If this is the case, we’ll show you the best way to improve your posture!

• Improve Joint Stiffness - joint stiffness is a common issue with many injuries. Our aim is to use manual therapy techniques, as well teaching

you appropriate exercises that get you the best result in reducing joint stiffness. This will help to reduce your pain a lot in the beginning.

• Help to Strengthen - muscle weakness is another big factor when it comes to the majority of injuries. In most cases, you don’t even realise you have weaknesses related to your injury until you’re shown it. So, teaching you how to strengthen through specific exercises is a big part of treatment.

• Prevent Recurrences - lastly, we help by educating you on how to prevent recurrences of your pain. If you’re someone with a knee, ankle or back problem that continues to hurt time and time again, then we are the ones who can help you. One of our biggest aims is to strive to produce independence in our clients, so you can look after yourself in the future.

What’s the best way to find out if you can help?

You can give the admin team at Mid North Coast Physio a call and request a FREE assessment with me or one of our other therapists. Come in and find out what’s wrong and what needs to be done to address the problem, with no cost to you. Simply call 1300 273 747 to book at one of our clinics in Woolgoolga, Moonee, Toormina or Urunga these appointments are limited, so call now.

Remember that the greatest wealth you have is your health!

Thanks Matt.

Community Initiatives

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McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Program.

or the past year, sixteen-year old local Jordan McCarthy has been making great leaps towards pursuing a career in ballet by studying at the Queensland National Ballet School in Brisbane.

least three hundred dollars as the entry fee for each team. The grant will alleviate further financial pressures for travel costs for student representatives and ensure that their overall experience is more enjoyable.

Anika Learoyd, a talented and passionate However, following his dream not only means cricketer, spends up to ten hours each week Jordan is away from family for periods of time, training, and she enjoys playing in a number of but also his parents, who are determined to teams and competitions across the state. Anika support him, can face financial challenges. is an active member of the As his mother, Lisa NSW North Coast Zone McCarthy explains, Female Cricket Academy “My husband I both and the Boys North Coast work full-time to Darren Lehmann Cricket finance his studies and The grant will be a Academy, which involves found out that from welcome relief to both her training away from January this year the Jordan and his parents, home each month for both living away from home as he continues to teams respectively. She allowance has been develop his ballet skills also drives to Sydney every discontinued, which we away from home.

Sunday to play in the First were depending on to Grade competition. Anika cover costs.” applied to receive the The grant will be a McDonald’s Junior’s Grant welcome relief to both Jordan and his parents, so she could cover some of the costs of travel as he continues to develop his ballet skills away to various competitions. “I travel many miles, from home. often needing to stay overnight away from The McDonald’s Junior Grant is set to assist home, and this grant would help me support twenty students from Toormina High School the expenses involved in this,” she said. to participate in the upcoming Kokoda Challenge Stillman Cup held on the Gold Coast The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes that building a successful generation comes in July, which raises money for the Kokoda from supporting our great locals, so, if you are Youth Foundation. The event is a 48 km hike a local child or group who needs assistance through the hinterland that challenges their with your sporting, academic, cultural or endurance and also builds companionship community project, we want to hear from between the students. So far, the students you. Jump on the Grants website and apply have shown great initiation by committing today: to purchase required equipment, allocating times for training, as well as fundraising at www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au Coffs Coast focus 61

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Lily & Fox. Love & Kisses.

Lily & Fox Boutique is a boutique store tucked away in Cinema Walk Arcade in the Coffs CBD. We are passionate about bringing beautiful women’s boutique clothing and the latest trends of fashion and accessories at an affordable price to the Coffs area.

We stock many Australian designed brands of fashion and we also have a range of other products instore, from our organic vegan skin care, to our Australian soy candles, to our range of bohemian jewellery. As the days are getting shorter, we are getting ready for autumn and winter fashions. There are heaps of stunning pieces and something for everyone.

Lily & Fox Boutique is a local store which has introduced AFTERPAY and ZIPPAY to our online store, meaning locals can AFTERPAY or ZIPPAY their new look online then pop in and pick it up in store to instantly have their new clothes, with the pay later interest free option.

To keep up with our new summer stock arriving weekly, follow our Instagram and Facebook page to ensure that you keep up with the latest fashion on the Coffs Coast. We are open Monday to Friday 9 - 5 and Saturday 10 - 2, or feel free to shop online anytime.

IG - lilyandfoxboutique FB - Lily & Fox Boutique SHOP 25/9 HARBOUR DRIVE, CINEMA WALK ARCADE (HWY END OF MALL).

Finding a gift your Mum will love this MOTHER’S DAY is just too easy at Love & Kisses. Owner Judy Sheehan says her top picks this year are:

Flowers on First.

Our Sawtell Village Florist will be brimming with beautiful blooms for Mother’s Day, Sunday 13th May. If Mum loves flowers, then our selection of fresh flowers is amazing for the whole week of Mother’s Day - sourcing our flowers locally and regionally to get the season’s best and brightest.

We will have flowering plants, including butterfly orchids, cyclamen and the good old fashioned chrysanthemum plants too.

At Flowers on First, we feature products that you won’t find anywhere else on the Coffs Coast, local and handmade giftware, macrame, up-cycled furniture, and our pot range is unique and well priced.

At Flowers on First we are more than just a florist, so pop in to order Mum something special for Mother’s Day, or check out our range at www.flowersonfirstsawtell.com

Washable soft cosy (safe) slippers ... great new designs just arrived; check out the new sparkles this year. From $18.95.

Fabulous new non-greasy 50+ Sun Block for gardening or beach-loving mums - to be worn as your daily moisturiser no nasty additives or preservatives. $24.95.

New organic hand creams, soaps and lip balm. You could make Mum a great little “care package”. From 14.95.

Microfibre Glasses Case and matching cleaning cloth from France - so lovely in your handbag! They weigh nothing and take up no extra space. (Judy’s favourite!)

Clip on earrings, and hundreds of other gorgeous earrings and other jewellery - just ask; it won’t all fit on the shelves.

From $9.95.

All kinds of bookmarks, and do look at the Book Seats and Pad Pods to hold books and/or iPads or eReaders.

A lovely new handbag … and of course, scarves, pashminas, notepads and pens of every kind … plus, plus plus …

When you need to give a gift with love and kisses, Love & Kisses is the only place to go.

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NEW Pink Diamond Heart Necklace - $399 Wallace Bishop Phone 6656 3400

Verali Gia style Boots available in Chestnut & Black - $79.99 Lily & fox flat Phone 0434 235 479

Cottage Garden - $90.00 Flowers on First Sawtell Phone 6658 9599

What Women Want What Women Want Jewellers is one of Coffs Harbour’s most respected jewellers. Come and have a look at our new shop, if you have not done so already. Our customers call it “the most beautiful shop in Coffs Harbour” - come in and judge for yourself. It is located at 108 Harbour Drive in the City Centre, across the road from the new Kmart. We specialise in estate and quality opal jewellery. Something for everyone!

We also have a very busy workshop, where we will custom make or repair that special piece for you. Your jewellery is in good hands with our trusted jeweller. You can even trade your unwanted gold towards anything in the store or work done.

There are only few things that can be passed down to your children’s children. Heirloom quality jewellery is one of them.

What Women Want Jewellers - where heirlooms are born!

Synthesis Organic Skin Care Range $POA Galleria Shop Eat Relax Phone 6568 5018

Tea for one set $32.95 Love & Kisses Phone 6651 6776

Yellow Gold and Silver Diamond Pendant $POA What Women Want Phone 6651 9100

Race Day Gift Pack - $POA Le Dain Designs Phone 0417 471 019 Leather Bag $175 Two Tails Wines Phone 66543633 64 Coffs Coast focus

Meet THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

F E A T U R E •

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M E E T

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E X P E R T S

FOCUS distributes 21,000 copies every month across the Coffs Coast via our home delivery and direct to businesses.

If you happen to miss out on one at home, or are visiting from out of town, then please visit one of our outlets by the 10th of the month to grab your free copy.

ROB’S SHEETMETAL+FABRICATION Can you tell me a little bit more about yourself and how you and your family come to open Rob’s Sheetmetal and Fabrication? We opened the business in ‘98, started with basic machinery and now have the latest folding, cutting and welding machines. My children and I have always had hard work ethics, passed on by my parents. I began my trade as an apprentice at 15 - now 47 in April.

Having once worked in the West Suburbs trade, training at Miller TAFE as a sheet metal worker, we have taken on all aspects of the trade - stainless steel, work aluminium, steel boat custom work canopies and much more. My youngest son, Riley currently works alongside me and my eldest son, Mitchell has certainly spent a few hours in the shed on the welder over the years.

People are travelling from far and wide to purchase your trailers, Rob. Why do you think that is? People have bought trailers from far and wide; we have sold as far as Sydney and Armidale due to the high quality strength of our trailers, the price and the fact that we go out of our way too help asap with any issues or add ons if required. We have built trailers ourselves since 1998; we know them inside out and we want our word of mouth from our customers to put our trailer services and sales as no.1 on the coast.

Can you tell us a little bit more about the trailers you have on offer? We joined forces with Stongate Industries with new line box trailers, hydraulic tipper trailers, boat trailers and we are also promoting the new teardrop camper. We have been the biggest dealer four years running, with a lot of new products in the pipeline. We do all repairs in house, add ons to trailers and servicing and repairs. We have a dealer’s licence and are a licensed repairer.

D R I F T C A R P E N T R Y Carpentry has been in our family for four generations.

It's what we are passionate about. As a father and son duo, we love getting the opportunity to be creative on a daily basis, turning clients' houses into their dream homes.

On top of priding ourselves on top quality work and honest pricing, we aim to be conscious of our environmental impact. We recommend beautiful Australian timbers that are sustainably sourced, and we typically recycle the old timber from jobs into furniture.

Another top priority for us is service. We understand that we are working in your home or workplace and understand how stressful renovations can be, so we try to make the process as easy as possible.

Decks & Deck Rejuvenations - Renovations - Pergolas - & More

OUR OUTLETS • •

Contact us today for a free quote on your residential or commercial project.

• •

Ed Martin - 0434 151 883 ed@driftcarpentryco.com www.driftcarpentryco.com

• • • •

Regional Conservatorium Edegrees at Park Beach Plaza Coffs Central Muffin Break at Toormina Gardens Le Dain Designs Hyde Cafe in Bellingen Bellingen VIC Element Bar

• • • • • • • • •

The Promenade Mother Natures OP81 Hoey Moey Jetty Memorial Theatre Karangi Shop Coramba Store Two Tails Wines Mullaway General Store

FOCUS can also be found at selected hotels, resorts and motels on the Coffs Coast.

Missed a copy?

