Coffs Coast Focus i187

e 188 SEPTEMBER 2026

LILY PADE

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The Village Manager Difference When people compare retirement living options, they often start with the obvious. The home. The layout. The location. But what shapes the experience day-to-day is often something less visible. The way a place is run, and the people behind it.

At Oak Tree Retirement Village Coffs Harbour, that difference is felt in the everyday rhythm of the village and in the presence of Village Manager Michelle. Things run smoothly. People feel settled. New residents find their feet quickly. And much of that comes down to something simple: there is someone there. Not just present, but involved.

“People know I’m here,” Michelle says. “Whether it’s something practical, a maintenance issue, or just needing help finding the right information, they know who to come to.”

That ongoing support is part of everyday life. It’s not always the first thing people think about when comparing

retirement living options, but once they move in, it’s often one of the things they value most. In a boutique village setting, this becomes even more noticeable.

With fewer residents, interactions feel more personal.

The environment is easier to navigate, easier to settle into, and easier to feel part of. For many, that’s what stands out.

If you’re exploring retirement living in Coffs Harbour, it’s something best experienced in person. A visit is an opportunity to see the village for yourself, get a sense of the community, and meet Michelle – the person who will likely be there to guide you, answer your questions, and help you feel at home from the very beginning.

For more information about Oak Tree Retirement Village Coffs Harbour, or to book a tour, visit oaktreegroup.com.au or call 0498 768 948.

Call 0498 768 948 6 Domain Drive, Coffs Harbour oaktreegroup.com.au

OAK03133_COFFS_The Village Manager Difference_July 2026_FP_PRESS_200mmW x 250mmD_FINAL.indd 1

29/ /2026 11:50 am

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EST

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I ue 188 - SEPTEMBER 2026

INTERVIEWS

16 62 96

M AC Y G R AY

E N E A M E N D I L A H AT XU

More than 25 years after I Try became a global hit, Macy Gray is still captivating us with her unmistakable voice, energy and timeless songs, and she’s bringing her acclaimed live show to C.ex Coffs on Oct 10!

Enea Mendilahatxu was frightened of the ocean as a child but is now studying marine science in Coffs Harbour and hosting the Ocean Echoes podcast to inspire others to understand and protect our oceans.

S T O R M E KOVAC S

Reptiles, birds, motorsport and andscapes, local photographer Storme Kovacs has a knack for noticing moments others might miss while also working at Reptile World and pursuing her love of motorsport photography.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 83. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas B I L L Y

91. Education Update - Simon Doyle 100. Reptile Watch - Matthew McEwan

N O L A N

103. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 106. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 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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OF THE MONTH

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105. Message from the Mayor - Nikki Williams

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focusmag.com.au

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WELCOME TO THE SEPTEMBER 2026 EDITION.

S

pring has arrived, and with it comes another jam-packed edition celebrating the incredible people, businesses and stories that make the Coffs Coast such a special place to call home.

This month, e re e cited to bring you our Rising Stars of the Coffs Coast feature, shining a light on some of the talented, passionate and inspiring people making their mark across our region. eading the ay is our beauti ul cover star, ily ade. rom a promising young tennis player to an emerging model and social media creator, o s arbour local ily is carving out an e citing ne path. proud nai an and umbaynggirr oman, ily is using her growing platform to celebrate her culture hile orking ith ma or ustralian

brands and embracing some incredible new opportunities. e loved sharing ily s story and can t ait to see here her ourney takes her ne t. e d also like to congratulate ayor ikki Williams and everyone involved in the recent Mayoral Ball. What a fantastic night for our community Together ith elcome ospitality s harity ol ay, the events raised more than , or o s ids, helping establish the Transition to econdary chool ssistance und. It s a onder ul e ample of what can happen when our community comes together to support local kids and their futures. nd hile eptember is only ust hitting the streets, e re already getting e cited about hat s coming ne t ur

T

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

PHONE 0413 816 010 WEB focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E nicole@focusmag.com.au

ctober edition

I edition, dedicated to the people and businesses shaping the way we live on the Coffs Coast.

Inside, e ll eature Tradies ou an Trust, eal state ro essionals and ouse arden, covering everything from building, buying and selling to renovating, interiors, landscaping and outdoor living.

I you ork in the property, building, trades or home industry, ctober is the edition to be seen in! or no , grab a co ee, find a sunny spot and enjoy everything our September edition has to offer. s al ays, thank you to our onder ul advertisers, contributors and readers for continuing to support local.

ill be our huge

contacts.

appy reading

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe - nicole@focusmag.com.au

DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone - kyle@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Samantha Dawson - sam@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy - info@focusmag.com.au

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

PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au

SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul - dylan@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney - Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

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omments and opinions o our contributors do not necessarily re ect the opinion or vie o the ublishers. ll reasonable e orts have been made to trace copyright holders. In ormation appearing in ocus is believed to be correct at the time o going to press, ho ever no liability ill be held or inaccurate in ormation approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. hile all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice ith individual businesses and industry pro essionals. rticles marked as Intervie or ontributor are non sponsored content. o s oast ocus is published by reative ouse ublications T T . aterial in ocus is opyright reative ouse ublications T T and may not be reproduced hole or in part, in any orm, ithout permission o the ublisher. ll rights reserved. is printed by ustralian ommunity edia rint ogistics orth ichmond. ur paper is and certified and meets ith I accreditation.

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BUY SELL BUILD

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TRADIES YOU CAN TRUST

Celebrating the local builders, trades and businesses our community can rely on.

THE NORTH COAST PROPERTY & HOME EDITION

BUILD IT. SELL IT. RENOVATE IT. STYLE IT.

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This October, FOCUS is putting the spotlight on the people and businesses shaping the way we buy, sell, build, renovate and live on the North Coast

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

One huge edition.

Meet the agents, property professionals and industry leaders helping locals make their next move.

Three major industry features.

S ECU R E YO U R P O S ITIO N Bookings Close 10th Sep

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HOUSE & GARDEN From building and renovating to interiors, landscaping, pools, outdoor living and everything in between - when you look your best, so do we!

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IF YOU’RE IN THE INDUSTRY, THIS IS THE EDITION TO BE SEEN IN. Put your business directly in front of thousands of North Coast local homeowners, renovators, buyers, sellers, investors and people planning their next project.

SECURE YOUR POSITION NOW NICCI SECCOMBE 0413 816 010 | nicole@focusmag.com.au SAM DAWSON 0417 861 045 | sam@focusmag.com.au COFFS COAST focus 11

From a promising young tennis player to an emerging model and social media creator, Coffs Harbour local Lily Pade is carving out an exciting new path.

A proud Anaiwan and Gumbaynggirr woman, Lily is using her growing platform to celebrate her culture while working with major Australian brands and embracing new opportunities.

LILY PADE 12 COFFS COAST focus

ou’ve grown up here in Coffs Harbour. What do you love most about living on the Coffs Coast?

and competed in the National Indigenous Tennis Championships in Darwin.

Competing at that level from a young age as definitely challenging, but also really rewarding. There was a lot of training, travelling and commitment involved, but it also gave me some amazing opportunities, like travelling around the country playing tennis, meeting so many different people and competing at a high level. It taught me a lot about discipline, resilience and working hard for something I wanted.

I feel really lucky to have grown up in Coffs Harbour. I love being so close to the beach and having a relaxed lifestyle, but for me it’s also about the people, my family and friends. I have had so many great experiences growing up in Coffs, which I’ll always be grateful for. I think growing up in a regional town has given me a really strong sense of community, I Was there a particular tennis love that Coffs has achievement that smaller-town feel or moment where you’re always that you look Tennis has running into someone back on and always been a you know. I’ve grown feel especially huge part of my life. up playing sport proud of?

I started playing here, going to the There are a few when I was about beach and spending moments I’m really four years old. My so much time out in proud of. Winning dad is a tennis coach the community, so it’s gold for North and my whole family definitely shaped me Coast at the NSW plays, so I pre y into who I am.

Combined High

much grew up on the

School State Tennis was a huge tennis court.

Championships part of your life three years in a from a young age, ro as definitely competing at state a highlight. and national level o did you first get into tennis, and what was life like as a Being selected for the Australian young athlete competing at that level?

Indigenous tennis team and travelling Tennis has always been a huge part of my life. I started playing when I was about four years old. My dad is a tennis coach and my whole family plays, so I pretty much grew up on the tennis court.

to Fiji to represent Australia was also incredibly special. Being able to represent my country and my culture through a sport that I’d grown up loving, is something I’ll always be proud of.

As I got older, I started competing at state and national level. I was invited to the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra for a National training camp; competed at the Grasscourt Nationals in South Australia; represented North Coast at the NSW Combined High School State Championships

Another really special moment was winning the NSW Country Mixed Doubles Championships with my brother Charlie.

We’d grown up playing tennis together, so being able to win that title together was a highlight in my tennis journey.

Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 13 12

At some point your focus began shifting towards modelling and social media. What sparked that change?

From a young age, I have always loved fashion, photography and social media and had an eye for aesthetics, so modelling and creating content started quite naturally for me. As I got older and wasn’t as focused on competitive tennis, I had more time to focus on social media.

I enjoyed being in front of the camera and the creative side of putting content together, and from there different opportunities started coming up and brands began reaching out for collaborations.

It really had a snowball effect from there. It is still something I’m growing into and learning about, which I really enjoy, and I am excited to see where I can take it.

One of the biggest challenges has been trying to build a career in an industry where a lot of the opportunities aren’t available locally. Living in Coffs Harbour has meant I have had to travel quite a bit for shoots and other opportunities, which can make things harder.

I think growing up in a smaller town can also make you a little more hesitant to put yourself out there on social media, because there can be a fear of judgement and worrying about what people think.

I ve definitely learnt to become more confident with that and not let other people’s opinions and judgement stop me. n the ip side hat has been the most exciting opportunity modelling or social media has brought your way?

I’ve been really lucky to work with some amazing You share a bit about your culture on your brands, including Moana Bikini, City Beach, Princess platforms. What does being Polly, Peppermayo, Budgy an Indigenous woman mean Smuggler and Edikted, as well to you personally, and how as some great local businesses, I think growing important is it to represent such as Beauty High and up in a smaller your culture through your Aanuka Beach House. town can also make work and your platform?

I’ve also had the opportunity I am a proud Anaiwan and Gumbaynggirr woman, my culture is an important part of who I am and where I come from. I have been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to celebrate and share my culture through the work I do, so that is very special to me.

you a little more hesitant to put yourself out there on social media, because there can be a fear of judgement and worrying about what people think.

If a young Indigenous girl can see someone like her pursuing different opportunities and feel like she can do the same, that’s something I’d be really proud of.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far in carving out a career for yourself?

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to attend brand events on the Gold Coast with Moana Bikini and City Beach, as well as doing a shoot with Cleo St, and being involved with the Lorna Jane store opening here in Coffs.

One of the most special opportunities was working with Tennis Australia and Deadly Choices in Melbourne during the Australian Open. It was really special to have my background in tennis and my Indigenous culture come together with the work I’m doing now.

I think that’s what I’m enjoying most - every opportunity has been different, and each one is

helping me gain experience and meet likeminded people.

When you think about the next few years, what are you hoping to achieve, both personally and professionally?

Over the next few years I’d really like to keep growing and see how far I can take modelling and social media. I’m planning to move to the Gold Coast, which I think will open up a lot of new opportunities for me professionally while still keeping the lifestyle that I love.

I’d love to work with some bigger brands and continue developing my modelling and content work. Personally, I just want to keep challenging myself, saying yes to new experiences and building a career that I’m genuinely excited about.

Thanks Lily.

LILY PADE

I have been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to celebrate and share my culture through the work I do, so that is very special to me.

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Macy

Gray 16 COFFS COAST focus

More than 25 years after I Try became a global hit, Grammy Award-winning soul icon Macy Gray is still captivating audiences with her unmistakable voice, infectious energy and timeless songs, and she’s bringing her acclaimed live show to The C.ex Coffs on Saturday, October 10!

i Macy. Australia embraced your music very early in your career, with I Try going straight to number one here! hat do you remember about those first experiences of performing for Australian audiences?

I remember it was really far out to me because I had never really been out of the States. When you’re in the States, you only hear about places like Australia. Most people don’t make it out there, so I was kind of just blown away by the fact that I was there, I can’t describe it. It was pretty wild to be there because that was something I never thought of, that one day I would go to Australia, and then all of a sudden I was there.

Your 2024 Australian tour was a huge success, with sold-out shows across the country. What was it about that tour that made you want to come back, and go even further into regional Australia?

I like the fans. Every time I come out there, we have a really good time. We love the cities there. At the shows, it’s just a comfortable place where people really enjoy the music.

When you have that, you have a great audience, so we just like the fans there.

This time you’re bringing the tour to Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. What appeals to you about taking your music beyond the major cities and connecting with regional audiences?

Oh, see, I don’t even know the ones that are small! I’m just going. I’ll play anywhere.

I just like to play, and I’ll always just be really grateful when I get invited somewhere,

because I’ve been doing this a long time. For people to still want to come to the show is a really big deal to me.

It was actually a real challenge you know.

You’ve sold more than 25 million records and enjoyed a career spanning more than two decades. When you look back at everything you’ve achieved, what are you most proud of?

life has changed so much. And then, if

I’m well into my 50s and so it’s a challenge to find things to talk about because your you do, it’s easy to get like “off brand” or maybe confuse people because they don’t understand where you’re coming from.

It was actually more challenging than any Honestly, that I got to see the world. I just other record I’ve made honestly, because I think you learn so much and there’s so had to figure out hat I anted to say at this much to get out of point in my life. What seeing the world and else is there to say? experiencing different And musically, you cultures and different Once you get know, we all have perspectives on things, like four or to admit that almost different governments, five albums in, it everything’s been and different ways of cooking, different fashion, you know what I mean?

gets really, really challenging to keep surprising your fans, to keep inspiring them to want to hear your music and relate.

So, I just think that’s probably the biggest thing that I got out of it all, because it made me grow as a person and just to be able to see things a little bit differently than I might have if I had never experienced that. I don’t think I would have seen the world had it not been for my career, for sure. In fact, I know that for a fact, because travel wouldn’t have been something that I thought was as important as I realise it is now.

You’re currently introducing audiences to your new single, I’m Too Sexy, ahead of your upcoming album The Trouble with the Truth. What can you tell us about the new record and where you are creatively right now?

done. All your big genres have been established, so if you want to sound fresh or new, you kind of have to find a combination of those things. You kind of have to take from wherever you’re

going to take rom, and then figure out ho to make that sound new. nce you get like our or five albums in, it gets really, really challenging to keep surprising your fans, to keep inspiring them to want to hear your music and relate. So, this being my 12th album – I think it was, I don’t even know, it was the 12th or the 13th – yeah, it

as really di ficult. It s been about a

year trying to figure it out, but I think I did. I think we nailed it.

Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 16 17

It’s very gratifying to see people sing back to you, to know that you’ve touched someone enough where they remember the words and they know the melody.

This tour has been described as a “festival of soul”, with a huge celebration of your biggest hits. What can audiences expect when the lights go down and the show begins?

Uh, it’s just fun. You just get on stage with the goal to make everybody happy for at least an hour and a half, two hours you’re there. Just put a smile on everybody’s face and give you a reason to dance and yell out to play the song, and get on your feet, you know, things you might not do every day.

That s the goal. ou ust anna fill people s hearts up, make them feel something, you know? I have a great band, and so we get to rehearsals and that’s the goal, you know - what can we do on the set that’s gonna take everybody from here to there, and make people scream and holler and dance and have a good time? So that’s what it’ll be.

You have a reputation for putting on an incredibly energetic and fun live show. What do you love most about performing live?

Well, you get on stage, and you can say “say

16 COFFS COAST focus 18

After more than 20 years in the spotlight, what keeps you hungry creatively?

I just like it. I like doing it. I think of it like it’s my friend. I can’t explain it. It’s like my buddy. ho!” and everybody does it, so just for that little while, you get to be queen of the world, you know, for a minute.

It’s very gratifying to see people sing back to you, to know that you’ve touched someone enough where they remember the words and they know the melody. They know all your ad-libs and they’re just singing it back to you.

That’s the best.

Remember that song, “sing it back, sing it back to me” ..was that big in Australia?

Moloko it was. Yeah. Anyway, I know what she’s talking about. It’s like a conversation. It’s like a really great conversation between you and your fans.

It s definitely a rush and I kno a lot o performers get off stage and they can’t sleep for two days because it’s that big. It takes your whole spirit, it takes it all, like it sucked it up. You know what I mean?

I hear people say “Oh, I’m so passionate”, but it’s not that really - passion is so temporary. I think you have to truly like what you do. You have to like the boring part and the bad part. It’s like your friend, you have to be there for it even when it sucks.

I think I’m just very attached to it. Like, I wouldn’t know what else to do with myself all day if I didn’t have this. It’s that constant thing in my life.

Finally, for people in Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie who have never seen you perform live before, why should they come along and experience Macy Gray Live?

I just hope they have a really good time. I hope you come along and you just go home happy and bragging about what a good time that you had!

Thanks Macy.

Macy

Gray COFFS COAST focus 19 16

38TH ROTARY CARTOON AWARDS. Get ready to witness some of the best cartoons and illustrations from talented artists. This year’s exhibition boasts over 230 entries, and they’ll display a selection alongside crowned winners of the competition.

When 7th, 8th & 9th September Where National Cartoon Gallery

7 12

fits, neon dreams, lycra and basslines heavy enough to shake the past loose. We’re rewinding the clock or one s uelled night o retro mischie , dirty beats .18 + event. When 12th Sept Where Bellingen Showground Tickets clitoverse.com.au

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The ustralia onster Energy Tour is charging into Coffs Harbour – and it s bringing the fiercest riders and rankest bulls in the nation for one night of adrenaline ueled, edge o your seat action.

When 12th September Where Coffs Showground Time 5pm until 10pm Tickets pbraustralia.com.au

12

20

SEPTEMBER

CLITOVERSE - BACK TO THE FUTURE. Expect big hair, bold

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PBR AUSTRALIA MONSTER ENERGY TOUR.

NGULMIYA WITH SPECIAL GUEST PAU FIGUERES - COFFS COAST -

2026

His singing, stories, dancing and music have le t audiences across sia and urope in tears as he shares his family’s history and future through songs that have developed over thousands of years.

When 20th September Where ellingen emorial all Tickets from humanitix.com

WOOLGOOLGA CURRY FEST. Celebrating the town’s rich Punjabi heritage and broader cultural diversity, the event transforms the town centre and beach reserve into a colourful celebration of food, music, dance, and community.

When 26th September Where Beach Street, Woolgoolga Time 9am until 4pm

FISH REFLECTIONS.

26

ove fishing ish e ections is a catch and release fishing competition that invites anglers of all ages and skill levels to cast a line anywhere across New South Wales or set up for success in Urunga and Hungry Head. When 26th and 27th September Where e ections runga Visit fishre ections.com.au enter no

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A er leaving behind their life on the Coffs Coast, Micky and Novi Seccombe took a huge leap of faith, selling everything they owned and moving their young family to Indonesia to build Novali Surf Retreat.

H

i Micky. Before moving to Indonesia, what was your life like on the Coffs Coast?

We absolutely love Coffs Harbour. It’s home for us - I was born and bred there, and we have so many family, friends and memories tied to the place.

For most of our lives, we simply worked hard, raised our children and tried to make ends meet. I was a plasterer for 25 years, while Novi worked at Coopers Surf Australia. Then I suffered a career-ending back injury, which forced me to take 12 months off work. When I returned, the same thing happened again on my first day back.

Our family continued to grow, but we also experienced the loss of Novi’s mum while she was pregnant with Kailani. That had a profound impact on our family, and Indonesia has always held a special place in Novi’s heart because it’s her homeland.

For a long time, we’d talked about living in Indonesia one day. Eventually, we started putting things in place and realised it was something we genuinely needed to pursue; not just for us, but for our family and the life we wanted to create together. here did your love of surfing and

22 COFFS COAST focus

Indonesia begin?

I ve been surfing or as long as I can remember. y first trip to Indonesia as in , hen I was 15, travelling with my dad and some mates. We took surf missions through Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa and East Java, chasing waves and exploring.

our way, we reached a point where we realised it was time to take the biggest leap of our lives.

I completely fell in love with Indonesia and kept coming back year after year. There was something about the people, the islands, the waves and the way of life that pulled me back.

So we sold everything we owned, said goodbye to the people we loved - including the hardest goodbyes o all, leaving my firstborn angel but I do the best I can to travel back and spend quality time), and moved to a tiny island off the coast of West Sumatra, with no income, two very young children ust months and our years old - and absolutely no idea what the future held.

Then, 17 years later, I met my future wife, Novi. She was working at a surf resort in the Mentawai Islands, basically living the dream orking and surfing every day on a beauti ul island. Then she met me… haha.

It was terrifying, exhilarating and completely unknown. But sometimes you stop waiting for the ‘right’ time and choose to truly live. So we took the risk, followed our hearts and stepped into the unknown together.

Looking back, it feels like Indonesia had been part of my life long before I understood hy. hat started as a love or surfing and adventure eventually became home and family.

hat ere those first fe months li e?

Was the reality of starting a new life and business what you expected?

At what point did the idea of moving there and starting a surf camp become a reality?

We never wanted to live the conventional life of, ‘Get married, have kids, buy a home and spend the rest of your life paying it off.’ That simply wasn’t us.

After my work injuries, the passing of Novi’s mum and the other challenges life had thrown

The first si months ere all about finishing the construction o ovali ur etreat, finding our feet and learning how to be parents, all at the same time. It was absolutely go, go, go before our first guests arrived in pril .

Coming from a building background, I struggled with the way construction was done in Indonesia, especially on an island. But Novi is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met. We hustled hard together, built trust and formed

At the end of the day, Novali is about more than just surfing. It’s about creating a place that feels genuine, personal and connected to the waves, the environment and the people who come here.

relationships with the local community.

done before.

Living in the Mentawai also gave us a completely different perspective on things we take for granted - clean water, electricity, medical care and having food readily available.

What makes this place special is that it’s far less crowded than many other parts of the island chain, yet we’re surrounded by world-class waves.

The hard truth is, we didn’t struggle for a few months, we struggled for years. There were nights when we sat together crying, asking, ‘What do we do now? We won’t be able to eat next week?’ There were weeks when we had no electricity and would sit in the darkness with candles.

Somehow, things always seemed to work out. Looking back, this has been the biggest challenge of our lives, but despite everything, we wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s our journey. We’ve built something together and been tested in ways we never imagined. If anything, those years have made us stronger.

We are unbreakable.

Tell us about Novali Surf Retreat. What was your vision?

The vision was simple: to create a genuinely surf-focused retreat in an area that hadn’t been

For us, it’s so much more than running a business, it’s about creating memories and making people feel like they’re part of our family.

Finally, what can people expect when they arrive at Novali?

From the moment you arrive at Padang

International Airport, we have you covered.

Getting to the Mentawai Islands is an

At the end of the day, Novali is about more than ust surfing. It s about creating a place that feels genuine, personal and connected to the waves, the environment and the people who come here.

adventure in itself, but once you arrive at Novali

You’ve now had quite a few Coffs Coast locals make the trip over. What’s that like?

ability, I’ll make sure you get the most out of

We get so excited when guests arrive from home. We feel incredibly blessed that they support our business and choose to spend their time with us here in paradise.

in the water.

haring the aves, going fishing, having a e laughs and enjoying each other’s company makes it feel like home for us too.

simply slow down and enjoy island life.

When someone leaves and says, ‘That was the best trip I’ve ever had,’ it really means the world to us. It reminds us why we do what we do and makes us feel like we’re getting it right.

Surf Retreat, you can relax and enjoy the island.

Our goal is simple: we want you to have the surfing e perience o a li etime.

hatever your

every session and, most importantly, have fun But there’s so much more to Mentawai than surfing. uests can snorkel, go fishing, trek through local villages, explore by motorbike or For us, Novali has always been about more than just a surf trip. It’s about sharing a place we love, creating unforgettable memories and making people feel at home.

Thanks Micky.

COFFS COAST focus 23

Gals W HO G OLF

T

B R E E

K I R B Y

ell us a little about your own relationship with golf.

What sparked your interest, and the idea behind Gals Who Golf?

I picked up golf myself this February, at Bonville Golf Club, chasing a personal goal that means more to me than I can really put into words. Pros Daniel Dosen and Adrian Lees kindly got me started, they just showed up, week after week and answered my numerous questions. I’d meet Adrian at sunrise every week, and that’s where I fell in love with the game and the chase of the perfect shot.

That kindness stays with you. It’s memorable because people don’t have to go out of their way to help you, but they did - they took the time to listen and ask about me, and it made me feel seen and heard, like I could actually get there. After months of lessons, I asked my pro how to take it onto the course. His answer: go out with friends. The trouble was, I knew no one who played.

