Coffs Coast Focus - i32

Feature Story

COFFS COAST

Kathryn Fenton

May 2013// issue 32

ROSIE + JUSTIN

editor's note.

focus C O F F S C OA S T

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ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts.

EDITOR: Melly Dee melly@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe nicci@focusmag.com.au

Melly Dee.

editor.

from the

Welcome to the May issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

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GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

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COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins reg@focusmag.com.au jo@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. 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 dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals.

Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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elcome to our Mother’s Day edition of FOCUS! A big shout out to all of the fabulous mothers in the Coffs Coast Community. Sunday 12 May is Mother’s Day and in the sake of honouring motherhood, celebrate the day with the mother figure in your life.

Happy Mother’s Day to my own mum, who has done so much for me. Slugged away to educate me. Brought me my first car – and my second. Urged me not to get tattoos. Introduced me to two minute noodles and tomato sauce.

Told me that alcohol gives you

wrinkles (not that I listened to that one). Saved me when I got stuck in Europe. Held my hand when I laughed, and cried. And of course, it was Mum who introduced me to the beauties at the FOCUS family!

ON THE COVER Mother and son duo Rosie Anderson and Justin Seelenmeyer.

Rosie is a powerhouse of a lady!

She has raised 9 children, and her gorgeous son, Justin, is part owner and manager of Old John’s Café/Bar, the ‘IT’ place along the Jetty Strip.

IN THIS ISSUE This May edition, we celebrate local mums in our great community in an editorial feature showcasing

er’s what we truly love about Mother’s Day. Jason Ostick, newcomer to town, participates in the annual rickshaw race across India. Billy Kean from Sawtell turned pro es surfer. Grant Lidbetter showcases his published coffee table book, hoee ho and Karen Lewis shows us her shoe collection!

FEATURE PHOTO as as This month’s feature photo wa was taken by photographer David Moore at Sawtell Beach: www.moorephotography.com.au FINAL SAY “Insanity is hereditary; you get it from your children.” – Sam Levenson.

Melly Dee – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Twitter: @le_mellydee

coffs coast focus 3

focusinterview.

Artist Profile

Kathryn

Fenton

Kathryn Fenton took a plunge six years ago and moved from the Northern Beaches of Sydney to the Coffs Coast. With art in her genes, when she isn’t assisting in a primary school art programme or working on the books for her husband’s business, she is painting.

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here are you from, and what brought you to Coffs? Do you have a family?

I’m originally from Queensland, but I have spent most of my adult life in Sydney, with the last 18 years living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. After four years of spending wonderful summer holidays with the family on Coffs’ Northern Beaches, my husband and I decided to finally act on our dreams of a sea change away from the daily hustle and grind ... A quieter environment, where we had more time to reflect on our lives.

It’s been just over six years now living in this little paradise at Safety Beach, with my son completing his HSC year and my daughter now living in Brisbane in her third year at uni.

How did you first develop an interest in art?

Sometimes I wonder if genetics has a lot to do with it. Both my mother and grandmother were extremely creative and her sister a talented landscape painter. Any spare moment as a child I spent painting and drawing. In my high school years I had the most brilliant art teacher, Mrs. McIntyre, at the girls’ college I attended. She was so inspiring, that many of her students went on to careers in the visual arts field as professional artists or teachers of art.

What are your formal qualifications? Or are you self taught?

After completing high school, I went straight into a three year diploma course in Visual Communications and Graphic Design at the Brisbane College of Arts. Although I was mainly training to be a graphic designer, I also took on extra fine arts subjects, as well as photography and filmmaking. For myself, I needed a balance between the rigid disciplines of design to more looser concepts found in fine art.

Have you exhibited?

My first shared exhibition was in 1990 with a group of other artists from the Chinese Brush Painting Society in Sydney. A few major detours 4 coffs coast focus.

happened to me after Art College, where I got heavily involved with filmmaking and completed another diploma course at the Australian Film and Television School and went on to be a film and sound editor for several years. After living and working in Hong Kong for a time with my filmmaker husband, I became fascinated with contemporary Chinese painting and on my return home, sought out two great teachers to learn the discipline. I really connected spiritually with the philosophy of this ancient art, and I’ve often used elements from it frequently in my painting over the years.

My work evolved greatly over the next decade or so, where I painted in different mediums – especially mixed media – and exhibited my work throughout Sydney’s Northern Beaches, from Manly Raglan Gallery all the way to Palm Beach, as well as Mosman and North Sydney Galleries.

Close to home in these past six years I’ve exhibited in Liminal Space Gallery, The Bunker Gallery, Lake Russell Gallery and Woolgoolga Gallery.

Describe your artistic style?

To be truthful, I have two distinct styles going at once. As an artist I do not like to become too complacent, so I feel the need to experiment and push the boundaries constantly. Because of my somewhat rigid formal training in design, I have been on a mission ever since to lend integrity to my work by being more spontaneous, intuitive and emotionally expressive. Over the last couple of years especially, I try to pursue the tension between order and disorder in my subjects and their environment.

Where can we see your work?

At present my work can be mainly viewed on my new web page: www.kfenton.com.au or by appointment. I often enter work in local art prizes such as Lillypilly and Bellingen, and towards the end of the year I will be exhibiting my work at the Painters Gallery in Mona Vale, Sydney.

Where does your passion derive? How do

you get motivated?

I do a lot of portrait and figurative work, as I have always been infatuated by the human body as a subject. It has been a continuous inspiration to me, particularly when I do life classes. The chance to interpret the human form with spontaneous, fluid and sensual lines I find an intoxicating experience. Apart from the figure, I find my motivation to paint from many sources.

Sometimes it’s dramatic light in the landscape, a novel I’ve read, or a picture from a magazine I might use to abstract from or other artists’ work that inspires me.

Where do you paint?

I have a small but bright and lofty treetop studio that I share with our office, but I can often be heard bemoaning how I need more space, partly because I often work on large canvases.

Some of my best work evolves when painting in large studios with other artists in all day workshops. I purposely seek that environment from time to time to loosen up my painting technique.

Do you work from life, photographs or imagination?

Sometimes I can incorporate all three. I can spend weeks sometimes researching a subject and entering my thoughts and sketches in visual diaries. I may enlarge a photograph and start painting and drawing over it to use as a rough guide for my final work.

What painting techniques do you use?

Depending on what surfaces I use, I will vary my technique accordingly. I love working on paper for its versatility when using mixed media.

There are certain nuances achieved with the grain, graduation and bleeding of colours that can’t be obtained on canvas. At the moment, I have been painting some large portraits with mono printing in ink and acrylics but abstracting the backgrounds by diluting the paint with water and flow medium.

With canvases, I spend considerable time prepping them before I get into painting the

main subject. I like to cover up the grain on the canvas with a layer of modelling paste; when it’s partially dry, I take a paint scraper and scratch out areas and other lines, being mindful of where I’ll position the main subject. I’ll then paint some background surfaces and maybe spray and rub or scour some more areas away.

What is more important to you, the subject of your painting or the way it’s executed?

For me, it’s intrinsic I have both working. The subject is always the catalyst or inspiration when drawing or painting, but the technique is always the conduit to my final vision of the finished work.

What painting has the most meaning to you?

There are a couple of paintings on my walls that are special to me in the sense of what they represent. Usually it’s because of a new technique I feel I’ve executed well, which has later spurned a series of work in a similar style.

What does a day in the life of Kathryn Fenton look like?

Like many artists, my artistic endeavours have to play second fiddle to the reality of going to work in a ‘real job’. In my case, it’s more than one. I assist a teacher to deliver an art programme to primary school children from Kinder to Year Six. Also, several hours a week are devoted to running the accounts of my husband’s business, and this year in particular we have the added demands of supporting our son sitting the HSC. It’s the nights that I use to gather and jot down my ideas for new art projects. I try to get to life classes once a month to keep my drawing skills up, but usually it’s the weekends where I get momentum to build on my projects. I’ve been a mad keen photographer since art college days and just love to go deep into the countryside to capture the shifting and contrasting light of these magnificent landscapes.

Thanks Kathryn.

18.

inside this

Story Nation Meet Garth Lidbetter. Born in Coffs, grew up in Boambee and Sawtell. Went to Coffs Harbour Christian Community School all the way through. Parents still live in Sawtell, so he loves to get back a few times a year. He is part of the team who created the portrait story book The Spark. All proceeds from the book are donated to charity.

The Rickshaw Run

34.

usual suspects.

22.

Newcomer to town Jason Ostick is a Civil Engineer working on the highway upgrade. He and his partner, Steph, along with four of their mates recently completed The Rickshaw Run – a gruelling 3,000 km journey from one end of India to another in a Tuk Tuk.

44.

Issue 32 - May 2013

the

8. what’s on for May 26. eat featuring local restaurants 67. social scene with Carole Beros

68. star guide with Terri 71. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

No matter where you are in the world,, read Focus for free online every month th @

Billy Kean Billy Kean was born at the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital and now resides in Sawtell. At 23, he has already had a massive career in all things surfing. His favourite career moment to date was being featured on the front cover of national surfing magazine Tracks!

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

coffs coast focus 5

focusinterview.

K A R E N LEWI S .

R NE COR

This month’s Collectors Corner guest is Karen Lewis, a self confessed shoe enthusiast. She has almost 50 different pairs of shoes.

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re you originally from the Coffs Coast?

I am a Toormina girl from way back. I was born at the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital and went to Toormina Primary and High School. After completing high school, I moved to Lismore to finish my education.

From Lismore I moved to Western Australia and worked in the mining industry, before moving to Queensland after starting my family in 2003.

Seventeen years later, I returned to the Coffs Coast and have once again made Coffs my home.

What brought you to the area?

When deciding to leave the family farm in 2010, I could have picked anywhere on the map. I wanted a change and knew I needed to be by the beach. After 7 years of living on acreage, I needed a sea change. Cows, hay and mountains no longer held an attraction; I wanted sand, surf and sea, and where better to get all of that and more, than the Coffs Coast. The family support I would gain by moving to Coffs was the icing on the cake.

The majority of my extended family is still in Coffs and after spending so many years away, I thought it would be nice for my boys to get to know the other side of the family and to enjoy the benefits of an easier lifestyle. Until moving to Coffs, the boys didn’t know that most people don’t drive a 90 km round trip to school, or that going to the shops could take less than an hour.

The novelty of being 4 km from the beach or 10 minutes from school is yet to wear off.

What is your day job?

Strata manager at SMS Coffs Harbour. I joined the team at SMS in Oct 2010 as a PA and was promoted to Strata Manager in July 2011 after completing my Certificate of Registration. I work 6 coffs coast focus.

with an amazing group of supportive people.

And do you have a family?

I have two wonderful sons, Thomas (11) and Lachlan (9). My mum is still in Queensland and my sister lives in Western Australia, but my maternal grandmother, several aunts, uncles and cousins live in the area. It’s nice for my boys to be surrounded by so much family.

Most people know you as a successful business woman ... most wouldn't know that you are a collector of shoes!

Do 48 pairs of very pretty shoes constitute a collection? When I think of a shoe collection, I immediately think of Imelda Marcos – 2,700 shoes – now that is a collection! My effort pales in comparison, but if we are judging a collection by the enjoyment one takes from it, then I guess you can call what I have a collection. Whilst most people wouldn’t know I have a modest shoe collection, I am known around town for my shoes. I get stopped in the street quite regularly, in fact, and asked about my shoes. At a recent school swimming carnival, I was stopped and asked about my shoes by a random mum, and the after school care ladies always have a nice word to say about my shoes. I even have clients ask me when they call what shoes I am wearing!

When did this begin?

Up until 2009, I wasn’t really into shoes. When I first got married in 1999, I owned a total of only five pairs of shoes, including my wedding shoes. My steel capped boots were my favourite shoes for a very long time, as there isn’t much call for pretty shoes when the highlight of your day was the school run. Cows really don’t appreciate fine footwear and practicality is a must when walking around the farm – four inch heels just don’t cut it. Having said that, I did aid in the delivery of a calf whilst wearing a very fine pair

of black leather high heeled boots. Needless to say, they required cleaning at the end of the day. Everything changed when a girlfriend of mine discovered a wonderful US website selling designer shoes at ridiculous discounted prices.

After many conversations and hours online, I was hooked, and my first shipment was on its way.

Is it only shoes, or do you have a strong interest in fashion?

I’m not really into fashion. I really have to be in the mood to shop, and even then I prefer to shop for work clothes. My favourite store is one that's in the Plaza. The girls know my style and call a spade a spade; I’m really not into being told I look good in something when I don’t. I’m my own worst critic when it comes to my wardrobe and my body. That is why I love shopping for shoes. My feet are average size and are easy to buy for ... my bum/height, not so much.

So we can get the scope of your collection, what are a few of your favourite shoes?

My favourite shoes are my L.A.M.B (Gwen Stefani’s fashion line) stilettos. They have a 13 cm leather cream heel with cream, orange and brown cotton crocheted side panels; they are gorgeous! My thigh high stiletto heeled boots are a pair I had to have, but rarely wear. They are extremely sexy.

My shoes range from red polka dots to patent leather, and everything in between. Stripes, flat colours, bright multi-colours, patent leather and leather are all represented. I do, however, draw the line at sparkles. The only requirement I have when it comes to shoes is that they MUST have a heel. You will not find a pair of ballet flats or flip flops (no, I am not a Kiwi) in my wardrobe. The taller the heel, the better.

What is the greatest length that you've gone to in order to add something to your shoe

collection? Any funny stories that you can share with readers?

I sit at my desk, usually rocking in a pair of track pants and slippers and order online, or I go to Sempre in the mall if I need the smell and experience of actually shopping. I was recently in Sydney and went out of my way to find the Christian Louboutin shoe shop in the Pitt Street Mall, where I tried on the most luxurious pair of stilettos made of cork with gold flecks.

Oh soo pretty ... but sadly, I left without them.

They ARE on the list of must haves, however. If my children would agree to go without food for a few weeks, they would already be mine!

And you also have nine pairs of boots?

Love, love, love boots, and not just in winter.

Cowboy boots with summer dressers, red boots, brown, purple snakeskin and three pairs of black boots come to mind. My next pair will be a chocolate brown, calf hugging knee high pair from my favourite local shoe man. I usually buy the shoes then find clothes to go with them, but in this case I have a fantastic new work dress that is crying out for a new pair of chocolate boots.

You can never have enough boots!

Is this collection growing?

My shoe purchases have slowed down since moving to Coffs. I no longer have the budget to allow my indulgence, but if the need arises, I can always find the funds to get that next pair of must haves.

Thanks Karen.

are you a collector?

We want to know about you! Let us know what you collect, and you might just be our next Collectors Corner guest! e. melly@focusmag.com.au ph. (02) 6650 9343.

www.IAmarok.com.au

I Am

on the tools.

I think, therefore I Amarok.

With a whopping 2.2 metre heavy duty load bed in the back, single cab Volkswagen Amarok doesn’t just get you to the job, it gets all your tools to the job too.

Available as a cab chassis, its 3 tonne towing capacity and spacious cabin with 251mm storage behind the seats brings even more equipment to work and with safety equipment like dual front, side and head thorax airbags, ABS, ESP and EDL, you’ll arrive on site safe and sound. 4MOTION Amarok models are also equipped with standard Bluetooth™ and multifunction steering wheel to make your journey that little bit smarter. Brilliant fuel efficiency from technologically superior engines, paired with a 3 year unlimited km warranty reduces your bottom line and makes Amarok an invaluable business partner. Test drive the most important tool for your working day at Geoff King Volkswagen today.

Your Volkswagen Partner

Geoff King Volkswagen 6 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour MD1000 Tel. 02 6659 1000 www.geoffkingmotors.com.au

The Bluetooth™ word mark is owned by The Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Not all devices will be compatible and functionality will vary depending on the device.

coffs coast focus 7

A R O U N D

T H E

R E G I O N

The Nitro Circus Live The worldwide action sports phenomenon, Nitro Circus Live, to treat Coffs Harbour to a show like it’s never seen before! The Nitro Circus Live crew will be bringing its incredible mix of death defying stunts, mind-blowing tricks and crazy antics to BCU International Stadium on Saturday 11 May, in a show like nothing Coffs Harbour has ever experienced before.

/ /

‘Comics on the Run’ for Camp Quality!

The funniest night on the Mid North Coast, with a hilarious line up of comedians! Get your tickets now and help create a better life for children living with cancer! r!

8 coffs coast focus.

Wed +Fri

11

When Saturday 11 May. Tickets are on sale now through www.nitrocircuslive.com

When Saturday 25 May, Sawtell RSL. Tickets $40 from Sawtell RSL or online: www.mycampquality.org.au/comicsontherun

M A Y

‘Good Times' Good Times is the second single to be lifted from Claude Hay's third studio album, I Love Hate You. Thursday 2 May The Port Macquarie Hotel, with Kelly Breuer.

Cost/Start Free; 9pm.

Yoga at 115 West High Street The ancient Indian practice of yoga has been helping people reap both spiritual and physical benefits for thousands of years. Since society has modernised, yoga has become a much loved form of physical exercise.

Friday 3 May 5 Church Street, Bellingen, with Coastal Soul.

Cost/Start $10; 6pm.

Benefits of yoga include weight loss, concentration, stress relief, sleep management, improved fitness, reducing blood pressure, increased libido, balance and managing digestion. For women of all ages, sizes and fitness abilities.

Sunday 5 May The Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour, with Coastal Soul.

Cost/Start Free; 4pm.

Where Women’s Health Club, 115 West High Street, Coffs Harbour.

When One hour classes each Wednesday, 7pm and Friday, 6pm. Cost $5.

RD RE NORTH SAPP H I

WY

H PACIFIC GAUDRO

NS RD

SPLIT SOLITA RY R

D

Dr. Jeremy Allen from The Allen Medical Centre

meet a

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

local.

Dr. Jeremy Allen from The Allen Medical Centre Meet Joe Fallon from the The Rustic Table in Woolgoolga here are you from, and what brings you to Woolgoolga?

I grew up in Bellingen near The Old Butter Factory, before moving to the Hunter Valley to chase my cooking dream. I completed my apprenticeship and ran a few French and Italian restaurants in the vineyards before moving to Woolgoolga. I brought to Woolgoolga a strong passion for Mediterranean cuisine. Then an opportunity arose to open my own restaurant. uch “ There's not m Did you bring with you your hen spare time, but w family? be at I have it, I love to Yes, my beautiful wife, Bec, mily Describe your typical day? along with my two gorgeous home enjoying fa ith w My typical day starts with several ng girls, Hannah and Bianca. life and relaxi Holy Goat coffees, followed by in.”

What do you do in your spare my wife and kids spired menu specials which keep me time? passionate about food and communiThere's not much spare time, but cating with local suppliers with new, fresh when I have it, I love to be at home ingredients.

Like my signature Dorrigo Goat enjoying family life and relaxing with my from Booma Boer Stud, Gwider Grove Olive Oil and wife and kids.

Olives from my mate Dave.

There's always something What's your favourite thing about the area? new and different at the Rustic All the local fresh produce; there's so much ... we just What does the future hold? need to look! The people are so friendly and laid back Plenty more installed; just getting started. here.

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AT ’ S I N LEMON

With the chill of winter approaching and the evenings lengthening, our bodies need to begin preparing for winter. And one of the greatest and easiest ways to prepare your body for winter is to increase the amount of vitamin C you consume.

Now, while there are an immeasurable number of foods that can be eaten to help you increase your vitamin C, none compare on a versatility level to the common lemon! The Original Vitamin C supplement, favoured by ancient sailors worldwide, can be used in drinks, to flavour dishes, lift up a cake to new levels, or stiffen your meringue!

All this healthy, positive stuff aside … when you are done squeezing your lemons, you hold in your hand a small withered piece of gold … the skin, or rind.

My personal favourite way to make use of this otherwise thrown out piece of heavenly flavour … is to candy it! This is a lot simpler than you would expect.

Simply blanch it momentarily in boiling water to soften the white part, and remove it so that you only have that lovely golden skin. This, you then gently simmer in a pot with an equal amount of sugar and water. When the rind goes deliciously transparent, it is time to remove it, and roll it around in some caster sugar. This is then best stored in the caster sugar, mmmm … lemon sugar … and gets crispier and more candy like as time goes by.

MORE

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To continue reading about unique ingredients, including a few useful tips and recipes, visit my blog on the Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar website: www.zuluscoffs.com

coffs coast focus.

local.

r. Jeremy Allen, what brings you to the Coffs Coast? And where are you originally from? I have relocated to the Coffs Coast from the central NSW farming town of Condobolin, made famous by Australian Idol singer Shannon Noll. There I was the sole practitioner, rural GP and in charge of the district hospital and nursing home.

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Did you bring with you your family? After numerous holidays in the region, plus the arrival of our son (he’s just turned one), we figured what a great place it is to raise our family. We are also expecting our second child in July.

with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

WH

meet a

What do you do in your spare time? We’ve bought a home on a small block in Bellingen, which we’re constantly working on. My wife, Melissa, and I both love the outdoors. She loves horses, and I enjoy working outside on the fencing and my new tractor. At university I drove trucks to help to pay for my tuition, and I have always had a passion for big engines. Otherwise, I enjoy kayaking, cycling, fishing and spending time with my family.

Tell us briefly about your new Medical Centre – where is it located, and are you accepting new patients? The Allen Medical Centre is ran by myself and my practice nurse Mandy, who has worked for me for the past seven years in Condobolin. She and her husband, Kevin, decided they too could use a sea change (which was lucky for me) and have also relocated to Coffs Harbour.

What services do you offer? We provide consultations with myself and Mandy to all new patients and offer bulk billing to concession and health card holders, children and pensioners. We can also arrange home visits and attend nursing homes.

What’s the best thing about being a doctor? I’m originally from NZ, and I’ve been practising here for the past 10 years after a stint in the UK. I especially enjoy meeting and getting to know patients. I have tried my hand at various jobs whilst studying, such as truck driving, fencing and warehouse work, but in this role I can really get to know people and about their life – I love being able to help people. I also feel very fortunate to work alongside Mandy, my practice nurse; she is by far one of the most caring and attentive people I know.

What are you most looking forward to in your newfound home on the Coffs Coast? We’re really excited to make new friends and become part of the community. It is such a beautiful part of the world, and I look forward to watching my family grow here with my wife, Melissa. We can't wait to explore more of the region and enjoy our new coastal life.

McGuigan

Rural Dealer of the Year.

McGuigan BMW Dealer Principal, Shane McGuigan, shares with us the recent success of winning the Dealer Trophy for Rural Dealer of the Year.

T

ell us a little about the McGuigan BMW Dealership ... Our family have had the BMW brand since 1978 and are the third longest serving BMW Dealer in Australia. Our Prime Market Area is from Forster to Coffs Harbour, where we have been able to achieve market leadership in the premium segment for 5 years running.

We are a small team, with Shaun Ferguson responsible for the day to day running of the dealership and Carl Evans in the service department. Michael Murray has been with us since 2002, when he started as an Apprentice Technician; he has recently achieved Master Technician, the highest possible status with BMW. Congratulations on your achievement of Dealer Trophy for category Rural Dealer of the Year. How was the win celebrated?

Our guys work hard all year towards this goal, and it's not known who will win until it's announced on the night, so I can say it was with great excitement and relief that I was there to accept first prize. We took the guys out to dinner and came up with some individual rewards

that they not only deserved, but appreciated.

What are some of the key benchmarks the judges look for when choosing a winner?

BMW are very strict and measure us everywhere We were Shane McGuigan with MD BMW Australia, Phil Horton and possible. The main drivers fortunate John McGuigan at the recent awards night. are Target, Customer over e or sc to gh ou en Satisfaction and Market 130 points which t countable for our interacthe issue; it's how you go about fixing it.

Share. In total, there placed us first no l ra tion with our customers.

Ru r are 8 categories with a ou in How does your business embrace the local only t of all It takes dedication and percentage score out of community? category, but ou commitment to be able to BMW D ealers.”

100; normally between McGuigan BMW is part of the John Oxley Moscore consistently well over a 115% and 125% of the tors Business, where we are the Major Sponsor long period of time. BMW have benchmarks is enough to of the Port Saints Soccer Club. Despite being a a star rating for customer service, win. We were fortunate enough bit of a terrible player, I loved my soccer growwhich they post on our website and to score over 130 points which placed ing up and thought it appropriate to be able update on a regular basis. On writing this, we us first not only in our Rural category, but out to give something back to the club that looked have 5 stars with a score of 4.9; naturally, we of all BMW Dealers. after me for many years. don’t have this result with 100% of our cusAs far as customer service goes – what We contribute to a few specific charities each tomers 100% of the time, but when we miss makes McGuigan BMW a memorable expeyear and have an association with the local an expectation we make ourselves aware of it rience for customers?

Race Club, where we have provided the track and rectify the situation as soon as possible. I car for many years.

With such a small team, we are very much acalways say it's not the problem that becomes

“

McGuigan BMW

Sales Service Finance Parts Lifestyle

MCGUIGAN BMW. A 2012 BMW TROPHY WINNER. When you visit McGuigan BMW, you can rest assured in the knowledge you and your BMW will receive outstanding levels of professionalism, presentation and performance. In fact, we have the trophy to prove it.

Visit us today to experience our signature standards of service. McGuigan BMW, a 2012 BMW Trophy Winner.

McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444.

Tel: 6588 8500. www.mcguigan.bmw.com.au DL7571

coffs coast focus 11

Mum Rosie Anderson is a powerhouse of a mother! She has raised 9 children, run various businesses, been a fitness instructor and is a licensed real estate agent. Her son, Justin, at only 22 has already lived a full life. With a fashion label, international travel under his belt and a well established career in hospitality, Justin has returned to the Coffs Coast and is part owner of cafĂŠ/bar Old John's, down on the Jetty Strip.

12 coffs coast focus.

R o s i e

J u s t i n

A n d e r s o n

S e e l e n m e y e r

H

ave you always lived and worked in Bello?

I grew up in Gleniffer and went to school in Bellingen, then CHEC, then moved to Sydney when I finished. I worked down there for a few years, spent some time holidaying in the States and Mexico, then moved back home in 2012.

Old John's was born sometime after this – a romantic and brilliant idea which saw me sleeping under the stairs in the shop to save on petrol and time whilst we renovated (the Harry Potter room). I've since upgraded and now live in an apartment in town job? full-time.