You can find EVERY edition of FOCUS online on our bookshelf at www.issuu.com/focus.mag

OUR REACH

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

66 Coffs Coast focus

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

Meet

Introducing the Signwise team- L-R: Stacy Sawson - fully qualified trade signwriter with over 15 years’ experience.

Jacqui Roberts - office manager/admin. Gretchen Roberts - social media/marketing.

Deane Roberts - business owner of 20 years, fully qualified trade signwriter with 40 years’ experience.

Barry Smith - installation specialist. Signwise team going bigger, better & stronger!

THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

F E A T U R E •

SIGNWISE

DEANE ROBERTS

Signwise have been servicing local and national businesses since our beginning, with a broad and loyal customer base for the past twenty years. From initial enquiry we aim to provide our existing and new clients a range of options to best meet their business needs ...

T

his is our priority every day and to everyone and we stand by it, with many businesses sharing the twenty year journey with us.

The three most important things for a good sign is quality, design and practicality.

The quality will ensure a presentable and durable product. A design which will suit the business in a way that accurately portrays its product and services.

The practicality of a sign will assist both the business and their customers’ needs.

Signs are a necessity to promote the product or service you are selling, to reflect the best image you want to project for your business.

A sign is more then a piece of plastic, timber or metal with fonts and images on it. It is a form of art that advertises and expresses the purpose and unique quality of a product in its true way. It gives you a tool to be noticed.

Signwise has always focused on building a strong relationship with its customers by supplying a service and product that we promise to deliver.

The fabric of a prosperous community is borne through local business.

My brother and wife’s family have all been local business people, which gave

me an insight into their importance within the community.

We need to support small, locally based business in our area. I moved to the Coffs Coast in 1978, my wife Jacqui is a local, and both our families live here.

In 1996, armed with trade qualified knowledge and experience, Signwise Quality Signs was established. The important aspect for Signwise is to produce “Quality Signs” whilst also providing service at a realistic price and maintaining a long term customer base. My family has a history of signwriters, through uncles, cousins and my brother a tradesman signwriter himself, who offered me an apprenticeship in 1978.

After completing my time as an apprentice and spending many years with my brother, Signwise originated twenty years ago in a small workshop on Mildura Street. This was my first real moment of having to be both a signwriter and a businessman.

As time goes on, you learn and I then extended to the current premises, building up my equipment and customer base. The skills taught during my apprenticeship are still valuable today, relating to letter shape and design.

MY FAMILY HAS A HISTORY OF SIGNWRITERS, THROUGH UNCLES, COUSINS AND MY BROTHER A TRADESMAN SIGNWRITER HIMSELF, WHO OFFERED ME AN APPRENTICESHIP IN 1978.

The sign industry has evolved from brushes, paints and mahl sticks to computerised production, alongside a shift in advertising to a computerised media base.

We offer a complete range of signage from design to installation, including digital printing, vehicles, shop front, banners, promotions, corporate, fabricated lettering and traditional signs.

To help celebrate our 20 years as a local business, Signwise has had a revamp, with workshop improvements, new equipment, website and social media advertising.

With nearly 40 years in the sign industry, we can offer knowledge, experience, a local business history and quality product.

Living on the Coffs Coast is where we have spent most of our lives; our family and friends are here, sharing all that the

coast lifestyle has to offer.

Also, it is an ideal place to raise a family, with our kids enjoying schooling, sports and a vast range of activities on offer.

Personally having fully recovered from a health scare 12 months ago has made us more appreciative of all we have here.

We are 100% ready to take on the future with a new enthusiasm, hopefully for another 20 years!

Address: 30 Edgar St, Coffs Harbour.

Phone: (02) 6651 8050.

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M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

Meet THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

DENTAL THERAPIST How long have you been working as a dental therapist at Brad Pearce Dental?

Twelve years I have had the pleasure of practicing as a dental therapist with the BPD team. I work with a fantastic team of dentists and staff at our Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga practices.

What does a dental therapist do?

Being a dental therapist means I get the privilege of providing dental treatment exclusively to children and young adults, and I really enjoy it.

What is the best part of your work?

One of the best things about working with kids is having the opportunity to teach them that a dental visit is not necessarily something to be afraid of. In actual fact, we try to make it a fun experience. Sometimes it can take a few visits before kids feel really comfortable, so establishing a good rapport from an early age is very important. It’s also wonderful to see them grow up as years go by.

What are you passionate about when it comes to your work?

I am very passionate about preventive

68 Coffs Coast focus

F E A T U R E •

WENDY

dentistry and enjoy teaching little patients and their parents about good dental habits. You will also find me in schools and preschools in the local community, educating kids and staff about caring for those very important pearly whites.

What is one thing you would like us to know about teeth?

If there is a tooth problem, early detection through regular checkups is the key to providing simple dental treatment. I have amazing equipment in the practice to help provide comfortable “not scary” dentistry. Especially my wonderful new dental anaesthetic machine, “the wand”. This little machine allows a very discreet and comfortable method of numbing a tooth that might require a filling. A much nicer way to have a tooth anaesthetic, that’s for sure. Remember, the Child Dental benefits Scheme is there to help offset the cost of treatment if you are eligible.

You can call our Coffs Surgery on 6651 1222 or Woopi on 6654 2787 to make an appointment to see Wendy.

NANCY DENTIST

Hi Dr Nancy. You are the newest team member at Brad Pearce Dental. How did you find yourself in Coffs Harbour?

I wanted a change and some growth in my dentistry. I had been on the Sunshine Coast for two years. I saw the job advertised at Brad Pearce Dental and thought it would be an ideal location.

Why Brad Pearce Dental?

I wanted to work with a big team of experienced dentists to help with my growth. I also liked that under their guidance I could grow as a dentist. The opportunity to be mentored was one I couldn’t pass up.

Why did you want to become a dentist?

To help people with their oral health, so they can live a healthier life. It’s also a very fulfilling career, which like the old saying, “The career chose me!”

What’s the best part about being a dentist?

It’s rewarding to be able to give back to the community and literally put a smile back on people’s faces.

What are you looking forward to the most in your new role?

Brad Pearce Dental has a wonderful big team, and to work in that environment is exciting. Definitely the mentoring as well; it’s a huge opportunity that I will relish.

Well, thank you so much for your time, Dr Nancy. The team are really excited to have you on board as their only female dentist.

I’m looking forward to it too. I will be working at both the Grafton and Coffs Harbour Surgery, so give them a call today and make an appointment to see me.

M E E T

WITH JULIE LARKEY FROM CFS TRAVEL

T H E

E X P E R T S

Meet THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

F E A T U R E •

THE NEW

Childcare M Y

B H U T A N E S E

PACKAGE

L O V E

High on a mountain lies a Bhutanese village called Laya, 37 km from Tibet.

Perched just below heaven ... It has always been my dream to trek there.

E

ach year the people of Laya and surrounding villages celebrate their highland culture by having a festival called the Royal Highland Festival.

In October last year, I was lucky enough to travel to Laya with the most beautiful Bhutanese family. We were a party of eight. Day one was a 10 hour trek over mountains and river beds. We stayed the first night in the Indian military base close to the Tibetan border. I just loved the hot chai tea they made us on arrival. It was like gold. Day two was a three hour vertical climb to Laya. Wow, what scenery! Day three was the beginning of the festival. The most colourful Yaks and horses strode around the ring. Ladies participated in tug of war, village against village. Local farmers showed off their wares with fermented cheese and Ara (local alcohol) with cordyceps being the favourites. I tried smoked local yak sausages - quite nice, I must say!

On the afternoon of day three we set ourselves near the finish line of The Laya run. Can you believe the winner ran my 13 hour trek in just under three hours? How he accomplished this is beyond belief. We were at 4,300 metres above sea level. Just to trek in this terrain is hard enough, let alone run!

The King of Bhutan was ever present and I had

Are you ready for the new child care package, CCS? From the 2nd July 2018 we will have a new child care package, and now is a good time for families to start thinking about how the changes may affect them.

the immense privilege of speaking to him on three occasions. The evenings were spent watching local dancing and singing. I was so lucky to be traveling with one of Bhutan’s most famous actors, Tsherling Phuntshok. I got to dance in front of the King - oh dear! Fairy tale moment!

The rain pelted down but we didn’t care, it was like magic dancing high on the mount top!

Day four I woke to the most beautiful snow fall that had covered the surrounding mountains. We began our trek back to Gasa quite early, as it was going to be a long day - 10 hours in fact! Because of the snow fall, the ground was slippery underfoot, but ever so exhilarating. Lucky for me, I got to trek the last five hours with my dear friend Dasho Chitem Tenizin. We chatted about the festival and the opportunities that it offered the people of the Highlands. Dasho Chitem Tenzin is one of the most humble men I have ever met. He has devoted his life to serving his King and helping the less fortunate.

It was such an honour for me to do this trek with such an amazing family. I felt like anything in the world was possible. The quietness and peace of this country will stay in my heart forever.

Join me in November for my next adventure to Bhutan.

The Child Care Package will be renamed from the current two tiered subsidies of Child Care Benefit (CCB) and the Child Care Rebate (CCR) that we are all too familiar with, to the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).

Three main points for families to know Your subsidy will be paid directly to the service; no subsidies like the current Child Care Rebate (CCR), where families have been able to choose to have it paid directly to them, will remain.

Family eligibility for the Child Care Subsidy will be determined on a fortnightly activity test basis, not the current weekly test.

Activity test markers still exist to be eligible for Child Care Subsidy, like paid work, selfemployment, unpaid work in the family business, looking for work and volunteering

or studying.

The maximum hours of subsidy per fortnight based on the above activities are: 8 - 16 hours of activity, max subsidy 36h 16 - 48 hours of activity, max subsidy 72h 48 + hours of activity, max subsidy 100h Low income families that don’t meet the activity test will be entitled to 24 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.

It has been anticipated that families currently using child care services should be contacted early 2018 with details of these changes; however, if you’re still wondering what these changes really mean for you, Contact 3 Bears Cottage now. Our professional standards can assist and ensure you are enrolled in a service that supports your parenting role by collaborating with you.

cfs

Coffs Coast focus 69

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

Meet THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

B L U E

R I B B O N

What is your area of expertise? The Blue Ribbon Homes team is made up of professionally qualified local staff who specialise in building new homes. We pride ourselves on offering our clients unique custom designed homes that will cost you no more than building from our extensive range of standard floor plans. All of our drafting, designing, estimating, quantity surveying, construction supervision and accounting are controlled in-house.

Tell us a bit about your backround. Blue Ribbon Homes is a locally owned company that has been building homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 29 years. We are proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our clients, built with hard work and dedication over the past three decades.

What makes your business stand out? Our Blue Ribbon Homes company directors work within the office on a daily basis, ensuring that

70 Coffs Coast focus

F E A T U R E •

H O M E S

you will deal directly with the business owners.