That night I created a Facebook group, registered as a business and set up an email.

Within 24 hours over 70 women had joined; ten weeks on, we’re over 250. It came from noticing a gap, golf can feel closed off if you’ve never picked up clubs, or don t eel confident walking a course alone. I wanted somewhere 24 COFFS COAST focus

From picking up a golf club for the first time earlier this year to building a thriving ‘Gals Who Golf’ community of more than 250 women, Bree Kirby is on a mission to make golf more accessible. low-pressure to laugh, learn at your own pace and meet other women.

Did you ever imagine it would grow this quickly and what do you think it is about ‘Gals Who Golf’ that has resonated so strongly with women in the local community?

Not for a second! I hoped I would get a small group together. What’s resonated is the welcome: no expectation that you need to be good, or even own clubs. Women joined for the social side, stayed for the golf - the invitation was all they needed.

How important is the social side of Gals Who Golf compared with the actual golf?

They’re equally important, and they feed each other. Golf gives us a reason to gather, but the laughs afterwards are where the real connection happens. Members say friendships keep them coming back - a win either way!

You’ve already established relationships with a number of local golf clubs, professionals and golf businesses. How important have those partnerships been in getting the group off the ground?

Completely essential. I run it myself, with my friend Sara Melgarejo Lopez helping when she can, leaning on our close venues - Velocity Golf, Bellingen Golf Club, Sawtell Golf Club,

Coffs Harbour Driving Range, Coffs Harbour Golf Club and REDDS Golf Zone - and PGA professionals Andrew Campbell, Brandon Connor, Brendan Barnes, Tyler Corfe, David Paddison and of course our Queens Jodi Murdoch and Milla Adamson, who give their time generously for the love of golf.

You’ve created programs including FUNdamentals, Range Queens, Bunker Babes and The Social Swing. What can a woman expect if she comes along to one of these for the first time?

She can expect to be welcomed, not judged.

FUNdamentals at Sawtell is our beginner clinic; Range Queens at Coffs Harbour Driving Range gets you comfortable hitting balls; Bunker Babes at Bellingen tackles the part everyone is terrified o , and irtual i ens launches soon at REDDS Golf Zone. Social Swing rotates from Grafton to South West Rocks. Turn up, bring a smile, and we’ll sort the rest.

You’re running two or three events every week. Given that the organisation is completely volunteer-run, how do you manage it all?

A lot of coffee, and a village that I’ve built, or more like roped into - my enthusiasm is apparently exhausting and inspiring! I couldn’t do it without them!

Luke Sullivan & Luke Prout - Bellingen Golf Club Holly Adamson - GOLF NSW Rikky Friend & Mitch Cox - Velocity Golf Carl Mower - The Welcome Hospitality Group Stefano Mazzina - Stef & Co Vanessa Visco - Visco Wines Callum McGilvray - Bellingen Catering Co Rhiannon Druce - Junee Liquorice & Chocolate Factory Belinda and Brett Watson - Raleigh Winery Priya Pitt - REDDS Golf Zone Matt Prior - South West Rocks Dive Centre Michael Lockman and Richy Lloyd - the Big Banana.

They’ve all let me dream, I message them at weird hours with crazy ideas and not only do they listen, they offer advice, guidance and have helped make the journey real.

You’ve also taken the step of becoming incorporated and not for profit as ell as establishing a tax-deductible donation platform hy as it important to formalise the organisation in that ay?

I ant als ho ol to last, not fi le out as a nice idea. Becoming incorporated gave us structure to grow, and opened the door to funding - like a community equipment library, so cost is never a barrier for a woman trying golf. Real foundations.

ou hosted your first ticketed event, G & Tee at elocity in ugust hat are you hoping to achieve through events li e this?

They’ve all let me dream, I message them at weird hours with crazy ideas and not only do they listen, they offer advice, guidance and have helped make the journey real.

G & Tee at Velocity celebrated how far we’ve come; a proper night out with entertainment, amazing cocktails from Visco Wines, delicious food from Bellingen Catering Co, laughs and friendly competition at Velocity Golf. These events build the relationships behind everything we do, and a small percentage funds the community - glow stations with sunscreen, water, hydrolyte, tampons and pads, reduced lesson costs, free clinics and equipment libraries.

That’s the goal, and we’ll get there, with all the amazing help I’ve had along the way. hat is your vision for als ho olf heading into the future? o big could you see this community becoming?

I’d love to see us in every corner of the Coffs Coast; more venues, more programs, more women discovering golf is fun, affordable and theirs. Longer term, I want the equipment library running so nobody misses out and our glow stations so women have access to both essential and fun items.

No matter how big we get, I never want to lose what makes us different.

Ultimately, I want to break down the barriers - a place where you’re welcome, where you don’t feel silly asking questions, where you don’t have to be good to start, where you’re celebrated in the highs and held in the lows. ore

omen.

ore confidence.

ore ol .

hat do you get out of this personally?

I don’t think I could ever fully put it into words - it’s so much bigger than me. There are a thousand reasons I created this group, because everyone’s “why” is different. I’ve spoken with women in their twenties right through to women in their eighties who sit on club committees. It’s that feeling of achievement, the perfect shot, the friendships and good times made on the course or in a lesson. It’s the smile that spreads across a woman’s face, the sparkle in her eye. It’s honestly magical watching someone replay those moments in their head. If you can chase that eeling, even ust to re ect it back for yourself, it’s a no-brainer.

COFFS COAST focus 25

B

rooke, congratulations on stepping into the role of General Manager! Tell us about yourself and what attracted you to Aanuka Beach House.

I’m originally from Illabo in regional NSW, where my parents bought the local pub when I was one, so hospitality has always been in my DNA. I spent the past 15 years in Brisbane building my career across events, festivals, operations and venue management, and for the past five years I ve been lucky enough to call Tilley ills my ork amily. ince anuka launched t o years ago, I ve also orked alongside the events team, so I’ve been part of its journey from the early days. hen the role came up, it elt like the perfect next step - a new challenge, the opportunity to lead an incredible team and a chance to move my young amily back to regional NSW for a life by the beach.

What’s your vision for Aanuka, and what can we expect over the next 12 months?

Aanuka B E A C H

H O U S E

Set against the spectacular backdrop of Diggers Beach, Aanuka Beach House has become much more than a beautiful place to stay. With dining, weddings, celebrations, corporate events and a growing calendar of community experiences, the venue is entering an exciting new chapter.

FOCUS caught up with newly appointed General Manager Brooke Powlay and Award Winning Head of Sales Manager Tanya Wa­s to talk about their vision for Aanuka, its connection to the Coffs Coast and what’s coming next.

26 COFFS COAST focus

I m lo key obsessed ith the passion and energy our wonderful Mayor has for this beautiful town! If we can play even a small role in bringing more people to Coffs and helping them experience its magic, we’re here for it.

Expect more community-led events, foodinspired long lunches on the deck, local ood festivals and Sounds by the Sea creating more reasons for locals and visitors to come together and enjoy everything the Coffs Coast has to offer.

Tanya, congratulations on your recognition at the 2026 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards! What did the award mean to you?

To receive the inaugural Award for Outstanding Contribution to Regional Tourism as an absolute honour I as stoked to bring home gold to anuka each ouse and y the ag or the o s oast.

Being nominated by my industry peers was incredibly special, particularly with the Symposium and Awards being held here on

the Coffs Coast. For our team, it reinforces that they’re surrounded by colleagues who have made careers in tourism and are genuinely passionate about hospitality in our region.

Events are a huge part of Aanuka.

What makes it such a special setting for weddings, celebrations and corporate events?

Aanuka Beach House is a vibe! Tilley & Wills has transformed the property and created unique event spaces Come for a that are ahead of drink, catch industry trends. up with friends over We have incredible spaces, ocean views, rainforest backdrops, exceptional food and beverage offerings and, most importantly, a dedicated team of hospitality professionals who genuinely love hosting events.

How does your team take an event from the initial enquiry through to the big day?

lunch, celebrate something special or simply spend a lazy a ernoon overlooking Diggers Beach with one of our Happy Hour specials in hand.

With our $20 daily specials, we’re also making it pre y hard to say no to a midweek visit!

Our events team has di erent areas o specialisation, so the first step is matching each client with the right Events Manager.

We listen to what they want, develop a bespoke proposal and provide ideas and inspiration to elevate the experience. We share our clients’ vision and always aim to go above and beyond their expectations. Ultimately, we want to create an experience so memorable that they can’t wait to return.

Brooke, what sets Aanuka Beach House apart from other destinations on the North Coast?

It’s pure magic. There’s a feeling at Aanuka that s di ficult to replicate. ou simply can t beat the location and natural beauty of Diggers Beach. It has that relaxed beach-club

feel right here in Coffs Harbour, and I still fall in love with it every time I see that view.

possible. Recently, we hosted the Destination North Coast Tourism Symposium, where Tanya brought local market stallholders into the venue to showcase their offerings.

At Tilley & Wills, we’re always looking for ways to evolve our venues while staying true to what makes them special. Aanuka already has an incredible foundation; now it’s about continuing to build on it.

Collaborations like these allow us to create authentic local experiences for our guests while supporting the businesses and people who make this region special.

What would you like more Coffs Coast locals to know about Aanuka? ou definitely don t need to stay ith us to enjoy Aanuka! We want locals to think of it as their beach house too.

Come for a drink, catch up with friends over lunch, celebrate something special or simply spend a lazy afternoon overlooking Diggers Beach with one of our Happy Hour specials in hand. With our $20 daily specials, we’re also making it pretty hard to say no to a midweek visit!

How does Aanuka support and collaborate with the wider Coffs Coast community?

We partner with local businesses wherever

Can you give FOCUS readers a sneak peek at what’s coming next? elbourne up has o ficially launched and, after seeing how enthusiastically the Coffs community embraced it last year, we’re going even bigger this year!

There are also more food, music and community events in the works, and maybe even an Aanuka courtesy bus… keep your eyes peeled!

Finally, why should people choose Aanuka for their next stay, wedding, celebration or event?

Come and experience it for yourself. Photos are beautiful, but they can’t capture that feeling of arriving and seeing Diggers Beach.

Whether it’s a wedding, weekend away, celebration or corporate event, our team loves creating memorable experiences.

Come for the view, stay for the atmosphere and let us take care of the rest.

Thanks Brooke.

COFFS COAST focus 27

28 COFFS COAST focus

COVER DISH A vibrant Mexican feast made for sharing! Dive into flavour-packed tacos, traditional

tamales, fresh guacamole and house-made salsas, perfectly paired with colourful margaritas.

At La Hacienda 101, every table is a celebration of bold flavours, fresh ingredients and good times.

COFFS COAST focus 29

Sean Page

THE THIRSTY DUMPLING

o that as in uenced by my time travelling through China and Japan, and it quickly became clear that Bellingen was hungry for something a little different.

From cooking in some of Australia’s best kitchens to representing Australia in China, local chef Sean Page has built an impressive culinary career. Now, as the owner of Bellingen’s The Thirsty Dumpling, he’s bringing his love of Asianinspired food, creativity and community to the table - one dumpling at a time.

T

ell us a little about your journey into the hospitality industry hat first dre you to cooking professionally?

I've always had a strong connection with food, particularly its origins, culture and ability to bring people together. I started cooking professionally at a young age, working in some great kitchens including The InterContinental Sydney, spending time at Brae in Birregurra and working at Downunder by Justin Jennings, an Australian restaurant in Portugal.

Along the way, I developed a real love for competition, competing throughout Australia

30 COFFS COAST focus

and overseas, including representing Australia at the Yantai International Food Festival in China.

More recently, my focus has shifted from chasing the next kitchen to building something of our own in Bellingen, starting with a small café that gradually evolved into The Thirsty Dumpling. hat as the idea behind he hirsty umpling and hat did you ant to create hen you opened the doors in ellingen?

We started in Bellingen with a small café, with the idea of creating a community-focused space that people genuinely loved coming to. Food has always been something I enjoy exploring in all its forms, so we began running weekly pop-ups featuring different styles of Asian cuisine. A lot

Rather than sticking rigidly to the original café concept, we listened to what people were responding to and kept adapting. Those experiments eventually evolved into The Thirsty Dumpling - a place centred around dumplings, noodles, drinks and, most importantly, bringing people together. here do you dra inspiration from developing the menu?

hen

When I develop a menu, I'm looking at a combination of things: seasonality, sustainability, local produce and, probably most importantly, curiosity. I enjoy taking something familiar and looking at it from a different angle, whether that's combining techniques or ideas from di erent ood cultures or simply finding a ne way to present something people already know.

My travels and time working with different cuisines have definitely in uenced that approach.

I like food that has a story behind it, but I also think there should be room to have fun with it.

The menu is al ays evolving, and I en oy finding that balance between something familiar and something unexpected.

Dumplings are obviously at the heart of hat you do hat ma es a really great dumpling and ho important is the handmade element to you?

For me, it really comes down to two things: the rapper and the filling. The rapper needs to be thin enough to be delicate, but strong enough to hold everything together and still have some bite. ur gluten ree dough has probably been the biggest e periment e spent a lot o time testing di erent ours and combinations to get the te ture right.

The filling is ust as important. ou need enough at to keep the dumpling so t, uicy and ull o avour, so finding the right balance bet een protein and at is crucial. The handmade element matters because it gives us control over those details, and you can taste the di erence when you get them right.

There’s something pre y special about seeing locals and visitors come together over food in a place like Bellingen, and that’s something I never take for granted.

What makes Bellingen such a great place to run a restaurant? ellingen is bursting ith ood culture, rom the incredible produce and agriculture surrounding us to a really diverse dining scene and, importantly, a supportive local community.

The landscape is as beauti ul as the people, and there s a genuine appreciation here or good ood, good drinks and good company. e re not ust serving customers e re part o the community ourselves. There s something pretty special about seeing locals and visitors come together over ood in a place like ellingen, and that s something I never take or granted.

What are some of your favourite dishes, and what have become customer favourites? y personal avourite at the moment is our miso and burnt butter udon. It brings together some o the things I love about apanese and rench cooking apanese depth and umami ith the richness o bro n butter.

The cro d avourite ould have to be our Thai onton, served ith coconut and ka fir lime sauce. It started as a special quite a hile ago, but customers kept asking or it, so eventually e had to make it a house staple.

nd although you asked about ood, I d be remiss not to mention our yuzu margarita. I you haven t tried one yet, you're missing out, and one is definitely never enough.

Running a restaurant can be demanding behind the scenes. What does a typical day look like for you? ospitality is al ays a challenge, ust ask any o ner in the industry, but it s a challenge I genuinely en oy taking on. o t o days are really the same. There s ordering, prep, sta , service, problem solving and, inevitably a e things that don t go according to plan. ne o the great things about our industry is ho constantly it changes. The people ho adapt, create and keep moving or ard are the ones ho inspire me. y biggest secret is surrounding yoursel ith a team ho support you and believe in hat you re building. They need to eel proud to be part o the ourney.

What do you love about seeing customers come through the doors? or me, that s really the heart o hospitality, seeing regulars and newcomers sharing the same space and en oying it together. I love seeing people bring their riends or amily in, discover something ne on the menu, and make an evening o it.

There s something very re arding about kno ing e ve created a space here people genuinely want to spend time, rather than simply some here they come to eat. ou might have a table o regulars sitting ne t to someone visiting ellingen or the first time, and someho everyone is sharing the same e perience. eing able to create that connection through ood is probably the most re arding part o hat e do.

What sets The Thirsty Dumpling apart from other places to eat in the region?

I think e re more than ust a restaurant e re an e perience. It s the steam rising rom the baskets, the sound o crispy gyo a hitting the pan, a splash o house made pon u, little pockets o onton goodness, and a cocktail in your hand while you’re deciding what to order ne t.

The combination o dumplings, noodles and cocktails gives us our o n identity, but I think it s our illingness to e periment that really sets us apart. e re not a raid to change, try something ne , or have a bit o un ith ood. e put a lot o heart into hat e serve and into the space we’ve created, and we’re proud to share it ith the people around us. t the end o the day, e re ust trying to bring the community a little closer one dumpling at a time Thanks Sean.

COFFS COAST focus 31

LA HACIENDA 101 We’ve been delivering authentic e ican avours or years. ith the largest range of margaritas on the o s oast it s definitely the place to dine out or just enjoy drinks with friends or family. ar et t oolgoolga h lahacienda

com au

Markets SEPTEMBER

Harbourside Markets – Coffs Harbour Jetty Local produce, food, handmade goods, art and live music.

When very unday , , eptember Where Jetty Foreshores, Marina Drive ime am– pm Coffs Coast Growers Markets – Coffs Harbour Fresh local produce, artisan food and regional growers.

When very Thursday , , eptember here Coffs City Centre ime am– pm

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. pen days a ee from am pm or our full for menu pbbc com au

Coffs Harbour Uptown Markets Fresh fruit and veg, food, general market stalls and bargains.

When Every Sunday , , eptember Where Castle Street undercover car park ime am– pm Woolgoolga Markets It features fresh local produce, crafts, food, and clothing When econd aturday o each month, rom aturday Where Woolgoolga Beach Reserve ime am until

eptember. pm

Dorrigo Community Markets Community stalls, produce, handmade goods and local products.

When Saturday 5 September ime round am– pm Where Hickory Street, Dorrigo

HORIZONS RESTAURANT & BAR - OPAL COVE oo no for ather s ay uffet rea fast un th eptember Join us for lunch this Spring!

THE OC LUNCH DEAL IS BACK - Enjoy a glass house wine, domestic beer or soft drink & lunch. All for $30.00pp.

Add an espresso coffee or tea for an extra $5.00 at Horizons Restaurant & Bar overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views. unch vailable am pm ays oo ings referred 32 COFFS COAST focus

Bellingen Growers Market Fresh produce, pantry goods, plants and locally handmade wares. It runs every Saturday except the third Saturday, when the Community Markets take over.

When aturday , eptember Where Bellingen Showgrounds ime am– am Bellingen Community Markets One of the oldest, largest and most diverse markets on the coast. Held on the third Saturday of each month When aturday eptember Where Bellingen Showground ime am until pm

SAWTELL RSL

YOUR HOME - FOR THE -

FINALS

W

hen the ooty finals roll around, there s no better place to soak up the atmosphere than a tell . hether you re a passionate supporter, a casual an or simply looking or a great place to catch the game, a tell has everything you need or a rela ed day or night out. ettle in on the ne ly re urbished terrace, grab a drink and en oy the action on the big screens, ith all the e citement o the finals right in ront o you. It s the per ect spot to meet riends, en oy a meal and cheer on your team in a riendly, elcoming atmosphere.

a tell o ers much more than great sporting action. embers and guests can en oy a range o dining options, re reshing drinks, live entertainment and regular events, making it a popular local destination or catching up ith amily and riends. ith its elcoming atmosphere, spacious acilities and something happening throughout

the year, a tell is proud to be a place here the community can come together. o, hether you re backing your team all the ay to the grand final or ust ant to en oy the atmosphere, head to a tell and catch all the finals action on the big screens. a tell – good times, great company and all the action under one roo .

COFFS COAST focus 33

Two Local Businesses, One Passion for Creating Memorable Experiences For Brent and Belinda Watson, building a successful business has always been about much more than simply providing a service. As a husband-and-wife team, they share a genuine passion for people, their community and the Coffs Coast, and that passion is at the heart of their two local businesses ,Raleigh Winery and Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours.

W

hile the businesses offer very different experiences, they are connected by one simple philosophy: getting people out, helping them have a great time and creating memories that stay with them long after the day is over.

Their business journey began with Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours. What started from a desire for a life change, a passion for the local region and a very unique trike has grown into a thriving tourism business offering trike tours, private sightseeing experiences, winery, brewery and distillery tours, sunrise and sunset adventures, special events, wedding transport, group experiences and much more.

In June 2025 Brent and Belinda took another major step when they purchased Raleigh Winery. Although stepping into the wine and hospitality industry was a completely different challenge, the couple quickly realised the inery as a natural fit ith the philosophy that had already shaped their first business. ocated at ueen treet, aleigh, aleigh Winery offers visitors an opportunity to slow down, enjoy good food and wine, and take in the natural beauty of the region.

The winery is particularly special because it is ustralia s most easterly vineyard, positioned beside the beautiful Bellinger River and surrounded by vines, mountains and

34 COFFS COAST focus

picturesque countryside.

For Brent and Belinda, the setting is an important part of the overall experience.

“There is something very special about sitting on the deck with a glass of wine, enjoying good food and watching the world go by,” they explain. “We often hear people say they feel like they have discovered a little hidden gem.”

Creating that feeling is exactly what they want Raleigh Winery to be about.

Guests can enjoy wine tastings, a relaxed café experience, food prepared with passion and spectacular surroundings. But while the wine is naturally an important part of the offering, Brent and Belinda believe the complete experience is what brings people back.

It s the vie s, the river, the vines, the ood, the people and the atmosphere that make Raleigh Winery special.”

Throughout the year, the winery also provides plenty of reasons for locals and visitors to return, hosting special lunches, food and wine events, live music, celebrations and private functions alongside its regular cellar-door and café experiences.

Their vision is for Raleigh Winery to be somewhere people can visit again and again, with every visit offering the opportunity to relax, reconnect and experience something new.

Seeing the Coffs Coast from a Different Perspective If Raleigh Winery encourages visitors to slow down, Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours offers a completely different kind of adventure.

The business provides a fun, exciting and highly personal way to explore the Coffs Coast, allowing guests to experience the region from the back of a trike or, for larger groups, from the couple s seater tour bus.

For Brent and Belinda, the trike has become much more than a business.

“We were looking for a life change, a path that ould give us the eeling o ulfilment. The trike has been good for our soul.”

There is something uniquely memorable about touring the region on a trike. There is no conventional vehicle barrier between passengers and their surroundings, allowing them to experience the fresh air, scenery, sounds and atmosphere as they travel. ou don t ust see the o s oast on a trike you feel it.”

Guests can explore scenic roads, townships, lookouts and lesser-known parts of the region that they may never discover on their own.

Brent and Belinda particularly enjoy taking people away from the obvious tourist routes and introducing them to hidden gems.

It s not unusual or someone ho has lived on the Coffs Coast for years to tell them they have discovered somewhere they never knew existed.

Experiences for Everyone One of the strengths of Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours is the variety of people it attracts.

You might forget what you bought last week, but you remember laughing with your family, watching a sunset, discovering a beautiful place or sharing a bo le of wine with friends.

The couple welcome locals wanting to see their own backyard from a different perspective, visitors exploring the region, couples celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, families, social groups, wedding parties, hens and bucks groups, corporate groups and anyone simply looking for something different.

They also cater for seniors and people with additional needs, re ecting their belie that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Coffs Coast.

Tours can be tailored around what people want to see and do, with options including sightseeing, private tours, sunrise and sunset experiences, winery, brewery and distillery tours, special events, shuttles and wedding transport.

The addition of the 12-seater bus has also allowed the business to cater for larger groups and expand the range of experiences available.

For Brent and Belinda, the personal nature of their tours is what makes the business so rewarding. They are not simply taking people

from one destination to another, they are sharing places they love and creating experiences around the interests of their guests.

It is a philosophy that has become central to everything they do.

“You might forget what you bought last week, but you remember laughing with your family, watching a sunset, discovering a beautiful place or sharing a bottle of wine with friends.”

That is what drives the couple. Whether guests are sitting beside the Bellinger River with a glass of wine or travelling along a scenic country road on a trike, they want them to experience something worth remembering.

Their aim is simple: they want people to leave their businesses happy, relaxed and already thinking about their next visit.

Supporting the Coffs Coast Community For Brent and Belinda, being part of the local community is just as important as running successful businesses.

Through both businesses, they have been involved in community events, fundraisers, charities and local initiatives. They also make a point of supporting other local businesses whenever they can.

Recognition for Their Work The dedication behind Coffs Harbour Trike and rivate Tours has also received significant recognition.

In , the business on old in the Tour and Transport Operator of the Year category at the North Coast Tourism Awards.

The same year, the business was also named inner o the Tourism, periences and vents category at the o s oast Business Awards.

In

, o s arbour Trike and rivate Tours as again a finalist in the orth oast Tourism ards and proudly came a ay ith ron e in Tour and Transport Operator of the Year.

For Brent and Belinda, these awards represent much more than trophies or titles. They are recognition of the passion, hard work and commitment that goes into creating memorable experiences for every guest.

They also see the awards as recognition of the support they have received from their customers, local community and the many wonderful businesses they work alongside.

