Coffs Coast Focus - i128 by Focus

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SEPTEMBER 2021

D I S COV E R WO O LG O O LGA A N D NO RT H E R N B E AC H E S

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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.

Departure fee payable, enquire for more information.

LIFESTYLE

SAW

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ne Bedroom Suite

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Beatties Beatties 8 COFFS COAST

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Quality Furniture Kiama Dining Suite

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at Marian Open 10am –Enjoy 5pm life every day Grove where we’ve been caring for our community for over 27 years. Sandy Beach Sales O ce, 1 enith Ave, Sandy Beach NSW Departure fee payable, enquire for2more information. NEW Moonee Beach Displays opening at 2 Beechwood Place Displays also open in Port Macquarie | Forster

Marian Grove

mcdonaldjoneshomes.com.au | (02) 5525 2582

LIFESTYLE

SAW

See website for conditions. Image is for illustrative purposes only and may contain optional upgrades and variations not included in our standard specification or supplied by Mc onald Jones Homes. For detailed information on home pricing, visit our website or talk to one of our consultants. NSW: Newcastle Quality Constructions EPty IC 82 003 687 232, LL Ltd ABN C A T HOL NSW BLN: 41628, T/A McDonald Jones Homes.

Overseas model shown. Australian specifications & features may differ. See your Lexus dealer for details.

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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

-6

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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Welcome to the SEPTEMBER EDITION.

uring this time, we have been convinced more than ever that Australia truly is the lucky country. We were challenged, with little notice, to forgo the freedoms we have taken for granted in life. We were told to stay at home, self isolate, socially distance, give up visiting relatives, work from home, exercise in twos, the list goes on. If you had the chance to save someone else’s life, would you? A stranger maybe, or a friend’s mother, a close family member, your parents, grandparents, siblings, kids … would you try? If you had the chance to end these lockdowns, and the incalculable toll they take on our mental health, our kids’ education, our freedoms stripped, financial hardships and small businesses on the brink. Would you put yourself out, even just a bit, to help? It’s time to get vaccinated and make it end.

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Discover Woolgoolga & The Northern Beaches This month’s cover features Woolgoolga local Dustin Bowie-Ford. Dusty is the proud owner of Box Factory Burgers, Ground Earth and Offsite catering. He’s a passionate foodie, he believes in sourcing good quality produce, supporting other local businesses, and he’s kinda just an all round top guy. We also feature Helene Enevoldson’s inspiring story. She has a very strong connection to the Coffs Coast and its beautiful beaches and has contributed in a huge way to the community here. Helene was surfing professionally in the 90’s and had started East Coast Surf School, which was the first of its kind in Australia. Through the school she taught people from all over to surf, and created programs teaching surf safety to the community before anything else like it was available. There’s an exciting new venue set to open

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Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

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

soon in Woopi, so we had a chat to Sarah Poole about what Woolgoolga Brewing Co. is all about and what we can expect once they open their doors. Ultimate Home Guide SGA Architectural Window Solutions comprises two main teams, the Sales Department, and the Manufacturing/ Fabrication Department. These teams are able to operate at their optimum level due to the continued support from Management, the Service Department and Commercial Site Fitters/Installers. We had a chat with new owner Lourens Cloete to find out more. Jason and Emma de Groot from JDG Constructions are a husband and wife team dedicated to building homes, great homes. What drives them is their personal pride in their work which reflects directly on their reputation. We hope you enjoy flicking through our glossy pages this month. Stay Safe!

contacts. 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 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com 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 8

S E P T E M B E R

2 0 2 1

INTERVIEWS

YASMIN MAHER

Quoll Kids Bush Camp and School gives kids the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, to feel free, to learn bushcraft and to connect with the place they live.

KATY DEE

Katy Dee’s energy and vibrancy are really visible in her art. Her style is very much her own and she is clearly passionate about creating beautiful artworks.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

HELENE ENEVOLDSON

Helene has contributed in a huge way to the Coffs Coast community. After surfing professionally in the 90’s she started East Coast Surf School, the first of its kind in Australia.

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

26. Style Edit - Melissa Parisi 34. PFLAG - Sam Dawson

WOOLGOOLG A

41. Talking Destination - Fiona Barden 46. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 68. Fitness Update - Amanda Belle e 69. Physio & Health - Aaron Hardaker CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

NICK JOHNSTONE

84. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 91. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 97. Rental Update - Christine Rengger 126. Real Estate - Chris Hines

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

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Double L I F E SAM LOWREY Sam Lowrey leads a bit of a double life. He is the owner of Advantage Plus Tax & Business Solutions, and can be found in suit and tie crunching numbers by day. Then he picks up a set of drumsticks and rocks out as the drummer in local band Gunshy in his free time!

i Sam. What was it that made you decide you wanted to be an accountant? I had an interest in business, law, politics and the tax system, and the interaction between each of them. My plan was to go into some type of business myself. A degree in accounting covered all the things I was interested in and would give me the skill set needed to operate a business. I was not really looking for a career in an accounting practice. After completing my degree at UNE I worked 16 COFFS COAST

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on the Gold Coast for various companies getting experience in a range of disciplines and ended up as the accountant for the company that did all the stone work on the Palazzo Versace. That was a massive job and a very busy couple of years. When that job was completed the company, which had interests in Italy, India and Malaysia, was winding down operations on the Gold Coast. On the same floor in the building I was working in in Surfers Paradise was a Chartered Accounting Firm that specialised in insolvency and liquidations. The boss was a gentlemen by the name of Graeme Downie who was the Chairman of the

Brisbane Lions and a fairly imposing character. They were looking for staff so I took a punt on a change in career. It was a challenging and technical role and great experience. It was at this point I began to change my thinking towards working in a practice. How long have you been in business here on the Coffs Coast? I have been working here in Coffs for the last 18 years. The first 8 years in a local accounting practice, then my boss from that practice, Denise Kelly, and I purchased that practice and went into partnership. That was the start of Advantage Plus Tax & Business

my own firm. Do you have any plans on the horizon for your business? Some big changes are underway. We are currently in the process of purchasing a building for the practice to relocate to and are bringing in some new staff. It is all progressing but is too early to make any announcements. When you’re not crunching numbers you can often be found bashing away on the drums, when did you first learn to play? I was keen on the drums from about 6 or 7 but had to wait until my 12th birthday to get my first kit. I had already been having lessons but things changed dramatically once I had my own kit. I started mucking around in bands when I was 14 and began doing the odd local gig. It was the early 80’s and the music scene was thriving. By around 16 I was doing gigs at the Hoey and pubs in Grafton and Yamba. As the bands got better we started travelling further away, places like Byron Bay, Ballina and Lismore out to Armidale, Tamworth and Gunnedah, and down to Port, Kempsey and Taree and all points in between. I was lucky enough during that time that we had a good working relationship with local agents John Logan from JLE and Shane and Lynne Seccombe from Offbeat Operations. Touring IT IS IRONIC bands played in Coffs every few weeks through the 80’s THAT I and into the 90’s and we NEVER PLANNED were lucky enough to get to TO WORK IN AN do the support for many of ACCOUNTING them. I saw so many great Solutions. We set PRACTICE AND bands back then. Before I up in offices at 24 HERE I AM NOW was 18 I used to sneak into Gordon Street 10 WITH MY OWN the Hoey to see bands with years ago and the FIRM. my good mate Rhett O’Hara, practice has almost who is one of the guitarists doubled since then. in Gunshy. Bands like The Five years ago Radiators, MiSex, Screaming Jets, Spy V Spy. Denise semi retired and I bought out her share But the most mind blowing gig I ever saw at of the practice. Denise still works a couple of the Hoey was INXS. The band were streets days a week and she is a great asset to the ahead both in production and musicianship. business with her wealth of experience and This was back in maybe 1982, all the furniture knowledge as well as being a great mentor to was taken out of the band room and they had me. It is ironic that I never planned to work in an accounting practice and here I am now with this massive PA system and lightshow.

The band was really tight, something that only comes from doing plenty of gigs and Michael Hutchence was an incredible singer. You play with a local band, can you tell us a bit about the band and the kind of music you play? I am currently playing in Gunshy, which is essentially an 80’s pub rock cover band. We do plenty of Aussie rock from AC/DC, The Angels, INXS, Choirboys, Cold Chisel, The Radiators, Noiseworks, Jet, Aussie Crawl, Hoodoo Gurus, and Sunny Boys as well as some international bands like Guns’n’Roses, Black Keys, Bryan Adams, Killers etc. We cover a wide range of artists. All the guys in the band are great mates and we just have a lot of fun doing gigs. Unfortunately, due to COVID the gigs have been on hold for a while now. Who are some of your main musical influences? INXS, Midnight Oil, The Angels, AC/DC, Guns’n’Roses, U2. Do you play any other instruments? No, it has always been the drums. I have dabbled with guitar, but if I had the time I would probably learn piano. I do have an interest in PA Systems and own a quite decent rig which Gunshy uses when we are gigging. Thanks Sam. COFFS COAST

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Quoll KIDS

YA S M I N M A H E R

i Yasmin. How did the idea for Quoll Kids first come about? Quoll kids has been a long time in the making. There have been two motivations over the years. Firstly, my experiences as a teacher in traditional education settings and secondly, my desire for my own kids to have a strong connection to, and understanding of, nature and its complexity. I love teaching. I think this area has some fantastic schools and I saw a lot of very professional people dedicating huge amounts of their time to our local young people. But I also saw, and experienced, a lot of burn out. Despite teachers working harder than ever, our kids are increasingly disconnected, anxious and unable to cope within traditional school settings. They are also incredibly naïve about what used to be common knowledge of our natural world. Things like basic tree or bird ID, simple ecological processes or even just knowing seasonal fruit times. This can have huge implications for them as adults as they inherit a world that is increasingly more unstable climatically. We will only save our natural world (and ultimately, ourselves) if we know, love and are connected to place. Quoll Kids is for our kids and their future. 18 COFFS COAST

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Yasmin Maher is an accredited high school teacher who started up Quoll Kids Bush Camp and School when she started noticing that kids were o en anxious and less engaged in traditional school se ings. Quoll Kids gave them an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, to feel free, to learn bushcra and to connect with the place they live. What sort of activities do you get up to at If a child goes home and is excited about one Bush Camp? more new plant, animal or bird than when they We do so many things! In the past, we have arrived, that’s what motivates me. made bamboo bows and arrows, built shelters, Can you tell us a bit about the Bush Camps made fire using friction or flints, carved spoons, you run during school holidays? made cups, animal tracking, plant ID and Our holiday sessions are full day, nature bushfood cook ups. We also provide heaps of immersion programs at our site in Kalang for 6 books, clay, wool, natural fibres, and loose parts 14 year olds. for crafts and building We start the day with projects. Some sessions, a circle to meet each the kids just want to other, take a breather As families return play in the river while after the excitement of each holiday, the others read and craft, arrival and to go over a kids are starting to or we play games, sing few little things like first come with their own songs, tell stories or go on aid, keeping safe and ideas and plans and we adventures. having ‘wild awareness’ are able to step back We are very lucky about our non-human out of their way as to have a beautiful friends that share the they choose their own permanent site along the site – our beautiful adventure. Kalang River as well as snakes and spiders. Then, access to our neighbor’s depending on the ages 600 acres of forest, present and the mood paddocks and creeks to roam. of the group, we might talk about ‘The Sacred As families return each holiday, the kids are Order of Survival’: shelter, fire, water, food, or we might go straight into games and adventures. starting to come with their own ideas and plans and we are able to step back out of their way as The day is loosely structured to provide plenty they choose their own adventure. of time for free play and exploration based on You also run a weekly Bush School, can you each child’s interests; however we do also offer tell us about that and why you decided to plenty of ‘invitations’ for bushcraft, stories, offer this alternative? songs, games and nature craft.

Bushcraft, survival skills, ancestral skills – whatever you call them – are very primal in that we have been doing them for thousands of years. As humans, our main motivations today are still getting our needs met.

The weekly program is slower, smaller and more relaxed than the holiday group. Originally it was intended to service the homeschool community and provide an option to give parents a day to recharge whilst we had the kids, but we have been able to fill a different community need. Most of our weekly participants are primary aged kids who find daily, traditional school challenging. Their parents bring them to us one day a week to recharge and get their needs met in a beautiful place. All our weekly kids are deeply connected to nature and struggle to transition with being inside for long periods. We also get a lot of interest from parents of children with ASD and other differences. We aim to accommodate every child and are happy to have support people or parents join us so their young people can attend. I love that at Quoll Kids, I can really get to know each kid, spend time listening to them and their needs, their interests, and then we can go do those things. The kids are currently building an amazing adventure space. We have a tree hammock and ladder that the kids made from weaving rope. We just added more balance

beams and are thinking of expanding into a bigger and better tree hammock a little higher off the ground. You are an accredited high school teacher, but you also have training in some other areas that you utilise for Quoll Kids, can you tell us about that? Yes! I love learning. I constantly read ‘rewilding’, nature craft and art, and nature reference books. I follow a lot of different forest schools and programs on social media and save their ideas. Pinterest is fantastic for theoretical bush skills and crafts to try. The above are things I love reading about on a daily basis however, nothing beats ‘dirt time’ for experience and real world skills. I have done a few courses with Jake Cassar Bushcraft on the Central Coast in plant-based survival, I attended Tom Brown Jnr’s Tracking course when he came a few years ago. I was also mentoring at Bluegum Bushcraft’s family camps each holiday until Covid hit. I completed half of their year-long program for Nature Mentor Training (I dropped out as they were based down south past Wollongong and I couldn’t take any more time off to attend the final components). I also completed Nature One with Nature Philosophy a few years ago and am

currently doing their Nature One teacher trainer’s course which has been huge in helping make this a reality. (Thanks so so much Kate and Sam!) How do you think Bush School or Camp benefits the kids that attend? Because we encourage kids to make mistakes, take risks, explore and develop their knowledge of bushcraft and the natural world, we enable them to deepen their connection to nature and themselves. They are increasingly more capable and independent. This builds confidence and resilience and decreases anxiety overall. Bushcraft, survival skills, ancestral skills – whatever you call them – are very primal in that we have been doing them for thousands of years. As humans, our main motivations today are still getting our needs met. Our skills just look different now. Bringing back these skills for kids and showing them how to use what they find on the land to meet their needs is big medicine. It instils independence and helps relieve anxiety by providing an emotional safety net. Knowing you can take care of yourself or your loved ones, even in the most basic way such as identifying edible weeds or creating functional shelters is so powerful. If we can give that gift to our kids, they can face anything because they have confidence in themselves as capable young people. Thanks Yasmin. COFFS COAST

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LILLIPILLI EXHIBITION

September is a big month for Woolgoolga Gallery as they launch the 35th art and craft exhibition Lillipilli, it is a renowned event in the art calendar and draws entries from all over NSW and interstate.

WHAT'S SEPTEMBER 2021

When 4th September until 5th October Where Woolgoolga Art Gallery

WEAVING CIRCLE AT YARRAWARRA Lilly will lead you through several traditional weaving techniques and give you the foundations for creation! When it comes to weaving, your imagination is the limit! We share plant information, swap fibres and plants and just sit and yarn together in Mother Nature. When 5th September Where Yarrawarra Cultural Centre Bookings Essential call 6640 7104

FIRST COW

Kelly Reichardt (Certain Women, Meek’s Cutoff) makes a muchanticipated return to the Western genre, training her uniquely patient, perceptive lens on the connection between two settlers carving their own path.

When Thurs 23 September, 2pm & 6pm Where Jetty Theatre Tickets $12.50 Online | $13.00 Door Sales

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WOOLGOOLGA MTB FESTIVAL

SAM BUCKINGHAM

The Woopi MTB Festival is back again in 2021 bringing you an awesome weekend covering a broad range of mountain biking disciplines. Featuring the Woopi Beach Sprint, Gentle Annie Hill Climb and Wedding Bells Enduro it is guaranteed to be an action packed weekend on the bikes. When 10th September until the 12th September More information Call 0438 783 622 or Email info@whitelightningevents.com 20 COFFS COAST

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Having played alongside some of Australia’s most loved artists - like Kasey Chambers, Tim Freedman, Ben Lee and Washington - Sam Buckingham is finally touring solo in support of her fierce new single SOMETHING MORE. When 25th September Where Bellingen Brewing Co Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

INXS P O D C A S T

Bee and Haydn bonded over their mutual love of the band INXS at the premiere of a documentary on Michael Hutchence, and then decided to join forces and start a podcast on the band. And so, ‘INXS Access All Areas’ came to life with the mission to get INXS inducted into the American Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

i Bee. How did you and Haydn meet? Haydn found me at the premiere of Mystify, a documentary movie about Michael

Hutchence, in Sydney back in July 2019. We hit it off straight away. He had flown in from Melbourne and I had travelled down from Coffs Harbour, especially to see the movie.

a year ago, how did the idea for the podcast come about? I was told by someone that I was in the wrong job and that I should be in entertainment, lol. I know I have a good rapport with people and I had started a Facebook page HutchNation, which was very successful but I had no idea what to do with it. Haydn told me about his idea of a podcast

Since then we have only been able to chat

that he had been working on and asked if I

over social media about the shared love and

could help him and become his co-host. So

history of ‘our band’ INXS.

