Issuu

Mitchell Franzi

December 2018. issue 99

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No.1NSW

GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE 2019

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

STUDENT SUPPORT

TEACHING QUALITY

focus COFFS COAST

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Fairfax Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation. FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

team From the

Welcome to the December issue of Coﬀs Coast FOCUS.

nother bumper edition, and it’s our final edition for 2018. We have gone a little Christmas crazy this month. It’s no surprise to anyone that Sam Dawson has turned the FOCUS office into the North Pole. She has officially converted everyone into believing in the spirit of Christmas. No humbugs allowed in this office! We’ve grabbed a few of our fave local shops and pulled together some inspiration for you, just in time for Christmas. It’s important that we support shopping locally this Christmas, so make sure you turn to our Christmas feature, which kicks off on page 38. A music festival is a great way to wrap up the year, and we were super keen to get behind Sam Phillips and Violet Vibes. It was a blast shooting our December cover. A big shout out goes to Sophie Bird from Wrecked Vintage. Sophie

dressed and styled the shoot, and it’s safe to say we were impressed. Sophie is certainly destined for big things, so be sure to pop into her store in Monterey Arcade and say “Hi”. Also thanks to Trudy Smith for all of the glitter, and models Evie McClelland, Eloise Lydford, Zoe Edwards, Jobe Parter and Angus Field. You guys rock! Andrew Fraser is a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly and has been representing Coffs Harbour for the last 28 years. During his long career he has seen many changes here on the Coffs Coast, and after the announcement of his upcoming retirement, we asked him to tell us about some of his career highlights and the achievements he is most proud of. Thanks for all of your dedication over the years, Andrew. Enjoy retirement! Inside this edition we also feature Mitchell Franzi, a photographer who has inspired us with

his beautiful landscape photos of the Coffs Coast and beyond. His passion for Mother Nature is evident in each photograph. The Bellingen Youth Orchestra was formed after some local music teachers were inspired by a visit from the Australian Chamber Orchestra. The BYO has gone from strength to strength, growing from just 16 members when it began, to currently over 90 members, including the recently established junior training orchestra (String School). FOCUS spoke with Ann Phelan and Rainee Herron about the positive effect the orchestra is having on its student members, as well as the local community. The FOCUS team would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Bring on 2019! “Make it a December to remember” unknown.

The A, B and C of Mercedes-Benz. Owning a new Mercedes-Benz can be as straight forward as A B C. A. Meet Lachlan, he is a Mercedes-Benz Certified Sales Consultant at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. B. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. C. You know that you will get the right advice and friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased your new Mercedes-Benz.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration of our new A-Class, B-Class or C-Class motor vehicles today.

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au LMD3461

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Sam Dawson of PFLAG Coffs Coast.

WELCOME to our support group for the Coffs Coast for the LGBTIQ community family and friends. Coffs Coast PFLAG is a group of volunteers and allies who have either a child, friend or family member they love who they want to support in the best way they know how.

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By doing this you will boost your e believe it is crucial confidence and reduce the anxiety you for families and may be feeling. Be clear with yourself friends to have about how much information you want to accurate, unbiased divulge. information 3. Stay away from topics of discussion that regarding gay, lesbian, bisexual, trigger disputes. transgender, intersex and queer issues. The 4. When you are triggered, acknowledge most important thing is KEEPING FAMILIES TOGETHER through acceptance and greater it, breathe into it and feel the emotion. Donâ€™t react or respond knowledge. in that moment. As we head into the Simply be. You learn so festive season, it is much about yourself great to reflect back in these moments of on this year, plus vulnerability. also look forward. CHRISTMAS CAN BE A 5. Be kind and extend Christmas can be MINEFIELD FOR THE compassion to everyone a minefield for the LGBTIQ COMMUNITY, - more so in those LGBTIQ community, SO I FOUND A FEW moments where you so I found a few tips TIPS TO MAKE SURE feel triggered. to make sure you YOU HAVE A GREAT 6. Stay present. Donâ€™t have a great one! ONE! let your mind wander 1: Self-care. Look into things that after yourself before, happened in the past or during and after worry about what the your trip. Exercise, future may hold. reading, writing, meditation, being social, 7. If you feel it is getting too much, excuse massage. Whatever self-care looks like for yourself for five - 10 minutes. Go to the you, do it. Get some fresh air, move about, bathroom. Stick your head out of the door and limit the alcohol. and breathe in some fresh air. 2. Prepare yourself for any questions that w. https://pflagcoffscoast.com/ tend to come up at family gatherings. The FB. PFLAGcoffcoast usual ones: partner, marriage, kids, job. P. 0417 861 045. Know how you will respond to these.

Coffs Coast focus 5

focusinterview.

Mitchell Franzi is a photographer who has inspired us with his beautiful landscape photos of the Coffs Coast and beyond. HIS PASSION FOR MOTHER NATURE IS EVIDENT IN EACH PHOTOGRAPH. He also shoots a variety of different subjects and styles, and he is clearly someone who will always continue to learn and develop his skills, making him one to watch.

Mitchell F R A N Z I

ey Mitchell; what brought you to the Coffs Coast? I was born in Cairns, Queensland. I moved to the Coffs Coast with my family when I was at the ripe age of five. I have now been here for about 20 years, and I absolutely love it. Where did your journey behind the lens start? My journey began during an apprenticeship at Giant Media in Coffs Harbour, studying graphic design and pre-press, which had a photography module within it. Although most of it was theory, it was intriguing to learn how cameras work and what you can create with them. This tiny little module within a four year course had me hooked. Almost immediately after this, I got my

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first camera, which was a Canon 650D. After two years of discovering what I loved to shoot, which was mainly landscapes, I upgraded to a Canon 70D, and I have just recently upgraded to the Canon 5D Mark IV. Also, around one and a half years ago I purchased my first drone (DJI Mavic Pro - a great beginner drone) thinking it would just be a gimmick and nothing would come of it, but itâ€™s turned out to be a vital part of my journey and business. About 50% of my work is now using the drone. Taking photos from multiple different angles is now a crucial process to almost every shoot I take part, in which wouldnâ€™t be possible without it. What makes the Coffs Coast and surrounding areas such a hotspot for landscape photography? The Coffs Coast is most definitely a hotspot,

with all of the pristine beaches, never-ending landscapes to discover in the west, and with everything within a 10 - 30 minute drive of home - the possibilities are endless. The trick is to not get caught up on the same location; keep things mysterious, discover new things, new people and new skills. What have been some of the biggest learning curves for you when it comes to photography, and what challenges did you face when learning the art of photography? The biggest challenge for me in photography has been moving out of my comfort zone; for example, for the first couple of years in my journey I would limit myself to only taking landscape photos. I have since expanded into many different genres and styles of shooting. I have ventured into real estate, portraits, commercial/industrial, food and slightly touched on weddings/events. One big learning curve within each style of work has been lighting. From speed lights and bulb flashes all the way up to studio strobe lights, each has its own purpose, and what you can create with them comes down to how

creative you can be as a photographer. You have quite a variety in what you shoot. How do you ensure you are prepared for the different styles of work? The main thing is to keep all gear on you or keep it accessible at all THE TRICK IS TO times; you never know NOT GET CAUGHT when you may need it. UP ON THE SAME You need to be organised LOCATION; KEEP and keep a schedule of THINGS MYSTERIOUS, what work needs to be more. I love shooting at DISCOVER NEW done and when it needs all times of the day, but THINGS, NEW PEOPLE to be done by. Google mainly at sunrise, with AND NEW SKILLS. Calendar is a life saver; set the pinks and yellows reminders, show up early shining over the ocean or on time to jobs, and straight into the lens. I keep a clear and creative haven’t got a favourite mind ready for when you location around the Coffs Coast to shoot, as need it. they are all amazing, although Red Rock is What is your favourite subject to work definitely a stand out with all of the colours and with? textures on offer. My favourite subject to work with is Photography is so much deeper than some undoubtedly Mother Nature. No matter what people may think. How much time goes it throws at you, you just keep coming back for into the post and pre production of a shot? I see post production as the major part to completing an image. When shooting landscapes, sometimes the image that comes straight from the camera is great as is; spending a good 10 minutes on that same image may be the difference between only selling the image once, when it could’ve been sold 50 times. With real estate it may take up to 15 minutes

just to edit one image, when lighting is not on your side - that’s when things can take time. For example, you’re in a level 10 studio apartment with ocean views, but when you take a photo it’s either too dark inside or too bright outside. What you can do in the post production stage is blend lighter images with the darker images and then you are left with one final image, neither too dark nor too light, just right. How would you describe your ideal shoot? My ideal shoot would be to travel around the world shooting for a travel company (or any company, really) showing what different places have to offer. Although it’s a long shot, it may happen one day. Never say never, right? What is your advice for the emerging photographers out there? My advice for anyone emerging into photography is to travel to as many places as possible, learn from as many people as possible, always take advice if it’s given to you and experiment. How I learned was almost all from experimentation; if you have the equipment, experiment with it, try different styles but once you find a style you like, don’t get stuck on it. Keep pushing yourself to try new things, and that’s what will make you a great photographer. Where can people see more of your work? I have my own website at franziphotography. com.au where you can purchase prints from around the Coffs Coast, or you can find me on Instagram at @mitchfranzi (landscapes) and @mitchfranziphotography (business). Thanks Mitchell.

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contents

Issue 99 - December 2018

focusinterviews

feature a special

THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE

3 Bears.

It is with great excitement that 3 Bears Cottage Early Education Service can announce that they once again entered The ACA Early Childhood Education Week Awards this year and walked away with an overwhelming win in four categories. FOCUS had a chat with Director Renae Donovan to find out more ...

Benny Black On Fire.

The

Christmas

Coffs Coast born national touring musician Benny Black is a man on fire. In the last 12 months he has performed to over 175,000 people at major stadiums and venues along the East Coast of Australia, including ANZ Stadium Sydney, Suncorp Stadium Brisbane, The SCG, GMHBA Stadium Victoria and Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

The Creative Toy Shop.

the Usual

Suspects

14. WHAT’S ON for December 22. EAT local restaurants

The Creative Toy Shop has recently opened the door to their new showroom in Industrial Drive. The store’s main focus is play based learning for all abilities, offering a wide range of toys for learning and developing skills. FOCUS had a chat with owner Brianna Hindmarsh, to find out more ...

32. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 53. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 73. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss 73. TECH TALK with Gavin Moroney 94. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman

Exceptional Agtours. Quadrant Australia has been specialising in outstanding experiences for over 30 years, both within Australia and overseas. Their agricultural and special interest tours showcase the best of sights and sounds in each country and also give an insight into agricultural practices around the world.

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www.facebook.com/CoﬀsCoastFocus

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

GARDEN With summer living upon us, it is time to think of outdoor furniture! FOCUS had a chat with Gareth Owen about his new showroom and the latest trends in furniture design.

i Gareth. What inspired the move, and where is your new showroom? The original showroom had highway exposure when we moved in; however, since the bypass, there had be a notable drop in customer traffic and the building wasn’t suitable for our new style of furniture. We own the premises where we make the furniture, so it became a natural progression to move in to our newly renovated factory space at 20 Bosworth Rd, Woolgoolga. There’s a new office/reception, kitchen/ sewing room, mezzanine storage and of course, there’s 250 sqm of floor area to display or furniture. You are taking a new direction in your furniture designs; what changes have there been, and what has influenced this? The business was originally started as a “bush furniture” builder, which is what is was when we took the reins over 10 years ago. There’s been a transformation from the bush style to bespoke furniture - custom designed furniture to suit the space in a client’s home/area. We also like to push ourselves to design furniture that we’ve never

attempted before, and those designs have now evolved or even morphed in to standard products (i.e. solid timber wall hung vanities, timber and steel dining tables, dining chairs). We are always keen to speak with customers who cannot get THAT piece of furniture made locally, because in most cases, we can do it AND exceed all expectations. Of course you still do bespoke furniture; what have been some of your recent projects? As shown in the photos, we have recently fitted out a new home in Halliday’s Point with a dining table, coffee table, console and wall hung TV unit, all handcrafted in natural grade KD Blackbutt. Natural grade isn’t perfect, though it has some beautiful grain structure that sets each piece apart. Our client was very happy with the result. Lastly, please tell our readers - why choose solid timber? Timber has an infinite natural

Lisa Owen

beauty that cannot be replicated by man made products, and no two pieces of timber are the same. Timber radiates warmth, especially in the presence of stone and steel and gives an environment a focal point. Timber furniture can also describe what type of person you are, funky, retro, vintage, colonial etc. When thinking of buying timber furniture, I’ve always said “buy it once and buy it well” because your furniture should be an investment and you should look after it, much the same as when you buy a new car; you maintain it, wash it, clean it

to make sure it lasts as long as possible, so why not do the same with your furniture? We offer a 10 year warranty on all our indoor furniture and standard five year warranty on all our outdoor furniture, NOT just 12 months like the big brands offer. If you want your furniture custom made to suit you, come and see us or email us your ideas. We’re here to help; it’s just part of the exceptional service we offer every day. info@biggardenfurniture.com.au Thanks Gareth.

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focusinterview.

STEVE GOOLEY

Coffs Comets

Steve Gooley is the President of the Coﬀs Comets Rugby League Club. We had a chat with him about the club’s recent successes and where he wants to take things for the 2019 season.

ey Steve. Tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast. My wife and I moved to the Coffs Coast in 2000. I have almost been here 20 years, not far off being a local! Since I was a young boy, my family has been coming to Nambucca and Coffs for holidays.

What’s your role with the Coffs Comets, and how long have you been involved with the club? 2012 First Grade Coach; 2013 - 2019 Club President. In your years spent with the club, how have you seen it change and grow? The Comets are a proud club with tremendous traditions. Over the past six years we have

enjoyed some success as a club. In this period we have won two First Grade Grand Finals, a Reserve Grade, Under 18 and Ladies League Tag Grand Final. What's the feeling like when you heard the final siren sound, knowing that all the hard work through the year paid off and the Comets were coming home with the Premiership? It is very satisfying. There is an enormous amount of time, effort, emotion and resources that go in to running a successful Rugby League club. I was enormously happy for the coaches, Brandon Costin and Vaughn Dawes, who played Juniors together at the Comets and are great mates. I was very happy that they were rewarded with a GF victory for their efforts and commitment they showed to their men. If I was going "over the wall" into battle, I would want those two men beside me! Going into next year's preparation, is there much you would change? We are always looking to improve at the Comets. We have kept our coaching team together and will have the core of the same team in 2019. We are looking to develop and grow a lot of our Under 18 team during the 2019 season. There are going to be some upgrades to the Geoff King Motors Oval early next year. How is this going to affect not only the club, but all sports played at the ground? We have been successful in being awarded a "Stronger Country Communities Funding"Grant through the NSW State Government. The grant will

enormously enhance the lighting on our no. 1 and no. 2 fields. This will provide a substantial improvement to our playing and training facilities. Geoff King Motors Oval has been developed by the Coffs Harbour Rugby League Community over the past 30 years. It is the most used sporting facility on the Coffs Coast. It hosts not only Rugby League, but Touch Football, OzTag, Mixed Touch, Representative Football and all kinds of community sport. The grant will enhance participation for all sports played at the facility. As a club, we are very proud of this facility. What's one of the best success stories to come from the club? Shazza McGrady was the captain of our Premiership-winning 2017 Ladies League Tag side. It was the inaugural year of Ladies League Tag in Group 2. I was lucky to have some involvement with this team and helped them out with some coaching. Shaz played in the 2018 inaugural NRL Women’s Premiership for the Roosters. They went down in the Grand Final. What are some of the plans for the future of the club? The club has commenced training for the 2019 season. The Comets Seniors and Juniors are very closely aligned, and we are very busy working together to ensure that we continue to grow together as a successful family club where young men and women can develop through team sport and become strong minded individuals giving back to their community. Thanks Steve.

Visit our

BRAND NEW

DISPLAY HOME at Seacrest Estate Zenith Ave, Sandy Beach

Award-Winning Home Designs | Exceptional Customer Service For more information contact Niki Whelan | P 0412 797 925 | E coffs.display@adenbrook.com.au

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focusinterview.

3 Bears Cottage It is with great excitement that 3 Bears Cottage Early Education Service can announce that they once again entered The ACA Early Childhood Education Week Awards this year and walked away with an overwhelming win in four categories. FOCUS had a chat with Director Renae Donovan to ﬁnd out more ...

e hear you won a staggering four

awards this year? Early Childhood Education Week was a wonderful opportunity for our service to continue raising the public profile of the quality service 3 Bears is delivering to our families, children and the broader community. Participating in this event acknowledges 3 Bears' commitment to working with the early education industry and being a part of the foundation for a continued brighter future of our children, and we were very excited to be once again on board. As an attendee on the night of celebrations at the Shangri La Sydney, we were joined by all the finest in the industry and were treated to a night of extreme gratification and the opportunity to reward my team for their hard work and commitment. What categories were your wins in? Best artwork illustrating the Early Childhood Education Week theme “Engage, Learn, Play - Play is Educational”. Best Early Childhood Education Week Program - Regional Large Centre. Best Program Highlighting the Early Years Learning Framework - Regional. The Power of Relationships with Children. Describe how your nominated artwork illustrated the overall theme to win.

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the children busily and joyfully engaged in When choosing an idea for this entry, our this process of experimenting with various team of educators were inspired to push the methods of constructing their art strands, limits to include all areas of this year’s theme, until they found the process that most Engage, learn, play - play is educational, with successfully worked for them, to be added to only our imagination as the limit. the hovering tents. Our art piece we We encouraged all believe not only family and community encouraged hands on learning through members to collaborate HERE AT 3 BEARS, OUR play, but also with us on this art EDUCATORS VALUE ART included an element project, by presenting AND PLAY AS A TOOL FOR of engagement, to another hoop within our ENGAGEMENT, LEARNING stimulate the children’s service foyer, along with AND EDUCATION, AND senses: touch, smell, a table of various crafting THIS IS WHERE OUR IDEA sight and hearing. supplies that the children FOR AN INTERACTIVE Our hovering craft had previously gathered ART PROJECT EVOLVED, tents through the (as mentioned above) to “HOVERING TENTS”. production phase add to at their leisure. Extended family were introduced to the members like children with a simple grandparents and collection of items that older siblings were also able to contribute they had collected, via their excursion visit to by offering takeaway craft packs to be our local opportunity shops, as well as items completed at home and then brought donated by families and those already within in for attachment. We had a number of the centre to be used for crafting. families contribute to our art tents, as well Through playing with these items on our as a number of community representatives loose parts table, the children were able to that visited our service for various reasons explore and think about what the items are, throughout our week. represent and can be used for. Moving on, On completion of our hovering tents, they we then provided threading items, along with took prime position in our sensory garden, hoops and photographs depicting our final hung from the pergola, enabling the children intention. Throughout Early Education Week

to ignite their senses through play, by twirling and spinning through the tents. As the children played in the hovering tents, noises of bells could be heard, sounds of giggling filled the air, while twirling colours ignited the sense of curiosity, and movement of the tents and the various fabrics, threads and beads awakened a discovery of how our skin perceives different textures upon touch. I believe our art project was a powerful tool for building many skills, but by far the most important element was the interactive end focus of our project - an art piece that can be played with. Many public galleries are littered with signs, asking people to not touch. But here at 3 Bears, our educators value art and play as tool for engagement, learning and education, and this is where our idea for an interactive art project evolved, “hovering tents”. This project provided a place and platform to build upon our partnerships with our families and communities through the arts. What do you think were the contributing factors for 3 Bears' successes this year? MEANINGFULNESS Connecting people together in a common cause. There is no greater sense of satisfaction than helping others to feel and connect with what you are feeling or passionate about too. 3 Bears has always valued the importance

focusinterview.

of doing what a person loves; otherwise, work is nothing more than an effort to complete the day. Like-minded educators ignite ideas, words and meaningfulness, where activities and programs can then be planned for great success. CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS Early Education Week’s themes in themselves have so much relevance to our industry. Connections with EYLF and the National Quality Standards are made throughout all award categories, making both topics relevant and practical within early education settings. In order to improve the likelihood of success in an activity or program, it at least needs to be relevant. The program at 3 Bears is led by a team of educators with an extensive knowledge of the Early Childhood Curriculum and underpins our commitment to the successful participation of our service in this year’s Early Education Week Awards. LEADERSHIP During the lead up to Early Education Week, times are busy; there are more decisions to be made and less time to make them. As the Director of the service, it can be easy to take control and make decisions on your own as quickly as possible, to move things along. However, being calm and making planning visible to the team is the secret. Knowing your team’s background and values to motivate and develop their skills will ensure any activity or program success. A leader who can demonstrate an ability to care about their team’s wellbeing, not just the accolade of winning an award, will promote and build better relationships between the

team and willingness for high participation. REFLECTION The concept of taking the time to reflect to just sit and think! In trying to make plans for this year’s awards, it was important to try and understand what worked and what didn’t last year. Feedback from everyone last year needed to be considered, from both the families, children and educators and included not only the positive, but also the feedback you would rather bury. WE ARE TRULY It’s impossible to be the support we receive PROUD OF OUR YEAR successful without from the media, local ROUND COMMUNITY thinking about the big business and our INVOLVEMENT PROGRAMS, picture, and during Early families. With all these AND HENCE HAVE BUILT Education Week this is types of support, it’s SOME CLOSE BONDS particularly important, no surprise to learn WITH MANY COMMUNITY as we strived to inspire that a major factor ORGANISATIONS AND ARE our creativity and sense for success is to know CONTINUALLY GROWING of fun. COMMUNITY RESPECT your community. Our COMMUNITY FOR OUR INDUSTRY. service serves all year as INVOLVEMENT a community centre for Engaging communities families, children and does not happen in one the wider community week; it takes time in building respectful to enjoy. partnerships and relationships. To be CELEBRATE successful in this area, one must be on a A large part of success is having the journey of giving back. At 3 Bears we are right state of mind, so we preplanned for truly proud of our year round community a celebration (community fire pit/open involvement programs, and hence have built night), to take place on the last day of Early some close bonds with many community Education Week. This allowed participants at organisations and are continually growing the very beginning to visualise a successful community respect for our industry. end, rather than focusing on a long list of Each year when we participate in Early things still to be done. Education Week we are overwhelmed by

Instead, we focused on all the things we had to be proud of, even if we weren’t successful with a win. What’s happening for 3 Bears in 2019? It gives us great pleasure to let you know that our staff member Alyssa Lane has been successful in receiving a Rural and Remote Early Childhood Teaching Scholarship. 3 Bears recognises the importance of qualified early childhood teachers in ensuring the delivery of qualified early childhood education programs to our children and look forward to supporting and mentoring Alyssa through her professional studies. I (Renae) have been elected to the 2018/2019 Australian Childcare Alliance NSW Executive Committee. The ACA is a not-for-profit, member funded organisation. I look forward to advocating for the future of Australia’s children to have access to affordable, high quality early childhood education. Thanks Renae. Coffs Coast focus 13

focus_What’s On Coﬀs Coast

D E C E M B E R

Coﬀs Coast Carols by Candlelight

Open House Tamworth Textile Triennial Open House: Tamworth Textile Triennial celebrates the open-ended nature of textile practice today. When 1st December until 25th January. Where Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, Cnr Coff and Dukes Sts. Time Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm. Free admission.

Sundays on the Terrace

Join our Locals Leisure Club, and you could be relaxing by the pool! Membership is $250 for 12 months and includes access to all resort facilities for two adults + 25% discount off food at Horizons Restaurant! When 9th December and each Sunday through until February. Where Opal Cove Resort. Time 2:30pm until 6pm.

14 2019 Jetty Theatre Season Launch

Tamam Shud Tamam Shud were responsible for soundtracking a handful of very influential surfing films, including: Hot Generation, Evolution and the seminal Morning of the Earth. When 8th December. Where Seaview Tavern. Tickets www.offbeatoperations.com.au

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Your seat in the spotlight! Join us for an exclusive sneak peek of our upcoming shows. There’s a surprise for everyone; highly acclaimed theatre, dance, circus and film, alongside incredible home-grown acts that will transport you into a magical world of wonder. 2019 - it’s all about you! The launch will include a special guest performance by Darren Coggan. Light supper provided and a complimentary drink upon arrival. When 14th Dec, 6:30pm. Where Jetty Memorial Theatre. Free entry RSVP essential - 6648 4930 or jettytheatre.com

The Coffs Coast Carols by Candlelight is fast approaching and will bring together the whole community to celebrate Christmas in a family friendly environment at Brelsford Park in the heart of the city. When 15th December. Time 6pm until 9pm. Where Brelsford Park, Coffs Harbour.

