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127 AUGUST 2021

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Discover extraordinary. TWO S TU N N ING NEW DI SPLAY HOMES C OMING SOON T O M OONEE BEACH.

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Visit us at our display homes today. 15 Zenith Avenue Sandy Beach - Open 10am – 5pm every day PLUS, NEW Sovereign Hills - NOW OPEN Forster Grange | NEW Moonee Beach - COMING SOON

mcdonaldjoneshomes.com.au | (02) 5525 2582 See e site o conditions mage is o ill st ati e p poses onl and ma contain optional pg ades and a iations not incl ded in o standa d specification o s pplied c onald Jones Homes. For detailed information on home pricing, visit our website or talk to one of our consultants. NSW: Newcastle Quality Constructions Pty Ltd ABN 82 003 687 232, COFFS COAST focus 9 NSW BLN: 41628, T/A McDonald Jones Homes.

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e have so much to celebrate this month as we coast into our second year with a new look, new distribution, new size, new feel, format and new (mostly old) team. Our small but passionate team is committed to promoting positive community driven content that will always be in our DNA. The movers and shakers, inspirational and passionate leaders of our community; these are faces you will see in every edition we do. To everyone who has supported us by advertising in the past twelve months, a huge thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Without the support of the businesses you see in these pages, we would not exist. As we do each August, we are pleased to be able to present to you our annual Men in Business feature. This feature is an opportunity

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Welcome to the AUGUST EDITION. for champions in business in our local area to tell their stories and share their success. As always, we encourage you to support these businesses. On this month’s front cover we feature Chris Hines. A local with a big personality and plays a big part in the community here in Coffs. Many know him through his business UnReal Estate, which he started with his late wife Kerry, but he also gets involved in many different aspects of community life and is a valuable person to have around! We had a chat with him to learn a bit more about his personal story. Inside this issue we interview some amazing, talented, infectious and inspiring people. Young female mechanic Madeline Moore has created her own path in the world of business. Moore Mechanical Repairs is now two years in and Maddie finds that working hard balanced with keeping an open mind and setting realistic goals is the key to success. Tony Benson is a local photographer who is creating a very

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POSTAL PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE 0413 816 010 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

unique type of photography; he works mostly in the water. He is constantly pushing himself to discover new looks and ways of working that he says keep it interesting for him and that definitely produces inspiring photographs. Rewriting the narrative around menopause and having a laugh along the way has been a cathartic journey for both Dr Rosemary Ross and Joanne Vines. Their new book ‘Approaching the Pause’ is an empowering must read in finding a way to not only survive but thrive during the biggest transition women go through. Off the back of an incredible year for G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast, owners Rick and Susan Fischer are now looking to take their business to the next level. Not only are they currently expanding their team to keep up with demand driven by the HomeBuilder grant, the local family has also opened their ‘Parkview’ display home in Moonee Beach. We hope you enjoy our August edition. Thanks for your support, Coffs Coast.

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 Sue Chamberlain info@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Nicole Browne wedeliverfocus@gmail.com

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 2020 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.

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I S S U E

1 2 7

A U G U S T

2 0 2 1

INTERVIEWS

MADELINE MOORE

TONY BENSON

TRAVERS ROSS

Young female mechanic Madeline Moore finds that working hard balanced with keeping an open mind and setting realistic goals is the key to success.

Tony Benson’s photography is created mostly in the water, constantly pushing himself to discover new ways of working that produce inspiring photographs.

Travers Ross has lived a life rich in immersion. The lessons learned and experiences gained have been recreated and brought to life through his body of works all over country.

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 26. Style Edit - Melisssa Parisi 36. PFLAG - Sam Dawson 62. Fitness Update - Court Waters 63. Physio & Health - Aaron Hardaker 101. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 110. Money Matters - Barry Hockey CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

MELISSA PARISI

114. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 117. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 129. Rental Update - Christine Rengger 134. Real Estate - Chris Hines

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.

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Bishop Druitt College We are: community innovative inclusive.

No w takin e n ro g 202 lme n ts f o r ye a 2 rs 4 Personalised learning programs build on your childʻs abilities and interests Specialist teachers in language, performing arts and PDHPE Flexible learning environments Maths Pathways program Personal learning devices for each student

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www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

Phone: (02) 6651 5644 Email: enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au 111 North Boambee Road, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

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Chris Hines is a local with a big personality who plays a big part in the community here in Coffs. Many know him through his business UnReal Estate, which he started with his late wife Kerry, but he also gets involved in many different aspects of community life and is a valuable person to have around! We had a chat with him to learn a bit more about his personal story.

ey Chris. Many locals might recognise you as the owner of UnReal Estate, can you tell us a bit about your business and how long you’ve been in real estate? I’ve been in the Real Estate industry since about 2003. My late wife Kerry had already been working in Real Estate for a few years when we met, and while I was leaving the NSW Police Force I started to help her out here and there and got a bit of a taste for it. Before I knew it I had done my courses and attained my registration and was working alongside her in another agency. We were going really well and dominating the southern suburbs of Coffs Harbour, however due to circumstances beyond our control we were both terminated from that agency, and before you knew it we were unemployed with 6 kids to support. As they say “necessity is the mother of all invention” so out of the ashes, Unrealestate was born. From then the ride really began, we worked non-stop to build the business from a cold start. Within a year we managed to win Best New Business in Coffs Harbour at the Sunnies Business Awards.

A few years later Best Family Business of the amazing team we created, continued to exceed Coffs Coast and then a few years after that we our clients’ expectations and the business won Best Small Agency in the State at the Real continued to thrive throughout this sad time Estate Institute of NSW’s awards for excellence. and into the unknown ‘Covid-19’ world. Since then we have Sure we have learnt continued to go from to do things differently, strength to strength, but that’s the nature of I have always always being that business. believed in boutique agency Before real estate giving back to the punching well above you had a completely community that its weight. One of the different career, what things we have always was it you did? has supported us. I prided ourselves on As I alluded to earlier, am also a firm though is being part prior to Real Estate I had believer in the creed of the community we been a member of the that givers gain. serve. As such we have NSW Police for nearly 20 always sponsored many years. People may think sporting teams, schools, they are two markedly charities and community events, in a nutshell differing jobs, however there were many skills we have always believed it’s important to give which readily transferred across. back. A large portion of my career was spent in The most devastating thing to happen to the Criminal Investigation having achieved the rank agency, and more so myself, was the loss of of Detective Sergeant before my discharge. Kerry to Cancer in 2019. She was a larger than One of the main skills involved in this is life character and one of the Coast's premier communication, more importantly, listening. agents. Moreover she was my soulmate. Something that is so important in my real This devastating event could easily have estate career. meant the end of Unrealestate, however the Continued over... COFFS COAST

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What were some of the biggest challenges and highlights of your time in the Police force? Having moved into the Criminal Investigation field after only a couple of years in uniform, I spent most of my career working complex investigations. From murders and serious sexual offences, child abuse, suicide investingations and frauds, I also spent quite a few years working in Drug Units attempting to stop the import and supply of illicit drugs. A career in law enforcement certainly comes with its own inherent challenges. Apart from the physical injuries that can occur when dealing with angry people, there are also the mental scars. From having needle stick injuries, being spat at in the face by HIV positive offenders, both requiring three months of protocols and testings, to having a ‘Contract’ placed on me by a criminal organisation during which time I was authorised to carry my firearm on me whilst off duty for six months and having additional lighting placed around my home being just some incidents. So when I hear people say F*ck the Police, I think, walk a mile in their shoes. You were a trained police negotiator, that must have been an interesting and intense role. Do you have any stories from that time you can share with us? Probably one of the most rewarding roles 18 COFFS COAST

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in my policing career was that of being a time you were deployed with tactical teams. Police Negotiator. First of all it was a great Let me assure you nothing heightens your course which went for three years, however sense of awareness more than the sound of it taught some amazing shots being fired. communication skills. It One of the more was also an extremely memorable incidents Of course there interesting and was a very early morning were also the rewarding role in the in the middle of winter other occasions when field. in southern NSW. A you were talking to One of the main man had been seen by armed subjects in functions of a negotiator members of the public barricaded situations, is suicide intervention, standing on the side of during which time and this aspect of the a bridge as if preparing you were deployed role was particularly to jump. rewarding. This could As I was working I with tactical teams. involve being face to headed straight there, face or on the telephone arriving just as he leapt or in many cases from the bridge into the ‘harnessed up’ and talking to a distressed icy water below. person at heights. I quickly headed down to the shoreline and Of course there were also the other began swimming to his unconscious body in occasions when you were talking to armed the middle of the river, arriving and rolling him subjects in barricaded situations, during which onto his back before swimming back with him

towards the shore. Fortunately the cavalry started to arrive and a boat was headed my way, unfortunately the man regained consciousness and began to take exception to my attempt to save him. I managed to keep him at bay and both of us above water, whilst wrestling him until the boat arrived to take us to shore and an awaiting ambulance. Ridiculously I had to be investigated over the incident due to it being called an attempted self-harm in custody, as he jumped after I arrived. Common sense did prevail in the end though. I was also honoured to be presented with a Bronze Medal for Bravery by Governor Maree Bashir at Government House as a result of the incident. Quick tip on communication, the greatest skill you can have is listening. By listening, I mean listening to understand the other person’s situation. What brought on the change of direction? Unfortunately work of this kind can take its toll, and it certainly did on me. I was medically discharged with Situational Chronic Depression, something I have under control now, but also something I am happy to talk about. If anything we have finally learnt that mental health is a real issue in society and NOT TABOO to admit or talk about. Sadly mental health in the form of depression or post traumatic stress and related conditions have for far too long been neglected, especially in law enforcement and military personnel, and we are only now starting to realise the cost in lives. You have had a few different roles amongst the community here in Coffs, what else are you involved in locally at the moment? As I mentioned before I have always believed in giving back to the community that has supported us. I am also a firm believer in the creed that givers gain. I have been fortunate enough to be able to serve on the boards of businesses and charities over the years, and still do. I am a past member of the board of the Real Estate Institute of NSW, which is the largest body of property professionals in the State. The Institute regularly lobbies the

State Government great to carry on her legacy. My wife Kerry, on property related The charity financially assists who we lost to reform and played patients where possible cancer, was a long a major role in the during their cancer journey. term member of recent changes We of course have this commi ee so it to licencing and to raise funds however, is great to carry on regulation not only which we do through a her legacy. The across NSW but number of functions every charity financially Nationwide, ensuring year and also through the assists patients consistent quality benevolence of local people where possible training ensuring that and businesses. To date agents are sufficiently the charity has helped over during their cancer trained. 1300 local families with journey. Locally I have had almost $800,000 granted in the pleasure of being assistance. on the board of What do you enjoy most one of the area’s business and social success about being involved with the community stories with ETC Ltd, the award winning here in Coffs? local Employment and Training company What I love most about the Coffs Coast is that has grown to cover a great deal of the that there is still a feeling of community here. northern NSW coastline and into South East Sure, Covid has certainly changed the amount Queensland. It is a company that has a direct and frequency of events, but there is still that impact on the social structure of our local feeling that we are in it together. communities by providing employment and From a business point of view we are in the training opportunities. enviable position of being midway between Another role that is close to my heart is Sydney and Brisbane, have a great regional being on the management committee of the airport, rail access, amazing education, medical Cando Cancer Trust, a local Coffs Charity and sports facilities as well as a beautiful which raises money for patients attending the harbour so all the boxes are ticked. Mid North Coast Cancer Institute. Seriously, why would you want to live My wife Kerry, who we lost to cancer, was anywhere else! a long term member of this committee so it is Thanks Chris. COFFS COAST

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on WHAT'S

AUGUST 2021

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STILL: NATIONAL STILL LIFE AWARD

A biennial, acquisitive award for artworks in the genre of still life, in all mediums. The award is open to artists at all stages of their careers across Australia. STILL seeks to highlight the diversity and vitality of still life in Australian contemporary art practice, broadening the interpretation and meaning of this enduring genre. When 14th August until 23rd October Where Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery Time 10am until 4pm

RHONDA BURCHMORE IS GLAMAZONIA When Thurs 19 August Where Jetty Theatre Time 8pm Tickets Adult $55, Conc $52, Members $50, U30 $38 Australia’s favourite showgirl celebrates 40 years from stage to jungle with her dazzling new show GLAMAZONIA. Rhonda will be backed by a sizzling hot band plus tantalising toy boys to help her burn up the dance floor. There will be no shortage of glamour, with glittering ensembles and gowns galore, giving audiences everything they’ve come to love and expect from Ms Burchmore. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening of glamour, empowerment and fabulousness, the likes of which can only be delivered by the Glamazonia that is Rhonda Burchmore – and you’re going to hear her roar!

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Held every 3rd Saturday of the month there is a large and diverse range of art and craft, handmade and grown, clothing, shoes, textiles, homewares, bric-a-brac, 2nd hand, recycled, upcycled, jewellery, pottery, metal/ wood/glass work, candles, soaps, honey, fresh produce, plants, flowers, alternative therapies and local community groups spreading the good word. When 21 August 2021 Where Bellingen Park

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BELLINGEN COMMUNITY MARKETS

JOHN WATERS - THE JOHN LENNON SONGBOOK Celebrating the 50th anniversary since the release of IMAGINE – the whole album will be performed live by John Waters and this band – a band that has toured the world performing the songs of John Lennon to great acclaim. When 22nd August Where C.ex Coffs Tickets www.cex.com.au

COFFS COAST CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Craft beer lovers … the best in industry are coming including Bentspoke, Black Hops, Ballistic, Young Henrys, Feral, Modus Operandi, Colonial, Dainton, Mountain Goat, Malt Shovel, Coopers, 7 Mile, Hope, Sanctus, Stockade, Newstead, Moorebeer, Fox Hat and New England Brewing Co!. There will be a low and slow bbq lunch menu and live music by Kailey Pallas from 12pm. When 28th August From 11am Where Hoey Moey Cost FREE

Same, same, but different.

/edegrees

@edegrees

6651 1575 / PARK BEACH PLAZA [ WOOLIES ENTRANCE ] 47’ Brand / Birkenstock / Calvin Klein / Casio / Carhartt WIP / Dickies / HUF / Huffer / Lee / Majestic / M/SF/T Mitchell & Ness / New Era / Playboy / Pop! Vinyl / Stussy / The North Face / The People Vs. / Wrangler

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Young female mechanic Madeline Moore has created her own path in the world of business. Moore Mechanical Repairs is now two years in and Maddie finds that working hard

balanced with keeping an open mind and se ing realistic goals is the key to success.

ey Madeline. You and your partner Max live and work here on the beautiful Coffs Coast. Tell us a little about yourself, life and connection to

the region. We have both been living on the Coffs Coast since we were kids. Grew up here, went to school locally and adore the area, that’s why we chose to stay. The Coffs Coast is a beautiful part of the Mid North Coast offering a lot to small businesses. The luxury of living in a “Holiday destination” with great resources for families while also being able to develop the business as the region grows. It's not often you see a female mechanic in such a male dominated trade. Was life as a mechanic on your radar or something that you discovered through chance? Not exactly, I was pushed to pursue the arts during high school but it didn’t give me the same level of satisfaction that fixing a car gave

apprenticeship, and secondly opening me. Having the simplicity of having a clear your very own business? cut list of instructions to fix a problem was Finishing my apprenticeship was a huge amazing for me to find and left me inquisitive milestone for me. There were many times I to learn more. From here I went to TAFE didn’t think I could and did a Prevocational get through it but Course which solidified my mentors at TAFE my interest in the industry. Having the propped me up, held It was not until I was an simplicity of faith in my ability apprentice that I found out having a clear cut and have continued my Great Grandfather was list of instructions to this day to be my a mechanic. My father, to fix a problem close friends. I still ask Simon Moore, worked in was amazing for them advice and that’s Telecommunications for me to find and left one thing I’ve learnt years so he was always me inquisitive to opening a business. teaching me how to pull learn more. You are not alone if things apart, solder and you choose not to be. just generally fix things. This helped opening So, this always had me Moore Mechanical Repairs because I took hands on and wanting to learn more. on all the advice given to me by the people Moore Mechanical Repairs is your family around me. Every week holds its own series run business that has been operating of challenges but that’s the fun of owning a for a couple of years now. How did it business. >>> feel to firstly accomplish finishing your COFFS COAST

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There’s always something new to learn every day. Two years into owning the business and I would never have dreamed that we would get the support off the community we have received. Have you come across any challenges in your career and if so, what advice would you give to other women looking to take on a role in male dominated trades? Every day there is a new challenge. I have learnt to never expect the easy road. This 24 COFFS COAST

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women and if the workplace you are entering doesn’t accept that then it’s not a place you want to work for. You just must listen to your gut in this instance. You know when a workplace doesn’t align with your moral compass. A police officer I met during my apprenticeship told me to always “keep on keeping on” and that’s my biggest advice. Just keep trying and someone will give you a go. We all have morals and values we live by. Some you’re born with, some you pick up from people in your life. How have you been influenced by those closest around you and has that translated into how you operate your business? I’ve been very lucky to have a strong team around me constantly reaffirming me that my strong moral compass would carve a successful business. But this has also been done by myself during times of hardship, allowing myself the time to sort through a problem without just trying to get an easy quick solution to dissolve a problem. This has I believe if been driven into me by you have a my influences. I have strong set of morals always taken small steps and guidelines that towards the person I you follow then this want to be. I set myself will always be realistic goals and work translated through towards them daily. This your business. is reflected within the has been strong business. Things won’t throughout my career. always be perfect and I’ve I wish during my learnt that the hard way apprenticeship I had many times before. You can only keep getting been more disciplined on myself and this is back up and trying again to aim towards the my biggest advice. With a world for young person you want to be. I believe if you have people that holds so many options that our a strong set of morals and guidelines that grandparents were never graced with it can you follow then this will always be translated be very overwhelming. A trade job offers through your business. During the last 6 structure, discipline, and responsibility. All months as I lost my grandfather, who was industries are now encouraged to include

one of my biggest supporters, I’ve found this journey to become the woman my family would be proud of to be my biggest striving factors. If at times I can’t do it for me, I can do it for them. I want to show my siblings if they work hard they can do anything. Tell us what services you provide and what you aim to offer your clients at Moore Mechanical. We offer all major mechanical repairs, logbook servicing and Rego Checks. But the biggest thing we offer is a space where you will always be given the time to have your vehicle explained to you correctly. If there is anything you don’t understand and want to know more about we will always be happy to talk to you. At the end of the day it comes down to trust. You want someone working on your car who will give it back to you at the end of the day fixed or with a diagnostic plan to address the issue so you are never confused about what is being done to your car. I have so many customers now who don’t need me to explain things to them anymore because they understand their car better. I just

I have so many customers now who don’t need me to explain things them anymore because they understand their car be er. I just aim to make people feel comfortable and safe with their cars.

aim to make people feel comfortable and safe with their cars. I treat every customer like they have my family in their car. If you weren't working in the trade, what would you be doing? I honestly am not sure. This is a question I’ve found myself thinking about lately. I have just made mechanics my entire world over the last 7 years that there hasn’t been much room for much else in my life. During Covid I found myself having to think about what makes me happy outside of work. I honestly believe I would be working with animals as a realistic job but if I had to pick a dream job it would have something to do with Space and Aerospace Engineering. Tools down, where will we find you? Art, fitness and my family take up a huge part of my free time. I have been thrilled

by the amount of art classes in Coffs and everyone should try one! I have joined a few pottery groups too but the main one I’m a part of is Coastal Claymakers. It’s been an amazing journey trying new things with them and I hope to have some of my art in the workshop in the future to show our customers. If I’m not covered in clay, I’m covered in paint. I paint animals, abstract portraits and whatever pops into my head. This is a great space for me to unwind and relax. But the main place I spend my free time is with Ange at Beach Bodies. She has been my Personal Trainer for about 4 months now and it’s been amazing to have her on my side as my biggest supporter. I just aim to spend most of my free time working on having the best life I can give myself. Thanks Madeline. COFFS COAST

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STYLE EDIT

with MELISSA PARISI

T H E H O L I D AY H O M E S T Y L I S T

How To MAKE YOUR HOME FEEL WELCOMING

elcome. That’s a word that I love to say to people and how I like to make people feel. Whether it’s in my own home or holiday homes that I style, I love to design rooms that make people feel welcome, relaxed and comfortable. HERE ARE MY TOP TIPS TO ACHIEVE THIS IN YOUR HOME. 1. Make an entrance The entry is the first part of your home that people experience and the sight that welcomes you each day, so ensure it’s a good one! Make a statement by using furnishing such as a hall table, large artwork or mirror. Using natural elements like baskets and plants creates a relaxed feel. Add a bench seat or chair for convenience. 2. Choose natural Using natural materials in a home may improve wellbeing and may even improve sleep and reduce stress. Bringing the outdoors in using plants and materials like leather, rattan, linens and silk make a space feel less rigid. Natural wall colours lend themselves to stress-free living. Think neutral, soft whites, blues and greens for a feeling of tranquillity. Bright colours may have the opposite effect. 3. Declutter and clean Having a clean and uncluttered space is the basis of all comfort! Pack away or recycle clutter, however, don’t go overboard so that your space feels sterile or too perfect. Balance 26 COFFS COAST

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is key to creating rooms that people love and feel comfortable in. 4. Invest in seating Lounge chairs are frequently used, so invest in comfortable chairs that look and feel inviting. Or have much-loved chairs reupholstered to bring them back to life. To create an intimate seating arrangement, keep chairs relatively close for conversation (and passing the nibbles!). Seating people too far from others causes discomfort. Ensure chairs have a side table within easy reach for coffee or drinks, to help people feel comfortable. 5. Layer soft furnishings In living rooms and bedrooms, place pillows and throw rugs to create a sense of indulgence. I love layering two throw rugs on a bed to make it look inviting. 6. Change up your artwork Artwork injects your personality into a room. Rooms with bare walls feel unhomely. Choose artwork in proportion with your wall and furniture. If unsure, go larger. When using multiple artworks, work within a theme such as colour, style or subject. Mix large works with smaller ones to create a curated look. 7. Tread softly Rugs, plush carpets and bathmats add comfort, warmth and balance. Ensure rugs are the right proportion for your room and furniture; rugs that are too small will make your room look smaller and disconnected. In bathrooms, I love using bath runners instead of bathmats. If you haven’t purchased

yourself a bath runner yet, then do yourself a favour! It’s like rolling out the red carpet! 8. Sensory delight Home Styling is not just about looks, it’s how it makes you feel. Using quality home fragrances can alter your mood, including making you feel uplifted or relaxed. Music can also alter the tone of your space. Having a great sound system and playlists are essential. 9. Layer your lighting Lighting can change the atmosphere of a room. Harsh fluorescent lights can lead to feelings of angst. Choose warm white light bulbs over bright white. Ceiling lights in main living areas and bedrooms should be dimmable. Add another layer of lighting with table lamps and floor lamps. Under bench and under seat lighting can also add ambience and of course, use candlelight. 10. Finally, add a thoughtful touch When hosting guests, stock bedrooms and bathrooms with thoughtful items. Cosy beds, folded towels or luxury hotel amenities all say, “it’s a pleasure to have you”. If you like going the extra mile like me, then indulge in guest robes, slippers and pillow spray. Helping others (including your own family and yourself) to feel welcome, relaxed and comfortable in a space is such a nice thing to do and I love using the power of styling to do this. Contact Us www.holidayhomestylist.com.au holidayhomestylist 0449 171817

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Tony

Tony Benson is a local photographer who is creating a very unique type of photography; he works mostly in the water. He is constantly pushing himself to discover new looks and ways of working that he says keep it interesting for him and that definitely produce inspiring photographs.