Whilst raising my family, I ran a Home Based Child Care business and worked What do you love about your job? in hospitality. I have also worked as a fitness instructor, am a licensed real estate Apart from soothing my love for good coffee, food and drink, Old John's is generally a fun place. agent and am presently working as a Support Worker for Community Care OpSocially it's non stop, you're meeting lots of visitors, building up relationships with your regulars and tions. people throughout the area. It's a hoot. Not to mention, it's rewarding working hard and seeing What ages are your kids? Where does Justin fit in to the family? results and the business grow.

My eldest daughter, Melissa, is 35. Oliver (32), Lewis (30), Jonathan (27), Justin Old John's has such a young, funky vibe. Where does the inspiration for such a (22) is my youngest son, and Sirene (11) is my youngest daughter. cosmopolitan café/bar derive?

When Justin was growing up, what did you think he was goThere are definitely good vibes down there. This comes down to a combination ing to grow up to be? Are you proud of his career now? of things, from the design, music, lighting etc. A most important factor I'd like Justin was always good for attention and often enterto note though, is the staff. We've got a rocking little team full of vibrance, tained us, and I often thought he would be a great youth and enthusiasm. We're all down there to raise the bar of hospitality s ie actor or work in the entertainment industry. I am very memor have wonderful I in Coffs Harbour and bring a bit more café culture to the area, and this s proud of his current career/business and all that he's rthday of celebrating bi certainly shines through in the feel of the space. d an achieved at Old John's, a stepping stone ... yes ... friends with family and tement of The inspiration comes from all over the place. Great bars and cafés towards bigger and greater adventures. ci the Christmas ex therings with we've been to in Sydney, when I was down there, and all over the g ga Old John's is very vibrant. How does his childpresents and bi d an es cl un s, world (cue Stevo). Steve's spent a lot of time in London, New York, nt au hood reflect his current creativity? grandparents, ways my al as w er Barcelona etc. so he was able to bring a lot of culture and ideas into m m Justin is very outgoing and full of the vibrance cousins. Su – swimming ar ye of e tim the space.

Thankfully, he's a legend and a design whizz too, so he of youth and searching for all life has to offer. As a favourite les, or taking ho er at w l ca lo nailed that area. in the child, he was never one to sit back and watch others; ach. ” Old John's is basically a platform for all the things that we think are the kids to the be he was out there, looking for an opportunity to test his great, and we have set ourselves no boundaries at all for where the business skills and talent and explore his creativity. Old John's has can go. It's exciting to have something like that. been a perfect platform for him to do just that, and it's flair You're very young to have such huge success. Tell us a little bit about your and success is no doubt a reflection of Justin's creativity and career progression? drive.

After school, I had a fashion label in Sydney with my brother, plasidapparel, which kicked Surfing is also one of his big passions. Having followed his brothers into off in 2008.

We had a flagship store in Manly and were in RAFW (now MBFW) in 2010. This fizzled the water at 7 years old, he has surfed religiously ever since. out in late 2011, but it was great; it gave me a solid business foundation and good experience It is a medium for Justin to express himself creatively, a place of inspiration, for me to draw on now. During this period in Sydney, I was working in various bars and sociable reflection and solitude. environments similar to hospitality. All this helped, and each was valuable for what I'm doing now at Tell us a couple of funny stories about Justin ...

Old John's.

Justin is very strong willed and doesn't like to accept 'no' for an answer. I What keeps bringing you back to Coffs Harbour? remember a period of Justin's schooling when he was 6, and he was reluctant to Firstly, needless to say, the Mid North Coast is beautiful and like no other place. I would always go to school. One morning in particular, I decided I would get him on that school come back here, and it will always be home. In this case, after my stint in Sydney I wanted to lay low bus one way or another. Alas, Juzzy wasn't going to have a part of it, and ran off and decide what to do next. After months of golfing and surfing and not working, I was planning on stark naked down the hill and hid. heading back to Sydney to do economics at uni. We then had the opportunity to open Old John's, Having so many children running around must have been very special. and everything kind of worked itself out and I'm back here for good, at this stage. No complaints.

What are your fondest memories?

Growing up in a family of 9 siblings, there must've been many fun times. Share a couple of Being the youngest of 4 boys, Justin had to grow up quick to get back at his your special childhood memories with our readers ... brothers for all the antics played – like being gaffer taped naked to a chair on I got my bum gaffer taped one day, which was pretty full on, and I was pretty annoying the verandah. Or, defending himself from attack from his older siblings, while (apparently), so I got beaten on quite a bit. But other than that, we had a close knit family, and entertaining his fondness in dressing up as the character Robot Barbarian, with we had an awesome time all growing up together. Lots of big family dinners, spending time at the football shoulder pads and head gear, along with a home made set of nunchucks. beach, surfi ng with my dad and brothers all day, hanging out with Mum on the farm – brilliant I have wonderful memories of celebrating birthdays with family and friends childhood memories.

This kind of stuff was the usual, and we're all pretty blessed and grateful. and the Christmas excitement of presents and big gatherings with grandparents, Your mum is a super mum.

What do you love about her, and how will your family be aunts, uncles and cousins. Summer was always my favourite time of year – swimcelebrating Mother's Day? ming in the local water holes, or taking the kids to the beach. Winter time ...

She's a total gem. She's completely selfless to us kids and has devoted the last 35 years to all of cuddling up and keeping warm while sitting in front of the open fire, cracking us. Even now, being too old for her to make my bed and do my washing etc., she still devotes all her macadamia nuts on the hearth, eating oranges, homemade bread and yoghurt. time to helping others through caring for the elderly and disabled. We all love her to bits. In addition Do you see a big church wedding for Justin? to all this, she helped paint Old John's and baked cakes for us (all of which were delicious).

I see Justin celebrating his wedding on a picturesque headland setting lookWe look forward to celebrating Mother's Day in style – probably at the farm in Gleniffer. And we, ing over the ocean, or in a tranquil bush setting alongside a crystal clear creek the kids will cook a feast and do the dishes. amongst nature's elements.

Thanks Justin.

Thanks Rosie.

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hat brought you and your family to Bello?

I was born in Bellingen, raised on a farm and moved to Sydney for work when I was 16. I returned home several times and settled at Gleniffer to raise my family in my early twenties.

Apart from being a mum of 9, what is your day

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coffs coast focus 13

Mother's Day is a celebration honouring mothers and motherhood. Celebrated on the second Sunday in May, it brings a day for which fathers and children everywhere scramble to prepare every year. Breakfast in bed, flowers, handmade cards, and presents usually signify Mother's Day. This honouring of Mum and her hard work usually brings a smile to her face. Here at FOCUS, we asked people of the Coffs Coast community what Mother's Day means to them, why their mum is special, and how they celebrate! sp

Carole Beros Le Dain Designs and FOCUS Social Pages Columnist with her son Christopher

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My mother definitely has a lot to say and still tries to bore me with fashion, jewels and the next 'what's on' event in town.

Also she writes embarrassing things about me in FOCUS every month! But what I can say about her this Mother's Day is that she is always willing to put up with me and all of my mates and she's ok because she is always ready to feed me and my mates no matter what time of day.

Thanks Mum! .”

14 coffs coast focus.

Anne Blair

Maggie Blair with Sophie and ity to It's an opportun my pay homage to ng rli da ed recently depart se ce to e mum . Now it's ni gie excited Sophie and Mag Day too.” about Mother's

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Sammy & Sue Heart

my Angel .

My mum , Sue, is ial to me She is very spec not to mention and our family, o knows my ho that everyone w too! Happy mum loves her m .” um Mother's Day, M

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Jacqui Jarratt, Glen Barnett, Coffs Coast Health Club, with four day old Flynn Barnett.

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I will celebrate how extraordinary my wife is for giving us this opportunity to create our amazing son, Flynn. ”

Sam Dawson Married By Sam and FOCUS with her daughter Nicola (17), son James (19), and Ben (21).

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I do love my mum, as she is always tthere ffor me. I love how she does my y washing washing, g, feeds f me, cleans my y room and replaces p s my y broken iPhones, s and she is always y great g ffor a loan! Mum is more like a ffriend to me. We love doing g everything y g together together, g r, like shopping, pp g eating g out, relaxing g at home, e a and we travel really y well together g too.

Happy ppy Mother M Mother's 's Day Day, y, Mum – I love y you.”

Keli Baker

io2453 Boutique and Stud First Ave B r son, Jonte. in Dorrigo with he ay, 'cause it's the I love Mother's D my children stop one day a year special r's D ay is super he ot M e. m l oi and sp y birthday, d, as it is also m in our househol r's D ay I celebrate Mothe so my mum and my stores s a great time in It' . ay w e os cl a in oose the ers look and ch watching custom eir mum .” perfect gift for th

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coffs coast focus 15

Caroline Bleechmore Park Beach Plaza Marketing Manager, with her daughter, Annelise and son, Sam.

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My mum has one of the best jobs in the world, and I think she is liked by everyone she meets! She is kind, caring, generous, fun and knows how to have a good laugh. Most of all, she always makes sure I am happy!”

Gail Carpenter

, Keiarra Seccombe Nicci Seccombe, Jake Seccombe., d Gail Carpenter an ome because My mum is awes 3 super rad she gave birth to ng Day is about letti kids … Mother's d an ow how special your mother kn little you by taking a amazing she is to ti e her and spend tim time to think of um .” u, Mum with her. Love yo

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Heidi Brett

and daughter, Charmaine, both fromVAST Interiors.

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Charmine says: "Mum is like my best friend. I love he her, but sometimes she drives me so crazy. She always sees the fun and beauty in everyone an and everything thingg around us. I rea really love that about her.”

Judy Sheehan

Jessie grand-daughter, Love and Kisses: for discusses her love Henderson (10), ey. her mum, Courtn , because she I love my mum and she listens cares about me ays wise and she alw to me and she's answers. ” has really good

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coffs coast focus.

Nicole Donvan

r Surf Club, with he Owner/manager d Avalon. children, Ted an her's Day, We just love Mot to spend a because we get ver ther doing whate special day toge a st year we took Mum wants . La g al r dog, Louis, on long walk with ou d e looking forwar Coffs Creek. We'r ar el special this ye to making her fe too! ”

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Mello, Marshmellow

r family Marketing with he not enough There aare n ime words in this lifet sh mum; e's to describe my s pport, my su my saviour, my ffriend .” inspiration, my

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Mark Van Ryswyk Skinner Motors with his family A special time to honour the two greatest, most devoted Mums in the world, my Mum and my wife. We all love you both very much. ”

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Sonja Wallis

ith her daughters, Camp Quality, w a.

Jasmine and Indi r us means Mother's D ay fo u to Mum saying thank yo ost ur mum is the m for everything! O n; we've ever know amazing woman acher te r, llo chef, counse e, rs nu r ou e's sh every . We feel blessed and best friend as our mum .” day to have her

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Maree Zwolsman Daughter Brianna, Maree's Mum Dorothy and Grandmother Dora.

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Maree's husband, Adrian Zwolsman says "Mother's Day in our house is recognising the everyday contribution of Maree and reflecting on our own Mum's who we wish were still around to share the joy of Mother's Day" ” coffs coast focus 17

focusinterview.

Meet Garth Lidbetter. Born in Coffs, grew up in Boambee and Sawtell. Went to Coffs Harbour Christian Community School all the way through. Parents still live in Sawtell, so he loves to get back a few times a year. He is part of the team who created the portrait story book The Spark. All proceeds from the book are donated to charity.

I

moved to Newcastle when I was 18 to study at Newcastle University (B. Design in Visual Communication). After that, I travelled through Africa for a year and then moved to Sydney.

I now run a business: ‘Lokal Design’ (lokal.com.au) based on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. I cover a range of design services, but particularly work with clients on their visual branding.

I enjoy meeting with clients and thinking about their visual branding, the perception this creates for their customers and looking at strategies to engage their customers in a positive way.

S T O R Y N AT I O N .

I’m also a part of the collective ‘Story Nation’.

I met Jeremy Shaw (photography) when I first moved to Sydney in 2007 and worked at Surf Dive n Ski for a few months. Jeremy worked at the Pitt St store; I worked at the Bondi store. Jeremy had just begun getting into photography and so after I left SDS, I hired him for a couple of small shoots initially, and things grew from there.

I met Matt Cowan (interviews, words and project management of The Spark) playing football for Coogee Utd. in 2008. We chatted a bit about work, but it wasn’t until a year or two later Matt started a boutique marketing business (cowanandpartners.com.au) that he got in touch with me to talk branding. Since then, we’ve worked on a number of projects where he covers marketing/PR and calls me in for the visual branding and design work.

I met Paul Hanna (web design) simply because one of my clients was using him as a web designer. I looked up his work and liked it, so got in touch with him.

The idea behind the collective is to have contact with people we enjoy working with in related fields, so that we can work closely on a range of projects as they come up. To engage each other’s help when needed. To inspire each other and push each other to improve. And particularly, to have an outlet to create projects (even self-commissioned projects) knowing that there is a platform to 18 coffs coast focus.

showcase our work and have an audience. A big The personalities in the book are ‘everyday part of the thought behind Story Nation has been people’ as in, they’re not household names. But each of us wanting to have a positive voice in soeach individual in the book is very successful in his/ ciety. We can see that there are millions of voices her own right, and therefore has an amazing story speaking into our lives through various media outto tell of how they got there. The book addresses lets these days … and unfortunately, I think a lot the highs, the lows, successes and failures, and of the time these voices can be quite irresponsible those pivotal inspirational moments that led to and sometimes even totally against what I would the realisation of each of the personality’s dreams. hold as my values.

From all different backgrounds, each of the In different ways, we can see the effects of this personalities in the book have insightful thoughts, in our culture. So, without hitting people with a and a main feature of the book is that we wanted sledge hammer, we would like to simply share stoto deliver strong stories and strong photography, ries, present images, photographs, poems, music, so both would be as strong as the other. whatever it is, with the intention to make Jeremy Shaw: has taken all the photos in a positive impact in our society. the book. He’s a young photographer Still very much in its infancy, who has done his time assisting we still don’t know exactly with some of the top photograhow Story Nation will dephers around Sydney and is The Spark – velop. We are just internow beginning to make his Volume One ested to ‘tell authentic own mark. National Portrait e em explores this th stories from around Gallery – Photographic g in al ve with honest , re its the country to inspire Portrait Prize 2013 Finalist, ra rt po d an anecdotes om positive social action’ for his portrait of Burt fr le op pe of twelve (it’s like our motto). We Bacharach. ” e. lif ay yd ever welcome any creatives to C R E AT I V E D I R E C T I O N be a part of Story Nation. & DESIGN: PREMISE OF THE Initially I looked at the brandBOOK: ing of ‘Story Nation’… I wanted the A ‘spark’ is a single moment or branding to have a strong presence in culmination of experiences that results in the its identity. The logotype is strong and stable and realization that we must make the most of our almost ‘headline’ like of a newspaper. It also had potential. The Spark – Volume One explores this to be fairly neutral and compatible with a range theme with honest, revealing anecdotes and of differing ‘stories’ that could be presented under portraits of twelve people from everyday life. Each the Story Nation banner. So, in both the logotype had a powerful reason to answer their calling and creation and colour choices, this was a considermake an impact in music, health, retail, comation. When taking on the task of The Spark – Volmunity development, hospitality, law, training, ume One, I was aware that I had a blank canvas importing, personal development, fair trade, mail and could almost do anything with the branding logistics and charity. of the book, the layout and graphics.

We all need inspiration from real people who I considered adding a lot of detail and presenthave purposeful stories that we can relate to and ing it as a very handcrafted piece, which I really identify with. We all have potential. We hope that love ... but decided to be a little more subtle this book will set off readers’ own sparks to fulfil and understated. I kept the backgrounds clean their innermost ambitions. and white, used crisp black type tying in with

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the branding of Story Nation and really aimed at stripping back the design elements to bring forward the quality in the photography and story telling. This was an exercise that shouldn’t steal the attention and focus it on my ‘arty design skills’ but rather, use those skills to engage the viewer to appreciate the work of Jeremy Shaw and Matt Cowan more.

The stories on each of the personalities are quite personal, sharing the core of their passions and dreams and how they got there. I needed to present this so the viewer can receive this in a personal way. I chose uncoated stocks to print on, so that even though they lose a bit of impact in the brightness (compared to printing on a glossy coated stock), they achieve a softer feel in the viewers’ hands. It creates a more personal touch.

The stock is still very smooth and a bright, vibrant white, so this enhances the photographs throughout the book.

THE LAUNCH AND RESPONSE: The Spark – Volume One was launched earlier this year with a gallery exhibition of the photos at TAP Gallery in Darlinghurst, Sydney. A launch party was also at the gallery for people to come along, hear about what we at Story Nation are doing and to get their first taste of what The Spark is all about. The response has been great, with loads of people supporting the concept, loving the product and purchasing books. The charities we are supporting have been amazing. Each of these charities have been requested by the personalities in the book, and we’ve enjoyed getting to know and understand what these charities are all about.

The work that each of them do is amazing and well worth supporting.

PROFITS: All profits from the sales of The Spark – Volume One books are donated to the nominated worthy charities: Coffee Kids, Love Mercy Foundation, OzHarvest and WorldShare.

T O B U Y A C O P Y: Go to the Story Nation website: storynation.com.au

Matt & Bree from O.P 81 café.

To Mum...

Caterpillar House Winter – cold, wet, windy Oh, and comfort food ...

For our new winter menus, we take the best produce and we braise, pickle, purée, slice, knead and marinade to show some delicious combinations of the best winter can bring, and what we have ended up with is ... comfort.

We have also added more blinds and heaters to go with our lap blankets, to warm you before you have even ordered your meal.

We still have our house blend of coffee from Single Origin Roasters (SOR) but to add to the excitement, we also have the Single Origin of the week (also from SOR, so we know it’s brilliant) changing weekly ... a coffee from one origin around the world displaying individual characteristics and depths of flavour.

So come down to O.P 81 and explore the world of coffee, comfort food, or just drop in for a warming takeaway coffee on your way to work to make the sun shine on your day.

7am to 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour (02) 6652 9011.

In recognition of the vital importance of the Mothering Role. We wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful Mothers in our Community.

When you see the world through a child’s eyes –their primary carer is THE most beautiful sight.

At Caterpillar House we strive to see our Centre through the childrens’ eyes. Caterpillar House is a Community Based, notfor-profit, service started by parents for parents and has been serving our community for 32 years.

As well as providing spacious facilities and diverse experiences to meet childrens’ developmental needs, staff follow each child’s choice of play and support their interactions with others.

Staff are continuously trained to be responsive to each child’s personal journey through their early childhood years. We have a teacher and 5x Diploma qualified educators and all others have Child Care Certificate lll. Staff to child ratios are high and Qualified staff to child ratios are also high.

Vacancies for term 2 are currently for afternoons only. Parents can “have a break” or spend time with older children secure in the knowledge their little ones are being well cared for. Longer term vacancies open up throughout the year. So come and play with us.

With love and kisses and lots of special Mother’s Day wishes from Ashley ...” (or Gina, or Emily, or Jack, or Tom, or Kate ...) Whether you decide to buy her a smart new handbag this Mother’s Day, or if it’s a $5 or $10 pocket money gift that’s needed, there’s lots of great things to choose from at Love & Kisses.

Judy’s happy to be the new town-centre stockist of a whole new range of the much loved Willow Tree collectible figurines, just in time for special Mums. Or perhaps you’ll decide on a pretty new scarf for $7.95 with a matching necklace.

A big new delivery of wild and whacky tea cosies has just arrived, and Judy says the special Love & Kisses garden gloves are the ‘gift of the moment’ right now.

Maybe you’ll choose a lace hanky or an English jigsaw puzzle for Grandma and a new address book for Nana. And with all the rain we’ve had, most mums would be very happy to receive one of the spunky little Mywalit brand auto-open/ auto-close folding umbrellas.

So be sure to call in just to see what else is new this week, and remember ... when you need to give a gift with love and kisses, Love & Kisses is the first place to go!

coffs coast focus 19

focusinterview.

Australian Rock legends The ANGELS Greatest Hits Tour 2013 takes them to The Sawtell RSL. We discuss with co-founder and guitarist John Brewster what drives them to continue to deliver music decade after decade!

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here and when does and developed our own style from that the band originate? experience.

The Angels evolved These days that passion has returned from the Moonshine in a big way, now that Dave Gleeson Jug and String Band in Adelaide in 1974. (vocals) and Nick Norton (drums) have Moonshine was a very popular jug band joined the band. Also my son, Sam, from 1970 to 1974 – an acoustic band has joined the band due to the passing featuring Rick Brewster on washboard, of our bassist, Chris Bailey, one of the Pete Thorpe on washtub bass, Spencer very best bass players Australia has ever Tregloan on banjo, Doc Neeson and produced and our friend. But it's great John Brewster, guitar. I wrote a song to have Sam with us on bass; he's a fine called Keep you on the Move, a Rock player. In the past 20 months we have song but we recorded it as written and recorded 26 songs. It Moonshine and had a comes easier when there's a hit, in Adelaide only! team spirit.

But it was enough Rick was recently o, to t lo a d to convince us named one of ne We lear ry ar H ith w to form an Australia's best ng ki wor ung Yo e rg eo G d electric band, five guitarists; the an Vanda ound AC/ ar g in be so so the first accolades just al d an e shows – as incarnation keep coming …

DC for many liv being d their support, an of The Angels As his brother, I them in the studio with of their began. can say that I think r at quite a numbe Yourself and it's well deserved. sessions. ” Rick Brewster There are a number have been of fantastic guitarists, around for decades; and it makes it hard to through that time the judge one against the other. I lineups have changed. How think Rick has earned the accolade have you both managed to because of the body of his work ... deliver legendary Australian the fact that his solos are so instantly songs? What drives you to keep recognisable and memorable. He makes making music? the melody sing – an expression our Nothing much has changed since the father often used. early days. We grew up in a musical You guys spent the majority of the family (grandfather a concert pianist/ 2000s apart, but in 2008 The Angels composer and father lead cellist with reformed and toured again. What the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra). brought this about?

We developed a passion for music and We reformed with the original lineup songwriting that lives with us today. as a thirty year anniversary of the We learned a lot too, working with release of our breakthrough album, Harry Vanda and George Young and Face to Face, that stayed in the charts also being around AC/DC for many live for 79 weeks. The lineup played to shows – as their support, and being in the end of 2010, when Doc Neeson the studio with them at quite a number decided to pursue solo interests. When of their sessions. We soaked a lot up it became clear that he didn't want to

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20 coffs coast focus.

record with the band again or perform for a number of years, we asked Dave Gleeson to join us. We are very happy with the outcome, and this lineup has now played 7 'Day on the Green' concerts to an average audience of 9,000, headlined the Clipsal 500 after race show in Adelaide in March this year and performed around 50 other gigs, including the QPAC theatre in Brisbane, which we recorded and released as a live album. In other words, we are having fun again!

The Angels Greatest Hits Tour is about to hit the NSW North Coast.

What can we expect in the show?

We always play our biggest songs, like After the Rain, Take a Long Line, Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again, No Secrets, Shadowboxer, Be with You, Face the Day, Coming Down, Fashion and Fame, Marseille etc. There'll be some songs from our new album Take it to the Streets … Waiting for the Sun, Wounded Healer, To the Streets and Life Gets Better and some other well known songs that we don't often perform.

Dave Gleeson is a dynamic and energetic front man. He gives the band a real edge. Nick Norton is a world class drummer and with Sam on bass, they form a great rhythm section. Me and Rick? Well, we just do what we've always done, but we are playing with a fire that hasn't always been there.

Thanks John.

the plug!

The Angels will be playing on Saturday, May 18: Sawtell RSL, Sawtell.

Tickets from (02) 6653 1577 or www.sawtellrsl.com.au

Youth Directions Youth Directions now offers a free mentoring support service for young people who are employed as school based apprentices or trainees. Support officers are available to work directly with young people to assist them in balancing their school work and employment. Evidence shows that personalised mentoring support increases completion rates for school based apprenticeships and traineeships, whilst ensuring that the experience is enjoyable and stress free.

Youth Directions support officers are currently focusing upon two program areas within the Coffs Harbour Region, as well as in the Nambucca and lower Clarence Regions: • The Careers That Care Program – aged care, disability services, allied health, children’s services and vulnerable youth – www. careersthatcare.net.au • The Indigenous Youth Careers Pathways Program is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

The free mentoring support service can be accessed by young people directly or by interested host employers, teachers or parents/carers.

Support officers get to know each student individually, and assist with motivation issues, completing assessments, negotiating and communicating with employers and teachers or are there just to listen when needed.

Interested? Contact our Mentoring Support Officers for more details: Coffs Harbour / Nambucca: Jo Symons, 6653 2900, jsymons@youthdirections.com.au Clarence: Taree Brearley, 6642 6635, tbrearley@youthdirections.com.au

Incorporating Technology

Time for something new

One of the biggest challenges for business large and small is incorporating technology to their existing marketing campaigns. For most businesses, engaging in conversations with their target market is quite daunting so if you plan to integrate social media into your own marketing campaign, make sure your business is culturally ready for this kind of marketing platform and hire people who are experts in social media optimization to get the best possible results.

The Easter celebrations have ended and daylight saving has retired, so it’s now time for something new to tantalize your senses. Roll up for this month’s program at the Jetty Memorial Theatre for some jolly rollicking entertainment: film, drama and comedy abound.

To determine the most effective marketing technique for your business, you need to know which type of social media channel suit your business the best. You may need to research all leading social media networking sites and check their individual features. Look for features that closely match your needs.

If you are looking for a rare treat, El Ma Mi Alma is it, a visual love song to the surf blessed land of Chile, its people, and the ocean that defines it. This film paints a picture of Chile’s beauty and association with the sea, centred around the intimate act of surfing. “Fated to become a classic of the genre.” – Paul Witzig.

Know that your social media marketing efforts should be incorporated into your overall marketing and communication campaigns. They should all share a common voice to avoid contradiction and confusing your target market. The act of communicating with your customers online is an extension of your customer relations lifecycle, so make sure your tone is uniform from all marketing campaigns.

Elizabeth Coleman’s dark and deliciously funny comedy, It’s My Party is guaranteed to make you laugh ... but the elbow jabbing at your ribs is sharper than expected. Gruff, well ordered, quintessentially Aussie family man Ron has 111 minutes left to live. In a final gesture, he hosts a family party…

Finally, know that an effective online presence takes a lot of work, from a professional. Whether you need someone who will send daily tweets, blog posts, posting viral content or creating a complete automated online marketing campaign, it’s about combining marketing and technology to build your social media profile.

