Issuu

e 189 OCTOBER 2026

W A D E R O R Y

F R E E M A N & H U G G I N S O N

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OOTOYA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Open hours: Monday – Saturday Lunch: 11am – 2 pm, Dinner: 5.30pm – 8pm Phone: +61 2 6651 7770

Lunch, Live & Local Every Thursday this October from 11.30am, enjoy live music featuring local favourite Mitch Burgess. With his fun blend of jazz and blues, Mitch brings a positive feel and plenty of toe-tapping tunes to your day. Pair it with great food on Restaurant Row, Harbour Drive and make Thursday your new favourite lunch day. Every Thursday in October - 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th, From 11.30am

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COCOA CAFÉ Open Hours: Monday – Friday, 6am – 2.30pm Saturday / Sunday 6am – 1pm Phone: 02 6699 2984

Restaurant Row, 35-61 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. COFFS COAST focus 102

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I ue 189 - OCTOBER 2026

INTERVIEWS

12 24 26 96

MICHAEL CROSSLAND

MILA HEWITT

C O D I E O’C O N N O R

From surviving a life-threatening childhood cancer to becoming an internationally recognised speaker, author and advocate, Michael Crossland has turned extraordinary adversity into a message of hope and resilience.

Mila Hewitt is making her mark in her career, running her clothing business and has now launched The Big Sis Social Club - a welcoming space for teenage girls to make friends, build confidence and feel like they belong.

Local father, relationship coach and breathwork facilitator Codie O’Connor will walk/run 100 kms to raise funds and awareness for the Black Dog Institute drawing on his own experience with addiction and mental health struggles.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 41. Thriving not just Surviving - Angela Martin 55. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 63. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 65. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 67. Reptile Watch - Matthew McEwan CONTRIBUTOR

69. Message from the Mayor - Nikki Williams

OF THE MONTH

71. Education Update - Simon Doyle

ANGELA MARTIN

75. Money Matters - Tanya McManus 82. Property Report - Shane Brooks

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. Follow us on 8 COFFS COAST focus

coffscoastFocus

77 focusmag.com.au

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WELCOME TO THE OCTOBER 2026 EDITION.

ello ctober This month is a pretty special one for us here at C S as we celebrate our th birthday Sixteen years of sharing the people, businesses, stories and incredible community that make the Coffs Coast what it is. We’re incredibly proud to still be doing what we love each month, and as always, we couldn’t do it without our readers, advertisers and local community supporting us. Taking over our ctober cover are Wade reeman and ory Hugginson from Coastal Plumbing roup, who are celebrating a milestone of their own, five years in business. We chat with Wade and Rory about the past five years, their team, the new premises and what’s next. They’re also gearing up for their second annual Par for a Purpose Charity olf

Day this ctober, raising funds for the Black Dog Institute after raising just shy of 7,000 at last year’s event. An awesome initiative from a great local team. ctober also sees the return of our annual Buy, Sell, Build feature, showcasing some of the fantastic businesses and professionals working across our local property, building and trade industries. Whether you’re buying, selling, building, renovating or simply looking for a little inspiration, there’s plenty to discover inside. Congratulations to . ardner Homes for celebrating 20 years this month. Thanks for celebrating that with us We also shine a light on the HIA Northern NSW Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards, celebrating the incredible builders, designers, trades and businesses setting the standard across our region. A massive congratulations to

S C AST

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

contacts.

all of this year’s winners and finalists We’d also like to send a huge congratulations to all of the 202 Mid North Coast Business Awards winners, finalists and nominees. It’s always fantastic to see the incredible businesses and individuals from across our region recognised for their hard work, innovation and contribution to our communities. We’re proud to celebrate so many brilliant local success stories And we’re already looking ahead to November, with our Decades in the Trade feature returning next edition. We’ll be celebrating the local businesses that have stood the test of time and spent decades servicing our community. or now, grab a coffee, find a comfy spot and enjoy our ctober birthday edition Happy 16th Birthday, FOCUS!

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

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily re ect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in ocus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as Interview or Contributor’ are non sponsored content. Coffs Coast ocus is published by Creative House Publications PT TD ABN 2 2 7 00 . Material in ocus is Copyright Creative House Publications PT TD 202 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. C S is printed by Australian Community Media Print & ogistics North ichmond. ur paper is C and P C certified and meets with IS 00 accreditation.

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Contemporary Australian Photography 26 September – 22 November

Petrina Hicks | Snakes And Mirrors Murray Fredericks | The Salt Lake The Huxleys | Bad Sports Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh) touring exhibitions

YARRILA ARTS AND MUSEUM 27 Gordon St Coffs Harbour yamcoffs.com.au

Free Entry! Scan QR code for more info

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MICHAEL CROSSLAND

i Michael. Your story began with some ery si nifi ant challenges. For those who may not know your journey, can you tell us a bit about your beginnings and how those early experiences shaped you?

from corporate leaders and elite athletes to young people in schools and juvenile detention centres. What is it that you hope people take away from hearing your story?

the world. Do those experiences ever become normal? Can you share a bit about your most recent event?

I see my life as a gift, and I feel a responsibility to use it to make a difference.

Perhaps I didn’t just survive for myself. Perhaps I survived to help someone else keep going.

You’ve spoken to hundreds of thousands of people around the world,

You’ve been on the stage with some of the biggest names and brands in

people in a room or ten thousand, my goal remains the same: to leave people with a little more hope than they had when they arrived.

I was diagnosed with an incurable cancer of the central nervous system, stage four neuroblastoma at 11 months old. I became part of a trial drug involving 25 people from around the world. Sadly, 24 of them passed away. The side effects were horrific. I was burnt from head to toe, and throughout my life I’ve also faced heart attacks, Bell’s palsy, bacterial meningitis and numerous cancer diagnoses and most recently 6 tumours found in my throat. Yet, I’m still here and so grateful for each day. I have this desire to give back to the world, but I don’t consider myself lucky because I survived. I feel as though I am lucky because I wasn’t my mum or my dad, my sisters or my wife and, more recently, my two beautiful children, because they had to stand beside my hospital bed and watch someone they love suffer.

The stages have become bigger, and I’ve been incredibly fortunate to share them I hope people understand how powerful with people like Sir Richard Branson perspective can be. No matter how and the Dalai Lama as well as speaking incredible someone’s life looks from the alongside former President Barack Obama outside, we all have throughout this a story, and we past September. To all have pain that have secret service I feel as though others may never agents around you is I am lucky see. That’s why kind of crazy. I don’t because I wasn’t my kindness matters think it will ever mum or my dad, my so much. If we feel normal. In my sisters or my wife show up each day heart, I’m still just and, more recently, with kindness and an ordinary kid from my two beautiful a genuine desire Coffs who faced children, because they to serve others, I some extraordinary had to stand beside believe joy starts challenges and my hospital bed and to manifest in our somehow was given watch someone they lives. And “hope” is the opportunity to love suffer. incredibly powerful. travel the world and If my story can put share my story. I’m even a little hope incredibly grateful, back into someone’s heart and help them but I never want those opportunities to believe tomorrow can be different, then I change who I am. feel everything we have been through has I believe God gave me a gift, and to Him been worth it. I owe all the glory. Whether there are ten

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Some students told me they had reached a point where they didn’t really want to live anymore, but after hearing my story and those of many others, it gave them the strength to keep going. These kids finally felt a sense of hope for the first time in years.

You recently spoke at the Stand Tall event here in Coffs and received some incredibly powerful letters from students afterwards. What did that experience mean to you? Coming home to speak in Coffs and hopefully touch the hearts of local people brought me an immense amount of joy. But the messages I received afterwards shocked me beyond words. They showed me just how many young people in our community are struggling and simply want to feel seen, heard, loved and encouraged. Some students told me they had reached a point where they didn’t really want to live anymore, but after hearing my story and those of many others, it gave them the strength to keep going. These kids finally felt a sense of hope for the first time in years. That’s incredibly hard to put into words. I still have doubts, fears and challenges of my own, but hearing that my journey has helped someone choose to keep going makes all of that seem so small. If my pain can somehow become someone else’s hope, then maybe there was a purpose in all of it. Your work in Haiti is another huge part of your story. You support Frontier Projects who founded an orphanage and school there, but Haiti is now facing an incredibly di fi lt and dan ero s eriod hat is happening there, and how are you continuing to support the community despite those challenges? Since the assassination of the president, much of the country has

been taken over by powerful gangs, copy, and what does it mean to you making it one of the most dangerous knowing that people buying your places in the world. We are incredibly story are also helping others? blessed to have people on the ground The book was originally written to who continue to support and protect support my family during a time these beautiful, innocent children. when it didn’t look like I was going We believe education is one of the to make it. To now see it become greatest ways to break the cycle of a bestseller in six countries and poverty and give children hope for donate hundreds of thousands of a brighter future. What John and dollars to people in need is incredibly Cheryl Ward and the Frontier Projects humbling. When times get tough, team continue to do is nothing short I remind myself that every day is a of inspirational. I will be hosting bonus and a blessing. If I can use a local fundraising event for the those days to serve others, what a children of Haiti gift life is. (You on the 20th can purchase of November a copy with I feel as though at the Jetty all profits I’m lucky Beach House being donated because I wasn’t my and would love to charity Mum or my Dad, my to see a big from www. sisters or my wife turnout. michaelcrossland. What has Haiti taught you about resilience, community and hope?

and, more recently, my two beautiful children, because they had to stand beside my hospital bed and watch someone they love suffer.

These beautiful kids have so little, no mum or dad, no iPad, TV or Xbox, yet they wake up each morning believing they can overcome whatever the world puts in front of them. They find joy in simply being alive. It has taught me to be grateful for the little things we so often overlook. I can only imagine what the world would look like if we all woke each morning with that same gratitude. Your autobiography has become an international bestseller, with all proceeds going to charity. How is the book going, where can people get a

com/shop)

There’s also a movie/ documentary about your life currently in development. After telling your story on stages around the world and through your book, what has it been like seeing yo r li e translated into a fil It’s been a wild ride. Having a camera crew travelling with us over the past two years has been fun, annoying, different and, at times, incredibly emotional! But to have the opportunity to leave a legacy through film is something I’m deeply grateful for. Hopefully, the story continues to encourage people long after I’m gone. Thanks Michael.

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Local artist Tori Ann Donelly is celebrating a significant milestone with her first solo exhibition at Yarrawarra Cultural Centre. Balawun.ga explores the cultural, spiritual and environmental connections surrounding the melaleuca tree, drawing on ancestral stories, Country and a diverse range of artistic practices.