PHOTOGRAPHER

ey Tony, when did you first find your love for photography? I first wanted to do photography when I was about 18 years old and bought a nice film camera and flew off to New Zealand. I hitchhiked around the North and South Islands and walked miles to capture the beauty of this country, only to find upon my return that none of these photos came out. I was told by the film developing company that the x-ray machines in airport terminals were the cause of the ruined photos. I was so disappointed that I just threw the subject of photography away at that time. Then in 2003 when I was about to go on a holiday I thought I

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should give it another go. At this time, the whole camera industry had gone digital and I thought if I mess this up again then I really shouldn’t be doing photography. So I bought a little point and shoot camera and started taking photos. I got hooked pretty fast and it just grew from there. As I learned more about photography I would buy a camera that was capable of doing more. Learning photography was fascinating to me as it’s all about light and how you use light to produce the type of effect and look you want. You are known as Zeph, where did that nickname come from? The name “Zeph” came up about 5 years ago when sitting around with some friends and discussing my water photography. It has just stuck with me since then. As much

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of my early work was For me, signed with this name, experimenting I just kept it as it would with photography is confuse things to what keeps it fresh change that now. and interesting. Part Your work is something very of it is also pushing unique and not yourself to find a everyone can go new look or style out and shoot what that you haven’t fully you do. What sort explored before. of gear do you need to achieve the shots you have? I believe the creative ability and artistic vision is more important than the gear in producing good work. Your gear is merely a tool of how to create that vision but knowing your gear well and what it is capable of will get you further. I produced some of my favourite shots on inexpensive equipment. But that said, as you get into doing more with your water photography, you will need certain equipment to produce certain types of effects or looks. I had been an avid photographer for many years when I first started on my journey into the water world. I didn’t have any water photography equipment at all so I searched around and bought a second hand

underwater housing (waterproof housing for your camera), with underwater lighting and camera all for around $300. I was stoked to find this and just jumped in

and started shooting. The more I photographed in the water, the more I learned and I was able to develop techniques and ways of shooting that would produce a certain type of look. I specifically got hooked on doing what is called “over/ unders”. They are also called “above and below” or “split” shots and are photographs where you see above and below the water line at the same time. In order to do that type of water photography you need to have a large external dome fitted to your underwater housing. “Domes” or “dome ports” as they are called, are just big waterproof lenses added onto your underwater housing, but they can be very expensive especially the larger they go. None were available at the time to fit my specific water housing so I found a company that makes domes for other purposes than water photography, made a backing plate and attached this to my water housing. It worked well and I was up and away doing over/unders and loving it. You will also need a very “wide angle” or “fish eye” lens on your camera to do over/unders. Since then I have two other underwater housings which I also modified in order to fit large domes onto them. Continued over...

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Tony

Some of the work I do requires lighting to create the type of images I want to create. Almost all cameras these days also allow you to use a “flash” to light the scene when the light is dim. So too can underwater cameras use flash to light I make each of up the scene.That’s getting these custom more technical now but I pieces by printing an find flash photography in image, a aching it to water to be very rewarding a sheet of aluminium in terms of creating artistic panel and then looking work and it’s one of covering the image the areas that I really want with a very high to create more than I have there are definitely grade resin. so far. more options Over the years camera available today than companies have been when I started. making a wider range of What do you love underwater cameras and housings as well as most about experimenting with how cameras that don’t require a housing at all. For photos can be taken? people wanting to get into water photography For me, experimenting with photography is 30 COFFS COAST

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what keeps it fresh and interesting. Part of it is also pushing yourself to find a new look or style that you haven’t fully explored before. Prior to water photography becoming my main focus, I was very interested in infrared photography. This is essentially photography using a different spectrum of light to that of visible light. You do this either by using a

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

Growing up in Coffs Harbour you have so much water available to you. When I was 5 years old my mum and dad decided that us kids needed to learn how to swim, so they took us to Sawtell Rockpool

special filter added to your camera lens or having your camera modified internally. It gives a very different look – one that I consider very artistic and a different way of viewing life. I have tried different ways and means of using underwater lighting to create more interesting or captivating water imagery and want to do a lot more in this area. Experimenting with underwater portraits can also be very rewarding as well. I am also interested in film photography and have experimented with underwater film cameras. What came first, the love of water or love of photography? Definitely it was the love of water. Growing up in Coffs Harbour you have so much water available to you. When I was 5 years old my mum and dad decided that us kids needed to learn how to swim, so they took us to Sawtell Rockpool and we started learning. In the years since then I loved swimming, took up surfing, then water skiing, barefoot water skiing and then competition white water kayaking. There was a lot of water activity in my life in those days.

What’s your personal favourite shot and why? That’s a tough question to answer as I have gone through so many personal favourites. But looking over everything, if I had to choose one, I would say it is a piece called “Azure” which I photographed in Charlesworth Bay some years ago. I think this is my favourite because I felt it was a combination of many factors including; I was aiming to get this type of shot, use of lighting to shine down through the water and illuminate what lay below, time of day and the beautiful wave form. Where can we find more of your work? I have a website called Aqua Art by Zeph

where I display and sell prints of my work. I also hand-make bespoke pieces of artwork and take custom orders. I make each of these custom pieces by printing an image, attaching it to a sheet of aluminium panel and then covering the image with a very high grade resin. This is then mounted onto another piece of aluminium panel, slightly raised off to give a 3D effect then frame the whole piece. Each frame is handmade by me from Tasmanian Oak which completes the artwork with a beautiful wood grain and texture. You can check out more of Zeph’s work at aquaartbyzeph.com COFFS COAST

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Travers Ross has lived a life rich in immersion. Throughout the last five years, the lessons learned and experiences gained have been recreated and brought to life through his body of works all over country. We catch up with Trav to see what adventure awaits next.

ey Trav. Welcome home!! You've been living and working in Hollywood and Australia for many years and it's been about 5 years since FOCUS caught up with you. What's been happening over those years? Giinagay! So good to be at what I know as home during all this craziness out there. I appreciate your interest and journey we have shared. Coming back here feels like I am still moving forward and still growing. This time being home from the last five years feels so different from what I have learnt in that time. I am seeing and learning from quite innocent eyes like I was a teenager again, literally having my new studio set in my old bedroom. It feels I have been given a second chance to learn this place from the nature's 32 COFFS COAST

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perspective more so than before caught up in live in one place and just let life take the wheel people, events and all the bonus distractions allowing the art of life to perform for me and that comes with the place. I am so grateful I become the observer responding. So I ended to have faces that I up in Japan, Hollywood, grew with nodding at Gold Coast, Brunswick me with a happiness Heads, Abergowrie (Nth I am seeing and even if they're not Qld) and Brisbane with learning from feeling it in the ocean tours in between and quite innocent eyes or in the street. It's back here. like I was a teenager still Gumbaynggirr Your career really took again, literally having regardless of all the off overseas and you my new studio set in stuff and the nature were asked to create my old bedroom. is waiting to be loved for some pretty big more, just like us. The names whilst there. last time I spoke to you Tell us about this? lovely lot I moved to Melbourne with a band Yeah when I was in Hollywood I assisted called MotionPoets Art, created a theatre my best mate Richard Swoop Whitebear show called Boji, did the Aria Awards and an (Choreographer for Aaliyah, MC Hammer, International tour with Stalker Theatre and a Madonna, JLO to name a few) for Snoop another with Elements Collective. I tried not to Dogg and Pharrell Williams on the

performance for the album Bush at iHeart and environment made me who I am as well Radio and then they went to Europe with it. and I respect that. It was incredible sharing rehearsal process While there I also wrote a track that space with such legends. I literally had a was recreated for my three year old music picture of Pharrell on my manifesto wall three creation called Yt Dingo. The track was with months before in Japan. dancehall hip hop reggae Working with them music artist Madlion all was no different to and his Killah Pride crew I was growing being with people I love in North Hollywood so much, to create with. I felt at known for his MCing money wasn’t gonna home, felt appreciated and producing with make me feel rich, it and respected. It's KRSone and Sublime. was a really awesome pretty crazy as I type This dude was another reason to wake up this now from my awesome alignment each day, the teenage bedroom to for me to understand a reflect on the dancing whole other part of hip community and the and rapping I did hop culture and way of music was good. watching them on TV creating. I was broke as a child. I mean they sweeping floors of the were my mentors through the screens and I studios so I could stay there and create along was there in the room with them being called side them, it was my way of giving back. I unorthodox and told I got a thing, you know was growing so much, money wasn’t gonna a gift. They appreciated my work equally and make me feel rich, it was a really awesome that's what I got to come home with, because reason to wake up each day, the community I have worked hard and always followed my and the music was good. I mean it had to heart, not letting know one get in the way of be good, because they didn’t have the best that. It was nice to have that reassured alliance nature surrounding them and connection to as growing on this continent has a very tall country so you start to get it. Hip Hop is a gift poppy attitude and struggle with expression, to the world from some of the darkest places for obvious reasons. I have always made sure on this planet. To find the light in that depth that I share who we are when I was there, of colonisation and destruction helps me regardless of the shit I copped, this community understand why I have been so needed in our

own backyard now. What's different about the culture over there and over here is, we still have a chance and hope to turn it all around. As a young dancer musician living and growing up here in Coffs, what are some great memories that come from those times? Did you ever believe that you would be where you are today with your career. Yeah I remember I was going to quit at one stage, pretty lucky ay! Growing up in this town wasn’t easy being one of the only dudes that would dance openly. The only other fellas that really saw eye to eye on average with me was black fellas which later on made much more sense understanding flow and everything. It was nice being with Christian fellas because they didn’t drink as much but man they could play metal the way I dug it true god! Ha I carry that with me as well. Dancing on water I got to do with my local brothers and sisters. Surfing was the best part of this culture I knew that would show the softer side of my mates connecting with nature and gracefully listening to the waves, the music. The dancing I did here with Mum and Dad, playing Soccer and always working with teams was special. I felt they were both healers in their weird and wonderful ways, so I was gifted having them wow! Still am. Continued over...

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I kinda ended up having to create new friends because sometimes it was just weird for others having me as a mate. So I started teaching younger people a way of creating the way I felt. People might remember Groovelock, yeah we were kids around here trying something different and many of those kids are still dream chasing and catching them. In between all these what we call highlights I guess I have been continuing with what my heart desires most. Learning to love and care for country better, needing less, receiving more then ever. Self love has been an overwhelming trend across the globe and mine kicked off way back when, when it was free which is super privileged from what I have witnessed. This love for my experience and self lead me to learn that for the greatest love I can give myself is having a healthy environment to play in, give to and feed off. So as I woke to this more and more consciously because unconsciously since I was a child most would say to me I was aware and making a difference for the better with my gifts. 34 COFFS COAST

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playing in Gumbaynggirr and what I learnt I am aware of the importance of the cultures that were here before everyone moved in. Being in the USA and even Japan I danced and wrote music with people who knew their identity and my 200 year old identity felt like a joke. Not everyone may understand this. This 200 year identity called Australian was fun for a while but reflecting with other cultures showed me that it was superficial and I didn’t have knowledge of my own culture and what is it? Through the Yet from my little chapters I got to see the truth universal language of dance my body was the of this continent, spending communication of years going back and forth my soul and love from NT communities, Nth for conversation to So as I woke up Qld, western NSW and grow. Yet I crave a to this more and even here. I started to feel it more meaningful and more consciously through stories sitting with authentic connection because unconsciously people outside of my go to with my community. since I was a child circles, with not so good Now you've most would say to me I memories too. I witnessed merged your was aware and making those living with the deepest passions together a difference for the love for land, ocean, sky and - music, dance and spirit I had ever seen. These better with my gifts. artistry. How has people in every country it been bringing of this continent spoke to these worlds my heart and it made sense. I found a deep together? embarrassment to be Australian and all I had Yt Dingo has been my main focus bringing all was my music to release through because it my worlds together through my story expressing was mine. When I discovered the culture I was through original music, dance, fashion and film. practising was creating dis-ease in my life and It's been doing well with a music award for my to others, I had to shift and get me out of the first release at the Gold Coast and performing way which wasn’t easy. My music then became at Splendour in the Grass for my debut. Since healing. So from this big adventure since last then it has only been going upward with great

shows, festivals, tours, two EP releases music videos with singles until Covid hit. I got to collaborate with my Yolngu brothers Djuki Mala from Elcho island in the NT. We flew my mate Swoop all the way from America to mentor me further and them to. Djuki Mala ended up on two of my songs on my first EP with Movie star Baykali Ganambarr on vocals and ceremony song man Watjarr Garmu on the yidaki. I have had so many experiences with country talking to me, I get to dance with it, create and it truly responds. These stories I share in my Yt Dingo shows that I would love you all to come to! Someone said it's like Rage Against the Machine Truly sad and Madonna had a considering baby in Australia. One have been learning the dancing with them show that still gets me traditional language feels like the way life deep and is available through Bullari Murrlay should be. No booze, on facebook is this Nyanggan, I been roller just freedom and online performance skating the Jetty, surfing connection for being I did with a massive and writing so much with achievable group of young fellas music, a song and video responsibilities. from 42 First Nations featuring the beautiful communities. Dancing Emily Wurramurra and her with them feels like the lovely mother Angela. We way life should be. Just freedom and connection just shot a music video in Raby Bay Qld on a for being with achievable responsibilities. Being 15th Century ship called the Notorious and yep able to use music and dance to share with no there’s mermaids! With incredible production filter what's on my heart is bliss but it has its design by Bindimu Currie. This will be coming hurts and I wouldn’t have it any other way. out this year. I have a new single called Off the What's in store for us over the next few Leash coming out on August 22nd which will months? follow with 3-4 concerts in September with my So being on this beautiful country again I

band and dancers around the Gumbaynggirr region with shows in Woopi, Bello, Coffs, Grafton and hopefully beyond. I am getting the wider community involved in the dances and songs that relate to stories I have written here by the harbour in the hills and by the rivers. Anyone can join, it's anti pop, house, funk, roots, hip hop, metal, cinematic and acknowledges culture. I will be hosting workshops in those small communities that anyone that can handle M15+ content can participate and I’ll have a place for you to dance with me. Scan this QR code and it will take you to the tickets, my original music and videos, online shows, merchandise and events. If you're keen your support would be massive right now. What are you looking forward to heading into the back end of the year? I wanna get amongst Russell's new studio at Pacific Bay! Not sure how just yet but I can act and it sounds amazing! I want to learn more Gumbaynggirr language, tradition burn offs, plant native plants back. I want to play more Yt Dingo shows and tour where ever it wants to be heard and seen. I want to help us rise out of this beautiful mess with a better way which means I guess I will be meeting a new version of me yet. Lots to let go and lots to learn. Lets go fam! Xoxo Hope to see you at a workshop or most of all a show! Get that QR code. Big love. Thanks Trav.

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PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

WEA R I T PURPLE DAY 20 21

hat is Wear we have in our daily life; particularly those It Purple that centre around sexual orientation Day? It is a and gender identity. It aims to remind day dedicated people that the issues we reflect on during to bringing Wear It Purple Day should not only be awareness considered on that particular day but every to our community about showing day. LGBTIQ+ young people that they have When did it start? This movement the right to be proud of who they are. It started in 2010 and has taken off is about creating safe spaces in schools, globally. It was born from seeing youth universities, workplaces and public spaces so distressed that lives were lost and that to show LGBTIQ+ young people that they there was a real need to support and show are seen and supported. our LGBTIQ+ youth that This year it is Friday 27th there are people who THIS August 2021. love them and support MOVEMENT Who can them unconditionally. STARTED IN 2010 get involved? Research shows that AND HAS TAKEN Organisations, 75% of LGBTIQ+ youth OFF GLOBALLY. universities and will be bullied just for workplaces can organise being who they are. events across Australia, This is what we can be and through these actions, directly and a part of changing. indirectly, show young LGBTIQ+ people What can we do? By empowering that they are being respected, recognised rainbow young people to be proud of who and that love and inclusion surrounds they are, and who they might become, them. So why not ask your boss if you can we are encouraging and supporting them celebrate this day? Maybe a morning tea each day in the classroom or workplace. or wear purple or grab some ideas from The importance of pronouns and gender the Wear It Purple website that has loads affirmation, as well as the use of inclusive of resources and ideas. language, is a great place to start. What is this year’s theme? This year’s Our schools, universities, and theme is “Start the conversation... keep workplaces can play an active and visible it going”. This theme focuses on the role to change this statistic, making it clear important and necessary conversations that this behaviour is not tolerated, and

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by consciously including rainbow young people so they know they are safe, and that they have the right to be proud of who they are. The power of storytelling and visibility enables our rainbow youth to hear from those who have gone before them, their struggles and triumphs, and know that no matter where they’re at right now, there is so much hope and a million possibilities awaiting them. PFLAG Coffs Harbour has been great for this exchanging of stories and experiences and we all walk away learning something from each casual coffee meet. It is so comforting to know that while there are hard stories we tell, there are also really uplifting and great stories and we can see the societal changes are happening. The information is out there, the support is there and that has improved so much even since my own experience of trying to get support 15 years ago. For more information on Wear It Purple Day look up www.wearitpurple.org Coffs Coast PFLAG ( Parents and Friends of Lesbians And Gays) is a group of volunteers or allies who have a child, friend or family member that they love who they want to support in the best way they know how. pflagcoffscoast.com PFLAGcoffcoast 0417 861 045

WAT C H

LISTEN

Read P L AY i t

WITH NICCI SECCOMBE

READ APPROACHING THE PAUSE

Dr Rosie Ross and Joanne Vines Dr Rosie is a General Practitioner in Coffs Harbour and has found that women are often embarrassed to talk about the common symptoms of perimenopause. During many conversations she has shared with her friend Jo Vines, they discovered not only a shared frustration but the ability to have a laugh and make a difficult conversation fun. Approaching the ‘Pause' is all about asking “what’s up”, and learning the facts about our respective journeys so our expectations, conversations, and medications can be managed better.

AMY SHARK - Cry Forever 'Cry Forever' is the follow up to Amy Shark’s 2018 #1 ARIA Album Of The Year, 'Love Monster'. Written and recorded in the US, UK, New Zealand and Shark’s home studio on the Gold Coast, her exceptional songwriting is on full display, co-producing with A-List producers.

THE GOOD DOCTOR

WATCH

Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, relocates from a quiet country life to join a prestigious hospital surgical unit. Alone in the world and unable to personally connect with those around him, Shaun uses his extraordinary medical gifts to save lives and challenge the skepticism of his colleague

PLAY JOKING HAZARD If you're a fan of Cards Against Humanity, this devilish and NSFW alternative will be right up your street. Joking Hazard follows a similar formula of filling in the blanks with the funniest response, but it shakes things up by using pictures instead of words. Cue absolute chaos. 18 +

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Macca's M a as

Junior

G rants

T M

THE MUNRO GROUP

Each month a number of grant recipients are chosen based on their commitment in the areas of sporting, academic or community service.

More Info Visitt maccasjuniorgrant.com.au U 14's Sawtell Spirits Soccer Team 1st season together as a brand new team for 2021. We wish them all the best for 2022.

Big River Canoe Club

NEW FILM STUDIO for Coffs Harbour Exciting news that Russell Crowe and the NSW Government are backing a new film studio at Coffs Harbour. The new studio has an estimated capital investment value of $438 million. It will support hundreds of jobs for locals. Plans are for a studio to be at the Pacific Bay Resort. This is a great economic boost for our entire region. The film studio is going to be a family friendly site, purposely located on the grounds of an existing holiday resort where cast families will be able to stay. Australia has become a magnet

for global filmmaking since the pandemic began. We are now considered to be one of the most COVID-safe filming locations in the world. MORE GREAT NEWS, UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FALLS TO NEW LOWS The unemployment rate has dropped from 7.5% at its peak to 5.1%. 115,000 Australians found work in May. A wonderful result. These figures show that our stimulus programs have worked. Australia has recovered better than any other advanced economy in the world.

$23M WOOLGOOLGA SPORTS CENTRE:

After cancelling canoeing events due to droughts, bushfires, covid and flooding , BRCC finally got to get out on the water.

Major work is underway!

Coffs Touch Association Great to see so many juniors enjoying thier touch footy on a monday night.

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Kevin HOGAN MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PAGE

Authorised by K Hogan MP, National Party of Australia - NSW, 63 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480

DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH TRIO OF CHOCOLATE, MINI CHOCOLATE FONDANT W ORANGE SEGMENTS, DARK CHOCOLATE BRULEE WITH RASPBERRIES & SUGAR SHARD, MINI ICE CREAM CONE STUFFED WITH A WHITE CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE FILLING, CHERRY & MELON FROM VELVETS ON JETTY COFFS COAST

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CHOC MAC MARTINI Nothing cosier in winter than settling into a warm seat, kicking back to some lovely vibes & plenty of chocolate !! On the amazing cocktail menu at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this little choc & macadamia gem. With a perfect blend of vanilla infused vodka, chocolate liqueur, Brookie’s Mac liqueur, fresh milk, choc sauce & crush Flake, this stunning little treat is guarantee to satisfy all your cravings !! Beware though, it’s almost impossible to have just one !! 40 COFFS COAST

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TROY CLUB &

R E S TAU R A N T S U P P L I E S

Troy Club & Restaurant Supplies has been a local business for over 30 years. To stay in business that long they have always listened to their customers’ needs and are moving forward with the latest trends. We caught up with new business manager David Cini to find out more…

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ho makes up your team? I’m David Cini. I have a great knowledge of everything hospitality from large businesses down to the small cafe. I moved away from Coffs as we all do to find what’s out there to explore and grow. Moving to the Gold Coast to work among the shining lights and the great hotels and people, you soon learn that There have been big Coffs is the only place We also offer a good changes in technology to bring up kids and range of Recyclable – how has that helped have a great work/life Biodegradable products your business? balance. and Enviroboard made Technology is at the I always admired from sugarcane. Not to heart of our business. the Troy store as mention the awesome We’re always looking for an apprentice chef. range of syrups for that that extra edge to make I bought my first the customers’ lives fun night of cocktails. toolbox 25 years later. easier, by showing them I have had the great We are always looking to items available online privilege of working buy products that are or how to order straight at the store with a Australian made. from the shop. New great group of people items in store are ever which makes it easy changing, with the new to come to work and TV shows like Masterchef showing people greet people with a smile and give a warm they can do almost anything now in their hearted “hello”. own kitchen. We can also look at getting Our great team that keeps us moving special items in for that special project or starts with Leanne, who has been the dinner you are looking at doing. Our range backbone of Troy for over 20 years. Leanne of sous vide machines and vacuum sealers brings knowledge and a great smile to work have been a good addition to our range. every day, and we affectionately call her the We also offer a good range of Recyclable encyclopaedia. Biodegradable products and Enviroboard Gary our warehouse/IT guy looks after all made from sugarcane. Not to mention the the important behind-the-scenes action and awesome range of syrups for that fun night is always there to help out the front. of cocktails. We are always looking to buy Greg is our man that is always on the road products that are Australian made. looking after all our customers, from Yamba As we grew from a little store on the Jetty in the north to Kempsey in the south. He has Strip to our wonderful large premises at been a local guy around the traps and brings Lawson Crescent, our motto has stayed the great customer service, knowledge and same. We will get it to you the next day if it always a funny joke whenever you see him.

has become a hit with the locals. Our attitude is to always scour the latest equipment and stay up to date on all information to pass on to our customers. As important as our restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs are, we always stay in touch with local people who are welcome to come into our wonderful store looking to take hold of their passion for cooking. We can help with all items from pots and pans to cocktail glasses and our beautiful collection of colourful plates and bowls. Our range of teapots will keep any enthusiastic tea drinker happy, and let’s not forget those passionate coffee people with a great range of coffee plungers and espresso makers. How do you define success? Success for Troy has always been simple: listen to customers and have a good time doing it, and always go that little extra to help someone out. Having a store that we are proud of, and our customers can move around freely in, is always high on my list first thing in the morning when walking in to work – and of course the coffee as well! Please remember that we are open to the public so come down and say “Hi”. How do we get in touch? Troy Club Restaurant Supplies is located at 35b Lawson Cres, Coffs Harbour Phone 02 6652 4450 or Email sales@troyclubsupplies.com.au COFFS COAST

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RHONDA BURCHMORE

Australia’s favourite showgirl celebrates 40 years from stage to jungle with her dazzling new show GLAMAZONIA.

fter winning Australia’s hearts on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!, Rhonda takes centre stage to share songs, stories and secrets about surviving four decades in one of the world’s most formidable industries. From London’s West End to the

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depths of the South African jungle, the Glamazonia herself will exhilarate audiences on a high-octane thrill ride through 40 years of entertainment. Featuring icons of pop music, Rhonda will interpret hits like Katy Perry’s Roar, Helen Reddy’s I Am Woman, Cher’s If I Could Turn

Back Time and Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive for a musical extravaganza unlike any other. Rhonda’s humour and spirit will shine through as she recounts hilarious anecdotes and belts out show stopping renditions. To delight audiences, Rhonda will be backed by a sizzling hot band plus tantalising toy boys to help her burn up the dance floor. There will be no shortage of glamour, with glittering ensembles and gowns galore, giving audiences everything they’ve come to love and expect from Ms Burchmore. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening of glamour, empowerment and fabulousness, the likes of which can only be delivered by the Glamazonia that is Rhonda Burchmore – and you’re going to hear her roar!

THE PLUG Catch Rhonda at the Jetty Theatre on the 14th August Tickets available from www.jettytheatre.com

team Meet

DOLPHIN MARINE C O N S E R V AT I O N PARK

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Behind the scenes at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park. This inspiring organisation has protected wildlife on the Coffs Coast for 50 years. Four team members discuss their passion for marine conservation and why they want people to care.