I said yes! And that was it. He felt that their

You guys started your podcast over

career had been somewhat underappreciated

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by the critics, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and certain fans on a global level. Additionally, their versatility and unwillingness to be pigeon holed into a set musical genre needed to be embraced, celebrated and recognised versus criticised. A long-form platform such as weekly podcast would help rectify this. So on the 8th May 2020 we launched the INXS Access All Areas Podcast and we now have 67 shows and over 38K in downloads under our belt. It’s been received and supported by the INXS community we love so much, it’s been an amazing journey so far. What sort of content do you discuss on the podcast and what's the dynamic between you both? We have lots to talk about and we keep the show fresh. Haydn is the writer and director of the shows, while I’m more of a co-host, post production and manager of all the things related to the show. Together we have so much fun on-air. The show has a format with Intro and Mission, which is to get INXS into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the USA, I know we can’t believe they aren’t in it either! We have a team headed by Dr Jim and Dina who are called Induct INXS, they are very active in getting signatures via a petition, which is on our website. Haydn and I are doing our part by getting the message out there of how amazing INXS are. We have a NEWS segment,

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The time we

fan engagement, Harbour to make the most felt like competitions, auctions tees and the caps. My giggling teenagers and a weekly topic. We studio is an amazing was when Tim Farriss have interviews, deep little hub! came on. Our hero, dives into the albums, You’ve had the chance and the best bit is he band members’ careers to interview some and songs. We also said we are doing a pretty big legends have fun segments from the Australian great job and wants when we talk about music industry on to come back and do the different songs the show, what has more with us. that gave us pain and it been like to receive pleasure, that’s so much support from people fun. We tend to have a like that? different take on a lot of stuff and we have a Haydn and I were like little kids again when lot of banter. we heard from the legendary Nick Egan, what You have fans all over the world, did you an awesome man he is. Nick is a creative ever imagine it could grow so fast and director, his work with the music business is reach the places it has? huge. He has worked with The Clash, Duran We never expected to find an audience as Duran, Bob Dylan, Alanis Morissette to name fast as we did but are most thankful to all a few... and of course INXS. Nick was the guy of the modern social media platforms out who made the ‘Kick’ and ‘X’ cover and also there now that allow us to attract such a vast directed a few of INXS’s videos. reach. The patrons and regular listeners fuel The story goes Nick was in his car listening us weekly to strive and create an episode that to podcasts when he found our little podcast informs, entertains and endures. and he was impressed. He got in touch and We have a Patreon programme which said he would love to come on the show and blows my mind. They support us on so many tell us some of his stories. We have had him levels. It’s so humbling that fans want to on the show a few times. The listeners love listen to us, never mind paying a monthly fee listening to him relay his experiences with to keep us going. I send each member out a Michael. Patreon pack with a few little goodies. Then we got an email from Mark Optiz. Then we have over 600 listeners listening Mark is an Australian music Producer, he has in each week sending us encouragement worked with AC/DC, Kiss and of course INXS. messages through all our different platforms. He produced a few of their albums. He is very It’s what keeps us going. supportive of our show and has been very I’ve now just started selling merchandise giving with his time. We are truly blessed that on the website and using ‘Wear it’ in Coffs they found us. Our listenership doubled after

having them on. But perhaps the time we most felt like giggling teenagers was when Tim Farriss came on. Our hero, and the best bit is he said we are doing a great job and wants to come back and do more with us. Since starting this I have now met Kirk and Andrew and both their gorgeous wives. I’m yet to meet Jon. That will be wonderful if that ever happens. You started with the mission to see INXS inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the USA. How is this going and what can we do to help get this done? The band is essentially the domino piece but we have tried to act as the domino pushers. Motivated and passionate fans, its mission is to instigate a groundswell of inertia and movement that inevitably reaches the voting committee. We are getting there. Listeners are starting their own platforms such as “Induct INXS”, band members like Tim are questioning why this hasn’t occurred, Management are becoming allies to our push and most importantly “the conversation is being had”. How can you help? Listen into the podcast, tell your friends and make it a push for Australia!! Get in touch with us and join the party! Where can we find you for those that want to tune in? We have a website https://www. inxsaccessallareas.com and you can choose how to listen to us from there if you are an INXS fan, new or old, curious or invested to know more. It’s loads of fun! Thanks Bee. COFFS COAST

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ALICE WEBSTER

Alice Webster is an exceptionally talented football player. She is currently completing year 10 at school, playing for North Coast Football locally and has been selected to be part of some pre y exclusive training programs with both the Western Sydney Wanderers and the Newcastle Jets. Her commitment to the game and her training is pre y extraordinary, and this girl is definitely going places!

i Alice. You’re obviously a very talented young footballer, when did you first start playing? I started playing when I was 8 years old in 2014. I started playing for my local club, the Orara Valley Dingoes in a mixed team. Prior to playing football I was actually playing hockey as was my older sister. Most of the kids at our school played football so Mum told her she had to make a decision between the two and whatever she decided on, my younger brother and I had to follow. You could say that my sporting fate was in her hands and luckily she chose football. 24 COFFS COAST

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Did you feel a strong connection to the game straight away or was it something that grew on you? I’m not too sure really. All my friends used to play for the Dingoes, and I also liked running so it was basically the perfect sport for me. Who do you play for locally? I play for North Coast Football, in the u15’s boys squad. I’ve been a part of NCF for nearly 5 years, starting in the SAP (Skill and Acquisition Program) u12’s girls. I then played 2 years in the girls u14’s team. The girl’s program ended at that age group so if I really wanted to continue as a footballer, I would need to transition to the boys NPL (National Premier League) team. Being a part of the NPL

program was a big step up compared to what I had previously undertaken with the girls SAP. It included more dedication and commitment due to the travelling and extra training. This year you have been selected as one of 34 young players (out of 188 that tried out!) to be a part of the Western Sydney Wanderers ‘Future Wander Women’ program. Can you tell us about the program and what made you try out for a position? This program was developed to discover rising talent, to help provide more pathways to get to a higher level of football and to make available top tier coaching to anybody, not just academy players.

very surprised. We found out the day after the trials, 30 minutes after I got back from Sydney and 30 minutes before my NPL training, so I was excited to tell the coaches the good news. What have you enjoyed most about the program so far? I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience so far. Being coached by people who are involved in the These W-league is exciting opportunities and challenging. It’s definitely show that also been great to be although it’s much training in an all girl environment, which harder for regional is different to what I players to be noticed usually participate in. and to receive the This environment also same training as lets me meet girls that those in the cities, I would normally not there’s still pathways come into contact with. if you have It has taken a pretty commitment. big commitment to be a part of the program, can you tell us what’s been involved? Every Wednesday morning, my mum and I would start travelling down south to Sydney around 9am. We stop for lunch halfway through the trip and after we continue the journey. We get to Blacktown Sydney around 3pm, staying at my great aunt’s house. We would leave for training close to 5pm, arriving at the facilities just after 5:30pm. My dad first heard on the radio about the Getting to training earlier provided me extra trials being held, deciding to look it up and time to stretch and get my legs working learn more about it. He found that it was after the 7 hour car trip. Training went from open to anyone in NSW, not just the Western 6-8pm, usually a bit later due to our warm Sydney suburbs. I originally signed up to try downs/stretching. After training Mum and out just to see what the competition was like I would get back in the car and drive home down in Sydney compared to the regional to my aunt’s, having dinner around 9pm or areas e.g. the difference in strength, skills, sometimes later. The next morning we would training and knowledge. aim to leave Blacktown around 9-9:30am, How did it feel when you got the news again stopping for lunch half way through the you had been selected? drive home. We would arrive home in Coffs Even when I found out that I had been Harbour around 4:30pm, ready to leave for selected for the second trial I couldn’t believe training half an hour later. Due to me missing it, let alone making the final 34! I really didn’t 2 days of school a week, I joined an Elite think that I would have been up for selection Sports Program which allowed me to get an due to my location, so you could say I was exemption from school on those days. Missing

this much school every week required me to catch up on those classes when I was either travelling or whenever I had free time. You were also selected to train with the Emerging Jets Academy in Newcastle and to represent Northern NSW at Nationals in Canberra, what does it mean to you to continue to be selected for these opportunities? Continuing to be selected for big teams like these is an encouragement for me and tells me that all the extra training and travelling is paying off. These opportunities definitely show that although it’s much harder for regional players to be noticed and to receive the same training as those in the cities, there’s still pathways if you have commitment. Unfortunately Covid restrictions have had a big impact on some of your opportunities over the past 18months. What are some of your hopes for the year ahead? We’re down to the last three rounds of this season but due to Covid flaring up again down in Newcastle, we don’t know what to expect. We had a pretty good chance to make the semi finals so I’m hoping to be able to finish this season. I would also like to resume a few more training sessions with the Wanderers, and I would also like to get down to Newcastle to do a few training sessions with the Emerging Jets. Going forward into next year I would love it if the Wanderers decided to continue their program, and hopefully, successfully trial for another position in that program as well. In theory, I would like to take on any or as many opportunities that are offered to me. What are your goals or dreams for your future as a football player? My goal for the next few years is to continue getting noticed and progressing individually, I’m even open to moving away to boarding schools for my senior years to be able to do this and continue improving. When I’ve finished my High School years I’m looking to possibly gain a scholarship to a college in America to further pursue my goals. My end goal/dream is to hopefully and eventually go professional. Thanks Alice. COFFS COAST

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AMALFI COFFS HARBOUR

focus_contributor.

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: CREATE A HOLIDAY MOOD IN YOUR LIVING ROOM

pring is the perfect time to make changes in your home. I love to incorporate a holiday feeling into homes; we can all create everyday spaces with a holiday feeling we love. It’s no coincidence when a living room looks as if it’s effortlessly put together. Beautiful rooms are the result of thoughtful planning. To evoke a holiday mood in your home, comfort is the key to creating a space where you can relax and unwind. So take inspiration from the holidays that you have had (or want to have!) to help you style your living room. Here’s 5 ways to create that holiday mood: 1. The sofa A great living room starts with a comfy sofa. Invest in a quality sofa with a simple, classic style. This is essential for holidayinspired relaxation in your living room. A neutral-coloured sofa can make it easier to decorate and gives future flexibility to change your colour scheme. If you love the comfort and shape of your current sofa but it’s looking tired, consider having it reupholstered to bring it back to life. When positioning furniture, people often make the mistake of pushing seating up against the walls. If your space allows, pull seating closer to the centre of the room to create an intimate atmosphere. Make your space look more relaxed by placing occasional chairs at an angle.

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2. Don’t overlook the basics It seems like the boring part, however ensuring you have covered off on basic design principles will help you achieve a better outcome in your space. These principles are Unity, Balance, Rhythm, Emphasis, Contrast, Scale and Details. There are plenty of articles online where you can read more about this. For a holiday vibe, your living room needs to feel airy. Make your space seem larger by using a large rug. If you require curtains, give your room a feeling of added height and openness with light coloured curtains in a natural fabric and install your curtain rod closer to the ceiling than the window frame. 3. Use colours and textures that inspire your holiday feeling What colours come to mind when thinking of your favourite holiday destination? Perhaps you love the peaceful blues, greens and natural tones of our own beautiful Coffs Coast. I like to keep walls light and inject colour and texture into a room with cushions, throws, rugs, accessories and artwork. Current trend colours that can help create a holiday mood are: Cerulean Blue – Similar to baby blue with a hint of grey Moss Green – Sophisticated, rich and vibrant Burnt Coral – Easier to work with than peachy pink hues of the past French Blue – Always in fashion, feels homely and nostalgic.

Use the rhythm of colour throughout your room to echo the colour throughout your space. For example, in Amalfi Coffs Harbour, natural colours are echoed in the dried palm leaves, timber dining table and the bowl on the coffee table, whilst grey is echoed in the wall art, bar seats and cushions. 4. Bring the outside in Much time on holidays is spent enjoying the outdoors, so try to create a seamless transition (where possible) between indoors and out. Using natural elements and colours like greens and blues and items such as indoor plants can help you achieve this. If you don’t have a distant vista or outlook, create your own by adding a feature in your yard, garden or on your balcony. 5. Add your personality Mix new and vintage elements to create an interesting room. Leave room in your budget for accessories, as small pieces add personality. Accessories should be grouped together to create a vignette. Use your holiday mementos or items that remind you of your holiday moments but avoid unnecessary clutter. Artwork can be a meaningful way to introduce colour. Use art collected on travels or art that reminds you of a holiday destination. Scent also plays a large role. Find a home fragrance or candle that takes you back to your favourite destination. To check availability and book Amalfi Coffs Harbour for your next getaway, go to www.coffscoastaccommodation.com.au

North Boambee � Coffs Harbour � Emerald Beach � Grafton � Woolgoolga

life skills and education are just the beginning.. Quality local childcare for all the family

Discover the Ohana difference: � � � � � � �

5 convenient locations Flexible session times Walker learning curriculum Natural playgrounds Contactless check in Regular health checks Chef prepared meals

Enrolments open across all centres Call 1300 956 200 to book a tour

Call 1300 956 200 or visit www.ohanaelc.com.au Provider #PR-40000780 COFFS COAST

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Miller O H A N A E A R LY L E A R N I N G PEDAGOGICAL LEADER

The team from Ohana Early Learning are more than just childcare workers. They are hand-picked professional educators, skilled in caring for and nurturing the needs of li le individuals. We had a chat with Adele Miller to find out more.

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ey Adele, tell us about your new role at Ohana. I am appointed as a pedagogical leader, which means I mentor, guide, and support our educators across all 5 centres to deliver an exceptional educational program for the children in our care. The word ‘pedagogy’ refers to the theory and practice of teaching and learning. The exciting thing about my job is I get to share my passion for early education with so many wonderful educators, which helps to inspire,

challenge and extend their professional practice. What’s different about the learning methods you use at Ohana? We have implemented a unique Australian designed educational approach called Walker Learning. This is a play-based method derived from research and evidence around child development and neuroscience, which means that our children’s development is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that not all children are ready to learn the same thing, at the same time, in

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Allowing children to first explore a learning area that interests them, then engaging with them during their play by asking questions and making suggestions for further inquiry, helps inspire them to extend on their understanding and skills. the same way, so we offer a personalised approach to teaching and learning. This in turn ensures better outcomes for each and every child. From experience, we know the importance of providing developmentally appropriate play spaces and, as educators, being very intentional and purposeful about how we engage with children during play to help support their development. Allowing children to first explore a learning area that interests them, then engaging with

them during their play by asking questions and making suggestions for further inquiry, helps inspire them to extend on their understanding and skills. Is there a structure to the Walker Learning method? Yes, our approach incorporates 12 key learning areas, which we apply across each centre in both indoor and outdoor environments. These are - Dramatic Play, Painting & Drawing, Sensory, Construction, Carpentry, Reading, Science & Nature, Tinkering, Climbing, Collage, Literacy resource, and Numeracy resource. For example, when children are engaging in these environments, we call this ‘investigation time’ to highlight how valuable this activity is in the learning process and the acquisition of new skills. It is so much more than just play.

In fact, Walker Learning views the learning environment as the ‘third teacher’, so setting up inviting spaces for the children to engage in is a key focus for us. We are really excited to offer the Walker Learning Pedagogy within our community as it is something also offered in some of the local schools across the Coffs Coast. How does the community get involved? We place great importance on the role parents, families, and our community play in offering children the best possible start to their learning journey. We are always seeking ways to connect and help families feel well supported, not only within our service, but as parents and families throughout our wider community. Our educators also reflect the diversity of our community which really helps families feel aligned and comfortable with sharing the role of educating and caring for their children. So, what’s unique about Ohana? The name Ohana is derived from the Hawaiian culture meaning family, a place where we come together through love and respect. As a local business that’s independently run, we like to think of Ohana as one big extended family. And even though we now have 5 centres open in our region, we remain a place where life skills and education are just the beginning. In the last few months, we have appointed a new general manager, and now my new role as pedagogical leader helps to boost our dedicated management team. This means we are now able to build on the quality of our services more than ever before. I feel like it’s an exciting time to be part of the Ohana family! Sounds wonderful Adele, how can we find out more? If you have any questions about our service or want to come and have a look for yourselves, you can inquire or book a tour with our enrolment specialist on 1300 956 200. Thanks, Adele. COFFS COAST

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ARTIST PROFILE

Katy

Dee

Katy Dee’s energy and vibrancy are really visible in her art, you cannot help but feel joy when you see it. Her style is very much her own and she is clearly passionate about creating beautiful artworks.

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ey Katy. Has art always been a part of your life? Do you have any early memories of feeling really inspired by art? Art and creativity have always been a part of my life and I have been making things for as long as I can remember. I have fond memories of crafting with paper mache and using chocolate moulds with clay to make odd ornaments. My mum is really creative and always encouraged us to make a

what I want to put out into the world. If it doesn’t bring you joy, it still needs work. What mediums are you mostly working with at the moment? I am currently doing lots of painting with gouache and acrylics on wood panels, paper and canvas. More recently I have been playing with textures using fun methods and different tools. I use collage a lot in my artwork and enjoy creating sheets of hand painted papers to chop up. They add surprising elements and each little bit makes the artwork unique. I have always thought of collage as painting with paper and it’s a really fun way to create something. I am also dabbling with 80’s paper mache models again which has been a nostalgic treat. Can you tell us a bit about your process when working on a piece? I tend to work on several pieces at once I use collage a that all fit within a theme lot in my of some sort; such as artwork and enjoy a colour combo that creating sheets of has inspired me or an hand painted papers idea that has hit me. I’ll to chop up. They add run with that idea for a surprising elements while in various mediums until the idea has run its and each little bit mess and play with lots course. Sometimes it feels makes the artwork of things. I honestly like I need to work the unique. couldn’t imagine not idea out of me… they making things, I find it aren’t always good, but incredible what hands it’s just part of the process. can create. Often I need to leave a piece alone for a How would you describe your style? while and forget about it. I’ll find it again Bold, colourful & fun. while I’m looking for something else and Fashion, art and food are my favourite ways wonder why I left it unfinished. There are to express myself. My style across all of them many piles like this around our house. reflects this same playful theme. My art has Continued over... increasingly becoming an extension of me and COFFS COAST

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ARTIST PROFILE

Where do you find yourself drawing inspiration from lately? Colour. It’s always colour and more often than not, flowers and their plant pals. I find nature incredible, especially here on the Coffs Coast. We are so lucky to live in such a rich and diverse place with amazing native flowers and tropical blooms to enjoy. We love to camp, and I take a craft project whenever we go as being outdoors always gets the creative engine running. Being disconnected from digital distractions and cooking over a fire also helps. 32 COFFS COAST

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past, designing prints for accessories and homewares, how do you find this differs from what you’re doing lately? The C word definitely changed the way I looked We love to at my business and what camp, and I I wanted to do with it. I was no longer attending take a craft project markets or selling whenever we go as products face to face. I being outdoors missed the energy and To be honest I always gets the feedback that I got from can find inspiration creative engine customers and knew I anywhere. It could running. Being had to re-evaluate things. be a bathroom tile, disconnected from During lockdown last moss in a rockpool, digital distractions year I painted more than I or an amazing salad. and cooking over a had previously and found It is the colour and fire also helps. happiness in producing energy in things that original pieces. I was I feel connected to creating without thinking and inspired by. They about what product it was going to be a part fill me with joy and make my heart happy. It of, and this allowed me to go in a different is that feeling that I want to pass on through direction. my art. I will forever and always love textiles, and You have also worked with textiles in the

I am a bit of a night owl. Often I work later than I should, especially if inspiration has struck, I have something I am enjoying working on, or a deadline to meet.

will definitely continue to create print designs to go on things; but I want to focus on creating more meaningful pieces. These will be original artworks and small batches of things. Sustainable design is something I am passionate about and actively exploring. How often do you find yourself painting? Is it something you do daily or do you find you have stages in time where you get really into it?

I would usually pick up a creative project most nights. I am a bit of a night owl. Often I work later than I should, especially if inspiration has struck, I have something I am enjoying working on, or a deadline to meet. At the weekend one of my favourite afternoon activities is to pop on music or a podcast, pour a glass of wine and get stuck into some painting, especially on a glorious sunny day. I often work in flurries, an idea might hit

me at 10.30pm and you can usually find me painting or chopping paper on the sofa at this hour while we binge something on TV. I am an all-in kinda gal when the right idea strikes. Do you ever get involved with any exhibitions? Yes! In the last year I have had pieces in several local group shows at Alykat Creative Gallery. I also submitted three pieces to the Incognito exhibition in Sydney earlier this year, which was an incredible event to be part of. I am very keen to be part of more exhibitions and would one day love to do a solo show. I would also love to do a mural and get involved in some local community projects so I will put that out into the universe here! Where can people check out more of your work or get in touch? My website is shiztastic.com and you can find me on Instagram @shiztastic where I share lots of behind the scenes photos, artworks I am working on, the occasional food photo, and maybe a recipe... You can also email me katy.dee@ shiztastic.com if you are interested in my artwork or fancy a colab. I always love a cup of tea and a chat. Thanks so much Katy! COFFS COAST

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focus_contributor.

PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

n my role as a PFLAG Coordinator but very important part of our community, I have many interesting to foster tolerance, understanding and conversations with friends and acceptance as everyone’s situation is unique. parents I meet and I am happy There are many situations that many of us that this page has often raised never have to think about, like having a discussions around our LGBTI trangender child who doesn’t want to have community. I can appreciate that people their “dead” name used over and over at medical appointments for instance. Divorced who do not personally experience having parents where one a child who is having parent won’t accept the a hard time, as well I have noticed that child’s change of sex or as the family, with overall, there are name - the list goes on! all sorts of scenarios fewer opportunities in Also I think we tend to from understanding country areas to a end only see through our themselves, their gender LGBTI-related own lens so I, for one, and sexual orientation, community events or to am up for learning about that it’s confronting for access LGBTI-inclusive unfamiliar scenarios that many others who have services. Its not all bad I have not experienced, not dealt with this. I news- there are services with an open mind. know first-hand from my that I can give anyone I moved from Alice interactions with PFLAG who asks and that you Springs 14 years ago and meetings or people who can also access online, was unable to access ring me up that there is in person and through any information to help real anguish out there social media too. my family and I got to as some struggle to do thinking about LGBTI the right thing and try people in rural, regional to support their child and remote areas, like our Coffs Harbour, but worry, as did I, that having a child who’s and how these individuals can be at higher not “mainstream” may create for them risk of social isolation. a harder life journey and none of us ever want our child to suffer. I have realised there is such a need for these families to have support around them when often their own families are questioning and challenging them too. This PFLAG page is to try and educate our community about this small , 34 COFFS COAST

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This may be related to a lack of community awareness about LGBTI people’s lives, or may be due to more active prejudice and exclusion. I hate to think the latter. Existing services and groups in rural, regional and remote areas often cover large

geographical areas, and within these, there may be fewer services that are specifically LGBTI-aware and inclusive. I have noticed that overall, there are fewer opportunities in country areas to attend LGBTI-related community events or to access LGBTI-inclusive services. It’s not all bad news - there are services that I can give anyone who asks and that you can also access online, in person and through social media too. I’ll leave you with this last point - Being known to small local communities before you explore your gender or sexuality can bring on its own significant challenges. Rural, regional and remote communities are famously known as places where ‘everybody knows each other’ and this may increase pressures for people who may be changing their own understanding of themselves, concerned about not longer fitting with what is known or presumed about them and their personal stories. There may be increased resistance to change on a community level as well as personally. 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

SILK’S B I R T H D AY SALE

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LOCATED NEAR IGA ENTRANCE S I L K L AS E R .C O M . A U T+C’s Apply. Sale valid 1-30 Sept 2021 35 COFFS COAST

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THE MUNRO GROUP

Macca's

Junior

G rants Munro Group McDonald's www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au Coffs Harbour | Nambucca | Kempsey | Grafton

About Us! Each month a number of grant recipients are chosen based on their commitment in the areas of sporting, academic or community service. We just launched our Brand New Website which is now accepting new Grant responses - check it out today!

Hockey Coffs Coast Hockey Coffs Coast have been providing competitions in the Coffs Harbour area for over 50 years. Hockey Coffs Coast has achieved unprecedented success in our junior representative teams in 2021. Our U13 and U15 Girls and Boys winning their respective State Championships. Hockey Coffs Coast would like to acknowledge the financial support of McDonald's and the provision of incentive awards for our junior players and umpires.If you would like to give Hockey a try, then Hockey Coffs Coast runs competitions for Men, Women and Junior players in Winter and Summer. All ages from Minkey under 5's to Masters (our oldest playing member is over 80). Hockey; a game for everyone and a game for life. Come and join in the fun! www.hockeycoffscoast.com.au Prouldly supporting the local community

maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

McDonald's Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Nambucca & Kempsey 36 COFFS COAST

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DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH LAMB BACKSTRAP - CRUSTED IN BASIL AND PARMESAN CRUMB, MILLE-FEUILLE ( FILO PASTRY ) OF SEMI DRIED TOMATO AND GOATS CHEESE, SALTED BAKED BEETROOT, CAULIFLOWER AND GARLIC MASH AND LITE JUS FROM VELVETS ON JETTY COFFS COAST

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SMURF TEARS One of the absolute gems on the brand new Cocktail Menu at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this little blue delight, Smurf Tears. With it’s delicate blend of cherry cognac liqueur, citrus vodka, sour apple liqueur, fresh lemon juice & house syrup, not only does it look amazing on the eye, but is one of the most delicious & unique flavour surprises you’ll ever taste !! An absolute must-try for any cocktail lover! 38 COFFS COAST

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Local Businesses are the heart of our community

two tails wines

Alykat Creative Gallery & Studio

C.ex Group

Coffs Coast Growers Market

The Big Banana Fun Park

TerryWhite Chemmart

Silvio’s Italiano

Cutler’s Tyrepower

Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours

coffscoast.com.au/golocal 40 COFFS COAST

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focus_contributor.

TALKING DESTINATION

with FIONA BARDEN

FROM COFFS CITY COUNCIL

Now’s the time to Go Local First Ever changing circumstances related to Covid mean that local business owners, managers and staff are working hard to adapt. So let’s get behind them and show how much we appreciate what they do every day.

ocal business owners are the faces behind the counters. They are the ones creating local jobs, providing sponsorships to local sporting teams and charities, stocking local products and using local services. Remember: When you support a local business, you support your local community! Stuck for ideas on how to Go Local First? Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce, supported by Coffs Harbour City Council, has initiated the national Go Local First campaign with a Coffs flavour. Below is a list of ways you can give a boost to our local businesses and keep them energised for the future. 1. Give your favourite local business a shout-out on social media – this supports the business and helps others know more about them. Invite your friends and family to ‘like and follow’ the business. 2. Take a night off cooking and head out for a relaxing meal, or grab a takeaway from one of the many fantastic places to eat and drink around the Coffs Coast. If you’re keen to cook, purchase fresh produce from a local independent retailer or market. 3. If you are not able to visit a business,

give them a call or check their website for pickup and delivery options. And if you’re going to click and buy online, click on a local business first! Do it with a friend! Keeping in touch with friends strengthens mental health during tough times. So if you’re heading out and about for some exercise, invite a mate. Use your ‘Dine & Discover’ Vouchers and inject these funds into local businesses. Jump online to find Dine & Discover businesses on the Coffs Coast. You now have until the end of June 2022 to use your vouchers! Look out for your friends, family and neighbours who might be concerned about getting out and about. You can help by shopping for essentials on their behalf or assisting them to shop online at local businesses. Staycation at home and treat yourself to a short break at a local luxury holiday home, a holiday park on the beach, a cute motel close to the action, or a resort with an indulgent spa package. Visit coffscoast.com.au to see all the options. Explore our natural environment with an expert. Try a new activity such as kayaking, snorkelling, zip-lining,

stand-up paddleboarding or surfing. Be a tourist in your own town! Visit a gallery, walk a heritage trail, take a foodie tour or art class, or embrace your inner child and have heaps of fun at one of our major tourist attractions. 10. Share the places and moments that make the Coffs Coast special to you through pictures. Everyday moments – a morning beach walk or grabbing a takeaway great coffee – or something special – a delicious restaurant meal delivered to your door or a relaxing bushwalk. Sharing pics on your socials with #ourplaceisgreat and #coffscoast helps others discover the hidden gems in our beautiful region. Remember to tag the business or location as well. It’s important to follow the most up-todate guidelines to keep yourself and your community safe, and support local businesses however you can, now and in the future. Find more ways to Go Local First and share the love at coffscoast.com.au/golocal 9.

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National

L A S T

CARTOON

H U R R A H !

GALLERY

Celebrate our 25th Anniversary this year and come and visit this outstanding and unique gallery.

Colourful Past The Gallery has had a colourful life, with many spectacular exhibitions and events that have entertained, educated and brought laughter to thousands of visitors. It has earned its title as the National Cartoon Gallery and the ‘spiritual home of cartooning’ amongst Australia’s leading cartoonists. Come and see why! Keep an eye out for the Ginger Meggs 100th Anniversary exhibition and the 33rd Rotary Cartoon Awards coming up in November. They will be spectacular and you don’t want to miss out. Dine & Discover Vouchers extended Join up as a Friend of the National Cartoon Gallery using your Dine & Discover voucher to receive a 24% discounted membership but with all the benefits.

These include: Personal invitations to opening nights and special events, Free entry to exhibitions when you bring a paying guest, 10% discount to Special Events, 10% discount on purchases from the Shop, ‘The Underground’ newsletter, Friends Only events. USE THEM, DON’T LOSE THEM! A Last Hurrah! This exhibition covers the humour, the chaos and the seriousness that cartooning can present and the sheer talent on display by our Australian cartoonists and caricaturists. Margaret Cameron, our previous Manager, has chosen to make this final tribute to her 5 years at the Gallery through an exhibition of some of her favourite works from the collection. “So much has happened in the last 5 years; internationally, nationally and locally with many inevitable challenges and changes.”

These works show how cartoonists have responded to those changing times. Bill Leak - An Irreverent Larrikin You will be amazed by the sheer volume of events and issues covered by the cartoonist Bill Leak in this exhibition. Quite outspoken at times, Bill used his art to bring to our attention confronting social and political stories. As the cartoonist for The Australian for many years, he kept us informed and made us laugh at ourselves and our politicians like no-one else could. Come and enjoy his sense of humour and “revel in the chaotic glory that he saw in our country and the crazy cast of characters who shape it.” On until 7 November. www.nationalcartoongallery.com.au 02 6651 7343 New Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 3pm.

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

DON’T WASTE YOUR

DISCOVER VOUCHER

For FREE MEMBERSHIP redeem your discover voucher with the

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

W OOLG O O LG A & N O RT H E R N B E AC H E S

A ARON HARDAKER MID NORTH COAST PHYSIO

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MID NORTH COAST

PHYSIO

P U T T I N G T H E “ C A R E ” B A C K I N T O H E A LT H C A R E

Coffs Coast Focus caught up with Aaron Hardaker, Principal Physiotherapist at Mid North Coast Physio to hear about HOW THEY CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? As a born and bred local, I’ve spent a large part of my life on the Coffs Coast. I left to study, then travelled the world for a number of years, before realising life was too good here. I’ve been back almost 14 years and am firmly entrenched here with my young family now getting to enjoy growing up here just like I did. When and why did you start your business? After living and working in the UK and Ireland, I returned to the area and started the business in early 2007 as Northern Beaches Physio, in a very humble little room in Woopi. It was started to fill a need, as many people from Woopi and the Northern Beaches were travelling into Coffs to get access to good quality physio services, or simply not accessing the services they needed at all. We been looking after the community across the region ever since.

Can you tell us a little bit about your to improve your sports performance, background and experience in this you’re wanting to get back to work after industry? injury – these are all things we help our I’ve been a physio for almost 20 years clients achieve daily. Through providing and have had the pleasure of working in a you with the help you need from physios, range of public and private settings across exercise physiologists, dietitians, massage the globe. From working therapists, Pilates with babies and toddlers and yoga instructors to the very elderly, elite within our team, I’ve been a sportspeople to weekend you’ll get a solution to physio for warriors, the variety your problem rather almost 20 years and has been amazing. than just short-term have had the Having now developed improvement. There’s pleasure of working a fantastic team of fun, rarely one specific in a range of public friendly, caring health cause of an issue, so and private se ings professionals, my passion there’s also rarely only across the globe. lies in supporting and one specific person empowering them to who can solve your provide the best possible issues. By having a healthcare to you, our community, team of different health professionals, we How does Mid North Coast Physio help can provide all the support you need to get their clients? the best long-term outcome. Our goal is to improve the health and If you’d like to find out more about happiness of our clients. If you’re suffering how the team at Mid North Coast Physio with back pain, need help with losing could help you, or would like a get a free weight, you’re recovering from surgery, assessment to review your pain or injury, call want to enhance your strength and flexibility their friendly team on 1300 273 747. COFFS COAST

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WOOLGOOLGA R E A L E S TAT E

Woolgoolga Real Estate is widely acknowledged as the leading boutique real estate agency on the Mid North Coast.

e are a cohesive years providing an unlimited amount of local family that aims to knowledge, personalised service and ample provide you with expertise in the field of sales. unlimited personalised Our agency is always on the front foot for service, that only an innovative marketing ideas and commitment independent company can to staying at the forefront of deliver. Your focus is our an ever changing industry. Our reputation focus. This gives us the This helps us offer you the is built on freedom to break the mould level of service that we delivering the and up the ante with world so proudly provide. In the promises we make class customer service. theme of staying new and and giving back to Cheryl Midavaine fresh you will start to see our local community purchased the business in some big changes to the as you are the soul 2004. Having worked in agency in the next couple of of Woolgoolga Real the industry since 1990 months, one of our changes Estate. Cheryl’s desire for a fresh as you can see on this page approach to Property Sales is our new Woolgoolga Real and Management has seen the business go Estate logo. We recommend that you keep from strength to strength, now being one of your eyes peeled for what else is to come! the largest management agencies on the Coffs Our reputation is built on delivering Coast. Cheryl worked in sales for over 20 the promises we make and giving back to

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our local community as you are the soul of Woolgoolga Real Estate. Whether it be fundraising for mental health or partaking in the biggest morning tea, our Real Estate aims to help the local community in any way. Your WRE girls are excited for what’s to come and look forward to working with you in the future.

Open daily at C.ex Woolgoolga for lunch and dinner

SCAN QR Code for Menu

*Images for illustration purposes only

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Dustin Bowie-Ford is the proud owner of Box Factory Burgers, Ground Earth and Offsite catering. He’s a passionate foodie, he believes in sourcing good quality produce, supporting other local businesses, and he’s kinda just an all-round top guy.

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ey Dusty. When did your interest in food and cooking develop? I don’t know if I could pinpoint a moment in time specifically. I grew up a farm kid, collecting eggs, picking veggies, herding cattle, etc. So, I have had a high respect and enthusiasm for food and produce ingrained in me before I even knew how to cook. However, I do recall a Year 6 cooking experiment where we had to create something traditional to a culture, I chose a Thai octopus curry, which all the other kids thought was gross, but it ended up being so good, it made me rethink the meat and three veg criteria I had grown up on and got me excited for cooking new things. The connection between produce and the food we eat is obviously really important to you, how does this affect the way you choose to run your business? It is important to me and I believe it should be important to everyone because good produce not only improves our health and well-being but it’s 100% more honest in flavour and quality than that of large scale, genetically modified, mass produced ingredients. I have found in my businesses

Good produce not only improves our health and well-being but it’s 100% more honest in flavour and quality than that of large scale, genetically modified, mass produced ingredients.

I have had to adapt my popular dishes and menus in line with the seasonal changes. We do everything we can to remain consistent whilst supporting local, we even try to grow ourselves where possible. Where do you source some of your meat and produce? My meat is 100% grass-fed and I buy it from Stevie at Woolgoolga’s finest next door, he only sources from quality local and

surrounding farms. My buns are specially designed and made, exclusive to The Box Factory, by Mark at Woopi Bakery. Mark uses quality organic flour, which he purchases locally also. 90% of our fruit and veg produce is grown by Darren at New Life Farm, Sapphire Beach. Harvested the day it’s delivered, it doesn’t get any fresher than that! Continued Over... COFFS COAST

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Working nights, I would enjoy breakfast as a customer. I got so sick and tired of eating the same boring version of breakfast and lunch that everyone seemed to think was the only way.

Tell us a bit about your progression in the hospitality world to the point of owning two of your own food businesses? Where can I begin? I started flipping burgers at a small local takeaway shop, which I was super passionate about, being my first real job at the age of 15. That scored me an apprenticeship at a nearby café. This then moved me into the world of fine dining and intricate cuisine where I spent most of my energies striving to achieve prestigious awards. Once the thrill of that passed and the egocentric aspect stopped fulfilling me, I found myself moving away from fine dining and wanting to work in gastro-style pubs and smoke houses, which was the kind of food I had 50 COFFS COAST

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grown to enjoy eating myself. Working nights, I would enjoy breakfast as a customer. I got so sick and tired of eating the same boring version of breakfast and lunch that everyone seemed to think was the only way. Bacon and eggs anyone? Which sent me on my mission to try and bring something fresh and exciting to people’s plates and pop them out of the cycle they had been directed into. This was one of the many motivations behind opening my first business. You own Box Factory Burgers and Ground Earth in Woopi, and we hear you may have some other plans in the pipeline... Is that something you can tell us about yet? Maybe a hint?

We definitely have a few things in the pipeline. I won’t give too much away right now, but keep an eye out for us at a new location. Having a few businesses going, you obviously can’t be everywhere at once, can you tell us a bit about the team you have on board? You are definitely right!!! You can’t be everywhere at once, but who says you have to actually be there to be present??? With strict morals, hard self-reflective training and a lot of love the Box Factory, Ground Earth and Offsite catering team have transformed into highly skilled professionals. These guys have proven themselves reliable day in and day out and haven’t had the best starts to life either. They are a team I am very proud of. What do you feel makes up the perfect burger? Burgers are personal. A couple of simple things I like to see in a great burger are texture, flavour, sauce to meat ratio and a perfect steamed bun. Where do you hope life takes you in the next few years? Professionally I hope I can still manage to be successful in the industry and be able to pass on my knowledge and beliefs onto aspiring chefs, whilst being open to learning, adapting and furthering my own skills. Personally I would like to find the perfect balance between my purpose and present, balancing what I love to do with who I love be with.

Burgers are personal. A couple of simple things I like to see in a great burger are texture, flavour, sauce to meat ratio and a perfect steamed bun.

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Helene ENEVO LDSO N

Helene Enevoldson’s story is an inspiring one. She has a very strong connection to the Coffs Coast and its beautiful beaches and has contributed in a huge way to the community here. Helene was surfing professionally in the 90’s and had started East Coast Surf School, which was the first of its kind in Australia. Through the school she taught people from all over to surf, and created programs teaching surf safety to the community before anything else like it was available.

i Helene. You were born and raised here on the Coffs Coast, can you tell us a bit about your family’s connection to the area? My mother was born in Bellingen, both her parents were from a small island in Greece. My father was a Yorkshireman who migrated to Australia in his mid-twenties. Dad came to Coffs to buy a banana plantation. He joined the Coffs Harbour Surf Club which is where he met my mother. Dad rowed the boats and Mum paraded in the march past. Mum taught sewing at the local schools and in 1964 they built the Big Banana and operated it for 23 years. My parents were generous, hard-working, big-hearted people who left a wonderful legacy to the Coffs Coast. Surfing has been a part of your life for a long time, when did you first learn to surf and at what age did you start competing? My parents purchased coolite surfboards for my two brothers and myself when I was 5 years old. I loved surfing from the time I

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caught my first wave In 1997 I competed I was having on the Jetty Beach in in three World fun, however, 1974. My brother and Championship Tour (now when I weighed up I shared a single fin pin called the WSL) events. the benefits of being tail surfboard when I I was running my own a professional surfer was 8 years of age and business at the time and and running my on my 9th birthday I wanted to see if the business, my business picked out a Coopers Tour was a good fit for took priority as it surfboard with the help me. I had an amazing was about giving of Bob Cooper. I joined sponsorship with Rip the Coffs Boardriders Curl since I was 22 years back to the when I was 11 years old of age, however, I had community, whereas which is when I started no pressure to compete. being a pro-surfer competing. After the three events, I was just about me. What inspired you to was ranked 17th in the get out on the waves world. as such a youngster? I was having fun, Before I could walk, Dad would dip me into however, when I weighed up the benefits of the surf at Diggers Beach. It was the beginning being a professional surfer and running my of a beautiful relationship with the ocean. Dad business, my business took priority as it was and Mum loved the ocean and passed on that about giving back to the community, whereas love to me. being a pro-surfer was just about me. You were surfing professionally on the The surf school had down time in the World Tour in the 90’s, can you tell us about winters, which allowed me to head overseas that experience? with my backpack and surfboard underarm.