You can have complete confidence that you’re dealing with the decision makers and know that our number one priority is to finish every new home with delighted clients. Basically, if we wouldn’t have it in our home, then we won’t put it in yours!

Our team of tradesmen are leaders in their fields; many have been with us for over a decade! We use premium quality local manufacturers for all our major construction items and purchase our materials through local distributors. Our longterm relationship with our trades and suppliers ensures that our clients will receive the best possible service during their build and after they have moved into their new Blue Ribbon Home.

At Blue Ribbon Homes we will make your dream home a reality. For our part, the dream build is to make you, our client, feel good throughout the whole process!

C A R P E T

C O U R T

/

What is Hybrid Flooring? If you are looking for new flooring in your home, and would like the appearance of real timber flooring without the worries of having to look after a hardwood floor, take a look at what some experts are calling the flooring of the future; hybrid flooring.

This evolution in flooring combines the looks of timber floors with the best characteristics of laminate and vinyl flooring and can be used in all areas of the home. At Carpet Court, there is a beautiful selection of Hybrid flooring on offer in a wide range of colours, to suit all styles of home.

The new core technology and UV coated surface makes it perfect for use in hot climates

H Y B R I D

F L O O R I N G

and in front of north facing windows. Its robustness and impact resistance mean that it withstands the heaviest foot traffic at home or in commercial areas. You do not have to be afraid of water spillages, and the flooring can be wet mopped.

If you decide that you prefer a different flooring option, Carpet Court can also provide you with a huge selection of carpets, as well as timber, laminate, bamboo and vinyl flooring.

In addition, you can finish off your new look with a beautiful collection of rugs and window furnishings (blinds and shutters) to match your new flooring.

DREAM IT. STYLE IT. LIVE IT

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

Meet

NEW OWNER

DEAN

THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

F E A T U R E •

BRIDGMAN Congratulations, Dean, on being the proud new owner of the Sawtell Kitchen Centre.

You have a long association with this business; can tell us about it? My dad has worked at SKC for over 30 years and when I left school, I started working there as a labourer.

I then moved to the big smoke and started managing a cabinet making business. I decided to move back to my hometown with my wife, and I am so proud to have now bought this local business, which has such a long history in the area. My younger brother has also just joined the team. SKC has always been a family owned and operated business, and I am continuing on the family values of honesty, reliability and loyalty.

You are a man of many talents. What skills do you bring to SKC? The team and myself have over 200 years’ combined experience in the kitchen and trade industry. Because of this, we have sound knowledge on what would work best for your kitchen. The team also receive extensive, regular training, to ensure we are all kept up to date with current

trends, be it modern and sleek or traditional and timeless. Each kitchen is designed with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, which ensures our customers have an amazing experience and is why they keep coming back.

Many come back for their second or third kitchen with us!

Always compare the quality of the hardware and materials used and don’t soley base your decision on price. A high quality kitchen will stand out ...

home; what advice do

great advice and inspiration. My wife, family

you give to anyone

and friends have supported me and given me

looking to build or

the drive to be successful. Special mention

renovate? Everybody

to my grandmother, who has always been a

values the kitchen

prominent member of the community and

space; it’s the heart of

always been a hard worker; she has inspired

experience, we have been

the home and where

me from a young age and has always been my

able to really create some

families often spend the

biggest fan.

most time, so do your

What plans do you have for 2018/2019?

How will you make your mark on this business?

With a combination of my business experience and the team’s industry specific

masterpieces for the home - a part of the home that people want to show

research to optimise your layout and ensure

We have big plans to extend into more custom

off. Our team all work together to make each

there is a nice flow. You want a space that’s

made furniture in the near future. I already run

step of the way of what can sometimes be a

functional and easy to work and live in.

Ashton Designs (check out our Facebook page)

big and stressful decision on kitchen features a

Who has inspired you to get to where you

and feel that we can offer more custom pieces

smooth and enjoyable process.

are now? I have been very fortunate to have

for those looking for that something extra to

Kitchens and bathrooms are what sell a

some amazing people in my life who have given

make their home really special.

Coffs Coast focus 71

M E E T

WILLIAMS RIVER

T H E

STEEL

Tell us about the services Williams River Steel provides. Willams River Steel provide a “one stop shop” of services required in commercial and industrial builds, from start to finish. Starting with architectural concept and design, through to submissions and applications to Council and all the way to the final internal touches, we do it all. We start from plans, where we take the design through to the drafting and detailing team, who design with precision and with consideration of Council codes and requirements, to arrive at a detailed and engineered design. The key to our services is that our in-house facilities enable us to design, manufacture and construct full turn-key projects in the shortest possible time frame, without compromising quality.

How are the time frames achieved? Our buildings are fabricated in our workshop, ready to be brought to site and erected. The precast concrete buildings are significantly quicker than the steel fabricated, as large panels are craned into place and typically, an 800 sqm building can be fully cladded with precast panels in two - three days.

What have been some of your recent

E X P E R T S

Meet THE

EXPERTS • F O C U S

F E A T U R E •

projects? Williams River Steel has been building in the Coffs Harbour region for nearly 30 years and is responsible for a substantial number of larger commercial/industrial buildings in the industrial areas. This year, to date we will be completing a series of 13 industrial units and a 1,232 sqm light industrial complex, both Williams River Steel has in Port Macquarie, as been building in the Coffs well as adding another becoming scarce, as much Harbour region for nearly two industrial sheds to 30 years and is responsible of the current industrial an existing complex in for a substantial number areas have been built out.

Laurieton. And works of larger commercial / However with the new have just started on a industrial buildings in the highway being completed, industrial areas.

954 sqm workshop with it is now giving what were mezzanine and offices previously thought of as here in Coffs Harbour, “outlying areas” a massive with another 2,342 sqm, seven unit industrial opportunity to develop industrial areas, as we are development about to break ground in Port seeing in Nambucca, Kempsey, Macksville and Macquarie.

Woolgoolga. Another change in the industrial How has the industrial sector developed in the Coffs region? The industrial areas in Coffs Harbour are really quite developed for the most part. The biggest challenge now is that vacant industrial land in Coffs Harbour is

building sector is the demand for industrial buildings with an increased street appeal.

Previously an office for an industrial business may have been hidden within the main building; now clients are requesting designs that incorporate

a front office with a more commercially friendly design. This can be achieved by our design team; with consultation consideration of your needs, we can get the right solution to suit your budget.

Plans for the future? The future of the commercial and industrial building sector is set to grow in the area, as the population grows and the demand for business premises increases.

Turn key projects, always updating technology and building practices, top of the line quality. If you are considering a brand new building, an expansion to your existing building or a complete relocation of your business, call our experienced sales team to discuss turning your ideas into a construction.

Turning your concept into a construction Williams River Steel are professionals in the design and construction industry with over 30 years experience in commercial and industrial projects, car dealerships and automotive solutions, educational facilities, aircraft hangers and other specialty builds.

Our in-house drafting team can streamline your ideas from design to construction and arrange costings, council approvals, construction through to final occupation.

We have a full steel fabrication, precast panel and freight facility to integrate in with your design and construction to ensure it is built to budget, on time and of a high quality.

Coffs Harbour

Sydney

Newcastle

Coffs Harbour Sales: Unit 1, 12 Industrial Dr North Boambee Ph: 02 6651 7223 Head Office 1300 363 121 wrsteel.com.au

72 Coffs Coast focus

Coffs Coast focus 73

3 bears

The facts about NAPLAN W I T H

B D C

P R I N C I P A L

N I C K

J O H N S T O N E

It is May, so that means schools around the country are starting to think about the National Assessment Program in Literacy and Numeracy, the NAPLAN tests. The standard questions arise every year about these tests. Why do them, when we (the teachers) already know how our students are going?

Why do them, when we do not get the data until the start of Term 4?

The tests are so expensive, are they worth the time and effort?

I

will start this article with some facts.

Professor Geoff Masters, from the Australian Council of Educational Research, has noted that since the inception of

Independent Schools briefing to Principals in Perth that despite some improvements in lower primary years in Queensland and some slight improvements in secondary results in

the NAPLAN in 2008 there has been no real

Western Australia, that overall the results

improvement measured in literacy and numeracy

indicate no improvement across the country.

standards in Australia. He stated at a recent

Professor Masters supported this argument with

international studies that Australian schools are involved in, such as PISA (Programme for International School Assessment) and TIMSS (The International Mathematics and Science Study), that show our retreat in student performance over a similar timeframe when compared to similar countries. It can therefore be concluded that despite 10 years of NAPLAN testing, our country is not improving in our overall literacy and numeracy. So, is another test the answer?

Bluntly, my answer is no.

Surely to improve learning, good teaching is the answer. The Federal Government needs to be supporting and showcasing excellent teaching practices and structures across Australia - to improve mechanisms, support teacher improvement through better teacher incentives, better teacher recruitment, more teacher planning and preparation time and better teacher education and professional learning. School systems that have grown in their international reputation have put these factors into the equation. There is, however, positive news domestically in the work done by the Australian Institute of Teaching and School Leadership in showcasing teachers and schools of high quality practice.

The current competitive marketplace in education is also not improving school performance, in the same way it has not created downward pressure on the fuel price with petrol stations, reduced power prices or reduced grocery prices in the supermarket industry. The private vs public school debate needs to be replaced with a collaborative and supportive structure

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and mindset. Our state and federal ministers for education need to be advocates for all schools, not just schools in their portfolio. The flagship countries in prominent international studies, such as Singapore and Finland, note their investment is in quality teacher training of suitable candidates, together with continuous teacher improvement programs.

I will finish this article on some positives and address some myths with respect to NAPLAN. The students are stressed out due to the tests? It’s true, some kids get stressed by tests - but there have always been tests in schools. It is, however, the culture of the school and the expectations of the parents that can support our learners in test preparation to reduce anxiety.

Students should endeavour to try their best but not overly prepare for the experience. Students are not expected to study for NAPLAN. Is the student data useful? Yes, the cohort data processed correctly can review potential gaps in the cohort from a teaching and learning perspective and can support schools in improving their programs and their practices. As a Principal that enjoys data analysis (“was once a scientist”) I see great value in supporting school based decisions with good quality reliable data sources, and the NAPLAN tests help with this function.

The student gain data, that is now available on the myschool website (https://www.myschool. edu.au/) is also extremely valuable in explaining the individual stories of our schools and the positive impact schools are making in the lives of our students. It is not all bad news with NAPLAN, but good testing is only part of the answer.

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MOORE STEPHENS Local accounting firm DKM Group has merged with equally well-established Central/SE Qld firm Powers Financial Group and will be joining the global mid-market accounting and advisory services network Moore Stephens. FOCUS had a chat to DKM Managing Director Greg Mallam and Coffs Harbour Director-in-Charge Paul Symons to find out more ...

W

hy are you merging with Powers Financial Group?