Violet Vibes All Ages Music Festival

Thundamentals, Book Seeka, Jack beats (UK), Northeast Party House plus many more. When Saturday, December 22nd. Where Coffs Harbour Showground. Tickets 1st release $59.99, 2nd release $65 + BF Available from www.violetvibesmusicfestival.com

Le Dãin Designs Race Day Featuring an eight race program with Fashions on the Fields, including: Best Dressed Couple and Best Millinery, Best Family, Best Dressed Lady - all are welcome to attend this fun filled, family-friendly outing! When December 27th. Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Gate Entry $10 adult, with children free entry. Lunch Packages Tickets from $129. Gates Open 12pm. Tickets from www.coffsracingclub.com.au

focusinterview.

Soup kitchen COFFS HARBOUR’S UNITING CHURCH

S A W T E L L

R S L

Sawtell RSL is once again helping Coffs Harbour’s Uniting Church Soup Kitchen stock up this Christmas with their annual "Fill the Pantry for a Year!" We spoke to Sawtell RSL Club Marketing Manager Kate Drum to find out more.

ate, tell us about your relationship with the Uniting Church Soup Kitchen and why you love to get behind this great “Fill the Pantry” food drive initiative? We joined forces last year after hearing the stories from the volunteers. One thing that really struck me is the fact that on any given day of the week, there are up to 70 people relying on this service, and they are only the people who are asking for help. The Uniting Church Soup Kitchen operates without any government funding, surviving entirely on donations, so when choosing our

Christmas fundraiser, this was a major factor. How can the community get involved? It’s really easy. We are asking for people to consider adding a couple of nonperishable items to their shopping each week; it all helps.

ONE THING THAT REALLY STRUCK ME IS THE FACT THAT ON ANY GIVEN DAY OF THE WEEK, THERE ARE UP TO 70 PEOPLE RELYING ON THIS SERVICE, AND THEY ARE ONLY THE PEOPLE WHO ARE ASKING FOR HELP.

We would also like to encourage other businesses to jump on board and get their staff involved. Many hands make light work!

Where do they drop off these much needed extra groceries? All donations can be dropped into the Sawtell RSL Club before December 16!

Why should the Coffs community get behind this? Homelessness has a new face - and it’s not

what you think. With 22.3% of households on the Coffs Coast (figures obtained from the 2016 Census) being low income, you never know when one of your loved ones might need this service. In fact, you may never know if one of your loved ones is using this service. Please dig deep this Christmas and help support the wonderful work of the Uniting Church Soup Kitchen.

Coffs Coast focus 15

focusinterview.

Andrew Fraser

Andrew Fraser is a member of THE NEW SOUTH WALES LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY and has been representing Coﬀs Harbour for the last 28 years.

uring his long career he has seen many changes here on the Coffs Coast and after the announcement of his upcoming retirement, we asked him to tell us about some of his career highlights and the achievements he is most proud of. Hi Andrew. Tell us a little about your relationship with the Coffs Coast. I have lived on the Coffs Coast for the past 40 years and have seen the area grow from a sleepy town where bananas were the main industry, to a vibrant tourism and sporting hub. With the banana industry in decline in recent years, the blueberries industry has flourished and now produces in excess of $30 million in produce each year. Where did your interest in politics start? I have always been interested in helping my local community and prior to entering State Parliament in 1990, I was an active Member of Apex, serving as President, Youth Director and a Community Service Director. I was also a Past President and Member of the Tyalla Public School P&C Association, and a Past Trustee of the Coffs Harbour Showground Committee. In addition, I was a Past Chairman of the Australia Day Committee. What would you say was your greatest career achievement? It is difficult to say what my greatest career achievement has been, as there are too many to mention. I do take great pride in the establishment of the Coffs Harbour Education Campus, which incorporates a senior high school, TAFE and university campus. These three educational disciplines have meant that thousands of Coffs Harbour students have been able to study in

16 Coffs Coast focus

Coffs Harbour and have not had to travel to major cities to study. The Pacific Highway upgrade is another career achievement, and we are soon to finally see a four-lane divided highway between Sydney and Tweed Heads. The new Coffs the Australian Ladies Harbour Justice Centre, THE PEOPLE OF THE Classic - Bonville and the incorporating a new COFFS HARBOUR Women’s NSW Open police station and court ELECTORATE TAKE Golf Championships. house, is another career GREAT PRIDE IN THEIR These events not only highlight. It replaced the LOCAL AREA, AND THERE put Coffs Harbour on antiquated and cramped ARE SO MANY PEOPLE the national map, but conditions under which WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED also on the international the police and justice staff TO THE GREAT stage. were working in for many COMMUNITY THAT IT IS. You are New South years. Wales’ longest serving The Coffs Harbour State Parliamentarian Health Campus has been in office, and you will be retiring in 2019. allocated $194 million for an upgrade, which What would be the one thing you will miss will serve the people of the Coffs Harbour the most? electorate for many years to come. I will miss the opportunity to participate in Over my time as the Member for Coffs the robust parliamentary debate and not being Harbour, there have been millions of dollars able to influence policy, apart from being a poured into local sports facilities and events private citizen. over many years, which has made Coffs Looking over some of your photos in the Harbour the go to destination for many people, office, you have met some very famous be they sports people or festival attendees. characters. Who stands out to you and I was able to negotiate to get the World why? Rally Championships to the Coffs Coast. This The most famous people I have met were international event is one of the world’s most Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip. When diverse, exciting and gruelling motor sports Kerrie and I were lucky enough to meet them competitions. It is always spectacular, dramatic in 1992, they both stopped and showed and unpredictable, and the WRC demands concern in relation to an East Coast low that drivers show plenty of skill, courage and was threatening Coffs Harbour. They asked passion. It is watched by a global audience of how my constituents were faring with this millions. adverse weather condition. For people in such a The Coffs Coast has also been fortunate high station in life, to be concerned about the in holding major ladies golf tournaments,

constituents of the Coffs Harbour electorate, gave me an absolute admiration for their knowledge and concern. What are some things you have learnt about the Coffs Coast community in the time that you have served here? The Coffs Coast community is a vibrant, vocal community that openly welcomes international events and visitors. The people of the Coffs Harbour electorate take great pride in their local area, and there are so many people who have contributed to the great community that it is. What advice would you give to the person who takes your place once you retire? The best advice I can give to whoever gets elected as the next Member for Coffs Harbour is to be prepared for long hours, busy weekends and most of all, retain the current office staff who have worked diligently for me for many years, as they have an extensive knowledge of the Coffs Harbour community. Their wealth of knowledge will be invaluable to the incoming Member for Coffs Harbour. What are you looking forward to in your retirement? In my retirement, I am very much looking forward to spending more time with Kerrie and my family, travelling as much as I can, playing as much golf as I can and following Rally events. Thanks Andrew.

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Coffs Coast focus 17

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

being over 60% of the population. This is as short videos and photos, which can show a huge audience marketplace for agents another aspect to a property. Buyers are now and vendors to promote their properties. using platforms such as Instagram to search Facebook allows targeted marketing, hashtags related to certain areas, such as including radius, age, demographic etc. This #Coffsharbour #Coffsharbourrealestate to targeted marketing pushes your property to search for information on a community and not only a huge market, but also the right find potential listings. buyers for your property SNAPCHAT AND and while Facebook is TWITTER not being used by all While Snapchat and agents, it allows your Twitter are not as Facebook also provides detailed property to stand out widely used as the two analytics for every promotion, from the crowd rather previous platforms, which is imperative to than get lost in the

real estate update. SOCIAL MEDIA AND REAL ESTATE Social media is the newest platform that agents and sellers are using to market and sell property, and it is only growing.

ver 66% of the current market are buyers under 30, and the vast majority of those buyers are active on social media platforms such

as Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. This provides a whole new platform for agents to get in front of potential buyers. Our

18 Coffs Coast focus

marketplace is rapidly changing and while technology has been the drive behind the change, social media is now changing the way properties are exposed. FACEBOOK Facebook is the largest social media platform, with over 15 million users in Australia alone,

they are simply another understanding what swarm of properties avenue which is free to is working in your on Realestate.com and and what is not. campaign use. When marketing a Domain. Facebook also provides detailed property, it is imperative analytics for every to utilise all available promotion, which avenues to reach buyers, is imperative to wherever they may be. understanding what is working in your Gone are the days when home buyers would campaign and what is not. This form of open a newspaper to look for properties for marketing, while not free, is an extremely sale or look up names of real estate agents in cheap option in comparison to other a phone book. Home buyers today are online advertising platforms. looking for that house or parcel of land INSTAGRAM they can call their own. They want to know Instagram is fast becoming the largest social everything about a property before they take media platform, with over 800 million users the time to view it in person and will already worldwide. Businesses are now using this have an idea of what they think it is worth. platform to promote goods and services in That is why it is vital that your agent is active an attractive and creative way, reaching more customers than ever before. Instagram allows up to date information on the property, such

on all possible platforms to find the right buyer and achieve the best price.

focusinterview.

The Bellingen Youth Orchestra was formed after some local music teachers were inspired by a visit from the Australian Chamber Orchestra. The BYO has gone from strength to strength, growing from just 16 members when it began, to currently over 90 members, including the recently established junior training orchestra (String School).

Youth Orchestra Bellingen

OCUS spoke with Ann Phelan and Rainee Herron about the positive effect the orchestra is having on its student members, as well as the local community, and about the very exciting upcoming concert, Symphony Under The Stars. What is the Bellingen Youth Orchestra, and how did it start out? In 2007, a special visit from Richard Tognetti and the Australian Chamber Orchestra inspired Anne Phelan and Liz Scott to establish the Bellingen Youth Orchestra. Our students perform at least four performances a year, one alongside the wonderful world renowned concert pianist David Helfgott, the orchestra’s patron, along with his beautiful wife Gillian. The opportunity to be a part of this wonderful orchestra has paid off for many students, with some students becoming involved with programs run by the Australian Youth Orchestra, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Acacia Quartet. What sort of age range are the kids who make up the orchestra? Our core orchestra has students from different schools ranging in age from 13 to 18. However, we have also recently established a junior training orchestra (string school) that draws on students with musical ability unable to be met in the general school setting. These students range in age from eight to 12. What do you think the young musicians get out of being part of the BYO? The BYO’s mission has many dimensions. These include: • Providing young musicians with the joy of making music together and inspiring young

musicians to stretch themselves and aim higher than they would if playing alone. • To encourage students throughout the Bellingen shire to learn an instrument and in so doing, give some disengaged students a hook back into education and with others, improve their participation in school and overall academic performance. • To give local people in rural Australia the opportunity to hear live performances of classical music that would otherwise be unavailable to them. • To nurture and provide a safe haven for neurodiverse kids; students who struggle to find their footing socially; and those who have no ball skills but yearn for the sort of camaraderie that is familiar to those on a football team. • To develop a culture in which leadership and organisational skills in students are fostered by encouraging older students to assist and mentor younger ones. • To support community causes by performing at fundraisers and in so doing, inculcate a sense of responsibility for others in students by enabling them to be providers as well as receivers; • For music to become a focal point for acts of generosity which foster relationships between people of goodwill (past examples include local clubs and people contributing to the purchase of a $10,000 violin for a local prodigy who went on to become a professional concert performer, and strangers paying for primary school children’s music lessons); • Inclusion is a fundamental tenent of the BYO. All members are included in all orchestra workshops, performances and trips, irrespective of any disadvantage. Assistance is provided for tuition where necessary.

The opportunity to be a part of

this wonderful orchestra has paid oﬀ for many students, with some students becoming involved with programs run by the Australian Youth Orchestra, Australian Chamber

What has the attended the concert. Many community response in the audience (Indigenous to the group been and non-Indigenous), shed like? tears at the beauty of what Our local community they saw and heard that is highly supportive night. Orchestra, Sydney Symphony of our orchestra. The BYO will be Orchestra and the Acacia Quartet. We have a strong performing a concert committee of volunteer which you could say is parents who help one-of-a-kind for the with grants, managing funds, marketing, Coffs Coast. Where will you be performing, providing food for afternoon tea, ticketing and what can we expect? and food sales at concerts. Our public events We are offering our local and wider are always booked out. The BYO has fostered community a Symphony under the Stars important relationships with other community - an event only usually accessed in larger organisations. Locally, Camp Creative has metropolitan areas. provided scholarship opportunities a couple of The show will start at 5:15pm and conclude times a year to assist students with tutorial and at 9pm. It will take place at the Bellingen maintenance of instruments costs. Rotary and Showgrounds, under a beautiful starry night sky the Lions Club have contributed to the purchase (we hope). The program will include an array of instruments and uniforms for the orchestra, of talent and choirs from the local community. and the Fine Music Festival has provided The finale will be Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, resources to support music composition by local performed by the Bellingen Youth Orchestra, students. Nationally, enduring partnerships with accompanied by cannons and fireworks. This the Australian Youth Orchestra, ACO and SSO will be an event unparalleled to anything that have elevated local students' understanding of has ever occurred in this area. performance to an unprecedented level. Where can the Coffs Coast community get The benefits of these connections have been more information on the BYO and this extended far beyond the student participants event? to the many hundreds who have attended their The best place to find any information on concerts over the past 11 years. A particularly the Bellingen Youth Orchestra is their Facebook moving example of this was a concert at which page: the orchestra, together with Brisbane Birralee https://www.facebook.com/pg/ Voices and local choirs (singing in the local bellingenyouthorchestra/about/?ref=page_ Gumbaynggirr language) performed Wuuban internal Barri, a work composed and conducted by Paul Any further questions or queries about Jarman. About 40 Indigenous people from the donations can be directed to Kempsey, Nambucca and Bellingen LGAs, none Rainee.herron@det.nsw.edu.au of whom had ever seen an orchestra before, Thanks Ann and Rainee. Coffs Coast focus 19

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY 16 NOVEMBER 2018 – 25 JANUARY 2019 ALL WELCOME, FREE ENTRY

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OPEN HOUSE: TAMWORTH TEXTILE TRIENNIAL celebrates the open-ended nature of textile practice today. The participant artists are all linked to things outside of themselves and their studios. Many celebrate the sense of belonging that comes from working with other artists; while others take on wide-ranging issues, such as the landscape and the environment, and the artist’s place in a world beset by social and cultural upheaval. Through the processes of creating, talking and exhibiting, artists come together with communities as equal participants in an “open house” where all ideas and responses are welcome.

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facebook.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery instagram.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is a cultural facility of Coffs Harbour City Council

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WINNER 2015

WINNER 2016

Young Explorers Preschool and Long Day Care Young Explorers Preschool is an independently owned and family operated centre that is conveniently located close to Coffs Harbour Central Business District. The centre caters for children aged 18 months to five years, and is open Monday to Friday from 7:30am - 5.30pm, 50 weeks of the year. Young Explorers has a community and family focus, with a homely atmosphere that ensures the transition to preschool is as smooth as possible. Our nurturing environments and stimulating curriculums are designed to ensure your child receives the best opportunities for learning and development, as they prepare for their school years. We provide families with daily updates and document each child’s learning outcomes and achievements through our secure and personalised communication application.

Our professional and passionate educators are at the core of the Young Explorers family. Each of our educators has a strong commitment to meeting the individual needs of the child and family. It is difficult to put into words the Young Explorers difference; it is more a feeling that our families get when they’re here. It’s handing them a tissue on that difficult first day, calling to share a milestone, a funny story, or making every birthday a child spends with us an extra special day. Young Explorers is currently taking enrolments for 2019. To schedule a visit and discuss your child’s educational needs, please contact our Director, Nicole, on 6652 7300 or info@youngexplorers.com.au You can also visit our website: www.youngexplorers.com.au and Facebook / Instagram page @youngexplorerscoffs

Coffs Coast focus 21

Burnt Fig & Cinnamon Granola served with fresh seasonal fruit, choice of milk and Greek yoghurt from Beachouse Woolgoolga.

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focusinterview.

BIG country meats AND FOODS

LOCAL ARTISAN MEAT PURVEYORS

At Big Country Meats we sell only the best Australian meat products available - free range lamb, beef, chicken, and we are excited to introduce our Bangalow fresh pork, supporting our 100% Australian pork lines. All products are prepared on site; you can purchase that freezer full or just a single chop and steak. A must is our free range chicken and lamb mini roasts … mmm ... mouthwatering! Cooking time one and a half glasses of wine, and it’s that easy. Local sausage competition champions, many times over - we make 12,000 to 13,000 sausages every week! Big Country Meats was recently judged “Australia’s Best Bacon” by the Australian Pork Board 2018. Some of the comments were, “Perfect taste, perfect smoke flavour and very high trademanship”. At Sydney Royal Fine Food Show we picked up 10 medals - two Gold, two Silver, six Bronze and Gold for leg ham and bacon.

All our smoked and cooked products are manufactured on site; special orders are catered for, like that thick bacon cut or that smokey, spicy, handmade cabanossi. Ryan’s pies and potato bake made on site are the best! Corporate orders catered for, like cold cut platters and Christmas ham done to order. Young Jake is our customer concierge; he and his friendly team are on hand to help you with all your needs and for those quick cooking tips, all with a smile! Come in to see us at 232 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour, or call on 6652 2197. Gold medal winning leg hams and Bangalow ham smoked on site - order now for Christmas!

of The

• Apple & Pomegranate Mojito • Just in time for summer, the gang at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip have lined up a super refreshing banger that will surely get your taste buds tingling. Their Apple & Pomegranate Mojito packs a delicious punch of apple infused vodka, white rum, fresh pomegranate seeds, mint and some other lil’ summer secrets. This superb twist on a timeless classic will leave you craving more with every sip!

Rai and the boys are back on the road, celebrating yet another Summer of Thirsty Merc. FOCUS chatted with Rai in the lead up to their show on the Coﬀs Coast … Hi Rai; it’s been a while since we last think they’re always evolving a bit - I do caught up. What have been some temporarily retire a song form a setlist, highlights from the past couple of years? usually more for the reason that you can’t fit Well, I have done a lot of travelling it in lengthwise than we don’t like playing it internationally these last couple of years and any more. also, I guess, just keeping the band moving There’s a certain flow and almost a along. It’s been a new independent style storyline that goes through a setlist, and of our business structure; we have gone I guess that there are certain songs that from being a major would be doubling up label signed band to the same scenes. We a fully independent often pull a song for outfit, so it was a that reason for a while, BEING A LITTLE BIT OLDER huge crash course but then we will find NOW, WE’VE LEARNT THE learning about how in three tours’ time we INS AND OUTS OF THE that whole industry will put it back in there. INDUSTRY,AND WE GET TO works. It’s been a I guess it’s like players JUST DO MORE OF WHAT bit of a triumphant on a footy team; if you WE WANT, WHEN WE WANT, way of landing that change one player, the HOW WE WANT, WHICH IS somersault - it was whole team changes. OFTEN WHAT YOU DON’T a big undertaking to I like playing all the GET WHEN YOU’RE IN A transfer over to that stuff and even the songs DIFFERENT SYSTEM ... structuring. that people request We are now the most - songs that completely self are singalongs. Crowds managed with no are different; they sing publishers and no label; we do a lot more in along differently. house. How are you going to spend this Being a little bit older now, we’ve learnt summer(time)? the ins and outs of the industry and we get Good question! I think this is going to be to just do more of what we want, when we a very busy touring season, and then we will want, how we want, which is often what see what happens. I will try to get some new you don’t get when you’re in a different material out there ... system ... But in saying that, I wouldn’t have Thanks Rai. been able to learn it without going through those systems. After all this time, what song do you not get tired of performing and why? Saturday 29th December, There are a lot of songs in the Merc Moonee Beach Tavern, Moonee Beach. catalogue that I like playing continually. I www.thirstymerc.com Coffs Coast focus 23

24 Coffs Coast focus

The Coramba Hotel Brett and Sandy, the owners of the Coramba Hotel, are thrilled to announce that they are not only the winners of the Coffs Coast Triple M 2018 BEST PARMI, but also the 2018 BEST PUB! New chef Brad is still receiving amazing feedback too. He offers great value $12 weekly specials, plus some fantastic $15 weekend specials. Delicious handmade pizzas and hotdogs can be ordered through their friendly bar staff. Brett and Sandy would love to wish everyone a merry Christmas and they hope to see you over the holidays. Check out the December entertainment, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views in an old fashioned pub atmostphere. Sunday arvo, Dec 2nd - TANGLE from 2 ‘til 6pm. Saturday night, Dec 8th - THE BLACK COWS from 7pm ‘til 11pm. Sunday arvo, Dec 9th - MICK BATEMAN from 2 ‘til 6pm. Sunday arvo, Dec 16th - SHANNON HUNTER from 2 ‘til 6pm. Sunday, Dec 23rd - A special CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN DAY kids’ activities and games with Andrew Smiley and friends, plus a special visit from Santa himself. Plus, the D’BOYZOS will be playing live from 2 ‘til 6pm. Sunday, Dec 30th - WHO’S CHARLIE from 2 ‘til 6pm. NEW YEAR’S EVE, Dec 31st - SLIPSTREAM from 7pm ‘til late.

Coffs Coast focus 25

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Coffs Coast focus 27

focusinterview.

Benny Black B Bl laacckk o n

f i r e

Coﬀs Coast born national touring musician Benny Black is a man on ﬁre. IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS HE HAS PERFORMED TO OVER 175,000 PEOPLE AT MAJOR STADIUMS AND VENUES ALONG THE EAST COAST OF AUSTR ALIA, including ANZ Stadium Sydney, Suncorp Stadium Brisbane, The SCG, GMHBA Stadium Victoria and Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

e has performed centre stage at the NRL, the AFL and the NBL. Benny is about to release his third international single, On Fire and will perform to a sell out crowd at Melbourne Arena this Boxing Day for NBL Champions Melbourne United’s Grand Final Rematch vs. Adelaide 36ers. We haven’t seen you as much on the Coffs Coast lately. How has all the touring been going, and how have the big shows been? I know! It’s been a super busy year and I’ve been constantly on the road, or in a plane [laughs]. I’ve learned to love suitcases and hotel rooms [laughs again]. It’s always good to be back in my home town and to be around my good friends and family, though. It’s like my oasis here. I do have some more Coast shows coming up soon, which I’m looking forward to. The touring has been awesome, and the shows have been amazing. The crowds have been really supportive. I’ve been really lucky and blessed to be able to play them and to do what I love to do. Which show has been your favourite and why? It’s really hard to say. It was a real honour to walk out and play in legendary venues like the SCG and Suncorp Stadium, and the feeling is unbelievable and surreal. I would have to say that the most fun the band and I have had recently and the gig we enjoyed the most was playing at GMHBA Stadium at Geelong, at the AFL for the Geelong Cats home game vs. Brisbane Lions. The stadium was a sell out. There were 40,000 people there, and they were

28 Coffs Coast focus

singing along with us and getting right into every song. It was definitely a called “Bathtime buzz, and we felt right at Productions” - Matt Being a musician, I home ... and Clare Bath and ALWAYS LOVE TO Not to mention the Tom Schneider. HELP TALENTED band got a full rider of Apart from being UP AND COMING premium beer in the legends, these guys ACTS REALISE dressing room. So, you are absolutely brilliant THEIR POTENTIAL could say it was an extra with film and do some AND CHASE THEIR good time! awesome work. DREAMS. If there’s Tell us about your new They’ve also anything I can do to help, I will. single. recently done some It’s a track called On amazing work on Fire I recently wrote and productions for the recorded in Sydney with ABC and Channel my friend and drummer Seven; it was Alexie Pigot. It’s just been mastered by Grammy awesome to work with them on it. Nominated Mastering Engineer Leon Zervos We wanted the video to have some fun vibes, (formerly of Sterling Sound, New York) who’s so we basically got the band and a few friends worked with INXS, Aerosmith, Santana and together and went to some super cool local Muse. It’s basically just a fun track with a feel venues (Cedar Bar in Bellingen and Element Bar good vibe about having good times with friends. Coffs Harbour) and had a some fun and some It’s a bit of a party track. You can put it on and good times. It was so good to be able to film jump around to it. it with some friends, and the guys got some I’ve been listening to a lot of vintage and indie fantastic footage. I’m super happy with the way rock lately from bands like The Rolling Stones it turned out. and The Strokes. I think you can hear some of What else have you got coming up? those influences in the track. I’ll be releasing it I’m performing two solo show in Coffs internationally on iTunes and Spotify sometime Harbour at Element Bar on Nov 17 and 22. I’m in the next couple of weeks. So, it may be out by playing Dee Why Hotel in Sydney on November the time people read this interview! 23. I have another solo show booked at Cedar We heard you filmed the video for it locally? Bar, Bellingen on Dec 21, and the band and I I worked with a some good friends of mine have a massive show coming up on Boxing Day who have a production company in Sawtell in Melbourne at Melbourne Arena for the NBL.