TORI

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A R T I S T of the M O N T H i Tori. For readers who may be dis o erin yo r wor or the first time, can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey as an artist? y journey as an artist first started almost a de ade ago and has sno balled e er sin e I started out painting ith a ryli s and e ploring personal narrati es to help me ma e sense of the orld. I had begun ta ing e ery opportunity to e plore other mediums through lo al or shops and ourses. ou may ha e seen some of my or s in lo al e hibitions at the offs arbour ospital on the ampus as logos on t shirts as murals in the area or you may ha e seen me fa ilitating art or shops at one of the many ommunity festi als and e ents. You’ve been selected to be in residence at Bundanon this year, can you share a bit about that and what it means for you as an artist? I am o er the moon e ited and a little ner ous about ta ing up my ery first artist residen y e er at undanon this year. I am urrently in my last year of being an emerging artist and I ouldn’t thin of a better ay to elebrate than to ta e some time to breathe fo us and onne t ith my reati e pra ti e in a spa e designed to support us. Your upcoming exhibition at Yarrawarra Cultural Centre is titled Balawun.ga. Can you tell us about the meaning behind the title and what inspired you to create this body of work?

that this as something that I anted to e plore my pra ti e. I ha e sin e be ome obsessed

ithin

The Balawun.ga Dreamtime story is an important foundation for the exhibition. How have ancestral stories and cultural knowledge shaped your creative practice? I am ery fortunate to be able to use my reati e pra ti e as the thread that onne ts me to an estral stories ultural no ledge and the reaming story asso iated ith this tree. Inspired by these I feel li e these or s ha e so many layers that an be unpa ed into different or s but ompiled together these shape the hole narrati e. Continued over...

Balawun.ga is known as the paperbark, tea tree or specifically as the Broad Leaf Paperbark tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia). My relationship with balawun.ga started when I trained to become a cultural tour guide back in 2024.

ala un.ga is no n as the paperbar tea tree or spe ifi ally as the road eaf aperbar tree elaleu a uin uener ia . y relationship ith bala un.ga started hen I trained to be ome a ultural tour guide ba in . hen I learnt about the histori al and ontemporary uses of the tree and e plained this to tour parti ipants my interest gre . Its signifi an e and onne tion to one of our reaming stories made sense and I ne

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A R T I S T of the M O N T H There’s a strong connection in the exhibition between the melaleuca tree and the human body. What drew you to explore that relationship? We all know of Country as Kin. I try my best to interpret complex concepts into a tangible form through my art. When I think of how beautiful my culture is and how connected my people are to Country, all I think about is beautiful natural spaces that connect you back to your spirit. You could call that embodiment.

timeline or capsule that records and preserves our culture and history. I believe it is important for our people to not only create these works but also embody preservation, continuation and reclamation respectively. What does it mean to you to be presenting this work at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre, and what are you hoping people who visit the exhibition will experience?

Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre houses Wadjar Regional Indigenous Gallery, which is quoted as one of the most in uential cultural The exhibition brings together a diverse centres on the east coast of Australia. It has range of practices, been established since including painting, bark 1991 and still acts as a art, lino-printing, ecoconduit for national and dyeing, wearable art, international recognition Materials paper works and mixed of First Nation artists. I create the media. How do you am honoured to have my foundation of a decide which medium first solo exhibition here visual narrative, is right for a particular on my Country, and I am they provide context story or idea? hopeful that people who and inform our experience this exhibition works by becoming Materials create the take home a sense of the backbone that foundation of a visual appreciation for their carries the weight of narrative, they provide environment, maybe a our ideas. context and inform our little more respect for my works by becoming the people and Country and backbone that carries llearn something new or the weight of our ideas. fi nd something to inspire them to create. I am discovering that having an expansive range creates a wide net of possibilities to explore, and I love the freedom that comes with that.

Finally, what’s next for you as an artist? Are there any new ideas, projects or directions you’re excited to explore?

The exhibition speaks about cultural knowledge continuing to evolve while remaining connected to ancestral stories. What role do you think contemporary artists have in keeping those stories and practices alive for future generations?

I am really excited to see how I connect with my art over the next few years, how I might incorporate photography and my recently completed oral history training into my creative practice. The shared practice mentorship program with Arts Mid North Coast, has been exciting and I am keen to continue being mentored by Kylie Caldwell through this opportunity. Little 10 year old me would be proud of where I am today and slay.

One of the most recent concepts that I have been exploring is that our stories are a living system. In similar reference to the term ‘living languages’, I am thinking that through the contemporary use of our stories they also become like a living

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Thanks Tori.

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MACY GRAY.

THE BOX SHOW BY THE JUNKYARD BEAT.

You won’t look at a cardboard box the same way after watching this show. In the hands of Junkyard Beats, ordinary household items are transformed into extraordinary musical instruments and unwanted junk comes alive in exciting and surprising ways! When 7th October Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au

OCTOBER

CHARITY GOLF DAY. Coastal

RICK PRICE. Australian music icon Rick Price returns with his Call On Me Tour, celebrating his acclaimed Hometown album. An intimate evening of timeless hits, new music, soulful vocals and stories. When 18th October Where Jetty Beach House Tickets trybooking.com/au/event/1608103

- COFFS COAST -

2026

THE DORRIGO FOLK AND BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL. A three-day

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Grammy Award-winning soul and R&B icon Macy Gray returns to Australia with her biggest tour yet, bringing her unmistakable voice and electrifying live show to the Coffs Coast. With more than 25 million records sold worldwide, Macy Gray has captivated audiences across the globe with her unique sound. When 10th October Where C.ex Coffs Tickets www.cex.com.au

celebration of local, national and international acoustic folk, bluegrass and old-time music. Perform and learn from the best traditional, contemporary, and exploratory acoustic music exponents of these genres. When 23rd, 24th and 25th October Where Dorrigo Showground Tix humanitix.com

Plumbing Group is excited and proud to be hosting our annual Charity Golf Day in support of The Black Dog Institute. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a beginner, or have never picked up a club before, we’d love for you to join us. When 23 October Where Safety Beach Golf Course Visit coastalplumbinggroup.net.au

THE COFFS COAST COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL. Headlined by Australian country favourites Brooke

McClymont and Adam Eckersley. With a new album, 20 Golden Guitar Awards and plenty of TV appearances, they’re bringing a huge live show! One day. Six acts. The best of Australian country music. When 24th October Where Moonee Beach Hotel

Celebrate the Silly Season with your team, above it all!

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LUKE

McKENNA CHAOS IN COFFS II

A er more than 20 years in professional wrestling, local wrestler Luke McKenna is bringing the action back to C.ex Coffs Harbour on Saturday 7th November, with the second Chaos in Coffs event. We chat with Luke about the growth of the event, his passion for wrestling and what fans can expect from Chaos in Coffs II.

i Luke, Chaos in Coffs is back for its second year. How does it feel to see the event return after the success of the inaugural show?

It’s incredibly exciting. When we put together the first Chaos in Coffs, we believed Coffs Harbour was ready for a professional wrestling event like this, but you never truly know until those doors open. Hearing the crowd and watching everyone get caught up in the show was something special. Coming back for Chaos in Coffs II makes me extremely proud. ast year gave us the foundation, and now the goal is simple make it bigger, better and give Coffs Harbour another night to remember. What was the response from the local community after last year’s event, and did that rea tion i e yo the onfiden e to bring Chaos in Coffs back? The response was fantastic. We had lifelong wrestling fans who loved it, but also families experiencing live wrestling for the first time. I’ve had random people stop me around town to tell me their kids are still talking about their favourite wrestlers. Then you have the parents

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who probably only came because the kids wanted to go, telling me how much fun they had too. That response gave my wife Indianna and I confidence that we’d created something people genuinely enjoyed. Coffs Harbour asked for it back so here we are For anyone who missed last year’s show, what is the vision behind Chaos in Coffs II? The vision is to create an annual professional wrestling experience right here in Coffs Harbour. I’ll always encourage people to support Australian professional wrestling, but not everyone can travel hours to experience a major live show in a capital city. We wanted to bring the lights, entrances, characters, rivalries, action and incredible atmosphere directly to Coffs. Chaos in Coffs II is about taking everything we learned and raising the bar. Whether you’ve watched wrestling your entire life or don’t know a headlock from a clothesline, we want you leaving saying, That was ama ing You’ve been involved in professional wrestling for more than two decades and wrestled around Australia and overseas, how has that e erien e in en ed this

event? Twenty plus years in this business teaches you a lot sometimes the easy way and sometimes definitely the hard way I’ve been fortunate to wrestle in different places, in front of different crowds and alongside incredibly talented people. ou learn that professional wrestling is ultimately about creating moments and making people feel something. Bringing that experience to Coffs Harbour means a lot because this is now home. I want people to leave feeling that they got more than they expected and for remembering the night. There’s also the extra pressure of wrestling in your hometown. If it’s terrible, you still have to run into everyone at Woolies afterwards I definitely want to make sure that isn’t the case. Without giving too much away, what can fans expect from this year’s Chaos in Coffs? Chaos We put it in the name, so we’ve really backed ourselves into a corner there. ans can expect great professional wrestling, huge personalities, hard hitting action, surprises and plenty of unforgettable moments.

I can’t give everything away, but we’re putting everything into making sure people leave asking when Chaos in Coffs III is happening.

Before you know it, you’re cheering for someone you’d never heard of an hour earlier and booing someone else like they’ve personally offended your entire family!

What have you discovered about Coffs Harbour wrestling fans, and how important are they to the atmosphere? Coffs Harbour fans are LOUD... and I mean that as the biggest compliment possible! Last year, once everyone realised they weren’t supposed to sit quietly, they really got involved. Todd, a very unlikeable manager in a pink jacket, spent the night trashing Coffs Harbour on the microphone. When I finally kicked him in the face towards the end of the show, my ears were ringing from the eruption! That energy feeds directly into the wrestlers. The audience isn’t simply watching the show - they become a part of it. Chaos in Coffs is family-friendly. Why is creating something parents and kids can enjoy together important to you? Some of my earliest and best wrestling memories came from that excitement you experience as

a kid. Professional wrestling is larger than life - heroes, villains, music, lights and huge personalities battling right in front of you.

But we don’t want Mum and Dad staring at their watches waiting for it to finish We want parents laughing, cheering and getting involved too. If families drive home afterwards talking about their favourite wrestlers and moments, we’ve done our job. After 20-plus years, what keeps you passionate about wrestling? Do you still get that same adrenaline? Absolutely! There’s something about standing behind that curtain, hearing the crowd and knowing you’re seconds away from walking through it that’s difficult to explain. These days I appreciate it even more. Bringing wrestling to my hometown and hopefully giving another generation some of those same memories gives me an entirely new reason to love it. And when that music hits? eah. The adrenaline is definitely still there. If someone has never been to a professional

wrestling show, why should Chaos in Coffs e their first Because watching wrestling on television and experiencing it live are completely different things. You feel every impact. You hear the crowd. These larger-than-life characters are only metres away. Before you know it, you’re cheering for someone you’d never heard of an hour earlier and booing someone else like they’ve personally offended your entire family! That’s the magic of professional wrestling. Bring your family or friends, pick someone to cheer for, find someone to boo and get caught up in it. Last year, Coffs Harbour showed us that this town wants professional wrestling. This year, we’re coming back bigger, louder and ready to create more memories. Thanks Luke.