Brent and Belinda Watson Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tours info@coffsharbourtriketours.com.au Raleigh Winery Café raleighwinerycafe@gmail.com COFFS COAST focus 35

FBLOUELGKRA& SS D O R R I G O

Festiv

For more than two decades, the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival has brought musicians, families and music lovers together in the beautiful Dorrigo Plateau for a weekend of connection, creativity and incredible live music. Returning with an exciting line-up of Australian, international and trans-Tasman artists, this much-loved festival promises concerts, workshops, dancing and plenty of opportunities to get involved.

W

hat is it that makes the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival such a special event on the Australian music calendar?

In today’s world, any music festival that creates an inspiring atmosphere for its patrons is special. Every festival has its own individuality, and for Dorrigo, I think it’s the genres we focus on, how we present them and the opportunities we create for people to participate. We want people to feel like they are genuinely an integral part of the weekend.

What can festivalgoers look forward to at this year’s festival?

36 COFFS COAST focus

Hopefully a weekend of great weather and even better music!

We’ll have a programme packed with concerts and workshops, along with a beautiful kids’ programme featuring performances and a workshop from Shake Shake Puppet Theatre.

There will also be three main bush dances for everyone to enjoy, a festival choir led this year by The Haystack Mountain Hermits for a completely new slant, our popular beginners Bluegrass group and plenty of wonderful festival atmosphere to soak up.

Are there any standout artists or performances you’re particularly excited to showcase?

We’re delighted to continue bringing

international musicians to Dorrigo who bring incredible substance to the bluegrass, old-time and folk genres.

Seth Mulder & Midnight Run from East Tennessee redefine modern bluegrass ith a high energy per ormance that remains firmly rooted in tradition. Martha Spencer Duo and Eli West are festival favourites and incredible instrumentalists and songwriters. From across the Tasman, we’re also welcoming You, Me, Everybody and Jenny Mitchell.

Of course, we consider all our artists standout performers! Head to our website to explore the full line-up.

The festival has built a loyal following over the years. What keeps people coming back?

The festival gives our small community an opportunity to strengthen, create and connect through music and the arts, while also having a significant impact on local economic activity.

It provides many opportunities for local residents to become involved. This year we’re working with the local Hand Made in Dorrigo Markets, which, alongside our musical café breakfasts will bring even more special festival moments into town.

This year we’re working with the local Hand Made in Dorrigo Markets, which, alongside our musical café breakfasts, will bring even more special festival moments into town.

Connection and consistency are a big part of it. Every year people discover new performers, attend a different workshop or participate in something they haven’t experienced before, all within surroundings that feel safe, welcoming and inspiring.

Running alongside the Festival is the Old Time Music School, now in its eighth year. It offers three intensive days of learning and playing old-time music, and this year we’re also offering a two-day beginners boot camp.

How important is the festival to the Dorrigo community and local economy?

For someone attending for the first time, what can they expect?

They can expect a friendly, family atmosphere that encourages new friendships and experiences. Above all, they’ll be surrounded by incredible music from the moment they pitch their tent, park their van or walk through the gates.

Our camping areas are extensive and all venues are weather-friendly with covered seating. From the Welcome to Country on Friday evening through until late Sunday, eight venues come alive with concerts, workshops, dancing and impromptu performances.

Creating a safe, family and environmentally friendly festival that everyone can enjoy is our pleasure and purpose.

What goes on behind the scenes to bring the festival to life each year?

Before the last festivalgoer has left and the site is packed down, work has already begun on the next event!

It’s a year-long labour of love led by a small, dedicated committee. Each festival builds on the last and incorporates feedback from festivalgoers and volunteers. Over 24 years, many people have helped lay the foundations for what the festival is today.

Each year our small team expands into an extended family of volunteers whose contribution is absolutely integral to the festival’s success.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival?

Festivals continue to be part of the fabric of creative communities, providing a place for communities, patrons, artists, production teams and creatives to come together.

Festivals such as Dorrigo provide a place to share and celebrate something incredibly important in today’s world. We hope smaller festivals continue to be recognised and supported through future funding so these experiences can thrive for generations to come.

Tickets are available through the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival website. Make sure you get yours and experience this much-loved festival for yourself! https://www.dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au/ COFFS COAST focus 37

38 COFFS COAST focus

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Creative & crafty IN THE COFFS CITY CENTRE

Fun times at Haus of Clay

H

aus of Clay is a ceramics studio run by local ceramicist Helen McRae, where beginners, experienced makers, adults and kids can get their hands dirty and have a go at creating something of their own. For Helen, the love of clay started early.

“I have loved ceramics from when I was a child, and we were able to do a yearly session at primary school. It was the highlight of my year!”

Helen returned to ceramics around six years ago and began working with Holly and Jess, who opened Haus of Clay in 2021. She took over the studio at the end of 2023 and has been growing the space ever since. There’s plenty happening behind the doors of the Park Avenue Lane studio, with courses and 44 COFFS COAST focus

Tucked away in Park Avenue Lane, surrounded by colourful street art and right in the heart of the City Centre, you’ll find one of Coffs Harbour’s most creative little spaces. workshops changing throughout the year.

Adults can try four to six-week hand-building and wheel-throwing courses, or dip their toes in with a two-hour workshop. There are after school courses for kids and youth, themed school holiday sessions and private events for groups looking to do something a little different. nd you definitely don t need to kno hat you’re doing before you arrive. “We have a total mix of people who are coming to Haus of Clay, including a huge cohort of beginners.

It’s also great to see parents creating alongside their children and grandchildren,” Helen says. “We strive to be an all-inclusive, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself freely and have a great time creating with clay. Our teachers are there for the

technical details, but we love it when each person adds their o n air.

It’s that mix of creativity, fun and people having time to themselves that Helen loves most about the studio. “One block of clay can turn into such a wide range of creations over a two-hour session. We love showing people what can be done and watching their own creative projects come to life.”

Haus of Clay is also a good reminder to explore beyond the City Centre’s main streets.

Wander down Park Avenue Lane, check out the street art and you might just discover somewhere new to eat, shop, create or explore.

Find Haus of Clay at 106 Park Avenue Lane, Coffs Harbour. hausofclay.com.au | @haus_of_clay

Supplies for every creative project Whether you’re making art or finally tackling that DIY project, Coffs City Centre has supplies to get you started these school holidays.

The Book Warehouse Coffs Harbour or smaller creative pro ects, The Book Warehouse Coffs Harbour has plenty to inspire budding artists and makers, including pencils, paints, canvases, sketchbooks, air drying clay, and books covering dra ing, painting, and other creative pursuits. There s also a large range o colouring books or kids and adults, plus cra t kits or all ages, including tie dye and riendship bracelets.

Bristol Paint & Decorator Centre ith years o e perience in the paint industry, the team at Bristol Paint Coffs Harbour can help you select the per ect paint or your ne t spring makeover pro ect. sk about the Taubmans range or your interior and e terior pro ects, or orter s aints hen upcycling urniture. I you re staining decks, cladding and urniture, you can t go rong ith the

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Colour and WIN a $200 voucher! hoose any paper o ers rom the market buckets at the o ings o s entral concierge desk. ter decorating, snap a photo o your bouquet and tag shopco scentral or your chance to in. ompetition runs rom eptember – ctober , or hile stocks last. or more in o, visit coffscentralshopping.com.au

Be inspired at MAKE/SPACE This eptember, o s entral comes alive ith a diverse collection o ork by mature aged students rom o s arbour s three art classes. e inspired by a year o e ploring colour, technique and sel e pression. Level 1, Coffs Central rom

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COFFS COAST focus 45

coffscoast.com

46 COFFS COAST focus

WE’VE BUILT THE REPUTATION. LET’S BUILD THE OPPORTUNITY.

Japanese U23 Rugby Team.

Photo credit: Seen Australia

Major events bring thousands of visitors to the Coffs Coast. The real value comes from what happens beyond the event itself.

I’ve worked in and around events for more than 20 years, and there’s still something special about seeing a city come alive when a major event is in town.

somewhere for a team dinner and things to do on a rest day. They shop, refuel and explore. So how do we make sure they discover more of us while they’re here?

Over that time, I’ve learnt the event itself is only part of the story. The real opportunity is what happens around it.

One of the more visible ways we welcome major sporting events is through the Big Banana. For selected events, you might see the Banana wearing an enormous team jersey or lit up in team colours. It’s fun, it gets noticed and, most importantly, it sends a simple message to visitors: we know you’re here and we’re glad you’ve come. Local businesses don’t need a giant banana to do the same thing.

Coffs Harbour has welcomed Australian Oztag events since 2016. We’ve already hosted major competitions this year, with the ITF Tag World Cup and Australian Junior and Senior Championships still to come in the second half of 2026. That relationship is now secured through to , ith five agship Oztag events each year.

Some bring more than 300 teams and upwards of 5,000 players, plus referees, o ficials, amilies and supporters. Together, the five event port olio is estimated to generate more than $20 million in economic impact each year. They’re impressive numbers, but the bit that interests me is how we turn those numbers into opportunities for local businesses.

Thousands of people need breakfast before the first game, co ee bet een matches,

There are lots of ways businesses can create their own version. A welcome sign or team colours in the window. A café opening earlier for competitors. An easy team dining option. n event themed special. r simply kno ing what’s on and asking a visitor where they’ve travelled from. It doesn’t have to mean discounting. It s about finding a ay or your business to be part of the experience.

Last month I wrote about the power of a local recommendation. Major events give us thousands of opportunities to put that

Nicole McLennan, Economic Development & Tourism, City of Coffs Harbour

into practice. A family might come because their child is competing, but while they’re here they discover Sawtell, Muttonbird Island, a favourite café or a local attraction.

Their sporting trip becomes a Coffs Coast experience, and perhaps somewhere they decide to return to for a holiday.

That’s why events matter. They give people a reason to visit, but the real value grows when they stay, spend and discover more while they’re here. The more they experience, the more that benefit spreads through our local economy.

There’s also an opportunity to keep improving how local businesses connect with major events, by sharing ideas and learning from businesses already doing it well. If you’ve got a great idea, or you’re already doing something that works, we’d love to hear about it. The city can help bring the opportunity to town. Making the most of it takes all of us.

Let’s make sure visitors don’t just remember the event. Let’s give them plenty of reasons to remember the Coffs Coast too.

COFFS COAST focus 47

48 COFFS COAST focus

C f t 2026

Curryfest turns 20 this year, and Woolgoolga is throwing a birthday bash two decades in the making. The organisers have pulled out all the stops for the milestone, so mark your calendar, round up the family, and come and be a part of it.

A

t the heart of it all is the main festival day: Saturday 26 September, 9am to 5pm - a ull day o avour, colour and community. ut this year the celebration spills across the entire weekend, with a whole program of e tra events, and much o it completely ree olly ood ovie on the each eserve riday night, eptember. rab a spot under the stars or a big screen olly ood classic by the ater.

• Wellness by the Waves - Sunday morning, eptember. tart your day ith a calming beachside yoga session as the sun comes up.

Tri ations ricket Tournament running right through urry est eekend. ome cheer on the teams and soak up the atmosphere. alt ater pice

a brand ne

cabaret, co

produced ith aidu Theatre Company and starring some wellkno n local aces. Three per ormances only Thursday evening 24 September, Saturday evening 26 September, and a Sunday matinee at pm on eptember. TI T book early, these on t last The main festival day stays as family-friendly as ever, ith ust a small charge or adults and school age children ree o charge. I you’ve got friends and family a little further afield, there s no e cuse to miss out this year ith bus services running rom both o s arbour and ra ton, runga, a tell and Toormina so everyone can oin in the un ithout the hassle o parking. nce you re through the gates, there s more to see and do than ever be ore. pect double the marquee seating this year, set in front of a massive main stage packed ith per ormers and live cooking demonstrations. ander

through the Indian ba aar, catch the pop up entertainment around every corner, try turban tying, get a henna tattoo, and work your way through more curry stalls than any year in urry est history.

The best part very bit o it gives back to the community. In putting on the estival, the hamber o ommerce spends on local goods and services herever possible, then channels any profits straight back home donating to other volunteer groups and helping und local pro ects that keep oolgoolga thriving. o come help us celebrate years o urry est. hether you re here or the ood, the culture, the cricket or the cabaret, there s something or everyone. ook your tickets and find everything you need - bus timetables, event programs and full details at curryfest.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 49

KLIM

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I

C

H

A

E

L

F I N D I N G P U R P O S E B E YO N D T H E P O O L

For a generation of sports fans, the name Michael Klim instantly conjures up images of raw power slicing through water, gold medals gleaming under stadium lights, and a fierce competitor standing proudly on the Olympic podium. As a world champion, world record holder, and a cornerstone of Australia’s golden era of swimming, Klim’s identity was once inextricably tied to supreme physical capability.

Today, the champion swimmer faces a different kind of race. Diagnosed with Chronic In ammatory emyelinating olyneuropathy I , a rare, progressive autoimmune disorder that attacks the peripheral nerves and causes muscle asting, lim has had to con ront the gradual loss o his mobility. et, rather than retreating rom the public eye, he has embraced a po er ul ne role as an advocate, author, and ounder o the lim oundation passionate about finding a cure.

H

i Michael. Standing at the newly revitalised North Sydney Olympic Pool, surrounded by old team-mates, Olympians and hundreds of supporters, must have felt surreal. How did it feel bringing the launch of the Klim Foundation last year back to a place with such profound personal and historic significance?

It as an emotional day because the oundation has been a couple o years in the making. It encompassed hat e ve been through on a personal level, but then the possibility o the impact of what we are now making on a broader scale is phenomenal. robably the biggest thing that I as very touched by, and still am henever I think about it, as the

50 COFFS COAST focus

response rom people and riends and the ider community ho attended. I m very grate ul to have that support. e ve also been able to build an ama ing ebsite klim oundation.org.au ith a hub o in ormation or anyone that ants to learn about the condition. e ve been able to provide services and T services, operational therapies and moving or ard, potential research that is happening with the condition so that every patient and their amilies are up to date in terms o hat the uture holds and ma imising the therapies as ell. ringing in all the medical e perts into one plat orm here e can e change kno ledge and theories, e re much stronger hen it comes to taking on a challenge like this.

What is the main message you want the public and everyday Australians to understand about what it's like living with this disorder personally?

There is the physical impact, but then the impact o losing a certain identity and having to come to terms ith a reduced output as a person is a lot. or me, I have started to appreciate smaller things in li e and really ocussing on being more present and en oying hat I am able to e perience. I can still get in the ocean and get in the pool and have a paddle. It is definitely at a di erent pace to

hat it used to be, but there are definitely things that I had to give up, like surfing and playing basketball and other things that are very physically ta ing.

It is the oundation o hat e are achieving that gives me so much drive and motivation to keep going. I never donated blood previously and sitting in that chair every three eeks makes me really appreciate it and I am so grate ul or all o those to donors that have come or ard and many others that continue to donate. I ould ant to encourage all ustralians to go in and donate blood or plasma. It is something that is painless. It is a tangible thing that ustralians can give to other ussies to improve the quality o li e and in some cases actually save their lives.

At your launch event, stories were shared about younger fighters li e year old Oliver Davis from Kew, who undergoes IVIG infusions every three weeks I believe.

What goes through your mind when you see children and families facing this condition and how does it fuel your drive ith your foundation? or me, I kno ho hard it as on the people around me hen I as first coming do n ith the initial symptoms and e ere searching or ans ers and there as a huge decline in my physical unctionality and my appearance

O L I V E R D AV I S

and my mental state. Everyone around that patient, or around me that wants that person to improve ,gets really pulled into that nucleus.

Everyone gets affected by it, and probably even more so because they're not living in that body, and they just want the best for the patient.

It is really hard on families, and with children especially, but if you're a primary provider in the household and it gets diagnosed, the family suffers because a majority of the income is not being provided. There is a lot of strain that comes along with conditions such as this.

That's what motivates me when I speak up about the work that the Klim Foundation is doing, the work that Lifeblood is doing and I guess I'm really proud of all the people that have come together. specially my fianc e Michelle who is championing the side of the carers and the families that do experience just as much hardship as what the patients do.

When you look back at your legacy, how important is it to you that the Klim Foundation becomes your most meaningful race now?

It’s a really good question because my Chairman, Paul Bird, who's had extensive experience in the philanthropic world and hen e ere first starting o , he said to me that this will be the greatest thing that you’ll ever do. I said my Olympic gold medals were

pretty good but that’s in the past now. This is something that I can leave a legacy with the foundation and the work that we're doing and hopefully that will carry on for many, many years to come.

That’s what motivates me when I speak up about the work that the Klim Foundation is doing, the work that Lifeblood is doing and I guess I’m really proud of all the people that have come together.

Managing CIDP requires strict adherence to treatment schedules, physical pacing and immense self care o has your definition of health and personal wellness evolved since your diagnosis?

Klim Foundation, what are your biggest goals for the organisation over the next few years in terms of medical support, patient advocacy and changing the landscape for CIDP sufferers in Australia?

I m definitely much more conscious o my lifestyle. I think that a lot of the improvement, which actually goes hand in hand with mental health, has come from lifestyle changes. The treatment is a huge foundation and a base for staying where you are and building on that. My life now is devoted to making sure that I can continue having the same mobility and functionality as I had the day before and improve on that. There are such marginal gains that you can't always see them, but it's that drive and the perseverance that I guess is the main thing that's carried over from all the sport.

I think it's another great question because ultimately the blue sky picture scenario is to work out why this is happening and this condition occurs. econdly, once e find that, e can move to ards finding a cure. I don t want any of the patients or people that are affected by this condition to feel like they're going through this alone. So for us to build a platform where they can reach out and talk to counsellors, talk to dieticians, physios, OT specialists, and really have a great support network for anyone that's navigating this is great. I it comes do n to financial support or certain funding for special bracing or walking aids, whatever it might be, we would ultimately like to be able to provide some of the services that NDIS can't provide or that patients can't cover themselves.

Finally Michael, with the cementing of the

Thanks Michael. Interview: Sarah Baker.

COFFS COAST focus 51

COFFS COAST ACCOMMODATION

2026 NORTH COAST REGIONAL TOURISM AWARDS

SILVER for the Tourism Retail, Hire & Services

W

hat does this recognition mean to you and your team?

This award is a wonderful acknowledgement of the hard work my team puts in every day to maintain an exceptionally high standard. They regularly go above and beyond for our guests and property owners, so this recognition really belongs to them.

What sets Coffs Coast Accommodation apart?

We see accommodation as much more than providing somewhere to stay. We want visitors to feel connected to the Coffs Coast from the moment they arrive, whether through the locally sourced, eco-friendly products in our properties or the businesses and experiences we recommend.

How do you help visitors experience the very best of the Coffs Coast?

Our smart compendiums play a big role. Each property has a digital guide giving guests easy access to dining, attractions,

52 COFFS COAST focus

activities, accessible experiences, exclusive offers and practical information. It puts our local kno ledge at their fingertips and encourages them to explore beyond their accommodation.

What has been the key to your success and continued growth?

Our people. We employ locally and don’t outsource our guest support overseas. Our team knows the area, understands our properties and can offer genuine, first hand advice. That personal approach has been fundamental to our growth.

What’s next for Coffs Coast Accommodation?

We’re excited to step into the world of YouTube in partnership with SLR Productions. Through video, we’ll showcase not only our properties but the people, places and experiences that make this destination special – giving visitors even more reasons to discover the Coffs Coast.

BELFREY HOUSE

Stars

ising

OF THE COFFS COAST

COFFS COAST focus 53

DR. STEVE ZAAL FO U N D E R / P R I N C I PA L CHIROPRACTOR

The Chiro Coffs Wellness Centre is a locally owned clinic helping people move, feel and function at their best. We provide personalised chiropractic care for back and neck pain, headaches, sciatica, joint stiffness, sports injuries, pregnancy discomfort and mobility concerns. Treatment can include adjustments, softtissue therapy, dry needling, cupping and rehabilitation exercises.

DR. REECE HICKS CHIROPRACTOR

The Chiro Coffs

Wellness Centre

Unlike a high-volume clinic, we take the time to listen, properly assess each patient and address the body as a whole.

We understand that pain and dysfunction are not always isolated to one area, so our approach considers movement, lifestyle, work demands and overall wellbeing. Treatment is tailored to each person’s age, condition, goals and comfort level.

This holistic, whole-body

Energetica Wellness is a boutique wellness clinic in Coffs Harbour offering remedial, relaxation and pregnancy massage, chinese cupping, hot stone massage, facials, breathwork, sound healing and holistic wellness treatments. Every session is tailored to help clients reduce pain and tension, recover from injury, manage stress, and regulate their nervous system.

where clients feel comfortable, cared for and able to truly relax.

With over 16 years of clinical experience, I draw from a broad range of Eastern and Western modalities to create highly personalised treatments. Beyond addressing physical concerns, I prioritise nervous system regulation, genuine connection and creating a beautiful, calming environment

I love building genuine relationships with my clients and being part of a community that values health and wellbeing. It’s incredibly rewarding to see people feel stronger, move more freely and enjoy a better quality of life.

0408 394 943 Energetica_wellness

54 COFFS COAST focus

approach is also why we operate as a Wellness Centre. Our larger team includes practitioners and professionals from different health and ellness fields, allowing patients to access a broader range of services and benefit rom cross re errals hen appropriate.

Our services support people of all ages; from children and expectant mothers, to athletes, workers and older adults.

Whether managing pain, recovering from injury or simply wanting to move better, we provide practical, personalised care.

We love serving the Coffs Coast and building longterm relationships with local individuals and families.

Alongside our Coffs clinic, we have a second location in Nambucca Heads Plaza.

02 6699 2366 Thechirocoffs_nambucca

y services particularly benefit people experiencing high levels of stress, muscular tension and pain, as well as headaches, injury or those needing support through rehabilitation. I also work with people experiencing ongoing physical issues who feel unsure where to turn next, or simply need time to unwind.

Shannon Creek ENERGETICA WELLNESS

I’m a Coffs Coast beauty therapist specialising in lashes and brows. After working in the Gold Coast and Brisbane, I wanted to bring my skills and experience back to Coffs Harbour. I offer lash extensions, lash lifts, brow shaping through waxing and threading, tinting and brow laminations. I love creating personalised results that enhance each client’s natural features.

I want every appointment to feel like more than just a treatment. I take the time to understand what my clients like, their lifestyle and the result they’re hoping for. I want them to eel rela ed, listened to and confident that they’re in good hands.

Laura Seymour LAURA SEYMOUR ACUPUNCTURE

Laura Seymour Acupuncture is more than just acupuncture. As a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, I draw on a range of modalities to support my clients’ needs including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, tuina (Chinese remedial massage), supplementation and lifestyle advice.

My approach is individualised and integrative. I take time to listen, understand and tailor each treatment to the person rather than just the symptom. I combine traditional Chinese medicine principles with evidence-informed care and hands-on bodywork. I support people of all ages with a wide range of concerns, including acute and chronic pain, stress, sleep and digestive issues. I have a particular passion for supporting women through fertility, pregnancy, birth preparation and postpartum recovery, while also treating many general health concerns.

I love building genuine relationships with my clients, and it’s a privilege when those relationships extend to their families and friends through word-of-mouth recommendations. I also value being part of the Coffs Coast wellness community, collaborating with local health practitioners to support and refer clients when appropriate. Appointments are available Monday to Thursday. HICAPS rebates are available for eligible health fund members.

0404 700 060 laura_seymour_acupuncture

My services are for anyone who enjoys sel care and is a ter a boost o confidence.

I create personalised looks, whether that’s something subtle and natural for everyday wear or a more glamorous look for a special occasion. Every client is different, and I enjoy finding hat orks best or them.

I’ve loved building Hazel Eyes alongside other local businesses within the wellness centre, where we can support one another and create a space that the Coffs Coast community feels genuinely welcomed and cared for.

0434 117 416 Hazel.eyesbeauty

Tayah Branwhite AMETHYST BEAUTY ROOM

With 13 years of experience in the beauty industry, Amethyst Beauty Room specialises in skin health and personalised treatments, including SQT Bio Microneedling, Qi Beauty Treatments and a range of customisable facials tailored to each client’s individual skin needs. The focus is on creating a professional, welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable while working towards healthy, confident skin.

My approach to client care is centred around understanding and education. I take the time to understand each client’s concerns, goals and skin needs, while educating them about their skin so they can better understand what it needs and make informed decisions about their ongoing care. I believe knowledge and education are key to achieving long-term results and building confidence in your skin.

My services are suited to anyone wanting to improve their skin health, address specific concerns, maintain their skin or simply invest in some well-deserved self-care.

Nicky Hicks HAZEL EYES BEAUTY

What I love most about serving the Coffs Coast community is building genuine relationships with my clients and being part of their skin journey. eeing clients become more confident and comfortable in their skin is incredibly rewarding 0478 059 963 Amethystbeautyroom COFFS COAST focus 55

Shelly Venn Shelly Venn

P H O T O S

I

f your camera could tell one story about you, what would it say?