I’m currently recording my fourth single in Sydney, which will be finished soon, and we’ll start shooting the video for it as well. I have some more shows planned for Sydney and Brisbane in the New Year that are yet to be announced. Things are super busy, so I probably won’t have any holidays coming up soon! You’ve had lots of success yourself, but we know you also book and manage and help develop up and coming artists. Being a musician, I always love to help talented up and coming acts realise their potential and chase their dreams. If there’s anything I can do to help, I will. Through my agency Ace Entertainment and Artist Management I offer assistance with booking venues and providing management services to them. I also offer advice and information to them I’ve learnt from working in the music industry. Thanks for coming in and chatting to us, Benny. Keep doing the Coffs Coast proud.

Benny Black’s current single On Fire is out now on iTunes and Spotfiy, and the video is available on YouTube. For more information, visit www.bennyblack.com.au or email Ace Entertainment and Artist Management at aceentertainment@live.com.au

THE COFFS COAST GIG GUIDE

9TH DECEMBER Aftershock Of Australian Rock - Hoey Moey Madelyn - Element Bar Mick Bateman - Coramba Hotel Tommy Memphis - Sawtell RSL

3RD DECEMBER Tangle - Coramba Hotel

5TH DECEMBER Peter Barry - Element Bar

6TH DECEMBER Daniel Hopkins - Element Bar

7TH DECEMBER Jaz + DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey The Funk Thieves - Seaview Tavern Jaie Drieberg - Element Bar

8TH DECEMBER DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey Xmas Carols Night - Moonee Beach Tavern Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern Tamam Shud - Seaview Tavern Akova - Element Bar The Black Cows - Coramba Hotel Thorazoo - Toormina Hotel

13TH DECEMBER Peter Barry - Element Bar See You Up There - Jetty Theatre

14TH DECEMBER Shannon Hunter + DJ Freddy Lee Hoey Moey Abba Rebjorn Tribute Show - Seaview Tavern Chris Grieve - Element Bar The Italian Tenors - Sawtell RSL

15TH DECEMBER DJ Raven - Hoey Moey “nicks’” The Sound Of Stevie Feat. Lisa West - Moonee Beach Tavern Shannon Hunter - Seaview Tavern Phat Tracta - Toormina Hotel Jesse Morris - Element Bar

16TH DECEMBER Sublime Tribute Show + DJ HelmyHoey Moey Craig Freeman - Element Bar Shannon Hunter - Coramba Hotel Open Mic Jamming Session Beachouse Woolgoolga

19TH DECEMBER

Honey & Stone - Hoey Moey Brenden Jenssen - Element Bar Vera Beach Duo - Toormina Hotel Open Mic Jamming Session Beachouse Woolgoolga

12TH DECEMBER Scott Day-vee - Element Bar

FFS COAST

2ND DECEMBER

1ST DECEMBER DJ Rjay - Hoey Moey Coastal Sounds Final - Seaview Tavern Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Glen Shields - Sawtell RSL Alice in Wonderland - Jetty Theatre

DEC

EMBER

Saige - Element Bar

20TH DECEMBER Madelyn - Element Bar Meet Me in St.Louis - Jetty Theatre

21ST DECEMBER Matty Devitt Duo + DJ Little J - Hoey Moey Lisa Hunt & Forever Soul - Moonee Beach Tavern Push Band - Seaview Tavern Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Top Shelf - Sawtell RSL

22ND DECEMBER Daryl Braithwaite - Hoey Moey Lazy Sundays Duo - Moonee Beach Tavern Who’s Charlie - Seaview Tavern Benny Black - Element Bar Car Ramrod - Toormina Hotel Violet Vibes - Coffs Showground

The Coast Comedy Company Players - Sawtell RSL

23RD DECEMBER The Big Ilch + DJ Little J - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Element Bar Christmas Family Fun - Coramba Hotel D’boyzos - Coramba Hotel Rebecca Lloyd - Sawtell RSL

24TH DECEMBER Benny Black Band & DJ Freddy Lee - Seaview Tavern

26TH DECEMBER Annual Boxing Day Beats - Hoey Moey Craig Freeman - Element Bar

27TH DECEMBER Josh Needs - Element Bar

28TH DECEMBER Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar

Troubadors - Sawtell RSL

29TH DECEMBER DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Thirsty Merc - Moonee Beach Tavern Mal Eastick & Andrew Hegedus Duo - Seaview Tavern Jaie Drieberg - Element Bar

30TH DECEMBER Mckenzie + DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Chris Grieve - Element Bar Who’s Charlie - Coramba Hotel Vera Beach Duo - Toormina Hotel

31ST DECEMBER Craig Freeman & Chris Wiggins Element Bar Slipstream - Coramba Hotel DJ Marcus ‘80’s & ‘90s - Toormina Hotel The Drive Ins - Sawtell RSL

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focusinterview.

Thundamentals are headlining the Coffs Coast’s Violet Vibes Festival. FOCUS caught Jeswon + Morgs for a quick chat about what they’ve been up to and what’s still to come ...

i guys. Congratulations on any other. 10 years of Thundamentals! I hope the vibe of the record gives some escape Take us back 10 years ago; from the complexities of the world and helps how did you guys come people focus on all the positives that are out together? there! I would say the vibe is melted ice cream We all come from a small with milo. town in the Blue Mountains; Morgs and Tuka We are excited to have you headlining our were friends since they were pretty young. I Violet Vibes music festival this year. What (Jeswon) didn’t move up to the mountains until I can fans look forward to? was seventeen years old. I met the guys through We love performing - it’s what got us to the love of hip hop and where we are. Festivals music. We met at house are the cream of the crop parties and things like when it comes to fans that and found that we just generally being down were all big fans of hip to get down and dirty WHEN YOU’RE hop, that culture and that which we will do as well. SUCH A BIG FAN OF music. We had friends We have a new show put SOMETHING, I THINK around us who were together for our headline YOU REACH A POINT already doing shows and shows, and we are making WHERE YOU’RE KIND starting to make records a special version of this for OF LIKE, I HAVE TO GIVE ... We would make music festivals! THIS A GO MYSELF ... with on a casual level, but Who were some of your they inspired us to take it major influencers? more seriously. We made Urthboy, who has had the transition of being a successful solo career fans of music to wanting and initially was part to have a go at making it ourselves; it all just of “The Herd”, and also one of the founding came from a place of friendship and appreciated members of “Elefant Traks”, which is a pretty of music. influential hip hop label based in Sydney. Also, It was a pretty organic thing ... When you’re really good friends of ours are the “Hermitude” such a big fan of something, I think you reach a guys; they’re old friends we grew up with. We point where you’re kind of like, I have to give this recorded our first ever EP back in 2008 with one a go myself, and that’s how I feel it evolved for half of Hermitude in his family studio in the Blue us. I think that’s the key to why we’ve been able Mountains, with him and his father. So, those are to do this for so long, because before we started some of the guys that we looked up to. There making music together we were friends, and to was a crew back then called “Down Under Beats this day - above everything else - we’re friends. Crew”; they won one of the super early triple j You've recently released your fifth studio Unearthed comps back in the day, and they were album, I Love Songs. How has it been a big inspiration too. They were the closest to received so far, and what is the album’s vibe? what we were doing or wanted to do. Feedback has been super positive! Some What’s on the radar for Thundamentals in people have commented that it’s so different to 2019? our other stuff; although, to us it seems like we Long walks in the park, lego destruction, horse are doing the same thing we have always done. whispering, spandex, cocoa blasts, experimental We have only ever really made whatever came jazz and trolling Trump’s Twitter account. naturally. This album was no differently made to Thanks guys. Coffs Coast focus 31

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Garth and Brett Morrison, Morrisons Betta Electrical

Sue Marshall and Grahame Maytom from PlastaMasta

Michelle Southcott and Jaimi McCredie from Carpet Court and National Tiles Coffs Harbour

Paul Childs and Tarina Snowball from Wardrobe World

Cindy Roberts and Marcus Phillips from Designer Living Kitchens

Nathan Taylor and David Hopwood

Brian Hopwood, Kim Connolly from Hopwood Homes

Ken Dall Devine from Nolans and Tasha Moore from Regional Finance Solutions

Sandie Robbins, Martin Wells

Social /Scene

will never ever be at the beach and will continue to be the hero and cook the full festive dinner with the mad traditional spirit! But, I might like to add, there is never any hesitation when the question is asked ... are you coming for Christmas dinner ... He! He! Or should I say, Ho! Ho! Sawtell had its recent street closure party, and it was definitely the best yet! “Bringing the Country to Coast Party” was a definite hit with locals and holiday makers alike. To entertain the crowds, the party was jam packed with live music, food stalls, street bar, face painting for the kids, jumping castle and so much more! Strolling down Sawtell’s First Avenue (car free) is a luxury you definitely wouldn’t get everywhere! Lying on blankets, relaxing on the grassy median strip under the majestic Fig Trees is such a treat. The Lindsay’s Transport truck stage was positioned at the top of town in between Sawtell Hotel and Sawtell RSL and was the platform for some sensational Country music. Some of the bands to entertain the crowd were the Ryan Morris Band, Bo Jenkins and the Round Mountain Girls. There was also a “Buy a Bale” collection to support the Drought Relief Charity. Great fun, that’s for sure! There are always a few changes in the street going on, and every now and then there is a new business to join us in Sawtell. We are

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It’s full swing into the “Silly Season”, and Christmas parties are happening everywhere. I still, after all these years, can’t get used to a hot and humid Christmas.

looking forward to a new café in First Avenue in late November that promises to be the “go to” place for great coffee and no nonsense, wholesome food! Kath’s Café will be opening 7am to 7pm, seven days a week over summer and will be a mix of modern and old style meals and drinks. Pop in and say hello to Simon and his friendly staff. We attended the new and exciting “Sundays on the Terrace” at Beachfront Opal Cove Resort just recently, which is a new live music afternoon gig for locals and visitors on the Coffs Coast! Some of the recently featured artists include Benny Black, Jazrol, Kailey Pallas and Titan Sky. Every week a different artist is showcased, along with some “pop up” collaborations! Buckets of fresh prawns and craft beer? One word … WOW! We were lucky enough to win a bucket of prawns. My absolute favourite! Cocktails were concocted, and I can verify the cheese platters were delicious! Sundays on the Terrace at Opal Cove Resort is going to be on everyone’s “To Do” list this summer! FOCUS attended the celebration to launch the new premises for Cornerstone Conveyancing. Situated in the new Rockpool Building at the top of First Avenue in Sawtell, business partners Therese Ryan and Lyn Rovere threw open the doors for family, friends and industry colleagues to usher in a new era for Cornerstone and

thank their many supporters. For the past five years the pair and their team had been servicing and growing an impressive state-wide portfolio from a home office; now they are situated in an elegant, modern, sleek open plan premises in Sawtell on the town’s business strip. Interior design was by Lisa Daniel. When I arrived, it was hard to fit through the door, with so many well-wishers ready to celebrate and enjoy the event. Kicking off with Sundowners, guests enjoyed canapés, tours of the premises and speeches from long-time prominent friends of the business, including Chamber of Commerce President and award winning local McGrath Principal Martin Wells, esteemed lawyer Heather McKinnon, Sally Kite, State Lead for Property Exchange Australia (PEXA) and Belinda Le Fevre, PEXA’s Executive Manager of Government Relations. Therese said the new workspace is transformative not just for the Cornerstone team, but also for the clients.

on the Coffs Coast. The funds raised are

“A home is usually people’s biggest asset, and conveyancing can be very stressful. We are all about raising the bar for conveyancing on the coast, and as a profession! Congratulations!”

and is absolutely great for all the family! There

FOCUS attended the annual Pink Silks Trust third Ladies and Tradies Charity Night at the Hoey Moey. This event has been categorised as the PST “community based” event, raising funds and awareness that benefits everyone

going toward vital equipement for our local hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, with the addition of four extra beds by Christmas. The “Tradie” theme was carried through from décor to auction items, and this added to the enjoyable atmosphere on their amazing night. There was great music, food, lots of laughs and dancing shared by all the guests. It was through the ticket sales, raffles, auction items and cash donations that $27,000 was raised on the night from the generous 40 plus businesses. PST has raised over $800,000 to date! Looking forward to PST Golf Day, Friday 11th Jan ‘19 at the Coffs Harbour Golf Club and Pink Silks Ladies Race Day, 13th Jan ‘19 at the Racing Club. Staying with the Racing Club, the fun leads up to the New Year with the annual Fashion and Family Friendly Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup. This will be held on Thursday 27th December will be entertainment for the children and a Le Dãin Designs Fashions on the Field. Packages available - call 6652 1488. Here is to … Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and safe New Year.

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Cornerstone Conveyancing Events

Lyn Rovere, Millie Tribe, Therese Ryan, Kylie Dillor

Lisa and Elliott Daniel from The Design Company

Sophie Williams, Angela Starkey, Maria Williams, Penny Slaviero

Richard Hinton, Stacy Graham, Nicole Pymont, Tanya Johnson, Scott Nolan, Mick Carah

Barb Ellis, Trudy Thomson, Nicole Moore, Karen Jackson

Steve Petty, Maisie Anning, Elise Petty

Social / Scene

Cherie Parik, Jonathon Brown

Axis IQ

Wajaarr Ngaarlu Dance Group

Annie Clarke, Debbie Gooley

Daniel and David from East Coast Accessibility Experts

Paul Sefky, Shalla Thomas, Andrew Fraser MP

Jeremy Devitt, Shalla Thomas, Uncle Trevor Wilson

Sunady’s on The Terrace Opal Cove Resort

Benny Black, Kailey Pallas

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focusinterview.

Trudy Smith

Andrew

D o n n P at t e r s o n

Andrew Don Patterson from Black Iron Smokers & BBQ has turned his passion for American/Texas Low and Slow style BBQ into a successful mobile catering business, travelling all over Australia with their 2.3 tonne smoker and BBQ in tow, turning heads and cooking up a storm.

Trudy Smith has had a successful face painting and body art business here on the Coﬀs Coast for almost thirty years. She has a great reputation for her painting, has many regular bookings and also teaches art classes. We spoke to her about how she came to build such a wonderfully creative business and what keeps her so passionate about what she does.

i Trudy. What’s your do portraits, and I am a subcontractor for a connection to the Coffs local signwriting business to create artwork Coast? for print. I come from a local family Then of course, I also do my face painting, of five girls. I worked in temporary tattooing, and body art. I also now Coopers Surf Shop then as a offer WATER RESISTANT paint that stays on receptionist at Aanuka Beach, before settling for a few days, which is great for holidays or down with my local man, Alan, and raising water activities, theatre, festivals and sports two lovely daughters here. events. How did you get into face/body painting? Describe a typical day with your art. Opportunities first arose when my girls It’s not all events and painting! It’s often commenced school. I could see there was checking enquiries via emails, texts, Instagram, a lack of art lessons Facebook or just available, so I started answering calls, then some lessons for both organising my very children and adults that talented face painters I have been commissioned to ended up running for for each job. I feel I have design artworks and about 12 years. Then created strong branding murals for public spaces I saw an opportunity over the last 30 years, such as Park Beach with face painting and, but you still have to Plaza, Coﬀs Central, C.ex, with the help of my self-promote with social Bishop Druitt College, as two girls, Bonnie and media (check out "Art by well as businesses and cafés. Meeka, launched my Trudy Smith"!) face painting business. I also have to keep I couldn’t have done it on top of providing the without them! correct paperwork for We had regular gigs at Coffs Harbour things like Public Liability and our Working Catholic Club with Kids Biz every Sunday With Children Check. night; I loved those days working with my girls There are always ups and down in my face painting, but they grew up and now they business, but I have a very understanding and have real jobs - they're both wonderful school supportive husband, and without his support teachers! I then started doing birthday parties, and guidance my business wouldn’t be what it and it just grew from there … is today - thank you, Alan. Do you create other art in any other What are the common misconceptions mediums? that people have about the work you do? One has to be versatile and creative to Most people think it’s an easy and fun job, make a business work from paint brushes and but the truth is, it’s a business. Having the paints! responsibility of other face painters working I teach, both children’s art classes and for me and trying to generate more work is adults' classes. I have been commissioned to challenging, but I also find providing creative design artworks and murals for public spaces work for other Coffs Coast locals very such as Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Central, C.ex, rewarding. Bishop Druitt College, as well as businesses Art by Trudy Smith, Facebook or Instagram or call 0408 329 009. and cafés. I have also been commissioned to

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his month he is coming home for the Jetty Food and Wine Festival and staying for Christmas. We are certainly looking forward to giving his famous beef rib and brisket a try! Hey Andrew. Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. Coffs Harbour is my home town. The Donn Patterson family has been involved in business in Coffs Harbour since 1915 ... hence, the street name, Donn Patterson Drive! As my dad would say, we are almost locals. Where did Black Iron Smoker and BBQ originate? We started as an Australian BBQ Alliance competition BBQ team in 2014. We were asked to cater a friend's son's 16th birthday, and the business started from there, growing steadily over the past four years to become a mobile catering business travelling all over Australia. The BBQ scene is exploding in popularity here in Australia. Why do you think that is? Most Aussies love a good BBQ! And the fact that "low and slow" is something different - it's now being embraced by people far and wide as a point of difference to the standard gas BBQ. It's a totally different way of cooking to the usual Aussie BBQ. There are many different styles of BBQ ... tell us about a few of these. Offset and smoker BBQs are traditionally a wood or charcoal fired BBQ that is run at very low temperatures ( 90 - 100°C) for long periods of time, using large cuts of meat that traditionally were used for stews or sausages. Cooking at low temperatures for a long period of time allows the meat to become tender, and for the fats to render and in turn flavour and tenderise the meat. There are a wide variety of BBQs in this type of cooking. From Offsets, that we use, to

Pellet Smokers, Kamados, Gateway Drums and the humble Weber Kettle. Describe your style of cooking, and what would you say is your personal favourite dish? Black Iron Smokers cooks traditional American/ Texas Low and Slow BBQ, using an Offset Smoker or Stick Burner, as they are known. Our favourite dish is the beef rib and beef brisket - both of these are the backbone of good Texas/American BBQ. We also do a pulled pork burger, chicken wings and hot links (Texas sausage) as well, served with traditional sides such as mac and cheese, our homemade pickles, homemade slaw, crips and pink pickled onions. What's the reception like when you pull up with the 2.3 tonne smoker and BBQ you have in tow? The sheer size of our smoker and how low it sits to the ground raises a few eyebrows, and we often get asked “How heavy is it?” and, “How much food can you cook in it?" It literally turns heads as you drive up the highway to events, with people often tagging us in Facebook photos as we travel! You get to travel all around Australia and will be here in Coffs for the Jetty Food and Wine Festival. Is there anything else you'll be doing here on the Coffs Coast? We are going to be in Coffs for Christmas this year, and we are offering a “Christmas special” on our Facebook page for the Coffs Coast region to do BBQ meat for pick-up, ready to eat for Christmas Day this year. Where can people find out more? We are on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/Black-Iron-SmokersBBQ-1569723966642446/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ blackironsmokers/ Thanks Andrew.

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Hoodoo Gurus You Am I Eskimo Joe The Superjesus British India The Getaway Plan Scott Darlow

Sunday January 27th

Westport Park Port Macquarie

stars.com.au ticketmaster.com.au | 136 100 Beach House person at Glasshouse | The

ern Tickets from underthesouth In

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Coffs Harbour COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY’S NEXT SIX MONTH PROGRAM PROMISES SOMETHING OF INTEREST FOR EVERYONE. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH GALLERY CURATOR JO BESLEY, TO FIND OUT WHAT ARTISTIC DELIGHTS WILL BE ON DISPLAY FOR THE PUBLIC TO ENJOY!

uring January, visitors can catch kitchen table to his work with the iconoclastic the final few weeks of Open surf-wear company Mambo, Wedd draws his House, the Third Tamworth craft from personal interests and experiences Textile Triennial. This exhibition - surfing foremost among these. His ceramic will change your mind about just pieces, both functional and sculptural, are vessels what’s possible when artists work with fabric, for storytelling about history, politics, music fibre and textiles. From possum skin cloaks and popular culture. The images of pioneering through to the finest embroidery, hand-dyed surf photographer John Witzig have been fabrics using native plants to a shark made from a lifelong inspiration for Wedd, and he has recycled fishing nets, the range and diversity of frequently translated them on to his ceramic artworks is truly stunning. objects. Witzig’s photographs of surfing in the The 2019 program kicks off on the 1st 1960s and '70s now have the status of cultural February with a local showcase. Featuring over 50 icons, capturing surfing’s “golden era”. In an local artists, New Year: New exhibition presented in Work reveals the vitality and parallel with Gerry Wedd’s diversity of the Coffs Coast Kitschen Man, four artists arts community and brings - who also happen to surf Featuring over 50 local artists, art and business together. - have created new works New Year: New Work Presented as a partnership in response to Witzig’s reveals the vitality and of the Regional Gallery, extraordinary archive. diversity of the Coﬀs Friends of the Gallery and Featuring Jon Campbell, Coast arts community and the Coffs Harbour Chamber Robert Moore, Gerry Wedd brings art and business together. of Commerce, each artwork and Ozzie Wright, plus new is supported by a local work by John Witzig. business. The artists have Continuing the ceramics had free rein to create what theme, Clay Stories opens they want with a 50 by 50 on 10th May. Clay Stories centimetre square piece of plywood. is a significant survey exhibition of contemporary Opening at the same time is an intriguing artworks in ceramics created by established and and experimental installation, Work in Process. emerging Indigenous artists in remote parts of Here, a painter, a photographer and an arts regional Australia - Ernabella Arts in the APY therapist - co.lab.arts - come together to work Lands, Erub Arts in the Torres Strait, Girringun collaboratively on a project. Their process Aboriginal Art Centre in Far North Queensland, embraces uncertainty, experiential creation and Hermannsburg Potters in the Central Desert and play in art making. The resulting exhibition is an Tiwi Design on Bathurst Island. The exhibition engaging, multimodal space of photographs, presents pieces that are both sculptural and working journals, paintings and sculptures vessel-based, with each body of work a strong created by the three women involved, Ruth medium for storytelling, representative of the Ackary, Jay Black and Karlee Rawkins. artist’s connection to Country. In March, the gallery welcomes Gerry Wedd, Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is located on who enjoys a national reputation for his handthe corner of Coff and Dukes Streets and is open built ceramics that brim with a dry wit, swinging from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm. from the humorous to darkly disturbing. From his Free admission. beginnings making pots with his mother at the Thanks Jo.

Elizabeth Dunn at the studio, photograph by Rhett Hammerton, courtesy of Sabbia Gallery

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY JANUARYâ€“JUNE 2019

1 FEBRUARY â€“ 2 MARCH NEW YEAR, NEW WORK OPENING NIGHT FRIDAY 1 FEBRUARY 2019, 6â€“8PM

Featuring 50 local artists, New Year: New Work reveals the vitality and diversity of the Coffs Coast arts community. Each artist had free rein to do as they want with a 50 x 50 square piece of plywood.