PRO WRESTLING LEAGUE PRESENTS CHAOS IN COFFS II Saturday, 7 November 2026 C.ex Grand Auditorium – Coffs Harbour. TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT cex.com.au COFFS COAST focus 23

MILA HEWITT

At just 19, Mila Hewi is already making her mark in marketing, fashion and community work. Alongside running her own clothing business and competing as a National Finalist in Miss Global Australia, Mila has launched The Big Sis Social Club - creating a welcoming space for teenage girls to make friends, build confidence and feel like they belong.

i Mila. For those who may not know you yet, tell us a little about yourself and what led you to create The Big Sis Social Club.

Hi! I’m 19 and grew up here in Coffs Harbour. I work full-time in marketing, which I absolutely love and feel very lucky to call it my dream job at 19. I also run my handmade clothing business, Soreia, and I’m currently a National Finalist in Miss Global Australia. Big Sis came from my own experiences growing up. I struggled with friendships, confidence, feeling left out and worrying far too much about what other girls thought of me. Looking back, I wish I’d spent less energy trying to fit in and more energy building myself and my own life. I wanted to create what I wish I’d had, somewhere girls can make friends, have fun and feel like they belong. Big Sis is all about giving girls aged 12–17 a la e to a e riends, ild onfiden e and feel like they belong. Why is creating that sense of community so important to you?

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Being a teenage girl can feel really lonely. I remember friendships feeling like my entire world, and if I wasn’t invited somewhere or a friendship changed, it felt enormous.

have been through a similar thing.

I want girls to realise there’s so much more waiting for them and to learn to put that energy into themselves, find hobbies, set goals, learn new things and create a life they’re excited about.

You particularly want to reach girls who might be struggling with friendships, eelin le t o t or findin it di fi lt to fit in. What would you say to a girl who is interested in coming but is nervous about walking through the door on her own?

Big Sis isn’t counselling and I don’t pretend to have all the answers. I’m only 19! I want it to feel like having a big sister and a group of girls in your corner. What can girls expect when they come along to a Big Sis Social Club workshop? What sort of activities and experiences have you planned? I want Big Sis to be something girls actually get excited to come to. Think fun, social and handson rather than sitting in a circle being told how to feel. We have ideas for makeup and beauty sessions, hair workshops, creative activities, guest speakers, confidence activities and social events where girls can simply hang out, meet people and talk about their problems with girls who

There will be opportunities to talk about confidence, friendships and issues they’re going through, but naturally and without pressure.

I’d tell her she’s exactly the girl I created it for. You won’t be the only person walking through that door feeling nervous. You don’t need to be outgoing, confident or already know someone, just come as you are. One of my biggest priorities is making sure nobody feels like they’re standing alone. I can guarantee you’ll have a friend by the end of it, because even if you don’t meet your new best friend straight away, you’ll have me and our group of Big Sisters there to be your friends from the moment you walk through the door. Sometimes doing one little scary thing for yourself can lead to something really beautiful. You’re also currently on your own journey towards Miss Global Australia. What made

I entered because I wanted to push myself outside my comfort zone and build my confidence. I’m now a National Finalist in Miss Global Australia, and having the opportunity to represent Coffs Harbour nationally is something I’m incredibly proud of.

you decide to enter the pageant, and what has the experience been like so far? I entered because I wanted to push myself outside my comfort zone and build my confidence. I’m now a National inalist in Miss Global Australia, and having the opportunity to represent Coffs Harbour nationally is something I’m incredibly proud of. It’s already become about much more than a pageant. It’s made me think about the woman I want to become and what I want to use my platform for. There are glamorous parts, which I love, but there’s also so much personal growth and community involvement behind it. Pageants have evolved quite a lot from the traditional idea of simply being about appearance. What does Miss Australia mean to you, and what do you hope to represent through the competition? To me, it’s about being a well rounded woman. Beauty and presentation are part of it, but so is confidence, kindness, ambition and what you do with your opportunities and platform. I want to represent young women who are ambitious but still figuring things out. At , I work full time in a career I love, run my own clothing

brand, am building Big Sis and preparing for growing up, but I can turn them into something a national pageant. I want girls to see that positive. If a girl comes along, makes a friend you don’t have to wait until you’re older or or starts believing in herself a little more, that completely confident means something to me. to start creating a life Looking ahead, what you’re proud of. I want to would you love Big Sis represent Your community to become, and where young women who work is an important would you like your are ambitious but part of your Miss Miss Australia journey still figuring things Global Australia to take you? out. At 19, I work journey, and Big Sis is I’d love Big Sis to become full-time in a career one of the initiatives a recognised community I love, run my own you’re using your in Coffs Harbour clothing brand, am platform to create. where girls know building Big Sis Why was it important they can come along, and preparing for a to you to make your meet people and feel national pageant. community work welcomed. ventually, something that was I’d love to see it grow genuinely personal beyond Coffs Harbour too. With Miss Australia, to you? of course I’d love to go as far as possible and I never wanted to create something just so make Coffs Harbour proud. But regardless of I could say I’d done community work for the result, if I can grow Big Sis into something a pageant. I wanted it to be something I lasting and show another young girl that the genuinely cared about and would continue regardless of the competition. Big Sis is personal difficult parts of growing up don’t define where because I understand the girl it’s for. I remember you end up, I’ll be incredibly proud. being her. I can’t change my experiences

Thanks Mila. COFFS COAST focus 25

CODIE O’CONNOR

This October, local father, relationship coach and breathwork facilitator Codie O’Connor will walk and run 100 kilometres to raise funds and awareness for the Black Dog Institute. Drawing on his own experience with addiction and mental health struggles, Codie hopes the challenge will not only raise vital funds, but remind others that even the darkest chapter doesn’t have to be the end of the story.

i Codie. You’re taking on a huge challenge this October, walking and running 100 kilometres to raise money for the Black Dog Institute. What made you decide to take this on? This isn’t really about walking 100 kilometres. It’s about raising money and awareness for an illness taking far too many lives. I know that darkness because I’ve lived it. I’ve battled addiction, alcoholism and mental health struggles, and there were times I nearly wasn’t here anymore. Today I’m a husband, father of three, relationship coach and breathwork facilitator. If my story helps even one person realise their life is worth fighting for, every kilometre is worth it.

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This challenge is deeply personal for you, as you’ve been through some incredibly dark periods in your own life. What changed for you, and what helped you begin to see a different future? Everything changed when I decided to stop seeing myself as a victim of my circumstances and take radical responsibility for my life. I had to hold myself accountable and recognise the way I was living wasn’t sustainable. If I continued down that path, I believe I would have ended up dead or in jail. I got sober and started doing the inner work instead of escaping my pain. Slowly, I rebuilt my relationship with myself and began believing my life could be different. You’ve said this isn’t simply about completing 100 kilometres; it’s about

showing people that their darkest chapter doesn’t have to be the end of their story. Why is that message so important for you to share? Because when you’re in that darkness, it can feel like there’s no way out. There were moments I couldn’t see a future for myself. Now I look at my wife, my three children and the work I do helping others and realise how much I would have missed. I want people to know that how life feels right now doesn’t mean that’s how it will always feel. Your darkest chapter doesn’t have to become the end of your story. Why did you choose the Black Dog Institute as the organisation you wanted to support, and what do you hope the money raised through this challenge will

of simply talking honestly about mental health? I’ve learned that talking about it matters, but how I live matters even more. I want to be a re ection of what’s possible when you choose to heal and show up for yourself. I don’t just want to talk about change; I want to live it. Mental illness nearly took my life, and today I’m creating a life I once couldn’t imagine. I want my children and anyone struggling to see that where you’ve been doesn’t have to define where you’re going. You now have a young family. Has becoming a husband and father changed the way you think about your own journey and the importance of looking after your mental health? Absolutely. Becoming a husband and father has made me realise my I want them healing doesn’t stop to see that with me. My children unhealthy pa erns are watching how I love and limiting beliefs their mother, handle can be broken, and difficult emotions, that we can learn communicate and look to regulate our after myself. I can’t nervous system and tell them how to live, create a healthier but what I model will life. Looking a er teach them far more. I help achieve? my mental health want them to see that I chose the Black Dog isn’t just about unhealthy patterns and Institute because surviving. It’s limiting beliefs can be mental health and about being the broken, and that we suicide prevention are husband and father can learn to regulate deeply personal to me. I want my family to our nervous system and I want the money we experience. create a healthier life. raise to contribute to Looking after my mental research, education health isn’t just about and support that can surviving. It’s about help save lives. Just as importantly, I want this being the husband and father I want my challenge to create conversations. If somebody family to experience. struggling silently sees this, realises they’re What are you expecting the 100-kilometre not alone and reaches out for help, that’s challenge itself to be like; physically and something money can’t measure. mentally? What will you draw on to keep You’ve already started using your own experiences to support other people. What have you learned about the power

going? I don’t think the 100 kilometres itself will be the hardest part. The biggest challenge will

be doing it with a newborn and experiencing sleepless nights. There’ll be days when I’m exhausted, but I know why I’m doing it. I’ll remind myself that every kilometre is raising money and awareness for something that nearly took my life. That reason will keep me going. You’re not just simply asking people for donations, you also have a few other fundraising ideas on the go, can you share a bit about what you have in mind? I wanted this to be bigger than asking for donations. On September 27, I brought local facilitators together for a mental health and healing event. We had 60 tickets available, with a goal of raising $6,000 for the Black Dog Institute. Everyone donated their time, creating a day of breathwork, yoga, sound healing, movement and connection. I’m also donating my Facebook monetisation and holding a fundraising dinner in October. It’s about raising money, bringing our community together and starting conversations around mental health. For anyone who wants to get behind you; whether that’s donating, sharing your story or supporting you during the 100km challenge, how can they get involved? There are many ways to get behind this. You can donate through the fundraiser linked in the bio of my Facebook page, Codie James O’Connor, share my story, attend a fundraising event or engage with my content because all of my Facebook monetisation is being donated. You can also join me for part of the 100km. I’ll share when and where I’m walking on my Facebook stories, so people can walk beside me. And if your workplace or organisation is holding a health or wellbeing day and you’d like me to come and speak about mental health, nervous system regulation or building stronger relationships, reach out to me. I’d love to bring these conversations into more workplaces and communities. Thanks Codie. COFFS COAST focus 27

ANCIENT LETTERS BELLINGEN

A true dream team comes to Bellingen this October. Elena Kats-Chernin AO, one of Australia's leading composers, and ARIA award-winning pianist Tamara-Anna Cislowska bring Ancient Letters, named for their chart-topping ABC Classic album, to Bellingen Memorial Hall for one unforgettable evening. iving her first public performance at age two playing Bartok, Tamara-Anna was a child prodigy who today is getting four million hits a year on Spotify! Elena left the Soviet Union in 1980 to study in Sydney. She has composed music for symphony orchestra, chamber ensembles, choirs, opera and ballet. Her

music was even played at the Opening Ceremony of the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Playing four hands at a single piano, the pair reimagine beloved works from Kats-Chernin's catalogue in a fresh new light, alongside brand-new pieces barely off the page. It's a rare, intimate performance built on decades of collaboration on stages across the world. Expect, warmth and surprises from two of the country s finest musicians sharing a single keyboard. Wednesday 21 October, 7pm, Bellingen Memorial Hall. General admission $35, under 18s free. Tickets via Humanitix or musicintheregions.com.