It would tell the story of a local photographer who turns every shoot into a fun, relaxed experience. Humour is a huge part of what I do, getting

clients laughing helps their guard come down and their true personalities shine through.

My camera would describe someone who loves creating beautiful images, but also a space

here people eel confident and

comfortable. The story wouldn’t just end with lovely photos it

ould be filled

ith laughter,

chaos and connection.

When did you realise photography was more than a hobby?

From the moment I decided to become a photographer, I knew it wasn’t going to be a hobby. I’d found work I genuinely loved.

I’ve worked across different industries and owned other businesses, and all those 56 COFFS COAST focus

experiences contributed to building my photography career. It’s the perfect blend of entrepreneurship, creativity and connecting with people, and getting to do it here on the Coffs Coast is a bonus.

What moments make you smile behind the lens?

Shelly Venn has built a reputation for capturing life’s most genuine moments.

With a relaxed, playful approach and a talent for pu ing people at ease, she has become one of the Coffs Coast’s most sought-a er photographers. We caught up with Shelly to talk about her journey, the moments that inspire her and why connection will always be at the heart of her photography.

A cheeky expression, an unexpected interaction or a genuine belly laugh gives you a glimpse into someone’s personality. Those are the moments that keep the energy high.

You’d be hard pressed to find me not smiling! Whether I’m photographing a local business for a branding shoot or a family with their newborn, there are always moments I love. A

cheeky expression, an unexpected interaction or a genuine belly laugh gives you a glimpse into someone’s personality.

Those are the moments that keep the energy high.

What’s the biggest misconception about professional photography?

That it’s simply a side gig or taking a “perfect” photo. Professional photography requires technical knowledge of lighting and composition, creativity and the ability to tell a story.

My secret weapon is genuine warmth, a li le goofiness and plenty of patience.

Who knew being a part-time comedian would make me a full-time memory catcher!

Like any profession, it takes time to develop your skills and build an experience that leaves clients feeling really good about choosing you.

If you could photograph anyone, who would it be?

What’s your secret to capturing genuine emotion?

abies and amilies in Neonatal Intensive are nits. s the mum of a baby born at 26 weeks, I know how overwhelming those early days can be.

Picking up a camera never crossed my mind, and I regret not having those ragile first moments captured.

I pretend I’m a big kid with a camera! I tune into how people are feeling, crack jokes and relate to the kids until everyone’s walls come down.

When people forget the camera is there, that’s when the magic happens, real smiles, laughter and perfectly imperfect moments. My secret eapon is genuine armth, a little goofiness and plenty of patience. Who knew being a part-time comedian would make me a fulltime memory catcher!

What has been your most unforgettable photoshoot? efinitely my annual each hristmas inis.

They’re huge marathon days, often 12 hours under the summer sun, but the loyalty of my clients makes them incredibly special.

Families return year after year, and being part o their hristmas tradition is an honour. eeing those final images filled ith smiles, laughter and unscripted moments against our beautiful coastline makes all the hard work worthwhile.

eing able to give other amilies those memories, offering comfort, hope and celebrating their strength during an uncertain time, would mean everything to me.

What do you hope clients remember after working with you?

How natural and enjoyable it felt. I want people to feel genuinely seen and cared for, not simply photographed.

I hope kids remember laughing and playing rather than being pressured to perform. When families look at their photos years later, I want the memories that come ooding back to be about connection and joy.

How has running your own business

changed you?

It’s given me the freedom to be the best mum and wife I can be while doing work that genuinely lights me up. eing able to balance family life on my terms without sacrificing something I’m passionate about has brought enormous ulfilment both personally and pro essionally.

What’s next on your photography bucket list?

I want to keep evolving and bringing my love o capturing great moments to the o s oast. oving into branding photography has allowed me to experiment creatively and push my style in new directions.

I’d love to keep exploring fresh ideas and capturing the colourful, joyful energy of childhood. nd ho kno s maybe one day you’ll see me creating those bright, playful images for a brand like Zara Kids!

How can readers get in touch?

Website: shellyvennphotos.com Email: shellyvennphotography@gmail.com Social: @shellyvennphotos COFFS COAST focus 57

HUNTER WINKLER focus_interview

For local surfer Hunter Winkler, surfing has been a lifelong passion, shaped by family, travel and the waves of the Coffs Coast. A talented young Gumbaynggirr surfer, Hunter has competed on some of Australia’s most iconic breaks while staying true to what he loves most about surfing; chasing good waves, connecting with community and simply being in the ocean.

H

i Hunter. You’ve grown up surfing here on the offs oast hat as it about surfing that first hoo ed you and hat do you love most about being in the ocean?

Probably just born into it I guess and following what my Dad did when he was young. He had me on a surfboard pretty young growing up and I just fell in love with it since I was a little kid. My parents took us travelling a lot when we were really young, and we have visited some of the best surf spots in the world like Teahupoo in Tahiti, Pipeline and Sunset in Hawaii, Cloud Break

58 COFFS COAST focus

in Fiji, and I have been fortunate enough to surf these waves at a really young age. I remember surfing Teahupoo hen I as years old ith Dad and it was pumping too. ad taught me the confidence to take on the bigger waves by just throwing me out there, ha ha, and I really just fell in love with it and now I love to travel to surf spots.

My favourite thing about the ocean is probably just being able to be in it and catch waves with or without mates. It's peaceful and just a good place to be, you always come out from a surf in a good place. ou ve already competed at a really high

level for someone your age. What has it been li e going from surfing locally to lining up against some of the best young surfers in the country?

Yeah I competed a lot from a young age but as I got older I found myself steering away from too many competitions and ust surfing or the un of it, chasing good waves and going overseas to surf. I’ve always felt like competitions can take the enjoyment out of it sometimes. I still compete in a few events each year that mean something to me and make me not feel so pressured to have to win and be judged all the time. ou finished runner up in the unior oys division at the ustralian ndigenous urfing itles at ells each a couple of years ago hat do you remember most about that competition and ma ing the final?

Yeah I love going down to Bells every year for the annual ustralian Indigenous urfing Titles.

It’s always a sick crew down there, seeing good mates and it feels like more of a surf community to me than a competitive surf comp, everyone is really respectful, we just go wave for wave…

I was stoked to get runner up in the Junior boys at Bells. hat does competing in the ustralian ndigenous urfing itles mean to you as a young umbaynggirr surfer?

Yeah it’s very special to be down at Bells connecting with everyone from around Australia

and sharing a special weekend with everyone.

You feel like a family down there, very supported by everyone.

I have been going for about 4 years now, it's become an annual trip for me and my family.

...growing up hearing plenty of stories of how Dad’s era carried themselves and how they went about business and what they have done to offload it onto the next generation.

The cre at ells have now started an Indigenous Crew to surf in some special events. We put a team together and competed in the Sandon Point teams challenge against other clubs from all over Australia and finished o in th place out o about clubs. reat result or our first ever event and representing our culture ells each is such an iconic ustralian surf brea hat is it li e competing there?

Yeah it’s a pretty surreal place, especially out in the water looking back at the cliff. From watching the WSL since I was a kid and being out there ith mates competing, in most times pumping waves is pretty sick…. I always feel a special feeling when I’m there, and feel very grateful and fortunate.

your own age so it makes it extra hard to get through heats and there are a lot more heats in the opens, so more heats to get through to make it to the finals. efinitely harder but it's good as you have to push yourself a bit more and be inspired by the older crew.

hat is it about surfing on the offs oast that has helped shape you as a surfer?

Probably growing up hearing plenty of stories o ho ad s era carried themselves and ho they went about business and what they have done to o oad it onto the ne t generation.

Most of it is pretty inspiring, makes you want to repeat what they did for the next generation and hopefully snowball effects.

Also having sponsor support from Coopers Surf Australia who have always supported local surfers, and of course Billabong Australia.

I have loved surfing the ree hen it s pumping and we get the jet ski out getting towed in, it's such a great atmosphere down there.

ou ve continued competing at ells in the pen en s division o different is it stepping up from the unior divisions into open competition?

I have always loved Macauleys also.

You're against grown adults as well as people

han s unter

We are lucky also to be able to go for a bit of a drive and find other sur breaks ust out o o s for the day and be home the same night.

COFFS COAST focus 59

S H O W C A S I N G

MHOC SPORTING, THE ARTS, JAPANESE AND OUR GARDEN CLUB.

At Mary Help of Christians, we are dedicated to encouraging learning through a safe and supportive school. Our school, whilst achieving wonderful academic accomplishments, also nurtures many aspects of children and their interests whether this be the arts, sports, languages or sustainability.

60 COFFS COAST focus

S

porting

At Mary Help of Christians Primary School in Sawtell, sports are far more than just scheduled sessions on the timetable. The school community has built a dynamic culture where physical activity, teamwork, and school spirit go hand in hand with academic life. Whether on the oval, the Ninja Warrior Course, in the pool, or taking part in local and regional competitions, MHOC students are learning life lessons through sport.

For students looking to test their skills at a higher level, Mary Help of Christians provides a representative pathway within the Lismore Diocesan system. Students regularly qualify for Zone, Diocesan, Polding, and NSW Primary Schools Sports Association (NSWPSSA) events across a diverse range of sports.

This structured pathway allows aspiring young athletes on the Coffs Coast to develop their talents, travel for competition, and represent their school with immense pride.

The Arts We have a dedicated visual arts studio where young artists turn imagination into self-expression. Beyond the curriculum, our creative space gives every student room to experiment with diverse mediums, discover their artistic style, and exhibit their work locally and nationally. At Mary Help of Christians, the Art Hub serves as a vibrant, welcoming sanctuary where curiosity transforms into artistic expression, fostering a genuine, lifelong passion for the visual arts.

Dance Club Dancing is a brilliant way to boost physical and mental health while building vital social-emotional skills like empathy, problemsolving, and teamwork. Dance Club provides an inclusive outlet where all students can come together, get active, and learn fun choreography. By performing at local dance eisteddfods and school assemblies, students gain valuable stage confidence and performance skills. Dance Club is open to students of all ages and abilities.

Japanese

Beyond the curriculum, our creative space gives every student room to experiment with diverse mediums, discover their artistic style, and exhibit their work locally and nationally.

MHOC is fortunate to be one of the few schools stretching right across the State of NSW to be currently offering languages at the primary level. Our Japanese lessons subtly embed culture into our learning, providing our students with opportunities to learn the Japanese way of life. Japanese immersion can be seen around the school with onigiri riceball tasting days, our weekly unicycle club, Japanese language club at breaks, our manga drawing and the chance to paint sakura scrolls and kanji calligraphy. In the library, students can borrow bilingual readers with QR audio clips and when it’s time for class, e conduct it on the abuton oor cushions instead of sitting at desks to get an authentic feeling.

are encouraged to be a member of our Sustainability team and support our school garden.

Children grow and sell their own produce, including eggs, to ensure our little garden is selfsustaining.

Garden Club Our Garden Club comes alive with the sound of chickens, chatter and laughter. Children COFFS COAST focus 61

Enea

Mendilahatxu O C E A N

E C H O E S

Enea Mendilahatxu has found her passion in marine science, despite being frightened of the ocean as a child. Now studying in Coffs Harbour and hosting Ocean Echoes, Enea is sharing the stories of the scientists, conservationists and marine enthusiasts working to better understand and protect our oceans. We chat with Enea about her journey from France to Australia, her fascination with turtles and her mission to inspire others to care for the ocean.

H

i Enea. Where did your fascination with the ocean and marine life begin?

It’s quite a peculiar story because, for most of my childhood, I was scared of the ocean! I was always fascinated by nature and science, but discovering marine science made something just click. I knew I had found my path.

From there, my curiosity grew. I watched documentaries, read books, and eventually did my first dive, and it as love at first sight.

I remember thinking, “I’m going to spend the rest o my li e ith fins on my eet .

At 20, I left France and moved to Australia to pursue my passion. Now, in Coffs Harbour, I get to keep learning, exploring, and deepening my connection with the ocean.

You’re currently studying marine

62 COFFS COAST focus

science. Is there a particular area of marine science or marine life that you’re especially passionate about?

For one of my subjects, we had to create a project to communicate science to the public, so I decided to make a podcast.

I’m particularly interested in marine turtles and turtle research. There’s something about them that I find ascinating. They are calm and gentle animals that have been part of our oceans for millions of years.

y first intervie as ith r irsten Benkendorff, and I absolutely loved the experience. I realised that interviewing people was not only a great way to learn, but also to challenge mysel , build confidence, and improve my English.

One issue I’m especially interested in is oating syndrome in sea turtles. It can prevent turtles from diving properly and accessing food, making it a serious problem.

I’d love to better understand what causes it and how we can help affected turtles.

You’ve taken that passion beyond your studies through Ocean Echoes. What inspired you to start the podcast and social media project?

Ocean Echoes started because of university.

It was originally meant to be just one episode, but a ter that first intervie , I decided to keep going. It gradually grew into a wider social media project where I can share my passion for the ocean and the people who study it.

The podcast features conversations with scientists, divers, conservationists and others working with the ocean.

What have you learned from the people

you’ve interviewed that has changed or deepened the way you think about the ocean?

One of the biggest things I’ve realised is just how incredibly broad marine science is. Before studying it, I knew there were different areas, but I didn’t realise just how many questions there still are to answer.

Every person I interview opens a different door into the ocean. You can study animals, climate change, conservation, behaviour, and so much more.

I’ve realised there probably isn’t enough time in one lifetime I think it’s to explore everything fundamental. that interests me, and If we want people I think that’s what to protect the ocean, makes the ocean so we first need them exciting. There really is to care about it, and a place for everyone. it’s difficult to care

do something for the ocean, what are some simple things you would encourage them to start with?

about something You’ve spoken with you don’t know or marine researchers It really doesn’t have to understand. about subjects be something huge. If ranging from you see rubbish on the molluscs and their ground, pick it up and potential medical put it in a bin.

Even a small piece of rubbish applications to climate change and can eventually make its way into the ocean, species loss. How important do you think so small actions can make a difference. education is when it comes to actually changing people’s behaviour towards the More generally, learn about the ocean, environment? appreciate it, and think about how your I think it’s fundamental. If we want people to protect the ocean, e first need them to care about it, and it s di ficult to care about something you don’t know or understand.

everyday choices can affect it. You can also support marine conservation organisations, join beach clean-ups, or simply share reliable information with others.

That’s why science communication is so important. Scientists can make incredible discoveries, but that knowledge needs to reach the public, especially younger generations, who will shape the future.

I think developing a genuine connection with the ocean is one of the most powerful places to start.

We don’t need every child to become a marine biologist. We just want them to grow up appreciating the ocean and understanding why it deserves to be protected.

If someone listening to Ocean Echoes finishes an episode feeling inspired to

Looking ahead, where would you love to take Ocean Echoes and what would you love your own career in marine science and conservation to look like?

I would love to take Ocean Echoes around the world; travelling, meeting people who work with or depend on the ocean and hearing their different perspectives. I think it

would be fascinating to discover the different ways people interact with the ocean and the role it plays in their lives.

For my own career, I’d like to combine marine science with communication. After my Bachelors, I’d love to continue with an Honours project, and potentially a PhD, focusing on turtles.

Finally, if you could change one thing about the way society understands or interacts with the ocean, what would it be?

I would want people to understand just how much we need the ocean. It is essential to our survival. Without a healthy ocean, there is no healthy human society.

At the same time, I don’t want people to only think about the ocean through destruction and climate change. We hear so much about pollution, warming oceans and species loss that it can feel overwhelming. I would rather people first understand ho incredible the ocean is and develop a connection with it.

I would love people to understand that protecting the ocean isn’t just about saving one species or keeping beaches clean. It is about protecting an entire living system that we are part of and that we ultimately depend on.

Thanks Enea COFFS COAST focus 63

The Community Transport Company Local Heart. Big Impact.

How a Coffs Coast charity is changing the way we think about transport.

T

ell us about Community Transport and the people you support. The Community Transport Company is a notor profit charity and social enterprise providing sa e, reliable and accessible transport across the o s oast and throughout the orth oast o . t its heart, ommunity Transport is about much more than getting rom to . It s about independence, connection and making sure that age, disability, here you live or not having access to a car doesn t stop you participating in your community. e provide more than , passenger ourneys each year – to medical appointments, shopping, social activities, ork, education and everyday li e. ometimes a trip is practical. ometimes it is li e changing. very one matters.

What inspired the organisation to do what it does? Community Transport exists because people in our communities ere 64 COFFS COAST focus

missing out simply because they couldn t get here they needed to go. e believe transport creates access, inclusion, equality and independence. ur philosophy is simple hen the traditional model doesn t ork, e ask hat might.

What does winning the Business NSW Community Organisation of the Year Award mean to your team? inning the usiness utstanding ommunity rganisation ard as e traordinary recognition or our sta and volunteers.

It

as particularly meaning ul because e eren t ust being recognised ithin our o n sector. e ere standing alongside outstanding organisations rom across .

It validated something e see every day a regional not or profit can be ambitious, innovative and commercially capable ithout ever losing sight o hy it e ists. The a ard belongs to our sta , volunteers and the communities that trust us.

What makes your volunteers and staff so special? ur people genuinely care.

round volunteers ork alongside our paid team. ur drivers become amiliar, trusted aces. They notice hen someone isn t quite themselves, carry the groceries, ait until someone is sa ely through the ront door, share a laugh and listen to the stories. ehind every ourney is another team coordinating bookings, maintaining vehicles and solving the hundreds o logistical challenges involved in getting people here they need to be.

Can you share a story that shows the impact of your service? ary lost his i e, osie, a ter more than years together. is only child lived overseas ith her o n amily and, because o gradual blindness, ary stopped driving. The home that had once been busy became very quiet. radually, ary s orld got smaller. ven going to the shops became di ficult. e stopped visiting places he and osie had en oyed together and eventually didn t find much reason to leave home at all.

Then

ary started travelling

ith ommunity

Transport. t first, it as simply shopping. is driver kne his name and took time to talk.

Then our team encouraged him to try a social outing.

ged care is also changing ith upport at ome. Importantly, moving to a upport at ome package doesn t mean saying goodbye to ommunity Transport.

e

eople can still choose us. e can ork ith their package provider to deliver the transport they ant and need, hile keeping costs lo so their package unding goes urther.

ent. Then he

ent again.

ary made riends. Instead o empty days, there ere things on the calendar to look or ard to. Today, he even travels ith riends on our multi day trips around the country and his daughter, thousands o kilometres a ay, kno s her ad isn t quite so alone. ometimes the most important destination isn t the shops or a medical appointment. ometimes it s back into the orld.

What makes Community Transport unique on the Coffs Coast? e re prepared to try things – and e re here or people, not profit.

ometimes a ommunity Transport ourney gives someone a reason to put their shoes on in the morning, alk out the ront door and start living again.

s a not or profit charity and social enterprise, the income e generate goes back into achieving our purpose. That means e can put heart, quality and community impact ahead o profit, delivering a service that is both a ordable and e ceptional.

What are some of the biggest challenges your organisation faces today? egional distance and rising vehicle, uel and operating costs are ongoing challenges. ur vehicles travel more than t o million kilometres each year.

hen an opportunity arose to help secure the uture o local ta i services in ellingen, e acquired ellingen hire Ta is, creating ustralia s first not or profit o ned ta i net ork. e have also developed our o n chronic treatment transport program and

continue looking or ne ays to solve regional transport disadvantage.

What's next for Community Transport, and what are your goals for the future? ur goal is simple but ambitious more people, going more places and living ell. e ll continue e panding transport choices, building partnerships ith upport at ome providers and developing ne accessible and on demand models. e re proudly local, but e also ant ideas developed here on the o s oast to in uence transport much urther afield. hatever changes, our purpose remains the same access, inclusion, equality and independence or all people.

How can we get in touch? e d love to hear rom anyone ho needs transport, ants to volunteer or ould like to partner ith us. isit communitytransport.net.au, email info@communitytransport.net.au, or phone 1300 812 504.

COFFS COAST focus 65

Sawtell Electrical MARC CARROLL

S

BUILT ON FAMILY, GROWN ON TRUST

awtell Electrical began in 2011 with a simple goal. To provide reliable, professional electrical services while looking after our customers the way we would look after our own family.

I started the business alongside my son, Aaron, and what began as a small family operation has grown into a team of 11 dedicated staff.

Over the years, we’ve built our business through hard work, quality workmanship, and most importantly, the trust and support of our customers. We’re proud that much of our growth has come through repeat customers, word of mouth and strong relationships within our local community.

Today, Sawtell Electrical services a wide area from Macksville to Woolgoolga and west to Dorrigo. Our team works across residential, commercial and property maintenance projects, bringing the same commitment to every job. Whether it’s a small electrical repair, a major installation or ongoing electrical work for a business or property manager.

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As we’ve grown, one thing hasn’t changed: we’re still a local business that cares about the people we work for.

We understand that inviting an electrician into your home or business is about more than just getting a job done. You want someone who turns up when they say they will, communicates clearly, does the job properly and stands behind their workmanship.

That’s the standard we’ve worked hard to establish over the past 15 years.

From starting the business with my son in 2011 to building a team of 11, it’s been an incredible journey. We’re proud of what Sawtell Electrical has become and, more importantly, proud of our staff and the reputation we’ve built along the way.

Thank you to our customers and the local community for supporting us.

We look forward to continuing to provide dependable, professional electrical services across the region for many years to come.

Phone (6658 9222)

The Crescent Gee Hassan

T

ell us about The Crescent. What makes it different?

The Crescent is the last major residential land release in Crescent Head.

Once these lots are gone, there’s no further subdivision planned in the village. So buyers are securing one of the last entry points into a supply-capped coastal market.

The Crescent has large lots with beautiful views; landscaped with walking paths, park, playground and BBQ area, and it’s just 900m to the beach.

How does the value proposition compare to other NSW beach towns? Crescent’s median house price sits around $1.25 million, less than half Byron Bay’s at about $2.6 million, and well below Lennox Head and Brunswick Heads. Buyers get the same lifestyle fundamentals beach, village, national park and large centres nearby, without the price premium. Given that supply here is effectively capped, longterm growth potential is strong.

What’s happening on site now? It’s alive! It’s a growing neighbourhood. Land is registered, roads and landscaping are complete, and builders are actively constructing homes,

which only adds to buyer confidence.

What opportunities exist for investors specifically? Several land lots support dual occupancy for high short-term rental income or multigenerational e ibility.

House and land packages are being developed with builders to give investors a straightforward entry point. ho s buying and hy does that matter for investors? A genuine mix of downsizers, young families, Sydney and south-east QLD relocators, plus investors.

Owner-occupiers are great for community and long-term property values, and investors are creating more holiday rental choices which Crescent is crying out for. hat s your elevator pitch to anyone loo ing to invest?

Large lots, a walk to the beach, limited supply, great value compared to other hotspots, and a neighbourhood already coming to life.

Call Gee on 0420 977 209 thecrescentestate.com.au

Angela Davies T H E

G O O D

V I B E

T R I B E

Inspired by a desire to create more joy, connection and meaningful experiences, Angela launched The Good Vibe Tribe, a wellness community bringing people together through uplifting one-day retreats on the Coffs Coast. The philosophy behind The Good Vibe Tribe is ‘life is too short to keep waiting for “one day.”

W

hat is The Good Vibe Tribe?

The Good Vibe Tribe is a community built around meaningful experiences that help people reconnect with joy.

I believe wellness isn't just about slowing down, it's about laughing, creating, trying something new and making memories with people who leave your cup a little fuller than they found it. Our retreats are simply the vehicle.

The destination is bliss.

What inspired you to create it?

Have you ever driven home after a great day with friends and thought, "I wish life felt like this more often?" That's the feeling I wanted to recreate.

Life reminded me that tomorrow isn't guaranteed, and I realised I didn't want to keep waiting for "one day." I wanted to create something that encouraged people to laugh, reconnect, step outside their comfort zone and leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. That's how The Good Vibe Tribe was born.

What can people expect from your Spring Day Retreat?

who create welcoming, supportive spaces where everyone feels comfortable. My hope is that people drive home feeling happier, lighter and already planning their next "SaturSlay."

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you?

It would be incredibly special because it would remind me that the ideas which scare you the most are often the ones worth pursuing.

More than any recognition, seeing people leave smiling and already talking about the next retreat is my greatest reward. If my journey encourages someone else to stop waiting for "one day" and back themselves, then that's a win.

What's next for The Good Vibe Tribe?

I want The Good Vibe Tribe to become synonymous with joy on the Coffs Coast.

We'll continue creating inspiring retreats, collaborating with talented local facilitators and giving people more opportunities to connect, recharge and create memories they'll treasure for years to come. o

can people find out more?

Follow The Good Vibe Tribe on Facebook and Instagram, book upcoming retreats through Humanitix, join our mailing list for future events, or email TGVTretreats@gmail.com. We can't wait to welcome you.