IGA. It’s your eleventh year at the Park. What is a Life Sciences Manager? From scripting information talks to planning interactions with our animals, I ensure we do our best to create an incredible experience for our guests. I also collaborate with other zoos and aquariums on breeding programs and valuable research. What advice would you give young people wanting a career in marine science? Volunteer. I volunteered for two years at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park and previously at WIRES. The practical experience I gained is invaluable. We are always looking for volunteers for our Park and marine animal rescue and rehabilitation facility and offer special volunteer training courses. Tell us about the Top 3 reasons you love working at the Park. 1. Educating guests about our marine conservation efforts. Our team volunteers for 46 COFFS COAST

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We are always looking for volunteers for our Park and marine animal rescue and rehabilitation facility and offer special volunteer training courses.

our 'Seal The Loop' program to collect hundreds of kilometres of discarded fishing line and gear in designated bins located along the Coffs Coast. And our 'Pets Inside Saves Lives' campaign highlights the threat to local wildlife from dogs and cats allowed to roam at night. We ask people to keep their pets secure after dark with an awareness night on 7th September every year. 2. Building relationships with our animals using husbandry techniques. These skills encourage our animals to participate in their health care and demonstrate natural behaviours. 3. Helping rescue and rehabilitate marine animals. How do you want young people to help marine conservation? Reduce, reuse and recycle. Young people can make a significant impact by making some minor changes to their everyday habits. Be aware of single-use plastic and think twice

before buying anything new. These actions can help our oceans and precious marine life.

KIERAN. You’ve been caring for marine animals at the Park for ten years. How did you get the job? I’ve always been interested in marine wildlife and started volunteering at the Park when I left school. Whilst volunteering, I completed TAFE courses, including Veterinary Nursing, Zoo Keeping and Aquaculture. I worked my way up to the management role I hold today. I’m the Operations Manager for Dolphin Marine Conservation Park and our marine rescue charity, Dolphin Marine Rescue Animal Rehab Trust (DMRART). I manage the Park’s infrastructure and water quality to ensure our animals, guests and team members enjoy a safe and comfortable environment.

I’m passionate about the rescue and rehabilitation of marine wildlife. I oversee a team of dedicated carers and volunteers who help rescue and nurse hundreds of sick and injured animals every year. There’s nothing more rewarding than releasing a healthy sea turtle back into the ocean off the Coffs Coast after months in our care. Your team rescues around 100 sea turtles every year. What have you learned about them? They have complex life cycles, and there’s still so much to discover. We often receive sea turtles into the Park as sick or injured teenagers. Marine scientists tracking turtles refer to the teenage years as “the lost years” because the hatchlings go out to sea and don’t return until they’re in their late teens. No one knows what happens during these years. However, with more sophisticated tracking, work is being done to monitor and research their movements. What are the Top 3 things you enjoy about working at the Park? 1. Being part of the rescue and rehabilitation of injured and sick marine animals and their release back to the ocean. 2. Advocating for our animals every day. I enjoy raising awareness amongst our visitors and the public about the importance of protecting marine animals and their environments. 3. Always learning. Every day I discover something new about the marine world.

What advice do you have for young people about marine conservation? Enjoy the marine environment, but also respect it. The Coffs Coast has one of the most diverse marine environments in Australia. The Solitary Islands Marine Park is rich with hundreds of species of fish and other marine wildlife. If young people experience and appreciate the beauty of our reefs and marine life, the more likely they’ll take care of it.

TANI. You’ve been a Marine Mammal Trainer at the Park for four years. How did you get started? I have a Bachelor of Zoology and spent many years volunteering with marine mammals, reptiles and native Australian mammals to build my experience. Share the Top 3 things you love about working at the Park. 1. Building solid relationships with the animals under our care. Expert animal husbandry and training are vital to the animals’ health and welfare. I work closely with our dolphins, Australian Sea Lions and Little Blue Penguins. 2. Attending rescues and assisting in animal rehabilitation. 3. Seeing recovered animals released back to the wild. What do you want young people to do about marine conservation? Always keep asking questions. The more knowledge and understanding of our marine

life, the better equipped you are to help with their survival by protecting and conserving our marine environments.

YVETTE. As Assistant Manager of Marine Operations and Enrichment Officer, you’ve worked at the Park for nearly five years. What experience did you bring to your role? After studying at university, I trained dolphins in an entry-level position in Dubai. I worked my way up by gaining experience in many areas of marine animal care. I coordinate park operations that relate directly to the welfare of our animals, including those in our rehabilitation facility. What makes your Top 3 loves, working at the Park? 1. Opportunities to care for an incredible range of marine animals. 2. Actively participating in the rescue, rehabilitation and release of a wide variety of wildlife. 3. Spreading awareness to park visitors about the plight of wild animals, the negative impacts humans can make and the positive actions people can take. You believe young people are the key to marine conservation. Why? Human pollution is the biggest killer and danger to our precious marine life. We need young people to be the problem-solvers of tomorrow by designing solutions to our current issues. COFFS COAST

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Magnificent program for 2021 tour. The Australian Tenors’ versatility spans all genres of the classical tenor repertoire. The Australian Tenors unite in this wonderful concert with a dynamic display of true Australian talent. Audiences are thrilled by the everpopular classical arias from the popular Operas such as the tenor Trademark Puccini - Nessun Dorma, Verdi’s-Anvil Chorus to popular tenor songs from Man of La Mancha, The Impossible Dream – Les Miserables, Do You Hear The People Sing & Neapolitan favourites Funiculi Funicular. The Australian Tenors also delight audiences with songs from hit music theatre productions and their stirring rendition of The Hallelujah Chorus. Beautiful duets

$25 redeemable Monday to Sunday Terms and conditions apply

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are also a part of the program including Phantom of The Opera & The Pearl Fishers. Proudly Australian, their performance is never complete without delighting audiences with a sing-along of Australiana songs. The ever-popular, ‘Waltzing Matilda’, the iconic poem by Dorothea Mackellar, ‘Australia My Country’ set to music, with a didgeridoo opening, which evoke love and spirit of connection, ‘I Am Australian’, I Still Call Australia Home, Road To Gundagai among other favourites. This adds a very patriotic musical segment to the performance.

SPICED

pork loin SALAD

F R O M S I LV I O S I TA L I A N O

INGREDIENTS Pork Tenderloin 200 grams

SALAD

SPICE RUB

100 grams Rocket

- ½ tsp paprika

100 grams Sliced Red Cabbage

- ½ tsp ground cumin

50 grams Toasted Pine Nuts

- ½ tsp salt

100 grams Blueberries

- ½ tsp white pepper

50 grams Danish Fetta

- ½ tsp cayenne pepper

100 ml Balsamic Vinegar

- ½ tsp ground coffee

Splash of olive oil

METHOD 1) Mix all dried spices together, massage mix over the pork. 2) Place balsamic and blueberries in a saucepan and bring to boil over medium heat, reduce liquid by half. Set aside to cool. 3) Heat olive oil in a frying pan over low to medium heat, sear pork on both sides for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and place in a pre-heated 170 degree oven for 5 minutes or until the pork has reached an internal temperature of 64 degrees. 4) Remove pork from pan and rest on a cutting board. 5) Toss rocket, cabbage and splash of olive oil in a bowl then arrange down the middle of a plate. Slice pork into six pieces and place on top of mixed leaves. Top with pine nuts, fetta and balsamic blueberries and drizzle with the balsamic blueberry juice to finish.

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DEGREES THE NEW E DEGREES IS A CULMINATION OF 16 YEARS OF LIVING AND BREATHING STREET/POP CULTURE.

ou recently renovated your store, where did you get the inspiration from? We wanted to give the town something fresh, but at the same time, bring it in line with our other store The Sneaker Lounge. We spent a lot of time looking at warehouses and pop-up stores overseas and noticed the abstract use of building materials in streetwear fashion – the incorporation of shipping crates, splattered paints and even scaffolding – the result is truly unique. With the re-opening of the store, what have you decided to do differently? We’ve realised it’s not about how many brands you stock, it’s about focusing on the brands that do well and that fit your business. Our offering is well displayed, making it easier for the customer to identify each brand. As

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You’ll be greeted with clothing and caps, but the further you look the more you discover – records, collectable toys, books, giftwares and even guitar strings!

well as that, we’ve made our cap, Pop! Vinyl and record sections bigger. You have a Dennis Rodman quote on your wall, tell us about that? “Don’t let what other people think decide who you are.” We were looking for a quote to fill up a blank space on our wall, and we stumbled across this gem. It really sums up how we look at fashion and one’s freedom to live their life how they see fit. Let’s face it Dennis Rodman has always walked to the beat of his own drum, he’s one of the most eccentric and individual icons of our time. “Don’t let what other people think decide who you are”, I think these are wise words for the youth of today, it all relates back to

being more inclusive of others and focussing less on what society sees as normal and what we feel is normal for us. What makes your business stand out? Upon entering the store you’ll notice the baseball bat door handles, so straight away this isn’t your average store. You’ll be greeted with clothing and caps, but the further you look the more you discover – records, collectable toys, books, giftwares and even guitar strings! We also pride ourselves on our merchandising and our bespoke fixtures. It’s always been in our DNA to stand out above the rest, so I think it’s something we do pretty well.

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Tell us about the “Uncommon Collective”. We’ve taken to using the tag line “Uncommon Collective”, because after all these years that’s what we’ve become – an uncommon collective of brands and products that speak to our lifestyle. Although we’re a clothing store, we’re much more than this. Our reputation for collectable toys, books, records and quirky giftware all under one roof is unmatched. What brands do you currently have in store? Stussy, Wrangler, Lee and Calvin Klein have always been our clothing staples, but we now carry M/SF/T, Dickies, Carhartt WIP, The North Face and plenty of vintage basketball apparel. Our cap offering is the largest on the Mid North Coast with New Era, Mitchell & Ness and ‘47 Brand – the three biggest sporting cap suppliers in the world. We also offer a bit of spice with brands like Playboy, HUF – both risqué and playful. What are the key trends going forward? We’re seeing a lot of colour. Black and white will always be staples, but pastels and earthy tones are on the rise. Look out for a bit of brown and green and even a splash of pastel yellow. There is also a lot of emphasis on sustainability, and the use of recycled cottons, and a lot more brands are offering unisex ranges.

Do you have any future plans that you’re willing to share with us? Well, we are about to open a third store called, The Basement 175. Located on Orlando Street it will be a “substore” carrying a combination of popular basics from both E Degrees and The Sneaker Lounge but will also be a permanent “sale outlet”. We’ve spent the last two months fitting it out ourselves and can’t wait to share it with everyone. Think E Degrees and The Sneaker Lounge but with an even more creative twist. We also have plans to grow our website over the next 12 months. Online presence is a must, especially in a post-COVID world. We have a website up and running now but we just need more time to promote it and grow it. How do you keep your team motivated? Well for starters, paying them certainly helps lol… We are fortunate enough to have a great team of amazing human beings to work alongside us, so that’s definitely part of my motivation for going to work every day. We try to focus on having a friendly work environment where our staff feel like they are a part of the business and not just “employees” clocking in and out for a paycheck. We would like to think that our staff feel appreciated and that is motivation enough! What is the best thing about your job? Probably having the freedom to create a shopping experience for our customers that we would want for ourselves. There’s no head

office telling us how to run our business, no rule book, just the ideas in our heads. Retail displays can be quite generic, so we have taken to designing and crafting our own to suit the merchandise we are displaying. This is a rewarding part of the job, bringing the ideas to life! What’s been the best business advice you’ve received? Give yourself time to work “on” your business not just “in” your business. As small business owners it’s easy to find yourself working in the business alongside your employees day-to-day which gives you very little time to work on it, but there comes a time that you need to step away and concentrate on working on your business and letting your staff do their job. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? Well, the food for starters! We have some great restaurants and cafes. Shameless plug, but we also love our coffee – shout out to Hope Road on Park Ave, and Slo Vino for craft beer and wine next to the Coffs Hotel – both independent local businesses like ours. And you have a family as well – how do you juggle it all? We get this question a lot and honestly, it’s a tough one to answer. Being a small business owner is a 24-hour, 7 day a week job, as is having a family so it is definitely a challenge. Thanks Amy and Graeme. COFFS COAST

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National

CARTOON GALLERY

ree Open Day To Celebrate Our 25th Anniversary. Come and see the newly expanded National Cartoon Gallery at our FREE OPEN DAY on 29 August. To celebrate 25 years of operation, the National Cartoon Gallery will be throwing open its doors to the local community. We have FREE entry to all our exhibitions, kids’ activities, tours, vintage films, entertainment. Come dressed as your favourite cartoon character to win prizes on the day. Bring your family and friends for a great day out and stop for a break at the Bunker Café for refreshments. See what all the buzz is about in this amazing new Coffs landmark building, that houses the largest collection of cartoons in the Southern Hemisphere!

This unique exhibition showcases the talents of Manga enthusiasts in Australia and around the world. Come in and experience it before it closes on 15 August.

Manga Mania – Get In To See It Before It Finishes Manga Mania (Japanese Cartoons) has captured devotees of pop-culture, cosplay and gaming, and budding younger Manga artists. This unique exhibition showcases the talents of Manga enthusiasts in Australia and around the world. Come in and experience it before it closes on 15 August. Bill Leak – Master Of Satire, Loveable Larrikin And A Giant Of Cartooning Bill, and his son Johannes Leak, have an amazing headline exhibition at the Gallery until 7 November. Bill Leak was described as a superb satirist and a master of political cartooning and winner of nine Walkley awards for his work. Always

controversial, he could cut through the political smokescreens to focus on the real issues, no matter how confronting. Dine & Discover Vouchers – Use Them, Don’t Lose Them & Become A Friend Today What better way to use your Dine & Discover vouchers than to support one of Coffs Harbour’s best cultural assets by becoming a Friend of the Gallery. Your membership will be entirely covered when you use your Discover voucher. It’s a gift that keeps on giving! Join up before 31 August for our discounted promotional membership. www.nationalcartoongallery.com.au 02 6651 7343 office@nationalcartoongallery.com.au

COME TO OUR OPEN DAY ON 29 AUGUST, FREE ENTRY!

DONʼT WASTE YOUR

DISCOVER VOUCHER

For FREE MEMBERSHIP redeem your discover voucher with the 53 COFFS COAST

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SIGNUP BEFORE END OF AUGUST FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A NIGHT AT

If every picture tells a story, then THE NATIONAL CARTOON GALLERY HAS 24,000 STORIES to tell…and more!

National

CARTOON

GALLERY

elebrate our 25th Anniversary! This August the Gallery celebrates 25 years of communicating with our visitors through cartoons. We have grown from humble beginnings, in a small disused concrete bunker, to now having a landmark building in Coffs Harbour that is the home of cartooning in Australia. Rotarians, past and present, will gather to celebrate the contribution they made in turning the Gallery into the amazing space it is today. Our first Open Day with FREE admission will be held on Sunday 29 August, and we invite everyone to come and join us in celebrating this milestone anniversary. Bring your family and friends along and come and explore our impressive new building, with its many facilities. There will be kid-friendly activities, onsite cartooning with the opportunity to take home a cartoon self-portrait, vintage cartoon films and more. Make a day of it and drop into the Bunker Café for some refreshments. Mark the date in your calendar! Exhibitions The new building provides more gallery space, allowing opportunities for curated exhibitions that respond to our changing times. Our current exhibition Manga Mania (Japanese comics) is a collaboration between the Japanese Embassy, the Gallery and

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Australian Manga artists and it has been Be sure to tell your friends where you got hugely popular with younger audiences. it, as they won’t find it anywhere else. Manga is a growing phenomenon Venue Hire around the world and we hope this will be Only at the National Cartoon Gallery could the beginning of an ongoing relationship you host an event in a World War II bunker! between artists from the two countries. In So, when you are considering a venue an interesting synergy of comic artforms, to host your event, a business meeting, some 76 years after performance or WWII ended, cartoons celebration, the Gallery are now bringing Japan can provide you with a Our headline and Australia closer unique environment. exhibition by together. We can also provide well-known cartoonist Our headline you with a private Bill Leak has proven so exhibition by wellmeeting room that has known cartoonist Bill the latest technology, popular that we have Leak has proven so an intimate cinema extended it until the 7 popular that we have space or a large gallery November so if you extended it until the space that is perfect haven’t yet seen it, you 7 November so if you for networking events, haven’t missed out! haven’t yet seen it, you music and theatre haven’t missed out! performances, catered The exhibition dinners and weddings. is supported by a short video about Bill Our Conference and Events kit is available showing in the Theatrette and a wall of on our website, or you can call in and collect cartoons by his son, Johannes Leak. one from the Gallery. Gift Shop Bunker Café Our gift shop stocks an eclectic array Take a break in between viewing the of cartoon related merchandise, with cartoons to relax sitting in the treetops with something for everyone. Come in and your friends and family, enjoying a great browse our collection database screens in coffee with morning tea or lunch. Larger the shop, pick a cartoon or cartoons that groups should book in with the Café. tickle your fancy and before you know it you The Café will also cater for functions in will be taking home a lasting memory of our gallery space, from a Cocktail menu, your visit or a special gift for someone. Canape Style menu right through to a

catered 3 course dinner menu. The Bunker Café is open daily from 10-2pm. Volunteers Volunteers are an important part of the Gallery’s community. They love welcoming visitors from interstate and overseas. It is the personal touch they provide, with interesting stories about the role the Bunker played in World If you want to • discount on special War II, that makes join our events and merchandise a visit to the gallery community of • personal invitations memorable. volunteers and have to openings and events If you want to join some spare time, we’d • free entry when our community of love to invite you to bringing a paying guest volunteers and have become a part of our • The Underground some spare time, we’d dynamic team of newsletter delivered love to invite you to volunteers. direct to your inbox become a part of throughout the year. our dynamic team of Drop into the Gallery volunteers. Make new and one of our volunteers can easily sign friends, learn new skills, and try your hand you up as a Friend or sign up for our mailing at installing exhibitions, helping at openings list and support this National icon in the and events and promoting our fabulous heart of Coffs Harbour. collection of cartoons. Just call in and speak We have achieved great things in the to one of our friendly staff about becoming past 25 years thanks to the tireless work of a volunteer. our Board, the dedication of our volunteers Friends of the Gallery who give their time freely and the generous Now is the time to join as a Friend, as support of our local, state and national we are offering a discounted Promotional sponsors: Coffs Harbour City Council, membership using your Discover Vouchers. ANZ Bank, Geoff King Motors, Rotary Don’t lose them, use them! International, Colourworks, Observatory Benefits that our Friends are offered Holiday Apartments, Datarom, Unrealestate, include:

Pacific Property Management, Stickerman, Thrifty, Opal Cove Resort, Key Employment, Ian Isles, AJ Civil, FM Glenn, Regional Arts NSW and the NSW Government. Our status as the only Cartoon Gallery in Australia and one of only a handful of cartoon galleries worldwide, places us in the enviable position of being able to present innovative and exciting cartoon themed exhibitions and programs for the people of the Coffs Coast and beyond, putting Coffs Harbour on the map as the Cartoon Capital of Australia. We are excited by what the next 25 years will deliver, as technology evolves to allow us to bring our cartoons to life. With so much talent in cartooning in Australia the future offers endless possibilities. Jump into the wonderful world of cartoons at the National Cartoon Gallery, you never know what you will discover, and we can guarantee that you will leave with one of the best experiences the Coffs Coast has to offer. To keep up to date on what is happening at the Gallery, current and upcoming exhibitions and events are posted online at www.nationalcartoongallery.com.au, and like us on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter sites for all the latest news. COFFS COAST

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Cath

Young A RTI ST

M O NTH

Cath Young is an inspiring artist from Bellingen whose paintings are beautiful and full of feeling. Surprisingly she actually hasn’t been painting for a long time, although she is a creative who had a successful Etsy business selling her textiles and homewares for many years.

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ou could say her love of painting has taken her by surprise, but when you see her work it’s no surprise she is gaining attention from art lovers and curators alike. Hi Cath. Tell us how you would describe your style of art? I would describe it as mixed media mark making, abstract expressionism with some still life elements too. What mediums do you like to use? I use a mix of pencil, charcoal, oil pastels and acrylics on wooden board, canvas and paper. Some collage elements as well. How did you first discover your love for painting? I had never touched acrylics until three-anda-half years ago when my friend Nat talked me into doing a week of abstract painting at Camp Creative. I was instantly hooked! Our teacher was incredibly generous in sharing her techniques and supplies and I have been obsessed ever since. So painting is a fairly recent thing for you, what were some of your other creative outlets before you fell in love with painting? From a very young age I enjoyed making things, so in that sense I have always been drawn to creativity. I have always liked drawing, but also enjoy sewing, embroidery, graphic design, typography and ceramics. I am a self-taught photographer which I still love. All the design elements that make a good photograph – patterns, textures, contrast, balance – make a good painting too. Where does your inspiration often come from? I am currently working with adults, young

I’M INSPIRED BY THE STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE OF THE STORIES I HEAR. I THINK ABOUT WHAT I HAVE HEARD AND PROCESS THIS WHEN I’M PAINTING.

people and children who have been subjected to sexual violence. It is incredibly rewarding work. I’m inspired by the strength and resilience of the stories I hear. I think about what I have heard and process this when I’m painting. I am painting the mess, the wounds and scars left behind and then the recovery, the healing, the growth of moving forward – it enables me not to become overwhelmed by the trauma I hear, I’m thinking quietly,

processing and resting my mind. I’m visually inspired by the forest that surrounds my studio, the way the light comes through the trees in the morning, the moss on a tree, the texture of rocks pummelled by the ocean for thousands of years, and the birds that visit us. I also absolutely love kids’' art, they are natural abstract painters and I love the marks they make. Continued... COFFS COAST

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What is the process of creating a painting like for you? I always start with a scribble in pencil or charcoal – to get rid of the expanse of white – and then it’s layers and layers and layers of paint, and lines from pencil or charcoal, some shapes or patterns, it’s never planned out, I never know what it will look like at the end. Sometimes I use an electric sander if I’m working on wood to give more texture. I am usually working on a few pieces at a time. I can easily lose hours in the studio, my family are incredibly supportive of giving me time and space to paint. I have lots of process videos on Instagram that show how I work. Was there a moment where you realised your painting could be more than just a hobby? When I started sharing my paintings on IG and strangers wanted to buy them – I never intended to sell them. I had a successful Etsy shop for ten years selling fabric I designed and 58 COFFS COAST

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I AM USUALLY WORKING ON A FEW PIECES AT A TIME. I CAN EASILY LOSE HOURS IN THE STUDIO, MY FAMILY ARE INCREDIBLY SUPPORTIVE OF GIVING ME TIME AND SPACE TO PAINT.

made into homewares and I didn’t ever want to go back to selling online – but it’s been nice and steady rather than stressful and hectic. I have people who have bought multiple paintings from me now which is a huge compliment. I want my work to be accessible so people sometimes pay in instalments for larger works and I can sometimes do discounts for people on low incomes. I do a lot of commissions too. Who are some of your personal favourite artists? I love John Olsen, Cy Twombly, Joan Mitchell, Ben Quilty, No girr a Marawili, Del Kathryn Barton, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Catherine Cassidy, Tara Axford, Stefan Heyer,

and Jason Craighead… I just bought a beautiful piece by Darcy McRae – an artist from the Northern Rivers whose work I adore, and am very keen on one of Susan Simoni’s latest series of sheds and farm buildings. What have been some of the standout exhibitions or events you have been part of? I was part of the Incognito exhibition in Sydney this year where hundreds of artists donated small works on paper, all for sale at $100 each. The catch was you didn’t know who the artist was until you had bought

I WOULD LOVE

it – the artist’s details TO TAKE PART were on the reverse, IN MORE GROUP lots of well known SHOWS – BUT I AM artists also participated. OFTEN PARALYSED The show sold out and BY HAVING TO PAINT raised thousands for an TO A THEME. organisation making arts more accessible for people with disabilities My Online shop is mybeardedpigeon. or less abled – it was incredible to be part of bigcartel.com such a huge fundraiser. Best place to find me is Instagram @ Where would you like to take your work mybeardedpigeon – the name is from my Etsy in the future? shop – it’s too well established to let go of so I would love to take part in more group I’m keeping the name. shows – but I am often paralysed by having But I don’t mind it at all, I have met some to paint to a theme. I have a few galleries I’d of my closest friends through my Etsy days – like to approach too, any blank wall anywhere it’s a reminder that some ideas have been life seems like a potential place for a painting to changing for my family and I, and the next one be. could be just around the corner. Where can people find you to see more of Thanks Cath. your artwork? COFFS COAST

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with S U N D I A L

D E N TA L

INTRODUCING A

Revolutionary Laser

Treatment FOR GUM DISEASE

Early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) is the inflammation of the gums. This occurs when bacteria in plaque and calculus are not removed through brushing or regular scale and cleans, causing damage to the gums. Advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis) occurs when the inflammation of the gums gets worse, causing the bone supporting our teeth to degenerate.

ithout any professional intervention and treatment, over time the teeth can become loose and may need extracting by a dentist. 24% of healthy Australian adults aged 18 and over have moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis), while 60% of Australians aged 74 and older suffer. How to determine if you have gum disease? • Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums • Gums have shrunk from teeth • Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth • Loose teeth • Abscesses between teeth and gums Treatment of gum disease The treatment for gum disease will vary with severity; mild to moderate gum disease can be treated with brushing, flossing and regular visits to your hygienist and dentist. With more severe gum disease, treatment can vary from sub-gingival cleaning to treatment with a specific laser called LANAP. LANAP means Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. This laser therapy for the treatment of gum disease is unlike traditional gum surgery; there is no cut and sew. LANAP is a minimally invasive and highly effective treatment. It is used for the treatment of moderate and advanced gum disease. LANAP is the world’s first ever and only FDA-approved laser for the treatment of gum disease. Patients have come back with true regeneration of tissue and new bone formation.

