iue
119 NOVEMBER 2020
paul SPINOGLIO
2 COFFS COAST
focus
IS THE ANSWER, NEVERMIND THE QUESTION.
CHO COL ATE & W I N E PA IR I NG
CH E E SE & W I N E PA IR I NG
We have worked with our friends at Baba Lila Chocolates at Bago Maze & Winery to create the only experience of its kind on the Coffs Coast.
Book your Cheese & Wine pairing with us at Two Tails Wines. We have created a total of 8 different cheeses and wines to match.
$ 2 5 P E R PA D D L E
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
N O W AVA I L A B L E
N O W AVA I L A B L E
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
AWA R D W I N N I N G
PHONE 66543633
V I S I T U S AT 9 6 3 O R A R A WAY, N A N A G L E N COFFS COAST
focus
3
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER WITH AN AUTHENTIC AND HOME-STYLE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE!
authentic HOME DELIVERY + TA K E AWAY AV A I L A B L E
D A I L Y
w w w. s i l v i o s i t a l i a n o . c o m . a u
4 COFFS COAST
focus
SILVIO'S ITALIANO IS A CAFÉ, BAR & DELI WITH A PANTRY STORE, PLUS A NEW TAKE AWAY
P A S TA B A R
(designed by Lisa Daniel from the Design Cupboard)
new pasta bar
N E W PA S TA B A R A T
S I LV I O S
I TA L I A N O !
O P E N 7 DAY S B R E A K F A S T 7:30am - 11am L U N C H 11am - 3pm C L O S E D 3pm - 4pm D I N N E R 5:30pm - 9pm (8pm Sundays)
(02) 6691 3337 118 Park Beach Plaza - Coffs Harbour NSW
COFFS COAST
focus
5
OPEN AMAZING AT LEXHIBITION *
WITH A 1.9% COMPARISON R ATE AVAIL ABLE ON SELECTED MODELS MAX FINANCE TERM OF 48 MONTHS
LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE | 181 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie PH 02 6583 9122 | www.lexusofportmacquarie.com.au | DL10691 *1.90% comparison rate is available to approved applicants of Lexus Financial Services for the financing of new CT200h, IS300 (build dates up to September 2020), IS350 (build dates up to September 2020), RC300, RC350, RCF, UX200, NX300, RX300, RX350, RX450h, RX350L, RX450hL, LS500 & LC500 Coupe models. Excludes demo & loan vehicles. Finance applications must be received by 31/12/2020 & vehicles must be ordered and delivered between 01/10/2020 – 31/12/2020. Offer not available to employee, government, Lexus Corporate Programme or rental customers. Maximum finance term of 48 months applies. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Lexus Financial Services reserves the right to change, extend or withdraw an offer at any time. Comparison rate based on a 5 year secured consumer fixed rate loan of $30,000. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Lexus Financial Services, a division of Toyota Finance Australia Limited ABN 48 002 435 181, AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 392536.
6 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
7
Childcare Enrolment Specialist
Choosing a childcare centre that’s right for you and your child is an important decision.”
If you are thinking about childcare for your family, but not quite sure where to start, you can download a free eBook from Ohana Early Learning’s website at:
www.ohanaelc.com.au
That is why the team at Ohana Early Learning has dedicated enrolment specialist Anne Cochrane, to help make the process a whole lot easier for local families.
Hi, my name is Anne Cochrane, and my role is to help all new and existing parents navigate the details and paperwork involved in the enrolment process.
At Ohana, we have 4 centres, conveniently located at North Boambee, Scarba Street in central Coffs Harbour, Emerald Beach, and South Grafton.
To arrange a discovery tour, call 1300 956 200 or complete the form on our website at:
www.ohanaelc.com.au
This handy guide has been designed to help parents make the right childcare decisions by outlining what to expect, and highlighting what questions to ask when visiting a centre. A centre tour is an important step for any new parent, as it is a fantastic way to meet the educators, have your questions answered on the spot, and get a feel for each centre. I personally love seeing the kids faces when they see our amazing natural playgrounds at Ohana!
As for myself, I am passionate about children attending quality childcare, and I come with firsthand experience as my daughter attends the Ohana South Grafton centre. What attracted me were the convenient chef-prepared meals, free nappies and choice of session times. The natural play areas with real grass and heaps of shade were a huge hit with my daughter. Ohana’s education curriculum, was also a key factor for me, with their Walker Learning program generating some wonderful results. If you want to find out more, you can always give me a call on 1300 956 200. I am always available for any questions and enquiries, so please feel free to reach out.
Looking for quality childcare? Book a centre tour today on 1300 956 200 and discover the ohana difference.
� 6 weeks to school age � flexible session times to suit your family � chef-prepared meals and free nappies � innovative “Walker Learning” pre-school program � natural playgrounds
enrol now www.ohanaelc.com.au
North Boambee � Coffs Harbour � Emerald Beach � Grafton ohana-halfpage-october-2020.indd 1 8 COFFS COAST focus
Provider #PR-40000780 16/9/20 12:21 pm
The luxury of leather at a fabric price*
Stressless® Stella Sofa with Stressless® Tokyo Recliner
Receive the fabric price when you purchase any Stressless® leather seating PLUS, $50 from every seat sold will be donated to the Clown Doctors Humour Foundation. * Available for a limited time. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See in-store or online for full terms & conditions. Excludes already discounted models and Noblesse & Pioneer leather.
Beatties
Quality Furniture
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday closed Sunday 9am-12pm Cnr Pioneer St & Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484
www.beattiesfurniture.com.au
COFFS COAST
focus
9
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
2020 HIA KITCHEN OF THE YEAR WINNER “Marcus was really supportive of our ideas but also really helped to guide us through all the practical aspects of designing a kitchen, to ensure it was pretty and extremely functional!” - GAVIN & DAISY MORONEY
10 COFFS COAST
focus
focus_team note
o te
O
Welcome to the NOVEMBER EDITION.
ur What’s On page says it all ... Music fans rejoice! Live music is coming back to town! Venues around the Coffs Coast are preparing for live entertainment to make a strong comeback. Following further easing of COVID-19 restrictions by the NSW Government, the Jetty Memorial Theatre can now welcome back audiences of up to 127 people - half the venue’s capacity. This is a positive outcome for the arts industry and those who enjoy the arts. Make sure you get behind these venues and show them your support. Keep the arts alive! On the cover Local legend Paul Spinoglio is the proud owner of Silvio's Italiano and JBN Café at Park Beach Plaza. We wanted to know more about Paul, his passion for food and his background, so we met him for lunch and a bottle of wine a classic Italian meeting.
Inside this edition Carpet Court are well known in the area as What started as an enthusiastic love of being people you can really count on when vodka for Nicola and Chris progressively grew it comes to choosing the right flooring - at into an artisan business the right price - for of handcrafted spirits. your home or retail Critters Distillery is This month we say space. We sat down the newest kid on the farewell to Rebecca with Simon and Fiona block, offering quality Platts. We wish her all McCredie, to find out vodka right here in the very best in her next more ... our region and takes role and would like to Top 8, we rate this ancient spirit and thank her for being a This month we distilling to the next valuable part of the profiled some of level. our favourite real team and heading up the Growing up in estate agents on digital publication over a quiet seaside the Coffs Coast in the last few months. town from humble our Buy, Sell, Build beginnings, Sophie feature. Chris Hines, Pryor’s inspired love Amanda Langlands, Nicole Cardow, Jason and passion for under the sea was so strong, Burnett, Cherie Parik, Nathan Dobbs, Shane she chose to dedicate her life to protect and Hessenberger and Tammy Blundell share their nurture the living creatures of our ocean. The hardworking team at Coffs Harbour knowledge and expertise.
focus COFFS COAST
Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE 02 6650 9343 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au
contacts. SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Jo Robinson rnrmedia@bigpond.com PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR James Dawson james@focusmag.com.au
Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.
COFFS COAST
focus
11
focus_what's on
28
What's
10
Cinematinee - ADAM
N O V E M B E R
2 0 2 0
Adam is a moving and heart-warming story of food, friendship and female empowerment, set against the backdrop of a modern-day Casablanca medina. The debut feature film from director Maryam Touzani, Adam explores the unlikely friendship between two very different women - one a lonely widow, and the other unmarried and pregnant - whose paths cross in a tiny bakery. When: Tuesday 10th November . Where: Jetty Theatre. Time: 2pm | 6pm. Tickets: Online: $12.50 | Door Sales: $13.
12 Kim CHURCHILL Kim Churchill is proud to present a new tour - The Bright Night Sessions. The Bright Night Sessions are about reconnecting with all of the phenomenal, regional music communities that Kim has had the pleasure of joining over the years in Australia. When: 12th and 13th November. Where: Bellingen Brewery. Tickets: $30 via StickyTickets.
12 COFFS COAST
focus
Ash GRUNWALD Acclaimed as one of Australia’s finest storytellers and live performers, Ash Grunwald will take centre stage in a live intimate performance. When: 28th November. Where: Dark Arts Café and Bar. Tickets: eventbrite.com.au Show 1 - Tickets $45.90 inc BF. 2pm, doors; 4pm - 5pm,Ash Grunwald. Show 2 - Tickets $59.90 inc BF, plus this nighttime show includes a light bar food dinner. 6:30pm, doors; 8:30pm 9:30pm, Ash Grunwald.
22
Shannon NOLL Australia’s favourite son, Shannon Noll is hitting the road and performing all of his hits and more, “Raw & Uncovered”. Shannon boasts five top-ten albums, including two number-one multi-platinum sellers, and his first ten singles all peaked inside the ARIA top ten, including three that reached number one! He is the only Australian male artist in Australian chart history to have ten consecutive top-ten singles. When: 22nd November. Where: Hoey Moey.
29
Coffs Harbour 5K COLOUR FRENZY They are bringing the best of all events with their colour stations, foam station and obstacles designed for all ages! Come have a laugh and join in the Colour Frenzy family fun! When: 29th November. Where: Jetty Foreshore. For more info: www.colourfrenzy.com.au
COFFS COAST
focus
3
focus_interview
NICOLA & C H R IS F R A SER
Critters DISTILLERY
What started as an enthusiastic love of vodka for Nicola and Chris, progressively grew into an artisan business of handcrafted spirits. Critters Distillery is the newest kid on the block, offering quality vodka right here in our region and takes this ancient spirit and distilling to the next level.
H
i Nicola. You and your husband have very recently founded Critters and ventured into the world of craft spirits here on the Coffs Coast, and I believe we're going to be seeing a lot more from you guys very soon. Please tell us about yourself, your family and your connection to our region. Chris and I have lived in this area for over 10 years. Our background is within the civil construction industry, where we also manage our second business, Lee Contracting, which provides environmental management and project management support to large scale infrastructure projects and small local developments. The coast life is what brought Chris and I together, completing an Honours Degree in Fisheries Management and Bachelor in Coastal Engineering; we met at Southern Cross University in Lismore, NSW and became hooked (pardon the pun) on how much this region had to offer. When we are not distilling, you can find us
14 COFFS COAST
focus
free diving in the Solitary Islands Marine Park, riding our motorbikes, camping, or keeping up with our two young boys (nine and six) at nippers at the Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Club. We enjoy what we Critters Distillery is a do, and we hope manifestation of your that shines through in passion, vision and every aspect of Critters, and hard work. hard work. Where from the design to the Weekends are spent in did that dream begin, ingredients, right the distillery, and often and how have you late nights, but when through to the progressed to where it you enjoy what you packaging. is now? do, it doesn’t seem like The concept of the work at all. distillery started from In the short time a passion to produce we have been operating, we have met some hand-made spirits. It started as a hobby and amazing people. Everyone has a story, and has progressively grown, largely because the that’s what makes the Critters journey that you quality of the product is so good. see today. We enjoy what we do, and we hope that Tell us about your distillery, the process of shines through in every aspect of Critters, from crafting, and what makes you unique. the design to the ingredients, right through to We chose flavour and quality over speedy the packaging. production, so we ferment and produce our Like anything, the more you put in, the more alcohol on site. We believe that whilst this you get out, which requires a lot of dedication
process can be slower, it yields better results and uniqueness in quality. Before each batch is transferred into our still, we filter out any remaining yeast and sediment through a five-micron filter and begin the first "stripping run" to extract the alcohol. Our still is an eight-plate column still, which is capable of producing up to 96% alcohol from each run. Each plate assists impurity removal by recondensing the vapours in a bath of alcohol. This process creates an extremely pure product in a single run. During the final run, our alcohol is separated into fractions typically referred to as "heads", "hearts" and "tails". We only select the purest heart fraction for proofing, blending and bottling. Often spirits are filtered There is such a multiple times through large range of active carbon to further Australian made gin remove impurities created on the market, so during the distilling we thought vodka processes, but we do not carbon filter our deserves some of the final product. Using our limelight, given its distilling process and versatility and unique chains and our waste technique means our characteristics. management. vodka does not need any There are only a further treatment before limited number of bottling. hand-crafted vodka producers in Australia, Our vodka can be classified as a whiskey and we are the only operating artisan distillery drinkers’ vodka. within the immediate area. We have chosen a contemporary and Currently, your business is focused on timeless decanter to complement the spirit, creating the best possible vodka. Why including a wooden stopper. Each bottle is have you chosen this spirit specifically? hand labelled in the distillery. That’s easy - vodka is our spirit of choice! All our ingredients are Australian. We You will always find premium vodka on our use a wheat base for our vodka and source shelf at home. it from Voyager Craft Malt in the Riverina Vodka has been around for centuries. The region in New South Wales. Voyager have a spirit has such a unique history, noting the small batch of artisan malts, locally grown, different varieties originating from Poland, and work closely with the farmers, who are Russia and Sweden. also passionate about craft beer and spirits. There is such a large range of AustralianWe also use 100% cane sugar grown and made gin on the market, so we thought produced in Harwood, New South Wales. vodka deserves some of the limelight, given its We operate as a "dry distillery", where versatility and unique characteristics. we store any liquid wastes, which are then Are there plans to expand your artisan tested and used as irrigation where we work range in the future? with local farmers. We have a sustainability We are currently working on a gin range focus, which we continue to improve in all with a unique blend of botanicals, which you aspects of our business through our supply
will see soon on the shelf, to be followed by our spiced rum, which is already in high demand. There is a lot of work that goes into the bottle that you see on the shelf, which has certainly given us a new appreciation for handcrafted artisan distilleries and breweries! From paddock to bottle, it truly is a journey, with passion being the key ingredient You pushed back your very first batch of vodka and put it to good use, helping out our local region by turning it into hand sanitiser. Was that hard giving up your first batch? It was an obvious decision for us to switch the first few batches of alcohol to sanitiser to assist local businesses and individuals in the fight against COVID, when the calls for help started to come in. We then became a registered COVID-19 Emergency Supplier in New South Wales. We received a lot of positive feedback from local businesses who continue to use our sanitiser, which helps them comply with mandatory COVID regulations. >>> COFFS COAST
focus
15
Critters DIS T ILL E RY
Local businesses, along with some big name businesses, have come knocking on your door seeking out your product, proving Aussies are pulling together supporting locals. How has your business been received by the region so far? We have received a lot of support from the local and wider community, as Chris is from the South Coast of New South Wales and I am from country Victoria, just outside of Ballarat. Many businesses are extremely supportive of us and want to collaborate on exciting projects, which is terrific for the community and local economy. We had a local product launch at Anchors Kitchen and Bar Restaurant in Woolgoolga, 16 COFFS COAST
focus
with plans for bigger things to come. What's This year in the vision for the particular, with future of the business? COVID-19, has seen a lot We are working with of Aussie businesses the local Council to allow banding together and tours of the distillery. supporting small People are interested in business and Australian how a distillery works producers. - and particularly one that’s located in such a beautiful part of the which was a sellout! world! Diners compared the chef's menu, the We are starting to see Critters Vodka on Critters vodka-based cocktails and service to the shelf in boutique bars and restaurants something they would typically experience in across Australia, which is super exciting, Sydney. It was a huge success, and there are given we only launched the product less than already plans for another. Watch this space. three months ago. Local liquor stores, bars and restaurants There is an emerging craft beer and spirits are all extremely supportive. Ritchies IGA culture within the Mid North Coast region, Liquor in Boambee sold the first case of which is attracting more visitors to the area Critters vodka within 48 hours of it being - further boosting our local economy and placed on the shelf! This year in particular, supporting locals. with COVID-19, has seen a lot of Aussie We have recently employed a Critters Rep, businesses banding together and supporting Bec, who is based in Wodonga in Victoria. small business and Australian producers. She is a real asset to the Critters family, Craft spirits and beers are on the rise in already receiving glowing reviews from Australia, giving such a variety to craft lovers! our customers - who can’t get enough of At the moment you're only wholesalers, Woopie’s first handcrafted vodka.
focus_interview
We have also had quite a lot of interest internationally, including from European and South American buyers. Who knows ... you may see Critters handcrafted vodka in Belgium! We have entered our vodka in the World Drink Award, which are held in the U.K. and to be announced next year (fingers crossed!) For any novice vodka drinkers - tell us how best to enjoy it. To appreciate the true quality of a craft spirit, it’s best enjoyed neat or over ice. Critters vodka is To appreciate considered smooth, the true quality clean, with citrus notes. Drinking it of a craft spirit, it’s texture and luminescence neat allows you to best enjoyed neat or (i.e. thick and creamy appreciate the quality texture). A good vodka over ice. Critters of the spirit. shouldn’t burn your vodka is considered There are three palate and should taste smooth, clean, with senses involved in soft. citrus notes. tasting vodka: smell, Depending on your sight, and taste. palate, whether it's sweet This is also another or dry, the spirit's clear, reason we chose the angler fish on our logo, clean taste pairs well with any flavour. Vodka which relies on its key senses for survival is featured in thousands of cocktail recipes. at 2,000 metres within the ocean depths. There’s a vodka cocktail for every drinker and You can start by smelling the vodka when every occasion. it's in your glass. A good vodka will have a The classic vodka, soda and lime is a creamy, sweet or grainy odour, and not a favourite, whilst those with a sweet tooth strong odour of ethyl spirits. When you hold prefer it with lemonade. A Moscow mule is the vodka in the glass, it should have clarity, a favourite of ours (one-part Critters vodka,
one-part lime, topped with ginger beer on ice and stirred) and is very refreshing as we approach summer. A great bloody Mary always helps on a Sunday morning. You can be your own judge and line up a few different vodkas, where you can taste them alongside others. There is also the discussion on whether to store the vodka in the freezer. There is a lot of literature, history and opinion on this topic, and our preference is not to; however, you be the judge. Interestingly, we have also started to see a trend in chefs utilising the unique flavour of our vodka, incorporating it into fine dining dishes such as a "vodka foam". For those who prefer Italian-American cuisine, the vodka sauce made from tomato sauce, vodka, Italian herbs and heavy cream is a key ingredient in the penne alla vodka dish. Vodka is such a versatile spirit - it is one of the oldest spirits ever produced. An article compiled by National Geographic quoted "alcohol isn’t just a mind-altering drink: it has been a prime mover of human culture from the beginning, fuelling the development of arts, language and religion". You can find more details on our website or socials, including where to buy and drink Critters vodka. Thanks Nicola. COFFS COAST
focus
17
focus_interview
Big Thanks to RSVP Bridal, Sy Hair, Jack Simmons Menswear, and Yvette and Gordon Prewitt.
W E S T PA C R E S C U E HELICOPTER SERVICE
BLACK TIE R E S C U E D INNER 2021
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is delighted to host their Rescue Dinner at Pacific Bay Resort on Saturday 13th March 2021.
W
ith a challenging year through COVID, fundraising events for the service have been decimated, with the cancellation of all events from March to October this year. There has been a hiatus of a decade since the last Rescue Dinner, and the service is focused on returning the event to the Coffs Coast region on Saturday 13th March 2021. We had a chat with Jennifer Dowd, to find out more. Hey Jen. How has the Rescue Helicopter Service been affected by COVID? The service was required to implement operational practices to ensure patients and crew were COVID-safe before, during and after missions. Fundraising dropped over 50 percent, with events, op shops, money tin collection and support groups no longer able to raise funds in the community. All staff, including pilots and crew were placed on JobKeeper, due to income loss to the service. Fundraising staff also nominated to work reduced hours, to assist the service during this time. Tell us about the Coffs Coast and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. The Coffs Coast’s location allows it to be serviced easily from the three helibases Lismore, Newcastle and Tamworth. Flying time to Coffs is approximately 35 minutes
18 COFFS COAST
focus
Surgeries can
from Lismore and and fundraise at the be performed Tamworth helibases and community markets. from the helicopter, just over an hour from I am the region’s as well as blood Newcastle. community liaison transfusions. It has Many patients are officer, servicing the the capacity to carry transferred to either area from Yamba to two patients, or two John Hunter Hospital or Macksville. I can speak neonatal cots. Gold Coast Hospital on to your organisation or a weekly basis. community group about With the new helipad how your organisation at Coffs Base Hospital can support this expected to be finished by early 2021, the lifesaving service. rescue helicopter will be able to pick up Where can we purchase tickets, and what and drop off patients directly from the Base is included? Hospital. Tickets are $150 per person, or $1,750 What is the difference between the for a sponsored table of 10, which will also Rescue Helicopter Service and other include VIP seating, your company logo on aeromedical services? the table, logo projection and recognition on Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is a the night, plus a special gift. Tickets will be flying intensive care unit. The helicopter has on sale from Monday 2nd November 2020 a pilot with a minimum of 15 years' flying so be quick, as seats are limited. experience, a crewman, a SCAT-trained Entertainment will include Lisa Hunt’s paramedic, and a doctor. Surgeries can be Forever Soul, and the event will be emceed performed from the helicopter, as well as by the gorgeous and talented Rachael Beck. blood transfusions. It has the capacity to carry Be tempted by canapés on arrival, and a twotwo patients, or two neonatal cots. course dinner with a generous drink package. Not only does the rescue helicopter attend Dress will be black tie, with a splash of red accidents; it also transfers critical patients to or yellow to recognise the rescue helicopter’s larger hospitals for specialist treatment. colours. Who is the rescue helicopter’s Tickets available by contacting Jennifer representative in Coffs Harbour? Dowd, community liaison officer on The rescue helicopter is well represented 0438 649 300, or email by an amazing team of volunteers, who jennifer.dowd@rescuehelicopter.com.au look after our op shop, sell raffle tickets, Thanks Jen.
Our Economic
Recovery Plan
supports our community and will create jobs and secure Australia’s future.
