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Guulabaa WHAT TO EXPECT AT GUULABAA Activities are based around Guulabaa Hub, a series of timber decks that allow visitors to relax and enjoy the forest canopy views. The Hub also provides access to Guulabaa’s visitor experiences.

Families looking for a day out can enjoy a picnic or visit the Bunyah Café (open weekends & school holidays) and meet The Big Koala, a 2.5m-high sculpture painted by Pauline Roods, part of the region’s Hello Koalas Sculpture trail. There are comfortable bushwalks nearby where visitors might see one of the region’s koalas. To guarantee seeing these amazing creatures, book a visit at Koala Conservation Australia’s Wild Koala Breeding Centre Visitor Experience. Here, visitors learn about these shy marsupials while viewing some of the resident koalas.

They’ll also meet the carers who rehabilitate sick and injured koalas brought in for treatment.

For those seeking a more active experience, Wildnets Adventure Park offers Australia’s largest suspended playground. With rope- and net-based adventures scaled safely for the ages 3 and up, you can compete challenges, play in the treetops or ride a zipline.

For those just wishing to cool off on a hot day, there’s nothing better than the shaded Guulabaa Cathedral gathering space under the Hub. It’s a bookable function space too, with seating for 100 people (e: visit@fcnsw.com.au).

2 COAST focus 24COFFS GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

WHAT IS GUULABAA? Guulabaa – Place of Koala on the NSW Mid North Coast is a special place. Set within Cowarra State Forest, Guulabaa, meaning ‘Place of Koala’ in the local Gathang language, offers a unique nature tourism visitor experience. From elevated timber walkways to immersive educational spaces, and First Nations-led narratives that deepen understanding of wildlife, heritage and environmental stewardship, Guulabaa is a mustsee place in your travels.

A MULTI-AWARD WINNING EXPERIENCE Guulabaa – Place of Koala is recognised as a global exemplar of conservation-led design, Indigenous collaboration and resilient land stewardship, winning an Urban Land Institute LI 2025 Asia Pacific Award for Excellence in Hong Kong. The Urban Land Institute is a global organisation with a mission to shape the future of the built environment for transformative impact in communities worldwide.

The awards are among the region’s most respected honours, celebrating projects that raise the bar for design quality, sustainability, and positive community impact. Guulabaa is one of only twelve winners across the Asia Pacific.

Guulabaa was further recognised at the 2025 Sustainability Awards, winning the Editor’s Choice Award, Judges noted that sustainability is embedded at every level, from passive design and low-impact construction to incorporation of indigenous-led cultural burning practices.

Guulabaa has also won an Australian Good Design Award Built Environment Place Design for bringing together conservation, education, cultural storytelling and a place for people to connect while supporting recovery of endangered koalas.

Guulabaa – Place of Koala was conceived in direct response to the catastrophic 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires, which impacted koala habitat across the region. A unique partnership between Forestry Corporation of NSW, Koala Conservation Australia, Wildnets Adventure Park, Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, and Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council saw the development of a Guulabaa Master Plan via a process facilitated by Gensler Australia. This document still guides Guulabaa’s management today.

Guulabaa is grounded in deep collaboration with First Nations communities, from integrating traditional cool burning practices to reduce bushfire risk and restore forest health, to sharing of culture and language.

This approach also enabled the use of local sustainably sourced native hardwoods in construction, with the support of the North Coast timber industry. Guulabaa sets a benchmark for ecologically responsible and culturally informed design with Caring for Country in mind.

THE FUTURE IS ‘GUULABAA’ uulabaa serves as a flagship model for forest-based conservation infrastructure in Australia. It has inspired additional forest tourism sites across NSW and demonstrates how design, Indigenous knowledge and environmental stewardship can come together to protect biodiversity, support sustainable tourism, and create places of lasting impact.

FIND US Located in Cowarra State Forest, Guulabaa Way, off Burrawan Forest Drive, Lake Innes. 10 minutes from either Port Macquarie or Wauchope. 1.5km from the Pacific Highway on the Mid North Coast via sealed road.

W: guulabaaplaceofkoala.com.au Follow us on facebook & Instagram. @guulabaaplaceofkoala COASTfocus focus253 GREATER PORT COFFS MACQUARIE

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I ue 187 - AUGUST 2026

INTERVIEWS

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HTUN HTUN Oo

Nearly 20 years after arriving in Coffs as a refugee, Htun Htun Oo has become a passionate advocate for multicultural communities and a driving force behind local initiatives to bring people together.

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R I O LU T H E R B A R R

THE JUNGLE GIANTS

Ater swapping soccer boots for a surfboard, Rio Luther Barr has become one of Australia’s brightest young surfers and has been selected to represent Australia at the 2026 ISA World Junior Surfing Championships in El Salvador.

After 5 years touring the globe, The Jungle Giants are bringing their latest chapter home. Armed with their fifth studio album, Experiencing Feelings of Joy, they’re hitting the road with a show at the Hoey Moey.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 65. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 93. Education Update - Simon Doyle 103. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 105. Reptile Watch - Matthew McEwan 107. Women in Business - Cath Fowler CONTRIBUTOR

108. Money Matters - Tanya McManus

OF THE MONTH

125. Holiday Home of the Month - Emma Quinn

EMMA QUINN

126. Property Report - Shane Brooks

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

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WELCOME TO THE AUGUST 2026 EDITION.

ne of the greatest privileges of producing Coffs Coast FOC S is meeting the incredible locals and people behind the businesses that help our region thrive. Every business has a story, and every person has a story. This month we’re proud to celebrate the passion, resilience and dedication that drive so many local success stories. racing our August cover is Terry Cutler, owner of Cutlers Tyrepower, who this year celebrates an incredible 30 years in business.

Together with his father, Peter, who founded the business in 1 6, Terry reflects on three decades of serving the Coffs Coast with genuine customer service, expert advice and

the family values that have built a trusted local legacy. Their story is a wonderful reminder that success isn’t built overnight, it’s earned through hard work, consistency and looking after your community.

Inside this edition, you’ll also meet an outstanding group of local men featured in our Men in Business 2026 showcase. From respected business owners and tradesmen to innovators and entrepreneurs, each has a unique story to tell. While their industries may differ, they all share a commitment to making the Coffs Coast a better place to live, work and do business.

As we wrap up this edition, we’re already looking ahead to September, where we’ll celebrate two exciting features. Rising Stars

COFFS COAST

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of the Coffs Coast will shine a spotlight on the next generation of local business leaders, innovators and young achievers who are making an impact in our region. We’ll also launch our Decades in the Trade feature, recognising the businesses and tradespeople whose experience, craftsmanship and commitment have stood the test of time. If you or someone you know deserves to be featured, we’d love to hear from you.

A heartfelt thank you to all of our contributors and advertisers for continuing to support local storytelling. our support allows us to celebrate the people, businesses and community spirit that make the Coffs Coast such a special place.

We hope you enjoy this month’s edition.

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PT LTD ABN 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright Creative House Publications PT LTD 2026 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOC S 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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SEPTEMBER EDITION SPECIAL FEATURE

WHO’S

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RISING STAR OF TH E COFFS COAST?

Every successful business has someone who is making a difference. The young professional with big ideas. The apprentice who goes above and beyond. The emerging leader who inspires those around them. The business owner building something extraordinary. The employee who consistently exceeds expectations.

THIS SEPTEMBER, WE’RE CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF OUR REGION.

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Introducing... Rising Stars of the Coffs Coast This special feature will showcase the next generation of local talent across every industry, recognising the people whose passion, innovation and dedication are helping our community thrive.

Htun Htun Oo (H2O)

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From surviving conflict in Myanmar and working as a trauma medic to building a new life in Australia, Htun Htun Oo’s journey is one of extraordinary resilience and service. Nearly two decades after arriving in Coffs Harbour as a refugee, he has become a passionate advocate for multicultural communities and a driving force behind many local initiatives that bring people together.

Y

ou arrived in Australia as a refugee around two decades ago, and today you're one of the region's most respected community leaders. What do you think has made that transformation possible?

emergency medical care to civilians and others harmed by the war. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation for life, resilience and the importance of strong communities.

It taught me to be resilient, adaptable and to understand the responsibility of leadership, to stand up for human rights, democracy and humanitarian values.

Throughout my life, I have tried to treat everyone with respect, kindness, sincerity and compassion, regardless of their background or circumstances. While I am deeply honoured to be viewed as a respected community leader, I would never describe myself that way. I see myself simply as someone who cares about people and is committed to giving back to the community.

Looking back, these challenges did not You've become a passionate advocate for define me rather, they migrant and refugee shaped my perspective, communities across strengthened my the Coffs Coast.

I am grateful determination, What are some to Australia for and deepened my of the biggest the opportunities I commitment to helping challenges new have been given, and others wherever I can. arrivals still face

Any success I have had is because of the support of my family, friends, colleagues and the broader community. I am grateful to Australia for the opportunities I have been given, and I remain committed to serving and contributing to the community that I am proud to call home.

Before coming to Australia, you e erienced con ict wor ed in emergency medicine and lived through extraordinary challenges. How have those experiences shaped the way you approach life today?

I lived through decades of war in Myanmar.

As a trauma medic, I spent 15 years providing

You often speak about the importance of community. What was it about Coffs Harbour that made you decide this was the place to build your future?

welcoming, resilient, and community minded.

That combination of strong community and a beautiful natural environment convinced me that Coffs Harbour was the right place to build a future for my family.

I feel fortunate to call it home and look forward to contributing to its continued success.

I remain commi ed to serving and contributing to the community that I am proud to call home.

When I arrived in Coffs Harbour, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. There was something special about the area that resonated with me.

With mountains to the west, the ocean to the east, fertile land, and an abundance of creeks and rivers, these natural features create a sense of harmony and vitality. More importantly, I found the people here to be

when settling into regional Australia?

New arrivals face three significant challenges.

They are language, employment, and access to services.

English language skills are essential for education, employment, and community participation. Many migrants and refugees face difficulties because they have overseas qualifications, skills and experience which may not be recognised, this often means retraining or gaining additional qualifications before entering their chosen profession.

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When people settle in a new place, they go through several stages. With arrival comes survival and meeting their basic needs. Then follows aspiration, the desire to build a better future for themselves and their families. As people become more settled and confident, they begin contributing to the community.

Strong communities help people progress through these stages by creating support networks and opportunities which give new arrivals a genuine sense of belonging. For many new arrivals, being welcomed by the local community and meeting people who share their language, culture, or experiences helps them to build a new life in Australia.

On the other hand, what strengths and opportunities do multicultural communities bring to regional towns like Coffs Harbour?

Multicultural communities bring skills, experience, entrepreneurship, and different perspectives that can help regional towns 14 COFFS COAST focus

For many new arrivals, being welcomed by the local community and meeting people who share their language, culture, or experiences helps them to build a new life in Australia.

grow and prosper.

They strengthen our workforce, support local businesses, and contribute to the social and economic life of the region. They also enrich our community by exposing it to diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and food.

Diversity is not something that divides us, it is something that strengthens us. It makes our community more vibrant, resilient, and connected to the wider world.

You've helped bring people together through multicultural events, celebrations and community initiatives. Why is sharing culture through food, music and conversation such a powerful way to break down barriers?

Food, music, and conversation are universal

languages. They bring people together in a relaxed and positive way. When we share a meal, enjoy a cultural performance, or simply sit down and talk, we discover that we have more in common than we may have thought. These shared experiences create understanding, friendship, and a stronger sense of community.

If you could change one misconception Australians have about refugees and migrants, what would it be?

I would like people to understand that refugees and migrants are people with skills, talents, dreams, and a strong desire to contribute. Most come here seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future for their families. Given the chance, they work hard,

build businesses, support local communities, and give back to the country that has welcomed them. Diversity does not weaken Australia, it enriches it.

You wear many hats; nurse, advocate, business owner, community leader and mentor, how do you balance it all while staying true to your values?

After arriving in Australia I worked for 15 years as an Intensive Care Nurse at Coffs Harbour Hospital. I now run a small familyowned kitchenware business in the Coffs Harbour CBD. As a local small business owner, I understand the opportunities and challenges facing local businesses.

I have always been guided by the principle that trust is a privilege, not an opportunity for personal gain. When people place their trust in me, I see it as a responsibility. I do my best to listen carefully, understand their perspective, and provide honest advice.

Irrespective of the hat I’m wearing, my values remain the same; respect, kindness, integrity, accountability, and compassion. These ensure that my decisions remain ethical, balanced, and focused on the best outcome for others.

Most importantly, I never forget that no one succeeds alone.

Whether someone was born here or came from elsewhere, I want the Coffs Coast to be a place where people are welcomed, respected, and encouraged to build their future.

I strongly believe in being accountable for my actions and leading by example. I prefer to focus on opportunities and positive outcomes, looking for solutions rather than casting blame. By building understanding and bringing people together, we can achieve common goals.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of the Coffs Coast, particularly as it continues to grow as a diverse and welcoming community?

My hope is that the Coffs Coast continues to prosper with strong local businesses, secure jobs, quality healthcare and education so that it can retain young people. I want Coffs Harbour to be an inclusive, forward-looking region where everyone feels they belong and has the opportunity to succeed. Whether someone was born here or came from elsewhere, I want the Coffs Coast to be a place where people are welcomed, respected, and encouraged to build their future.

I would like Coffs Harbour to become a model regional city, an example of how a

diverse, welcoming, environmentally rich and communityfocused society can thrive. A community where diversity is celebrated, opportunity is shared, people support one another, and future generations feel proud to call ‘Coffs’ home.

At the same time, I believe the future of Coffs Harbour is closely connected to the future of the wider community around us. No city succeeds in isolation. In today's diverse and interconnected society, we all depend on one another in many different ways.

While life does not always unfold exactly as we hope or plan, there is always something positive we can contribute and something to be grateful for, even in challenging times.

By working together, embracing diversity, and making the most of the opportunities before us, I believe we can continue building a stronger, more inclusive and resilient Coffs Coast for future generations.

Thanks Htun Htun Oo (H2O) COFFS COAST focus 15

S A B KOB

E T A SK Fest 2026

Kobbas Skate Fest has grown into one of the Coffs Coast’s most anticipated community events. Led by organisers Stevie Blanche e and Bevin Newton, the 2026 festival is locked in for 4–6 September 2026 at the Coffs Harbour Skatepark, right in the heart of the city centre.

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ringing together skateboarding, music, art and community, Kobbas Skate Fest celebrates the life and legacy of muchloved local Koby Mitchell.

We caught up with Stevie Blanchette to find out what’s planned for this year’s event and why Kobbas continues to mean so much to the local community and beyond.

For readers who may be new to Kobbas, what is Kobbas Skate Fest all about?

Kobbas Skate Festival brings together the local skate community and visitors from across Australia and beyond to celebrate street and bowl skateboarding at its best.

The festival attracts world-class skateboarders, as well as families and competitors who travel from across the country to be part of this respected event on the skateboarding calendar.

Competitors can enter street, bowl or both events, creating an inclusive environment where people of all ages and abilities can participate.

Kobbas is held in honour of Koby Mitchell and his passion for skateboarding. It celebrates his life while continuing his legacy of encouraging people to experience everything this incredible sport has to offer. ow ha the e ti a grown ince it fir t began?

B L A N C H E T T E

People can expect an action-packed weekend with worldclass skateboarding, live music, interactive art workshops and an incredible festival atmosphere.

The first Kobbas Skate Festival was challenging to deliver as we worked through the impacts of COVID. Despite the challenges, the event was a success and created the foundation for what has become an annual highlight.

From the beginning, skateboarding brands recognised the importance of Kobbas and supported the vision behind the event. We now welcome competitors from Australia and the world, with numbers continuing to grow. This growth has allowed us to expand the event with additional facilities, spectator areas and infrastructure to create a better experience for competitors, families and the wider community.

What can people expect from this year’s event?

People can expect an action-packed weekend with world-class skateboarding, live music, interactive art workshops and an incredible festival atmosphere.

Kobbas Skate Fest is much more than a skateboarding competition, it’s a celebration of community, youth and inclusion. The event brings people together from all walks of life, creating a welcoming space where

everyone can connect, be inspired and celebrate skateboarding for the amazing culture and sport that it is.

One of the biggest crowd favourites is King of Koby’s uarter, where skaters throw down their best tricks for cash $$. Riders will be pushing the limits for the chance to pocket lots of cash and ultimately be crowned the King of Koby’s uarter. It’s become a legendary part of this festival and is always one of the weekend’s biggest highlights.

We’re also excited to welcome the Santa Cru Hand Mascot, who will be making appearances throughout the event and hosting a number of fun feature youth activations across the weekend.

With exciting new additions, returning fan favourites and some of Australia’s best skateboarding talent versing our own homegrown’ Coffs Harbour talent, this year’s Kobbas Skate Fest is shaping up to be our biggest and best event yet. We can’t wait to share another radical weekend with the community.

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Skateparks are sometimes misunderstood, but over the years I have seen so many examples of kindness, friendships forming and people celebrating each other’s falls and wins.

Why was it important to create an event that’s about more than just skateboarding?

We wanted Kobbas to showcase the true power of skateboarding.

Skateboarding creates friendships, builds confidence, encourages creativity and provides a positive outlet for people of all ages. It is a community.

Skateparks are sometimes misunderstood, but over the years I have seen so many examples of kindness, friendships forming and people celebrating each other’s falls and wins.

That same positive energy is what Kobbas represents. It is about connection, creativity and keeping Koby’s spirit alive - and that’s a big spirit!

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Can you tell us a little about Koby Mitchell and the legacy behind Kobbas?

Koby lived and breathed skateboarding.

Koby spent countless hours at the local skatepark and became a much-loved part of the skate community.

Koby was a talented but humble skateboarder, it was his kindness, humour and infectious energy that people remember most. If you met Koby you remembered Koby. He believed everyone deserved equal opportunity regardless.

What makes events like Bowl-A-Nana and the Koby Mitchell Classic so special?

Bowl-A-Nana has been a much-loved event for more than 10 years, bringing a unique atmosphere and energy.

The Koby Mitchell Classic celebrates Koby’s passion for street skateboarding

What impact does Kobbas have on young people and the wider community?

Kobbas showcases the positive values of skateboarding - respect, encouragement and sportsmanship.

Families, young people and visitors a end each year to experience the incredible atmosphere, positive energy and strong sense of community the festival creates.

More than a competition, it creates lasting memories, strengthens community connections and brings young people and community together in the one space.

What local businesses are involved this year?

We would like to sincerely thank our returning local major sponsors for their ongoing commitment and support, including Chalkies Skate Shop, Coffs Coast Events, Mach Construct, Coffs Hotel, and the Quality Hotel City Centre.

Their continued partnership has played a significant role in helping Kobbas Skate Fest grow year after year. We are also incredibly grateful to welcome some new sponsors for 2026, including Lifeline, FOC S Maga ine, Coffs Harbour Support Services, The Aylward family, Eat Move Live, Open Studio, Protec, CH FM and Rosco on the Radio.

Your support is helping us create another unforgettable weekend for our community.

A huge thank you also goes to every one of our sponsors, big and small.

We also extend a special thank you to Santa Cru , Independent , Dickies, and Vans Skateboarding for their continued support.

There’s still time to get involved! If your business would like to become a sponsor of Kobbas Skate Fest 2026, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out and join us in making this year’s event our biggest and best yet.

Why should the Coffs Coast get behind Kobbas Skate Fest this year?

Kobbas is a free community event that welcomes everyone, not just skateboarders.

Families, young people and visitors attend each year to experience the incredible atmosphere, positive energy and strong sense of community the festival creates.

The event relies on volunteers, sponsors and community support to make it possible.

Follow Kobbas Skate Fest on Instagram for event updates and live coverage throughout the weekend. Anyone interested in supporting the event or getting involved can contact Stevie on 0477 57 8 5 or Ryne on 0456 692 596 Thanks Stevie.

COFFS COAST focus 19

20 COFFS COAST focus

With an unmistakable drive and a rapidly growing fanbase, Coffs Harbour rapper Jayess is proving that big talent can come from regional Australia. After a breakout year of viral content, major streaming success and high-profile performance opportunities, the emerging artist is building serious momentum.

i Jayess. For readers who are discovering your music or the fir t time te u a itt e a out our e and how did your journey into ra egin My name's Jarrah Selig, known to most as Jayess an Australian artist emerging out of Coffs Harbour. I've been writing music for ten years, but it's only been in the last three that I've actually recorded and released it. My love for music started young, growing up on artists like Kerser, Hopsin, j.cole, nwa, wu tang clan and Michael Jackson. What struck me about all these artists is that despite being so different, they shared one thing: the ability to fully express themselves through their art. The moment I first put pen to paper and let out everything I was feeling, and somehow turned it into something real, that's when I fell in love with making music.

It's been full steam ahead ever since. our mu ic ha een gaining attention oca and e ond ow wou d ou de cri e our ound and what do ou ho e eo e connect with when the hear our trac If you're listening to my music, expect range.

Some tracks walk you through a chapter of my life, built like a story from start to finish, others are made purely to have fun and party with friends. The different phases of my life shape what I write about. Right now, I'm laser-focused on becoming the most successful version of myself, and that hunger bleeds into every song I record. My recent track "Gimme That" captures that exact energy, it's about the day-to-day grind to get what's mine! ou were recent chedu ed to o en or oo igan e one o u tra ia igge t name in hi ho here in o an ou te u a out how the night turned out and

what it wa i e er orming in ront o that crowd A few months out from the Hefs tour, his manager reached out to me through Instagram and asked if I could back him up on a few dates of his national tour. I didn't hesitate, I told him of course I could, I was made for this. Once the tour was locked in, I threw myself into marketing the Coffs show. I put out reel after reel on Instagram, and they tore through Coffs Harbour and beyond racking up over a million views combined.

Before that push, barely anyone even knew the event existed.

After it, ticket sales were cranking and the hype was undeniable. Then, five hours before doors opened, Hefs pulled out. I was gutted but I wasn't going to let that be the end of the story for Coffs. Everyone got their refund, no question, but I knew this city still deserved a night. Within two hours, I'd built an entire free event from the ground up, solo, no team, no safety net. Three hours notice, and I still managed to pull 250 people through the doors. Whether that night goes down as one of the biggest and best Coffs Harbour has seen in a long time that's not for me to say. People have said it themselves. There's a full recap up on my YouTube; search "Jayess @ Hooligan Hefs in Coffs Harbour" and see it for yourself. ontinued o er

COFFS COAST focus 21

Over the past 6 months things have really taken off for you, tell us what's been going on?

My music is a direct reflection of my life. I believe music is one of the truest forms of art there is, and I want people to feel the emotions and energy I pour into every track.

When people started reaching out to tell me my music helps them get through their own struggles, that my lyrics feel like their own story, that's a feeling I can't put into words.

It's what motivates me to lead with a positive mindset and make an impact wherever I can, and if all that comes from simply telling my story, then that's a blessing in itself.

It's been a big stretch. I was invited into the studio to record with ARIA-winning producer and artist Nerve, an experience that pushed my career to a completely different level. Being in the room with someone at that level, you absorb things most artists never get the chance to learn, and I made sure to take every bit of it and put it straight into practice. Off the The Mid North Coast back of that, We went has a growing creative I dropped my through it all scene. How has living biggest song and still came out the here shaped you as yet, "Gimme other side with our an artist, and do you That," heads up. I’ve seen think your hometown which has firsthand how easy it in uence our mu ic now passed is to get trapped in a 150,000 Growing up here taught cycle of struggle that streams across me a lot. In my younger feels like it will never platforms. I years, I saw real struggle end. was invited - living in tents with my to open for family, losing everything arguably the in the 200 floods, and biggest rap slowly rebuilding a life artist in Australia right now, Hooligan worth living. Shoutout to my Mum and Dad Hefs. And when that fell through at they're the strongest people I know. We went the last minute, I turned around and through it all and still came out the other side packed out a live venue with my own with our heads up. I ve seen firsthand how show solo. Looking at what's coming easy it is to get trapped in a cycle of struggle next, I genuinely believe this is only the that feels like it will never end. Everyone's beginning. fighting their own battles, but I believe that Hip hop is all about authenticity.

How much of your own life and experiences make their way into your lyrics?

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if you can find the smallest positives in any situation, it changes everything. Coffs Harbour gave me that. It gave me a support system and a team of winners who take every opportunity

and make the absolute most of it. So yes my hometown influences my music, without question. My circumstances and this city were the foundation my entire career was built on. It’s so easy to get swallowed by the monotony of week-to-week life, that cycle traps so many people before they even realise it. I’m a dreamer. I’ve always chased the highest level of success I can reach, and these days, all I think about is how to become a better man. That mindset has shaped everything I am today.