MAKE A BIG DAY OF IT. Looking for a day out that keeps the whole family entertained without making your wallet cry? Head to The Big Banana and grab an Ultimate Pass for BIG value and even BIGGER fun. Your Ultimate Pass unlocks a full day of attractions, from racing down the Toboggan and taking on the Plantation Coaster to conquering the Giant Slide, getting soaked in the Water Park and testing your skills at Laser Tag. There’s something for the little kids, the big kids and the

grown-ups who swear they’re “just watching”. But the best part? It’s not just the rides. It’s the moments in between. Dad missing a spot with the sunscreen. Someone losing a thong on the Toboggan. The family selfie in front of the giant banana. The stories you’ll still be telling on the drive home. One pass. Loads to do. One BIG day out. Come hungry for fun. Leave with a BIG memory.

UNLIMITED USE OF ALL OUR CLASSIC ATTRACTIONS

$79 $89

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COVER DISH Pu anesca Fe ucine - San Marzano tomatoes, white anchovy fillets, chilli, capers &

Kalamata olives topped with parmesan from Papaveros Italian Restaurant, C.ex Coffs COFFS COAST focus 29

SIMON JONES

CHARLIE’S AT CHURCH

With more than three decades in some of the world’s finest kitchens, including alongside renowned chef Marco Pierre White, Simon Jones has built a career spanning Michelin-Star restaurants, luxury hotels and private kitchens around the globe. Now calling Bellingen home, Simon brings his love of simple, seasonal Italian-inspired cooking to Charlie’s at Church, where local produce, genuine hospitality and good food take centre stage.

i Simon. For those who are meeting you for the first ti e, tell s a little a o t yo rsel and how yo o nd yo r way into the world o oo in

I’ve been cooking professionally for over 31 years, and my career has taken me from some of the world’s best fine dining kitchens to private chefing around the globe. I started cooking because I really loved food and my neighbour in ermany on the air force base was a chef. I started working with him when I was . o had a retty n s al hildhood, o in aro nd d e to yo r ather’s areer in the air or e and s endin ti e in la es in l din ran e, taly, olland and er any, how did that early e os re to di erent lt res and ood sha e yo Italy in particular had a huge in uence on me. The simplicity of beautiful ingredients. ou don’t need to put silly amounts of things on a plate to make it delicious. It’s seasonal cooking, not just a chef’s desire to be marketable. It’s the right thing to do. o ’ e had an in redi le areer, ro 30 COFFS COAST focus

wor in at ’ s ar ot in ondon and alon side ar o ierre hite to tra ellin the world as a ri ate he , what ha e een so e hi hli hts alon the way

Chef at Waterloo House in Bermuda and to estaurant Chef at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, os Angeles, it’s been an incredible ride.

Seeing my name on the menu as Head Chef at L’Escargot when we were awarded a Michelin Star when I was 2 years old. earning from Marco was literally an education. It was a different era, incredibly demanding, sometimes terrifying and not an environment where anyone was interested in your feelings. We learnt discipline, standards and how to perform when everything around you is going completely sideways. 00 covers a service to Michelin standards. We were pirates and we were the best at it.

hat was it a o t ellin en that ade yo want to t down roots here and o en harlie’s at h r h

oining aymond Blanc at e Manoir aux uat’Saisons had a profound impact on me. aymond had an extraordinary palate and a clear philosophy about food. He believed in local, seasonal produce and letting ingredients speak for themselves, long before it became the cool thing to do. or us even today, it isn’t a marketing strategy, it’s just simply the right way to cook. rom being the Chef de Partie at Prince of Wales Hotel in Niagara, Canada, to Sous

There’s something about the town that’s difficult to explain until you spend some time here. It has this wonderful mix of creativity, community, farmers, producers, artists and people who genuinely care about where their food comes from. We wanted to open somewhere that felt connected to the community. of our guests are local and we see them on some level most weeks. Their continued support is our benchmark of success. We weren’t interested in trying to create an overly polished version of a restaurant, nor in joining the world of ultra backed corporate run restaurants. hat did yo want harlie’s to e when yo o ened it ow wo ld yo des ri e the e erien e yo ’re tryin to reate or eo le who wal thro h the door

Charlie’s came from a place of love. We created a place that we would want to eat at ourselves. The food is important, obviously, but so is the atmosphere. We want people to feel comfortable, looked after and welcome. We want a bit of noise, a bit of laughter and good food landing on the table. o r ood has a stron talian in en e, what is it a o t talian oo in that yo lo e The honesty of it. Italian cooking is incredibly simple, but simple is quite difficult to master. If you have three ingredients on a plate, you’d better make sure all three are bloody good. I love the respect Italians have for ingredients and tradition, but I also love that food is never completely precious. It’s about feeding people. Pasta, pizza, ragù, tomatoes, olive oil, parmesan, seafood, these are humble things, but when they’re treated properly, they can be extraordinary.

rod e, how i ortant is it to yo to s ort lo al rod ers and show ase what’s a aila le in this art o the world

I’d much rather buy something from someone who I know has put their heart and soul into producing it, than have something arrive from three thousand kilometres away because it has a fancy label on it.

together perfectly. It might be a good piece of fish, a perfectly cooked steak, a pizza coming out of the oven at exactly the right time or a plate of handmade pasta that just tastes fantastic.

It’s hugely important. We have amazing farmers, growers, fishermen, producers and artisans right on our doorstep.

After all these years, I’m still obsessed with getting things right.

I’d much rather buy something from someone who I know has put their heart and soul into producing it than have something arrive from three thousand kilometres away because it has a fancy label on it.

As for what makes a great meal, it isn’t necessarily expensive ingredients, overdressed plates or complicated techniques. It’s far more good food, good company, and genuine hospitality where you feel welcomed.

It also keeps the menu interesting. If the produce changes, the food changes, sometimes daily.

inally, when eo le lea e harlie’s at h r h a ter a eal, what do yo ho e they ta e away ro the e erien e

But that’s the thing about cooking, the better the ingredient, the less you have to do to it.

Hopefully a full tummy and a smile.

And I’m a huge believer in pasta being one of the great inventions of civilisation, along with dogs, wine and afternoon naps.

ter so any years in ro essional it hens, what still ets yo e ited a o t oo in , and what do yo thin a es a really reat eal

If someone leaves Charlie’s saying, “That was bloody delicious,” has had a few laughs, discovered something new, enjoyed a good bottle of wine and is already planning their next visit, then we’ve done our job.

o also

I still get excited when something comes

han s i on

a e a oint o

sin lo al

COFFS COAST focus 31

LA HACIENDA 101 We’ve been delivering authentic Mexican avours for years. With the largest range of margaritas on the Coffs Coast it’s definitely the place to dine out or just enjoy drinks with friends or family. 16 Market St Woolgoolga Ph 02 6699 2665 www.lahacienda101.com.au

GREEN ONE CAFE NEW SPRING MENU - Spring has arrived at Green One Cafe, with a fresh new menu to enjoy. Drop in for coffee, breakfast or lunch and discover what’s new this season. Walk-ins welcome and takeaway available. en days a wee ro a iew the en at www o a Green One Cafe at Park Beach Bowls Club, where the ocean eets the reens

HORIZONS RESTAURANT & BAR - OPAL COVE Get together with friends & enjoy lunch on the terrace overlooking the pool – Try a shared Pulled Pork Nachos or Greek Mezze plate. From 11.30am everyday. BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY! Open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – 7 days a week. Make a booking on 66510550. Happy Hour 5pm – 6pm . Horizons Restaurant & Bar – Opal Cove Resort 32 COFFS COAST focus

A Place for Everyone AT SAWTELL RSL Right in the heart of Sawtell’s vibrant main street, Sawtell S is a welcoming place to catch up with family and friends, enjoy great food and drinks, and soak up the atmosphere of one of the Coffs Coast’s favourite destinations. Whether you’re joining us for lunch, dinner, coffee or a casual catch up, there’s something to suit everyone. asis Bistro is open for lunch and dinner, while Waves Caf is the perfect spot for coffee, cakes and light snacks. Want to relax and watch the world go by njoy a drink overlooking beautiful irst Avenue from our open air window seats, or celebrate a special occasion with family and friends on our alfresco terrace.