While there remains a monumental task ahead, we can have hope as Australia is up to the task. The Nationals in Government delivered record support for job-creating, economy-boosting infrastructure in the 2020-21 Federal Budget. A total of $493.6 million was allocated for two major infrastructure projects near Coffs Harbour, including an additional $490.6 million for the important Coffs Harbour Bypass, a project creating 12,000 direct and indirect jobs. The Budget also put more money back into the pockets of Australian households and businesses through tax cuts and guaranteed the essential services Australians rely on. For more info go to: nationals.org.au/budget2020
patconaghan.com.au
pat.conaghan.mp@aph.gov.au
02 6652 6233
@PatConaghanCowper
Authorised by P. Conaghan MP, National Party of Australia, 39 Little Street, (PO Box 2056) Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450.
@PatConaghanNats COFFS COAST
focus
19
focus_editorial
WO
TH OF N MA
E E Y
AW AR
A
20 RD
21
THE SEARCH IS ON AGAIN to recognise outstanding women in the Coffs Coast region who demonstrate significant leadership and achievement in empowering women and girls.
DAY COFFS COAST
T
he International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award, an initiative of the IWD Planning Committee in 2015, was set up to acknowledge the positive contribution of women in the region of the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire. It aims to recognise nominees who are involved in work of a voluntary, community, business or professional nature, and who, within that arena, would be displaying vision and initiative in their role. Past award winners include Christina Monneron (2015), Charlotte Young (2016), Jane Tavener (2017), Aunty Bea Ballangarry (2018), Shelley Lowe (2019) and Lily Isobella (2020). In 2018, a runner-up award was introduced, won by Kyla Holley. Last year’s runner-up was Kamla Ruthnam-Webb, and this year Auntie Kerrie Burnet. Nominations are now being called for the 2021 IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award, to be announced at the IWD 20 COFFS COAST
focus
The award was set up to acknowledge the positive contribution of women and girls in the region of the Coffs Coast, and to recognise the winner and runner-up of the Woman of the Year award.
Breakfast, C.ex Coffs, on 8th March 2021. The three major women’s groups in Coffs Harbour - the Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc, Business and Professional Women (BPW) of Coffs Harbour, and the Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network (BWN) - come together to organise the IWD Breakfast, to acknowledge the positive contribution of women and girls in the region of the Coffs Coast, and to recognise the winner and runner-up of the Woman of the Year award. The Criteria The International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award will honour a woman who: 1. Demonstrates a significant contribution to empowering members of the community, in particular women and/or girls; 2. Is actively engaged with the local
community in either a voluntary, community, business or professional capacity; 3. Is a resident of the Coffs Coast (Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire). The two awards will consist of an inscribed trophy and publicity for the women and their cause. A cash prize - $1,000 for the major award winner, jointly sponsored by Coffs Harbour City Council and C.ex Club Grants, and $250 for the runner-up, sponsored by One Agency Real Estate - allows both the winners to advance their objectives. All finalists are recognised and acknowledged for their own achievements. Nomination forms are now available by email from wotyearcoffs@gmail.com as well as Facebook IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award 2021. Closing date is the 7th December 2020.
Say Hello to Freedom
Why wait, when you can live the dream today! Now is the right time to make the move to Woolgoolga for the ultimate sea change, tree change lifestyle. Free up capital and start the lifestyle you deserve.
Latest release 50% SOLD in first 2 weeks – New Homes from $399,900*
Join us for our
Lifestyle Showcase Saturday 21 November, 10-12pm Come and engage with our community and see how our residents are living their best life. Our luxury clubhouse will host demonstrations on tai chi, aqua aerobics, lawn bowls and much more. Join us for a coffee and sausage sizzle! RSVP are essential. Call Piere on 0448 714 021 or visit liveinwoolgoolga.com.au 11 MCINTOSH CRESCENT, WOOLGOOLGA
*Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land and is correct at time of printing and subject to change without notice.
COFFS COAST
focus
21
focus_interview
ERIN
H U G H ES
Erin Hughes
C R E AT I V E
At a time where we find ourselves surrounded by mass production and industrialisation, taking time to appreciate and connect with creations of tactile craftsmanship can restore the senses. Erin Hughes holds many years' experience in the creative industry and has recently taken a leap of faith, intuitively paving her own way on her own terms.
H
i Erin. You're immersed in a creative life both personally and professionally here on the beautiful Coffs Coast. Please introduce yourself and share your connection to our region. Hello! I’m an artist and designer working full-time in my business, Noi Creations & Design. My husband Eric and I, along with our two daughters, live just north of Corindi on a small property amongst farms. We’ve been here for just over six years and have lived in the Coffs region for 11 years. Your career started out in Sydney, and you have enjoyed varied roles in the design industry. Tell us about your background and what draws you to this field of work. I leapt into the industry fresh out of school. There was never any doubt in my mind that I would enter a career that was based around 22 COFFS COAST
focus
After a couple of
design, particularly stores with Adairs, years, I became with my love for spending some time curious to see what else art and passion for with Bristol as a colour was out there. I found interiors. The year consultant, decorating myself in an assortment after I finished high for Bayswiss stores of creative roles for school, I was accepted across Sydney, finally various retailers over into a Diploma of landing my dream job the next few years. Interior Decoration with Freedom as a and Design. visual merchandiser and During my time as a decorator. design student, I worked part-time for home Freedom gave me the opportunity to create furnishing retailers to pay my way and wedge some incredible spaces. Being a leading my foot in the door. A casual retail sales role retailer in home furnishings, it was expected in a soft furnishing store soon developed that we would deliver the newest and most into a visual merchandising position, where I innovative design concepts to consumers. found myself travelling to interstate stores to Because of this, I was able to really push my implement new season designs and company creativity to a new level and inspire people to visual standards. do the same in their own homes. After a couple of years, I became curious to What draws me to the field of design is see what else was out there. I found myself the opportunity for expression. Being a visual in an assortment of creative roles for various person, the ability to bring a vision into reality retailers over the next few years. Some of is rewarding, as is being able to inspire others. Looking for a slower pace of life, you and those included implementing new concept
I was devastated at first - scared for my future and for my family. But, I was also presented an opportunity that had been calling to me for some time.
your family made the move to the Coffs Coast, which created a better work/life balance. Did this move change and grow your passions - and what are you currently focused on? Absolutely! Eric and I moved to the Coffs Coast to start our family in a beautiful place. Eric is also in the design field, with a background in engineering and manufacturing. He was fortunately able to secure work here quickly and moved a month before I did. In
that time, I was able to transfer in my existing role to the Freedom franchise in Coffs Harbour. I spent a further 10 wonderful years with Freedom in Coffs, until we sadly closed our doors last year. During those 10 years, time slowed and I became “Mum” to my two beautiful girls. The transition into motherhood really influenced a shift in me creatively. Being a mum allowed me to tap into a part of myself that I didn’t realise existed. I’ve always been very intuitive, but I think I’m more aligned with my intuition as a mum and as a person who lives in such an inspirational place. My passion for design grew in a different way
than it did when I was in Sydney. I began to feel a connection to create emotive spaces and less conditioned to creating superficial spaces. Working part-time, I picked up my paint brushes in my spare time and began to create art - something I hadn’t done for years. My creations were inspired by my children, creating name signs and art for kids' rooms. It was a hobby in the beginning, but grew much more than I had anticipated over the 10 years, with a strong focus on hand painted signage. I found myself juggling my career and keeping up with the demands for my art. It was a crazy time, but I loved every minute of it! It was the perfect balance of chaos and creativity. Then, life took a different turn. News broke that Freedom in Coffs would be closing its doors forever. I was devastated at first - scared for my future and for my family. But, I was also presented an opportunity that had been calling to me for some time. It would be now or never that I would go out on my own and bring my passion for art and design together in my own business. The decision to leap was made a little over 12 months ago, and the journey has been one of no regrets! I’m now focused on growing my business, which is ever-changing and always exciting! I’ve worked on so many fantastic projects across the Coffs Coast, and I am very much looking forward to what the future holds. >>> COFFS COAST
focus
23
focus_interview
As an artist, sign painter and interior designer, your business - Noi Creations & Design - offers a range of services. What's on offer for those looking to collaborate with you? My business is focused on creating art and hand-painted signs. I often call on my interior design background to support my creative process, using my experience to ensure what I create is carefully considered for the space where it will reside. I frequently collaborate with local businesses that are looking for a point of difference with their signage and visual presence. From small menu boards to large-scale murals, illustrations to hand painted logos, my work is intentional and purposeful. I also welcome private commissions of any kind, be they big or small. I’ve worked on many weddings creating signage, hand painted jackets, and hand painted keepsakes. I’ve also created private murals, property signs and canvas artworks, just to name a few. 24 COFFS COAST
focus
Hand-painted design patrons feel is so reminiscent of welcome and I often call on the old world and has valued. my interior real connection. Why What do you love design background to do you feel this trend most about what you support my creative back to tactile design do in your creative process, using my has made a career? experience to ensure comeback ? There’s so much what I create is In a world where to love, but I do love carefully considered mass production has that it’s unpredictable. for the space where it taken over our lives, it’s I may be metres high will reside. rare to find something in a scissor lift one that is made with soul. day painting a mural Hand-painted design and digital editing an connects with people on an emotional level illustration for a book the next. I’m always - something we crave as humans. When an doing something crazy, and I wouldn’t change artist is commissioned to create, they are a thing! not only commissioned for their skill, but for How you can find me: the energy and soul that is poured into their www.noicreations.com.au creations. As an example: when a business erin@noicreations.com.au employs an artist to create a mural in their www.facebook.com/NoiCreations café, they are investing in a piece that speaks www.instagram.com/noicreations to their patrons on an emotional level. Their Thanks Erin.
Discover extraordinary in every room.
Sandy Beach Display home open 10am – 5pm every day
Visit us at our display home today. 15 Zenith Avenue Sandy Beach
mcdonaldjoneshomes.com.au | 1300 555 382 NSW BLN: 41628. *Conditions apply
COFFS COAST
focus
25
focus_interview
Kita Skingle only started up her small business, KL Earrings,
earlier this year, when she started making earrings during the COVID lockdown. Her unique designs have quickly gained plenty of attention locally
and throughout the country, so keep an eye on this one!
W
hen did you first start designing earrings? I started in early May 2020. I was sitting at home during COVID, and I had heaps of free time. I thrive off all things arty and decided to take up a new project. I had been wanting to make earrings for a while, but I could never find the charms and pieces that I wanted to use. So, I did a bit of research and decided to make my own charms out of polymer clay. You have quite a unique collection of jewellery. Did it take you long to master the art? When did you realise you could turn it into more than a hobby? Well, I decided to create a large range of earrings to widen my audience. They range from fun and unique, to simple and elegant. The first few days of starting up consisted of lots of practice and experiments, while getting used to the products and tools. I came up with the 100s and 1000s, donuts, and avocado earrings. I posted a
26 COFFS COAST
focus
K I TA KL EARRINGS
few photos, started to get quite a lot of interest, and then it all just went up from there. At first I started selling to friends and family, then I started getting orders from all around Australia, including a few businesses wholesale. Can you tell us about the materials you use and what you like about working with those materials? At first I was buying all my clay, earring findings and tools from Spotlight. Then as the demand grew, I had to source wholesale bulk orders online. I started with silver plated earrings and then discovered that half of my
customers had sensitive ears and required hypoallergenic earrings. I have been slowly switching to hypoallergenic, keeping it as an option. Eventually once I sell out of all the silver plated, I will only be stocking hypoallergenic earrings. What is the process like from start to finish to create? Firstly, I need to draw up the design, warm up the clay, mix the colours I need, then create the design and bake it in the oven. Once it's cooled down, I then sand, drill, glue and connect all the earring pieces to create the final products. There are so many
steps that are put into each pair of earrings to make sure they’re the best quality and last as long as possible. A special thanks to my beautiful mum, who is not only a huge support, but also in her spare time helps a lot with connecting the pieces and finishing some of the earrings, giving me more time to bring out new designs. Where do you draw your inspiration from when coming up with an idea for a new piece? My inspiration can come from absolutely anything - from a piece of fabric, to a pattern or texture on paper. The thing I enjoy about creating out of polymer clay, is that I can make whatever I feel like making. Whenever I’m out and about and I see a colour combination, with patterns or textures that I like, I’ll take a photo and bring that photo to life in a pair of earrings. My best selling "sour strap" earrings are a great example. I found that inspiration when my friend and I were having a little picnic, and she brought along sour straps. I
My inspiration can come from absolutely anything - from a piece of fabric, to a pattern or texture on paper. The thing I enjoy about creating out of polymer clay, is that I can make whatever I feel like making.
decided to make a pair of sour strap earrings, and posted a behind the scenes photo on Instagram and people loved them, so I had to make more. Do you have a favourite type of piece to create? I most enjoy working with soft colours and textures. I love to use my embossing stamps to give my earrings texture. I love working freestyle. Do you exhibit/sell your designs anywhere local? I have a mini display up at my family business at Drovers Meats Coffs Harbour. I recently had my first pop-up stall at Bendigo Bank Coffs Harbour, which was amazing, as well as a stall at the Made with Love Markets. I’m hoping to set up a stall at the Jetty Markets before Christmas, so keep an eye out!
Where can people find out more? You'll find me at my Instagram @kl_earrings, which is the best way to contact me. You can also connect via my Facebook @kl_earrings. I post a lot of my new products on there and the behind the scenes, before I release them on to my website, klearrings.bigcartel.com I have recently started up a TikTok account, @kitafromklearrings and have posted a few videos, some of which gained an audience of over 20,000 views within less than 48 hours. Twenty six of those viewers went straight to my website and made a purchase, so on TikTok there are definitely more creative videos to come. Thanks Kita. COFFS COAST
focus
27
focus_contributor
PFLAG wt
SAM DAWSON
from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.
This month I wanted to chat with a parent in PFLAG, to get her perspective and story ... I’m chatting with Rebecca.
H
i Rebecca. What is your connection to the Coffs Coast area, as I believe you lived here previously and have now returned with your family? I grew up in the beautiful community of Bellingen, but after finishing high school (many years ago) I left to study and travel. I’ve lived in different cities, including Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, London, Gosford and Wollongong. The Coffs Coast and Bellingen Shire have always remained my favourite place, so when my husband was offered a job last year in Coffs, we jumped at the chance! I feel very lucky that after over 25 years away I have been able to return, bringing my husband and two teenage children with me. We are all absolutely loving the lifestyle here! Tell us about your journey so far in discovering your son’s sexuality. I wondered if my eldest son was gay from a young age. He has always been pretty fabulous. Of course, I couldn’t be sure until he confirmed it himself, which he finally did early last year. I was happy that it was finally in the open, and he was confident enough to be himself. Soon afterwards, he began to find friendships
28 COFFS COAST
focus
Rebecca Daykin
within the LGBTQIA community in Sydney our new life here. It really has been the and really grew in confidence. When we best thing for our family. We have no found out we were moving here, he was regrets. excited, but it did make things a little Do you think it's important to have harder leaving behind those friendships support via like-minded people who and the support network he had formed. may have experienced a similar story As it turns out, it has been a great move to yours, like PFLAG? for him, though he Absolutely - it is does, of course, miss important. When Initially, I had a few his friends. we first moved concerns about moving How have you back, I met up to a regional town and taking found your new with some people my son away from his community? Have from PFLAG support network, but the you settled in here? Coffs Harbour, people and the community Moving with and it was really here have been great. It's a teenagers can be lovely. It is great, diverse, vibrant and friendly hard and scary, especially when community, and we have had but both kids have moving to a new no trouble adjusting to our adapted well and community, to new life here. are really happy. have support from They love living people who have here, and it's been a great move for our similar experiences and stories. They can family. We chose to live in Bellingen as share local information and resources we have family here, and it has such a and offer friendship. I would encourage great community feel. Initially, I had a anyone who is a parent, ally or advocate few concerns about moving to a regional of LGBTQIA to come along to a meet-up. town and taking my son away from his Parents supporting and educating each support network, but the people and the other helps lead to acceptance for our community here have been great. It's a LGBTQIA youth; plus, you get to make diverse, vibrant and friendly community, new like-minded friends along the way. and we have had no trouble adjusting to Thanks Rebecca.
eat
COVER DISH DIAVOLA FETTUCCINE - chorizo sausage with roasted capsicum, bacon, onion, garlic and napoli sauce served with fresh fettuccine from Bellingen Pasta from Papaveros at C.ex Coffs.
COFFS COAST
focus
29
focus_interview
Paul SPI NO G L I O
S I LV I O ' S I TA L I A N O
Paul Spinoglio is the proud owner of Silvio's Italiano and JBN Café - both at Park Beach Plaza. We wanted to know more about Paul 's passion for food and his background ...
P
aul, it’s been three years since Silvio’s Italiano was created. Tell us about the journey so far. Well, it’s been quite a journey from the early days of people telling me I was crazy to start up a restaurant at Park Beach Plaza. Silvio’s Italiano has been so well accepted by the Coffs Harbour community and is growing so quickly. Our clientele love the ease of undercover parking at our front door, a taxi rank for those wanting to have a few drinks and of course, our great authentic Italian offering. The plaza will shortly be offering more dining venues, and I’m excited to say that this will create a dining precinct where people could think 30 COFFS COAST
focus
I have owned it
about going to the for 16 years now, plaza first for dinner and there are still options, as opposed to customers who come elsewhere. It's exciting Quality staff is the key in every day that were times. to managing both. You also own JBN frequenting before I Someone like Rohanna Café. How do you owned it. Quality staff Groves, who has been manage both? is the key to working with me for To be frank, I managing both. the whole journey wouldn’t have taken whilst only having on the challenge time off to have her of Silvio’s Italiano if children, and Joshua Phillips, who started as it wasn’t in the same venue of Park Beach a chef, moved to front of house and is now Plaza. JBN Café is an institution in the plaza. my Group Operations Manager ... they are I have owned it for 16 years now, and there both very special team members, whom I are still customers who come in every day value immensely. They know the customers, that were frequenting before I owned it.
The first 4 weeks were extremely challenging to say the least. COVID opened my eyes to just how secure human beings feel when they are in a set routine with certainty.
their orders, and their personal lives. They are both a credit to themselves and the business. JBN has been hit hard with the COVID rules. We are operating at only 25% seating capacity at the moment, so can’t wait to resume normal trade. What do people most love about Silvio’s Italiano? There are quite a few special components I believe people love. Whilst I could talk about our Friday night $15 pizzas and $10 cocktails that are just so popular, or our amazing range of home décor items for sale in our store, I believe it’s really just about an amazing space that allows people to connect. Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner that is used as the excuse, it's really just about connecting with friends, family or work colleagues. And in these crazy
times, I don’t think this could be any more important. Silvio’s is a place where you can connect in either a large group, a small gathering, or a private intimate moment for two tucked away in a corner of the bar. These connections are coupled with great food, drinks and service. What are you most proud of? I’m so proud of the way the team responded to the COVID-19 challenge. The first four weeks were extremely challenging, to say the least. COVID opened my eyes to just how secure human beings feel when they are in a set routine with certainty. COVID brought all that crashing down, and to see the fear, anxiety and mental health concerns of my team almost instantaneously was quite a shock. I quickly realised I needed to lead the way, re-invent the business, and create an environment they could work in and feel
a sense of purpose. Almost everyone just jumped on board and were willing to do new tasks that weren’t necessarily what they had been employed to do. Managers/supervisors became delivery drivers, chefs became dishies, bartenders became pizza cooks, and service staff became dispatch operators. I had team members with certain skill sets like IT who helped me program online ordering processes. It really was an amazing turnaround I will forever be very proud of. Some team members even offered to work for free. Their generosity and commitment was self-sacrificing. I will never forget these times, because it draws a line in the sand for just what we are capable of achieving when under pressure. I am so proud of so many individuals. >>> COFFS COAST
focus
31
focus_interview
What is the most exciting part of being a restaurant owner? There’s an old saying in business that you can be a jack of all trades, but master of none. That so applies to me. I love just about all components of my business, but I especially enjoy learning the finer details of a task from a team member - whether that’s the head chef explaining to me what happens when you sous vide a dish at a temperature two degrees higher, or the impact on fresh pasta with one per cent more moisture content, the coffee grind when the temperature drops, or the quality of beer to a drinker if the glass had been washed with chemicals. I just love the detail, and forever will be learning - no matter how old I get. Tell us about your latest ideas and what you have on offer. I have just launched a pasta bar in our deli. We were always receiving customer requests for our house-made pasta sauces, fresh pasta, fresh gnocchi, and our gelato range. I thought it was a great opportunity to showcase our produce in a retail environment, allowing 32 COFFS COAST
focus
My wife, Dayle has been an amazing support to me personally and so supportive of the time required to invest in business. She is also busy, doing the buying and merchandising for the gift store, in addition to her full-time job.
customers to buy everything freshly made. We also launched our home delivery service when COVID hit. Although it had been in the plans to be launched at Easter time, COVID brought this service forward by a month. It’s been so popular, and well received, and still to this day whilst we are booked out on Friday nights, we still have five drivers working to deliver the Silvio’s menu to your home. We deliver both lunch and dinner, seven days a week. On the horizon (sometime after Xmas) keep a lookout for Gourmet@Home by Silvio’s. We will be launching a service that delivers to your door everything you need to cook wholesome, healthy Italian meals for you and your family. It will be an extensive range of meals, and our subscription service will provide significant differences to those mainstream services in the marketplace today. Do you have spare time? If so, what
do you like to do hobbies etc? I do get some spare time, and I try my best to ensure I have a balance of life, so I can spend time with my family. My wife, Dayle has been an amazing support to me personally and so supportive of the time required to invest in business. She is also busy, doing the buying and merchandising for the gift store, in addition to her full-time job. They say if you want a job done well, give it to a busy woman! Outside of my family, rugby is my passion. I grew up playing rugby from eight years old through until my uni days, and now I get to watch my son, Michael play rugby for the Southern Cross University Marlins. The Marlins are a great club and have really looked after him well through his junior years. I do some part-time coaching when I can, but otherwise I’m just happy to sit back and watch him play now. My favourite day was watching him debut in first grade as a 17-year-old this year. As a dad, it was also my most nervous. Thanks Paul.
focus_interview
Billy MIFSUD o
Silvio's Italiano
This month we chatted with Billy at Silvio's Italiano, to find out more about him and his passion for cheffing ...