Performing live is a very different experience from writing and recording the music. What do you enjoy most about getting out on stage in front of a live crowd?

There s nothing in this world that beats the moment right before you step out on stage everyone screaming your name, and you get to go out there and do exactly what you love. Building energy with a crowd is my favourite thing in the world. I make sure everyone in that room walks away having got the absolute most out of the night. Ask around, the energy at a Jayess show is different. Having that kind of control over a crowd, holding everyone s attention at once, is a feeling that s almost impossible to describe.

Building energy with a crowd is my favourite thing in the world. I make sure everyone in that room walks away having got the absolute most out of the night

What can fans expect from you next? Are there any new releases, collaborations or live shows you're excited about?

Expect nonstop workrate. Music videos, collaborations all across Australia, and overseas trips with more collabs already locked in. Keep your eyes peeled for some merch drops too, I m genuinely excited about what s coming there. This has already been a huge year, but the second half is about to get a whole lot busier.

Thanks Jayess.

COFFS COAST focus 23

OUT OF THE SHADOWS WALK

THELMA PLUM.

5 15

Thelma is taking her songs on the road in an intimate acoustic tour. Performing in a special duo format, she’ll share award-winning music, heartfelt stories and perhaps a few rarely played favourites.

When 5th August Where Bellingen Memorial Hall Tickets $71.40 from bellingenmemorialhall. com.au

10

AUGUST

THE JUNGLE GIANTS - COFFS COAST -

2026

AFLW - SYDNEY SWANS VS ST KILDA. The Sydney Swans

29

22

BOUNDLESS BOOK BALL.

The Jungle Giants return to Australia with their Experiencing Feelings Of Joy Tour.

Featuring The Tullamarines and Tear Drive, expect an unforgettable night of indie anthems and dancefloor energy. Strictly an 18 When 15th August Where Hoey Moey Tickets hoeymoey.com.au

24 COFFS COAST focus

Nine Lives Lost. One Community United.

Coffs Coast community will come together at the Jetty Foreshores for Lifeline North Coast’s Out of the Shadows Walk, marking World Suicide Prevention Day. When 10th September Where Jetty Foreshores Time From 5.30am

head to Coffs Harbour for a blockbuster AFLW Round 3 clash against St Kilda. Enjoy elite football, family-friendly entertainment, food and local vendors. When 29th August Where C.ex International Stadium Tickets sydneyswans.com.au

An inclusive celebration of stories, imagination and community at Pacific Bay Resort. The evening features a three-course dinner, live entertainment, a book swap, silent auction and more. Dress as your favourite literary character. When 22nd August Where Pacific Bay Resort Tickets humanitix

30

C.EX GROUP COFFS HARBOUR RUNNING FESTIVAL . Choose from the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 5km or 3km Family Fun Run/Walk while enjoying the Coffs Creek Walkway, Botanic Gardens and Jetty Foreshore. When 30th August Where Jetty Foreshore More coffsrunfestival.com

Daily Lunch Specials From $17.50

OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

SHAKE RATTLE

N ROLL

TICKETS $79 | CONCESSION $75

BUY TICKETS

SATURDAY 29 AUGUST, 8PM

NATALIE NAWAUWI Coffs Harbour basketballer Natalie Nawauwi is already making her mark on the court. After years of dedication, development programs and countless hours of training, Natalie was selected to represent NSW Country at the Under 16 National Championships, competing against the best young players from across Australia.

H

i Natalie. Congratulations on being selected to represent NSW Country at the Under 16 National Championships, what did it feel like to receive that

call-up?

I felt excited, nervous, and incredibly proud when I found out I had been selected. I also felt grateful for the opportunity and thought about the many talented players who had worked just as hard but had not made the team.

Representing NSW Country had been a goal of mine for several years, and I dedicated myself to achieving it. I participated in Basketball NSW development programs, travelling countless hours up and down the Pacific Highway to attend development camps and selection trials.

Every training session, camp, and trial helped me improve my skills and prepared me for this opportunity. Being selected made all of the hard work, commitment, and sacrifices worthwhile.

Playing against the best young basketballers in Australia is an incredible

26 COFFS COAST focus

opportunity. What have you enjoyed most about the experience in Bendigo so far?

game, and spent our downtime playing lots of UNO. The winner always earned a chocolate, which became a fun tradition and created plenty of laughs. It made the whole experience even more enjoyable and brought us closer together as a team.

I was proud to have the opportunity to compete against the best girls from across Australia. It showed me the level I need to reach and made I was proud to have me realise that I need the opportunity to keep developing to compete against the my skills if I want to best girls from across compete consistently Australia.

It showed at that standard. The me the level I need to experience motivated reach and made me me to work even realise that I need harder and continue to keep developing improving my game.

Every athlete remembers how they fir t e in o e with their sport. How did basketball become such a big part of your life?

I started playing basketball in Coffs Harbour after moving from the Northern my skills if I want to One of the best parts Territory at the end of the compete consistently at of the tournament COVID-19 pandemic. I that standard. was being part of such attended basketball clinics a team environment. with the Coffs Suns, run Staying together with

by Felicity and Matt Cook, the other girls helped us build strong friendships and I really enjoyed them. Soon after, Korora both on and off the court. We trained together Public School invited me to join their basketball every day, supported each other through every team, and that was the beginning of my

basketball journey.

Tuesdays are my busiest day.

I have basketball training at school at 6:30 in the morning, then after school I train with the Coffs Suns before playing a game that night.

Not long afterwards, I was selected for the North Coast PSSA Primary School Basketball Team to compete at the NSW PSSA State Championships. Felicity was my coach, and she played an important role in helping me develop my confidence and skills. This was my first experience of representative basketball, and it inspired me to continue working hard and striving to achieve my goals.

You’ve also been part of an undefeated Suns Under 16 Division 1 team this season, what’s been the secret to your team’s success?

Our team works well together because we know each other and understand how each of us plays. Over time, we have built strong trust in one another’s abilities, which allows us to play with confidence and support each other on the court. We communicate well, work together towards a common goal, and always encourage each other. This trust, teamwork, and connection are what makes us

such a strong team.

As a young athlete competing at a high level, what does a typical week of training, games and recovery look like for you?

I train pretty much every day, and some days I have two training sessions as well as a game. It can get really busy, but I love playing basketball, so it’s

worth it.

Tuesdays are my busiest day. I have basketball training at school at 6:30 in the morning, then after school I train with the Coffs Suns before playing a game that night. I also have netball commitments, so I have to stay organised and make sure I balance everything.

Even though it’s a lot, I enjoy being active and getting better at the sports I love.

Representing your region and your state is something many young athletes dream of. What does wearing the NSW Country jersey mean to you personally?

I was really proud to be chosen to represent NSW. At the same time, I felt a big responsibility because the coaches had trusted me to be part of the team. I wanted to do my best, not just for myself, but for my teammates, coaches, and everyone who believed in me. Wearing the NSW jersey

made me want to work hard, play well, and represent my state with pride. ou re heading into the fina with plenty of momentum. What are the team’s goals, and how are you preparing for such an important weekend?

My biggest goal is for our team to win and qualify for the State Titles in Bathurst later this year. I also want us to represent Coffs Harbour well by playing our best, supporting each other, and showing good sportsmanship.

No matter what happens, I want people to see that we gave everything we had and made our community proud.

Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals in basketball over the next few years?

I haven’t really had time to reset my goals yet.

I’m still processing everything that happened at the Australian Championships and thinking about what comes next. It was an ama ing experience that taught me a lot about myself and showed me the level I want to keep working towards.

One of my biggest dreams is to represent Australia one day. I know it will take a lot of hard work, commitment, and continued improvement, but it’s a goal that motivates me every time I step onto the court. Right now, I’m focused on learning from my experiences, enjoying my basketball, and taking the next step in my development.

Thanks Natalie.

COFFS COAST focus 27

RIO

Just a few years a er swapping soccer boots for a sur oard, Rio Luther Barr has earned his place among Australia’s brightest young surfing talents. The talented local surfer has been selected to represent Australia at the 2026 ISA World Junior Surfing Championships in El Salvador, where he’ll compete against the world’s best.

focus_interview

LUTHER BARR

i Rio. Congratulations on being selected to represent Australia at the ISA World Junior Championships!

You're one of only three Under 16 boys selected from across Australia, what does it mean to know you've earned a place among the country's best young surfers?

It means so much to be selected to represent Australia at the ISA World Junior Surfing Championships It s been a really big goal of mine for a couple of years now, so I m super stoked that it s actually happening and that I ll have the opportunity to win an ISA Junior World title!

Your sporting journey didn't actually begin in urfing a ou were u t a wee awa from heading to England and Spain for soccer when COVID shut the world down.

28 COFFS COAST focus

ow did ou end u

i oting into urfing

eah, that was pretty cra y. I was a full-on soccer player and didn t even surf much, except for fun with my friends on the weekends sometimes. So when CO ID hit and I couldn t get overseas for soccer or even play at the local club, I just kind of started to surf more because we live right at the beach.

Then I fractured my ankle playing a pickup game of soccer with some friends, so I couldn t even train or play. For some reason, I could still surf with my ankle, and at that time I also got my first fibreglass board, and that changed everything. I started to just want to surf and do nothing else, and then pretty much all of a sudden surfing was my favourite thing to do.

I was just super motivated and curious about how I could get better Within just a few years you were competing with, and beating, some of Australia's best juniors, what do you think

allowed you to progress so quickly?

I ve always been super athletic and had really good balance and coordination, so surfing came pretty quickly. I also skated a fair bit when I was younger, which definitely helps when you start surfing. I had always surfed a little, so I had the basics, but I improved so fast because my style was really good, so I just had to build on that.

I was very motivated to learn and become the best surfer I could possibly be from soon after I started. It helped being homeschooled too because it meant I could put more hours in the water.

Sawtell Boardriders has been a huge part of your journey. How important has the club and the community been in helping you reach this level?

Sawtell Boardriders has been super helpful in my journey. It s always so exciting and inspiring doing comps because you always learn something and take something away to work

on, so having a Boardriders comp every month is so cool!

at an e ent a ham ion hi

Barney Miller from Sawtell Boardriders has been a massive supporter all the way from the start of my surfing journey, and I m super grateful for that.

I do a lot of high-performance mindset training at home and prepare a lot before events, but I feel like that sort of stuff is what sets apart the good surfers from the greats, so it s really important to have a process that you work through before events.

Another really cool thing Sawtell Boardriders does is give the groms a training day with Samba Mann, who is a really good surf coach, every couple of months before our comp day.

I TRY TO ZOOM

ignificant a the Wor d

I do a lot of journaling before events. I also meditate and visualise the outcome I want.

I try to oom out and see the bigger picture so the comp and the heat itself don t seem like the most important thing in the world.

Then I just focus on the things I can control, let go of what s out of my control, and have faith that everything will

Even though I m not in OUT AND SEE THE Coffs or Woolgoolga BIGGER PICTURE SO THE Boardriders, they ve also COMP AND THE HEAT ITSELF been big supporters of DON’T SEEM LIKE THE MOST mine the whole time IMPORTANT THING IN THE too. Andrew Lindsay and WORLD. Lee Winkler from Coffs Harbour Boardriders have given me many great opportunities and coaching, so all the Boardriders clubs in the area have been great in work out. helping me achieve my goals so far. a ador wi ring di erent wa e urfing can e a much a menta cha enge condition and ent o internationa a a h ica one ow do ou re are com etition What are ou mo t oo ing our e e ore a ig heat e ecia orward to a out com eting again t the

wor d

e t unior

I m most excited about having the opportunity to push myself against the best juniors in the world and give it my best shot to win. It will also be really cool meeting heaps of new people from different parts of the world. ow can the oca communit e t get ehind our ourne to a ador to re re ent u tra ia and the o oa t It s super expensive to get there and have all the coaching and training with the team, so I have an Australian Sports Foundation fundraiser.

Any support through that would be much appreciated. ou can find the link in my bio on my instagram @riolutherbarr or this is the URL: https asf.org.au campaigns rio-luther-barr help-get-rio-to-2026-isa-world-junior-surfingchampionships-surf-city-el-salvador I think googling ASF Rio Luther Barr should bring up the fundraiser too.

Following me on Instagram helps a lot too (@riolutherbarr) What are our a iration e ond the ham ion hi and in the ear ahead My biggest overall goal is to win a world title on the World Championship Tour. han

io COFFS COAST focus 29

ehind e

VELVET CURTAIN SECRETS, LIES & ALIBIS

For one weekend in August, the Coffs Harbour Conservatorium will be transformed into a hidden prohibition-era speakeasy as The Velvet Curtain Co. presents Secrets, Lies & Alibis, an immersive evening of New Orleans jazz, music theatre, storytelling and vintage glamour.

B

ehind the production are creative collaborators Vanessa Hunter and Rebecca Riches, whose vision is to create experiences that transport audiences beyond the everyday.

We spoke with Vanessa about the inspiration behind the company.

Where did The Velvet Curtain Co. begin?

“My connection to Coffs Harbour actually goes back generations,” Vanessa explains.

“My grandfather taught at Jetty High School in the 1950s, and although I only returned during COVID, I now realise I came home to build something.”

Before settling on the Coffs Coast, Vanessa worked as a photojournalist, toured internationally with rock bands and recorded original music. During the pandemic she began a PhD in consumer psychology, specialising in emotion theory.

“It all comes back to one question: why do some experiences stay with us while others fade? We don’t remember every detail, but we remember how something made us feel.”

That philosophy now shapes every Velvet Curtain production.

What makes your shows different?

“We create occasions rather than simply 30 COFFS COAST focus

performances,” she Freeman join Musical Everything is says. “Everything Director Pablo Blitzer, built around is built around the alongside musicians the feeling we want feeling we want Danny Stitt on double people to leave people to leave bass and Oliver Nelson with - the music, the with – the music, the on drums. storytelling, lighting, storytelling, lighting, “The Conservatorium atmosphere and atmosphere and has been an incredible even the welcome at even the welcome at the door. creative partner, while the door.” With so the Coffs CWA adds many entertainment warmth and hospitality options available, to our Sunday matinee.

Vanessa believes audiences deserve something Along with our volunteers and local suppliers, memorable. “If people leave home, buy a everyone has contributed something unique.” ticket and spend an evening with us, we want Vanessa believes that collaboration is the it to be worth it.” show’s greatest strength.

Why a speakeasy theme? Vanessa says the “This isn’t one person’s vision. It’s talented prohibition era offers the perfect backdrop people coming together to create something for escapism. “Speakeasies were hidden none of us could have achieved alone.” places where people dressed up, gathered with friends and left everyday life behind.

That’s exactly what we want audiences to experience. You don’t just watch the show – you step behind the Velvet Curtain and become part of another world.”

A true community collaboration, Secrets, Lies & Alibis brings together an impressive line-up of local talent and creatives from around the world who now call the region home.

Co-founder Rebecca Riches and vocalist Kate

What do you hope audiences take away?

“I hope people leave feeling like they’ve been somewhere else,” Vanessa says. “Life is busy.

If, for a couple of hours, we’ve created a place where strangers laugh together, music fills the room and the outside world disappears, then we’ve done exactly what we set out to do.

“Sometimes the best journeys are the ones that bring us home just a little lighter than when we arrived.”

SEE DIFFERENTLY AT LENS LOUNGE

Independent Eyecare. Curated Eyewear. Personalised Service.

Located on the Jetty strip in Coffs Harbour, Lens Lounge brings together advanced eye care, carefully selected eyewear and genuine, personalised service.

Every frame in store has been handpicked by owner and optometrist Chloe Luke, creating a collection that balances craftsmanship, individuality and everyday style.

Discover boutique designs for those wanting something a little different, alongside trusted brands everyone knows and loves.

Several eyewear labels are also exclusive to Lens Lounge between Byron Bay and Newcastle, giving local customers access to designs they won’t find everywhere else.

Advanced Eye Health Technology Lens Lounge is equipped with a stateof-the-art REVO OCT, providing detailed, high-resolution scans of the eye.

Glasses Made On Site

Lens Lounge also features an on-site optical laboratory, created with Chloe’s father, a retired optometrist with decades of industry experience.

By cutting lenses locally, the team can often have your new glasses ready the very same day.

Eyecare That Feels Personal

Whether you need a comprehensive eye examination, advanced eye health imaging or help finding frames that truly suit you, Lens Lounge offers a relaxed and considered experience from beginning to end.

372 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

On the Jetty strip (doors down from The Pier) P: 02 5603 3108 | E: info@lenslounge.com.au W: lenslounge.com.au Follow Lens Lounge 106 COFFS COAST focus

LENS LOUNGE

T

ell us about yourself and what inspired you to open Lens Lounge.

I’ve spent most of my career in the optical industry, following in the footsteps of my Dad, Greg Luke, who owned an optometry practice in Coffs Harbour for 35 years. Working alongside him taught me the value of genuine relationships and personalised care. After he retired, I saw the industry changing and realised there was an opportunity to create something different. I wanted to build the 32 COFFS COAST focus

A fresh approach to eye care has arrived on the Coffs Coast.

Combining expert optometry, carefully curated eyewear and personalised service, Lens Lounge is redefining the optical experience. We caught up with owner Chloe Luke to learn about the inspiration behind the business, her passion for eye health and why every patient experience matters.

kind of practice I would love to visit myself modern, welcoming, personalised and never rushed. Lens Lounge is the result of that vision.

elsewhere between Byron Bay and Newcastle.

It’s a combination of personalised care, premium eyewear and advanced technology.

What makes Lens Lounge different?

What can clients expect when they visit?

Everything we’ve created revolves around the patient experience. As an independent practice, we’re able to spend time getting to know each person’s lifestyle, visual needs and personal style rather than taking a one-sizefits-all approach.

From the moment you walk through the door, we want Lens Lounge to feel more like a boutique than a traditional optometry practice.

We’ve created a warm, relaxed environment where people can take their time.

We’ve also carefully curated eyewear from around the world, including boutique collections and exclusive brands you won’t find

Our comprehensive eye examinations are supported by advanced technology, including the REVO OCT, which provides incredibly detailed scans of the eye to help detect and

monitor changes that may otherwise go unnoticed. We also have an on-site optical laboratory, allowing us to cut lenses locally so many patients can have their new glasses ready the very same day.

Starting a business is always a leap of faith, but the response has been overwhelming.

We’ve welcomed so many wonderful people through our doors and have been embraced by the local community.

Why is regular eye care so important?

Many people think they only need an eye test when their vision becomes blurry, but regular examinations are about much more than updating your prescription.

Technology like our REVO OCT allows us to examine the eye in remarkable detail, often identifying early signs of eye disease before symptoms appear. Eye examinations can also provide valuable insights into your overall health, making preventative care incredibly important.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I love seeing the confidence that comes from helping someone see clearly and feel great in what they’re wearing.

Whether it’s someone putting on their new glasses and smiling because they can finally see properly again, or finding a frame they never would have chosen themselves, those moments make everything worthwhile. Building genuine relationships with our patients is the most rewarding part of what I do.

What has been the biggest highlight since opening?

Without question, it’s been the incredible support from the Coffs Coast community.

Starting a business is always a leap of faith, but the response has been overwhelming. We’ve welcomed so many wonderful people through our doors and have been embraced by the local community. It’s confirmed there was room for a different kind of optical experience.

What’s next for Lens Lounge?

We’re focused on continuing to build something special. We’ll keep introducing beautiful new eyewear collections, investing in technology that benefits our patients and

refining every part of the experience.

Our goal is to become the first place people think of when they want personalised eye care and eyewear that’s a little different from the ordinary.

What message would you like to share with the Coffs Coast community?

Simply, thank you.

The support we’ve received since opening has exceeded every expectation, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who’s trusted us with their eye care or recommended us to family and friends.

Whether you’re due for an eye test, looking for a new pair of glasses or simply want to explore our unique range of eyewear, we’d love to welcome you into Lens Lounge.

How can people get in touch?

Visit us at 372 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour, on the Jetty strip, book an appointment online or give us a call on (02) 5603 3108. You can also follow Lens Lounge on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to see our latest eyewear collections, eye care tips and everything happening in the practice.

Thanks, Chloe.

COFFS COAST focus 33

PORT MACQUARIE CUP Elegance COASTAL

COUNTRY RACING

FRIDAY 9th OCTOBER 34 COFFS COAST focus

FIRST RELEASE

SECOND RELEASE

FINAL RELEASE

3RD AUG

10TH AUG

17TH AUG

COVER DISH Pork Scallopini – Pork medallions with mushroom & sherry cream sauce served with

seasonal vegetables and duck fat roasted potatoes

Papaveros Italian Restaurant COFFS COAST focus 35

SATURDAY 29 JUNE SATURDAY SATURDAY19TH 19THSEP SEP

SAWTELL CLUB SAWTELL RSL RSL CLUB

Women Like Us

Women Like Us

COMES TO SAWTELL RSL

THE REUNION!

‘Ellen is in a league of her own’ Ar j Ba rk er

Women Like Us is the stand up comedy sensation created by Mandy Nolan and Ellen Briggs. With over 320 performances in cities and regional centres, big city theatres and dusty regional halls Sawtell RSL is still one of their favourite all times gigs. And Saturday 29 June they are back!

A

n anomaly in their

$40 + BF

DOORS OPEN DOORS 7PM7PM SHOW STARTS STARTS 8PM SHOW 8PM TICKETS AT: WWW.SAWTELLRSL.COM.AU

36 COFFS COAST focus

combination of talents. The big,

Get ready for a night of belly laughs as Women Like industry – kickass warm, outrageous Nolan andUs the– The Reunion returns to the Coffs Coast, bringing two of comics but midlaid back charisma of sharp shootAustralia'sdle-aged favourite comedians on stage. women ing,back naturaltogether born storyteller Ellen

A

– they realised that fter a couple of it didn’t matter how good they years away,going the were, they were always to be behind much-loved the 8 ball in comedy an duo Mandy industry that favours under 30’s Nolan Ellen and is dominated by and blokes.

After riggof are reunitingfor forwomen’s what years performing promises to befundraisers an unforgettable luncheons and to evening atthat Sawtell RSL.them Known audiences fangirled for their wit, relatable like crazy,sharp they both decided that storieswas andanhilarious take there audience outon there everyday Mandy andtoEllen for them –life, they just had go havethere builtand a loyal byso out findfollowing them. And findingWomen the humour in the chaos, began Like Us. challenges and of being ‘We’ve taken ourtriumphs show deep into women. the heart of Australia and to the Audiences can expect stages of capital cities, all We share the deeply ingredients haveof womthe funnythat stories made Women s such a en smashing theLike ‘Women aren’t hit overmyth the years – the funny’ forever.

Andsame guess chemistry, outrageous what, men the findsame us funny too ’ fun,magic plentyofofthe fresh material The show is the and,

Briggs. of course, generous ‘We’ve hada heaps of 5helping star of the classic jokes fans know and reviews from Australia’s premier love.

Whether yousays ve seen comedy festivals’ Ellen,them ‘ but before or you discovering the reviews weretake to heartthem are for first this reunion the the ones wetime, get from audiences show guaranteed to leave show is after show. They keep you turnlaughing fromcoming beginning end. ing up, some backtofor the Perfect girls night out, 4th andfor 5tha time.’ date night or Us anyone who Women Like is stand up at appreciates clever,housework, down-to-earth its best. It’s about comedy, Like Ussmall – The chickens,Women love, feminism, Reunion a celebration of dogs, big is butts, disappointment, friendship, and life. resentment,laughter sex when you’re The show will be held at Sawtell drunk, fit bits, yoga farts and RSL, First Avenue,woman Sawtell,dealbeing38 a menopausal and is strictly for audiences 18 ing with teenage angst. They’re years and over. overworked, overweight and over Gather your friends, book your it… seats andLike prepare a night Women Us atfor Sawtell RSLofon non-stop entertainment Saturday 29 June. Show with 8pm.two Tix of Australia s funniest women. $40 @ sawtellrsl.com.au COFFS COAST focus 43

eat

GROUND EARTH CAFE WOOLGOOLGA

locals

Tucked away in Woolgoolga, Ground Earth café serves exceptional H Eproduce RE TH E delicious brunch. With BASSETT coffee, fresh W local and passionate chefs and genuine service, we’re all about great food, great coffee and community. Open for breakfast & lunch 7am – 2pm daily. Bookings recommended. Fully licensed.