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I was fortunate enough to partake in postgraduate studies at Oxford University, a dream of mine since I was in high school. You established the first professionally run surf school in Australia, which was not only unique in that it was the first of its kind but that it was a female owned business based around surfing, what prompted you to take on something like that? I remember being at Sydney University when I was 18 years of age, sitting in the Square eating lunch when I had what you may call an epiphany. I decided that I was going to pass on my passion and knowledge of surfing to others, I was going to teach others how to surf. When I completed my Bachelor of Science in Human Movement and returned to Coffs in 1992, I was a successful candidate of the YBI (Youth Business Initiative) program run by ETC. I learnt how to start a business and received a small grant from Prince Charles. East Coast Surf School was born. I went to the tip and found surfboards, repaired them, had a trailer made and started lessons at Diggers Beach. I designed a set of lessons, progressing customers through from beginner to more advanced skills. I drew on the Sport Science principles I learnt in my studies, which gave me confidence. The surf school was a hit. In no time, I was running surf safety programs and camps for local

schools, universities and organisations between Yes, a friend nominated me when I was 28 Sydney and Noosa. years old for Young Australian of the Year, based You also did a lot of work around educating on the contribution I had made through the the community on surf school. I received an surf and water safety, Outstanding Career Award how did you go about which was a lovely surprise. Looking back, getting this message Do you still enjoy getting I think being out there? out for a surf? What are a woman at the I designed surf safety some of your favourite forefront of a new education programs and local surf spots? industry in a very offered them to local I still love to surf, I’m male dominated schools for their Sport now in my 50’s, so my culture went in my programs. This was surfing looks a lot different favour, though not long before there were these days. I try to get without its professional lifeguards out several times a week challenges. on our beaches. Schools and surf mainly between from all over NSW were Diggers and the northern hearing about East beaches. I just love being Coast Surf School and bookings flowed in. out the back on my board, this is my happy The media also were very supportive. I was place, where I feel most alive and connected to often on the news, appeared on Travel Shows others, nature and God. and stories in magazines and newspapers were What have you been up to in more recent quite prolific. Looking back, I think being a years? woman at the forefront of a new industry in a I have had some health concerns these last 10 very male dominated culture went in my favour, years, one being a spinal fusion. It was time to though not without its challenges. sell the surf school after 26 years and retrain in a I have had the most amazing staff over the new career. years who enriched the customer experience, The last two years I have been working for sharing in the vision and passion I had. Also, the long relationship with sponsors was significant to the Salvation Army, at Adele House, which is a male AOD residential rehabilitation facility. I the success of the surf school. feel very blessed to be able to fall into another Can you tell us about being nominated for meaningful career where I can help others’ lives Young Australian of the Year, why were you nominated and what did it feel like to get to be enriched and empowered. that kind of recognition? Thanks Helene. COFFS COAST

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WOMEN

BROWN THE PHYS IO MOVE M E NT WOOPI

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 open The Physio Movement Woopi? As co-owner of TPM, we’ve been modernising healthcare for the past six years at our clinics in Queensland. After relocating to Woopi, we planned to open another TPM, but COVID-19 hit and I had to prioritise pivoting our existing clinics. Fast forward 18 months, we were presented an opportunity to create a TPM clinic here, and the timing was right. With rapid growth surrounding Woolgoolga, there’s a great opportunity and demand for a modern multidisciplinary clinic locally. This allows patients to access professional services without travelling into Coffs. What’s your favourite part of the work you do? I genuinely love my job (cliché I know!), there’s never a dull moment in healthcare, or owning a business and wearing many hats. I get satisfaction knowing I’m helping educate people about their healthcare choices. It’s extremely powerful witnessing life-changing healthcare results. I also love creating an environment where I can employ professionals, allow them to thrive, offer progression into areas of interest, 54 COFFS COAST

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and provide a supportive and fun culture. Employee satisfaction is paramount for us. Who is your greatest influence in business? I don’t have just one influential role model. I’ve been fortunate to be mentored by some inspiring business women since starting TPM. So I draw inspiration from many women who break all norms in business, press for progress and continual growth, who take risks and follow a path they believe in. One of my business mentors Teri Humphrys is a CEO of a civil earthmoving company. She taught me the power of focusing on what you do well and showing off your ability to bring results. She was also a big influence on my ability to ‘not play safe’ and taught me to think big, and then think bigger! Also, my business partner (husband) Shane. He’s pragmatic and realistic, which is helpful with my big ideas. He’s always teaching me the importance of looking at something down the road and not just in the immediate sense. Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast? What do you love about the area? I was fortunate to grow up in Woolgoolga during my younger years before relocating for High School, University, and to live internationally. We decided to make the move home to

Woolgoolga 18 months ago and it’s been such a positive move for our family. I love the lifestyle that comes with living on the coast and find myself spending a lot of time keeping active and outdoors with my family when I am not in the office. There is something unique about the supportive culture of a smaller coastal town, and since relocating back I have seen a big shift in diversity with many professionals relocating to the town, which is very exciting for positive growth in the region. What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? Be responsive to change. Within a small business environment, we’re constantly faced with changing situations, and being able to respond positively and calmly will allow you to grow and thrive. Focus on building customer experience. Do what you do well and worry less about your competition. Satisfied customers are the key to helping build and grow a successful business. Be ready to continually learn. There is no better professional development than running your own business. For me personally, I don’t ever let myself get too comfortable and make sure I’m continually learning and growing our brand.

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recreational classes to vocational training programs in all genres of dance, singing, acting and music. WPAS dance classes include Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Kicks Leaps Turns and Hip Hop under the training of experienced teachers and guest choreographers. There is a specialised Theatrical Department for theatre and acting classes as well as The WPAS Music Studio with incredibly talented teachers providing guitar, piano,

drums and vocal lessons. Paired with Woolgoolga’s own Theatre Company (NAIDU Theatre Co) you will find incredible projects and productions produced every year for the community to enjoy with productions ranging from Disney Junior Shows to Adult Cabarets. If you would like to receive one of our enrolment packs, please email info@woolgoolgaperformingarts studio.com

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2/7-9 Market Street, Woolgoolga Ph 02 6654 8397 M 0435 979 535 E woolgoolga@theeducationcentre.com.au

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Brewing Co. SARAH POOLE

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There’s an exciting new venue set to open soon in Woopi, so we had a chat to Sarah Poole about what Woolgoolga Brewing Co. is all about and what we can expect once they open their doors.

ey Sarah, where did the dream of starting a brewery begin? My husband (Ryan) and I have had a brewery dream for many years. This started with an interest in craft beer and the process of brewing, and was strengthened by direct involvement with Mornington Peninsula Brewery. Having first hand experience with the industry, and seeing the way craft breweries support one another was inspirational. When we moved to Woolgoolga from the Mornington Peninsula we met Aaron and Jacqui, who had also been considering options for a family-friendly brewery on the northern beaches. We got talking, then planning and before we knew it - our brewery adventure had begun! Why did you choose Woolgoolga as the place to open the brewery? For us, Woopi was the obvious place for a brewery. We fell in love with the town and the community on our first visit, and given its location - between the mountains and the sea, and just 20 minutes We want our from Coffs - we can brewery to be a see the huge potential proud community of this area in the years craft brewery. All to come. We also feel aspects of the site have like there’s a thriving been designed to little entrepreneurial celebrate and connect community in Woopi, and locals and visitors to we have been amazed at the support of local our environment in a business owners and the family-friendly locals on our journey so atmosphere that far. reflects the relaxed investors. Having They say “it takes a and vibrant beach been in business for village”, it’s taken many culture of our Coast. many years I know hands to make the that the dynamics and brewery happen. Who skills of a group like has been involved and ours can make or break a start-up. We are what’s it been like watching the brewery very lucky to have some serious talent on our become a reality and the team come team - ranging from local business owners, together? to hospitality and kitchen experts through to It most certainly does ‘take a village’, and brewery luminaries who have been on the we carefully considered the team of founding journey with us from day one.

Who is the creative force behind the kind of beer you’re brewing? We know that it’s all about the beer, and our Head Brewer Aaron Dobner, has been working closely with Andrew Gow (formerly Mountain Goat), and Anthony Clem (formerly Lion), to perfect the beers on offer from day one. We’re really excited about our opening range, and what we have planned as we head into a Coffs Coast summer... Continued over... COFFS COAST

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What kind of beers and drinks will you be serving? From day one we will have something on offer to suit everyone - in terms of beer we have been perfecting our Japanese Lager - one that is going to be very popular on a hot day after a surf or a mountain bike ride! We will also open with a Red Ale, an American Pale Ale and an IPA. There is a cheeky Choc Oat Stout that everyone loves which will also be on release towards the end of September. Will there be any food on offer? Our food philosophy is all about high quality and simplicity, and we will permanently have wood fired pizzas and grazing boards on offer. On Friday nights and Saturday and Sunday afternoons we have been working with three amazing local food trucks to provide an 58 COFFS COAST

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We will have live music, art installations, food events… all the things that celebrate this beautiful place we live in. We have also considered the business community, and have a boardroom for hire, with brewery tours and lunch/dinner as optional extras.

additional offering and we can’t wait to share more about that soon! Tell us a bit about the vibe and atmosphere you’re hoping to create at Woolgoolga Brewing Co.? We want our brewery to be a proud community craft brewery. All aspects of the site have been designed to celebrate and connect locals and visitors to our environment in a family-friendly atmosphere that reflects the relaxed and vibrant beach culture of our Coast. We will have live music, art installations, food events… all the things that celebrate this beautiful place we live in. We have also considered the business community,

and have a boardroom for hire, with brewery tours and lunch/dinner as optional extras. What has the response from locals been like so far and what are your plans to get the community involved? The support from the locals and the broader community has been amazing. We get stopped frequently with questions around opening and what’s happening, and we have attracted a very impressive group of local staff who will be working with us to get the doors open in September. The local trades and businesses we have been working with on this project have been incredible, and we know they will continue to be great supporters as the beer starts to flow! Where would you like to see Woolgoolga Brewing Co. heading in the future? To be honest, we’re really focused on an incredible first summer of opening, and making sure that everyone who visits looks forward to coming back. There are more plans for the site and we plan on keeping everyone entertained and well catered for for many years to come. Thanks Sarah.

From day one we will have something on offer to suit everyone - in terms of beer we have been perfecting our Japanese Lager - one that is going to be very popular on a hot day after a surf or a mountain bike ride!

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Darren

SMITH NEW LIFE FARM

W Join us in 2022 Clarence Valley Anglican School is a low fee paying independent school in the Anglican tradition, just a short 40 minute drive north of Woolgoolga. Our Clarenza Campus is where Years 5 to 12 students enjoy the beautiful bush surroundings, just on the outskirts of Grafton city. We have a strong reputation as a small school with a big heart! Daily CVAS bus servicing Woolgoolga, Mullaway and Corindi. New purpose-built Performance Centre, including recording studios and state-of-the-art sound and lighting. New Adventures for Life program for all students. Tailored learning with many opportunities and career pathways. A school-owned farm, named "Farnworth" at Glenreagh used for agricultural and educational activities. PRINCIPAL TOURS with Mrs Karin Lisle each Wednesday. To book a tour please scan the QR code and complete the form.

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hat sort of fruit and veg do you grow? We grow with the seasons. We don’t grow a lot of any one crop, but we do grow a wide variety focusing on quality over quantity. We also like experimenting, growing new and unusual crops. It’s rewarding to find different crops that grow well here and introducing these weird and wonderful tastes to our customers.As well as the market garden, we have an ever-expanding orchard where we grow a range of seasonal fruit. We had our first season of mangoes recently which was awesome! We also sell our chickens’ eggs. You make your own compost on the farm; can you tell us about this process? We utilise our chicken manure, on-farm organic material and off-farm organic waste to make our compost. We use a Static Pile Inoculated Covered compost process, or ‘SPIC’. We’re always seeking efficiencies in our systems and SPIC is a much lower energy input solution that involves

inoculating a pile of organic matter with a specifically blended inoculant (that we make on the farm), covering it with a tarp and leaving to ‘cook’ for up to 12 weeks. This does require a little forward planning. We’ve recently started collecting off-farm organic ‘waste’ from our café customers. Depending on the contents, we process this invaluable resource through our chicken system or mix directly into our compost piles before composting. Our café customers have all been excited to be part of this process. Being a passionate foodie yourself, what are some of your favourite fresh ingredients you like to use in your cooking? It depends on the season. For example, coming into Autumn we look forward to the different radishes, turnips and brassicas – we’re hooked on pickling and fermenting and make large batches of kimchi and sauerkraut to last us through the year (excellent for gut health!). We are massive advocates of the benefits of green smoothies and enjoy one – at least one! – daily. During the cooler months our selection of greens is amazing.

S G I VI NG A SAHAR ABDELRAHMAN

For Coffs Harbour local, Sahar Abdelrahman, her job as an NDIS Support Coordinator is personal. Born and raised in Egypt, Sahar and her son came to Australia in 2012 as humanitarian refugees. This has given her a unique insight into her work with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities.

ahar works at local organisation CHESS Connect as an NDIS Support Coordinator. She helps participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme from both English and CALD backgrounds to understand their funding and connect with services and supports in their local area. “My first client was a young teenager who was non-verbal and living with significant intellectual disability”, she explains. “His parents and family had just arrived in the area as refugees and had very little English. They had lost another child who had similar disabilities and were trying to get their son medical help. It was difficult for them to navigate the health care system and understand what kind of supports were available to them. They were reserved and didn’t know they had choices and could be a voice for their son.” Sahar was able to work with the family to communicate and connect to medical support at the hospital, including OT’s, therapists and support workers as well as access to a wheelchair

and other mobility equipment. The family and their son have since moved to a new home in Australia, but still stay in touch with Sahar to keep her up to date on their journey. When Sahar herself arrived in Coffs Harbour she experienced first-hand the challenges some of her customers faced. Living in a neighbourhood with no Arabic speakers and only basic English, she took every opportunity she could to improve her language skills. “My neighbours at the time were amazing”, she says. “They were Australian and would often invite us to the traditional backyard BBQ. I would sit amongst them with my English textbook and listen to them speak, picking up words and practicing my pronunciation through conversation.” “Now I help other refugees find their voice”, says Sahar. “Helping people in the CALD community realise their own capacity for self-determination has brought me full circle.” For more information about NDIS supports at CHESS Connect visit www.chessconnect.org.au/ndis or phone 1800 899 017.

r goals.reach your goals. Delivered Locally

ommodation ent oaching port

9 017

ect.org.au

Registered NDIS Services Delivered Locally

• • • • •

Support Coordination Respite & Short Term Accommodation School Leaver Employment Psychosocial Recovery Coaching Social & Community Support

1800 899 017

www.chessconnect.org.au

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WARREN

NIETHE

PRINCIPAL - ST FRANCIS XAVIER WOOLGOOLGA The St Francis Xavier school community has welcomed a new Principal, Mr Warren Niethe, this term. We were very pleased to spend some time with Warren and found out he isn’t so ‘new’ after all…

reat to meet you Warren. We believe you actually have a long history with St Francis Xavier Primary School. Tell us about that. I have been in the field of education for over three decades. Throughout the 80’s and 90’s I worked for Education Queensland at a number of different schools and contexts ranging from being a PE teacher at a school with 800 students in a coal mining town to being a small school teaching Principal with 27 students in a rural setting. My teaching and leadership career with Catholic Education commenced in 1999 when the school’s foundation Principal, Sister Margaret Bannon, gave me a start at St Francis Xavier. The next seventeen years flew by in the blink of an eye. In 2017, I was appointed as Principal to Saint Mary’s Primary School, Bowraville. I loved my time

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there but SFX has always been a special place for me. When I saw the principal’s position advertised last term, I applied….and here I am! Why is Woolgoolga and the school community so special to you and your family? My wife, Tricia, and I made a deliberate decision to raise our children near extended family so they could experience the support, joys and love that only grandparents, uncles, aunties and cousins can bring. There was a generational connection to the Northern Rivers area of NSW, especially Grafton. Hence, a relocation to Woolgoolga was a perfect fit to raise, nurture and educate our children. So good in fact, our family quickly grew from three to five children! All five children attended St Francis Xavier. I even had the unique opportunity to have taught four out of the five, so you could very

well imagine, there are so many cherished memories for the children and for me. St Francis Xavier is embedded in the life of the parish of St Augustine’s, Coffs Harbour so, being a faith-centred family, we hold many, many years of life-time memories of our children receiving their sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation and First Holy Communion at St Francis Xavier Church. Then there are all the sporting clubs, swimming lessons, the beach life-style as well as living in a multicultural and diverse community that make Woolgoolga such a special place to live - how could anyone leave! What changes have you noticed on your return to St Francis Xavier? The school buildings and grounds are looking fantastic. The classrooms have been fully refurbished; they are bright and visually

engaging as well as being packed with every resource including ICT. There is a mix of new and long-term staff who are all full of energy and purpose. There is a real buzz of enthusiasm among the students who are eager to learn and play! Our parent partnership is thriving! Are there any future projects in the pipeline to make St Francis Xavier an even better place for students to learn? There is definitely a future project that is needing fairly urgent consideration. We are experiencing a surge in student enrolments (this probably comes as no surprise considering the quality of learning and teaching being currently delivered to all students). Clearly, there is a need to embark on a capital works program with student numbers increasing at such a rate. I will certainly be investigating available grants in the near future.

Why is St Francis sometimes referred to as the hidden jewel of the Northern Beaches? Having been a resident of Woolgoolga since 1999 I am often surprised when locals and new people in the local community are still unsure where we are located. Perhaps it’s because the school is not that visible from the street; the ground dips sharply away from the Queen St cul-de-sac. There is even a map outside the St Francis Xavier Church on Scarborough Street giving directions to the school! I am hoping that having a feature in this edition of the FOCUS will assist in ensuring this hidden jewel is known more broadly. What makes being a Principal of a Catholic Primary School such a rewarding job? Without a doubt, the most rewarding aspect of being a Principal of a Catholic

Primary School is being in the privileged position of nurturing authentic relationships: relationships with students and their families, relationships with all staff as well as relationships with our parish. I plan to ensure those relationships are founded on mutual trust, respect and understanding. In particular, it is only through enduring relationships that all our students know who they are, that they belong and they are loved. If students, on leaving Saint Francis Xavier Primary School, have a healthy sense of self and are motivated to positively contribute to society in their own unique way, then this is truly rewarding for a Principal. Great to meet you Warren. Thanks for sharing with us today.

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with Mary Lou

Come Home to

Marian G R O V E

“There is nothing permanent except change.” Heraclitus

or Mary Lou, change came in the passing of her husband a year ago and the desire of her children that she come and live near one of them. “My husband and I lived in Sydney, with my daughter six hours north and my son six hours south of us,” she says. “Although it’s lovely where my son lives, there weren’t any retirement communities there, whereas up here, there were plenty to choose from. I had been here before and really liked it. My daughter took me for a drive around to look at all of them, and then we came to Marian Grove. Straight away I felt this one was different, but we didn’t go inside at that point. A few months later when I came back, I knew Marian Grove was the only one I was interested in, and when we looked through the building (The New Release) and saw this apartment, I just thought yes this is what I want to do.” “Marian Grove has everything. It’s a walk to the shopping centre if you want to walk, a short drive to the beach and cafes and shops at Sawtell - which even has its own cinema! My husband and I spent a lot of time in Mount 66 COFFS COAST

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Victoria and that had a cinema as well. It’s so the staff to get to know each other with little unique. My daughter and her family are close events and get togethers, and the staff and by, I have a friend who takes me around to residents are all unfailingly friendly. I haven’t different things on offer in Coffs Harbour, not met a grumpy person all the whole time I’ve to mention all the activities right here in the been here! Everyone smiles and says hello, Village. I play cards and and you can’t help but table tennis, I joined the respond to that. So right choir and play scrabble and from the start, I’ve only Marian Grove honestly, I’ve been too busy had positive feelings about has everything. to do much else! Some of living here. Although at the It’s a walk to the the activities are on hold time I thought I could stay shopping centre if right now of course, but I in Sydney and be happy, I you want to walk, a have plenty to keep myself would not wish to be back short drive to the occupied.” in Sydney on my own now. beach and cafes and “I moved here in This is my community and shops at Sawtell May. Fortunately, I lived my home.” in a roomy 3-bedroom Thank you so much for apartment already so the furniture I had fits sharing your story with us Mary Lou. into this unit perfectly, although of course If you’re thinking about making a change, there are always things you need to get rid of. for whatever the reason, why not consider But I still can’t believe the luck I had in moving coming home to Marian Grove where we have some of them on, one item went on the actual accommodation options to suit every budget moving day to someone who could really and taste? After all, we’ve been caring for make good use of it! It was providential, how our community for the past 27 years. Give us everything just fell into place.” a call on 02 6653 1241 or visit http://www. “Something I found so helpful was the mariangrovelifestyle.com.au/ to find out more, way all the new residents are supported by we’d love to hear from you!