I hope people leave remembering much more than the workshops. I want them to remember laughing with new friends, trying something different and enjoying a whole day without thinking about everything waiting for them at home.

I've chosen four incredible local facilitators COFFS COAST focus 67

C

hase and Riley, for people who are just discovering The Saban Bros, tell us a little about yourselves and what life was like growing up on the Coffs Coast.

We are brothers who grew up in the Coffs region and we are part of a very close family. Riley is the older brother. He is quick-witted, direct and usually the one calling the shots. Chase is the younger brother, the creative one and normally the person trying to turn another conversation into a project.

Growing up together has been loud, busy and full of stories. Like most brothers, we annoy each other, disagree and have a laugh at one another’s expense but we are the best of mates. This region has given us a strong sense of home and community, which continues to shape everything we create together.

What originally prompted you to start making videos together and sharing them on social media?

We realised that our relationship gave us a natural way to tell stories and explore ideas that reached beyond the two of us.

People spend so much time scrolling through content that entertains them for a few seconds and is then forgotten. We wondered whether we could create something enjoyable that also left people with something to think about.

We did not want to lecture anyone or tell people what they should believe. We wanted to share honest conversations, memories and experiences from our lives. Our relationship as brothers felt like the most genuine place to begin.

You’ve said that you want people to see you as brothers first rather than allo ing iley s disability to define the story hy can ordinary, relatable content be so powerful?

Ordinary moments give people something familiar to connect with.

Our lives may not look exactly like those of everyone watching, but the relationship often feels familiar. Most people understand sibling rivalry, embarrassing stories, pointless arguments and the strange way your sibling can frustrate

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What started as two Coffs Coast brothers sharing a few laughs and everyday moments has grown into a social media platform reaching thousands of people. Known as The Saban Bros, Riley and Chase are using their natural sibling bond, humour and honest conversations to challenge perceptions around disability and encourage greater understanding and inclusion. you while still being one of the most important people in your life.

different way of communicating means there is nothing to say.

We are not trying to place either of us under a spotlight. The focus is on what happens between us. People might initially connect with a joke or shared experience, then leave with a perspective they had not previously considered.

You do not need perfect language or a complete understanding of someone’s life. Be respectful, pay attention and allow the person to guide the interaction. A genuine conversation matters much more than cautiously following a set of rules.

Some of your content aims to challenge assumptions about disability. What are some of the biggest misconceptions you would like to change?

We all make quick judgements, including us. It’s human nature. The challenge is recognising them and being willing to question them.

We’re not here to teach people what to think.

We’re here to challenge the assumptions we all make, including our own.

People can make assumptions about someone’s personality, intelligence or ability to contribute before taking the time to actually know them.

We also want to move away from the idea that stories involving disability always have to be sad, inspirational or centred around overcoming something.

Our videos aren’t about putting anyone on display or telling people how they should feel.

They’re created by both of us and shaped by both of our perspectives.

Sometimes there’s a bigger message. Sometimes we’re simply sharing a good story. Either way, we hope it makes people stop, think and maybe look again.

What do you think people sometimes get wrong about interacting with someone with a disability?

People can become so concerned about doing the wrong thing that they make the interaction more complicated than it needs to be.

Start by speaking directly to the person rather than the people around them. Give the conversation time and do not assume that a

Has creating The Saban Bros changed the way you think about social media and its potential to make a positive difference?

It has shown us that social media can make our world feel smaller, but it can also open it up.

Our videos are created for the small gaps in someone’s day. They might watch while having a break, sitting in the car or scrolling before bed. We only have a short time to make them laugh, think or connect with a story.

consider an experience differently.

What stays with us is knowing people are connecting with the humour, honesty and relationship at the centre of it.

Where to from here? Have you got any plans to expand your platform or new projects on the horizon?

We want to take the connection we have created online and bring it into the community.

On Thursday 10 September, we are holding our first aban ros ocial in partnership with Kismet at the Coffs Harbour Showground. It will be People can an evening of boccia, make music, refreshments and assumptions about conversation. someone’s

personality, intelligence or ability to contribute before taking the time to actually know them.

We are not trying to change the world through one post. If a video encourages someone to pause, begin a conversation or consider another perspective, then it has already done something worthwhile.

What has surprised you most about the response to your videos? Have any comments or messages stayed with you?

The biggest surprise has been seeing how far stories created by two brothers can travel. The amount of views we’ve had has overwhelmed us.

People have told us that our videos remind them of their own siblings or capture something they have never been able to put into words. Others have said that a story encouraged them to

The idea is to create a networking event that feels more like a gettogether. Boccia inclusivity gives everyone something to do together, allowing conversations to develop naturally. We want people from across the Coffs community to meet, enjoy themselves and participate in the way that feels right for them.

We would also like to explore longer stories, creative collaborations and more community events. Whatever comes next, we want The Saban Bros to remain grounded in our relationship and share stories we genuinely want to tell in formats that reach the right audiences.

Where can we check out your videos and follow along?

You can follow us on Instagram at @sabanbros and find us on acebook by searching aban Bros.

That is where we share our latest videos, stories and updates about upcoming projects and events. We post every Tuesday.

COFFS COAST focus 69

Cutlers Tyrepower

M

D

e ve gro n up around the business, first hen op o ned it and then hen ad took over. I started orking here hile still at school, initially or pocket money. hen the opportunity came to complete a trade certificate, I le t school to pursue a career in the industry.

y ourney into the automotive industry started young. I orked part time at epco be ore beginning a school based apprenticeship at . I orked my ay through my apprenticeship and qualified as a mechanic. hat I en oy most is solving problems, fi ing vehicles and getting people sa ely back on the road.

itchell utler

I m a qualified mechanic ho has recently moved into an o fice based role, learning more about the administration and management side o utlers Tyrepo er. nderstanding both the orkshop and business sides is important to me as I look to ards contributing to the company s uture gro th.

I m no en oying learning more about hat happens behind the scenes and gaining a broader understanding o the business.

The team is one o my avourite things about utlers. There s a real amily eel, ith many sta having been here or years. I m proud o completing my trade certificate, the utler name and our amily s contribution to the community. eing part o the ne t generation and helping carry that legacy or ard means a lot to me.

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arcy utler

I m a ully qualified mechanic ith a li elong passion or cars. hen I m not orking on cars, you ll probably find me riding dirt bikes I love being hands on and tackling the practical side o the business.

The team is hat makes utlers Tyrepo er special. any sta have been ith the business or years, creating a great culture and strong amily eel.

I m incredibly proud o the legacy op built and ad continues today. They ve orked hard to create a trusted, respected business hile giving back to the community.

I m proud to be part o the ne t generation and e cited about continuing the utlers legacy.

Sarah Rose Finance

H

ow Sarah Rose is helping Coffs Coast families build their financial future

personalised finance strategies. er business is gro ing through trusted relationships and re errals, ith a vision to help more o s oast amilies use finance to create greater choice, e ibility and financial reedom.

ith more than years lending e perience, arah ose has built arah ose inance around Sarah helps a simple clients belie finance understand the should create bigger picture from opportunities, usable equity and not unnecessary borrowing capacity stress.

s your current lending structure helping or holding bac your next move?

al to arah ose to loan structures pecialising inance about and long-term in sel employed your ne t move strategy. clients, property h investors and sarah comple lending applications, arah helps clients understand the sarahrosefinance.com.au sarahrosefinance.com.au bigger picture rom usable equity and borro ing capacity to loan Insta sararosefinance structures and long term strategy. or business o ners and amilies hose financial circumstances don t al ays fit neatly into a bank calculator, arah provides straight ans ers, strong advocacy and

JDG Constructions Photo Credit: Mitch Franzi JDG Constructions Photo Credit: Mitch Franzi

Karli Rann

Josie Carin

Apprentice, Carpet Court

Natropath

My previous workplace closed in 2023, and my uncle, one of the owners of Carpet Court, had always joked about me working for him. I decided to give it a go, and no I m in the final year of my apprenticeship and loving it!

I’ve always enjoyed hands-on work, especially the variety of locations and pro ects. Trades benefit rom having both men and omen, and ooring has given me confidence to achieve things I never thought possible. I’d love other women to experience that too. Flooring also offers diverse career pathways, including installation, sales, marketing, design and administration.

After more than 20 years in natural medicine, Coffs Coast Naturopath Josie Carin has found her calling: helping women better understand and manage migraine. Living with migraine herself, Josie combines professional expertise with genuine lived experience.

She explores what may be driving attacks, rom nutrient deficiencies and hormones to stress and gut health, creating personalised, practical plans.

Her new online program, Migraine Well, brings this approach Australia-wide through education, tailored nutrition and evidence-informed natural medicine alongside conventional care. Josie also offers one-to-one

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Sharna Lindsay

relaxing environment, Sharna specialises in colour, cuts, extensions and treatments, COFFS COAST focus 99 while leading a passionate team dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best. Rose Gold Hair & Beauty has earned a loyal following thanks to its exceptional service and commitment to quality. As Sharna embarks on her next chapter, the business is now for sale, presenting an exciting opportunity for the right buyer to take over a well-established and highly regarded salon.

Rose Gold Hair & Beauty

29 Little Street

With more than seven years experience in the hair industry, Sharna Lindsay has built Rose Gold Hair & Beauty into one of Coffs Harbour’s most loved boutique salons. Known for creating beautiful, personalised results in a welcoming and

5606 2512 rosegoldhairbeauty@gmail. com

consultations from her Sapphire Beach clinic and online.

Her message is simple: if you live with migraine, you have more options than you think. josiecarin.com hello@josiecarin.com.

Chelsea Robinson Financial Adviser

At CarePlan Advisory Services, e believe financial advice should provide more than numbers - it should provide clarity, confidence and peace of mind. Founded by Chelsea Robinson, who has worked in financial planning since and as a financial planner since 2011, CarePlan specialises in aged care, Centrelink and retirement planning. Chelsea’s o n ourney into financial planning inspired her passion for helping others understand their options and make in ormed financial decisions.

With personalised guidance and ongoing support, CarePlan helps individuals and families navigate important life decisions, maximise their entitlements

and prepare confidently or retirement, providing trusted advice every step of the way.

0439 996 500 chelsea@careplanadvisory. com.au careplanadvisory.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 71

Hunter Metcalf From the age of just seven, Hunter Metcalf has been captivating audiences with his talent, passion and dedication to the performing arts. A gifted singer, dancer and actor, Hunter has performed with the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company, sung at Urunga Carols by Candlelight, performed the National Anthem for the Governor-General and appeared at international events at the Sydney Opera House. After 10 years with Julie Ross Dance Studio, he has earned numerous local and national awards and was nominated for both HSC Drama and Dance as one of the state’s best. Next year, Hunter will take the next exciting step in his journey after receiving a scholarship to study dance at Village Nation Performing Arts, continuing to pursue his dream on a national stage.

Luca McLean Luca McLean is one of the North Coast’s brightest young performing arts talents. A true triple threat, he excels in dance, singing and acting, earning roles and recognition well beyond his years. This year, Luca was selected as a principal dancer for Pulse Alive, performed in Murwillumbah’s combined schools musical as Michael Banks, and represented the North Coast in Sydney. He has also appeared in theatre productions, a eature film and on hannel . Training more than 12 hours each week, Luca even raises funds for his dance education through recycling and online clothing sales. His dedication, resilience and passion make him a deserving Rising Star of the Coffs Coast.

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Nicola McEwan MAKEUP BY NICOLA JILL BROWS BY NICOLA JILL

W

hat started as a little side hustle has grown into something I never could have imagined.

Makeup by Nicola Jill began from my love of makeup and creating beautiful looks for others, and over time it has become a genuine passion and a business that feels like an extension of me.

More recently, that passion has grown into Brows by Nicola Jill, allowing me to combine my love of makeup and beauty in a way that feels completely natural.

What I love most about what I do is the confidence that comes rom helping someone feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin. Whether I’m creating soft, natural makeup for a bride or special occasion, or shaping and enhancing someone’s brows, I love seeing that moment when a client looks in the mirror and feels like the best version of themselves.

I think what sets my businesses apart is the personal experience

I offer. I want every client to feel relaxed, listened to and genuinely cared for, while still achieving a result that feels like them. I’m passionate about enhancing natural beauty rather than changing it.

One of my proudest achievements has been watching my side hustle grow into a business that I’m genuinely proud to call my own, with so many wonderful clients returning and recommending me to others. Being a local business owner on the Coffs Coast is incredibly special. I love building relationships within the community and being part of so many exciting and memorable moments in my clients’ lives.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing both sides of the business, developing my skills and services, and creating a beauty business that continues to feel like a true extension of who I am. @makeupbynicolajill @browsbynicolajill

Stef&Co Bringing an authentic taste of Italy to the heart of the Coffs Coast, Stef&Co has quickly established itself as one of the region’s most exciting dining destinations. From artisan coffee and pastries to cocktails, pizza and sophisticated Italian dining overlooking Coffs Creek, the venue is built around great food, connection and genuine hospitality. We caught up with Vito and the team to discover the story behind Stef&Co and what’s next for this Coffs Coast Rising Star.

T

ell us about Stef&Co and the journey that brought you to where you are today.

Our journey began with a clear, shared vision between Stefano, Roberto and myself: to bring an authentic piece of our Italian heritage to the Coffs Coast and create a truly unique dining precinct.

the rush of their day is incredibly rewarding.

The food and view are important, but it’s the atmosphere that makes the experience special.

Knowing we’ve created somewhere people can slow down, connect and enjoy each other’s company is what we love most.

Osteria has become a favourite among locals. What makes it special and what is the vision behind it?

We knew the Promenade was the perfect location for a multi-concept destination where locals could gather from morning until late.

Osteria at Stef&Co has a vibrant Italian soul.

Overlooking beautiful Coffs Creek, it offers a sophisticated yet welcoming environment where people can immediately feel at home.

Guests can start their day with artisan coffee and pastries at our café and bakery, then wind down with pizza and the lively atmosphere of our cocktail bar. At the heart of the experience is our Osteria restaurant, which represents the pinnacle of what we set out to create.

Our vision is to celebrate regional Italian culture by combining premium, locally sourced ingredients with centuries-old traditions. We want to deliver an authentic Italian experience while creating something that feels completely at home here on the Coffs Coast.

What do you love most about creating memorable dining experiences for your guests?

What is your proudest achievement since launching the business?

It’s the energy that builds as the sun sets over the river and the restaurant comes alive. Seeing people laughing, relaxing and forgetting about

eeing steria filled ith laughter, long unday lunches and romantic dinners by the water is exactly what we hoped to achieve.

Good Food Guide, which celebrated our authentic Pici Aglione, was also an incredible milestone. Having our work recognised on a national level validates the dedication our entire team pours into what we do.

As one of the Coffs Coast Rising Stars, what’s next for Stef&Co? Being recognised as a Coffs Coast Rising Star fuels our passion to keep evolving. We’re particularly excited about growing our vibrant community events and creating even more reasons for people to come together.

We want to continue elevating the regional dining scene while staying completely true to who we are, celebrating authentic Italian food, genuine hospitality and the wonderful Coffs Coast community we call home.

319–321 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour (The Promenade) stefandco.com.au

Being featured in the Sydney Morning Herald COFFS COAST focus 73

Why every growing business needs a HR Partner, not just a HR Policy

F

or many small and medium-sized businesses across Australia, HR is the function that gets attention only when something goes rong a di ficult dismissal, an unexpected complaint, a Fair Work claim that arrives without warning. By then, the cost of getting it wrong has already been paid, in legal fees, in management time, and often in the trust of the wider team.

The businesses that fare best are the ones that treat HR as an ongoing partnership rather than a once-a-year compliance exercise.

That means having clear, welldrafted policies in place before they're needed, not after. It means leaders who understand their obligations under the Fair Work Act and workplace health and safety legislation, and who have someone to call when they don’t know how they should manage it.

It means investing in the people side of the business with the same discipline applied to finance or operations, because culture, engagement and capability don't build themselves.

This is where experienced, practical HR advice makes a genuine difference. Not generic

74 COFFS COAST focus

templates pulled off the internet, but guidance shaped by someone who has actually sat across the table from business owners, CEOs and leadership teams and helped them work through real workforce challenges - recruitment gone wrong, restructures, workplace investigations, award interpretation, or simply how to have a hard conversation well.

Trusted HR Solutions, led by Principal Consultant Tania Langler, brings more than 25 years of hands-on experience to exactly this kind of work. From HR advisory and employee relations to leadership development, industrial relations and recruitment, the focus is always the same: practical, clear advice ithout the u , that helps businesses manage risk while building stronger, more capable teams.

For SMEs juggling growth, compliance and everyday people challenges all at once, that kind of trusted, experienced support isn't a luxury, it's what keeps a business steady when the pressure is on and thriving when the opportunity is there to take. o find out ho rusted olutions can support your business get in touch today

COFFS COAST focus 75

Celebrating the people, partnerships and passion behind specialist cardiac care in our region.

76 COFFS COAST focus

Dr Tanya Stewart is a highly respected linical ardiologist providing comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and long term management o cardiovascular disease. he is recognised or her compassionate approach, commitment to preventative cardiology and collaborative care, orking closely ith patients and their s to achieve the best possible long term outcomes. he is skilled in the management o heart ailure, arrhythmias, pre operative assessment, omen s heart disease and the management o breathlessness.

D R P A O L O D ’A M B R O S I O

r Henderson and Dr Stewart Your cardiologists have built an outstanding have been providing reputation across the region. What does specialist cardiac care each specialist bring to the practice? One to the Mid North Coast of the greatest strengths of Mid North Coast for 18 years. What does ardiac ervices is the depth and diversity o reaching this mean to the practice and the e pertise ithin our specialist team, allo ing community? Reaching 18 years of specialist patients throughout the region to access cardiac care in the Mid North Coast region comprehensive cardiac care locally. is a significant milestone and a testament r avid enderson is an Interventional and to the trust our Clinical Cardiologist, specialising patients, referrers and in both the diagnosis and Over the past community have placed minimally invasive treatment o two decades, in us. coronary artery disease and other we have had the This milestone comple cardiac conditions. privilege of caring for represents a much r enderson established thousands of patients longer commitment to Interventional ardiology while witnessing the region. It re ects remarkable advances on the Mid North Coast and nearly 20 years of in cardiovascular in 2008 he began stenting dedication rom r medicine. procedures at o s arbour avid enderson and ealth ampus. e as the r Tanya te art ho have cared or patients first cardiologist bet een e castle and the across the id orth oast and orked old oast to regularly per orm coronary artery alongside the local healthcare community to stenting. In 2018 he established the Cardiac help build access to high-quality cardiac care ngiography nit at aringa rivate ospital. close to home.

In he established the first T oronary angiography service on the id orth oast at ver the past t o decades, e have had the i radiology. e has been instrumental in privilege o caring or thousands o patients establishing much o the cardiac in rastructure hile itnessing remarkable advances in o s arbour en oys today. e is an e pert in cardiovascular medicine. Through it all, our ischaemic heart disease, coronary intervention ocus has remained the same to deliver and stenting, management o lipids and amily outstanding clinical care hile building lasting risk, hypertension and the investigation o chest relationships ith our patients, re erring doctors and the ider community. pain.

D R TA N YA S T E W A R T

D R D AV I D H E N D E R S O N

D

for the Mid North Coast

Dr Paolo D’Ambrosio is a respected ardiac Electrophysiologist specialising in the diagnosis and treatment o heart rhythm disorders. e is highly skilled in all atrial fibrillation ablation techniques, including Pulsed Field Ablation , and per orms ablations or both simple and comple cardiac arrhythmias. e also implants all types o cardiac pacemakers and implantable defibrillators, including advanced conduction system pacing.

Clinical Team - Tanya J, Noni, Olivia, Bianca and Jonathon

The strength of any healthcare service is its people. Tell us about your highly skilled team.

Our team is the heart of Mid North Coast ardiac ervices, and our success re ects their expertise, dedication and genuine commitment to patient care. While our cardiologists lead clinical decision-making, delivering outstanding outcomes is very much a team effort.

Our sonographers – Jonathon, Bianca, Tanya J and Amy and our cardiac technicians Noni and trainee Olivia perform specialised investigations including echocardiograms, stress testing and heart rhythm monitoring, providing the detailed information our cardiologists rely on to diagnose and manage heart disease.

Jonathon has been part o since the early days of the practice, joining the team in 2014. He has grown alongside the practice and developed his career within cardiac diagnostics. is progression re ects his dedication and commitment to building his skills ithin the healthcare field.

Since joining MNCCS, Jonathon has completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of New England

and a postgraduate Diploma in Cardiac care re ects the values that are central to Ultrasound at Queensland University of the MNCCS team.

Technology. He has developed extensive Tanya J brings ith her more than years experience in cardiac investigations and of experience as a Cardiac Sonographer across device management, with expertise in both private practice and the public hospital pacemaker and defibrillator interrogation sector. Tanya J holds a Master of Science in and programming. His technical knowledge, Clinical Physiology, a Bachelor of Biomedical attention to detail and lovely manner with cience rom ri fith niversity patients have made and her Diploma of Medical him an invaluable Ultrasound (Cardiac). Tanya J The future of member o our brings an e ceptional level o cardiology is clinical team. knowledge, precision and clinical

incredibly exciting, with expertise to her work. Just as Bianca oined advances in technology importantly, Tanya’s kindness, MNCCS in 2020 enabling earlier diagnosis, professionalism and dedication after completing more personalised are evident in every patient her Bachelor treatment and improved interaction. of Sport and outcomes.

Exercise Science Noni is a kindhearted, at Southern Cross empathetic and caring member University and of our team. She works closely has continued to develop her expertise in alongside Liv and the sonographers, always cardiac diagnostics while completing further willing to lend a hand, share her knowledge postgraduate study in cardiac ultrasound. and support those around her. Her dedication, Alongside her technical skills, Bianca’s calm and professional approach helps patients eel com ortable and supported throughout their investigations. Her commitment to ongoing learning and delivering high-quality

reliability and genuine care or both our patients and her colleagues make her an important part o the team. oni brings a calm and positive attitude to her work and is always ready to step in wherever she is needed.

COFFS COAST focus 77

dmin eam

ania

olleen

ee

ucy and ylie

ften the first and last faces patients see are your administration team hy are they such an important part of the patient e perience?

Our administration team — Practice Manager Dee, Colleen, Tania, Kylie and Lucy play an integral role in the patient experience at . ten the first and last point o contact for our patients, they help create a welcoming, supportive and professional environment from the very beginning.

Their warmth, dedication and attention to detail ensures patients feel valued and cared for throughout every stage of their journey.

From managing appointments and referrals to coordinating communication with GPs, hospitals and our clinical team, their work behind the scenes is essential to delivering a seamless patient experience.

Through a focus on collaboration, communication and continuous improvement, the team have developed a positive workplace culture where staff feel valued and empowered to provide the best possible experience for patients.

For the past six years, the program has provided Year 12 graduates from Coffs Harbour Senior College with the opportunity to begin a rewarding healthcare career without leaving the region. The traineeship combines practical, hands-on experience within our busy cardiology practice with mentoring from our experienced technicians, sonographers and cardiologists.

Importantly, what has not changed is who we are. Our cardiologists, technicians, nurses and administration team remain the familiar faces our patients know and trust. We continue to work closely with local GPs, hospitals and healthcare providers, maintaining the strong relationships that have been central to cardiac care in our region.

A wonderful example of the program is Olivia, who joined the clinic eight months ago at just 18 years of age. Olivia has quickly become a valued member of our team, bringing enthusiasm, professionalism and a genuinely caring nature to every patient interaction.

s cardiac care continues to evolve hat e cites you most about the future of ?

At the end of 2026, Olivia will leave us to commence her Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Newcastle. While we will certainly miss her, we could not be prouder of everything she has achieved and the exciting future ahead of her. is no part of dvara eart are hat advantages does being part of a national organisation provide hile still delivering local personalised care?

The future of cardiology is incredibly exciting.

Advances in technology are enabling earlier diagnosis, more personalised treatment and better outcomes for patients than ever before.

Clinically we are excited about improvements in the management of Lipids (cholesterol), the improvements in CT Coronary Angiography allowing non-invasive imaging of the coronary arteries and advances in the understanding of women’s health and the impact of hormones on cardiac health throughout their life.

our ardiac echnician raineeship has been creating opportunities for local students for the past si years o does the program or and hat ma es it so valuable?

Joining Advara HeartCare represents an exciting new chapter for Mid North Coast Cardiac Services. It enables us to combine our personalised care and trusted relationships with the strength, innovation and clinical expertise of Australia’s largest cardiology networks.

We are equally excited about continuing to invest in our people. Whether it is supporting our experienced clinicians, developing future healthcare professionals through our traineeship program or strengthening our partnerships across the region, our greatest asset has always been our team.