1/18 Market Street, Woolgoolga, Phone: 6654 8361

C O F F S

H

A

R

BO

U R

ONLY

275

PUT YOUR $ 99 ON PARK BUSINESS Fully licenced restaurant and bar. A relaxed elegant dining experience ON THE MENU with a French infused menu. Don't miss our weekly specials. inc GST. PER MONTH

Wednesday nights - 4 course set menu and Thursday Nights - French 3 Professionally designed 1/6-page advert Bistro Night. Fresh, innovative and delicious. Open for dinner from 3 Professional photography 5pm, Wednesday to Saturday. 99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour 3 Your logo, image, contact details & QR code (02) 6699 2606 | www.99onpark.com.au 3 Distribution to 30,000+ homes and businesses

BOOK 6 MONTHS AND RECEIVE A FREE DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD INTERVIEW VALUED AT $2,310!

Now taking bookings for our September edition.

Contact us today to secure your spot.

LA HACIENDA 101

Must Es

We’ve been delivering authentic Mexican flavours for 13 years. With the largest range of margaritas on the Coffs Coast it’s definitely the place to dine out or just enjoy drinks with friends or family.

16 Market St Woolgoolga Ph 02 6699 2665 www.lahacienda101.com.au

GREEN ONE CAFE Located on Ocean Parade at Park Beach Bowling Club, Green One Café is open daily for fresh coffee, breakfast and lunch. Enjoy a bright coastal setting Where the Ocean meets the greens. Walk-ins welcome, takeaway available.

Open 7 days a week from 6am-2:30 pm For our full for menu www.pbbc.com.au/

PAPAVEROS

BAYSIDE BAR AND GRILL

Located on the ground floor at C.ex Coffs, Papaveros boasts an Italian style setting offering delicious pi as, pastas, authentic Italian entrees and mains plus a selection of delicious desserts prepared by our Italian trained chefs.

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5.30pm Cex Coffs 2-6 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour | (02) 6652 3888

Bayside Bar and Grills’ Karaage chicken burger packs a punch! Asian slaw, miso mayonnaise, pickled cucumber, tomato, avocado & lettuce served on a milk bun w’ fries – YUM! Open 7 days for Breakfast and dinner. Pacific Bay Resort nr acific Hwy and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour | www acifi c a re ort COVE com au HORIZONS RESTAURANT & BAR - OPAL

PAPAVEROS

Located on the ground floor at C.ex Coffs, Papaveros boasts an Italian style

40 COFFS COAST focusdelicious pi as, pastas, authentic Italian entrees and mains setting offering

plus a selection of delicious desserts prepared by our Italian trained chefs.

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5.30pm C.ex Coffs 2-6 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour | (02) 6652 3888

Get out of the cold and enjoy Horizon’s winter menu. Showcasing the best of the region’s produce in the winter months. Come in and try our mouth-watering delights. Horizons popular Sunday Dinner Roast available through August. Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5-6pm daily.

Open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – 7 days a week.

COFFS COAST focus 37

MORGAN & JOE GIBBONS B U C C A

38 COFFS COAST focus

F A R M

S H O P

What began as a childhood passion for growing and selling produce has grown into a shared dream for high-school sweethearts Morgan and Joe Gibbons.

Through Bucca Farm Shop, the young farmers are connecting the community with fresh, locally grown produce while learning the challenges and rewards of farming with each passing season.

or readers who haven’t yet discovered Bucca Farm Shop, can you tell us a little about how it all began?

Bucca Farm Shop really began when Joe was a kid. At eight years old, he was already growing and selling pumpkins door-to-door around Forest Glen and Bucca.

By high school, he had moved on to running a small roadside trailer to earn some pocket money. Around the same time, we began dating. We’re high-school sweethearts, so in a way, the trailer has been there through much of our story together.

In 2024, while we were saving for our wedding, we decided to bring it back and see how it went. What started as a way to earn a little extra money became something we both loved.

Today, the trailer stocks produce grown on our family farm, along with fruit and vegetables from other local growers. It is still a simple roadside shop, but it has become a big part of

our life together.

What do you currently grow and produce on the farm, and how does the changing season in uence what available in the shop?

Around the same time, we began dating.

We’re high-school sweethearts, so in a way, the trailer has been there through much of our story together.

We grow watermelons, garlic, pumpkins, zucchinis and avocados, as well as flower bunches and pasture-raised eggs. We also trial other crops throughout the year to learn what grows well on our farm and suits Bucca’s conditions.

What you find at the shop changes with the seasons. If something is not growing locally, it may not be available at the trailer.

We think that is one of the nicest things about shopping locally. It helps people become more familiar with the seasons around Coffs Harbour and enjoy produce when it is naturally at its best.

Every farm has its own rhythm. What does a typical day look like for the two of you?

Most mornings start with a coffee and a walk through the vegetable garden to see what is ready to pick. The produce is then taken to the shed, washed, packed and placed in the shop that day.

After that, our days usually head in different directions. Morgan is studying for a Bachelor of Education and also works casually at a small local business. Joe works on the family cattle farm, PJN Angus.

The farm shop work continues in the afternoons and on weekends. That is when we plant, water, weed, harvest and prepare for the days ahead.

Continued over...

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MORGAN & JOE GIBBONS B U C C A

F A R M

There’s something special about buying produce directly from the people who grew it. Why is supporting local food systems important to you, and what difference does it make for both farmers and the community?

One of our favourite parts of the shop is meeting customers in the driveway while they are choosing their produce. We also love seeing people share meals they have made or tell us how much they enjoyed something from the stall.

S H O P

We also stock produce from other growers in the area. This gives local farmers another place to sell what they grow and allows us to offer customers a wider range.

We also stock produce from other growers in the area. This gives local farmers another place to sell what they grow and allows us to offer customers a wider range.

Farming is an important part of the Coffs Harbour region. When people choose local produce, they are supporting local families, jobs and businesses.

Buying locally gives people a closer connection to where their food comes from. It also gives them a more realistic understanding of the seasons and the challenges farmers face.

What’s next for Bucca Farm Shop?

Weather, dry periods, pests and particularly productive seasons can all change what is available. Shopping locally helps people see that food does not simply appear in the same quantities every week.

We would like to keep trying new crops, improving the trailer and learning more about what grows well on our farm. We also enjoy hearing what our customers would like to see at the shop.

40 COFFS COAST focus

We do not have a strict plan for what the shop needs to become. Farming has taught us that plans often change with the season.

We want Bucca Farm Shop to grow, but we do not want it to lose the simple and personal feel that makes it special.

For now, we are happy to keep learning, take each season as it comes and celebrate the little wins along the way. We are excited to see where the shop takes us and to watch the Bucca Farm Shop community continue to grow with it.

What have been the most rewarding moments since opening Bucca Farm Shop?

The most rewarding part has been building something together while also beginning our married life.

The shop started as a small idea to help us save for our wedding. Seeing it become a business we are both proud of has been very special.

There is also something satisfying about watching a crop grow from a seed and then seeing someone take it home to feed their family. When customers return each week, bring their friends or tell us they enjoyed the produce, it reminds us that the work is valued.

Because the stall is self-serve, it relies heavily on trust. Most customers are incredibly respectful of the shop, our property and the produce.

When we experienced a theft, the support we received from local people was overwhelming.

It reminded us that one person’s actions did not represent the community around us.

We are still learning, but being able to say that we built the shop together is something we are very proud of.

What would you like people to know about local agriculture and the work that goes into growing fresh food?

We would love people to know how much work happens before produce reaches the trailer.

A crop can take weeks or months of preparing the soil, planting, watering, weeding, checking for pests and watching the weather. Even after all that work, there is never a guarantee that everything will grow as planned.

When we experienced a the , the support we received from local people was overwhelming. It reminded us that one person’s actions did not represent the community around us.

We are also passionate about reducing food waste. Good fruit and vegetables are often overlooked because they have a small mark, an unusual shape or do not look like something from a supermarket shelf.

Those little imperfections usually make no difference to the taste or quality.

We share behind-the-scenes moments on our social media because we want people to see the full process. That includes the successful harvests, the hard work and the things that do

not always go to plan.

Farming is not perfect or predictable, but that is what makes it real.

Where can we find out more or i it the shop?

Bucca Farm Shop is not a conventional shop. It is a semi-old-school, self-serve roadside trailer located on our family farm at 510 Bucca Road, Bucca.

The shop is open every day, with what is available changing throughout the week and across the seasons.

Part of the experience is being able to visit the farm and see the land where some of the produce has been grown. It offers a connection to your food that can be difficult to find in a supermarket.

We share updates on our social media, including what is currently available, new crops and behind-the-scenes moments from the farm. Checking there before visiting is the best way to see what is fresh.

Whether you are from the local area or passing through Bucca, we would love for you to stop by the trailer.

Thanks guys.

COFFS COAST focus 41

101

La Hacienda From humble beginnings to becoming one of the Coffs Coast’s favourite dining destinations, La Hacienda 101 has built a reputation for authentic Mexican flavours, handcra ed margaritas and warm hospitality. Inspired by regular trips to Mexico and a passion for sharing its vibrant food culture, the team has created a dining experience bursting with colour, flavour and fun. We caught up with the team to hear the story behind La Hacienda 101, their love of authentic Mexican cuisine, and why locals and visitors keep coming back for more.

T

ell us the story behind La Hacienda 101. What inspired you to create it?

Our journey began with a shared dream and a passion for great food. Michael trained under renowned chefs at Langham Towers in Melbourne and even turned down an opportunity to work at Rockpool to pursue his own vision.

Back in 2012, we purchased Room 101, which was operating as a modern Austrian restaurant. After the Christmas holidays, we realised it was time for a fresh direction.

During a casual Sunday afternoon chat with a friend, the idea of Mexican food and margaritas came up. By the very next day, we were already putting plans into action.

We spent the following month experimenting with flavours and dishes, and the response from locals was incredible. Before long, people were specifically booking Friday and Saturday 42 COFFS COAST focus

nights for Mexican.

We believe dining should be an experience, not just a meal. Whether you’re joining us A real turning point came when we met two with family, friends or celebrating a special Americans, Shep and Allison, who shared their occasion, we aim to extensive knowledge transport you to Mexico and passion for through authentic authentic Mexican flavours, vibrant Our menu is cuisine. Through surroundings and designed to be their friendship genuine hospitality. shared and enjoyed and guidance, we together, while our Our menu is designed to developed a genuine relaxed atmosphere be shared and enjoyed love for Mexico - its makes everyone feel together, while our people, culture, welcome, from young relaxed atmosphere food and traditions. families through to makes everyone feel groups celebrating Fourteen years later, welcome, from young with margaritas. we still travel to families through to groups celebrating with Mexico regularly, margaritas. exploring street food, regional dishes and local markets before bringing those authentic flavours back to Woolgoolga.

What makes La Hacienda 101 unique?

What can guests expect when they visit? uests can expect bold flavours, fresh ingredients and attentive service. Alongside

our authentic Mexican dishes, we’re proud to offer one of the region’s largest selections of handcrafted margaritas, as well as an extensive range of beers, wines, tequilas and mezcals.

Our team loves interacting with guests and creating an atmosphere that’s fun, welcoming and memorable.

How important is local produce to your menu?

Freshness is everything. We source as many ingredients as possible from local suppliers while importing key ingredients directly from Mexico to ensure our dishes remain true to their origins. It’s this balance between local produce and authentic Mexican ingredients that gives our menu its unique flavour.

What have been some of your biggest highlights?

Opening our larger Woolgoolga restaurant has been one of our proudest achievements, allowing us to welcome more guests while creating dedicated spaces to relax and enjoy great food and margaritas.

Our travels through Mexico have also been unforgettable. Beyond discovering incredible food, we’ve built lifelong friendships with locals who continue to inspire us and share their knowledge, helping shape what La Hacienda 101 has become today.

What do you love most about welcoming locals and visitors?

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone take their first bite or sip their first margarita and instantly smile.

Beyond discovering incredible food, we’ve built lifelong friendships with locals who continue to inspire us and share their knowledge, helping shape what La Hacienda 101 has become today.

We love creating an atmosphere where people can relax, laugh and make memories together. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Coffs Coast for the first time, we want everyone to leave feeling like they’ve experienced something special, and to look forward to coming back again.

What’s next for La Hacienda 101?

This year we’re celebrating 14 years in business with a series of special events, including degustation dinners and tequila tasting nights. It’s our way of thanking the community for their incredible support over the years while continuing to share our passion for authentic Mexican food and culture.

Anything else you’d like readers to know?

La Hacienda 101 is all about colour,

culture, flavour and creating unforgettable experiences. At the heart of it are two passionate country boys doing what they love, sharing authentic Mexican food, handcrafted margaritas and a genuine love of hospitality.

We look forward to welcoming you to our “homestead” and sharing a little piece of Mexico right here in Woolgoolga. ow can reader find ou 101- Shop 2, 16 Market Street, Woolgoolga (02) 6699 2665 lahacienda101.com.au facebook.com/lahacienda101 @lahacienda101 For bookings and special events, we encourage guests to contact us directly so we can personally cater for dietary requirements and ensure every visit is a memorable one.

COFFS COAST focus 43

Ocean Meets the Greens Where e

S

Before the lunch crowd arrives, before the bowls club begins to hum and before the sun has properly settled over Park Beach, the coffee machine is working, the kitchen is warming up, and Head Chef Blake Wittenberg is preparing for another day of feeding locals, visitors, tradies, families and familiar faces.

B L A K E W I T T E N B E R G A N D T H E F R E S H F L AV O U R O F G R E E N O N E C A F E

et within Park Beach Bowling Club, where the ocean meets the greens, Green One Cafe has become much more than a convenient place to grab a bite.

In three years, it has grown into a bright dining destination with its own identity, built around quality food, relaxed coastal energy and a menu that feels familiar and adventurous.

For Blake, who has been the founding chef since the cafe opened, that balance has always been central to the Green One experience.

“I think people want food they understand, but they also want to be surprised,” Blake says. “The menu has to have those staples people come back for, but it also needs dishes that make them want to try something new.”

That philosophy is clear across the menu.

Breakfast guests can settle into familiar favourites, while those looking for something with more personality might choose Turkish eggs, chilli scrambled eggs, shakshuka, corn fritters or the Green One Big Brekky. At lunch, the offerings move from burgers and BLTs through to Korean fried chicken, duck salad, fish tacos and seasonal specials. It is a menu shaped by comfort, but not limited by it.

Blake draws inspiration from across the

44 COFFS COAST focus

globe, bringing international flavours into a cafe setting in a way that feels approachable rather than overcomplicated. Dishes like the lunchtime prawn curry, Turkish eggs, chilli scramble and shakshuka capture the colour, generosity and flavour that have become part of Green One Cafe’s signature style.

For Blake, the goal is never to make food feel intimidating. It is about giving guests choice.

“You’ve got people who come in every week and order the same thing because they love it,” he says. “Then you’ve got people who want to see what’s new, or visitors who are happy to try something different. The challenge is making sure the menu works for all of them.”

The menu has

to have those That broad appeal is The setting helps too. staples people come one of the reasons With north-facing back for, but it also Green One Cafe has dining, a fresh coastal needs dishes that found its place so fitout and an outlook make them want to quickly. It caters to across the greens, the try something new. early risers grabbing space feels easy, open takeaway coffee from and distinctly Coffs 6am, tradies stopping in Coast. It is connected for a brekkie run, club members enjoying their to the energy of the bowls club, but it also discount, tourists staying around Park Beach, feels like its own destination, inviting people and locals using the cafe as their regular to slow down, sit in the light and enjoy good food without fuss. Fresh, leafy, bright and catch-up spot.

relaxed, it is casual enough for a post-beach breakfast, polished enough for lunch, and welcoming enough that regulars feel instantly at home.

After a career spent running kitchens as Head Chef across the East Coast of Australia, Blake settled in Coffs Harbour for the same reasons many people do: the weather, the lifestyle, the coastline and the pace of life, but it is the people who have made Green One Cafe feel like home.

“The regulars are a big part of it,” Blake says. “You get to know what people like, what they order, who’s coming in for coffee, who’s bringing their family, who’s trying something new. Then you’ve got visitors who are discovering the place for the first time. It keeps it interesting.”

That connection with customers also shapes the menu. Green One Cafe’s offering changes with the seasons, with winter bringing more warming, generous dishes suited to cooler mornings and relaxed lunches. Customer feedback is part of that process. Blake pays attention to what comes back to the kitchen, what regulars ask for, what sells strongly, and what sparks conversation.

It is the kind of place where you can start the day with coffee from 6am, meet friends for breakfast, bring the family for lunch, or discover a new favourite dish a er a morning near the beach.

The result is a menu that feels considered but responsive, grounded in quality and flexible enough to shift with the season. Families need easy, reliable options.

Couples may want something fresh and relaxed over coffee.

Groups want variety. Club members want value. Visitors want something memorable and convenient near the beach.

Looking ahead, Green One Cafe is preparing to shift into spring with a fresh focus on tasting and sharing plates. Again, the inspiration will come from across the globe, encouraging people to try, share and linger.

dish after a morning near the beach.

At Green One Cafe, the view is easy, the welcome is warm, and the menu continues to grow with the community around it. Blake Wittenberg and his team are creating a cafe experience that reflects the best of life on the Coffs Coast: fresh mornings, coastal flavour, and a seat where the ocean meets the green.

For those who have not visited before, Blake believes the reason to come in is simple: Green One Cafe feels uniquely suited to Coffs Harbour.

It is relaxed but thoughtful. Familiar but fresh.

Coastal but not cliche. It is the kind of place where you can start the day with coffee from 6am, meet friends for breakfast, bring the family for lunch, or discover a new favourite COFFS COAST focus 45

The

Jungle Giants A N D R E W D O O R I S

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A er five years of touring the globe, The Jungle Giants are finally bringing their latest chapter home.

Armed with their fifth studio album, Experiencing Feelings of Joy, they’re hitting the road with a show that promises equal parts dancefloor euphoria and heartfelt emotion. Ahead of their August 15 performance at The Hoey Moey, bassist Andrew Dooris reflects on the band’s biggest milestones, the deeply personal journey behind the new record and why this tour feels unlike any other. fter spending the past fi e ear touring internationa what doe it ee i e to e returning to u tra ian tage with a rand new a um It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve done it, it’s always special playing new music no matter where we play. It feels really nice to meet the people this recording is touching. The touring from each record is always a bit different, and this one is really warm and emotional, which makes sense. our fi th tudio a um i tit ed eriencing ee ing o o ow wou d ou de cri e thi record and the e o ution o our ound This record is definitely the most vulnerable and deepest we’ve gone on a record. It was made over a long and formative time in our lives, and is the soundtrack to a lot of major milestones.

Within the band, there was a #1 ARIA record (Love Signs), 2 engagement breakups, ARIA nomination, 3 world tours, a band break-up, 2 near death experiences, another break-up, a marriage and our first ungle iants baby. It was an impossible task to encapsulate that, but the sound of the record evolved through experimentation with samples and collaboration with producers around the world. Sam managed to do the impossible and figure out what all that sounds like.

With near ha a i ion tream and a huge cata ogue o an a ourite ehind ou how do ou a ance gi ing audience the ong the o e whi e introducing a new cha ter o the and n hint on what we might e ect rom the et i t or thi tour

The simple answer is we play for longer, but truthfully, we’ve tended to prioritise new material and avoid walking down memory-lane. This tour is a little different. We've embraced a bunch of the older material and found new ways to reinterpret songs from earlier albums.

With help from our good friend and collaborator Michael Belsar, who’s jumped on as a musical director, we feel like we’ve struck a great balance. We care so much about delivering a world-class polished show. The shows themselves are almost like another album’s worth of effort.

meeting different communities of music fans. It’s been really nice to take our supports The Tullamarines and Tear Drive to new places around the country as well.

It’s usually on the regional shows that you get to hangout more as a touring party.

com ared with ig cit gig and ma or e ti a

I mean you said it. a This live show will have you dancing, crying and holding each other. Thank you

oo ing ac to the and ear da and e er thing he ung e iant ha e achie ed what ha e een ome high ight or ou gu o er the ear

Playing at Corona Capital in Mexico City to 35,000 people would have to be up there, so would Splendour 2022 to a packed out MainStage, just as the sun ter a ing e ti a and enue around came out to, again, somewhere around the wor d what ti e cite ou mo t 20-30,000 people. a out er orming We also did a similar i e thing at OutsideLands Oh, I mean for me, We care so in San Francisco in playing live is what much about 2023. The exciting gets me out of bed delivering a worldpostcard moments in the morning and class polished are one thing, but what I go to bed show. The shows there’s so many other thinking about. It’s themselves are quieter moments as all I’ve ever wanted almost like another well, playing cards to do with my life album’s worth of in the green room and I feel extremely effort. with my best friends, grateful to do the days where we it. I just love the find something silly, exchange of energy like a tartan hat, in that you get with a dingy backstage an audience; the way we all inspire each area and laugh for hours, the endless car other to let go of whatever we’re carrying conversations; it’s been a pleasure. around with us and embrace the moment. our i e how ha e ui t a re utation Probably a bit cliche, but I genuinely think or turning into ma i e dance artie it’s the most beautiful thing and the best What can an in o ar our e ect of humanity. when the head to our how at he o ma er regiona how i e o oe oe on ugu t ar our o er a di erent energ

efinitely oey Moey is a great venue, and we really love playing regionally and

han

ndrew COFFS COAST focus 47

Yarrila Arts and Museum 6 August – 13 September 2026

ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2025 Archibald Prize 2025 finalist, Sally Ryan Lette loose (detail) © the artist

ds

Major partner

Locally supported by

Free entry!

Scan QR code for more info

An Art Gallery of New South Wales touring exhibition

48 COFFS COAST focus

rchibald ri e finalist, atasha alsh he ellow

IS COMING TO YARRILA ARTS AND MUSEUM

K

nown for inspiring imaginations, this portrait prize brings the country together, revealing familiar faces and new perspectives - from stage and screen, music, media, and journalism to reflections on activism, politics, and everyday life. It’s completely free to visitors, with a range of activities for the whole family!

Weaving is transformed beyond recognition into blue and red smurf-like characters by Jason Phu.

“Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or stepping into a gallery for the first time, the Archibald Prize is an exhibition that captures people’s imagination,” says Yarrila Arts and Museum’s Service Leader, Carrie Kibbler. “It tells the stories of contemporary Australia through some of the most compelling portraiture being created today, sparking conversations about identity, creativity and the stories that shape our nation.”

Artists captured by artists continues as a theme throughout the Archibald Prize 2025.

For example, the winner of the $100,000 prize sees Justene Williams transformed into Flagship Mother Multiverse (Justene) by Julie Fragar. The two artists work alongside each other at the Queensland College of Art and Design. Fragar said, The work is a reflection on the experience of making art to deadlines, and the labour and love of being a mother.”

It becomes a celebration of an art practice in dialogue and a celebration of motherhood. It’s a must-see!

The exhibition turns into a spotting of who's who, like Sally Ryan’s bright and cheerful painting of Australian author Kathy Lette, or the soft and sensitive portrait of the sisters Antonia and Nicole Kidman in memory of their mother by Jaq Grantford. In a vision of blue, Kelly Maree captures Jackie O, and Hugo

Even Dolly Parton and a Blak Tina Turner make an appearance in Iwantja Kaylene Whiskey’s painting, from comic to canvas. Inspired by Henri Matisse’s Yellow Odalisque, artist Atong Atem mirrors this iconic pose in the bright and colourful oil on copper painting The Yellow Odalisque of Brunswick by Natasha Walsh.

The exhibition takes over the two largest galleries at Yarrila Arts and Museum, alongside a very special show from Coffs Harbour’s young artists, Young Archie Coffs Harbour.

dalis ue of runswic

Archibald Prize 2025 is completing its final stop on its tour from the Art Gallery of New South Wales, landing at the City of Coffs Harbour’s Yarrila Arts and Museum this month.

You can also vote for your favourite artwork.

Loribelle Spirovski’s expressive finger painting of William Barton won the People's Choice 2025 at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, will it be one of your favourites?

Alongside the exhibition, visitors are welcome to take part in free artmaking in The Workshop and attend the official exhibition opening on Thursday 6 August at 6pm.

Bringing this nationally significant exhibition to Yarrila Arts and Museum creates opportunities for local audiences, schools, artists and visitors to engage with those conversations firsthand. It s the kind of exhibition that inspires people of all ages and interests,” says Kibbler. “We’re thrilled to welcome this iconic exhibition to Yarrila Arts and Museum and to give our community the opportunity to experience it right here in Coffs Harbour.”

Cost: Free When: 7 August – 13 September 2026 Writer: Emma-Kate Wilson COFFS COAST focus 49

WHAT’S

NEW in the Coffs City Centre

From exciting new retailers to long-standing local favourites entering a new chapter, the Coffs City Centre continues to evolve. Meet three businesses helping shape the next generation of our CBD.