The Australian premiere of Young Frankenstein concludes its successful season, so get in quick for last minute tickets to this hilarious singing and dancing laboratory experiment.

And if that isn’t enough, the Melbourne Comedy Roadshow is back with a huge night of comedy from some of the world’s funniest comedians. Be part of the ‘ribcage-rattling’ humour when they roll into town early June. The hijinks are coming your way; this is an event no comedy fan should miss. Tickets are selling fast.

So whatever gets you moving, visit www.jettytheatre.com now for further details.

EL MAR MI ALMA Friday 10th May 8pm

Shot entirely on 16mm, award winning film ‘El Mar, Mi Alma’ is a visual love song to the surf blessed land of Chile, its people, and the ocean that defines it.

Henri Henr He nrii Szeps nr Szep Sz epps in

IT’S MY PARTY (And I’ll Die If I Want to)

Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon - 4pm jettytheatre.com | 02 6652 8088 facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Proudly supported by

17th & 18th May Gruff, well ordered, quintessentially Aussie family man Ron is convinced he is dying. In a agnanimous gesture of loving finality, he hosts a party!

Tickets available now from JMT website.

jetty memorial theatre SEASON 2013

coffs coast focus 21

focusinterview.

Newcomer to town Jason Ostick is a Civil Engineer working on the highway upgrade. He and his partner, Steph, along with four of their mates recently completed The Rickshaw Run – a gruelling 3,000 km journey from one end of India to another in a Tuk Tuk.

W

here are you from, and how long have you been on the Coffs Coast?

Only two months ago we moved to the Coffs Harbour from Newcastle. My partner, Steph, and I love the beaches and fishing that the area offers.

I’m working on the Nambucca to Urunga Pacific Highway Upgrade as a Civil Engineer.

What is The Rickshaw Run? The Rickshaw Run is an organised charity event where participants are challenged with the task of getting from one end of India to the other, driving a Tuk Tuk. There is no set route, nor any assistance during the journey; you’re on your own. In total, there were about 70 different teams from all over the world competing; about 10 percent didn’t make it to the end.

How did you get involved with The Rickshaw Run? A quick internet search and a few phone calls overseas landed us a spot in the January 2013 Rickshaw Run from Jaisalmer to Cochin.

What prompted this adventure? Did you know much about India prior to this?

At the time we were looking for a holiday with a bit of adventure. We’d heard good things from others regarding the diverse scenery and history that India had to offer. Prior to the Rickshaw Run, the most I knew about India was the Taj Mahal, the River Ganges and the great food.

What is a Rickshaw? Engine? Transmission?

A Rickshaw is a three wheeled vehicle powered by a single cylinder 145 cc two stroke

22 coffs coast focus.

engine. The design hasn’t changed much since 1948. They have a manual 4 speed gearbox, with one reverse gear. Similar to the old school Vespa scooters, the gears are selected by twisting the left handgrip whilst simultaneously pulling in the clutch lever on the same handgrip.

There are three routes. Which route did you take, and how many kilometres did you travel in what period of time?

We started in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan and finished in Cochin, Kerala. At the end, the final odometer reading was 3,127 km; however, the accuracy of this can’t be guaranteed. We crossed the finish line after 14 days.

How many people were in your team?

What relationship to you were your team mates?

We had a team of 6 people sharing two Tuk Tuks. We were 3 couples, mates from uni. At the end of the race we still managed to leave as 3 couples too. We rotated people per Tuk Tuk as we went, just to mix things up.

Thanks to my fellow team members Aimee, David, Raquel, Olly and Steph for making it an unforgettable adventure.

As this is a charity event, who did you donate your monies too, and how much did you raise?

We had a variety of charities we raised funds for. The main charity was Frank Water, helping to provide clean water to communities throughout India. We also raised funds for Dads in Distress, Newcastle Children’s Hospital & Kids@Heart NZ. In total, we ended up raising $4,800.

What is 'pimped' ... and was your rickshaw 'pimped?'

Prior to us arriving, we had the opportu-

nity to submit a paint scheme for our team's Rickshaws. The local painters did a great job making our rides look utterly out of place as we ventured across the country. We also added a boomin' sound system, in order to get some local beats blasting during our trip.

What type of training did you have to undergo to compete?

Training consisted of a brief walk around the vehicle to see where things were and what was missing and a quick run down on how to hand crank the motor to get it started and how to flick through the gears. After that, you were on your own. Driving on the roads took some getting used to – just had to forget all the road rules you ever learnt and have your wits about you.

Apart from driving, I imagine there was a lot of fun to be had. What type of activities did you retire to after a long day of driving?

The usual activity at the end of the day was to fix up what had broken or fallen off our Tuk Tuks prior to setting off for the next day.

We did manage to visit the Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, the Lake Palace at Udaipur, as well as the Taj Mahal. We also got to spend a couple of days relaxing on the beaches of Goa. We visited heaps of local markets and some great restaurants.

Although it's a wonderful adventure, the

dangers of participating in such an event are very real. What types of dangers did you encounter along the way?

Driving on the roads was the biggest risk.

The scariest moment was whilst driving up a tight, windy mountain road, a fully loaded lorry truck at full steam coming down the mountain came round a blind hairpin corner, taking up both lanes and forcing us into the ditch on the side of the road. Losing brakes on another day wasn’t fun either.

Livestock was another obstacle we faced; a charging cow almost took out one of our vehicles whilst on the open road. Break downs weren’t too much of a drama, though. All in all, we only went through 3 sets of brake shoes, one brake slave cylinder, 2 broken drive shafts, one blocked carburetor, an exhaust that fell off, a fuel tank that fell off and a broken roof frame. Nothing a roll of fencing wire and some roadside welding couldn’t fix.

Who was your sponsor, and how did they support your journey?

I was sponsored by Laser Plumbing & Electrical, who are Australia & New Zealand's largest Plumbing & Electrical contracting group. They supported us financially, of which the funds were donated towards a charity called Frank, Water which is all about providing cleaner water to remote Indian areas.

Thanks Jason.

focusinterview.

Sher Dance

team

The Sher Punjabi dance team are all from Woolgoolga, and they have all migrated from the Punjab region in India. In Woolgoolga by day, they work in the banana, blueberry and cucumber industry. They have been in Australia for ten years and have been best mates since.

H

ow did the Sher Punjabi Dance Team come about? We got together on many occasions, and we thought about doing something to display our true passion for our Indian culture – something we noticed was lacking in the local area, especially considering that it has a strong Punjabi background.

We have always loved Punjabi music and dancing. Even before we came to Australia, some of us were in professional dance teams in India. We wondered if there there be any interest in Punjabi dance in the Coffs Harbour Region ... as it turns out, there is!

In the beginning, it was hard to find people who wanted Punjabi dancers to perform at any functions. Amandeep and Maninder got a chance to dance at an opening that was held at the Jetty Theatre. We figured

it would be a bit of fun. Upon arriving at the theatre, it was much bigger than we could've ever expected! Everyone was taking our photos, asking questions, wanting to talk to us. It was all overwhelming. We were a little frightened of the whole experience.

a Punjabi dance group. After getting some

the annual Curry Festival. They have also

interest from a number of people, he took

performed at many small and large venues

his time to select a total of five people who

along the Eastern Seaboard of Australia.

had previous Punjabi dance experience and

Some of the events they have performed at

who had a similar vision to his own.

include: Australian Annual Sikh Games, Bo-

How long have you been together? And

tanic Gardens Coffs Harbour, Harmony Day,

After our performance in the evening, they wanted us to come back in the morning and preform again. But we did not go back – think it was nerves; we were a little apprehensive. Scared in a way. Our friends who did not attend the performance couldn't believe how busy we were and how much everyone loved us. We never expected that we would have been that popular!

ten years later, here we are as a team that

TAFE NSW, weddings, community events,

has seen some dance members come and

Dhoom Dhamaal Dinner Dance and many

go, always having a group of six or seven to

other events.

perform when the need arrived.

If we were wanting the group to pre-

What is Bhangra Dancing? The basic point

form at an event? The boys love dancing

of the 'Bhangra Dance' and the Sher Punjabi

and are willing to be booked for any event

Dance Group is to enjoy the moment and

that people would like them to perform at. If

have fun in dancing.

anyone would like to make further enquiries

How did it begin? We're lucky to have Maninder with us. He had run a professional dance group in India for over seven years.

He asked around the local Punjabi community, seeing if anyone was interested in joining

How have people responded to the

or make a booking for them to perform at

group? Punjabi dancing was new to a lot

an event they are planning, please contact

of the local Aussies, but they warmed to

one of the two founding members: Man-

it instantly. The Sher Punjabi Dance Group

inder 0404 125 146, or Amandeep 0431

has become the symbol and highlight of

811 418.

Want to teach your child to save? is a skill

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Visit a bcu store or call 1300 228 228 to find out how your child can become a Scoot’s super saver.

Fair go banking is for everyone no matter how big or small you are!

Kids! Want to win a Scoot’s super saver worth $200?

Email scoot@bcu.com.au and tell Scoot what you are saving for and why, in 25 words or less. Don’t forget to get an adult’s permission and include a daytime phone number and your full name in the email. Entries close May 31, 2013 and winners will be contacted and published on www.bcu.com.au on June 5, 2013.

Banking products issued by Bananacoast Community Credit Union Ltd ABN 50 087 649 750 AFSL 241077 Australian Credit Licence: 241077. *Terms and conditions apply.

Subject to change. A fee will apply if the account is overdrawn. Visit www.bcu.com.au or ask in store for details. Competition terms and condtions at www.bcu.com.au

coffs coast focus

23

focusinterview.

Norm Jordan Function Rooms

Photo: L-R: Gillian Thaine, Lesley Schoer, Tracey Adendorff

The home of ladies fashion Conservatorium Wins ETC Grant

Coffs' Premier Venue

Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium has received a $7,000 ETC Community Support Grant to be used for the purchase of a portable stage for the unfinished performance space.

This premier venue is one of the most versatile and adaptable spaces on the Coffs Coast. The rooms can be hired together, separately, or in conjunction with the boardroom, for an ideal break off area.

Lesley Schoer, President of the Board, and Gillian Thaine, acting Conservatorium Manager, were presented the grant

by Tracey Adendorff, ETC Board Member.

The rooms are identical in size – both seating more than 200 people. The north room features a garden lined patio with a western wall, perfect for a stage or presentation area. The south room has easy access to the open grass areas of the grounds and parking through the southern doors.

Lesley said, “We are extremely grateful to ETC, which has been a significant contributor to the Con from the time we opened the new facility in 2010.

This grant is helping us with the next stage of our development, while providing an opportunity to obtain additional income and help support the quality music education needs of the wider community.

“Our grant application was called ‘The Next Stage’, because it will enable our teaching staff and students to stage concerts, an essential part of music education. Because it is portable, the stage can be used for our outdoor performances on the forecourt of our facility at the Bray Street Complex. Having the stage will also enable us to hire out the performance space for community uses such as conferences, workshops, performances and rehearsals. It is all part of the continued development of the Con as the place ‘Where Music Lives!’”

24 coffs coast focus.

At the Coffs Harbour Showground you can choose to self-cater, have us provide morning tea, or treat yourself to Sparechef’s onsite catering service – you choose what level you would like to have.

Whether you choose the north or south room, the Norm Jordan Function Rooms are the ideal venue for training seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, parties, weddings or just about any other type of event you could imagine. The possibilities really are endless!

With the recent renovations now complete, the rooms are modern, with new carpets, tiled foyer and bar area and a new colour scheme; it can all be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort.

For further information, please visit our website at:

Since opening its doors last September, Divine Living has wasted no time in becoming a much talked about little treasure trove for that something special, whether it be for the home or for ladies fashion.

Divine has recently undergone some extensive works, including a shop fit out to cater for its expanding range, including ladies fashion with sizes from 8 – 22 and now handbags, shoes and dress jewellery.

This month, a new Divine shipment of eclectic furniture inspired from the Himalayan and Indian region is due to land, so it may well be worth a visit …

Travel Tales …

Whilst the owners were completing an extensive trip through China, they were extremely lucky late one evening to stumble across some rare handcrafted furnitures and ceramics from a little, almost hidden village.

After spending countless hours delving through many beautiful pieces that have been under wraps for years, they are now in the process of shipping them back to the Divine Factory outlet here in Coffs ...

Don’t forget …

www.coffsshowground.com.au or call our friendly staff on

If you’re after that special Mother's Day present, then you can’t go past Divine Living. It’s a must see because it’s different, it’s well priced, it’s just for you and it’s just …

6652 8401 to check availability.

Hours Mon – Fri, 10am – 5pm; Sat 10 – 3pm; Sun CLOSED.

focusinterview.

Watsons Caravans Coffs Harbour Meet Jeremy, Kris and Adam Watson from Watsons Caravans & RVs, Coffs Harbour.

W

hat is the history b behind ehi hind d th the Watson family business?

Where are your family roots, and when did Watsons open for business? Max and Faye Watson moved from a farming background in the Mallee Region in Victoria, to Grafton with three of their sons Kris, Jeremy and Trent. There they purchased the Glenwood Caravan Park. Their youngest son Adam was born in Grafton.

The Watson’s began their caravan sales business in 1981 from Grafton, expanding to Coffs Harbour in 1987. They moved from the Harbour Drive yard to their Pacific Hwy location and have been Jayco agents since 1990.They have grown with the industry now employing 32 staff including their three sons. In 2007 they relocated the Service Centre Workshop to a new two acre site at 251b Pacific Hwy, which is accessed from Hurley Drive.

Who is involved in the day to day operations of the Watsons family business?

Max and Faye Watson own Watsons Caravans and RV’s. The daily running of the business is shared between Kris as Sales Manager, Jeremy is Stock Control Manager and Adam is the Manager of Operations.

Faye Watson W is also Vice President of the CCIA (Carav van and Camping Industry Association) (Caravan which is the body that supports every sector of the industry, including caravan park proprietors, manufactured home estate proprietors, manufactured home, cabin, caravan, motorhome and tent manufacturers, and product retailers and dealers.

The boys also acknowledge that the business would not operate without the work ethic of all their trusted and valued employees.

And you all have young families – how do you juggle between work and family? As we are a family business, we understand the need for a work life balance and the importance of flexibility at work. We take short trips in our caravans and spend quality family time in the great outdoors. Our family love to water ski, surf, fish, ride motorbikes and spend time with Max & Faye.

How has the business changed over the years? The Jayco product has become a lot more sophisticated based on the latest technologies being used. We expanded into Jayco Motorhomes, and are the only Jayco Motorhome dealer in Northern New South Wales.

We have grown our Sales, Service and Spare

parts divisions over the years, and grown the number of staff from six to thirty two. We proudly support the community in sponsoring different events throughout the area. Although we have grown, Watsons Caravans has keep it’s core values.

What is unique about this business? Many people choose to buy their second, third and even fourth caravan from us, and that is great customer loyalty.

Our Highway location is on 3.5 acres, we have the largest display of caravans in Northern NSW, with over 105 Caravans, Motorhomes and Campers to choose from.

Watson's Caravans has now developed a 10,000 square meter site to provide the largest dedicated repair and service facility on the NSW North Coast. We service all makes and models, you don’t need to own a Jayco to see our service team. We also offer full warranty and service for

Australia's No. 1 brand Jayco. Our qualified team can carry out any job from servicing, fitting air conditioners, antennas, solar systems or complete fit outs, no job is too small or too big.

Our qualified staff.

The Watsons Coffs Harbour experience.

Having Kris, Jeremy and Adam working side by side and remaining great mates.

What are some of the Watson's business achievements? Recent highlights for the team are receiving the 2012 Jayco National Outstanding Customer Service Award, the Jayco Outstanding Achievement Award and the CCIA Best Regional Dealer Award.

Watsons was also the Jayco's Number One Country Dealer for 2011, which is the second time we have achieved this award.

Come and see our fully licensed team for all your caravan and motorhome needs, and say Hi to the team.

coffs coast focus

25

Coffs Coast Coffs

1 kg Steak Challenge from Outback Jacks.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 26 coffs coast focus.

eat.

Café TREEO Sawtell As the weather cools down, things are heating up at Café TREEO in Sawtell as owner/ chef Duncan Elliot revamps their already popular menu with some winter warmers and perennial crowd pleasers. From the all day breakfast menu, you can now treat yourself to fluffy coconut pancakes with fresh banana, mascarpone and caramel sauce, or the delectable vanilla French toast with blueberries, strawberries, mascarpone and maple syrup.

From the lunch menu, the crab and corn croquettes are a must have, along with the pecorino crumbed Whiting fillets with citrus roasted sweet potato, buckwheat, tabouli, pickled eggplant and tahini yoghurt.

If this has got your tastebuds watering, then follow TREEO on Facebook – www.fb.com/cafetreeo

Flooded Gums Restaurant Winner of 1 ‘Chefs Hat’ in the 2013 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide awards and 2 ‘Goblets’ in the 2012 Fine Wine Partners Wine list of the Years Awards, making it a leader in regional NSW dining. Overlooking the picturesque 18th hole with its flood lit fairway, the Flooded Gums is unmatched for setting, food, wine, atmosphere and service on the Coffs Coast.

Our team of talented chefs have created modern Australian menus for your enjoyment across breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner 7 days a week.

Come and experience Beautiful Bonville and ‘Hat’ dining today.

Owner/Chef Duncan Elliot.

18 First Ave, Sawtell t 6653 1099 fb fb.com/ CafeTreeo

North Bonville Road, Bonville t 6653 4002 w www.bonvillegolf.com.au open: 7 days. Bookings essential for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

open: 7 days from 7am for breakfast and lunch.

The Pier Hotel Waves @ The Pier Hotel has something to suit everyone’s tastes. Come and try one of our delicious steak combos, where you can get one of our perfectly cooked steaks topped with fresh local seafood.

On our famous Thursday night Mexican menu, you can choose from 7 different Mexican meals all served with a Corona, wine or soft drink for just $14.50, or try the 1 kg burrito challenge and walk away with a T-shirt and your name on the honour board.

Don’t forget our great value lunch menu, with lunches starting at $10, 7 days a week.

Horizons Restaurant & Bar

Head Chef Dave Newick.

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel 6652 2110 bistro 6651 8222 Open: Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm, Dinner 5:30pm8:30pm 7 days a week

NEW WINTER MENU! As the temperature starts to chill just a little, Horizons has unveiled its winter menu. We’re looking forward to showcasing the best of the region’s produce in the winter months. So come in and try our mouthwatering delights, remembering our Head Chef – Clinton Hunter’s – philosophy of sensational food at affordable prices.

REMEMBER TO BOOK FOR MOTHER’S DAY – Sunday 12 May! All mums receive a free glass of De Bortoli champagne on the day.

Breakfast: 6.30am -10.30am. Full buffet breakfast with lots of yummy treats, including eggs Benedict, chocolate danishes, pancakes with berry compote & whipped butter. Lunch: 12pm - 2.30pm. Special 2 or 3 course limited choice menu. Dinner: 6pm - 8.30pm brasserie menu with winter blackboard specials. Bookings advisable.

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

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour t 6651 0510 open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

coffs coast focus 27

eat.

Spinifex Restaurant It's Mother's Day at Spinifex Restaurant!

Bring Mum in for a scrumptious lunch or dinner and celebrate all that she is on this day just for her! With a variety of special offers and delicious menus, there’s sure to be something the whole family will love, especially Mum. COAST HOTEL - MOTHER'S DAY RAFFLE Win a Mother's Day pamper package, box of Llindt Chocolates, box of Cadbury Favourites, two bottles of Capel Vale Wine.

One KITCHEN SET $150 spa pack from AZUR SPA, Bottle of Chilli Infused Olive Oil, $35 Spinifex Restaurant voucher, $100 voucher from Beauty is Bliss. Tickets: $2 ea or 3 for $5. Drawn 7pm, 12 May '13.

SET MENU - Spoil Mum with a delicious lunch at the Coast Hotel, including a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival.

Charred chicken pita with pomegranate, harissa, garden greens & lemon yogurt

No. 5 Church Street With its wonderful open space, live music and delicious seasonal menu, 5 Church Street, Bellingen is the place to be.

Located on the riverside of the Church Street café strip, No.5 is not just your average café; it is an entire experience in itself.

Founded on principles of local, organic and sustainable practices, the space has struck a nerve with the local community and stunned many a passing traveller, by providing an alternative venue with an atmosphere that is difficult to describe and hard to beat.

You can see what’s going on @ www.5churchstreet.com Anke and Uncle Zai.

Head Chef Sam Allinson.

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour t 6652 3007 w www.coasthotel.com.au

5 Church Street, Bellingen t 6655 0155 open: Wed - Sun, 11am - 10pm.

open: Lunch: noon - 2.30pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

Chocolate Jaffa Torte with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream.

Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar On Friday 31 May, Zulu’s Restaurant and Bar at the BEST WESTERN Zebra Motel, will be hosting the 'At the Movies' Degustation Dinner! Your favourite treats while watching movies and famous movie reference dishes will be combined to create a six course extravaganza as only the guys at Zulu’s know how! Join us for $60 per person or $90 with included drinks, or make a weekend of it and ask us about accommodation packages as well. Pre-dinner drinks at the bar will begin at 6.30pm for a 7pm first course!

Plantation Hotel With the change in season comes a change of menu. As of the 1st of May we are launching our new winter menu, with a fantastic selection of hearty winter warmers and new mouthwatering desserts.

The Plantation Bar & Grill is the perfect setting to treat your mum this Mother’s Day, Sunday 12 May. We are offering a complimentary rose on arrival for all mums, while stocks last. Bookings essential.

Cake and Coffee Special: $8.50 every day.

Chef Blake Walton.

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour. t 6652 3855 w www.plantationhotel.com.au open Lunch: 12pm to 2.30. Dinner: 5.30 to 8.30, 7 days a week. Tapas menu Friday and Saturday night and all day Sunday.

28 coffs coast focus.

Chef Joel McCulla.

27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) t 6652 1588 w www.zuluscoffs.com open: Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am.

Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.

eat.

Grilled King Prawns with mango, chilli, coriander, toasted cashews and lemongrass syrup.

Saltwater Restaurant

Finz on The Beach

Saltwater has just released our new autumn menu. Head Chef Dan has combined this season’s produce to create a beautiful, inspired selection for this autumn. To view the whole menu, please visit us on our website: www.saltwateronthebeach.com We are now open from 8am Wednesday-Sunday for our fresh & fabulous breakfast. Our coffee & cake special is available all day for just $8. A new addition to the restaurant is our outdoor bar area where you can relax & enjoy anything from a morning coffee whilst reading the paper or an early afternoon beverage whilst watching the waves. Sunday the 28th we start our 3-6pm" Chillout Sesh" with great drink & food specials & live local music.

Hope to see you at Saltwater soon!

Wedding will be the word on everyone’s lips on Saturday 11 May 2013, when brides-to-be are welcomed to BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort for our first 'Wedding Open Day'. From 11am - 3pm, Open Day guests have the opportunity to meet Aanuka’s experienced wedding team, view the resort's array of ceremony and reception venues and discuss the plans for their big day. Free entry, complimentary parking, champagne and canapés, gift bag on arrival and the chance to win an assortment of prizes, including 10% off your total wedding bill when you book and confirm your wedding on the open day. Couples can also make a weekend of it and enjoy the resort's fantastic range of leisure facilities, with great rates from $159* per night in a Paradise Spa Bure, including buffet breakfast for two.

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach t 6656 1888 w www.saltwateronthebeach.com

Head Chef Dan Williams.

REVIEWED BY

Guide

open: Breakfast and lunch - Wednesday to Sunday.

Dinner - Wednesday-Saturday.

Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 2400 w www.aanuka.com.au open: 6pm - 9pm, 7 days a week.

Outback Jacks

Bluebottles Brasserie

Need a place to take the family out for lunch or dinner? Come down to Outback Jacks and try our tasty $9.95 lunch specials, from our Angus bush burger, chicken schnitzel, chips and salad, or a variety of wraps served with chips. For the more adventurous, we even serve camel or croc burgers. To seal the deal, if it's not ready in 15 mins, you get it half price.

For a cheap family dinner, come in Mon - Wed between 5 - 7pm, and kids eat free. Keep the young ones entertained in our kids' room, complete with Playstations, chalk boards and plenty of toys.

Experience our great Outback Jacks atmosphere, while you enjoy a mouthwatering steak or our famous all you can eat mixed ribs and wings for only $29.95, all day every day.

Saturday evening tapas, with live music once a month. Come and enjoy Asian inspired tapas and the smooth sounds of guitarist Michael Carr from 5pm on Saturday, May 4.

Enjoy dining in our relaxed alfresco atmosphere, with fresh menus and friendly staff.

Head Chef Gerard Geerligs and his team have created modern Australian menus to cater for all tastes.

Functions are catered for on any night.

Open for breakfast and lunch.

8 Bray Street, Coffs Harbour t 6699 2458 w www.outbackjacks.com.au open: 7 days a week from 11.30am ‘til late.

New owner Glenn.

Head Chef Gerard Geerligs.

Shops 1 & 2, 53 Beach St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1962 open Breakfast and lunch daily. Open for dinner Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm.

coffs coast focus 29

focusinterview.

Owners Ant & Marcus celebrating their first anniversary.

Chef Josh

The landmark local café Located opposite Park Beach, Café Aqua is a landmark local café and the home away from home for many locals and visitors to the Coffs Coast.

OWNERS LEAH AND TIM

PALMS Your new space looks great and not your average butcher shop. Where did your ideas come from?

It was a collaborative effort, but we wanted to create a shopping experience for our customers.

The butcher’s boulevard is somewhere you can come and our qualified staff can provide that perfect piece of meat for your dish; whether it be striped, diced or cut thicker, the butcher’s boulevard can do it.

You have a big variety of grass fed and free range products. Tell us about one ...

We have a new fantastic pork range. Not only is it grass fed and free range, but it is LOCAL. We are buying all of our pork from Mayfield Farm, which is situated on the edge of Dorrigo plateau.

The pork is grown without the use of hormone growth supplements and antibiotics; they are certified members of humane choice for quality assurance. We have visited their beautiful farm many times and taken video footage, so come in and see for yourself.

You offer home delivery. Who do you

deliver to?