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FITNESS

UPDATE with AMANDA BELLETTE FROM CLUB LIME

Amanda Belle e is A PERSONAL TRAINER WHO HAS WORKED IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY FOR MANY YEARS, helping people achieve their health and fitness goals.

he has worked with clients from lots of different backgrounds including competitive CrossFit athletes, sports specific athletes, people wanting to join emergency services and pre- and post-natal women. With numerous qualifications, Amanda is a dedicated, hardworking and skilled Personal Trainer who has a lot of experience and knowledge to offer. She is also a mum of two darling little girls and is particularly passionate about helping mums navigate their exercise/ training during their pregnancy. Why did you want to become a Personal Trainer? I believe everyone deserves the right to good health and to be happy with themselves inside and out. I wanted to make a real difference to people’s lives and have a lasting memory and positive impact on their fitness goals. In my previous profession as a Police Officer I felt as though something was missing. I wasn’t making the positive changes to people’s lives as much as I had hoped, so I made the change to Personal Training and have never looked back! I love sharing my knowledge and insight to help 68 COFFS COAST

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people move well and get the most out of their training. It is also very special when someone puts their trust in me to help them achieve a life changing endeavour and it’s very exciting when they succeed! What do you specialise in and what classes do you take at Club Lime? I train clients with varying goals from getting stronger where we focus on resistance training to clients looking to lose weight and feel fantastic! I also have speciality training, firsthand experience and a passion for training pre- and post-natal women. I run both small group classes and 1:1 Personal Training sessions specifically for pregnant and post-natal women. During these sessions I’ll educate you on the safest and most effective way to exercise during and after your pregnancy. Club Lime Toormina also has Kids Creche, where your little ones are looked after while you get to clear your mind, meet other mums and work on your body. Outside of 1:1 Personal Training sessions, you’ll also find me in the group fitness studios coaching Punch, Circuit and Metafit Classes. Contact reception on 6658 6222 to get book into one of my classes and prepare yourself for

a great workout! What can the Coffs Harbour Community expect from your Personal Training Sessions? I love to have a great time with my clients, but what I’m really focused on is pushing and motivating them to get the most out of their sessions. My programming is very results driven. If you have a particular goal in mind, I program your Personal Training sessions to help you achieve specifically what you set out to accomplish. You will never get bored with our training sessions, I use a variety of training methods so you continue progressing which helps to keep you motivated! If you have been thinking about beginning Personal Training you have already taken the first step toward your fitness journey! The next step is for you to send me a message so we can get you booked in for your first Personal Training session. I’ll motivate you, hold you accountable, work you hard, and we will kick some goals together! Come and see me at Club Lime Toormina or send me a message on 0439 079 664 and let’s start you on your very own fitness journey!

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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 273 747.

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SKIN

C A NC ER CLI NI C

Coffs Coast Skin Cancer Clinic aims to provide evidence-based skin care and will guide you through all treatment options available.

ell us about the history of Coffs Coast Skin Cancer Clinic… Dr Giovanni Urbani, wife and young family were looking for an adventure. An opportunity presented itself in May 2018 to relocate from the west to the east coast to take over Coffs Coast Skin Cancer Clinic. CCSCC was an established skin cancer clinic with a history of delivering a high level of skin cancer care. The team has changed, the clinic is perked 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. Who makes up your team and what roles do they play? We are a tight, committed team of doctors and nurses supported by friendly and efficient reception staff. We have three doctors. Dr Giovanni Urbani (principal), Dr Luke Bookallil (very experienced and has been at this clinic for over four years) and we are excited to have on board Dr Dorothea Eburn. Jodeen is our registered nurse and heads up the practice management and administration team. Elvy RN is a local girl who commenced her nursing career in the operating theatres of Sydney. She, along with Andrew (often mistaken for Super Man!) provides valuable surgical assistance to our doctors during skin cancer

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procedures and also provides post-operative wound care, suture removal and photodynamic therapy. Bec EN is our newest nurse who we’re very happy to have join us. Selina and Shenae ensure the day-to-day smooth running of CCSCC. Together with Rachel they are the first people you meet. These lovely ladies answer your phone queries and schedule appointments. What services do you offer? Comprehensive skin examinations - full body and spot checks. Biopsy done under local anaesthetic may be required if a suspect lesion is identified during examination, this is then sent for histology. This is the gold standard used to identify or exclude a malignancy. The result usually becomes available in less than a week. Further management is then defined by the type of lesion, its size, location on the body and whether it’s an aggressive subtype or not. Treatment options may include cryotherapy as a spot treatment for premalignant lesions in lower risk areas, to field treatments of premalignant lesions with topical creams and Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT). Surgical treatment may be required for thicker lesions, or lesions for which topical treatments may not give an acceptable cure rate. This may vary from simple elliptical excisions to complex flaps and skin grafts. Occasionally referral to a tertiary institute is required for advanced skin cancers.

Additionally to this, cosmetic procedures may be offered for benign lesions such as intradermal naevi and seborrheic keratosis to name a few. Tell us about the importance of booking in for a regular skin check. Two out of three Australians will develop some sort of skin cancer during their lifetime. Most skin cancers are curable if caught early by an experienced and qualified GP. It is important to regularly check your own skin, but also give yourself peace of mind with a full skin check appointment. How has the technology changed over the years? The primary tool of examination is a dermatoscope which is a handheld magnification device that is used to assess the pigment structure of the individual cells. This requires in-depth knowledge of skin anatomy and features of benign and malignant lesions upon magnification. What makes your business stand out? In the region, both Dr Giovanni Urbani and Dr Luke Bookallil are the only Fellows of The Skin Cancer College Australasia. Fellowship is the highest achievable level of primary skin cancer education and as such are recognised as leaders in skin cancer medicine in general practice. They attend national conferences and remain up to date with the latest advancements and techniques. How can we get in touch? Give us a call on 6652 2277 or send an email to info@coffsskincancer.com.au No referral required.

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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TROY RO B I NS O N

Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation is a local not-for-profit community organisation that all started with their Goori Learning Centres; a er school education support, tutoring and mentoring for Aboriginal students, and have now expanded into many other programs. We spoke to Troy Robinson about the importance of this initiative.

ey Troy, can you tell us about Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation and the programs you run? We have a few programs that we run in schools as well as in the community. Our Goori Learning Centres are our afterschool programs, at 3 locations around the Coffs region (Boambee East Community

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Our GLC’s are what got us started. Clark (my boss) and his wife Kamla wanted to make a difference for our youth, to have a support service in place for them. They volunteered their time, this led to more wanting to be involved (including myself), then with hard work and dedication led to the forming of BMNAC for local kids and Community, which has been running for over 10 years now, which is super rewarding for all involved. Two of BMNAC’s Two of main in-school programs BMNAC’s main are at Coffs Harbour in-school programs and Narranga Public are at Coffs Harbour School, where our staff and Narranga Public members run successful School, where our educational and cultural Centre, Yarrawarra staff members run activities. Cultural Centre and successful We also have our Wongala Estate Coffs), educational and Language Classes in providing our Goori kids Preschools, Schools cultural activities. with tutorial support as well as Community as well as catching our gatherings, roughly kids up on assignments amounting to 10-14 Language classes a week. and assessments etc. Once they have spent Kulai Preschool is now a Bilingual School, with allocated time with our tutors (Community Staff and Students being heavily involved in volunteer members) we run culture activities, our classes. such as fire making or dance workshops.

We do 3 community language classes where we encourage the community to come along and learn language. We work closely with youth organisations providing cultural activities such as dance, fire making, coolamon cutting workshops, or just walking country (tour) and sharing dreaming stories. We also connect with neighboring areas such as Nambucca, Bowraville and Macksville in two programs that work hand in hand together. Nyanggan Giirrwaa (Solid Mob) looking at staying active and healthy through culture, and Maaning Barrmarrany Duguula (Bringing Families Together) Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program, which provide amazing experiences with taking students on country as well as work in/with the community. A healing festival will be organised this year for the Nambucca Valley to bring Mob together, we can’t wait. We work closely with Wajaana Yaam (Country mine), in providing an amazing standup paddle boarding cultural experience which is truly an unforgettable experience. Giingan (Peaceful) Tours – We run our tours every second Saturday of the month and provide dance performances connecting to country, sung in Gumbaynggirr Language, bushtucker, catering, walks, dreaming stories that have been passed down since time and memorial and a friendly smiling face. Café Nyanggan Gapi (Strong Coffee) and catering service – We provide a delicious catering service for the community to book that helps with meetings or conferences, big or small events, as well as tours and on country events. We have two cafés – a coffee trailer on our work site in Bray St, and our actual Café set up at Sealy Lookout, running on the weekends and school holidays, which provides strong and hearty coffee but also lovely bushtucker muffins and cakes provided from our amazing catering team. How important is it to you to give back to

your community? employment after their I feel the kids take Giving back is so schooling. A range of a lot away from important for our experiences such as our programs, to be community, especially tour guides for many culturally grounded is our Youth. The way I see of our tours, language so important to our it, get a good education, teachers, mentors or Aboriginal youth, to feel the best you can get, find tutors, café barista a sense of belonging your passion, then go out and catering hand, speaks volumes for into the real world, with accounting and general young people and their your identity and culture administration duties growth. embedded into you. and responsibilities as Make a living for well as provide further yourself and be the best study options. you can be. What have been a couple of success Then come back to your community after stories that have come out of the all that you’ve done and become someone programs? that sends a positive ripple effect into the I think every day is a success story with our community; become something to aspire to work. Sometimes I have to pinch myself. I can’t for our younger generation. Seeing positive believe that I get to experience this amazing role models and leaders only gives a positive opportunity to change people’s lives, give them outcome. strength and instill in them respect, resilience Tell us a bit about the kids who take and empowerment. part in some of the programs, and what Culture is being shared, Gumbaynggirr do you think they take away from the language is being revitalised and our experience? communities are coming together, that’s all The kids are amazing. I feel the kids take a we’ve encouraged and supported. lot away from our programs, to be culturally As an organisation the most rewarding part grounded is so important to our Aboriginal would be seeing our youth complete their youth, to feel a sense of belonging speaks education, come through our employment volumes for young people and their growth. option, and be proud of their culture, talk their We also create employment options language and have protocols instilled in them through the education period for our youth, when walking in western society. to build confidence and experience for future Thanks Troy. COFFS COAST

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Kristy Hodges Love2Live Sawtell born and bred, Kristy Hodges has a passion for life and her community and brings this zest for life to clients everyday. Inspired by her love of life and a connection to community grass roots initiatives, Kristy has created Love2Live, a client support service that is based on connection and life experiences that supports clients and their families to live their best life. Kristy’s mission for Love2Live is to work with clients and families to build quality relationships and connections that build enriched and meaningful lives. Kristy believes that it is essential to deliver care with professionalism, respect, dignity, and compassion, whilst also providing reliable and high-quality service. Positive and open communication is a must for Kristy as well as focusing on

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a person-centred approach. By genuinely listening to clients and their families, Kristy can support a positive journey towards achieving small daily triumphs and big life dreams and goals. Kristy has all necessary qualifications and workers checks and has over 10 years experience working within Disability and Community services. As an essential worker Kristy is also offering support during Covid Lockdown and is fully Covid Safety Trained.

Welcome D E N TA L

Dr Sharon Marinucci on why she loves Welcome Dental and Urunga

elcome Dental just celebrated its first birthday on 10th August. It has been an amazing first year and we are so grateful to have received such unbelievable support from both the local community and further afield with patients regularly coming from South West Rocks and Maclean. Our new patient visits are up 6 fold from when the business was purchased last year. In that time, our team has grown from 10 to 22 including clinicians and support staff and is able to provide the community with a full range of dental services. It really is lovely to have so many familiar faces around us – both staff and patients. We are exceptionally lucky to be in Urunga, especially in these COVID times to have a big airy space with lots of windows and natural light, and even a front deck overlooking the garden where people can sit and enjoy the day while waiting for their appointment. The surgery is a bright, cheerful, place. Our walls are covered with beautiful artworks, mostly by local artists and people sometimes

We’ll turn that frown upside down.

I think one of the

come in just to look Our team here like to reasons many around. frequent some of the people don’t mind I think one of the reasons great places to eat, like coming so far to see us many people don’t mind Embers Italian restaurant is because Urunga coming so far to see us is and Pomegranate Café on itself is a wonderful because Urunga itself is the main street and the place. Everyone knows such a wonderful place. Liberty Providore up in the about its beautiful Everyone knows about old highway as a start. We beaches and its beautiful beaches and also love Lindsays Oysters boardwalk but it has boardwalk but it has lots of and Fresh Seafood which lots of other assets. other assets. not only sells fish and great The community run Art local oysters, but what my Space is always worth a look and especially at husband is sure are the best shuckers in the the moment as it is home to the Urunga Small world. I’m told they are hand made by a guy in Sculpture prize which is currently showing. This Mackay and are a beautiful and inexpensive gift is a $5000 prize and as such has attracted great for anyone who likes oysters. And the Urunga submissions from around the country. butcher is great value for great produce!

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.

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 COFFS COAST

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H A P P Y

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D A Y B I R T H

WE HAD A CHAT WITH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CHRIS WORBOYS TO TELL US ABOUT HOW IT ALL BEGAN…

t’s

n 21st July 1991 I started Key Employment. In those days it was Key Personnel and we worked out of a hovel behind the original Pizza Hut. The first person I hired was Rhonda Mair who is now a director on the board of Key Employment. We had 2 computers (which I “borrowed”) using an operating system called DOS and no one had ever heard of a user-friendly database for client records. We were funded to find work for 18 people who were working at the then “sheltered workshop”. We moved from the hovel to a small but much better office with 5 staff in Coffs and 1.5 in Grafton. I changed our name to Key Employment. I was a consultant, clerk, bookkeeper and pay person. Fortunately, 78 COFFS COAST

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my wife Michelle, who worked at the Coffs RSL Jodi, my managing the biggest daughter, private payroll in the was 8 and used to region with over 400 come to work with weekly pays, did the pays me and do some for Key at night. filing. She is now Jodi, my daughter, was walks into the office as if Key Employment’s 8 and used to come to nothing had happened. CEO. work with me and do Took a bit of a holiday some filing. She is now thanks for the bus fare. Key Employment’s CEO. A client with neurodiversity started with There have been some funny and a bus company cleaning the outside of interesting moments over the years. Rhonda buses with high pressure hoses. The boss worked hard to get a young chap a job as a was impressed and asked him to clean his roustabout on a remote outback property. brand-new Mercedes inside and out. Yep… His parents reluctantly agreed. She put him on the bus, but he didn’t get off. No sign of him for 3 days. Police, parents, crisis. Lad

took to it with the hoses - inside and out. Most of our support was given on the

job and with only 4 consultants between the Coffs and Grafton offices I did my fair share of onsite support. I picked lettuce and scrubbed concrete. Life was so much simpler then. Some of our first clients are still with us. Some in the same jobs for over 25 years and others advancing their skills into great careers. Sad to say many of these people were not given much support from those close to them as they were expected to never find a job. It’s a matter of great pride for me that arguments I had with parents and teachers about their potential have been proven right. There have been too many highlights to

We have been a part of a huge cultural shift in Australia over these 30 years as people have started to understand the talents, skills and potential of people with disability.

list here. Watching young people with no confidence and struggling at school get a good job, make new friends and achieve their best possible role in the community certainly rates at the top. Also watching the development of my team to become the absolute gold standard for quality and care for our participants. Another thrill for me was the historical moment the Gillard Government introduced the NDIS. Now we are delivering services under this fantastic initiative and have achieved national

recognition as an accredited provider. We have over 30 NDIS support staff and we are changing lives every day. We have been a part of a huge cultural shift in Australia over these 30 years as people have started to understand the talents, skills and potential of people with disability. I like to think we were part of this shift and helped influence the change. Finally, as I look back on the past 30 years, I am proud of what I started, grateful for all the support and optimistic about the future. The future of Key Employment is in the hands of my daughter Jodi and her team and there is no reason she won’t be talking about Key’s achievements in another 30 years. COFFS COAST

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it t IN YOUR WORKPLACE TODAY

G 30 YEARS

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Join Key Employment’s

100 CLUB!

id you know only 48% of working-age (15-64) people with disability are employed, compared with 80% without disability. This means there is a huge number of potential employees being excluded from the current labour market. We think we can do better than this on the Mid North Coast and we are setting the local business community a challenge to diversify their workplace and employ a person with disability today. Join some of our region’s leading businesses and become a part of Key Employment’s 100 club – a community initiative designed to increase employment and inclusion of people with disabilities on the Mid North Coast. Kicking off on 1st September 2021 we are aiming for 100 businesses to commit to hiring a person with disability to help us create a more inclusive community.

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Kicking off on 1st We know that a truly We urge all local September 2021 diverse workforce businesses to focus on we are aiming for 100 drives growth, ability and help us create innovation, brand a more diverse and socially businesses to commit awareness and inclusive community. to hiring a person with ultimately profitability. Employ a Key Employment disability to help us It also makes good client today and become create a more inclusive business sense; a part of the #achieve community. research shows that anything movement. workers with disability To sign up to the have fewer workplace challenge or for more injuries, better attendance records and show information contact Todd Kadwell on (02) greater loyalty and productivity than other 6691 9999 or workers. email jobs@keyemployment.com.au

Hire staff from Key Employment & you may be eligible for a

Wage Subsidy Have an NDIS Plan ? Attending High School ? Looking to boost your employability skills or socialise more in your community ? If yes, Join STRIKE today.

$5540 for a minimum of * 8hrs per week

$10000 for over 50’s 20hrs per week*

Supports include: Employability skills Social Excursions Community Engagement Transport training Personal Development Work Experience

$25000 for a F/T apprentice* over 4 years

$1000 up front work experience

Our support is run by engaging and caring staff at our exciting youth specific facilities in conjunction with your school.

15hrs a week *

Plus more ! * Conditions apply

Contact - Charlotte ( NDIS Coordinator )

Contact - Todd ( EA Manager )

66919999

NDIS@keyemployment.com.au

jobs@keyemployment.com.au

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30 YEARS IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY G 30 YEARS

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On behalf of the Key Employment Board of Management, CEO, Staff, clients and Key friends we would like to congratulate and thank Key Employment Founder and Executive Director Chris Worboys for his life time of passion, hard work and inspiration focused on improving the rights of people with disability. Chris has directly impacted thousands of lives and made an incredible difference in the disability industry. He has spent the last 3 decades building a company on the values of family with loyalty, respect, humour and love. We could not be prouder of our fearless leader and only hope we can continue his legacy with as much dedication and passion into the next 30 years.