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Traditional gum surgery is a cut and sew procedure and can cause sensitivity, long teeth and requires ongoing maintenance. Unlike traditional gum surgery, LANAP uses a multivariable pulsed laser to kill the infected tissue, rejuvenating the gums, connective tissue and bone that support your teeth. The laser attacks pigments in the infected tissue, leaving healthy tissue undamaged. LANAP treatment not only helps the body to regenerate tissue and heal itself naturally, it also helps patients to keep their natural teeth and save smiles! How does LANAP work? Before any treatment, a consultation is necessary, as it allows the dentist to identify diseased tissue and whether LANAP is suitable for you. At this time, a 3D Xray will be taken and a treatment plan will be provided, with all costs, appointment lengths and any follow up appointments necessary. LANAP usually occurs across two dental visits. Half the mouth is completed during the first visit, and a week later the other half of the mouth is completed. The process involves: 1. A perio probe determines the degree of excessive pocket depth and helps the dentist better identify diseased tissue and areas of bacterial infection. 2. The laser removes diseased tissue, while the heat of the laser kills the bacteria. 3. The dentist removes the tartar from the root surface using an ultrasonic scaler and special hand instruments. 4. The laser is used to clean the pocket one more time. 5. The gum is sealed closed to prevent further infection.

6. Any high biting spots are smoothed down to create even force on the tooth. 7. Over time, the bone regenerates and the periodontal ligament re-attaches to the tooth. Benefits of LANAP • Saves your natural teeth • Safe, precise and effective treatment • Bone regeneration up to 50% in patients who follow the protocol and have normal healing • One-time treatment • Less discomfort • Improved recovery time • Little to no recession in gums and regeneration in bone levels • Reduced inflammation and bleeding • Helps long term health • Safer and gentler than traditional gum surgery Contact us to learn more about this revolutionary treatment If you’ve ever been told you have gum disease or need gum surgery, you can take advantage of the tremendous benefits that LANAP laser gum therapy offers. If your gums have become swollen, red or infected, we can help. Our very own Dr Peter Elfar was the first dentist to study and offer this treatment in Australia, with over eight years’ experience and satisfied patients who travel from all over Australia to be treated by him. Why not take this opportunity to get on top of your dental health? Take action now and call the caring team at Sundial Dental on 6583 3533 or visit our website: www.lanapaustralia.com.au to find out more about this revolutionary treatment.

Our mission is the early detection and treatment of skin cancers. Coffs Coast Skin Cancer Clinic is a privately owned medical practice offering a comprehensive skin cancer service, including screening, and both surgical and non surgical treatments.

Our experienced doctors are Fellows of The Skin Cancer College Australasia, which is the highest achievable level of primary care skin cancer education.

WE AIM TO PROVIDE EVIDENCE BASED SKIN CARE AND WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH ALL TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE.

Phone 6652 2277

info@coffsskincancer.com.au coffsskincancer.com.au 30A Orlando St, Coffs Harbour 2450 COFFS COAST

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FITNESS

UPDATE with COURT WATERS

F R O M C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B

Do you feel unmotivated to head to the gym, reluctant to go and work out alone, not sure what kind of workout to do..? IT’S AN EASY CHOICE – A GROUP FITNESS CLASS!

t Coffs Coast Health Club, group fitness is the first choice of more than half the club’s member base. The high energy motivating environment, knowledgeable instructors who inspire you to get the most out of your workout and the friendly social community atmosphere are just some of the reasons our classes are so popular! We have a variety of class styles to suit all ranges of goals and interests. Examples include: Body Pump, a class to build lean muscle and increase muscular endurance. Punch, a boxing class, to improve cardiovascular fitness and help release your day’s frustrations. Body Balance, a yoga fusion class to stretch away any tension and focus purely on relaxing your body and mind. We also have over 50’s classes where you’ll find our older adults laughing and keeping their bodies moving – they often go for social coffee post-workout too! As a group exercise enthusiast and instructor, I have heard all the questions and worries about attending group classes. Let me break down some of those concerns... ‘I’m not fit enough’ – What! Isn’t the whole point to change that!? There are all sorts 62 COFFS COAST

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of people with all sorts of fitness levels in doing. Plus they have all been in your shoes in every single class. Us instructors are amazing the past and completely understand that it’s multitaskers (if I do say so myself), able to coach normal to be a bit unco getting started. And all options for different fitness levels to get hey, realistically they should be working hard everyone through the class, enough that they have no often while completing the time left to look around at Group fitness is a class ourselves. what’s happening around fun, vibing, ‘I’m too uncoordinated’ them. motivating atmosphere – Do you remember ‘I’m too old’ – Absolutely with great fun-loving the first time you went not! Betty is 78 and still instructors that just ice skating... You were hits her scheduled classes want you to have the fumbling around like a every day (seriously, she’s a best workout possible baby giraffe... and by machine) both the over 50’s and leave on that the end of the two-hour classes and the regular ones endorphin high! It’s session, you had gotten a too! We have classes suitable about coming in and little bit better...? Group for everyone. giving it a try, you exercise classes are the Group fitness is a never know, it might same, you cannot expect fun, vibing, motivating change your life! to be amazing in your first atmosphere with great funclass, give it time. A few loving instructors that just classes under the belt and want you to have the best you’ll be better at it, guaranteed! workout possible and leave on that endorphin ‘It’s intimidating because there are so many high! It’s about coming in and giving it a try, people there, what if they are watching me?’ you never know, it might change your life! – Trust me, no one has time to look at you, If you want some info about getting started except the instructor, they are all way too busy and giving a class a go, hit me up at Coffs concentrating on themselves and which way Coast Health Club and I can get you booked their body is going next to care what you are into the class that will best suit you!

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Pregnancy and Post-Natal Recovery – How Can a Physio Help? with AARON HARDAKER

re you pregnant and suffering with back pain? Have you just had a baby and unsure about how to help your body recover? Are you wanting to get back to exercise and not sure when it’s safe, or whether your pelvic floor is up to it? Pelvic health physios are an integral part of the healthcare team through pregnancy and the postnatal period. But what exactly can they help with? We caught up with Sarah Brown, pelvic physio at Mid North Coast Physio in Woopi, to find out more. What can pelvic floor physio help me with during my pregnancy? Pregnancy is a time of enormous physical change in the body. Pelvic physios are full of information about the changes that occur and what it means for you as you progress through pregnancy. We have post-graduate training in the ways pregnancy affects the various systems in your body – particularly the impact of pregnancy and childbirth on your pelvis, pelvic floor muscles and pelvic

organs. We can guide you through the role of the pelvic floor muscles, help you prepare for labour and delivery, assist in managing pain such as Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain and Low Back Pain AND help you manage any symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (e.g. urinary incontinence). When should I see a physio during pregnancy? It’s a great idea to have a chat with your pelvic health physio and run through some birth preparation as you progress through your second and third trimesters. It’s also helpful to check in at any time if you have specific questions about exercise in pregnancy, have a history of pelvic floor dysfunction prior to pregnancy or are experiencing any aches and pains. What about after I give birth? After either a vaginal delivery or caesarean, you should see a pelvic health physio at the 6-week mark as you do your midwife/GP/ obstetrician. This is where pelvic health physio can address any birth injuries (perineal tears, pelvic

organ prolapse, C-Section scars), assess the function of the pelvic floor muscles and help you get back to physical activity safely. Pelvic physios will be able to provide advice, guidance, and a plan for rehabilitation after giving birth. What services do you offer at Mid North Coast Physio? ALL OF THE ABOVE! I work with women through pregnancy offering birth prep consultations, 1:1 exercise sessions, and run hydrotherapy classes (which are great for relieving pain, reducing swelling and offloading pressure as bub grows in pregnancy). I also provide individual postnatal reviews from the 6-week mark where we discuss any concerns you have after giving birth, and start to work towards your goals! Thanks Sarah. To book your pregnancy assessment, post-natal review, or Healthy Mums Hydro class with Sarah, call the friendly admin team at Mid North Coast Physio on 1300 273747.

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CARE

KINGDOM DENTURE CLINIC

What do you know about denture maintenance? Just like teeth, regular check ups for your denture is vital. Below are tips and key information on how and why you should get regular check ups. Plus the what “not to do” to your denture.

• Reline every 2-3 years. This is putting a new fit surface on dentures. This occurs due to changes in the mouth ie weight loss, bone loss, losing teeth. We often will assess patients, take impressions in the morning and issue back that afternoon. • New dentures every 7-10 years How do I make my dentures last longer? • Do not soak in hot water or leave in a hot car • Never use bleach on your dentures • Do not adjust, modify or repair your own dentures or use super glue

• Take your dentures out when you sleep, play contact sports or swim

surface due to gum shrinkage and that your body is constantly changing

• Do not smoke

When should I see a dental prosthetist?

How do I care for my mouth and make my dentures last longer?

• If you loose teeth

• Rinse your mouth with water after each meal

• If you have a persistent sore in your mouth

• Clean your gums, tongue and remaining teeth after eating with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste

• If you have extreme soreness, leave your dentures out.

• Remove any denture/glue adhesive from your mouth • Denture maintenance ie having new fit

• If you break your dentures

But you must wear them the morning of your review appointment. For ongoing issues, you will need to make an appointment with Kingdom Denture Clinic.

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focus_interview DR ROSIE ROSS AND JOANNE VINES

Rewriting the narrative around menopause and having a laugh along the way has been a cathartic journey for both Dr Rosemary Ross & Joanne Vines. Their new book ‘Approaching the Pause’ is an empowering must read in finding a way to not only survive but thrive during the biggest transition women go through.

i Dr Rosie & Joanne. Congratulations on the release of your first published book “Approaching the Pause”. You must be relieved to have it finally out amongst the community for all to share. Tell us about your book. Dr Rosie: It is said that knowledge is power. Approaching the Pause is an easy-to-understand account of the journey to, through and beyond menopause. It is written to empower women and enlighten their interested friends and families. Joanne shares her own journey towards menopause through a series of hilarious candid conversational ‘Dear Diary’ entries and letters to Dr Rosie filled with questions that you too may want answered. ‘Is it normal to feel irritable and moody all the time as though I have PMS 24/7? Why do many women gain weight at 66 COFFS COAST

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Our intention

is that women midlife? Why have my experiencing disabling eyebrows dropped to my mood swings, sleep navigate their way top lip, so I now sport a deprivation, hot flushes, through menopause monobrow?’ itchiness, dryness, weight with grace, dignity My Dr Rosie chapters gain and irregular periods. and knowledge provide explanations My body started – whilst keeping about the ‘whys’ of what changing before I realised their humour and is going on in your body and long before I thought sanity intact. and a road map full of I was of the appropriate practical, reassuring tips age and time to become and evidenced-based ‘all dried up and put out advice about how you can not only survive but to pasture.’ thrive before, during and after menopause. When I woke to find a grey pubic hair, I Our intention is that women navigate their screamed OMG! WTF!!!!! When I shared my way through menopause with grace, dignity disgust with a girlfriend she said, ‘You’re lucky and knowledge – whilst keeping their humour mine have nearly all dropped out’. She was and sanity intact. excited to learn she was now on trend with her You both have busy day jobs. Tell us why unintentional Brazilian. you felt the desire to unleash the creativity Why do we not speak openly about within. menopause and the transition that every Joanne: When I was 42, I began woman will experience in her life? I don’t

use.

t es.

hile

Dr Rosie Ross

will how

We decided to start some conversations on typically taboo subjects. There needs to be a more candid Candid conversations on the journey towards menopause conversation around menopause, and that's exactly what this collaboration between you is all about. How did you find going through the creative process together? Joanne: We loved it!!!!! We wrote the book as we realised, we had an important message to share and therefore the whole process flowed. We laughed, we cried and shared many great candid conversations over chai tea. DR ROSIE ROSS J OA N N E V I N E S We wanted to keep it real and we’re confident that many readers will relate to the experiences we share including my struggles with weight gain. I even invite the reader to peek into my wardrobe; ‘Did you know there’s a control garment for every part of a woman’s body from her neck down to her knee, including a g-string? I know Our mission is to this because I have change the them all, including narrative surrounding the boyleg, the full how woman navigate brief, the half brief, the years leading into the shirt, the full dress, menopause to enter the under the bust to knee, and even the what is potentially under the bust over ever remember my the most powerful the shoulder to knee mother, aunties, stage of life. in two colours, beige grandmother or and black.’ mother-in-law sitting Dr Rosie: Whilst around over a cup of Joanne wrote from her personal experience, tea discussing this topic. I got the chance to research and unleash my Dr Rosie: Every day I was consulting with inner nerd. women who were confused, unprepared and, I joke that I wrote the book in my sleep at times, anxious about these same issues and because I would get up at 4am to write or symptoms. research before going to work. As a GP I’ve come to appreciate how each What has the response been like from individual’s journey through midlife is different. the local community and, of course, your Whilst there are those who sail through these family and friends? years without literally breaking much of a Joanne: On the night we launched on sweat, others find themselves hot and truly Amazon, I received a text from my 30-year-old bothered as they realise their roaring 40s are son Zak. ‘I’m enjoying reading about your grey not at all how they imagined them to be. pubic hair and dried up vagina Mum’. Most of us can probably remember the What would you say is the most common adolescent ‘birds and the bees’ talk but it taboo context surrounding menopause seems that the what-happens-after-forty topic and how can we change that stigma? has historically been off limits. A P P R OAC H I N G T H E ’ PA U S E

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’PAUSE

Joanne Vines

Dr Rosie: If we are talking about specific taboo topics, then in my experience, many women suffer in silence because they feel excruciating embarrassed about issues concerning what I call ‘Drama Down Under’. These are concerns such as leaking when you laugh, vaginal dryness, recurrent urinary tract infections and the impact it is having on your self-esteem, libido and relationships. In fact, lots of women don’t talk about their concerns with anyone, not their intimate partner, their friends, no-one! Thankfully, there are solutions to these issues, and I encourage anyone reading this who may have such an issue to talk to your GP. When we talk about the social stigma surrounding the issue of ageing, I found evidence of this when I looked online for a definition of midlife described as, ‘the wrong side of forty’. That got my hackles up, I can tell you! Our mission is to change the narrative surrounding how women navigate the years leading into menopause to enter what is potentially the most powerful stage of life. At a time where we find ourselves moving into the next stage of our lives, how can we better prepare ourselves? Firstly, we encourage you to read the book. Whether you know it or not, the lifestyle choices you make today are setting you up for your years ahead. This book provides a roadmap to guide you on your journey. We are confident that many of you will relate to the experiences we share and find answers to your most intimate questions that you have been afraid to ask. Where can we grab a copy of your book or follow along on your journey? Joanne: We are officially launching Approaching the Pause, 12th August, 2021 at 6pm at the Coffs Harbour Surf Club. Tickets available: On Eventbrite Online at amazon.com.au Booktopia bookdepository.com and thanks to Julie at The Book Warehouse, Coffs Harbour with copies in store. Like us on Facebook at ApproachingThePause www.approachingthepause.com Follow Dr Rosie on FB, Instagram @themidlifemedic COFFS COAST

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Ross

McKay

Ross McKay is a Radiologist at Coffs Harbour Hospital with a skill set that very few others have, and he has spent the last few years ge ing a health service up and running that is like no other in our region – in fact it would be hard to find anything on its level outside of the big cities. The Coffs Coast and surrounds are lucky to have him and his team! We got the rundown on what exactly he does and why it’s so beneficial to the community.

i Ross. You are a specialist doctor here on the Coffs Coast, can you tell us what your role is and explain a bit about what you do? I work at the hospital as a Radiologist. More specifically my job is an Interventional Radiologist (often called an IR), a Doctor who uses pictures of the body which are created using “imaging techniques” like ultrasound, X-ray and CT to perform operations or procedures. 68 COFFS COAST

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How did you come to be a doctor? My childhood was quite unusual by conventional standards – I grew up spending time between Namibia, America, South Africa, and Australia. It was a fantastic childhood; one year porcupines in our backyard in Namibia, and the next snowball fights and sled dogs in the mountains on the border of New York state and Pennsylvania. This constant moving house was largely as a result of my father’s career as a Methodist minister. Moving every 2 to 3 years I learnt to make friends quickly and easily, and enjoyed

being a “people person”. I was introduced to health care through my mother who was a midwife, and really enjoyed subjects at school dealing with the human body especially biology and physical education. After completing an undergraduate degree, the penny dropped; I realised that my skills and interests overlapped in medicine. I enrolled in medicine at the University of Sydney, and completed my degree in 2006. What was it that made you decide to specialise in radiology? That was the first question I was asked

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This seemed like a lot of fun at the time, and it still is; in fact, with fancier tools and newer techniques, it gets more rather than less interesting as time goes on. There are two branches of radiology, diagnostic and interventional, and you are one of few who actually practises both. Can you describe the difference and tell us about the process of becoming qualified to do both? All Radiologists train in Diagnostic Radiology, which is the process of looking at images of the human body to diagnose a problem. For me the training involved 4 years of a heavy workload at the Canberra Hospital and a lot of study with some pretty challenging exams at the end. At the time of these exams our second child It took several was three months old, I was working 60 hour years, but weeks fairly consistently, together with an and studying in my amazing team of “spare time”! radiographers, After finishing my nurses and clerical diagnostic qualification I staff at the hospital went on to train further amongst others, we as an Interventional built a high end Radiologist, which interventional involved another couple operating suite in the of years operating and hospital that is doing procedures pretty improving the health much all day every day. With your care of our qualifications you population. I’m could work almost pretty sure that most anywhere, what made people reading this you choose Coffs will know someone Harbour? in Coffs Harbour when I interviewed I have lived in several who has been looked for a position on the countries and I’ve after by our team! Radiology training travelled to a lot more. scheme! And with all I’ve seen As I recall, the I can’t figure out why answer I gave at the time was that I saw it people would want to live anywhere else. as a specialty within medicine where you get There are beautiful subtropical mountains to be Sherlock Holmes. Patients come to you rolling down to the ocean, a perfect climate with a mystery that needs solving and using and there is a backbone of hard working no your knowledge of anatomy, and some fancy nonsense people with big hearts. What more imaging tools you can generate pictures that could you want? help you figure out where and what the Professionally, when we moved here at problem is. the start of 2014 Coffs had no Interventional

Radiology services. This gave me the opportunity to figure out what the local community needed, and then to design it and build it in a way that best served the community but also interested me. It took several years, but together with an amazing team of radiographers, nurses and clerical staff at the hospital amongst others, we built a high end interventional operating suite in the hospital that is improving the health care of our population. I’m pretty sure that most people reading this will know someone in Coffs Harbour who has been looked after by our team! Tell us about your practice here and what you provide to the community. On my typical day I spend the majority of my time operating or performing small procedures. For example this could involve anywhere from 8 to 12 procedures like biopsies of cancers, and treating pinched nerves in the spine, and bigger procedures such as blocking off abnormal blood vessels, unblocking obstructed kidneys, fixing abnormal veins, and working to stabilise trauma patients. Our interventional suite gives the local community opportunities to have many conditions treated using very precise minimally invasive techniques, that are nearly all performed without the need for a general anaesthetic or overnight stay in hospital. What do you hope to achieve in the future with the practice and your work? I have been making plans to introduce a few new procedures to the Coffs Harbour Hospital over the next few years including a technique called tumour ablation, where I put a special heating needle in to a cancer, normally within the liver or kidney, using CT or ultrasound guidance, and then “cook” the tumour until it dies. There are also techniques for treating these cancers by injecting chemotherapy directly into the arteries supplying several types of tumour, again, normally within the liver, which I’d also like to bring to Coffs Harbour sometime soon. After years of working hard however, I intend to spend the next year or so enjoying a relatively predictable workflow with my amazing team, and relaxing away from the hospital with my wonderful family. Thanks Ross. COFFS COAST

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Welcome D E N TA L

Our name was inspired by the welcome swallow. The welcome swallow was named by sailors, who knew they were near land when they saw them. They were a welcome sight a er a long journey. Their symbolism has included; peace, love and healing in different cultures.

ur practice has a calm, relaxed feel. People sometimes pop in just to look around at the art and are familiar with the artists who are mostly local. Our rooms overlook a beautiful garden with fruit trees and chillies and herbs that you can help yourself to in season. Welcome Dental is led by Practice Principal Dr Sharon Marinucci and Ms Kirsty Christensen and our team includes a number of enthusiastic and caring personalities, who are committed to providing high quality dentistry and exceptional patient care in a place where people feel safe and welcome. We offer a full range of services from simple fillings, oral hygiene and tooth whitening to implants and orthodontics, including Invisalign. We encourage all of our patients to maintain their oral health through their preventive care both at home and attending regular oral health check-ups and cleans. We want to provide you with a healthy, happy smile. CHILDREN’S DENTAL CARE At Welcome Dental we have both a Dental Therapist (Ms Wendy Summerill) and an Oral

We’ll turn that frown upside down.

Health Therapist (Ms Susan Waldorf) that offer evening appointments to cater for out of school hours. The Children’s Dental Benefits Program is bulk billed at the surgery and you can find out if you are eligible through Medicare or contacting your dental surgery and asking them to check if your child is eligible. If your child is eligible, you are able to access up to $1013 for their general dental care over two calendar years. SCHOOL VISITS – ORAL HEALTH EDUCATION We are very much a part of our communities offering complimentary visits to Preschools and Primary schools for students in K-2 to talk to them about healthy eating, foods and drinks that are good for your teeth, what happens at the dentist and about tooth brushing. At these visits each child has time to ask questions. Often they ask about the tooth fairy and where she stores her teeth or where she lives. They are given a bag to take home with information for mum and dad, a brushing chart and a sticker. If your school or preschool would like to be

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. 70 COFFS COAST

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involved, please contact us. We visit areas from Macksville to Coffs Harbour and out to Bellingen. KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATIONS It is important for caregivers to know the best ways to assist their child’s oral health, so visiting kindergarten orientations allows us to be able to assist them with any questions they might have and give them information on; brushing and flossing techniques, healthy foods and drinks, Children’s Dental Benefits Schedule and information on when to bring your child to the dentist. We answer any questions parents and caregivers might have. If your school is interested in us attending their kindergarten orientation, please do not hesitate to contact us. Throughout our journey we want to create sensational smiles for people on the Coffs Coast, Bellingen Shire and Nambucca shires and improve overall happiness and wellbeing. You can phone us on (02) 6655 5800, send us an email at info@welcomedental.com.au or pop in to speak with one of our team. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram. We’ll turn that frown upside down!

Meet The Team. Dr Sharon Marinucci Dr Margaret Kleinig Dr Mindie Nguyen Dr Oleg Pushkarev Dr Tony Kershaw Wendy Summerill Jessica Cantrill Susan Waldorf

Phone: (02) 6655 5800 Email: info@welcomedental.com.au Website: www.welcomedental.com.au

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McCLURG

escribe how you got started in your business? I have always been in the trade and construction industry, initially working as an Estimator in a trade supply business before moving into a senior management role in a startup solar hot water company. In 2009, the writing was on the wall that the solar PV (solar energy) sector was about to explode. I got into the industry early and set up my company in 2010.