We understand that it is sometimes hard to make it to our shop, so we are offering our customers home delivery. We will be delivering to Coffs Harbour, Sapphire, Nana Glenn, Coramba, Toormina, Sawtell, Boambee, Woolgoolga, Bonville, Moonee, Emerald. For more information and delivery days, contact us.

You have a unique sausage product. Tell us about this ...

You can design your own sausage. You bring in 1 kg of ingredients that can be made up from spices, vegetables, fruit or a mixture of them all, then choose between our beef, pork or lamb, and we will mix up your own sausages. You can even watch as we make them right in front of you in our glass room.

Your range includes sauces: do you have a favourite?

We recommend trying our new range: the saucy sisters from Sammy and Bella from My Kitchen Rules (MKR). Their beer BBQ sauce is great with beef. There is a wide range to choose from, so come in and have a look.

SPICED PORT SCOTCH FILLET SLOW ROAST DRY RUB

Ingredients

Method 1. Mix the dry rub ingredients together.

2. Mix the marinade ingredients together and place in a large zip lock bag. Add pork and place in fridge for 12 hours.

3. Remove the pork from the bag and dry the pork well. Rub the remaining dry rub on the pork, covering well.

4. Preheat oven to 110 °C. 5. Cook pork on roasting rack for 6 to 7 hours.

30 coffs coast focus.

Dry rub 2 tablespoons smoked paprika 1½ tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon black pepper powder 1 tablespoon chilli 1 tablespoon cumin 1 tablespoon dried oregano 2 tablespoons ground coriander seeds 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1½ tablespoons fine salt ½ cup brown sugar Marinade 1/4 of the dry rub mixture ½ cup fine salt ½ cup brown sugar 3 bay leaves 1½ litres water

Having just celebrated their first anniversary at Aqua, owners Ant and Marcus have been busy finding their niche and working hard at creating a relaxed, friendly environment that’s filled with busy chatter, sumptuous smells from kitchen and exceptional food and hospitality.

With Chef Josh and his team sourcing the freshest local produce available while creating tasty breakfast and lunch specials, Aqua’s food is outstanding and sure to tempt the taste buds. Our cakes, muffins, and friands

are baked daily on the premises, and both breakfast and lunch menus offer gluten free or can be adapted for dietary requirements.

Serving up Paul Bassett espresso coffee, a wide selection of Red Sparrow teas, freshly squeezed juices or organic juices, all which can be enjoyed on the deck, under the sails or inside the café – or to take away and walk along the beach.

Bookings for breakfast and lunch are welcomed and recommended for the busy Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Also available for private functions or catering – enquiries can be made at the café or through the website.

Molly&Me Café Now Open

Containers from $28 per week

Molly&ME Café is NOW OPEN, serving fresh, funky food and superb coffee. It is a unique and relaxed eating

Need a Storage Solution?

A shipping container is just what you need!

experience; it is as popular for its coffee, warm ambience and

For temporary or permanent, short term or long term storage.

the comfort of its breakfast menu as it is for the diversity and freshness of its lunches and fresh juices.

Come in and experience our freshly prepared foods: • Artisti Boutique coffee and Red Sparrow tea • Cakes and muffins – baked daily, with gluten-free options • Fresh ingredients and produce used when available • Free range eggs The one and only Molly&ME is now serving up The ‘Banh Mi’; it is a delicious Vietnamese sandwich that includes a combination of our own recipe, which includes an Asianinspired oven roasted ‘Pulled Pork’, with crisp Asian salad, house mayonnaise, green My Saigon Sauce and crispy shallots.

The Vietnamese sandwich, known as ‘Banh Mi’, which is sweeping across Australia as the ‘IT’ lunch item is now available in Coffs Harbour.

We cook everything on site, even our own pies, sweets and cakes, with a large range of dietary specific cakes available.

Our gluten free MACARONS are regularly voted by our customers as the best this side of Paris!

So please come and visit our friendly staff and watch Chris in action whilst enjoying a little taste of Molly&ME Café.

Perhaps you need somewhere to lock up the motorbikes, store the hay, archive the office, or maybe you need somewhere to store the furniture while you renovate?

Coffs Hire have over 120 containers in stock ready to go. All hire containers are brand new and come in the Colorbond range of colours.

There are 3 trucks running daily to deliver shipping containers or relocate full containers.

Coffs Hire carries a large range of site buildings, scissorlifts, forklifts, car and coolroom trailers, VMS message boards, portable single unit showers with hot water systems and over 200 portaloos in our modern fleet. We even have trailer mounted units for weddings/parties, to keep those muddy feet out of your house!

Coffs Hire specialise in events and have our own vacum/water trucks for easy servicing of toilets and septics across the Coffs Coast.

This year, Coffs Hire has introduced Telehandlers 4WD All Terrain 3 tonne (no licence required) and also a range of boom lifts and access equipment.

Call Coffs Hire now for same day hire/delivery.

coffs coast focus 31

THE WORLDWIDE ACTION SPORTS PHENOMENON, NITRO CIRCUS LIVE, WILL TREAT COFFS HARBOUR TO A SHOW LIKE IT’S NEVER SEEN

F

resh from a string of sell-out shows across the USA, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and starring in the new Nitro Circus 3D film, the Nitro Circus Live crew will be bringing its incredible mix of death defying stunts, mind-blowing tricks and crazy antics to BCU International Stadium on Saturday, 11 May, in a show like nothing Coffs Harbour has ever experienced before.

Joining the tour, having just sold out London’s 20,000 seat O2 Arena, the massive cast of 40 athletes includes X Games medallist Blake ‘Bilko’ Williams (AUS).

The FMX athletes will be joined by some of the best BMX riders in the world, including X-Games medallist and double front-flipping Aussie Andy Buckworth (AUS)

BEFORE.

touring show.

Not only will the Nitro Circus Live crew be performing the biggest tricks in FMX and BMX, they will also be pushing their limits and skill on a range of crazy contraptions on the amazing mutli-million dollar set, including an Esky, Barbie car, toy trike, boogie board and many more.

Among the individual performance highlights, fans can look forward to the most incredible choreographed riding routines ever seen, including the ‘Nitro Bomb’, featuring 18 riders in the air, upside down at the same time and the world record breaking rider train, with 35 riders wheel to wheel, one behind the other.

In addition to the excitement of hosting some of the

nitro circus live and James Foster (USA), the only man in the world who is regularly throwing down the triple backflip.

Also hurling himself off the 50 foot high Nitro GigantA-Ramp will be the inspirational Aaron ‘Wheelz’ Fotheringham (USA), the world’s only extreme wheelchair athlete.

32 coffs coast focus.

world’s best action sports athletes, Coffs Harbour businesses can also expect a financial boon of up to half a million dollars from the show’s arrival, with up to 10,000 people expected to attend from all over northern New South Wales.

Wheelz has lived with the debilitating effects of Spina Bifida his whole life, yet he’s completing tricks that most able-bodied people would be too timid to even contemplate. Having honed his skills in skate parks at home in the US, he now regularly pulls backflips and even front flips off the Nitro Gigant-A-Ramp – a feat no one else in the world has even tried.

Managing Director of Nitro Circus Live, Michael Porra, states, “Hotels, motels, hostels, restaurants, pubs and practically every other business in Coffs Harbour will benefit from having Nitro Circus Live in town. This is the biggest action sports show on the planet, and we’re thrilled to bring a show that has sold out huge venues in Las Vegas, London, Berlin and Sydney, to the area.”

Add to this, world number one inline skater, Chris Haffey and freestyle scooter maestro, Ryan Williams, and you have all the elements of the full international

Coffs Harbour will be the tenth stop in a 14-stop Regional Australian Tour that will take in regional towns across the Eastern Coast of Australia.

Introducing Leah Simpson.

Coffs Computing Helping You to Get the Most out of Technology

Our Newest Young Gun Stylist

Technology can be confusing. David Ford from Coffs Computing says there are people in his shop literally every day asking how to use the latest.

Living Doll Premier Stylists would like to introduce our Newest YOUNG GUN STYLIST – Leah Simpson.

“We believe that technology should be about making your life easier, not more complicated,” says David. And after years of answering questions, he claims that all it takes to turn technology from “WHAT?” to “WOW!” is knowledge.

That’s why Coffs Computing run their free workshops: to help the Coffs community understand the latest technology, so it can make their lives a bit better. “It doesn’t matter where you bought your device,” says David. “Everyone is welcome.”

The big news this month is the arrival of the NBN. If you are asking yourself, “What’s the big deal?” then head along to one of Coffs Comwputing’s workshops and find out what’s possible.

Other workshops this month help you learn iPad basics, discover the best of the App store, understand the iCloud and Apple TV and work effectively with your photos. You can also get reasonably priced private sessions.

Coffs Computing have helped over 1,000 locals to better understand their technology this year.

Visit www.coffscomputing.com.au to register for a workshop. and make your life a little easier.

What inspired you to do hairdressing?

I have always been passionate about styling hair, even from a young age, and I enjoy making people feel and look beautiful.

It is such an innovative industry with styles and trends changing daily; this means I am constantly learning and growing.

What’s your favourite part of hairdressing?

Being creative and being lucky enough to be involved in photo shoots and shows which showcase my love of fashion, hair and makeup. I most enjoy making someone’s day by helping them see their inner beauty.

What 2013 looks do you love right now?

I love the balayage style this season, and the Ombré hair color has been popping up on red carpets for more than a year and is a great color option for brunettes and blondes alike. The top knot bun also is quick and easy and looks high fashion.

What do you love most about working at Living Doll?

Working with the Living Doll team, who have the opportunity to travel all over Australia for shows and events, makes the salon have such an inspiring buzz. It’s really great to be living on the beautiful Coffs Coast but have the knowledge and professionalism of a city salon.

The Importance of Website Content Is your website not being found on Google searches?

Here are some handy hints on making your content work for you: Update your content frequently: a website that hasn’t changed its content in years is seen as less relevant, and your rank will suffer if content stagnates too long – try to update your content at least once a week.

Don’t Copy: Google knows when you’ve copied content from another website; always create your own content to avoid being blacklisted by Google.

Relevant Keywords: if you’re a plumber, don’t talk about office supplies – make sure your content is relevant to your industry and contains terms you’d like to be found for.

Spelling and Grammar: use a spell-check and make sure your content reads properly.

Get a website with a Content Management System: a CMS such as Wordpress can allow you to make changes to your own website content, without having to pay someone else to do it for you.

If your website doesn’t allow you to make changes for free, consider booking a free 30 minute consultation with Giant Media by calling the number below.

We Make I.T. Easy Enroll in one of our FREE Workshops NOW Come along, join in the fun and excitement and learn how you can get the best out of your iPad I've Got an iPad Now What?

Shopping the APP Store

Exploring the iPad Workshop

Your Photos on iPad

iCloud & Apple TV

NBN Your Questions Answered

Bookings are essential: for session dates & times go to: www.coffscomputing.com.au

160 Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour

6651 5655 coffs coast focus

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Billy Kean was born at the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital and now resides in Sawtell. At 23, he has already had a massive career in all things surfing. His favourite career moment to date was being featured on the front cover of national surfing magazine Tracks!

P H O T O G R A P H Y C R E D I T S : S W I L LY

A

re you originally from Coffs Harbour? Where do you live? What’s your day job?

I was born on the Jetty Hill in the old Coffs Harbour Base Hospital. I live a couple of streets back from the beach in Sawtell. I’ve lived in the same house my whole life, besides when I’m off overseas travelling.

When I’m home here on the Coffs Coast, my day job is pretty much practicing slash training. I’ll go for a surf to start the day, and probably another around lunch, then again in the afternoon.

I also try to train at the Coffs Coast Health Club.

They’re a really good team in there, and they keep me on a tight training schedule. I also teach surf lessons with Lee Winkler Surf School. I really enjoy working with Wink; he is a great guy and a valued friend of mine. The kids get such a good experience learning to surf with us.

How and when did you get in to surfing?

I have only ever known surfing. I can’t remember not surfing! My dad got me into it when I was two years old. He used to push me into waves with a bubble strapped to my back (laughs), then taught me as I was growing up. When I was about 6, I started to surf without any aid. And from there, I surfed alongside my dad every day.

What’s your favourite place to surf?

My favourite place to surf? That’s a hard one; it would have to be going on a boat trip to the Mentawais (Indonesia) living on a boat for a couple of weeks, waking up to the coral reef breaks. The waves are perfect there. And you can surf better (laughs). I have a trip at the end of next month back there, so looking forward to that.

34 coffs coast focus.

magazines. All of this helps with building my profile and endorsements.

What’s your proudest career moment?

Definitely getting on the surfing magazine Tracks Magazine cover in 2010. Was pretty surreal.

That was something I wanted to achieve my whole life – especially as a kid growing up and looking at people like Kelly Slater and Andy Irons on covers! I was so stoked when that happened.

Which five words best describe you?

(Laughs) I don’t know – depends who is asking: Happy. Laughter. Party. Surf. Enjoy!

What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way?

To be outgoing. I have made a My first shot in lot of good friends around the a magazine was a world – friends that I’ll have was for when I was 14 . It ement. for life.

The more people I’ve is Billabong advert arted interacted and spoken to in I st From about 16, os life, the more opportunities ot to get more ph g in rf su have presented themselves. published in How has your surfing .” es What is something that nomagazin career progressed? one knows about you?

I started competing Most of my friends know all when I was about 10 or 11. my stories! I’m an open book. No First contest was here in Sandy secrets. Nothing to hide here.

Beach. Not long after that, I started Who has been your biggest influence? to do the big Australian junior events around the There hasn’t been a ‘person’ as such. But my country. And when I was 15, I started to compete family and friends as a group have been a huge in the Australasian pro-junior series level (under influence. My dad showed me the ropes, and I 21). owe him a ‘thanks’ for that. Also, the Pro Surfers At age 16, I scored my first salary contract to I had as peers when I was a kid. I thought, “I pretty much surf contests and travel to try and get want to be just like that”. photos and video for magazines. I competed on If today was your last day, what would you the Pro-Junior Series until the end of 2010, when do?

I was 20.

(Laughs). Firstly, I’d get a massive loan.

Since then, I have focused more on my free Contact everyone I knew, book and pay for surfing career, which is about going on photo trips flights and organise the biggest house/pool with sponsors and magazines, trying to get good party! I’d arrange a huge selection of drinks and photos and video clips for surfing DVDs. My first of course, call every girl I know and let the good shot in a magazine was when I was 14. It was times roll! for a Billabong advertisement. From about 16, I Thanks Billy. started to get more photos published in surfing

“

focusinterview.

Barry McLeod

proudly sponsored by

on the run Barry McLeod is the mastermind behind the fun-tastic ‘Comics on the Run’ fundraising event for Camp Quality!

H

i Barry. Where are you from? Where do you live, and how long have you been an award winning stand up

is a hilarious show for a great cause. Two birds with the one stone; you get a great night out, great laugh and you’ll be helping create a better life for children living with cancer. comedian?

You are the mastermind behind Comics Originally from the south west of on the Run. What is it and how and Scotland, ‘hoots man’, a very rural farming why did you start it? community – to state for the record, mainly I started the Comics on the Run as a dairy cattle and beef, very little to no comedy touring group almost 10 years sheep, unless they were pets! ago, when I took Akmal and Jimbo out I have been living in Balmain in Sydney’s on the Broken Hill tour. We’ve put shows inner west since coming to Australia half a into Wilcannia; not surprisingly, they are life time ago. the only 2 shows to play there in 20 I won BT Publishing’s Event years. We were expecting a Entertainer of the Year rough tour; first show was in 2010 for a series of great ... second Darren People need to comedy conference Sanders was scared t laugh; there is no entertainment I off by a transvestite in the enough laughter produced. It wasn’t Aboriginal, and we ve s to ha world! Life seem e only comedians never went back! or got a whole lot m ar the who entered – I started it ul ic serious, in part I g in th usually singers and because the ny A last 10 years. e m es ak m bands win. One for country areas lp he can do to the funny guys! miss out on a lot of feel good.�

When did you good contemporary realise that you were entertainment. Then, funny and that you the only people who tour enjoyed making people laugh? are very famous with high ticket Doing the wheelbarrow race with my kilt prices – I wanted to provide a great show on when I was 6! for affordable prices and get full rooms. We I learned never to wear my sporran on have managed to do that! the inside! Only do formal black tie MC We love coming back to Coffs Harbour hosting and proper Highland dancing with Comics on the Run at the Sawtell RSL is my kilt now – keeping the swords on the now in its fifth year and is growing every ground! time! This year’s lineup is great – I’ll be People need to laugh; there is not MC-ing; we also have Ray Badran, Darren enough laughter in the world! Life seems Sanders, Desh, Chris Wainhouse. to have got a whole lot more serious, in What can we expect in the show? particular the last 10 years. Anything I There is something in this show for can do to help makes me feel good. And everyone, including one of the country’s Camp Quality Comics on the Run show best headline comic writer and performers,

“

New Zealand born comedian Chris Wainhouse, from Rove Live and The Footy Show with his brand new standup comedy set. Sydney’s brightest young talent, Ray Badran, showcased on Channel Nine’s Footy Show. Desh, the Aussiest South African Indian Comedian in the WORLD, and back by popular demand from last year, Darren Sanders with his hilarious ‘travelling the Pacific’ stories. And spearheading the show, the force behind the Comics on the Run, Scottish MC Barry McLeod, winner of the prestigious national BT Publishing’s Event Entertainer of the Year. It truly is an international lineup of five very different comedians!

FAST QUESTIONS Where do you get your material? From observing life and my 10 year old son.

What happens if people don’t laugh?

Tell them a joke!

Hecklers? Deserve what they get!

But aren’t hecklers helping the show?

Only if it’s constructive, in the right place or when asked for! Otherwise, it usually compromises the show.

Funniest person alive? Billy Connelly.

Say something funny With this accent – it’s all funny!

Thanks Barry.

Get your tickets to the

FUNNIEST NIGHT on the Mid North Coast.

With a funtasticly hilarious line up including:

Barry McLeod, Ray Badran, Darren Sanders, Desh & Chris Wainhouse!

mycampquality.org.au/comicsontherun

OR Sawtell RSL *URXS ERRNLQJV ULQJ &DPS 4XDOLW\ RIĂ€FH

3K

the plug!

What – Comics on the Run for Camp Quality at the Sawtell RSL on Saturday 25 May. $40 available from Sawtell RSL, www.mycampquality.org.au/ comicsontherun or Camp Quality office 6651 4486.

coffs coast focus 35

Worried about Mum? As Mother's Day approaches, we devote our time to not only celebrating our mothers, but reflecting on past years, our childhood memories and of course, face a reality check that Mum isn’t as young as she once was.

M

aybe she still retains her can retain one's independence and at the independence, but she same time have comfort that help is only is starting to realise the the press of a button away, 24 hours a house is far too big to day, 7 days a week. Whilst the Sunrise villa manage by herself and the costs units are fully self-contained, lovely home of ongoing maintenance cooked meals are available in the and upkeep are fast Community Centre every day. becoming a financial And there are lots of 'new and physical burden. best friends' to meet and ise Whilst the Sunr Perhaps Mum have fun with. villa units are d, isn’t eating well, ne ai Sunrise Supported fully self-cont oked or looking after Living welcomes you lovely home co ble in herself. meals are availa and Mum to celebrate

“

Or maybe Mum is lonely and not getting out with friends much anymore.

Centre the Community every day. ”

Possibly she needs a little gentle care to help her through the day.

At Sunrise Supported Living Villages, our residents are like your mum, with the only difference being they recognised the need for change and realised that within a Sunrise Supported Living Village, one

36

coffs coast focus.

Mother's Day on Saturday 18 May 2013 from 10.30am.

Come along and enjoy a free morning or afternoon tea and a sausage sizzle luncheon. We also have a small gift that says: "Happy Mother’s Day from the Sunrise Family”.

Alternately, if Mother's Day isn’t an option, come and have a talk to us when convenient. Just call 6651 3374 or mob 0430 038 322.

focusinterview.

Steve

M e t c h e r

S A L V A T I O N

A R M Y

Steve Metcher is our Coffs Harbour Salvation Army Major. He managers a team of volunteers who work tirelessly to help less fortunate families. Here he explains the process of donating to the store and explains the implications of donating unwanted items. He and his wife, Julie, moved to Coffs Coast in 2005 from Emerald, QLD. hat is the history of the Salvation Army?

The Salvation Army was formed in London in 1865 by William Booth with the mission to meet the needs of the community – spiritually, emotionally and physically. In 1880, the Salvation Army started its work in Australia. The Army commenced its work in the Coffs Harbour area in 1953.

When did you and Julia arrive in Coffs Harbour?

Julia and I commenced our leadership role in Coffs Harbour from Emerald, QLD in January 2005. Our focus in the Ministry is to serve the suffering, to explore faith and to help others encounter God. What type of role does the Salvation Army provide in the Coffs Harbour area?

We provide a range of activities to meet our core values, through our Church services, mid-week Recovery programs in Toormina and Coffs Harbour and provide guidance, fellowship and encouragement for anyone on a journey of recovery.

For those who want to explore faith, we have a contemporary Sunday worship followed by a traditional worship and Sunday school, at our Church in Mastracolas Rd in Coffs Harbour.

Are there any other services that you provide for the Community?

Yes! We have a community youth outreach worker, who works in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour to help kids to find direction in life.

Our newest venture, a youth drop-in centre at our Coffs Church, will open this month.

Do you provide any other type of welfare support?

Yes! Our community services centre at the Mall provides aid for the basic necessities of life, counselling and family housing. Their office hours are 10am to 1pm Monday to Friday and can be contacted on (02) 6650 0928.

How do you raise funds to achieve your

mission?

We raise funds through cash donations, but our main source of revenue to meet these commitments is through material donations given to our Red Shield family store.

What type of donations do you require for your store?

Our wish-list entails children/adult clothing, shoes, bags, toys, kitchen utensils, books, beds, mattresses, linen, manchester, furniture, bric-a-brac etc. in 'still good' condition.

In general, it would be items that other families (needy families and the general public) would purchase or have use of.

The receipt of dirty, unwashed, broken, torn, stained, mouldy and other discarded items are not welcomed, as they create extra workload and costs to dispose of.

These types of item also place the staff in a position of having to handle unhygienic and unsafe items, which as volunteers they should not have to encounter in their workplace.

How will these donations help others?

Your donation helps in many ways: The environment – recycling used goods helps reduce the amount of items delivered for land fill.

A hand up for a struggling family or individual – used furniture, clothing, bedding etc. All suitable goods donated to our store are either distributed free of charge to those in need or sold to raise vital funds for other Salvation Army programs being undertaken in the local area.

They also provide the community with quality products at a reasonable price.

How does someone donate suitable goods to the store?

There are a two ways which you can donate • Deliver your clothing or goods to our store at 27a Walter Morris Cl Coffs Harbour. (Near McDonald's North) during the hours of 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, or 9.30am to 1pm Saturday. We do not provide a clothing bin due to problems in that area. Please do not leave goods at the doors when the store

is closed as these get spread all over the area, which creates a poor image and extra workload.

• Phone (02) 6650 0310 during the above hours to make use of our dedicated pickup service from your home (5 days a week) for items which you are unable to deliver. We will only collect items which are suitable to our needs. Our pickup service extends to Woolgoolga, Northern Beaches in the north, to Coramba, Nana Glen, Glenreagh in the west, Sawtell/Toormina/Boambee, Urunga and Bellingen in the south, and all areas in-between and of course, the Coffs Harbour area.

How are the donations processed when received?

We fortunately have a very loyal, dedicated, hardworking crew of volunteers who, when the goods are received, inspect, sort, clean, vacuum, wash (non-clothing) and present for sale in our store. We then provide excellent customer service and assistance within the store. We also provide a delivery service for purchases to anywhere in our area at a small cost.

Any excess clothing, toys etc. which have not sold are baled up, forwarded to Sydney and then overseas to assist the poor in those countries. We ensure that your donation is greatly appreciated somewhere.

• The Red Shield Family Store The store has been set up to provide our customers with a clean, open, uncluttered and friendly environment to ensure they have a pleasant shopping experience. We are committed to providing a best practice standard and to provide our goods for sale in a condition that would be above expectation in this type of store.

The store has a Manager/Assistant Manager with 2 part time drivers. We currently have around 30 volunteers who rotate on a daily basis for a couple of hours, half a day or a full day. A daily staffing of around 12 is required to operate the

store, and we are always looking for more volunteers to assist.

• Volunteering As a volunteer, you’ll be joining a friendly, caring team of people who give their spare time to help the community within the Salvation Army structure.

You’ll be surprised at just how much your time and skills can help. Whether you have a passion for repairing, sorting, cleaning or a gift in dealing with people, your unique skills will be welcomed and appreciated.

You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing you’re using your skills in a positive, creative way; we will place you in an area that will suit your skills.

How you can help.

Retail • Placing stock on display • Building displays • Customer service • Housekeeping Maintenance • Assisting with cleaning/ repairing furniture • Assist maintenance within the store • Evaluating suitable stock for sale • General cleaning of store Production • Sorting clothing. Bric-a-brac, toys, books etc.

• Assist with pricing and tagging of donations • Packing and hanging clothing • Baling • Cutting rags for sale Are there any other means of fundraising that you participate in during the year?

Yes. The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal Doorknock is on May 26. All of the money raised is used to support the social work of the Salvation Army.

We wish to thank the community for their kind assistance in the past. If you would like to offer your help as a collector or driver, please phone our office on 6652 8777.

Thanks Steve. coffs coast focus 37

focusinterview.

Dummy Text Bold text!!

As an Ambassador for Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, Kirsten is a passionate fundraiser for cancer research. This year is the 20th anniversary of the event and the 6th year that she has hosted it locally. You're invited to attend the launch and enjoy great company for a great cause.

Kirsten Howton.

Breakfree Aanuka Wedding will be the word on everyone’s lips on Saturday 11 May 2013, when brides-to-be are welcomed to BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort for our first 'Wedding Open Day'. From 11am – 3pm, Open Day guests have the opportunity to meet Aanuka’s experienced wedding team, view the resort's array of ceremony and reception venues and discuss the plans for their big day. Free entry, complimentary parking, champagne and canapés, gift bag on arrival and the chance to win an assortment of prizes, including 10% off your total wedding bill when you book and confirm your wedding on the Open Day. Couples can also make a weekend of it and enjoy the resort's fantastic range of leisure facilities, with great rates from $159* per night in a Paradise Spa Bure, including buffet breakfast for two.

Catering for weddings of all sizes, BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort offers a variety of wedding packages to suit all budgets and boasts a range of stunning ceremony locations, including a charming chapel and three modern reception venues.

BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort is located at 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour. For more information on the Wedding Open Day or to book accommodation, call (02) 6652 7555 or email aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au.

38 coffs coast focus.

ell us a little about yourself ...

Hi! I'm Kirsten Howton, I'm 45 and work part-time as a property manager for TMP rentals. I've been living and working on the Coffs Coast for over 30 years, after our family moved from New Zealand in 1981. I've been working in the real estate industry for 25 years, taking a break when my son (now 6) was born. I've recently returned to a part-time position, and it's great to be back in this exciting industry.

How has cancer affected your life?

Like just about everyone of us, I have had family and friends receive a cancer diagnosis, some with good outcomes, and some not so good. My first memory of cancer was when my Aunty had lung cancer in NZ about 35 years ago. I remember Mum used to go and sit with her while she was receiving chemotherapy, and would you believe, she was even smoking during the treatment! Thankfully, things have changed a lot since then! Soon after, her husband got bone cancer, and they endured their cancer journey together as husband and wife. I was about 10 years old at that time and remember thinking how unfair this 'cancer thing' was. They both passed away not long after their diagnoses.

My life would be touched again on a very personal level many years later, when my husband received a lung cancer diagnosis in 2006. We'd not long had a child (he was 5 months old), so this news was a huge shock and we had so many questions and unknowns to comprehend. Rhys commenced his cancer journey with numerous rounds of chemotherapy and then radiotherapy, but most of all, with a positive outlook and open mind. He continued to work during his chemo sessions and surfed as often as he could. Unfortunately, as we know cancer doesn't discriminate, and despite all the best love, treatment and care available, he died after a 9 month battle. We were living in Sydney at the time, so armed with my 14 month old son, I moved back to the Coffs Coast, where my army of family, friends and support network were.

When did you first begin hosting ABMT?

AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA AMBASSADOR

In 2007 I saw an advertisement somewhere about the Biggest Morning Tea, and after witnessing numerous people receiving their various cancer treatments over the time Rhys was sick, I was keen to become involved and host an event. I thought this would be a fun way to get some friends together, eat some cake and drink some tea, but at the same time raise money to continue to help fund all the great and necessary things the Cancer Council does. I hosted my first event in my rather nondescript garage, and people brought a plate of food, we had a raffle, and everyone made a donation upon entry.

The following year I approached Brad and Damien at Bonville Golf Resort to consider holding the next event there. This was a bigger and more beautiful venue and there was more scope for the event to evolve, which it has continued to do.

You are also an ABMT Ambassador – what does that role entail?

I've been involved with the Cancer Council for nearly 6 years with my annual morning tea, Pink Ribbon Day, Daffodil Day, Dancing with the Stars and Relay for Life and up until recently, volunteering one day per week in the Coffs Harbour office. Becoming an ABMT ambassador means I get to help promote the ABMT events in our region and assist anywhere I can. I also like to promote healthy living by encouraging a clean, healthy and active lifestyle.

Last year you were the region’s highest fundraiser, congratulations! What were some of the events you hosted to help raise you funds?

I have an amazing group of loyal friends and supporters of my ABMT events. We started in the garage at my home, and many of the attendees have been to every one of my morning teas since. I always have an online donation page too, as many people donate from out of town, or if they can't make the event in person.

The morning tea raffle and fundraising balloons are always very popular, and I'm grateful to have so many wonderful prizes donated each year. Last year we auctioned off a handful of items, raising a further $1,500 and we'll do the same this year. Last year's event raised $8,000, bringing the total amount raised to over $40,000 for my

morning tea events.

This year you'll assist with the launch.

Tell us about what will be happening on the day?

This year is the 20th anniversary of the event and will be my 6th year as a host. It's the launch event for the North Coast, so an extra reason to come along and enjoy great company for a great cause. We sold out last year, so get your tickets early!

We have a fashion parade (MC-ed by BWN president, Annie Blair) planned, showcasing the latest fashion trends from Seasons Boutique, the unique style of My Sister's Wardrobe and the stunning jewellery and beautiful one off pieces from Le Dãin Designs. This is always a fun part of the event, and you never know who might turn up on the catwalk!

Local inspiring identity Michael Crossland will again be the MC on the day, and we'll also have a guest speaker. Local mum and friend Nicki Blewitt will give an insight into life as a carer and a parent of a child with cancer.

What is your advice to others on how to host a great morning tea?

Of all the Cancer Council events, ABMT is my favourite one – we get to have fun and raise money in a relaxed and beautiful environment. The main element (apart from the fundraising) is to have fun! There are so many ways to host an event. Run one in your home, have one in your street, get a group of friends together or ask your boss if you can host one at work. Some companies will match dollar for dollar what you raise, through work, so that's a great incentive to host an event. It's easy to do – check the ABMT website for the easy steps to register your event.

Thank you Kirsten.

the plug!

Thursday 9 May, 9.30 - 12.30.

Bonville Golf Resort.

Tickets $25 each (to be purchased prior to the event) available at Seasons (Promenade store) and Bonville Golf Resort. Sweet, savoury and gluten free options available and unlimited tea, coffee and juice.

Absolute Beachfront Opal Cove Resort & Conference Centre for conference delegates and guests of weddings held at the Resort. Opal Cove has 135 resort style rooms, 18 self contained villas and 10 luxurious beachfront apartments which sleep up to 8 people. hat kind of functions We also offer a complimentary Bridal Suite for the can Opal Cove 'happy couple' on the night of their wedding, with Conference Centre a free bottle of bubbly. hold?

Other than your state of the art conference We have 8 separate facilities, what else do you offer at Opal Cove? function rooms. The 'The Cove' 18 Hole Miniature Golf Course is our smallest is the Kingfisher Boardroom, seating 12 newest attraction – a unique Australian themed people, and the largest is the Grand Ballroom, course with real grass greens, off street parking, which seats 500 people theatre style or 320 people and fun for all ages. Group discounts are available on round tables. Opal Cove Conference Centre for corporate team building days. After your is the perfect venue for a conference, round of golf, enjoy the ocean views wedding, trade exhibition or in Horizons Restaurant & Bar with party. Each function room a lazy lunch, afternoon tea or has electronic screens and The most 'Happy Hour' (daily 5 - 6pm). r data projectors installed popular outdoo Horizons is open 7 days a goon. ready for slideshows and location is the la that week for breakfast/lunch/ ct Brides like the fa ach presentations. We also dinner. Locals welcome. be they can see the , but offer FREE wireless to all Opal Cove is also a stockist nd in the back grou conference delegates and of Le Dãin Designs – ly al tu they don’t ac guests. stunning one off pieces, ng ki al w e ttl have to ba Can wedding ceremonies which are displayed in our !” nd sa on the be held at the resort?

Ocean View Foyer.

We have indoor and outdoor What offers do you have wedding ceremony locations to for locals wanting to use your suit any couple. The most popular fabulous facilities? outdoor location is the lagoon. Brides like the fact We have a 'Leisure Card' for local residents. It is a that they can see the beach in the background, but one year membership fee which allows you to join they don’t actually have to battle walking on the the 'Resort Lifestyle', with access to the swimming sand! The other popular outdoor location is the pool, gymnasium, sauna, tennis, golf and discounts terrace, with sweeping ocean views and for those in Horizons Restaurant year round. You will also lovely Coffs Harbour wet weather weekends, we receive Opal Cove Newsletters, with regular special have the Ocean View Foyer or the very popular offers.

Wedding Atrium.

Can anyone come and have a look at the Do you offer special accommodation packages Resort anytime? for weddings and conferences?

Yes, absolutely. We encourage locals to come out Yes, we certainly do. We have special packages ANYTIME. You do not have to stay at the resort to

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enjoy the resort. Our bar and restaurant are open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or just pop in for a coffee or yummy cocktail! It is such a nice place to relax away from traffic, noise and busy lives, with a very peaceful outlook … you will walk away feeling like you have been away for a week!

What if a company would like to talk to you about booking a conference or a function?

I would advise making an appointment with Leah or Sharnee in the Sales Office. They will be able to conduct a site inspection and answer any queries they may have.

Also if they mention FOCUS, they will receive a FREE business lunch in Horizons Restaurant for 2 people after the site inspection!

Call the Sales Office on (02) 6651 0554.

coffs coast focus 39

of Children’s Day Sunday 5 May 2013 at the Japanese Section of the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden - Coffs Harbour. All children and their parents and grandparents are invited to come along, bring a BYO picnic and join in all the activities on offer at the award-winning Japanese Festival of Children’s Day. he Coffs Harbour City Council and the Friends of the Botanic Garden will be flying the 200 Koinobori carp flags, given to the people of Coffs Harbour by the people of our sister city Sasebo.

Entertainment will be provided by Karate and Judo Demonstrations – a Traditional Japanese Dance Troupe from Sydney – Games and Story Telling – Animé Fashion – Kite-Flying – Bonsai Displays and Workshops will include Origami – Calligraphy – Sushi-Making – Manga Masks Design and Kite-Making and lots more surprises. Major events at this year’s Festival will include the judging of the Ornamental Japanese Koi Carp and a 10-piece Japanese Folk Dance Group from Sydney. There’s even more food this year, including – Sushi – Japanese BBQ – Melonpan Bread – Drinks and Confectionery.

About Japanese Festival of Children’s Day and Koinobori ...

Japanese Festival of Children’s Day is a national holiday in Japan.

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In Coffs Harbour, we celebrate the day on the first Sunday in May. The holiday grew out of an ancient Chinese story about carp, which swam up a waterfall and turned into dragons.

The carp, or koi in Japanese, became symbols of perseverance. The Japanese version tells of the koi swimming up the waterfall, but does not mention the dragons. Families fly giant carp windsock kites from flagpoles next to the house for about one month before the holiday and about two weeks to a month after. These windsocks are called koinobori, or carp flags.

Originally, flags with symbols of strength, such as carp and the family crest were flown on the same flagpole that a streamer called a fukinagashi was also flown. This symbolised the whip, the busho, that samurai warrior leaders carried into battle. The busho was a symbol of the samurai’s authority. Later the other symbols were dropped and only carp and sometimes the fukinagashi were used.

The Koinobori were presented to the people of Coffs Harbour in 2005 by the people of our sister city Sasebo, Japan, to enable the people

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of Coffs Harbour to understand the cultural significance of the ‘Boys Day Festival’. ‘Boys Day’ has been renamed in Japan as ‘Children’s Day’ to include all children in the festival. In 2007, the inaugural event won a national award in the single project category of the Australian Sister Cities Association National Awards.

About the Koi Society of Australia.

The Koi Society was formed in Sydney in 1974 by a group of hobbyists for the enjoyment, protection, preservation and improvement of the Ornamental Japanese Koi Carp. There are now eight separate branches in NSW, from Shoalhaven to Coffs Harbour.

The KSA is internationally recognised and is a Chapter of the Japanese Central Body Zen Nippon Airinkai and its patron is His Excellency the Japanese Consulate General in Sydney.

The Coffs Harbour Branch was launched at the Coffs Harbour City Council Japanese Children’s Day Festival in May 2010 and now has 52 members. They will be holding their Annual show with a display of Koi Fish and an information booth at this year’s Festival. Koi Fish originated in Japan back in 800AD and were bred as a food crop in the flooded rice fields and lakes in the Nigata Prefecture, North west of Tokyo. Over the centuries, colourful fish were often observed and kept as pets. Selections of these were presented to the Emperor of the day who named them Nishikigoi, meaning ‘living jewels’. For the last two hundred years, Koi Fish have been bred commercially in Japan and sold to enthusiasts worldwide. Further information: contact Malcolm McLeod Coffs Harbour City Council on 6648 4840. Email: malcolm. mcleod@chcc.nsw.gov.au

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Back to School

Coffs Harbour Senior College

Bower Bird Child Care Centre is a locally owned and operated child care service which commenced operation in 1995. Established as a family venture by Warren and Valerie Furniss, in partnership with son Michael, Bower Bird has earned a reputation as a uniquely child-centred service. Bower Bird caters for up to 28 children per day in the 2 - 6 year age range and offers a home-style, family grouped and free flow program.

There is a special feeling at Coffs Harbour Senior College, with a strong school culture that is based on mutual respect and

Take away the guesswork

striving for excellence. Staff go out of their way to give students the support they need, and students really appreciate that. There

Take away the guesswork of not knowing what your baby wants with Baby Sign Language!

is an energy and vitality to the college that suggests everyone is working together for the best possible outcomes for students. The college provides opportunities for students in Years 11 and 12 to

Is your toddler getting frustrated because they are unable to verbally express exactly what it is they want? Well, now your little one can tell you what they want without all the tears and tantrums, with Baby Sign Language!

Features of the adventurous outdoor program provided are the impressive native hibiscus climbing tree and expansive naturally grassed outdoor play area. The herb, vegetable and fairy gardens encourage children to be aware of the natural environment, and many creative cooking experiences result from the produce grown.

Bower Bird actively avoids a formally educative curriculum, preferring rather to immerse children in the concepts of numeracy, literacy and problem solving while remaining focused on a holistic approach to care and development. The curriculum supports the social and emotional development of each child as trained and experienced staff develop close and supportive relationships with each child.

Our philosophy can be summarised as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Find out what each child wants to do and help them achieve success in doing itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

gain their Higher School Certificate in conditions that are without equal in Australia. Students are expected to take responsibility for their learning in a supportive adult environment. This approach has been very successful, with students achieving top HSC results consistently, in an environment where students enjoy learning.

The 2012 HSC results were again outstanding. Students are on a first name basis with their teachers and have opportunities to seek support from their mentor teachers and through the after-school learning centre or tutorial program.

Above all, students enjoy a refreshing learning environment that encourages a sound work ethic and a set of values that will give them the edge for their future studies and careers. The college provides students with the widest possible curriculum choices, including a range of academically challenging courses and an extensive range of vocational and TAFE courses. Typically, our exiting

As well as being able to know exactly what it is they want, signing can strengthen the bond that you already have with your baby and help to strengthen their verbal skills.

students comment that their time at the Senior College has been the best two years of their schooling, which makes us feel very proud.

For information about our classes and signing resources, please visit our website: www.signingbubsandtots.com.au

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Come along C l tto our 2 2014 Enrolment ,QIRUPDWLRQ (YHQLQJ WR Ă&#x20AC;QG RXW HYHU\WKLQJ \RX QHHG WR JHW PRYLQJ IRU Years 11 & 12 at the Senior College.

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A Great Choice...

For further information, call us on 6659 3010 or visit our website at www.seniorcollege.com.au

42 coffs coast focus.

As we all know, every child is different. The average child doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the skills to verbally communicate their needs until around 15 months, but they can use their hands from as young as 4 months old. Imagine your 6 month old signing to you they want some milk, or a drink? How great would it be if your 15 month old was able to sign â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mummy, more please?â&#x20AC;? instead of pointing and getting frustrated until they get what they want? This could reduce so many tantrums and help you in trying to figure out what your baby really wants.

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CSU Scholarships make return to study easier Returning to study was a big change for Joel Dolsen. After spending more than 20 years in the workforce and from a trade background, Joel decided to make the change and enrolled in a Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Sturt University (CSU).

Now in his second year of the TAFE integrated program at CSU’s Port Macquarie Campus, Joel has not looked back.

He chose the course after talking to other people who seemed passionate about their jobs, as well as to pursue an interest in sociology.

Although a long time in the workforce may make a return to study seem daunting, Joel said there had been plenty of support at CSU. “I have had lots of questions!” he said.

“Everyone’s willing to help, and they get back to you straight away.”

This year, balancing work and study has become easier for Joel, with the help of two scholarships.

“This is my second year at CSU, and the friendly staff directed me to the website that

Dan Flynn, Co-founder of Thankyou Water

outlined all the scholarships.

“It was easy to understand. I applied for three scholarships through CSU and was lucky to get two of them.”

Joel was awarded an Equity Scholarship and a TAFE to University Scholarship.

While he is still working, he said the scholarship funds helped pay for travel to campus, textbooks and other extras he needed to help his studies.

“The scholarships have made it achievable for me as a mature-age student to balance finances, work and family,” Joel said.

For more information about CSU scholarships, visit www.csu.edu.au /4me or phone 1300 135 435.

‘A national Youth Summit challenging today’s generation to become tomorrow’s leaders’. 300 youth aged approximately 15 – 25 from across the region are invited to attend a 3 day youth summit on July 24, 25 and 26 in Port Macquarie.

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uminosity Youth Inc. is a not-forprofit organisation that was formed in 2012.

The initiative was established and is driven by a core working group comprising of representatives from local business, university and youth in the Port Macquarie region who are passionate about and committed to investing in our future leaders.

Through consultation with local youth, the idea to hold a youth focused summit was born; an event, where they would have the opportunity to be inspired by presentations from successful and dynamic individuals from across the nation.

As such, a diverse range and list of potential speakers was established, and there are already 8 reputable guest speakers lined up to visit Port Macquarie. Speakers come from the worlds of social media, business, community, performance, the arts and academia.

“Youth are our future and it is imperative that we provide them with the building blocks, support and encouragement they need to grow into the best version of themselves. This Youth Summit is an invaluable opportunity to contribute and invest in our young leaders and provide them with a platform from which to launch their bright careers.” said Kate WoodFoye, Chair of Luminosity Youth Inc. Key speakers to present at the three day summit include, John McGrath CEO of McGrath Real Estate Agents, Andrew Morello – Winner of The Apprentice Australia, Justine Bloome CEO and Founder of The Village Agency, Dan Flynn Entrepreneur and founder of ThankYou Water and home grown celebrities Gold Paralympian Ryley Batt and Grinspoon frontman Phil Jamieson, to name but a few – with more names to be released in coming weeks.

“We are delighted to bring these high calibre speakers and success stories to the Mid North Coast and to provide regional youth with a once a year opportunity to hear their stories and strategies for success. They will experience firsthand the journey these remarkable individuals and leaders have taken and how they

forged ahead to make a difference. The summit will be a dynamic and interactive experience with professionals, artists and academics who are at the top of their field.

The theme of this year’s inaugural summit is 'Dangerous Ideas', - we are challenging the youth to be creative, set goals and step outside the norm and harness their inner entrepreneur in whichever field this wish to pursue, added Kate.

Taking place over the three days will be a series of key note speaking presentations, workshops and discussion panels providing a fun and interactive environment for the youth to 'Inspire, Challenge and Excel.

There will also be a social aspect to the summit, where youth will have the opportunity to participate in Open Mic Night and Meet and Mingle events to share their ideas with like minded individuals.

The cost to attend the all inclusive summit is $250 per person.

Local Businesses who want to support the summit are invited to offer 'Scholarships' to enable local youth to attend. The investment by their business will be acknowledged and they will be given the opportunity to support and link with a young person to attend.

Dr Muyesser Durur of Charles Sturt University, Committee Patron states, 'This is a valuable opportunity, and we encourage local businesses to contact us to discuss providing scholarships positions, allowing more young adults to be a part of this enriching experience. The position could be for their own employee, family member, friend, colleague or we can match them up with many of the young leaders who have already registered interest in the event.

With registrations now open, anyone aged 15 to 25 are invited to check out the Luminosity website for the full details about the summit, and to register / or express interest in being the recipient of a scholarships. http://www.luminosityyouthsummit.com.au/ coffs coast focus 43

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Toni Wright-Turner has worked as a Steiner educator for over 37 years, commencing her career in Sydney. Toni practices what she preaches – her own children are Steiner educated.

VISITING Casuarina Steiner School

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oni spent 11 years as Education Director and Teaching Principal at Warrah Special School in Dural, and one year as a Music Therapist and Teacher at Inala Special School; prior to that she spent 15 years as a Founding Teacher and parent at the Armidale Waldorf (Steiner) School. Early in her career Toni enjoyed a variety of positions, including Class Teacher, and Specialist Music and Craft Teacher.

Now living in Gleniffer, Toni is a passionate environmentalist and social justice advocate, and has been the Principal at Casuarina Steiner School in Coffs Harbour for almost 18 months.

So what is the Casuarina Steiner School really like? I decided to take a visit.

Arriving at the start of their day, the car park is busy with mums and dads guiding their children along paths and through gates.

The children are conspicuous in their lack of uniform – not a navy blue, black or bottle green in sight. Instead, brightly coloured children with beaming faces are happily rushing to start their day – greeting their teachers with hugs and smiles. Once safely delivered, some parents hurry away to start their own day; while others stay to chatter in small groups or get involved in a Parent Craft Group.

Inside the school you will be pleasantly surprised by the environment. The buildings are organic and freeform in style, made of natural stone and wood. Classrooms are dressed with muted colour washed walls. Children sit at individual old-fashioned wooden desks, and various art and crafts they have created decorate the walls, windows and ceilings. When I enter a classroom of 7 year olds, they are reciting their times tables forwards and backwards while playing a clapping game or stomping in a circle in time to their singing … 5, 10, 15, 20 … I hear the sound of violins and cellos caressing the air from a classroom further away.

A large bell is rung by hand, signalling morning break – children emerge from their 44 coffs coast focus.

P r i n c i p a l T o n i W r i g h t -T u r n e r

offeer, classrooms with delighted whoops and there is no lack of learning in what we offer, calls. Their play space includes: a large grass and this is obvious in the students who go on amphitheatre and grassed open space; a huge to local high schools after completing their rope climbing-frame, wooden play structure and primary education with us.” Each year at the basketball court; a mud-brick cubby that was presentation nights of local high schools, exbuilt last year with class 3 students as part of Casuarina students regularly feature in the top their building main lesson; and several garden academic and other awards. areas. Gardening is built into the weekly learning The key difference in the Steiner curriculum programme – several 8 year olds are crowding is that content and learning activities are linked around a seed tray marvelling at the newly developmentally with the needs and abilities sprung shoots appearing from seeds planted of the child, creating active engaged learning, “only three days ago”. where students typically love to learn.

I later find the Principal’s office. I reminisce In the Kindergarten years, children learn of days gone by – standing sheepishly by doing and by imitation. The curriculum outside my own Principal’s door. allows the child to explore their Toni Wright-Turner proves to world through rich artistic, be far more friendly and practical and social activities, approachable. rather than through Why not visit The Steiner education formally learning to read Casuarina movement, named after and write. r Steiner School fois an its Austrian founder In the primary school yourself? There ay 31 Rudolf Steiner, describes years, emphasis moves to Open Day on Frid itself as providing an feeling-filled experience May.” “unhurried and creative” of knowledge, through environment for learning. the creative and artistic “It’s about keeping that presentation of content which vitality and freshness and that engages the child’s feelings twinkling eye,” says Toni. “It’s through imaginative stories to really common sense, but we try to remain convey the essence of the lesson. This can focused on a daily basis.” then be worked with practically in the class.

On looking in a little more depth at the Learning to read and write occurs across Steiner approach, you see that the lessons and Classes 1 to 3, and is typically later than in the learning environments which arise from public schools in Australia. This is because the Casuarina Steiner School curriculum are Steiner recognises the need for nurturing the structured, sequential, and meet or exceed inner activity of reading, often referred to as NSW Board of Studies requirements, through “living into the story”, as well as the more encompassing both the state curriculum and the obvious process of decoding symbols and words Steiner curriculum. on a page. Living into the story refers to the “When children relate what they learn to ability to form imaginative inner pictures in their own experience, they are interested and response to the words – which gives meaning engaged, and what they learn becomes their to the process of reading. In public schools, this own,” says Toni. Steiner Schools are designed to process is called ‘comprehension’ and is typically foster this kind of learning, with the additional taught later. benefit of developing creativity and individuality.

In later primary years, the maturing students “So yes, we are consciously and proudly offering explore and learn through logical insight and a different type of education at Casuarina, but more critical thinking, so the curriculum and

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presentation changes to engage thesee students in a new, conceptual way.

Another interesting difference is that core content in all subjects is presented in main lesson blocks of two hours per day, with each block lasting for 3 weeks. Subjects are revisited several times each year, giving students cumulative understanding and new insights.

In Steiner education, the essence of education is preparing students for their own future, rather than moulding them to what we know now or how we do things at present.

“Casuarina’s child-centred education gives students the opportunity to develop their creativity, a vital foundation for the flexible thinking and problem solving which will help them meet the realities and challenges of the future. It also develops a natural and heartfelt connection to the world through experience, through being inspired by the wonder and awe of the world around them.”

“This is what Casuarina School motto “educating the head, heart and hands” means – developing the intellectual capacity of each child in dynamic balance with their emotional capacity and their ability to actually do things practically and creatively in the world. We achieve this through a curriculum and educational methodology which allows each child’s capacities to unfold from within as they learn about the world and their place in it, in harmony with the development of their intellectual, social and practical capacities … their head, heart and hands,” Toni explains.

Putting aside the theoretical reasoning behind Steiner education, the results are obvious in the children as they move on from Casuarina School – they are well rounded, confident and compassionate individuals who often excel academically.

Why not visit Casuarina Steiner School for yourself? There is an Open Day on Friday 31 May. Get in touch on (02) 6651 2270 or at www.casuarina.nsw.edu.au for further information, or to arrange a visit on an alternative date.

Education is a journey not a race

PURPOSEFUL ARTI STIC

A Steiner education offers your child so much more To find out more about what we do and how we do it: Visit our website www.casuarina.nsw.edu.au Come to our next Open Day on Friday 31st May Call and talk to our Principal -Toni Wright-Turner Call and arrange a visit and school tour Visit us on Facebook. Search for Coffs Harbour Casuarina Steiner School

OPEN DAY Friday 31st May Call us now on 02 6651 2770

Casuarina Steiner School Inspiring the Head, Reaching the Heart

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centenary

2013 brings the perfect opportunity to reflect on an amazing century of education at St Augustine’s School. Many schools, such as ours, began early in the 1900s in remote pioneering bush communities under humble conditions. Today, our schools offer children links via satellite to information all around the world.

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he Good Samaritan Sisters rang the school bell for the first time to open our school on February 3, 1913 with a roll call of 31 pupils. Our school is currently a vibrant place of learning for 651 students.

The school environment in which we find ourselves today is certainly difficult, and the expectations placed on our schools grow ever more complex. Catholic schools have always been in the business of preparing students for their future lives, helping them to develop essential skills, principles and values in a Catholic environment, that will help enable them to become responsible, contributing citizens. Today, the rate of change in our world means we are attempting to identify and inculcate skills that will be needed in a world that we cannot picture with any accuracy.