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L AU R E N

When it comes to choosing "the one" for a style cut, trim, balayage, bouncy blow-dry, or a complete makeover picking the right hair salon is a big deal.

forward looks and they’ve been donned as one ucked away in the heart of Jetty Strip, Living Doll is the boutique of the best salons in the Mid North Coast mostly salon that is heaving with local due to the stellar talent they have colouring and talent. With a standout team of cutting on the regular. On one side you’ve got premier stylists, when you step Lauren Vestey, the other Chloe Sozou and now through their door, understand the return of one of their best Premier Stylists you are going to be well looked after. Tiarnah Ward. Living Doll is the Coffs Harbour holy grail Nailing every hair trend of hair salons. Being is what Tia does best. an environmentally Specialist in colouring, she I believe in sustainable salon goes a step above the rest personalising each working with Sustainable creating a personalised client’s experience with salon network to be colour based on your a complimentary 95% recyclable. The complexion and style. “I consultation and taking salon colour specialists believe in personalising use ammonia-free them on a journey to each client’s experience hair colour L’Oreal create the perfect look with a complimentary and Australian owned consultation and taking and help reach their styling and sulphate-free them on a journey to ultimate hair goals. products Eleven, another create the perfect look for big tick so you can them and help reach their indulge in a makeover without worrying about ultimate hair goals”, says Premier Stylist Tia. any harsh chemicals. Tia has been working at a renowned salon in Living Doll Premier Stylists has been a hair Brisbane City, where she has cultivated a great institution for over a decade now. The team following, with her amazing skills. You just have here is renowned for nailing natural yet fashionto have one look at her Instagram to know she

is a stand out talent. (#coffs_harbour_best_ blondes) Her time away has allowed her to learn new colour hair techniques, working with world class brands such as L’Oreal, Matrix, Kerastase, Gold Fever & Mr Smith to enhance her skills. Recently you would have seen her work in Vogue Australia. Tia’s unbelievable styling abilities were showcased on such a beautiful bride Natasha Chipman #natashaschweitzer and her stunning bridesmaids. What an opportunity to work with such amazing teams of creative people when living in Brisbane. How lucky are we (Coffs Harbour) to get such a talent back. Tia has a wonderful clientele from the past, returning to her already and she would love to welcome all past clients and new to come and see her at Living Doll. With these current times, Living Doll always has the client’s safety as their number one priority. Everything is in place to keep everyone safe and looking their best. Tia works by appointment Tuesday and Wednesdays late nights to Saturday. Please give the salon a call on (02) 6699 2122 to secure yourself an appointment today. COFFS COAST

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E D U C AT I O N

UPDATE with NICK JOHNSTONE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

Tackling the tough issue of Domestic Violence Australia has an intimate partner violence problem. The pattern is clear: most offenders of domestic violence are men and most victims are women, with one in three women reporting having experienced physical or sexual violence from the age of 15. Yet, arguably, the most vulnerable group is children. One in six women and one in nine men have reported to have experienced physical and/or sexual abuse before the age of 15. That equates to nearly 2.5 million Australians who are not yet consenting adults experiencing direct abuse. Further, children can experience family violence as both a victim of the violence, or as a witness to it, and more than two thirds of mothers who experienced violence reported that their children had been witness to it. These statistics are alarming, and as a community, we need to take action to reduce this epidemic, quickly. Change will come from individuals altering their attitudes and actions, coming from both our families, and organisations such as schools, community groups and government, to educate, support and triage. There are a number of strategies we as a society can implement to address this alarming issue. Education is the key. Former SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon stated that “There is one universal truth, applicable to all countries, cultures and communities: violence… is never acceptable, never excusable, never tolerable.” All parents and formally trained educators need to be 84 COFFS COAST

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clear with our children that violence is never the answer. We also need to reframe masculinity at schools and in our homes. Traits traditionally viewed as masculine in Western society include strength, courage, independence, leadership, and assertiveness. We need to reset this definition for our boys and girls with the addition of the importance of mutual respect. Buddha noted that “mutual respect and mutual listening are the foundations of harmony within the family”. Silence is not productive. Domestic abuse thrives in secrecy. Creating an environment where individuals feel safe to disclose their experience without stigma is essential. We need to create an authorising environment that gives people courage to step into places that aren’t easy. Children and women need to feel supported in their decision making, and educated about options and pathways for support. Behaviour is changeable but intervention is required. Men’s behaviour change programs are predominantly groupbased programs and services that focus on working with perpetrators to recognise their violent behaviour and develop strategies to stop them from reoffending. These programs aim to ensure perpetrators acquire new skills to help them to develop respectful and noncoercive, and non-abusive relationships with their partners, children and family members. Linking to partner services is essential. There are a host of services that can support children, young people, women and men,

including: Kids Helpline - kidshelpline.com.au/ Warrina Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services - warrina.org.au/ 1800 Respect - 1800respect.org.au/ Men’s Referral Service - ntv.org.au/gethelp/ Men’s Line Australia - mensline.org.au Many schools also have counselling services that can support these links. Abraham Lincoln is credited with saying “No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child.” And the same can be said for recognising this support can extend to anyone in our community who is in need. I am asking our society to tackle this tough issue; we can model respect, take time to listen to individual stories, and to validate them. We must not interrogate the victim, but instead be respectful and value them. Leadership can come from each of us, so long as it is driven from a place of mutual respect, inclusivity, integrity, and a generosity of spirit. Sources: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2017. Personal Safety Survey, Australia, 2016, ABS cat. no. 906.0. Canberra: ABS. https://anglican.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ NAFVP-Top-Line-Results-Report-NCLS-Research.pdf http://www.crimeprevention.nsw. gov.au/domesticviolence/Pages/ MiniStandardsforMen'sBehaviour/Minimum_Standards_ for_Men's_Behahviour.aspx https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/8c557420-dd9143e5-b4ce-47b3fdf6ec9d/summary-fig1.png.aspx

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with JASON BURLEY FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

H OW TO C H O OS E A

RESIDENTIAL

AGED CARE S E R V I C E

When it comes time for a move into residential care, choosing the right service can be a difficult, but important, decision. WHILE CHOOSING CAREFULLY IS THE KEY TO A GOOD EXPERIENCE, MANY PEOPLE STRUGGLE TO KNOW WHERE TO START.

our decision will include many factors, but start by making the same sort of decisions that you would for any property decision. This includes: 1. Choose the location 2. Think about what feels like home and what sort of amenities you want access to 3. Check if the price is affordable 4. Get advice on how to structure finances to pay. Choose the location Location is always the first decision. This might be based on easy access to services or who you want to be close to. For example, do you want to stay in the same area so you can continue with the same doctor, hairdresser, church group and friends. Or would you prefer to move closer to family so they can visit more often. What feels like home Some services are newer, some are older.

The style of building and available services can also vary. Think about what makes you comfortable. Do you need a home that has great gardens and lots of open space or a newer facility with larger rooms and more modern features. Think about what makes you happiest. Remember this will be your new home, so when you take a tour, watch how staff and residents interact with each other. Ask about additional lifestyle services and choices you might have about things like entertainment programs and meals. Check affordability Room prices can range up to $2 million. You will need to make a choice that fits your price range – and this might need compromises. If the price looks high, you might choose to pay a daily fee to “rent” the room instead. You don’t have to hand over a large lump sum but this might make good financial sense. Get financial advice

Financial advice from an Accredited Aged Care Professional™ can help you to decide what you can afford and show you some tricks to make what seems unaffordable more affordable. We have the expertise to help you make an informed decision. As an Accredited Aged Care Professional™ I have helped many clients to make this choice. I help to find a choice that is affordable, as well as one that works best for the family and protects the value of the estate. Everyone’s circumstances are different, so it is important to speak to someone like myself who is a licenced financial adviser. I am also an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232. Giving yourself time by starting your research early can reduce stress levels, and for an older person, can ensure their voice is heard more clearly. Call me on 0431 414 799 to discuss how I can help you or a loved one

P 0431 414 799 E jason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.au W www.burleyagedcareadvice.com.au 86 COFFS COAST

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LMA Changes Lives Rod Macpherson, GM, Affirmations Publishing House

Daniel McCosker, Warehouse Manager Affirmations, Olivia Jamison, LMA, Rod Macpherson, GM Affirmations

It’s been said that LMA’s leadership and management training programs actually change lives. Is that an overstatement? We asked Rod Macpherson, GM at Affirmations how LMA had affected his life and business. How long is your association with LMA? I discovered LMA in 2005 when I was the HR executive at BCU. We put many managers through LMA programs. I was impressed with the results, so impressed, in fact, that I later became an LMA facilitator. When did you introduce LMA to the Affirmations business? I joined Affirmations almost 5 years ago. We were in the process of refreshing and restructuring the company. It was obvious that LMA programs could help fast track that process and develop our management team. Did you see results from your team? Yes, the changes were noticeable. For example,

our warehouse manager had an amazing outcome. By the second module he told me LMA was the best thing he’d ever done. He discovered he was worrying about things he needn’t worry about. Daniel is now running our standalone distribution centre. Everyone that completes a LMA program takes something positive away. What do you think is the best thing about LMA? Life’s basically a perception based on what you believe. LMA helps you re-evaluate your beliefs and ask if they are really serving you. It’s amazing the difference a small shift in your perception can make – and that’s what makes LMA programs so effective. It’s life changing.

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 COFFS COAST

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JOB ON THE

L I T T L E

GREEN GARDENER

ell us about yourselves? Bianca: We’re both born and bred locals that have been together since year 11 and are now also business partners. We took a risk and put together all of our savings and bought this franchise when we were just 21 years of age. We were overwhelmed in the best way possible at how fast and successful the business would be. We hired our first employee one year in and it was quite a surreal feeling for both of us. We’re very grateful to our loyal clients and anyone that has supported us and have got us this far. We can’t wait to grow the business even more and see what the future holds. Tell us about a typical day for you on the job? Drew: A typical day for me begins at 5am. I 88 COFFS COAST

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Bianca and Drew bought their gardening business Little Green Gardener at just 21 years of age and through hard work and dedication have turned it into a thriving little business.

mixed bag. I do all of the admin side for Little Green Gardener as well as working a full-time managing position at Villa Vivante. I used to go out with Drew to jobs in We hired our our first year of business first employee and come home covered one year in and it was start by charging all my head to toe in dirt and quite a surreal feeling batteries for the day grass clippings but now for both of us. We’re and like to have left by that we have a full-time 7am to start the first very grateful to our trainee, I got benched job. Our trainee Jacob loyal clients and from the fun stuff. I’m and I will get stuck into anyone that has now the behind the it and move around supported us and scenes gal that remains to jobs all day. I also have got us this far. clean and dirt-free while answer any calls and typing up and sending book in quotes or jobs. out all the invoices/quotes, correspondence I like to do this so I can keep the same point with our marketing team, email replies and of contact from the phone call to meeting Facebook uploads. the client in person for the quote or job. I How did you get into the gardening also manage Villa Vivante’s gardens every afternoon so I will finish the day with a couple business? Drew: I’ve always had a passion for hours there to keep the grounds immaculate. horticulture, so it was only natural that I did I’ll then get everything organised for the next day by diarising out my day and grouping jobs a gardening traineeship. I did this with the holiday parks and resorts at age 17. I did this by area and preparing the required tools. Bianca: A typical day for me is a bit of a for 4 years and it is where I learnt most of my

I remember thinking how amazing it would be to be my own boss, which is now my reality. It’s been a lot of hard work but it’s been the best decision we’ve ever made and we’ve never looked back.

skills and fell in love with the gardening trade. How long have you been in the business of gardening? Drew: 6 years in total. I did 4 years with the holiday parks and currently 2 years as Little Green Gardener. When did you make the decision to start your own business? Drew: Bianca and I were having my lunch break together at my previous job and she mentioned this crazy idea. I remember thinking how amazing it would be to be my own boss, which is now my reality. It’s been a lot of hard work but it’s been the best decision we’ve ever made and we’ve never looked back. What would you say is the most rewarding part of the job? Drew: Definitely seeing clients’ faces when they see the end result and knowing I’ve brought their vision to life is something quite special. Least favourite? Drew: The paperwork but Bianca’s lucky

enough to do all of that now! From hedging to lawns, what’s the favourite tool in your arsenal? Drew: Not so much a tool but our Stihl backpack battery is a beauty. This thing lasts hours and holds no weight in your arms when hedging or whipper snipping so it’s definitely a favourite. If you weren’t in the gardening game what do you think you would be doing? Drew: Well during school I was in the Air Force Cadets and if I continued I would have liked to go to the Australian Defence Force Academy to then become a pilot in the Australian Air Force. One extreme to the other I know! What makes you different from other gardening businesses? Drew: We are completely battery-based and powered by Stihl so we are 80% quieter and greener. Being battery-based also makes the tools a lot lighter, which is great for me. In most situations many garden tools these days are high pitched with an annoying scream. Little Green Gardener guarantees an 80% noiseless workplace simply because of our

eco-friendly quiet approach to gardening. Be a good neighbour and use Little Green Gardener and enjoy our 80% noiseless guarantee. What do you specialise in? Bianca: We mainly specialise in garden makeovers and designs but offer all aspects of gardening and maintenance. Do you have any qualifications? Drew: Yes, I have certificates in Horticulture and holiday parks and resorts. What is a useful gardening recommendation you can give? Drew: Defiantly utilising mulch in your garden! It keeps soil moist, which reduces water wastage while it also keeps weeds down and prevents weed seed germination. It also adds nutrients to the soil and increases microbial activity, which your plants will love. What does the future look like for Little Green Gardener? Drew: Our plans are to finish training up our eager trainee and get him going in another ute and trailer so we can meet high consumer demands and continue servicing the Coffs Coast. How do people get in touch? 0467 544 869 coffsharbour@littlegreengardener.com.au Little Green Gardener, Coffs Harbour littlegreengardener.com.au COFFS COAST

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STAT E O F

PLAY with

COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

As I write this, Coffs Harbour is in a lockdown due to the evolving COVID-19 situation in regional NSW. Lockdowns have become an unfortunate but necessary part of our lives since the start of the pandemic a year and a half ago.

ompared to decades ago, record number of phone calls. Australians increasingly live with Access to mental health services is available fewer people. The number of for those who need it. Beyond Blue (beyondblue. single-person or couple-only org.au) offers many services including an online households has risen while the chat service. They cater to a wide audience and number of couples with a dependant in the have a regular podcast as well. household has fallen. So too has the number of Children and young people can call the Kids “group households”. Helpline on 1800 55 1800 A particular focus of the or access the website at Technology can lockdown rules is to limit kidshelpline.com.au for also help us household-to-household an online chat and email combat loneliness and transmission of the virus, counselling. mental health issues. and thus many of the rules Technology can also allow a far greater level of help us combat loneliness Growing up in the days freedom among people and mental health issues. of rotary phones, I can from the same household. Growing up in the days remember thinking This has highlighted of rotary phones, I can that one day we will some of the biggest remember thinking that have video phones. challenges of the lockdown one day we will have video - loneliness and mental phones. Not only do we health. Despite living in the most connected now have video phones, but also access to free time in human history, many people are feeling platforms like Zoom and FaceTime. increasingly isolated. Lifeline, for one, has had a Not only are they great business tools, but

during the lockdown I’ve found myself catching up more regularly with friends in other cities and overseas because it’s a great excuse to get everyone together regardless of where they are. As the NSW Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright said in a recent interview, the COVID-19 lockdowns are “probably the most sustained and serious stress that many of us are going to face in our lifetimes”. Dr Wright also suggests daily exercise and monitoring diet, sleep and alcohol intake. If you’re struggling with your mental health, please reach out to family, friends, or seek help from the many services that are on offer. If you’re worried about someone else’s mental health, reach out and make sure they’re okay. Where to get help: Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 beyondblue.org.au Lifeline 13 11 14 lifeline.org.au Gidget Foundation 1300 851 758 gidgetfoundation.org.au NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 COFFS COAST

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HARRY CAMPBELL

Harry Campbell is an 11 year old who has been swimming competitively for a couple of seasons now and is showing some serious potential in the pool!

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i Harry. You tend to spend more time in water than on land and are a familiar face here at the pools, but for those that don’t know you, please introduce

yourself. Hi, I’m Harry. I’m 11 years old and I love to swim. I also play soccer, love reading, cooking, playing guitar and hanging out with my family and friends. I’m in year 5 at Bishop Druitt College and I have 2 younger sisters. You started swimming at 3 months and moved into competition at age 8. What did you love about this and what got you hooked? I actually didn’t always love swimming; my Mum had to drag me along for a long while and I quit for a while when I was 7, but what got me hooked was competing. I love racing! From my first school carnival to now, all the training is worth it when I get to race. At just 11 years old, you’ve been competing for 2 full seasons and collected a few medals along the way. Tell us about some of your recent achievements and what you’re most proud of with your accomplishments? This past season was my first time competing

at the bigger meets and which also provide me This past season it was great to see how with land fitness. was my first I could go on the bigger I have to get up early time competing at “stage”. This past season, in the mornings for the bigger meets and I won a medal at every training, so I go to bed it was great to see meet I went to, which I pretty early most nights, how I could go on the was super happy with. and I try to eat a lot of bigger stage. My biggest good foods to fuel my achievements so far are training. the Queensland Sprint I am also starting to Championships (1st introduce some yoga, 50m freestyle and 3rd 50m butterfly), the NSW stretching and activation exercises into my Country Championships (1st 50m and 100m training. freestyle, 1st 50m butterfly and 2nd 100m Who is your inspiration in the sporting butterfly), NSW Junior State Age Championships world? (3rd 50m butterfly), Combined Independent I like to watch Kyle Chalmers race and I also School (CIS) Swimming Championships (1st 50m admire Susie O’Neill as butterfly is my favourite freestyle and 1st 50m butterfly) and Primary stroke. I am also very inspired by Maddy Gough Schools Sports Association (PSSA) Swimming and Maddie McTernan who are both from Coffs Championships (3rd 50m butterfly). and swimming at the Tokyo Olympics. And I I also qualified for the School Sports Australia love Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi on the National Swimming Championships, but they football field. have been cancelled due to COVID. What goals are you working towards or What type of training and routine do you currently focusing on for the near future? follow to develop and get better at your We are in the “off-season” at the moment, sport? so I am currently focusing on my training and I currently do 4 pool sessions per week and completing my sessions, as well as making it to 2 strength and conditioning sessions specific to the finals in soccer. The long-course season starts my swim training; these sessions include speed in October and I am hoping to compete at more and endurance sessions and working on my of the bigger meets and achieve PBs. technique in the pool. I also do 3 soccer sessions, Thanks Harry. COFFS COAST

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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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U LT I M AT E

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RegLatter E L EC T R I C A L

Reg Latter Electrical have been around since 1979, so for over 40 years and they are truly local leaders in electrical services that cover Domestic, Commercial and Industrial plus provide energy services. We sat down with Renee Pike to find out more…

LE has been a firm part of the Coffs Coast for so long now, what do you think makes RLE stand out and still be here after so long? What sets us apart is that we are committed to maintaining a high standard in all jobs electrical and we do offer a personalised service and make sure all our clients are satisfied. What services do RLE provide? Many - we are a Level 1 and Level 2 Service Provider in the essential energy area. Our team have many years of experience establishing overhead and underground mains cabling, as well as sub-transmission network assets. We provide a variety of services, including pad-mounted substation construction and upgrades, polemounted substation construction and upgrades, power pole replacements, service pole installations and high voltage

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overhead and underground power line construction. This also covers low voltage overhead and underground reticulations, upgrades and line extensions, street lighting and traffic control. Tell us about your staff. To meet the safety requirements of our contractual work, we employ highly qualified staff. RLE Energy are committed to maintaining site safety and meeting construction or servicing deadlines. We work directly with our clients on a domestic and commercial level too. That includes anything from electrical installations and repairs, hot water repairs and working on sites. This can include testing and tagging appliances, thermal imaging and emergency and exit light testing and repairs. RLE is committed to maintaining the highest quality of workmanship and site safety.