F

JACQUI’S BOUTIQUE - A LEGACY OF ST YLE CONTINUES

or anyone who has shopped in the Coffs City Centre over the past three decades, chances are they've wandered through the doors of Jacqui's Boutique. Proudly located on the Pacific Highway in the heart of the CBD, the boutique has become a local institution. This year marks 30 years of Jacqui's Boutique – a milestone made even more special as founder Jacqui Boyns retires and passes the business to long-time team member Corine, ensuring one of the City Centre's best-loved businesses continues to thrive for years to come.

The boutique's story began long before Jacqui opened the doors 30 years ago. Growing up in a family of fashion retailers, Jacqui was inspired by her parents Doug and Kay Gam, who owned fashion stores for almost 40 years. From them, she learnt the importance of quality products, exceptional service and building genuine relationships with customers.

"My family has been in fashion retail for as long as I can remember," Jacqui said. "Mum and Dad owned fashion stores for nearly 40 years, and it was Dad who encouraged me to open my own boutique. Thirty years later, I still love every minute of it."

Over the years, Jacqui's Boutique has grown

50 COFFS COAST focus

from a small footwear store into one of the Coffs Coast's best-known independent fashion boutiques. While fashion trends have evolved and shopping habits have changed, the boutique has remained committed to helping women feel confident through carefully curated fashion and personalised service.

That commitment has created generations of loyal customers who return not just for the clothing, but for the warm, welcoming experience that has become synonymous with Jacqui's Boutique.

"I couldn't do it without my incredible staff," Jacqui said. "Together we've created a welcoming environment where customers feel like family. We focus on quality, genuine service and building relationships, and I think that's why people keep coming back."

Now that philosophy will continue under Corine's leadership. After more than ten years as a valued member of the Jacqui's Boutique team, she is excited to build on everything customers already know and love while bringing fresh ideas to the business.

Having spent her entire working life in retail and customer service, Corine has a passion for fashion, visual merchandising and creating memorable shopping experiences. She also

plans to introduce online shopping, allowing more customers to access the carefully curated collection of brands that Jacqui has built over the past three decades.

"It's a real privilege to continue the Jacqui's Boutique story," Corine said. "Jacqui has built something truly special in the Coffs City Centre.

My goal is to preserve everything our customers love – beautiful fashion, genuine service and those personal relationships while embracing new ideas that will help the boutique continue to grow for many years to come."

While Jacqui is looking forward to spending more time with family, travelling and enjoying everything the beautiful Coffs Coast has to offer, she won't be going far.

As one chapter closes and another begins, Jacqui s Boutique remains firmly part of the fabric of the Coffs City Centre, adding to the growing mix of independent retailers that make the CBD such a special place to shop.

Customers are encouraged to pop into the boutique, congratulate Jacqui on an incredible 30 years and welcome Corine as she begins an exciting new era. You can also meet the team and grab a bargain at the Coffs Central Warehouse Sale on Thursday 20 August.

REFRESH YOUR WARDROBE AND E X P R E S S YO U R S E L F AT Z A K A R A

O

ne of the newest additions to the Coffs City Centre retail scene, Zakara is bringing fresh style, personalised service and a boutique shopping experience to the heart of the CBD. Local fashion enthusiast and retailer Terri has carefully curated a collection of women's fashion and accessories, all selected for their quality, craftsmanship, fit, and feel. With new collections arriving almost every week, there's always something fresh to discover.

But Zakara is about more than clothing. It's about discovering and expressing individuality, feeling confident and looking your best.

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak,” says Terri. Fashion is freedom, she adds. Freedom to express yourself, embrace what makes you unique and step out with confidence. That s the philosophy behind this fabulous new fashion boutique to open in the Coffs City Centre.

While Zakara’s beautiful collections draw people through the door, it s Terri s warm personality and creativity that keeps customers coming back. Taking the time to understand each person's style, she offers genuine one-on-one advice and outfit inspiration, creating an experience many describe as having their very own personal stylist.

Terri is also proud to be part of the growing community of independent retailers helping shape the next chapter of the Coffs City Centre. The City Centre is a unique part of town in more ways than one. I’m loving the village community vibe,” shares Terri.

Whether you're updating your everyday wardrobe or searching for something special, Terri invites you to visit Zakara at 100 Harbour Drive, Coffs City Centre. Be sure to also follow @zakara.coffs on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest arrivals and styling inspiration.

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A F R E S H TA K E O N FA S H I O N AT Y E S T E R DA Z E

he Coffs City Centre is welcoming a wave of fresh retail experiences, and YesterDaze is bringing an exciting new concept to Gowings Coffs Central.

Unlike a traditional clothing store, YesterDaze gives locals the opportunity to rent a rack and sell quality pre-loved clothing and accessories, while shoppers discover unique, affordable pieces they won t find anywhere else. The store manages the sales process, making it an easy way for people to refresh their wardrobes and earn a little extra from clothes they no longer wear.

Manager Katy says the response from the community has exceeded expectations.

"We opened YesterDaze in June and have been overwhelmed by the community's response to the concept of a circular fashion store," she said.

"We saw an opportunity to provide a space where people can make some money from their wardrobe while shopping unique

pieces. Often our rack renters are also our shoppers."

The concept taps into a growing trend towards buying better, reducing waste and giving quality clothing a second life. It's another example of the innovative businesses choosing to call the Coffs City Centre home, giving shoppers even more reasons to explore the CBD. "We're currently booking racks a few months in advance," Katy said. "If you're keen to rent a rack, get in touch – you pay for the rack and we do the rest."

Whether you're hunting for a designer bargain, looking to give your wardrobe a new lease on life, or keen to turn your pre-loved fashion into cash, YesterDaze is another great reason to explore the Coffs City Centre. ou ll find the store on the ground floor of Gowings Coffs Central, opposite Boost Juice, where a new collection of unique fashion treasures is waiting to be discovered, or follow @yesterdaze_coffs on Instagram to see the latest arrivals.

COFFS COAST focus 51

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Orara River Catchment Helps support over 30,000 dwellings across our region Flows through Karangi, Coramba and Nana Glen Home to precious local species including the vulnerable Eastern Freshwater Cod

What the Orara gives us and why it’s worth protecting.

M

ost of us don't spend a lot of time thinking about where our water comes from.

We're usually thinking about getting the kids ready for school, whether there's enough milk for tomorrow's coffee, or if the washing will dry before the afternoon shower rolls through.

It's easy to think of the river as somewhere we visit, but the truth is that it follows us home.

It's there in the kettle each morning, in the shower after a surf, in the veggie patch, in the dog's water bowl and in the hundred little moments that make up an ordinary day.

Maybe that's the paradox of good infrastructure and healthy natural systems: we only notice them when they're not working.

We turn on a tap and expect water to appear, which, thankfully, it does.

The rest of the time, they quietly get on with the job, and that's certainly true of the Orara.

But long before it reaches our homes, that water has already been on quite a journey.

Using water wisely isn't about giving things up. It's about making sure this remarkable natural resource can continue supporting the people, places and wildlife that call the Coffs Coast home, now and into the future.

It begins in the forests, creeks and tributaries of the Orara River, one of the two catchments that quietly supports life across the Coffs Coast.

The Orara River Catchment helps supply water to more than 30,000 homes, while also supporting local farms and businesses, providing habitat for millions of native animals and sustaining the landscapes that make this region such a special place to live.

For many of us, the Orara is also woven into some of our favourite memories. It's where we cool off on a warm day, cast a line, spot wildlife or simply spend time outdoors with family and friends.

If you'd like to use less water and save money along the way, the ShowerStar is a simple place to start. Mounted in the shower, it uses coloured lights to help households keep track of shower times and become more aware of their water use. Costing just $25 thanks to a Cityfunded subsidy, it offers an easy way to build water-wise habits that can benefit both your household budget and the environment.

Learn more about the ShowerStar and other practical ways to save water at home at https://www.coffsharbour .nsw.gov.au/showerstar Everything the Orara gives us today depends on how we protect it for tomorrow.

The good news is that making a difference doesn't require dramatic lifestyle changes.

More often than not, it's the small habits that have the biggest impact.

Taking a slightly shorter shower, fixing a leaking tap, choosing water-efficient appliances or simply paying a little more attention to how much water slips through our fingers each day can all make a difference.

When thousands of households make small changes, the benefits add up quickly.

COFFS COAST focus 53

I LOVE

YOUR FACES THE DON LANE STORY

Australian entertainment history comes to life this September as “I Love Your Faces: The Don Lane Story” arrives in Coffs Harbour.

Starring Don Lane’s son, PJ Lane, this heartfelt production celebrates the life, career and legacy of one of Australia’s most iconic television personalities through music, storytelling and unforge able memories.

W

hat inspired you to create I Love Your Faces? It’s been brewing in my head ever since he passed away. He lived a most extraordinary life and how it’s never been made into a biopic is beyond me. I’ve always believed his story was a musical waiting to happen. About two years ago, I was at the funeral of Mike McColl-Jones (his writer, and also Graham Kennedy’s, Bert Newton’s and Steve Vizard’s). Someone approached me about doing a documentary on Dad’s life.

Good idea, I thought, but his life is a full, glitzy stage spectacular, told from the heart.

Audiences have been craving this kind of entertainment for years and well, here we are.

What does your father’s legacy mean to you? Dad gave Australia a decade of live television joy, but what he gave me personally was bigger than the show business side of it. I grew up watching him from the wings, getting a masterclass in how to make people feel special. That’s generational love. It doesn’t disappear, it just waits for someone ready to carry it forward. I also talk openly in the show about his decline with Alzheimer’s, because that’s part of his story too, and it’s a cause close to my heart now.

54 COFFS COAST focus

What makes this show so special? It’s not a straight tribute act and it’s not a nostalgia clip-reel. It’s a live, full-scale biographical spectacular. Live band, live dancers, archival footage of Dad on the big screen, and me telling the real stories in between, the funny ones and the honest ones. Our audience reaction has been more heartfelt and intense than we could ever have imagined...

Laughing one minute, in tears the next, audiences leave feeling like they’ve been part of something, not just watched something. Every person in that room ends up asking the same questions - how do we carry a legacy forward? How do we write the next chapter in our own parents story?

What can audiences expect at the Jetty Theatre? The golden era of entertainment brought to life. The kind of big band, big glamour entertainment you don’t see on TV anymore. Expect to laugh, expect a few surprises, and expect at least one moment that catches you off guard emotionally. You don’t need to have ever seen the original Don Lane Show to enjoy it. Plenty of our audiences haven’t, and they still leave standing and cheering.

Why should the Coffs Coast grab a ticket this September? Because this is the kind of night out that’s genuinely becoming rare. Live

music, live dance, real storytelling, no phones, no AI, just a room full of people having a shared experience together. Whether you grew up watching Dad on TV or you’ve never heard of him, I promise you’ll leave with a smile, probably a few tears, and the chance to say ‘damn that was good, I was there!’

How can we purchase tickets? Jetty Theatre (Show Page): jettytheatre.com/i-love-yourfaces-the-don-lane-story/ Direct Ticket Link: aucoffs.sales.ticketsearch. com/sales/salesevent/158818

MNC

Weddings SAMANTHA McGOWAN OWNER OF LA LUZ

COFFS COAST focus 55

MNC

Interview with Samantha – Owner of La Luz Content Creating & MNC Weddings

Weddings SAMANTHA McGOWAN OWNER OF LA LUZ

F

or readers who haven't met you yet, tell us a little about yourself and the story behind La Luz Content Creating.

If you'd told me years ago that I'd end up running the Mid North Coast Wedding Expo, I probably would have laughed. Looking back though, every step of my career seems to have led me here.

My journey started with an apprenticeship at Flowers For Everyone in Sydney under Ryan Primrose. Curzon Hall and the Sydney Flower Markets became my second home. I made what felt like thousands of buttonholes, learnt from our incredible head florist Jan Smith and spent weekends at wedding expos handing bouquets to the runway models. Ryan took me under his wing and it was honestly one of the best jobs I've ever had.

I m not a florist anymore, although every now and then I ll dust off the florist wire and the rose strippers for a friend's wedding. Once you've worked in weddings, I don't think it ever really leaves you.

Today I run La Luz Content Creating and MNC Weddings. Instead of creating bouquets, I now capture the memories couples get to relive for years to come.

Wedding content creation has exploded in popularity. Why do you think couples love it so much?

Wedding days go by in a blur. Couples spend months planning every detail, so receiving content within a day or two lets them relive the excitement while it's still fresh. It's not just about social media - it's about preserving the genuine moments that happen in between everything else.

What sort of moments do you love capturing throughout a wedding day?

The little moments. A proud parent trying not to cry, the bridal party laughing together, grandparents on the dance floor or the couple stealing a quiet moment together. Those memories can't be staged, and they're usually the ones people treasure the most.

56 COFFS COAST focus

Why did you decide to launch a wedding expo for the Mid North Coast?

Showcasing the Mid North Coast and everything our region has to offer has become something I'm incredibly passionate about.

This is the third year I've organised the expo and the first under MNC Weddings. The first year was honestly scary. I put the ad out there with no idea if vendors would book or if people would come through the gates.

Three years later we've welcomed hundreds of visitors, and seeing local vendors receive bookings from across New South Wales and even Queensland tells me we're doing something right. My goal is to keep growing MNC Weddings and represent the Mid North Coast at expos across New South Wales and Queensland.

Weddings are all about teamwork. How important has the support of the local wedding industry been in making this event happen?

It's been everything.

I couldn't have done this without the exceptional support of my family and friends.

They've helped behind the scenes, encouraged me when things felt Three years overwhelming and later we’ve believed in me from the welcomed hundreds very beginning.

about showcasing our region, and it of visitors, and seeing wouldn’t be what I'd also like to thank the local vendors receive it is today without many local businesses bookings from across everyone’s support. that have proudly New South Wales This year we have a displayed our expo and even Queensland great variety including signs over the last three tells me we’re doing XM Aesthetics, years. Every sign has something right.

Celebrant Jo Pierce, DJ helped spread the word Salty , Weddingswise, and support our local Suzi from Intimo, wedding industry.

Bello Catering, The Photoshack, RSVP Bridal, A huge thank you also goes to the Coffs Coffs Trikes and Raleigh Winery, Handi-Hire, Harbour Showground. They’ve backed the The Link and Violinist Kirrily Stewart just to expo from day one and have been incredible name a few. to work with. And finally, thank you to every vendor who’s trusted me enough to be part of the journey. This expo has always been

Why is it so valuable for engaged couples to meet suppliers face to face rather than

simply searching online?

Meeting suppliers in person lets you build trust and see if you genuinely connect with them. A website can show beautiful work, but it can't show personality, and that's just as important on your wedding day.

What advice would you give couples who are only just beginning their wedding planning journey?

Enjoy it. Don't compare your wedding to everyone else's. Book your key suppliers early, trust the professionals you've chosen and create a day that feels like you. That's what people remember.

Thanks Samantha.

COFFS COAST focus 57

T H E

M I D

N O R T H

XM Aesthetics Cosmetic Clinic

C O A S T

Wedding Expo

Jo Pierce Celebrant

MAesthetics, led by Registered Nurse Xanthe Moss, offers evidence-based skin treatments including microneedling and volume restoration, delivering personalised aesthetic care focused on healthy, confident skin.

From grand celebrations to intimate “I dos”, I create warm, meaningful ceremonies, specialising in nature-immersed elopements, handfasting, and personalised rituals that honour this extraordinary moment in your lives.

FREE CONSULTATION Cosmetic skin rejuvenation Nambucca Heads 24 Ridge St inside Terry White Chemmart Nambucca Heads 0475 472 029

xmaesthetics gmail.com

xmaesthetics

jopierce.com.au

0400 974 966

JoPierceCeremonies

WEDDINGSWISE We offer an extensive custom range of fabulous special event and wedding signs to delight and inspire your guests. Each can be personalised to make your special day even more unique.

Salty’s Sounds & Special FX We offer DJ and MC services tailored to suit the tone and style of your event. To elevate your occasion, we also provide special effects, including indoor cold spark fireworks and low-lying fog, adding that WOW factor to your celebration and creating unforgettable memories.

Ethan Sultana

0474 522 505

triplesentertainment4 gmail.com

0437 600 329

info weddingswise.com.au

Suzi Bowles Bra Fit Specialist & Stylist

Bello Catering Co Connecting people through food. Bello Catering Co. creates relaxed wedding celebrations with exceptional food, genuine hospitality and a caring team dedicated to making your day feel effortless and unforgettable.

Bra Fit Specialist and Stylist with Intimo, offering personalised one-on-one fittings in my private Bucca studio. Discover confidence, comfort and the perfect fit. Book your exclusive appointment today.

www.intimo.com.au 58 COFFS COAST focus

0401 289 895

su ibowles me.com

bellocateringco.com

0425 443 176

MARTIN

BY FALLON

Hi, I’m Amanda, a lifelong educator from the vibrant Coffs Coast.

Passionate about celebrating life's genuine and joyful moments, I bring enthusiasm and warmth to every event. Let me bring your intimate wedding dreams to life.

My 17 years of experience and motto of ‘‘Your Day, Your Way’ ensures that every photograph captures the essence of your unique celebration, creating timeless memories that will continue to make people smile for generations to come.

Wedding Celebrant

T H E

M I D

N O R T H

C O A S T

Wedding Expo

www hotogra h

RSVP BRIDAL and FORMAL WEAR

0403 071 757 amandamartince e rant com au

a on com

h

PIXABURST with Nikki Smith!

PHOTOSHACK PHOTO BOOTHS We stock many bridal gowns, Capture your wedding day magic instant digital photos. Cherish bridesmaids, formal andwith evening every smile and share your joy effortlessly! wear, flowergirl dresses, jewellery, www.pixaburst.com.au The PhotoShack now offers an pixaburst@gmail.com Audio Guest Book and a Jukebox accessories. Stockists for leading 040 426 603 and Karaoke Machine so make sure you call us to make your Australian and international special day extra special!

0431 111 005 designers.

The

The PhotoShack has been your trusted Photo Booth Supplier with the highest quality photos and friendliest attendants since 2014 on the Coffs Coast.

The PhotoShack

Book an appointment to view the new collection.

Ready to bring your dream wedding to life? Trusted for over a decade on the Coffs Coast, The PhotoShack delivers the highest quality photos and exceptional service to keep your guests smiling all night.

Alongside our premium photo booths, you can customise your package with our Audio and Video Guest Books, Giant LOVE Letters, Jukeboxes, or Karaoke Machines! We have everything you need for the perfect celebration. Call us today on 0431 111 005!

HANDI-HIRE WEDDINGS & EVENTS (02) 6652 7000

www.rsvpbridal.com.au

All your wedding and event hire needs from one experienced team. With a passion for everything weddings and events, the Handi-Hire team will guide you through the hire process.

salesrsvp@gmail.com fice mma mai e ent handi hire com au handi hire com au

COFFS HARBOUR TRIKE & PRIVATE TOURS

42 COFFS COAST focus

Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours Create a wedding as unique as your love story. Exchange vows amongst the picturesque vines at Raleigh Winery, where stunning scenery and a boutique atmosphere create the perfect setting. Arrive in unforgettable style aboard our Boom Mustang Trike with Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours, or let us also take care of transport for your wedding party or guests. coffsharbourtriketours.com.au

0418 468 910

Kirrily Stewart Violinist Kirrily Stewart - iolinist brings elegance and atmosphere to weddings, corporate events, parties and special occasions.

Enjoy beautiful live classical, pop and jazz performances, creating the perfect soundtrack for unforgettable moments. Enhance your special event with the enchanting elegance of the violin. kirrilystewart.violinist@gmail.com

0466 269 916

Handi-Hire Weddings & Events All your wedding and event hire needs from one experienced team.

With a passion for everything weddings and events, the Handi-Hire team will guide you through the hire process. handi-hire.com.au

(02) 6654 2033

The Link Events Your complete wedding destination on the Coffs Coast to hold both your ceremony and reception amongst the award-winning gardens providing ultimate convenience.

Set on 5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens providing a unique and unforgettable wedding experience.

link@scca.net.au

02 6638 9911 COFFS COAST focus 59

A U G U S T

2 0 2 6

Stars t i t

ARIES. This month encourages you to slow your pace and focus on balance.

Work opportunities may gather momentum, but don’t overlook the people who matter most. A financial decision around midmonth deserves careful thought. By the final week of August, you’ll feel energised and ready to take on a new challenge.

TAURUS. August brings stability and progress. Home and family take priority, while your practical nature helps you solve a lingering problem. Someone may seek your advice, trust your instincts. A surprise invitation or social event towards the end of the month could lead to exciting new connections.

LEO. Happy Birthday, Leo! This is your season to shine. New opportunities, fresh beginnings and well-deserved recognition are all on the horizon. Celebrate your achievements, set ambitious goals and don’t be afraid to step into the spotlight. Someone influential may open an unexpected door.

SAGITTARIUS. Adventure is calling.

Whether it’s travel, learning a new skill or taking a leap of faith, August rewards those willing to embrace change. Your optimism is contagious, making this an excellent month for collaboration, networking and personal growth.

VIRGO. As your birthday season begins, it’s time to reset and refocus. Let go of anything no longer serving you and embrace the fresh energy arriving late in the month. Your attention to detail will impress others, particularly at work. Exciting plans begin to take shape.

CAPRICORN. Your disciplined approach continues to bring results. Financial planning and long-term goals are well supported this month. While work remains busy, make time for family and relaxation. Balance is the key to maintaining your momentum.

GEMINI. our calendar is filling up, but don’t say yes to everything.

Communication is your greatest strength this month, making it an ideal time for networking, presentations or launching new ideas.

Stay organised and you’ll finish August feeling accomplished and inspired.

LIBRA. Friendships and collaboration are highlighted throughout August.

Someone from your past may reconnect, while new professional relationships could create exciting opportunities. Trust your judgement when making decisions and avoid overthinking situations that are beyond your control.

CANCER. Confidence returns this month.

A project you’ve been working towards begins to gain recognition, while your intuition helps guide important personal decisions.

Prioritise your wellbeing and don’t feel guilty about taking time to recharge. The second half of August brings positive financial news.

SCORPIO. Your determination is paying off. Career goals move closer to reality, and others are beginning to notice your hard work. Stay focused but remember to celebrate your progress. A meaningful conversation with someone close could strengthen an important relationship.

60 COFFS COAST focus

AQUARIUS. Relationships take centre stage. Honest conversations strengthen both personal and professional connections, while flexibility helps you navigate unexpected changes. Keep an open mind. An opportunity that initially seems small could become something much bigger.

PISCES. Small changes will lead to significant results this month. Focus on creating healthier routines, trusting your intuition and making time for creativity. A chance encounter or unexpected conversation could inspire your next big idea.

TAYLOR DeROY F R O M W E LC O M E D E N TA L

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C fs Coa

HAND THER APY

Since opening in 2012, Coffs Coast Hand Therapy has become a trusted destination for advanced upper limb rehabilitation, helping people across the region regain movement, confidence and independence. We spoke with founder Natalie Bond about her passion for hand therapy, the experienced team behind the practice and the importance of accessing the right treatment early.

W

hat is hand and upper limb therapy, and who can enefit from it?

is tailored to the individual, with the goal of helping people safely return to work, sport, hobbies and everyday activities.

What in

ired ou to wor in thi fie d

Hand and upper limb therapy is an advanced area of physiotherapy and occupational therapy focused on assessing and treating conditions affecting the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand.

I discovered hand therapy early in my career while filling in for a colleague on the Central Coast. It wasn’t something I had originally planned to pursue, but I quickly realised I had found a profession I genuinely loved.

Many people are surprised to learn that we don’t only treat hands. We work with people recovering from fractures, tendon and ligament injuries, surgery, arthritis, sporting injuries, workplace injuries, nerve conditions and other upper limb problems.

Hand therapy combines science, anatomy, creativity and problem-solving. What has kept me passionate for more than two decades is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Treatment may include custom-made splints and orthoses, casting, wound and dressing care, suture removal, scar management, hands-on therapy, pain management, exercise programs and education. Every treatment plan 62 COFFS COAST focus

Helping someone return to work, care for their family, play an instrument or regain their independence is incredibly rewarding.

Clinical expertise is essential, but I also believe kindness, empathy and compassion are equally important. When patients feel heard

and supported, they are better equipped to navigate their recovery.

What are the most common conditions you treat?

Our practice is dedicated exclusively to upper limb rehabilitation, so we treat a broad range of conditions involving the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand.

These include shoulder pain, elbow tendinopathies, fractures, tendon and ligament injuries, nerve compression conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, burns, sports and workplace injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, complex trauma, thumb and hand osteoarthritis and performance-related injuries affecting musicians and dancers.

No two people or injuries are exactly the same, so every rehabilitation program is individually designed around the person’s condition, lifestyle and goals.

Why was it important to bring this service to the Coffs Coast?