COFFS SOLAR ENERGY

MARK

What do you like most about your business? I like how my business functions. I do consider it to be a ‘well-oiled machine’. We have continuously refined our processes to increase efficiencies and provide clients with a relatively quick turnaround on order to installation. We have skilled staff in key positions, which allows us to focus on our three main divisions: the residential retrofit market, the commercial and industrial market, and the construction sector. What is your business's greatest asset? Absolutely and without question, that is our employees. It has taken many years to develop our team, and the staff who work in our business are true professionals in their field of expertise. What business leaders do you look up to? I have met many great business owners on the Coffs Coast over the years, and I have been fortunate to have been offered good ‘local level’ business advice by some of them, such as Todd Blewitt and Reg Latter. There are a few business owners who, let’s say, I would like to emulate. David Reynolds and Peter Faircloth from Faircloth and Reynolds have build-up a great business from scratch. Their reputation for providing a quality product matched with professional service is what sets them apart. I also have a lot of respect for Gosling Electrical’s family management team, which has also built up a fantastic business.

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COFFS SOLAR ENERGY

Coffs Solar Energy is a locally owned and operated specialist solar energy supply and installation company that only operates on the Coffs Coast. Mark McClurg is the company owner and has strong principles based on trustworthy and truthful advice. His company sells high-quality PV products that are procured through official supply channels.

offs Solar Energy has installed over 3500 solar energy systems on the Coffs Coast. Their reputation for great customer service, good value solar pricing, and a high degree of product knowledge is a testament to their overall success.

What has been amazing to watch is how energy industry in Australia. In 2015, they the cost of solar energy equipment has fallen launched a new code of conduct to improve over the last 11 years and how much bigger the standards within the solar PV industry. the average installed solar system size is. In It was a voluntary code 2010, the ‘norm’ called the Solar Retailer was a 1.5kW solar Code of Conduct. It system comprising 8 x We stopped set high benchmarks 190W panels. A large selling solar for quality assurances, residential solar system

When you first opened the doors, what products and services did you offer? Our company was established in January 2010 and back then our company name was our trading name ‘Self Sufficient Homes’. Our initial objective was to sell a variety of energyefficient products like solar hot water and solar PV. We stopped selling solar hot water when we registered our current trading name – Coffs Solar Energy. Our focus has been 100% solar energy since 2013. How has your offering changed over the years?

warranties and how was 3kW in size, which registered our retailers interacted with would cost well over current trading $10k. consumers around the sale name – Coffs Solar In today’s market, of solar systems. Energy. Our focus the average solar Coffs Solar Energy was has been 100% solar system installed for one of the first companies energy since 2013. us has increased to in Australia to sign up to 8kW, which is sold well this new retailer code. under $10k. We have maintained an excellent relationship Looking back – what have been some of with the CEC ever since. The CEC has used your most significant accomplishments? multiple images from our photo archives in its The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is the

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hot water when we

governing body that oversees the renewable

Residential Solar Buyers Guide.

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RESIDENTIAL

SOLAR A core division of your company is in the Residential retrofit market. Tell me what you guys are doing that sets you aside from the competition in this sector? The primary difference between most solar installation companies and us is the quality of our workmanship and the precision efforts taken to ensure the solar installation’s aesthetics are as appealing as possible. We know that for most people, their home is their ‘castle’. We want their investment in solar to add to the value of their property. We go to the extra effort at the design stage. Our accommodating approach to obstacles (even if it means our installers are taking longer to complete the job) is the fundamental reason why so many local builders like working with us. What are the standout features or the benefits of working with Coffs Solar Energy? Our number one asset is our accountability to both our customers and our employees. We aim to give our clients the best quality installation whilst keeping our installers safe and free from injury. We provide an individual and tailored service for our customers and welcome the opportunity to work on complicated projects. Certainly, we don’t follow this ‘one size fits all’ approach adopted by the majority of the National solar companies and some local solar companies. Solar Energy systems should be designed according to either the home's power needs or the bill savings objectives of the homeowner.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

DONALD KAISER

Is there any advice you can provide to readers looking at buying solar for their homes? My first bit of advice to consumers is to consider buying solar now. The cost of solar panels has dropped significantly and when you factor in a more than generous Federal Solar Incentive, the result is that you can buy an asset that could pay for itself in as little as 2-3 years. The Federal solar incentive is legislated to end in 2030. That said, when you factor in the low cost of solar panels and a budget deficit in the billions, this scheme could end early. My second bit of advice is to get a large solar system (over 6kW) if you can afford it or if it will fit on your roof. Essential Energy allows a 5kW per hour export to their grid in most urban areas, and a large solar system will ensure that you are exporting as much solar energy as you are allowed. If you are on the right energy plan, combined with a good solar feed-in tariff, then this will ensure that your energy bills are as low as possible.

What risks exist that consumers should be aware of? A solar energy system is a classified as a generator of electricity. It needs to be installed to the highest standards to keep you and your family safe. Be aware that National solar companies use contracted solar energy installation firms to install solar systems for them. These National solar companies push down the cost of the installation and only pay a fixed job cost. Contracted installers will try to finish a job as quickly as possible, and they can only do that by cutting corners or taking the most effortless installation option. My advice is always to use a well-established local company. Buying a solar PV system is no different to buying a new air conditioning system for your home. You would never buy a new AC system from a Sydney or Brisbane firm. You would buy it locally for local warranty support, knowing that any issues can be fixed quickly. The same applies to solar energy.

This is exactly the sort of competent, considerate, polite, and thorough organisation one needs in a field like solar energy. They know what they are doing, and go about it in a most professional manner. They have partnered with internationally recognised equipment manufacturers to give the very best value for money in this competitive field. Coffs Solar puts marginal and fly-bynight solar companies to shame by setting and living up to the highest standards.

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COMMERCIAL

SOLAR

Your company specialises in Commercial Solar Incentive scheme and factor Solar Installations; what are the in the ATO’s assets depreciation benefits of installing a commercial solar (currently 100%) – the payback is energy system? ridiculously quick. If you have a business that operates Can you explain how the during daylight hours, solar energy will rebate works? benefit you by reducing operational costs The rebate is a Federal solar through reduced electricity bills. With incentive. It is in the form of energy residential solar, a large certificates proportion of the solar that have a When you factor energy is exported to monetary value. in the low cost of the grid. Being on a The best feature solar, apply economies good energy plan that of this incentive is pays a high solar feedthat the number of of scale to large solar in tariff is generally certificates a client systems, include the your ticket to receiving will receive is based Federal Solar Incentive low energy bills. With on the size of the scheme and factor in a business, it’s the solar energy system the ATO’s assets opposite. The rightinstalled. A 40kW depreciation sized solar PV system solar PV system (currently 100%) – the will offset the power will generate 552 payback is you draw from the grid certificates with ridiculously quick. with self-generated a current value of solar electricity that is $19,872 + GST. considerably cheaper That amount of than grid power. When you factor in the Federal incentives is offered as a point low cost of solar, apply economies of scale of sale discount against the supply and to large solar systems, include the Federal installation cost of the solar system. 76 COFFS COAST

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CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

RON WALKER Thank you to you and all the team. I am happy to confirm that the project has met and exceeded our expectations. Your installation team has done a fantastic job and early indications are that we will achieve all the anticipated savings.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

SAM BROOMFIELD

NEW-BUILD

SOLAR

We know that you work with many of the well-established builders on the Coffs Coast – what do you enjoy most about this sector of your business. We have a great relationship with the majority of the local building firms on the Coffs Coast. What makes our relationship strong is the flexibility that we can provide builders. We know that plans can change, and we know that timeframes can alter. Having three teams of trades allows us to offer our building clients unique flexibility. If plans change, we can offer a quick workable solution. Any advice for people building a new home and who might be considering solar energy? We have installed hundreds of solar systems on new-build projects, so I have some excellent advice to share. Firstly, think about your roof design and the type of roofing material you will use. Roof sections that face North East and North West are great for balancing good solar energy production with the likely times the household will use the solar energy being the morning and late afternoon. An East / West split is also a very practical solution

for installing solar energy. Ideally, go with a regular cavity roof rather than a skillion roof. Doing so allows us to run the solar cabling in the roof cavity safely and out of view. A colorbond roof is far better than a tile roof in terms of being watertight and allowing for an easier installation, which should help keep the costs down. If practically possible, ask the draftsman or architect to locate the meter-box outside the garage wall. This allows the solar inverter to be installed out of the weather and close to the meter board, which is practical and helps reduce the installation cost. In terms of solar hot water, I would only recommend this if you have a big family. It is more affordable, and your energy bill savings will be far more significant if you install a large solar PV system (9.9kW) rather than an average-sized solar PV system (6.6kW) and a solar hot water system. We recommend that people install an electric hot water tank, with a mains controlled hot water timer allowing the solar energy to power the hot water tank element during sunlight hours. An electric storage tank is very reliable and will generally provide you with many years of service with little or no maintenance required.

Build by the Sea has had the opportunity to integrate Coffs Solar Energy’s solar products and services in our custom homes for many years. Mark and his qualified team are always ready to engage with our clientele and offer current and upto-date solar packages to suit the client’s needs and budget. Their professional service and detailed information make it easy for our clients to make an informed and precise decision. Coffs Solar Energy demonstrates nothing but quality in all areas of their company, from the products supplied, the service and communication to the final installation workmanship. Build by the Sea are very proud to be associated with delivering this solar solution through our custom homes. Thank you, Mark, Suzy & Tarhlae, along with their wonderful supportive operational team, professional technicians, and installers.

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NICCI SECCOMBE EDITION COORDINATOR

What is the best thing about your job? Meeting new people and helping them market and grow their business. I have met many great people in my 11 years at Focus and I’m so happy that I can call most of them friends. Something you look forward to? The world to go back to normal. So many people’s lives have changed due to the pandemic, some have been positive changes and some have been negative but us Aussies are resilient, we can get through it TOGETHER.

I recently began a health journey which I am excited about. I hope to be back playing competitive basketball in 2022. Watch this space! Last movie watched? I'm a sucker for horror films. The Conjuring 3. Favourite TV show? I enjoyed The Handmaid’s Tale. Offred is such a BOSS! What music is on your playlist at the moment? Live in Detroit – Claude Vonstroke. It’s great listening for a gym session.

G AV I N M O R O N E Y PHOTOGR APHER

What is the best thing about your job? Being able to spend time and learn from people from all walks of life. What do you love about the Coffs Coast? The landscape.

determine the layout. Something you look forward to? Time with the family. Last movie watched? Howl’s Moving Castle.

What is your favourite local restaurant or cafe? Sea Salt. Best fish and chips hands down.

Favourite TV show? The Office.

If you could change one thing about our area what would it be and why? The town planning. I feel like someone had a sense of humour when creating Coffs and rolled a dice to

Down, Tool, Muse, Kiss, Slipknot.

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What music is on your playlist at the moment? System of a If you could have a meal with anyone dead or alive who would it be and why? Michael Cockerill.

S A M DAW S O N

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT What is the best thing about your job? Working with a great team and working with great locals to promote their businesses. It’s such a rewarding job and I love it if I can help clients market themselves and make a difference for them by also sharing their story. I also love contributing through my PFLAG column and I am a huge supporter of our community and what we can do for each other.

such a special community here full of interesting, inspiring and fun people plus for me family too.

What do you love about the Coffs Coast? Everything – I have lived all over Australia but we have

What music is on your playlist at the moment? Always Daryl Braithwaite.

If you could change one thing about our area what would it be and why? It would be a bit more tolerance for those who are different and to be open to be educated on those differences and actually change your opinion and grow. Favourite TV show? Seinfeld.

N I C O L E B R OW N E

CIRCUL ATIONS COORDINATOR What is the best thing about your job? I enjoy being busy and outdoors. I also find it interesting when people are passionate about their job, so meeting and talking to people all over the Coffs Coast is definitely something I enjoy. What do you love about the Coffs Coast? All of our beautiful coast and anywhere inland. I love a good day trip. What is your favourite local restaurant or cafe? Kimono Vault, it’s a family favourite

too. Mako is lovely and serves delicious japanese food. If you could have a meal with anyone dead or alive who would it be and why? There are so many people… I’m sure Dolly Parton will come for dinner once Covid is over! Something you look forward to? The first of Spring and the scent of flowering Jasmine means the weather will soon suit my lifestyle. I'm not a fan of the cold. Only 41 days to go!

M E N

I N

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MEN IN BUSINESS

HOEY MOEY

TIM HAYDEN VE N U E M ANAGE R AND LICENSEE

UNDER NEW M A N AG E M E N T

Situated right by the beach at Park Beach in Coffs Harbour, The Hoey Moey offers great pub food from the restaurant, ice cold drinks from the bar, live music in the only beer garden on the beach, function rooms, a bo le shop, motel accommodation and backpacker’s accommodation, all in one se ing.

e caught up with the new management team Phil Caldicott (General Manager), Daniel Whiffen (Marketing Manager), Tim Hayden (Venue Manager and Licensee) to find out more… Phil, describe how you got started in your business? I can say that I was “tapped on the shoulder”. I was Head Teacher of Hospitality and related disciplines at TAFE NSW, and was looking to eventually end my working life in that role. To cut a long story short, the opportunity to be involved in the dynamic North Coast Hotel Group, and specifically in helping to chart a new course for the iconic Hoey Moey was something certainly unexpected, but also something that appealed as an exciting professional challenge. Phil, how has your business evolved since it began? We are working hard to place The Hoey Moey as the most popular live music venue on the Coffs Coast, with appeal to as many customers

My passion in hospitality is for customers to feel genuinely welcome and important, to the business and to individual members of staff.

as possible. We aim to be a venue that is approachable and even desirable to families, young people, lovers of live music, food, drinks and events, as well as those looking to enjoy a quiet beverage and a yarn. We have come a long way. Many customers comment that the place is looking great, and that the level of friendly service is noticeable, the new menu and wine list are working really well and our events have been strongly supported. Tim, what is your greatest achievement? To date over the last eight years, the transformation of The Moonee Beach Tavern has been my greatest achievement. Starting as a small, quiet tavern and shifting it into the busy family friendly destination as part of North Coast Hotel Group, is something I am proud to be a part of creating. However, with the recent sale of the Tavern, the opportunity to move to The Hoey Moey to undertake a new challenge

within a larger business format, was a logical step forward. I am excited to join the team and be a part of future successes. My passion in hospitality is for customers to feel genuinely welcome and important, to the business and to individual members of staff. In this area, The Hoey has made significant improvements, again, comments from customers in house, and online indicate that the team have managed to shift the culture within The Hoey. Staff are happy to work with us, socialise onsite, and customers report their awareness of the change. Dan, tell us a bit about your role within the North Coast Hotel Group? I came onboard with the North Coast Hotel Group four months ago and hit the ground sprinting. With a clear vision of what was needed from the directors, ‘fresh events and a new approach,’ I went to work. Continued Over >> COFFS COAST

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MEN IN BUSINESS

PHIL CALDICOTT GENERAL M ANAGE R

Over the last couple of months, I have been busy planning a year’s worth of events for The Hoey as well as the rest of the venues in the group. I can’t talk too much about the grand plan but watch this space Coffs! However, what I can tell you is that we have launched our new free digital member’s program at The Hoey Moey; it will be rolled out to the rest of the group shortly. Likewise, we are close to launching our first collaboration beer (5 Boys Coastal lager), with Sanctus Brewing, which will be available in all NCHG bottle shops and venues. Events wise, The Coffs Coast Craft beer festival is coming to the Hoey Moey, August 28th; we will have a variety of continuing kids 82 COFFS COAST

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HOEY MOEY UNDER NEW M A N AG E M E N T

prime spot. Tim, how do you measure success in business? For me success in business is all about happy people. I want staff to love their jobs and feel enthusiastic about contributing to the business. I want customers to enjoy coming to The Hoey Moey, based on the appearance and feel of the venue, the food and beverage offerings available, the great events and activities that we I want staff to feel create for them. free to talk about Of course, the their roles, the venue, delivery must be top training and career shelf – genuine, friendly, development. In order to knowledgeable and promote professionalism helpful. and a team-based Phil, how will you embrace change in culture, we organise 2022? activities kicking off regular staff activities, It looks as though 2022 across the venues and including social will be all about change. I Hoey’s House of Blues gatherings and product hope that a Covid normal music event has now knowledge events with becomes reality, and that been rescheduled to representatives from the uptake of vaccines September due to the our suppliers that in Australia allows us to current restrictions. feature tastings and skill trade at an approximation Tim, what is your development. of capacity. business's greatest We have everything asset? in place to capitalise on Location, location, that probability; management that is committed location. We are literally over the dunes from to driving improvement in all aspects of the Park Beach, one of the Coffs Coast’s premier business and an events and marketing team beach locations. Hence our new tagline “step whose experience and creativity is already off the sand and into The Hoey”. There is no making itself apparent with the exciting other Hotel property in the region in such a

MEN IN BUSINESS

focus_interview

DANIEL WHIFFEN MARKETING M ANAGE R

offerings planned and those already undertaken. All, what business leaders do you look up to? I genuinely enjoy It will sound as though coming to work we are currying favours, at The Hoey. Probably but collectively we have always been impressed the most satisfying by the operations of the aspect to date is the North Coast Hotel Group. number of positive Working as part of the to develop a likeable comments and Group, we appreciate that company culture? observations from they are continually aiming I don’t know that it customers about to improve across every part is exceptionally creative, constructive changes of their organisation, from but I try to promote they have noticed in the portfolio of venues an open-door policy in the appearance and through to the smallest terms of meeting the feel of the venue, as detail of operations of needs of staff when well as the friendliness those properties. communicating with of the staff. Although this may sound management. I want like micro-management, staff to feel free to talk it establishes a successful about their roles, the operational method, venue, training and allowing for success of the whole. All three of career development. us are enthusiastically taking the opportunity to In order to promote professionalism and a learn and to value add. team-based culture, we organise regular staff Dan, what is the most satisfying aspect of activities, including social gatherings and product your role? knowledge events with representatives from I genuinely enjoy coming to work at The Hoey. our suppliers that feature tastings and skill Probably the most satisfying aspect to date is the development. number of positive comments and observations Dan, where do you see your business in the from customers about constructive changes they next year? In the next five years? The next have noticed in the appearance and feel of the ten years? venue, as well as the friendliness of the staff. Really the answer to all the above is that we Phil, what creative strategies do you employ are working towards becoming the premier live

music venue in NSW. All of the improvements that we are currently working on in terms of customer service, the aesthetics of the venue, food and beverage updates, alongside staff training will come together with the location of the venue. The existing market appreciation of The Hoey as the venue for live music experiences and continued successful events (with the likes of Paul Kelly, Lime Cordiale, the Chats and many others), are moving The Hoey in that direction Phil, what do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? I have been living on the Coffs Coast for 20 years and have no intention of leaving. The combination of beach, forest, rivers and mountains is hard to match. I never get over the fact that there are beaches close to Coffs that you can go to at the busiest times of the year and virtually see no other people, very few parts of the world can claim that. How can we get in touch? philip@hoeymoey.com.au ph 02 6652 3833 COFFS COAST

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MEN IN BUSINESS

HQB

A C C O U N TA N T S

IAN HOGBIN

ow has your business evolved since it began? To say we have evolved since our inception of over 65 years ago is an understatement! Besides growing in numbers, both staff and our client base, we have expanded on our areas of expertise. In just the last year alone, we have grown a bookkeeping division, expanded on business coaching and helped our clients through the most challenging year in living memory. This is a far stretch from our humble beginnings completing tax returns back in the paper ages! Our team culture has also evolved over the years – we emphasise the importance of professional development for all our staff, as well as the importance of relationships and teamwork. What is your business's greatest asset? Our culture! We invest a lot of time building up team morale to make HQB a positive and enjoyable place to work. We

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JA M E S DAV I S

B R A D S H E AV E S

How will you embrace change in 2022? also train our team on our business values Adapting to change is something and goals to ensure our core purpose is we face daily in our workplace. The conveyed through everything we do. accounting profession changes constantly How do you measure success in with amendments to business? laws and regulations, Success is relative especially in the current to everyone – we In just the last COVID climate. We understand that year alone, we always work to ensure there is no blanket have grown a that as a firm we are up rule on what success bookkeeping to date with all changes looks like so we division, expanded as they happen, which work with our clients on business coaching is fortunately easier exclusively to find and helped our with a large group of out what ‘success’ clients through the staff with broad skill means to them, most challenging sets. That way, when then put steps in year in living our clients face new place to help them memory. challenges, we are reach that. We always equipped to always seek to add help in any way. If 2021 value, be it through is anything to go by, we tax advice, process are extremely excited to see how our firm development, or just being readily available to help our clients with any issues they may will grow and develop in 2022 – we are ready for whatever comes our way! be facing.

MEN IN BUSINESS

HQB

A C C O U N TA N T S

JA M I E N E W L I N G What is the most satisfying aspect of your business? We get to meet a lot of aspirational locals achieving their goals in this profession. The great thing about being a local business ourselves is seeing a small business come through the door with an idea, helping them to achieve that goal, and then seeing their hard work paying off in our community in the form of their business. Most of our days are spent helping small and medium business owners, which is an important job and one we are proud of.

GURJOT NAHAL

DAV I D G O R M A N

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? Work culture and giving back to our community is very important to us at HQB. We donate monthly to charities that are meaningful to our staff, organise weekly training and social events, make sure our “staff club” are across everyone’s birthdays and take part in as many community events as possible. The latest event on our calendar was the 2021 Kokoda challenge on the Gold Coast where our staff raised money for Aussie teens in need and walked 96kms in 33 hours.

Where do you see your business in the future? The possibilities are endless! Our main goal is to continue to be a source of support in this unpredictable world for our clients. In the past 12 months we have gained two new enthusiastic Partners, so we are in a very exciting growth phase at the moment. We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals to join our growing business, so if you’d like to be part of the action, we encourage you to get in touch.

02 6652 2333 www.hqb.com.au HQBAccountantsAuditorsAdvisors hqbaccountantsadvisors

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hat is Nutricore Labs?

The business is focused on elevating human health and wellbeing by providing natural products like superfood powders that can significantly enhance nutrition intake daily, easily and affordably. Describe how you got started in your business? Nutricore Labs was a natural progression for me. For more than half of my life now I have been locating products that enhance health and wellbeing. How do you measure success in business? I think success in business is best measured by fulfillment, just the same as all facets in life. Success to me is a derivative of fulfillment and achieving long term goals and keeping healthy relationships are the two key factors I’ve found that offer fulfillment, both of which are vital for a healthy and thriving business. What business leaders do you look up to? Richard Farleigh has been an idol of mine for a long time but I can’t go past a couple of local legends, Scotty Schindler and Courtney Tune!

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? For me, Nutricore Labs is about bringing long forgotten components of nature into the spotlight to improve wellbeing for as many people as possible so that journey in and of itself is very satisfying. Where do you see your business in the next year? We are looking at expanding to accommodate all types of customer needs. We currently offer a range of incredible mushroom powders for general mental and physical wellbeing but we are currently looking to add a broad range of products sourced from natural ecosystems around the world, ethically. Where can we find your products? Our products can be found on our website listed below, or at one of our stockists locally which are listed on our website. We are always open to speaking with retailers about stocking our products. Please feel free to reach out to me via the email address below to discuss. How can we get in touch? @nutricore_labs @nutricore.labs.au james@nutricorelabs.com nutricorelabs.com 86 COFFS COAST

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JAMES S AU N D E R S

escribe how you got started in your business? It began in 2005 with a store called Evolve Clothing – a menswear store run by my father. I worked in the store part-time for about a year, then in 2006 I left my career in accounting and jumped into it full-time. Since then, I haven’t looked back. What sets your businesses apart? They’re a destination, they’re appealing to the eye, and something you don’t get from a web browser. What is your greatest achievement? Personally, my three young girls. In business, taking out the 2019 Park Beach Plaza Retailer of the Year award for E Degrees – justification for all my hard work. What is your business's greatest asset? My staff. Without them I wouldn’t be able to step away and grow the business. Being able to trust them to run my stores when I’m not in them is invaluable. How do you measure success in business? Patronage. Without it my businesses wouldn’t have grown to where they are today. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Hearing that a customer has had a great experience in one of my stores. Where do you see your businesses in the future? I’m focused on bettering my stores, so there’s always something up my sleeve. I could tell you, but then… you know.

GRAEME WRIGHT

OW N E R - E D E G R E E S A N D T H E S N E A K E R LO U N G E

Most rewarding part of your job? The ability to create. In fact, a lot of people may not know this, but I have designed and had a hand in building every one of my stores. What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? The craft beer offering. How can we get in touch? You can visit www.thesneakerlounge.com.au or drop into E Degrees or The Sneaker Lounge, located opposite each other at the Woolworths entrance of Park Beach Plaza.