W
hen did you first become interested in cookery as a career? It would have to be from my parents. Every family event we would get together and of course, there would be food. I remember watching my mother spend the day before getting the food ready and how much love she put into it, so I decided to help and would make the desserts. My father would also take me out fishing with him and when we got back, he showed me how to scale, skin and fillet the fish we just caught for dinner, and we would come up with an amazing dish the whole family would enjoy. What training did you undertake, and where was your first job? Straight out of high school, I knew I wanted to cook, so I started looking for an apprenticeship - and was lucky enough to find one at Park Beach Bowling Club. I trained under boss and head chef Matt Carter and some amazing chefs and learnt a lot throughout my three years there. When it comes to creating a seasonal menu, what do you take into consideration? We are very lucky in Coffs Harbour to have so many great places to source incredible ingredients from. So when starting a menu, I think about what time of year it is and what fruit and vegetables are available, then I visit
local suppliers to get the best produce and think how the best way is to showcase this on my menu. What is your favourite dish on the menu currently - and why? My favourite dish would have to be the lamb ragu; it's bold flavours and all the fresh herbs with our amazing fresh pasta that is made in-house makes this dish too good to pass up. Where do you source new ideas from? From wherever I eat, whatever I’m reading, and wherever I’m looking. Being a creative person, I’m forever thinking about ingredients, flavours and food matches, and from there I start creating. What would you say is the biggest influence in your cooking? Definitely Italian; I just love the ingredients, flavours and simplicity of many of their dishes, but also the techniques of cookery. Outside of work, what do you enjoy cooking? Even when I’m not at work, I do love Italian; the flavours you can create with just a few simple ingredients are amazing! Combine that with fresh pasta, gnocchi or pizza dough, and you have a winner. Throughout your career, what famous chefs have you admired and why? Giorgio Locatelli: his menus have always fascinated me, and I always try to keep up to date with what he is working on next. Thanks Billy.
COFFS COAST
focus
33
34 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
35
focus_interview
JAPANESE Lee and Natsuko are the proud owners of the popular Sakura Japanese situated at the Jetty Strip, and we wanted to find out more about them and their success.
W
hen and why did you start your business? We opened Sakura Harbour in October 2015. After living together in Japan for almost 10 years, we wanted to open a restaurant back in Australia, to introduce more Japanese food and culture. Tell us about your unique menu. It might sound odd, but we don’t have sushi on our regular menu. That is because we want people to experience traditional Japanese food other than sushi. We have gyoza (dumplings), karaage (fried chicken), tonkatsu (crumbed pork) and lots more traditional Japanese dishes on our menu. All our recipes come from Natsuko and her mum. Since Natsuko’s mum passed away this year, we always appreciated her for the collaboration in creation of the menu. We have hot pot dishes in winter and cold noodles in summer, just like people enjoy in Japan, with all the seasonal dishes. We
36 COFFS COAST
focus
We have hot pot What's been the hope more people try dishes in winter best business something different and cold noodles in advice you've and find their favourite summer, just like received? Japanese dishes. The best advice What is the best thing people enjoy in we had was to get to about your job? Japan, with all the know what people When we see our seasonal dishes. We want and meet their customers are enjoying hope more people try expectations ... To do our food, we feel really something different your best and never appreciated having and find their give up. the restaurant. It is favourite Japanese What do you a hard job, working dishes. enjoy most about day and night, but we working on the feel rewarded when a customer comes to eat Coffs Coast? Coffs Coast has many beautiful places to our food repeatedly, or drops in every time visit. We can relax on our days off and enjoy they are in Coffs. bringing up our children. What makes your business stand out? People in Coffs are friendly and like to When we first started, we researched and support local businesses. When we had to got advice from locals, then we decided to open a Japanese restaurant that caters for close for the COVID-19 restrictions, we had much heartfelt support from our regular everyone, rather than the higher market. Our customers. We really appreciate their support prices are affordable for everyone, and we to keep our business going. want people to come and enjoy our food as Thanks Natsuko and Lee. often as they like.
OPEN DAILY
COFFS COAST
focus
37
focus_interview
W EST H IGH ST R EET BOU T IQU E BUTCH ERY
M
Haven't we all wondered how that piece of meat found our dinner plate ... What was its journey before we devoured it?
eat doesn't just What is the most common question you fall from the skies; receive from customers? it has a story - a How do I cook this? So if a customer asked, beginning, middle “How do I cook this leg of lamb?”, I would and end. Quality recommend they cook for 25 minutes per butchers are a rare 500 g. Try not to cook it too hot, depending find, so when we asked locals where to find on if you want to slow cook it or not. There the region's favourite butcher, Michael Woo are so many different cuts of meat that require from West High Street Butchery came highly different methods of cooking. We can provide recommended. tips and advice on how to cook it, and what Hey Michael. How and why did you the particular cut goes best with. become a butcher? What products do you sell, and where do My father owned a Chinese restaurant you source your produce? while I was at school. We try to source When I decided to leave the majority of our school, I chose to go in products locally. We Customer service a different direction by stock mainly grass fed is number one in learning a trade. I chose and organic beef, lamb this trade, because it and chicken. We also the retail game. You was stable and daytime source produce from have to be able to work. Grafton, Taree, Roma communicate with How long have you in QLD (top quality), customers politely. been a meat cutter? and our chicken I started cutting comes from South East meat in 1977. I had a Queensland. We also break for 10 years managing a grain storage stock game meat, including quail, spatchcock, company. This job would mean farmers deliver crocodile, emu, venison, kangaroo and pork. the grain, and we would store it for them. What’s your favourite cut of meat? When I was done with that, I moved to Coffs I would have to say the T-bone steak. It has Harbour and purchased West High Street the best flavour, and it has that bit of bone Boutique Butchery. which I think adds to it. The best way to cook
a T-bone is to sear it first, depending on the thickness, then pop it in the oven and slow cook it. Or, you can put it on the BBQ, making sure you let it sit at room temperature for at least an hour before. Cook five or six minutes each side, take it off, and let it cool. The best way to have it is medium rare. What are the characteristics of a great butcher? Customer service is number one in the retail game. You have to be able to communicate with customers politely. Attention to detail is important, and understanding the product, how to cook it, and what it goes best with. What advice would you like to give to the next generation of butchers? It costs nothing to be polite. What's your favourite part of the job? Dealing with customers. I enjoy having a chat with new customers and regular customers. If you weren't a butcher, what do you think you would be doing? Travelling around Australia - best place in the world. How can we get in touch? P: (02) 6651 9955. A: 85 West High Street, Coffs Harbour. Facebook: West-High-Street-BoutiqueButchery Thanks Michael. COFFS COAST
focus
38
o te
Shaker WATERMELON WARHEAD
Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip has just added a new summer smasher to their awesome cocktail list, that is sure to get your tastebuds tingling. With fresh house made watermelon puree, white rum, watermelon liqueur, fresh lemon juice & smooth foamy egg white, their Watermelon Warhead is bursting with flavour, freshness & the perfect touch of tartness to get your lips all puckered up. A total summer treat! COFFS COAST
focus
39
focus_interview
ASH GRUNWALD
A
Acclaimed as one of Australia’s finest storytellers and live performers Ash Grunwald will take centre stage in a live intimate performance at Dark Arts Cafe & Bar.
sh Grunwald released Ash released his first book, Surf By Day, his new album, Mojo in Jam By Night (published by Pantera Press) in 2019 - a modern classic September 2019. The book combines Ash’s blues record which features two passions - music and surfing. From heavy The Teskey Brothers, wipeouts to heaving crowds, the book gives Joe Bonamassa, Kasey an insight into the minds of true legends Chambers, Mahalia Barnes, Terry Evans, Eddy who have mastered the artforms of surfing "The Chief" Clearwater, and music. Through Harry James Angus from conversations with The Cat Empire, and Kelly Slater, Steph Ian Collard. The album Gilmore, Jack Johnson, Conscious of saw Ash tour Australia Dave Rastovich, the impact of nationally, head to Jaleesa Vincent, single use plastics, America, as well as G. Love, and many Ash and his wife extensive European more, Ash discusses created Earth Bottles, touring. In 2020, Ash flow states, jamming a range of reusable Grunwald announced versus shredding, style, products, including a new side project, transcendence, fear, drink bottles, coffee teaming up with Josh career longevity, growth cups and straws. Teskey from The Teskey mindset, mindfulness, Brothers to release a and what it’s really like straight up blues album to live your dreams. titled Push The Blues Surf By Day, Jam By Away. Set for a release in November, the pair Night is an inspiring book that encourages will debut the first track, Thinking Bout Myself us all to look inside ourselves and chase the on the final episode of The Sound on 23rd things that truly make us happy. August. If a new album and a new book weren’t 40 COFFS COAST
focus
enough to keep Ash out of trouble, he also works tirelessly alongside his wife Danni, doing his part for the environment on their Clean Up The Coast initiatives, whereby beach clean-ups are organised when Ash is on tour. Conscious of the impact of single use plastics, Ash and his wife created Earth Bottles, a range of reusable products, including drink bottles, coffee cups and straws. In 2019, Ash launched his podcast, Soulful Conversations, which sees him talk to a range of inspiring and interesting people, including John Butler, Missy Higgins, Ziggy Alberts, Kim Churchill and Harry James Angus (The Cat Empire) and many more. The Plug Ash Grunwald at Dark Arts Café & Bar. When 28th September. Tickets eventbrite.com.au Show 1 - Tickets $45.90 inc BF. 2pm doors. 3pm - 3:30pm Benny Black. 4:00pm - 5:00pm Ash Grunwald. Show 2 - Tickets $59.90 inc BF; plus, includes light bar food dinner. 6:30pm doors. 7:30pm - 8pm Benny Black. 8:30pm - 9:30pm Ash Grunwald.
COFFS COAST
focus
43
focus_recipe.
Adam
W I T H F R O M S I LV I O'S I TA L I A N O
e to
gnocchi wt
Pancetta & Crisp
PARMESAN
INGREDIENTS Gnocchi Desiree potatoes - 1 kg Plain flour - 100 g Egg yolks - 1 Parmesan cheese, grated - 50 g Salt - enough to make a salt bed to lay potatoes on Pesto Basil - 1 bunch Parsley - ½ bunch
Macadamia nuts - 100 g Parmesan cheese, grated - 50 g Garlic cloves - 2 Olive oil - 100 ml Salt and pepper to taste Baking dish Pancetta slices - 6 Thickened cream - 200 ml Parmesan cheese, grated - 80 g Salt and pepper
METHOD 1) Preheat oven to 180 oC. Cover bottom of a baking dish and lay potatoes flat and roast in oven until soft - about one/one and a quarter hours. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. 2) Bring a pot of salted water to the boil. 3) To make the pesto, place macadamia nuts and garlic in a fry pan and toast; set aside to cool. Pick basil and parsley and place in food processor with parmesan, cooled nuts and garlic, and process adding the oil as it mixes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and taste. 4) Remove skin of potatoes and press potatoes though a potato ricer or mash with a potato masher, and spread on a floured bench. Sprinkle over flour, parmesan and egg yolk and start folding until it all comes together. Divide into six sections and roll into logs, then start cutting 2 cm pieces. When all the gnocchi are ready, place on to a large plate 42 COFFS COAST
focus
or chopping board. 5) Place large fry pan on low-med heat, place small piles of parmesan in fry pan and wait until it starts to melt and bubble. Flip over and colour other side; when they are done, remove from pan and set aside. Clean out fry pan and return to heat; set to med-high heat. When hot, place pancetta in pan and cook. When first side is coloured, flip over and colour other side, and when done, remove from pan. Clean out fry pan and start the sauce. 6) Add 2 tbsp of pesto, cream and a pinch of salt and pepper to fry pan, bring to gentle simmer, and reduce. 7) Add gnocchi to pot of boiling water; when it starts to float, it is ready. Scoop out and add to pesto cream. When the sauce is thick, transfer to a bowl and garnish with pancetta shards and parmesan crisps. 8) Or, pop into our pasta bar + purchase some fresh gnocchi.
Our NEW mouth watering Chicken range has ARRIVED.
Try it today. In-store • Drive Thru • Delivery Fast • Safe • Contact-Free
Delivery Via
McDonald's Coffs Coast COFFS COAST
focus
41
focus_contributor.
TRAVEL TIME wt
KERRY MOSS
F R O M Q UA D R A N T T R AV E L
Desperate to hit the road, but worried about border closures? No need to compromise; there is plenty to see in NSW. Explore the majestic countryside, the emerging food trails, or head to the outback to search for your very own opal.
E
xplore the Southern Highlands, where there is something for every traveller. A 90-minute drive south of Sydney, pictureperfect villages are set amongst rolling green hills. Perfectly restored colonial architecture, with impeccable gardens and home to the international Cricket Hall of Fame and the Bradman Museum, Bowral welcomes visitors with open arms. A little further south, the quaint little towns of Berrima and Mittagong have intriguing convict history and a fabulous collection of specialty stores.
For those who like to get out in the great sure to get your bookings in place. outdoors, you won't be disappointed either. If you haven’t got long and you’re after a The Southern Highlands has spectacular short getaway, then don’t hesitate to look closer waterfalls and vast National Parks. For to home at Port Stephens. Less than four hours' breathtaking views, visit the dramatic Fitzroy drive, and yet you’ll feel like you’re a world Falls in the Morton National Park, or explore away! With giant white sand dunes showcasing the region further on a bushwalk, such as the a stunning coastline, you’ll start to appreciate Lovers walking track. that we truly have some of the most spectacular Foodies are also in for a sights in our own state. treat; it’s a true paradise, Explore the incredible If you haven’t with rich volcanic soils Stockton Bight sand dunes got long and supporting a range of in the Worimi Conservation you’re after a short produce, including beef, Lands, an area steeped in getaway, then don’t dairy and truffles. The high Aboriginal history. For the hesitate to look altitude is perfect for cool adrenaline junkie, try the closer to home at climate wines, and there sandboarding or quad biking Port Stephens. are cellar doors dotted throughout the dunes. For through the hills. something a little more If you’re after something unique and have laid back, Port Stephens is home to fabulous a little more time, head west to Lightning restaurants and cafés serving locally farmed Ridge. Fossick for the elusive black opal, or oysters, freshly caught seafood and locally check out the art in an underground cave. grown produce. If you're after even more luxury, The area is also popular for its artesian then treat yourself in one of a growing number bore baths, where visitors can enjoy the of indulgent day spas, or sleep in one of the naturally-heated water springs from the many boutique options - including glamping on Great Artesian Basin. There is plenty of the water's edge and ocean view penthouses. adventure in this unique and colourful Don’t let the temporary border closures region, but a warning for the first time prevent you from escaping your daily routine. visitor - accommodation can be hard to There are plenty of undiscovered journeys and come by, so before you set off on the drive be adventures awaiting you. COFFS COAST
focus
44
e c i v d a y l s d e n c e a i e f ...” “Fr h t fromu know yo
NOW OPEN
NOW OPEN
www.parkbeachhomebase.com.au PACIFIC HIGHWAY, COFFS HARBOUR NORTH www.parkbeachhomebase.com.au PACIFIC HIGHWAY, COFFS HARBOUR NORTH
COFFS COAST
focus
45
focus_interview
Second generation artisan candy maker Brian Nillsen is keeping traditional craftsmanship alive through the family business, proving that hard work and perseverance creates a foundation for success.
46 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS CANDY KITCHEN
H
i Brian. You come from a long line of candy makers, dating back to 1949. Can you share your family history of artisan candy making? Actually, the candy making started with my father, Nils. He started his apprenticeship in a small candy shop in Copenhagen, Denmark, back in 1949 and finished in 1953. By the time he finished, supermarkets were on the increase and small manufacturers were going out of business, so he worked in factories for a while, before giving it away and working in cosmetics until we moved to Australia in 1980, but he didn’t start Coffs Candy Kitchen until 1988. When was it that you started your apprenticeship in candy making, and what has changed the most since starting out in the industry? I started within the business when the shop opened in 1988, straight out of school. The shop has always been based on the small manufacturing concept and the techniques learned and used during my apprenticeship, so hand made as much as possible - which is just as well, as most of the equipment we do use isn’t easily obtained in Australia and had to be made by local engineers, based on my father’s description. In that case, not much has changed for us,
The shop has and we are still doing the world and all walks always been our best to keep to that of life, which I thoroughly tradition and pass it on. enjoy. based on the small It's a huge feat to Outside of work, you manufacturing have been operating enjoy scuba diving in concept and the the business in Coffs our beautiful region techniques learned Harbour for over 30 and around the world. and used during my years. How has the How did you get apprenticeship, so business grown and into this, and what hand made as much evolved over that awesome adventures as possible. time? have you been on? We relocated the I started scuba diving shop from the mall to when a friend of mine the Big Banana in 1989, when the Big Banana wanted to do the open water course and had its huge makeover to theme park. That asked if I would like to join and do it too. didn’t go well for quite a long time, but we We went and did the course with Jetty Dive persevered, worked hard and kept the quality Centre, and after that I was hooked. The high. Solitary Islands Marine Park is a wonderful We have great staff who also work hard place to dive, with both cold and warm to make the shop a success, and over time water marine life, depending on the time of we established a loyal customer base, both year. We get the best of both worlds, from retail and wholesale. With The Big Banana manta rays when the water is warm, to giant also reinventing itself and building great cuttlefish in the cooler months. I was even attractions for people to come and enjoy, lucky enough to be out there the day the things are good at the moment. whale shark made an appearance - that was After all these years, what is it that you really special. enjoy the most about the role? I’ve been on some great trips as well Apart from doing a job I love - working that were hosted by Jetty Dive, diving the with great people. We are not just retailers President Coolidge wreck in Vanuatu, World and wholesalers, we’re also in the tourist War II wrecks at Truk Lagoon in Micronesia industry. Although it can be trying at times, and diving with tiger sharks in Fiji. you meet new people every day from all over Thanks Brian. COFFS COAST
focus
47
L
adies and Gents, let us help you to... ‘Reset Your Confidence Clock’ and help you discover a calmer and stylish new
you! Carole Beroš and her team from Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell have joined forces with local businesses to do just that! Come into Le Dãin Designs on First Avenue at Sawtell and see me or call 0417 471 019 and we will reschedule those promised appointments you made for yourself, that ended up cancelled! At Le Dãin Designs we have always been committed to provide our customers with a memorable retail experience. We always have dressed
ladies of... All Sizes At Any Age For Every Occassion! NOW.... We can cover even MORE! BeautyTherapy and Make-Up Artistry, Ladies Hair Dresser, Relaxation and Massage, Better Health and fitness, Exclusive Ladies Styling and Retail Sessions. We even have the guys covered with Barber and Menswear Connections! LETS DO THIS! It’s all now STRESS FREE! Individual appointments available or BOOK one of our ‘TIME TO SHINE PACKAGES’ and receive a complimentary Before and After Photo Shoot! Phone Carole for more information and bookings on 0417 471 019
Award winning hair salon located in beautiful Sawtell.
36 FIRST AVENUE, SAWTELL •
Before
Figtree
DAY SPA
First Avenue, Sawtell
48 COFFS COAST
focus
(02) 66585779
www.jsociety.com.au
FIGTREE Day Spa - FIRST AVENUE; SAWTELL OPEN Tues - Sat from 10am • Experience Ultimate Relaxation ‘Wellness Escapes’ • Calming Beauty Therapy • Yin Yoga Studio - Remedial Massage Call: 0455120222 Safe Clinic Australia
M
• SITUATED NEXT TO SAWTELL RSL
After
Madonna Bannerman wears selected outfits from Le Dãin Designs Boutique at Sawtell.
adonna Bannerman was another lovely lady to experience our Le Dãin Designs ‘Time to Shine’ make- over packages. Madonna and her husband Barry own Award Winning Two Tails Winery. Madonna is also involved in community and Charity events and runs at 100 miles an hour. It was definitely time for her to spoil herself with a fabulous Make- over and some much deserved TLC. The package we selected was as follows: • Styling session & bubbles with Carole Beroš at Le Dãin Designs to select ‘FOUR BRAND NEW LOOKS’! Plus tips to utilise her existing wardrobe. • Appointment with Nicola Sagar from Figtree Day Spa to learn about relaxation treatments and techniques. • Appointment at J.Society which is the award winning Hair Salon at Sawtell. Madonna’s hair was prepped with the Paul Mitchell Invisible Wear Volume Whip and Memory Shaper. Her hair was then blow dried with a large round brush for extra volume. The curl was created
with the GHD Platinum Plus styler and finished with Invisible Wear Undone Texture hairspray. The result created an effortless style for everyday wear. For the second half of the shoot, Madonna’s hair was drawn up into a glam messy bun! • Madonna enjoyed a beauty treatment and make- up session from La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic laser and Medispa. The pre make-up skin treatment consisted of intraceuticals serums: Eye serum to remove dark circles and puffiness. Lines serum to remove fine facial lines. Lift serum to enhance and lift the face. Make-up session paid particular attention to highlighting to create the illusion of further lifting and minimising shadow. Products available from La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser and Medispa. • Exclusive Styling/Dressing and Photo Shoot at Le Dãin Designs with Carole Beroš and her team to showcase Madonna’s... NEW LOOKS Now taking bookings for Christmas — spoil someone you love with a makeover!
Tel: 6652 8943
Time to Shine
Make-Over Packages
Priced to suit your budget — fabulous gift idea! • Mini-Massage, Yoga, or Sauna Treatment • Mini-Facial or Makeover • Cut, Colour, or Style • Exclusive Fashion Styling Session & Voucher Package must include a treatment / service from each business to receive a complimentary Before & After photo shoot. Call 0417 471 019 for pricing.
TREAMENTS
• Make-up Artistry • Products to lift, moisturise, firm and enhance the appearance of the skin • Lip enhancement including lip flip treatment • Oxygen therapy face reuvenation • Laser hair removal, capillaries, tattoo removal and IPL • Absorbable thread face and neck lift • Injectable dermal fillers to create volume, lift and smooth • Anti wrinkle injections to smooth frown, forehead, crows feet, smokers lines and Nefertiti neck lift • PRP platelet rich plasma treatments • Medical grade peels • Dynamic lift non-surgical face lift Barbara Wenman RN.BA Dip.Soc.Sci Cosmetic Nurse Injector Aesthetician and Director
Dr J.C Wenman M.B.B.S (Syd) R.A.C.P Consultant Physician, General, Gastroenterology, Cosmetic & Anti-ageing Medicine
296 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour www.lafleurdalyse.com.au • lafleurdalyse@bigpond.com COFFS COAST
focus
49
focus_contributor.
LOOK GOOD wt
FEEL GOOD
CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS
GROW THE MO
I mentioned this column would be for the guys as well! Here’s the first one for the boys - the perfect month to cover groovy moustaches!