Powers is an ideal accounting firm to merge with. They have a similar history and much in common.

Powers has been operating for more than 50 years, built on a strong regional background, originating from Biloela in Central Queensland.

It will mean we will now have a strong presence in Queensland and Northern NSW. Powers is a successful accounting firm that is also looking to grow and achieve their vision. Their values around client service align very closely with ours. They also have a similar number of regional offices.

Both firms originated from regional areas, work with the same operating systems and have a similar client base. The two managing directors were even born on the same day in the same year. At times it has felt like the synergies between the firms were just too good to be true.

Why are you joining an international network?

The two firms are merging to form Moore Stephens Queensland and Northern New South Wales (Moore Stephens QNNSW). Joining the international Moore Stephens network will ensure the firm can offer additional services to help our clients. This is about continuously improving the breadth and quality of the services we offer. Moore Stephens adds the ability to access a wider and far deeper pool of

expertise and experience. We will be stronger changes as our name, logo, stationery, website for the association and of greater value to and social media change to reflect the Moore clients.

Stephens brand.

Moore Stephens is a global network of firms How will clients benefit? that are independently owned. We will be the Coffs Harbour has evolved into a business Qld & Northern NSW firm of the Australian and financial hub since becoming one of the network. first sites in Australian to get the NBN, so the The decision to join Moore Stephens was not needs of our clients have evolved. The NBN taken lightly, but it means there are commercial opened up the world. So, along with easier benefits with cost-sharing and overheads, along travel, this has meant clients in Coffs Harbour with higher levels of are undertaking business specialty. in the US, Asia, UAE and Many of our clients increasingly looking at are now doing business opportunities to expand internationally, which both domestically and MOORE STEPHENS means their tax and internationally.

ADDS THE ABILITY TO business requirements As our clients grow ACCESS A WIDER AND have become more their businesses, we FAR DEEPER POOL complex. We are looking will now be in a prime OF EXPERTISE AND at the bigger picture, position to assist with the EXPERIENCE. WE WILL with the merger and support and structures BE STRONGER FOR THE becoming part of Moore in place of a global ASSOCIATION AND OF Stephens, because it’s accounting firm. Moore GREATER VALUE TO enabled our staff to grow Stephens is one of the CLIENTS. their skills and clients strongest and wellto grow their business respected global networks on an international basis, which is an excellent of private accounting firms in the world. As we opportunity on both fronts. grow, and our clients grow, it is important that We will be re-branding to Moore Stephens our firm has high quality global connections to Qld & Northern NSW. ensure we can continue to meet clients’ needs.

What will clients notice?

However, just because the firm is now part It is business as usual. The same people of a larger group does not mean it will lose clients deal with today are the same people its local feel. All the firm’s clients will receive they will deal with going forward. We are not the same service at the same price from their moving location. We are not changing our staff. existing advisor.

From the 1st May, they will notice cosmetic We are very proud of our long history of

delivering for clients, and this will definitely not change.

What new services can clients access?

Joining Moore Stephens allows us to offer our clients services where previously we would have had to refer them to other firms, such as international tax. Accounting needs have changed over the years and more of our clients have expanded into markets overseas, so we now have specialised inhouse international tax advisors to help them in this area.

Some of the other new inhouse services include transfer pricing, business valuation, corporate finance and family office. Services offered nationally and internationally include audit and assurance, business rescue and recovery, forensic accounting, governance, insolvency, IT consultancy, legal services, migrant advisory, R&D tax, risk management and tax consulting.

Moore Stephens International Limited is regarded as one of the world’s major accounting and consulting networks, comprising 614 offices of 271 independent member and correspondent firms across 112 countries throughout the world.

Moore Stephens have the expertise to support clients in key industry sectors, including agribusiness, health, property, professional services, mining, advanced manufacturing, information and communications technology, and tourism.

As our clients grow their businesses, we will be in a prime position to assist with the support and structures in place of a global accounting firm, but still with a local feel.

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Insurance Brokers

C O F F S

S

FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH SIMON O’DELL AND TRISHA HERRAMAN, OUR EXPERT VOICES ON INSURANCE, TO GET THE GOOD WORD ON THE BENEFITS OF USING AN INSURANCE BROKER.

imon, tell us a bit about Eagle Insurance Brokers Coffs Harbour.

Trisha Herraman and I represent the core team here in Coffs Harbour. We form part of a broader team of 28 personnel situated in various offices between Byron Bay and Newcastle. Eagle is a member of Steadfast, a national cluster group that gives us the benefits of local representation, local knowledge, combined with national strength.

Trisha and I worked together as a team advising Coffs businesses for over five years, before I moved to Sydney in 2013. We had over 300 local businesses as clients and enjoyed servicing their needs successfully. We endured the natural catastrophes of 2009, where we learnt a lot about the durable character of Coffs businesses and the vast value of the insurance industry.

In Sydney I studied, then travelled, to understand how the industry differs across regions and what drives their success. This led me into technology, which is looming as the catalyst for meaningful change in the industry. Tech companies have different DNA to that of your traditional business.

They solve problems using a unique methodology, which includes flipping the value chain 180 degrees and starting with the customer first. Tech companies servicing the insurance industry (insurtech) are enabling the insurance industry to embed customercentric principles into insurance products and services, including transparency, trust, shared economies (Peer2Peer insurance), fairness and sustainability. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry. Eagle are early adopters of technologies that enable us to deliver greater 76 Coffs Coast focus

H A R B O U R

value to our Coffs clients.

In December 2017, I relocated my beautiful little family back to Coffs. It is great to be back!

Collectively, Trisha and I share 20 years in the insurance industry, much of which has been spent advising local Coffs businesses. I started the business that has become Eagle Insurance Broker Coffs Harbour in 2015. Trisha and I have fun, and are driven by a sense of purpose, which I think is important. We genuinely believe in the function of insurance advice and also what sets us apart. The value of insurance advice is evident when a business owner: sleeps well at night, when they achieve an affordable insurance program, and when they’re able to continue operating, despite losses occurring.

Eagle Coffs is an insurance brokerage specialising in business insurance, though we provide equally comparable value across all lines of business, including domestic insurance.

There is no business too large or small, nor is there one too risky or vanilla for us.

TOP 3 MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT INSURANCE BROKERS Misconception 1: It is cheaper to go direct Part of a brokers’ role is to negotiate terms with the insurer. This includes premium. The insurance market has been highly competitive for 15 years now, thus is a buyers’ market.

Brokers are accustomed to negotiating premiums, in all market conditions, and leveraging competition to do so. The premium that concludes negotiations is often cheaper than those quoted by direct insurers, if not within 6%*. *6% based on a sample of primary Eagle data.

Brokers endorse a sustained relationship between insureds and insurers. There is value in continuity through periods of insurance. We do, however, recommend changing insurers where the premium isn’t “right”. Brokers generally respond well to clients’ needs in terms of managing expenses.

Misconception 2: You get the same quality insurance products if you go direct Insurance Brokers have managed to leverage economies of scale i.e. buying power. We have 18,700 brokers in Australia placing over $15bn in gross written premium into ceding insurers annually. What have we achieved with this leverage? Better terms for our clients.

The difference between a direct policy and one issued via a broker is often quite stark. If a directly insured business in Coffs sustains a loss, there is an increased risk that the loss will “fall through the cracks” of the wording and not be covered. Brokers have experienced these incidents over the years, which drives us to achieve broader terms for our clients, which are reflected in broker issued policy wordings.

As a collective, Brokers leverage their position in the industry value chain - one link closer to the consumer - to achieve value in more areas than breadth of coverage. Other areas of value include: claims management service, discretionary underwriting, and general efficiency in service.

Insurance Brokers have more work to do, however. When natural catastrophes strike cities like Coffs Harbour, just ~25% of the economic loss is covered by the insurance industry. This means that ~75% of the loss is left to other sources, including the community to fund. Another alarming statistic; >50% of businesses who sustain a significant loss do not re-open their doors for trade due to

inadequate insurance coverage. The quality of coverage offered by insurers via brokers is premium. The shortcoming exists in education and consequently, the breadth of a business owners’ insurance program. Brokers have a role to: educate business on their risk exposures, create and deploy methods to manage these exposures, all whilst managing their clients’ insurance expenses. A tricky balance to strike, though very achievable when the business owner opens their door to the broker to engage in meaningful conversations.

A large part of risk management sits outside of insurance, though more risks can be transferred to the insurance market than we are currently seeing. There exists a correlation between a business owner who has a comprehensive understanding of business risks and one that has an increased insurance policy count. Needless to say, a business owner who achieves a comprehensive understanding via education from their broker is in a greater position to manage their business through uncertainty. We’d like to see more businesses keeping their doors open, despite losses occurring.

Misconception 3: Brokers have a bias to sell certain products.

Brokers represent the insured, not the insurer. There exist over 100 insurance markets from which a broker has to select, when determining and negotiating the most suitable insurance solutions. Brokers like to retain an agnostic position with the insurance market.

This ensures that we are not conflicted. Many brokers get into the broking game as they value the principle of fairness and share a passion for seeing this principle embedded in the insurance function. Brokers are ambassadors for their clients; it’s what we do.

T

risha, where are you originally from and when did you first realise you had a strong passion for the insurance industry?

Originally from Inverell, where I grew up on a large beef cattle/sheep farm. We moved to Coffs Harbour with my parents when I was 10, so I am very much a local! I went to school locally and have raised my family here, as there are not many places better than the Coffs Coast. Being local, I have a great understanding of our history, from when Coffs was predominately known for being a banana growing, dairy and sawmilling town. It has been great to witness how industries have evolved over the last 40 years. Being involved in the insurance industry for many years, my passion for being a broker lies in how we assist our clients. We treat our clients with the respect their businesses deserve and protect their assets and livelihoods, as if they were our own.

Who makes up the business, and what are the advantages of dealing with a local business?

Eagle Coffs Harbour is predominantly Simon

O’Dell and myself. It is a significant advantage to have your insurance advisor based locally.

It is also helpful that we have a long history of local knowledge. Simon is a born and bred local also.

We have seen the growth of Coffs Harbour and the surrounding areas.

We understand the lay of the land and the risk profile of the Coffs region. Whilst Coffs has been named as the region with the best climate in Australia on a number of occasions, the weather here can be quite volatile.

We have experienced the “1 in 100-year” weather events that have rocked this town and consequently the “flooding vs storm” dramas that ensue. We are proud of the value we create, helping keep businesses open and employing locals when the unforeseen occurs.

I have worked in many different industries over the years, and have a broad knowledge of how small business works. It is so important as an advisor to actually understand our clients’ businesses and their concerns, and to be able to advise them on the covers they require.

What services do you offer?

We are a professional insurance brokerage

who offers advice and guidance to our clients.