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URBANI CO F F S COAST S K I N C A N C E R C L I N I C

escribe how you got started in your business? Naturally evolved from general practice into an interest in primary dermatology. With the skin cancer burden in Australia being an overwhelming issue and my interest in procedural medicine, skin cancer medicine was the natural outflow of this. How has your business evolved since it began? We have a strong tight team. We’ve perked the clinic up from a cosmetic point of view, but our main focus has never changed in terms of doing our best identifying skin cancers and managing them to give the best clearance rates and cosmetic outcomes. What is your greatest achievement? My beautiful wife. What is your business's greatest asset? Our team. Loyal, dedicated and hard working. How do you measure success in business? Returning customers. How will you embrace change in 2022? Strive to do what is right and continue to focus on what we’re all about. What is the most satisfying/rewarding aspect of your role? Identifying things that are dangerous to people and then removing them. At the end of the day having made a difference in someone’s life makes me happy. What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? We try to keep it real. We often have company get-togethers. We are a small family business and we care for our staff. What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? Beautiful mountains meeting the ocean, the mist over the ocean in summertime and I understand why it’s so green because it gets lots of rain! And the Bonville Golf Course. How can we get in touch? Give us a call 6652 2277

ow has your business evolved since it began? The Business has grown so fast over the past 6 years, and now we are servicing customers both statewide and interstate. We started as a small family business and now have a full team around us. Recently we further expanded by doubling our retail and workshop with further expansion plans scheduled in the next 6 months. We started with basic battery needs for all vehicles and household items and over time have expanded our range to a large battery retailer and wholesaler, Auto Electrician and more recently the opening of East Coast Golf Carts making us one of the more highly regarded service centres on the East Coast. What is your business's greatest asset? Our staff! We are so lucky to have the team that we have. Each member brings a different set of skills and works together to bring a complete service and retail experience for our customers. We also have a very unique product range where we source products from all suppliers. We are the largest independent Golf Cart store between Port Macquarie and the Queensland border, meaning customers from far and wide no longer have to only shop online, they can come to our new store and literally design and have their carts built here on the Coffs Coast.

MATHEW DOBBS

T H E B AT T E RY B OYS & E AST COAST G O L F C A R TS

How do you measure success in business? Returning customers! If your customers keep returning you know you’re doing something right. A lot of our customers we see in and around the Coffs Coast, and it’s nice when we bump into them around town and they say “my battery is going great mate” or “the new cart is amazing – thank you”. This is my biggest measure of success. How can we get in touch? Check out our websites www.thebatteryboys. com.au & www.eastcoastgolfcarts.com.au Come and visit our store at 164 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450

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MEN IN BUSINESS

C O O K

F I S H B U R N WAT S O N O' B R I E N T H E L AW S P E C I A L I S T SENIOR PROPERT Y L AW Y E R A N D N E W LY A P P O I N T E D P R I N C I PA L

have joined the professional and talented team of Fishburn Watson O’Brien senior Commercial Property Lawyer and newly appointed Principal. I am one of many that chose to relocate to the beautiful Mid North Coast with my family to enjoy the lifestyle and all that Coffs Harbour has to offer. I grew up in a regional town and knew that I would return to the regional area again. Moving from Canberra has allowed myself and my family to enjoy the beaches and the mountains. We took up surfing and, unfortunately, my daughter is already a far better surfer. Describe how you got started in your business? I started out with the ATO in 2007 as a legal adviser to Parliamentary ministers. What is your greatest achievement? It may sound clichéd, but my family. What is your business's greatest asset? The amazing staff. With many being at the firm for more than

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MARCUS

PHILLIPS

10 years, they have extensive knowledge in the fields they work in and this is a great asset to the firm. The fact that we have accredited specialists in a wide variety of areas of the law including property, business, environment and planning, local government, commercial law (including commercial litigation and industrial relations), family law and estate planning. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Applying all my skills and knowledge to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients. Understanding each client’s aspirations is the key to achieving this. What is the most rewarding part of your job? The clients that I meet. FWO was started by locals (John Watson, Chris O’Brien, and Michael Fishburn) so dealing with so many locals that have come to the firm over the years and still return is rewarding. How can we get in touch? At Fishburn Watson O’Brien, call 02 6650 7000 or email info@fwolaw.com

escribe how you got started in your business? After leaving school, I was accepted into Julian Ashton’s Art School at The Rocks in Sydney. I ended up owning and running a theatre restaurant in Byron Bay, and when I sold it, I moved back to Sydney and decided to put my interior design hat on and started with Impala Kitchens in Sydney. I ended up becoming head designer nationally (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane). How has your career evolved since it began? I guess the advances have been through technology with the leap forward of design programs. It wasn’t that long ago the industry drafted by hand on a drawing board. Personally, we grow into a career as we gain more and more experience. The initial training is just a foundation to build onto at the end of the day, as there is nothing more valuable than experience built knowledge. What is your greatest achievement? Other than my 3 daughters, winning outright Kitchen of the

DESIGNER LIVING KITCHENS

RICHARD

Year and some other awards along the way has helped to guide the path to achievement. What is your business's greatest asset? Word of mouth is by far the best thing and it starts accumulating with time as the business establishes itself in a particular area. How do you measure success in business? By the number of happy clients over the years, some of which are now my closest friends. What business leaders do you look up to? Locally I would say Brian Hopwood who literally started from scratch and built an excellent housing company. His customers are looked after and are always happy with the end result. In general, I look up to people who share their success, e.g. Bill Gates, who from early on in his life swore to dedicate his fortune and his time to helping humanity. How can we get in touch? Our showroom is located at 1/3 Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour or give us a call 02 6652 6186

ell us a bit about yourself and what you do at Key Employment? I am originally from England and moved to Australia in 2008. I married my wife Renae in 2011 and we have 2 beautiful children. I love playing, watching and coaching soccer and have been involved with the Coffs City United Lions in some capacity since I moved here. My favourite team is Preston North End but not many people have heard of them, despite us being the first team to win the league and FA cup double in 1888! I am currently the Chief Operations Officer at Key Employment and manage the day to day operations of the team. We have around 90 staff in 7 offices from Port Macquarie to Yamba so it certainly keeps me busy! Describe how you got started in your business? When I moved here in 2008 I got a job as an Employment Consultant at Key Employment after previously being a teacher in England. I always wanted a role where I could help people and was drawn by the amazing ethos and values at Key Employment. From my first day I loved it! It was so rewarding to help people achieve their goals and it was a friendly, supportive place to work.

MIKE S WA R B R I C K

K E Y E M P LOY M E N T C H I E F O P E R AT I O N S O F F I C E R

I enjoyed it so much I am still here after 13 years, moving my way up from an Employment Consultant to my current role. How can we get in touch? Contact me via LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/michaelswarbrick or come see us at 61 West High St (the old Catholic Club), call on 02 6691 9999, or e-mail me at mike@keyemployment.com. au. Whether you are a person looking for work or an employer needing new staff we can always help!

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BRENDEN C H A P E

M IDCOA S T TRUCK S, COFFS HARBOUR BR ANCH S E RVICE M ANAGE R

escribe how you got started in your business? Even as a small child I had an interest in seeing how things worked, pulling motors apart and putting them back together. I began as an Apprentice Diesel Mechanic in 1994 in my home town of Walgett. Working at Walgett Tyre and Machinery service, Peel Valley Machinery and Walgett Truck and Tractor, I worked on a range of equipment, from trucks to large farming and earth moving equipment. In 2008 I made the move to the Coffs Coast and was fortunate to be employed at K & J Trucks. After several years on the floor as a mechanic, I was given the opportunity to begin building my management and customer service skills, working as Workshop Foreman. After K & J was acquired by MCT I became Service Manager. How has your business evolved since it began? We have gone from a team of 30 to 120!! We now have our own bodybuilders, spray painters, detailers all over 5 sites in both Macksville and Coffs Harbour and coming soon to Port Macquarie. We continue to upgrade and improve our equipment and facilities to meet the changing needs of the industry and our customers. What is your greatest achievement? My wonderful wife, Kristy and our three beautiful daughters. What is your business's greatest asset? Our greatest asset is our dedicated staff and loyal customers. Also, our state of the

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The changeover

art facilities, industry customer service, to Isuzu and of knowledge and building relationships course the Pandemic reputation. with our regular have meant that the How do you measure customers. last 18 months have success in business? What creative things brought so much Repeat business. We do you do to develop change but has shown look after our customers a likeable company our ability to problem and they keep coming culture? back year after year. We Staff wellbeing is really solve and adapt wouldn’t have it any important to me. Regular resulting in new other way. BBQ’s or hot chip lunches opportunities. This has How will you embrace for the staff is something strengthened us as a change in 2022? small to help build team and diversified The changeover to relationships. our skills. Isuzu and of course the Most rewarding part Pandemic have meant of your job? that the last 18 months Constantly learning, have brought so much both about innovations change but has shown our ability to problem in the industry and about management aspects solve and adapt resulting in new opportunities. of the business, along with solving problems This has strengthened us as a team and that come up in our day-to-day work. I work diversified our skills. I have particularly learned with an amazing team and we deal with two so much about the business and management fantastic products in Scania and Isuzu. aspects of the company and look forward to What do you enjoy most about the Coffs putting this knowledge into practice in the Coast? coming years. After coming from the extreme climate of What business leaders do you look up to? Walgett, the mild weather all year round is Kevin Schuhmann of K & J Trucks was great. There are so many stunning places to someone I enjoyed working with and learned enjoy the outdoors, both bush and beach. We a great deal from. More recently, Greg Mann love camping and bushwalking so there’s no (MCT Group Service Manager) has become a shortage of choice locations in the local area. mentor to me, supporting the development of How can we get in touch? my management and business skills. Midcoast Trucks, Isles Drive What is the most satisfying aspect of your 6652 7218 role? www.mct.com.au I really enjoy striving to provide great coffs@mct.com.au

hat is new in your business? We have relocated to a bigger site with better parking and exposure. Thanks to our amazing customers the previous space just wasn’t practical for the stock levels we needed to keep. What is better about your new location? We have easy in and out access for our customers. We are able to store more stock on hand in order to meet our customer demands. In the near future we will be completing a whole new shop fit out which will give all our customers an even better in store experience than what they already have. Is this the only reason your customers keep coming back? We strongly believe that we provide second to none in our customers’ experience. This is from the way they are greeted when they enter, to our product knowledge all the way to how they leave the store. We want all our customers to leave feeling confident in the products they have purchased and how to use those products.

MARK D I E N E R

What is your business’s greatest asset? Our biggest asset is our staff. The dedication our staff have to helping customers is amazing. They go over and beyond. They are also continually wanting to learn and experiment with products to better their knowledge for the business. Most rewarding part of your job? Customer satisfaction would have to be the most rewarding. To be able to help bring customers’ project ideas and dreams to life is incredibly satisfying. Not only do they get a beautiful completed project, painting also adds protection and makes the surface sustainable. How can we get in touch? Our project passionate team is available Monday to Friday 6:30am - 4:30pm, Saturday 8am - 12pm. Our store is located at 182 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour. 6652 4952 coffs@sales.insp.com.au @inspirationspaintcoffsharbour @insppaintcoffs

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J O N AT H O N

PAFF CO F F S L AW CO

escribe how you got started as a lawyer? I was admitted to practice in 2015 and moved to Coffs Harbour in 2018. After trying some different areas of law early in my career such as taxation law and civil law, I found my calling was criminal law. I was all over it! I reckon it’s because I’m a naturally competitive personality. I now focus solely on criminal law at Coffs Law Co. I provide you honest, specific, clear, fearless advice when the sh*t has hit the fan! At Coffs Law Co. I assist you to understand the law involved in the offence you are charged with and how you can respond. My aim is to empower you throughout the process. I explain the law in everyday language – without the legal jargon – so you get it. Working with Coffs Law Co. I come into bat for you at Court and I come swinging! How has criminal law practice evolved since Covid? In one word. Zoom! Covid required the previously rigid Courts to be brought kicking and screaming into the future. I now meet clients, attend court, and negotiate with prosecutors in a virtual environment all over NSW and Australia. I can now assist people with criminal law issues locally in Coffs Harbour but also regionally and remotely. Whilst I continue working with clients face to face, this

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technology is great for clients wanting for clients who plead not guilty, but I also efficiency in their appointments for work find it equally rewarding to help a client get purposes, as there is the minimum penalty no travel to and from possible or keep their Clients may have appointments, no licence. Whilst life does limited parking concerns, it’s a not give out Get Out understanding of what great time saver. of Jail Free Cards, I am their options are to the Most rewarding part here for you. of being a criminal What do you enjoy criminal charges lawyer? most about the Coffs against them or what I am often meeting Coast? the outcome may be people at what can Whilst I am a born for them. That can be be the lowest time and bred Taree boy, scary and leave you in their life. Clients I love living in Coffs feeling vulnerable. may have limited Harbour with the mix understanding of what of coast and country. their options are to I can play competitive the criminal charges sport, go to fabulous against them or what the outcome may be restaurants, take my dogs to the beach with for them. That can be scary and leave you my gorgeous partner, or enjoy a day in the feeling vulnerable. mountains. We really have it all. Being able to provide you with honest, How do we get in touch? specific, clear, fearless advice to help you You can visit us at 60 Moonee Street, Coffs Harbour, Phone 56061225, see there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Email lawclerk@coffslawco.com.au or visit That is very rewarding for me. Obviously, it our website www.coffslawco.com.au is also satisfying to win hearings and trials

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DYLAN B E N E K E CO F F S L AW CO

escribe how you got started in your business? I have always been motivated by what is fair, tempered with a desire to win. Naturally, this passion led me to practice law. I have worked in most areas of law – family, criminal and civil – and have a broad knowledge of the law. I continue to work across these areas of law and advise clients on how various competing laws may interact with one another and affect their proceedings in ways other lawyers may fail to comprehend. How has your practice evolved since it began? When practising law, knowledge is achieved from your initial university studies and from your experience. My legal acumen continues to be honed and finessed, as with all actively engaged lawyers. It is through continual work and education I expand on my skills to provide comprehensive and effective legal advice for clients to assist in achieving positive outcomes. I find it personally fulfilling assisting clients through their unique legal matters, empowering them to engage in the process to achieve an outcome that is fair and just for them. It can be a dynamic experience. Legal practice occurs in an adversarial dogeat-dog environment. It is easy for clients to lose sight of the bigger picture and feel overwhelmed and exasperated. I work hand in hand with clients to reduce the distress of

It is easy for

How will you embrace disputes. Giving clients clients to lose change in 2022? the knowledge to sight of the bigger As a result of the understand the process picture and feel Covid-19 pandemic, and options available to overwhelmed and the legal industry has them, and then putting exasperated. I work been forced to utilise into action what my hand in hand with technologies to remain client wants. clients to reduce the operational. This has How do you measure distress of disputes. meant remote court success in business? attendances, meetings I believe success in with clients by telephone a legal matter is not and video conferencing only measured by the and the never-ending outcome but also by my hand sanitising and social distancing. client’s engagement in the process. A positive Looking towards 2022 I embrace the result will vary from matter type to matter, technological advances Coffs Law Co. has but a client’s experience is the lasting memory brought to clients be it remote appointments for me. by telephone or video conferencing or The path I take with a client to achieve participation in court or alternative dispute a successful outcome in a matter varies on resolution via telephone or teams. These the individual and their circumstances. No adaptations create a more accessible and two cases are the same. Working cohesively efficient legal practice, which I would hope together is very important to me from start would enable greater access to the law for to finish. I model my practice on grounded the wider community. holistic advice. I have found by reality testing How do we get in touch? with clients we often achieve results sooner, You can visit us at 60 Moonee Street, incurring less fees, by taking a reasonable and Coffs Harbour, Phone 56061225, rational approach to disputes. This lends to a Email lawclerk@coffslawco.com.au or visit more successful and fulfilling legal process for our website www.coffslawco.com.au. my clients. COFFS COAST

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o, Matthew, what are your & Ernie’s greatest business assets? Besides our team who deliver our exceptional food & coffee – our greatest asset is that we have evolved our own unique style of delivering delicious food, alongside great customer service that doesn’t have to cost a bomb! Ernie & I decided we wanted to brand our business by conceptualising what we wanted to deliver. Our business mantra is a key asset to structuring a consistent direction for both creative growth & bums on seats. I suppose it’s a bit like a ‘satnav’ in a car, in that without assisted direction you may get lost. For example: “At Ernies Kitchen we take our inspiration from native herbs & spices, allowing our house made dishes to engage with a cultural twist – by being on the threshold of contemporary Australian cuisine at its finest.” We read this every day, as it keeps us from taking ‘detours’ or ‘short cuts.’ We take the same route every day to work, arriving safely & on time, so, in our opinion, a business with a healthy future must follow a customary path. Be disciplined & focus on what you are trying to achieve – you can’t just be solely creative or guess at it – know what you’re doing & what you’re setting out to achieve & keep following that road – it will become your pathway to success. So, to see how we transpire these business ideals into our dishes please come and dine with us!

Ernies Kitchen is fully licenced & open 7 days for breakfast & lunch 7.30am – 3pm & Open Saturdays for dinner 5.30pm – 10pm. (02) 6658 0920. Visit our website ernies.kitchen

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ERNIE & M AT T H E W E R N I E S K I TC H E N

started with Brown and Hurley almost 10 years ago as a mechanic and night shift foreman. With the company’s growth and expansion, it saw the group trailer sales manager and salesman move up north leaving a vacant spot here in Coffs. It was the perfect opportunity to try something different whilst working for the same company in the town I love. Brown and Hurley Trailers offer a diverse range of new and used trailers to the Australian road transport industry. Including tipping bodies, curtainsiders, Skeletal trailers for moving containers, flat tops, drop decks, refrigerated/ freezer, Tag/Plant and walking floor trailers. We provide Sales, Service and Spare Parts., with a dedicated trailer workshop and spray booth. We are dealers for Krueger, Hercules, Schmitz Cargobull and Pumpa Trailers I believe that if you support your local town and their businesses, they will support you back. Brown and Hurley is a family run and owned business that was founded in northern NSW. With nine dealerships in NSW and QLD each branch supports their local business. For example, they will buy company vehicles from the local car dealership or purchase tools, parts, nut and bolts etc locally. Doing business locally allows you to become friends with your customers. The process of hearing the customer request, preparing a quote and then working with them to have an outcome that will benefit them and their business.

HAMISH SUTHERLAND B R OW N A N D H U R L E Y

PBS (performance based standards) is a nationally regulated scheme that allows more weight and size to heavy vehicles to gain productivity. It’s rewarding to see unique designs, engineering and combinations of vehicles put to good use. Customising your trailer is also pretty cool, from having the whole unit in company livery with some added bling and lights, to just a few scrolls and lines on the toolbox. I stand back and admire all of them. Check out our Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn, contact myself or the dealership: hamish.sutherland@brownandhurley.com.au 0467 770833 2-10 Hurley Drive, Coffs Harbour

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PETER BULANYI M E G A WAT T P OW E R

We are upskilling and reskilling, creating new ideas, adopting new ways of work and pu ing even more value on human connection and interaction regardless of or maybe in spite of social distancing!

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escribe how you got started in your business? After a career as an electronics technician in the 80s, I moved with my family to Dorrigo in 1989. Our remote property on the Nymboida river had no power, except for a hand crank and cantankerous diesel generator of very poor quality. My electronics background led me to solar power as a necessity. I started an electronics repair shop in Dorrigo, and some of the customers asked if I could repair their off-grid inverters in my shop, which led to repairing their systems at home, which led to designing and installing the rudimentary solar systems of the day. So, it all started from one tiny 12 Volt battery, a 42 Watt solar panel and a single 12 Volt light in a very small house on a river, far, far away. How has your business evolved since it began? It has transformed a lot from modest and simple beginnings, that had just one employee, to a business that now employs around 60, working locally and in all states and territories. Businesses are just like living organisms, and they have their different and unique life and development stages, cycles, tipping points, ups and downs, moods and characters. What is your greatest achievement? It has to be the fact that we exist for over 30 years and that I still love my job. It is a kind of miracle to be able to wake up in the morning and still feel the excitement after all these years. But I also have to mention that my family is my most significant true achievement. My wife Lee and I started this business together, and we still work together after 30 years, now with the help of our sons. What is your business’s greatest asset? People! I know it can sound like a cliché, but without our wonderful and loyal employees, many of whom are with us for 10 years, we wouldn’t be where we are now. We were lucky and mindful enough to recognise early the importance of both the economic and emotional attributes and qualities of people when it comes to business. It is the sense of belonging that I am referring to, the need for stability, recognition and continuation, which are all simple human

MEN IN BUSINESS needs that we all have and depend upon. When we create an environment that reflects these values and conditions, trust, loyalty, joy, and job satisfaction are assured! We also know that when people are happy, they are more productive and efficient, which applies to all of us. How do you measure success in business? Same as in life. There are many aspects that, when put together, represents and measures the success of any company. While from the pure business perspective, being able to survive and thrive over the 30 years in this Industry is definitely our biggest success. However, real success is measured by the impact we make as a company on our customers, clients, employees, community and society. Working in an industry that positively impacts the Environment, supporting clean renewable energy and contributing to the greater good is a success for us. How will you embrace change in 2022? Pandemic, lockdowns, uncertainty, even more dependency on technology are all the things that have marked last and this year. I am a very flexible person, and as a business, we experienced many changes and disruptions before. We are upskilling and reskilling, creating new ideas, adopting new ways of work and putting even more value on human connection and interaction regardless of or maybe in spite of social distancing! One can always find the silver lining in any challenging situation. What business leaders do you look up to? There are many exciting and influential individuals in the business world. I guess I am always attracted to those who have a strong innovative streak in them, and who in a way, created something from nothing. I love the courageous and creative type of people who are not afraid to go against the tide and dream big. Yet that doesn’t necessarily mean that I would try to walk in their shoes. The business leader that comes to mind is Howard Hughes. The story of his business career, which I have studied in great detail, spanned 50 years and was so innovative and highly successful across multiple technologies and sectors. It is both an old story and new story at the same time meaning the time period was 1920 to 1970, but every bit applicable

now to any 21st century start up. Very inspiring to me. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Driving around the Coffs Harbour area and knowing every roof where we have installed solar panels on. What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? We select people who work for us very carefully, and these processes are particularly time-consuming (and creative). We like to see that they share the same values and beliefs, nurturing their potential and talents – we thrive on having a culture that respects diversity, inclusion, individuality and social responsibility. Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? I see it more nationally with the local spirit and global mind. No matter what the future brings, we are a resilient business, and we will be precisely where we need to be, I genuinely believe in that. Next ten years? Why not a hundred? I see my grandkids bringing fresh ideas and dreams to the business, just like myself, 30 years ago, chasing the rainbow. Most rewarding part of your job? As an electronics technician, I spent the first part of my working life repairing electronic equipment. That was a mountain of stuff that didn't end up prematurely in landfill. In a similar way at the solar system level, what I like most now is solving people’s energy problems and preventing unnecessary waste of money and natural resources. What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? It is safe place to live and raise your family. In life the most important thing is that we and our loved ones are safe. When there is safety there is peace, and when there is peace, there is love. How can we get in touch? Phone: 66529700, email: retail@ megawattpower.com.au, internet: www. megawattpower.com.au, but dropping into our shop at 15 Isles Drive is always a good idea. We have to follow all the rules, but we would love to see you there. COFFS COAST

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ADRIAN

WA R D

AWA R D E U R O P E A N

escribe how you got started in business? Award European was conceived due to the need of a specialist repairers on European vehicles on the North Coast. I was seeing a lack of choice for European vehicle service and repairs locally and felt we could fill this shortfall. I have always wanted the challenge of starting a business and having a long established working career as a Volkswagen Master Technician it was an easy decision to open Award European, allowing an alternative choice of repairer for our client base here in Coffs Harbour. How has your business evolved since it began? With all new business, the foundations need to be solid. During the early conception of the business we were lucky to have a service that was both needed and under-represented locally. Our clients are very loyal to us and this makes the building of any business much easier. We have increased the staff to keep up with the demand for our services; this is by far the most challenging part with less school leavers joining the motor trade and many skilled technicians leaving the trade for various reasons. We

constantly up-skill all our staff to continue to meet the ever-changing technology challenges of modern European vehicles. I think the biggest evolution of both our business and the transport industry is yet to fully evolve, with the uptake of people looking to electric vehicles as the future of transport we will have to adapt and change as manufacturers continue to push the limits of what is possible in this area. What is your greatest achievement? This is a great question. I always believed that starting and owning a business would be the greatest achievement of a life long career in my chosen trade; I am very proud of what Award European has become and what it continues to evolve into. However the greatest achievement for me personally is being in a position to facilitate jobs for locals and giving apprentices an opportunity to grow and learn in an environment that hopefully inspires them to go onto their own great achievements. What is your business greatest asset? When you think of assets a business holds that have the greatest value, I believe it should always be the people you employ. We are very lucky to have the staff we have; we are low in numbers of employees but very high in quality,

having 58 years combined experience working with European vehicles gained working in the UK, Germany and here in Australia. I have always worked on the principle if you have happy staff they will keep the clients happy. What do you enjoy the most about the Coffs Coast? The original reason I moved to the Coffs Coast from the UK was the people of Coffs and the weather, I found it very easy to settle here due to the community and the support it offers. There isn’t much I don’t like about Coffs therefore I feel blessed to be able to run this business and raise my family here, it’s all about the life balance. How can we get in touch? Eloise is our Office Manager and can be reached Mon - Fri from 8am - 5pm or visit us at Unit 9/21 Industrial Drive, Coffs Harbour, 2450. Alternatively all our details are at www.awardeuropean.com.au I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank my team Paul, Anthony, William, Jennifer and Eloise for all their dedication, hard work and the support they continue to give each and every day, in addition to our customers’ continued support.