When I established Coffs Coast Hand Therapy in 2012, there were very few private practices in the region dedicated exclusively to hand and upper limb rehabilitation.

We see rehabilitation as a partnership. Our role is to provide the knowledge, guidance and encouragement people need to feel supported and empowered throughout their recovery.

I wanted local people to have access to advanced care without needing to travel long distances for treatment. As someone raising a young family here, it was also important to build a service that contributed positively to the community we call home.

Today, we’re proud to support patients from across the Coffs Coast and surrounding regions, providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment close to home. We also work closely with local GPs, orthopaedic surgeons, hand surgeons and other healthcare professionals to provide coordinated care.

When should someone seek treatment?

If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, weakness, swelling or difficulty using your shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand, it’s worth seeking professional advice sooner rather than later.

Early assessment and treatment can improve recovery and may help prevent longer-term

complications.

You don’t need a referral to make an appointment with us, although we regularly collaborate with doctors, surgeons and other healthcare providers when required.

What do you enjoy most about helping your patients?

The most rewarding moments are when someone realises they can do something they thought they might never be able to do again.

Whether it’s returning to work, playing sport, performing music, dancing or simply opening a jar without pain, those achievements represent much more than physical recovery. They restore confidence, independence and quality of life.

We see rehabilitation as a partnership. Our role is to provide the knowledge, guidance and encouragement people need to feel supported and empowered throughout their recovery.

Behind every injury is a person with their own story, and it’s a privilege to be part of their journey.

I’m a physiotherapist with more than 30 years of experience, with expertise in trauma, orthopaedics, casting, splinting, musicians’ injuries, performing arts medicine, cancer rehabilitation and dance injury management.

Anna is an accredited Hand Therapist as credentialed by the Australian Hand Therapy Association.

Ryan is a physiotherapist completing his hand therapy accreditation. His sporting background has inspired a strong interest in sports injuries, fractures, trauma, nerve conditions and persistent pain.

Indigo is an occupational therapist based with our Armidale team. She brings experience in paediatrics and performing arts, with interests in handwriting difficulties, osteoarthritis and custom orthotic design.

Our Practice Manager, Lisa, brings extensive experience from public and private healthcare.

She ensures patients feel welcomed and supported throughout their experience.

While everyone brings different skills, we share the same philosophy: outstanding clinical care should always be delivered with kindness, compassion and respect.

Tell us about your team.

(02) 5603 3806

I’m incredibly proud of the experienced and compassionate team we’ve built.

info@coffscoasthandtherapy.com.au coffscoasthandtherapy.com.au COFFS COAST focus 63

When you need answers, Choose I-MED Radiology Coffs Harbour.

World-class imaging, close to home At I-MED Radiology Coffs Harbour, patients have access to world-class diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology delivered by a trusted local team, backed by Australia’s largest medical imaging network.

Our Radiologists Our specialist radiologists are Australasian-trained, with subspecialty experience gained at leading centres across Australia, New Zealand and internationally giving our community access to a standard of care typically found only in major cities.

Our Services We offer a comprehensive range of diagnostic and interventional services. Procedures include but are not limited to, MSK joint/bursa injections, CT guided nerve/epidural and joint injections, lumbar punctures, radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain, PRP injections, biopsies/FNA’s and shoulder hydrodilatation used to treat frozen shoulder.

Book your appointment online today.

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64 COFFS COAST focus I-MED Coffs Harbour Press Ad 2_H237xW92mm.indd 1

11/06/2026 5:02:33 PM

focus_contributor.

BUILDING YOUR FOUNDATION: STRENGTHENING YOUR SENSE OF SELF

Y

with JULIE THOMAS

F R O M B E YO N D T H E S U R FAC E C O U N S E L L I N G

our sense of self is like the foundations of a house. When it is strong and well-built, everything else can stand firm, but when it’s shaky or unclear, even the smallest challenges may feel overwhelming.

A sense of self is the foundation of how we perceive, understand, and define who we are as individuals. It encompasses our beliefs, values, emotions, and experiences, shaping our identity and guiding our interactions with the world. A strong sense of self allows us to navigate challenges with confidence, set boundaries, and make decisions aligned with our core values.

Strengthening your sense of self begins with self-reflection. Taking time to pause and examine your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours helps you uncover patterns and gain clarity about what truly matters to you.

Reflection allows you to identify your triggers, understand your responses, and recognise areas for growth. Journalling is a powerful tool for this process, as it provides a safe space to explore your inner world without judgement.

By regularly reflecting on your experiences, you may deepen your understanding of yourself.

Another aspect of cultivating a strong sense of self is embracing your whole story. our identity is shaped not only by your strengths but also by your imperfections and the challenges you have faced. Accepting these aspects of yourself fosters adaptability and authenticity. Instead of viewing difficult experiences as failures, consider them opportunities for growth and learning. Reflect

on what these moments have taught you and how they have contributed to your personal development.

Setting boundaries is a critical component of self-care and a reflection of a strong sense of self. Boundaries are not about shutting others out but about creating guidelines that protect your energy and values. When you set boundaries, you communicate your needs and priorities clearly, ensuring that your relationships are built on mutual respect. This process requires self-awareness to identify where you feel drained or undervalued and the courage to assert your needs. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, consistently upholding your boundaries reinforces your sense of selfworth and strengthens your relationships.

Self-compassion is another cornerstone of a healthy sense of self. It involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a close friend. When you encounter challenges or make mistakes, self-compassion allows you to respond with curiosity rather than judgement.

Instead of criticising yourself, ask what you need in that moment to feel supported and cared for.

Engaging in activities that affirm your identity is a powerful way to connect with your authentic self. These activities may take many forms, from creative pursuits that allow you to express your unique perspective to physical activities that ground you in your body.

Learning opportunities that align with your interests and values may also deepen your sense of self, as may acts of service that reflect your commitment to making a positive impact.

Spending time in environments where you feel most yourself, such as nature or a supportive community, further reinforces your connection to your identity.

Building a supportive community is vital for nurturing your sense of self. Surrounding yourself with people who appreciate and respect your authentic self creates a sense of belonging. Seek out relationships where you may be vulnerable without fear of judgement and communities that share your values or interests.

It is important to remember that building a strong sense of self is an ongoing process, not a destination. There may be times when you feel uncertain or disconnected from yourself, and this is a natural part of growth.

However, there may be times when you need to seek support from trusted friends or health professionals. our sense of self is not fixed it can grow, strengthen, and evolve throughout your life. By investing in self-reflection, selfcompassion, and identity-affirming activities, you may cultivate a deeper understanding and acceptance of who you are. This journey is not about achieving perfection but about becoming more authentically you. ntil next time, be kind and gentle with yourself.

Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach), GradCertPlayArtTherapy Member of the Australian Counselling Association COFFS COAST focus 65

Joel Aitken is leading Coffs Harbour Support Services (CHSS) with a clear vision: empowering people with disability to live connected, independent and fulfilling lives. As the local not-forprofit celebrates more than 30 years of supporting the Coffs Coast community, we caught up with Joel to discuss leadership, community impact and the future of disability support.

T

JOEL AITKEN C E O,C O F F S

H A R B O U R

S U P P O R T

S E R V I C E S

ell us about Coffs Harbour Support Services and the work you do in our community. Coffs Harbour Support Services (CHSS) is a local not-for-profit that s supported people with disability across the Coffs Coast for more than 30 years. Our purpose is to empower people to live richer, more connected lives, with the support they need to build independence, confidence and opportunity. We provide a range of supports, including Supported Independent Living SIL , community supports and drop-in supports.

What makes CHSS special is the relationships we ve built along the way. We re honoured to support some people who ve been part of the CHSS family for almost our entire history, alongside others just beginning a new chapter with us. Whether someone s been with us for decades or is walking through our doors for the first time, our focus remains the same high-quality, person-centred support that helps people live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Why are organisations like CHSS so important to the local community?

Organisations like CHSS are built around local people. Every day we see the difference quality support makes - helping someone live independently, build relationships, find employment and feel connected to their community.

As a local employer of more than 160 people, we also contribute to the economic strength of the region, creating opportunities not only for those we support, but for the workforce that supports them. We re proud to help make the Coffs Coast a place where everyone can participate, contribute and belong.

66 COFFS COAST focus

I believe

Tell us about your The most complex the biggest journey to becoming challenges facing our opportunity lies in CEO of CHSS. What has communities can't focusing on what stood out to you most be solved by any one we do best and about the organisation organisation alone. working together. and the people behind Real progress happens The most complex it? My career has been when service providers, challenges facing our spent in community government, business communities can’t services, beginning and community work be solved by any one in youth and mental together around a organisation alone. health programs before shared purpose moving into leadership something CHSS has roles across the disability experienced through sector. One of the most significant changes partnerships in housing and community I've witnessed has been the shift towards services. greater individual choice and control under the Sustainability remains important, but the future NDIS, reinforcing what matters most to people is also about creating community benefit receiving support and those providing it. through innovative, purpose-driven initiatives.

Joining CHSS was a privilege, and what stood out almost immediately was the culture. There's a saying in business that your people can't be your point of difference but CHSS proves otherwise. Our staff care deeply about the people they support. That passion, combined with decades of community connection, continues to impress me every day.

While the disability sector continues to evolve, what opportunities do you see ahead for CHSS and the people you support? With evolution comes both opportunity and challenge. Providers are being asked to do more, while people rightly expect increasingly specialised, high-quality supports.

I believe the biggest opportunity lies in focusing on what we do best and working together.

More than anything, it's about collective impact.

What have you learned about leadership through your work in the disability and community services sector? The best outcomes happen when leaders focus on supporting their teams. When people are trusted, valued and empowered, they achieve far more together than any individual could alone.

This sector asks people to support others through some of the most important moments in their lives while navigating complex regulations and constant change. What keeps me motivated is knowing that behind every policy, audit, budget or compliance requirement is a person relying on us to be at our best.

CHSS's Boundless Book Ball has attracted an incredible response from the community, can you tell us about the event and what that support has meant to you? Boundless is CHSS's inaugural Book Ball, a celebration of stories, imagination and community connection on 22 August bringing together book lovers, local businesses, community supporters and disability advocates.

Community support has been remarkable and our sponsors, TCA, Happy Days Preschool & Long Day Care, and Austbrokers have helped make the event more accessible by sponsoring tickets for attendees. Live Theatre will bring beloved literary works to life through special performances, and we'll hear from some fantastic authors and publishing professionals, with Australian personality and former Coffs local Nick Hardcastle hosting the evening.

Authors, businesses and community supporters have donated generously to our silent auction, with proceeds supporting CHSS's work in the community. Boundless simply wouldn't be possible without their support, and we're incredibly grateful for the generosity that has brought the event to life.

If there's one thing you'd like readers to take away about CHSS, what would it be?

CHSS is more than a service provider - it's a community built around people, for people. For more than 30 years we've been helping people live fulfilling, connected and meaningful lives, and we're excited about the impact we can continue to create across the Coffs Coast in the years ahead.

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Out of the Shadows Walk: Nine Lives Lost. One Community United.

On Thursday 10 September, the Coffs Coast community will come together at the Jetty Foreshores for Lifeline North Coast’s Out of the Shadows Walk, marking World Suicide Prevention Day and standing united in memory, support and hope.

Every day, nine Australians lose their lives to suicide. Behind every number is a person, a loved one, a friend, a family member, and a community left carrying their story.

The Out of the Shadows Walk is an opportunity to remember those we have lost, honour their lives and show support for people experiencing emotional distress or mental health challenges. It is a powerful reminder that no one should face their darkest moments alone.

Participants are invited to walk in solidarity with the nine Australians who lose their lives to suicide every day, while remembering those we have lost, supporting those experiencing crisis, and helping to raise awareness that suicide prevention is possible.

The walk will begin at sunrise, with participants meeting at the Jetty Foreshores at 5.30am ahead of the 5.56am sunrise walk. The route will take walkers around the Jetty, along the beach and back to the foreshore, where the community is invited to stay for a free breakfast hosted by Welcome Hospitality, live music and community stalls.

Funds raised will support Lifeline North Coast’s local crisis support and suicide prevention services, helping ensure that anyone experiencing a moment of crisis has somewhere to turn.

Together, through connection, compassion and hope, we can bring suicide out of the shadows and create a community where people feel safe to seek help, be heard and build hope.

Join Lifeline North Coast on Thursday 10 September at the Jetty Foreshores.

Contact Lifeline on 6651 4093 | email: amartin@lifelinenc.org.au

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ANGELA MARTIN W O M E N O F I M PA C T S C H O L A R S H I P

When Angela Martin was named the 2026 Coffs Coast Woman of the Year, she chose to turn the recognition into something that would keep giving.

The result is the Women of Impact Scholarship, a new initiative supporting local women dedicated to improving mental health and community wellbeing.

We spoke with Angela about the inspiration behind the scholarship and her vision for empowering the next generation of community leaders.

H

i Angela. You were named the 2026 Coffs Coast Woman of the Year, and rather than keeping the prize for yourself, you chose to invest it back into the community. What inspired you to establish the Women of Impact Scholarship?

Receiving the 2026 Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award was such an honour. For me, recognition like this also comes with a responsibility to create opportunities for others.

I chose to establish the Women of Impact Scholarship because I believe the greatest value of any award is what you do with it. Supporting women to pursue their goals, develop their skills and grow as leaders not only impacts their own lives, but strengthens the wider community. My hope is that each recipient will continue that journey by creating opportunities and supporting others along the way.

The scholarship is about supporting women who are already making a difference in mental health and community wellbeing.

Why was it important for you to recognise and nurture people who are already quietly

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creating positive change?

The quality of the nominations was incredible and highlighted just how many women from diverse backgrounds are making a genuine difference in mental health and community wellbeing.

Many of these women are creating positive change every day without seeking recognition.

The scholarship was an opportunity to acknowledge their contribution, support their continued growth and invest in the people who are helping strengthen our community.

You originally planned to award two scholarships but expanded the program to three because of the calibre of applications.

What did reading those applications tell you about the women leading change across the North Coast?

The calibre of the applications showed me just how many compassionate, driven and purposeled women we have across the North Coast.

These women are committed to continuing their own learning so they can better support others through mental health, wellbeing and holistic approaches to care. Meeting them and hearing their stories has been one of the highlights of this program. Their kindness,

vision and commitment to giving back were truly inspiring, and after a thorough interview process, it was clear our three recipients were incredibly deserving of this opportunity.

The three recipients; Jenn Klufas, Emily Cavagnino and Cherie Timms all come from different backgrounds but share a passion for supporting others. What stood out about each of them, and why do you believe they'll have such a positive impact on our community?

What stood out about Jenn, Emily and Cherie was their shared compassion, resilience and genuine commitment to supporting others, despite each coming from very different backgrounds and experiences.

Jenn’s vision for creating safe and empowering spaces for women recovering from trauma; Emily’s passion for preventative mental health and wellbeing; and Cherie’s commitment to using her own lived experience to support others each represent a unique and valuable contribution to our community.

What connects them is their desire to continue learning, growing and turning their experiences into meaningful support for others. I have no doubt they will each make a lasting difference.

The scholarship offers much more than financia u ort inc uding ri i u ort o unteer raining mentoring and eader hi de e o ment Wh wa it im ortant to create a rogram that ui d confidence and ca a i it rather than im ro iding unding I wanted the scholarship to provide more than financial support because meaningful change comes from building confidence, capability and connection.

To support others and lead effectively, we also need to prioritise our own wellbeing and growth. I know firsthand the value of having mentors and people who believe in you, and many of those involved in this program have played an important role in my own personal and professional journey.

When women come together to learn, support each other and share their experiences, we create a stronger network of leaders who can continue making a difference in our community. o i e ine orth oa t ou e ent ear wor ing a ong ide eo e e eriencing ome o i e mo t di ficu t moment ow ha that e erience ha ed our e ie in the ower o communit ed

u

ort

I know firsthand the value of having mentors and people who believe in you, and many of those involved in this program have played an important role in my own personal and professional journey.

My experience has reinforced that connection and belonging are fundamental to our wellbeing. Not everyone has a strong support network, and I have seen how simply listening, showing kindness and reminding someone they are not alone can make a profound difference.

Being part of a community united by a shared purpose is incredibly powerful. When people come together to care for one another, we create a stronger, more connected community where people feel supported and valued. he reci ient wi e mentored an im re i e grou o oca women eader ow a ua e i mentor hi in he ing women te into eader hi ro e and rea i e their otentia

Mentorship is invaluable in helping women grow and step into leadership. When women support women with encouragement, kindness, honesty and even a little laughter along

the way, it creates a safe space where confidence can grow. A great mentor provides guidance, constructive feedback and belief in your potential. Knowing that others are genuinely invested in your success gives you the courage to take the next step, share your ideas and lead with confidence. oo ing ahead what are our ho e or the uture o the Women o m act cho ar hi My hope for the future of the Women of Impact Scholarship is to see our three recipients thrive, pursue their goals and share their unique gifts with the community.

I’m excited to continue growing the scholarship in 2027 and creating opportunities for more women to be supported in their journeys.

By investing in women, we can help nurture their ideas, strengthen their confidence and encourage them to continue creating positive change for others. han

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WELCOME DENTAL M E E T D E N TA L H YG I E N I S T S T AY L O R D E R O Y & J E S S C A N T R I L L

At Welcome Dental, helping patients achieve healthy smiles is about much more than simply cleaning teeth. Dental hygienists Jess Cantrill and Taylor DeRoy are passionate about prevention, education and making every visit as comfortable as possible.

C

an you tell us a little about your roles as dental hygienists?

Jess says her role is centred on helping patients maintain healthy teeth and gums through professional cleans, oral health assessments and education.

"I work closely with our dentists to identify concerns early and help patients prevent dental problems before they become more serious."

Taylor agrees, saying every appointment is unique.

"My aim is to create an experience that is educational, gentle and thorough while helping every patient leave healthier than when they walked in. If we can have a laugh along the way, even better! Every patient has different oral health needs, overall health, goals and concerns, so every appointment is tailored specifically to them.

What do you enjoy most about helping patients improve their oral health?

For Jess, nothing compares to seeing patients become more confident.

I love seeing people smile with confidence, especially patients who may have been nervous about visiting the dentist. Watching them become more relaxed and positive about their 72 COFFS COAST focus

oral health is incredibly rewarding."

Taylor loves seeing patients achieve results after putting good oral hygiene habits into practice.

"It's a real team effort. Seeing someone's oral health improve because of the small changes we've worked on together is one of the most satisfying parts of my job."

What are the most common oral health issues you see?

Both hygienists regularly see plaque and tartar build-up, gum disease and tooth decay, but they also treat issues such as tooth sensitivity, acid erosion and bruxism - better known as clenching and grinding.

"The good news," Jess explains, "is that many of these problems can be prevented or managed with effective home care and regular professional dental visits."

Taylor says education is one of the biggest tools in prevention.

"These conditions affect people of all ages, which is why early intervention and personalised advice are so important."

A gentler way to clean with AirFlow One of the technologies making professional cleans more comfortable at Welcome Dental is AirFlow, an advanced cleaning system the practice has proudly offered for more than four years.

Ta or Instead of relying solely on traditional scaling instruments, AirFlow uses a carefully controlled stream of warm water, air and a fine erythritol powder which is antibacterial to gently remove plaque, biofilm and surface stains.

"The warm water makes a huge difference," Jess says. "Many patients who have sensitive teeth or dislike the scraping sensation of traditional cleaning find AirFlow much more comfortable."

Taylor explains that treatment generally involves two stages.

First, AirFlow removes the soft plaque, biofilm and staining. If any hardened tartar remains, we then use an ultrasonic scaler to gently remove those deposits. It's thorough while still being very comfortable."

In fact, the team jokingly refers to it as the "tooth spa" because of how fresh and clean patients feel afterwards.

AirFlow is particularly effective at removing staining caused by coffee, tea, red wine and smoking while also cleaning around crowns, bridges, implants, veneers and orthodontic appliances.

Although suitable for many patients, every person is individually assessed before treatment.

Certain situations, such as recent oral surgery, active oral infections or some respiratory

J s

conditions, may require alternative treatment.

Looking after your smile every day While professional cleans are important, both Jess and Taylor agree that good daily habits make the biggest difference to long-term oral health.

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth every day are the foundations of healthy teeth and gums," Jess says.

She encourages patients to choose whichever method suits them best, whether that s floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser.

Taylor and Jess are also strong supporters of electric toothbrushes.

"They can make effective brushing easier for many people. The goal is to remove plaque, bacteria and food debris every day. A toothbrush alone can't properly clean between your teeth, so flossing or using interdental brushes is still essential."

Professional cleaning schedules vary from person to person. Some patients benefit from appointments every three months, while others only require a clean every six months.

"We recommend a schedule based on each individual's oral health and risk factors," Jess explains.

Busting common dental myths

One myth Jess would love to see disappear is that people should stop flossing if their gums bleed.

Together, they help patients understand their oral health, build confidence and prevent problems before they become serious.

We take the time to explain treatment clearly, answer questions and tailor recommendations to each person’s individual needs and circumstances.

"Bleeding gums are often a sign of inflammation caused by plaque build-up.

Gentle, consistent cleaning usually helps improve gum health, although persistent bleeding should always be assessed by a dental professional."

Taylor has another myth she'd happily retire.

"Many people believe brushing harder means cleaning better. In reality, a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle pressure and the correct technique is far kinder to your teeth and gums while still cleaning extremely effectively."

A caring approach that makes the difference For both hygienists, Welcome Dental is about much more than modern technology.

"We genuinely care about making every patient feel comfortable, heard and supported," Jess says. "We take the time to explain treatment clearly, answer questions and tailor recommendations to each person's individual needs and circumstances."

Taylor says she noticed the welcoming culture from her very first visit.

"When I interviewed here, I immediately felt the calm, friendly atmosphere. Once I joined the team, I realised it wasn't just a first impression, it s genuinely how everyone works every day. It feels like friendship, home and a dental practice all rolled into one."

With Welcome Dental continuing to expand into Coffs Harbour, the team is excited to welcome new patients, grow its experienced team and continue investing in modern techniques that make dentistry more comfortable, effective and personalised.

"We're continually learning and improving," Taylor says. "It's exciting to introduce more patients to technologies like AirFlow while helping them enjoy healthier smiles for years to come."

Whether you're due for a routine clean, looking for a gentler dental experience or simply wanting expert advice on improving your oral health, the friendly team at Welcome Dental is ready to help you smile with confidence.

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40 years O F

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S H O W I N G

U P !

The Co s Harbour Womens Health Centre is turning 40 - and this September, the whole community is invited to celebrate.

Something quietly remarkable is happening on Little Street.

In 1986, passionate community advocates opened a small health service on Park Beach Road with a simple belief: women deserved better healthcare.

Forty years later, that belief has grown into something far broader - over 11,000 occasions of care each year, spanning women’s health nursing, sexual and reproductive healthcare, menopause support, cervical screening, endometriosis and pelvic pain services, mental health support, wellbeing classes and outreach reaching Dorrigo, Urunga, Bellingen, Woolgoolga, Glenreagh and Pete’s Place.

Four decades. Four locations.

One purpose - making sure women across our region feel heard, supported and cared for.

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40

YEARS

OF

SHOWING

UP!

WHAT THE CENTRE OFFERS

The Centre provides free and low-cost services for women and gender diverse people across all stages of life: • Women’s health nursing

• Contraception services

• Sexual and reproductive healthcare

• Mental health support

• Menopause support

• Health promotion

• Cervical screening

• Wellbeing group classes

• Endometriosis and pelvic pain support

• Outreach services

The only Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic on the North Coast of NSW - one of just 33 nationally.

The EPP Clinic is funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program.

Find out more at healthvoyage.org.au/coffs-harbour-womens-health-centre

A WEEK TO CELEBRATE The birthday celebrations kicked off in May, when a wonderful group of women and supporters braved a rainy Coffs Harbour morning at the Jetty for the Walk for Women's Health - purple umbrellas and all. The celebration continues during Women’s Health Week, 7–11 September, with a full program of free and community events aligned to the Jean Hailes themes: to fuel, to move, to rest, to breathe, to connect.

Follow the Centre’s socials for details and updates as they’re confirmed.

For more information visit: healthvoyage.org.au/coffs-harbour-womens-health-centre/whats-on Or scan the QR code

HOW TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT The Centre has been built on support from the NSW Government through our partners at the Mid North Coast Local Health District and the trust and support of our community that we serve. If this milestone means something to you, here’s how to get involved: Attend an event. Every person who shows up during Women’s Health Week is a vote for the future of this service.

Make a donation. Donations support programs, group spaces and outreach services. Visit healthvoyage.org.au to give.

Spread the word. Share events with someone who might not yet know the Centre exists - or exists for them.