There’s plenty happening after dark too. Catch your favourite live bands in the Princess oom, or head into the Sports Bar to cheer on your team and watch the game live and loud. At Sawtell S we’re proud to be more than just a place to eat, drink and enjoy great entertainment, we’re a proud partner of our local community. We support a wide range

of local sporting teams, charities, schools and community groups, with more than 00,000 donated back into our community this year. So whether you’re planning a family outing, meeting friends for a meal, enjoying live entertainment or simply looking for somewhere friendly to unwind, come and experience all that Sawtell S has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you soon

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FA M I L Y B U S I N E S S E S S H A P I N G T H E C O F F S C I T Y C E N T R E

Cabas Drapery

SEWN INTO THE FABRIC

For 97 years, Cabas Drapery has graced the Coffs Coast with high-quality fabrics, homewares, and a surprisingly extensive range of workwear. Speaking with 3rd generation Caba, Margo, we learn more about the man who started it all, and how his legacy inspires the business today.

ounded in 1929 by Syrian immigrant Rezkalla ‘Tom' Caba (Margo’s grandfather), the business began in rented premises at the Jetty, before moving to a timber cottage at 127 West High Street, where the business remains to this day. "Tom would hawk his wares around to the townsfolk on foot, but eventually purchased a horse & cart so he was able to travel as far as the Orara and Boambee Valleys. By the 1940s he had a new brick shop built for his drapery business, plus an additional shop he would rent out next door,” shares Margo. While fabric and fashions have evolved over the years, the approach to customer service has remained at the heart of this iconic family business from day one. "Our approach is based on Tom Caba’s style of service, listening to what our customer wants and doing our very best to provide it.” There’s something special about a business that’s been in the same family for nearly 5

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Leanne (Corfe) Spagnolo (left) started working on Saturday mornings in 1973. Her pic shows a night of frivolity while fundraising for the local Show Society. oanne Caba right has just clocked up 0 years in the Drapery, shows her aunt and uncle and siblings May and Tony Caba, at work in the 1950s.

generations. “Our grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles and many of our cousins have been involved,” says Margo. The future is looking bright with Tom’s legacy inspiring the next generation of Cabas. “We are extremely fortunate to have Pam’s daughter Lindy and Paul’s daughter Ashleigh now doing their bit to keep us relevant and provide a succession plan,” she adds. When asked about what it's like to be part of the Coffs City Centre community, Margo answered, "The City Centre has been home to our family for generations. There’s a familiar comfort about the place that makes us happy to be here. We can’t imagine life without this community.” Well, we can't imagine Coffs without Cabas. If you grew up on the Coffs Coast, you are likely to have a fond memory of Cabas. From school uniform fittings with mum, to the joy of choosing a new bedspread for your bedroom, or even the satisfaction of finding a garment with the correct fit, Cabas has not just made us

look good, they have made us feel good too. Stepping into the store today, you can still expect stunning fabrics and quality workwear, including high-vis industrial, medical scrubs, rain gear, and leisurewear, but also so much more. This is a one-stop shop for the home decorator; think lovely linen and homewares, custom curtains, blinds, interior shutters and a beautiful range of wallpaper! With free inhome measure and quotes, Cabas can take the stress out of trying to sort it all out yourself. It’s also worth also checking out their growing range of Australian-made products which echo the quality and craftsmanship that is synonymous with Cabas. So whether you visit looking for a packet of pins, or wish to create a new-look living room, the team is confident you’ll feel part of the family. Follow on Instagram @cabas_drapery Visit at 127 West High Street, Coffs Harbour

The next generation of Uptown Local

he story behind Uptown Local stretches back more than four decades. What began as Encounters, founded by Tim and Laura, continued to evolve when Angela and Micah took on the family business in 2003, relocating from Sydney to Coffs Harbour. More than two decades later, their chapter has made way for the next generation, with Cam and his wife Sharna now at the helm of Uptown Local in the Coffs City Centre. After more than 10 years working in the business, Cam says taking the next step was about backing himself. “I’ve pretty much grown up alongside Uptown Local … I think after that long you get to a point where you either stay comfortable or back yourself and have a crack,” he shares. Taking on a business with so much history comes with real weight, but Cam sees it as a privilege. “My job isn’t to completely reinvent Uptown Local and forget what made it successful, it’s about respecting what came before us and then working out what the next version

looks like.” Cam and Sharna are excited to bring their own personality and fresh ideas, but share that relationships and personalised service remain at the heart of Uptown Local. They want the store to feel relaxed and approachable, while growing its digital presence and reaching customers beyond Coffs Harbour. Cam’s own label, Dead Smyle, adds a distinctly local edge to the curated mix of Australian streetwear, contemporary fashion, footwear and accessories. With a new baby on the way, this next chapter carries even more meaning. “There’s something pretty special about taking on a business that has come through my family while Sharna and I are growing our own family at the same time.” And if you haven’t visited Uptown Local lately, it might be time to call in and see what’s new in store. Follow on Instagram @uptown_ local Visit at Gowings Coffs Central, 35-61 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

Double Shot Cafe’s mother-daughter duo

hen it comes to coffee, many people would argue that two shots are always better than one. And as the saying goes, the mother-daughter duo behind Double Shot Cafe in City Square, are certainly a powerhouse when it comes to driving this muchloved business forward. Originally working as an employee, Krista eventually went on to own Double Shot and has been at the helm for the past 9 years. Since taking over, she has been proud to keep the business 100% family-owned. “We have been able to support and nurture many family members building their experience and skillset to use for their future careers,” shares Kirsta. More recently, her daughter Myndee came on as a partner in May 2026. “Myndee has come into this business with a full skill set, fresh eyes, youthful optimism which will continue moving Double Shot forward, staying relevant catering to existing and future customers,” shares Krista.

The mother and daughter have hit the ground running, having fun rolling out some exciting upgrades to freshen-up the business. Krista shares that the recent adjustments to the shop fitout, have been designed to make a big impact on work ow and encourage an upbeat work environment. “Shout out Darren Jones of Boambee Carpentry for his superb expertise and support!” While there may be some noticeable changes to the signage and fit out, the familiar approach to customer service remains at the heart of Double Shot. “We want our customers to feel welcomed and relaxed while enjoying our great coffee and friendly service,” says Krista. Their love for being part of the City Centre community, and the dedication to supporting each other both professionally and personally, make Double Shot the perfect place for coffee, catch-ups and connection. Visit at City Square, Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour COFFS COAST focus 35

CONTEMPOR ARY PHOTOGR APHY

Audiences are invited to slow down, look closely and connect with the world around us at the City of Coff’s Harbour’s Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) this October.

Image credit: Petrina Hicks, Snakes and Mirrors (with Olwen Fouéré), 2024, pigment inkjet print, courtesy of the artist and Michael Reid (Sydney + Berlin) 36 COFFS COAST focus

Image credit: Murray Fredericks, Salt 300 (Tent & Bike), 2006, pigment ink-jet print, courtesy of the artist and Arc One Gallery

Image credit: The Huxleys, The Wedding Tackle, 2024, from the series Bad sports, pigment ink-jet print, courtesy of the artists and MARS Gallery

urray Fredericks: The that dissolve the boundary between land Salt Lake, Petrina Hicks: and sky. ast fields of white salt, mirrored Snakes and Mirrors horizons and monumental skies transform and The Huxleys: Bad the Australian interior into something almost Sports are all touring surreal. The resulting images are both from the Museum of minimalist and immersive, inviting viewers to Australian Photography (MAPh), bringing pause, and experience a rare sense of stillness. some of Australia’s most celebrated In an increasingly busy world, Fredericks’ contemporary artists to the Coffs Coast. photographs remind us of the profound From the shimmering salt plains of inland beauty that can be found in solitude, Australia to dreamlike re ection and the natural encounters with environment. animals and exuberant While Fredericks explores For local re ections on identity our relationship with audiences, and belonging, landscape, Petrina Hicks the exhibition holds the exhibitions turns her gaze towards particular significance, demonstrate the the connections between with Garre Huxley extraordinary ways humans and animals. being a proud contemporary In Snakes and Mirrors, Gumbaynggirr man photography can mythology, symbolism originally from Coffs help us see the world and art history intertwine Harbour. Yet the anew. to create images that

appeal of Bad Sports

At the centre of are visually exquisite yet extends far beyond Murray Fredericks’ subtly unsettling. Hicks any one place. survey exhibition challenges conventional The Salt Lake is Kati human-centred ways Thanda–Lake Eyre, of seeing, encouraging one of the world’s largest salt lakes, located viewers to consider animal consciousness and in the remote deserts of South Australia. the interconnectedness of all living beings. Her Over the past two decades, Fredericks has meticulously crafted photographs invite us to returned to this extraordinary landscape question assumptions about power, identity more than thirty times, creating photographs and our place within a broader ecological

world, creating works that linger in the mind long after leaving the gallery. Bringing a vibrant burst of colour, humour and theatricality to YAM is Bad Sports by artistic duo Will Huxley and Garrett Huxley. Through vibrant costumes, performance photography and theatrical self-portraiture, The Huxleys re ect on the experience of growing up as creative outsiders in a culture that often places sporting achievement at the centre of identity. For local audiences, the exhibition holds particular significance, with arrett Huxley being a proud Gumbaynggirr man originally from Coffs Harbour. Yet the appeal of Bad Sports extends far beyond any one place. The work is a celebration of creativity, individuality and the freedom to define your own path. Viewed together, these exhibitions prompt fascinating conversations. Each artist approaches photography differently, yet all share a belief in its ability to transform how we understand ourselves and the world around us. As touring exhibitions from the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh), these works bring nationally significant contemporary art to regional audiences. Whether you’re a regular gallery visitor, a curious first timer, or simply looking for an inspiring way to spend an afternoon, this suite of exhibitions at YAM promises an experience that is both thought-provoking and deeply rewarding. COFFS COAST focus 37

SMALL BUSINESS IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS

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

mall businesses are a huge part of what makes the Coffs Coast work. They are the cafés that know your coffee order, the retailers who remember what you like, the tradies, tourism operators, creatives and professional services that employ local people and give our places their character. Running a small business is not easy. Costs are under pressure, customer expectations continue to shift and the way people search for, compare and choose businesses is changing quickly. The upcoming bypass adds another factor to think about. or some businesses it may change traffic patterns, passing trade or how customers move through the city. But there is an advantage in knowing this change is coming. It gives businesses time to prepare, test ideas and think more deliberately about how they attract customers, rather than relying on people simply passing by. That is what the Coffs Ahead program is about. The City of Coffs Harbour is working with Service NSW, Business NSW, local Chambers of Commerce, and business

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This Small Business Month, the upcoming Coffs Harbour Bypass is a timely opportunity for local businesses to think ahead, strengthen what they do and make sure customers have plenty of reasons to keep choosing them. advisors to help businesses prepare for the bypass and strengthen their position beyond the opening. A good place to start is with the basics: • Google your own business. Is the information accurate and are your opening hours current? Check your oogle Business Profile, website and social channels. Do they clearly show what you offer and why someone should choose you? • Look at your signage, customer experience and reviews. Are you making it easy for people to find you, trust you and come back • Think about the bypass. Do you need to attract customers differently, strengthen your online presence or give people another reason to seek you out? We have already trialled one-on-one Google Business Profile support with local businesses, helping operators improve their visibility and make it easier for customers to find them. Often a few practical improvements can make a real difference. Through the Coffs Ahead program and the 6 Degrees website, businesses can access

workshops, one-on-one support, practical resources and connections to specialist advice. Our business bypass readiness work is also helping us understand what support businesses need most. Customers have a part to play too. If you value a local business, recommend it, leave a positive review and tell other people about it. Word of mouth still carries enormous weight, whether it happens across the counter or online. For business owners, our ask this Small Business Month is practical: choose the thing you have been putting off and move it forward. pdate your online profile. eview your marketing. Ask for advice. Book a workshop. Make the call. And if the bypass has you thinking about visibility, customer traffic, marketing or what comes next, contact the City’s Economic Development team through 6degreesco.com.au. You don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes one good idea, one useful connection or one small change is enough to get things moving in the right direction.