Servicing Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, Woolgoolga, Grafton, Nambucca Heads, Macksville, Bellingen Unit 9, 21 Industrial drive, Coffs Harbour info@awardeuropean.com.au

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02 6652 1190

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EDUCATION

UPDATE with NICK JOHNSTONE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

A Connected Regional Community Starts At School

any rural and regional Australian communities have experienced considerable growth in the last few years due to our city-based friends and families relocating for a sea or tree change. And Coffs Harbour is no stranger to this, particularly with the recent cultural changes resulting from COVID restrictions, and the exciting opportunities that come with announcements like the new film and television hub out at Pacific Bay Resort. This growth, while welcome to many, does cause pressure on our current community facilities such as our business districts, our hospitals, our recreation spaces and our schools. Schools in the Coffs Harbour region have experienced growth in demand for student places, but beyond this is a school community’s responsibility for connecting our new citizens to a wider community. Schools must not only take on this responsibility but also cherish this as an opportunity to learn and build relationships, to increase diversity in experience, nationalities, and of course, cultural fabric. This is where schools need to play a bigger role in providing opportunities for a greater sense of community, through real connections. This geographic growth and its accompanying shifts in our greater community is an opportunity for schools to turn their thinking around from being insular, to considering the context of the broader

community and how a school can not only provide an opportunity to lower anxiety, shape change-makers, but be a part of that promote empathy, increase self-esteem and change broadly in their local community. build community. We must open our doors to the Relationships – Strong ties with family, community. We must create greater friends and the school community provide links with businesses, with industry, with us with happiness, security, support and universities, with a sense of purpose. childcare centres and These relationships are pre-schools, with aged Schools in the particularly important in care facilities, with Coffs Harbour tough times and I think service clubs, with city region have we all recognise their councils and government experienced growth importance during the departments, with in demand for COVID-19 pandemic. sporting clubs and student places, but Opportunities – Schools cultural groups. beyond this is a provide not only the We must create school community’s literacy and numeracy greater opportunities for responsibility for building blocks that allow our families to feel part connecting our new our students to actively of a strong, dynamic and citizens to a wider participate in society, connected community. community. but exciting hands-on Richard Gervers, in learning experiences, his book entitled Simple academic enrichment Thinking states: “Success is not complicated; programs, sporting opportunities, performing it doesn’t have a secret formula; it is about and visual arts experiences, school camps people, behaviours and attitudes.” My and community service experiences. philosophy of education and my vision for As I say to my students, you only get schools as community engagement hubs is out of school what you put in. Effort and not a complex one. opportunity breeds engagement and However, it may be a busy and dynamic improvement. one, always seeking improvement and being At the foundation, school communities flexible. The tenets for improvement have don’t simply stand to create this opportunity their basis in three simple touch points: within our immediate back yard, but to connections, relationships and opportunities. be a part of the people, behaviours and Connections – All people are valuable. attitudes of our broader neighbourhood and All interactions are an opportunity to learn. community. Social connections, however small, can COFFS COAST

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CHARLOTTE BUNNY • Soccer - Selected in NSW All Schools team to play in the national championships • Cross Country Running - selected in the Diocesan team to compete in State Catholic Schools final (Polding)

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MATILDA NEWTON • Netball - selected in the Polding team. • Swimming: • MHOC Senior Girls Champion • Represented the Lismore Diocese at Polding Swimming • Cross Country - Represented Clarence Zone at Diocesan Cross Country • Athletics: • MHOC Athletics Champ • Member of MHOC team to compete at Zone Athletics in August • AFL - Member of MHOC girls' team that won the local round of the Paul Kelly Cup.

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CHLOE GRIFFIN • Basketball - member of the Polding team which competed in the state championships, finishing 7th in the state.

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Mary Help of Christians Primary school has a long history of high achievement in the sporting arena. We take this opportunity to celebrate some of our sporting stars who are still smiling despite many of their ‘next level’ sporting events being cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

LEVI NEWTON • Rugby Union: • member of Polding team to compete at State Championships in August • member of MHOC team which won the Diocesan Gala Day. State Catholic Schools event cancelled due to Covid. • Athletics - member of MHOC team to compete at Zone Athletics in August

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IGNATIUS BIDDLE • Rugby Union: • member of Polding team to compete at State Championships in August • member of MHOC team which won the Diocesan Gala Day. State Catholic Schools event cancelled due to Covid. • Athletics: • MHOC Athletics Champion • Member of MHOC team to compete at Zone Athletics in August • Cross Country - Represented MHOC at Zone Cross Country • Touch Football - progressed to Diocesan level in touch football trials • Swimming - represented Clarence Zone at Diocesan Swimming

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BEATTIE

It’s been a big year for Cody Beattie so far. At just 11 years old, this BMX loving grom is owning the tracks in style, has picked up a few podium finishes and also been selected to represent Australia in the Trans Tasman Mighty 11’s Test team. Something tells us we’ll be seeing more of this kid in the future.

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My dad bought me a skateboard and it just seemed like more of a challenge to ride a skateboard than a scooter..

i Cody. You’re a familiar face down here at the BMX tracks, but for those that don’t know you, please introduce yourself. Hi, my name is Cody Beattie. I am 11 years old and I’m in Year 6 at Tyalla Public School. I ride for Coffs Coast “Cyclones” BMX Club. After starting out BMX at the age of five you have been steadily improving since. What was it that had you hooked on the sport? Mum and Dad took me out to the track one day for a ride and I enjoyed it so much that they signed me up to race. I now race in two different categories, 20” and 24” Cruiser. I have since competed in five State Titles and have competed in both NSW and QLD. Every track I’ve raced at has its own challenges and the experience excites me to try harder. You’re now supported by Team Navy. Tell us a little bit about this and how it came about. Team Navy BMX started eight years ago and it prides itself on teamwork and true sportsmanship. We have 10 riders on our team

and we are managed by Tom Cole. When I race I always tell myself to give my maximum effort and don’t give up. With this positive attitude and my sportsmanship I was lucky enough to be offered a spot on the team this year. I’m grateful to Tom and all my teammates for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to be a part of the Team Navy BMX family. You’ve been selected in the Trans Tasman Mighty 11’s Junior Test Team to represent Australia. How was that experience being selected and what are you looking forward to most? For the past 30 years, the Mighty 11’s Junior Test Team has been a cultural exchange with Australia and New Zealand. There are normally two rounds, one in Australia and one in New Zealand. The Australian team consists of four boys and four girls, and you need to be 11 years old on the 1st of June. This year’s selection process was held during Pre States at Hawkesbury BMX track. The times are taken from our mottos. I qualified with a time of 37.612sec giving me the fastest time in the boys and number 1 spot on the Test Team. I was so happy and shocked when I found out I made the team.

Unfortunately due to Covid we won’t get to compete against New Zealand this year. Both countries will still recognise the Test Team members and we will get our names engraved on the Test trophy and we will be presented with our Test jerseys. What have you been working on this year and what are you most proud of about yourself and your achievements? This year my aim is to improve on my previous races. This year I have made finals on both my bikes in every event that I have entered and I have had podium finishes in three of these events this year. You’re certainly dedicated and committed to your sport. What type of training is involved? I do sprint training on my bike in our street and gate practice on Tuesday nights at our track. Our track is going through an upgrade so we haven’t been able to race or train properly there for the past 12 months. My parents drive me and my sister Hannah to Grafton every Wednesday night so we can race up there to keep up our fitness levels. Who is your inspiration in the BMX world? Sam Willoughby and Kai Sakakibara. Both of these men have been through some tough times in their BMX career but their passion and dedication is something I admire. What are your dreams for the future? COFFS COAST

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S P E C I A L

F O C U S

F E A T U R E

FINANCE E X P E R T S

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bcu EXPERT VO I C E IN FINANCE

K E V I N DAY

COMMERCIAL LENDER

here are you originally from and when did you first realise you had a strong passion for the finance industry? I grew up on an 8-acre lifestyle property near Cooma in the Snowy Mountains. I have lived in the Coffs area for 17 years. My interest in finance first began when I started saving all my casual wages to purchase my first vehicle. However, I would have to say that my passion really began when I was 21 years old and started with bcu. My career in finance has continued to evolve since that time and I now have over 10 years lending experience. Who makes up the business and what are the advantages of dealing with a local business? We have a team of 9 in business banking, made up of Lenders and Analysts based in NSW and QLD. We have over 200 years’ combined industry experience in our team. One of our key advantages is that our team is local, including all of the staff members in

our credit and support teams. We also have branches from the Sunshine Coast to Port Macquarie. Our team works together, with a vast array of experience and skill sets. What services do you offer? We offer Secured Commercial / Business finance across most industries and have a number of products and facilities to meet your business needs. This includes overdrafts, lines of credit, term debt, interest only, principal & interest, fixed and variable facilities. We are also mobile and can come out to see you at your preferred location. What type of clients do you service? Our team serves a wide variety of clients, including commercial property investors, local business, farmers and developers. What is the most important thing one should consider when mapping one’s financial future? Never underestimate the importance of planning ahead. How can we contact you? You can contact me on 0427 462 667 or email Kevin.Day@bcu.com.au

WADE BEAUMONT

MOBILE LENDER

here can help. are you bcu is now a provider of the originally First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, from and which is really exciting to be able when to help more first home buyers did you first realise you had a into the market sooner than they strong passion for the finance may have expected. industry? What inspires you to do this I grew up on the Dorrigo Plateau work? and have always lived locally. I I love the challenge, there is think I often take for granted a lot more involved ‘behind the how lucky I am scenes’ that to live and work happens after My passion where I do. I first a home loan comes from started in finance appointment and being able to help as a teller at bcu no member’s members achieve in Bellingen. situation or their home I progressed needs are the ownership dreams through the same. As a lender and be a part of each I love being bank in a few member’s journey. different roles able to meet all and locations, different people, working my way up to my current from all walks of life. Being able role as a Home Lending Specialist. to get to know my members I think for me, my passion comes and really make an impact as from being able to help members well as building long and trusted achieve their home ownership relationships and being involved in dreams and be a part of each the local community is important member’s journey. to me, which is why I love working What type of clients do you for a customer-owned bank. service? How can we contact you? Just about anyone really! You can contact me on 0427 034 280 or email Whether it be purchasing your first Wade.Beaumont@bcu.com. home, refinancing your current au or come and see me at the loan, or assisting with your next Park Beach Plaza or Woolgoolga purchase or investment options – I COFFS COAST

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SOFIA E L L I N GT O N ANZ

Our purpose at ANZ is to shape a world where people and communities thrive. That’s why we strive to create a balanced, sustainable economy in which everyone can take part and build a better life. By helping people make the most of what they have, we transform ideas, hard work and ambition into reality.

ith years of banking experience our team has a strong commitment and a proven record in providing an exceptional service proposition. Together with our outstanding banking products, local market knowledge and industry insights we are able to assist our clients to execute their personal and business strategies through a full suite of banking solutions, tailored to your needs. Whether it’s at your home/office or ours, or over the phone we will take the time to understand your needs and provide the right solutions to help you realise your goals. Our Coffs Harbour branch team led by Branch Manager Michael Morrison, are committed to improving the financial wellbeing of our people, customers and communities by helping them make the most of their money throughout their lives. ANZ has developed financial wellbeing programs in consultation with community partner organisations and governments which aim to provide real social benefits to the community by improving financial inclusion and literacy. Michael and his team are here to assist you with your everyday banking needs. Also based in our local branch is Danielle O’Brien, an experienced lending specialist familiar with our local market, who can help with all of your home and investment lending needs. 108 COFFS COAST

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We believe that making banking easier needed to establish an organisation that can starts with a commitment to understanding sustain growth. Australian businesses of all sizes. Our team of business banking specialists As an ANZ business client, you’ll be service Northern NSW assisting customers with supported by a knowledgeable team who are Commercial and Agribusiness needs. committed to delivering With local on the the banking answers and ground representation, Our business information you need our team has a strong to help you start, run knowledge of the region, insights give you and grow your business. its industries and its access to industry With banking solutions economy and we are experts and information from our team of local committed to the local on topics important to specialists, together with market. Australian business access to senior ANZ Based in Coffs Harbour, leaders to give your executives in your local our Business Banking business the edge. Plus, area, makes us your Manager is Andrew Ings, our specialised Business perfect banking partner. and our Small Business Growth Program helps Our specialists cover Specialist is Aron Grewal. Australian businesses to a range of industries Our Commercial develop the skills needed specific to our local Banking Specialists are to establish an area which includes Patrick Brennan and Accommodation, Matthew Pryce, and our organisation that can Franchising, Hospitality, Agribusiness Specialist is sustain growth. Manufacturing, Retailing, Chris Cook. Professional Services, For clients undertaking Agribusiness & Property. significant Property Development and We can offer you insights, information and Investment, Steven Knight is our locally based easy banking solutions that allow you to focus Property lending expert servicing Regional on your business. Our business insights give Northern NSW. you access to industry experts and information Our local leadership team consists of Sofia on topics important to Australian business Ellington, Regional Executive for Business leaders to give your business the edge. Plus, Banking; Kate Loveday, Area Manager for our specialised Business Growth Program helps Small Business; and Glenn Schofield, District Australian businesses to develop the skills Manager for Northern NSW Branches.

A N Z

T E A M

O F

EXPERTS

ANDREW INGS

A R O N G R E WA L

MICHAEL MORRISON

Business Banking Manager 0434 606 532

Small Business Specialist 0432 755 997

Branch Manager 0411 850 976

PAT R I C K B R E N NA N

M AT T P RY C E

CHRIS COOK

Commercial Banking Manager 0466 449 471

Commercial Banking Manager 0499 902 278

Agribusiness Manager 0423 292 721

STEVEN KNIGHT

DA N I E L L E O ’ B R I E N

S O F I A E L L I N GT O N

Property Development & Investment 0478 407 931

Home & Investment Lending Specialist 0435 963 709

Regional Executive Commercial Banking 0478 404 395

Cnr Harbour Drive & Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

Phone 02 5612 2301 | www.anz.com COFFS COAST

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MONEY M AT T E R S

with BARRY HOCKEY A CCO U N TA N T S

Thinking of Selling your rental property? – don’t forget Capital Gains Tax !

he property market is running hot and expected to continue while interest rates are at an all time low. So many investors are thinking of cashing in on the profits of their investments for many different reasons. Our telephones have been running hot over the past 12 months with capital gains tax questions. So, what is capital gains tax and how can it be reduced or even avoided? What is capital gains tax and how is it calculated? Capital gains legislation commenced on 20 September 1985. So, assets acquired prior to that date are generally exempt from capital gains tax. If you sell a capital asset, such as real estate, shares or Bitcoin, you usually make a capital gain or a capital loss. This is the difference between what it cost you to acquire the asset and what you receive when you dispose of it. You need to report capital gains and losses in your income tax return and pay tax on your capital gains. Although it’s referred to as capital gains tax (CGT), this is actually part of your income tax, not a separate tax. How can capital gains tax be reduced or avoided? Selling an asset such as an investment property is a big decision, and you need to plan well in advance to make sure you have all facts. It is a good idea to speak to your accountant or financial advisor, so that there

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year’s cap of $27,500. are no surprises when you complete your tax • 50% Discount. Hold the asset for more return. Here are some tips: than 12 months and you will get a 50% • The home that you live in, being your reduction in the gross capital gains amount. principal place of residence, is exempt from • Remember that the capital gains need capital gains tax if it is not used to produce to be reported in your tax return in the year income. that the contract for sale is exchanged (not • The 6-year absence rule allows you to the date of settlement when you receive the rent out your home while you are away and money from sale proceeds). not be liable for capital gains. For example, if • If the real estate property has been used you must travel elsewhere for your work. in your business, you may be entitled to • Check if you have any carried forward further concessions or losses that can be used exemptions under the against your capital “CGT Small Business gains. You need to report Concessions”. • Clean up your capital gains and • Consider the share portfolio. losses in your income tax timing of the sale. For Consider selling any return and pay tax on example, if you are unwanted shares at a your capital gains. nearing retirement, sell loss that can be used Although it’s referred to the property in the year to offset any capital as capital gains tax (CGT), after you finish work gains in the current this is actually part of when your income is financial year. your income tax, not a lower. Remember capital • Make sure you separate tax. gains gets added to include all your your income and is not purchase and selling a separate tax. costs to reduce your • There are different rules for inherited capital gains, including stamp duty, legal properties depending on the type of property fees, real estate agent’s commission and capital improvements. that has been left in a deceased estate. So • Consider making a “tax deductible” best to check this out with a tax professional. contribution into your superannuation. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have Note that if you have not utilised your a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm contributions cap in prior years and your is big enough to get the job done and super balance is less that $500k, you may be small enough to care. Personal service and able to put more into super than the current attention to detail is our business.

JASON BURLEY

FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

Moving into care – Do I have to sell my home?

oving into residential which can be converted into a care is stressful daily fee using a specified rate of enough without interest. Paying this daily fee (or thinking that you “renting” the room) may allow are forced to sell your former you to keep your former home if home. Some people may find it that is your preference. hard to part with their home or As an Accredited Aged Care may not be ready to sell. But do Professional™ I have helped many you have to sell? Or is that just a clients to make this choice. I help misunderstood myth? to find a choice that is affordable, Some people panic when faced as well as works best for the family with paying and protects several hundred the value of the Some people panic when faced estate. thousand dollars with paying several for a room in Everyone’s hundred thousand aged care. But circumstances dollars for a room in selling your are different, so aged care. But selling former home is it is important your former home is not your only to speak to not your only choice. choice. Some someone like Some people choose to people choose myself who sell, others don’t. to sell, others is a licenced don’t. financial The move into residential care is adviser. I am also an Authorised effectively just a move to a new Representative of Count Financial home. Anytime you move homes, Limited AFSL 227232. you can choose to buy or rent. Giving yourself time by starting Renting allows you to live in a your research early can reduce home you can’t afford to buy, or stress levels, and for an older don’t want to buy. person, can ensure their voice is With residential care you have the heard more clearly. Call me on same options. Your room price 0431 414 799 to discuss how I is usually quoted as a lump sum might help your own position.

P 0431 414 799 E jason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.au W www.burleyagedcareadvice.com.au

DI LEACH MANAGER - OAS AUSTR ALIA

"I enjoy talking with business owners and assimilating with them, having run my own business I understand the pain points and can empathise while formulating tailored advice and solutions.”

’ve always enjoyed finance and am passionate about setting up busines structures, providing support and guidance through the business life cycle and demonstrating how finances have a big impact in holding it all together. As a full-service bookkeeping practice, we provide all functions across payroll including HR intermediary, PAYG calculations, lodgements and payments of superannuation for businesses. Additionally, we are experienced at helping clients with their pain points and taking away the burden by providing outsourced office services such as bookkeeping, accounts payable and receivables, BAS preparation and more. There are no boundaries to the clients we service, from sole traders, partnerships to big businesses with over 150 employees. Our team have experience across all industries. OAS Australia is a local business and we go through the same

challenges as our clients. We have intimate knowledge of the area, the local economy and fluctuations that come with that. Right from the onset of the business, I have found it critical to get the base structures correct and engaging during planning is invaluable to ensure the foundation is right. Start off as you intend to grow. Always think big. It is important to get the base structure right from the get-go so that you’re prepared as your business grows. This also provides great benefit with tracking growth and allows you quickly get on top of any complications that arise. Implementing a budget is also a good way to track. Even the simplest of budgets sets a pathway for you to plan and visualise where you want to go. If you’d like an obligation and cost free meeting to discuss how we can work with you and add benefit, contact our office on 02 6652 5544 or email reception@ oasuastralia.com.au COFFS COAST

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LMA Changes Lives

BARRY HOCKEY

Daniela Shaw, CEO R&R Care

A C C O U N TA N T S

TAX TIME IS HERE It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. We have seen the Government deliver another budget and there are several changes to consider that may impact directly upon you, particularly small business owners and superannuation.

he tax office focus photo image. this year is on work Small businesses should ensure related expense that their financial information claims. You need is up to date, so that important to ensure that the decisions can be made. If you following 3 things have been are looking for new finance considered when claiming your arrangements, it is a good idea deduction; to have your accounts finalised 1. INCURRED – The expense so that the bank has up to date must have been incurred in information. earning your income Choosing an Accountant – why 2. NEXUS – use one? There must be If you are selfSmall a direct nexus employed, an businesses to your current accountant is an should ensure that employment & essential part of their financial 3. RECORD your team. information is up to KEEPING – Or if you have date, so that You must have had a capital important decisions a receipt or gains event you can be made. other evidence should seek that you have the advice of a paid the expense. You cannot professional to steer you through claim the expense if the amount this complex area. has been reimbursed by your At Barry Hockey Accountants, employer. we not only specialise in We recommend you check taxation, but we have extensive out the ATO app – it’s free and background skills in finance and captures all your receipts via a banking.

LMA’s Olivia Jamison (left) with Daniela Shaw, CEO of R&R Care

It’s been said that LMA’s leadership and management training programs actually change lives. An exaggeration? We asked Daniela Shaw, recently appointed CEO of R&R Care, how LMA had affected her life and business.

ow did you first become aware of LMA?

LMA has been a large part of R&R Care for a long time. I did the Challenge of Leadership program before taking on the CEO position and it gave me the confidence to step up.

Now I schedule me-time in my calendar and don’t feel guilty. Do you currently have staff members taking LMA programs? Yes, we’ve identified two young team members with potential to move up, and they are both taking The Challenge of Leadership.

In what areas did the LMA program give you confidence?

What’s the best thing about LMA?

The big thing for me was building my confidence in dealing with staff. The program taught me to delegate effectively. I couldn’t possibly run an organisation this size without that skill.

The programs make you feel that everything’s been designed just for you. And that sense of care is being carried forward with the shift in ownership. Knowing that I was new to the CEO role, Olivia has already gone out of her way to provide information and assistance. I just love the personal care that seems to be built into LMA.

Did the LMA program impact you personally? I can be completely absorbed by my job. LMA taught me to make time for myself.

Contact Olivia to find out more about how LMA could change your life. W lmamidnorthcoast.com.au P 0427 788 434 E ojamison@lma.biz 112 COFFS COAST

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AWIA Markey focus_contributor.

BITE FOOD TOURS

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

with CATH FOWLER

F R O M T H E D I G I TA L L A N E W AY

an you tell us a little bit about what led you to create Bite Food Tours? I’ve always been passionate about food and art, for both work and leisure. Having previously worked as an art director, I designed magazines, ads, and books for a variety of different clients, including corporate, retail, publishing, a music magazine, and cookbooks. Then after self-publishing my own cookbook I wanted a way to share food stories in a more personal face-to-face way. So while I was living in Sydney I studied and became a qualified tour guide. Now I love that I am able to bring tours to my new home town on the Coffs Coast. My food tours allow me to explore food destinations with like-minded foodies, and share delicious food! What’s not to love? My Foodie Tours focus on tastings at cafés, and visiting food specialty stores. And my Art & Sip tours visit art galleries and wander down laneways to view street murals and learn some of their stories, and enjoy a cocktail and bites at the end. I also run Terrible Art Class, aimed at removing what I call the Fear of Art that stops people creating. 114 COFFS COAST

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My Foodie Tours focus on tastings at cafés, and visiting food specialty stores. And my Art & Sip tours visit art galleries and wander down laneways to view street murals and learn some of their stories, and enjoy a cocktail and bites at the end.