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In their own words...

Two people who have shaped the Centre’s story share what 40 years means to them.

“We’ve seen attitudes towards menopause change enormously. We’ve also seen major changes in women’s healthcare, from the Pap smear program through to Cervical Screening Tests (CST). ”

“Although we’ve grown, the heart of the Women’s Health Centre has stayed the same. I hope we never lose sight of the compassion, connection and sense of community that make this place so special.”

The Women’s Health Centre is a safe space, run by women for women - where every person who walks through the door receives warm, non-judgmental care, regardless of their circumstances.

It fills a gap that no other service in our region does.”

NURSE BERRY JONES

MRS CHERIE LATHAM

DR JO

Women’s Health Nurse 36 years at the Centre

Clinic Coordinator 17 years at the Centre

Women’s Health GP 20 years at the Centre

The Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre is a service of Health Voyage Ltd. healthvoyage.org.au Follow @ch_womens_health_centre on Instagram and Facebook Celebrating 40 years · 1986–2026

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C

ongratulations on your recent award! Can you tell us what the award was for and what that recognition means to you personally and professionally? Thank you.

The award was the Healthy North Coast Excellence in Allied Health Award, which was a real honour to receive.

Professionally, it was for recognition of work that grew from seeing a clear unmet need in male pelvic health and men’s health more broadly. A lot of this work happens quietly, one client at a time, helping men navigate issues that affect pain, continence, sexual health, confidence and quality of life, so to have that recognised more broadly was very meaningful.

Personally, it was a reminder that the path has been worth it. The Athlete’s Guild has evolved a lot since it started. It began with a strong sport and performance focus, but over time has grown into broader work supporting people through injury, pain, cancer recovery, lymphoedema, pelvic health concerns and long-term physical challenges.

TRENT RENSHAW

The common thread is still the same: helping people move, feel and perform better.

For readers who may not know you, can you share a little about your background and what led you into the world of sport, performance, and athlete development?

Sport has been a big part of my life for a long time. I come from an elite triathlon background and had the opportunity to race at a high level, across multiple world championship events and international circuits.

That experience shaped how I think about performance. When you have trained and raced at that level, you understand that performance is not just about working harder. It’s about consistency, recovery, injury management, mindset, lifestyle and having the right support around you.

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MENinBUSINESS LY M P H O E D E M A & M E N ’ S H E A LT H P R A C T I T I O N E R ONCOLOGY & SPORTS RE M E DIAL M A SSAG E TH E R APIS T I also coach the Coffs Harbour Triathlon Club, which has given me the opportunity to work with athletes at different stages of their journey. Some are chasing performance goals, some are returning from injury, and some simply want to become healthier and more capable.

practical, individualised care. It is not just about treating symptoms. It is about understanding the person, their goals, their body, and what they need to get back to doing the things that matter to them.

Over time, my clinical work expanded beyond sport alone. I became increasingly interested in lymphoedema, oncology support and men’s health, particularly after seeing how many men were dealing with pain, swelling, continence issues, pelvic health concerns or cancer-related side effects without always knowing where to start.

I think the difference is that I look at the person in front of me from both a performance and clinical perspective.

So, my background is a blend of lived sporting experience, coaching, clinical training and a strong interest in helping people function better in real life, not just on paper.

What makes your approach different from traditiona coaching or training rogram

Traditional coaching often focuses on the training plan: the sessions, the workload, the fitness markers and the end goal. That is important, but it is only one part of the picture.

The results I love seeing are often very practical.

Someone being able to run again.

Someone sleeping better because their pain has settled.

How would you describe The Athlete’s Guild to someone hearing about it for the fir t time The Athlete’s Guild is a health and performance-focused clinic built around helping people move, feel and perform better.

The name speaks to athletes, but the idea of an athlete is broader than just someone racing or competing. It might be a runner, a surfer, a gym-goer, a tradie, a weekend warrior, or someone trying to get their body back after surgery, cancer treatment or a long period of pain.

The work includes remedial and sports massage, lymphoedema management, oncology massage, scar and soft tissue therapy, photobiomodulation therapy using low-level laser, and male pelvic health therapy.

At its core, The Athlete’s Guild is about

My approach considers how the person is recovering, where they are carrying pain or restriction, what their injury history looks like, how stress or life load is affecting them, and whether their body is actually tolerating the demands being placed on it.

Who are the athletes or clients you work with, and what ind o re u t do ou o e eeing I work with a broad range of people. That includes runners, triathletes, gym-goers, surfers, cyclists, trail runners, tradies, active men, and people recovering from surgery or cancer treatment.

Some clients are highly performancedriven. They want to race better, train more consistently, or manage niggles before they become injuries.

Others are dealing with more complex issues such as lymphoedema, cancer-related swelling, scar tissue, pain, pelvic health concerns or reduced confidence in their body.

The results I love seeing are often very practical. Someone being able to run again.

Someone sleeping better because their pain has settled. Someone returning to the gym after surgery. Someone feeling less anxious about swelling or changes in their body. Someone walking out with a clearer understanding of what is happening and what they can do next.

Those results matter because they change how people participate in their own life.

What values sit at the heart of your u ine The biggest values are care, integrity, education and performance.

Care means taking the time to understand the person properly.

Integrity means working within my scope, being honest about what I can help with, and referring on when needed.

Education is a big one. I do not want clients to feel like treatment is something mysterious that happens to them. I want them to understand their body better and feel more confident managing it.

Performance is still central, but I do not see performance as only elite sport.

Performance might mean racing well, but it might also mean getting through a workday without pain, walking comfortably, recovering after treatment, or feeling confident enough to return to exercise.

The standard I try to hold is simple: help people move, feel and perform better in a way that is clinically sound and relevant to their goals, lifestyle and daily demands.

What are you most excited about for the ne t month I am excited to keep growing men’s health, oncology and lymphoedema while staying connected to sport and performance. The next stage is about depth rather than growth: lifting care standards, building trust and helping people move, feel and perform better.

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MORGANS

MITCHELL & SIMON HOCKLEY CALLAGHAN

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MENinBUSINESS

FINANCIAL ADVISE RS / MORGANS COFFS HARBOUR

W

hat inspired planning and passing wealth to future you to generations. e’re also helping more pursue a clients manage major life events such career in as inheritances, business sales and financia significant personal changes. advice?

What et organ o ar our or both of us, financial advice is apart? e combine personalised about making a genuine difference local advice with the strength of in people’s lives. e enjoy helping one of Australia’s leading wealth clients navigate important financial management firms. Across our offs decisions, whether that’s preparing arbour and ort for retirement, Macquarie offices, growing our team of As financial investments advisers brings decisions or planning more than become increasingly for future years of combined complex, we generations. experience hat keeps us continue to see and over passionate is strong demand for finance related building long tailored wealth qualifications. term relationships e’re also the management and and giving clients only locally based investment the confidence full service direct expertise. that comes from equities advisory having a clear business on financial strategy. the Mid orth What financia goa are our c ient ocu ing on mo t Most clients are focused on preserving and growing their wealth while enjoying the lifestyle they’ve worked hard to achieve. etirement planning remains a priority, alongside investment management, tax efficiency, estate

oast. This gives clients access to professional portfolio management, stockbroking, investment research and comprehensive financial advice, all delivered with the benefit of local relationships.

What one iece o financia ad ice e er one hou d now on’t let

short term events drive long term decisions. Markets will always uctuate, but successful investors are those who stay focused on their long term goals. aving a clear strategy and the discipline to stick with it is often far more valuable than trying to predict what markets will do next.

What ne t or organ o ar our ur focus remains on delivering personalised service and trusted advice. If we get that right, business growth should look after itself. As financial decisions become increasingly complex, we continue to see strong demand for tailored wealth management and investment expertise. ur goal is simple to help more people achieve financial confidence and long term success. uite ,

ark Ave, offs

arbour

mitchell.hockley morgans.com.au simon.callaghan morgans.com.au morgan com au

Mitchell Hockley inancial Adviser Authorised epresentative

Simon Callaghan inancial Adviser Authorised epresentative

eneral Advice disclaimer The information contained in this article is provided to you by Morgans inancial imited A as general advice only, and is made without consideration of an individual’s relevant personal circumstances.

Morgans inancial imited A , its related bodies corporate, directors and officers, employees, authorised representatives and agents Morgans do not accept any liability for any loss or damage arising from or in connection with any action taken or not taken on the basis of information contained in this report, or for any errors or omissions contained within. It is recommended that any persons who wish to act upon this report consult with their Morgans investment adviser before doing so. Those acting upon such information without advice do so entirely at their own risk.

COFFS COAST focus 83

ANDREW FOGARTY

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MENinBUSINESS

G A R AG E

H

ow did you get started in the garage door industry? I started in the industry 36 years ago at the ripe old age of 19 as a storeman for a Newcastle garage door business. Over the years I learnt the trade, working my way through installations and sales before eventually becoming the manager of the business. In 2011, my wife Larissa and I decided to take the leap and open Garage Doors and More in Tamworth. We later expanded into Coffs Harbour, bringing our family with us. It's been incredibly rewarding to watch the business grow while staying true to our values as a genuine familyowned business focused on quality workmanship and great customer service.

What has kept you passionate about the work for 36 years? No two days are ever the same. Every job brings a different challenge, and there's always something new to learn. I enjoy helping customers find the right solution for their needs, and there's nothing better than seeing them happy with the end result.

How has the industry changed since ou fir t tarted

D O O R S

A N D

M O R E

(G DA M)

Technology has changed dramatically.

We've gone from remotes with DIP switches to smart openers, improved safety features and a huge range of styles. Customer expectations have also changed, but good workmanship and honest advice will always matter.

apart? We're a family-owned business that genuinely cares. Our team is passionate about what they do and shares our values of quality workmanship, honest advice and looking after every customer.

What do you enjoy most about What’s been a career highlight? working with local customers?

Sharing this journey with my wife Working with and watching our customers is my business grow has favourite part of been the biggest the job. Even as I’m proud highlight. Seeing a Director, you'll we’ve built a our daughter still find me out business people can become our first meeting customers rely on. We’ve female technician, because that's created local jobs, watching our where I enjoy built a team that team develop being. In regional shares our values and having communities, customers return and supported those long term years later makes many local families relationships mean me incredibly over the past 15 everything. proud. years.

What are you What’s been most proud of in the biggest business? I'm proud we've built a challenge along the way? Like any business people can rely on. We've small business, we've faced plenty created local jobs, built a team that of challenges. Navigating changing shares our values and supported economic conditions while continuing many local families over the past to invest in our people and 15 years. From starting in our 6 x 9 maintaining great customer service metre shed, we've worked hard to hasn't always been easy, but every build a business that will continue challenge has made us stronger. serving our community for years to What sets Garage Doors & More come.

02 6658 2588 1B GDT Seccombe Close, Coffs Harbour garagedoorsandmore.com.au

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NAB T

Robbie Bebb – Senior Business Banking Manager Garreth Edwards – Senior Business Manager Broker Adam Stephens – Business Banking Manager

ell us about the NAB Coffs Harbour team?

Robbie: We’re a team of 10 Business and Agribusiness bankers across the Coffs Coast and Clarence Valley, supported by three Small Business Managers and a local support team. Our Regional Executive, Rebecca Kent, lives locally.

Behind the scenes, analysts and associates provide specialist support, while our retail team helps customers with everyday banking needs.

Together, we support more than 1,000 businesses from Macksville to Iluka and west to Dorrigo.

What do you enjoy most about working together as a team?

Adam: It’s the collaboration. We share knowledge, support each other and combine our expertise to achieve the best outcomes for customers.

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We work hard, celebrate our wins and enjoy plenty of banter along the way.

With a broad mix of experience, there’s always someone ready to help solve a problem or share an idea.

What do you think makes your team stand out?

Robbie: Feet on the ground - we have one of the largest and most diverse business banking teams on the Coffs Coast, backed by local knowledge and expertise across industries including medical, pharmacy, legal, accounting, broking and commercial property.

We know the local market because we’re part of it, combining the strength of Australia’s largest business bank with the service of a local team.

How does the team support local clients and businesses in the region?

Adam: We take the time to understand our clients’ goals and provide tailored banking solutions that support growth,

manage cash ow and drive long term success.

Our support goes beyond banking.

The team is actively involved in the community, including supporting the CanDo Cancer Trust and its work assisting local cancer patients.

What do you enjoy most about being part of the Coffs Coast community?

Garreth: Without a doubt, it’s the people.

The “I’ll give you the shirt off my back” mentality and community spirit makes this region special.

The lifestyle helps too - the climate, beautiful coastline, great golf courses and the convenience of being perfectly positioned to explore the rest of Australia.

MENinBUSINESS

JONATHON PAFF N O R T H C O A S T C R I M I N A L L AW

C

an you tell us a little about yourself and the story behind North Coast Criminal Law? I'm a criminal defence lawyer who has spent my career representing people facing some of life's toughest moments. I founded North Coast Criminal Law to provide experienced, practical and compassionate legal representation across the North Coast. My focus has always been on delivering honest advice, strong advocacy and personalised support, ensuring every client feels heard, respected and well represented.

What led you to specialise in criminal defence law? Criminal law is challenging, fast-paced and deeply rewarding. I was drawn to the opportunity to protect people's rights and ensure they receive fair treatment within the justice system. Every matter is unique, and I value being able to guide clients through difficult circumstances while working towards the best possible outcome.

What do you enjoy most about working in this area of law? The most rewarding part is helping clients regain confidence during

an incredibly stressful time in their life. Whether it's achieving a positive result in court or simply helping someone understand the legal process, knowing I've made a meaningful difference is what keeps me passionate about criminal defence.

What sets North Coast Criminal Law apart in supporting clients across the region? We combine expert legal representation with genuine care. Every client receives direct access to an experienced lawyer, clear communication and practical advice tailored to their circumstances. We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, so we focus on making the process as straightforward and supportive as possible.

What’s next for the firm, and how can readers get in touch?

Our goal is to continue expanding our reach while maintaining the personalised service we're known for. We're committed to remaining a trusted criminal defence firm for communities across the North Coast. Readers can learn more or contact us through our website or by calling our office for confidential legal advice.

6602 9264 nccriminallaw.com.au

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CUTLERS TYREPOWER

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For generations, Cutlers Tyrepower has been a trusted name on the Coffs Coast, building its reputation on genuine customer service, expert advice and strong family values. This year marks 30 years in business, and current owner Terry Cutler joins his father, Peter, who founded the business in 1996, to reflect on the journey, the people who have made it possible, and what continues to drive their success.

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or three decades, Cutlers Tyrepower has been a trusted name on the Coffs Coast, built on honest service, expert advice and strong family values.

As the business celebrates its 30th anniversary, owner Terry utler re ects on the journey his father, Peter, began in 1996 and the community that has supported the business every step of the way.

Peter Cutler’s vision started with a leap of faith. After owning tyre businesses in Forbes and Parkes, he moved to Coffs Harbour to manage another business before deciding to strike out on his own. Famously conducting his own market research by counting cars along Hogbin Drive, Peter purchased the land in 1995, laying the foundations for what would become one of the region’s most respected family businesses.

For Terry, the milestone is about far more than longevity. “It’s a chance to re ect on the hard work of our family, our incredible staff and the loyal customers who’ve supported us for decades,” he says. “We’re especially proud to now have the next generation involved in the business.”

Family remains at the heart of everything Cutlers Tyrepower does.

Terry took over the business in 2010 and, just a year later, the company was named Tyrepower NSW Store of the Year. Since then, the business has

expanded to two successful locations while remaining true to the values it was founded on: honest advice, quality workmanship and treating every customer like family.

and grandchildren.

“Our customers know they’ll receive honest advice and quality work every time they visit,” Terry says. “If you look after people, stand behind your work and keep improving, they’ll come back.”

Today, Terry works alongside two of his three sons. Mitch, a qualified mechanic, has moved into the office to gain experience in business operations, while It’s a chance to Darcy continues reflect on the his passion for hard work of our working in the family, our workshop. Peter, now retired, still incredible staff and regularly visits the the loyal customers business, sharing who’ve supported his knowledge and us for decades... keeping the family connected to its beginnings.

Like every industry, the automotive sector has evolved dramatically over the past 30 years.

Cutlers Tyrepower has embraced advances in technology, sustainable tyre recycling and ongoing staff training to meet the demands of modern vehicles, while making it easier and more convenient for customers to do business.

Despite the changes, one thing has remained constant: relationships.

Many customers have trusted Cutlers Tyrepower since day one, with the business now servicing their children

The local community has also played a vital role in the company’s success. Through sponsorships of sporting clubs, schools, charities and community events, Cutlers Tyrepower has always believed in giving back to the region that has supported them.

Thirty years on, the business continues to thrive thanks to dedicated staff, loyal customers and enduring family values.

As the next generation steps forward, the future of Cutlers Tyrepower looks just as strong as the foundations laid three decades ago.

cutlerstyrepower.com.au 02 6658 4244 COFFS COAST focus 89

TOM

TOPFER Buying a business is about more than an investment, it’s about continuing a legacy. Sawtell local Tom Topfer is searching for the right established business to own and grow, bringing more than 20 years of experience across a range of industries. We caught up to chat about business succession, Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition and his passion for supporting local businesses.

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ell us a little about yourself and what has led you to this point in your career.

I live in Sawtell with my wife and three kids. We love the outdoors and feel lucky to be able to call this place home. Over a 20-year career I’ve worked across a broad range of industries, building businesses and leading teams, most of it in a remote capacity.

Now I want to focus my energy locally, and my goal is to find and acquire an existing business that I can own and operate myself.

What inspired your interest in buying and growing an established local business rather than starting one from scratch?

I’ve spent my career around business, and I’ve come to value what small businesses do for regional communities; I’d love to be part of that. Recently I’ve been inspired by ‘Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA)’, a movement well established in the US and becoming better known here, which is centred on the concept of buying an existing business rather than starting a new one.

Can you tell us a bit more about ETA, why it’s becoming popular, and why you believe it’s a valuable model for regional communities?

It’s starting to gain traction because so many established businesses have owners ready to move on with no obvious successor, and it offers a potential solution.

Regionally, ETA is less well known; however, I think it can offer a valuable proposition to the community, in that it keeps good businesses alive, along with their jobs and services intact, and also offers existing business owners a way to transition out and be rewarded for the value they have created. What draws me personally is being local, and wanting to stay local to connect directly with owners who might be considering their next phase.

Many business owners struggle with succession planning. What message would you like to share with those starting to think about retirement or selling?

Honestly, I’m not here to tell anyone how to plan their exit. I just want to connect with local business owners who are considering a transition. I’m really offering an alternative for anyone who feels intimidated, or just too busy, to approach a broker or list their business online. I’m a local who genuinely enjoys chatting about business and hearing people’s different experiences, and I’ll treat any conversation with respect and complete confidence.

problems: earning a team’s trust, learning how a business really runs, and finding what matters most to build from it to make it better. That’s what excites me about finding a local business.

That’s typically a different approach to a big-city buyer, who might merge it into a larger operation or bring in outside management to run it remotely.

Finally, what would you like local business owners to know i the re con idering a confidentia conversation about the future of their business?

You’ve worked across a diverse range of industries. How has that experience prepared you to lead an established business?

Mostly, I’d want them to know that a first chat commits you to nothing and stays completely private, even if you decide not to sell. There’s no pressure at all. Whether a sale is around the corner or years away, I’d genuinely welcome a quiet chat. I’m local, I’m serious, and I care about doing right by what you’ve built. If that resonates, I’d love to hear from you. www.midcoastautomation.com tom@midcoastautomation.com.au 0415 592 630

You’re also helping businesses improve through AI and automation. How do you see technology supporting the future of local businesses?

There’s huge potential here! Alongside my search to buy a business, I run a consultancy What qualities are you looking for in a called Midcoast Automation, working with business, and what excites you most about local businesses to use AI and automation becoming its next owner? in practical ways. Good technology can I’m interested in established businesses level the playing field for small businesses, - ideally running for 5+ years, and more but operators typically don’t have the time than any particular industry, I care about to learn and implement it to see results. I the reputation of am passionate about the business and the filling that gap and team behind it. What I’m here to buy delivering outcomeexcites me most is and run one based results that the chance to bring business for the long help people become fresh energy and haul and lead it into its more efficient, so the skills I have to next chapter. That’s they can focus on support those people their customers and typically a different and build a culture growth. I’ve been approach to a big-city where they feel real lucky enough to work buyer, who might ownership and part hands-on with most of merge it into a larger of the business. I’m the leading AI tools, operation or bring in here to buy and run so I know them well, outside management to one business for the and it’s an edge I’d long haul and lead it run it remotely. bring to any business. into its next chapter.

I’ve been lucky to have had a varied career across agriculture, construction, commercial aviation, healthcare and more recently leading investment research for a private investment firm. This has given me a unique exposure to different industries, people and business models. However, the constant has always been people and

COFFS COAST focus 91

GEOFF KING MOTORS AND BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

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18

OCTOBER 2026

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PLAYING TEAM INCLUSIONS Twin-share golf carts 15 raffle tickets per player On-course food & beverage tickets Post-event canapés A chance to contest the Golf Pro’s "shot of your choice" Registration 12:15pm, 1:00pm shotgun start Presentation on the lawn from 6:00pm

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Sponsor Deadline: Priority team bookings close Friday, 11 September 2026.

Public Release: Remaining team spots open to the community in late September 2026 (subject to availability).

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DONATE PRIZES First prize 4 players Second prize 4 players Third prize 4 players Nearest to pin 5 players Longest drive 4 players Raffle prizes

$90 each $80 each $60 each $20 each $20 each Any value

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Education

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2029 and 19: WILL THEY BE READY? PREPARING TODAY’S STUDENTS FOR TOMORROW’S WORLD

cross New South Wales, Year 10 families are exploring curriculum handbooks, discussing Year 11 subject selections for 2027 and considering future career pathways. August and September are important months for these decisions.

Three questions every parent or carer should ask their school are: How does the school intentionally develop character, resilience, and purpose so that students graduate not only ready for employment, but also for meaningful lives of service and connection?

How is my child developing transferable skills such as communication, creativity, critical thinking and collaboration that employers consistently value?

What authentic experiences connect classroom learning with workplaces, career planning, community service and global opportunities?

By 2029, the most successful 19-year-olds may not be those with the highest ATAR or the perfect résumé. They will be those who stay curious, keep learning, adapt to change, build strong relationships, contribute to their communities and look for opportunities to make a difference.

A young person turning 19 in 2029 might be studying at university, beginning an apprenticeship in Coffs Harbour, launching a business in Bellingen, working at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, developing sustainable

agriculture in the Clarence Valley or working remotely for a global company from a café overlooking the Jetty. Whatever path they choose, success will require far more than academic results.

Research consistently shows that tomorrow’s opportunities belong to those who can adapt, collaborate, think critically and continue learning throughout life.

Research by Mark McCrindle argues that while technology will continue transforming work, the greatest advantage belongs to people with transferable human capabilities, including creativity, emotional intelligence, resilience, leadership and critical thinking. These skills allow people to move confidently between careers that may not yet exist.

Engaging Futures: The Next Gen and Implications for the Higher Education Engagement Agenda, from Engagement Australia, also argues that education must go beyond merely delivering knowledge. Young people need authentic learning experiences that develop problemsolving, innovation and community engagement.

The Career Industry Council of Australia reinforces the importance of career planning and management skills during high school. It reports that 36% of Australian teenagers are career uncertain and 66% expect to enter high-status professions such as medicine or law, yet only 34% have participated in work placements, despite these experiences leading to better employment outcomes.

Update with SIMON DOYLE

PRI N CI PA L , N SW N ORTH COAST

Jobs and Skills Australia identifies lifelong learning, diverse skills and inclusive participation as future workforce priorities. As industries evolve through artificial intelligence, sustainability and demographic change, employers will increasingly seek people who combine technical expertise with communication, collaboration and leadership.

Across the North Coast of NSW, this future is already emerging. Renewable energy, healthcare, tourism, education, agriculture and digital industries are creating opportunities that barely existed a decade ago. Geography is becoming less of a barrier, but character remains as important as ever.

At Bishop Druitt College, preparing students for 2029 means developing the whole person.

Through a broad curriculum, Graduate Attributes for Life, the BDC Way, learning beyond the classroom, future-ready skills and Faithfulness in Service, students are prepared for lifelong learning, service and contribution.

Perhaps the most important question for parents is not, “Will my child get a job?” but, “Will my child be ready for a lifetime of change?”

Schools cannot predict every job today’s students will hold. They can, however, prepare graduates who are confident learners, courageous leaders and compassionate citizens. That is how we ensure that when today’s students turn 19 in 2029, they are not simply ready for work - they are world prepared.