N
ovember sees leading global organisation Movember kick into gear, encouraging guys to sport a moustache and raise funds to support health projects across mental health and suicide prevention, prostate and testicular cancer. Moustaches can take up to four months to get your desired look, but the hair on your face grows three times as fast as the hair on your head! Whether you grow a neat little Hercule Poirot or go the whole hog and grow bushy handlebars, you have to commit to the maintenance involved. Here are four popular moustaches from many choices. After the decision, it’s time to master the art of trimming your mo, to shape it just right! The Chevron Moustache: a thick full moustache that partially covers the top lip. Bushier and requiring light trimming. The Handlebar Moustache: curls upwards at both ends with the aid of styling wax. The Horseshoe Moustache: horseshoe shaped (of course) like a goatee, with the bottom centre shaved out.
50 COFFS COAST
focus
Pencil Moustache: lines the upper lip and trimmed very thin. Hard to pull off without looking like a henchman! That was as far as I got before chatting with an expert, barber and business owner Duane Jones, from Upstairs Barber Co at Sawtell, who was happy to share some tips. There are various tools to purchase to care for moustaches, from tooth combs to natural bristle brushes, and trimmers to help shape. He recommends small and manoeuvrable things like the Wahl Beret cordless trimmer. For maintenance, purchase a good cleaning product like Stag Supply’s charcoal activated beard wash, followed by beard oil on the facial area and moustache. He recommends Captain Fawcett's Million Dollar Beard Oil or Stag Supply’s Forest Blend Beard Oil. To finish, use wax, something like Captain Fawcett’s Booze and Baccy Moustache Wax! Last of all, speak to your barber about the style you are looking for, to determine the shape, length and thickness to get the look! Lastly, always grab a napkin from the counter when purchasing a pie and sauce.
Follow physical distancing and good hygiene practices
Listen to the health advice
Understand border restrictions before you travel
Gurmesh Singh MP MEMBER FOR COFFS HARBOUR coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au 1/9 Park Ave, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 (02) 6652 6500 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements October August 2020 2020
COFFS COAST
focus
51
focus_interview
Sawtell Local Rosie Smart was crowned NSW U16 State Surfing Champion on Sunday 9th August in front of a home crowd in Sawtell. Two days later, she won the NSW High School Surfing State Title at Park Beach.
W
e caught up with Rosie, to find out more about what that experience was like ... To see all my hard work pay off was really special, as well as being able to achieve this in front of friends, family, and the wider local community. How did you get into surfing; what made you first pick up a board? That’s a really funny story. When I was six, my then four year old brother, Creed, stood up on the shore break at our local beach in Western Australia on a soft top surfboard. That was it! There was no way I was going to miss out on all the fun! I was straight out after him and an hour later, after standing up on what seemed like a million waves, Mum and Dad couldn’t get me out of the water. And, you still can’t get me out of the water! More often than not, I’m still surfing with Creed. Where is your absolute favourite place to surf? I can’t tell you that! Ha ha ... There is a wave in the Mentawai Islands called Macaronis, which is so perfect and fun. But, I won’t be going there for a while with
52 COFFS COAST
focus
COVID-19. Of course, our Coffs Coast has some really fun waves, each unique and beautiful in different ways. And what about local breaks? Where is your go-to when you're itching to get on a wave? There are many surf options around There was no way Sawtell, depending on I was going to the conditions. If it’s You're well on your miss out on all the fun! before school, then I’ll way to be a wellI was straight out after surf out the front at recognised name in Sawtell. Otherwise, we him and an hour later, the sport. What are explore further up and after standing up on some of your career down the coast. dreams? what seemed like a What kind of All going well with million waves, Mum and training regime do COVID-19 and border Dad couldn’t get me out you have? restrictions, the 2020 of the water. I am part of the Australian Junior Bishop Druitt College Surfing Titles will be High Performance held in December on the beautiful North Sport Program, which incorporates many Stradbroke Island, Queensland. Before then, facets in developing budding athletes. I also Coffs will be hosting a leg of the Australian do personal training with James Moncada, Open of Surfing, an event which will attract who is my strength and conditioning coach. NSW’s top surfers. I am excited to be able to Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club are my challenge myself against these talented surfers surfing family, and we meet for monthly on my home turf. In the future, I am striving competitions. And of course, I surf every to surf professionally - what a job! opportunity I have. Thanks Rosie.
Explore Your Coffs Backyard
es
ntur TreeTop Adve
Bonville Golf
C-Chan
Waja Adveanntua Yaam Gum bayngg re Tours irr
ge Adv
HWH Stables
Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience
Whale Watch Experience
Montem
Jetty Dive
rs
Coffs Skydive
entures
urs Bike To
#explorecoffsbackyard
how to enter coffscoast.com.au/explore-coffs-backyard visit
snap
share
COFFS COAST
focus
53
focus_interview
Ocean
Photo Ian Shaw
ADVENTURES SOPHIE PRYOR
Growing up in a quiet seaside town with humble beginnings, Sophie Pryor’s inspired love and passion for under the sea was so strong, she chose to dedicate her life to protect and nurture the living lives of our ocean.
H
i Sophie. You have such a fascinating career as a marine biologist. Before we get into that, please introduce yourself and share your connection to
the Coffs Coast. My parents were fishing when Mum went into labour with me! Mum's a world champion surfer, and Dad's an incredibly knowledgeable fisherman. As a child, you could find me surfing, snorkelling, fishing, or with my head buried in a rockpool. I loved fishing, but mostly I loved fish. I'd always kiss my catch goodbye, as I returned it to the sea. Dad often had to keep one eye on the sea and the other on his five year old daughter, who, when left unattended, would try and release his catch - even when it was a jewfish that was longer than her. From these humble beginnings, the sea has become my identity. I grew up in Yamba, but would often camp with my family around the Coffs Coast. The Solitary Islands fascinated me - I'd become lost in thought staring out to them, imagining what marine life I could find. At the age of 21, I was lucky enough to begin exploring the Solitaries, and the imagination of the young girl who once stared out to them became overwhelmed. I've since spent the last four and a half years researching the marine life of our amazing region. For those of us who don't know, what are anemones and anemonefish, and tell us 54 COFFS COAST
focus
why you're researching and carrying out surveys? Anemonefish are distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, and we are lucky enough to have three species inhabiting the waters of the Solitary Islands: the Barrier Reef anemonefish, the tomato anemonefish and the wideband anemonefish. Anemonefish live in sea anemones, and here they form social groups. The largest anemonefish is a female, and the second is a breeding male, who, if the female dies, will have a sex change and take her place! Unfortunately, anemonefishes are threatened by climate change. Furthermore, their host sea anemones can bleach, as corals do. Climate change can cause a reduction in anemonefish and sea anemone abundance and alter their distribution. Anemonefishes are iconic and important to the biodiversity of our oceans. Understanding how these fish will be impacted by climate change will be critical in informing management that will safeguard their future, which is why I am currently carrying out research. How did you get into this field in the industry specifically? As someone who is deeply connected to our natural world, I feel responsible to care for the environment. Throughout my youth, this meant planting trees, nursing injured wildlife, and picking up rubbish. While the romanticised idea of a small girl saving the world by removing rubbish from her local beach lives somewhere deep inside me, my education showed me the
Amphiprion akindynos adult South West Rocks
true extent of human impacts. This inspired me to undertake a degree in Environmental Science at Southern Cross University. In my final year, I did an internship with Dr Hamish Malcolm, who is the NSW Department of Primary Industries' scientist for the Solitary Islands Marine Park. I was lucky enough for this to lead into an honours project, where we undertook research on trawling impacts within the Marine Park. At the end of my honours year, I was keen to keep contributing to research, and in particular, climate change impacts. With my undying love of marine life and burning desire to do something about climate change, studying the effects on climate change on anemonefish and their host sea anemones is perfect. No one day would be the same, and that's the beauty of your job; however, what's involved in a typical work day? There really isn't a typical day when you're a scientist. Some days I'm lucky enough to be out diving; others I'm in the laboratory breeding anemonefish or setting up and running experiments. While it does sound very glamorous, I spend about 80 per cent of my time behind a desk. Desk work isn't too bad - I get to understand the data I collect and convey my findings to others. How does your collected data get used, and how will this directly help our marine life into the future? Once my data is collected, I graph trends and carry out statistical analyses and talk with co-
Carcharias taurus South Solitary Island
In my final year, I did an internship with Dr Hamish Malcolm, who is the NSW Department of Primary Industries' scientist for the Solitary Islands Marine Park. I was lucky enough for this to lead into an honours project, where we undertook research on trawling impacts within the Marine Park.
authors about how we interpret the findings. We then begin writing a paper with our findings for a scientific research journal. Write up usually involves several rounds of edits from all co-authors, as we strive to ensure our article is of a high standard. When we feel confident, we will submit our paper to a journal. The journal editor will then accept or reject the article, depending on if they feel it is to the standard and in line with the scope of their journal. If accepted, the paper then undergoes peer review, where three unknown scientists within the field critique it. At this stage, the paper can be rejected again. If so, my co-authors and I will strengthen the paper and send it elsewhere. However, if accepted, the journal will publish it, and the findings then become available to readers. I also really enjoy scientific communication and have shared my findings at professional conferences and even Splendour in the Grass. My collected data can then be used to guide future researchers and by decision-makers in regards to the management of the marine environment.
Solitary Islands Marine Park is a fantastic place to dive. What makes it a perfect spot for you to carry out your research? It surely is! We are so lucky to have such warm, clear waters and an abundance of marine life in our area. Amazingly, North Solitary Island has the highest density of anemonefishes and sea anemones in the world! Furthermore, our region is disproportionately affected by climate change: the East Australian Current (the current Nemo travelled to Sydney in) is warming at an accelerated rate. Resultantly, we see impacts here before they occur elsewhere, so our region is a looking glass into the future. With so many anemonefishes, in addition to accelerated warming, the Solitary Islands Marine Park is the perfect spot for my research. You're finding that anemonefish are moving further south, as far down as South West Rocks. Is this out of the ordinary, and why are we seeing this happen? Traditionally, anemonefishes have occurred at South Solitary Island. While some have travelled to Fish Rock at South West Rocks as juveniles during the summer, they were unable
Photo Ian Shaw
to survive throughout the winter. Around a decade ago, Dr Hamish Malcolm (New South Wales Department of Primary Industries) and Dr Anna Scott (National Marine Science Centre) found anemonefish were starting to survive through winter at Fish Rock as a result of ocean warming. This is not out of the ordinary - marine fish are changing their distribution on a global scale as a result of climate change. We are now working to understand finescale changes, and what factors (including increasing ocean temperature) are allowing and limiting these range expansions for anemonefishes within our region. Some would say you're a real life mermaid, having remarkable adventures underwater! What are some of the most memorable ones, and what's on the horizon for the future? I surely have! My favourite memory is travelling to Ningaloo Reef for a conference and freediving with a tiger shark. I've had some magical days at North Solitary Island playing with leopard sharks and manta rays, and it's always special coming across 40 or so grey nurse sharks together at South Solitary Island or Fish Rock. One might say it's inspiring enough for a girl to dedicate her life to protecting the sea which is exactly what I plan to keep doing. For now though, I've been at university for eight years. It's time to jump in my van and explore. Thanks Sophie. COFFS COAST
focus
55
focus_contributor.
TALKING DESTINATION
with FIONA BARDEN
FROM COFFS CITY COUNCIL
IT’S TIME TO EXPLORE How much of the Coffs Coast have you discovered?
O
ver the last few months we tastes and offerings available. Find all the have been reminded so many information and register to pick up your times just how amazing our FREE Orara Valley Shopping Pack on location is, and how lucky we www.oraravalleytouristtrail.com.au. are to live here on the Coffs Coast. There’s Explore Coffs Backyard always more to How many activities on explore, more to the Coffs Coast have you discover, and more If you’re on the hunt yet to explore? to experience. Get cracking and for local fresh Here are some take in as many as you produce, mouth-watering opportunities can before the end of food, delicious coffee or to have fun and November to be part amazing views, COME support our local of the Explore Coffs ALONG AND JOIN WITH businesses, coming Backyard Competition. THE ORARA VALLEY up over the next We know you’ll find BUSINESSES ON THE few weeks: some amazing places and
WEEKEND OF
activities and have a great Shop the Orara NOVEMBER 7TH AND time. Valley Way 8TH, TO SHOP THE If you’re on While you’re out and ORARA VALLEY WAY! about, just take a pic of the hunt for local fresh produce, the experience, share it to mouth-watering your Insta page with the food, delicious coffee or amazing views, tag #explorecoffsbackyard, and you could be in the running to win a locally crafted, come along and join with the Orara Valley Coffs-inspired, garden art piece for your businesses on the weekend of November 7th and 8th, to SHOP the Orara Valley own backyard. Way! More details on www.coffscoast.com. You’re invited to explore the beautiful au/explore-coffs-backyard. Coffs Coast hinterland, shopping bag Become a Coffs Coast Quiz Champion! in hand, to browse and buy the many Local tourism operators were recently
56 COFFS COAST
focus
challenged to tackle some interesting but also unusual quiz questions about our region. Answers to the Coffs Coast Champions Quiz could all be found on the destination website, www.coffscoast.com While more than 95 per cent of these businesses scored a perfect result, we thought it would be fun to challenge community members to see how well you know our tourist attractions and activities - and how well you can find your way around the Coffs Coast website. Find the quiz at www.coffscoast.com. au/quiz and take the challenge. We’d love to have a crowd of local Coffs Coast Champions! Sharing, learning and exploring are all part of enjoying life on the Coffs Coast, and it’s time to get out and see all that Coffs has to offer. #coffscoast #shoplocal #buylocal #supportlocal
NEW WOOLGOOLGA SPORTS COMPLEX
“Palaszczuk, KeviopenntheHOGANborder!MP”
This month we are turning the sod on the new $25 million sport and multipurpose centre. This is a game changer for Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches. It will be great for local families and sporting clubs. It will allow us to attract major sporting and cultural events. It will also create and support jobs in our community. The Indoor Multi-Purpose Centre includes two indoor courts for basketball and netball, a stage,
kitchen, café, multi-purpose rooms, and male and female amenities. The outdoor fields will include an AFL field, cricket field (turf wicket), training nets, touch football fields, two rectangular fields, and bright lighting to allow for night games. One hundred and forty one jobs will be created during construction. Many more will be supported by sports tourism and events this facility will bring to our region.
Kevin HOGAN MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PAGE
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PAGE
Email: kevin.hogan.mp@aph.gov.au
Find us on Facebook: Kevin Hogan MP Lismore Offce:“Palaszczuk, ph: 02 6621 4044 63 Molesworth St, Lismore Instagram: open the border!” Grafton Offce: ph: 02 6643 3973 1/83A Prince St, Grafton kevin.hogan.mp
Email: kevin.hogan.mp@aph.gov.au
Find us on Facebook: Kevin Hogan MP Instagram: kevin.hogan.mp
Authorised by K Hogan MP, National Party of Australia - NSW, 63 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480
Lismore Offce: ph: 02 6621 4044 Grafton Offce: ph: 02 6643 3973
63 Molesworth St, Lismore
1/83A Prince St, Grafton
Authorised by K Hogan MP, National Party of Australia - NSW, 63 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480
COFFS COAST
focus
57
Health e e focushealth
and
58 COFFS COAST
focus
t te
TEAM
WELCOME D E N T A L
E
MMA CLARK What do you love most about your job? Most people attend with a dental issue - I love that we are able to help solve the problem. For me, that is instant gratification. How did you get started as a dental assistant? Adamant to move forward in the course called life, I was determined to start a new career. I believe in continuing education, and I am excited about my new journey. LISA CHERRY What do you love most about your job? I love ensuring that our patients are going to have a relaxed and pleasant visit by being prepared for the work day, seeing what is ahead, and setting everything up. What’s your favourite thing about working at Welcome Dental? Welcome Dental is like my second home; we are a little family, and we support each other. Our team works together to make the days enjoyable and the best they can be.
We’ll turn that frown upside down.
I love that every day is different, and I am always learning. APRIL COOPER What’s your favourite thing about working at Welcome Dental? My favourite thing about working at Welcome Dental would be how organised everything is and that there is such a good team spirit. How did you get started as a dental assistant? I had been a patient of Dr Sharon Marinucci’s for 14 year; I have always been interested in the industry and thought I should ask for a job. EMMA CHERRY What do you love most about your job? Every day is different; it can be challenging, but extremely rewarding. I love
Services.
Late nights Open Saturdays Online bookings Orthodontic treatments Childrens therapist Bulk billing CDBS AirFlow
We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you soon. Our phone number remains the same but our email address has changed.
being a part of patients' treatment, ensuring they have the best experience possible, alongside making sure the practitioners have everything they need for their patient and that their day runs smoothly. What’s your favourite thing about working at Welcome Dental? I love how unique the practice is. Dr Sharon Marinucci has almost transformed it into an art gallery! It has a very relaxed, welcoming environment and team. Ms Kirsty Christensen, business manager of Welcome Dental, is also extremely passionate about supporting the local community and believes in giving young people the opportunity to gain new skills in jobs such as a dental assistant or receptionist. It’s so uplifting to be part of a supportive and kind-hearted team. Thanks ladies.
Meet The Team. Dr Sharon Marinucci Dr Louise Clement Dr Mindie Nguyen Dr John Wills Dr Oleg Pushkarev Wendy Summerill Jessica Cantrill
Phone: (02) 6655 5800 Email: info@welcomedental.com.au Website: www.welcomedental.com.au COFFS COAST
focus
59
o
SUNNY
SAWTELL TO THE GOLD COAST SUNS … AND BACK AGAIN!
strategies for athletes to reduce their risk of injury?
wt
A
AARON HARDAKER
fter leaving the Coffs Coast to build an impressive career as a leading sports physiotherapist with the Gold Coast Suns in the AFL, Nathan O’Connor has returned to the local area to join the team at Mid North Coast Physio. Tell us a little about yourself. I grew up in Sawtell and loved all things sport, which led me to study a Bachelor of Exercise Science before completing my Masters of Physiotherapy, both at Griffith University. After working in a private practice for several years, I’ve spent the last three years working at the Gold Coast Suns AFL club. I was responsible for managing the medical services for the 400+ junior athletes in their elite academy and worked in the medical team for the men’s senior AFL squad. My passion is supporting aspiring athletes, particularly with developing strategies to reduce the risks of injury before they occur. Having recently started a family, my wife and I decided it was time to return home to the Coffs Coast, and I’m excited for the opportunity to give back to the community I grew up in. What are some of the key 60 COFFS COAST
focus
The first step is to manage the amount of training you do. A vital part of training is recovery, to allow your body to adapt and maximise the benefits, rather than just getting sore or injured. We help by tailoring an individual load management plan and communicating with your coaches, to ensure everyone understands. Secondly, consistency is key! Many sporting injuries occur after a sudden change in training demands, but we can work with you to develop a suitable return to train/play program, to ensure you get back safely. Thirdly, is to include some strength training in your program! Lower body strength for field sport athletes is often overlooked, but increased strength means reduced injury risk, for both overuse and acute injuries. As an accredited Strength Coach, I love developing individual programs for you (including for you endurance athletes too!) Unfortunately, despite the best laid plans, sometimes things happen that just can’t be prevented, and in that case we’re always here to help with diagnosing and rehabilitating injuries. Thanks Nathan. MNC Physio is offering five free athlete assessments with Nathan to review your training program and discuss how you can reduce your injury risk and improve performance. Call 1300 273 747 to secure your spot now.
focus_contributor.
FITNESS
UPDATE wt
DUNCAN MARCHANT
F R O M C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B
STRUCTURE AND SUPPORT ARE CRITICAL WHEN TRYING TO LOSE WEIGHT
B
This month’s inspirational health and fitness story comes to us courtesy of Alex Campbell, who is a Healthy Inspirations - Weight Loss Coach and her amazing client, Debbie Oliver.
efore joining Healthy Inspirations, had you tried anything previously? No. What prompted you to change your lifestyle? Like most people who are overweight, you tend to wear your comfortable, stretchy clothes. It came to the crunch when I was fast approaching the need to buy new underwear - up a size. What motivated you to join the Healthy Inspirations program? I was already a member of the Coffs Coast Health Club and saw the signs for the program. The staff and members are very friendly and supportive, and I felt that I would be comfortable (or as much as you can be when you have to face the reality of being officially obese when you hop on those scales) starting a healthier lifestyle in this environment. How has Healthy Inspirations improved your lifestyle? Although I was already going to the gym, I am now more active in my daily life too. I have always planned my weekly meals, but now I am more mindful to make sure there is always something healthy in the freezer, fridge or ready to cook. This removes the temptation to eat something not included in the healthy eating guide. We now have a growing list of go-to meals pinned up on the pantry for busy
days, or when you're just too tired to think. What benefits have you experienced since joining Healthy Inspirations at Coffs Coast Health Club? I am successfully losing weight. Some weeks are better than others, but it is a lifestyle choice - not a race. I am sleeping really well and have a lot more energy during my classes and workouts. My doctor is happy that I am following a balanced low carb diet, and he has taken me off my blood pressure medication. Do you find the support from your weight loss coach is helping you reach your goals? I could not have managed without the accountability of my weekly check-in. We all know what we must do to lose weight - eat well and move more. Having someone to support you and offer encouragement and advice has made all the difference. Do you feel you can maintain the changes you have made in your diet? Low carb eating is now becoming a happy habit. It does not mean I don’t treat myself for special occasions like birthdays and the arrival of new grandchildren, but I remember to enjoy it then get back to healthy eating. The Healthy Inspirations program is a great resource, as you add carbs in and monitor your weight to make sure you are either continuing to lose the kilos, or to maintain your weight if you have reached your goal. What would you say to someone who
was thinking about trying the Healthy Inspirations Weight Loss Program? I would recommend it for a variety of reasons. The low carb diet is very satisfying and with a little creativity (and a husband who loves to cook) you can still eat a variety of delicious meals. I like the way that it is structured, so you know exactly how much of each food should be eaten at each meal, and the gradual addition of more carbs as you progress through the program. The support from my coach (and all the staff at the gym) has been invaluable. Even when I have reached my goal weight, I will be checking in occasionally to say “hi” and to make sure I stay on track. Thanks Alex and Debbie. Coffs Coast Health Club has full service memberships, the largest range of group exercise classes, the most experienced instructors, an awesome kids' creche, professional personal training, and weight management programs to help you on your journey. Simply check out their locally owned, fun, safe and supportive community via www.coffscoasthc.com.au, calling 1300 040 479 or dropping in to either their Moonee Beach or Toormina clubs for further advice. If you would like to read more inspirational health and fitness stories visit: www.myfitnessstory.com.au COFFS COAST
focus
61
focus_interview
Kingdom Denture Clinic is a local family business that has been servicing Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas for more than 35 years. We found out more from Liz Harrigan...