CO.LAB.ARTS: WORK IN PROCESS EXHIBITION LAUNCH SATURDAY 2 FEBRUARY, 2019, 4â€“6PM

A painter, a photographer and an arts therapist come together to work collaboratively; leading to an engaging, multimodal installation of photographs, working journals, paintings and sculptures by the three women involved: Ruth Ackary, Jay Black and Karlee Rawkins.

8 MARCH â€“ 4 MAY GERRY WEDD: KITSCHEN MAN \

10 MAY â€“ 13 JULY CLAY STORIES

OPENING NIGHT FRIDAY 8 MARCH 6â€“8PM

CONTEMPORARY INDIGENOUS CERAMICS FROM REMOTE AUSTRALIA

JAMFACTORY ICON

OPENING NIGHT FRIDAY 10 MAY 2019, 6â€“8PM

An exhibition of Gerry Weddâ€™s hand-built ceramics that brim with a dry wit; from the humorous to the darkly disturbing, exploring history, politics, surfing, music and popular culture.

Clay Stories is a significant survey exhibition of contemporary artworks in ceramics created by Indigenous artists in remote parts of regional Australia.

A JamFactory touring exhibition, assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

RIPPED OFF GERRYâ€™S BEEN DOING IT FOR YEARS â€¦ ITâ€™S ABOUT TIME SOMEONE ELSE GOT IN ON THE ACT inking up, courtesy of andthetreesphotography

Four artists, who also happen to surf, respond to the extraordinary archive of Australiaâ€™s pioneering surf photographer John Witzig. Featuring Jon Campbell, Robert Moore, Gerry Wedd and Ozzie Wright, plus new work by John Witzig. Gerry Wedd, â€˜Midgetâ€™ jar, 2016, coil built, Terracotta, coloured slip, decoration, 1120Â°C, 420 x 270mm photograph by Andrew Cowen

OPEN TUESDAYâ€”SATURDAY \ 10AMâ€”4PM FREE ADMISSION

CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AND DURING THE WEEK PRIOR TO EXHIBITION OPENINGS COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY RIGBY HOUSE \ CNR COFF & DUKE STREETS \ COFFS HARBOUR

ITâ€™S BACK! ENTRIES: OPEN 11 FEBRUARY, CLOSE 10 JUNE 2019 EXHIBITION: 20 SEPTEMBER â€“ 16 NOVEMBER 2019

coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/still

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/subscribe FOLLOW US

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02 6648 4863 gallery@chcc.nsw.gov.au coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/gallery Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is a cultural facility of Coffs Harbour City Council.

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The

Christmas A special focus feature

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A special focus feature

The

Christmas

Willy Wagtail Homewares Zab Designs For those who missed the start of our CLOSING DOWN SALE ... Don’t let time get away and not get the best gifts at low prices. After 12 years, Helen is closing the doors and looking forward to some rest and travel and the next stage of her life. All the stock that has arrived is from the latest trade fair, with an emphasis on gifts for Xmas this year. Alternatively, spoil yourself and grab a new handbag or some jewellery. We currently have a great selection of Nature Bijoux jewellery, which is popular with the girls who like a statement piece. So get on in and take advantage of our final sale and SAVE. Helen and Kandy would like to thank all those loyal customers who have supported us over the years and take this opportunity to wish you all a merry Christmas. May it be a happy one for everyone.

A destination home and lifestyle store ... situated in an elegant rural garden setting located in Boambee, NSW. Debrah, the owner, believes everything you choose to live with should have a story or hold some meaning, be practical and beautiful all at once. Willy Wagtail Homewares stock a specially curated collection of quality contemporary and classic traditional design that has stood the test of time. Buy once and buy well. If you need to know more, see what these happy customers said: “They carry everything you need to create a beautiful and comfortable home. A must to visit for that one off gift, or just to treat yourself. Surrounded by an impressive display of trees and flowers, this unique establishment will entice you to return. With a blend of rustic and contemporary homewares, friendly staff, awesome stock - a fun place to investigate and find some interesting things! Great gift ideas." And: “Willy Wagtail has a large and varied range of goods, from pyjamas to gardening tools. I spent hours walking around looking at all the unique pieces and bought some gifts, which were very reasonably priced. I will definitely be back. For both locals and visitors, a visit to Willy Wagtail Homewares is an experience of discovery, where you are sure to find something you love."

Wrecked Vintage This year, more than ever, it’s so important to shop sustainably and locally for your Christmas giving! Here at Wrecked Vintage we are full to the brim with amazing products for the conscious consumer. We stock European Vintage clothing (we LOVE denim!), Australian designer and lifestyle products and so much more. Never compromising on quality or style, our aim is to make fashion fun again, while not harming the earth! You can find vintage Levis, vintage and designer tees, denim overalls, festival fashion, high quality and locally made gifts and wellbeing products and good good vibes in our shop, where we want everyone to feel at home. We believe fashion should be fun, expressing yourself should be easy, and treating yourself should never be a bad thing. Come hang out with us in store, or shop online while not harming the earth! We just launched our in house label 'Wrecked Boheme'. Exclusive to Wrecked, it's a capsule collection inspired by the bohemian styles of the 70's, but with a modern spin! Designed to be worn every day and passed on to be loved forever more.

Coffs Coast focus 39

THE NE WS HUB @SAW TELL

Hootie Plant Holder - $49.99

A special focus feature

Blue Fish Plant Holder - $39.99

CURIOUS MINDS

Christmas

Falcon Enamelware Tea Pot $32.00 / Mug $6.50 / Round Desert Dish $8.50 WILLY WAGTAIL

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Colour Cube Sudoko by Thinkfun - $49.99

The

WILLY WAGTAIL

Pantry Label Collection - $29.95

THE NE WS HUB @SAW TELL

Gumnut Baby - $65.00 FLOWERS ON FIRST

Charcoal 2 part serve stick - $24.00

Beeswax food wraps, plastic wrap alternative. 3 pack for $27.00 NOURISHED E ARTH

Z AB DE SIGNS

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Charcoal cheese platter - $26.00 Z AB DE SIGNS

Be Cool Be Kind Tee - $40

VA ST INTERIOR COFFS HARBOUR

100% genuine leather tote bag - $119.00

WRECKED V INTAGE

Odd Pears Socks - $19 WRECKED V INTAGE

Coffs Coast focus 41

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Love & Kisses It's On Again Curious Minds Curious Minds Puzzles and Games have new and exciting products arriving daily. From games, brainteasers, Schleich, Sylvanian Families, jigsaws, kites, and lots of stocking fillers. Our friendly staff are ready to help you find that perfect gift for your loved ones this Christmas. We have a huge display of jigsaws and accessories and knowledge to help you display that finished masterpiece. Feed your kids' dinosaur addiction with a giant Brachiosaurus. Not exciting enough? Why not grow your very own dinosaur? Zingo makes learning fun! Help your children conquer matching, sight reading, word building, and more! Play your favourite game show in real time! Each edition brings you more questions and categories to enjoy. Don't you just love a silly, fun game for the whole family! You don't need any skills to play games like Poopyhead and Boganology - just bring a sense of humour. Curious Minds staff can help make your shopping experience fun and easy. Like our Facebook page to see specials and our exciting Games Catologue. Come in and see us today for that unique gift this Christmas.

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From Tamworth, Armidale, Port Macquarie and Grafton, loyal customers are making their November trip back to Love & Kisses for their Christmas shopping and some end-of-year-cheer. And the comments you’ll hear again and again are, “I just love this shop” … “It makes me feel good just being in here”... “It really makes me feel like Christmas”... Judy says the hottest items this season For the girls are: • Jewellery - and they’ve had three new deliveries this week • Miracle Make-Up Remover - use only water - $29.95 • Beautiful journals and quill pens from Italy For the blokes: • Book seats - always a favourite, big again this year - $39.95 • Golf ball finder glasses - they really work! $14.95 • The Leonardo da Vinci working models For teachers: • Special Christmas decorations, from $3.00 • Hand creams and Christmas soaps, from $9.95 • Museum collection shopping bags, $14.95 FOR BABIES and CHILDREN: *check out the Kneezies $13.95, new Teddies, great games Secret Santa: loads of things under $10 - ask for help! So bring your list, join the smart shoppers, and enjoy a happy half-hour in Coffs Harbour’s favourite shop.

2. 1.

7. 5.

10. 13.

12. 11.

1. Mitchell & Ness 110 Pinch Cap $49.95 2. Metallica Monopoly $59.99 3. Stance Marvel Socks $29.95 4.New Era 940 A-Frame Cap $39.95 5. Uppercut Grooming Tins $27.95 6. Nike Benassi Slides from $40 7. Calvin Klein Men’s Underwear 3Pk + 1 Free! $99.95 8. Men’s Stussy Stripe Tee $59.95 9. Pop! Vinyl Figures from $18.99 10. Vegan Cook Book $34.99 11. Men’s Lee Roadie Shorts $109.95 12. Birkenstock Vegan Arizona $129.95 13. Women’s Lee Stripe Tee $59.95 14. Women’s Wrangler Drew Shorts $109.95 15. Adidas Swift Run $149.95

14.

15.

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Christmas

COFFS COAST

Carols C Ca a

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and FROM 6PM ON SATURDAY 15TH DECEMBER IT WILL ALSO SOUND A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS in the heart of the city, with Coﬀs Coast Carols at Brelsford Park.

offs Coast Carols brings the whole Christmas. community together to celebrate Santa will pay a visit to do a final check of his Christmas in true Coffs style - laid back naughty and nice list and to top it all off, the show and family friendly. We look forward will finish with a bang, thanks to the fireworks display to welcoming you and your family and grand finale. friends to celebrate and spread some It’s not just performers on stage; you can also Christmas cheer. The fun-filled evening will feature entertain and treat the kids with face painting, pony a fantastic line up of local performers, including rides, fun inflatables, and glow sticks will be available Rowland and Shekinah Moye, for purchase thanks to Coffs Girl Mal Winkle, Sara Battery and Guides. Jennifer Arts, to sing and You can bring a picnic, or there dance their way through all will be plenty of delicious food Santa will pay a visit to do of your favourite Christmas and drink stalls to choose from, a final check of his naughty carols during a spectacular including a sausage sizzle thanks to and nice list and to top it all show hosted by Triple M’s local Pacific City Lions Club. off, the show will finish Moffee and the Mayor of Coffs So come on down, dress in your with a bang, thanks to Harbour, Cr. Denise Knight. craziest Christmas outfit and sing the fireworks display There will not only be loud and proud from 6pm, Saturday grand finale. one, not two, but five local 15th December at this feel good choirs performing, including celebration, Coffs Coast Carols by a combined schools choir Candlelight. featuring more than 80 A huge thank you to our children from local schools, major sponsors this year: JLE who will perform Jingle Bells and Rudolph the Red Entertainment, C.ex Group, Coffs Harbour City Nosed Reindeer. Coffs Conservatorium choirs, the Council, City Centre Masterplan Committee, Good Microtones, Minitones and Overtones, and The Lakes Price Pharmacy, Geoff King Motors, McDonalds, Village Choir will also feature in the jam packed The Greater Bank, Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast, The program, along with Gold Coast crooner Tommy Big Banana, 360 Financial Advantage, Coffs Coast Memphis, performing the classics Let it Snow and Blue Advocate and FOCUS.

SHOULDER BAG from Vendula of London - $149.00

The

Christmas

Leonardo da Vinci RE-CREATION HELICOPTER - $42.95

GIVING BEAR $54.95

NECKLACE and EARRINGS from Orieult of Paris FOR THE MAN WHO HAS EVERYTHING MULTI TOOL - $29.95

LAVA LAMP $19.95

LIGHT-UP CHRISTMAS picture with twinkling stars - $49.95

GOLF BALL FINDER GLASSES $14.95 Coffs Coast focus 45

PA R K B E A C H P L A Z A

1. 5.

2. 7.

l a mFor orthe x ous 13.

8. 12.

15. 11.

10.

14.

1. Lorna Jane Fierce Luxe bodysuit $99.99 2. Robins Kitchen Alex Liddy Bistro Chic Tea Cup With Saucer $19.99 3. The Plaza News Williamson Matthew Williamson Luxury foiled notecards $22.99 4. Shaver Shop Hot tools curl bar $189 5. Seasons Boutique Sheike cocktail dress $225 6. Dusk Bergamot & Black Pepper Artisan Black Gold gift set $54.99 7. Wallace Bishop 0.5 carat TDW bracelet $1299 8. Prouds The Jewellers 9ct gold hoop earrings $139 9. Sussan luxeculotte $99.95 10. Wallace Bishop 1 carat TDW ring $1499 11. TerryWhite Chemmart Paco Rabanne Lady Million EDP spray 80ml $110 12. Taking Shape Duchess pearl bag $79.95 13. Bright Eyes Guess sunglasses $225 14. Wallace Bishop Loyal Enigma watch $99 15. Colette by Colette Hayman Stone heart diamante keyring $7.99

LOVE giving 46 Coffs Coast focus

PA R K B E A CH PLAZA

GIF T GU I D E

GIFT GUID E

OUT DECEMBER 1ST MONDAY

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY Major

17 December

18 December 19 December

20 December 21 December 22 December 23 December 24 December 25 December 26 December

8.30AM  6.00PM

8.30AM  6.00PM 8.30AM  6.00PM

8.30AM  9.00PM 8.30AM  6.00PM 8.30AM  5.00PM 8.30AM  3.00PM 8.30AM  5.30PM CLOSED 9.00AM  5.30PM*

stores including Aldi, Big W, JB hours. Please visit Hi-Fi , Target, The www.parkbea Reject Shop and chplaza.com.au Woolworths will * Optional Trade: for major store trade outside Stores may choos trading hours. these e not to trade.

LOVE giv ing

LOVE C hri

stm as

5. 2.

S 10.

u a or th e ve 12.

11. 13.

Tarocash

1. Just Cuts Justice firm gel $17.95 2. Robins Kitchen H2 Charcoal Bottle $39.99 3. Cotton On Foundation Gifts That Count give a bicycle $100 4. Wallace Bishop Oval signet ring $599 5. Wallace Bishop Loyal Enigma watch $129 6. Tarocash Ceebee reversible prong belt $49.99 7. The Optical Superstore Luke Lares brown $88 8. The Plaza News Sheaffer pen $49.95 9. TerryWhite Chemmart David Beckham Classic EDT spray 90ml $14 10. Shaver Shop Wahl Stainless Steel Superior Performance Beard Trimmer $199.95 11. Tarocash Woods pique polo $59.99 12. Tarocash Square cuff link $19.99 13. Tarocash Jacob dress shoe $159.99

LOVE Christmas Coffs Coast focus 47

focusinterview.

The

Christmas

Creative t The

Toy Shop

Brianna Hindmarsh

The Creative Toy Shop has recently opened the door to their new showroom in Industrial Drive. The store’s main focus is play based learning for all abilities, oﬀering a wide range of toys for learning and developing skills. FOCUS had a chat with owner Brianna Hindmarsh, to ﬁnd out more ...

hat is your a week across Australia. connection to the Can you tell us a little bit about your Coffs Coast? background and experience in this I moved to the industry? Coffs Coast as a child I am a qualified teacher and have worked and have grown up for six years as a teacher/nanny to four boys. here. I don’t think I want to ever live anywhere I have home-schooled the eldest of the tribe else. It is such a beautiful for four years. He has place to live and work. Down syndrome, and I When and why did you was finding it difficult to start your business? source the toys and games It just happened by I wanted to use for school. We have loved being able to accident, really. I never saw That is a big part of why chat with people, hear myself in business, but the shop began and why about their little ones now love it and couldn’t we are so focused on and suggest products imagine doing anything creative education. that will help develop different. I was at uni and Since opening the skills. Having the time to go working full-time as an in doors of your brand through diﬀerent products and home educator and sharing new showroom, what make recommendations has what we did on Instagram. are some of the things been so beneﬁcial. I soon realised there were you have changed and no stores that ordered improved? quality wooden toys and We have found we educational products that have had to add lots offered different approaches to learning. more shelving, so we can display enough of our I launched in September 2016 with the range. thought of having a hobby and sending a few With the opening of your new showroom, orders a week. Within the first few weeks it how will this help to improve the way took off, and now we send hundreds of parcels people can learn about your services and 48 Coffs Coast focus

products? We have loved being able to chat with people, hear about their little ones and suggest products that will help develop skills. Having the time to go through different products and make recommendations has been so beneficial. What is the best advice you can give to a prospective customer? Pop into our showroom; we are happy to chat about your child's needs and what products will be best for different ages. Do you offer solutions for budgets of different sizes? Absolutely; we have a range of products to suit all budgets. We carry a wide range of brands, and each have different price points. You will find lots of small items that make great stocking stuffers, as well as bigger gift items. What are your plans for the future of The Creative Toy Shop? We have big plans for next year; there will be lots of new things arriving at our store and some exciting announcements coming soon. Where can we find out more? We can be found on Facebook and Instagram. Our website also has our full product range available: www.thecreativetoyshop.com.au Thanks Brianna.

Coffs Coast focus 49

focusinterview.

What’s new at Toormina

Gardens? The

Christmas

Toormina Gardens is excited to announce that TWO LOCAL BUSINESSES HAVE OPENED THEIR DOORS, just in time for Christmas.

halkies: “Chalkies” has recently opened at Toormina Gardens and has proved to be an exciting new addition to the retail mix. Whether your passion is skate, scoot, surf or derby, Chalkies provides everything you need, from hardware to clothing and footwear and all the best brands. The funky style of the store perfectly represents the vision of local owners Bevin “Bevo” Newton and brother Jesse, who are delighted to be having such an impact with their first venture south of Coffs Harbour. “We deliberately opened here because there wasn’t enough support for people in this area who like to skate or scoot,” says Jesse. “I know how hard it is to get your kids off things like YouTube, so if they are outside on skateboards or scooters, we need to do everything to encourage that." Chalkies, which is skateboard slang for the mark you leave behind with your wheel, caters for all ages and abilities and is a hub for information about the sports, Jesse reveals, “If you’re new to the sport, it can be hard to know exactly what you need or what’s available. We’re here to give advice and help, and we also want to teach kids how to properly look after their boards, scooters and skates." Bevin is well known on the skate scene as an organiser of local skate comp Bowlanana and also as a major advocate for the development of the skate park at Brelsford Park. He has already participated in events at the Toormina Skate Park, including skate and scooter workshops, and both he and Jesse look forward to increasing engagement with the Toormina skate community which use the skate park, conveniently located opposite the 50 Coffs Coast focus

centre. chalkies.com.au Chalkies also caters for those who prefer Supply Specialty Coffee Bar: the surf to concrete and is stocking locally Already established in the Coffs Jetty crafted surfboards from Newton Surfboards. precinct, Shane McCarthy and his family have Jim Newton is none other than Bevin and brought their passion for truly great coffee to a Jesse’s dad, so it really is a fully local family whole new market with the opening of Supply business. The love of surf extends to Chalkies' Specialty Coffee Bar in Toormina Gardens. new sponsorship of local talent, Josh Burrows, The shopping centre environment may not which Jesse and Bevin are particularly proud have seemed the obvious partner for Supply, of. but Shane was quick to “It’s great to be able recognise a gap in the to help young people provision of a really great achieve everything they coffee experience, backed can.” up with a delicious food Toormina Gardens’ offer. IT’S FANTASTIC TO SEE owners, Fort Street, “The history of Supply BEVIN AND JESSE TAKE were a driving force is entirely connected to THEIR PASSION AND behind bringing my family’s passion for KNOWLEDGE AND USE Chalkies to the centre. delivering an exceptional IT TO CREATE SUCH A Having acquired the and authentic coffee BRILLIANT BUSINESS centre earlier this year, venue. We’re so proud FOR OUR COMMUNITY. the focus is to support of what we have already emerging retailers and achieved, but recognised take an innovative that we could replicate approach to leasing and this in a completely tenancy design. different location and “We believe concept stores such as Chalkies when the opportunity arose, we felt it was provide local enterprise the opportunity definitely the right choice for us.” to flourish and grow in a trusted retail Shane and Cindy McCarthy have a long environment, without the fear of over history in the hospitality trade. Thirty years ago commitment,” comments Hattie Watson, they moved up from country Victoria, where Marketing Manager. “It’s fantastic to see Bevin they had owned and operated a number and Jesse take their passion and knowledge of local pubs, to start a new joint venture and use it to create such a brilliant business for with Shane’s family, owning and operating our community.” the Arosa Motel on the south side of town. Chalkies is open seven days and has so In 1994 they opened their award-winning many gift ideas - including stocking fillers restaurant, The Tide and Pilot Brasserie (now - in store, you will be spoilt for choice this Latitude 30) and in 2006, after being at the Christmas. helm for 12 years, the McCarthys sold the To find out more, call (02) 6699 2106 or visit Tide and Pilot, and Shane returned to the pub

industry as licensee at the Greenhouse Tavern. When Shane and Cindy’s two children, Todd and Emily moved back up the coast from Sydney, they determined to embark on a new family venture, making use of their combined creative skills and expertise - and Supply was created. So what can Toormina Gardens customers expect from Supply Specialty Coffee Bar? Well, the name says it all. Supply really is famous for its coffee and its holistic approach to the whole process. Shane comments: “The coffees we showcase from The Americas and East Africa are sourced by Australia’s finest specialty green coffee purveyors. We look for coffees that have a story, and we find them when they are at their freshest. We don’t do anything fancy; we merely aim to do justice to the many hands in which these coffees have passed through. We roast everything we serve, we cup everything we roast, and we just love sharing them with you.” And what about the food? Wherever possible, ingredients are locally sourced. There is a strong in-season focus, and interesting techniques such as pickling and smoking are employed in-house. Menus will be changed regularly to showcase seasonal produce and will accommodate favourite dishes recommended by customers. Open for breakfast, morning tea and lunch daily, there are plenty of delicious options to accompany that famous coffee. With another venue now open, you might think Shane would have his hands full, but in fact he already has another venture in motion and is excited to be bringing even more Supply coffee to the Coffs Coast in the not too distant future.

Coffs Coast focus 51

The

Christmas

Flowers on First Get in early this Christmas and order your flowers and gifts from Flowers on First Sawtell. “Gumnut Baby” is our feature Christmas floral arrangement this year, and we can present this arrangement as a tablecentrepiece or gift for your family and loved ones. Think ... gumnuts and cinnamon twill, combined with soft and pretty, fresh blooms. Corporate hampers and gift boxes are available to custom order. “Teatime” is a favourite, and we can switch the tea for wine to create a beautiful gift of flowers and wine. We can also arrange flowers and gifts interstate and overseas through Interflora. Our shop is decked out with Christmas florals, plants, Chrissy decos and giftware, with an emphasis on natural decorations this year, featuring timber, cork, cotton and hessian. For green thumbs, you are welcome to join our Gardeners Club to receive 10% discount off plants and pots all year round - a reward for your return custom. Please ask in-store when you make your next plant purchase. We will once again be hosting our beautiful Christmas Wreath Making Workshop this year from Saturday 15th to Sunday 16th December. Be sure to book your ticket early; these always book out. Happy Christmas, and thank you to our loyal customers and supporters of Flowers on First. xxx

52 Coffs Coast focus

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

December 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A fresh start is about yo be yours. You are about tumble into an experience filled with such happiness that you will probably pinch yourself regularly, to see if it is real. Passion will be high on your list of priorities. Finding new gifts and talents will also bring an air of excitement. Tourmaline brings an inner peace, which helps us receive our true reward.

You don’t need to worry as much as you do. You are currently being given the opportunity to find your inner strength. You are much more capable than you realise. Work with your self-esteem by thinking three compliments to yourself three times a day for three weeks and marvel at the difference. Chrysocolla is wonderful for new discoveries. Wear it on your being whilst thinking about what you want.

The world is your oyster. Set some goals to aid your availability to what the universe is trying to bring into the picture. A journey will help settle your itchy feet/restless energy and when you return home, you will be positively focused and ready to succeed. Sodalite enables our imagination to take us journeying into alternate realities, so we can realize what we desire.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You deserve to have far more happiness than your current circumstance allows. Set some new goals and KNOW you deserve these things. Some outer influence has taught you to believe this is as good as it gets for you. This belief is not accurate. Pyrite will strengthen your self-beliefs and alter your reality.