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Critical minerals and contaminated environments

THE HOME GROWN

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The Coffs Coast has a range of excellent experts across business, health and beyond – but what are the ideas and perspectives that could shape the next breakthrough?

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new wave of researchers has graduated from Southern Cross University, and their ideas are already at work well beyond the lecture theatre.

Among more than 220 graduates crossing the stage at the Coffs Harbour campus earlier this year was Mohammad Rastegari, awarded the Chancellor's Medal for his work on antimony, a mineral now critical to batteries, renewable technology and advanced manufacturing.

Read on to find out more about the home grown ideas shaping global research, from coral reefs to aged care and beyond.

Critical minerals and contaminated environments Doctor of Philosophy graduate Mohammad Rastegari was awarded the Chancellor’s Medal for an outstanding PhD thesis that makes a significant contribution to research.

“I uncovered mechanisms that control whether antimony remains trapped in minerals or is released into the environment," Mohammad said.

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Mohammad’s findings contribute to a better understanding of how contaminated mining environments evolve over time and may help inform future remediation strategies.

atmospheric conditions over the Great Barrier Reef, using drones.

"I demonstrated that consumer-grade drones can reliably collect atmospheric data up to 1,500 metres, offering a costBringing traditional medicine to cancer effective alternative to research traditional methods Growing up in a Sri such as weather Lankan household, balloons," Christian One of the key herbal medicines said. findings was that were a normal part of everyday life for Doctor of Philosophy graduate Ilma Imtiaz.

Her research mapped two centuries of herbal medicine use in cancer management and investigated curcumin, a compound found in turmeric and used in dietary supplements.

curcumin behaved very differently at concentrations achievable in the human body compared with the much higher concentrations commonly used in laboratory studies.

Using drones to learn about our atmosphere Doctor of Philosophy graduate Christian Eckert investigated marine aerosols and

Christian's research contributes to improved environmental monitoring and a better understanding of marine aerosol dynamics, with applications in climate modelling, weather forecasting and reef management.

Improving predictions of coral bleaching Doctor of Philosophy graduate Sophia Ellis investigated why corals bleach and how changing environmental conditions affect reef health.

Dancing your way to ageing well

Circumin

She also explored whether reducing light through shading could help reduce stress and protect corals during ocean warming events.

Sophia’s experimental findings have already been used to improve a computer model that predicts coral bleaching across the Great Barrier Reef.

Advancing inclusion for people with spinal cord injury

opportunities, negative attitudes, and limited political participation as factors of social exclusion.

Her findings emphasised the importance of listening to the perspectives of people with lived experience Drones can when shaping policy and reliably collect support systems, and atmospheric data the importance of both up to 1,500 metres, personal support systems offering a costand broader community effective alternative inclusivity.

to traditional methods.

Dancing your way to ageing well

Master of Science graduate Christine Ann Farrell explored the social choices and experiences of people living with tetraplegic spinal cord injury.

Doctor of Philosophy graduate Blake Anthony Toohey explored the impact of seated dance programs for older adults living in residential aged care.

Christine s research identified wheelchair inaccessibility, lack of employment

His research found that dance offered much more than physical activity, including

experiences of connection, enjoyment, self expression and meaningful engagement with others.

The work provides evidence that supports the use of these programs in aged care, and highlights how simple interventions can improve wellbeing, social connection and quality of life.

Celebrating the hard work behind good ideas Reflecting on the Chancellor s Medal, Mohammad Rastegari said the recognition represents more than academic achievement.

When I came from Iran, as an international student to study at Southern Cross niversity, I never imagined that one day I would receive such a prestigious recognition. To me, the medal represents years of perseverance, curiosity and growth, as well as the support of my supervisors, colleagues, friends and family.

Find out more about cutting edge ideas at scu.edu.au/research/research-impact/ COFFS COAST focus 95

DUBR AVKA SABLJAK

ARTIST of the MONTH

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A er a three-year break from exhibiting, local artist Dubravka Sabljak returns with Encountering the Self at Nexus Gallery in Bellingen; a deeply personal collection that explores identity, vulnerability and the creative process. We spoke with Dubravka about the exhibition, her evolving practice and the powerful role creativity has played in her own journey.

H

i Dubravka, congratulations on your current exhibition - Encountering the Self.

Can you share a bit about the exhibition and what it means to you?

My last exhibition was three years ago, and in that time my practice has evolved significantly.

I've devoted myself to sculpture, which has become my true creative language. I never begin with a sketch or a fixed idea. Instead, I simply hold the clay in my hands and allow the process to unfold. It feels less like I m creating something and more like I'm uncovering something that was already there.

Over the past few years I've continued to push myself creatively, recently attending a bronze sculpture workshop and creating my first bronze piece, which I'm thrilled to exhibit. I ve also been exploring new materials and techniques, including plaster, allowing my work to continue evolving in unexpected ways.

More than anything, this exhibition represents a journey of finding peace and purpose. Creating has become a way of quieting my overthinking mind and reconnecting with myself. My hope is that visitors leave inspired to embrace what they're passionate about, because purpose has an incredible ability to carry us through even the most

challenging moments in our lives.

What people see in the gallery is the finished work, but behind every piece are countless failures, broken sculptures, exploding kilns, unexpected surprises and moments of doubt. Those moments have become just as important as the finished pieces because they've taught me to let go of perfection and trust the creative process. In many ways, the exhibition isn't just about the artworks, it s about everything I learned while making them.

You describe the exhibition as an intimate glimpse into your mind. Was it confronting to reveal such a personal side of yourself through your artwork?

In short, yes. Showcasing my work is extremely confronting it feels like you re standing naked at an intersection where everybody is looking at you. Exposing your authentic self can be daunting.

Most of us live behind a mask all our lives. Coming to acceptance of yourself and embracing all the beautiful and quirky parts that live within is challenging enough, but showing that to the world can be even more uncomfortable. It often feels safer to wear a mask to function in the world than to be your unapologetic, authentic self.

ather than eginning with a fi ed an you've said your works evolve through instinct, emotion and curiosity. Can you describe what that creative process looks like for you?

When I go to create, I have no idea what I m going to make. I have this constant inner dialogue with myself: "What are you doing I don t know what I m doing. Then another voice says, Just take a lump of clay and hold it. See what happens.

That conversation goes back and forth several times, which is pretty typical of my overthinking mind. Then, all of a sudden, I start modelling the clay. I look for shapes, expressions and forms that begin to reveal themselves. Once I notice something emerging, I follow it and gradually bring it to life.

Sometimes the piece changes direction several times before it becomes what it's meant to be. I ve learnt not to force an outcome. The more I try to control it, the less interesting it becomes.

My role is really just to pay attention to what's revealing itself and respond to it.

Continued over...

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Sculpture and mixed media allow for endless experimentation.

What draws you to these mediums, and how do they help you express your ideas?

I love working across different materials because every medium teaches me something different.

Bronze, clay and plaster all have their own personalities and limitations, and learning to work with them keeps me curious.

Making sculpture, my favourite process, is where I find the most peace. It feels as though I'm simply channelling the creation it just comes through my hands.

My overthinking mind disappears, and I m completely present in the process. Perhaps I'm just channelling Michelangelo (she laughs). Most recently I’ve been experimenting with building 98 COFFS COAST focus

forms and making plaster sculptures which is a process that doesn t require firing. It s been a lot of fun and a lot of lessons learnt).

I love working across different materials because every medium teaches me something different. Bron e, clay and plaster all have their own personalities and limitations, and learning to work with them keeps me curious. I don t think I ll ever stop experimenting because that s where I discover something new about both the material and myself.

My mind is constantly overthinking, trying to make sense of life, experiences and people, and my sculptures become a reflection of that inner dialogue.

Many of the works explore contradictions within ourselves; the playful and the serious, the vulnerable and the resilient. Why are tho e interna con ict uch an im ortant theme in our ractice

For me, this exhibition has been about encountering myself and getting to know the different characters that exist within me.

Naturally, they find their way into my work.

Those contradictions aren't something I'm trying to resolve; they're simply part of who I am. My mind is constantly overthinking, trying to make sense of life, experiences and people, and my sculptures become a reflection of that inner dialogue. I think, in many ways, it's part of the human condition. We all carry different versions of ourselves, and this exhibition is my way of exploring them.

I've stopped trying to decide which version of myself is the "real" one. They're all real.

Some days I'm playful, some days I'm deeply reflective, and other days I m chaotic and

uncertain. Learning to accept all of those parts has probably been one of the biggest lessons behind this exhibition.

quiet way of inspiring me, and I feel incredibly fortunate to call this part of the world home.

er arti t ea e a itt e o them e e in their work. Looking around this exhibition, what do you think people will di co er a out u ra a a a

I hope people leave feeling they have permission to be their authentic selves and the courage to take off the mask. To be kind, to be real, and to embrace every part of who they are. I hope the exhibition encourages people to reconnect with their wild, creative self, to find what they re passionate about, and to remember that we're incredibly lucky to be living in this beautiful playground we call Planet Earth.

I think they'll discover different parts of who I am: my creative curiosity, the emotions that naturally emerge through my sculptures, my love of nature reflected in my landscape and seascape paintings, and the wild, eccentric side of myself that I ve finally given permission to exist openly through my work.

Living and creating on the Mid North Coast, does the surrounding landscape or oca creati e communit in uence our wor in an wa Absolutely. Most of my landscapes and seascapes are painted from photographs I've taken while exploring the beautiful Gumbaynggirr Country. The landscape has a

What do you hope people are thinking, or feeling, as they leave Encountering the e

If someone walks away feeling even a little more comfortable being themselves, then I feel the exhibition has done its job. We spend so much of our lives trying to fit into expectations that aren't really ours. I'd love people to leave remembering that life is too short not to embrace the things that make them unique.

Thanks Dubravka COFFS COAST focus 99

RYAN MARTIN Parenting rarely goes to plan, and according to local educator, speaker and author Ryan Martin, that's perfectly okay. Drawing on 25 years in education and his own experience as a father, Ryan's new book Little F*ckers cuts through the noise of perfect parenting to deliver honest, practical advice with plenty of humour.

H

i Ryan. After 25 years in education, what inspired you to sit down and write Little F*ckers?

Twenty-five years of watching good parents overcomplicate the job for no reason. I d sit across from mums and dads who were convinced they were failing, and nine times out of ten their kid was pretty normal. Just loud, stubborn, spirited, allergic to direction or most of the above. Meanwhile the shelves were groaning under the weight of parenting books written like everyone s raising a perfect version of a kid. The truth is they don’t exist. Nobody was telling the truth. So I wanted this book to be a fresh honest angle of parenting. The book’s title Well, that’s a statement most parents have mumbled under their breath. The love underneath it isn t.

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You've worked with thousands of children and families, but you've said becoming a parent made you realise how much you still had to learn.

How did fatherhood change your perspective?

The shelves were groaning under the weight of parenting books wri en like everyone's raising a perfect version of a kid. The truth is they don’t exist. Nobody was telling the truth.

I was probably insufferable before I had kids. I had opinions. I had loads of strategies. Then I had my own little humans and discovered that every clever technique I d recommended over the years works beautifully right up until breakfast time, you ve had four hours sleep, and someone s melting down because you cut the toast wrong. Fatherhood made me a

more humble human.

I stopped talking like I had all the answers and started talking like someone in the trenches next to other parents. Because I am.

Your book is refreshingly honest about the realities of parenting. Why do you think so many parents are craving authenticity rather than another "perfect parenting" guide?

Parents have been lied to for a decade and they re exhausted. Everywhere they look, someone s serving up a highlight reel. The craft sessions. The calm voices. The kid eating salad bowls without World War III. It s

unrealistic rubbish, and deep-down parents know it, but it still makes them feel like they are failing. People aren't chasing another expert. They're chasing permission to be human. They want someone to lean over the fence and say, "Yeah, mine did that too, and they turned out fine. That s the whole purpose of the book.

troublemakers who've improved the world were absolute nightmares as kids. Maybe we have to handle the future changemaker in your lounge room with a bit more respect.

One of your key messages is that parents are probably doing better than they think.

Why do you believe so many mums and dads carry such a heavy sense of guilt?

Your book encourages parents to look at themselves, not just their kids. Why is self-awareness such an important part of raising kids?

I think we have turned parenting into a competitive sport with no scoreboard, so everyone assumes they're losing. Add social media, where you're comparing your worst Tuesday to someone else s best filtered moment, and of course you feel like you're stuffing it up. But here s the thing. The fact that you're worried is the evidence you're doing okay. Some of the parents that I have worked with who think they are crushing the parenting gig often have some big blind spots that come back to bite them. The guilt you're hauling around at times is proof you care.

Put it away. It's not helping the kids and it's removing the fun from parenting.

Kids don't do what we say. They do what we do - and they especially do what we do when we've lost the plot. You can't lecture a child into calm while you're yelling. You can't teach resilience if you fall apart every time life doesn't go your way. A huge chunk of parenting is just managing your own nervous system in front of a small You've spent years working with children person who's studying a e ed di ficu t you like a documentary.

What do you wish The uncomfortable more parents and truth is that most of the teachers understood But here's behaviour we want to about strong-willed the thing. The change in our kids starts kids? guilt you're hauling with something we're around at times That the trait driving modelling ourselves. is proof you care. you up the wall right Sort that out first and Put it away. It's not now is the same one half the problems quietly helping the kids and you'll be desperate disappear. it's removing the fun for them to have at If every exhausted from parenting. seventeen. The kid parent could who argues with remember just one everything? That's thing after reading a kid who won't Little F*ckers, what be talked into a would you hope it is? car by a stranger, or bullied into something dumb by a pack of mates. The intensity, the Connection beats correction. Every time. stubbornness, the questioning of every single When it's all going sideways and you don't rule. That s not a fault to be fixed. It s raw know whether to be firm or gentle or just material. Our job isn't to break it. It's to help hide in the pantry with a block of chocolate them aim it. Half the leaders and creators and and a glass of wine, reach for the relationship

first. Kids don t need perfect parents. There s no such thing, and honestly, they'd be no fun to grow up around. They need present ones.

Ones who stay in the room, keep showing up, and love them through the messy bits. You're not raising a project. You're raising a less than perfect person - and I’d bet you're doing better than you think.

Where can we find out more or get our hands on a copy of the book?

Little F*ckers is published by Pan Macmillan and you can get it wherever you buy your books. All the usual online spots, and your local Coffs Harbour bookstores have it in stock and Project Pony in Woolgoolga, and would love the sale. There's an audiobook too, so if you fancy being told you're doing alright by me while you fold the washing, that's now an option. Some of my mates have told me I am putting them to sleep. I am not sure if that is a compliment. On a side note: this book is honest, sweary and I hope more than anything, helpful.

Thanks Ryan.

COFFS COAST focus 101

The NSW Government is helping reduce the cost of living with more than 70 rebates and vouchers.

By answering the tailored questions in the Service NSW Savings Finder tool, you can find rebates and vouchers relevant to you.

You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code.

Gurmesh SINGH MP coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500

Authorised

by Gurmesh Singh Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Authorised

by Gurmesh Singh MP, MP, 1/9 1/9 ParkPark Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements September 2022 Funded using Parliamentary 102 COFFS COAST focus Entitlements July 2023

focus_contributor.

STAT E OF

REGIONAL SENIORS TRAVEL CARD WILL RETURN

A

s cost-of-living pressures continue to build and cause more hardship across the Coffs Coast, a glimmer of hope has arrived in the form of the Regional Seniors Travel Card.

challenging, especially for our local seniors.

From 2020 – when the Liberal and Nationals Government introduced the initiative - to its axing by Labor, as many as 77,548 seniors in the Coffs Harbour Electorate used the card to the value of more than $7 million.

The highly popular card will be back in people’s pockets if the NSW Nationals are back in Government at the March 2027 State election.

The Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide eligible seniors on the Coffs Coast and throughout regional NSW with a $250 prepaid card for fuel, taxis, and pre-booked train or coach tickets.

Seniors living in the regions have fewer transport options than those in the city and deserve support to get to medical appointments, to get to the shops, or to connect It was with friends and family.

outrageous for the Minns Labor Government to dump the Regional Seniors Travel Card during a cost-ofliving crisis, at the very time our seniors needed it the most.

Premier Chris Minns and Labor cut the Regional Seniors Travel Card in 2023 despite our petition to save it receiving more than 22,000 signatures.

We live in an incredible part of the world, but there is no doubt distance and travel are

It was outrageous for the Minns Labor Government to dump the Regional Seniors Travel Card during a cost-of-living crisis, at the very time our seniors needed it the most.

Life continues to get even tougher under Labor, which should be ashamed for abandoning our regional seniors.

The Regional Seniors Travel Card program is all about making daily life easier for them, not more difficult.

The return of the card under a Liberal and

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

Nationals Government has been warmly welcomed by the community, which has been calling long and loud for its reinstatement.

It’s an excellent policy which makes me extremely proud.

I had the opportunity to speak about the importance of the Regional Seniors Travel Card during my visit in June to the Coffs Seniors Computer Club at the Cavanbah Centre. They do wonderful work in our community and I always enjoy being able to spend some time with the members.

On the day, Coffs Seniors Computer Club president Fay Rollans said the return of the Regional Seniors Travel Card will be welcome.

“I can remember it well, it was really great,” Mrs Rollans said about the Card.

“It’s important for seniors living in regional areas to get help with their transport, petrol and travel and that’s what the Regional Seniors Travel Card does.”

The Coalition will deliver practical cost-of-living relief which puts money back into household budgets and makes life easier for families.

PHOTO: Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh spoke about the importance of the Regional Seniors Travel Card at Coffs Seniors Computer Club.

COFFS COAST focus 103

focus_contributor.

Reptile W with MATTHEW McEWAN REPTILE SPECIALIST

A

re snakes still active during winter? Snake sightings generally decrease throughout winter as cooler temperatures reduce their activity levels.

While snakes do not disappear completely, they spend much more time sheltering in rock crevices, hollow logs, burrows, and other protected locations. If we experience a run of warm sunny days, it is still possible to encounter a snake basking to absorb heat before returning to cover.

What is brumation? Brumation is the reptile equivalent of hibernation. During this period, reptiles become much less active, their metabolism slows down, and they may eat very little or not at all. They rely on stored energy and wait for warmer conditions before becoming active again. Brumation is a natural and important part of the life cycle for many reptiles.

Do all reptiles brumate? Not all reptiles respond to winter in exactly the same way.

Some species enter a deep brumation and remain hidden for extended periods, while others simply become less active and take advantage of warmer days to bask and move around. Factors such as species, age, health, and local weather conditions can all influence how a reptile behaves during the colder months.

What attracts snakes to residential properties? Snakes are usually attracted by two main things: food and shelter. Properties with high rodent numbers, frogs, dense vegetation, piles of timber, building materials, or garden clutter can provide ideal conditions for snakes looking for somewhere to hide and hunt. A snake in your yard is often a sign that there is a food source or suitable shelter nearby.

approach is prevention through good property management. A tidy yard with fewer hiding places, good rodent control, and regular maintenance will not guarantee snakes won’t visit, but it can significantly reduce the chances of them taking up residence around your home.

hou d mo e or di tur a na e i find one during winter? No. Even though snakes are generally slower during colder months, they can still defend themselves if they feel threatened. The safest Some species option is to keep your enter a deep distance, keep pets and brumation and children away, and allow remain hidden for the snake to move on extended periods, naturally. If the snake is while others simply in an unsafe location, become less active contact a licensed snake and take advantage of catcher.

Why is winter a good time to tidy the yard? Winter is the perfect opportunity to reduce potential snake habitat before the warmer months arrive. Removing piles of rubbish, keeping grass trimmed, lifting stored materials off the warmer days to bask ground, and reducing When does snake and move around. rodent activity around activity increase again? sheds and gardens Snake activity generally can all help make your begins increasing in late property less appealing winter and early spring as to snakes. Taking these steps now can make temperatures rise. This is why winter is the ideal a big difference when snake activity increases time to prepare your property before snakes again in spring. become more active. A little prevention now can What is the most important thing homeowners can do this winter? The best

help create a safer environment for both people and reptiles when warmer weather returns.

COFFS COAST focus 105

106 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

SHELLEY JONES

Women inBusiness

with CATH FOWLER

BUSINESS WOMEN NETWORK COMMITEE

C

W O R K

an you tell us about your business? Work Well Injury Solutions partners with businesses to help manage what can be one of the most complex and overwhelming aspects of running an organisation; navigating injuries and employee recovery in the workplace.

With over 15 years’ experience in workers compensation and injury management, I founded Work Well Injury Solutions to provide employers with flexible and direct access to senior expertise that helps reduce organisational risk, protects against rising claim costs and premiums, and supports safe, timely and sustainable recovery outcomes for their employees.

Throughout my career I’ve seen the detrimental costs that ineffective or passive injury management can have on a business. Just one claim can significantly impact an organisation’s workers compensation premium for years to come. Many businesses don’t have a dedicated injury coordinator, and effective results require far more than just administration.

It takes strong legislative knowledge, clear communication, and the ability to proactively coordinate insurers / medical professionals / employees and internal staff to achieve desired

W E L L

I N J U RY

S O L U T I O N S

outcomes. That’s where we come in.

passionate about.

We work collaboratively with our clients providing the expertise and support needed to create healthier, more resilient workplaces.

Whether that’s pre-employment risk management, injury prevention strategies or management of both personal and workrelated injuries/illnesses in the workplace.

I also enjoy the strategic side of injury management and seeing the measurable improvements our work delivers. Whether it’s reducing the number of workplace injuries, achieving earlier return-to-work outcomes, or helping prevent unnecessary premium cost exposure, it’s rewarding to know we’re creating positive outcomes for both employers and their employees.

We take the time to understand your organisation, your people and your operational needs, delivering practical, tailored support rather than a one-si e-fits-all approach.

Through early intervention, return to work coordination, legislative guidance and workplace education, we enable employers to focus on running their business with confidence, knowing their employees and injury management needs are in experienced and capable hands.

What’s your favourite part of the work you do?

What I find most rewarding is assisting people throughout their rehabilitation. Recovering from injury is about more than just physical healing and often comes with its own personal and logistical challenges as well. Supporting someone throughout that journey in order to achieve not only their work goals, but also their personal ambitions is something I’m incredibly

Who i

our greate t in uence in u ine

It’s hard to choose just one. I’m inspired by any women who has had the courage to build a business they’re passionate about. Whether they’re nationally recognised or local business owners. They all bring a unique perspective on how they do business, and I’m always receptive to ideas that allow me to grow both personally and professionally. ow can eo e earn more a out our business?

I’d love to hear from you. You can contact 0429 548 214 or at sjones@ me on wor we in ur o ution com au. To learn more about Work Well Injury Solutions, visit wor we in ur o ution com au or connect with us on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.

COFFS COAST focus 107

Money MATTERS with TANYA McMANUS

F R O M C L AY T O N & F O S T E R

USING BUSINESS MONEY AND ASSETS FOR PERSONAL USE OR BENEFIT?

T

he Australian Taxation Office ATO regularly publishes focus areas for small businesses. One of the top areas where the ATO regularly sees errors is where a private company shareholder uses business money and assets for personal use or benefit, which can lead to Division 7A issues.

What is Division 7A? Division 7A is an anti-avoidance rule designed to stop the profits or assets of a private company from being provided to its shareholders or their associates tax free. Think of a small business shareholder using a company credit card to pay for their child’s school fees, or using company money to pay for a holiday.

If a shareholder uses company money for private purposes and doesn’t do anything to resolve the situation, then Division 7A can step in to treat those amounts as unfranked dividends, which are taxed in the shareholder’s personal tax return at their own marginal rate.

Common misunderstanding can lead to errors One of the most common Division 7A errors the ATO sees is caused by shareholders and their 108 COFFS COAST focus

• Loan amount, associates not understanding that a company is a separate legal entity. This legal separation • The requirement to repay the loan, means that a company’s money and assets are • Interest rate payable no less than the Division its own, and should not be dipped into’ by 7A benchmark rate , and shareholders and if they are, such amounts • Term of the loan generally up to 7 years, should be paid back within the relevant time .

For this reason, it’s unless the loan is a good idea to have secured by a registered separate bank accounts mortgage over real it’s a good or credit cards for private property) idea to have and company expenses, • A complying loan separate bank to make it easier to agreement must be accounts or credit distinguish between signed and dated cards for private and private and business company expenses, before a company’s expenditure. to make it easier to relevant lodgement day How to avoid Division distinguish between for the income year 7A issues private and business in which the loan was Besides paying back the expenditure. paid. amount in full, another Don’t get caught out common way to avoid a Division 7A issue is to borrow the amount as part of a complying loan agreement.

by Division 7A Have questions about Division 7A Come and speak to a member of our team. We can

A complying loan agreement should be in writing and contain at least

make sure that you’re meeting all Division 7A

• Identity of the borrower and lender,

requirements.

obligations, including meeting complying loan

WHO IS FARRAR GESINI DUNN?