Fortunately, St Augustine’s has the dedication of many people, and collectively they are committed to ensuring quality outcomes. Our Centenary Year is a time to acknowledge the

essential and valuable contribution our parent community makes to our school.

Without the ongoing support of parents, the educational opportunities provided for our children would diminish. Our parents are an integral component of our school, from in school reading programs to coaching sporting teams to filling positions on the P&F Association.

We are celebrating the quality of Catholic education at St. Augustine’s, which has, and continues to result in a school with a high standard of education and the development of well-adjusted children.

The involvement of our children in many sporting events, participation in national external exams, public speaking competitions, creative writing, excursions, representative sports, hand ball competitions, spell-a-thons, and the like, encourage and promote a spirit within our school community. This spirit is responsible for the harmony in our classrooms and in the playground. This spirit is responsible for the smiles on our children’s faces and for the desire to learn.

It is a common understanding that a desire to learn produces a high standard of work.

Celebrating our Centenary Year is time to acknowledge our highly trained and skilled teachers. They continue to provide our children with the essential skills and knowledge to fulfil their own potential and to enable them to participate fully in all aspects of school life. Our teachers and support staff are the backbone of our school. They continue to produce outstanding results in our classrooms, as highlighted by our recent standardised testing.

Parents wishing to know more about enrolling in Kindergarten for 2014 are invited to an information night on May 1, with the enrolment period being from 6 May to 17 May. Application forms can be collected from the school office.

With our Centenary Year, it is a great opportunity to not only reflect on our past achievements, but also to look forward to the challenges posed by the changing nature of our society.

focusfeature

R EFOR L AY

Life

It’s time again for Cancer Council’s annual Coffs Harbour Relay For Life. Now in its 11th year, this 23 hour festival like community event is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever. There will be a wide variety of live music, food and fun activities for all ages.

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his year we have a bigger stage to accommodate acts such as well known local band Stereo Addicts, indie youth band The Eastern Province and C.ex Coffs regular Dave James. A new highlight for the relay this year is the Silent Disco, which will play into the night.

There will also be lots of things to keep the kiddies (and therefore the parents!) happy.

Smile Productions will be bringing along your favourite characters, like Buzz Lightyear and Dora, Sand Wizard will be there, so the kids can do some great craft, and Absolute Party Hire will be bringing along some sumo suits for kids of all ages! Activities wise, we have Curves coming along to get us pumping with Zumba, the Holiday Coast Boot Scooters will be entertaining the crowds, and the Woolgoolga Dance Studio will be showing us their moves!

Don’t worry – you won't go hungry whilst you are at the event. There will be a variety of catering options, including sushi, wraps, Thai cuisine, gourmet pizzas, a BBQ and of course,

hot drinks to keep participants going through the night.

Teams are already fundraising for the event, with over $50,000 already banked. It is a great team building event, and there are plenty of local business teams entered. Bendigo Bank and Brian Hopwood Homes are regulars at the relay and are back again this year, Mr Rental has come along for the last few years, and it is always great to see them on the track, and Brown & Hurley, who in their first year of being involved in relay raised just under $29,000, are back. There are also some new faces coming to relay, such as Fisher and Voigt Smash Repairs and Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network.

Relay For Life is a great event to meet people and make connections, as everyone has a story to tell whilst walking around the track.

Relay For Life is organised by a local volunteer organising committee in relation with the Cancer Council. It is a community fundraising event with money raised going to fund: Cancer Council’s research programs, which was $16 million in the last financial year; Cancer Council’s prevention programs, such as the sun smart programs for schools; Cancer Council’s support & information services, such

as the cancer information line and information booklets in the local Coffs Coast libraries; and Cancer Council’s local and national advocacy campaigns.

The Coffs Harbour Relay For Life is being held from 10am on Saturday 25 to 9am on Sunday 26 May at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park 2 on Stadium Drive. Teams of 10 to 15 people take turns to walk around the track, whilst celebrating cancer survivors, remembering those who have passed away from cancer and fighting back to defeat cancer.

Relay For Life could not be made possible without the amazing support from our major sponsors. We would love to send out a big thank you to FOCUS, Brian Hopwood Homes, Coates Hire, 2CSFM, LB Rigging, C.ex Group, BCU, Coffs Harbour City Council, Showtime Toilets & Showers and Prime7.

It’s not too late to register a team. You can start your own team, or join an existing one.

Just register online at www.relay.cancercouncil. com.au or contact Fiona at Cancer Council on 6659 8400. And like us on Facebook at http:// www.facebook.com/pages/Relay-For-Life-CoffsHarbour-2013/531149026909561. What will you do today to help beat cancer?

coffs coast focus 47

How to avoid work Got a passion or skill to share? Can’t stop painting, sewing, sticking, making, growing? All your friends love it and are asking you for more? Have you ever thought one day, maybe someday, you might follow your dream ...? Well, maybe you could start a market stall!

Harbourside Markets exists to support people just like you.

We pride ourselves on nurturing our local grown, talented and crafty community by insisting on nothing but local made and local grown products and produce. In doing so, our beautiful weekly market set under the trees on the Jetty foreshores speaks of our own unique local identity and sings with a sense of community.

Why join our community market? Let’s face it; there is no better place to learn about your product and your customers than chatting to them directly and getting that instant feedback. You can also see who stops, who lingers, who buys. All invaluable market research! All this, with the added benefit of low setup costs and high sense of fulfilment and FUN! So what is the secret to avoid work? Love what you do, and do it often!

Come and join us at Harbourside Markets; it’s where dreams are made!

Interested in a stall? Call Kim Towner on 0407 661 990.

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Terrigal Gestalt Institute Counselling Training/Personal Development/ Professional Development Terrigal Gestalt Institute, in partnership with INTERRELATE, is offering a Counselling Training Program in Coffs Harbour starting in May 2013. This unique program is presented in a small group format and is highly experiential and creative.

The course is part-time and taught over weekends: one weekend a month for 8 months and a 4-day Residential in October. We cover basic Gestalt theory and practice using creative methods such as chair work, art work, dream work, sand tray, etc. The course is also suitable for those who wish to develop greater self-awareness and further their personal development in a creative, supportive and challenging context.

We will also be commencing a six weekend PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT course for experienced Counsellors and Psychotherapists who would like to integrate creative and experiential techniques into their work with clients.

If you are interested in enrolling, or want to know more about our courses, please contact Johanna, our Program Director, on 6652 2745 or 0432 068 881, or visit our website at: www.terrigalgestalt.com.au

Hair extensions these holidays.

What are you doing these holidays?

Why not visit Kuei and her team, and see what you look like with colourful hair braids!

Kuei is offering 25% off the normal price for braids and 10% off all human hair extensions.

At African Hair Braids, the human hair extensions are placed in your hair by a fusion technique. Besides looking really natural, they are strong and low maintenance. Kuei is an expert and knows how to advise on what style suits your face.

Hair extensions not only give you a brand new look, but are also versatile. You can play with all types of styles, from corn rows, single plaits, twists or dreadlocks. There are over 14 colours, to make sure your hair is matched perfectly.

What a great way to boost your look in winter!

The colourful braids are really popular and your tweens, teens and children will love getting one or more colourful braids weaved into their hair.

On completion of your hair braids, all you need is an occasional visit to African Hair Braids to keep it in good condition, and you can simply kiss those bad hair days goodbye!

focusonhealth.

The health and fitness industry has certainly come a long way in the 18 years I have been working in it. These days we employ sports scientists, exercise physiologists, rehabilitation experts, personal trainers, gym instructors, group exercise instructors, massage therapists, weight loss consultants and any number of other specialists to help you achieve your goals.

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cross the entire world, the industry now offers community health clubs, women’s only, seniors only, kids only, indoor, outdoor, fitness holidays, retreats, weight loss camps, specialised sports training and the list goes on … the excuses for not exercising are becoming less and less but unfortunately, our general population’s health is becoming increasingly worse, and the burden that places on our economy from preventable disease is almost out of control. A poor diet coupled with a lack of exercise has been shown to be as detrimental on our physical health as smoking cigarettes.

The other benefit of exercising regularly and eating right is the mood lift it gives us and the psychological strength to achieve more in our daily lives.

Exercise is so powerful, it is commonly prescribed for the management of depression and melancholy thoughts before or in addition to medication. We all know we should be doing it, but around 80% of the general population still doesn’t do it on a regular basis. So where do you start?

Whether you are searching for yourself or helping someone else get started with their lifestyle

improvement, here are 10 key things you should do first: 1. If you have a family history of illness or injury, or you would just like to be sure before starting to exercise, get clearance from your general practitioner 2. Engage an expert. Talk to a personal trainer or one of the specialists listed above, as not all types of exercise are suitable for all types of people 3. Check the price of the product or service being offered. If you commit to the business for a longer time period, you should receive a cheaper rate e.g. a single visit to a gym may be $15 but a 12 month membership may only be $15 a week. A single personal training session may be $44 but a 12 week personal training program may only be $35 per session 4. Check to ensure that the fitness business is a member of the governing body Fitness Australia?

You can call 1300 211 311 or search www.startexercising.com.au to check on them 5. Check to ensure that the business works closely with other local health professionals. This network is very helpful for you gaining assistance when required

6. Check to ensure that the business provides childminding and/or group exercise if that is important to you 7. Check to ensure that the location of the business is convenient. Most successful participants typically join a business within 20 minutes of their home or workplace 8. Check to ensure that the business has a safe, supportive and comfortable environment 9. Check to ensure that the fitness business is staffed during all of its open hours 10. Check to ensure that the staff are qualified to be providing the advice you need to achieve your

goals Formal exercise in conjunction with a local fitness business will certainly accelerate you towards helping your achieve your goals but there are other ways of improving your lifestyle. Simply being more active every day, eating right, enriching your spirit, taking time to value the people and places around you and contributing to your local community will all have positive health benefits. You are only one workout away from a good mood, so together let’s make the goal, make the time and MAKE IT HAPPEN! See you next month … www.facebook.com/duncan.marchant https://twitter.com/duncan_marchant

coffs coast focus 49

focusonhealth.

ROCK YOUR

WORLD TOUR 2013 Two leading international yoga teachers will be visiting Coffs Harbour in May.

Sadie Nardini is the host of a daily yoga and lifestyle show ‘Rock Your Yoga’ on Veria TV, the 24/7 national wellness channel.

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adie infuses her teachings with a hip, yet down-to-earth mix of Eastern and Western techniques, pop culture and personal testimonials. Yoga Journal calls her a “star instructor” for her ability to make the concepts of body/mind transformation accessible.

As a teen, Sadie suffered from an undefinitively diagnosed central nervous system illness that rendered her nearly paralysed for over 2 years. She fought back for the next 10, using yoga, diet and a focused mind to conquer a disease that doctors told her likely wasn't possible to heal from.

Today, Sadie is one of the fiercest yoga and wellness leaders in the world. Her Total Body Transformation DVDs are #1 bestsellers on Amazon. Her 21-Day Yoga Body Course for Daily Om is their #1 selling online course.

Sadie is on the faculty at renowned mind/ body centers Omega and Kripalu, and tours with the Yoga Journal Conferences. She is also an expert for the Dr. Oz based website phenomenon Sharecare.

Her humor and magnetic personality complement her deep knowledge, including 19 years of study in the yogic arts, energetics, Eastern and Western philosophy,

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nutrition, anatomy and Ninja training. Sadie translates all of it into a conscious fitness program and a Live-out-Loud lifestyle that attracts followers of all types who gain practical solutions for life’s challenges, all while having a rockin’ good time.

She is a prolific presence online, with over 200 videos, 9 million views and 25,000 regular subscribers, as well as over 40,000 daily views on Facebook. She lives in Brooklyn, New York and regularly takes her show on the road, touring internationally to share her expertise.

Sadie is excited to bring yoga teachers and students her expertise, new anatomy of yoga information, fun, creative flow sequences, and real-life Core-Strength empowerment philosophies. She can’t wait to come and have these conversations and experiences with you!

For more of Sadie’s free yoga videos and more, go to www.SadieNardini.com Tyler McCoy, a fantastic Austin-based yoga instructor and yoga TV personality will be collaborating with Sadie on her travels.

Tyler brings additional knowledge and is a complement to Sadie’s style.

After college and living and practicing in

Japan, Tyler came to India, where he trained in a classical Sivananda ashram in Kerala.

He has since taught around the world from Chicago to Thailand.

Drawing from a diverse reservoir of master teachers from Andre Lappa to Daren Rhodes, he has developed an incisively strong yet gentle focus towards moving you with grace and courage into the uncertainty of perceived boundaries – allowing one to break through unconscious resistance to a previously unfathomable level of peace, self-awareness and joy.

Tyler’s specialties are creative sequencing, flow workshops that bringing students to their sweet elusive edge of transformation with repetitively deepening movements including longer holds. He also offers bodychanging hands-on adjustments. Tyler brings a welcome male perspective and energy to the student experience.

the plug!

Contact Hara Beyond Movement Studio on (02) 6652 4462. www.beyondmovementstudio.com.au for bookings and all information on the workshops.

focusonhealth.

HARA beyond movement studio.

Ken, Tina and Gail

Pilates, Yoga, Gyrotonic® Method, Physiotherapy

What is Bowen Therapy?

Our philosophy at HARA is to build your strength from the inside out – from your core. HARA specialises in movement training for rehabilitation, injury prevention as well as challenging body conditioning for the strong, healthy athletic body. Our goal is helping you achieve healthy body, mind and spirit.

Bowtech is the original Bowen technique developed by Tom Bowen from Geelong in Vic in the late 50s. Bowen Therapy is a different approach to bodywork. It is a dynamic system of muscle and connective tissue therapy which is extremely gentle and produces rapid and lasting relief from pain and discomfort. Bowen Therapy treats the cause and not just the symptoms.

to address most complaints. The results can

What to expect at a Bowen session?

A session usually lasts for approximately one hour. The therapist will perform a series of light rolling moves across muscle fibres at specific points on the body. These moves can be performed through light clothing. Two minute breaks are required between each set of moves to allow the body to process the affect. No forceful manipulation is used and because it is so gentle it is suitable for EVERY BODY. Generally 2-3 treatments are required

of elevated stress or sympathetic dominance

Owner and principal instructor Suzanne McCarty has spent her entire life studying and practicing movement. She brings to her clients a love of movement, passion for teaching, along with skills and knowledge sourced from the best instructors around the globe.

HARA is excited to host workshops from two world class Yoga instructors, Sadie Nardini and Tyler McCoy from the USA, who are currently on a world tour. This is a rare opportunity outside a capital city. Sadie Nardini and her style, ‘Core Strength Vinyasa

Yoga’ has been inspirational to Suzanne’s own Yoga teaching and personal practice.

Come to the workshops for an empowering weekend and see why Sadie Nardini has been described as one of the fiercest wellness leaders in the World.

Rock Your Asana Workshops May 10 - 12, 2013.

Total Yoga Transformation Sweet Heart, Strong Core The Happy Hipster Flow Teachers Master class TBA Anatomy of Flow: Do The Wave The Practice: Energy, Stretch & Release Workshops are suited for the healthy beginner to advanced student.

For bookings and all enquires, please contact: HARA beyond movement studio.

(02) 665 24462 www.beyondmovementstudio.com.au

be amazing even from the first visit.

How does Bowen Therapy work?

Stress is a fact of life but Bowen is the perfect antidote. Studies show that Bowen therapy has a profound effect on the autonomic nervous system which regulates the stress response and controls 80% of bodily functions. Most of us live in a constant state (fight or flight mode) during which our internal resources are mobilised for survival and unavailable for healing and restoring the body.

Bowen Therapy shifts the nervous system in to parasympathetic dominance (rest relax repair mode) alleviating stress symptoms and allowing the body to heal itself.

Health rebates and home visits available.

coffs coast focus 51

Dr. Jeremy Allen General Practitioner

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Where are you from? How long have you been on the Coffs Coast?

I'm new to town. My wife and I are from Condobolin in Central NSW. I'm originally from New Zealand and have been in Australia for 10 years now. Along with moving with my wife and my son (we have another one on the way), we also brought along with us our practice nurse and her husband, who also love the sea change that the Coffs Coast has brought to our lives.

for everyone.

What is the most important thing you've learnt since launching your career as a doctor?

The most important thing that I have learnt since becoming a doctor is the ability to care

Considering the advances, what do you feel medical science could be doing better?

I feel medicine could improve through ensuring that no one is left behind in the race for the top.

I decided to become a doctor through the love of science and helping other people. I enjoy learning about people's lives and improving people's health. I graduated in 1999 from Otango University in New Zealand.

What inspires you to help people?

Meeting people who are less fortunate or with disabilities who continue to work and help others inspires me.

focusinterview.

Erin Hughes is the Artist for Noi Creations, an Interior Decorator, wife, and mum to two girls aged 2.5 years and 7 months. Her real love is art, and her genres range from interior design to children’s art. Here she shares her story.

Erin Hughes

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ives: I was born aand an d raised in sout th-western Sy SSydney, d ey dn e , where south-western ived for 28 years before moving to Coffs I lived arbour in 2009 with my husband, Eric.

Harbour I have been holidaying in Coffs since I was a kid and have many fond memories of swimming at the beach, exploring through the forests and breathing in unpolluted air. My parents made the decision to move here 8 years ago, and while I missed them terribly, I was focused on my career as a Decorator – which was also a great excuse to disguise the fact that I never coped well with change. It was my husband who convinced me that we needed a better life and that our careers would soon come second to a family of our own. Coffs was undoubtedly the best place for us to raise a family.

Lived and works: We sold our first home in Sydney, and my husband arrived here a month before I did, securing a job that he still works in now. I then followed with a transfer from Freedom (furniture) in Sydney to Freedom, Coffs Harbour, where I work as the in-store Decorator (technical term ‘Visual Merchandiser’). Moving here was the best decision we could have made. Not only did I get to continue on my career path, we were soon welcoming the news that we were expecting our first daughter, Niah, in August of 2010. It’s a bit of a running joke at work that I arrived and then promptly went on maternity leave! Fortunately for me, they are a fantastic team of people, and I was welcomed back after Niah was born.

Your passion derives?

My passion for creating beautiful spaces has been an 11 year love affair. I became a qualified Interior Decorator in 2002 after completing my Diploma in Interior Decoration and Design fresh out of high school.

But my real love … creating art, was born when I was born. I have always been creative, since I can remember. It started with the scribbles and finger painting like any kid, but in time it evolved into something much bigger. A form of expression, a cre

Noi Creations Where art meets fashion.

ativee outlet ou utllet an nd at times and … therapy. I have dabbled in many art forms, from drawing to sculpting, metal ki l bead-making b d ki and d beaded b d d working, glass jewellery, to airbrushing and brush on canvas. Today, my preferred medium is acrylic paint on canvas.

Creativity Being creative hasn’t always come easily to me. There was a period of about 10 years where I was unable to create anything. I suffered from major depression, which was first diagnosed at 14 years of age; about the time it became evident at school that I had a flair for art.

I was a target for bullies, and the bullying continued right through to my senior year of high school. As a result, I was put on anti-depressants that increased in dose as the conditions at school worsened. The medication stifled my creativity, and my desire and passion faded to a dull flame.

Once I had left school and isolated myself from all reminders of what had been, things began to improve, and the healing process started. I met Eric in 2004, and he brought meaning back into my life. I was well enough to reduce my medication initially, and when we decided to start a family, I made the decision to come off antidepressants – a process that took 3 months.

Creativity rebirth The birth of Niah mended my spirit and reignited my desire to create art. I painted a name sign for her to hang in her coastal themed nursery – a theme chosen to represent our sea change and new beginnings. It was four small canvases hung side-by-side, simple and understated. But it spelled out her name, and that to me was perfection.

Upon showing friends, her sign had sparked some interest, and pretty soon I had friends commissioning me to paint signs for their own children and nieces and nephews. And so, my journey as a painter began.

In January of 2010, Noi Creations was established as a page on Facebook. Noi means ‘little’ in Thai, which fits in well with

Greenroom Gallery is the eco minded boutique/gallery on The Promenade, where art meets fashion. The walls are dressed with the vibrant colours of our coastal home, ocean and waves, by local artist Wayne French. If you are looking for an original oil or reproduction, there are many options, and we can help you find the perfect pick for your wall.

Our clothes are also about colour and comfort. We offer ‘slow fashion’ – an ever-growing concept in Europe, a more sustainable approach to clothes. Our styles are simple lines, timeless and flattering, pieces to dress up or down, suitable for a woman of any age or size. Once you discover how soft our modal and bamboo is, you want to wear it all the time.

We also have hemp and organic cotton, unique labels for Australia, as well as gorgeous fair trade gifts and accessories.

my style of painting and the size of the canvases I was using. But the real reason for the name ‘Noi’, is that it is Niah’s nickname.

She used to make a sound as a newborn that sounded as if she were saying “Noi noi noi”. It was short, interesting and well suited to my work.

My daughter, Zali Now that I have another beautiful baby daughter, Zali, my time dedicated to painting is restricted to working of a night time only. I like to steal every moment with my girls that I possibly can! My commissions for custom work are opened every 1 - 2 months, and I now offer a range of Noi Art Prints featuring original artwork, as well as a range of printed merchandise such as ceramic mugs, greeting cards, printed clothing and seasonal items such as Christmas baubles housing Noi Art Prints. I am also trialling my own designs on fabric and hope to be launching a range over the next 6 months.

Finally You can see the progress stages from start through to completion of all of my artwork on my Facebook page at: www. facebook.com/noicreations My printed merchandise is available to purchase through my website: www. noicreations.com I am a regular stallholder at the quarterly Made With Love Markets at C.ex Coffs Harbour – www.madewithlovemarkets.com Email me at: noi.creations@gmail.com

Charlotte has an eye for colour and style, is honest and enthusiastic. She can help you find the basics you need or create a new look that will make you look good and feel good.

YOU ARE SURE TO FIND A GIFT FOR MOTHER’S DAY …

BUY SOMETHING FOR MUM, and YOU COULD WIN A $100 GIFT VOUCHER.

coffs coast focus 53

Ann Crane Hi, I am a paediatric Occupational Therapist, which means I work with children who have challenges in learning, gaining independence, attention, gross and fine motor skills.

I work with families with children who generally have a diagnosis of Autism, ADHD or learning difficulties.

I trained in Melbourne and have worked with children for 30 years. Over this time, I have been privileged to be part of and be involved with the advances in therapy techniques for the children I treat. Targeted early intervention strategies mean these children have a much brighter future.

As an experienced certified Sensory Processing Disorder OT, my results with the children have proven to many parents that skilled therapy does assist their children to learn, modulate their sensory system and develop social skills.

When our children were young I originally worked from home at Bonville. I then accepted a position as the paediatric occupational therapist at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus. I returned to private practice in 2009.

My specialised area of expertise is working with children who are on the Autism Spectrum and I get much satisfaction working with these great kids and their families and seeing them achieve their potential and dreams.

My day starts with setting up the therapy area so the children can work on their sensory, motor and social skills. I often use specialised equipment, some of which I have personally designed when such equipment was not available commercially.

I see children and their families on an individual basis or together with their speech pathologist, special education teachers and daycare/preschool teachers to work on joint goals.

Fortunately over time, I have seen Federal Government support increase for families who have children with specific diagnoses, however there is still not adequate resources within the school system to support all children with challenges as they enter school.

As a private therapist I offer support and advice at home, school or in the therapy room. I also have the freedom to respond to my clients needs and be flexible in the delivery of my services.

It is extremely rewarding to work with families and be part of their journey as they develop an understanding of their children’s challenges and use targeted techniques to help their children succeed at school, be happy in their home environment and develop friendships.

I love what I do, I love working with the families and their children.

I get wonderful support from my peers, as we all want the best outcomes for the children and their families.

I also provide medico legal reports for lawyers. My expertise in this area is to assess their clients and advise on how their clients can maximise their independence and what aids or equipment will be best suited for this purpose. Again it is rewarding to know that you can make a difference in the lives of others.

I plan to continue to work in this field, for as long as I can as I love it. Frequently I meet successful adults who I had previously treated, and who have expressed their gratitude for the intervention. This is a priceless reward.

I have been fortunate to share the services of a personal assistant, who has organised me and runs my appointments thus allowing me to focus on the children I work with. Thanks Linda.

I am honoured to work with the children, their families and my peers. I also thank my family, Paul, Sally and Catherine as they have supported my work, ambition and dreams.

“PERSONAL SERVICE FOR ALL YOUR LEGAL REQUIREMENTS”

Paul Crane Paul Crane has been a practising solicitor in Coffs Harbour for over 35 years.

It is with great pride that he now acts for the second and third generation of his original clients.

Throughout his time Paul has concentrated on conveyancing, wills and estates, commercial leasing & business and contract law.

Paul is actively involved in many community agencies and is the Chairman of the Board of the Sawtell Catholic Care for the Aged.

Paul’s clients benefit from a friendly and approachable attitude to his clients and professional colleagues. Paul prides himself on providing pragmatic, commercially effective advice resulting in a timely and cost efficient resolution of their matters.

Lyn Rovere, Linda Saggus and Rebecca Porteous, boast a combined legal experience of 45 years in the Coffs Harbour region, having worked with Paul in various roles for a combined period of over 40 years.

Lyn Rovere (Above Left) Lyn Rovere, being a born and bred local, has been associated with the local legal industry since 1987.

Having a great passion and understanding for conveyancing. Lyn is now a Licensed Conveyancer having completing her studies with the Macquarie University Law School in 2010. Lyn’s extensive experience combined with a friendly, caring, and re-assuring attitude, removes the stress and strain of the conveyancing process and allows the client to fully enjoy and engage in the process of acquiring or selling their home or business.

Stuart Stuart is our diligent security officer and generally first contact with clients at our front door and reception.

Linda Saggus (Above Middle) Linda Saggus is the Office Manager and is also a Justice of the Peace who has worked in the local legal industry since 1999. Linda proficiently assists Paul with Wills, Powers of Attorney, Appointment of Enduring Guardian, Advanced Care Directives and Estates. Her pleasant nature, knowledge and approach towards clients makes them feel comfortable and secure in the knowledge that their transaction will be handled in a prompt and efficient manner.

Rebecca Porteous (Above Right) Rebecca, our newest team member, successfully completed her conveyancing law and practice with Macquarie University in 2010. Rebecca provides invaluable assistance to Lyn in all aspects of domestic conveyancing.

Phone (02) 6653 7620

- 1 4 Ko t a r a P l a c e , Ko r o r a N S W 2 4 5 0

D E C A D E S

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T R A D E

18 years in business.