Your thought processes are at times your own worst enemy. Take some time to reassess where and how you would like to be living in the future and pay attention to the beliefs which hinder this. Then, you will be able to bring forth change. Hematite will aid in goal setting, as it shifts negative thought processes.

Total change to your current circumstance can be expected. The new beginnings will bring such a difference to your attitudes, emotions and intellect, that at times you may feel you don’t know yourself. Travel plans may be on the agenda, as a means of dissipating some restlessness. Rhodochrosite connects us to our inner child energy. This will help you through change easily.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

The feeling of being suspended won’t last much longer. New growth awaits. Justice will be granted, bringing a sense of inner peace. Training or learning something new will align you with exciting opportunities, while travel with educational benefits are also on the horizon. Amethyst brings a sense of calm. Sit by the water and hold a piece while stilling your mind.

This feeling of suspension is not going to last much longer. Look for any tendrils of unsolved emotions, and work through them. You cannot take these hurtful things into the future, so be kind to yourself. Labradorite helps with new experiences. Carry it with you for a couple of weeks to set new patterns.

Your leadership skills are about to be tested in the work place. Keep your “win/win mentality” strong, as this will guide you toward further success. Avoid listening to other people’s fears, as these could hinder your progress should you take them on. Selenite strengthens our connection to our higher consciousness. Carry some on your being for a couple of weeks.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Find your inner harmony by breathing slow deep breaths, then set some goals (short term, and some further in the distance), change some stubborn thought processes and enjoy the experience you’re about to tumble into. Herkimer Diamonds are great for initiating change.

Discovering your motive behind your current actions will free you from your torment; all you need to do is be totally honest with yourself. You may not like what you discover, but simply remove your judgement and change the pattern and motive. Rhodonite helps us to free binding circumstances from our reality.

The universe is trying to herald you with an answer to a prayer. All you have to do to receive this blessing is know you are deserving of the reward. Angels will help you every step of the way. You will be looked after if you get out of the way and let Heaven help you. Malachite helps bring past hurts to the surface for releasing. Enjoy the newfound changes. Coffs Coast focus 53

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

WITH LAUREN VESTEY FROM LIVING DOLL

WITH NOURISHED EARTH

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

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

Christmas Trufffes

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

Gluten Free Raw Apple Pie

INGREDIENTS FOR FILLING 1 cup organic Medjool dates 2 teaspoons coconut oil Squeeze of lemon juice Pinch of cinnamon ¼ teaspoon vanilla paste Pinch Himalayan salt 4 organic apples INGREDIENTS FOR CRUST 1 cup Medjool dates 4 tbsp coconut oil 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder 1 cup walnuts 54 Coffs Coast focus

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

Festive Mocktail Punch

INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup fresh lime juice 1 cup chopped, fresh mint 1 cup blueberries 1 cup raspberries 1 litre cranberry juice ½ cup Herbs of Gold Probiotic Coco Berry Concentrate 1 litre mineral water METHOD Mix ingredients in a large bowl and serve with ice and slices of lemon and lime.

The magic of Hair Masks

Coming into the warmer months, it’s even more important to look after your locks considering all the weather torture they go through! Lauren from Living Doll takes a peek behind hair masks and explains how and when to use them this summer.

espite hair masks being around for many moons, a lot of people are still nervous about using them on a regular basis, and don’t really know whether they’re beneficial. The truth is, if you haven’t unlocked the magic of hair masks yet, drop everything and try them today! Masks are a fantastic way to give your hair a boost of hydration and resilience throughout the year, and in our expert opinion they are an essential part of hair care, used as part of your regular hair routine. How often? Even if you think your hair is looking fly, a weekly hair mask is a great way to maintain your locks at their optimum. Even the healthiest hair struggles to deal with changes in seasons or being pulled into a range of styles, and a mask used once a week will help it cope with the change. How to apply? Technically, a hair mask should be applied to washed and towel-dried hair. Massage the product in from the roots to the tips (concentrate especially on the ends) and then comb through your hair with a wide tooth comb. Wrap a hot towel over your hair as you wait for 10 - 20 minutes before washing out, for maximum effect! We understand that the

process described above is not ideal for the time poor, but never fear - you can actually apply masks to dry hair too and still reap the benefits. Apply to your dry hair at least 20 minutes before you plan to wash it, and leave it in for extra time if you are able. You can even leave the mask in overnight if your hair is looking drier than the desert; just make sure you wrap your hair first, or be prepared to sacrifice your pillow case. What mask to use? Getting a mask that’s perfect for your hair is important. If your locks are prone to greasiness, you want to make sure that you’re not choosing a heavy formula that’s going to weigh your hair down. L’Oréal Professional has a great range of masks suited to a multitude of hair types, and the Premier Stylists at Living Doll are happy to go through your hair needs and recommend the best product that suits your hair type. One popular one is Vitamino Colour Masque; it is perfect for colour damaged hair and is a great way to deeply repair and nourish weak or dull tresses. So, are you ready to get your lacklustre locks back to beautiful? Pop in and say hello to the team at Living Doll at the Jetty and have a chat about our current range of hair masks; might just be that Christmas present to yourself you needed. XO Dolls.

Science with Heart The SCIENCE with HEART range of hand crafted aromatherapeutic products was originally developed by therapist Angie Laussel in her counselling work with children, couples and adults. Angie observed that carefully blended essential oils assisted clients with trauma, anxiety and depression achieve a state of calm, relaxation and focus. Drawing on neuroscientific research and more than 25 years’ counselling experience, Angie developed a range of topical oils that assisted with the physical and emotional symptoms associated with traumatic experience: • Depression I Anxiety • Irritability I Self-Blame • Panic Attacks I Headaches • Grief I Disconnection • Stress Related Pain Interest from other counsellors, their clients, and the general community led Angie to expand the range and thus make them more widely available. The original and popular Calming, Energising and Loving blends are now joined by SOS (for panic attacks), Courage, Easing Grief, Easing Pain, Forgiveness (for guilt), Grounding (for dissociation), Trauma Recovery, and Soothing (for irritability and anger). The SCIENCE with HEART range of topical therapeutic oils, special blend essential oil concentrates, soy melts, candles and diffusers are hand made by Angie and her team in Coffs Harbour. The range is available at www.sciencewithheart.org and in the week before Christmas can be bought exclusively from Angie’s consulting rooms at Harbour Therapy Clinic. They make ideal gifts for people you truly care about.

Living Doll Looking for a new stylist? Lauren from Living Doll has some tips to help your first visit become a long-lasting relationship. First, bring photos. This seems obvious, but still needs to be said. If you haven’t had a cut, style, or colour in a while, bring photos on your phone of the last time your hair was styled to your liking. Point out what you liked about the look to the stylist you’re working with; otherwise, they will just be going by what you have when you sit down in the chair. Trust your gut. Finding a new stylist isn’t just about their talent; it’s about how the two of you vibe together. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking up, or feel like your stylist isn’t hearing your feedback, you’re likely not going to be happy with the final result. The Premier Stylists pride themselves on really listening and giving you the time you deserve. When you call to make an appointment, tell them it’s your first time and you’d like to talk with the stylist first - and show up early. This is not the time to experiment. The first time you go in to see a new stylist is not the time to lose six inches of hair and go from brunette to platinum blonde. You need to work with them to build up trust and get into a groove. Treat your stylist like any new relationship. But hey, it has happened before - where the connection is instantly strong, and the magic happens. Lauren, Kate, Chloe and Tia, the Premier Stylists at Living Doll, are here to make your hair dreams a reality. Book early for Christmas appointments to avoid disappointment. Xo Dolls.

Coffs Coast focus 55

Ability or DISABILITY E X ERCI SE DOE S NO T DI S CRIMIN AT E!

You’re never too young to start exercising; however, for some children with a disability, this can sometimes be a bit more of a challenge. During a child’s growth, exercise is known to have profound benefits on the development of their muscles, bones and joints, heart and lung function, and overall wellbeing. For a child with a disability, exercise may also be therapeutic, help manage behaviours and boost a child’s self-esteem and social interaction. To find out more about how exercise can help people with a disability, Mid North Coast Physiotherapy Director Aaron Hardaker caught up with Jess Barber, an exercise physiologist with a special interest in children and disability care. Tell me a little about yourself. I’m excited at the idea of a sea change. I have recently ventured across the Great Dividing Range from Tamworth to join the team at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy. After completing a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, I spent some time working as a strength and conditioning coach in Brisbane, delivering programs to athletes of varying ages and skill levels. It was through this work that I found my passion for rehabilitation, from both injury and illness, and went on to complete a Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology. I love that within my day-to-day job I get to work with such a variety of injuries, illness, ages and abilities. What are some of the common challenges with exercise for children with disabilities? Intellectual and developmental disabilities are often characterised by a difficulty interacting in social contexts, different behavioural patterns and poor fundamental movement skills. Pair that with the challenge of negotiating the developmental years, and it can be quite difficult for these children to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviours. Reduced inclusion in team sports, poor motor

56 Coffs Coast focus

coordination and the use of screen time and/ or food as a behavioural reinforcer can lead to increased sedentary behaviours and poor energy imbalance, increasing the risk of developing secondary health conditions. Why should they exercise? Exercise is empowering! When children exercise, movement stimulates the brain and has a positive impact on attention and focus. For a child with ADHD, regular movement throughout the day can help manage their behaviour and improve their concentration. For children with a developmental disability, exercise can help improve muscle tone, balance and coordination, further improving self-confidence and increasing their ability to participate in team sports and exercise. It is important to remember that each child with a disability will have unique behaviours, preferences and physical abilities. A tailored exercise program will take into consideration your child’s needs and can be implemented in a way that is engaging, rewarding and most importantly, fun! What should we do next? Come and seek some advice. The team and I at Mid North Coast Physio offer a free assessment opportunity for any new clients to discuss their needs and see how we can help, without any obligation for further treatment. We currently have 10 FREE exercise physiology assessments on offer for parents and children needing advice and direction on what exercise would be most beneficial for them to achieve theirs or their child’s health goals. Call 1300 273 747 to secure an appointment NOW.

e all know the history of the Beatles and the progressive development of technology, but do you know about the history of fitness? Fitness as a term can be largely misunderstood by a lot of people and has some positive effects and some negative ones too. For many years the word fitness may have meant to look good or look fit, it may have meant to have lots of muscle and low levels of fat, it may even have meant simply wearing your activewear and the brand, spanking new shoes. But what is it really? Fitness is by definition the condition of being physically fit and healthy, free of disease and illness, as well as the quality of being suitable to fulfill a particular role or task. So, I want to encourage you to take a look at the current trends of what fitness is now. If you go to any random gym, you will probably come across a large percentage of gym goers who are standing in front of a mirror and lifting weights and putting them back down again right, or even running on a stationary treadmill watching the TV. People put extreme amounts of time into these routines, in the hopes of losing some fat or gaining some hard muscle - which is totally cool and can provide some benefits - although, I would like to spark your thoughts on how this fulfils the actual definition of fitness. Does it provide you with a good physical condition; does it allow you to fulfil a particular role or task? It could, if looking from a few different perspectives. But, let’s take a peek at the history of fitness and what it has become, to what it is. People go to the gym and spend an hour a couple of days a week, but what about 100 years ago? 500 years ago? 40,000 years ago? There wasn’t anything that was called fitness. It was simply a way of life - something that we utilised to complete daily tasks, catch or gather food, build housing and shelters, help other humans who are less able, and to defend and protect families and villages. Essentially, it was simply used to survive. Now we have it as a so-called luxury item, because we don’t have to do a lot of these things anymore. The result is declining health and a healthcare system that is burdened by significant disease and illness. But, there are more typical gyms than ever before and even more health experts out there. So, what’s changed? Well, we have simply been disconnected to what fitness truly is. We use it now as a means to gain aesthetics, Instagram popularity, Facey likes

and even as a means to try to fit in. If we could learn to reconnect with the purpose of fitness by simply including it in our daily lives, by getting outdoors in a park, climbing a tree, swimming, running, jumping, lifting, crawling or whatever you need to incorporate it into each minute of our lives, then our purpose for movement would be largely restored and in turn, our health will begin to improve as well. But the purpose isn’t to chase gains or get Instagram followers; it is simply to move better, to be capable, and to live an adventurous life. We are more than just looks or getting huge. We are one of, if not the most, complex organisms in the world, and yet we treat our fitness like a commodity. The connection and purpose of movement needs to be realigned with the ways of living and reestablished as not just a time that we go to the gym. It needs to integrate with every minute of living and every breath you take and should give drive and purpose to be truly fit and healthy. The greats of the fitness industry, such as the Arnies and Fondas played their role well; they motivated people to be more, to do more, and live more - although, as humans we begin to take this as gospel and see it as the only way to do it. We try to imitate them, in hopes of becoming them. But as a species, we need to think deeper than what the next biggest star is doing. It would help our community greatly if we could even adopt the slightest piece of this approach and incorporate it into our lives. We could then begin to break free of the conventional modernity and its flaws, to allow us to get back on track and become like that of our ancestors, who were free from most current illnesses and obesity epidemics. We are powerful beyond measure. We are great beyond contemplation and we are more capable than you could ever imagine … Let’s ALL begin the journey to unlock our fullest potential and reconnect our community with the existence from which we came from - the existence from which we thrived and the existence where we were one with each other and our brilliant lifestyles. If you would like to learn to reconnect and reestablish your glorious levels of true fitness, please reach out to us at NB. www.newbreedmixedmartialarts.com.au

focusﬁtness

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

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s inspirational ﬁtness story comes to us courtesy of Lisa McInerney, who is 44 years old and had actively avoided exercise until the big 4 0 came looming. She is the proud rescuer of two cats and loves to help others reach their goals as a coach at Coast Into Health. Lisa is not an exercise expert though … so lucky her personal trainer Simone is!

efore joining Coffs Coast Health future? My goals are a bit different to the Club, what was your exercise usual. I don’t have a target weight, size or background? Zero! I was not one measurement. I am aiming for the stats to for exercising, but always had improve every week. So doing more push a fairly active job. I found gyms ups, planking for longer, more crunches … tedious and got bored quickly but because punching harder! I was active, I thought I didn’t need to do Do you feel as though you have come a anything structured. long way with your fitness? Yes. I don’t What prompted you to change your feel so puffed when walking up stairs and I am lifestyle? I started doing a more sedentary more open to trying different activities. job and needed to do something to keep me How has your exercise changed since moving. I started at the gym, but didn’t want joining Coffs Coast Health Club and doing to do weights, because I got bored too quickly. Personal Training with Simone? My exercise I attended a few group classes with Simone is more targeted and focused, and I think and really liked her style, more effective. Simone and you could see she helps me to remember tried to keep things how far I have come and varied and interesting. reminds me of all my Has that lifestyle improvements. She is very I am really enjoying change had a positive motivational and pushes boxing sessions. Great effect on you and your me to do that extra stress release! And when family? Yes, absolutely. push up or plank for just I can, I love to go to a Balance I am more active these five seconds more. She class. Stretching is really days, so we do tend to keeps me accountable important to help with the be more active generally and keeps me laughing more strenuous workouts. and Coffs is a great place through the whole to be outdoors. session. What type of exercise What is the most do you enjoy doing? I am really enjoying useful advice you could share? Find boxing sessions. Great stress release! And someone to keep you accountable who is when I can, I love to go to a Balance class. prepared to push you that little bit further than Stretching is really important to help with the you would push yourself. more strenuous workouts. Thanks for sharing, Lisa. Do you find the support from your If you are looking to kickstart your own personal trainer (Simone) helps you inspirational fitness story with the Super achieve your goals? Simone is great. She Simone, call her directly on 0402 202 864 keeps in touch in between sessions and helps or drop in to see the team at either to keep me focused. She reminds me of what Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or I am trying to achieve and keeps me going Moonee, to get started today. More when I just want to give up and go for coffee. inspirational fitness stories can be found at What goals have you set yourself in the www.myfitnessstory.com.au Coffs Coast focus 57

H E A LT H A N D W E L L B E I N G W I T H S U N D I A L D E N TA L

Biofilm and your Health

Dental plaque is a form of biofilm. It is a whitish/yellowish film that builds up on the teeth and tooth roots.

hat is a Biofilm?

production all influence how healthy our

Biofilm is something

mouth remains. When biofilm is properly

you come across

removed with daily oral hygiene care, it is

every day: slime on

easy to manage.

the hull of a boat,

Tips to control Biofilm:

clogged drains, slimy coated rocks in a

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two

stream, and the plaque that forms on your

minutes.

teeth are all examples of biofilm. Biofilm

• Floss daily! Flossing removes plaque

forms when bacteria stick to a surface in

between teeth and the gumline where a

a watery environment and emit a slimy,

toothbrush can’t reach. Research indicates

glue-like material that can stick to all kinds

that floss does up to 40% of the work

of surfaces, such as tooth enamel, metals,

needed to remove plaque from your teeth.

plastics, medical implant materials and biological tissues. Essentially, biofilms form on any surface exposed to bacteria, with the presence of water, and your mouth could be the perfect environment! Dental plaque is a form of biofilm. It is a whitish/yellowish film that builds up on the teeth and tooth roots. This biofilm contains communities of disease-causing bacteria and if it becomes firmly established, an ongoing battle is waged between the bacteria and the body’s immune system. Biofilm persistence can result in cavities and chronic inflammation around the tooth socket causing gum disease - both gingivitis and periodontitis, which can eventually destroy the bone and connective tissue that keeps the teeth firmly in place, and other varieties can provoke other significant health

• Soak any retainers/prosthesis with denture soaks or one part white vinegar, three part water soaks a few times weekly. (If your denture is cracked, porous or peeling, ask your dentist/dental prosthesis to repair it.) • See your dentist and hygienist/oral health therapist every six months to monitor your dental health and your overall health. Routine preventative visits to your dentist, dental hygienist and oral health therapist will go a long way to avoid cavities, tooth loss, gum disease and other threats to your oral health. Have you heard Sundial Dental is revolutionising your dental clean experience, with the EMS system? The EMS is a guided biofilm therapy and is a unique solution for prevention and

problems.

maintenance for you teeth. It comfortably

If biofilm coatings are left unmanaged,

and effectively removes biofilm, stubborn

harmful plaque bacteria can enter your

coffee, red wine and nicotine stains and

bloodstream and affect other parts of your

keeps you comfortable all the while. The

body. Biofilm has been linked to arterial

EMS system is a blend of AIR-FLOW powder,

plaque formation, MI, stroke, Alzheimer’s,

air and warm water to produce a precise

cancer and complications in pregnancy.

jet spray. The guided biofilm therapy is a

What can you do to prevent dental

quick, painless, non-invasive and soundless

Biofilms?

treatment, helping you to feel more

Maintaining good oral hygiene on a daily

comfortable at the dentist. To book an

basis is one of the healthiest things you

appointment or to find out more about our

can do for your body - think of it as a

services, our team or our locations, call our

preventative maintenance. Our diet, water

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58 Coffs Coast focus

’TIS THE SEASON TO BE CREATIVE It’s party time of year again, with plenty of opportunities to try out a special occasion hairstyle. Adrian at Celtic Roots Hair Designers has been fortunate to work with hairdressers who have made a living from exactly this - dressing hair. Whilst most of us visit a salon for a haircut or colour, it is not so common these days to visit a stylist in order to have your hair dressed for an occasion. “Weddings or formals - these are the times when folk will try a more intricate style,” says Adrian, “but any hairdresser with a background in updos loves to reach for the hairpins!” Perhaps you always leave the salon after a cut with your hair styled the same way? “Those with long hair tend to come in less frequently - perhaps to have the ends tidied, or the roots tinted.” Adrian grins - “This is the perfect opportunity for us hairdressers to show off! Let us do something you can’t do at home. You may wish to have your curly hair straightened, sedu-style, for a change, but how about then opting for a partial updo or other style that shows off your straightened hair?” Of course, dressed hair does not have to be pinned up.

“Soft waves are romantic and elegant, while the natural texture of your hair will add body and movement. Whether your hair is long or short, creating body is easy with rollers heated or velcro - and they are much gentler than tongs. My rule of thumb is that if you’re doing something that the hair doesn’t do naturally, you will need a foundation such as mousse. The hardest thing to style is squeaky clean hair!” Alternatively, you may prefer to learn a new technique that you can then do for yourself. “If you’re dressing your hair yourself, then think simple,” suggests Adrian. “Dividing the hair into two ponytails and tying a knot a few times before pinning it in place is a nice casual look, or perhaps braid the pigtails before knotting. If you have some time to spare, then one inch sections of hair twisted and dried will give you a more casual ‘beach’ look.” Special occasion hairstyles can turn an ordinary look into an extraordinary one, but remember it isn’t just your hair that makes the event special - it’s good times with friends and family, and the confidence you feel knowing you look as special as the occasion you’re celebrating.

grants McDonald’s junior

P R O G R A M

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

he McDonald’s Junior Grant Program is proud to support the Coffs Coast USA Performing Arts JRDS Tour. The local group of enthusiastic dancers from Julie Ross Dance Studio are taking a trip of a lifetime to America, which for many will be their first experience overseas. The group will participate in workshops at Disney Performing Arts, performances at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios and participate in workshops with the Carnival Corporation. Jodie Hodges, tour organiser says, “The local kids are learning about representing not only Coffs Harbour, but Australia, and in the process they are learning how to do public speaking, giving back to the community by attending local charity events and training hard (six days a week) to be at the performance level required.” The grant will provide a much needed boost to their fundraising efforts so far. The grant will be shared between the kids to help cover

costumes, uniforms and insurance costs. The costumes consist of new shoes, T-shirts promoting the Coffs Coast, and performance costumes. The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program is helping another talented local, Lana, realise her dreams of making it all the way in the little known sport of Futsal. The 13 year old has been asked to play goalkeeper for the under 14s Northern NSW Futsal Team in the National School Futsal Championships in Brisbane.