L

Led locally by Estates and Family Law Partner Gillian Hunter, Farrar Gesini Dunn (FGD) brings specialist family and estates law expertise to Coffs Harbour.

Established in Canberra 30 years ago by Denis Farrar, Olivia Gesini and Jim Dunn, FGD has since expanded to Melbourne, Sydney and, in 2024, the Mid North Coast.

FGD is recognised for its expertise in family law, assisting clients with matters such as property settlements, divorce, parenting arrangements, adoption, and surrogacy. The firm also provides comprehensive estates and succession planning services, including wills, enduring powers of attorney, estate administration, elder law disputes and estate challenges.

Why Coffs Harbour? Coffs Harbour is a thriving regional community with growing and complex legal needs. FGD’s presence here reflects a commitment to making specialist family and estates law expertise more accessible to local families, individuals and businesses on the Mid North Coast.

Gillian is a long-time local who left Coffs to establish her career, always with the intention to return. Her deep connection and love for the region made Coffs Harbour a natural choice for expansion.

For Gillian and the Coffs Harbour team, FGD’s local presence is about more than opening an office. illian explains “Coffs is home for me, so it is incredibly meaningful to help bring FGD’s specialist family and estates law expertise to the region. Our aim is to give local families, individuals and businesses access to the same depth of support they would expect in a major city, while remaining grounded in the community we care about”.

F D’s support for the community is reflected in its sponsorship of Snappers local Rugby Team and hosting work experience for high school students.

How is FGD different? What sets Farrar Gesini Dunn apart is the depth of expertise each client can access through our collaborative team. Clients benefit from specialist experience across family law, estates, succession planning and related areas, allowing FGD to draw on the right expertise at the right time and provide practical, tailored advice for matters that are often personal and complex.

emotional support through challenging life transitions, while our in-house accountants assist with complex financial matters, business structures, valuations and advisory issues.

This multidisciplinary approach gives clients comprehensive support every step of the way.

We also recognise that legal issues are often about more than the law. Our Child and Family Specialists provide practical and COFFS COAST focus 109

Stef & Co. Abbey Hair

HOW CAN I MAKE YOUR DAY BETTER? I recently heard a story about a barman who asked a group of customers a wonderfully simple question:

H

ow can I make your day better?”

It struck a chord with me.

Years ago, I worked as a barista and quickly learnt that making someone a coffee was sometimes only part of the interaction.

That coffee and a few minutes of conversation might actually be a highlight in someone’s day.

Sometimes it was a chat, a laugh or simply remembering someone’s order. Nothing extraordinary, but it mattered.

The same is true across the Coffs Coast. Every day, thousands of small interactions happen in cafés, shops, accommodation, pubs, attractions, and service stations, between locals and visitors. Together, they shape how people feel about this place - and there’s an opportunity in that.

Last month, we looked at why supporting local businesses matters. But supporting local isn’t only about where we spend our own money. It’s also about where we encourage others to spend theirs.

One of the simplest ways to do that is to recommend local.

110 COFFS COAST focus

Nicole McLennan, Economic Development & Tourism, City of Coffs Harbour

Word of mouth has always been one of the most powerful forms of marketing. We trust recommendations from people. Today, that word of mouth also happens online through reviews, social posts and the stories we share.

When you have a great local experience yourself, tell someone about it. Leave a positive online review. Share it with friends.

These small acts can be incredibly valuable to a local business and help the next person decide where to eat, stay, shop or explore.

Perhaps that’s the bigger opportunity.

Think about travelling yourself. How often has a great experience started because someone said, “If We trust you have time, you really recommendations should…”?

A 30-second conversation might send a visitor to a local gallery, a great little café, a whale watching tour, a walking trail or a village they hadn’t planned to explore.

from people. Today, that word of mouth also happens online through reviews, social posts and the stories we share.

That’s a local business supported and, hopefully, another memorable Coffs Coast experience created.

None of us can know every business, event or experience across our region, and we don’t need to. We can share the places we love and, when we don’t know, point people towards CoffsCoast.com or the free Coffs Coast Explorer App.

The more we share what we love about the Coffs Coast, the more others discover. Every great experience creates the possibility of another recommendation, another story shared and another reason to come back.

It all adds up to how holiday makers, business travellers and event participants experience the Coffs Coast – and over time, how our region is remembered and recommended.

Which brings me back to that barman’s wonderfully simple question: “How can I make your day better?”

Sometimes it might start with: “Have you tried…?”

day trips and plenty of things to enjoy with family and friends.

Download the Explorer App

Pick up a destination guide

Follow and share

COFFS COAST focus 111

SEP 2026 SPECIAL FEATURE

Decades

in the

TRADE Some businesses stand the test of time.

This September, Coffs Coast FOCUS is recognising the local business owners and skilled professionals who have dedicated decades to their craft and helped shape our region.

Whether you’ve been in business for 10, 20, 30, 40 or even 50+ years, this is your opportunity to celebrate your journey, showcase your expertise and share the story behind your success.

FEATURE YOURSELF OR RECOGNISE A VALUED TEAM MEMBER.

3 3 3 3

Celebrate your experience Build trust with new customers Showcase your business legacy Inspire the next generation

WIN SPACES ARE LIMITED AND BOOKINGS ARE NOW OPEN FOR OUR SEPTEMBER EDITION.

A FREE DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD INTERVIEW

Book your Decades in the trade feature before the deadline and GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN A FREE DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD INTERVIEW IN A FUTURE EDITION, professionally photographed by Gavin Moroney (valued at $2,310) BOOK YOUR FEATURE TODAY. BEFORE 13TH AUGUST

C E L E B R AT I N G E X P E R I E N C E . H O N O U R I N G L E G AC Y.

NICCI SECCOMBE 0413 816 010 nicole@focusmag.com.au 112 COFFS COAST focus

SAM DAWSON 0417 861 045 sam@focusmag.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 113

NATHAN DOBBS D I R E C TO R

As the Owner and Director of Dobbs & Co., Nathan reflects on moving to Coffs Harbour with his wife anessa in 2011 to continue his real estate career in a region where they knew very few people. Starting from the ground up, Nathan built strong relationships with clients, and in late 2022 the vision for Dobbs Co. became a reality.

Fast forward to today and the business is preparing to celebrate its fourth birthday in October. In that time, Dobbs Co. has grown to two offices - its Woolgoolga headquarters and the new Coffs Harbour office at The Promenade supported by a team of ten dedicated professionals committed to delivering a tailored approach to real estate across the Coffs Coast.

Since opening, the agency has sold almost $250 million worth of property for more than 200 local families while helping the same number of buyers make the Coffs Coast their home. Expanding into Property Management, Nathan partnered with Natalie Scott to build a department recognised for its honest advice, personalised service and streamlined systems, quickly establishing a strong 114 COFFS COAST focus

reputation within the local market.

Nathan believes much of the agency’s success comes from consistently doing the basics well while combining exceptional customer service with high-quality branding and marketing.

That approach has created a loyal client base built largely on repeat business and referrals.

Following a recent rebrand, Dobbs Co. has become a familiar name across the region, with its distinctive branding seen on local streets, heard on the radio and showcased through a range of community sponsorships.

However, Nathan says the business’s greatest strength remains its people.

Looking ahead, the team has no plans to slow down. With continued growth on the hori on, Nathan is focused on expanding the business by bringing more like-minded professionals into the team while maintaining the personalised service that has become synonymous with the Dobbs Co. name.

For anyone considering buying, selling or leasing property on the Coffs Coast, Nathan says Dobbs Co. is proud to deliver a fresh, professional and client-focused real estate experience.

Natalie Scott DIRECTOR OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Leading the Property Management team at Dobbs Co, Natalie is passionate about delivering exceptional service through strong leadership, refined systems and continuous improvement. She takes pride in supporting her team while ensuring every client receives professional, personalised advice. Natalie believes Dobbs Co.’s boutique approach sets the agency apart, allowing genuine relationships to flourish. Helping landlords and tenants achieve positive outcomes while ensuring every property is managed with care, professionalism and attention to detail is what she finds most rewarding.

Molly Cains OPERATIONS

For Molly, no two days are ever the same. She thrives on improving processes, solving problems and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Molly believes the supportive, close-knit culture at Dobbs & Co. is what makes the business unique, with teamwork and open communication at its core. By creating efficient systems and supporting the team, she helps deliver a seamless experience for every client, making what can often be a stressful process feel organised, professional and enjoyable.

Mark Peel LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT

With more than 20 years of experience selling property on the Northern Beaches, Mark still finds great satisfaction in helping people through one of life’s biggest milestones. He enjoys showcasing every home at its very best while achieving exceptional results for his clients. Mark values Dobbs & Co.’s professionalism, innovative approach and client-first philosophy. Building lasting relationships, matching buyers with the right property and seeing the excitement of a successful sale continue to make every day rewarding.

Tiare Sanders

Craig Hill LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT

Craig enjoys being part of a team that genuinely cares about its clients and works collaboratively to achieve outstanding results. He believes Dobbs & Co.’s personalised approach ensures every property receives a tailored marketing strategy rather than a one-si e-fits-all solution. Passionate about the Northern Beaches of the Coffs Coast, Craig loves showcasing the area’s beautiful coastline, relaxed lifestyle and strong sense of community while helping buyers and sellers achieve their property goals with confidence.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATE

Tiare is passionate about helping people find a place they can truly call home while supporting property owners in protecting and growing their investments. She believes Dobbs & Co.’s supportive team culture, personalised service and commitment to outstanding results create an exceptional client experience. As a long-time Coffs Coast local, Tiare enjoys welcoming new residents, assisting local investors and contributing to the continued growth and success of the region she proudly calls home.

COFFS COAST focus 115

Charlotte Evans SALES ASSOCIATE

Charlotte loves building genuine relationships with clients and being part of one of the biggest milestones in their lives. She believes Dobbs & Co.’s authentic, personalised approach allows the team to truly understand each client’s goals and deliver outstanding service. Whether helping first-home buyers, growing families or those beginning a new chapter, Charlotte finds it incredibly rewarding to guide people through every step of their property journey while showcasing everything the Coffs Coast has to offer.

Maddison Grifith LEASING CONSULTANT

Nikkia Humphries LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT

As a proud Woolgoolga local, Nikkia feels privileged to work within the community she calls home. She believes Dobbs Co.’s locally owned, clientfocused approach and commitment to personalised service sets the agency apart. Nikkia loves guiding clients through every stage of buying and selling, from preparing and marketing a property to negotiating the best outcome. Helping people navigate such an important milestone with honesty, professionalism and genuine care is what makes her role so rewarding.

Jess Richards

MARKETING

Jess loves the creative side of marketing and the supportive culture that makes Dobbs & Co. such a rewarding place to work. She believes the genuine care shown to both clients and colleagues is what sets the agency apart. Passionate about storytelling, Jess enjoys bringing each property to life through creative marketing that highlights its unique personality while showcasing the lifestyle, beauty and opportunities that make the Coffs Coast such a wonderful place to live.

116 COFFS COAST focus

Maddison enjoys helping people through the leasing process and creating a positive experience during what can often be a stressful time. She believes Dobbs & Co.’s commitment to personalised service, integrity and lasting relationships sets the agency apart. Passionate about property management on the Coffs Coast, Maddison loves helping people find a place to call home while supporting landlords and tenants with clear communication, practical guidance and a seamless leasing experience.

Woopi Office

Coffs Office

Residential Sales & Property Management #atailoredapproach

(02) 5642 4500 | info@dobbsandco.com.au 1/58 Beach St, Woolgoolga C5-6/321 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm @dobbsandco_

Dobbs & Co.

www.dobbsandco.com.au COFFS COAST focus 117

JON ROWE PEPPERBERRY PODS

As more people look for flexible, stylish ways to create extra space at home, Pepperberry

Pods is helping transform backyards across the Coffs Coast. Since launching in 2022, local owner Jon Rowe has delivered more than 120 architecturally designed backyard studios, proving that

H

i Jon. What inspired you to establish Pepperberry Pods, and what gap in the market did you see?

Pepperberry Pods actually started in Hobart, founded by a long-time school friend of mine and his dad. In one of those funny twists of fate, we literally bumped into each other on a walking track while camping at Minnie Water in early 2022. We got chatting, and he told me all about this business he'd started.

I was immediately hooked. I loved the concept and realised there was nothing like it available on the Coffs Coast. People wanted extra space, but the cost of traditional building extensions and renovations had become too expensive after COVID. A premium backyard studio that could be delivered ready to use just made sense.

I came home, pitched the idea of launching Pepperberry Pods Coffs Harbour, and the rest is history. We launched in August 2022, and we’ve since sold more than 120 pods across the Coffs Coast. It's incredibly rewarding seeing the different ways people have brought them to life.

Can you tell us a bit about the pods and

118 COFFS COAST focus

great design doesn’t have to come with the cost of a major renovation.

their design?

could actually deal with face-to-face.

Our pods are modern, architecturally inspired backyard studios designed to be both practical and stylish. They can be customised with options like glass walls, windows, cladding, air conditioning, bathrooms and kitchenettes, making each pod unique to its owner.

Whether it's a home office, creative studio, beauty salon or guest retreat, the goal is always the same- to create a beautiful space people enjoy spending time in.

Every pod is designed to suit Australian conditions and is constructed, customised and quality checked in our Coffs Harbour warehouse before it's delivered. That means customers can inspect our display pod, make changes to suit their needs and have confidence that there s local support if they ever Every pod need us.

is designed to suit Australian conditions and is constructed, customised and quality checked in our Coffs Harbour warehouse before it’s delivered.

Your pods are locally designed and built. Why was it important to keep the design and construction local, and what advantages does that offer your customers?

From day one, it was important that Pepperberry Pods Coffs Harbour was more than just somewhere people could buy a pod. We wanted to be a local business that customers

I think that's one of the biggest differences with Pepperberry.

You're not buying from an anonymous online supplier-you've got a local team standing behind every pod we sell.

Pepperberry Pods are delivered fully assembled and ready to use, which is a huge drawcard. Can you walk us through the process from ordering a pod to having it installed on a customer's property?

We start by chatting about how the customer wants to use the space and helping them choose the right design and options. While the

pod is being constructed in our warehouse, the customer’s site has footings and any required services installed.

On delivery day, we collaborate with our friends at North Coast Cranes to do the heavy lifting!

They pick up the pod from our warehouse on the crane truck and transport it to its new home. Once the pod lands, it’s ready to use!

Seeing a customer's reaction when their pod is lowered into place is one of the best parts of the job.

Your pods combine modern architectural design with affordability. How have you managed to strike that balance between luxury, practicality and price?

We've focused on creating one very welldesigned product instead of trying to reinvent the wheel every time. That allows us to keep costs under control while still giving customers plenty of flexibility to personalise their pod.

The result is a premium looking space that offers exceptional value compared with many traditional building options. We are continually refining our product and looking for ways to offer both quality and affordability.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for homeowners. What environmentally conscious features have

been incorporated into your pods, and why is that a priority for your business?

Prefabrication is the future.

For us, sustainability is about building smarter, reducing waste and creating products that people will enjoy for many years.

Our pods feature insulated wall and ceiling panels, doubleglazed windows and doors, and durable materials that are designed to last. Their smaller footprint also means they're an efficient way to create extra space without the impact of a major renovation.

Prefabrication is the future. For us, sustainability is about building smarter, reducing waste and creating products that people will enjoy for many years.

What are some of the most creative or unexpected ways you've seen customers use their Pepperberry Pods?

This is definitely my favourite part of the business because every customer has a different vision. We ve supplied pods for home offices, gyms, sewing studios, beauty salons, consulting rooms, dog grooming salons, music tuition

spaces and more.

More recently, we’ve collaborated with Nambucca Council, who needed office pods with tea room and bathroom facilities, and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, who required ‘rewilding’ pods in the heart of Ngambaa Nature Reserve. It's always exciting seeing a simple pod transformed into something completely different.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

The best place to start is our website or social media pages, where you ll find photos of our latest projects and plenty of inspiration.

We also have a display pod here in Coffs Harbour, so if you're curious, we'd love to show you through and chat about how a Pepperberry Pod could work for your home or business.

COFFS COAST focus 119

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DAVE

BRIGHTON FLOOR SANDING

Four Generations of Quality Timber Flooring Dave Brighton Floorsanding has been proudly servicing homes and businesses across the Mid North Coast for more than 45 years. As a fourth-generation family business, our passion for timber flooring has been passed down through the generations, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques and premium finishing systems.

As an ATFA (Australasian Timber Flooring Association) Quality Assured Contractor, we are committed to maintaining the highest industry standards, giving our clients confidence that every project is completed with professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail.

Our reputation has been built on quality workmanship, honest advice, and exceptional customer service. Every floor is treated as if it were in our own home, whether we're restoring a heritage timber floor or installing a new hardwood floor.

What continues to inspire us after all these years is seeing the transformation of each project and knowing we've created a beautiful, long-lasting floor that our clients will enjoy for many years to come.

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with EMMA QUINN

FROM COFFS COAST ESCAPES

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NINA’S PLACE. WHERE FAMILY HOLIDAYS BECOME LASTING MEMORIES

estled in the heart of beautiful Sawtell, Nina’s Place is a welcoming coastal retreat where relaxed beachside living meets all the comforts of home.

Thoughtfully designed for families and groups, this beautifully presented villa offers the perfect setting to reconnect, unwind and create memories that will last a lifetime. With spacious interiors, peaceful outdoor living and Sawtell’s vibrant village just moments away, every stay feels effortlessly special.

Comfortable Living Designed for Families Sleeping up to eight guests, Nina’s Place has been carefully designed to cater for families of all ages. The light-filled living area offers plenty of room to gather after a day of exploring, while complimentary WiFi and a Smart TV provide entertainment for quiet evenings at home.

At the heart of the villa, the fully equipped kitchen makes preparing family meals a breeze. Whether it’s a relaxed breakfast before heading to the beach or a shared dinner after a day in the sun, the adjoining dining space creates the perfect place for everyone to come together and enjoy quality time.

Thoughtful styling and modern conveniences

throughout ensure guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive.

Coast.

Spacious Accommodation for Every Guest

One of the greatest advantages of Nina’s Place is its superb location. A short stroll brings you to Sawtell’s iconic First Avenue, where boutique shopping, artisan bakeries, awardwinning restaurants and welcoming cafés create one of the Mid North Coast’s most loved village atmospheres.

Nina’s Place comfortably accommodates up to eight guests across three beautifully appointed bedrooms. The master suite features a luxurious king bed, while the second bedroom offers a comfortable queen bed for additional guests.

The third bedroom is designed with families in mind, featuring two king singles, and a rumpus next door with a king single and trundle - creating a fun and flexible space for children or friends travelling together.

Two modern bathrooms and a downstairs laundry with toilet provide convenience for larger groups, ensuring everyone can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable stay.

Outdoor Living with a Coastal Feel Step outside onto the private deck and embrace Sawtell’s relaxed outdoor lifestyle.

Surrounded by lush gardens and cooled by fresh sea breezes, the alfresco entertaining area is the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee, an afternoon barbecue or an evening spent catching up with family and friends.

Subtle ocean glimpses add to the peaceful setting, creating an inviting space to slow down and soak up the beauty of the Coffs

Discover the Best of Sawtell

Spend your days swimming or surfing at Sawtell Beach, explore nearby coastal walks, or simply wander beneath the famous fig trees that line the village streets. Whether you’re seeking adventure or complete relaxation, Sawtell offers something for everyone.

Book Your Stay Whether you’re planning a family holiday, celebrating a special occasion or simply escaping the everyday, Nina’s Place offers the perfect home base for your next coastal getaway.

Make your next Sawtell getaway effortless by booking directly with Coffs Coast Escapes.

Visit coffscoastescapes.com.au, email escapes@mcgrath.com.au, or call 02 6652 8885 to secure your stay.

List or book with us. Your property. Our expertise. Exceptional results.

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2026 HALF-YEAR REVIEW

with SHANE BROOKS PRINCIPAL & LICENSEE OF STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

THE COFFS COAST PROPERTY MARKET IS SHAPING UP TO BE A TALE OF TWO HALVES!

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he first half of 2026 has seen the local residential market transition from the strong seller’s conditions experienced over recent years to a noticeably more balanced marketplace. While property values have generally remained resilient, buyer confidence has softened, enquiry levels have eased and homes are taking longer to sell.

According to CoreLogic RP Data, the median house price in Coffs Harbour at 30 June 2026 sits at $862,723, representing annual growth of 8.7%, while the median unit price has increased to $580,785, up 4.6% over the same period.

These figures demonstrate that despite softer market conditions emerging, property values have continued to record solid growth over the past 12 months.

The most significant shift has occurred over the past six to eight weeks. Open home attendance has reduced, online enquiry has slowed and buyers are taking considerably longer to make purchasing decisions. Ongoing cost-of-living pressures, affordability constraints, recent budget changes and continued economic uncertainty are clearly influencing buyer behaviour.

With interest rates expected to remain a key focus for households, many buyers are taking a more cautious approach before committing.

Having said that, I expect buyer activity to improve as we move closer to Spring, with purchasers taking advantage of increased choice and improving negotiating conditions.

Mid-Year Market Snapshot 126 COFFS COAST focus

• Buyer enquiry has eased noticeably compared with the first quarter of 2026.

• Average days on market have increased as buyers take longer to commit.

• Buyers now have greater choice, resulting in stronger negotiating conditions.

• Well-priced and well-presented homes continue to attract healthy competition.

• Overpriced properties are remaining on the market longer and are requiring more price adjustments.

• Lifestyle suburbs including Sawtell, Korora, Sapphire Beach, Moonee Beach, Emerald Beach and Diggers Beach continue to outperform many other local markets.

What We’re Seeing On The Ground • Buyers are inspecting more properties before submitting offers.

• Building and pest reports are being scrutinised more carefully than in recent years.

• Finance approvals are generally taking longer to obtain.

• Negotiation periods have lengthened, with fewer unconditional offers immediately following the first inspection.

• Accurate pricing has become more important than ever.

• Professional presentation, quality photography and strategic marketing campaigns continue to deliver the strongest sales results.

Despite the softer level of enquiry, premium homes offering unique lifestyle attributes continue to perform exceptionally well.

Properties with ocean views, quality renovations, proximity to beaches, modern family homes and tightly held coastal locations remain highly sought after when priced correctly.

Looking Ahead While the second half of 2026 is likely to remain more challenging than the exceptionally strong market experienced over recent years, I do not anticipate any significant correction in local property values. Instead, the market appears to be returning to more sustainable conditions where buyers have greater choice and sellers need to work harder to achieve premium outcomes. Importantly, the long-term fundamentals supporting the Coffs Coast remain very positive.

Our region continues to benefit from its enviable lifestyle, ongoing infrastructure investment, employment opportunities and steady population growth, all of which continue to underpin demand for quality properties.

For sellers, success in today’s market is no longer simply about listing a property for sale.

Achieving the best possible result now depends on realistic pricing, exceptional presentation, targeted marketing and experienced negotiation throughout the sales campaign.

While the pace of the market has moderated, quality properties continue to sell well. In today’s environment, the difference between a good result and an outstanding one is increasingly determined by strategy, presentation and execution rather than market momentum alone.

Thinking of Leasing?

Think Katelyn.

Katelyn is a dedicated Property Officer with Stone Real Estate Coffs Harbour, committed to delivering exceptional service and support to our clients. Known for her friendly approach and excellent communication skills, Katelyn takes pride in ensuring every client interaction is managed with care and professionalism. Her passion for real estate and genuine commitment makes her a valued member of the Stone Coffs Harbour team.

Katelyn Hull

0419 743 009 katelynhull@stonerealestate.com.au COFFS COAST focus 127

26 WEEK BUILD TIME * up to $85,000 of upgrades including ducted air conditioning and flooring for only $6,990! *

NEW DISPLAY HOME NOW OPEN

Enjoy peace of mind when you build your dream home with Perry Homes on a 26 week build time guarantee*. Plus we’ll include all of our luxury upgrades for only $6,990! * That’s over 38 upgrades valued at up to $85,000!

At Perry Homes, we can bring your vision to life. With a choice of over 150 different floor plans we can build on any size flat or sloping block, or even knock down your existing house to rebuild a new home.

Visit our stunning brand new display home today!

Moonee Beach Estate 129 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Daily 10am - 4pm Contact: Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au

*Terms and conditions. Build time guarantee is for single storey, slab on ground dwellings up to 270 sqm only. Perry Homes reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. NSW Lic. No. 110970C. E34981.