What’s your favourite part of what you do? I believe food connects people across tables and across cultures. So it’s great to introduce my tour guests to new flavours and new places to eat, and to eat and support local. I also encourage café owners to share their story as part of the tour, which adds depth and understanding to everyone’s dining experience. It’s important to highlight the great food and produce available locally as we have so many great options here on the Coffs Coast. It’s also a thrill seeing people walk out of my art classes excited that they’ve created a signed, original painting themselves. Who is your greatest influence in business? Quite a few people inspire me with their passion, creativity, and tenacity so it’s hard to choose just one. One of the most inspiring business women I know is Emma Lo Russo, CEO of Digivizer. A business she has grown from two staff, into a global digital marketing technology company

and agency started here in Australia. I admire her drive, passion, ability, and her humanness while working at the top of her game in a very competitive business environment. Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast? What do you love about the area? I moved to Coffs from Sydney in early 2020, drawn by the climate, creative hub, and stunning natural environment. It was a bonus to find that within half an hour from where I live I can visit two wineries, so many stunning beaches, old growth forest, and rural countryside. When I attended the 2021 SCREENWAVE International Film Festival I was amazed I could park right outside the theatre – no chance of that in Sydney! What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? Flexibility and clear communication is key. And remember to always thank people for their time. Visit https://bitefoodtours.com/

WE DESIGNED THEM...

Design Practice member of the Design Institute of Australia Professional member Australian Graphic Design Association

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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 August 2020

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STAT E O F

PLAY with

COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

BUDGET DAY IN PARLIAMENT HOUSE IS LIKE NO OTHER. LIKE EXCITED CHILDREN ON CHRISTMAS MORNING, WE WAIT TO SEE WHAT GOODIES THE TREASURER HAS IN STORE.

n the modern era, many Budget announcements are made in the week leading up to Budget day. As our lives have become more complex, so have government budgets. There are now more government departments, more services, and more community expectations than in generations past. One of the major changes in our lives over the past year has been the COVID pandemic. Worldwide, this has meant governments have had to spend money differently. Last year’s NSW Budget dealt with the pandemic, and this year’s Budget looks beyond the pandemic to take us from recovery to transformation, creating a better life for Coffs Coast families. Just one year on from the deepest recession in 80 years, our finances are in excellent shape and our economy is back to growth. The NSW Government is investing to keep our State COVID-safe and to keep our recovery going, providing more support to help ease cost of living pressures for families, and transforming NSW with real reform.

Key Budget highlights include $109.5m over Locally, we have many projects under way four years to develop 25 ‘Safeguards’ – Child including the Coffs Harbour Hospital Upgrade; and Adolescent Mental Health Response Teams civil infrastructure at the Coffs Harbour Jetty across NSW to provide services to children and Foreshores; upgrades to the Boat Ramp; and teenagers with moderate the Coffs Harbour Bypass to severe mental health – work is on in earnest One of the most issues and their families including relocations of exciting and carers. utilities and at-home announcements for With about 45,000 noise treatments. young families is a children enrolled in At the time of writing, $44m program to make community and mobile Sydney is experiencing a $100 voucher for preschools across the a wave of COVID cases swimming lessons State, the Government which has meant we are available to every prehas committed $150m again under some form school child aged three to ensure they can access of restrictions. During the to six in NSW. these services for free, initial lockdown, I spent saving families up to two weeks in Sydney $4,000 a year per child. isolating due to a COVID One of the most exciting announcements case at Parliament House. I was lucky enough for young families is a $44m program to make to be in a serviced apartment with a balcony a $100 voucher for swimming lessons available and plenty of natural light and I was also lucky to every pre-school child aged three to six in I had plenty to do. But a few weeks away from NSW. Learning to swim is so important and the my family was tough, and I don’t want to be younger we can get kids in lessons, the better. doing that again in a hurry. COFFS COAST

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Chandla ROSE STACK STACK LAW

hy did you start your own law firm? Our motto at Stack Law is Legal Advice, Delivered Differently… We see firsthand the stress and hesitation that clients have when obtaining legal services in the community. A law firm should be the first point of call when you have a legal enquiry, however most people opt to proceed without getting any legal advice which can cause headaches down the track. I started Stack Law because everyone deserves access to legal services and my approach is to ensure that any potential client is fully aware of how much their matter will cost so that they can plan for their individual circumstances. At Stack Law, we are not interested in running up excessive legal bills and we offer Fixed Fee pricing on most matters which will ensure that you are not blindsided by enormous legal bills which will impact on your day to day life. We pride ourselves on providing straightforward, uncomplicated and practical legal advice to clients in a wide range of areas,

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including Family Law, Wills and Estates, Commercial and Property Law, and Conveyancing. What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that my legal expertise has directly helped a client, whether it be drafting their Will, or administering a close family member’s Estate. These are major moments in life, and they should not be taken away or soured by excessive legal bills. My main goal is to lift the legal burden off your shoulders, so that you can carry on with the important things in life. What do you enjoy most about the Coffs Coast? The main thing I enjoy about the Coffs Coast is the sense of community. I love bumping into people at the Plaza or down at Diggers. We are a close-knit community, and I would not change a thing. I also love our beautiful beaches and would encourage everyone to use them safely and “swim between the flags”. If you require any legal assistance, please email our office at chandla@stacklaw.net.au or book in for a free 15 minute telephone consultation on 0431 585 084.

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GJ GARDNER HOMES COFFS COAST COFFS COAST

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G.J. GARDNER HOMES Coffs Coast

Off the back of an incredible year for G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast, owners Rick and Susan Fischer are now looking to take their business to the next level.

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ot only are they currently expanding their team to keep up with demand driven by the HomeBuilder grant, the local family has also opened their ‘Parkview’ display home in Moonee Beach. This magnificent four-bedroom, twobathroom home was built to maximise the size and aspect of the block. To make the most of natural lighting all year round, skylights can be found in both the kitchen and dining space as well as the main bathroom. The striking design, which includes a wonderful balance of colour and texture, offers a modern feel but also still encapsulates the coastal vibe Coffs Coast is so well known for. The timber plank vinyl flooring throughout

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the home complements other features such as a locally handcrafted American oak and rattan vanity in the en-suite, to bring a warm and welcoming feel. “We want people to walk into our display and feel like they’ve just entered their forever home,” Rick Fischer explained. With an entertainers kitchen that has a window servery to the oversized alfresco area, there’s definitely plenty of room for both family and friends. The master bedroom features his and her wardrobes, while two other bedrooms have walk-ins of their own and a three way bathroom. The guest room is just across the hallway, and overlooks a beautiful landscaped garden. “We’re really proud of this incredible space,” Rick said. “With a welcoming foyer, lounge, activity

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room, study, butler’s pantry and a dedicated What sets us laundry room with a apart is no walk-in linen cupboard, matter who you we included everything talk to in our desired for a growing business, we all family,” he added. completely The multi-award understand the winning company is now industry and looking to add even client brief. more notches to its belt, recently submitting four stunning homes in the HIA and Master Builders admin staff also all have links.” Awards. “It means we all work really well together to “What sets us apart is no matter who you deliver the exact product our clients envisage talk to in our business, we all completely at the start of the build process.” understand the industry and client brief,” Rick This is something owners Rob and Sue said. “For example our estimator used to be a carpenter, everyone in our sales team was previously involved in the industry and our

Brown agree with. Their statement home, the ‘Stillwater Design’ in Safety Beach, is one of the homes currently up for an award. >>> COFFS COAST

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They were so generous with their time, listened to everything we wanted and were never too busy for us.

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walk into delivers an immediate WOW factor. “You would never have known the G.J. Gardner Coffs Coast team were building other houses at the same time

as ours,” Sue said. “They were so generous with their time, listened to everything we wanted and were never too busy for us.” For Sue and Rob this was their first home that wasn’t being built by a family member. “As soon as we had that first meeting we felt really comfortable,” Sue said. “Rick and the team were great to work with, they were upfront about costs and tweaked the plan we liked to make it suit our block.” Offering a totally different style (but equally as striking) another home submitted by G.J.

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We understand

Gardner Coffs Coast The process went so a home is a big was a modified version well, Linsday Hawkins investment, and after of the ‘Oceanside and Sangay Wangmo a tumultuous year Design’, located in chose to build a second for many we want to Emerald Beach. home (yes, once again do whatever we can This design from Abu Dhabi) with to ensure our clients embodies the best of G.J. Gardner Coffs have a seamless contemporary coastal Coast! build process. style living, with a For the G.J. Gardner beautiful open plan team, each client is kitchen and living area, more than a customer as well as stunning – they’re family. Rick, bathrooms with custom built vanities. It’s Susan and their staff are passionate about then all finished off with gold finishes and delivering a quality build, on time and at the accessories. best price. The business is constantly evolving Due to COVID-19, the owners are stuck to keep up with changes in the industry while in Abu Dhabi, meaning their father Mark also maintaining its high level of service. Hawkins was heavily involved in the build. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic the “G.J. Gardner Coffs Coast were on the ball team has approached the situation with with everything, I couldn’t fault them,” Mark positivity, determination and innovation and said. will continue to do so. “It was important we had someone who “We understand a home is a big was competent and who we could trust investment, and after a tumultuous year on site, considering Lindsay and Sangay for many we want to do whatever we can couldn’t be in Australia to manage the build to ensure our clients have a seamless build themselves.” process,” Rick said.

“I’m a fifth generation builder, for me it’s not just about the houses, it’s more about building dreams.” Being custom builders they have the flexibility to cater to all lifestyles, land and budgets by modifying any of the 150+ G.J. Gardner designs on offer, or even building from a client’s own plans. The G.J. Gardner Parkview display home is open Thursday-Tuesday, 9am-5pm, and Wednesday 11am-5pm at 49 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach NSW 2450. Connect with G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast If you’re interested in exploring build opportunities with your local G.J. Gardner Homes office, please phone us to book an appointment. Phone 02 6691 3509 Sales Office 171 Orlando St, Coffs Coast, NSW 2450 G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast currently services all areas within the Coffs Coast City Council, Bellingen Shire Council and Nambucca Valley Council areas. COFFS COAST

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Supporting GJ Gardner’s Display Home

Vinyl | Daylesford | Orford Oak

Carpet | Quinn Street | Raven

COFFS HARBOUR CARPET COURT 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 P 6652 4866

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Proudly working with GJ Gardner Homes

Don't just take our word for it

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Blue Ribbon Homes

Display Home

DISPLAY

The Belleview

HOME

NOW OPE

The Belleview is a contemporary home that showcases Blue Ribbon Homes’ quality, innovation and individuality. The Belleview is a custom designed home with a feature courtyard that embraces the casual lifestyle of beachside living.

Recycled Australian Timber.. ..for walls, floors and decks.

Take the first step in making your new dream home a reality and take a walk through our beautiful display home today with our friendly team. This is a great opportunity to get to know and see for yourself the Blue Ribbon Homes promise of quality, style and value.

commercial and residential www.northernriverstimber.com.au

1300 27 47 87 sales@northernriverstimber.com.au 128 COFFS COAST

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7 Angler Crescent, Bonville Sawtell Commons Estate Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun 10am - 3pm / Ph: 6651 8144

www.blueribbonhomes.com.au

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RENTAL UPDATE

with CHRISTINE RENGGER FROM TMP RENTALS

COVID Well, these past few weeks have proven that the unpredictable nature of the world we live in was not left behind in 2020.

he latest round of restrictions during the June/July school holidays were hard to take for sure. One thing that’s true no matter which way you look at it, is that we are all in this together – and compassion and kindness is never out of place. TMP rentals has been serving landlords and tenants for more than 15 years, and I have been a Property Manager for almost 30. This pandemic has delivered challenges many of us have never dealt with before – not just professionally, but personally and as a community.

This pandemic has delivered challenges many of us have never dealt with before – not just professionally, but personally and as a community.

Trying to meet expectations in a landscape that is so rapidly changing is a challenge for all business owners right now, and Property Management is no different. I cannot stress how important open communication is during this time. Anyone experiencing a problem or looking at hardship in relation to their rental agreement: speak up! I guarantee all issues can be resolved, but only if your Property Manager is made aware of them. No matter how hard the conversation is – we’re here to serve

both the landlord and the tenant and we promise to do so to the best of our ability. When it comes to property management, our advice is clear:

When all else fails, do what your Property Manager told you to in the first place. There’s not much we haven’t dealt with and it saves a lot of unnecessary grief, and solutions can be obtained so much more easily. Trust the experts. Communicate. Be kind and compassionate. We’re all in this together! COFFS COAST

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JOB ON THE

P H I L KETHEL

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Phil Kethel has always enjoyed tinkering around the family farm, in particular working with timber. As a teenager he was diagnosed with a brain tumour and during a long recovery started making children’s toys and small pieces of furniture. His passion and skill continued to grow from there and he now has his own carpentry workshop on the family property and is busy with a variety of different projects.

ey Phil, how did you get into carpentry? It started in my last term of High School in year 10 when I made a wooden log truck then I started making kids’ toys which eventually got me into furniture. A bookcase was my first big project. Which grew into more and more pieces and larger projects. Tell us about a typical day on the job? I’m always looking to recycle and reuse, so at the moment I’m using locally sourced, top quality timber offcuts to make cutting boards. It starts by picking out the timber, cutting it to approximate length, jointing the edges to straighten the sides. Rip off any excess and then run it through the thicknesser to get it to the width I need. Then put the boards together for the first part and mark out where I am going to put my own Phil’s EZYFIT Tenons that help glue the boards together. After they are glued the board has to be sanded to a nice finish, then once they’re assembled they’re finished in food grade oil. You have faced and overcome many challenges in your life, what were they? I was born with club feet which means my feet were facing upwards so I had an operation on them when I was very young. Then just after I turned 8 I woke up one night with a cramp in my left leg which grew worse as time went by and

after 3½ years of going backwards and can. I hate waste so. I make the offcut forwards to Sydney it turned out to strips into my own EZYFIT Tenons. be a brain tumor. Then 2½ years ago What has been one of your favorite I was diagnosed with another 2 brain pieces you have made? tumours after I blacked out for a couple There are a lot of favorites, but the of seconds. one I like most is a bathroom vanity I How did carpentry and woodwork made from Tasmanian Oak then stained help with the recovery? twice with Black Japan finish then Well I wouldn’t have survived it if I coated with clear lacquer. It was made didn’t have God for a place on the in my life and got resort strip north of About 15 years a lot of support Coffs. ago I met a from family and I also made a friends. Plus about large desk for beekeeper in North 15 years ago I met a a friend. And I Bellingen who said to beekeeper in North also love making me that they needed Bellingen who said custom-order someone to make bee to me that they furniture, always frames to supply to needed someone to made out of people between make bee frames quality Australian Newcastle and to supply to people hardwood. Brisbane as there between Newcastle If you didn’t pick was no one else and Brisbane as up something making them in that there was no one in the carpentry area. So I started else making them in trade, what do making bee frames that area. you think you So I started would be doing? by the 1000’s. making bee frames I probably would by the 1000’s and am have been a Dairy still making them today. Farmer as both my grandparents were. About 6 years ago I sold the bee But I like the challenges and problem frame making to New Horizons disability solving of woodwork. group who were looking for work for Where can people find you to talk the employees. They now have about 16 about a project they might need you workers and make thousands of bee hive for? frames. I help out 3 days a week. It’s best to text me on 0428 960 917 as What’s your favorite part about your I am a bit deaf from the cancer. job? MY WORKSHOP 15 Crawford Close Well I suppose my love for Aussie Hydes Creek Road timber has grown over the years and I Bellingen NSW 2454. try to use as much for each board as I email: timboontimbers@gmail.com

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COFFS

KEY LAWNS EMPLOY M E N T & LANDSCAPING K'PANE BAKERY

K E Y E M P LOY M E N T

We talk to owner

ell us Brett about Coffs Lawns & Knight Landscaping about his thriving Led by owner Dean Thompson, business, Coffs Lawns & Landscaping take K'Pane Bakery. care of your garden and home maintenance. Our team of 5 looks after your mowing, gardening, gutter cleaning and landscaping needs. Our service areas include ell us about K’Pane Artisan Urunga, Bellingen, Sawtell/Toormina, Coffs Bakery. Nana Glen and Woolgoolga. Harbour, Coramba, We are theteam creators of exquisite We are a professional of gardeners that pastries, danishes, croissants, are fully trained and tarts, insured. For your peace of slices, and artisan mind all pies, staff sausage have an rolls, up-to-date police check, Weyour make everything from sosourdough you know breads. that you, family and your scratch are - you won’tsafe. find We’ll any pre-mixes property always tidy it up,here! clean it K’Pane 2009,and andcuttings I’m proud up and takecommenced away all theinmulch and to claim we now haveand three retail outlets: Coffs leave you with a clean fresh-looking garden, Park Beach Plaza and the Coffs Jetty allCentral, at a competitive rate. Shopping Centre, a factory andhighest 30 staff. We guarantee ourplus service is of the We are clearly doingto something right.of quality and conforms the standards The Coffs Central store a French flavour, industry best practices. We’llhas work towards your reflecting many ofwhether the classic treats, needs and budget, it isFrench a one-off job,like or au service. chocolat, brioche and baguettes, as a pain regular well breads, pastries, gourmet pies, cakes We as also provide a free estimated quote, so andustarts, ciabatta, and check melt-in-thegive a callpanini, on 0404 411 628, us out on mouth French fruit ans. Facebook or email usflcoffslawns@gmail.com cakes can also be ordered Let’sMouth-watering talk about staff. for occasions; justthe callteam the day before Wespecial currently have 5 in including and pick a delicious myself, andup yes, we are alltreat! on the tools. Dean Let’s talk“We staff. proclaims don’t call them staff; we are a K’Pane an equal employer, team. Teamsis have goalsopportunity and we kick them all and we have a very inclusive workforce, employing together”.

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We believe in equal opportunity at Coffs Lawns & Landscaping. This was demonstrated 30 staff diverse backgrounds: including when wefrom approached Key Employment, a recent arrivals into Australia people with Disability Employment Serviceand around 3 years disability. ago through a local networking event. Wehave havenow beenplaced working very amazing closely with Key We several Employment, a Disability and talented people with Employment Disability. TwoService, over the past few and have great examples areyears one junior whosourced has just various staff athrough them. includeand retail commenced traineeship in These horticulture bread packers, apprentice bakers isassistants, going gangbusters, and the other who Key/ pastry chefs placed and kitchenhands, to name Employment with us 3 years ago. aHefew. Wewith believe that providing theruns same is still us now, he basically the place opportunity everyone is essential to having and has reallyfor proved himself invaluable to our happy and productive staff members, and business. it Providing makes us opportunities proud to see people achieving for everyone never thought possible. isoutcomes necessarythey to achieve a productive and How has Key Employment helped harmonious workplace, I’m proud of the team contribute to your success? we have. Easy answer - our staff! Keyhelped? Employment How has Key Employment have been inflmet uential in the success of our When I first Steve from Key Employment providing us awith dedicated and abusiness, few yearsbyback he took general interest in work-ready staff.my Joebusiness from Key Employment has my business and needs. a Steve background hospitality, gives him an and theinteam at Keywhich Employment uncannythey ability to identify staff for us. listened, were able to suitable coordinate and This is ainterviews huge advantage, he or understands arrange withoutasfuss hassle. No our business’ needs. it was straight up sourcing pushing or upselling,

the right person for the job. It was a very simple process. Key consultants also come The Employment team at Key Employment have a Post out and seeSupport us regularly. They don’t justHeput Placement Consultant, Matt. comes someone in a job; they us with out and meets with thesupport team and helpsany with issues that that arise.arise. As allMatt businesses do, traineeship we come any issues set up the across speed humps - and whenthe thisscenes happens, and coordinated all the behind stuff. Key herealso to support us.the I guess is why Mattiswas there for initialthat training and they are in theperiod. Key; no intended. settling Hepun helped iron out all the Key Employment continue excellent support wrinkles so to speak. forKey theirEmployment clients, withassisted work preparation, us with accessing workplace andsubsidies some ofand the as initial some very adjustments, generous wage a training. This takes the pressure off ongoing us and small business this was vital to the allows to business focus on and providing theusbest growthtoofusour allowed to product around. reduce the overheads of employing and training What would you say to other local new staff. employers for staff? Would youlooking recommend Key Employment to If you're looking for dedicated and reliable other employers? staff, giveI Key Employment a call and tapthe into 100% would, the process is simple, ateam hugeare talent pool people justcut waiting for great, andofthey won’t you short, an They provide wageof all opportunity. puns intended. They even excellent assisted some subsidies, greatwork-related support, anduniforms, can assist tools with and the team with work related– tools and uniforms equipment makeand sureequipment you ask about that. Just too. give a call at on Key(02) Employment onand give So, Steve orJoe Matt a call 6691 9999 (02) 9999, and will talk all about they6691 will be happy tohe talk tohappily you about the all the services they can offer. services Key Employment offer.

LIVE YOUR

BEST LIFE

AVAILABLE NOW!

There’s never been a better time to come home to Marian Grove, with prices to suit every budget. 2 bedroom, Village Villa

$365,000

2 bedroom, East Facing

$485,000

3 bedroom, Courtyard View

$620,000

For more information call (02) 6653 1241 or visit www.mariangrovelifestyle.com.au

Enjoy life at Marian Grove where we’ve been caring for our community for over 27 years.

LIFESTYLE

SAW

Marian Grove

Departure fee payable, enquire for more information.

L C A H OLI T

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REAL

E S TAT E with CHRIS HINES F R O M U N R E A L E S TAT E

All you have to do is look around your town or city to see WHY you need to have a Real Estate Agent. EVEN IN A MARKET SUCH AS THE ONE WE ARE NOW EXPERIENCING, to get the best result you need the best agent.

roperties are being bought and sold everyday with the benefit of market research and planning. Often times these two elements are outside the scope of a person who wishes to sell their own home. Sure, you know what kind of equity you put into your own home, but how much did that other house down the street sell for? What kind of pricing is affecting the homes around you currently? Do you know how to reach out to prospective home buyers? These questions all lend to reasons why there are benefits of having a Real Estate Agent. BENEFIT 1: Market Research Real Estate Agents have the benefit of an intrinsic knowledge of the market, but they also are privy to any phone calls that come into the office that might be from new sellers who are wishing to sell as soon as possible and in some cases may be sold directly off of their database of prospective buyers. Agents also have the benefit of researching market analyses of different property types in the area that you are looking to buy or sell in. This is invaluable information as it would go towards how much something is definitely worth.

BENEFIT 2: Planning and Consultation although they are on your side, and acting Real Estate Agents are the people in your best interest, they come from a who have gone through assisting with position of neutrality and can take some 100’s of home buying and home selling of the emotions out of the negotiations. situations. They are the ones to consult Once again assuring you of a sale at the with in understanding how to sell your best price. home. Do you keep your animals away As you can see, real estate agents offer when you have a home showing, and how quantified benefits outside of assisting much do you clean up? in purchasing or What do you want to selling your home. highlight and what do They understand As you can see, you want to keep in the the nuances, the real estate background? These are paperwork, and most agents offer all questions that real importantly – your quantified benefits estate agents can assist needs. Remember outside of assisting with. though choose wisely, in purchasing or BENEFIT 3: They are it is your biggest selling your home. on your side investment, when able You will never have choose an agent who someone as ferocious on your side to is a member of the Real Estate Institute of help you buy or sell a home. Real Estate NSW. By choosing a member agency you Agents are commission based for their know you are dealing with an agent who service fees, but they rely on their network follows a State wide code of conduct and of clients to bring in their next client. abides by a code of ethics. Without their network, they wouldn’t Remember too, that some of the skills have anyone to represent. That being said, that an experienced Agent brings to the they will do everything possible to get table are marketing and negotiation skills, what you want. Without satisfying their these are the attributes that will put the clients, they would have no clients! It is most money in your hand at the end of also important to use an agent because the transaction. COFFS COAST

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New display home now open! New display home now open!

New display home n

Ourdisplay new Aria display home showcases latest in dual occupancy living. Featuring four Our new Aria home showcases the latest the in dual occupancy living. Featuring four bedrooms, a stunning master suite with freestanding bath, and an inspiring gourmet kitchen and bedrooms, a stunning master suite with freestanding bath, and an inspiring gourmet kitchen and outdoor entertaining area complete pool and slide! outdoor entertaining area complete with pool with and slide! Creating your dream homebe couldn’t be easier PerryWe Homes. We have Creating your dream home couldn’t easier when youwhen build you withbuild Perrywith Homes. have over 150 over 150 fl oor plans to choose from, including single level and two storey, granny fl at and dual occupancy… floor plans to choose from, including single level and two storey, granny flat and dual occupancy… there’s to beto a design to lifestyle. suit your lifestyle. there’s sure to besure a design suit your you can dream it, we can If you canIfdream it, we can build it. build it.

NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748.

Visit our stunning new display home in Beach Moonee Beach today! Visit our stunning new display home in Moonee today! Moonee Beach : 47 Creek Moonee Creek Road, Beach Moonee Beach Moonee Beach Estate : 47Estate Moonee Road, Moonee Open to Saturday to Wednesday, 10am to 4pm Open Saturday Wednesday, 10am to 4pm Contact Phillip0428 Hitchins 0428| 271 884: phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au | email : phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au Contact Phillip Hitchins 271 884 email perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au E32689