The local group of enthusiastic dancers from Julie Ross

Dance Studio are taking a trip of a lifetime to America, which for many will

Another lucky recipient of the Maccas Junior be their ﬁrst experience overseas. Grant is Sara, a passionate member of the Coffs Harbour Surf Club. Dedicated to her goal, training three times “While at the National School Futsal a week and squad two times a week, she says, Championships, I was spotted by the selectors “I’ve achieved U11 female water champion last and was chosen to play in the Australian team year and I’m hoping to make the interbranch which will tour the UK in April next year. The team and then the state champs in March. This grant will assist me and my family.”

grant would be a huge benefit and make a difference to me and my mum, who works hard to support me in my sport.” The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes that building a successful generation comes from supporting our great locals, so, if you are a local child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the grants website and apply today. www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

Bulk billing CDBS available Family-friendly practice Extended opening hours Saturday availability

(Coffs Harbour & Macksville)

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Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

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Coffs Harbour

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6651 1350

freshdentalcare.com.au

Urunga

46 Bonville Street

6655 5800

Macksville

1 Princess Street

6568 1335

/freshdentalcare.com.au Coffs Coast focus 59

bcu

Coﬀs Tri

Josh ready to Tri again

31-year-old Josh Patricks has unﬁnished business.

t the bcu Coffs Tri held in March 2018, Josh experienced an unfortunate and unforeseen setback, collapsing within a few hundred metres of the finish line. He was taking part in his first Olympic Distance triathlon - a 1,500 m swim, 40 km cycle and 10 km run. Josh was well-prepared for his first major triathlon, having completed months of training, including taking part in shorter distance events in readiness for race day. However, Josh’s race didn’t quite go to plan. Early into the cycle leg he dropped one of his water bottles, which significantly impacted his hydration. The day was exceptionally hot with extreme humidity, creating challenging conditions for all athletes. Remaining hydrated proved challenging, even for some of the most experienced competitors. Josh was on his final leg, running towards the Jetty with the finish line in sight, but by this stage of the race he was overheated and his legs were running on sheer determination. His body had started failing, he was extremely dehydrated and disorientated, and he collapsed with only a

60 Coffs Coast focus

few hundred metres left to run. Paramedics and doctors were quick to his side to administer ice, oxygen and a drip. Josh was then rushed to hospital, where he spent the following days undergoing treatment and a series of tests. Josh experienced extreme rhabdomyolysis, and there was real concern for his health for the first 48 hours. But Josh is strong-willed, he is young, and he has a beautiful young family that he was determined to make proud. It took some time, lots of rest and most of all patience, but he made a full recovery and has been given the all-clear by his doctors to return to training again under the watchful eye of his wife, Renee. Josh recently competed in the Stadium Stomp at Brisbane’s Gabba, a leg-burning 5,000 stair climb, to help raise money for the Black Dog Institute. He also completed the 10 km fun run at the Coffs Harbour Running Festival, has been a regular in the Coffs Tri Club races and is feeling fitter than ever. According to Josh, “The 2018 bcu Tri definitely didn’t go the way I had planned, but it was not possible to predict the conditions on the day. As

soon as I got medical clearance, I was back into training with the encouragement of my supportive family. My fitness and health have never been better, and I am excited for the 2019 bcu Tri. I definitely have unfinished business, and I can’t wait to cross that finish line!” If all goes to plan, Josh will have a huge support crew cheering him down the finish chute, led by his wife and two girls. Josh’s six-year-old daughter, Olivia, will be attempting her first triathlon in March, so it will be a very special day

for the whole family. The bcu Coffs Tri has a number of races available for ages six and over and is suitable for experienced athletes, as well as those doing their very first triathlon. It is a fun, family-friendly event with kids' races, an Enticer triathlon, and the Olympic Distance event with individual and team options. Entries for the bcu Coffs Tri on March 2nd and 3rd 2019 are now open, with early bird specials on offer for a short time at www.villagesports.com.au

A fresh approach to seniors living Australia’s innovative concept in seniors living is setting new benchmarks in affordable housing for downsizers by offering a higher quality solution that’s exceeding expectations. Lifestyle-focused land lease communities have become increasingly popular with downsizers, many of whom are freeing up hundreds of thousands of dollars to help fund their new lifestyle. This newest housing trend is gaining a strong foothold in seniors living as it breaks down the walls of confusing contracts, complex financial arrangements and questions over legalities, and replaces uncertainty with a more simple and transparent ownership model. Ingenia Chief Operating Officer, Nikki Fisher, said lifestyle communities are specifically tailored to the needs of active, independent

seniors who can purchase and own their home, lease the land and pay no stamp duty fees or exit fees. “Land lease living is not your average retirement community – it saves seniors thousands of dollars with a more affordable price point while introducing a whole new housing market that is not just for retirees but for all types of downsizers. “It’s supported via government regulations and legislation with strong levels of protection for both home owner and operator, providing security and peace of mind with a variety of social benefits and financial gains,” Nikki said. Author and seniors finance expert, Rachel Lane, said downsizing can be an exciting time, but it pays to do your research and crunch the numbers. “You don’t want to be left behind when it comes

to your senior living choices and comparing the different financial arrangements between retirement villages and lifestyle communities is like comparing apples and oranges. “While it may seem that there are too many different financial arrangements to compare, the differences between retirement villages and lifestyle communities are important,” Rachel says. “I find it easiest to break down the numbers into Ingoing, Ongoing and Outgoing,” Rachel explains: INGOING: Apples: Retirement villages operate under the Retirement Villages Act with a lease or ‘license to occupy’ as the ingoing price. Oranges: In a lifestyle community you buy your own home and lease the land. ONGOING: Apples: Service charge: For

ARTIST IMPRESSION ONLY

pensioners in a retirement village to be eligible for rent assistance they need to purchase below a certain threshold (currently $207,000). Oranges: Site fees: Because of the unique land lease ownership structure in lifestyle communities, most pensioners qualify for rent assistance on their site fees reducing their ongoing costs. OUTGOING: The greatest confusion between retirement villages and lifestyle communities

comes from the exit fees, also called deferred management fees (DMF). Apples: In a retirement village exit fees are standard. The exit fee is likely to be a percentage of either your purchase price or re-sale price, anything from 10% to 30% is common. Oranges: Lifestyle communities do not charge exit fees. You own your own home and it is a viable asset, so the home owner keeps 100% of any capital gains

made on the property if or when they decide to sell their home with no refurbishment fees. After downsizing, Ingenia Lifestyle residents have the opportunity for more money in the bank and the freedom to live a flexible, lowmaintenance lifestyle, connect with like-minded friends, learn a new hobby or lock up, leave and travel. Visit www.liveinwoolgoolga. com.au for more information.

AN OVER 55s SEA AND TREE CHANGE NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD!

ARTIST IMPRESSION ONLY

Plantations is coming to Woolgoolga – a sparkling new community and

• No entry or exit fees

a fantastic lifestyle on your doorstep. Downsize, free up more time,

• No stamp duty

money and enjoy your new way of life. Now is a great opportunity to

• Only 2 costs: your home purchase and the land lease

view our first stage release and inspect our architecturally-designed

• Keep 100% of any capital gain

floor plans and facades. Discover the Ingenia difference!

• Rent assistance available, if eligible

BRAND NEW HOMES NOW SELLING FROM $349,000* Call 0448 714 021 or register your interest at liveinwoolgoolga.com.au *Prices are correct at time of printing and subject to change

18-INGCPL-0609

Visit the Plantations display at 42 Beach Street, Woolgoolga

Coffs Coast focus 61

Celebrating 30 years

62 Coffs Coast focus

focusfeature.

East Coast Accessibility Experts is your not-for-profit community service providing easy, affordable solutions for residential and commercial modifications. Celebrating 30 successful years in business on the Coffs Coast, FOCUS had a chat with Chief Executive Officer Shalla Thomas to find out more …

hen and how did the East Coast Accessibility Experts story begin? I was working for Mid North Coast Regional Council for Social Development in an office under the old clock tower, then moving to the original co-location for community services at Community Village, Earl Street, Coffs Harbour. This organisation moved to Macksville, where I travelled for a short period of time, resigning and then working

MEET SHALLA THOMAS in a relief capacity for Neighbour Aid and Neighbourhood Centre at the Community Village. I commenced working with Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated on 1 August 1988, after a successful interview with Board Members and NSW Family and Community Services Workers. I have now been working in the community services sector in Coffs Harbour for over 27 years, firstly with Mid North Coast Regional Council for

Social Development, now Mid Coast Communities. East Coast Accessibility Experts’ story begins from the golden years of the Home and Community Care Act 1985. We incorporated on 12th September 1988 as a home maintenance and modification service. We have since built expertise and expanded our services to include major modification design and construction and allied health in-home assessments.

Coffs Coast focus 63

focusfeature. MEET THE TEAM How long have you been living in the Coffs Who makes up your team, and what are their community? roles? I personally have been living in Coffs Harbour Our team is: since January 1985, moving here with two sons, Works Supervisor - David Reid; the eldest one of the first students at the new Carpenter - Daniel Curzon; Sandy Beach School, and my third child, a daughter, Handyman - Geoff Rogers; born in Coffs Harbour. My working activities, Client Liaison and Administration - Alison Henery; prior to moving into community sector, included Reception and Administration - Michelle Nautilus Beach Resort and Seafood Mamas in guest Sandland; management and financial Marketing Assistant - Greg management capacities. Murray. What part of the business How have you seen the are you most proud of? region grow, and how has My pride is the team of The number of clients the accessibility industry workers and what they over the years, just in Coﬀs changed? do every day to make a Harbour, has grown East Coast Accessibility difference in the lives of so from approximately Experts manage a regional many, not only through East 100 clients per complex modification Coast Accessibility Experts, annum to approximately budget; the Mid North but also on their own 1,500 clients per annum ... Coast region has grown, volunteering projects; we with elders exiting cities and are who we are and we care moving to regional areas - in about our elders and people particular, Coffs Harbour, Port with disabilities - with a big Macquarie and the Great shout out to carers. Lakes. Another proud moment is moving from tenancy The number of clients over the years, just in Coffs at the original co-location space, Community Harbour, has grown from approximately 100 clients Village, to ownership of the property we are per annum to approximately 1,500 clients per now housed in at 5 Druitt Court, Coffs Harbour, annum; this is similar for other projects across the which seems to have been designed specifically Mid North Coast. for us - a large construction area, storage space, A passion for East Coast Accessibility Experts together with a reception area, enabling our love of is Universal Design; this is still not necessarily community engagement.

Regain the freedom of your home Simple, safe and stylish, Acorn Stairlifts give people the chance to enjoy their own homes once again. • The only company to supply and install our own stairlifts • For straight or curved staircases • Indoor and outdoor lifts • Free home assessment • Fast installation • Safe and reliable

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We can help in so many ways... • Interior & Exterior House Paint • Specialty Finishes • Timber Coatings • Accessories. We stock all your favourite brands; Dulux, Berger, Avista, Intergrain and more. Come in store and talk to our team about your next project.

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Photo by Peter Sechi

focusfeature.

Our team is engaged in

Photo by Peter Sechi

continuous improvement

part of mainstream building. We support and are members of Universal Design peaks and advocates, engage local Council in discussions and are a member of Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee. Our team is engaged in continuous improvement in service delivery, including safe work methods, product improvement/changes. The industry of home modification services across New South Wales used to be 96 local services, 13 regional services and one state service - some of these have recently merged with other service type organisations; therefore, in some

in service delivery, cases reducing existing completing one recently including safe work expertise and knowledge. for R + R Care, and methods, product What are some of the Northcott (including improvement/changes. major projects you have access modifications), worked on over the past kitchen modifications, few years? ramp access Major projects over the modifications, access past few years include additions to dwellings, pathways, stair climbers, platform lifts, internal with excellent outcomes for younger people with lifts. We designed and installed an accessible disabilities, including increased independence and sandpit, so a young child in a wheelchair could be freedom, and, for their parents, opportunities included in sand play at school with his friends. for respite. Complex bathroom modifications East Coast Accessibility Experts recently installed for many elderly and people with disabilities, new handrails on the upgrade at North Wall.

THINGS TO KNOW - what makes East Coast Accessibility Experts special and different? East Coast Accessibility Experts are unique as modification specialists building prescribed environmental changes; we are experienced in choice of materials, innovation and solutions for accessibility in and around the home. We listen to clientsâ€™ stories, what works and what does not work in daily activities; we work with clients, families, carers, health professionals, and other service providers to ensure consumer directed care, choice and best outcomes as part of the end product.

Coffs Coast focus 65

Photo by Peter Sechi

focusfeature.

A modiďŹ cation can

Early planning enables us all to follow our goals and aspirations to remain living in our own homes as we age; modification can make the difference between staying at home or entering residential care. We do not just build; we modify by clinical prescription, we design with your individual needs at the forefront ... How do you mobilise in and around your home, what do you love doing, what do you want to keep doing, how can we design and construct so you can continue to do the things you love, in a safe and accessible environment, your home, your care base? I am sure you have heard the stories of construction gone horribly wrong. We design and construct with quality, reliable, skilled tradespeople; we choose best product, so you will always be happy with the end result. This

66 Coffs Coast focus

make a diďŹ€erence between increased independence at home, and increasing choice of participation in local

is your home; we want the perfect space for you to be happy with the construction, storage, product and service you operations and receive. community engagement. community activity, work Tell us about your Achieving recognition and study. accolades since as the experts and conception ... specialists in the industry, East Coast Accessibility with consumers, carers Experts has been an HIA and other service Award Winner for Special Purpose Housing, a providers. Finalist in HIA Special Purpose Housing, and a Marketing and interaction: Finalist in the Sunny Awards for Community Newspaper, magazine, radio, television, client Service. testimonials, videos, photos, stories, Facebook, We submitted a successful tender for a Twitter, Instagram, website, Linkedin, YouTube. Complex Modification and Allied Health Budget Features and Benefits - how do I know for the Mid North Coast. home modification will help? Moving from tenancy to ownership is a You will have a sense of freedom and big step for a community service - finding autonomy, increased confidence and

independence in daily activities and reduced danger of falls. You will also have an enhanced quality of life and wellbeing, slowing the impact of age related disability and preventing illness, a reduced fear of accidents, lower mortality rates, reduced symptoms of depression, fewer behavioural problems in people with dementia and lessened strains on spousal relationships, enabling improved social engagement and overall management in the home and reducing hours for carers. Selling points - strong aversion to nursing or retirement homes ... Modification can add value to your home an accessible bathroom, an accessible kitchen, universal design meeting the housing needs from birth to old age. Falls Prevention - modify early: reduction in

focusfeature. hospital visits with long expensive health care costs, and/or early entry to residential care. In the new environment of National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), do participants know they can add a home modification to their plan? A modification can make a difference between increased independence at home, and increasing choice of participation in local community activity, work and study. Client Testimonial: “Most impressed with the service, very friendly and professional - the grabrail in the shower is great. My mum is happy with her bathroom modifications; they changed her life. The occupational therapist said it added value, it’s easy to keep clean, prevented Mum from going into care, and does not look like a hospital bathroom. Others have commented on how much they would like it in their home.” Where to from here? Continue to provide quality construction, innovation and affordable solutions; Continue to promote the features and benefits of home modification, freedom, independence, choice, dignity; Increase staff in construction and allied health areas; Design and build accessible small homes. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT East Coast Accessibility Experts are known for their community involvement. What particular projects have you been a part of, and what are you most proud of? Our Strength and Balance Classes, commencing with one class per week, now two per week, with a wait list. We thank RuthAnn Treibner, Bliss Body, our brilliant, fun instructor for the success, and other service providers for referral, and participants for their love of wellbeing. Do you believe that it is important to be

part of the Coffs community? We believe it is very important to be part of our community; connection, participation, collaboration means we know and the community knows who we are, and where we are when they need us. Our community know they can trust us, they can rely on us, and the product delivered will be of high quality. Are you happy when you know that you have trained so many people in their various areas and provided employment and upskilling to locals? We pride ourselves as employers of choice. We have a great team, interested in continuous improvement, who are engaged and committed. We are very happy to know we have upskilled and trained workers, our most valuable resource, giving people choices and opportunities locally, regionally or further afield. Our workers are linked to training providers, fellow participants and other businesses.

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72 Coffs Coast focus

ars,

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our

Introducing the girls from CFS Travel Jillian, Julie and Kristen

Gateway to the Coffs Coast

BRISBANE

C F S T R AV E L AFRICAN WILDLIFE DISCOVERY TOUR - FULLY ESCORTED FROM COFFS HARBOUR!

Voodoo Voodoo Auto AutoElectrical Electrical Michael is Michael is originally originally from from Darwin Darwin and and was was taken takenon onmany many camping and four wheel driving trips with his family. camping and four wheel driving trip with his family. Some Some hischildhood best childhood memories were exploring the of his of best memories were exploring the off off road parts of Australia. road parts of Australia. He completed completed his He his auto auto electrical electrical apprenticeship apprenticeship in inForster, Forster,later later moving to moving to Coffs Coffs Harbour. Harbour. Working at hedeveloped developedskills skills and and Working at Watson's Watson's Caravans, caravans he understanding of the needs of campers and caravan understanding of the needs of campers and caravantravellers. goers He appreciates that thisthat is your away from home. needs. He appreciates thishome is your home away from home. Everything needs will Everything needs to to run run simply, simply, efficiency efficiencyand andreliably. reliably.HeHe will give honest advice based on experience and research. give honest advice based on experience and research. His services services are so you you can can stay stay in in your your home home or His are fully fully mobile, mobile so or caravan park enjoying your holiday, while Michael does the work caravan park enjoying your holiday while Michael does the work on site. on site. Workshop facilities are available when required. Workshop facilities are available when required. Michael: "I love what I do, getting to meet different people, Michael " I love what I do, getting to meet different people, hearing about their travels and keeping them on the road." hear about their travels and keep them on the road " Tell us about the name ... Tell us about the name... Michael: “Voodoo Auto Electrical came about as an accident. Michael - Voodoo Auto Electrical came about as an accident. One of my customers commented that I had done ‘some kind of One of my customers commented that I had done "some kind of voodoo magic’ to their vehicle when fixing it.” voodoo magic to their vehicle when fixing it "

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SYDNEY

Is Southern Africa on your bucket list? Well, now is your chance with CFS Travel on this 16 day escorted group tour of a lifetime, with your host Michelle Collard. Born in South Africa, Michelle has a passion for wildlife and has previously managed exclusive safari-lodges, hosting high profile guests such as Prince Harry. Included in the price: • Escort and flights from Coffs Harbour

MELBOURNE

• 10 day safari • 3 day extension to Victoria Falls • 30 meals and much more ...

Over 65 direct flights each week, with connections to the world.

This tour visits some of the best game-viewing areas, including the Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Parks. Experience the thrills of an African safari as you search for “The Big 5”. Highlights include world renowned Victoria Falls, the magical Okavango Delta and its myriad waterways by dugout canoe, and a sunset cruise on the mighty Chobe River. In addition to catering to all your travel needs, Julie from CFS Travel is escorting a small group tour to Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, in March 2019. Hurry, seats limited; call us now on 6652 6555 to secure your spot!

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Agtours Exceptional

Quadrant Australia has been specialising in outstanding experiences for over 30 years, both within Australia and overseas. Our agricultural and special interest tours showcase the best of sights and sounds in each country and also give an insight into agricultural practices around the world.

an you provide a brief overview of the variety of destinations some of your tours will be offering for 2019? For 2019 we have revitalised some of our old favorites and also introduced some brand new tours. You can combine Californian agriculture with the excitement of the Calgary Stampede, share a glass of wine in the vineyards of Italy with a local winemaker or enjoy a chat around a barbecue, swapping stories with Argentinian gauchos. In May we’re offering GLORIOUS GARDENS OF THE UK, visiting castles, stately homes and historic manor houses, generally surrounded by beautiful gardens and fabulous trees. Stay in historic locations, including Edinburgh, the Lake District, the Cotswolds and Bath and finish up in London with a visit to the Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship event - the Chelsea Flower Show. Maybe your preference would be Japan, a country of spectacular natural beauty with gentle rural landscapes contrasting with modern, vibrant cities. The AGRICULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN showcases Japanese agriculture, which is steeped in tradition but in many instances has adapted to modern production and management techniques. The tour also includes many of the country’s famous historic cities, where you can experience the centuries-old traditions for which Japan is famous. 70 Coffs Coast focus

South Africa might be more appealing. On our BEST OF SOUTH AFRICA tour, meet with local farmers and enjoy their generous hospitality on this fantastic tour, which showcases the best of South African agriculture. Attend NAMPO Field Days and see some of South Africa’s best livestock and horticulture. Travel the winelands of the Western Cape and see exceptional wildlife at Madikwe Game Reserve on the Botswana border. July has many destinations on offer: Join Dale Plumb for the HORSE DEALS EQUINE TOUR TO UK AND IRELAND. Experience the thrill of attending high-profile equestrian events, such as the Royal Hickstead Show in Sussex and the Dublin Horse Show, both showcasing the best of what their country has to offer. The tour also includes a visit to the Irish National Stud, plus visits to private breeders and top trainers. Come to grips with the USA’s massive beef cattle industry while travelling through the American Wild West on the USA BEEF CATTLE TOUR AND CALGARY STAMPEDE. Travel from Colorado north through “Cowboy Country”, visiting cattle ranches and commercial producers in Nebraska, South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana. Then head north to Calgary, for the lively and colourful Calgary Stampede. Join Tony Searle, long-time Territorian Cattleman, on the TOP END CATTLE TOUR. Follow in the footsteps of the early pioneers

and visit some of fees to attractions, Australia’s famous sightseeing, tips and cattle stations. gratuities. In August, indulge the Appreciate the rich Are meals included? senses and experience history of the Outback Most meals are included the diversity of and experience in the overall tour cost and agriculture, including Australia’s ancient are shown in the individual Mediterranean crops, landscapes, including itineraries on a daily basis. olives, cured meats, the World Heritage How many people wine, chocolate and cheese ... sites of Kakadu and travel on the tours? Katherine Gorge. Generally, our tours In August, indulge have between 15 to 25 the senses and participants. experience the diversity of agriculture, Are your tours escorted? including Mediterranean crops, olives, cured In most cases, yes; most of our tours meats, wine, chocolate and cheese on the depart from Sydney, which is where you will ITALIAN LAKES AND SWISS ALPS TOUR. meet your Tour Escort. Once you reach your Visit World Heritage Sites, see magnificent destination, the group will be joined by a local countryside and sample delicious regional Tour Manager, so you can rest assured you will produce at local Farmers’ Markets and artisan be well looked after. producers. Can I extend my holiday or make changes October is time to experience the SOUTH to the flights that are included? AMERICAN BEEF TOUR. A continent of Yes, the Quadrant Team can assist you with surprises with spectacular scenery, vibrant any additional travel requirements you may culture and cosmopolitan cities, but it’s the require, such as pre-tour accommodation, agriculture - so different from Australia that additional tours, flights or any other travel will amaze our travellers. extras you may need. These are just a taste of the variety of tours Where can people find out more? on offer. We have a team of experienced travel What’s included on a Quadrant Tour? specialists in our Coffs Harbour office, located Our tours are fully inclusive of international in the City Boulevarde Arcade, Shop 1, 23 airfares and taxes, accommodation in good - 29 Harbour Drive, or you can give them comfortable 4 star hotels, land travel (coach, a call on 6651 1555, or email bookings@ boat or train), technical farm visits, entrance quadrantaustralia.com

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focus_contributor

W I T H TA N J A A C K E R M A N

Wildgirl and the Wasp

Waterfall way - Dorrigo National Park – Rosewood Creek

Goodbye Giinagay Way, hello Waterfall Way ... Smiling and gliding through lush, emerald green hills approaching Bellingen alongside the Bellinger River. What a way to start the day! Wildgirl and Wasp are headed for the motorbike roller coaster ride of the twists, double curves and delicious bends that is commonly known as the Waterfall Way.

ellingen is a gorgeous township - a Park - a National Park of profound beauty, place of stunning beauty. Rich, which became a member of the World Heritage abundant, lush, vibrant, with a Gondwana Rainforests in 1986. It is of utmost feeling of creativity oozing though importance for its value as a natural phenomenon, the streets. Gorgeous conserved to science, conservation and numerous significant shops line the main street. The sense of freedom habitats. It is the largest diverse rainforest on is palpable; it can be seen in the movement of the planet. Preserving biodiversity is a priority in the people. There appears to be a wonderful mix this Park, protecting numerous threatened, rare of people, cars, clothing, open acceptance and and endangered species. Walking the Skywalk vibrant health. Anything timber boardwalk above the goes. canopy allows for mighty Riding through superb views of the National Park dairy country with the and even to the coastline Climbing the escarpment of the Bellinger River by their of Coffs Harbour. After Great Dividing Range, Wildgirl side, up the Waterfall Way enjoying a delicious lunch passed Newell Falls and they go - 30 kilometres of in a wonderful rainforest Sherrard Falls cascading roller coaster riding on a setting at the Canopy Café, to the roadside, hence motorbike ... Spiralling up it was time to explore the the name Waterfall Way. through wonderful bends, forest, Magnificent Eucalyptus trees, Wasp leaning into corners taking the Dome Road to prehistoric Cycads, Wildgirl’s and some near hairpin The Never Never Picnic favourite huge tree ferns, immense turns, leaving Bellingen area. Wasp was parked and rainforest lines the road. behind and making their Wildgirl set off on a lovely way to the rich, red soiled adventure on foot through Dorrigo Plateau. The air temperate Coachwood, becomes cooler, as they snake their way to 750 Sassafras and Crabapple rainforest to explore metres above sea level. The views were amazing. Coachwood Falls. The Rosewood Creek Track Climbing the escarpment of the Great Dividing is a 5.5 km circuit and was a total pleasure, as Range, Wildgirl passed Newell Falls and Sherrard Wildgirl stood amongst giant noble Blackbutt and Falls cascading to the roadside, hence the name Tallowood trees, waterfalls, shimmering creeks, Waterfall Way. Magnificent Eucalyptus trees, a glassy, sparkling river and fungus. Wildgirl the prehistoric Cycads, Wildgirl’s favourite huge tree fungi nerd a whole other story. A Satin Bowerbird, ferns, immense rainforest lines the road. numerous Brush Turkeys and finally the Superb Turning off at Dome Road before the township of Lyrebird made for a complete experience. Wildgirl Dorrigo, Wildgirl and her Wasp made their way to in her natural habitat ... the wilderness. The Australian National Heritage Dorrigo National www.wildgirlandthewasp.com

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focus_tech

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WITH GAVIN MORONEY

WITH KERRY MOSS FROM QUADRANT TRAVEL

Hawaii

Greeted by your ﬁrst “Aloha”, a visit to Hawaii will ﬁll you with an undeniable spirit of Aloha - not just a warm greeting of hello or goodbye, but a way of life - to see and practice goodness in the world.