We assist in all areas of insurance, from business insurance, workers compensation, trade credit and professional lines. We have a partner locally that also advises our clients on life insurance lines of business.

What type of clients do you service?

Do you have to be a multimillion dollar business to benefit from your services?

No, you don’t need to be a multi-million dollar business; we look after the domestic market, trade liabilities, small business right through to the larger industrial, commercial risks and the emerging IT industry. We look after sole traders, property owners and all in between.

What is the most important thing people should consider when deciding on an insurance policy?

Whether the cover is adequate for their situation. We tailor our clients’ policies to meet their needs. We use insurers who offer both breadth of cover and exceptional claims handling services. We need the policy to cover all relevant risks for our clients and one which will respond in an event, whether that be a weather-related event, consequential loss of

profits, a break-in, computer breakdown or machinery breakdown. We ensure our clients are comprehensively covered by tailoring the policies or choosing one that aligns to the risks.

When one hears “tailored policies”, one thinks expensive. This is a common misconception, addressed by Simon in the 3 Common Misconceptions of Insurance Brokers.

How can we contact you ... do you offer obligation free consultations?

My mobile number is 0439 857 455 and my email is trisha@eagleinsurance.com.au We have an office in Coffs Harbour if our clients wish to make an appointment to see us; however, we prefer to come to you. We understand the difficulties faced by the business owner at being able to get away from the business. We often meet our clients or prospective clients at their place of business, before opening hours or after hours, as required. We are happy to provide an obligation free review and provide advice on existing cover and areas where there are unwanted exposures. We are also able to offer advice on broader Risk Management, which assists our clients in reducing risk exposures.

For a complimentary review of your insurance program, please email the team on coffs@eagleinsurance.com.au

Simon O’Dell 0401 100 606 simon@eagleinsurance.com.au Trisha Herraman 0439 857 455 trisha@eagleinsurance.com.au www.eagleinsurance.com.au Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/Eaglecoffs

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f e a t u r e

focus

expert IN FINANCE

EC Credit Control ADAM ROSS

Sarah Wood Actinvest When did you first realise you had a strong passion for the finance industry? I began working in the finance industry while I was a law student and found that I loved combining my passion of environmental and human rights law to investment decisions and financial planning strategy. I started my own practice in Coffs Harbour in 2012, when I moved back here after working interstate. I was thrilled to come back to the place where my husband and I grew up and are now raising our son.

What services does your business provide?

We provide traditional financial planning services such as superannuation, pension, investment and insurance advice; however as a Certified Responsible Investment Adviser I am also able to provide specific advice relating to responsible and ethical investments. There has been unprecedented growth in ethical and responsible investing in recent years, with responsible investments having more than quadrupled over the past three years in Australia. A key driver for this growth is rising consumer support; for example, a 2017 Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) consumer research report “From Values to Riches” found that 9 in 10 (92%) of Australians expect their superannuation or other investments to be invested responsibly and ethically.

What is ethical investing? Ethical investing is where environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria are taken into consideration when making investment decisions. This can take the form of negative screening, where a fund will start with a universe of large global or ASX listed companies for example, then screen these companies to remove those that do not meet certain ESG criteria. Some funds may also have a positive investment approach, where the

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fund will actively seek to invest in ESG leaders.

According to the 2017 RIAA consumer research report, the top three things Australians want to avoid investing in are animal cruelty (69%), human rights violations (62%) and pornography (56%). The top three issues Australians find important are renewable energy (48%), healthcare and medical products (45%), and sustainable practices (44%).

How do ethical investments perform and are they risky? Responsible investment funds have largely outperformed their mainstream counterparts, with ESG analysis helping investors to avoid controversies. According to the Responsible Investment Benchmark Report 2017, core responsible investment Australian shares, international shares and multi sector growth funds have outperformed their equivalent mainstream fund over a 10 year time horizon.

How can someone find out how their superannuation or investments are invested? You can check your superannuation fund’s website for information on their investment approach and whether they take any ethical or responsible investment criteria into consideration in their investment process. You can also ask your superannuation fund or fund manager for a list of current holdings, to see how you are currently invested.

What clients do you service, and do you offer obligation free consultations? We assist pre retirees and retirees who want to ensure they have a financial plan in place that meets their retirement goals, with investments in line with their values. There is no charge for an initial consultation, which gives us an opportunity to review your circumstances and discover what is important to you.

At EC Credit Control, we are a total debt management provider. This is done through a number of tools, including Customised Terms Of Trade and Credit Reporting to Debt Recovery and Personal Property Security (PPS) Registrations. FOCUS had a chat with Adam Ross, to find out more ... an you tell me a bit more about EC Credit Control? EC Credit Control is a total credit management provider. Yes, we recover your debts; however, we view this is a reactive measure. It doesn’t get to the root of the problem, i.e. why did this happen to you in the first place? That’s our major point of difference to the majority of traditional collection agencies. We emphasise to our clients the importance that proactive measures can have to getting to the root of the problem, which helps reduce the amount of bad debts you encounter in the first place and increases the likelihood of a successful collection when you do incur a bad debt. This is done through a number of tools, including: customised Terms and Conditions Of Trade to Credit Reporting and registrations on Personal Property Securities Register (www.ppsr. gov.au).

Can you explain to me what happens when a liquidator seeks claw back payments and how you can protect business owners from this? A single PPS Registration protects a business in two key ways; it puts them ahead of the ATO in the order of payment if their customer goes into liquidation and can protect against a Preferential Payment Clawback. Preferential Payment is a payment that is made by a business to a creditor that is in preference to other creditors who have not been paid as much or at all. Clawback can then occur if that business goes into liquidation within six months of the payment date. Under the Corporations Act, a Liquidator can deem these payments to be a preferential payment and seek to claw this money back off the creditor to be distributed amongst other creditors. All the Liquidator has to prove is the company was insolvent at the time they paid the creditor and that the creditor “knew” or “ought to have known” the company was in financial distress. E.g. if the creditor was found to be paid late, that can be enough grounds for a Liquidator to seek a clawback from a creditor. The most recent well known example that people may be familiar with is up in Townsville, where the Liquidator of the Clive Palmer owned Queensland

Nickel is chasing the return of payments made to suppliers and service providers for amounts in excess of $100K - big money for a small business who has likely already reinvested the money they were paid back into their business!

Why, when a business goes into receivership do the bigger companies always seem to get paid out first? Big business, including banks get paid first because they utilise the PPSR to help secure their money or debt obligations.

This Federal Government register is a “first in, best dressed” scenario. When a Liquidator goes to pay Creditors that are owed money or have supplied goods, they start at the top of the list (the Secured Creditors with the highest ranking registration) and work down. Once Secured Creditors have been paid or had their goods returned to them, they will then look to pay the unsecured creditors, including the ATO (ie. everyone else without a PPS Registration) and this is where you hear stories of unsecured creditors being paid say, ten cents in the dollar. These days when this occurs you will usually find the Secured Creditors were paid first and in full.

How can you help me monitor the companies I do business with and protect me from high risk transactions? Through Credit Reporting, a business can know if they are comfortable dealing with a new client before they even start work, by looking for anything adverse on the new clients credit file (such as; defaults, judgements, wind up applications etc).

This is the same way a bank will undertake a Credit Check prior to giving out a loan or a credit card facility - i.e. before providing credit. Further to this, it is possible to monitor your account customers, so if they start defaulting elsewhere, or more importantly are heading towards insolvency, the business can be automatically notified. This can prevent issues occurring in the first place and puts a business in a postion to be proactive if one of their clients is having financial difficulties.

Call your local Area Manager Adam on 0401 770 969 to arrange an obligation free consultation.

bcu Home Loan experts Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, refinance an existing loan or looking to switch your home loan, bcu can help. bcu’s team of dedicated local home loan experts are passionate about finding the perfect product for your circumstances. We caught up with some of the bcu home loan experts, to chat about how they help their customers on their real estate journey.

Tell us about a little about yourself I moved from country Victoria to Coffs Harbour 5 years ago. I love spending my time enjoying the beautiful beaches and hinterland of the Coffs coast. I have been with bcu for almost 4 years and have recently progressed to the role of Associate Lender.

B U S I N E S S

B O O K K E E P I N G “It’s what we do”

OAS has been in business for over 16 years, with a combined experience of 141 years. We have grown from a small home office to an easily accessible modern office within the Coffs Harbour CBD. We are now servicing Port Macquarie and everywhere in-between.

Our services include:

businesses and non for profit corporations as well as franchises.

BAS/IAS/PAYG, Accounts Payable, Accounts What does this mean for you?

Receivable, Payroll Outsource Experts, Superannuation, HR Intermediary Certified, • Being a team of nine, there are no days we Top End Financial cannot assist you. We Reporting, New Business have a friendly team setup, Remote access member available 52 weeks of the year. and Software Training/ Our mission is delivering Coaching.

• We can quickly adapt Did you know?

• OAS is a team of nine specialist bookkeepers.

• We are certified in multiple accounting software programs.

excellent business administration solutions with professional integrity; we develop successful business relationships through mutual trust and respect.

• We are equipped and ready for Single Touch Payroll.

• From processing invoices through to completion of BAS.

What does your role at bcu involve?

I work in the Direct Banking Department of bcu, assisting both Bec Whelan new and existing members to achieve their next financial goal.

The Direct Banking department provides an easy alternative to Associate Lender applying for home loans, personal loans and credit cards when the member may be time poor, and correspondence is done via phone and email. The versatility of my role, allows me to adapt between each member’s needs and provide the member with the best end result, whether that be a purchase, refinance or consolidation.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Being able to provide an unconditional approval to my member, and knowing that I have been part of their journey and help them achieve their goals.

Do you have any advice for people looking at either a first home loan or refinancing a current loan?

If you are ready to purchase property, obtaining a conditional approval first and knowing what purchase price you can go for can streamline the experience. Don’t be afraid to get in touch to find out what bcu can offer, we have a great range of products.

Tell us about a little about yourself I’m happily married with 2 beautiful kids. I have worked for bcu for just over 10 years, starting as a cashier and working my way up through the organisation with determination and support from bcu.

I have been a lender for the last 7 years completing Consumer and Commercial loans.

to your current industry based programs. No extra outlay or transition costs.

• No need for you to worry about changes in legislations; we have it covered.

• Less time on the books, more time with family, rewarding you with a

balanced lifestyle.

• We look smashing in our uniforms.

• We consider ourselves friendly and approachable; pop in and meet our team.

• We cater for all business needs from start-up businesses, sole traders, small, medium and large

• Our fees are well structured not to break the bank.

Kevin Day Home Loan Lender

What does your role at bcu involve?

Understanding each client’s individual needs and doing my best to make it happen. I support them throughout the process of buying a home or investment property.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The smile on someone’s face when you say the words “you are unconditionally approved”.

Do you have any advice for people looking at either a first home loan or refinancing a current loan?