Liz HARRIGAN
KINGDOM DENTURE CLINIC
62 COFFS COAST
focus
Liz HARRIGAN
H
ey Liz. Why did you become a dental prosthetist? After I left school, I moved to Sydney and worked as a dental assistant, later training to become a technician. After some overseas travel, where I worked as a technician in London, in 2007 I moved back to Coffs Harbour to work alongside my father, who was a prosthetist. I have always been interested in becoming a prosthetist, and in 2013 I became qualified. I have been practicing ever since and purchased the business from Dad in 2018. What services do you offer? In our business we offer all dental prosthetic services, which includes full dentures, partial chrome and acrylic dentures, relines and repairs. Tell us about your team and their areas of expertise. We are an all girl team, and this year we have taken on new staff. Mariel and Yash have moved down to Coffs Harbour from Brisbane. Both ladies have completed a degree in dental prosthetics and are settling in well to the new practice. We also have Anna and Kristie, who help run the practice and assist me in clinical practice. Des is now enjoying his retirement, but still comes in for
Our new dental chairs have been a revelation for elderly patients, as they have a knee break, ensuring they can get in and out of the chairs more comfortably.
a visit now and again. You have relocated this year. Tell us about your new clinic. Yes, we have relocated to a new purpose built facility on Ted Ovens Drive in Coffs. We are located directly behind the GP Superclinic on Stadium Drive. Our new facility is state of the art, and we have had excellent feedback from our patients. Access to the building is really easy from your car, and we are centrally located between Coffs Harbour and the southern suburbs. Balance Design and Construction built our practice, and we could not be happier with their service and cooperation during the build. Our new dental chairs have been a revelation for elderly patients, as they have a knee break, ensuring they can get in and out of the chairs more comfortably. What's your favourite part of the job? In my profession, I get to change people's lives. They come into our practice, and leave at the end of the process with a brand new smile and extra confidence. It is really nice to share that journey with our patients.
It is also exciting to explore new technologies in our industry. We are now producing dentures using a full digital workflow, which includes intra-oral scanning, CAD design, 3D printed try-ins and fully milled dentures, all made on site. We are achieving excellent results using this technology, and it is really nice to offer this technology to our patients. What do you miss most about working alongside your father, Des? We miss his lovable personality and his many stories. He was eager to pass on his knowledge to the girls, and we all benefited working alongside him. If you weren't a dental prosthetist, what do you think you would be doing? I had completed my dental assisting course and was considering studying to become a dental hygienist. How can we get in touch? You can call our friendly staff on (02) 6652 2403, or email us at info@kingdomdentureclinic.com.au Thanks Liz. COFFS COAST
focus
63
64 COFFS COAST
focus
focus_interview
T
ell us a bit of the history of Willaid. Willaid Healthcare Solutions is a locally run Australian owned business in the healthy mobility and independence equipment sector. For more than 20 years, Willaid has been delivering innovative solutions, tailored to suit people’s needs for high quality healthcare equipment and daily living aids, at competitive prices. In 2017 Willaid came under new ownership. What has this meant for the company? It gave us a chance for a refresh and rebrand, with our sights set on being better and bigger. We moved to a new larger location (2/9 North Boambee Road) and increased our workforce numbers to an enthusiastic team of 17. Our showroom is designed to display a large range of over 8,000 speciality products. We stock a wide range of equipment, with plenty of room to test drive mobility scooters or power chairs and try out beds or recliner lift chairs. Our new website: willaid.com.au has upto-date product information, resources and weekly articles. Visit our Facebook page for latest news on equipment and products. We are open from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.
WILLAID What services do you offer? • Come in to see, touch, or test drive equipment. We have consultation rooms for more privacy if required. • We carry a large range of hire equipment, which is available for long or short-term hire, and we can deliver and set up as needed. • We have highly qualified technicians, who service and repair all mobility products, electric lift chairs, bedding, electric lifting aids, including ceiling hoists and stair lifts. • Willaid work with hospitals, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, allied health, aged care facilities, health care centres and other service providers, to name a few. • We are an NDIS approved provider, assisting many NDIS clients throughout the region with equipment and specialist products. • We are an approved DVA supplier and have an easy-to-use DVA digital portal for healthcare professionals to access products and information for their clients. • Willaid are suppliers of Pride Mobility, Sunrise and Permobil powered and manual wheelchairs. We have knowledgeable and experienced staff to assist in the process of finding the right wheelchair. We have a room dedicated to all things wheelchairs, affectionately named "The Candy Shop", where you can actually see and trial wheelchair products (backrests, cushions,
headrests and accessories). • Willaid are a Sigvaris compression stocking fitting centre, offering free measurements for stocking orders and advice on being able to put on and take off your stockings correctly and easily. • We also have a dedicated training room, where we are able to host hands-on or virtual training sessions on our products and equipment for healthcare professionals, carers or support workers. Tell us more about how you can assist those on the NDIS? All our team are trained in the core values of the NDIS; however, we do have a dedicated team member who is available and experienced to offer assistance in navigating and understanding the NDIS and how to best utilise your NDIS plan. Why is Willaid different to any other health equipment company? We are an innovative company based on family values, making it simpler for people to access information, products and services that create a better everyday life. Our team take care to listen and respond to individual needs. Our aim is to assist people of all abilities to perform tasks they may otherwise have been unable to. We also hate saying no, and we will try our best to find a solution to any problem, even if it may be a bit obscure. Empowering people is the Willaid motto! COFFS COAST
focus
65
focus_interview
Sharon JOY GALWAY From “Tired to Inspired”, Sharon Joy Galway is a local who is all about complete wellness. We really wanted to find out all about this ...
H
i Sharon. Please tell us all about the Wandering Wellness Collective ... I founded Wandering Wellness Collective after I travelled Australia with my family, before settling here on the Coffs Coast. I was in the midst of my own complete life transformation journey, and holistic wellness was the centerpiece. I went from being a tired primary school deputy principal - with no life balance, bringing about poor health choices, high stress, fatigue and burnout - to better health, inspiration and balance. I recognised that wellness is holistic … it doesn’t just mean physical health, as it’s commonly perceived, but rather encompasses steps we take to address wellness in all areas of life, including social, emotional, environmental, spiritual, intellectual, and occupational. Wellness and wellbeing had been areas of keen interest to me as a school leader. Over the years, I had observed that most members of the school community needed support in understanding how they can better support their wellness and that of their children in one area or another. Cue my own learning journey and business inspiration! I was determined that I wanted to change the status quo not only for my family, but for the wider community. Two years on, and I am fortunate to have many highly skilled and knowledgeable members in the Collective, who are
66 COFFS COAST
focus
It’s a natural energetic sequence that doesn’t align with our menstrual cycle or the moon - it’s quite an incredible discovery, really. I’m yet to meet a woman who I’ve introduced Soul Modes to who hasn’t resonated with it. It helps us to understand why one day we sign up for boot camp, thrash out a four-week meal plan and create a prescribed morning ritual, only to find that after a few days we feel unmotivated, constricted and inconsistent. Most often we are not any of those things; we are just working against our modes, instead of with them. I liken it to trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. I myself am continuing my journey further down the wellness path and will soon be adding Raindrop Technique, a specialised aromatherapy massage protocol to my toolkit. I’m excited to be able to offer this effective modality, which supports mind, body and spirit to people of the Coffs Coast. Certified practitioners in this area are few and far between. How can our readers get in touch? I’d love to connect with Coffs FOCUS readers! You can find all my links via my link tree, which I update often, so save the link somewhere and check back often: https://linktr. ee/mssharonjoy or email: hello@mssharonjoy. com or phone: 0416 163 656. Thanks Sharon.
OUR MISSION IS TO INSPIRE FAMILIES TO LIVE A CLEANER, HEALTHIER AND MORE ABUNDANT LIFE.
professionals in the wellness space. Two local businesses who are aligned with the Collective include Gumtree Retreat at Kungala, and The Good Beautician in Coffs Harbour. We have many others dotted around the country, including colon hydrotherapists, aromatherapists, massage and beauty therapists, kinesiologists, reiki and energy healers, and yogis. Our mission is to inspire families to live a cleaner, healthier and more abundant life and leave a lasting legacy for our future generations by using and sharing the highest quality, sustainable wellness products through a conscious and community driven movement. I myself offer an ever-growing and dynamic range of motivational, wellness and business courses as well as 1:1 mentoring incorporating the emerging self-help modality Soul Modes (by Carlie Maree). Having a successful business and loving what you do is integral to work-life harmony - something many women especially struggle with. I help them to discover areas of their life they want to improve and take a very new and different approach in mentoring my clients. Soul Modes identifies four unique modes through which all feminine core beings cycle.
COFFS COAST
focus
67
68 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
69
focus_contributor.
EDUCATION
UPDATE wt
NICK JOHNSTONE
FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE
BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE (BDC) ARE OPENING A NEW K - 4 SCHOOL IN WOOLGOOLGA IN 2021.
W
hy did BDC decide to open a K - 4 campus in Woolgoolga? The Northern Beaches, and Woolgoolga in particular, is a growth area on the Coffs Coast. After speaking with a number of families and businesses in the local area, we decided to explore the opportunities and conduct some research. Our research found there is an increasing number of young families moving to the Northern Beaches, from Sapphire Beach right through to Arrawarra, and we wanted to provide a great schooling option for these families. Woolgoolga is the logical centre of this region. Do you see the BDC Northern Beaches campus being very different from the BDC Coffs Harbour campus? The Northern Beaches campus is a microschool, and it will have the same high quality teaching and educational opportunities as the Coffs Harbour campus. However, it will be unique, because it caters for years K - 4 only, and it will utilise the local Woolgoolga resources and spaces during the students' learning journey. The Bishop Druitt Way learning philosophy will be a feature of this new campus, as well as the Walker Learning approach: experiential learning; high quality English and mathematics teaching; and access to a wide range of specialist teachers for music, dance, drama, Japanese, and physical education. 70 COFFS COAST
focus
However, it will
be unique How will the two students, with the use of because it caters for BDC campuses link? smart technologies linking The Northern the sites in real-time, years K - 4 only, and Beaches campus which will assist greatly it will utilise the students will feel in the Northern Beaches local Woolgoolga a part of the Coffs campus feeling connected resources and spaces Harbour family, with to the Coffs Harbour during the students' fortnightly access to all campus community. learning journey. Coffs Harbour campus When it comes time to resources, including transition, the students specialist staff and will have interacted so facilities such as: regularly with the Coffs Harbour campus, that • Wellbeing hub the transition will be seamless, with students • School-farm partnership - "Farnworth" already having had opportunities to build • STEAM Lab relationships. • Trade training centre with a commercial There have been some potential traffic kitchen challenges in this area; what is BDC doing • Performing arts faculty with 17 music tutors to mitigate these challenges? and six performing arts teachers The college is working with Coffs Harbour • Indoor international-standard basketball City Council in regard to this particular topic, centre and our solutions will vary from increasing • Three full-size football fields onsite parking for staff to maximising onsite • New 1 GB network bandwidth - making us parking for parents, as well as providing the fastest school on the Mid North Coast opportunities to collect students from a variety • Latest technology in classrooms, such as of designated pick-up/drop-off points on the laser cutters and 3D printers school bus route or in the BDC bus. One of • Climate-controlled classrooms being rolled the attractive points of this particular site is out over the next two years its central location, with access via public • Creative arts gallery transport. It is also potentially helpful for • Extensive primary and secondary library parents being located adjacent to Woolworths resources, services and facilities; a dedicated and Ohana Early Learning, and close to the senior study area; and comprehensive online West Woolgoolga Sports Complex. assignment support. What do you see as the main benefits of There will be a continual virtual link this new school for families? between the two campuses for staff and Independent schooling is all about choice,
focus_interview
There is and we are proud to another bonus be able to offer the 5 onwards? for 2021 families as Northern Beaches Yes. This is a great we continue to enrol community and reason and benefit for families a high-quality students into the developing this K - 4 independent schooling campus - existing schooling opportunity. experience. BDC Coffs students will benefit As many of you know, Harbour has been the from personalised Year 5 is a natural entry pride of the region for point for the Coffs learning from their over 25 years, and we Harbour campus, as we teacher, as the class are excited to be able offer a unique set of sizes will be smaller to offer this opportunity specialised teachers and than normal. to families on the opportunities that other Northern Beaches. schools in our region do This is an opportunity not offer. to be a foundation family for the Northern What spaces are there for students to Beaches campus. We are opening in 2021 learn and play outdoors? for Kindergarten to Year 2 and in 2022 for We are in the last phase of designing our Kindergarten to Year 4. Our 2021 families will exciting adventure playground that will be be the foundation families for the campus onsite at the school and will be approximately and will always be an important part of 590 sqm, plus an additional 360 sqm the school’s history. There is another bonus of undercover play area. The adventure for 2021 families, as we continue to enrol playground will include spaces such as a students into the campus - existing students yarning circle, bamboo walk, mud kitchen, will benefit from personalised learning vertical climbing wall, a scramble net (which from their teacher, as the class sizes will be is a creative climbing space), and log teepees, smaller than normal. What a great start to a all set in a naturalistic environment, and more. child's school life, to have this one-on-one We have a specialist playspace and landscape opportunity to learn. Another key benefit designer putting all of this together. Our is that the BDC Council has supported an designer has recently won an award for her exciting fee structure for the Northern Beaches playspace designs and expertise. campus. This is set at $100 per week, which When will families get to see and is a 25% discounted rate from the Coffs experience the new school? Harbour campus fee structure. Photographic images are on display at If a student is enrolled in the Northern our Woolgoolga pop-up shop at 42 Beach Beaches campus, do they automatically Street and will also be available on our become enrolled in Coffs Harbour for Year website. We are excited to announce that
we will be holding an Open Day on Saturday 21st November 2020 from 9am at the new campus, which is located at 1852 - 1856 Solitary Islands Way, Woolgoolga. This will be a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the exciting campus, and have a personalised tour, ask questions and meet the 2021 teachers and teacher aides, the principal and the head of primary. We are giving fortnightly public announcements and updates on the progress of the Northern Beaches campus and if you would like to receive these updates, please register on the website and stay informed. How can people find out more information and enrol in the new campus? If you would like to meet and chat with me about the campus, please call (02) 6651 5644 to organise a time. I also visit our pop-up shop regularly at 42 Beach Street, Woolgoolga, so you can find me there. Alternatively, call the number and speak to our enrolment team, who can answer any of your questions. Enrolments are now open for Kindy to Year 2 for 2021 and Kindy to Year 4 in 2022. If you are interested in the new campus, or know someone who is, then please contact us via one of these methods: Visit the BDC Woopi pop-up shop at 42 Beach Street, Woolgoolga from 9am 12pm, Monday to Friday. Phone us on (02) 6651 5644 ext 208. Email enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au Register using our online form. View the steps to enrolment on our website. COFFS COAST
focus
71
KEY EMPLOY M E N T K'PANE BAKERY We talk to owner Brett Knight about his thriving business, K'Pane Bakery.
T
ell us about K’Pane Artisan Bakery. We are the creators of exquisite pastries, tarts, danishes, croissants, slices, pies, sausage rolls, and artisan sourdough breads. We make everything from scratch - you won’t find any pre-mixes here! K’Pane commenced in 2009, and I’m proud to claim we now have three retail outlets: Coffs Central, Park Beach Plaza and the Coffs Jetty Shopping Centre, plus a factory and 30 staff. We are clearly doing something right. The Coffs Central store has a French flavour, reflecting many of the classic French treats, like pain au chocolat, brioche and baguettes, as well as breads, pastries, gourmet pies, cakes and tarts, panini, ciabatta, and melt-in-themouth French fruit flans. Mouth-watering cakes can also be ordered for special occasions; just call the day before and pick up a delicious treat! Let’s talk staff. K’Pane is an equal opportunity employer, and we have a very inclusive workforce, employing
72 COFFS COAST
focus
30 staff from diverse backgrounds: including recent arrivals into Australia and people with disability. We have been working very closely with Key Employment, a Disability Employment Service, over the past few years and have sourced various staff through them. These include retail assistants, bread packers, apprentice bakers / pastry chefs and kitchenhands, to name a few. We believe that providing the same opportunity for everyone is essential to having happy and productive staff members, and it makes us proud to see people achieving outcomes they never thought possible. How has Key Employment helped contribute to your success? Easy answer - our staff! Key Employment have been influential in the success of our business, by providing us with dedicated and work-ready staff. Joe from Key Employment has a background in hospitality, which gives him an uncanny ability to identify suitable staff for us. This is a huge advantage, as he understands our business’ needs.
Key Employment consultants also come out and see us regularly. They don’t just put someone in a job; they support us with any issues that arise. As all businesses do, we come across speed humps - and when this happens, Key is here to support us. I guess that is why they are the Key; no pun intended. Key Employment continue excellent support for their clients, with work preparation, workplace adjustments, and some of the initial training. This takes the pressure off us and allows to us to focus on providing the best product around. What would you say to other local employers looking for staff? If you're looking for dedicated and reliable staff, give Key Employment a call and tap into a huge talent pool of people just waiting for an opportunity. They provide excellent wage subsidies, great support, and can assist with work related tools and equipment and uniforms too. So, give Joe a call at Key Employment on (02) 6691 9999, and he will happily talk about all the services they can offer.
focus_contributor.
BUSINESS
ELIJAH
Kearney DARK ARTS COFFEE ROASTERS
MINDS
wt
LINDSAY RUSSELL & HEIDI FIGENSCHAU
from Fluke & Fern Marketing Agency.
W
e sat down with Elijah connect with people on a personal level from Dark Arts Coffee even more so when creating beautiful latte Roasters. As the smell of art. I would practice latte art all the time, so coffee beans wafted in the I could make each cup special. I even made air, we got the story on how he came to a little heart for a girl, and she was chuffed roast, and where he’s headed. Dark Arts - really chuffed. She ended up being my first Coffee Roasters is owned and operated girlfriend out of high school. independently from Dark Arts Brew and How would you best describe your Bar, which is the flagship café of the beans coffee beans? roasted by Elijah. Strong, full-flavoured coffee. As a milk At 26 years old, you already have 10 coffee: strong, chocolate, with a little hint years of experience within the coffee of nuttiness. As a black coffee: raw cocoa, field. You’ve truly become a top with subtle walnutty flavour with hints of professional in the region. How did your citrus. I’m not really following coffee trends. love of coffee roasting My coffee is quite start? strong, as I find it a As a barista, I was lot easier to have a Something as always around coffee strong coffee and simple as making roasters. Then, a journey dial it back. I help my a cup of coffee can be to South America gave clients understand broken down into a me valuable insight that coffee is kind series of chemical into coffee farming. of like a scientific reactions ... But, what really piqued experiment you’re my interest was the conducting each time combination of biology you serve a customer, and chemistry - how something as simple as and consistency is key. making a cup of coffee can be broken down That brings us to our next point ... When into a series of chemical reactions. it comes to cafés that supply your coffee, Perfectly timed to this aforementioned you take the meaning of support to the love of chemistry, this was where you next level. What can you share about had to take a step out to do the next this? step of roasting... I like to build a relationship through I always say a barista is like the modern support - from barista training and business bartender of the olden days. We get to advice to advanced training on coffee
machinery maintenance and everything in between. I try to remove the stress as much as possible. I just want to share my knowledge and make sure that each cup of coffee accentuates the flavours of the beans. Since the Fluke and Fern team is holding this interview, maybe it’s a good time to spill the coffee beans! You’re in the process of getting a new website. How will this help you grow? I’ve been purposely flying under the radar with minimal marketing, so I didn’t expand at a rate I couldn’t handle. That means it’s all been organic growth for the past few years. But people love the coffee, and now feels like the right time to take it to the next level. Plus, I’ve got a good team of experienced people working with my marketing, financials, and so on. With growth, I can achieve one of my main goals, which is to help create long-lasting jobs. Coffs Harbour is a holiday destination, so I have people from all over Australia and even abroad asking me for Dark Arts coffee. For an easier experience, my new website has online ordering, coffee subscriptions, and features all of the places you can find Dark Arts. On top of the new website, I’m also aiming to supply coffee for one café in each village on the Coffs Coast. Dark Arts Coffee Roasters has ground to grow now, and I am ready for it. Visit darkartscoffeeroasters.com.au/focus for a special offer. Thanks Elijah. COFFS COAST
focus
73
focus_interview
Ticli
Blaxland C E L E B R AT E S
80 years
M
en’s trousers sat exceptionally high about three inches above their belly buttons. Their ties were only around six inches long - and just as wide. Smoking was still cool and fedoras, mandatory. Don Bradman was the biggest name in sport, and the latest technical advancement was the refrigerator. It was in this era that Ticli Blaxland was born. Founded by sole practitioner John Isles on the 15th November 1940, it was the first law practice established in the small fishing and banana growing town, existing today. Forged by the flames and steeled by the floods that ravaged the town that year, John Isles went about laying the foundation for the longeststanding law firm in Coffs Harbour.
74 COFFS COAST
focus
IT WAS A SIMPLER TIME Fast forward 80 years, through the advent well-versed in a variety of different types of of photocopiers, fax machines, cassette legal matters. tapes and the fluorescent turquoise carpets The current line up sees Manny Wood of the 1970s, and the 2020 team is building heading wills and estates, James Blaxland on the firm’s solid driving commercial law, foundations. and Antonela Josipovic For many years, focusing on personal Founded by sole the firm’s mantra injury. Practice manager practitioner has been “Service, Alison Worldon keeps John Isles on the 15th Integrity, Trust”, all the moving parts which is as relevant heading in the right November 1940, it was today as ever for the direction. the first law practice to four talented lawyers Manny says: “In 20 be established in the and seven dedicated years’ time, I will be small fishing and support staff who retirement age, but I banana growing town, now carry on the am confident I will still existing today. firm’s traditions. be part of this fantastic The firm’s team, celebrating the continued success 100-year milestone.” and impressive reputation has allowed it to Contributed by Manny Wood, principal grow into an incorporated legal practice, solicitor.