Investing in the future of healthcare has always been important to Mid North Coast Cardiac Services, and our Cardiac Technician Traineeship is something we are incredibly proud of.

For our patients, it means access to the latest advances in cardiovascular medicine while continuing to receive care from the same trusted local specialists and support team.

We are proud of our history, excited about our future, and honoured to continue caring for the people of the Mid North Coast for many years to come.

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

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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.

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i-med.com.au COFFS COAST focus 79

I-MED Coffs Harbour Press Ad 2_H237xW92mm.indd 1

11/06/2026 5:02:33 PM

BARRY BUTLER COFFS HARBOUR BRIDGE CLUB P R E S I D E N T

As the Coffs Harbour Bridge Club celebrates 30 years at its City Hill Drive clubhouse, president Barry Butler reflects on the club’s beginnings, its thriving community and why bridge continues to bring people together across generations.

T

he Coffs Harbour Bridge Club is celebrating 30 years at its City Hill Drive clubhouse. What does reaching this milestone mean to you and the club’s

members?

nniversaries invite us to pause, re ect and celebrate shared ourneys. s e mark years, e honour the riendships, dedication and spirit that have made this club e ceptional. ince its ounding, o s arbour ridge lub has been more than a place to play cards.

It has been a gathering space or people ho en oy a challenge, partnership and camaraderie. trategies have been tested, conventions debated, triumphs celebrated and lessons learned, al ays in the spirit o good sportsmanship and mutual respect.

This anniversary is a tribute to the ounders, the volunteers hose quiet e orts sustain the club, and every member ho has contributed time, enthusiasm and riendship. Together, they have built not ust a club, but a tradition.

Do you know much about the club’s beginnings in 1996? What was the original vision for creating a dedicated clubhouse?

In , a small group o local residents, ith the help o eorge ermont, started playing bridge in small venues around o s arbour.

Taught by eorge, the group quickly gre

80 COFFS COAST focus

to three or our venues. needed, and so it began.

ridge lub

as

loan rom o s ity ouncil as acquired, building started in ay and as completed in uly. The first game in the ne premises as on ugust , .

ur eek long annual congress at pal ove esort attracts bridge players rom all over ustralia and e ealand. t present, I believe e are the third largest bridge congress in ustralia. e are also being targeted by the ustralian ridge ederation and ridge to host local and nation ide tournaments, hich helps promote o s arbour.

embership continued to gro and the club held its first congress at autilus esort, ith For people who have tables. embers never played bridge, volunteered to do what is it about the hatever as needed, This anniversary game that keeps people including caddying is a tribute to coming back? and dealing boards. the founders, the The ollo ing year It e ercises your grey volunteers whose cells, keeping them sharp e had tables and quiet efforts sustain or years to come, and eventually moved to the club, and every pal ove esort, idens your social circle. member who has It s a game or any age – here the congress contributed time, gre to tables. all generations, rom si to enthusiasm and , can play together. e no limit it to friendship. around tables or ou orm ne everyone s com ort. partnerships, improve ur members continue your skills o logic, deduction and lateral to support and volunteer, hich is the key to thinking, and become part o an international our success. community. ou can play at your o n level, How has the club evolved over the past three decades?

hether socially or competitively, and there s al ays a ne challenge.

ongevity and success have been the cornerstone o the club. embership is around and e are the largest bridge club on the orth oast.

ur ridge or rains session also supports the l heimer s ssociation, ith proceeds rom club game ees and e tra donations given to the association.

If you want to try playing, you’ll be paired with a helpful mentor or placed in a relaxed novice group that doesn’t rush you.

You don’t need to be nervous about asking questions.

The club isn't just about competitive bridge. How important is the social side?

bridge teaching at

Joining a club is basically a shortcut to belonging, growth and opportunities. It gives you a structured reason to keep showing up around people who care about the same thing you do.

Creative week in

videos on our

There is a Bridge home

Socially, it makes it easier to make friends, provides built-in conversation topics, can reduce loneliness and gives you a recurring social routine. At its core, a club gives you community, identity, practice and access.

website, and we

for members at all levels

the annual Camp Bellingen.

We have an extensive library and teaching

encourage members

With a solid base and dedicated members, the club continues to set high standards of play, education and growth of the game of bridge.

of play, from those

to partner beginners during our five playing

who “play for sheep stations” to those

sessions each week. We’re very aware of the

tackling the game after retirement. Inter-club

importance of developing and inviting new

What are some of the highlights of the club’s events and tournaments?

friendships link us with others throughout

players into our ranks.

the region, and we are by no means isolated.

The highlight of the year is undoubtedly the Gold Point week-long Congress at Opal Cove Resort, usually held in August. In 2026, entries have been capped at 90 teams due to restrictions on oor space and the number o tables. ntries fill ithin several eeks o going on offer.

As part of the anniversary celebrations,

Our Super Congress has become so popular

what can locals expect if they come

that many would-be participants must join

along for the first time?

a growing wait list. Not only does the club

Visitors can expect a warm welcome, a

benefit rom our

surprisingly lively and social room, quiet

Coffs Harbour businesses, restaurants and

focus during hands and an easy introduction

the venue itself. From congress revenue, we

to beginner-friendly lessons or social viewing.

are also able to support the Coffs community

We have also recently been asked to host the NSW State Pairs and Teams Regional Finals, which is a great recognition for the club.

Someone from the club will meet you at the

through donations to not or profit

What does the club offer someone who has never played bridge before but is curious to give it a try?

We have weekly beginner and intermediate lessons at the clubhouse, and our educators have also visited homes and other sites for those interested. The club is involved in

old ongress, but so do

door, introduce you to members and guide

organisations each year.

you on where to sit or watch. If you want

We are eternally grateful to the members

to try playing, you’ll be paired with a helpful

in the 1990s who provided such a strong

mentor or placed in a relaxed novice group

foundation for the club. As the next

that doesn’t rush you. You don’t need to be

generations take over the reins and tackle

nervous about asking questions.

the challenges ahead, there will be stories

What are your hopes for the next

to be told and victories to be celebrated in

chapter of the Coffs Harbour Bridge

future years.

Club?

Thanks Barry.

COFFS COAST focus 81

82 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

PATTERNS OF SELFSABOTAGE IN RELATIONSHIPS: UNDERSTANDING AND OVERCOMING THEM

R

elationships are often described as mirrors, re ecting not only the beauty o connection but also the vulnerabilities and patterns e carry ithin ourselves. mong these patterns, sel sabotage may quietly undermine even the most promising relationships, leaving you eeling stuck, misunderstood, or disconnected. el sabotage in relationships o ten stems rom deep seated ears and insecurities. or some, the ear o re ection or abandonment may lead to behaviours that push others a ay, even hen connection is deeply desired. This parado ical dynamic o ten arises rom past e periences, here vulnerability may have been met ith pain or disappointment. s a result, you may unconsciously create distance or con ict to protect yoursel rom potential hurt. hile these behaviours may eel like sel preservation in the moment, they may erode trust and intimacy over time. nother common pattern o sel sabotage is rooted in perfectionism and unrealistic e pectations. hen you hold yoursel or your partner to unattainable standards, the relationship becomes a source of constant pressure rather than support. This may mani est as e cessive criticism, a reluctance to sho vulnerability, or an inability to accept imper ections in onesel or others. ver time, these patterns may create a sense o inadequacy or resentment, making it di ficult or the relationship to thrive.

Communication breakdowns are another

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

sel sabotaging behaviour. voiding di ficult conversations, suppressing emotions, or resorting to passive aggressive communication may create a cycle o misunderstanding and rustration. These behaviours o ten stem rom a ear o con ict or re ection, but they ultimately prevent the open, honest dialogue that is essential or healthy relationships. ithout clear communication, small issues may escalate into larger con icts, urther straining the connection.

Trust issues may also play a significant role in sel sabotage. I you have e perienced betrayal or inconsistency in the past you may struggle to ully trust your partner, even hen there is no evidence o rongdoing. This lack o trust may lead to behaviours such as e cessive questioning, ealousy, or a need or constant reassurance. hile these actions may be driven by a desire or security, they may inadvertently create tension and distance ithin the relationship.

Strategies to Overcome Self-Sabotage in Relationships The first step in overcoming sel sabotage is recognising the patterns and understanding their origins. el sabotage is o ten driven by negative beliefs about oneself or the relationship, such as I m not good enough or eople al ays leave. These belie s may become sel ulfilling prophecies i le t unchecked. ractice challenging these thoughts and replacing negative beliefs with more balanced, compassionate perspectives. This may help shi t your mindset and reduce sel sabotaging behaviours.

ealthy relationships thrive on honest and open communication. I you tend to avoid di ficult conversations or suppress your emotions, start by practising small acts o vulnerability. hare your eelings ith your partner in a calm and non con rontational ay, using I statements to e press your needs. any sel sabotaging behaviours are rooted in emotional over helm. earning to regulate your emotions may help you respond to challenges in a more constructive ay. Techniques such as mind ulness, deep breathing, and grounding e ercises may help you stay present and calm during moments o stress.

I sel sabotage patterns eel deeply ingrained or di ficult to overcome on your o n, seeking support rom a health pro essional may be invaluable. Therapy provides a sa e space to e plore the underlying causes o sel sabotage, develop healthier coping strategies, and build stronger relational skills. vercoming sel sabotage is a ourney, and it is important to treat yoursel ith kindness and understanding along the ay. ckno ledge your progress, no matter ho small, and remind yoursel that change takes time. ractising sel compassion may help you as you ork to ard healthier relationship patterns. ntil ne t time, be kind and gentle

ith yoursel .

Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach), GradCertPlayArtTherapy Member of the Australian Counselling Association COFFS COAST focus 83

WELCOME DENTAL Prevention, Education and Positive Dental Experiences

MEET SUSIE AND BRIONY

S

usie graduated rom the niversity o e castle in and has spent the past years orking as an ral ealth Therapist ith the team at elcome ental. he as dra n to oral health because it combines healthcare, education and orking ith people, hile allo ing her to help prevent problems be ore they become more serious. ver the years, usie s career has gro n alongside her amily. he orked ith the elcome ental team throughout her pregnancy and has continued orking hile raising her si year old son. alancing motherhood and a career has taught her plenty about e ibility, time management and remembering here she put her co ee

S

early management o dental disease. t elcome ental, usie and riony provide preventive treatments or patients o all ages, including cleans, uoride applications, fissure sealants and oral hygiene education.

more complicated.

or usie, one o the most re arding parts o the role is helping young patients establish good habits early, making dental care eel normal and positive rather than something to ear.

The role of an Oral Health Therapist

revention is at the heart o elcome ental s approach. egular dental care can reduce the risk o tooth decay, gum disease

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s usie says, revention really is better than cure, especially hen the alternative involves a dental drill

s a ental Therapist, she also completes e aminations and restorative treatments, ducation is also key. mall changes to including cro ns brushing technique, and e tractions o diet or daily routines primary teeth. ral can make a significant Regular dental ealth Therapists di erence. riony care can reduce ork closely agrees, e plaining that the risk of tooth decay, ith dentists and preventive dentistry helps gum disease and other may assist ith reduce the risk o tooth oral health problems radiographs, decay, gum disease and while allowing small diagnosis and bone loss hile limiting issues to be identified anaesthesia, as ell the need or irreversible before they become as orthodontic care. intervention.

Briony as inspired by her o n childhood e perience ith dentistry. ter finishing ear , she moved rom o s arbour to ydney and began orking as a dental assistant. ollo ing several years in the role, she decided to urther her career in oral health therapy, ith a goal o ensuring her patients have positive dental e periences. ral ealth Therapists ocus strongly on prevention, oral health education and the

and other oral health problems hile allo ing small issues to be identified be ore they become more complicated.

The importance of prevention

Common dental concerns

or children, tooth decay is one o the most common concerns. egular brushing ith uoride toothpaste, limiting sugary oods and drinks, and attending regular dental appointments can all help. issure sealants can also protect the grooves o permanent teeth.

Teenagers may e perience decay, gum in ammation and challenges maintaining

Limiting the frequency of sugary foods and drinks, drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet are important. Most importantly, don’t wait until something hurts before visiting your dental professional, as dental problems can develop without obvious symptoms.

B оy good oral hygiene, particularly when undergoing orthodontic treatment.

For adults, common concerns include gum disease, tooth decay, erosion and sensitivity.

The foundations remain simple: brush t ice a day ith uoride toothpaste, clean between the teeth, maintain a balanced diet and attend regular dental appointments.

Supporting anxious patients Dental anxiety is common, and both Susie and Briony understand the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment. usie believes listening is the first step.

Patients should feel heard and never judged.

She explains what is happening, why it is necessary and what they can expect, while allowing patients to take things at their own pace. Agreeing on a signal for a break can also help patients feel more in control.

Briony’s own childhood experiences have shaped the way she treats patients. She tailors treatment plans to individual needs, recognising that some patients prefer to complete treatment quickly while others benefit rom spacing appointments out.

She also uses a “tell, show, do” approach, particularly with children, so patients understand what is happening before treatment begins.

Everyday habits for a healthy smile

The Welcome Dental team

The basics remain the most important. Brush t ice a day or t o minutes ith uoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily using oss or interdental brushes.

For Susie, it is the people who make orking at elcome ental so re arding.

After 13 years, the team feels like an extended family. She particularly enjoys seeing familiar faces and watching young patients grow from nervous children into confident, independent dental patients.

Limiting the frequency of sugary foods and drinks, drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet are also important. Most importantly, don’t wait until something hurts before visiting your dental professional, as dental problems can develop without obvious symptoms.

Briony describes the practice as a fun and busy environment where the team works hard, supports each other and enjoys plenty of laughter along the way.

Technology and innovation

Why they love what they do

Dental technology has come a long way since Susie graduated in 2013. Digital imaging, improved diagnostic technology, electric toothbrushes, ater ossers and advances in preventive products are helping make oral healthcare more effective and personalised.

Both Susie and Briony agree that seeing an ious patients become confident is one o the most rewarding parts of their work.

Both Briony and Susie particularly love the ir o technology at elcome ental, describing it as a gentle “tooth spa” that comfortably polishes teeth. She also values the iTero scanner, which is useful for patient education and for ordering appliances such as Invisalign, retainers and mouthguards, as well as monitoring tooth wear and recession.

For Briony, this is exactly why she became an Oral Health Therapist – to create a fun and relaxed environment where children and adults can feel comfortable visiting the dentist, hopefully carrying that positive experience into adulthood and even passing those healthy attitudes on to their own children. t elcome ental, it is about more than treating teeth. It is about prevention, education, building trust and helping patients eel confident about their oral health for life.

COFFS COAST focus 85

UNTIL YOU’VE READ

These 5 Truths Mention the word hypnosis and people usually have one of two reactions: “I’d LOVE to try that,” or, “No chance. Nobody is taking control of my mind!”

A

fter years of working with hypnosis, I can tell you that most of what people think they know about it comes from movies, television and a few very convincing myths.

So before you ever volunteer at a hypnosis show, book a hypnotherapy session or decide hypnosis “would never work on you”, here are five things I believe everyone should kno .

1. A hypnotist cannot control your mind.

Let’s get the biggest myth out of the way first. ypnosis is not mind control. ou don t hand your brain over to another person, lose your values or suddenly become incapable of making your own choices. A hypnotist guides your attention, imagination and responses, but you are still participating in the experience.

In fact, good hypnosis relies far more on cooperation than control.

2. You already go into hypnosis every single day. Ever picked up your phone for five minutes and suddenly realised you ve been doom-scrolling for an hour? Ever watched a brilliant movie and found yourself laughing, crying or sitting on the edge of your seat, even though you know the people on the screen are actors? Or driven somewhere amiliar and arrived thinking, o did I get

86 COFFS COAST focus

here already? These are all examples of your attention becoming deeply absorbed in an experience and hypnosis works the same. It isn’t some strange state a hypnotist puts you into. our brain already kno s ho to do it.

we want to change them. This is one reason hypnosis can be so effective: rather than only talking about a pattern intellectually, we can work with the automatic processes underneath it.

3. Being hypnotised doesn’t mean being unconscious. One of the most common things people say to me after hypnosis is, “But I could hear you the whole time!” ood. ou re supposed to. ypnosis isn t an anaesthetic. ou don t need to be asleep, unconscious or unaware of your surroundings. ou might hear noises in the room, notice your thoughts or even wonder, Am I actually hypnotised? None of that means it isn’t orking. ypnosis is generally about ocused attention, not switching your brain off.

5. The person guiding you matters. ypnosis isn t simply kno ing a e clever words or learning how to make somebody feel sleepy. A skilled hypnotist understands attention, communication, suggestion, behaviour and, most importantly, people. ou should feel respected, comfortable and able to ask questions about what is happening.

4. Your subconscious is already running more of your life than you realise. Think about learning to ride a bike. t first, you consciously thought about your balance, the pedals, the handlebars and where you were going. Eventually, you stopped thinking about every individual movement and simply rode. our brain had automated the process. e do the same thing with countless habits, reactions, beliefs and emotional patterns.

Some of those patterns help us, while others continue long after we consciously decide

Perhaps the biggest truth of all is this: you are not giving your power away when you experience hypnosis, it’s the opposite. It can sho you ust ho much in uence your o n mind has over what you feel, believe and do.

Once you understand that, hypnosis becomes far less mysterious and the human mind becomes a whole lot more fascinating. ou ve read the truths. o there s only one question left… what would happen if you tried it?

Krystal Brown | Hypnotist 0421 454 947 hello@hypnotistkrystalbrown.com hypnotistkrystalbrown.com

Helloworld GRETA LINDSAY AND ANDREW WELLINGTON

C O F F S

H A R B O U R

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS

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For 35 years, Helloworld Travel Coffs Harbour has been helping locals create unforgettable holidays. Owner Greta Lindsay celebrates 35 years in business alongside Senior Travel Consultant Andrew Wellington, who marks 25 years with the agency along with Nathan Keating. Together, they've built a reputation for personalised service, expert advice and creating memorable travel experiences for generations of Coffs Coast travellers.

G

reta, this year marks 35 years in business, while Andrew celebrates 25 years with Helloworld Coffs Harbour. What does reaching those milestones mean to you both?

It means the world to us. Over the years I’ve been fortunate to employ wonderful staff, including team members who stayed for 22 and 17 years. Having Andrew share this journey for 25 years has been especially rewarding. During that time, I’ve watched him marry, raise two children and become a grandfather. Sharing those milestones has been a privilege.

How has the travel industry changed over the years, and what have been some of the biggest shifts you’ve seen during your time in the business?

The saying "you get what you pay for" has never been more relevant. Technology and online booking platforms have transformed the industry, making travel more accessible, while also highlighting the value of professional advice and personalised service.

As a locally owned Helloworld Travel agency, we combine the buying power of a national network with the personal service of a trusted local business. This allows us to provide

88 COFFS COAST focus

competitive pricing, expert advice and ongoing support before, during and after our clients travel.

Online bookings may seem convenient, but hen ights are cancelled, itineraries change or unexpected events occur, travellers often discover the limitations of dealing with automated systems or offshore call centres.

Our experienced consultants advocate for our clients, helping resolve issues quickly and giving them confidence throughout their ourney.

Travel is a significant investment, and our goal is to ensure every holiday is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

What do you think has been the key to building such a long-standing and trusted travel business on the Coffs Coast?

Success over 35 years comes down to loyalty, respect and consistently delivering exceptional customer service with competitive pricing.

The industry has faced many challenges, particularly during COVID-19 when travel almost stopped. While many consultants left the industry, our o fice remained open to help clients secure refunds, manage travel credits and rearrange future holidays. We were able to continue supporting our community thanks to a generous landlord and government assistance.

Continuous learning has also been essential.

Our consultants regularly complete supplier training, destination education and industry accreditation, while participating in familiarisation trips whenever possible. This firsthand kno ledge allo s us to provide genuine recommendations based on personal experience.

We are also an accredited member of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) and part of the Helloworld Travel network.

After so many years in the industry, what do you still love most about helping people plan their holidays and adventures? e do much more than book ights and accommodation - we help create unforgettable experiences. Every itinerary represents someone's dream holiday, special celebration or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

One of the greatest rewards is welcoming clients home to hear their stories, see their photos and share in the memories they've created. Knowing we played a small part in those experiences reminds us why we love what we do.

How important has the support of the local community been to the success of Helloworld Coffs Harbour over the past three and a half decades?

The support of the local community has been

One of the greatest rewards is welcoming clients home to hear their stories, see their photos and share in the memories they’ve created. Knowing we played a small part in those experiences reminds us why we love what we do. invaluable. While we assist clients throughout Australia, most of our business comes from the Coffs Coast. Their loyalty has helped us grow over the past 35 years.

We actively encourage client feedback after every trip, both positive and constructive, enabling us to continually improve our service and strengthen relationships with our travel partners.

Looking ahead, what’s next for Helloworld Coffs Harbour, and what do you hope the business continues to be known for in the years to come?

Helloworld Travel Coffs Harbour is a full-service travel agency specialising in corporate travel, domestic and international holidays, cruises, escorted tours, travel insurance and tailor-made itineraries.

We have also built a strong reputation for specialised experiences, including international golf tours and our popular Solo Travellers Club, which offers escorted holidays designed for people travelling independently.

Our vision remains the same: to combine expert advice, competitive pricing and exceptional customer service. Every traveller is unique, and our experienced consultants take the time to understand each client's interests and goals to create personalised travel experiences.

Over the past 35 years we have been honoured with numerous industry awards recognising excellence in customer service, business performance and consultant achievement, including National Travel Industry Awards, NSW tate fice o the ear, ational Travel fice

o the ear, multiple consultant achievement awards, Andrew Wellington being recognised as Australia's Best Adventure Travel Consultant, and numerous supplier excellence awards.

These achievements re ect the dedication of our team and our commitment to delivering outstanding service. As passionate travellers ourselves, we believe the best advice comes from genuine experience.

How can we get in touch?

We are located in Park Beach Plaza and operate as a walk-in travel agency 5 1/2 days a week. For clients planning more detailed or extended holidays, we recommend making an appointment so we can dedicate the time needed to create the perfect itinerary.

"The days will come and go, but the moments and memories of your holiday will last a lifetime."

COFFS COAST focus 89

Enrolling Now Kindy & Year 11

Find out what families are saying about Kindergarten at BDC!

A safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environment.

We couldn't be happier with the transition to Kindergarten at BDC, and neither could our child.

The information provided to parents in the lead-up to the school year, along with fun orientation days for families, meant we all felt ready and excited for the first day.

And our child has continued to thrive since then, thanks to an engaging and nurturing teacher and the varied and exciting school days spent with classmates.

Erica Daly - BDC Kindy Parent

Follow BDC! 90 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

Education

Update

A

PEOPLE, PURPOSE, AND CULTURE: SHAPING THE BDC WAY

t Bishop Druitt College, we know that an organisation’s greatest asset is its people. Just as in any thriving business or institution, the strength of our school community relies on attracting individuals who bring energy, fresh perspectives, and deep purpose to their work.

In education, great staff don’t simply teach; they shape culture and enrich everyone around them. Today, I am proud to share insights from three of our outstanding educators who demonstrate what happens when passion aligns with opportunity.

CAITLIN WALPOLE – Aboriginal Education fficer isual rts eacher

he hallenge “Finding engaging ways to educate staff and students keeps me constantly evolving. I’m excited to implement new culturally sa e initiatives that benefit our entire school community on our path of reconciliation.”

Staff embody our motto of Faithfulness in Service and reminds us that great teachers don’t simply teach; they transform lives, which is the BDC Way.

n nspiration “I love watching our youngest students engage with Gumbaynggirr language; they bring such fun energy! In Visual Arts, it’s a privilege to provide students with a glimpse of Aboriginal culture in the art world.” he

me to build immersive, cross-curricular programs so all students learn about the Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr (Country) they live and play on.”

dvantage “The support here allows

ear eacher erforming rts n nspiration “Music and performance bring creativity, energy, teamwork, and joy into the classroom. I love seeing students step outside their comfort zones, express themselves and experience the excitement of performing together.”

he dvantage “BDC’s range of innovative opportunities allows me to teach creatively, explore my own passions, and extend learning far beyond the classroom.” he hallenge “Every student is unique.

Finding the spark that engages them, meeting

with SIMON DOYLE

PRI NC I PA L , NSW NORTH COAST

them where they are, encouraging curiosity and confidence, and helping them strive to ards what they are truly capable of.” ellbeing

ands

ead of econdary n earning

n nspiration “I’ve always been curious about the unique stories each student and staff member carries, which is why I prioritise deeply listening to their experiences. Building that authentic trust first actually makes strategic leadership smoother, as real decisions are grounded in genuine connection.” he dvantage “BDC’s culture gives me the freedom to shape support to individual ourneys rather than applying one si e fits all policies. That e ibility lets me turn personal insights into meaningful, school-wide growth.” he hallenge “Ensuring every student feels genuinely seen. Connecting lessons to real-world applications bridges that gap by giving students a practical outlet to express themselves, turning their unique stories into tangible confidence and wellbeing.”