Meet with a lender prior to considering a new purchase and gain conditional approval.

Everyone’s situation is different and by seeing a lender early, you’re putting yourself in the best position to get that unconditional approval.

Tell us about a little about yourself I’ve always had a desire to pursue a career in the finance industry.

I moved to Coffs Harbour 8 years ago to complete a Bachelor of Business and Certificate IV in Financial Services. I started at bcu in September 2016 and have progressed to the role of Associate Lender.

Rebecca Arkle Associate Lender

What does your role at bcu involve?

I work with new and existing customer’s to help them select the product most suited to their circumstances. I stay in contact with our customers and their solicitors and conveyancer’s regularly to ensure effective communication during the entire process.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Advising a customer that I have an approval on a loan for their dream home. I work so closely with my customers and get such satisfaction from helping them to make their dreams a reality.

Do you have any advice for people looking at either a first home loan or refinancing a current loan?

Consider all your options to make sure you are finding the home loan that suits you.

Ask your lender as many questions as possible - we are always here to help, every step of the way.

Bananacoast Community Credit Union Ltd Australian Credit Licence Number 241077

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My Mortgage Manager provides professional finance advice to residents of the Coffs Coast to finance their home, investments and businesses. FOCUS had a chat with Chris and Craig McGregor to find out more about their business, the team, services they provide and some expert advice on finance.

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My Mortgage

manager W

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast?

We moved to Coffs Harbour in 2002 with our three young children after a number of regional NSW relocations due to corporate banking roles.

We chose Coffs Harbour as our final home to raise our family, due to its idyllic climate and lifestyle.

Previously it was fond memories of family holidays to Coffs Harbour as children and then as young parents.

Now, we are grandparents, still enjoying the lifestyle that the Coffs Coast provides.

What is your professional career background?

We met each other in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney in 1989, working for a corporate bank.

After a taste of city life, we moved home to Newcastle. In 1998 we relocated to Tamworth, for Craig to take on his first commercial

banking managerial position.

A further career advancement to Orange in 2000, with Chris then allowing one final move. This is when we chose Coffs Harbour for our young family to settle.

Craig was Senior Commercial Manager until 2013, then a leadership role as Regional Executive North Coast & New England until 2016. During (his) banking career he was awarded National Top 100 on numerous occasions.

Chris held positions in banking across roles in consumer, commercial and financial planning. Whilst working for the bank she also volunteered for Westpac Rescue Helicopter Ball’s Service (WRHS) and was organising annual Westpac Rescue Helicopter Balls. She then became full-time with WRHS. In 2009 Chris returned to banking as Home Finance Manager.

What is the history behind My Mortgage

Christine and the team were able to simplify the process and structure our finance, which enabled us to grow our investment/retirement portfolio.

We will definitely seek My Mortgage Manager to help with our next investment.

- Sheryl and Andrew

Manager?

My Mortgage Manager was founded in Coffs Harbour in 2012

by Managing Director Christine McGregor.

The name typifies what we do, which is having an intimate ongoing finance relationship with our clients.

Bank or credit union managers come and go, lending policies are constantly changing, clients’ individual circumstances change; we are the consistent partner for our clients to guide them in their financial future.

We commenced as a home office business, then in 2016 opened an office at The Promenade, and have now grown to employ seven staff.

We are an independent (non-franchise) locally owned family business providing finance advisory to individuals, businesses and corporations.

We deliberately chose to be independent and NOT be part of a franchised mortgage brokerage with part-bank ownership.

This provides us with flexibility and clear transparency in operating our business.

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focus profile.

CHRISTINE McGREGOR

CRAIG McGREGOR

FIONA ERQUIAGA

Chris specialises in strategically structuring residential property finance, providing advice for owner occupied and investors. With over 20 years’ experience in the finance industry, and hundreds of loyal clients, Chris has in-depth knowledge and a real understanding of banks and lender policies. A skilled problem solver, a desire to educate and build relationships with her clients make Chris a valued partner to deliver excellent service and outstanding results.

Craig joined in 2016 and operates My Mortgage Manager Commercial. His role is professional finance advisory conduit between client and financier. Craig provides strategic direction and finance solutions to the business owner, then uses his experience and skills to undertake negotiations with existing and/or alternative financiers to structure and/or restructure debt and security, pricing for risk and maximising the return on their equity.

Fiona commenced with us in early 2017. She has extensive background in personal and business banking, previously working for major banks and lenders across Northern NSW. Her roles in personal lending, business relationship and credit analysis have provided her with experience to assist clients with home and investment loans, SMSF, business, agribusiness and equipment finance.

Fiona is approachable, well organised and is dedicated to delivering outstanding outcomes for her clients.

nolans PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH CHRISTINE AND CRAIG AND THE TEAM AT MY MORTGAGE MANAGER

“OUR AIM IS SIMPLE—TO PROVIDE EVERYONE WE MEET WITH A STRESS FREE, SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE” Residential Sales | Property Management Commercial Sales & Leasing | Holiday Management Project Marketing

02 6650 0655 | www.nolanpartners.com.au

321 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour | 9 First Avenue, Sawtell 82 Coffs Coast focus

focus profile le.

JULIAN BRYANT

JOANNE ROLFE

Julian has recently commenced and brings a broad finance knowledge across personal and business banking, previously working for major regional lenders.

Jo is our Client Manager and supports Chris to ensure our clients have an outstanding experience.

He is a very strong communicator and provides his clients with exceptional outcomes. Julian assists clients with home and investment loans, SMSF, business, and equipment finance.

Her role entails liaising with banks, lenders, conveyancers, solicitor and accountants.

Jo has background in support roles in finance, property management and accountancy.

GEMMA MCQUEEN-PITHER Gemma started with us in 2016 as Client Assistant. She took some family time and has recently returned. In her current role she completes loan assessment and research.

LUCAS McGREGOR Lucas started in family business in 2017 as Client Assistant. He completes loan preassessment tasks and file audit. He also assists with car loans and equipment finance applications.

That is a combined +90 years’ finance industry experience including +40 years’ commercial and business lending experience.

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COPIES DELIVERED When you advertise with Focus you’re not just advertising once, but in 21,000 FREE copies. Our huge circulation is the single biggest reason that Focus continues to achieve the results that our clients demand.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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focus profile.

My Mortgage

manager What services do you offer?

We specialise in finance for first home buyers, residential and investment purchases or refinances, investment property portfolio management, commercial property investment and development, business and cashflow finance across all industries, SMSF (LRBA), motor vehicle and equipment finance.

We offer our clients a holistic financial service, utilising our expertise in finance and extending that to our business partners across real estate, legal and conveyancing, home builders, financial planners, accountants, property maintenance and other finance and property related specialists.

What is your WHY? Our chosen tagline words of CHOICE, LIFESTYLE and FUTURE are embodied in our “why”.

At my mortgage manager, we partner with our clients to offer a choice of personalised finance solutions. We empower clients to live a lifestyle they desire, working together to create a secure financial future for themselves and their families.

My Mortgage Manager has established a loyal

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client base due to our delivery of superior service and outstanding results for our clients.

What was your influence in becoming mortgage brokers?

We have a real passion and purpose for helping people, and we wanted to use our experience and in-depth knowledge of banks and lenders to ensure clients have the best financial outcomes, now and for their future.

What is the advantage in using a mortgage broker?

Choice, Skilled and Accessible.

We can offer choice of lenders (over 200 products across 30+ Lenders from regional, national and international); we are highly skilled at strategically structuring your finances to provide you with flexibility for future purchases; we can negotiate interest rates which may save you; and we’re accessible after work or weekends to keep you up to date with constant policy changes across multiple lenders or to review your circumstances.

What is the best way to contact and stay connected with My Mortgage Manager ?

Contact us for a FREE consultation via (02) 6656 4346, website (www.mymortgagemgr. com.au), mobile app (via website) or social media (Facebook/Instagram).

You can DOWNLOAD from our website FREE TIPS & GUIDES and use one of our +20 loan calculators.

We also offer FREE Property Reports via CoreLogic. If you are thinking of buying, selling or researching property, contact us today.

What is the loan application process?

We start by meeting up with you at a time and place that suits you - at home, at work or over a coffee; during the week, at night or the weekend - we’re flexible.

During the FREE consultation, we discuss what your financial and personal needs and goals are, now, short term and long term.

We then request from you supporting information for loan assessment, work on structure and commence researching many different products from a range of 30+ lenders to ensure we provide the right solution that meets your needs and goals. We then present you with

our recommendation and Loan Proposal.

We’ll do the paperwork, manage the application process right through to settlement.

We then remain in constant contact via our CRM (Customer Relationship Management) with regular calls, SMS or emails with updates on market-leading products and interest rate updates.

What makes you stand out above your competitors?

In three words … Experience, Process and DNA. Experience - the clear differentiator is that we are a local finance small business with +90 years’ experience, which is an outstanding achievement.

In addition, our Lending Managers are highly trained with Diploma level, whilst the industry minimum is Certificate 4 level.

Process - we simply make it easy to obtain finance. We are at the forefront in the use of technology in our industry with accessibility to information via our App, documentation collection system, speed of approval and ongoing communication touchpoints.

focus profile.

DNA - all of our staff have in their personal DNA an eagerness to help people.

What does your typical client look like?

What is great is that we have no two customers alike. Our clients can be 18-year-old first home buyers, middle age couples upgrading or investing for retirement plan, singles refinancing, astute residential property investors with $6m property portfolios to commercial clients seeking acquisition funding or commercial property purchases of $10m or more.

Tell us about the commercial division of your business?

Our commercial staff have an expansive knowledge and experience with clients across many industries, such as accounting, construction, earthmoving, hospitality, legal, manufacturing, medical, property, real estate, transport and wholesalers.

We see our role as a professional finance advisory conduit between our client and financier or bank, to give the business owner back time they spend dealing with financiers, to enable them to concentrate on managing and growing

their business.

We then provide strategic finance direction and solutions to the business owner, then use our experience and skills to undertake negotiations with existing and/or alternative financiers to structure and/or restructure debt and security, ensure optimum interest rates for risk and maximising the return on their equity and security.

To achieve this, we place great emphasis in taking the time in gaining a deep understanding of our clients’ business, their goals, strategies, challenges and identified risks.

Tell us about some of My Mortgage Manager commercial clients and transactions?

Prior to My Mortgage Manager Commercial, Craig had arranged finance on several landmark commercial buildings in Coffs Harbour, notably, Specialist Medical Facility (adjoining Base Hospital), Twenty8 on Gordon St (offices) and new Westpac Bank on Harbour Drive.

The passion for construction finance has continued with current projects underway at the corner Gordon St and Park Avenue (commercial

offices), residential 10-unit development in Victoria St and commercial offices +10 units in Woolgoolga to commence in 2018.