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RENTAL UPDATE

with CHRISTINE RENGGER FROM TMP RENTALS

What a time we are living in. The changes and pivots happening in all industries are truly incredible (and can be daunting) and property management is no different. I think everyone at this point is feeling exhausted with Covid-19 and all that it is putting us through.

ocally, the market has shifted right now – people are feeling hesitant due to the ongoing pandemic and restrictions and with the Greater Sydney lockdown not looking like ending anytime soon, so people aren’t taking any risks. We are showing properties but mainly to locals and of course we are being fairly strict with who we are showing properties to who are out of the area. This month has seen me pick up the pass while working as a trainer with the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales. Training provides me with such joy and inspiration particularly during these crazy times. The training world of Zoom is

We are showing properties but mainly to locals and of course we are being fairly strict with who we are showing properties to who are out of the area.

fantastic and lends itself well to the challenges Covid-19 has presented within Training. Many people might not know, the REINSW is the leading industry body and checking if your Property Manager (or real estate agent in general) is a member is an excellent way to indicate an agent’s professionalism and knowledge. Members are consulted about industry changes and events on a regular basis. During the last 12-18 months, REINSW has been fantastic with updates around Covid-19 and ensuring agents are fully equipped for the requirements

surrounding business. What I love about training is realising the passion, talent and quality of agents we have here in NSW. It’s really inspiring to see how many people are out there and want a career in our industry and I feel strongly about ensuring our recruits are trained properly and instilling confidence and resilience in them to deal with the challenges that Property Management throws at them. Whenever you’re dealing with a member of the Real Estate Industry – make sure they’re a member of the REINSW. COFFS COAST

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Rhys Rigby S A L E S M A N A G E R AT

SOLAHART COFFS COAST

Starting in 1953, Solahart Coffs Coast’s aim was to offer homeowners a range of top quality products and provide them with friendly and reliable service. They look a er you through all stages of your product’s life.

hat is the history behind Solahart Coffs Coast? There have been Solahart dealers in Coffs Harbour for decades, and as of June there are new owners of the dealership. We’re back in town now based at Unit 22-24 Marcia St, Coffs Harbour – next door to Tradelink. Will and Lachlan are the new owners who have been part of the Solahart Dealer network since 2012 and have a dealership in Tamworth. Like most country dwellers we aspire to move closer to the salt air and the warmer climate. We plan on bringing the country hospitality over with us and providing Coffs Harbour with a local Solahart Dealer once again. Tell us about your team and their area of expertise. Lachlan has been part of the Solahart group since 2012, and has a wealth knowledge around all things solar. Will is a licenced plumber and gas fitter, and has also just completed his electrical apprenticeship so is a super tradie with a large skillset for anything plumbing and electrical. We have employed local trades who are based in the area, and our Electrician Anthony is a fully qualified CEC Solar & Battery electrician with 98 COFFS COAST

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decades of experience. What services do Solahart Coffs Coast provide? Solahart pioneered the Solar Hot Water industry back in 1953, and with over 1 million systems sold are one of the oldest and most trusted CEC Approved Solar retailers in Australia. Solahart introduced Solar Power and battery storage into the range back in 2011 and have an in-house R&D department full of engineers based in Sydney. Solahart backs every solar power product they sell with their own Australian warranty – something that no other solar retailer in the country does. This means the products we sell have been real life tested in Australian conditions and are only approved into the Solahart range after R&D is satisfied with their performance and longevity. Solahart is your only true 1 stop Solar shop for everything Solar HW, Solar PV and battery storage! Solahart Coffs Coast supply and install the full product range along with servicing of Solar Hot Water, Solar PV and battery systems. Tell us about some of the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. One of our first jobs in the Coffs Coast area was a 55kW solar system installed at

Crazy Sam’s in Woolgoolga. We have worked with the business owners to provide years of energy savings to 2 of their stores now with another installation soon to take place at their Coonabarabran store. Our flagship Silhouette panel also comes with a 25/25 Australian product and performance warranty, which makes it a part of the elite panels in the market with a 25 year product warranty. There are also some new exciting battery storage products coming to the market and the “smart home” market is something we’re excited to be a part of! With feed in tariffs reducing, solar power is about using more energy to maximise your savings. What are the stand out features or the benefits of solar? With Solahart’s solar products you are not only saving money but reducing greenhouse emissions too. Solahart’s ethos is to “reduce then produce” meaning reduce your energy consumption then produce energy to offset the rest. They aren’t one of the “cricket captain” retailers that want to sell the cheapest system, they believe in doing it right and doing it once! With enough energy in the sun in 1 hour to produce enough energy for the entire planet it just makes sense to produce your own energy!

What makes you stand out above your competitors? 1. One of the oldest and most trusted solar retailers in the country. 2. In-house engineering and R&D based in Sydney. If you build 3. Solahart warranties your house on all products giving properly, from the customers the ultimate right orientation, peace of mind. 4. The highest quality insulating properly components provided by and using energy the best manufacturers in efficient appliances, the industry. you not only reduce 5. Locally based company, running costs but with local installers, backed you can become should consider when by Solahart. more independent looking to purchase 6. A one stop shop for solar? energy wise. anything Solar, you don’t 1. Component quality need to go anywhere else. – solar shouldn’t be a How important is throw away in 5 years product, a quality solar sustainability when building a new home? panel should last 25 years. Our solar HW systems It’s incredibly important, and it is great to see are also built to the highest quality, we recently people now, when building, wanting solar as a replaced a 40 year old Solar HW heater that compulsory inclusion on their build. If you build the owner put on the house when they built 40 your house properly, from the right orientation, years ago! insulating properly and using energy efficient 2. Company History – Solahart have been around appliances, you not only reduce running costs for 68 years. It is an unfortunate reality, but but you can become more independent energy over 750 solar companies have come and gone wise. since 2012! You don’t want to become a solar What is the process when a new client orphan! walks through the door? 3. Always choose a CEC Approved solar retailer. Solahart believes in always carrying out an inThis means they have a higher quality of work home assessment for every client. This is so we and meet additional criteria above just being an can accurately price the system. It also allows us accredited installer. to inspect the property, and customise a solution Since conception what has been the most for every client. The showroom in Marcia St will important thing to you as a local trade? have products on display so customers can also Being local and being present. With our come and see the products in the flesh before business in Tamworth we understand how installation. important it is to be local and be based in the town we trade in. In the short time we have had What are the top three things that people

the business the feedback from locals about us having a shop in town again has been extremely positive. They are all relieved we’re back in town! So we plan on giving Coffs Harbour a true local Solahart dealership by employing locals and giving back to the community. What are some challenges that the industry has faced and how have you overcome these? Easily the biggest challenge with Solar Power is the dealing with the cheap inferior products. It is unfortunate that the “cricket captain” companies have turned solar into a throw away item, for a renewable product it makes no sense to throw it away after 5 years, but some of that equipment will most likely break down by then anyway. Solahart has always had a mindset of providing top quality products designed to withstand the Australian conditions. How can we get in touch? As the shop front isn’t fully complete just yet and with Covid restrictions, the best way is via phone or email. The email address is info@shcoffscoast.com.au Lachlan’s mobile: 0448 211 604 Or Rhys the Sales Manager on 0418 409 164.

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Jason and Emma de Groot are a husband and wife team dedicated to building homes, great homes. What drives them is their personal pride in their work which reflects directly on their reputation.

i Jason, JDG Constructions has had a busy year so far, can you tell us a bit about what you’ve been up to since we last checked in? The past year has been an eerie mix of challenging and rewarding for so many! With metropolitan areas enduring long bouts of lockdowns, we have seen an influx of new buyers in the Coffs market. This coupled with locals having more available funds to funnel into home improvement, driven by government initiatives, has seen an increased demand within the local building industry. On a personal note, this year we completed and moved into our new home. I was under a strict deadline as my wife Emma is pregnant with our first baby, so lucky we got in before the baby arrived! What is the history behind JDG Constructions? JDG began operating in the local market in 2010. I knew at an early age I wanted to start my own business and answer to myself. When it comes to my building projects some may say

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Riley is a Coffs boy, born and bred. He has I’m a perfectionist, but this is just my standard spent his entire working career in and around of delivery. I love what I do and it’s paramount the Coffs Harbour area, so he knows the town that my clients love coming home to their and its building industry piece of paradise that I incredibly well. He has helped bring to life. an amazing eye for detail Tell us about your This year we and is one of our lead team and their areas completed and carpenters, whenever of expertise? moved into our new Riley is on the job I know We are a core team home. I was under a the quality will be high. of 8 now, however, strict deadline as He has recently finished we are backed by a my wife Emma is his Certificate 4 in truckload of awesome pregnant with our building and construction trades and suppliers first baby, so lucky which has given him the that we couldn’t we got in before the knowledge to project function without. baby arrived! manage a few jobs for Lucas has 22 years us. experience in all facets Jack is one of our of the building industry most honest and hard workers. His skill set and he has worked on everything from large and confidence have grown incredibly over commercial construction to heritage listed full the past 12 months and his open and honest home renovations. Prior to joining the ‘JDG communication with our clients makes my life Team’, Lucas spent 8 years as site supervisor/ easier. head carpenter for a high-end Builder in Rahdii has recently started with us and is a Brighton Melbourne, building multi-million trade qualified bricklayer, needless to say this dollar homes. Needless to say he is an asset to is a huge advantage for us meaning smaller our team!

We have depth and range to our builds, so our clients have comfort and trust knowing we can deliver, regardless of their preferred style.

bricklaying jobs can be done in house quickly and efficiently, He is a natural on the tools and is just as good with a hammer as a trowel. Paul is my father and has recently also jumped on board, being also a carpenter by trade the experience he brings to the team is priceless and he is happy to help wherever is required without fuss. Emma, my wife, has worked in the business now for the last 4 years. She helps keep me grounded, realising that sometimes life is not all about work!! Having a female in the business is also a great asset, she has new ideas and perspectives that we encompass into our business model regularly. And our first-year apprentice Ben, who has a real passion for the building industry. He has nearly finished his first year and is developing quickly into a great carpenter. What is the process like when a client approaches you about a build or renovation? With every build we aim to make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. The building process needs to be underpinned

by trust, so we like to invest quality time establishing the relationship up front. Our portfolio ranges from Hampton-style, modern architecture, to traditional farm-style homes. We have depth and range to our builds, so our clients have comfort and trust knowing we can deliver, regardless of their preferred style. To begin our process, we sit down with our clients and have an honest chat about what they are trying to achieve. It’s important we understand their vision, seek clarity on the non-negotiables, gain an appreciation for any of their reservations/concerns and lastly make sure we know what their desired timeframes are. Throughout our journey together, we continue to foster a good working relationship throughout; this includes an onsite meeting early in the process, to ensure their dreams can become a reality. This early engagement allows us to help clients navigate the design process and helps to build a preliminary quote that is accurate. From here it’s then about the timeframes

and details that are normally firmed up with a preliminary agreement, which facilitates a final quote, contract and then construction begins! What part of the process do you most enjoy and why? For me it’s the physical building, there is nothing better than actually constructing something and getting positive feedback from clients when they see their vision come to life. As a business owner, the sense of accomplishment from seeing what my team has achieved also makes me immensely proud. What sorts of trends have you been seeing recently in home design? Everyone has a different dream home and design style. We’re currently receiving an influx in modern new homes, clean lines and Palm Spring styles, that are accompanied with neutral muted and coastal colour schemes. We’ve also been able to showcase our own personal style (which clients love to see) with our newly completed farmhouse, which shows a more detailed aspect to the carpentry work we love to deliver. Continued over... COFFS COAST

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You work alongside many other trades and suppliers here on the Coffs Coast and seem to have a great working relationship with many of them, why is this important to you? Being in business for a long time, and being a perfectionist, we know we need our quality standard to be reflected by who we partner with for our Trades and Suppliers, so we’re selective about who we work with. It’s important to me that we demonstrate quality in our interactions with them. Making sure we are clear on vision, timeframes and most importantly make sure they are paid on time and treated with respect. Because of our mutual bond they always do a good job and I’m proud they are part of the JDG Business. What are some common challenges you have to face as a building company? One of the largest challenges our industry is currently experiencing is supply of materials. We’ve had to evolve and learn to use more readily available materials because of this. We’re also able to leverage our experience to set realistic timeframes, ensuring we don’t cause disruption for our trades or create stress for our 102 COFFS COAST

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We just finished a major scale renovation of an older home in Sapphire Beach. There is something extra rewarding with these types of projects. It’s not just taking something old and making it new again.

clients. What advice would you give to people considering building or renovating? Building can be a stressful time, and at JDG we pride ourselves on helping our clients navigate this journey. First and foremost, you need to trust your builder - we can be a pretty good sounding board through this process - without this you will be second guessing everything along the build. Secondly you need to have an idea of want you want to achieve and be realistic on what fits within your budget. Have a list of non negotiables, but also have a list of things that are less important and that you’re happy to amend if needed along the build. Doing your research and having a plan before you reach out will also save you a lot of time and mitigate some of the stress. What can people expect from a JDG Constructions home?

Open and honest communication, a highly dedicated team and quality. I still jump on the tools when I can and I’m exceptionally proud of my work, which shows through in the final product. Tell us about some new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. We just finished a major scale renovation of an older home in Sapphire Beach. There is something extra rewarding with these types of projects. It’s not just taking something old and making it new again. It’s evolving the design to ensure it still meets the family needs and creating somewhere they can continue to make memories. Outside of this we have been working closely with some local architects and have a few exciting projects in the pipeline.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

Dear Jason,

What are the standout features or the benefits of working with JDG Constructions? A positive attitude to the job - I understand our clients have had to work incredibly hard to be in a position to build their dream homes and I do not take that lightly; I want to make sure they get what they have always dreamed of. As well as this, you will get a dedicated team of professional perfectionists, it’s something my entire team pride themselves on. How important is sustainability when designing a new home? Whilst the NSW Government has put measures in place via BASIX to ensure new builds meet certain sustainable practices, a lot of clients are looking to elevate this. We ourselves don’t design homes; we do however enjoy working closely with our architects on elements such as sustainability. This is an ever-increasing trend, with more awareness

around our impact and how we minimise our footprint. A great place to start, is something as straightforward as the orientation of your home. This ensures you are making the most of heat generated from the sun and natural breezes to help heat and cool your home. What are some challenges that the industry has faced and how have you overcome these? As mentioned earlier, supply of building materials continues to be an ongoing issue. This restricted availability hasn’t been caused by Covid-19 alone There is currently a severe nationwide shortage of framing pine. This is due to a combination of high demand and a reduced domestic supply caused by numerous mill closures, Australia’s shrinking pine plantations and recent bushfires... and we have had to adapt our techniques to use alternative materials, such as steel, which is more readily available. What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? I’ve been lucky enough to spend my entire life growing up on the Coffs Coast, is there truly anywhere better? For me our lifestyle is unbeatable. I love living on a farm, with access to pristine waterfalls and rivers at my fingertips whilst still being only 40mins from the coastline and town. Here on the Coffs Coast you get the beauty and access to both. Thanks Jason.

We just wanted to say a huge thank you for all the effort that you and your team put into building our new home. Prior to meeting you, we had approached several other builders always leaving feeling confused and frustrated. Constantly being given assurances that they were the right company to engage. However, after speaking with you, we felt at ease. We knew what we could expect without smoke and mirrors, or hidden costs. In the end, we received a bespoke built home constructed in a timely fashion, without conflict or stress on our part. When working with unfamiliar product, you and your team adapted quickly seeking advice and attaining the knowledge required to masterfully install all that was thrown your way. Your attention to detail was relieving for us both, and your experience and knowledge was invaluable when it came to our design decisions. We will be building with you again! I couldn’t speak highly enough of JDG Constructions. Sincerely A & D Macnaught

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Proud to support JDG Constructions

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ell us about yourself, Sam Wardman, the creative woman behind Sama & Co. I’m a local, born and raised here and have run a marketing agency for the best part of the last decade. Now I am embarking on a career shift to be an interior designer, which I have been reskilling in for the past three years or more. Is there a particular design style you favour and do you have your own design aesthetic? I absolutely love mid-century modern meets Palm Springs style homes, and I probably err on the side of modern architecture than more traditional structures. But I respect all styles of architecture and can usually find a connection to it in some way. Interior design in residential spaces is very personal so it’s about working with the client to achieve an aesthetic that

t Wardman SAMA & CO INTERIORS

Sam Wardman recently changed career paths and now heads up Sama & Co Interiors as a designer where she brings functional and timeless elements to her clients’ projects, emphasising on details that make you happy.

they will love. Commercial design is completely different as it is about the brand and the sensory customer experience. Where do you draw your inspiration from and who are some other interior designers you admire? This depends on whether it’s residential or commercial as the inspiration can be very different. I like to really get to know the clients I am working with or the brand that I am designing a space for so that I draw inspiration as to how the spaces need to feel. I am a fan of Pinterest boards as there’s such a diverse range of inspirational photos on there. In terms of designers, I really enjoy Joanna Gaines, Lynda Gardner and I think the home transformations that the Three Birds trio do. I enjoy loads of designers and architects I find on Instagram and in magazines from around the globe.

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DIRECTOR - SGA

ARCHITECTURAL WINDOW SOLUTIONS

escribe how you got started in your business. I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to work as a factory hand in a local window factory, after immigrating from South Africa. I learned the ropes there and was then offered a job at SGA a few years later where I was able to refine my skills and grow into more challenging roles, such as Production Manager. How has your business evolved since it began? SGA has been a locally owned and run business on the Coffs Coast for over 40 years. We have evolved from supplying standard windows for smaller residential projects to being a part of much larger major local commercial projects and supplying architecturally unique window solutions. What is your greatest achievement? Working my way up to becoming the business owner of this growing local business. What is your business’s greatest asset? Hands down my amazing staff! What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Giving locals a start and giving them the opportunity to develop new skills and advance in their career path. What creative things do you do to create a likeable company culture? As a new business owner and coming through the ranks from the factory floor I think that outside of business hours interaction with your staff and rewarding their efforts is extremely important, I’m still working on a few extra things. Our team is extremely important to us. Where do you see your business in the next year? Next 5 years? Next 10 years? Hopefully we are caught up with all our work. The processes we are putting into place over the next 6 months should see us excel in production. Then we can take on more projects for the Coffs region.

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team

GA is a locally owned and run company; we have on average 23 employees and we endeavour to continue to support the local community by employing locally. SGA aims to continue its tradition of being praised and known for our ability to provide premium products in an efficient and timely way, we are also well placed to grow. Being local allows the SGA Team to directly network with clients and builders during the pre-planning and building process. By supporting our community and employing locally we ensure that SGA continues to work with local trades to enhance our efficiency in the building industry, unlike other competitors in the industry who are not locally based. Our skilled employees are in touch with local demand, trends, and environmental factors in relation to fabrication. SGA also has the local knowledge by having their finger on the pulse of the Coffs Harbour

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SGA Architectural Window Solutions comprises two main teams, the Sales Department and the Manufacturing/Fabrication Department. These teams are able to operate at their optimum level due to the continued support from Management, the Service Department and Commercial Site Fitters/Installers.

and surrounding areas and building and customised build, budget constraints and renovation industry daily. building regulations. The Sales Team members have all been The Manufacturing Department are certified and compliance trained to comply trained and encouraged on a regular basis with BASIX, NATHERS, Section ‘J’, fire, to make ‘quality and excellence’ the key wind and water terms and focal point penetration, kid-safe for all fabrication work. No job is too big and fall prevention They are supported by or small for our requirements, plus any Management to provide Sales Team! We treat all State and Government and maintain state of regulations and the art equipment and clients with respect limitations pertaining to safety processes. and specialised the aluminium window Like with the individual attention to and door industry. Sales Team, we have ensure they get the Collectively our Sales been lucky to retain products and service Department have a the employment of they are needing to suit combined 60 years of some long-standing their personal taste. knowledge and prior staff members, their industry experience. No knowledge and skill job is too big or small for our Sales Team! set is key to the growth and development We treat all clients with respect and of our business. They allow SGA to provide specialised individual attention to ensure custom orders as their fabrication knowledge they get the products and service they is vital to ensuring that items ordered are are needing to suit their personal taste, not only manufactured to high standards

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sponsoring a safety feature article in their spring magazine. This accolade will only fortify our standing in the aluminium window and door manufacturing industry Fabrication as we continue to knowledge is ensure and implement vital to ensuring that safety within the items ordered are not workplace. only manufactured to Our Service Team high standards but have always been

but are compliant with industry standards. The Manufacturing Department is backed by extensive product and fabrication testing by our main supplier are compliant with AWS (Australian industry standards. Window Systems Pty Ltd). Management assists all departments with production scheduling, safety compliance, general office functionality and all aspects of financial and managerial duties that go hand in hand with running a small business, in this diverse and forever changing marketplace and ensures that SGA operates at its optimum level. SGA’s holistic and comprehensive safety policy and procedures were recently audited by ‘AGWA – Australian Glass and Window Association’, who stated “They were extremely impressed with our safety processes and procedures”. So much so, they have acknowledged the safety dedication of the whole SGA Team by

praised for going above and beyond when it comes to providing customer service onsite, either direct with the clients or liaising with builders as a build is approaching the handover stage. We are constantly receiving praise in reference to the prompt and efficient service assistance SGA provides. We are proud that in addition to our superior products it’s our ‘service’ that is paramount to our success and a point of difference compared to other aluminium window and door manufacturers.