Whether nurturing culture and identity, inspiring creativity, or driving wellbeing through authentic leadership, staff like Caitlin, Jason, and Andrea embody our motto of Faithfulness in Service and remind us that great teachers don’t simply teach; they transform lives, which is the BDC Way. COFFS COAST focus 91

From high school to

eh

minded

Coffs Harbour local Amy Kno is the sort to throw herself into anything new - she once came home bruised head to toe from her first go at snowboarding and called it the best time of her life. Amy is at the beginning of her career as a nurse, but a long-time advocate for studying what you love, where you live.

A

my, you graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing from Southern Cross University in June, after a four-year journey across two campuses and seven placements, but you didn’t start out studying nursing, what happened?

I was so clueless at the end of Year 12. I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I didn’t even go to orientation week because I only applied the week before term started.

I originally enrolled in a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science. I loved the content, but I looked ahead and thought, ‘I don’t know if I can do that as a job.’ I knew I wanted to work in health, and that nursing could open doors and offer a lot of options, so I made the switch.

What was it like starting out at the Coffs Harbour campus?

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The teachers were so approachable. They’d student ambassador role and went on tell us when they were on campus and to a snow trip to New Zealand. What did just come by if we needed anything. That that add to your degree? support makes such a I went on the SCU snow difference in a degree trip to Queenstown. like nursing, where I’d never snowboarded With two the course content before and I was bruised units, my can be challenging. everywhere, but it was marks improved and the best time, and I met I fell in love with it worked for the students from across the six-week terms. way I learn. I also all campuses and study I was never good remembered the areas. at juggling multiple content be er, which The connections went subjects at once. gave me much more further than that trip.

With two units, my Our nursing cohort in confidence going into marks improved and Coffs Harbour became placements. it worked for the really close. Now we’re way I learn. I also all working in different remembered the locations, but we still chat and check in on content better, which gave me much more how everyone is going. confidence going into placements.

You actually moved to the Gold Coast Beyond the classroom, you took on a

campus for placements. How was that move?

I did seven placements across my degree and I got such a variety, across medical wards, community care, mental health, even primary health inside a correctional facility.

I was nervous moving to the Gold Coast, I came home where I didn’t know to be close anyone, but I ended up to family, and meeting lots of friends, started working especially through my in the Outpatient placements.

Your oncology placement at Gold Coast University Hospital stood out most. What made it different?

Cancer Clinic at Coffs Harbour Base Hospital as part of my graduate year, rotating through wards before a permanent role.

t first I as terrified.

It as my first metro placement, the hospital was huge, and I worried it would be a sad environment. But oncology patients are incredible, their health literacy is so high, they’re so lovely, and you get time to really talk to them.

You become part of their journey. Once

you gain their trust, it’s such a warm, rewarding feeling.

That placement led to a job offer at Gold Coast University Hospital, why did you come home instead?

I came home to be close to family, and started working in the Outpatient Cancer Clinic at Coffs Harbour Base Hospital as part of my graduate year, rotating through wards before a permanent role.

I love my IVs and the medication-side, which is the nerdy part of nursing, but I also love having a chat. Oncology provides this perfect mix.

What would you tell someone starting out where you were four years ago?

If you like hands-on learning, choose a degree with placements. That’s where you learn the most. Nursing was the best decision I made, it’s opening doors and I am excited for what’s next.

Are you in Year 12 and thinking about your future? Find out more about Early Offer Applications.

COFFS COAST focus 93

LIFE-CHANGING SKILLS, LASTING IMPACT

T

A new skill can change the course of a life.

hat’s the message behind National Skills Week 2026, celebrating the life-changing impact of vocational education and training and the opportunities it creates for individuals, businesses and communities.

When people build skills, communities grow stronger. Businesses gain capable workers, industries can meet workforce demands, and individuals develop the confidence and practical skills to pursue their goals.

Enterprise & Training Company (ETC), an award-winning Registered Training Organisation (RTO 6998) based in Coffs Harbour, sees this impact every day. ETC supports people at different stages of their lives and careers – from school leavers exploring their options to those re-entering the workforce, changing careers or building new skills.

Training is about more than gaining a

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qualification. It can provide direction, confidence and practical skills that lead to meaningful employment. For employers, training can address skills gaps, develop existing staff and create a workforce equipped for future demand.

T recognises there is no one si e fits all pathway. Everyone’s circumstances, goals and learning journey are different, which is why training is designed to be e ible, supportive and delivered at a pace that works for the individual.

ETC’s point of difference is that they offer more than training alone. By connecting support, skills and employment opportunities, the organisation helps people progress from building confidence and oundation skills through to training and employment outcomes.

ETC works alongside employers to support workforce development and create pathways into employment.

National Skills Week is a reminder that opportunities don’t always begin with a job offer or promotion. Sometimes they start with learning a ne skill, gaining confidence or simply taking the first step to ards something bigger.

Whatever your goal, building skills today can create opportunities for tomorrow.

This National Skills Week, explore what’s possible. Whether you’re starting your career, upskilling, changing direction or investing in your ork orce, T can help you find the right pathway.

Visit www.etcltd.com.au/national-skillsweek or call 1800 007 400 to learn more.

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Model: Remi Shinn

From reptiles and birds to motorsport and dramatic landscapes, local photographer Storme Kovacs has a knack for noticing the moments others might miss. With a passion for capturing feeling, movement and unexpected details, Storme is steadily building her photography portfolio while working at Reptile World and pursuing her love of motorsport photography.

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H

Coffs Gorillas Ice Hockey Club

i Storme. How did your love of photography begin, and what was it about picking up a camera that captured

your imagination?

I started my photography during Years 11 and 12 at Orara High School. My teachers, Mr Davis and Ms Myhill, helped me tremendously with learning how to use a camera and edit images. Before that, I had never really used a proper DSLR and mainly just took photos on my phone.

A few years later, I continued developing my photography and completed my ertificate I in Digital Imaging and Photography at TAFE NSW’s Coffs Harbour Education Campus in 2023. That helped me build on what I’d originally learnt at school and gave me more experience with both photography and editing.

What I loved about photography was being able to capture things that other people might not even notice if they were standing in the same place as me. Two people can look at the exact same subject but see something completely different, and I really liked being able to show people what had caught my attention through my photos.

You spend a lot of time around animals through your work at Reptile World.

Working around reptiles must give you some pretty unique photographic opportunities. Are there particular behaviours or moments that you find especially fascinating to capture?

Working around reptiles regularly also means you can learn how predictable they can be. Once you know an animal and its behaviour, you start recognising how it will react to certain movements or changes around it.

I wouldn’t say there’s one particular behaviour I look for when photographing reptiles or other animals. Most of the time, I photograph whatever catches my attention in the moment.

I do love watching animals eat and seeing their natural behaviours, although surprisingly I don’t tend to photograph feeding very often.

Working around reptiles regularly also means you can learn how predictable they can be.

Once you know an animal and its behaviour, you start recognising how it will react to certain movements or changes around it.

Sometimes even the way they look at you can tell what they’re about to do, which helps when you’re trying to capture a particular

moment.

What do you look for when you’re behind the lens; interesting light, movement, expression, composition, personality?

It depends on the subject. I prefer shooting around midday when the light is harsher because I’m not a huge an o shado s unless that s specifically what I’m looking for.

For landscapes and scenery, I like shooting just before sunset, especially during winter when you get beautiful pinks, purples and reds across the sky.

Otherwise, when I’m behind the lens, it’s more of a feeling that I’m looking for. You can set up a shot that technically looks amazing, but then look through the camera and realise it’s just not worth capturing. You can have a photo with great composition and lighting, but if there’s no feeling behind it, it doesn’t really interest me.

Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 97

Driver: Andrew Hughes 18yr old - Local to Grafton 1992 VP Commodore

Do you tend to plan your photographs carefully, or do they often happen spontaneously?

For client photography, I tend to plan things because when you’re working with people, it’s much easier to set everything up.

With motorsport, I like to watch the cars go around the track at least once first. I ll ork out which corner or straight will have the best effect in the photos before deciding where I want to stand and which lens I’ll need.

My freelance photography is much more spontaneous. I’ll still choose a location, time and weather conditions, but once I’m there, I mostly just walk around until something catches my eye.

What’s the most challenging subject you’ve ever tried to photograph?

I think the most challenging subject I’ve ever photographed was ice hockey when I tried it or the first time last year. I photographed the Coffs Gorillas SuperLeague at the Big Banana Ice Rink during their 2025 season, as well as the Banana Split Tournament.

I’d never photographed that type of sport before and didn’t realise just how fast they actually skate around the rink. From the spectator area they don’t seem to move that quickly, but against the barrier it’s completely di erent. The first e times definitely thre me off because you’re trying to follow who has the puck, predict where they’re going and work out who’s about to shoot, all while trying to get the photo.

Is there an animal or subject you particularly love photographing, and what makes it so rewarding?

Artist: Liam Peacock Instagram: quirkei_creative Convergence The Exhibition Art Name: Heart of Stone

98 COFFS COAST focus

Surprisingly, it’s birds, and I never used to be much of a bird fan. After exploring different locations, though, you start noticing just how many different species are actually around you.

Model: Remi Shinn

Product Shoot CREDIT: Felt Treats & Funky Treasures

objects from the background, especially if they’re taking attention away from the main subject.

Sometimes you just have to make the best of whatever situation you’re given.

My freelance It’s quite fascinating to photography just sit down, watch is much more them do their own spontaneous. I’ll still thing and see how choose a location, they interact with time and weather their environment. conditions, but once That’s something I I’m there, I mostly really enjoy about Editing can take just walk around photographing anywhere from an hour until something animals. You get to to more than six hours catches my eye. capture all of it, not depending on how just the pretty side many photos I’ve taken of them, but also the and whether there’s a strange and silly things they do when they’re deadline. just being themselves.

What are you hoping to explore in your Do you spend much time editing your photography over the next few years? images, or do you prefer to keep your Currently, I’m continuing to build my photographs relatively natural? motorsport photography portfolio. I started For client photos, I like to keep the colours photographing motorsport in 2024 and go as close to the real thing as possible. I shoot quite frequently to Raleigh International my photos underexposed, which means the Raceway when they have the Khanacross, original image can be really dark, sometimes sprint and drifting events. I’m very grateful almost pitch black. Shooting underexposed that the track exists because I don’t think I’d allows me to retain more detail within the be able to get nearly as much motorsport RAW image and gives me more room to be experience around this area without them. creative during editing.

I also photograph the Australian Kart With most photos, I’ll also remove distracting

Championship when it’s held at Coffs

Harbour Kart Club, although so far I’ve been shooting from the spectator side.

As of this year, I’m now media accredited with Motorsport Australia and the AASA (Australian Auto-Sport Alliance). My main goal is to continue building my portfolio and experience so that eventually I can apply for media access to larger events, particularly the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne and the Repco Supercars Championship.

If someone handed you a camera and said you could photograph absolutely anything, anywhere in the world, what would you choose?

That’s actually a really tough question, but I would probably choose Northern Norway.

A lot of the photos I’ve seen are taken with drones or wide-angle lenses to show how large and vast the landscape is. I’d want to do almost the opposite and get right in close with everything. I’d want to capture images that make the audience feel small while making the landscape feel huge and overpo ering. I d also ant to find and photograph parts of the landscape that other people might walk straight past or not pay much attention to.

Thanks Storme.

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focus_contributor.

SNAKE SEASON

Reptile W with MATTHEW McEWAN REPTILE SPECIALIST

W

hy do we tend to see more snakes during September and spring? Snakes become much more visible during spring because they are emerging from their winter dormancy, known as brumation. As temperatures and daylight hours increase, snakes begin basking, feeding and searching for mates. They haven’t suddenly increased in number; we simply notice them more because they’re spending more time being active.

What changes in snake behaviour occur as the weather starts to warm up? As the weather warms, snakes become more active and start moving greater distances. Their main priorities are arming up, finding ood a ter a relatively inactive winter, and breeding. Males, in particular, may travel extensively while searching for females.

Are snakes more aggressive in spring, or are they simply more active? Snakes aren’t aggressive, so they don’t change their behaviour simply because it’s spring; they are just more active. Increased movement means more opportunities for people and snakes to

100 COFFS COAST focus

cross paths. Snakes will avoid humans if given the chance and will only defend themselves if they feel threatened, provoked or harassed.

bring snakes out in search of water, while

Which snake species are most commonly encountered around the Coffs Coast?

Very hot conditions often cause snakes to seek

The species most commonly encountered around the Coffs Coast include the Red-bellied Black Snake, Coastal Carpet Python and Green Tree Snake. We have around 20 species throughout Coffs Harbour and the surrounding suburbs, with these snakes ranging from completely harmless to highly venomous.

If someone comes across a snake in their

How can families safely enjoy bushwalks and outdoor activities while avoiding close encounters with snakes? tick to ell defined tracks, ear enclosed footwear, long pants and long-sleeved shirts, avoid walking through overgrown scrub, and watch where you place your hands and feet around logs, rocks and fallen timber. If you see a snake, keep your distance and allow it to move away naturally. Snakes will retreat if left undisturbed.

Does the type of weather, warm days rain or storms in uence sna e movement? Yes. Warm, sunny days are ideal for snake activity. Extended dry weather may

rain can increase activity in some species by boosting frog populations and prey movement. shelter during the middle of the day. backyard, what should they do, and what should they avoid doing? Stay calm, keep children and pets well away, and give the snake space to leave on its own. Never attempt to catch, kill or handle a snake. Most snake bites occur when people try to interfere with them. If the snake remains on the property or is in a risky location, contact a licensed snake catcher.

What services does Reptile World provide for residents who discover a snake on their property? Reptile World provides professional snake relocation services throughout the Coffs Coast region. Our trained and licensed handlers safely capture and relocate snakes while ensuring the safety of both residents and wildlife. We also provide snake a areness presentations, snake bite first aid training, and educational programs for schools, businesses and community groups.

S E P T E M V E R

2 0 2 6

Stars t i t

ARIES. September asks you to slow down and get organised. You’ve been moving at full speed, but now it’s

LEO. our confidence is magnetic this September. It’s a great month to pitch an idea, make a career move or

SAGITTARIUS. Your career and ambitions take centre stage. People are noticing what you bring to the

time to focus on what genuinely deserves your

finally begin something you ve been putting o .

table, so don’t shrink yourself. September rewards

energy. A work opportunity could bring renewed

Just remember you don’t need to do everything

consistency rather than rushing. Make time for

motivation,

yourself. Let others support you. Lucky colour:

fun too. Adventure is still essential for you! Lucky

Gold.

colour: Purple.

hile relationships benefit rom clearer

communication. Lucky colour: Red. TAURUS. resh burst o confidence has you ready to make things happen.

Trust your instincts, particularly

VIRGO. Happy birthday, Virgo! This is your reset month. Take stock of what’s working and release what isn’t. Your goals

CAPRICORN. You’re craving something different. Travel, learning or a new experience could provide exactly the

around money and career decisions. In love, stop

are becoming clearer, and a personal breakthrough

inspiration you need. A situation that once felt

overthinking and enjoy what’s right in front of

could change how you approach the months

stuck begins moving again. Stay open-minded

you. Spring brings the perfect excuse to reconnect

ahead. Back yourself. Lucky colour: Navy.

about where it leads. Lucky colour: Forest green.

socially. Lucky colour: Green.

LIBRA. September starts quietly before your energy lifts later in the month. Use the downtime to recharge

AQUARIUS. September encourages you to get serious about finances, boundaries and where your energy is

GEMINI. September brings change, but the good kind! An unexpected conversation could open a door you

and reconsider your priorities. Something you’ve

going. One honest conversation could clear up

hadn’t considered. Home and family take priority,

outgro n may finally become obvious. etting go

lingering uncertainty. Trust actions over words and

while professionally you’re being encouraged to

creates space for something much better. Lucky

invest your time where it’s reciprocated. Lucky

speak up. Your ideas deserve to be heard. Lucky

colour: Pink.

colour: Aqua.

colour: Yellow.

CANCER. You’re entering a more social season, Cancer. Say yes to invitations and make time for the people who energise

SCORPIO. Connections are everything this month. Networking, friendships and collaborations could lead somewhere

PISCES. Relationships come into focus this month. Whether romantic, professional or personal, balance

unexpected. Don’t dismiss a casual conversation.

is key. Don’t be afraid to communicate what

you. Financially, a little discipline now will pay off

There may be an opportunity hidden within it.

you need. The right people won’t require you

later. Romance feels lighter and more playful this

In love, honesty brings you closer. Lucky colour:

to constantly prove your worth. Lucky colour:

month. Lucky colour: Silver.

Burgundy.

Lavender.

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

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

PHOTO: ember or o s arbour urmesh ingh and o s arbour commercial fisher Grahame Clarke near South Wall, discussing the desperate need for harbour dredging.

I

’m calling on the NSW Government to urgently implement a permanent dredging operation for the entire harbour at Coffs Harbour.

I’ve written to Premier Chris Minns to propose a commercial solution to the worsening sand build-up.

The dredged sand could be used by private enterprise to offset the costs of ongoing dredging, which has now become critically important.

The relentless sand build-up is choking the life out of the harbour, impacting heavily on the commercial and recreational users trying to navigate safe passage at our international marina and at our regional boat ramp.

I’m urging the NSW Government to begin negotiations with commercial operators to dredge the harbour, with a view to those operators then using the sand as appropriate.

The private sector has expressed an interest in the sand, a commodity which is scarce

and valuable. It could be well used in the construction industry, for example.

A share of the sand should continue to be returned to enrich the northern beaches of the Coffs Coast, with surplus made available to industry.

Instead of getting sand from beaches, doesn’t it make sense to take it from where we have too much?

Dredging has been far too sporadic over the years. We need a dredge to be stationed in and working the harbour permanently.

And then we have the dangerous conditions at the boat ramp where the narrowing channel is so shallow at low tide, you could almost walk on water. This is entirely unacceptable.

I’m urging the NSW Government to begin negotiations with commercial operators to dredge the harbour, with a view to those operators then using the sand as appropriate.

We’ve seen the absurd situation of vessels becoming stranded on the sandbank at the marina entrance at low tide, thro ing fishing operations and other activities into chaos.

Our commercial fishers, charter and tourism businesses and recreational boaters all deserve better than this. They, their crews and their passengers should feel safe in our harbour.

I’ve called continually for the NSW overnment to find a fi and to restore o s Harbour’s once-proud reputation as a safe harbour and a working port.

I’m renewing that plea as a matter of urgency.

COFFS COAST focus 103

focus_contributor.

BUILDING OUR WORKFORCE PIPELINE

T

REGIONAL DIRECTOR, B U S I N E S S N S W, MID NORTH COAST

THE KEY TO REGIONAL GROW TH

he Mid North Coast has no shortage of ambition.

Businesses across our region are looking for opportunities to grow, innovate, and invest in the future. Yet for many, one challenge continues to stand in the way: finding and retaining the skilled orkers they need.

carry heavier workloads; business owners step back into operational roles, and expansion plans are often put on hold. The report found that 41 per cent of employers have delayed expansion plans due to skill shortages, while 32 per cent have lost business to competitors and 27 per cent have reduced their range of products or services.

The findings o the ork orce kills urvey confirm hat many regional employers have been telling us or years. kill shortages remain one o the most significant barriers to business growth, productivity, and long-term sustainability. In fact, 74 per cent of employers reported considerable di ficulty recruiting the people they need, while more than 70 per cent of businesses in sectors including construction, manufacturing, hospitality, health and retail continue to face recruitment challenges, with hospitality and retail shortages particularly acute in regional areas.

The solution is not simply finding more workers. As the report highlights, we need a stronger focus on developing workforce capability and creating pathways that align with the needs of employers. This means investing in apprenticeships, traineeships, work-based learning and industry-led training programs that prepare people for meaningful careers in our region. usiness has called for an additional $200 million investment in apprenticeships, traineeships and work-based learning pathways to help build the workforce pipeline needed for long-term economic growth.

For businesses on the Mid North Coast, this challenge extends beyond recruitment. It affects succession planning, service delivery, workforce resilience, and the capacity to take advantage o emerging opportunities. hen positions remain vacant, existing employees

Regional communities also need placebased solutions. Access to training, housing, transport and employment pathways all in uence hether businesses can attract and retain talent. The report calls for stronger regional skills ecosystems that bring together

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with ROD BARNABY

employers, training providers, schools, councils and government to develop practical local solutions.

There are encouraging signs. Despite rising costs and economic uncertainty, 56 per cent of employers have continued to invest in training and development, recognising that workforce capability is essential for future growth and resilience.

This is hy the upcoming usiness id orth oast kills Training ummit in October is so important. By bringing together business leaders, educators, training providers and policymakers, the ummit ill help identi y workforce priorities, strengthen partnerships and shape practical solutions to one of the region’s most pressing challenges.

If we are serious about regional growth, we must be equally serious about workforce development. By working together to create stronger pathways into employment and training, we can ensure the Mid North Coast has the skilled workforce needed to support future prosperity, productivity and growth. ie the ork orce kills urvey here https:// www.businessnsw.com/advocacy/reports

focus_contributor.

Message

Mayor with FROM THE

NIKKI WILLIAMS

COFFS HARBOUR

S

aturday night was exactly what the Mayoral Ball was created to be.

Coffs celebrating Coffs.

packed room, a ull dance oor, plenty of laughs, and together with the support of Welcome Hospitality’s Charity Golf Day the week before, just over $70,000 was raised for Coffs Kids.

To everyone who bought a ticket, sponsored the Ball, donated an auction item, entered the ra e, put their hand up to bid or supported the golf day - thank you. You made what comes next possible.

Tthis year, that money has a very clear purpose.

Coffs Kids has established the Transition to Secondary School Assistance Fund, with applications opening in Term 4, 2026.

The aim is simple: we want every Coffs kid to have the opportunity to start Year 7 on a level playing field.

The move from primary to high school is an important point in a child’s life. It’s a time when connection, participation and belonging matter enormously. Keeping our kids engaged through these years can have a lasting impact on whether they stay at school and where they go next, university, TAFE, an apprenticeship, a trade or the workforce.

Sometimes relatively simple things can make

What a night, Coffs! a very big difference. Having what you need.

Being able to participate alongside your mates.

Walking through those gates on day one feeling confident and like you belong, rather than already feeling a step behind.

As Simone Hughes, R/ Director of the Coffs Harbour Principals Network put it, the fund is about ensuring children can begin Year ith confidence, dignity, and equal access to educational opportunities.”

towards our overall total of just over $70,000 through its annual charity golf day.

That’s what Coffs Kids is about locals backing locals and investing in our own kids. I also want to acknowledge the work that isn’t always seen.

As Mayor, I often get to be the face of events like the Mayoral Ball, but The move from there is a whole group of primary to high people working incredibly school is an important hard behind the scenes.

point in a child’s life. It’s a time when connection, participation and belonging ma er enormously.

That sums up exactly what we are trying to achieve. This isn’t about a handout. It’s a hand up at a really important moment in a young person’s life.

To our entire committee - thank you, and a special thank you to Councillor Cath Fowler, who went above and beyond pulling this year’s ball together. Cath, the hours, energy and heart you put into Saturday night did not go unnoticed. I am incredibly grateful.

Coffs Kids will work directly with local public school principals to ensure the fund is practical, fair and reaches the children who genuinely need support. Principals will also help shape the application process and determine what assistance will make the biggest difference.

Saturday night we dressed up, danced, laughed and celebrated our city and had a bloody good time doing it.

The support extends beyond the Ball. A week earlier, Welcome Hospitality raised $6,000

That’s Coffs celebrating Coffs.

But when the lights came on, our community had raised just over $70,000 to invest back into our kids.

More importantly, it’s Coffs backing its future.

COFFS COAST focus 105

focus_contributor.

HEIDI MARCH

Women inBusiness

with CATH FOWLER

BUSINESS WOMEN NETWORK COMMITEE

C

W I T H I N

an you tell us about your business? I truly believe everything we need is already within us. Sometimes, life just has a way of making us forget.

Through Within Waratah Wellness, I support people, particularly women, to reconnect ith the inner strength, confidence and freedom that may have become buried beneath burnout, trauma, grief, old patterns or years o putting everyone else first.

My work combines clinical hypnotherapy, mindset mentoring and subconscious change ork, but it s never simply about fi ing a problem. It’s about getting to the root, letting go of what no longer serves you and rediscovering who you are underneath it all.

Ultimately, it’s about freedom. Freedom to become the best version of yourself and create a life you truly want to live.

That philosophy no o s into another part of my work I’m incredibly passionate about, training the ne t generation o hypnotherapists.