Outside of property, some examples of transactions thus far have been assisting clients with start-up funding for a wholesale food distribution business, including purchase of plant and machinery and acquisition of additional business after only six months; restructured security from property to cashflow for a mature business to allow ease of generational transfer and refinanced a commercial property investor with resultant $260,000 interest savings over their loan term.

What’s coming up next for My Mortgage Manager?

We were very fortunate to be nominated as finance advisors for purchasers in the soon to be completed 44 apartment Seashells Complex at Park Beach. The month of May will be very busy finalising these finances.

After this we will be releasing our Wealth Portal - your financial world in one place ‌ you may contact us for more details

Since conception, what has been the most important thing to you as a local business?

Clearly having the support of our valued clients and business partners and referrers, entrusting us to provide them or their clients with quality finance advice and delivering superior outcomes.

Tell us about your community involvement.

Chris is a committee member of Pink Silks, which is an amazing charity raising much needed funds for health initiatives.

We support, sponsor and donate to the Comets, Northern Storm FC and CHBC (Coffs Boardriders) via our My Community Partnerships.

These are all leading sporting clubs, but importantly have very strong values and principles around youth and culture in our community.

In addition, we are regular donators to Pink Silks, Diabetes Australia and Cancer Council.

What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast?

Still the climate and lifestyle. When you travel and return home, you really appreciate the surroundings the Coffs Coast offers.

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DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION FROM THE MOMENT YOU WALK THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR OF ONE OF BALANCE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION’S TWO DISPLAY HOMES, YOU SENSE THE COMPANY IS DIFFERENT.

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T

he service is authentic, the designs are practical, and the styling is classy without being pretentious.

Balance is an independent, locally-operated and family-owned business.

With over 100 years’ combined experience in residential construction and property development on the Coffs Coast, the Balance team have the skills and local knowledge to turn your property dreams into reality.

Balance builds throughout the Coffs Coast, from Corindi Beach in the north to Macksville in the south. The company specialises in residential construction, from simple granny flats to multi-dwelling townhouse and villa developments to luxury oceanview homes and

country retreats.

From initial feasibility analyses to final touchups, Balance efficiently handles every step of the residential construction process. They use state-of-the-art design software to provide in-house custom design services (including 3D renderings you can view on your smartphone or VR glasses!) They have solutions for steep sites, beachfront lots, and unusually-shaped blocks. They take care of Council paperwork and approvals and provide professional interior design advice, to ensure your home is stylish and practical.

Balance also offers turn key development solutions, so investors can start earning a return sooner with less hassle.

BALANCE ALSO OFFERS TURN KEY DEVELOPMENT SOLUTIONS, SO INVESTORS CAN START EARNING A RETURN SOONER WITH LESS HASSLE.

The finish on a Balance home is high quality and superb value, with Essastone benchtops and Colorbond roof as standard options, excellent appliances and tapware, LED lighting, and all the little touches that other builders often don’t include, like TV points and NBN data points already wired in, an in-line water filter, tiled shower niches, sealed garage floors, and battened ceilings.

And at every stage, they offer unrivalled accessibility and customer service. Photos and

videos of each step in a new home project are logged on a cloud-based smartphone app, so Balance’s clients can watch the progress on their new home, regardless of where they are in the world.

Building a new home is a big decision that requires a substantial investment in time, energy, and money. It pays to choose an experienced builder you can trust. Balance Design and Construction are the local leaders in residential building excellence.

Experience the difference today!

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team Meet the

EQUIPPED WITH THE IDEAL MIX OF SKILL, EXPERIENCE, AND PASSION, THE STAFF AT BALANCE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ARE THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THEIR EXCEPTIONAL NEW HOMES.

W

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

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e spoke with Head Builder Communication skills are also vital, because Paul Phinn about the every member of our staff interacts with importance of the team clients, subcontractors, and suppliers on a daily at Balance. Firstly, tell us basis. about your experience in the local building How does the quality of your team industry ... improve the experience for your clients?

I completed my Our clients can expect apprenticeship as a transparency and honesty carpenter in Coffs every time they interact Harbour in the 1990s with one of our team THE QUALITY OF OUR and have spent my members. That allows our STAFF IS ALSO THE KEY career working in this clients to have confidence FACTOR IN THE QUALITY region. I’ve built and through the entire OF OUR HOMES - IT IS THE renovated several construction process. Of ATTENTION TO DETAIL homes for my family, course, the quality of THROUGHOUT THE DESIGN and built hundreds of our staff is also the key AND CONSTRUCTION new homes for local factor in the quality of our PROCESS THAT LEADS TO families and investors. homes - it is the attention SUPERIOR RESULTS FOR What are the key to detail throughout the OUR CLIENTS. attributes you seek in design and construction your staff? process that leads to We value honesty superior results for our and reliability above all else, so they are the clients. first things we consider when choosing a Tell us about your project managers ... new team member. Then we are looking for Ande Hein moved to northern NSW with his people who are highly skilled with excellent family several years ago, after years running his knowledge of the local building industry. own business in country New South Wales and

Victoria. He now considers the Coffs Coast home We are very selective about who we engage to and has become an integral part of our staff. work for us. We will only work with the best local Jon Newton is a Coffs Harbour local through tradies, because the skill and dedication of our and through. After years running his own building trades determines the quality of our new homes. business in Coffs, Jon has taken on a new role as We are blessed to have some excellent trades on one of our project managers. He’s looking after the Coffs Coast, so we can have confidence that some of our larger developments, and doing an every home we build is constructed to our high excellent job. He knows the local subcontractors standards. exceptionally well, and his attention to detail is What can people expect from your sales staff fantastic. We are very fortunate to have him on if they’re considering building with Balance? our team.

Our commitment to Why is local knowledge so honesty and reliability important? extends to every stage The Coffs Coast is a unique in the construction WE ARE BLESSED TO place to build - the correct process, including sales.

HAVE SOME EXCELLENT orientation of your home, Jesse has recently come TRADES ON THE COFFS positioning on your block on board as our fullCOAST, SO WE CAN HAVE of land, overcoming sloping time sales consultant.

CONFIDENCE THAT sites, dealing with drainage He is supported by EVERY HOME WE BUILD are some of the challenges Jalene and Katie at IS CONSTRUCTED TO that we have to deal with. Our our display homes.

OUR HIGH STANDARDS. whole team lives locally, so we They are all friendly understand what it takes to and knowledgeable, build homes that are ideally and provide authentic suited to the Coffs Coast. It’s and helpful service to also important to have strong relationships with every visitor to our office or display homes. Our quality local tradesmen and suppliers - something sales team are happy to help with finding land, that only happens over years working in the local selecting the right plan, and explaining every step area. of the construction process.

How do you select your subcontractors?

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Display

homes BALANCE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION HAS TWO EXCEPTIONAL DISPLAY HOMES ON THE COFFS COAST - ONE AT THE ELEMENTS@ COFFS ESTATE ON STADIUM DRIVE, AND ONE IN THE NEW WOOPI BEACH ESTATE IN WOOLGOOLGA. WE ASKED BALANCE’S COLOUR CONSULTANT JALENE PHINN AND BUILDING DESIGNER DAVE YOUNG TO EXPLAIN THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE TWO HOMES.

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Firstly, tell us about your experience in the building industry ...

Jalene Phinn After building and renovating several homes of my own, I decided to turn my passion for design into a career. I completed a Diploma in Interior Design five years ago and have not looked back since. It’s wonderful to be able to take our clients’ ideas and assist them in creating homes that are stylish, practical and unique to them.

Dave Young I’ve been a building designer for more than a decade. I’ve now designed hundreds of new homes on the Coffs Coast.

I really enjoy the process of starting with nothing more than an idea or sketch, and creating a new home that a family will enjoy for many years.

Tell us about the layout of the two display homes.

DY The Elements display home has an

executive feel, with a spacious and secluded master suite, magnificent inside-outside living areas with raked ceilings and an entertainer’s kitchen, along with lots of dedicated space the kids can make their own.

The Woopi Beach display home is perfectly suited to its coastal location, with floor-toceiling windows to take advantage of the sea breezes and a seamless flow between the kitchen, living, dining, and alfresco.

Each home is designed with family living in mind, with lots of storage, three-way family bathrooms, and all the little touches that set a Balance Design and Construction home apart from the rest.

Are the interiors of the two homes different?

JP The two display homes are worlds apart in terms of the interior design and colour palette.

BATHROOMS | INDOOR LIVING | OUTDOOR

COFFS HARBOUR

28 Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour (02) 6651 4133 www.ambertiles.com.au

Proud supplier to Balance Design & Construction 90 Coffs Coast focus

The grey palette at the Elements display home creates a sophisticated, slightly industrial, modern feel which is softened with hints of timber textures and soft furnishings. The kitchen is the showpiece of the house, with a black mirror glass splashback, matt black cupboards and a grey stone benchtop top. All this is contrasted and softened with a generously large white stone island benchtop, kickboard LED lighting, and high raked ceilings. The styling is contemporary and unpretentious.

The display home at Woopi Beach was

FROM THE VERY BEGINNING WE LIKE TO GET TO KNOW OUR CLIENTS AND HOW THEIR HOME CAN BE BUILT AND DESIGNED TO SUIT THEIR PARTICULAR WAY OF LIVING.

designed with the relaxed Coffs Coast lifestyle in mind. There is a real sense of space when you walk in, with high ceilings, huge louvre windows, and a relaxed neutral colour palette. The styling is an eclectic mix of Boho, Balinese and shabby chic with a hint of modern Australian.

Your motto is “Homes for Living� - what does that mean in practice?

DY It means that we carefully consider every aspect of a new home design, to ensure our floorplans are practical and comfortable for family living. We see too many homes with awkward kitchen layouts, tiny bathrooms, insufficient storage space, and other drawbacks that should be fixed at the design stage. Balance Design and Construction homes are built with family living as the

primary consideration.

JP Every family is different and unique.

From the very beginning we like to get to know our clients and how their home can be built and designed to suit their particular way of living. From a design perspective, it means that I work with our clients to create timeless interiors that are comfortable and practical, but still classy and attractive.

The display homes are a perfect example, showing that no matter your style, we can create something special that our clients are proud to call home.

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YOUR PROPERTY INVESTMENT AND

Partner Development

THE RIGHT BUILDER IS VITAL FOR THE SUCCESS OF ANY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT. WE SAT DOWN WITH BALANCE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION’S RESIDENT PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT GURU AND CPA ACCOUNTANT GRAHAM MCPHERSON, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PROPERTY INVESTMENT.

H

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

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i Graham. Tell us about your experience in property development.

I’ve been developing property both personally and professionally for over 20 years. I’ve successfully managed everything from duplex and townhouse developments to multistage subdivisions.

What do you consider the most important factor is in property development?