The Team.

Emerald Beach Plumbing

34 years in business.

Reg Latter Electrical.

Owner/Operator Reg Latter Electrical

28 years in business.

Des Hoffman.

Nu-era Kitchens & Bathrooms

I started Nu-Era to give my family the opportunity to live in this beautiful area, as there were not many jobs in the late ‘70s.

I established Nu-Era Bath Resurfacing in 1984 and then became Nu-Era Stonesurfaces for kitchen, bathroom and commercial fitouts, including building renovations now that we have a full builders licence.

After all the hard work to form good customer relations, I realised this was the direction I wanted to take my business. I really enjoy working with customers and designing their new kitchens and bathrooms.

With good mentors and entering into this business with my eyes wide open, it enabled me to extend my goal and to be successful and to do the best job possible.

My goal now is to keep my staff of 11 fully employed. I’m now 63 and still enjoy going to work. Like many other Baby Boomers in business, the day will come when I will sell my business and retire to travel around Australia, fish and enjoy happy hour.

Working and liaising with staff daily assists in a smooth flow effect. The girls keep me very busy and keep me on my toes.

Emerald Beach Plumbing has been in business in Coffs Harbour for 18 years now. Its humble beginnings started in the front yard of Peter and Pandora’s home in Surf Street, Emerald Beach.

It has been fantastic to enjoy longevity in this industry and still grow through some very tough economic times and the flattening out of the building industry, especially in Coffs Harbour.

We can only credit the fact that we are the ‘Emerald Beach Plumbing EXPERIENCE’. It’s not just about plumbing for us but also helping people out and providing a friendly, helpful and professional service. We like to leave people with that WOW experience.

We continue to innovate sustainably, with technology and also with Work Health & Safety requirements. We make sure we continue to train regularly with all our staff, including ourselves as owners of the business. If you don’t grow with your business and are willing to change, then nothing changes.

We recently won the State Training award for Small Employer of the Year 2012 North Coast and also became one of the top 3 Finalists in NSW. A great reward and acknowledgement for our amazing team at Emerald Beach Plumbing.

We are very proud of the dream team at Emerald Beach Plumbing and consider that we have some of the best people working for us. We are only as good as the amazing people that make up Emerald Beach Plumbing.

Reg Latter Electrical has been providing electrical installations and maintenance services – since 1979 – and is, as always, committed to delivering the best service to our customers ... employing highly trained and qualified staff that are on call 24/7, for your domestic, commercial or industrial property, which will be attended to in a timely manner with repairs carried out effectively day or night.

Reg Latter Electrical also offers the following services: Level 1 Service Provider – Accreditation No 3450, providing all of your network infrastructure requirements within the Essential Energy area.

Level 2 Service Provider – Accreditation No 3141 – 'A' Grade Level 2 Service Providers in the Essential Energy area.

Hot water repairs – Warranty agents for Rheem, Vulcan, Solarhart, Edwards, Chromogen, Aquamax, Apricus, and repairs to other makes and models, tank replacements, electric and solar hot water systems.

TV Antenna installations and repairs.

DATA/PHONE/COMMUNICATIONS – Austel accredited open registered cablers and installers.

THERMAL IMAGING AND REPORTING – preventative maintenance SAFETY WORKPLACE STANDARDS RCD Testing and Test and Tag services. Employing over 20 highly qualified staff, who are committed to maintaining the highest quality of workmanship and site safety, allows us to complete your project on schedule.

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25 years in business.

Expand Your Home.

Jim’s Add-A-Room

Jim’s Add-A-Room has been in operation in the Coffs Harbour area for in excess of 25 years, building awnings, carports, entertaining areas, screened and glassed rooms. They have many years’ building experience and are, therefore, able to add on a room or rooms, construct decks, undertake alterations/renovations and all types of commercial and residential building work. Jim’s AddA-Room can also install privacy screens, cladding, louvres, Queensland style windows and skylights, as well as allow for LED down-lights to be installed in insulated roofing.

Add-A-Room can take all the worry and work away from the customer and attend to obtaining the engineering and submission of paperwork to Council. They will organise other trades and Council inspections.

Jim’s Add-A-Room is the local distributor of many products and can supply materials to local builders and owner builders.

The staff at Jim’s Add-A-Room are keen to assist the customer to achieve the best possible result at a reasonable price.

Why not talk to Jim’s Add-A-Room today to arrange for an onsite inspection and quotation. You might be pleasantly surprised, as Add-A-Room’s prices are very competitive.

They provide an ‘after-sales’ service which is second to none. Telephone (02) 6652 7771 today or visit their website: www.addaroom.com.au

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25 years in business.

The Team.

Martin Giles Physiotherapy

My name is Martin Giles, and I have been working here as a sports physiotherapist in Coffs Harbour for 25 years.

I graduated from a sports physiotherapy course in Perth and worked with West Coast AFL Team and other elite athletes. It was an ideal lifestyle, but too far away from family and friends.

Being in Perth made it awkward to go back to Sydney, so here seemed to be the perfect lifestyle on the coast between Sydney and Brisbane between our families. I jokingly say I have been on holidays here for 25 years.

I started the business here because there was no sports physiotherapist in the town at that time, and I thought it would be a good opportunity for me – as it has been.

I love doing my work, and I feel that if I retired I would easily come in here a couple of hours a day to still do some work.

If I had not been a physiotherapist, I would have liked to have been a surfer cruising the world with my wife.

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18 years in business.

SMS Strata.

Award Winning Technology Solutions.

Is a community and strata management specialist – and nothing else. With over 25 years of experience, we organise paying all your building’s expenses, arrange insurances, enforce by-laws, prepare for and chair meetings and manage the common property areas. Strata is the fastest growing form of housing in this country. Strata Manager Karen Lewis says, “We see a lot of stress come from self-managed strata. Our fully trained and certified staff are at your call – we keep abreast of changes in laws which may affect your home, so you can go on enjoying your life.”

Introducing: Sue Roberts joined the SMS Strata team in July 2012. Sue emigrated here in 1988 with her husband, Dave. With over 39 years’ experience with the ANZ bank, Sue prides herself on client face to face experiences. “I am a people person. I also come from a big family. I have been involved with Strata since 1998 and have managed my

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own strata property. I currently live in Boambee with Dave and my two Shih Tzus, Syd and Joe. The best thing about my job is the satisfaction of assisting my owners. I love the Coffs Coast lifestyle, with glorious beaches and mountains.

My favourite thing to do is to dine down at the Jetty strip with hubby Dave!”

When and why did you start your business?

After working in electronics and computers for over 20 years, I started C3 Group in 1995. I knew I had the ability, experience and enthusiasm to start my own business and with reliance on technology in SMBs increasing rapidly, I was confident I could make it work.

What was your ultimate goal when you decided to open your business? The ultimate goal was to create a successful business doing the work that I love to do. I wanted the business to be built on outstanding service and customer loyalty and as a result, I received many referrals.

On a personal level, I started the business to create a better life for my family, which is the most important thing to me.

Has your ultimate goal changed? I started the business on my own and we now have a dedicated team of 20. Customer loyalty and outstanding service is still our priority. Our primary aim is to help clients leverage technology to provide competitive advantage for their organisation.

John Hood - C3 Group

We want to remain a leading regional-based ICT service provider and show how regional businesses can rate against any similar business, regardless of location. This goal is reflected by the Australasian Managed Services Provider of the Year 2012 award, which we were selected for ahead of 700 competing companies. This was a great team achievement and shows the quality and dedication of our people.

What plans do you have for 2013 and beyond? With the NBN being rolled out on the Coffs Coast, it is an exciting time for local businesses. We are able to leverage this new technology to provide cloud-based solutions to minimise the on-premise footprint, reduce CAPEX and provide unparalleled levels of productivity and competitive advantage for our clients. We look forward to providing world-class business solutions for many years to come.

Thanks, John Hood.

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George Cecato.

When did you move to Coffs Harbour?

September 1989.

What made you decide to take on a Thrifty franchise?

When we sold our previous business, we had a break for six months. After that, we were looking for something else and the franchise opportunity came up, so we decided to take it on …

What did it take to start the business?

Finance was the major requirement, but also to have an understanding of motor vehicles and seven day trade. Whilst my background as a Production Engineer in car manufacturing was handy, there was a lot to learn about different vehicles and their controls.

What challenges have you faced along the way?

The major challenges in this industry are to meet high customer expectations. We try our hardest to ensure our customers are satisfied. The other challenge is to educate the public that with rental vehicles you have certain responsibilities and obligations.

There is a culture where people believe that because its a rental vehicle, you can do what you want with the vehicle.

Thrifty

What do you wish you knew before you started?

I wish I knew the hours! They are 7 days a week, night and day. Long days are demanding. I also wish I knew more about the legal requirements for both us and the renters.

What was your ultimate goal when you opened the business, and has that goal changed?

From the beginning, we wanted to be the best in the region and to offer a bigger and wider range of vehicles and in my opinion, we have done both of those things.

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24 years in business.

It’s a great morale booster for us, because all of the hard work and effort we and our staff have put in to the business is paying off!

Is you family involved in the business?

100% the family have been involved since the start! My wife, Anna, is of course the co-owner and franchisee. Our son, Adrian, is full-time and our daughter, Vanessa, is off starting a family but comes in to help out when she can. It is a full family business, and we’re all involved!

When do you plan to retire?

We always look for point of differences to offer our customers; we have introduced sports cars, bigger trucks, bigger buses.

We are always looking to pioneer positive experiences for our customers.

Good question. I thought about retiring at the age of 67/68; now, with the addition of two grandchildren, I think I can extend it out to another couple of years. More like 70 at this stage (laughs).

What awards have you won?

You’re very community involved. Please tell us about that …

Through the 17 years we’ve been in the business, we have won a fair few awards, but most recently we have won the two biggest ones – being Australia and New Zealand Franchisee of the Year! In the same night we won Australia and New Zealand Customer Service Award. So, we won the two biggest awards in the Thrifty system in not only Australia, but also New Zealand!

The whole Cecato family have always believed that if you help out and contribute to the community where we live and work, it will always come back to you in positive ways. We sponsor many sports events; we have sponsored many clubs and individuals.

We sponsor many Rotary Clubs, functions and projects, and we will continue to do so.

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Photo by Ellen Keofter

THE

professional

CENTRE Why we love the Professional Centre ESTIMONIALS: Christina Monneron, Kulturithmik – Rhythm & Culture, One World One Soul One Beat "Meeting Carol from The Professional Centre was like meeting a networking angel! Not only did she introduce me in her exceptionally bubbly way to everyone in the building, but also put forward the idea to run my fun and sassy Salsa classes there during lunchtimes! From then on, I have found TPC to be a centre like no other, with an amazing collective of professionals all working happily together and providing a valuable support to my growing business."

Daryl Wong, Quit Cigarettes Specialist "There appears no hurdle that Carol and her staff won't overcome in trying to get things done for us."

Pam Millican Counselling/Life Coach "I love having an office at the Professional Centre. It has a great feel and is full of interesting people from a variety of business and industries, which is great, because you can get all your needs met. From mortgage broking and accounting to life coaching and counselling – and everything in between – all in one place; plus, the staff are super friendly and professional and work diligently to ensure you get exactly what you are looking for."

Chris Hobson, The Leukaemia Foundation "... Carol, Lisa, Therese and their excellent team at The Professional Centre offer wonderful support, excellent resources and modern, comfortable and stylish accommodation to all their businesses in the heart of the Coffs Harbour CBD. No request is ever too difficult for them, and

essional they make coming to work at The Professional Centre an absolute pleasure … I would recommend The Professional Centre to any business."

Dane Zeeman, Zeeman Accounting "The Professional Centre has been ideal for me as a small business owner new to Coffs Harbour.

Its flexible and affordable services make it a great facility for any business. My clients enjoy visiting me in such a beautiful and welcoming office setting. I enjoy coming to work in a professional, friendly and community minded environment."

Pip Gordon, Chandler Macleod "Love your work, guys … this is such an awesome place to work!"

Michael Crossland "I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your outstanding service within The Professional Centre of Coffs Harbour. Nothing throughout

t much to ask, and the day seemed to be too your ability to go above and beyond was such a refreshing feeling! I have had the opportunity to present all around the world, and it’s a great feeling knowing we still have fantastic service in my home town. Continue the great work, and thanks again for making the event flow so smoothly."

Mel McKenna "Carol and the Professional Centre team provide top quality and comprehensive support for my business. From basic administration and client bookings to daily office cleaning, they’ve got it covered to an exceptional standard. The Centre décor is modern and chic, and there is always something new and exciting happening, whether it be an art exhibition, a conference or a dance class. All this, and great rates too!"

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“

I ca can help you achieve ach ac h greater suc su success cces cc esss iin all areas of you yo your ur life.” life. iffe

Mark Sullivan B.App.Sc (Pod), Grad Cert Diabetes Edu & Man

Susan Lovejoy

Don’t tip toe around the facts

Pamela Millican Winner at the Sunny Business Awards

Empowering and supporting my clients to achieve their dreams is what makes my heart sing.

In 2010, a research paper from Medicine & Science in

Are you living, or just existing?

Sport & Exercise showed that the average Western

I have over 25 years’ experience in natural therapies, counselling and education. The techniques I use are safe and simple and provide quick results.

Australian took 9,695 steps per day, while the average

Counselling, Peak Performance and Life Coaching Services for Business, Couples and Individuals.

Using a wholistic approach, I assist you to balance your energies. I massage away your aches and pains using Muscle Therapy to repattern muscles if you have physical challenges.

steps per day is considered to be sedentary, which in basic

Restoring the flow of your energy is paramount to a stress free life, and I do this using Reiki and Energy Balancing.

If it is guidance you are seeking, I provide Tarot and Psychic Readings to assist you along your path. I can also teach you to meditate to access your own intuition and wisdom.

Whether your dream is a successful business, better relationships, inner peace or simply a desire to pamper yourself, I invite you to come and see me at the Professional Centre and Manifest your Dreams Today!

American took only 5,117 steps per day. The same paper went on to suggest that anyone who takes less than 5,000 terms means you aren’t moving enough!

With chronic and complex health issues on the rise, more and more emphasis is being placed on staying well and healthy and for the most part, people are being encouraged to WALK. If your feet aren’t up to the job then you won’t get very far and hence, your exercise regime won’t even get started!

That’s where Prostep comes in; whether you have very basic foot care needs or you have extremely complex foot care needs, Mark Sullivan at Prostep has the experience, knowledge and equipment to look after you. Even simply knowing which type of shoe suits your foot best can make all the difference. Don’t leave it to chance; make an appointment today and start feeling better from the ground up.

I have trained extensively in EFT/Tapping and other Energy Psychology methods, and combine them all for your greater success. “If you are feeling stress, anxiety, have issues with anger, trauma /depression, or want to improve performance ... I can help you.

How does it work? We go through a process to identify your sabotaging belief systems and negative behaviours, then work together to release the emotional attachment you have to those behaviours, move past your current blocks to success and change your limiting beliefs so that you can make continuous steps towards living a fulfilled life.

I love my work, am passionate about helping people succeed and am constantly rewarded with the emotional freedom and happiness I see people achieve on a daily basis ”... to Live rather than Exist.

Services: • Counselling/Life Coaching • Reiki • EFT Emotional Freedom Technique /Tapping • Workshops • Public Speaking • Retreats.

Call Pam 0423 214 320. Info and testimonials: www.pamelamillican.com

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28 years in the trade

Vanessa Lewis

Smoking is a very, very bad habit

Steve Heaton has 28 years’ experience in the building trade. He first started as an apprentice to his father and eventually started his own building business with his wife, Lisa. Approximately 18 months ago, they decided to specialise in timber flooring, which is a passion of Steve’s.

Coast Flooring Services was born. Due to Steve’s background in the building industry, his skills, pride in his work and attention to detail clearly shine through, given the number of compliments and letters he receives from very happy clients, who are literally floored by the finished product. Coast Flooring Services use local suppliers, and you can be 100% confident they will work within your budget and design. Your quote will be obligation free, and they will be at appointments on time. They can supply, install and finish solid timber floors and floating floors.

Hola! I’m Vanessa Lewis, and I have an awesome family and relationship with my husband of 18+ years, and I want the same for you!

Australian research’s statistics indicate that between 2004 and 2005, 14,900 Australians died from smoking related diseases. That’s about 40 people who die each day. Most deaths are people over 65 years, though 1 in 5 deaths are those between 35 - 64 years. The major tobacco related diseases include cancer, heart disease and chronic obstruction pulmonary disease.

If you’re thinking about a timber floor, give Steve a call. He will come to you and talk about what you would like, give advice and an obligation free quotation. Even if you’re not ready to do your floor just yet, Steve is happy to let you know what options are available and give you an idea of what your budget should be.

I am a heart centered counsellor, coach and mentor and I do things a little differently, because having gone through the experience of healing from my own upbringing, I searched and found the right tools to help you release your blocks from happiness and being able to love and parent in a healthy way, free from the negative emotional responses that we so often regret. I’m here for individuals or couples who want to make a shift in stubborn issues that no amount of talking or navel gazing seems to shift.

These blocks may be in the realm of relationships, health problems or the impact of past experiences. We can also look at issues such as addictions, illnesses and negative patterns in our lives, uncover the cause of the problem and release it. If you’re ready to go for happiness, for the month of May I’m doing a special; book one session and get one free! Or if you’re a parenting looking for coaching, check out my website for my next parenting course.

Book 1

Get one

FREE

For the month of May, book one session with Vanessa and get one session free...

“In 15 minutes it became clear as to what was preventing me from stepping up and taking control of my life and making the right choice for me. Vanessa helped me to completely release it and repattern.

Vanessa’s work is profound and the shift was instantly felt. My experience was amazing!”

Krista

“I thought I was going to be stuck in my grief for ever, it was overwhelming and confusing. I called Vanessa for help and she helped me to understand what was happening and why. It was connected to something in my past.

The healing in one single session with Vanessa was all it took to release it completely.” Catherine

Proven techniques for:

eliminating stress, anxiety,

releasing the effects of trauma & abuse for good,

creating better relationships,

peaceful parenting &

grief, hurt & rejection resolved!

and more...

Counselling, Personal Coaching, Parenting Coaching, Family Constellation Facilitator

call: 0410 448 884 www.love2live.com.au

www.peacefulparenting.com.au

www.facebook.com/peacefulparenting.com.au

The Professional Centre, Level 1/9 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour

I DO THINGS A LITTLE DIFFERENTLY 64 coffs coast focus.

If you have a positive frame of mind and actually have positive thoughts of “I WANT” to quit smoking cigarettes, “I WILL” quit smoking and “I CAN” quit smoking, and you have a normal IQ, then hypnosis is for you. The decision to quit smoking cigarettes must be yours and yours alone. Unfortunately, many people have the belief “I can quit smoking later”, thinking that they have plenty of time to quit smoking. As we all know – time waits for no one!

Our Quit Cigarette System uses advance Hypnosis Techniques and Neo Linguistic Programming (NLP) reframing and other systems.

There are no chemicals, no side effects and no drugs. Hypnosis is quick, it’s painless, and our Quit Cigarette System is tailored for each individual. Can you make that decision to quit cigarettes now and look forward to a healthier and better life, breathing fresh, clean air?

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CENTRE Get the best tax result Are you planning to get the best tax result?

At Zeeman Accounting, we ensure that our clients achieve the best results every time. At this time of year, we look forward to meeting with clients and discussing strategies to obtain the best possible tax outcomes. Our tax planning service can benefit a range of clients, from business owners to investors to wage earners.

Common questions include: I’ve started a business this year.

Will I end up with a large tax bill? How much can I contribute to superannuation? I’ve sold a property and made a capital gain. What can I do to minimise tax? Should I buy a new business vehicle before the end of financial year? Can I get a tax deduction for prepaying business expenses? In addition to devising and implementing strategies for this financial year, we make recommendations to ensure that our clients are positioned to enjoy the best results from the beginning of next financial year.

These may include a review of record keeping systems or setting up a new entity through which to operate. Professional and friendly service is a priority at Zeeman Accounting, with flexible appointment times and an email service available if you are too busy to visit our office.

Mention this advertisement to secure your free initial appointment.

Plumbing Professionals

Rhythm Culture

The Plumbing Professionals is a Specialist Plumbing Maintenance Service, based at Emerald Beach.

Ever dreamt of being a sexy, sizzling, hip-swaying Salsa God or Goddess?? Well, Vamonos – the time has come to realise YOUR dream!

“

Uno, dos, tres ... make the call ... let your fingers take the first steps, and I’ll take you by the hand and lead you the rest of the way ...

The Plumbing Professionals have been servicing the Northern Beaches and Coffs

Harbour area for over 20 years. We cover all aspects of plumbing: domestic, commercial, strata maintenance and repairs are our specialty..”

We offer professional, reliable and expert solutions to all your plumbing problems; no job too big or small.

Plumbing Professionals service all areas/all hours.

Call John on 0439 060 113 for all your plumbing solutions. Reasonable rates, seniors and ex-service personnel discounts.

CALL 0439 060 113.

I will help you build on your inner confidence and stimulate your body into easy flowing moves by absorbing the seductive Cuban beats.

Come along and learn to walk with attitude, and let me show you how to get in touch with your inner Cuban heartbeat!

There are individual and private sessions for people with 2 left feet, as well as those who have found their right one and desire to Rumba to the next dimension! Also available ...

• Fun sessions with live music • School programs • Team building sessions • Cultural tours to Cuba KULTURITHMIK BAND APPEARING AT COAST HOTEL, SUNDAY SESH 5 MAY.

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Injecting more fun into work

The Family Chiropractor

“A business has to be involving, it has to be fun and it has to exercise your creative instincts” – Sir Richard Branson We often spend more time with our work colleagues than we do our own families – so it’s important to make work as enjoyable as possible and have a fun time with the people we work with.

Mike and Sarsha Symonds started ‘FUN’ergizers over 10 years ago and have helped 100s of Australian businesses create an energized, connected and fun workplace. Moving to the Coffs Coast to raise our 3 daughters, these unique programs are now available here.

When 18 years old, Dr Vanessa was a passenger in a car that accidentally slammed into a brick wall at 110 km/hour.

Why Choose Us? A local in the Coffs Harbour area: Mandy has lived in the Coffs Harbour local area for over 30 years and has extensive local knowledge.

Personal Service – you will deal with a licensed conveyancer and not a secretary or unqualified person.

Liaise with the same people all the way through your

Our ‘FUN’ergizer programs focus on energizing and connecting your staff through a whole range of fun, team based and interactive activities for your workplace. We assist in connecting staff who may not necessarily interact, diffusing office politics and creating an atmosphere that both staff and customers want to be a part of!

transaction and not someone different at every stage.

We provide a mix of ongoing programs, Fun@Work workshops, one-off sessions and DIY Options ...

• Inject more energy and fun into your conference • Managers – energise and connect your people and teams • Organisations wanting a complete workplace overhaul

answer your call outside of business hours.

“I have never seen anything like it before. The colour, life and energy that ‘FUN’ergizers brought to our business was amazing!” – Kerry, Data-Active.

Fully Insured – our service is fully insured by Professional

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Prompt Service – your matter and enquiries attended to promptly.

Flexible Hours – if you can’t make it into our office, we will arrange to come and see you. We will also be available to We Come To You – if you are not in the local Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas, we can utilise mail or email to forward documents to you.

Indemnity Insurance ... peace of mind in the unlikely event that something may go wrong.

All sorts of ‘post-concussional’ headaches, serious memory, pain and muscle health challenges were helped by Chiropractic when all else failed. Already qualified as a Biochemist, she then retrained, graduating as a Doctor of Chiropractic in 1985. After the career change – then came the sea change. A year sailing 9,000 km across the Pacific, before finally starting her second Chiropractic business in beautiful Coffs Harbour.

Chiropractic is the largest non-medical healthcare system in the world and works with the most important thing in your body: your brain and nerves. Your brain and spine control every single cell, organ and gland of your body. The better the messages flow through your nerves, the better your body works. It’s that simple!

Chiropractors are experts in the science and art of detecting and correcting subluxations (spinal misalignment) of the spinal bones.

When spinal function is optimised, nerve function is too, because they are so closely related. As your nerves function better, it can improve your health.

People come to Coffs Family Chiropractic for 4 main reasons: • To relieve a problem (aches, pains, illness or dysfunction) • To correct the underlying cause of a chronic health problem • To prevent the reoccurrence of a problem • To help their babies and families get well and stay well for life.

Start Your Journey Back to Health Today! Call Dr Vanessa on 6699 2228 for a FREE spinal and posture check on TUESDAYS between 9.30am and 11am only.

s o c i a l s c e n e

left April Briscoe, Amber Toms, Michaela Slater, Elizabeth DeVere.

focus Weddings. with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

below. Barbara Wenman, Bianca g & Linda Ling Bolitho.

above. Kate Snow, RuthAnne Triebner & Zoe Elliot at the store opening at Studio 2453 Boutique, Dorrigo.

left. Chanel Stewart & Emma Barselaar at Edward’s Modern Vintage 5th birthday celebration.

above. Melly Dee and Christopherr Shute, Opening Night of Young Frankenstein at Jetty Theatre.

Social/scene.

Living on the Coffs Coast just gets better and better! Talk about ‘moving forward’ ... we are travelling full steam ahead! All year around, there are sports, theatrical and social events to keep us occupied.

T

he Coffs Coast is all linked together, and as everything is only a stone’s throw away, there are opportunities aplenty to keep us all active and social. A fine example of our amazing multicultural spirit was shining through at this year’s Curryfest at Woolgoolga. We are so lucky!

We have always loved being involved with ‘The Son’s’ school sports and social activities, especially in the early years, at Sawtell Primary School. Not so much in high school; that is definitely not listed on the teenage son’s Wish List! (Mother yelling her tonsils out on the side line for ‘The Son’ to “WIN THAT RACE!”. He plays soccer for Sawtell and that is a father and son bonding thing, which I think is great. I’m actually banished from any kingdom where it just might be possible for me to totally embarrass him! Our family are all LOUD, and it has been suggested that I talk too much?

(How ridiculous!) Actually, ‘The Son’ has just informed me that a position came up recently, where my skills could have come to good use; I’ll fill you in later!