JACK
Getting to know
MANNY
WOO D
D I XO N
CharterNet Coffs Coast Principal, Chartered Accountant
L A W Y E R
W
hat do you do? I am a solicitor and managing director of Ticli Blaxland Lawyers. I am also one of a relatively small number of solicitors who is an accredited specialist in wills and estates. This line of work involves estate planning, the administration of deceased estates, and dealing with estate disputes. Most challenging? I represent people who are going through difficult times. Will disputes can become particularly passionate affairs and stressful for the parties. It is important to educate clients, manage their expectations, and remain objective. As a small business owner, it is also difficult to juggle my work as a solicitor, whilst running a successful business. I believe that marketing is the number one aspect of a business and is akin to “painting the harbour bridge” in terms of keeping the business relevant and maintaining a presence in the public eye. Most rewarding? It is genuinely rewarding to provide comfort to members of the community who need to get their affairs in order, particularly in
circumstances where they may be in poor health. My clients are very grateful when I visit them at home or in hospital, so they can “cross it off their list” and focus on their family and their health. I enjoy being able to take the stress off the shoulders of people who have lost a family member. I can sort out their affairs and allow them to look after themselves and their family. Frankly, it is also pleasing to obtain a substantial amount of money for someone in need, whether this is by finalising complex estates quickly, or concluding court action. As a managing director, I also enjoy mentoring less experienced lawyers and training up the support staff. Maintaining strong and trusting relationships with members of the team is also rewarding. Why Coffs? Really? Have a look around. We are so lucky ... seriously. What else? I am a dutiful husband and father of two girls with drivers licences. I de-stress with tennis, scuba, vinyl records, veggie-patch gardening, jogging and motorcycles. I am also a strict vegan. Thanks Manny. You’re welcome.
S
Update on Government Support Programs
ince March, we’ve had ongoing announcements from our Federal Government, as they navigate the economy through the devastating impacts of COVID. A lot of these programs are constantly evolving, and there’s an air of fatigue as people try to keep up with which are even applicable to them. Here are some of the big-hitters that should be on your radar if you’re a business owner on the Coffs Coast: • JobKeeper is continuing through until March 2021, with reduced payment rates and interim testing required. There are alternative tests available if your business doesn’t satisfy the basic requirements. • JobMaker was announced as part of the 2020 budget and aims to encourage employers to hire younger workers. There are two separate components of the program, Hiring Credits and the Apprenticeship and Trainee Support.
Hiring Credits will be a reimbursement for taking on new employees aged 16 - 35 who were recently receiving JobSeeker, Youth Allowance or a Parenting Payment. Apprenticeship Support is similar to that which has been in place since March; that is a 50% wage subsidy capped at $7,000 per quarter, and will continue for another year until September 2021. • The Loss Carry Back Scheme is available to companies who made a profit (and paid tax) during or since the 2019 financial year. If the company had a loss year since then, it can effectively ask to receive back some or all of the tax previously paid. One of the most common challenges as a business owner is knowing when to ask for help. If you’re looking for an adviser and partner you can trust, contact CharterNet Coffs Coast today on 5616 0100 or via the website charternetcoffscoast.com.au
36 Moonee Street, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 PO Box 90, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 Direct: 0472 636 400 | Office: 5616 0100 CharterNetCoffsCoast.com.au
COFFS COAST
focus
75
focus_contributor.
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
wt
CATH FOWLER
F R O M T H E D I G I TA L L A N E W AY
SAR AH
Armstrong ARMSTRONG ARCHITECTS
C
an you tell us a little bit years on, and I have never looked back! about your career and There are some places around the what led you to start Coffs Coast where people might Armstrong Architects? notice your work. Can you let us know With a love of drawing of some of your favourite projects or and a brain for maths, I think I was always achievements? destined to become an architect. While I I have worked on a number of fantastic grew up on the North projects in Sapphire Coast, I headed to recently, particularly in With sound the University of New Sapphire Beachfront experience in South Wales to study Estate. I'm proud of both commercial and my degree. every home I design, but residential design, I Over the course of I was particularly proud decided to take the my career, I have after two of the projects leap and establish worked in various were awarded the HIA my own business, areas of architecture House of the Year. Armstrong - from hospitality I’ve also worked on a and tourism, through number of commercial Architects. Ten to large commercial projects around the years on, and I have buildings and Coffs Coast too. One of never looked back! residential projects. my favourite commercial My career allowed projects was the Beach me to travel and St Family Practice in work in various places around the world. Woolgoolga, which I designed back in So I spent a number of years working with 2013. This was a landmark building in firms in Sydney, London and Edinburgh. Woolgoolga, and it was great to work But with a young family, it felt like the on a project that would bring improved ideal time for me to return to my home medical facilities to the local community. town of Coffs Harbour. Have you always called the Coffs With sound experience in both Coast home? commercial and residential design, I Yes, I am very fortunate to have grown decided to take the leap and establish my up on the Coffs Coast. I studied in Sydney own business, Armstrong Architects. Ten and spent a number of years abroad in
London and Edinburgh, which was a great experience and helped me to meet and work with some wonderful architects around the world. But, moving back to the Coast to start a family was the best decision I have ever made. You cannot beat the lifestyle of the Coffs Coast - beautiful beaches, warm weather, and a wonderful community what's not to love! It’s wonderful to not just be able to raise my family here, but to also play a part in creating a dream home for others to take full advantage of the Coffs Coast lifestyle. Whether it’s a beach house to take in our wonderful coastline, or a place to relax among the mountains of the Promised Lands in Bellingen, designing residential developments in our stunning part of the world is something I’m so grateful to be able to do. What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? It's all about balance. You can't be a good mum and run a successful business, without allowing separate time for each. If you try to do both at the same time, you'll end up doing neither as well as you could. I would also encourage anyone starting a business to never be afraid to ask for help! Thanks Sarah.
focus_contributor.
MONEY M AT T E R S
wt
BARRY HOCKEY
A CCO U N TA N T S
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER The government has just handed down the Federal Budget for the coming year. The budget is normally handed down around mid-May; however, due to COVID it was deferred until October. With interest rates at an all time low, the focus of the budget is mainly infrastructure spending to create jobs, tax cuts and tax incentives for business investing in new equipment. Here are some of the highlights for personal and business taxpayers.
C
hanges to personal income tax rates The government has announced it will bring forward changes to the personal income tax rates that were due to apply from 1st July 2022, so these changes now apply from 1st July 2020 (i.e. from the 2021 income year). These changes involve: • increasing the upper threshold of the 19% personal income tax bracket from $37,000 to $45,000; and • increasing the upper threshold of the 32.5% personal income tax bracket from $90,000 to $120,000. In addition to this, Low Income Tax Offset (LITO) will be increased from $445 to $700, whilst the current Low and Middle Income Tax Offset (LAMITO) would continue to apply for the 2021 income year (which is available in addition to the LITO for eligible taxpayers). For example, the maximum LAMITO of $1,080 will be available to taxpayers with taxable incomes of between $48,000 and $90,000 in the 2021 income year. Cash flow budgeting and planning should be a key focus for all small business owners in the coming months, to stay ahead of the game. Four key benefits for business The 2020 Federal Budget has provided welcome relief for small to medium-sized businesses, delivering a range of tax breaks to help them weather the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 1. Instant asset write-off This measure will help businesses drive productive capacity, by increasing investment in
fixed assets. Businesses with an annual turnover of less than $5 billion will be able to fully write off the value of eligible assets. The write-off will apply to assets purchased after the night of the Budget and first used or installed before 30th June 2022. It also applies to the cost of improvements made to existing depreciable assets. In addition, businesses with an annual turnover of $50 million or less will be able to write off second-hand assets. 2. Loss carry-back scheme The scheme will help businesses offset losses incurred to 2021 - 22 against profits made in or after 2018 - 2019 . Eligible businesses with an annual turnover of less than $5 billion will be able to apply currentyear tax losses to recover tax paid in prior years. Eligible businesses will receive a tax refund when they lodge their 2020 - 21 and 2021 - 22 tax returns. 3. JobMaker hiring credit Designed to drive jobs growth as the JobKeeper wage subsidy winds down, the JobMaker hiring credit will help subsidise the wages of young employees hired by businesses. Eligible businesses will receive up to $200 per week from the Federal Government for each new young employee they hire over the next 12 months. Like JobKeeper, payments will be passed on to employees. To receive the JobMaker hiring credit, businesses will need to register with the ATO and make claims quarterly, with the first available from February 2021. 4. Tax concessions for small business
expanded Previously these tax concessions were only available to small businesses with an annual turnover of $10 million. A range of tax concessions will be extended to those with an annual turnover of $50 million. The concessions will be available to eligible businesses as follows: • From 1st July 2020 - they can immediately deduct certain start-up expenses and certain prepaid expenditure. • From 1st April 2021 - they will be exempt from the 47% fringe benefits tax on car parking and multiple work-related portable electronic devices provided to employees. • From 1st July 2021 - they will be able to access the simplified trading stock rules, remit pay as you go (PAYG) instalments based on GDPadjusted notional tax, and settle excise duty and excise-equivalent customs duty monthly on eligible goods For more information on any of these measures, please visit the ATO website or speak to your tax professional or financial advisor. Cash flow budgeting and planning should be a key focus for all small business owners in the coming months, to stay ahead of the game. Maintaining contact with your customers is critical, to ensure that payment of debts is either within trade terms or some other acceptable arrangement is made. 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.
Read P L AY l te
WAT C H
WITH NICCI SECCOMBE
David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet Trailer
WATCH
In his 93 years, David Attenborough has visited every continent on the globe, exploring the wild places of our planet and documenting the living world in all its variety and wonder. Now, for the first time, he reflects upon both the defining moments of his lifetime as a naturalist and the devastating changes he has seen. Produced by WWF and award-winning wildlife filmmakers Silverback Films, David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet is a first-hand account of humanity’s impact on nature and a message of hope for future generations.
Challenge Accepted! Celeste Barber
LISTEN
Fat Freddy's Drop: Lock-in New Zealand's Fat Freddy's Drop announced a new album, Lock-in and shared a new reimagined live version of Hope. A new album is based on the live session recorded at the iconic venue Michael Fowler Centre, where Fat Freddy's Drop relocated their BAYS studio and jammed with no audience.
PLAY
78 COFFS COAST
focus
READ
Funny woman, Instagram star and international comedy sensation, Celeste Barber's Challenge Accepted! is a hilarious and outspoken guide to life, unwanted gas and how to rock a sexy scar. It's real, like totally, really real. Challenge Accepted! is part memoir, part comedy routine, part advice manual. Calling out our ridiculous obsession with celebrity Instagram culture, Celeste reveals all, including her thoughts on keeping it real, the secrets to love, friendship, family and marriage (oh hi, #hothusband), and how to deal with life's many challenges, like motherhood, and what to do when your local bottle shop owner can't remember your name.
35th anniversary Super Mario Bros Game and Watch Nintendo is going back to the beginning, with a modern version of its original Game and Watch handheld, that’s been revamped with a full-color LCD. It can play Super Mario Bros, in honour of the franchise’s 35th anniversary. The new handle was announced during a surprise Nintendo Direct showcase. The design is based on the original +Control Pad from 1980, and like the original Game and Watch device, it also functions as a digital clock, which includes 35 “little touches” and Easter eggs to celebrate the milestone anniversary.
COFFS COAST
focus
79
COFFS COAST
BUY
80 COFFS COAST
focus
//
SELL
//
BUILD
COFFS COAST
focus
81
TOP
JASON BURNETT
H
THE EDGE REAL ESTATE
ey Jason. Can you tell us how you came to be a real estate agent? I was lucky
I was lucky enough to fulfil a main goal of mine when I opened my own office 17 years ago. I have watched the business grow over that time, and I am
enough to get a real estate
looking forward to steering the
traineeship after I left school in
business to more growth in the
1997 and have been working in
future.
the industry ever since.
What have been your
Can you tell us about your
greatest highlights and
role?
accolades over the years?
I am the principal and licensee
I have been lucky enough to
at The Edge Real Estate, where
win a few awards throughout
I am responsible for supervising
my career, which is humbling,
and assisting all 34 staff in the
including the inaugural Sunny’s
team. I am also an active agent,
Young Entrepreneur of The
where I also work with buyers
Year in 2013. I also hold some
and sellers on a daily basis.
substantial suburb price records,
What do you think is
which are some great career
important to be successful in
highlights.
this industry?
What do you like to do in
Honesty and integrity are two very important elements to have to be successful in the industry.
your free time outside of real estate? I am a board member
The most successful people I
with the C.ex Group, which
have worked with in the industry
is an amazing organisation to
operate with the utmost honesty
be involved with. I also like
and integrity.
spending time on my property
What are your goals moving
and quality time with my family.
forward with your career?
Thanks Jason.
82 COFFS COAST
focus
CHERIE PARIK
Y
YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERT Y SPECIALIST
our CPS - winner of the 2019 Small Commercial Agency REINSW Awards for Excellence and recognised again this year by the leading industry body for service excellence … Your CPS also remained at the top of the RealCommercial #1 Active Agencies in Coffs Harbour leader board for the second year in a row - for leasing activity in Coffs Harbour. This ranking is based on monthly analysis of agency listings - evidence of our hard work and dedication to results! CPS is building market share through solid results and word of mouth! We give people the confidence to refer their colleagues, family and friends to Your CPS. CPS has a proven track record of integrity, hard work and professionalism - not just glossy brochures that say we do. We always act in our client’s best interest. This was particularly felt by our landlords and tenants during COVID-19 … we actively got out in the business community to help and offer support during uncertain times. The local commercial property market is finding our honest, straight talking approach refreshing.
Your CPS is sending a strong message to the market of professionalism, market leading drive, fun and success, and we are welcoming new clients each week as a result. Your Commercial Property Specialist (Your CPS) is a real estate agency specialising in sales, leasing and property management of commercial office, retail and industrial property. We serve landlords, investors, developers and tenants alike from Grafton through to Port Macquarie. Our reputation is based on good old-fashioned hard work and solid advice for our clients … Cherie, owner of Your CPS, has a honours degree in property economics, and 20 years' commercial real estate experience - managing commercial real estate all over the country for one of Australia’s largest real estate investors, and she brings all of that knowledge and work experience here to benefit her team and clients on the Coffs Coast … If you have not had a chance to meet the team from Your CPS and experience the difference yourself yet - give us a call! Talk soon … (02) 5606 2444.
TOP
AMANDA LANGLANDS
H
MCGR ATH ESTATE AGENTS
ey Amanda. Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? It's not a glamorous story of always wanting to be in real estate. I had recently had my second child and finalised a business and was looking to get back into the workforce. One of my friends told me her dad was looking for a receptionist in real estate, and she put in a good word for me. As it turns out, I ended up being pretty good at it and now, 20 years later, I am still loving it. Can you tell us about your role? Listing and selling real estate means more to me than just performing my work role. It really is helping people move from one stage of their lives to the next. It can be a very stressful time in people’s lives, and I love helping make the process that bit easier. What do you think is important to be successful in this industry? Genuinely caring about the people you represent.
What are your goals moving forward with your career? I have spent years setting big goals; however, I am just really comfortable doing my job well and enjoying the extra time I have with my clients and family now I am no longer a business owner. What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years? I have had many great successes and received multiple awards for real estate performance; however, my greatest highlights are the opportunities to give back to the community through fundraising, helping organisations such as LIVIN mental health awareness, Warrina women's and children's refuge, women fleeing domestic violence, Wesley Mission, and Coffs Harbour Boardriders. What do you like to do in your free time outside of real estate? I love spending time with my family, and any time I get outside of work is focused on them and also doing my sports. Thanks Amanda.
CHRIS HINES
H
UNREALESTATE
ey Chris. Can you tell us how you came to be a real estate agent? It was totally unplanned. I had just been medically discharged from the NSW Police, and my wife, Kerry was already in real estate, so I basically just started helping her in my spare time. I had a lot of comparable skills that crossed over, having been a detective sergeant, as well as a police negotiator, so it ended up being a pretty good fit. After all ... it’s all about communicating with people. Can you tell us about your role? I see it being pretty much an advisory role. Selling, and indeed buying a home can be a huge stressor for some people and is generally the largest purchase or sale people make. In many ways, our job is to guide them through the process and lend our expertise in preparation, marketing and negotiation where needed. Now my role has changed in many ways, to include a training and mentoring role for my team, as well as being a spokesperson for the industry to media outlets.
What do you think is important to be successful in this business? Simple, really; just be authentic. People just want to deal with a real (or unreal) person whom they believe has the skill set and abilities to get them the best result. But above all, they want someone they believe has "their" best interests at heart. What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years? One thing I have always been proud of is the way Unrealestate has always punched well above its weight (a bit like me, really). We have won some pretty fantastic awards over the years, locally and statewide - the Sunny for Best New Business not long after we opened, Best Small Business Sunny, and Small Agency of the Year for NSW at the Real Estate Institute of NSW's Awards for Excellence. I also think the way my team supported me and continued to serve our clients throughout my wife Kerry's, who was a huge part of our success, fight with cancer and eventual passing, is something I will always be immensely proud of. Thanks Chris. COFFS COAST
focus
83
TOP
TAMMY BLUNDELL
C
EXCEL PROPERT Y AGENCY
an you tell us how you came to be a real estate agent? Well, it was a midlife career change for me. I had been a hairdresser for 25 years prior to joining the real estate world. I have always loved houses; my dad was a builder. And all those years in hairdressing taught me how to communicate with people. The two together are a perfect match for real estate. Can you tell us about your role? I work in the sales division. Our office has a large successful property management section, which has been running for 15 years, and the sales division was launched six years ago. Being a smaller independent office makes it more personal, which suits me to a tee! What do you think is important to be successful in this industry? Listening to people, to really hear what they are saying. Someone once told me, “You have two ears and one mouth, so listen twice as much as you
84 COFFS COAST
focus
speak”. You also need to know what you’re talking about when you do speak. Being able to connect with people is very important, and showing them they can trust you with their biggest investment is critical. What are your goals moving forward with your career? I would like to change the way people think about real estate agents. Unfortunately, over the years we have been given a bad name. I would like to show there are indeed agents who put people first, that we care, have empathy and understanding ... That we will go above and beyond to make your real estate journey one to remember, for all the right reasons. What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years? I’ve listed and sold many great properties, but my greatest highlights take place in our office. I work with the most amazing team of women! They are funny and supportive, and they are family. My accolade is my workplace - best award ever!
SHANE HESSENBERGER
H
HARCOURTS REAL ESTATE AGENCY
ey Shane. Can you tell us how you came to be a real estate agent? Moving to the Coffs Coast in 2010 after working in the NSW Police Force, Barry Booth gave me an opportunity to work for his agency, which was the standout No.1 agency on the Coffs Coast. Can you tell us about your role? I'm the business owner of Harcourts Real Estate Agency Coffs Harbour with my partner, Donna Tozer, covering all facets of real estate. What do you think is important to be successful in this industry? 1. The ability to listen and relate to people, having conversations about life in general with them and, when needed, provide unbiased business advice on their real estate needs. 2. The level of accessibility is formed over time and works both ways in life, so when you as an agent are able to contact by whatever means a vendor, buyer, tenant or landlord, you know there will be an understanding about an openness to a respectful conversation. What are your goals moving
forward with your career? As an agency we are currently consulting on some prime lifestyle sites with developers in Park Beach and the Jetty - it will be awesome to see the finished product. The Pearl on Prince, a 40-apartment complex with pool, will be released in due course. What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years? Real estate work on the Coffs Coast has created for me a strong base of personal friendships in the past 10 years. It’s probably the greatest highlight to run into people with mutual respect, even for a quick chat. There have been various awards of note; however, these have been achieved only by treating other people rightfully. What do you like to do in your free time outside of real estate? When time out arrives, I enjoy spending time with Donna, my partner, relaxing at home and trying out different eateries on the Coffs Coast. I really enjoy watching Formula One and playing the occasional game of golf.
TOP
NATHAN DOBBS
H
NOL AN PARTNERS
ey Nathan. Can you tell us how you came to be a real estate agent? Real estate was something I’d always had an interest in, and one day I heard an ad on the radio about a sales position, back when I lived in Taree. Long story short, I applied for the position, got it, and after 12 months made the move to Coffs Harbour. The rest is history. Can you tell us about your role? I’m in residential sales and work from our Coffs Harbour office. I specialise in sales from Coffs Harbour to Red Rock and have a strong track record on the northern beaches and especially rural residential property sales. What do you think is important to be successful in this industry? Consistency is key in this role and making sure you provide the best service for your clients. The entire team at Nolan Partners and I want to make sure everyone we deal with has a memorable experience. With many repeat and referral clients myself, I feel this is a good sign I am providing this service. What are your goals moving
forward with your career? I would like to become a partner within the business in the future and continue to work with a business that’s at the forefront of customer service, marketing and progression. What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years? I still regard moving to Coffs Harbour with my now wife, Vanessa and not really knowing anyone was one of the greatest. I say this, because this meant I had to work hard to get to where I am today and be able to represent the amazing properties and work with the wonderful clients that I do. What do you like to do in your free time outside of real estate? Ideally, time off would involve family time with my wife, Vanessa, son Lennox and dog Rufus. I’m a big fan of the beach and the ocean and love to get out into the waves on my stand-up paddle board, whenever I get the chance. We are certainly fortunate to live where we do, with so many amazing places to explore, all right at our doorstep.
NICOLE CARDOW
H
CARDOW WOOLGOOLGA
ey Nicole. Can you tell negotiation skills are probably the us how you came to be most important parts of my job a real estate agent? and play the biggest role in my I’ve been a real success. estate agent for almost 30 years. What are your goals moving Real estate is in the blood, with forward with your career? my father having over 50 very After the success of the Coffs successful office, it has years' given me more experience motivation and Honesty, himself. drive to add integrity, Can you tell another two and great us about your offices over the negotiation role? next five years. skills are I’m a What do you like principal owner to do in your free probably the of both Cardow time outside of most important and Partners real estate? parts of my job Woolgoolga I enjoy time with and play the and Coffs my two girls, my biggest role in Harbour. I partner, family my success. oversee the and friends. I love running of both socialising, dinners businesses, and out, cooking for I'm also a sales consultant. The friends and family at home and, Woolgoolga office is my “baby”, of course, shopping. Coffee with so to speak, and in December this my friends at Riviera Café on a year will have been operating for Sunday happens almost every 20 years. week. I like bike riding, walking What do you think is important around Woolgoolga headland and to be successful in this industry? all the beautiful beaches around Honesty, integrity, and great our area.
86 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
87
88 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
89
WE GET RESULTS
Our professional team is with you the entire way, achieving the best outcome for you is our motivation
Shane Hessenberger 0405 313 272 Licensed Real Estate Agent & Auctioneer
Donna Tozer 0431 006 183 Sales Consultant
Call us today for a free appraisal in sales or property management SOLD
SOLD
20 Macauleys Headland Rd, Coffs Harbour
23 Island Rd, Sapphire Beach
View our properties online
www.coffsharbour.harcourts.com.au
Suite 1–15 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour Jetty 02 6600 1688
90 COFFS COAST
focus
focus_contributor.