BOUTIQUES, JEWELLERY, FLOWERS, GIFTS & MORE!

SHOP

LOCAL D ore isc o v er M

Scan to shop local on the Coffs Coast

This Small Business Month, rediscover your favourite independent businesses – and find a few new ones – right here on the Coffs Coast.

MIND YOUR

MATES Community BBQ Lifeline North Coast is proud to launch the inaugural “Mind Your Mates” community BBQ being held in Coffs Harbour on Wednesday October 7.

Lifeline North Coast, Welcome Hospitality and BCU are inviting members of the community for a free community breakfast from 7am to 8.30am at Brelsford Park in the heart of Coffs Harbour. Around 75% of people who die by suicide in Australia are men. Many men face challenges in silence, often feeling they need to cope on their own. The “Mind Your Mates” community BBQ is designed to encourage meaningful conversations, strengthen connections and remind people that nobody has to face life’s challenges alone.

“While this event is focussing on men’s mental health, we want to encourage women, partners, friends, family and colleagues to come along, and show support for the men in our community,” says Angela Martin, Lifeline North Coast CEO. The crew from Welcome Hospitality will be lighting up the BBQ and serving free bacon and egg rolls. You’ll also be able to enjoy a freshly brewed barista coffee thanks to BCU Bank “Bring your mates along for a casual get together, share stories and help build a stronger, more connected community,” says Ms Martin.

“Mind Your Mates” BBQ Wednesday 7th October 7am - 8.30am Brelsford Park, Earl Street, Coffs Harbour. Lifeline North Coast is a not-for-profit organisation based in Coffs Harbour, providing crisis support, suicide prevention, community education, and mental health services. It is part of the national Lifeline Australia network and contributes to the 24/7 crisis support service on 13 11 14. 40 COFFS COAST focus

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YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

t some point in our lives, most of us will experience stress, anxiety, grief, burnout, or periods where life simply feels overwhelming. Mental Health Month is a timely reminder that looking after our mental wellbeing is just as important as looking after our physical health. In our busy world, it’s easy to prioritise work, family and responsibilities ahead of our own wellbeing, often without realising the impact this can have on our mental health. The good news is that there are simple steps we can take every day to strengthen our resilience, improve our wellbeing and better manage life’s challenges. Start with Self-Care. Self care is not selfish. It is about creating healthy habits that support your overall wellbeing and help you cope with life’s ups and downs. Some simple ways to look after your mental health include: Prioritising quality sleep and maintaining a regular sleep routine. Staying physically active through walking, exercise, gardening or activities you enjoy. Eating nutritious meals and staying hydrated. Taking regular breaks from work and technology. Spending time outdoors and connecting with nature.

Practising mindfulness, meditation or deep breathing exercises. Making time for hobbies and activities that bring joy and relaxation. Often, it is the small daily actions that have the greatest impact on our mental health over time. Stay Connected. One of the strongest protective factors for good mental health is connection. Relationships with family, friends, colleagues and community groups help us feel supported, valued and less alone during difficult times. Make an effort to: Check in regularly with people you care about. Share how you’re feeling with someone you trust. Join local social, sporting or community groups. Avoid withdrawing from others when life feels challenging. Connection helps build resilience and reminds us that we don’t have to face challenges on our own. Mind Your Mates. Not everyone who is struggling will ask for help. That’s why it’s important to look out for one another. Some signs that someone may be doing it tough include: Withdrawing from friends, family or activities.

Thriving NOT JUST

with ANGELA MARTIN

FROM LIFELINE NORTH COAST

Changes in sleeping or eating habits. Difficulty concentrating or staying motivated. Talking about feeling hopeless, isolated or overwhelmed. If you’re concerned about someone, reach out. A simple conversation, genuine concern and a willingness to listen can make a significant difference. You don’t need to have all the answers. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is be present, listen without judgement and encourage professional support when needed. It’s Okay to Ask for Help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or circumstance. Reaching out early can make a real difference and help prevent problems from becoming more serious. This Mental Health Month, let’s all commit to taking better care of ourselves and checking in on those around us. A simple conversation, a kind gesture, or a few moments of connection could make a life-changing difference. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. Remember, you are not alone. Support is available, and reaching out can be the first step towards feeling better. This Mental Health Month, take care of yourself, mind your mates, and help create a community

Changes in mood or behaviour.

where everyone feels connected, supported

Increased anxiety, stress or irritability.

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Guulabaa WHAT TO EXPECT AT GUULABAA Activities are based around Guulabaa Hub, a series of timber decks that allow visitors to relax and enjoy the forest canopy views. The Hub also provides access to Guulabaa’s visitor experiences. Families looking for a day out can enjoy a picnic or visit the Bunyah Café (open weekends & school holidays) and meet The Big Koala, a 2.5m-high sculpture painted by Pauline Roods, part of the region’s Hello Koalas Sculpture trail. There are comfortable bushwalks nearby where visitors might see one of the region’s koalas. To guarantee seeing these amazing creatures, book a visit at Koala Conservation Australia’s Wild Koala Breeding Centre Visitor Experience. Here, visitors learn about these shy marsupials while viewing some of the resident koalas. They’ll also meet the carers who rehabilitate sick and injured koalas brought in for treatment. For those seeking a more active experience, Wildnets Adventure Park offers Australia’s largest suspended playground. With rope- and net-based adventures scaled safely for the ages 3 and up, you can compete challenges, play in the treetops or ride a zipline. For those just wishing to cool off on a hot day, there’s nothing better than the shaded Guulabaa Cathedral gathering space under the Hub. It’s a bookable function space too, with seating for 100 people (e: visit@fcnsw.com.au). 42 COFFS COAST 24 GREATER PORT focus MACQUARIE focus

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

A MULTI-AWARD WINNING EXPERIENCE Guulabaa – Place of Koala is recognised as a global exemplar of conservation-led design, Indigenous collaboration and resilient land stewardship, winning an Urban Land Institute I 202 Asia Pacific Award for xcellence in Hong Kong. The Urban Land Institute is a global organisation with a mission to shape the future of the built environment for transformative impact in communities worldwide. The awards are among the region’s most respected honours, celebrating projects that raise the bar for design quality, sustainability, and positive community impact. Guulabaa is one of only twelve winners across the Asia Pacific. Guulabaa was further recognised at the 2025 Sustainability Awards, winning the ditor’s Choice Award, Judges noted that sustainability is embedded at every level, from passive design and low-impact construction to incorporation of indigenous-led cultural burning practices. Guulabaa has also won an Australian Good Design Award Built nvironment Place Design for bringing together conservation, education, cultural storytelling and a place for people to connect while supporting recovery of endangered koalas.

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

Guulabaa is grounded in deep collaboration with First Nations communities, from integrating traditional cool burning practices to reduce bushfire risk and restore forest health, to sharing of culture and language. This approach also enabled the use of local sustainably sourced native hardwoods in construction, with the support of the North Coast timber industry. Guulabaa sets a benchmark for ecologically responsible and culturally informed design with Caring for Country in mind.

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

FIND US Located in Cowarra State Forest, Guulabaa Way, off Burrawan Forest Drive, Lake Innes. 10 minutes from either Port Macquarie or Wauchope. 1.5km from the Pacific Highway on the Mid North Coast via sealed road. W: guulabaaplaceofkoala.com.au Follow us on facebook & Instagram. @guulabaaplaceofkoala COFFS COAST focus GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 42 25

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Charlotte

Coffs Harbour footballer Charlo e Bunny has been named in the 2026 All Australian Women’s Football Team after an impressive performance at the National Championships in Melbourne. The Bishop Drui College student and school leader chats about her football journey, the hard work behind her selection and her dream of one day representing the Matildas.

BUNNY

i Charlotte. Congratulations on being selected in the 2026 All Australian Women’s Football Team! What went through your mind when you found out you’d been selected? Thank you so much! I was honestly shocked when I heard my name, but when it sank in, I was really happy. I’ve been competing in the pathway for this championship for the last years since it’s , and this was the first year I’ve been able to play for NSW in the All Schools National Championships. To be selected in the Australian Schoolgirls team in the first year competing at the level was really special for me. It was a really proud moment too, because I’ve put a lot of work in for the last few years and it’s really paid off. I’m grateful for everyone who has supported me, especially my family, coaches, school (Bishop Druitt College) and friends.

Can you take us back to where it all e an hen did yo first all in lo e with 46 COFFS COAST focus

football, and when did you realise you i ht ha e the otential to ta e it rther I first started kicking a ball around at age three with my brother, since he played too. I joined Boambee FC at 6 years old, and that’s when I fell in love with the game. From there, I played my junior years before moving to Sawtell FC. When I, and others, realised I had the potential to take it further, I moved to NCF, where I played in the boys’ Newcastle NPL 1. I’ve had heaps of opportunities, with highlights being the Emerging Matildas tournaments and U17 Junior Matildas camp in Melbourne. o r er or an e at the ational ha ionshi s in el o rne lti ately led to your All Australian selection. How did yo eel the ha ionshi s went or yo , and what was it li e o etin a ainst so e o the est yo n layers in the country? I felt the championships went really well for me. eading in, I was fit and had been performing well, so I was going in with a good mindset. I knew it would be challenging

competing against some of the best young players in the country. Playing against quality opposition like that pushes me to constantly work harder. o ’ e een on the radar o national talent s o ts or se eral years, in l din re ei in so e in redi le eed a ro or er atildas d rin a oa hin session two years ago. What did it mean to hear ro essional layers say they o ld see a t re atilda in yo It was incredible. Coming from people who have achieved so much and played at the level I aspire to, it was really special to hear that they think I have the potential to go further. It definitely gave me motivation and a drive to work harder. At the same time, I know there’s still a long way to go and a lot of hard work ahead. Representing the Matildas is obviously a dream, so to have former players recognise that potential was something I’ll never forget. What does being named an All Australian ean to yo ersonally s it so ethin yo e er i a ined a hie in when yo

first started layin It means a lot to me. When I first started playing, I never would have imagined achieving something like this, I just played because I loved the game and enjoyed being around my friends. As I’ve grown up and started playing at higher levels, I’ve been able to set bigger goals for myself. Achieving something like this makes all the hard work feel worth it. I’m really proud, but I also see it as motivation to keep improving because there is still so much I want to achieve.

the community, and it’s rewarding seeing them progress. n top of this, I have a game on the weekend, sometimes in Newcastle, which means travelling down early in the morning and getting back late at night.