Head

TRAVEL Tech

CHRISTMAS IS UPON US, THE BUSIEST TIME OF YEAR! SO TO HELP YOU OUT WITH YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING LIST, I’VE PUT TOGETHER A FEW SUGGESTIONS ON SOME TECH TO GIFT THOSE IN YOUR LIFE WHO LIKE A GOOD GADGET. 4. KINDLE 6” WI-FI EREADER (4GB)

event of an incident. This is a handy feature

The more “bare bones” type of e reader, the Kindle is a perfect travel companion for those on the road. To be honest I actually prefer this to the more expensive line up that Kindle have to offer because its rugged nature and simplified options leave you with just what it was made for… to read. There is no need to worry about throwing it in your bag without breaking it. I am quite heavy handed with my gear and have dropped it a few times which hasn’t resulted in any damage. The type is very clear to read and although it doesn’t have a backlight, like the pricier models, I remind myself that neither have the millions of books that came before it

for those looking to capture their scenic drives

2. UNIDEN IGO CAM 80 4K SMART DASH CAM

4. DJI OSMO MOBILE 2 HANDHELD

The Uniden iGo is a sensible gift for any driver. Users can set the recording resolution from 4 K down to 720 p as, well as determine the loop recording length. If nothing happens within that time and there is nothing you want to save, the iGo Cam 80 just records over that video.

The Osmo Mobile 2 handheld gimbal by DJI

The device has a good dynamic range and automatically adjusts to the conditions you will drive in. As a result, the video quality is surprisingly sharp and clear - great for identifying other vehicles and plates in the

users capture smooth video, the DJI Osmo

as well. 3. KODAK PHONE PHOTO PRINTER MINI With this portable printer, all you have to do is connect your phone and print away. It has the footprint of a large smartphone, making it small enough to slip into a coat pocket. Kodak keeps the external features to a minimum, leaving the device looking like a gold bar. It is slightly larger than others on the market, but you do get slightly larger prints. The prints themselves are quite good and are great to share with friends or destined for the fridge door. SMARTPHONE GIMBAL is a great gift for smartphone videographers or anyone wanting to capture some nice family moments. The lightweight gadget is designed to help the attached smartphone capture stabilised video, using both its frontfacing or main camera. In addition to helping Mobile 2 has a dedicated mode for timelapse videos, as well as immersive panoramic photos via intuitively placed controls. The device is compatible with most popular smartphones.

true jewel of the Pacific.

The natural elements of this destination, as well as culturally significant experiences, provide visitors lasting memories. With their own distinct personality, Hawaii has six major islands: Kauai - known as the “Garden Isle”, where emerald valleys and alluring dramatic beauty await. Molokai - home to some of the highest sea cliffs in the world, breathtaking natural beauty, and the population’s love of the land and their preservation of their rural lifestyle. Lanai - find both serenity and adventure on this island, with secluded resorts and rugged off the beaten path back roads awaiting 4WD adventurists. Maui - “The Valley Isle”, with world famous beaches and lush rainforests. Hawaii - “The Big Island”, with four different climate zones from wet tropical to polar. Find nature at its best - molten-flowing Hawaii Volcanos National Park to snow-capped peaks. Oahu - home to the state capital, Honolulu, the island of Oahu is a harmonious fusion of modern and traditional Hawaii. Perhaps the most popular island to visit, due to its accessibility and its iconic attractions. A visit to Oahu provides an experience which combines natural beauty and a vibrant, worldscale international city. Imagine absorbing the spectacular view from a high-rise accommodation option, towering above the aquamarine ocean, with Diamond Head as its perfect backdrop. From an ocean front balcony, perhaps see sun-lovers on the beach below. Share their bucket list ticking experience, watching them learn to surf, or just floating their cares away on a fluorescently-coloured blow-up lilo - just freshly purchased at the nearby convenience store. Waikiki Beach is steps away from the heart of the shopping, dining and entertainment dis-

trict, and staying in this location is the perfect base to explore the highlights of the island. Hire a car or join an escorted tour group to immerse yourself in the sights which make this island so captivating and popular for holiday-makers. Visit the National Historic Landmark of Pearl Harbour, a site honouring the events of December 7, 1941 which changed the course of history and offers a new perspective on World War II. The North Shore is approximately an hour’s drive from Waikiki. Passing pineapple plantations along the way, the legendary location for surfers awaits. Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay - all laid-back locations that feel like a world away from the excitement of Waikiki. Food trucks dotted along the roadside make for an authentic lunch, then cool off with the local treat of a shave ice. Gathering and sharing a meal is an important cultural tradition in Hawaii, so no visit would be complete without celebrating your own special occasion and joining a luau. It’s a feast combining traditional Hawaiian dishes with colourful and lively cultural performances. A few travel tips: Approximately a 10-hour flight from East Coast Australia; it’s tropically located close to the Equator. Hawaii has an average temperature of 24 - 29 degrees Celsius, so anytime is a good time to visit Hawaii. Conditions can differ at various elevations, however, as the islands have a collection of micro-environments. United States Dollar (USD $) is the currency of the state of Hawaii and U.S standards for tipping apply. The guidelines are 15 - 20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters and at least $1 - $2 per night for housekeeping. Experience wonderful Hawaii for yourself. Contact your local travel specialist for the most up-to-date deals, travel advice and booking arrangements. Coffs Coast focus 73

Thwaites Marine

Thwaites Marine is a marine engineering and mechanical services business set in Coffs Harbour, NSW, operating on the stretch of coast from Sydney to the Gold Coast. They are marine engineers and mechanics with a passion for boating!

en Thwaites, founder and Director, grew up fishing, diving, wakeboarding, surfing and sailing. He is a highly experienced marine engineer and mechanic. Ben has worked all over the world in the marine industry, before making Coffs his home six years ago. “My work to date has mainly been focused on bigger vessels and inboard engines. However, for years we have been asked to work on outboards and smaller boats. Therefore, we decided to take on a new endeavour and have become the Coffs Harbour dealer for Stacer boats and Evinrude outboards.” Ben speaks about his new set of products: “These brands have an excellent product range: the boats and engines are modern-looking and well built. The warranty and quality control of both Stacer and Evinrude are in accordance with the way we operate as a business.” In more detail: “The engineering and build quality of the Stacer hulls and fit-outs are outstanding, with several quality control check points as the hull takes its form throughout the factory. The new hull designs are extraordinary,

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with a great blend of ride quality and stability. “We are also highly impressed with the quality of the new Evinrude engines. Specifically, the Evinrude G2 range is outstanding in several fronts: the intuitive steering/trim systems, the torque/power delivery, an unbeatable economy, a highly reduced maintenance cost … and they are incredibly quiet! We are very proud to offer this “The staff at Thwaites “The range of products well-established brand in Coffs Marine are all keen, we have selected for Harbour, for those who seek experienced fishermen our region suit the most high quality, reliable, and and sailors, which makes common practices and uses affordable boats to go out to it easy for us to help our in the area: fishing, diving sea and return home safely. customers. We have a and pleasure boating. We good understanding of are very proud to offer this people’s interests and well-established brand in needs. For example, Coffs Harbour, for those the Sales Manager Mitch Young is a Master who seek high quality, reliable, and affordable 5 instructor, with over 25 years of experience boats to go out to sea and return home safely. on vessels up to 35 m in the fishing, diving and “For those who like fishing in the river, we sailing sectors. have selected quality tinnies to use in nearby waterways. We are also doing boat, engine and “Our aim is to sell the right boat and the right engine to suit the customer’s needs. It trailer packages.”

is important for us that they feel comfortable with the product and that they know we have their back, with our high quality after-sale service and maintenance. After all, we are experienced marine engineers and mechanics. “We have recently moved premises to 30, Industrial Dr, where we have our workshop and shop front with the new Stacer and Evinrude range. Come check the boats out! And stay tuned through our Facebook and Instagram pages, ‘Thwaites Marine’, and our website: www.thwaitesmarine.com.au for news, demo days, offers and discounts!” Thwaites Marine Pty Ltd - licence number MD072311.

focus_tourism

WITH FIONA BARDEN

WITH TEGAN SWAN OF WOOLGOOLGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

events+ UPDATE

Tourism in the Spotlight

Woopi

have yourself a very

With 2019 and the festive season just around the corner, it’s a great time to reﬂect on some of the tourism industry achievements for the year, including awards successes, new product experiences and successful destination marketing campaigns.

offs Coast business shone brightly at the NSW Tourism Awards Ceremony and Gala night held at Luna Park in Sydney on Thursday 22nd November. The Tourism Awards showcase excellence in the tourism industry from around the state, with Coffs Coast represented by 11 finalists across 26 categories. The strong representation of our local tourism businesses showcases the excellence of our tourism products and experiences against the rest of the state. FOCUS ON FOOD

Coast, including the TreeTops Adventure Park, The Racer giant slide and Go Bananas Fun Zone at The Big Banana, Kick Start Motorcycle Tours kitting you out to cruise the coast, and LaLaland kids’ play centre in Moonee Beach ... Not to mention, a full season of Jetty Dive’s hugely popular Swim with the Whales experience. We encourage you to take the time to explore all there is to do on the Coffs Coast - you might like to try one of your favourites or something new. SUCCESSFUL MARKETING CAMPAIGNS An exciting project has seen several regions working together to produce the beautiful Waterfall Way promotional video, designed to entice visitors to experience everything this iconic road trip has to offer. The recent digital campaign has been very successful - more than half a million people watched the Waterfall Way video and saw the experiences we have so close at hand.

The fresh produce and food businesses of the The Coﬀs Coast destination Coffs Coast have been brochure ‘101 Reasons to Play, Stay, highlighted in a number Taste and Explore’ released in May of ways to visitors and this year has been very popular the region over the last and has highlighted the diversity year. From day-tripping of businesses operating in the area, guides for rally seeking especially new tour operators, new our local flavours, to food experiences and new additions the mouth-watering to existing experiences. images in the “Taste” pages of the new “101 Reasons” brochure, we are working to showcase Coffs Coast as a destination for The Coffs Coast destination brochure “101 fabulous food. Reasons to Play, Stay, Taste and Explore” The recent FoodCon industry event brought fantastic knowledge and inspiration to the region. Many local businesses from “paddock to plate” came together for this networking day, featuring special guests: Rose Wright - agri and culinary tourism strategist; and chef-turnedfarmer and real food advocate, Paul West.

released in May this year has been very popular and has highlighted the diversity of businesses operating in the area, especially new tour operators, new food experiences and new additions to existing experiences. All of these add to the wide range of opportunities available for visitors.

CHAMPIONING NEW EXPERIENCES

Wishing you a very happy and healthy holiday season, as you welcome visitors and invite them to “come and #createyourparadise”.

Over the past year, a number of exciting new visitor experiences have arrived on the Coffs

CHRISTMAS The silly season is upon us! It’s a great time to think of family and friends, but also a great opportunity to do something wonderful for your local community.

his year, try shopping local for classes, massages, swimming pool or gym all your Christmas purchases. memberships, swimming classes, scuba diving In Woolgoolga, you can lessons, surfboard lessons, art classes, a car think about ordering your service. seafood for Christmas lunch If you still have a few gifts left to buy, think or check out a local butcher how happy people be when you give them a for your roast. How about local berries on voucher for one of our wonderful restaurants that pavlova? or cafés. Now for the Go unique and Christmas gifts. We original and visit one have great gift shops, a of the local op shops, florist, clothing shops, a the Woolgoolga Art Woolgoolga and the bicycle shop, surf gear Gallery on Turon Parade Northern Beaches shops and bottle shops. for art and craft gifts, have lots of options for But you can think or check out the CWA vouchers for facials, beauty laterally… check out the Christmas and plant stall treatments, manicures and many gift possibilities or other gift options pedicures, hairdressers, exercise at the local Post Office, at the Rotary monthly and yoga classes, massages, the hardware store, auction on Saturday swimming pool or gym the pharmacy, the 1st December from memberships, swimming classes, local newsagency or 10am behind the CWA scuba diving lessons, surfboard Woopi Doo next door (a building in Beach Street. lessons, art classes, a car service. particularly good place Don’t forget to pop for kids to shop for along to Carols on the others). Beach Reserve on 15th Take a drive around December, and you can the industrial estate for more ideas (hmmm buy Curryfest T-shirts, caps or aprons there or … garden furniture, landscape supplies, a from the Visitor Information Centre … great surf board, a kayak, a new mower, a car wash Christmas gifts for friends and family who live voucher, framing a family photo or artwork … elsewhere. so many choices). Make Christmas a gift for our local shops, Still struggling for gifts? Go environmentcharities and businesses, as well as family and friendly and buy services, instead of “stuff”. friends this year - SHOP OFTEN and SHOP Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches LOCAL. have lots of options for vouchers for A Merry Woopi Christmas to all from facials, beauty treatments, manicures and Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber pedicures, hairdressers, exercise and yoga of Commerce. Coffs Coast focus 75

ST JOHN PAUL

safari college

BILL VAN RYSWYK

After a family trip to the Top End, St John Paul College teacher Bill Vanryswk decided that more children should visit the area and experience all it has to offer. So, he started planning a school safari and was able to get it up and running through sheer dedication and hard work. The camp has now been running for the last 17 years and has been a great success, inspiring students to learn more about our heritage, Australia’s beautiful landscape and our Indigenous culture, as well as learning valuable life skills along the way.

ell us a little about St John Paul College’s Annual Safari to the Top End ... The first safari was in 2003. They are conducted every second term holidays in July. We take 54 Year 8 students and four staff, with bookings open to the Year 7s the year prior to travelling as Year 8s. It is a 16 day experience. This year we travelled overnight to Longreach and then continued to explore Longreach, Winton, Mt Isa, Tennant Creek, Daly Waters, Mataranka, Katherine, Kakadu and Darwin. Places of interest visited included the Qantas Museum, Mt Isa Mine, The Marbles, Mataranka Hot Springs, Arnhemland, the Kakadu Wetlands, and Darwin and the many activities and history it offers. What role have you played in the years the safari has been up and running? I promoted the idea of a Top End Safari in 2001 and took two years to obtain approval, before conducting the first one in 2003. I have developed the itinerary, which has been a work in progress from the first in 2003 until the most recent safari in 2018. I have led the safari with a team of staff every year, managed the budget and ensured that it remained affordable for all students, irrespective of their socio-economic status, and ensured with the help of Ms Bibby, a member of our office staff, that the highest standard of WH&S and Duty of Care were adhered to. 76 Coffs Coast focus

I put total emphasis on engagement and the promotion of essential life skills and introduced our students to our wonderful heritage and an understanding of Indigenous culture, spirituality and art. I lived the excursion with the students, not just leading or supervising them. The students also learn a lot about indigenous culture on the safari. Could you tell us a bit more about this ? The students engage with many Indigenous people; they are given the opportunity to view and understand ancient Aboriginal rock art, purchase Aboriginal (Indigenous) art and crafts in Arnhemland - didgeridoos, paintings, and woven baskets. They are taught how Aboriginals manage their land and are given the opportunity to identify and eat Indigenous tucker. They also see the difficult social challenges that Aboriginals face in Tennant Creek, Katherine and Darwin. How has the safari changed and evolved through the years ? The 2003 safari was mainly camping and selfcatering. We travelled up and back by coach; this continued until 2013, when we decided to coach up and fly back. Since 2003 I have introduced new activities, including helicopter and fixed winged flights, cruises, and 4 wheel drive visits to Arnhemland. As the years progressed, to lighten the workload, I had more of the meals catered. In 2009 I led two excursions, one for the students and one for the Parents and Friends of St John Paul College. The adult one was

organised as a fundraiser and raised $24,000 You recently invited guests from past safaris during the course of the safari. This money to an Awards Night. What was it like seeing was used to refurbish the St John Paul College students from as far back as 17 years ago Chapel into a beautiful place to celebrate Mass alongside recent students ? and as a place for reflection. Out of the 17 The night was a celebration of 17 years of safaris I led, three safaris were taken to the Red safari. It was an opportunity to acknowledge Centre, Ayers Rock (Uluru) and thank Bananacoast and home via Coober Hot Bake, Morrisons Betta Pedy. The remaining 14 Living, The Clog Barn, travelled to the Top End. Bailey Centre, NRMA and It has introduced students to the What has the feedback More Ice for their support extraordinary landscape of our been like from the of the safari over many Outback and Top End. It defies students? years. imagination that the geographical The feedback has been It also recognised the features found in Kakadu are so extraordinary. The parents six staff who took part in much older than the Pyramids and express their gratitude to the safari multiple times; are equally as extraordinary and me at every opportunity. they were Wendy Storok, magnificent as visiting Notre Dame Past students way back to Janice O’Donnell, Barbara Cathedral and the Roman Ruins. 2003 keep in touch and Van Ryswyk, Lance Smith, always reflect on the great Denise Seckold and experience they had on Pam Bibby. We shared safari. stories and itineraries and The students learned many life skills and grew reminisced with students from this year’s safari academically and in maturity. This was often and those of yesteryears. A Year 12 student, relayed to me by teachers, who noted this in Nathan Armstrong, who put together an the students in their class who went on safari. extraordinary slideshow including footage going It has introduced students to the extraordinary back to 2003, was recognised for his effort. landscape of our Outback and Top End. It defies Presentations were also made by parents to imagination that the geographical features found the staff who went on the 2018 safari. And in Kakadu are so much older than the Pyramids Richard Mazzer from Mazza Coaches, who took and are equally as extraordinary and magnificent all 17 safaris to the Outback, Centre and Top as visiting Notre Dame Cathedral and the Roman End, also attended on the night. Ruins. Thanks Bill.

East Coast Cabinets Christmas is upon us, and now is the time to organise your Christmas and New Year activities and whilst on holidays (for those who get them) to start planning for all those jobs required in 2019. The local building industry is ticking over nicely, and everyone is predicting more good things for next year. We live in a great part of New South Wales and hopefully others from anywhere else will realise that they can move to join us. New arrivals from “the big smoke” are amazed at how much they can do in a day, as they are not spending hours per day travelling to and from work, giving them more time to enjoy family time, the climate and environment, as well as our sporting facilities. A growing population supporting locally owned businesses and services result in a growing economy. What more is there to wish for? To all the wonderful builders and customers who have supported us throughout the year, a big thank you for your support, patience and friendship - especially when things got chaotic in the middle of the year. Best wishes to everyone for a very happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year from all of us.

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year We would like to wish all of our clients, family and friends a happy and safe Christmas and prosperous New Year. Please note that our office will be closed from 12pm Friday 21st December 2018 and will reopen Monday 7th January 2019. The festive season is traditionally a time to spend with family and loved ones. It is also a time to reflect on the year that has gone and focus on your plans for the New Year. I find that many people think about their financial situation over the holiday period and how they can do things differently or improve their situation in the year ahead. You need to “plant that seed” if you want it to grow. Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement, and even small changes can lead to bigger and better outcomes. Cash flow is the lifeblood of small businesses and should be an area of focus going forward. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

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Rising Expectations

WITH BDC PRINCIPAL NICK JOHNSTONE

Unfortunately, some schools work with the deﬁcit model of education. This means that they work hard on “ﬁlling the cup” of students who are underachieving. They focus only on building the competencies of students who are under the benchmarks in literacy and numeracy.

T Wishing all children on the Coffs Coast a safe and Holy Christmas

hey work with the notion that if our lower achieving students just work harder or spend more time on something, they will achieve more. This model is not quite right. It does not take into consideration a variety of factors, such as student readiness and student perception of their own worth. It also does not take into consideration issues at home or outside the classroom. From a Principal’s perspective (and a parent’s perspective) I can ask any child and they can tell you what subjects they like or they don’t like and why. The deficit model of NAPLAN testing is a good example of my concern in this area. We test all students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 in literacy and numeracy. The testing takes place over three days. The students and their school are then judged by these outcomes. The information isn’t available until the start of Term 4, even though the tests occur in mid-May each year. The deficit model would logically put strategies in place to support learners based on data that is no longer relevant. Instead of using this deficit model to backfill student’s brains, it would be more useful to support student learning with extra tutorial support and to find time to celebrate student gifts or strengths. It is our role is to convince students that high expectations and achievement are attainable. It is our role to convince all students that they can learn. However, simply placing a high standard in front of students is not enough. Standards and expectations must be reachable. The expectations must be realistic and recognised by the students. This is the connection between high expectations,

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optimism, realistic hope, and student achievement. The deficit model does not recognise the fear of failure. We, as teachers and parents, must mitigate their fear of failure, and then gradually plan for short-term successes. By building positive teacher-student relationships through knowing students’ names, their gifts and strengths, as well as their challenges, the teachers can then begin building the trust that makes it okay to fail forward. An exercise book with all the mathematics answers ticked correctly does not show true growth or learning. It is important for the learner, their teachers and their parents to recognise that failure is an opportunity to learn and that success is an opportunity to celebrate. It is important to see failure as the first step, not the last step, in the learning journey. The famous Thomas Edison light bulb quote exemplifies this journey: “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Many of life’s failures are people who did not realise how close they were to success when they gave up.” The takeaway questions for parents and their child/ren are: What do you know now? What do you need to know for our next goal? Who can support your journey to get there? Is it a friend, a teacher, parent, a tutor or a mentor? How will you know when you are successful? What will you have learned? I finish this article with the words of John F. Kennedy: “A rising tide raises all boats”. Don’t forget to celebrate when it is high tide!

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Coffs Coast P R O P E R T Y

G U I D E

future Hopwood The

Homes

Brian Hopwood has been building homes throughout the Coffs Coast for the past 30 years. Brianâ€™s experience and skill has created a home building company with an enviable reputation for quality and excellence.

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ow, Brian’s son David has joined the team. He’s bringing all the latest in building design and technology to Hopwood Homes, together with a truck load of energy and enthusiasm. FOCUS caught up with David and Brian to find out how the young gun’s influence is improving the Hopwood Homes experience, and to get all the latest and greatest from the boys themselves. David, can you tell us a bit about Hopwood Homes? Wow, where to start? Hopwood Homes was originally started in Orange, where Dad built about 125 homes before seeking out the warmer coastal climate of Coffs Harbour. It was 1988 when Mum

and Dad moved my older brother Peter, older sister Renee and me to Coffs to escape the cold winters of Orange. I never knew much of the business growing up; I just have memories of Dad and his old yellow ute filled with mysterious tools and things that both scared and intrigued me. Mum and Dad both worked very hard; the business grew, and it ultimately became a cornerstone within the Coffs Harbour business community. Fast forward 30 years and the business is still going strong, and even though I’ve always been happy to do my own thing, here I am! Dad has built over 1,000 homes for Coffs Coast residents, and I’m always in awe of the incredible reputation he has built.

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We had a thriving business

Ok Brian; what’s the Brian Hopwood story? I come from a pretty ordinary Aussie family of five kids. Dad was in the banking sector, so we were constantly moving from place to place. My best friend during my childhood was probably my younger brother, Stephen. I also have three wonderful sisters. They’re the smart ones who’ve all done well in life, and I love them dearly. Ok, zip forward to 1975, when I stated my carpentry apprenticeship in Albury. Just two years later, Dad was transferred to Orange, so

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but really wanted to live I went along as well. It fair; well, actually a lot in a warmer climate. was here that I contintougher than fair, but to Finally, in 1988 we moved to ued my apprenticeship this day we remain great the warmth of Coﬀs Harbour with a man called friends. with our three children. Alan Kitt. What an Orange can be a harsh experience that was! environment and in fact, He was a hard worker my very first day on the and expected nothing job was spent building a less from those who frame in the snow at the worked alongside him. He drove me hard, and base of Mount Canobolas. It was freezing! I learnt so much from this man. Basically, he Years later, he told me he went home and taught me how to work, and he also instilled sat in front of his fireplace; he said, “Mate, if in me a great work ethic. He was tough but you survived that day, I knew you were either

good or crazy”. I don’t think he ever said which one! When did you start Hopwood Homes? We started Brian Hopwood Homes in 1978 and built 125 homes in and around Orange. We had a thriving business, but really wanted to live in a warmer climate. Finally, in 1988 we moved to the warmth of Coffs Harbour with our three children. From the moment we arrived, we knew we

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had found somewhere special - a great place to raise the kids, warm climate, wonderful beaches, sunny days, rainforests to explore, a friendly community ... and did I mention warm, and yes, there was no snow. Yippee! I even came out of Rugby League retirement at 32 and played for the Coffs Harbour Comets. Through the sport I made a lot of friends and had a great time whilst keeping fit. I was a pretty ordinary player, but it was a great way

to meet people ... Usually when they were running over the top of me! Brian Hopwood Homes continued to grow, and so did our love of Coffs Harbour. Of course, life has a way of throwing curve balls too. Tell us about 2004. 2004 was a shocker - “Brian, you have cancer,” said the doc. I had stomach cancer. I was 47; my mum died of stomach cancer at

the age of 47! “Wow, so this is a challenge,” I thought. In the end, they had to remove my entire stomach to get all the cancer out. If I didn’t have the operation, I would have probably been dead within nine months. I certainly feel incredibly grateful and also sorry for those less fortunate than me. Ok, so how has this changed your outlook on life?