For me, that’s where the ripple effect becomes really e citing. ne person creates change within themselves, and you never quite know how far that change will travel. ho is your greatest in uence in business?

I’m going to answer this a little differently, because my greatest in uence isn t one person.

106 COFFS COAST focus

WA R ATA H

W E L L N E S S

y ourney has been deeply in uenced by t o things: pain and love.

this lifetime. What is she here to create? What makes her feel like a woman on a mission?

I ve e perienced significant loss and trauma, and for a long time I thought it was the pain that had shaped me. As the years went on, I began to see it differently. Underneath that pain was an enormous amount of love. Love for the people I had lost, love for life and eventually, love for the woman I was becoming. That has been one of the greatest driving forces behind the business I’ve created.

Then tap into your heart and let it guide you.

When you build something from that place, there’s an intention and authenticity behind it that people can feel.

y clients are another enormous in uence.

Every person who says, “I’ve had enough of living this way. I’m ready to choose myself and create change, inspires me.

I’ve been incredibly blessed to learn from amazing mentors and trainers and their willingness to share their knowledge inspired me to step into training myself. Today, I have the privilege of working alongside two incredible women who once trained me in different areas of hypnotherapy and NLP. To go from being their student to now standing beside them training others is pretty special. hat piece of advice ould you give omen ma ing their ay in the business orld? Start by asking yourself: What am I truly passionate about, and is that passion deeply connected to my purpose?

Think about the woman you want to be in

When that little voice starts saying, “Who do you think you are? You can’t do that. You’re not good enough, tell it to beat it Back yourself. Say yes to yourself. You don’t need to have everything figured out be ore you begin.

I’ve watched women go from sitting across from me doubting whether they could follow their dreams to building businesses and stepping into who they were always capable of becoming.

Women are incredibly powerful. Sometimes we just need to remind ourselves of that.

Follow your heart. Back yourself, and be brave enough to become the woman on a mission you know is already within you. o can people learn more about your business? Visit withinwaratahwellness.com. au or heidileewellness.com, connect with me on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn, to book a Connection Chat.

Sometimes the best place to start is simply with a conversation... and perhaps a cuppa.

B I L L Y

N O L A N

+

K A S S E Y

R E E V E S

COFFS COAST focus 107

Billy Nolan and Kassey Reeves are embarking on an exciting new chapter with the launch of Venue Real Estate Coffs Harbour.

Backed by years of industry experience and a fresh, clientfocused approach, the duo are passionate about delivering exceptional results while building genuine relationships within the community. As one of the Coffs Coast’s newest real estate agencies, Billy and Kassey share their vision for Venue Real Estate, what sets their business apart, and why they’re committed to delivering a personalised and innovative real estate experience.

T hoto

helly enn hotos

ell us about your journey into real estate. What first attracted you to the industry?

Real estate has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up listening to my parents negotiate deals from the back seat of the car, spending a ternoons in the o fice a ter school and weekends at auctions. Looking back, I realise I wasn't just surrounded by real estate - I was surrounded by people who genuinely cared about their clients, their team and the ork they did and that had a huge in uence on me.

I was fortunate enough to spend more than a decade learning in the family business, and those years shaped the way I approach real estate today. Along the way, I was lucky enough to work across every part of the business, which gave me a really well-rounded understanding o the industry. y last five years at Nolan Partners were spent as Partner and Operations Manager, where I was involved 108 COFFS COAST focus

not only in growing the business but also supporting the team and helping shape the client experience. Those experiences have had a huge in uence on the ay e ve built enue. hat do you en oy most about helping people buy and sell property on the Coffs oast?

stage of their life - that's what makes the job worthwhile. enue eal state has uic ly built a strong reputation hat sets your agency apart?

We're only just getting started, so to have I enjoy the received such a positive variety. Every response from the client, every property community has been I enjoy the variety. Every and every campaign incredibly encouraging. client, every property is different. One day I think hat sets enue and every campaign you’re developing a apart is that we're a is different. One day marketing strategy small, dedicated team for a brand new you're developing a focused purely on home, the next you’re marketing strategy for residential sales. That helping a young family a brand new home, the allows us to be handsbuy their first. next you're helping a on with every campaign young family buy their and give each property first. I love combining the time, attention honest advice with and strategy it deserves. We're not trying to creative marketing to give every client the best be everything to everyone - we're focused on opportunity to achieve a great result. Then doing one thing exceptionally well. seeing everything come together and knowing you've helped someone move into the next

There's a real sense of excitement around

what we're building, and I think people are looking forward to seeing what's next. For us, that's motivating, but we're also conscious that we've

I’ve realised that the best results don’t happen overnight. They come from consistently doing the simple things well, building trust and understanding that good relationships are far more valuable than chasing quick wins.

got a lot to prove.

We're excited to keep raising the bar and earning that trust every day.

What's been the biggest lesson you've learned throughout your career?

Early in my career it was instilled in me the importance of getting the basics right working hard, communicating well, treating people with respect and never looking for shortcuts. Those principles have stayed with me. Over time, I've realised that the best results don't happen overnight. They come from consistently doing the simple things well, building trust and understanding that good relationships are far more valuable than chasing quick wins.

Marketing has become a huge part of selling property. How has that changed the way you approach a campaign?

For us, marketing starts long before a property goes online. It's about understanding the home, identifying the right buyer and creating a campaign that's tailored

to both.

We've moved away from the idea that every listing should look the same. Every property deserves its own strategy, whether that's the ay it s photographed, filmed, ritten or launched to the market. The best marketing doesn't just show people a home, it gives them a reason to remember it.

When you invest that level of thought into a campaign, buyers notice. It creates stronger engagement, more competition and, ultimately, better outcomes for our clients.

What advice would you give someone thinking about buying or selling in today's market?

Preparation is everything. We have more in ormation and more tools at our fingertips than ever before, so use them. Start asking questions early, build the right team (agent, broker, conveyancer) around you and don't wait until you're ready to buy or sell before seeking advice. The clients who communicate early and prepare well are almost always the ones who have the smoothest experience and achieve the best outcome.

Looking ahead, what's next for you and the team at Venue Real Estate?

There's plenty happening. We're moving into our new space at the Jetty, we're looking to grow the team and we're excited to keep building on the momentum we've had so far.

But at the heart of it, nothing really changes.

We just want to keep doing what we love, working with great people and continuing to raise our own standards everyday.

How can we get in touch? @venuerealestate venuerealestate.com.au 0423 421 441 billy@venuerealestate.com.au 0432 145 998 kassey@venuerealestate.com.au COFFS COAST focus 109

Venue was built on a simple idea: that better results come from a more considered approach.

At its core, we're a marketing and negotiation business that happens to sell property. Every campaign begins with understanding the home, the market and the people we're speaking to, before creating a strategy designed specifically for that opportunity.

We're intentionally not a volume business. This allows us to remain closely involved in every stage of the campaign, giving our clients direct access to experience, strategic thinking and hands-on support from start to finish.

Operating independently allows us to move quickly, adapt to changing market conditions and make decisions based on what's best for our clients, not a head office or franchise model. We believe the best outcomes come from experience, judgement and genuine market understanding - not following a predetermined formula.

As the industry becomes increasingly standardised, we're committed to building something different.

A local business connected to the community it serves. Decisions made locally. Relationships built locally. Supporting local people, creatives and businesses wherever we can.

As the industry becomes increasingly standardised, we’re committed to building something different.

A local business connected to the community it serves. Decisions made locally. Relationships built locally. Supporting local people, creatives and businesses wherever we can.

It’s a simpler approach, but one we believe works better: thoughtful marketing, skilled negotiation and genuine local knowledge, brought together to create exceptional outcomes for our clients.

It’s a simpler approach, but one we believe works better: thoughtful marketing, skilled negotiation and genuine local knowledge, brought together to create exceptional outcomes for our clients.

www.venuerealestate.com.au

The Venue Difference

Considered Strategy No one-size-fits-all campaigns.

Every property begins with a strategy built around the opportunity.

Marketing-Led Thinking We approach property as marketers first, creating campaigns designed to connect with the right buyers.

Independent by Design Without franchise restrictions or corporate layers, we're free to move quickly, think differently and make decisions in our clients' best interests.

Director-Led Service A hands-on approach from start to finish, with experience, accountability and direct involvement at every stage.

Local Knowledge, Real Insight Decisions shaped by market understanding, buyer behaviour and a genuine connection to the community.

Billy Nolan

Kassey Reeves

Director, Sales Agent 0423 421 441 billy@venuerealestate.com.au

Sales Agent 0432 145 998 kassey@venuerealestate.com.au

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Interior designer Vera Duerinckx brings a background in industrial and textile design, a lifelong love of interiors and an eye for the slightly unexpected to renovations and new builds across Bellingen Shire and the Coffs Coast. Through Colour Craft Design Studio, she creates homes that reflect their owners while responding to the architecture and setting.

Y

ou were creative long before you became an interior designer, where did that begin, and how did your studies in Germany shape the way you design

now?

I was always making things as a child. I painted old wooden trunks and made jewellery, which I sold during school breaks. I also loved interiors. y mother ould drag me around ea markets and ask me to help move cupboards because she wanted to try them somewhere else. I suspect some of that rubbed off on me. y first degree as in Industrial and Te tile Design at the University of Fine Arts in Hamburg, where I learnt about pattern, colour, printing, weaving and felting. Because it was a fine arts school, the later years became more e perimental. I continued making abrics, but also turned them into beetle sculptures to see where the material could take me.

After moving to Australia around 20 years ago, I ran a shop in ellingen or five years, selling homewares, gifts and children’s products from around the world, alongside antique linens and enamelware.

I later studied interior design and established Colour Craft Design Studio. It feels as though all those di erent parts o my li e have finally 114 COFFS COAST focus

come together.

Interior design is sometimes seen as choosing a nice cushion or finding the right paint colour. What does creativity in design mean to you?

Of course, I do love a nice cushion and choosing colours, but creativity goes much further than that.

There is the visual side kno ing ho patterns, te tures, shapes, finishes and individual pieces relate to each other. Some of that comes from training and e perience, but instinct plays a big part too.

If you see me staring at an empty wall, chances are I am working. I am imagining, tossing possibilities around in my head and wondering what the room could become.

Creativity is also about solving problems. A client might have an awkward layout, limited storage, a careful budget or furniture they ant to keep. The ans er could be changing the oor plan, using something di erently or making an older piece feel at home among newer elements.

My own house has become a playground for my creative endeavours, and luckily I have a husband who doesn’t mind. I have painted patterns directly onto walls and tested ideas simply to see what might happen.

For me, creativity sits somewhere between instinct and problem solving. It is imagining what could be there, then working out how to make it real.

You don’t have a cookie cutter approach to design. How do you uncover what a client really wants when they may not know how to describe it?

Most clients don’t say, “I want a Mediterranean inspired laundry. They are more likely to say, “My happy place is Spain,” and tell me about a little ca ith the most beauti ul oor.

I listen for the things they mention more than once, and I notice when their eyes light up as they talk about a place, object or colour they love. Those moments tell me much more than a style label and help me understand the atmosphere they are looking for.

That doesn t mean recreating the panish ca or turning the room into a theme. It might be the armth, the oor pattern or the slightly imperfect handmade quality that becomes the starting point.

Without that personal thread, it is easy to fall back on safe selections. I use what I learn about the client to guide the design, so the final choices belong to them rather than simply re ecting hat is currently popular.

Can you share a project where an

unexpected solution made a significant difference to the finished home?

A recent kitchen project on the Bellinger River lacked storage and workspace, and the position of the fridge made the layout di ficult.

Having a plan also helps clients decide where they want to invest and where a more economical option will work perfectly well. It is not about choosing the most expensive item every time.

We reclaimed a small section of an adjoining room to create a fridge nook. That allo ed us to add a return ith more preparation space, storage and seating.

The open shelving as positioned to rame the river view and give the owners a place for heirlooms and ob ects collected through travel.

It means the kitchen holds part of their life, not ust ro s o ne cabinetry.

Spotted gum veneer and handmade Japanese tiles brought warmth and texture, while the new layout made the kitchen much easier to use.

A renovation or new build involves hundreds of decisions. What difference does it make when an interior designer is involved from the beginning?

The earlier I am involved, the more use ul

I can be. e ore the layouts, plumbing, lighting and joinery are locked in, there is still an opportunity to question things and make sure the different parts of the home ill ork together.

Once construction has started, even a small change can become di ficult and e pensive.

Home is incredibly important because we spend so much o our lives there. It is the base from which we go out into the world and the place

e return to. It is

spend time

here

ith the people

e recharge and ho matter to us.

What we need from home looks different for every person.

That is

hy I am driven by the desire to

create beauty and, through that, a little more happiness. It is not one particular look, and it should not have to be sacrificed or

Having a plan also helps clients decide where they want to invest and where a more economical option will work per ectly ell. It is not about choosing the most e pensive item every time. It is about spending with intention and avoiding rushed decisions or purchases that later need to be changed.

practicality. ven the hardest

On larger projects, it is especially valuable when the architect, interior designer, builder and trades communicate early. Those conversations bring the creative and technical sides together, helping us find solutions be ore they become problems and carry the original idea through to the finished home.

drawn to natural timber, softer shades or a

What drives you creatively, and what do you hope your clients feel when they step into a space you have designed for them?

orking rooms,

such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundries, can function well and still be a pleasure to walk into.

For one client, that might mean strong colour and handmade tiles. omeone else may be piece that has been in their amily or years. I love discovering what that looks like for each person and translating it into their home.

I want them to walk in and think, “Yes, this eels like us.

ope ully there are also one or

two ideas they wouldn’t have chosen without a little encouragement, but no

absolutely love.

Thanks Vera.

COFFS COAST focus 115

COLOURCRAFT

116 COFFS COAST focus

COLOUR CRAFT DESIGN STUDIO

C eative thinking, Cr g practical solutions g, and spaces with pers r onality. rs Bespoke interior design for renovations and new builds Interior layouts and concepts Kitchen, bathroom and laundry planning Colour, materials, furniture and finishes BELLINGEN SHIRE • COFFS COAST • MID NORTH COAST colourcraftstudio.com.au 0439 165 775 @colourcraftdesignstudio

SEE MORE PROJECTS Photography: Stuart Scott COFFS COAST focus 116

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Open Day Sunday 27 September 10am - 2pm

Join us at Swell Woolgoolga for a free day out for the whole family and to see how far Swell has come — with “The Retreat’s” first release now complete and Release 2 launching on the day.

■

Live music from the HIT Squad Street Team

■

Face painting and fun for the kids

■

Meet local home builders, property professionals and view new home designs

■

RFS fire trucks to explore

■

Sausage sizzle and coffee cart

■

Prizes and cold drinks

■

Walk the completed Stage 1 homesites

Open Day parking & entry via Newmans Road, Woolgoolga Scan the QR code for event details and location map, to enter our holiday giveaway and receive information about Release 2.

Call the exclusive project team now on 1800 961 021 120 COFFS COAST focus

Disclaimer: Competition Terms & Conditions on website. Whilst every care has been taken by Clarence Property in the preparation of this advert, Clarence Property does not make any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any statement in it, and will not be liable for you relying on any information contained in this advert. Persons viewing this advert should conduct their own inquiries and investigations, and seek their own legal and financial advice.

Swell CONSTRUCTION AND SALES POWER AHEAD

WOOLGOOLGA

EXPLORE SWELL WOOLGOOLGA AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

I

t’s always exciting to visit the Swell development and see the amazing progress on site at this new masterplanned community in Woolgoolga.

We recently donned the boots to explore the new roads now in place, as well as the brand new footpaths which connect the community to the adjoining Wiigulga ports omple . The first homesites in Stage 1 are nearing completion and looking great, with these level homesites almost ready for their new owners to start building on.

It’s looking so good, we’ve decided to open the construction gates on Newmans Road, and invite our local friends and neighbours to join us at our Open Day on site on 27 eptember rom am to pm.

Come and see for yourself what life at Swell will look like for the lucky new residents.

Bring the whole family along for a range of fun, kid-friendly activities on the day, as well as competitions, a coffee cart and more.

The first release o homesites in tage 1 have almost sold out, due to strong demand for land and housing options that

are well-priced in a lifestyle-rich beachside destination. Swell complements the existing Woopi village character, and we’re creating a coastal community that residents will be proud to call home.

with JIM HILLERY

SENIOR DEVELOPMENT & ACQUISITIONS MANAGER FOR CLARENCE PROPERTY

Due to this demand, we’re getting ready to launch Stage 2 in Swell. I can’t give away too much information yet, but keen buyers can pre-register via the QR code on

the Swell ad in this edition of Focus, and Stage 1 buyer Peter Hickey, who previously all release information including plans and built a home in Clarence’s nearby Yamba prices will be available at our Open Day on Quays community, said 27 September. the quality, planning For buyers wanting to and community streamline the building Readers can amenities were what process for their new, scan the attracted him to buy at QR code on the dream home at Swell, a Swell.

Swell ad in this range of local builders “I was immediately edition of Focus, will also be available on attracted to this land for Stage 2 release purchase as I knew site at the Open Day to information and to this development by discuss house and land enter our amazing Clarence Property packages and new home competition. would be extensively designs, ideally matched planned to a very to the land for sale in high quality, ensuring Swell. every block available would offer potential I you scan the code, you can find purchasers a wonderful option to build their out more about the Open Day location individual homes.”

He added, “the requirements regarding the building process gives me confidence this development will be done right and maintain its cutting-edge quality.”

and time, the family-friendly activities on offer, as well details of our exciting new competition. We look forward to seeing you at Swell on Sunday the 27th!

COFFS COAST focus 121

PROUDLY SELLING SWELL WOOLGOOLGA Your local property experts, connecting you with an exceptional coastal lifestyle.

Cardow + Partners Property Woolgoolga are proud to be the selling agents for Swell Woolgoolga, developed by Clarence Property.

Discover a new way of coastal living in the heart of Woolgoolga.

Whether you’re looking to build your dream home, make a sea change or secure your place in this exciting new community, our local team is here to help you every step of the way.

Nicole Cardow

Melissa Schothorst

Principal + Licensed Real Estate Agent

Licensed Real Estate Agent + Stock & Station Agent

0414 584 592

0438 484 828

02 6654 1148 | cardowpartners.com.au 3/66 River Street, Woolgoolga 122 COFFS COAST focus

DISCOVER SWELL WOOLGOOLGA Proud Selling Agents Cardow + Partners Property Woolgoolga

COFFS COAST focus 123

Session

Come along, meet our team and learn about the different roles, career journeys and experiences available.

Date: Thursday, 24 September 2026 Time: 5pm to 6pm Spaces are limited reserve Location: Interested in exploring Recruitment Recruitment potential career pathways withspot McGrath? your today!

Information “The Hub”, 69 First Avenue, Sawtell Information Session Session Come along, meet our team and learn about the different Date: Date: roles, career journeys and Thursday, 24 September 24 2026 September Thursday, 2026 experiences available.

Time: Time: 5pm to 6pm 5pm to 6pm Spaces are limited reserve Location: Location: your spot today!

“The Hub”, 69 First Avenue, Sawtell

“The Hub”, 69 First Avenue, Saw

Register here Register here

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124 COFFS COAST focus

mcgrathc2c.com.au mcgrathc2c.com.au

focus_contributor.

with EMMA QUINN

FROM COFFS COAST ESCAPES

W

RIVER COTTAGE. A CHAR ACTER-FILLED RIVERSIDE RETREAT IN MYLESTOM

elcome to River Cottage, a charming original fisherman s cottage where riverside living, local history and the simple pleasures o a traditional coastal holiday come together. et in the peace ul village o ylestom, this much loved cottage o ers an authentic geta ay or amilies and riends ho appreciate character, beauti ul surroundings and a slo er pace o li e.

Heritage Charm with a Story to Tell ith ylestom s holiday history stretching back more than years, iver ottage eels per ectly at home in its surroundings. Timber oorboards, traditional indo s and a unique original oorplan re ect the cottage s humble beginnings, creating a arm and elcoming atmosphere that celebrates its heritage.

This is not a ne ly built coastal house, and that is e actly its charm. ovingly maintained over the years, the cottage retains the rela ed, rustic personality o a classic ustralian beach holiday home.

Comfortable Accommodation for Six iver ottage com ortably sleeps up to si

guests across three bedrooms. The main and second bedrooms each eature a queen bed, hile the third o ers t o single beds.

its location. eave the car behind and ander to the local ca and corner store, bo ls club, tidal pool, beach and nearby caravan park.

True to the cottage s original design, the third bedroom has a alk through configuration ith curtain dividers rather than traditional doors. This makes the home particularly suited to amilies or close riends ho are com ortable sharing a rela ed and connected space.

ays here can be as active or unhurried as you choose. ish along the river, launch a kayak, s im, e plore the beach, atch the abundant birdli e or simply find a quiet spot and en oy the coastal bree e.

Inside, guests ill find everything needed or an easy stay, including a ully equipped kitchen, bathroom and laundry.

Relaxed Outdoor Living tep outside to a secure, green backyard o ering plenty o room to en oy ylestom s laid back atmosphere. The small rear deck and barbecue provide an inviting setting or casual dinners, a ternoon drinks or simply un inding a ter a day beside the ater. ets may also be considered upon request, making it possible or our legged amily members to oin the holiday.

Discover the Simple Pleasures of Mylestom ne o

iver ottage s greatest attractions is

Mylestom offers something increasingly rare: a genuine seaside village e perience here riendly locals, natural beauty and an unhurried rhythm invite you to s itch o and en oy being e actly here you are. or guests ho value authenticity over brand ne finishes, iver ottage o ers something special. It is a home ith history, personality and imper ections that orm part o its story, providing a nostalgic taste o the classic ustralian coastal holiday.

Book Your Stay ake your ne t ylestom geta ay e ortless by booking directly ith o s oast scapes. isit coffscoastescapes.com.au, email escapes@mcgrath.com.au, or call 02 6652 8885 to secure your stay. ist or book ith us. our property. e pertise. ceptional results.

ur

COFFS COAST focus 125

with SHANE BROOKS PRINCIPAL & LICENSEE OF STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

A

THE PRICE GAP – FINDING COMMON GROUND AS SPRING APPROACHES!

fter more than 20 years in real estate on the Coffs Coast, I’ve seen plenty of property cycles – booming markets, softer periods and times when buyers and sellers simply take a little longer to find common ground.

I’ve also seen the seasonal cycles within those markets, and right now I think we’re at an interesting point.

The Price Gap

Spring Is Around the Corner

One recurring theme in real estate is the gap that can develop between buyer and seller expectations.

The good news is that winter is almost behind us.

Sellers tend to focus on: Previous sales and market highs What neighbouring properties have achieved Their financial and emotional investment in the home

What I’m Seeing

Buyers tend to focus on:

Winter has been relatively subdued.

Buyer enquiry has softened considerably, properties are generally taking longer to sell and buyers have become more selective and price sensitive.

What else they can buy today

But experience has taught me not to read too much into a short period of quieter activity. Markets move in cycles, sentiment changes and conditions can look very different within the space of just a few months.

Importantly, a quieter market doesn’t necessarily mean a falling market. Quality properties are still selling and strong results are being achieved – buyers are simply taking their time and looking more closely at value.

126 COFFS COAST focus

Recent comparable sales Borrowing capacity and affordability Where they see the best value for their money Their expectations about where property prices may be heading In a booming market, those expectations come together quickly as buyers compete and confidence is high. In a quieter market, the gap can widen, as is the case currently.

An experienced agent’s role is to understand both perspectives, interpret the market and create the competition and negotiation necessary to achieve the strongest possible result.

The days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, gardens are coming back to life and our beaches, pools and outdoor entertaining areas begin to shine. Properties simply tend to present better and buyers who have been relatively dormant through winter start becoming more active.

I’m optimistic we’ll see increased activity and confidence this spring – more buyers, but also more properties competing for their attention.

For sellers, that means presentation, marketing and getting the pricing strategy right from the outset remain critical.

Spring creates opportunity, but it doesn’t automatically guarantee a premium price.

For buyers, when the right quality property comes along, don’t assume the quieter conditions of winter will continue. Increased activity and competition can change the market surprisingly quickly.

Markets and seasons continually change, but one thing remains constant: well-presented, quality property will always attract interest when it is positioned correctly.

Bring on spring!

Welcoming Kaitlin to the Stone Team Kaitlin is our friendly and professional first point of contact and more than our receptionist.

With a passion for the real estate industry, a warm smile and a welcoming demeanour, she sets the perfect tone for clients and visitors as they enter our real estate office.

Her strong communication skills, both in person and over the phone, enable her to assist clients with their inquiries and direct them to the right individuals, making their experience seamless and memorable.

Kaitlin McFarlane

02 6652 7888 rentalscoffsharbour@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! *

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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.

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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.