Achieving something like this makes all the hard work feel worth it. I’m really proud, but I also see it as motivation to keep improving because there is still so much I want to achieve.

o r oa hes des ri e yo as so eone willin to t in the e tra wor and learn ro e ery e erien e hat does a ty i al wee o trainin loo li e or yo

o ’re also a hool eader at isho r itt olle e ow do yo alan e the de ands o elite oot all with yo r a ade i o it ents and leadershi res onsi ilities

A typical week can be pretty busy, especially with balancing soccer, school and work. I typically train afternoons a week, plus gym sessions a week before training for strength, speed and recovery. I have sessions in the morning, training twice and coaching a group of girls at IS one morning. I find that really special it’s time I can put back into

I was really honoured to be a 202 27 School eader, and balancing the role can be difficult at times, but I’m also really grateful for the opportunity. I’ve definitely learnt to manage my time well, especially on weeks where I’m travelling or know I have a lot on with football. Having the opportunity to do school online in some of my subjects has been really

helpful with BDC Hori on nline. I can focus on my academics while travelling. BDC has been really supportive of my football journey and helped me balance my sporting and academic commitments with the new leadership role.

yo o ld i a ine yo rsel fi e years ro now, where wo ld yo lo e oot all, and li e ore roadly, to ha e ta en yo In years, I’d love to be playing football at the highest level possible, representing Australia. Playing professionally, and hopefully for the Matildas has been a huge dream of mine since I was little, so definitely something I want to continue working on. or life more broadly, I hope I’ll continue to grow as a person and make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. han s harlotte COFFS COAST focus 47

MACKENZIE SMITH 48 COFFS COAST focus

Young Coffs Coast athlete Mackenzie Smith is making her mark in discus, recently throwing a new personal best of 18.27m to qualify for the NSW PSSA Track and Field Championships. A er finishing first in Australia and se ing a national record last year, Mackenzie is se ing her sights on even bigger goals - including representing Australia at the Brisbane Paralympics in 2032.

i Mackenzie. You’ve already achieved some amazing things in discus throw. Can you tell us a little a o t how yo first got involved in athletics and what drew you to discus? I first got involved in discus through the school athletics carnival. Discus comes quite easily to me using my upper body strength. You competed at the National PSSA Track and Field Championships last year with some incredible results, can you tell us a bit about that competition, and what that achievement meant to you? The competition covered all states and territories from Australia, which meant there was a lot of people I competed against. It was a lot of fun being there as well, but quite scary competing against so many other athletes. I finished first in Australia in the year Multiclass discus event and threw a new Australian record of .20m. The achievement meant a lot to me as it showed that the hard work and training I did had paid off. o re ently alified a ain or the PSSA Track and Field Championships, which will be held at Sydney Olympic Park. ow did it eel to se re yo r la e at the state ha ionshi s hat does yo r training look like in the lead-up to such an important competition? It felt great to win the Northern NSW competition. I threw a PB of .27meters which was just over m more than I threw last year.

My training involves daily discus training in my backyard with my brother Mason. I have weekly training at the school with my coach and principal Dean Burkitt, and I have just started biweekly training with a physiotherapist from Coffs Kids in Motion.

All of these competitions are important to progressing to the next level in discus, but also expensive. I would ideally like to be able to secure some sponsorship to assist with the costs of all of this.

You compete with a physical disability. Could you share a bit about that and what that eans or yo as an athlete I was born with Cerebral Palsy bilateral spastic dyplegia . This basically means that my legs do not work well and I have balance issues. ver the years I have developed upper body strength to compensate for my legs not working well and this has become an advantage for me in discus. hat oes thro h yo r ind when yo ste into the throwin ir le e ore a competition? Do you have a particular ro tine or indset that hel s yo er or at your best? Before I enter the circle, I assess my competition and focus on who would be my biggest competitor. My routine is stretches while waiting in line, and my mind is on the task ahead. I am quite focused when competing. You’re already competing at state and national level, but you have an even bigger

goal on the horizon: the Brisbane Paralympics in hen did yo first start drea in about competing at the Paralympics?

In 202 I came second in Australia, and this was very exciting. I met a Paralympian whilst getting my medal and this made me think that I might have a chance to compete in something myself. i years an eel li e a lon way away, what would you need to achieve between now and 2032 to turn that dream into reality? Being able to attend all the competitions that I can, train regularly and consistently, and push myself to be the best athlete that I can. All of these competitions are important to progressing to the next level in discus, but also expensive. I would ideally like to be able to secure some sponsorship to assist with the costs of all of this. hat wo ld it ean to yo to o ete at a home Paralympic Games in Brisbane, re resentin stralia in ront o a ho e crowd? It would feel ama ing to compete in my home country. If I won, that would be greater than I could ever imagine. If along the way, I become an inspiration for some other disabled person, that would be really good as well. COFFS COAST focus 49

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Where genuine connection meets meaningful support Therapy Collective is a welcoming space offering professional, personalised support for individuals, couples and families. Our compassionate team is here to help you navigate life’s challenges, build confidence and create positive change.

Meet the team behind Therapy Collective Get to know the experienced and caring professionals who make up our team, each bringing their own expertise, passion and approach to supporting the people in our community. Because you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Courtney Norton

Kate Matthews

Practice Director and Registered Psychologist

Courtney primarily completes psychological, developmental, cognitive and learning assessments. Outside of assessment work, she works with children, as well as mothers and parents requiring perinatal or parenting support. She assists with anxiety, emotional regulation, social connection, learning differences and neurodiversity.

Kate works primarily with adults and families, with a strong focus on anxiety, PTSD, neurodivergence, attachment and relationship concerns, and intergenerational trauma. She has a strong interest in Aboriginal social and emotional wellbeing and works closely with local Aboriginal organisations, including Maam Giingana Gumbaynggirr and Galambila Aboriginal Health Service. Her therapeutic approach draws mainly on Schema Therapy and EMDR, while also utilising CBT and ACT.

admin team Meet our administration team – Molly, Rachel and Hannah. Molly brings calm and care to the everyday running of the practice, Rachel keeps everything accounts-related on track, and Hannah is a welcoming face for our clients and families. Together, they bring warmth, organisation, and plenty of heart to Therapy Collective.

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Verity Stoker

Charlotte Sweet

Dr Michele Jordan

Clinical Psychologist

Speech Pathologist and Primary Teacher

Verity works with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, chronic pain, empty-nest adjustment and perimenopausal or menopausal changes. She has more than 25 years of clinical experience and a particular interest in mindfulness, meditation and clinical hypnotherapy. Verity also supports people on Work Cover and draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, trauma-informed practice and psycho-sensory approaches.

Charlotte works with infants and children, alongside their parents and caregivers. She supports speech, language, literacy and feeding development, with particular interests in early feeding, early language development, speech sound disorders and orofacial myology. Charlotte takes a playful, child-led and wholechild approach that considers the connections between communication, feeding, sleep, oralmotor development and regulation.

Michele works with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of mental health concerns. She has particular experience supporting anxiety, depression, eating disorders and neurodivergent individuals and families, including those with ADHD and Autism. Michele uses a collaborative and individually tailored approach incorporating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.

Emma Tudor

Mark Simpson

Dr James Minson

Emma works with children, adolescents, adults and families. She has particular interests in anxiety, ADHD, neurodiversity, social skills, eating disorders and postnatal and family support. Emma uses a warm and practical approach drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and strengths-based strategies to help clients build confidence, resilience and everyday coping skills.

Mark works across general mental health, relationships and performance psychology. He supports people experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, grief, addiction, neurodivergence and difficulties changing established habits. Mark also works with couples, NDIS participants, athletes, musicians, coaches and performers. He offers sport psychology, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, walk-and-talk therapy and faithbased counselling for clients who would like Christianity incorporated into their sessions.

James is a psychologist, counsellor and art therapist who supports people experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, disability related concerns and challenges associated with the legal or justice system. He also provides BT IA affirming support. James combines cognitive strategies, creative therapies and mind-body approaches to help clients strengthen emotional regulation, confidence and practical coping skills.

Registered Psychologist

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Registered Psychologist

Clinical Psychologist

Registered Psychologist

Danielle Irving Registered Psychologist

Emily Mitchell

Dr Kamil Wolyniec

Provisional Psychologist

Clinical Psychologist

Danielle works with children, adults, parents and carers. She supports people experiencing trauma and PTSD, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties and addiction. Danielle also helps parents and carers develop nurturing and effective strategies for supporting children. Her approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and reinforcement based treatment.

Emily works primarily with children and adolescence. She supports people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, adjustment difficulties, trauma related concerns, emotional regulation difficulties, neurodivergence, relationship challenges and perinatal mental health concerns. Her practice incorporates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema informed therapy, mindfulness and self compassion based work.

Kamil provides psychology and counselling to adults and couples. He works particularly with complex trauma, attachment and relationship difficulties, longstanding emotional patterns, neurodivergence, chronic illness, addiction and LGBTQIA+ concerns. His integrative approach includes somatic and mindfulness based therapies, Internal Family Systems, Compassion Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and psychodrama.

Claire Hollindale

Daniela Blagus

Lu Satchwell

Claire works with children and young adults with a broad range of communication and feeding needs. She supports speech sound disorders, language and literacy difficulties, hearing impairment, feeding difficulties, multimodal communication and Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Claire works closely with parents, educators and other professionals using neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed and strengths based practices.

Daniela works with children, young people and adults who require support to participate more independently and meaningfully in everyday life. Her areas of focus include emotional regulation, functional skills, self care, independence and everyday participation. Daniela uses a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed and strengths based approach. She works closely with families and support teams to develop practical strategies that can be incorporated into daily routines.

u supports clients who may be feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or unsure how to move forward. She helps people develop greater self understanding, practical coping skills, self compassion and confidence in managing life’s challenges. Lu uses a warm and collaborative approach informed by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness and strengths based strategies.

Speech Pathologist

Occupational Therapist

Provisional Psychologist

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TIMELESS LESSONS FROM FAIRY TALES: BUILDING RESILIENCE AND EMOTIONAL UNDERSTANDING IN CHILDREN AND ADULTS

airy tales have enchanted audiences for centuries, weaving together magic, adventure, and profound life lessons. While often seen as whimsical stories for children, these timeless tales hold a deeper significance for people of all ages. They are cultural treasures, passed down through generations, offering insights into human nature, resilience, and life lessons. For children, fairy tales provide a safe and imaginative space to explore emotions and challenges. For adults, they serve as poignant reminders of courage, kindness, and perseverance, values that shape our humanity and guide us through life’s complexities. One of the most compelling aspects of fairy tales is their ability to teach emotional regulation and resilience. Consider the story of The Three Little Pigs”. On the surface, it is a simple tale about building houses, but beneath that lies a powerful lesson in preparation, adaptability, and perseverance. The pigs who invest time and effort into building sturdy homes are rewarded with safety and security, while the one who takes shortcuts learns a difficult but valuable lesson. For children, this story introduces the concept of cause and effect in an engaging and accessible way. For adults, it is a reminder that the effort we put into building strong foundations, whether in relationships, careers, or personal growth, pays off in the long run. Another classic tale, The Boy Who Cried Wolf , underscores the importance of honesty and trust. This cautionary story illustrates the consequences

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

of dishonesty and the fragility of trust in relationships. For children, it is a straightforward lesson about the value of truthfulness. For adults, it serves as a re ection on the importance of integrity in fostering meaningful connections with others.

children and adults.