Definitely the pre purchase feasibility assessment. Property development is a high risk activity, and you need to ensure you can achieve a successful development.

No matter whether big or small, you need to properly assess the viability of the site and your capacity to develop it. We encourage clients to do that analysis prior to purchase. We call on a range of experts in the Coffs Business community to assist us in that process. Professionals such Adendorffs, Newnham Karl Wier Surveyors and First National Real Estate contribute to both avoiding pitfalls and properly assessing the site potential in regard to product and yield and the overall selling prices or rental returns that can be achieved in the market. Individual sites can

have significant issues, and in all cases we obtain an assessment of power supply capacity from Gosling Electrical.

You will need to ensure your project ownership structure is optimal for your circumstances and gives you the financial capability to deliver the project.

Overall, do as much as you can up front, because there are a number of elements that are integral to success.

What are the key steps involved in developing a property?

As mentioned, do your due diligence before you make that property purchase.

As part of that we will have made an assessment of the market demand for that locality and the most appropriate product that can be profitably developed on the site.

You will then enter the design phase. Our designer Dave Young, in consultation with the client, will work with the client’s concepts, the site characteristics, Council zoning and the market. He builds in some great design features, but within a budget that makes the whole development work financially. It often requires numerous rounds of design before a

product emerges that meets everyone’s desired outcomes.

We use industry-leading software to develop plans and 3D models and price out the development cost each step of the way.

Our in-house interior designer Jalene Phinn works with the clients to deliver a specification and colour selection that enhances the value of the product.

You have an array of approval processes to move through, both before the project can commence construction and then upon completion when gaining registration of the subdivided properties. We run these processes concurrently, where possible, to shorten the total development timeframe.

The Development Application is the better known approval process before construction.

You will need more detailed engineering requirements in a multi build project, as well as other ancillary processes such as NBN Co design and approval, NatHERs/Basix etc.

It’s great to get to site and begin building after all the hard yards up front. Construction is managed by one of our project managers, who along with our key subcontractors have a wealth of experience in this sort of work.

We are talking with the client’s real estate agent along the way and assisting with marketing of the product. Some of our projects have sold out prior to going to the construction, which is a great outcome for the client. At other times buyers will gain interest as they see the development being constructed.

How does Balance help someone who has property or is looking to purchase property to develop?

We offer support through the entire process.

We start with no-obligation assistance in assessing the property. Then from design through to registration of the finished product, we are there to assist our clients each step of the way.

Why is choosing the right builder important for IT IS IMPORTANT TO property investors?

TARGET THE RIGHT Choosing the right builder PRODUCT FOR THE who understands the MARKET. A GOOD whole picture of property BUILDER WILL HAVE AN development will relieve INTIMATE KNOWLEDGE some of the stress and reduce course, there is no OF CONSTRUCTION some of the inherent risks better place than the COSTS, WHICH PROVIDES of property development.

Coffs Coast. We look GUIDANCE TO THE It is important to target the set to see continued DESIGN PROCESS. right product for the market. solid population A good builder will have growth. Combined an intimate knowledge of with limited land construction costs, which provides guidance to availability means that supply, if anything, is not the design process. An experienced developer/ keeping up with demand. builder provides the capacity and experience to Other factors do come into play, but for the deal with the challenges that arise. medium term it is a great market for investment.

Is the Coffs Coast a desirable location for Is Balance currently working on any property investment? investment projects?

Without a doubt the market has been very It seems just about everyone in Coffs has seen strong over the last three years. Market prices our six townhouse development in Arthur Street, have lifted significantly and seem set to stay next to Park Beach Plaza. These six townhouses strong. are being built for an out of town investor Australians love living on the coast and of syndicate. They are able to login to our web

based client system and see the photos of the progress on site and also the next fortnight of scheduled construction activities. This is a long term investment for them, and we gave them a three building design providing plenty of natural light and with a roofline that is getting very positive reviews!

We’re building four stylish townhouses in Victoria Street and a number of single dwelling investments as well.

We have just completed villa developments in Sawtell and Toormina, both of which generated excellent returns for our clients.

We have also recently designed a resort style development with a local developer - fantastic liveability with a combination of single and double storey dwellings. Can’t reveal too much more just yet - watch this space!

Developers’ Agent Rich McKeon

• 10 years’ experience in project and land sales • Reputation as the ‘agent of choice’ for local and national developers • Strategic advice for marketing projects from conception to completion Rich’s proven track record has provided him the specific skill set that is required for successful development marketing and sales. Base your viability and risk assessment on realistic advice from a true professional.

First National has the ideal office location in the heart of the Jetty offering high exposure and the perfect platform to showcase your next project or subdivision.

We put you first

Rich McKeon 0412 412 836 rjmckeon@fncoffs.com Coffs Coast focus 93

focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

Shane Art circus

O ’ B R I E N

H

i Shane. What’s your connection to the Coffs Coast?

Our family moved to Coffs Harbour when I was just 5 years old. Having spent my school years here, and enjoying all the natural gifts that our beautiful part of the world has to offer, I eventually had to go back south to Sydney to study and work.

It wasn’t until I was 30 years old did I decide to move back, buy a house and “come home”. I believe Coffs needs creative young minds in order for it to thrive, so I am proud to set up shop here and play my part in its future.

Tell us a little about your business, ArtCircus?

ArtCircus is a unique stationery brand and creative hub that exists to support emerging Australian artists. We collaborate to design curious collections of limited-edition paper product with soul and made in our very own graphic design studio, right here in Coffs!

Our colourful range of diaries, journals, notebooks, greeting cards plus print wrap are specifically to allow for self-expression and to encourage curiosity - which we believe will open doors to a more creative, purposeful life. Combining aesthetic with purpose, our first collection, titled “Emergence”, features curated art, photography plus written content, that has a powerful message about self-love.

Continually evolving, our ranges explore new ideas in fashion, interiors and design - yet we walk to the beat of our own drum, striving for originality and something different.

With a superior level of quality, finish and craftsmanship, our stationery and paper products are made to last, reflecting fastidious attention to detail. We operate with the bigger picture in mind, ensuring our ranges are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible. Printing with FSC paper, sourced from managed forests, minimises the impact to established ecosystems.

Buying from us supports the livelihoods of our collective, who can continue to inspire others through their art-making practice.

ArtCircus is vibrant, artistic, joyful ... playful, curious and fun. We don’t do generic - not ever.

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You’re all about promoting Australia us connect with our audience, by engaging in creatives and artists; how did this passion regular conversation with them. Having lots of come about? industry connections from days spent working in Before moving back home to Coffs, advertising and publishing has also helped too.

I worked in advertising and lived in Manly, I also stand by the need to develop a solid sales Sydney. There, I teamed up with one of the art and marketing strategy that is aligned with the directors at the agency to launch “Fiftyunique values and proposition of your brand.

One” - a series of monthly pop-up exhibitions This is an imperative success tool in a competitive featuring local emerging musicians, artists and business landscape. designers. Named after the address of the agency Who are some of the young up and coming we worked at, Fifty-One came out of an idea to artists to watch? engage my design team in a project to give back Our current collection features the work of to the community we lived and worked in. The six emerging Australian artists; however, we event grew rapidly, attracting a large following have a special place in our heart for Australian and cementing its indigenous artist Delvene place in Sydney’s Cockatoo-Collins, a Nunukul, underground creative Ngugi and Goenpul woman scene. of Quandamooka Country, I soon discovered whose arts practice explores We want to continue to that it was my passion stories of her family’s lived discover and promote to uncover, support, experiences on Minjerribah, emerging Australian love and promote and responding to artists - not just locally, talented emerging representations of images and but Australia-wide - as creatives. A light objects of Quandamooka. we facilitate creative bulb lit-up one day Aside from collaborating workshops within when I realised I with ArtCircus, her work is communities in every state could combine my currently featured on the to help engage emerging experience working in 2018 Commonwealth Games creatives. publishing with my medals. newly-discovered We have also been passion to work with fortunate enough to develop up-and-coming, local creatives ... hence, the idea product with Aaron Darcy, a young Brisbane of ArtCircus was born! artist who constantly experiments with different Your role as Creative Director - what does materials and enjoys discovering new techniques this entail? to apply to this work. He’ll often source natural The role of Creative Director at ArtCircus beads and fibres to assemble the majority of his involves conceptualising each curated collection work, all of which communicate a love of nature, and then working with chosen artists to develop which is the muse that endlessly inspires him content for the product. However, being a when introducing colour and textures. growing business I am no stranger to wearing What advice would you give to young artists lots of different hats - which include admin, or those wanting to pursue a career in the accounts, design, sales and marketing. arts?

What tools have you found most successful We are fortunate enough to live in a society in building your business to date? that deeply values the arts, and there are many Besides a passion for the arts and a strong pathways to a rewarding career in it. Studying vision for the future, social media platforms fine art, graphic design, textiles etc. are the such as Instagram have been a hit with helping obvious choices for those who want to pursue

a career, but many people who aren’t typically artistic as such can use and transfer their professional experience to work with creatives and operate in an industry that is vibrant and exciting, without necessarily being an artist! You could work in anything from business and law to sales and marketing. The sky is the limit!

Regardless, I would encourage all young artists to continue to develop their art and never stop doing it - even if it is just for you - as this is hugely rewarding in itself, creating a sense of purpose and developing your skills.

What does the future hold for ArtCircus?

We want to continue to discover and promote emerging Australian artists - not just locally, but Australia-wide - as we facilitate creative workshops within communities in every state to help engage emerging creatives. Closer to home, we plan to offer accommodation packages for creative retreats and want to help work with local creatives within Coffs to offer employment within our design studio, as we continue to create unique paper product and our new range of textiles.

ArtCircus Studio will also facilitate projects such as branding and marketing experiences for clients, when we merge creative strategy with business to help re-brand and develop their approach. We soon plan to offer corporate gifting opportunities for organisations to purchase and develop their own bespoke stationery to offer to their own clients, as lovely gifts.

Where can people find out more?

We are on Instagram, @Art_Circus so please follow us to stay up-to-date with new collection launches etc. Our website also has an online store which currently lists all of our beautiful product for sale, so if you wanted to buy something we are offering FOCUS readers FREE SHIPPING until June 30, 2018 just by punching in the code ARTCIRCUSFOCUS at checkout. Check us out at: www.artcircus.com.au Thanks Shane.

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THE FREEDOM DIFFERENCE. IN JUST FOUR WORDS. Terri and Jacqui, Freedom family

Love, Decency, Respect, Kindness.

These are not just words to us. They are the values we live by, the values that drive everything we do every single day for those we lovingly call our Freedom family. If you genuinely want Love, Decency, Respect and Kindness for yourself or your loved ones, call us on

1800 840 940 or visit freedomagedcare.com.au/ldrk 80 Coffs Coast focus