REAL
E S TAT E w t AMANDA LANGLANDS F R O M M C G R AT H
10/6 Solitary Islands Way S A P P H I R E
B E A C H
Designed with impressive attention to detail, this apartment creates a blend of outdoor and indoor lifestyle, with large sliding doors connecting the living and outdoor entertainment ... Raked ceilings, open plan, and large living spaces designed for comfort. 4 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | 2 CAR SPACES • Prime beachside location with direct beach access • Clerestory windows capturing the natural light • Four king-sized bedrooms, include built-in robes • Two of the upstairs bedrooms open to the spacious balcony • 33-jet Mt Forbes hydrotherapy swim spa • Caesarstone island bench, creating a spacious workspace • Master bedroom with direct access to entertainment area • Ensuite spa bath and large walk-in robe • Multiple alfresco living areas • Remote control double lock-up garage • This property is available for private inspections during COVID-19 Price - $799,000
91 COFFS COAST
focus
focus_interview
Dean
B RI D GMAN
H
ASHTON DESIGNS
ey Dean. Where did Ashton Designs come about? Ashton Designs all started at my home in Bucca, just out in the shed. Initially it was a hobby just something I enjoyed doing. I have always loved working with timber, building furniture and creating new designs, so I began creating pieces for my home, family and friends. The hobby became a passion, and it has just felt like a natural flow on from there. It has since evolved into its own entity, with all our pieces now being carefully created in the factory at my other business - Sawtell Kitchen Centre. Tell us about the story behind the name "Ashton Designs"? The name Ashton Designs draws its inspiration from my late grandfather, Ashton "Ray" Oliver. My grandfather’s passion for designing and creating custom furniture was passed down to me from a young age, as he also used to create furniture for himself and family, from his home in Coffs Harbour. I have many pieces of his beautifully crafted furniture sitting in prime position in my place today. Ray was a prominent member of the Coffs community and was the postmaster for many years. Can you tell us about what the creative process of design is like for you? The design process is never as simple as following a procedure. Many of my ideas, or even solutions to a problem, will come to me in
Dean Bridgman’s passion for creating beautiful, custom furniture was passed on from his grandfather and, after starting out making pieces for his friends and family, Dean has now turned his passion into his business, naming it "Ashton Designs" after his grandfather.
the middle of the night, and I will have to get take some inspiration from artists. By artists, I up and get them onto paper. Some of the best don’t necessarily mean just furniture makers, ideas come to you at the most random times but also people from many different walks of it’s brilliant; it’s what drives the passion for what life - there are so many brilliant minds out there. we do. Nature is often a great Customers also come source of inspiration to us with multiple to me; there is always Many of my ideas, concepts that require a beauty in nature and or even solutions totally different creative with most of our to a problem, will come process, which we furniture being made to me in the middle of then play around with from timber, it makes the night, and I will and come up with a sense to stop and take a unique design to suit look around for ideas. have to get up and get their needs and desires. Do you currently have them onto paper. The creative process is a favourite piece? one of the many joys I have a new favourite in creating furniture - a piece every week! The magnificent complexity of exciting challenges. most recent stand out favourite was a '60s To see those processes combine and evolve into inspired TV unit created by one of my team a final product is a wonderful moment in itself. members; we worked together, creating such Being locally made, where do you source an amazing piece. It has now been delivered your materials from? to its forever home in Manly, NSW. Sad to see We always aim to use local timber suppliers it go, but I know there will be others to create where possible, as they also often source and new designs to look forward to. their timber from local growers. Being locals Do you have any tips for people when ourselves, it is extremely important for us to they’re buying furniture? support the people who live and work in the It’s pretty simple; buy local and support a area. growing industry. I have always believed that Where do you draw inspiration from? the poor man pays twice, especially when There are so many areas I gather inspiration it comes to buying furniture. Our pieces are from. My friends and family inspire me to designed specially for you to last a lifetime and achieve the best possible result. As for design, bring many years of enjoyment. I often look at the industry leaders, and I also Thanks Dean. COFFS COAST
focus
92
focus_interview
W
Coffs Solar Energy has installed over 3,000 solar energy systems on the Coffs Coast and has a reputation for great customer service, good value solar pricing, and a high degree of product knowledge. We caught up with Managing Director Mark McClurg, to find out more ...
hen and why did you start your business? Our business was established on 18th January 2010. At the time, solar PV (solar energy) was only just starting to emerge as a new technology that was both affordable (with subsidies) and which could make a massive dent in your power bill. What services do you provide? We do residential and commercial solar sales, and inspection, repair and servicing of existing solar PV systems. What is the best thing about your job? Knowing that my company has been behind 3,000-odd solar installations on the Coffs Coast since 2010. What separates your business from the competition? Unlike the majority of solar retail and installation It’s all about companies, we only operate work/life on the Coffs Coast. We do this for one fundamental balance. We live on reason. If we only trade the Coffs Coast We have very flexible within a managed because we love working arrangements serviceable area, then we the Coffs Coast, provided to our staff and in can offer clients within that and we work to live, return, our staff are happy serviceable area a higher not live to work. and motivated. quality of care. If a client What's been the best has a problem, they get a business advice you've punctual remedy from us received? measured in days, not weeks or months. Avoid taking any risk, and always seek to How has this year been for your business? reduce risk. As such, we do not buy solar For us, it's all about managed growth. products directly from overseas companies. 2020 has been very kind to us, considering All products we supply are sourced through the economic impacts of the COVID-19 virus. authorised solar distributors in Australia. Many Demand for our goods and services has solar companies increase their profit by buying exceeded expectations and thus, we have had direct and yes, we could do this, to compete to grow our installation capabilities, whilst with these national solar companies who retaining our same level of service. There have advertise bargain basement solar packages been challenges with recruitment brought online. But, the risk is too high for both us as a about by travel restrictions; hence, we have company and our clients. We are here for the focused a lot on professional development and long term. training to meet our recruitment needs. Share some expert advice with our How do you keep your team motivated? readers. It’s all about work/life balance. We live on As above, consumers can avoid risk. (1) Don’t the Coffs Coast because we love the Coffs believe fancy marketing campaigns. Research Coast, and we work to live, not live to work.
Solar E NE RGY solar companies’ capabilities, by looking at real reviews - not ones posted on a company’s website. Look on platforms like Google, Facebook, and independent online review companies. (2) Do not entertain a national solar company. My honest opinion is that their business model is about purposeful liquidation, after they have built up sufficient exposure to any liability and/or they see a downturn in business. In early 2019, there were already 600,000 orphaned solar systems in Australia. These are solar systems that either have a limited warranty, or no warranty path. (3) Buy local. You are helping the local economy, and you are eliminating your own risk. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? In my opinion, the Coffs Coast is the best regional city in NSW. We have the perfect climate and the most beautiful coastline to match. We can travel easily up and down the coast, and traffic is very manageable. There is so much to explore and see. Thanks Mark. COFFS COAST
focus
93
focus_interview
ROD V ES T EY RV EARTHMOVING
Local legend Rod Vestey has been in the earthmoving industry for over twenty years. We spoke with Rod, to find out more about his business ...
94 COFFS COAST
focus
H
ey Rod. Give us a brief description of a typical day on the job ... It can be anything from digging a new pool excavation, to redesigning front and back yards, preparing a block for a new home/site cut, to digging trenches/ footings. The beauty of what I do is that every day is different - different people, different terrain, and different machines. How long have you been an earth mover? I’ve been in I realised early the earthmoving on I was good earthworks. How life industry for around has changed - having at what I did, getting 20 years. I started a job I love, and then safety awards and out working on up with kids all night, recognition from the highways as a with the occasional peers and labourer, testing weekend surf. supervisors, for my water quality, What services do dedication and dealing with you provide? attention to detail. environmental No job is too big or officers, working my too small. Anything way to operating from new home all size excavators, dozers, graders, then site excavations, redesigning front and on to supervising 100 million dollar civil back yards, retaining walls/sandstone projects. I realised early on I was good block installation, clearing acreages, at what I did, getting safety awards and grading roads and driveways and pool recognition from peers and supervisors, excavations. Pretty much anything on for my dedication and attention to an earth moving machine I can do and detail, which has set me up perfectly to on the rare occasion if I can’t, I know go out on my own and start my own someone who can. company. Tell us about some of the projects How did you get into being an earth you have been working on/worked mover? on. I first left school and did my The current job I am working on is an apprenticeship as a pastry chef, as being acreage property in Boambee, where I a local of the Coffs Coast I loved to surf. redesigned their front yard and driveway I thought the best way to do that was because of drainage issues. I also dug to work all night, so I could surf all day. out their dam, created retaining walls After eight years, I threw in the oven with trees that we felled, and created mitts and got a start working in civil separate entertaining areas - even
a split-level Japanese garden. It was great to see the transformation of this property and how happy the owners were when it was complete. You have a family too. How do you juggle the work/life balance? It’s definitely tricky, juggling work and family life. My wife has her own business as well, so it's almost like tag team parenting at the moment, as we have a 10-month-old teething baby Rocket and a three and a half year old girl, Peyton. When you do something you enjoy at work, it makes home life a lot easier. What's your favourite part of the job? Definitely my favourite part of the job is seeing the finished project, as well as how stoked the client is when the work is complete. How can we get in touch? You can check out some of my work on Facebook or Instagram at #RVEarthmoving and can get in touch by emailing rvearthmoving@bigpond. com or call 0432 677 502. I can come out and give you a free estimate. Thanks Rod.
COFFS COAST
focus
95
STAT E O F
PLAY wt
COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH
I
had intended to devote this column to the newly released Jetty Foreshores draft concept plan, but since then, another (somewhat related) issue has raised its head. The plight of a young family has been brought to my attention. A young mum with young children was evicted from her rental property and was struggling to find any rental accommodation in the Coffs Harbour area. The second verse of our National Anthem speaks of “boundless plains to share” but for some reason, Australia’s housing situation is in crisis - especially along the coast. We simply aren’t building homes quickly enough to meet the demand. Large regional cities like Coffs Harbour feel this more than most. People are drawn to our beaches, our lifestyle, and to the opportunities that Coffs presents. However, this growth puts further pressure on our existing housing market. Housing affordability, homelessness, and social problems all feed into each other, creating a perfect storm of issues that can swallow families whole. So what is the solution? One of the
problems I have discovered in the first 18 away. This has meant that only the loudest months in this role is that it is impossible and most extreme voices remain. to find consensus on many things. When You might now be asking yourself you combine this with an overly complex what all this has to do with the young planning system, it means that new family from the beginning of the column. homes aren’t being Respectful and sensible built fast enough to conversations about There are some keep up with the new housing estates who say we demand. and new buildings are should build up and There are some non-existent. If we let build apartment who say we should the extremes dominate blocks, and some who build up and build the discussions, we apartment blocks, are bound to keep will protest (literally) and some who will repeating the mistakes that approach. protest (literally) that of the past, and approach. nothing will change. There are some who say we need to We need sensible development in Coffs build new homes on the edges of town Harbour, to allow our city to grow and so children can have a back yard, and to help people like those I’ve mentioned some who will protest (again, literally) that above find affordable homes for their approach. families, to create jobs and prosperity, and It’ll make you go grey(!) thinking about to do so with consideration of our natural it. environment. One of the advantages of living in a There was much discussion about the democratic society is that our voices are draft concept plan for the Jetty Foreshores heard. But there is ample evidence that when it was released. I just hope we don’t our public discourse has deteriorated allow the extremes to dominate when especially on social media - to the point it comes to the reinvigoration of this that most sensible people are staying right important precinct. COFFS COAST
focus
96
focus_interview
Black Dog P LU MBI NG
Dave Young is a local business owner who brings his experience of plumbing to the Coffs Coast and is also passionate about bathroom renovations. We sat down and had a chat...
W
hen and why did you start your business? I started Black Dog Plumbing three years ago now, and running my own business was something I have always wanted to do. With over 17 years' experience in the plumbing and bathroom renovation industry, I felt like I had a wealth of knowledge and expertise to offer my current and future clients in the Coffs Coast area. What services do you provide? We provide all types of plumbing, drainage and gas services, but our main focus and absolute passion is specialising in quality bathroom renovations, from planning and demolition to fitout and completion. What is the best thing about your job? Feeling a sense of accomplishment with a finished bathroom renovation, and the reactions we get from our happy and satisfied customers. We love seeing clients amazed with what we can achieve when our ideas, planning and vision all come together. Our homes are special places to us all, so to help someone achieve a vision they have for their home is something that never ceases to make us happy. What makes your business stand out? At Black Dog Plumbing we have an extremely
high level of workmanship and pride ourselves offer creative feedback, and then make our on customer satisfaction. We believe we are the ideas a reality. best choice for people in the Coffs Coast area What makes your bathroom renovations looking to renovate their bathrooms, no matter stand out? the job. It is the quality of workmanship and attention Another avenue we pride ourselves on is to detail that really makes our bathrooms stand our friendly and open tradesmen and staff. out. All the little things most people don't think We strive to be as about are what really welcoming and easy to bring your new bathroom talk to as possible. We together. From the initial Our homes know renovations can quote to the finished are special be stressful and worrying bathroom, we will places to us all, so at times, and this communicate and work to help someone aspect of our business with you to create your achieve a vision helps keep the lines of perfect dream bathroom. they have for their communication open Share some expert home is something during the entire process. advice with our that never ceases to What plans do you readers. make us happy. have for 2020/2021? Many people clean The growth we have their showers with bleach. experienced from the We highly advise against word of mouth of our happy clients has been this, as the bleach does not kill mould; it actually astounding, so we are looking to expand over affects the mould resistance of your silicone. the next year with a few new local employees, What do you enjoy most about working on as our client base has gone from strength to the Coffs Coast? strength. The Coffs Coast is a great place to work and How do you keep your team motivated? live. Mostly I love how the small businesses and We believe having a voice and being listened local community all support each other and the to is very important - sharing ideas, focusing sense of belonging you get in such a beautiful on personal and professional growth, and part of the world. There’s really no place like it. supporting each other. We work together to Thanks Dave. COFFS COAST
focus
97
BLUE RIBBON H O M E S Blue Ribbon Homes is a locally owned company that has been building homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 31 years. We are proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our clients, built with hard work and dedication. • Design flexibility - offering unique custom-designed homes that will cost you no more than building from our standard plans. You may already have
plans, or even a sketch - either way, we are more than happy to provide you with a quote and help develop your ideas. • Free site inspection pre-purchase site inspection of your land, giving you the right advice to help with your building options. • Stress free - our experience and skills will give you the confidence to relax and enjoy the exciting experience of building your new dream home!
COFFS COAST
focus
98
COFFS COAST
focus
99
focus_interview
CARPET COURT NATIONAL TILES Fiona and Simon McCredie
The hardworking team at Coffs Harbour Carpet Court are well known in the area as being people YOU CAN REALLY COUNT ON WHEN IT COMES TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT FLOORING - AT THE RIGHT PRICE - FOR YOUR HOME OR RETAIL SPACE. We sat down with Simon and Fiona McCredie, to find out more ...
H
ow and when did the Carpet Court story begin? Simon and I acquired the wellestablished Carpet Court franchise in December 2005. We have continued to grow in many ways and are very proud to be a part of the growing network of 211 stores in Australia across all states and territories. As Australia's largest retail floor covering and window furnishing specialist, Carpet Court has long had a reputation for expertise and advice based on superior product knowledge. In 2017 we said hello to National Tiles! We were approached by National Tiles to join their franchise group as only the second store in NSW at the time (soon we will be one 100 COFFS COAST
focus
of four). National Tiles was started in 1979 in Geelong, Victoria by the Walker family. I am sure you have all heard the voice of Frank Walker from National Tiles on the radio! National Tiles has 24 company owned stores and 12 franchised stores across VIC/QLD/NSW/ SA supported by distribution centres in VIC/ QLD/NSW. National Tiles are expanding into metro NSW and focus heavily on design centres within builder showrooms in metro areas. We believe combining the two franchises was a great opportunity to provide our customers with all their flooring needs in one place. Choosing the right flooring is an important decision and one that you will live with for years. Your floor is the very foundation of your interior space and often sets the tone for how the room feels. Creating the perfect space starts with the floor!
Most importantly, they coordinate installations, pickups and deliveries. They work very closely with our customers and site foreman on building sites, to ensure your flooring installation runs smoothly.
Who makes up your team, and what are their roles? Simon and I are very grateful to have such an amazing team in our business. When you walk into our showroom, you are met by one of our smiling sales team (Brooke, Ben, Scott, Jaimi, Michelle and Chantelle). They have a wealth of experience and knowledge but most importantly, passion and know how to help you find “your” floor, by asking all the right questions. What suits your lifestyle? How much foot traffic is there? Which styles and colours would complement your décor? How much care will the flooring need? They love the challenge of working within your budget, to find the best solution for you. They work closely with builders in both residential and commercial developments. Carpet Court offers a free measure and quote by Scott, Oliver and Simon visiting your home
and again, offering you professional, honest advice on your options with flooring and window furnishing. They have many years of experience in the building and flooring industry. We utilise technology, with plans drawn on iPad or iPhone, which can be uploaded back to the store very quickly for estimation. Our support team are Kylani, Alaina and Summer, who take care of the ordering of product and arrival. Most importantly, they coordinate installations, pickups and deliveries. They work very closely with our customers and site foreman on building sites, to ensure your flooring installation runs smoothly. We realise that building and renovating can be stressful, and we will work hard to make it easy. Sadly, Alaina will be leaving us soon to head to Western Australia, and we wish her and her family all the very best.
Our friendly warehouse and delivery team are Jake and Rick. They focus on getting the stock in and the orders ready to be installed, picked up or delivered as quickly as possible. More about our delivery service a bit further on ... We are fortunate to have a number of longterm professional, experienced contractors in our Carpet Court installation team. Their workmanship is excellent in all areas of flooring, from carpet, vinyl (both residential and commercial), floating floors and window furnishings. We have two second year apprentices learning the trade of flooring technology. The install team truly ensures your dream home does become a reality, and our in store team loves seeing the photos of your new home! Finally, I take care of the financial and necessary business matters. Albeit, a number of us are biologically related, we do feel like our workplace is a big happy family. Simon and I truly appreciate the journey we are enjoying with such a great group of people. >>> COFFS COAST
focus
101
CARPET COURT NATIONAL TILES
What products and services do you provide? Carpet Court offers all things flooring carpets, vinyls, floating floors (timber, laminate and hybrid) and rugs - together with window furnishings (blinds, shutters and awnings). We offer installation services of these products. DREAM IT. STYLE IT. LIVE IT. We have comfort in knowing that our Carpet Court suppliers have been rigorously scrutinised by our national support team, with warranties, testing and certification all in place. 102 COFFS COAST
focus
gloss rectified tile at $9.85 sqm, or our beautiful subway tiles at $24.95 sqm. Some exciting new technological advancements will be unveiled in 2021 for estimation and visualisation of your designs. We welcome you to browse our showroom at leisure and design your space with assistance by our team as you need. Appointments aren’t necessary, but are recommended if you are building with one of the local building companies, to ensure the appropriate team National Tiles offer member is available all your tiling needs with your details and plans. for your bathrooms, Tell us about some living/family rooms, of your favourite external areas, kitchens National Tiles offer projects you have from not only the tiles, all your tiling needs been involved with. but to the trade products for your bathrooms, Our team absolutely living/family rooms, you or your tiler may need loves helping our external areas, for installation. customers build their kitchens from not dream homes and only the tiles, but to are very fortunate to the trade products work with so many of you or your tiler the local building companies to make those may need for installation. We have some dreams come true. You can see our products at beautiful tiles to choose from, at a reasonable the new display homes for Blue Ribbon Homes, price. You can’t go past our 300 x 600 white
focus_interview
We’re excited to announce our new partnership with Qantas Frequent Flyer and Qantas Business Rewards, giving you even more ways to earn Qantas Points.
Hopwood Homes and Adenbrook Homes at the Sawtell Commons Estate. We are excited to be working on some new display homes under construction now. We were very excited to complete the flooring for the Coffs Harbour International Stadium, Marian Grove project, Coffs Coast Mazda/Honda, RFBI and a number of refurbishments in hotels and motels in the area. We are underway with a number of other exciting commercial projects on the Coffs Coast. It is very exciting to see the Coffs Coast expanding and progressing. What part of the business are you most proud of? We are extremely proud of our team and the high level of customer service they provide to our valued customers. In life we believe happiness and success rely on positive relationships.
How important is customer service in your industry? Absolutely paramount! We strive to provide the best customer service possible and hope that every interaction with our team leaves you feeling good and with a smile. We wish to thank our wonderful customers over the years and look forward to working with you on your next build, refurbishment or renovation. Thank you to the building companies we have the honour of working alongside in many developments on the Coffs Coast. We value our affiliation enormously! What are we focusing on? We have invested in a new truck and trailer (designed and supplied by Midcoast Trucks) and a forklift to provide deliveries of goods, especially tiles to site. Tiles are heavy, can easily break and are very tricky to freight. Let’s work smarter, not harder, and have the machinery do the work.
We are offering free delivery on all orders over $500 in the postcode areas of 2450, 2452, 2453, 2454 and 2456, valid until 31st January 2021 (*excludes our Price Bomb ranges.) Carpet Court is a proud sponsor of The Block. Some of our beautiful flooring and window furnishings (we love the Veri Shades®) have been included in these amazing homes. We are offering 10% saving on all window furnishing orders by 31st January 2021. Please quote the code FOCUS2021 with your sales representative, to take advantage of both offers. Carpet Court is excited to announce our new partnership with Qantas Frequent Flyer and Qantas Business Rewards, giving you even more ways to earn Qantas Points (excludes window furnishings and tiles). How can we get in touch? Our showroom is open 9 - 5 weekdays and 9 - 2 Saturday. Our websites: carpetcourt.com.au and nationatiles.com.au are both open 24/7. We are contactable by phone: (02) 6652 4866 or email: sales@coffscarpetcourt.com.au COFFS COAST
focus
103
104 COFFS COAST
focus
NEW! EARN QANTAS POINTS
The newest way to earn Qantas Points is right under your feet. 1 POINT PER $1 SPENT IN STORE & ONLINE* *EXCLUDES WINDOW FURNISHINGS AND TILES.