The Coffs Coast BWN Network recently held their monthly event at the Coffs Harbour Novotel Pacific Bay Resort. The evening events run for approximately two and a half hours and the BWN dos are always jam packed with fine food, a tipple or two, raffles, fun and plenty of entertainment. The guest for the evening was the always hilarious Jean Kittson. She is a comedy star of the big and small screen, an exceptional writer and radio personality. For anyone who attended that needed a bit of a laugh, Jean Kittson was definitely the answer.

Great night!

Lots of pampering for the ladies at the La Fleur D’Alyse Open Day. Even the radio station 2CS was there to promote all the luxurious treatment packages that was being given

away. Le Dãin Designs Jewells was also there to showcase its latest ‘Autumn Leaf’ Collection.

Part of this collection went down to Sydney to dress one of SKY Channels announcers for the Autumn Racing Carnival. The major beauty package that was given to an extremely lucky lady was valued at $1,500! I can certainly tell you that after being treated to a few luxurious treatments and a few canapés and bubbles, none of those ladies wanted to leave!

Owners of the fabulous publication Northcoast Weddings Magazine held a cocktail event at the Garden Mania Nursery in the Ladybirds Café. Guests were seated outside in the twinkling candle lit gardens. There they got to enjoy a cocktail or two and delicious culinary delights from the ever popular Fiasco Ristorante Chefs. The owners and good friends of mine, Michaela Slater and April Briscoe had a secret up their sleeve and wanted to share with a little celebration. Announcements were made, revealing the content of their brand new website. Fun was had by one and all, and the charming Steve Young from Steve Young Photography was there to capture all the memories. Delightful evening.

Don’t forget to get your tickets and support the Manhattan Project’s ‘Stories from the other side’. This event will be staged at The Bunker Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour. Hosting the event will be David and Fiona Foulkes, along with Allison and Joseph Majambere. It will be a night of inspirational stories from around the world. All the women now reside on the Coffs Coast. They have come from far and wide and very different backgrounds. The stories are moving, heart breaking but inspirational.

Doors open at 5.30pm, with nibbles and drinks all included in the ticket price. There will be musical entertainment provided by Avison.

Tickets $25, available from sticky tickets: http://www.stickytickets.com.au/11015. The

Manhattan Project is a social movement that helps raise funds and support women and children affected by war. This event is also supporting ‘Sanctuary Australia’, which is an organisation based in Coffs Harbour.

If it’s anything like last year, it will be a full house for Kirsten Howton’s Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea Event. It is the 20th anniversary and 2013 Winter Fashion Preview is being held at the Bonville Golf Resort. The show will showcase fashions from Seasons Boutiques, My Sister’s Wardrobe and stunning jewells from Le Dãin Designs. The date is Thursday 9 May, 9.30am - 12.30pm, and the tickets are only $25 for a scrumptious unlimited morning tea. This includes a delicious sweet and savoury selection, with gluten free options.

There will be raffles, giveaways and lucky door prizes. There will also be a guest speaker for the morning. Tickets are available from Bonville Golf Resort, Seasons Boutique and me (Carole Beros).

I have heard a whisper that Clinton and Tracey Hayes are about to unveil their big brand new store, Go Vita Coffs Central. I had a sneak peek, and all I can say is, “WOW!” I can sense a special opening day coming soon! Can’t wait.

For something different, on Saturday, May 11 from 10.30am - 11.30am, make your way to the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery. Dr John Bennett is conducting a talk on ‘The Art of Nature’. Nature and Art, The Modern. This illustrated talk takes a leisurely look at the key modern representations of nature from the pre Raphaelites to Cezanne ... Damien Hirst, Andy Goldsworthy and the Papunya revolution of Contemporary Aboriginal art. Part of the Art of Nature given in March was a rapid tour of how nature slowly became important in Western art; this is part two. John will close the performance with a reading of poetry inspired by local images. Dr John Bennett is a

local writer, poet and visual artist. Gold coin donation appreciated. For further information, please call the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery on 6648 4863.

For something special, do not miss The Revenge of the Bat Die Fledermaus. It is being performed by the National Touring Co Opera and staged at Coffs Harbour Jetty High school on 24 April at 7pm. Award winning restaurant Fiascos will cater for the evening, and a bus service is running from Bellingen, Sawtell, Toormina, Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches. Don’t miss out! For ticket enquiries, call 6652 8088.

The Curryfest at Woolgoolga was a huge success. Mother Nature rained on a few of us, but the show did go on. From the Dance Night right at the beginning right down to the Great Curry Cook Off competition, I know everyone had a wonderful time. Our fabulous editor Melly Dee and her fiancé Christopher Shute were the judges, and the winner on the day was Macauley’s Restaurant. The festival was packed with hot and spicy culinary delights, vibrancy, and fantastic entertainment and bursting with colour! What more could you ask for?

Getting back to ‘The Son’s’ suggestions for another job for the LOUD mother ... As we all know, just recently the position for the first Coffs Harbour Town Crier was up for grabs! Of course, Richard Frost has taken up the position. I am sure he’ll do an excellent job. But he better watch over his shoulder, because according to my family and a few (special) friends of mine (not anymore!), they just happen to think that I would have been a great choice! Now, is that meant to be rude or what?

Here is to the LOUD and the HILARIOUS! Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs. coffs coast focus 67

Photography by Amber Toms

new look magazine out now in your nearest newsagency

MAY 2013

WITH TERRI

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The new Autumn/Winter issue of North Coast Weddings Magazine is out now in news agents. We have a new lookk ne is cover, beautiful layout and gorgeous fashions. The magazine packed with local talent, photos, information and ideass to inspire es tell us their you and help you with your wedding plans. Six couples story in our stunning real weddings. ebsite As well as a new look magazine, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve launched our new website complete with a preview of our magazine online. There is also an easy reference â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;guideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to local talent, a blog and more local real weddings. So check it out at northcoastweddingsmagazine.com.au and let us know what you think.

More big news, with the announcement of our Wedding Showcase on Sunday 21 July at Upper Orara Hall. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this unique wedding event in Coffs Harbour. Guests will enjoy a styling showcase, fashion parade, expert information sessions, live music, tastings and more. Visit our website for continually updated information.

Couples in this area are truly spoilt for choice these days, so make North Coast Weddings Magazine your must have guide in planning your wedding on the NSW North Coast. Available in newsagents now for only $9.95.

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AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

A fresh start is about to be yours. You are about tumble into an experience filled with such happiness, 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.

PISCES. February 20 - March 20 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, and if you reinvent this, change will enter your reality straight away. Pyrite will strengthen your self-beliefs and alter your reality.

ARIES. March 21 - April 20 The feeling of being suspended wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Travel with educational benefits is also on the horizon. Amethyst brings a sense of calm. Sit by the water and hold a piece while stilling your mind.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 3 compliments to yourself x3 times a day for 3 weeks, and marvel at the difference. You will soon enjoy discovering a new gift. Chrysocolla is wonderful for new discoveries. Wear it on your being whilst thinking about what you want.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23 Ju 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.

Pay attention to the beliefs which hinder this, then you will be able to bring forth change. You are currently being shown things from your past to help free your future. Hematite will aid in goal setting, as it shifts negative thought processes.

LEO. July 24 - August 23 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. You are about to embark on a journey of self discovery, with new sociable influences coming into the picture. Enjoy!

Labradorite connects us to our magical, mystical self. Carry it with you for a couple of weeks to set new patterns.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

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 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re about to tumble into. You can envisage a move soon. Connecting to your adventurous self will take away your boredom.

Discovering your motive behind your current actions will free you from your torment. All you need to do is be totally honest with yourself, and see how you are benefiting from your choices.

There will be something in it for you after all.

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.

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23 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. The feeling of complete contentment will be yours. Sodalite enables our imagination to take us journeying into alternate realities, so we can realise what we desire.

SCORPIO. October 24 - November 22 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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know yourself. Keep thanking yourself for the positive changes. 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.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21 Your leadership skills are about to be tested in the workplace. Keep your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;win/win mentalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; strong, as this will guide you toward further success. Avoid listening to other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fears, as these could hinder your progress should you take them on. Try doing some positive affirmations to keep your focus.

Selenite strengthens our connection to our higher consciousness. Carry some on your being for a couple of weeks.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20 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. These changes to your life will bring out further talents for your discovery.

Malachite helps bring past hurts to the surface for releasing. Enjoy the newfound changes.

Only 5 Dry Summer Weekends After so much wet weather, you might feel you were robbed this summer; and the data says you are right.

“When you look back at the Bureau of Meteorology’s rainfall statistics for Coffs Harbour, you can see that out of 13 summer weekends, only five were entirely dry,” said Spanline Home Additions Coffs Harbour franchisee, Peter Pappalardo. Worsening the summer weekend results, of the four summer public holidays, two were wet; the Australia Day long weekend. As Spanline Home Additions specialise in creating living spaces such as patios, glass or screened rooms, “What sort of a summer did the people of Coffs Harbour enjoy if they could only entertain friends outdoors with a barbie on five weekends of the season?” Mr Pappalardo said.

“Everyone knows our wettest season is summer, and we wouldn’t have the lush parks and gardens without it, but no one wants it to rain on their weekend party,” he said.

“For our customers, this summer was still perfect for entertaining, as they hosted friends under the cover of their Spanline home addition.

“Why move when you can improve with a Spanline Home Addition?”

Coffs Harbour locals Peter Pappalardo and Michael Loxley own and operate the local Spanline Home Additions franchise, delivering home owners fully engineered, yet custom fitted designs, backed by a nationally registered warranty.

Spanline are your local manufacturers and suppliers of glass and screened enclosures, patios, awnings, verandahs, carports, shelters and insulated roofing and wall panels.

Visit the Spanline Home Additions display centre at 4 Wingara Dr, Coffs Harbour, or call 6650 9816 or visit www.spanline.com.au

coffs coast focus 69

focusrealestate.

with Chris Hines from Unrealestate

real

My Kokoda Trek

chris hines.

My real estate column is a bit different this month. Those of you who read FOCUS each month would know that by the time this edition comes out, I should have returned from trekking the Kokoda Track, and attending the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Bomona War Cemetery in PNG.

I

one of the most intriguing facts I found was that the am actually trekking with a group of first Victoria Cross awarded in the campaign was successful young (or young at heart) real actually awarded to a soldier who had been a real estate agents from across the country. estate agent in Australia, at one stage working in his All of them are No.1 in their areas and father’s estate agency in Melbourne. are brilliant marketers. We met through Bruce Kingsbury enlisted in the AIF at the outbreak Facebook, strangely enough, and the idea of the Second World War and served in the 2/14th grew from there. It has actually been set up as a in the Middle East, until they were deployed back to developmental opportunity to learn from each other, Australia to defend the Kokoda Trail in New Guinea. but we have also incorporated some others on the By this stage, the Australian Militia had been fighting trip to lend further skills on leadership. We are also a vicious conflict against the battle hardened lucky enough to have two ex servicemen Japanese and were in serious need of trekking with us, lending us their reinforcements. knowledge on the battles and During the Battle of Isurava on strategies along the way. It 29 August 1942, the heavily is also, in many ways, a y, ur sb ng Private Ki e th outnumbered Australians pilgrimage to pay homage of e on as who w n oo at Pl were defending their to those who fought a of s or few surviv errun ov Battalion HQ and were in en under unbelievably harsh be d ha which out by ab t cu ly serious peril of being totally conditions to protect our re ve se and ediately overrun. Bruce Kingsbury country. the enemy, imm join a had already lost almost Apart from it being a volunteered to n, whi ch oo at pl nt differe all of his platoon. He then physical challenge, it will d to had been ordere volunteered to join another also be a mental challenge ” counter-attack. platoon and counterattack the as well. When you talk to advancing enemy. anyone who has completed During the counter attack, the trek, they will tell you it is Private Kingsbury picked up a Bren Gun one of the most amazing things they (heavy machine gun) and charged headlong have experienced. It’s not easy; you are into the advancing Japanese. It is estimated that he literally either walking uphill or downhill, and we are killed at least 30 of the enemy, before being struck by talking straight uphill; there are river crossings, mud, a sniper’s bullet and killed. mosquitoes, heat and humidity. But we are doing For his actions, Kingsbury was awarded the it in an organised experienced group, not crawling Victoria Cross, which was gazetted on 9 February through the jungle in 1942 as barely trained militia, 1943. His citation read: being fired upon and hopelessly outnumbered.

War Office, 9th February, 1943.

Going on such an physical and emotive trek, I The KING has been graciously pleased to approve decided to do a bit of study on the campaign, and

“

70 coffs coast focus.

the posthumous award of the VICTORIA CROSS to: – No. VX 19139 Private. Bruce Steel Kingsbury, Australian Military Forces.

In New Guinea, the Battalion to which Private Kingsbury belonged had been holding a position in the Isurava area for two days against continuous and fierce enemy attacks. On 29 August 1942, the enemy attacked in such force that they succeeded in breaking through the Battalion’s right flank, creating a serious threat both to the rest of the Battalion and to its Headquarters. To avoid the situation becoming more desperate, it was essential to regain immediately the lost ground on the right flank.

Private Kingsbury, who was one of the few survivors of a Platoon which had been overrun and severely cut about by the enemy, immediately volunteered to join a different platoon, which had been ordered to counter-attack.

He rushed forward firing his Bren Gun from the hip through terrific machine-gun fire and succeeded in clearing a path through the enemy. Continuing to sweep the enemy positions with his fire and inflicting an extremely high number of casualties on them, Private Kingsbury was then seen to fall to the ground shot dead, by the bullet from a sniper hiding in the wood.

Private Kingsbury displayed a complete disregard for his own safety. His initiative and superb courage made possible the recapture of the position, which undoubtedly saved Battalion Headquarters, as well as causing heavy casualties amongst the enemy. His coolness, determination and devotion to duty in the face of great odds was an inspiration to his comrades.

ANZAC Day means lots of things to lots of people, but in essence, it’s a time to reflect and remember.

Lest we forget.

focustourism.

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

Kerry Moss(L), Bree von Saldern (middle), Jeanette Lapham(R)

UPDATE Meet the Team denezahner A Destination Management Plan is needed for Tourism funding ... s we head into winter, we are well placed to enjoy the warm, winter days and to make the most of them. It’s also a great opportunity for locals to enjoy our destination as a tourist and take time out with your family to enjoy some of the incredible things on offer.

A

If you’re not too sure on what to do, then get a copy of the 101 things to do on the Coffs Coast or the Coffs Coast Explorer magazine and get out exploring.

Destination NSW presented the Visitor Economy Action Plan to tourism businesses on the Coffs Coast on 9 April, outlining the framework for industry to apply for a pool of funds that will see the tourism industry grow by 7% by 2020. This is currently tracking around 2%.

if you haven’t got a ticket, then you are going to miss a spectacular array of performers.

If you’re looking for adrenaline, then you should see the Nitro Circus live show on 11 May, with FMX and BMX choreographed riding routines performing incredible techniques. Book your ticket sales by phoning Coffs Coast’s ticket sales on 1300 369 070.

The Sydney Travel Show on in April reaches people considering travel. Our region has a presence at this show, as well as at the Melbourne Caravan and Camping show held earlier this year. The Coffs Coast Explorer magazine is handed out at these shows, and the next issue will be out at the end of October.

The next industry meeting will be held in May and will see Rally Australia run through Regions will need to develop a the logistics of the Rally with the Destination Management tourism industry. The Super Plan that sets the strategic Special stage has been vision for the region. ’s SW N n io at moved to Brelsford D estin ed ud Any application cl in ow sh ad ro Park. The vantage esentation submitted for the point for viewing this a captivating pr l na “contestable funds” by an internatio stage of the rally will t ke ar w to m of $3.5 million will marketer on ho ion. provide spectators at need to do so with a tourism destin with an opportunity e m Bill provided so the Destination d an s ie og al to see more of the outstanding an Management Plan ow gr to w ho on cars as they compete strategies (DMP) in mind. If the in these time trials. tourism .” project is not referred Rally Australia will be to broadly in the DMP, meeting with the industry then no funding will be to discuss details of this leg of allocated. If you are a tourism an international race. The economic business and are interested in applying for impact study recently released highlighted the funding, then we suggest you attend the next substantial injection into the local economy. industry meeting in May. The fact that this major event is televised This information was presented against a to an international audience will increase backdrop of a declining domestic market, the awareness levels of the Coffs Coast, with the need for applications to ensure that and indications are that there have been a there is a clear objective set for a growth number of bookings that have already been strategy to increase visitor numbers to the made. Join us at the next tourism meeting to region. find out more.

Destination NSW’s road show included a Tourism Coffs Coast would like to offer our captivating presentation by an international members a fantastic opportunity to highlight marketer on how to market a tourism their business on our popular Facebook page: destination. Bill provided some outstanding www.facebook.com/TourismCoffsCoast analogies and strategies on how to grow If you are interested in finding out more tourism. information about joining Tourism Coffs We are looking forward to the Aussie Rock Coast, please call our office on 6651 7766 or Extravaganza, which will be in town on 4 email: info@tourismcoffscoast.com.au May. Jimmy Barnes is the star attraction and

Who are they? A specialist travel company located in Coffs Harbour (but with offices also in Armidale and Brisbane). They operate their own special interest tours, specialising in topics such as Agriculture, History, Nature, Gardens, Antiques, and Battlefields to more than 20 countries around the world. The office in Coffs Harbour also offers a full service travel agency, which means that the team can help you with all your travel needs including flights, accommodation, and holiday bookings.

What is unique about the Quadrant team? After travelling and working all over the world, the Quadrant team have chosen Coffs Harbour to call their home. They are trained travel consultants with more than 40 years’ combined experience between them. Between them, they have travelled to more than 50 countries and extensively in

Australia. If they haven’t been there, it’s sure to be on their list to travel to in the future.

What question do people ask all the time? Why should I book with a travel agent, when I can do it myself on the web?

Quadrant Australia’s answer to this is simple.

Who would you call if things didn’t go to plan? Travel agents are professionals in the industry. They know who to call, what to do, and how to do it.

Travel agents love to travel. They’ll often have inside information on a special place, a hotel, or a fabulous local restaurant. Quite simply, it’s what they love ... and being able to share this information is an extension of that.

If you’re heading overseas or on an adventure in Australia, your travel agent should be your first stop.

“

coffs coast focus 71

focusinterview. with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Marketing

L I S A * DA L E Y

L

isa, you were born in Tenterfield and raised in Nambucca. Tell us a little about your background?

My parents returned to the Nambucca Valley from Tenterfield when I was around two, with my older brother, Kerry, and mum pregnant with my sister, Kim. I had a great childhood growing up in Nambucca. Life was focused around the beach, surfing, bike riding, sports, exploring – kids in a small town stuff.

Each year at Easter, we travelled back to Tenterfield to visit friends who had properties with sheep, cattle and horses. We had absolute amazing times being temporary farm kids. With not much idea of what I wanted to do after school, I gravitated to Sydney and ended up working for the NRMA. It was the beginning of the computer revolution in business – utilising mainframes and terminals with the promise of replacing all that paperwork and replication with 'smart computerisation'. I designed computer based training courses to support this new technology and also taught staff how to type. Most of the jobs I held after this, and before going to university, were 'holding pattern' type jobs. But when I was accepted into the UTS Design program – I felt I had finally found a career path that felt like a fit.

Daley Creative is a relatively new creative graphic design agency you have set up on the Coffs Coast. What sets your services apart from other providers?

Versatility in creating different looks and styles that are unique to each client’s project is what I offer. Although there are styles that come to you more naturally, I do love the challenge of creating a different style for a client. From a simple timeless look in a logo like the Jetty Memorial Theatre to layered textured, energetic brochures I have designed for the Coffs Coast Digital Enterprise Program – it’s great to be able to create 72 coffs coast focus.

such variety for clients. This also comes from my Tell us about your experience in the design wide range of experience with different industry industry? sectors. My approach and attitude towards my I have had a very varied design career working clients and work is hands on. I encourage collabin graphic design studios and within internal design departments in large multinationals. Just oration with clients, to get across in the design out of university, I got a job with a small studio what they are really after. Nothing is better than that specialised in designing Annual Reports and a client being excited by the creative process and worked in the same building as Harry Seidler what is being created together.

Architects. What a start! My next job was with You have spent the last decade living the Citibank, working in what was called big city life in New York City. the Interactive Multimedia Group.

How did this come about, I worked on 'futuristic' techand what impact has this nology projects for Citibank experience had on your and then transferred to career? is n Inspiratio their privileged banking at I was in Sydney, had s not alway services marketing e th just ended a long term the beginning of and section doing Project s relationship, and I was creative proces where Management. d in ho-hum job land. that mystery an t I love At this point, I ha Enter an 'ah-ha' moit takes me is w headed off overseas, ment – time to go travabout design.” and my career was on elling! So I packed up my semi-hold for a few years life, said my goodbyes, and whilst working in marketing just went. When I hit New for the Department of Foreign York, I thought – this looks like Affairs and Austrade in New York. an OK place to hang for a while. Living There I met a few other Aussies, and and working in New York was an absolutely four of us set up an advertising agency with FABULOUS time. an office space in The Empire State Building.

There were many 'New York Moments' in We focused on creating campaigns for clients my years there – meeting amazing people and interested in the gay market. My next move was experiencing things that were so unique and to work with a Brooklyn based boutique design special. I saw not only the good, but certainly studio that had a focus on wine and beverage the bad and the ugly side of many things whilst clients. I worked on some international brands there; however, the three defining moments of (yellow tail being on of them, funnily enough) my New York life were: September 11, 2001; doing label, packaging and bottle designs, and meeting my gorgeous, brilliant husband Paul (he here I stayed until I returned to Australia and set will be reading this interview) in a Brooklyn resup Daley Creative in 2011. taurant; and having our daughter Maizi five years The marketing, branding and design induslater (not in the restaurant). Overall, the impact try is constantly evolving. What trends are that New York has had on me and my career has you seeing in your creative field? been profound in many ways.

Trends always are exciting for me, but also

“

come with a slight degree of hesitation. They can be seen as just imitation of whatever’s hot at the moment, rather than genuine innovation and an independent creative process.

Part of my job as a graphic designer is to identify ways to improve my work based on trends in the marketplace. Here are a few of my top trends for 2013: • Responsive web design – being able to using the one convenient design automatically optimised for any platform, be it desktop, laptop, tablets and smart phones.

• Sense of Heritage – portraying products and services with a ‘craft story’ behind them follows a widespread desire to provide a genuine connection to customers with how things are made or offered. Revealing an authentic, artisan aesthetic for a refreshing personal approach contrast to a shiny, mass-produced one size fits all' approach.

• Retro Sensibilities – thanks to the hipster sensibilities common in young adults, retro will continue to play an important role in brands.

Some of the prime beneficiaries of the improving economy are young people, and advertisers will increasingly focus on them. As a result, branding will contain more retro elements that may or may not be presented in an ironic manner.

Finally Lisa, where do you get your inspiration from?

Anywhere and everywhere. I am a hoarder of ideas, a browser of life – people, objects, situations – the quirky, the inane, the old and the new. I love mistakes, as these can surprise and delight you. Sometimes your first inspiration may be the solution, and most times you have to work hard at it. Inspiration is not always at the beginning of the creative process – and that mystery and where it takes me – is what I love about design.

Thanks Lisa.

coffs coast focus 73

focusbusiness. with the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce

Accountants on the move Barry Hockey Accountants is excited to announce moving to new premises (across the road from our old location) to Suite 2, 29-33 Orlando Street (cnr Mildura & Orlando streets) from 22 April 2013.

The new premises are ground floor location and comply with the new building codes for disabled access & convenience.

Apart from the new premises, everything remains the same including our friendly efficient team, phone numbers, email, post office box & website address.

clive greenway.

Greetings to all the FOCUS readers from the businesses and traders in Sawtell.

Well, here we are in the cooler months of autumn with Easter and the school holidays behind us and looking forward to the visitors from the south who begin their annual migration to the warmer climate on the beautiful Coffs Coast .

E

July 6. This Festival gets bigger and aster was a particularly better every year and attracts upwards busy time in Sawtell. We of 10,000 people. This year the Festival enjoyed good weather is a 2013 Regional NSW Event and and an influx of local, proudly supported by Destination NSW. intra and interstate guests. Atkinson's Real Estate, who We look forward to putting the Chilli manage over 75 holiday back into the Festival, with over properties, reported 70%of the stalls selling 100% occupancy for bottled or packaged the Easter period. chilli products, chilli That was an foods, drinks and The Chamber arrival of over other assorted chilli of Commerce is 250 guests, treats. As well as sy currently very bu all looking all the stalls and th organising the 15 for that i ill Ch ll entertainment annual Sawte on ld something he be throughout the day, Festival , to â&#x20AC;? special Sawtell the Sawtell 'foodies' Saturday, July 6. has to offer. will have their best Over half of these on display and the guests were return boutiques will showcase an visitors who had already array of Chilli Festival bargains. fallen in love with Sawtell Be sure to keep Saturday July 6 free! and the Coffs Coast. As part of our You will find more information on our ongoing commitment to tourism and website: www.sawtellnsw.com.au ensuring guests return to Sawtell, we As reminders, please don't forget that as a community always ensure the red our great little post office can help carpet is rolled out for them. you with all your travel needs, such as Speaking of visitors, the Chamber passport interviews and photos, foreign of Commerce is currently very busy currency and travel insurance. Just pop organising the 15th annual Sawtell in with all your enquiries.

Chilli Festival, to be held on Saturday, As part of his commitment to the

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

74 coffs coast focus.

business community in Sawtell, Martin Wells from Atkinson's Real Estate is encouraging any business houses that have flyers to drop them in to be given out in a welcome kit prepared for all arriving guests. And a visit to Sawtell would not be complete without calling into Bella Cosa Antiques. They have just brought in a beautiful new range of ceramic ware featuring some of the most sensational antique and vintage cups and saucers.

One of the best things about Sawtell's First Avenue is the amazing range of boutiques, cafĂŠs and restaurants.

We are constantly complimented on our diversity, range and style. In any slow economy, the 'herd' mentality will have a negative impact on any business. Doing what everyone else is doing will never equate to increases in sales or profitability.

Sawtell's assortment of retailers and traders and the goods and services they provide is what sets us apart from all the others. We are unique and distinctive and work hard at continuing and preserving this reputation.

Sawtell ... it will surprise you ... it will delight you!

Tax time 2013 is fast approaching so start planning now. If you are self-employed, have a look at your interim trading position to explore ways to achieve the best result so that there are no surprises come 30 June.

Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement.

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. Come visit us at our new premises soon.

coffs coast focus 75