I now do everything, and I do it fast! What’s the greatest gift in life? Time; I have been given the precious gift of time. In my life I was lucky enough to play touch footy (NTRA) and Oztag for Aussie teams. OK, no big deal, but I now set goals and believe that we have “blocks of time” that you must use to their fullest extent.

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Hey Hoppy; when are you

You had a hip replacement 2015; is it time to slow down? Are you kidding? I’m just getting going! Skiing, water skiing, Oztag, gym, bike riding and running the City to Surf are some of my favourite pastimes - and all usually with my wife, Kim, close by my side. Well, she is a bit slower on the run legs - so not that close (I’m in trouble now!) Kim and I love to keep active. Kim is very passionate about things, and her newest endeavour has her building her first Tiny House. She has a passion for women’s rights and

going to retire, you silly equal pay, affordability for old goat?” Well, that’s a bit women in retirement, and rude, but I have considered it of course, the despicable and it’s clear that the beneﬁts domestic violence against of working far outweigh the women - all of which I is doing this without temptation of retirement. support wholeheartedly. my help, because she’s The Tiny House a smart, independent movement is growing, woman. In fact, she and Kim believes a Tiny speaks three languages, House in the backyard is a health coach and a or even in a village can benefit women who teacher (resting). I’ve always said, “surround feel the difficulties of retirement on a very low yourself with people smarter than you”. Which superannuation, or perhaps none at all. She in my case is easy!

We have five fantastic children. Peter, Renee, David, Neeson and Brodie. They have wonderful partners, Polly, Trent, Nathan, Lori and Jordy. Then, of course, there’s our amazing grandchildren, all 11 of them. They are Sophie, Miah, Jake, Khael, Micah, Charlie, Scarlett, Ace, Arlo, Nash and Remi. It sounds like you’re pretty busy with life; are you thinking of retiring soon?

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COFFS HARBOUR

focus Abode.

People say, “Hey Hoppy; when are you going to retire, you silly old goat?” Well, that’s a bit rude, but I have considered it and it’s clear that the benefits of working far outweigh the temptation of retirement. And here’s why: 1. I work with great staff in Angie, Boz, Rosie, Helen and Chris and now have my son David with me. 2. Most of my contractors and sub-contractors have been with me for many years, some since

on site while we build their home. Why would I deprive myself of this? Really, it’s I have a sign in my oﬃce great! which reads, ‘Success I have a sign in my is not the key to office which reads, happiness; happiness “Success is not the key is the key to success’. moving to Coffs 30 to happiness; happiness In other words, if you love years ago. is the key to success”. what you’re doing, you will (Yes, Gidge, you are In other words, if you be successful. getting old too!) love what you’re doing, 3. I get to meet so you will be successful. many wonderful people I respect honesty, and who start as clients but I give it. That’s why I’m end up friends. Usually we’re designing their so disappointed when I see some builders home, but some have their own plans, which is advertising homes that start with a ridiculously no hassle. Then I get to meet them every week low price. In reality, all this means is they’ll

stick it to the client later during the build. How could you trust these people with such a big investment? In any business, trust is important; actually, it’s paramount. Our clients trust my team, and we do anything we have to in order to maintain that. I have been doing this a long time, and I still have a great passion for my business and people. That’s why I like to say, “Experience is not expensive; it’s priceless”. I must just say sorry to Dave though, because I’m sticking around here for a long time before he gets to push me out of the door! What’s your favourite thing about work? It has to be meeting clients on site each week and experiencing the building journey together. How good is that? It’s exciting, and it’s such a wonderful treat to be involved.

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David, tell us more about you and your path to of building, so that worried me, but I used that as a Hopwood Homes? way to drive me to learn and find where my skills best Career wise my background is in banking - mainly benefitted the business. sales and mortgages. I did this for a few of the big How did you go about learning the building organisations for nearly 10 years. I grew to love the business? time I got to spend with clients, the continual learning Dad is highly respected in the industry and has built that was required to be successful and the leadership an incredible reputation based on a knowledge and role I developed. The changing skill set he has developed over a environment of finance made very long period. So here I was, me yearn for something difentering the business feeling ferent - something that would a little overwhelmed. I wanted help me grow and develop a to know people respected me I wanted to know people new set of skills. That’s when I and my input, so Dad constantly respected me and my input, started my education degree in reminded me that the business so Dad constantly 2014 through Southern Cross didn’t need another “Brian”, so reminded me that the University here in Coffs Harbour. to not let that intimidate me. I business didn’t need I learnt a lot about myself, met used this to remind myself of my another ‘Brian’, so to some incredible educators, and own skill set and how this could not let that intimidate me. people whom I now call friends. help grow the business. Dad and I I gained a huge admiration have a great relationship, both in and respect for teachers and and out of work. We’re fortunate what they do, but after my final enough to be able to keep the prac there was still something boundaries clear and be able to missing. That’s when I came in initially to Hopwood act professionally within the business. Homes just to help out with the marketing and general I believe what has really helped me better undersales. I came to the business with very little knowledge stand Hopwood Homes and what building a home

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means is my own current building experience with my partner Nathan. This has given me a huge insight into the experience of building a home as a business and as a client. It helped remind me of the emotional journey that building a home brings. It isn’t just selections, schedules and purchase orders; it is people’s hopes and dreams entrusted to someone else! Nathan and I have two gorgeous kids; our son Micah is 10 and our daughter Scarlett is eight. They are both truly amazing little individuals of whom I am very proud. I, like Dad, think myself a very lucky man. Who are the team at Brian Hopwood Homes? Brian - I can’t say it enough, but I truly have an amazing team. Mark Bohringer (Boz) - Boz is a qualified builder and has been with us now for 11 years! He started off as one of our subbies before taking on the role as our site supervisor. After a few years he put up the tools and moved in to the office to be our estimator, quantifier and all-round gentleman. Boz can still be seen out visiting the job sites, which I love and am grateful for. He has a great eye, and this is just another level of involvement that only benefits the business, team and the client. Mark Rose (Rosie) - Rosie is our site supervisor, and this man is incredible! Rosie is responsible for managing all our jobs, their schedules,the trades, deliveries and their overall quality. He is nothing short of incredible! Nothing is ever too much of an issue for Rosie; he even talks directly with the clients. I can’t say many site supervisors do this. Angela Smart (Angie) - Angie has been with Hopwood’s for just over five years. The super woman of the office, she manages our

The office is a hive of activity most of the time, whilst we

accounts and selections. This is by no means a small feat. Angie guides clients through their whole selections process, liaises with subbies and trade partners, collaborates with Boz and Rosie and makes sure subbies and tradies are paid and clients kept up to date with their project cost. Helen Kellam - Helen has recently joined the team as our administration assistant. Helen brings a passion of building and design to the team and fits in perfectly! Her passion for design is seeing her undertake her own interior

sort the tiny details and crunch the numbers to ensure every project is running on time and to budget, it really is incredible.

design course, which is exciting. We can’t wait to see what else she brings to the business in the future. Chris Burne - Chris is our labourer and is a bloody hard worker! He zips around job to job ensuring sites are clean, materials are where they need to be, fencing is secure, and silt screen is up. His job is a busy one, and he and Rosie are a dynamic duo! David - I love the team, and I’m constantly

impressed by their dedication and passion! Each and every week we hold a team meeting and discuss every job in detail. This really shows how much effort and attention is paid to every job, and I’m proud to be part of it. The office is a hive of activity most of the time, whilst we sort the tiny details and crunch the numbers to ensure every project is running on time and to budget; it really is incredible.

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So, what changes have you helped implement in the business? David - At the core of the business is the client. Without the clients we don’t exist, so gaining and retaining clients is obviously paramount. Also, with Dad managing so many projects at once whilst maintaining personal contact and availability with clients and subbies is something he’s proud of and very good at ... But as we become busier, his time will sometimes be spread a little too thinly. I guess what I am getting at is I could see where this communication could be enhanced amongst our clients, trade partners and subbies, whilst still focusing on “getting the job done”. I spent many hours searching for software that would suit the industry and our business. Eventually, I discovered an ideal cloud-based program that manages our projects, clients and communication with those involved, throughout the construction of a home. Each client is granted unique access to their project, its timeline, documents, photos and videos! For instance, we had a client in Sweden whom we were

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able to keep updated and communicate with via one portal. It was pretty incredible. This then cascaded down and helped me further tweak our marketing to get a better understanding of what potential clients were wanting. It was evident that in this virtual era where social media such as Pinterest and Instagram are so prominent, and TV shows like The Block exist, it is important to be able to meet people’s expectations of design and materials. Importantly, one thing we always keep at the centre of these design discussions is knowledge and quality! After all, sometimes what you want and what can be achieved don’t always align, but that’s where Dad and the team educate the clients on “the why” and generally find a good compromise. Tell us about your community involvement. Brian - I’ve played a lot of sport locally since we moved to Coffs, so I love to support our local sporting clubs. This year we have been major sponsors for both junior and senior Oztag, Sawtell Football Club, the under 10s National Girls Oztag team and the Sawtell

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District BMX Club. We have also sponsored a this stage I also present them with an accurate local dance and performing arts event held earlier price. There’s no good in drafting a plan and in the year called “Chill”, organised by local not accompanying with a price; you must make dancer Sammy Ross. sure you are all on the same page and clients David - We also made a generous donation to understand what they are spending. It may the Bear Cottage, who provide hospice care for take a few more tweaks, but we don’t limit terminally ill children and their families. Moving this. It is their home and has to be right. If we forward, we hope to provide more support to the get it wrong here, the whole project could be local community through further fundraisers and a disaster. It’s always interesting to see how the initiatives. design changes throughout Tell us about your the process, but we try to custom build homes? have fun with it! You have Brian - Custom builds to have fun. Each client is granted are a lot of fun! Initially David - Within the unique access to their we will sit with clients to drafting space at the project, its timeline, get an understanding of moment there are a documents, photos and what is it they are after, lot of exciting things videos! For instance, we had eliminating the things they happening! Technology a client in Sweden whom we don’t like and expanding allows so much, and we were able to keep updated and on the features they do. are certainly working communicate with via one portal. The land has a lot of hard to bring that to our influence on the design clients very soon. In fact, as well, such as aspect of I’m currently completing a the block and where the drafting course to enhance home is best situated, any my understanding of the design covenants that may need to be adhered design process. Design drawing is a collaboration too, access to the site, restrictions or easements between the person drawing the plan, the client, and fire ratings etc. Once we have answered all their budget and the other factors mentioned of this, I can start on the design. Drawing can by Dad. I’m a lover of the 3D capabilities offered take time, but this is what I love doing. Once I these days, so that’s what I’m excited to bring to have something I believe fits the brief, we will the business in the near future. meet with clients again and go over the plan. At

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A lot of trust is put into these teams and individuals by both us and clients. It’s quite

Do you have ready made plans on offer for clients? Brian - We do. I encourage input from clients though, and very rarely have I ever built a “standard plan”. There should be changes made to accommodate the lifestyle and needs of the owner. The plans we offer have been developed over a period of time from listening to hundreds of clients and what the common wants and needs are. Our range is extensive, covering sloping blocks, split levels, double storeys, acreage homes or big family homes. At the moment, we are working on releasing more. These are fairly priced with true costs for clients to be able to consider. None of these misleading “starting from” prices; personally,

common for our clients to speak with our trades on site or to visit our suppliers to discuss certain

that isn’t how I like to David - The packages do it. also give people a true items. In fact, we encourage it! Your signs are popping and affordable indicaup all over the Coffs tion of what a home Coast! Tell us a little of that size will cost. more about your House Ultimately we encourand Land Packages. age change in design to suit each family or Brian - Feedback was that people were findindividual; that is when the “house” becomes ing it hard to get a hold of land, as stock was their home and not just a “package”. Also, our selling, on many occasions, before even hitting packages are turn-key. What does this mean to the market. I had a few discussions with some a potential homeowner? It means we have a developers I know personally about this, and comprehensive list of inclusions covering everywe were able to get something off the ground. thing and ready to move in; from Council and We wanted to promote quality estates and fill engineering fees through to floor coverings, them with a variety of homes and homeownceiling fans and turf it is all there! ers; so far I think we have achieved that. Brian - We are working on more packages

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now but being mindful of registration timeframes, we can’t give too much away. David and I have spent a lot of time looking into some new products, and we’re excited to push the facades of our designs! Until then we are busy working with our existing clients and their dream homes; we’re so lucky to have such fun and happy clients. How important is the relationship with your suppliers and trades? Brian - Hugely important! The work that goes in behind the scenes to manage the schedule of building a home is, quite frankly, massive! Alongside having incredible staff at Hopwood Homes, who as individuals and as a team work hard to get things done, our tradies

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and suppliers work equally as hard. A lot of been around for? This person is responsible for trust is put into these teams and individuals by one of the biggest investments of your life. It both us and clients. It’s quite common for our is your right to know their credentials - don’t clients to speak with our trades on site or to accept just speaking with a sales person; you visit our suppliers to discuss certain items. In should be able to speak with both the builder fact, we encourage it! and site supervisor. David - I love how closely we work together Is your quote easy to understand - our with our trades and suppliers. For me they quotes are clearly laid out and comprehensive. have been a real source of knowledge and We do not want to leave anything open for education whilst I am interpretation. A fair learning. What I also love amount of time is spent is the communication with our clients walking our clients get to have through the quote and at various times with its inclusions, to ensure A fair amount of time is both. Whether it’s to they are fully aware of spent with our clients view some samples or everything that is in, or walking through the to discuss their electrical isn’t in, their Brian Hopquote and its inclusions, layout, it’s great to see wood Home. to ensure they are fully clients involved, and Understand your aware of everything that it’s clear how much our contract - different is in, or isn’t in, their Brian clients appreciate this builders will use different Hopwood Home. contact. contracts, so it is importTrekking down the ant to understand the homeowner path should contract your potential be exciting and rewardbuilder will be using. ing. Here are a few tips The four main types are from Brian and David to get you in to a house Fixed Price, Standard Contract, Cost Plus or a you are happy to call home: Custom Contract; all should set out timeframe Be informed - always speak with professionexpectations, the cost of works, payment als who have been in the industry for longer schedules, how variations are handled and the than Kim Kardashian’s marriage to Kris Humdispute process. Regardless of the contract phries! Do some research, read some reviews used, it is always important to seek indepenor if possible speak with past clients of your dent legal advice. potential builder. How long has your builder

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focus Abode.

Understand your site - before you sign others are flexible, so be mindful of this when a contract, make sure your builder has considering who to build your home. Features undertaken a site survey through a reputable like raked ceilings, raised ceiling heights, full surveyor. The survey will determine not only height tiles in wet areas are beautiful, but can size and dimensions of your site, but also the be very costly; so keep track of the extras you slope of your land, any restrictions on the have agreed to, so you don’t go overbudget. site, locate services, identify any easements Is this your forever home - how is this home or covenants and help going to benefit you in in planning the design the future, will it become and building envelope a future investment, for your home. Always do you plan on selling ensure your builder in a few years’ time We meet with clients each week has completed the and building again, on site throughout their build! survey; not having this or will this be a home This is crucial; not only could cost you tens of you plan to settle in is it exciting for them, thousands of dollars for some time? Asking but it also allows us to in “unexpected” site these questions will be educate clients on their works, retaining walls, beneficial to your design, home and what we at Hopwood re-design or additional your budget but mainly Homes do, we believe, better! requirements required your economic welfare! for your home to comply In other words, do you to building standards. really need the added Design to your extras; is “keeping up budget - not all floor plans are going to work with the Joneses” really an affordable option on your site, nor are you going to be able right now, on this home? to afford them all. Understand exactly what Communication is vital - you might be it is you do and don’t like about particular saying tomato and they might be hearing designs; it’s always good to have a starting tomato! We meet with clients each week on point for your design. Some builders won’t site throughout their build! This is crucial; not allow changes in the floor plan design, whilst only is it exciting for them, but it also allows

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us to educate clients on their home and what The home has a lot of texture and design we at Hopwood Homes do, we believe, better! features that are achievable without blowing Mistakes can happen from time to time, but if the budget. As you walk the home, you are you get to it early enough you can change it. educated on our inclusions via signs and Your new display home is open! What can stickers that highlight them. I love this little people expect to see? extra, as I think educating Brian - I have had lots people about what we of display homes in the do is important. We past, so doing another really do have a higher one wasn’t exactly an standard than most, not I love this little extra, as I think idea I jumped at. It only on the surface, but educating people about what we took some time and internally in the home. do is important. We really do convincing, mainly from This is something I have have a higher standard David, that we needed become very proud of. than most, not only on the another. A lot of thought We’ve also set up a surface, but internally in and collaboration went showroom in the display the home. This is something I in to the layout and home, so you can get have become very proud of. design of this one. I met a real sense of our full with Marcus Phillips from range. We have free Designer Living Kitchens, refreshments on offer, who does a lot of our so come and check it kitchen work and is a close friend of mine. He out for yourself and get a feel for the exciting quickly tore my plan apart and made me refuture of Hopwood Homes. think it; as hard as it was, I’m grateful for that. Display Home Opening Hours: Wednesday 2pm - 4pm, Thursday 3pm He and David challenged me to do something - 6pm, Friday 2pm - 4pm, Saturday 11am different, and I think the result is exactly that 2pm, Sunday 11am - 2pm. - different, but still celebrating our quality and comprehensive inclusions! David - this was certainly my baby! I could understand why Dad wasn’t so keen to build plug! another display home, but I could also see why we needed one. Hopwood Homes has fb.com/hopwoodhomes built an incredible reputation, and this display info@awemill.com home was a way to renew that and also show BianHopwoodHo our new direction. The feedback we have had www.hopwoodhomes.com.au from existing clients, suppliers, trades and the 6650 0200 or Brian 0438 665 401 general public has been very encouraging. BLN: 61248C

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18/11/2018 2:42:03 PM

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focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

MATT S N E L L Simply Conveyancing

ow did you come to call the Coffs Coast home? I was lucky enough that my parents decided to relocate to the beautiful village of Sawtell from Sydney in 1973, when I was a small lad just five years old. With very few means, my mum and dad provided my siblings and I with a loving, respectful and adventurous childhood that I will never forget. Both of my parents have been inspiring me since the day I was born and continue to instil in me invaluable life lessons that I hope to pass on to my own children. My dad has been very instrumental in bringing to account the British Government for all the abuses inflicted on child migrants across the world during the past 60 years. I couldn’t be prouder of my dad for standing up and fighting for so long for an often ignored but important cause for so many suffering children across the world. My mum ... Well, I am so proud of her for putting up with my dad (and us kids) for so long; our family revolves around her! Your business, Simply Conveyancing has been running for a long time now. Tell us about what you do. Well, on the surface I suppose we are in the business of legally securing the sale and purchase of properties for all of our clients, normally an exciting and proud achievement for most people. But, I believe we do much more than that. My amazing team and I are very lucky to guide and support all of our clients along this potentially stressful journey, to ensure they enjoy the experience as much as possible. Understanding our clients’ needs is really what we do, so it is important that when one of our clients telephones our office, they will always speak to a real person who will be able to assist. We have never had an answering machine at our office. All of my staff understand how important it is for our clients to feel important and respected in any transaction. I have witnessed first-hand many 94 Coffs Coast focus

selfless actions taken by my staff to ensure our clients feel contented with the outcome of their transaction. It can be challenging for first home owners when looking to navigate the buying process. Have you got any advice for these buyers? Be patient and never assume anything! It is so important to firstly obtain a loan assessment or pre-approval from a local lender to establish your borrowing capacity, then the fun and exciting stage begins by looking for your first home. Also, when you are choosing your conveyancer, ensure that the quoted amount includes all professional fees and disbursements (normally called a “flat fee”). Don’t get caught out with a quote that just states the professional fee amount, but the conveyancer is reluctant to quote a firm amount on the eventual disbursements; it may become a very expensive mistake for you! Flat fee quotes for your conveyancing should include such expenses as professional fees, GST, the Verification of Identity process, electronic settlement fee (currently known as PEXA), Statutory Enquiries and Searches, arranging pre-purchase inspection reports, processing your Stamp Duty exemption application and general disbursements such as photocopying, printing, faxing, postage etc. What changes are you seeing in your industry? I have been in the industry for over 30 years now, and I have seen more delegation of legislation from Federal and State Governments in the past three years than ever before. Conveyancing has become more complex now, with lots of what I term as “big brother” legislation being passed recently. So, it’s important that you engage a conveyancing professional who can guide you through the many new legislative requirements to complete your transaction. The other major change is how long and frustrating it can become to obtain unconditional

loan approval for funds by a very professional … Buyers just have to be better sufficient to purchase and experienced team, prepared when entering the market. a property and avoid all amazing individuals in Get your loan assessment or prebeing gazumped! their own right, but who approval now! It is normally a free The recent long come together seamlessly service and can last for up to three overdue Financial as a team; I couldn’t be months ... and by the way - ‘tell the Services Royal prouder. They’ve adapted truth’ to your ﬁnancier. You are Commission has just to all challenges that we wasting your time otherwise. I can’t made the process have along the way and are stress enough how important it is more complex and always looking for reasonable to shop local for your ﬁnance; it is protracted; however, solutions or options for our amazing how accountable lenders buyers just have to clients to any transaction that will become when you meet them be better prepared becomes bogged down. face-to-face ... when entering the What marketing activities market. Get your do you find most loan assessment or successful? pre-approval now! It is normally a free service My team and their professional, respectful, and can last for up to three months ... and by caring attitude to all of our clients. I have always the way - “tell the truth” to your financier. You believed that actions speak louder than words, are wasting your time otherwise. I can’t stress so we always look forward to engaging not only enough how important it is to shop local for your with our new clients, but our past clients, who finance; it is amazing how accountable lenders have not hesitated to come back to us after their will become when you meet them face-to-face, past experience with our team. so when the heat is on, you know where to find Why do you love living on the Coffs Coast? them! Our amazing beaches, relaxed lifestyle, the How has technology impacted your Sawtell village where I grew up and still live business? and knowing that my three beautiful children Electronic conveyancing has been the major are growing up here amongst such wonderful innovation over the past two years, although family, friendly local people and a healthy I wished they had actually named it electronic environment. My kids are the reason I believe I settlements, because it only takes care of the exist. I love hanging out with them; they let me last transaction of the whole process, but it does try out my hilarious “Dad joke” routines often process registration of Title and payment of and just watching them grow into wonderful monies immediately. human beings - life is good. I am looking forward My team continue to embrace modern to hanging around for many more years to technology, to ensure our clients receive the most celebrate, support and provide a gentle hand to efficient, professional service available; however, guide them through life’s many experiences. My we have never lost sight of the fact that our partner, Marina, has recently come into my life clients are still human beings and still require our over the past few years; thankfully, my kids love personal attention whenever required. her, and she has been an inspiration for me to Over the past 30 years, what have been your keep striving for that “work/life” balance. biggest challenges in business and how did Do you have a life motto? you overcome them? When you learn, teach. When you get, give. I have been very lucky that I am surrounded Thanks Matt.

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92 Taloumbi Road, Coffs Harbour