COFFS HARBOUR CARPET COURT
1/22 Keona Circuit Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 P 6652 4866 *You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn Qantas Points. Members will earn 1 Qantas Point per $1 spent on retail flooring products (excluding tiles and window furnishings) purchased from Coffs Harbour Carpet Court or online. Full terms and conditions available at www.carpetcourt.com.au/qantas-frequent-flyer COFFS COAST
focus
105
C &R
PROJECT MANAGEMENT PTY LTD
ject management & building your pro need l l a r s Fo
0407 379 740
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
106 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
107
108 COFFS COAST
focus
Display Home Coming Soon! Moonee Beach Estate Carpet & flooring supplied by
Your trusted local builder.
G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour. 6691 3509
171 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour
Fischer Build Pty Ltd t/a G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour. Builders Licence: 191313C.
COFFS COAST
focus
109
New Display
OPEN NOW C O A S TA L B O H E M I A N I N S P I R E D
SAWTELL COMMONS 1 ANGLER COURT, BONVILLE NSW 2450 02 6653 6942 | coffs.display@adenbrook.com.au NSW Builders Lic. No 215 259 C | ABN: 65 131 853 088
110 COFFS COAST
focus
AFRAID TO RUN YOUR AFRAID AFRAID TO TO RUN RUN YOUR YOUR AIR-CON THIS SUMMER?
AIR-CON AIR-CON THIS THIS SUMMER? SUMMER? Our Solar Energy System Provides FREE Electricity
Our Our Solar Solar Energy Energy System System Provides Provides FREE FREE Electricity Electricity
LIMITED OFFER CALL OUR LOCAL REP ROB TODAY 0429 536 077 LIMITED LIMITED OFFER OFFER CALL CALL OUR OUR LOCAL LOCAL REP REP ROB ROB TODAY TODAY 0429 0429 536 536 077 077
www.solarbright.com.au www.solarbright.com.au Ph 1300 852 622 Ph Ph 1300 1300 852 852 622 622 www.solarbright.com.au *Limited *Limited time only. time Must only. beMust installed be installed in 2020, inSTCs 2020, will STCs be reduced will reduced for 2021 for installs. 2021installs. installs. Prices for Maxfor Power Max Power on standard onon standard install. STC's install. toSTC's beSTC's assigned to be Energy to Energy Saving Saving *Limited time only. Must be installed in 2020, STCs will bebe reduced for 2021 Prices for Maxproducts Powerproducts products standard install. to assigned betoassigned to Energy Saving Products Products T/A SolarBright. T/A SolarBright. Travel charges Travel charges maymay apply may outside apply outside of Coffs CoffsHarbour Harbour area. LIC area. 299114C LIC 299114C Products T/A SolarBright. Travel charges apply outside ofofHarbour Coffs area. LIC 299114C
TA5659625
TA5659625
• • ENERGY SAVING PRODUCTS • ENERGY ENERGY SAVING SAVING PRODUCTS PRODUCTS• The • The System System WillWill PayPay ForFor Itself Itself
TA5659625
• Huge 6.6kW Max Power System •• Just $3950 after $500 Cash Back* Huge Huge 6.6kW 6.6kW Max Max Power Power System System * * •• Aussie Warranties on System Just Just $3950 $3950 after after $500 $500 Cash Cash Back Back • The System WillonPay For Itself Aussie Aussie Warranties Warranties on System System
come to
MARIAN GROVE
Sawtell Catholic Care’s Marian Grove is more than a retirement village it’s a local identity. For over twenty-five years, this vibrant, inclusive community of Christian care has grown and flourished, evolving as the needs of our resident population change.
112 COFFS COAST
focus
W
hen we asked our residents what they love about living in Marian Grove, responses ranged from the on-site facilities, the hairdresser, café and chapel to the beautiful award-winning gardens and bushland walks, transport for those who need assistance, and regular shopping bus trips. Our location also grabbed quite a few votes. “You’re close to everything you could want - the shops, the cafés, the beach, the medical centres - but you have this lovely peaceful, secure place right in the middle of it all to go home to.” However, the top response was the same as it has been for twenty-five years. “The people. You start off as neighbours and end up as good friends. It makes you feel secure knowing you have others around you who care about your welfare “and, “The community. We have so many wonderful people who volunteer their skills and abilities
to run activities and classes, bus trips and concerts. We even have our own library! There’s always something to do and someone to do it with.” So if you’re thinking about the future and looking for somewhere to put down roots in a thriving, established community, why not “Come to Marian Grove?” We have brand new apartments available in our New Release and completely refurbished units becoming available in the next few months in the village centre. Have a look through our website at www. scca.net.au or give us a call on (02) 6653 1241. We’d love to hear from you!
Come home to Marian Grove
NEW RELEASE
RETIREMENT VILLAGE LIFESTYLE APARTMENTS
BRAND NEW 1, 2 + 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS
PRICES FROM
$39 5, 000* $2500 IN BONUSES + go into a draw for 6 MONTHS FREE RECURRENT CHARGES Deposits taken by December 24th 2020 will recieve conditions apply
T
EL
CA
SAW
*Availability on apartments at $395,000 is limited. Average price of apartments is $590,000. Departure fee payable, enquire for more information. 111 COFFS COAST focus
RE
For more information call (02) 6653 1241 or visit www. mariangrovelifestyle. com. au L C A H OLI T
C
It would be easy to look back at the unfolding events of 2020, in particular those around aged care, with both the Royal Commission hearings and the COVID-19 pandemic imposing confrontation and challenge, and expect an organisation providing care and services to older Australians to go into their shell, play it safe, and put a hold on growth and development.
H
owever, these challenges haven’t stopped Sawtell Catholic Care from continuing to look ahead and plan positively for the future. On Saturday 14th November, we celebrate the grand opening day of our New Release Retirement Apartments, the most recent addition to our popular Marian Grove Village. We are sure the 51 stunning apartments, set amidst our award-winning gardens, will lure many locals out of hibernation for a long-awaited look and to possibly take a tour of the project they have been watching over the last 18 months. Our first residents have already moved in and will be proud that we are showing off this wonderful residence. They will be among the first people to see and appreciate our new Links Garden project, which commenced development on 1st October after a ground-breaking ceremony attended by MP Gurmesh Singh and Deputy Mayor George Cecato. As a part of the greater Sawtell Catholic Parish, we have a vision to create an inclusive community of Christian care. This project will help us deliver that 114 COFFS COAST
focus
BUILDING COMMUNITY
vision. Whilst The Link is intended to be of immediate benefit for our residents, it is also our intention to extend our outreach more broadly within the region, creating space for a connected community to grow and thrive. The Link will be Our first residents arena of healthy positive a space for people have already ageing. of all ages to moved in and will be The project will be connect with each proud that we are completed in mid-2021, other, to enjoy the showing off this so do watch our social natural beauty and wonderful residence. media for updates. participate in events In the current and programs that economic downturn, we enhance physical and realise there is a need spiritual wellbeing. for local employment. Sawtell Catholic Care This location has been well known to is contributing towards this by employing locals for over 40 years as the former locals, not only in the construction phases of Cockbains’ Sawtell Nursery. Coincidentally, our projects, but beyond also, engaging staff our ground-breaking ceremony took when the Link Gardens are operational. As a place on the 30th UN International Day of not-for-profit organisation, moving forward Older Persons, heralding the forthcoming with these projects, despite the challenges, Decade of Healthy Ageing, a World Health is another way we live our mission as “We Organization global strategy and action Care” for our community. plan to ensure healthy lives and promote - Michael Darragh, CEO Sawtell Catholic wellbeing at all ages, so this project places Care. us at the cutting edge of innovation in the
LIFESTYLE
CALL US NOW ON
(02) 6653 1241
LL
CA
SAW
TE
RE
We’d love to hear from you!
CATHOL
IC
Come home to
Marian Grove LIFESTYLE
CALL US NOW ON
(02) 6653 1241
We’d love to hear from you!
Marian Grove VILLAGE Villas + Units available NOW
Set within 27 acres of landscaped award winning gardens and surrounded by bushland, yet only minutes from Sawtell township and beaches, Marian Grove is a vibrant, retirement community, with a great reputation and an enviable resident lifestyle.
For more information visit w For more information visit www. scca. com. au/ independent COFFS COAST
focus
115
welcome to
MARIAN GROVE NEW RELEASE
Creating your ideal individual retirement lifestyle means having choices. Welcome to Marian Grove New Release - where there is so much to choose from!
M
arian Grove’s New Release Apartments offers you the opportunity to enjoy a rich and rewarding retirement in your very own piece of paradise. Just a few minutes from some of the region’s most stunning beaches, you can be a part of a welcoming community, spending your days exploring, or wining and dining locally without having to go too far from home. In addition, for the golf enthusiasts, not one, but three courses, Bonville, Sawtell and Coffs Harbour are located within 10 minutes’ drive from the village. At Marian Grove, you’re surrounded by valleys and hinterland to the west, including the scenic Bellingen Valley, the Promised Land and Dorrigo National Park, yet just five minutes to the east is the gorgeous main street of Sawtell, offering a range of boutique stores, charming cafes, the iconic Sawtell Cinema and those beautiful beaches. One of the things our residents love about Marian Grove is that there’s a major shopping centre within five minutes’ drive, as well as the larger regional hub of Coffs Harbour only 15 minutes away. Access to doctors, services, Coffs Harbour Health Campus (hospital), Sawtell and Coffs Harbour train stations and Coffs Harbour Regional Airport are all within 10 minutes by car. Everything you need is right at your doorstep. No wonder our residents say, “People come thousands of kilometres to stay in these places,
116 COFFS COAST
focus
Everything you need is right at your doorstep. No wonder our residents say, 'People come thousands of kilometres to stay in these places, and we’re already here!'
and we’re already here!” Living in Marian Grove means the company of like-minded neighbours, who will always give you a smile and a "hello" as you pass by, as well as the knowledge that your home is part of a wellestablished and highly regarded not-for-profit organisation. Set within 27 acres of landscaped, award winning gardens surrounded by a bushland sanctuary, with an onsite chapel, café and recreation centre, as well as a co-located aged care service on the grounds, we have an enviable retirement community lifestyle. To provide our residents with even more lifestyle choices, development of “The Link", which locals will remember as Cockbain’s Sawtell Nursery, is now underway. This lush garden development with a café/restaurant and children’s playground will provide a space where residents will be able to meet to dine and connect with family and friends, get their hands in the dirt, or simply sit back and enjoy the peace and tranquility of their surrounds just a short stroll from the apartment complex. You could say it’s your own no-maintenance backyard! In addition, our current village centre, including the café, hairdresser and recreation hall is about to undergo a complete renovation,
adding more space and updated facilities for residents to enjoy. Every retirement village has a financial model which complies with State Government legislation. At Marian Grove, our financial model is by way of a Loan Licence agreement, which includes a departure fee. Prices average approximately $590,000, with full price lists available upon enquiry. The first residents have just moved in, so there’s still time to make sure you get first choice and don’t miss out on these beautiful apartments! You are cordially invited to our grand opening on Saturday 14th November to celebrate with us and view the New Release for yourself, between 11am and 2pm. Deposits taken before 24 December 2020 will receive a $2,500 bonus gift package to mark Marian Grove’s 25 years of providing high quality retirement living, and go into a draw to win six months' waiver of recurring charges*. If you can’t make it to the grand opening, why not visit our website at https://www.scca. net.au/new-release-marian-grove - or give us a call on (02) 6653 1241. We’d love to hear from you! * conditions apply; enquire (02) 6653 1241.
GRAND OPENING
GRAND T
EL
FREE
CA
SAW
RE
SATURDAY 14th November 10am Please join us for the official opening of our L C A H OLI T
C
Marian Grove L I F E S T Y L E
IFT BAG
NEW RELEASE
irst 50 attendees 1 per family
APARTMENTS
FREE
usage sizzle for all
Please join us for the official opening of our
SATURDAY APARTMENTS FREE
GIFT BAG
for first 50 attendees 1 per family
FREE
sausage sizzle for all
TOURS AVAILABLE Marian Grove LIFE STYLE 11am - 2pm
NEW RELEASE (02) 6653 1241 TOURS AVAILABLE
11am - 2pm (02) 6653 1241
osits taken by December 24th 2020 will recieve 00 INDeposits BONUSES + go into a24th draw forwill 6 MONTHS taken by December 2020 recieve $2500 IN BONUSES + go intoCHARGES* a draw for 6 MONTHS FREE RECURRENT FREE RECURRENT CHARGES*
*conditions apply • exit fee payable • for more information call (02) 6653 1241 *conditions apply • exit fee payable • for more information call (02) 6653 1241
n Place Toormina NSW • COVID safety measures willbebe place on the day 1 Marian Place Toormina NSW • COVID safety measures will in in place on the day COFFS COAST
focus
117
focus_Abode
C ONST RU CT IONS
hat is the history behind Houston Constructions? Luke has been in the building game since he was 17. After completing his apprenticeship and working the "subbie" game, where he was lead foreman for many years, in 2015 he completed his builder’s course to formally become a "builder". This opened the door to the opportunity of purchasing the locally owned and long standing business Houston Constructions from Dave and Helen Houston. With Luke’s building experience and Tara’s business background, there was certainly no hesitation in the acquisition of the business. December 2020 will mark the five-year anniversary of Houston Constructions, and what a very fast, rewarding and educational five years it has been! Tell us about your team and their areas of expertise. The business brings a wealth of knowledge 118 COFFS COAST
focus
Houston Constructions are renovation and extension specialists, providing the Coffs Coast with reliable and superior quality homes. FOCUS chatted with owners, Luke and Tara Tweddle ...
We from both a younger and older generation of specialise in What services do experienced tradesmen. any form of Houston Constructions Coffs Harbour is a small renovation work. provide? town in the scheme of No matter how We specialise in any things, news travels fast, big or small the form of renovation work. and therefore we are likely job, we are able to No matter how big or small to incorporate the best provide a superior the job, we are able to tradies we can to complete service. provide a superior service. our jobs. Regardless of Houston Constructions whether Luke is the "man has worked on projects with the licence number", ranging from $800 to $800,000! The client we all work together to collaborate ideas is the single most important person in our and get the job done. We have also recently business. A happy client is an indicator of a job acquired a mature-aged apprentice, Mitch well done. Dale. Mitch has been in the car sales industry Tell us about some new, exciting projects for over 10 years, and also dabbled in the you are working on. What have been skylight installation business for a short while, some of your favourite builds from the but he felt it was time for a career change! past? We were honoured when he asked us if All of our builds have been fun and exciting, he could complete his trade with Houston because they are all so diverse! Constructions. He has blended in so well with We have almost completed a very large our team - anyone would think he has been on renovation in the centre of Coffs. Whilst the the tools for years!
clients' plans and visions have been in the pipeline for a while, when they found out they were having a baby, it certainly sent them into a small tailspin to get these plans and visions built! Even though there was only one baby on the way, the house has almost doubled in size! We are also nearing the end The client is of a massive "man cave", the single alfresco area like no other most important and internal renovation person in our works at Emerald Beach. The man cave is almost business. A happy the size of the house! client is an The alfresco area will be indicator of a job We love providing the beautiful; the clients' vision well done. community with reliable has certainly proved to be and superior homes. When very rewarding for us, and we are honoured we have renovating, of course they been able to make it come to life for them. want to save money, and we have many areas We love hearing and seeing ideas that clients where we can cut costs - but we never cut come up with. We have had some wild ideas corners. We buy economically and work to a presented to us, but nothing that hasn’t been budget, but will not compromise on quality. achievable! We have gathered a team of experienced and What are the standout features or dependable contractors, who are as dedicated the benefits of building with Houston and as committed as we are. Constructions? We are renovation and extension specialists.
>>> COFFS COAST
focus
119
What is the process when a new client walks through the door? Upon receiving an enquiry, Luke will make an appointment time to suit the client and attend their residence to discuss their needs and thoughts. The project process depends on project size. But in a roundabout way, when a job is "won", we organise the necessary contracts, insurances, council certificates, have another meeting with our client to finalise the nitty gritty, and then finalise a start date. Once work starts … it’s go, go, go until it finishes, and the clients are happy! Where are the hotspots to build on the Coffs Coast? I think everywhere on the Coffs Coast at the moment is booming! Clearly no one is travelling too far from home, so they have more time (and money) to spend on their abodes! How important is it to support local businesses? I cannot explain how important it is to support local businesses. This is a small town, word travels, competition can be fierce, and there are so many great builders and trades on the Coffs Coast. If we all work together 120 COFFS COAST
focus
This is a small town, word travels, competition can be fierce, and there are so many great builders and trades on the Coffs Coast.
to support each other, it makes life easier for the future. If we know our job timeline is too long for our customer and they aren’t able to wait, we contact other builders on our customers' behalf, rather than just say, ”No”. None of us really know how long this industry boom is going to last for. There is so much work around at the moment. It is great to see all trades busy, giving each other a high-5 and getting the job done - even if they are our competitors. What are some challenges the industry has faced, and how have you overcome these? Our industry faces many challenges, but nothing that can’t be overcome. The residential and commercial growth Coffs Harbour has seen in the last few years is ridiculous. Last year things were starting to slow down a bit for all trades on the Coffs Coast, due to economic factors, but how
the tables can turn in just a short year! During the crux of COVID, supply shortages were proving a bit difficult, but luckily for us we have very understanding customers, and we weren’t the only trade in that situation. Tell us about your community involvement. Our whole family is involved in various sports on the Coffs Coast. Our little boys play soccer, tennis and attend music lessons. Luke has been a dedicated member of the Orara Valley Soccer Club for over 15 years and also plays basketball. I have been a BJP p\ physie girl since I was five and a netballer on and off since I was 12 (although I think I’m too old for that now)! What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? The weather! The beaches! The mountains! Our amazing friends and family! What our customers say about us “Houston Constructions; what can we say professionals from start to finish!“ “Tara and Luke have made our renovation
focus_Abode
Mick
A INS W O RT H BU ILDING
daily talks to Lukse or his trusty team. We Believing that have found Houston process very easy. From the job they Constructions have the first meeting with have done for us is of always been respectful Luke to discuss our DA the same quality, if and friendly to our family and look at our place, his and neighbours too. In a not better, than one easy to talk to personality conversation, one of the that they would do on was evident, and nothing team members said to their own home. was a problem. We knew another team member, they were the team for 'The question you need our job. From receiving the to ask yourself is would quote, to signing off the you be happy with that in your home?' contracts, both he and Tara have been such “All we can say is that is one sentence that a pleasure to deal with. Contract, payments has summed up our experience with Houston and procedures were explained with ease of Constructions - believing that the job they understanding. They guided us through the have done for us is of the same quality, if process with CHCC as to the requirements not better, than one they would do on their of the council to procure the necessary own home. We look forward to completing certificates we needed for our renovation to our next renovation stage with Houston start. Tara and Luke reassured us the whole Constructions.“ time, 'We will get it done', and they didn’t - Peter and Cathy disappoint. “Luke and Tara from Houston Constructions “Then the actual build started. Wow! are a wonderful well-oiled team. They recently The Houston Constructions team and their carried out a major home renovation for us; contractors are always thinking and looking Tara kept us informed about progress and at our job like it was their own - discussing the business side of things, and Luke and his what is the best way to do things, so as not friendly and competent tradesmen were a to interrupt our quality of living during a pleasure to work with, and the end result was large renovation. We have felt very involved fantastic. More recently we needed assistance by being kept up to date along the way, with with an emergency situation, and they arrived
within the hour. We would have no hesitation in heading back to Houston Constructions for any future projects.” - Andrew and Jayne “Luke, Tara and the team at Houston Constructions are currently renovating a new bathroom and laundry for us. From the first time we met Luke, we knew he was a genuine hardworking family man, with vast experience. We were expecting our first child at the time and knowing home life was about to get busy, we knew he was the right builder for us! One week after returning home from hospital with our new baby boy, Luke and his team started our renovations. What we thought would be a stressful, crazy time for us has turned out to be calm, organised, and very adaptable. “Houston Constructions has been extremely respectful and professional and all round good people! “We would be happy to highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for high quality, honest and reliable builders.” - Taneel & Tom How can we get in touch? P: Luke 0418 655 165 or Tara 0402 936 757 E: accounts@houstonconstructions.com.au W: houstonconstructions.com.au Licence Number: 293157C ABN: 35 609 314 776 Thanks Luke and Tara. COFFS COAST
focus
121
adamjamesroofing@bigpond.com
122 COFFS COAST
focus
P R O U D TO S U P P O RT H O U STO N CO N ST R U CT IO N S
now you can have splashback tiles for less
$
24
95
PER SQM
Whoosh 75x300mm
lowest price guarantee
National Tiles Coffs Harbour 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6652 4866
COFFS COAST
focus
123
CONTACT THE HARDWOOD SPECIALISTS
161 TALLAWUDJAH CREEK ROAD, GLENREAGH NSW 2450
124 COFFS COAST
focus
COFFS COAST
focus
125
Abode CHH
TRADE DIRECTORY
COFFS HARBOUR
HARDWOODS
161 Tallawudjah Creek Road, Glenreagh
Visit our website coffshardwoods.com.au
Phone: 02 66492006
Check out our social pages | @coffshardwoods
3 Windows+Doors 3 Balustrades 3 Powder Coating 3 Stairs 3 Fencing 3 Gates+Screens P: 02 6652 6955 W: amia.com.au
Delivering your Project with Care
Contact Dave 0424005402
BATHROOM RENOVATIONS / PLUMBING GASFITTING / DRAINAGE www.blackdogplumbing.com.au
Lic. No. 321893C
126 COFFS COAST
focus
Abode
TRADE DIRECTORY
Your Local Gutter Cleaner We professionally and safely vacuum clean: • Gutters • Downpipes • Roofs • Solar Panels • Ceiling Cavities • Pressure washing • Rainwater Tanks • Safety Trained • Gutter Guard Installation Clean. Safe. Easy.
0402 311 063 | 1300 654 253 www.guttervac.com.au
COFFS COAST
focus
127
New display home now open!
New display home no NEW DESIGN ON DISPLAY!
Showcasing the latest styles and trends, our new Caufield display home features four bedrooms, two living areas, a stunning master suite with freestanding bath, and an inspiring gourmet kitchen and outdoor entertaining area. Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over 150 different floor plans to choose from, including single and two storey, granny flat and dual occupancy… there’s sure to be a design to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping block of any size, even knocking down your existing house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure we can bring your vision to life.
Visit our stunning new display home in Sawtell today! Sawtell Commons Estate: 4 Angler Court, Sawtell - Open Thursday to Monday, 10am - 4pm
QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. NSW Lic. No. 110970C
Contact Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 | email : tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 | email : phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au E31869