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SGA is your local aluminium window and door fabricator, supplying high quality products and great service to the Coffs Harbour community and surrounding regions since 1978.

t t Business

s many of our local builders and clients will testify, SGA are a prestige manufacturer of aluminium windows and doors offering residential, high end residential and commercial window and door systems. Backed by Architectural Window Systems (AWS), our comprehensive product range covers the Vantage, Elevate and Thermal Heart series of Window and Door products. We provide solutions across a large variety of areas for Residential, High-End Residential, Architectural and Commercial based projects. SGA Architectural Window Solutions has continued to develop, customise and refine our product range over the years, from its origins as ‘Sawtell Glass and Aluminium’ dating back to the 1980’s. Despite the various changes over the years, one fact remains solidified in our daily practices and that is to continue to grow, adapt and support local needs and local demand.

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Our premises located at 58 Industrial Drive, homes and construction of other services. Long North Boambee Valley was purposely designed gone are the stock standard residential builds and purchased by SGA’s previous owners and is and standard commercial shopfront fabrication. set over 1000sqm with a factory floor space of Knowing the demand for SGA’s products, approximately 750sqm, services and longmaking our facility standing capabilities the perfect location to in the aluminium ...despite the undertake both smallwindow and door various changes and large-scale projects. industry requires over the years - one We have a vast array of constant attention and fact remains solidified glass products within our dedication to continue in our daily practices showroom along with a to improve productivity and that is to continue comprehensive selection and efficiency. Lourens of hardware. Cloete, Director SGA to grow, adapt and As the building industry (current Company support local needs is booming in the Coffs Owner and previously and local demand. Harbour and surrounding Production Manager area, residential and of SGA for the past commercial clients’ eight years), is keen and builders’ demands are escalating. As are to enhance the flow and efficiency of the architectural enhancements, demands for factory’s overall fabrication capabilities. With housing ranging from new build, renovation improvements in the industry and product and expansion, multi-complex units, nursing developments, Lourens plans to achieve this

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The demand for our products, services and long standing capabilities in the aluminium window and door industry requires constant attention and dedication to continue to improve productivity and efficiency.

in consultation with the SGA Manufacturing Team, suppliers and AWS (Australian Window Systems Pty Ltd). With growth and development comes changes, this fact consistently refers to the building industry. For example, compliance to Australia Standards, wind rating, water penetration, energy efficiency, fire ratings, protection and fall prevention are ‘standard’ factors when building in Australia. Prevention is key to safeguard against our harsh environment and to assist with limiting energy consumption in both residential and commercial settings.

SGA products are performance rated and identified and labelled accordingly. Compliance certificates, warranty, care and maintenance instructions are issued post manufacturing to our clients. To ensure that our clients and builders receive the specialised attention SGA is renowned, the SGA Sales Team recommend that from the initial consultation clients and builders alike give SGA access to all related documentation, such as plans, diagrams, BASIX, NATHERS or Section ‘J’ and fire ratings. This guarantees all products

discussed and supplied are compliant. We also request that clients make an appointment to arrange a one-on-one consultation with our Sales Team to allow us to give each client the time and dedication required to provide the service we are renowned for.

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THE STYLE EDIT WITH MELISSA PARISI - SHOP LOCAL

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7 1. Bring the outside in with Dried Palm Leaves from $30, Pansabella Providores, Coffs Central Ph 02 6652 6635 2. Milieu Seamist Navy and White Cushion $89, Janggalay Easy Living, janggalay.com.au 3. Fiddle Leaf Fig from $50, Pansabella Providores, Coffs Central, Ph 02 6652 6635 4. Navy and White Ripple Mirror $220, Holiday Home Stylist, Ph 0449 171 817 5. Book your next Getaway at Sapphire Sands Beach House, from $595 per night Ph 0434 486 660 coffscoastaccommodation.com.au 6. Acrylic Calipso Pitcher $39 and Set of four Tumblers $40, Humble Home, humblehome.com.au 7. Have tired outdoor furniture reupholstered using quality Warwick fabrics (pictured, Nanuya Outdoor range). The Little Upholstery Shop, 2/12 Lawson Cres, Coffs Harbour, Ph 0409 261 351 - thelittleupholsteryshop.com.au

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C R E AT E A H O L I D AY M O O D I N Y O U R O W N H O M E A N D S U P P O R T O U R L O C A L B U S I N E S S E S

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8. Palm Springs Chandelier $2179, Gypset Cargo, Ph: 0412 547 662 www.gypsetcargo.com 9. Robert Gordon Soap Dispenser $49.95, Trinket Box $29.95 and Tray $34.95, Feather and Nest Boutique, 11/53 Beach St Woolgoolga, featherandnest.com.au 10. Montego Rattan Tray from $69, Janggalay Easy Living, janggalay. com.au 11. Potted Phalaenopsis X-Large White Orchid, Pillow Talk Coffs Harbour, pillowtalk.com.au 12. Mojo Candles Morrocan Spice made from reclaimed wine bottles $39.95, Feather and Nest Boutique, 11/53 Beach St Woolgoolga, featherandnest.com.au 13. Bowen Denim Quilt Cover set QB $169.95, Pillow Talk Coffs Harbour, pillowtalk.com.au 14. Mika Ceramic Vase, from $74.95, Janggalay Easy Living, www.janggalay.com.au 15. Daylesford Apothecary Goddess Bath Soak $30, Feather and Nest Boutique, 11/53 Beach St Woolgoolga, featherandnest.com.au

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Oak T R E E RETIREMENT BOUTIQUE VILLAGE

Oak Tree Retirement Boutique Village is coming soon to Coffs Harbour on Domain Drive.

he benefits of living in a retirement village. Exploring retirement options can be a daunting process in the beginning. With an array of different providers and offerings on the market, it can be difficult to determine which lifestyle you are best suited to. The size of the facility is a very important factor to consider, as it will make a huge difference to your future lifestyle and overall experience at the village. While the different size offerings fit different people’s needs, there are several benefits to living in a smaller, boutique retirement village. Secure your safety. Our villages offer independent living with the peace-of-mind and security of a private gated environment. In our tight-knit communities, the active Village Manager and residents genuinely care and keep an eye out for each other. Whether you’re leaving for the day or a holiday, rest assured someone is always looking out for you. Love your location.

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At Oak Tree, we know that being close to your support networks is vital. That’s why we build our villages in areas that are familiar and where you’ve put down roots. At the same time, the boutique size of our villages fosters a village means there are less residents, and friendly and inviting atmosphere that will soon therefore less people wanting to utilise the feel like home. Add in the convenient proximity communal facilities, meaning you will have more to medical facilities and access to them. other amenities, you’ll “The day we were first We could see have everything you need introduced to Oak Tree, we’d have our within easy reach of your we really liked that we village location. own space and yet wouldn’t have to worry More access to the we’d be part of a about anything again,” village facilities. lovely community. says Lynne. “We could see One of the great We’ve got the bowling we’d have our own space things about retiring at green and pool to use and yet we’d be part of a an independent living and there are plenty lovely community. We’ve retirement village are the of activities to join in got the bowling green in-house facilities such with. and pool to use and there as a swimming pool, hair are plenty of activities to dressing salon, village join in with.” – Lynne and bus, and outdoor and indoor entertainment Rob Waller, Oak Tree Mudgee residents. areas, that are available for you to use at your leisure. The nature of a boutique retirement Retain your Independence.

We’re living as one caring community – one family – and always look out for each other. For example, if we haven’t seen someone in a while or they don’t seem to be sticking to their usual routine we check in and make sure they’re okay.

Unlike aged care, we actively encourage you to live independently for longer. Our villas are more manageable than traditional family homes and have also been designed to enable easy future modifications, such as mobility assistance devices, if required. We collaborate with many external service providers, so you’ll have all the care you need well into the future. A stronger sense of belonging. At Oak Tree, we don’t just build villages, we built communities. Here, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people with facilities and activities that make the process of creating a new social circle easier. Invite your friends and family, be as social as you like and enrich your retirement doing more of the things you love. Take comfort knowing that a caring neighbour or helping hand is never far away. A strong sense of belonging is one of the key reasons many seniors choose boutique retirement villages over larger scale establishments. A boutique village means a smaller, tight knit community, and a more personal setting where everyone knows each other by name and looks out for one another. It’s a special thing to be a part of. “We’re living as one caring community – one

family – and always look out for each other. For example, if we haven’t seen someone in a while or they don’t seem to be sticking to their usual routine we check in and make sure they’re okay.” – Edna Rambert, Oak Tree Yeppoon resident. Community connection plays a vital role in both our physical and mental wellbeing. Staying social and getting out and about can help reduce health problems and give you purpose. Oak Tree facilities and activities are designed to help you stay active and maintain that important sense of connectivity during retirement. Pet-Friendly Choice. Understanding the importance that pets can play in our lives, Oak Tree is one of the few village operators who openly welcome furry friends. Pet companionship brings a raft of health benefits, encourages physical activity, helps you feel more socially connected and better enables you to deal with stress or grief. Low Maintenance Living. As we age, maintaining the family home becomes more difficult. At Oak Tree, we take care of all general maintenance and repairs, so you can come and go as you please knowing your gardens are being cared for and all repairs to your home are carried out when needed. This

allows you to spend more time doing the things you love. Financial Upside. We pride ourselves on providing truly affordable lifestyle solutions. Downsizing to a village is usually less expensive than a strata titled home, and can help free up equity while also providing the cost of stamp duty and GST. Our simple weekly fee covers most of your regular outgoings, giving you more budget certainty. Easier access to management. One of the most important benefits of living in a boutique retirement village is easier access to management. The nature of a smaller scale village means less residents, and therefore less issues and requests for the Village Manager to attend to. At Oak Tree, our retirement villages all have an onsite Village Manager who knows every resident by name and is there to help with anything you need. It’s important to us that our residents develop a personal relationship with their Village Manager are not seen as just another number. With an expanding portfolio of almost 33 villages around Australia over the last 15 years, Oak Tree understands the needs of seniors. Residents have peace-of-mind knowing our villages are registered and are protected under the Retirement Villages Act in each state. Our hands-on approach ensures residents have access to management when needed, backed by the support required to provide outstanding service. To learn more call 1300 367 155, or go to oaktreegroup.com.au. COFFS COAST

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NICK TOWNSEND BUILDING & DESIGN CONSULTANT

KATHLEEN EZARD BUILDING & DESIGN ASSOCIATE

DAVID MALVERN REGIONAL MANAGER MID NORTH COAST

COASTAL COOL & URBAN ORGANIC

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NEW HOME STYLE

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MOONEE BEACH

Two new display homes are set to open their doors in Moonee Beach next month, bringing a range of new home style and design inspiration to those looking to build their dream new home. As the largest residential builder in NSW, we chatted with the Coffs Harbour team from McDonald Jones about what to expect from the latest homes set to open in October.

avid Malvern, Regional Manager for Mid North Coast, says they will be showcasing two very different styles in two of their most popular home

designs. “Our current Sandy Beach display has the Bexley design on show, so we are excited to be building two of our most popular designs for Coffs Harbour customers to experience, the San Marino and Havana.” “Currently we are building over 100 new homes on the North Coast each year, and it’s only going from strength to strength. We have seen such a huge spike in interest in people wanting to build their dream home, knock down rebuild, or who are moving into the area for a seachange. Walking through and experiencing firsthand these amazing designs and styles will certainly blow people away.” The architecturally designed homes are both single storey designs, but will feature two distinctly different styles. McDonald Jones Interior Design Manager, Nadine Latunin, who has styled these homes said the homes will include one with a Classic Coastal style and the other an earthy Urban Organic feel. “We know everyone has their own style, and opinions of what ‘look’ they’d like for their home to be. It’s great to be able to showcase options here and show customers how to bring that look to life in a new home.” “The San Marino is a perfect design for showing off a ‘Classic Coastal’ look. The mix of exterior materials including cladding, cultured stone and render is ideal for the façade we have chosen and all the fixtures and finishes complement this throughout the rest of the home. If you love the relaxed whites, and cool coastal feel – this is definitely a home you need to explore when it opens,” Nadine said.

“In the Havana, we have gone with a style we build, which is great for areas in Coffs. We we call ‘Urban Organic’. It has a strong, earthy always have great inclusions and promotions vibe with lots of muted organic tones, timbers that make it really worth calling in and having and features that make you feel cosy and a chat with our team. Customers are always right at home. This floorplan is certainly one surprised by how much is actually already of our biggest sellers, so I think the styling will included in a new home.” be really popular with our customers walking “Seeing our new display homes come to life through.” at Moonee Beach is really exciting. Everything As the largest builder in New South Wales, right down to the landscaping has been McDonald Jones have been building homes considered to show what’s possible for the for over 34 years and innovation is at the lifestyle here on the North Coast, and people centre of their success, are going to fall in love along with their singlewith both homes.” minded desire to make “We look forward Our it possible for more to welcoming people experienced Australians to transform through once we open team at McDonald the way they live. these new displays next Jones has refined the Building & Design month,” Nick said. build process and Consultant, Nick The McDonald Jones we’re here to guide Townsend, says having team are currently customers through built new homes located at their Sandy each step of the himself allows him Beach display homes and build journey from to help customers to can help make your new know what to expect, home journey a happy start to finish. how they can save and satisfying one. From money and make the assisting you with the experience as simple and easy as possible. right design for your block and lifestyle, to “Our experienced team at McDonald Jones managing all the design requirements for your has refined the build process and we’re here building approvals. Plus, their fully qualified to guide customers through each step of the team of Interior Design Consultants in the build journey from start to finish. If you are MyChoice Design Studio will assist you to interested in looking at your options and costs create the home of your dreams with a large for a completely new home or a knock down range of products and appliances that will rebuild, we can show you all the tips and make your home truly remarkable. tricks,” Nick said. The new Moonee Beach displays are “We know people have a lot of questions set to open in October and are located on about building costs, council requirements Beechwood Drive. and construction timeframes when it comes to To discover the possibilities and build what building. Our team are here every step of the you love in Coffs Harbour, contact McDonald way to answer those questions and make it Jones for a FREE QUOTE & SITE INSPECTION easy to transform the way you live.” and transform the way you live. “Right now, our new homes come with Visit mcdonaldjoneshomes.com.au or solar and electric car chargers in every home call 1300 555 382 COFFS COAST

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REAL

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

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE

Preparation is the key to a successful sale of any property. GREAT PRESENTATION CAN HELP YOUR HOME STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION, CAN ADD A FEW THOUSAND DOLLARS TO YOUR FINAL SALE PRICE, and do so without too much hassle.

n the majority of cases, to achieve this, you can do a small number of things that will add the most value to your home in the least amount of time, and with minimal outlay. Freshen up, clean. Now, imagine that you are a buyer and have come to your home to have a look with the intention of buying it. Note down any bits and pieces of things that would push you away or repel you or make you not want to buy your home. Note the wear and tear, any damage to the roof, ceiling, built-in cupboards etc, any signs that would cause you concern. Always remember that first impressions are important - many buyers will want to drive past initially how is the street appeal? Ensure that the lawns are neat and tidy, edges and hedges trimmed, no vehicles parked on the lawn, kids’ toys put away, driveway and paths cleaned. Is your home starting to show signs of age? What does the interior design look like? Does it have enough lighting and air circulation? What about the backyard? Could it be planned and organised differently? Is the fence suitable for all families with or without children? Is your home suitable for families with pets? Make a “to do” list, and work through it methodically or perhaps contact a local agent

to seek advice - there’s no point in doing a lot nominal outlay. of unnecessary work that may not give you a SO WHAT EXACTLY IS HOME STAGING? premium result. Home staging, also known as property HOME STAGING styling or property presentation, is the art of Regardless of the type of property you setting up your home at its best or its most own, be it a freestanding house, a single appealing state by minimising flaws and unit, a cottage, a terrace, a heritage, a emphasising your home’s best attributes for a contemporary home or an investment property, sale. Simply put, home staging is the process it is vitally important in of presenting your home to any economic times, to appeal to your target market. stage your home for sale. THE HOME The home you live in, is Staging ensures a greater YOU LIVE not the home you are selling appeal to all the buyers IN, IS NOT THE - it’s the perfect version! viewing your home. HOME YOU ARE The main purpose of home You can hire SELLING - IT’S staging is to get buyers to professionals to assist you THE PERFECT imagine their lives in the to do this for a fee, or you VERSION! home and feel a sense of may be fortunate enough urgency about making an to have an agent that offer before someone else buys it. It also has offers staging advice and even some props, but them forming a strong emotional attachment if you take the information given here seriously, to the property, so that they will pay as much you will save yourself a lot of stress and money as they can afford to ensure they will be the since all the secrets and principles to staging a new owner. home are explained in detail. Home staging is an excellent investment for My advice to you is to follow them, have those preparing to sell their homes, ensuring your property stand out from the competition that there is wider appeal to prospective in any market, attract a large pool of potential purchasers. It doesn’t need to be expensive, buyers, create competition between purchasers but can added thousands of dollars to your end and get a quick sale, with a premium price, for your home with minimal effort and almost price. COFFS COAST

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Built to inspire. Built for you. Builtto toinspire. inspire.Built Builtfor foryou. you. Built

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Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over 150 different floor plans to choose from, including single and two storey, granny flat and dual occupancy… there’s sure toyour be a dream design home to suitcouldn’t your lifestyle. Whether flat or a sloping Creating be easier whenyou youhave buildawith Perry Homes. We have over Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over block of any size, even your to existing house toincluding rebuild a single new home, youstorey, can begranny sure flat and dual 150 knocking different fldown oor plans choose from, and two 150 different floor plans to choose from, including single and two storey, granny flat and dual we can bring your vision to life. occupancy… there’s sure to be a design to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping occupancy… there’s sure to be a design to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping block of any size, even knocking down your existing house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure If youknocking can dream it, we canexisting build it. house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure block of any size, even down your we can bring your vision to life. we can bring your vision to life.

If you can dream it, we can build it. If you can dream it, we can build it.

Visit one of our stunning display homes today! Moonee Beach Estate Sawtell Commons Estate 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. 4 Angler homes Court, Bonville. Visit one of our stunning display today! Visit one of our10am-4pm stunning display today! Open Saturday to Wednesday Openhomes Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm Moonee Beach Estate Sawtell Commons Estate Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428Estate 271 884 Contact : Tracey Lavelle 0434 499Estate 829 Moonee Beach Sawtell Commons 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. 4 Angler Court, Bonville. phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. 4 Angler Court, Bonville. NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10am-4pm Open Open Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm perryhomes.com.au Open Saturday to Wednesday 10am-4pm Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm E32800 Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 Contact : Tracey Lavelle 0434 Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 Contact : Tracey Lavelle 0434 499499 829829 phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au

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Coffs Coast Focus - i128

Articles inside

Real Estate - Chris Hines

Physio & Health - Aaron Hardaker

State of Play - Gurmesh Singh

Fitness Update - Amanda Belle e

Education Update - Nick Johnstone

Style Edit - Melissa Parisi

PFLAG - Sam Dawson