Beyond their moral and ethical lessons, fairy tales are deeply rooted in cultural storytelling. They offer a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and values of different societies, fostering a sense of connection and shared humanity. Despite cultural differences, these stories reveal universal themes: fear, hope, love, and resilience, that resonate with people across the globe. This universality makes fairy tales a powerful tool for fostering empathy and understanding, both in

act of storytelling, it is an opportunity to instil values, spark imagination, and nurture emotional growth.

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the lessons of fairy tales are more relevant than ever. They encourage us to slow down, re ect, and reconnect with the core values that guide our lives. They remind us that challenges are a Fairy tales also provide a framework for natural part of the human experience and that navigating moral and resilience, creativity, and ethical dilemmas in kindness are some of understanding the the keys to overcoming One of the most complexities of human them. Whether we are compelling behaviour. Stories like reading these stories aspects of fairy tales “Cinderella” and “Snow to children or revisiting is their ability to teach White” highlight the them as an adult, fairy emotional regulation virtues of kindness, tales offer timeless and resilience. humility, and inner wisdom that may inspire strength, even in the face and guide us at any of adversity. These tales stage of life. encourage us to re ect So, as you go about on our own values and inspire us to act with your day, consider revisiting a favourite fairy integrity and compassion. They remind us that tale. e ect on the lessons it holds and how while life may present challenges and injustices, they might apply to your own life. If you are an perseverance and goodness may lead to positive educator, parent or caregiver, remember that outcomes. sharing these stories with children is not just an

Until next time, be kind and gentle with yourself. Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach), GradCertPlayArtTherapy Member of the Australian Counselling Association COFFS COAST focus 55

40 years

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STRONG Celebrating Women’s Health on the Mid North Coast This year’s Women’s Health Week theme, “Do It Anyway,” encouraged women to take small but meaningful steps towards improving their health and wellbeing. The Centre embraced that message through a range of free community activities, including journal making with Saltwater Freshwater, a sleep and wellbeing workshop, and a gentle yoga session focused on restoring both body and mind.

A MORNING TO REMEMBER More than 100 staff and key partners gathered at Yarrila Place during Women’s Health Week 2026 to celebrate a remarkable milestone: 40 years of the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre. The celebration recognised four decades of dedicated care, advocacy and support for women and genderdiverse people across the region, while highlighting the ongoing importance of accessible, communitybased healthcare. Guests enjoyed a moving performance by the Girrwaa Duguula Choir, live music from DJ Rex, and the creation of a stunning live artwork by local artist Karly Morris. A highlight of the event was the opportunity to pay tribute to Dr Celia Nolan and the pioneering women of the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre. Their vision

and advocacy helped establish a service that continues to improve the lives of thousands of local women every year. Women’s Health NSW CEO Denele Crozier AM delivered the keynote, reﬂecting on the vital role women’s health services hold in advocacy, law reform and policy change to create healthier and more connected communities. Health Voyage CEO Tazmyn Jewell said “Women’s health is community health. It is not a niche service, or something added on. The work continues and so does our commitment.” The milestone served as a reminder that when women have safe access to quality healthcare, information and support, the beneﬁts extend well beyond individuals to families and entire communities.

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A COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT The Centre acknowledged the many people and organisations that have contributed to its success over the past four decades, including former Centre Manager Julie Chakos, the current leadership team, funders and local service partners. Special thanks were extended to Mayor Nikki Williams for her ongoing support of women’s health initiatives and to event supporters Coffs Harbour City Council, Mid North Coast Local Health District, Healthy North Coast, Shine Lawyers and C3 Group for helping make the celebration possible. The event was to show gratitude to all staff, past and present- Board members, Directors, administration staff, reception team, nurses, GPs, allied health clinicians, educators and support staff. Their care, commitment and compassion are the reason the Centre is celebrating 40 years of impact in our community.

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

DR. LIZ FLORES WESTREICHER

Dr Sharon Marinucci and her dental team are experts in all things teeth. Focus caught up with the team to find out more about their approach to dental care.

ould you introduce the dentists at Welcome Dental and tell us a little about each of your backgrounds?

Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: I’m Dr Liz Flores Westreicher, an Associate Dentist at Welcome Dental. I graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in Lima, Peru, in 2003 and later completed the Australian Dental Council examination process in Perth. My career has included general dentistry, running my own practice and volunteering in dental missions caring for marginalised communities. These experiences reinforced my belief that dentistry is not only about clinical care, but understanding the person behind the smile. I also regularly undertake professional development to continue growing as a clinician. Dr. Emma Codrington: I have completed a Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Sydney before completing a postgraduate Bachelor of Dentistry at the same university. I have also worked for Sharon in the past when she had clinics in Macksville and rafton. Dr Russel Ho: I graduated at Sydney University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Dentistry. I then served years in the AN as a dental officer before moving up to Coffs Harbour in 1990. I had my own solo practice for 36 years before I 58 COFFS COAST focus

decided to enter semi retirement and have been working at Welcome Dental for two days a week since May ‘26. What inspired each of you to pursue a career in dentistry? Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: I often joke that my father groomed me for dentistry! He was a dentist, so I grew up hearing dental terminology and becoming familiar with the instruments and environment of a dental practice. I also learned from him to enjoy working with my hands. Dentistry became a natural fit because it combines that hands-on side of me with science, precision, creativity and caring for people. My father planted the seed, but along the way I found my own reasons to love the profession. Dr Emma Codrington: I knew early on I wanted to do something within the medical/ health field as I felt this would be a fulfilling career, being there for others at their most vulnerable moments. It is a very satisfying job. Dr Russel Ho: I initially wanted to study medicine but ended up enrolling in dentistry for which I have zero regrets. What do you enjoy most about being a dentist? Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: The people. I genuinely enjoy getting to know my patients and hearing their stories, but I also value the

people I work alongside. Dentistry is a team effort, and I believe everyone should feel respected and valued. It’s incredibly rewarding to help someone move from feeling anxious or self conscious to comfortable and confident in their smile. Every smile is unique, and helping people feel good about theirs is one of the things I love most. Dr. Emma Codrington: I enjoy being able to show patients that the dental surgery doesn’t have to be a scary place. I also enjoy being able to explain things to patients in a way that they feel informed and comfortable undergoing dental treatment. Dr Russel Ho: Helping patients, whether it’s getting them out of pain or improving their smile and in the process overcoming their fear of dentistry. How would you describe the philosophy and approach to dentistry at Welcome Dental? Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: For me, kindness comes first. ood dentistry is about caring for the person, not just treating their teeth. That’s something I connected with immediately at Welcome Dental. Sharon’s warmth and genuine care for people have shaped the practice, and those values closely re ect my own. We want people to feel heard, respected and genuinely cared for.

What do you think makes a great dentist beyond clinical skills? Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: The ability to connect with people. Many patients arrive with what I call an ice wall perhaps because of anxiety, previous experiences or simply the vulnerability of being in the dental chair. istening, communicating clearly, showing empathy and sometimes sharing a laugh can gently break through that wall. veryone has a story, and taking the time to hear it helps us understand how best to care for them. Dr. Emma Codrington: Communication is so important being able to explain something to someone in a way they understand. Patients find that empowering. Dr Russel Ho: isten to the patient and understand their needs and fears. xplain everything you’re doing and let them know if

DR RUSSEL HO

Dr Russel Ho: Coming from a solo practice it’s been quite a transition The rest of the team are great and we work hard together. The hygienists take a lot of the preventative workload and are really good at oral hygiene education which is super important.

DR SHARON MARINUCCI

DR. EMMA CODRINGTON Dr. Emma Codrington: We are a great team and want what’s best for the patients. Patient education is important and working with the patient to support them in looking after their teeth.

they’re not comfortable, please let us know.

What are some of the most common dental

How do you help patients who may feel anxious or nervous about visiting the dentist?

concerns you see, and what can people do

Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: irst impressions are incredibly important. I try to listen before telling someone what they need. I want to understand their concerns, previous experiences and what would make them feel comfortable. I explain what we’re doing, encourage questions and give patients a sense of control. Sometimes simply slowing things down makes an enormous difference. Trust isn’t something we should expect simply because we are clinicians we must earn it.

Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: I wish people

Dr. Emma Codrington: Most patients do come in feeling anxious and will start off by telling you that the dentist is not their favourite person. However, you can build trust with even the most anxious of patients by listening to them, taking things slow and offering relaxation techniques. It is very satisfying seeing these patients happy to see you at their next appointment.

disease are the two most common issues.

Dr Russel Ho Start off with a conversation that has nothing to do with dentistry. Show genuine interest in what they are saying. ncourage them to talk about what they’re experiencing and keep asking them how they’re going during the procedure.

to look after their teeth and gums between appointments? ossed more Some of the most effective dentistry happens at home. Clean between your teeth once a day, brush twice a day with uoride toothpaste, be mindful of frequent snacking and sugary or acidic drinks, stay hydrated and attend regular dental check ups. A few minutes of prevention each day can save a great deal of treatment later. Dr. Emma Codrington: Tooth decay and gum lossing is so important and a lot of people don’t know how to oss their teeth properly they have never been taught. nce they learn and practice it becomes a habit which helps prevent both tooth decay and gum disease. Dr Russel Ho:

mma pretty much said it all

How important is preventative dental care, and why should people avoid waiting until they have a problem? Dr. Liz Flores Westreicher: Prevention is fundamental because dental disease can progress quietly. By the time something hurts, the problem may already be more advanced. COFFS COAST focus 59

Stars t i t

O C T O B E R

ARIES. Slow down before jumping into your next move. Relationships are highlighted, making communication

2 0 2 6

LEO. October gets you talking, planning and making things happen. Conversations could open unexpected

SAGITTARIUS. Friends, connections and future plans are highlighted. The right conversation could lead to an

important. Say what you mean, but make space to

doors around work or a new project. Your

exciting opportunity. Surround yourself with people

listen too. A work or financial opportunity could

confidence is an asset, but working with others

who encourage your growth. A distant goal may

bring fresh motivation. Lucky colour: Red

could take you even further.

start feeling much closer.

Lucky colour: Gold

Lucky colour: Purple

TAURUS. TAURUS Get back into a rhythm that feels good. Focus on your health, routines and everyday life. Small changes will make a bigger

VIRGO. Money and priorities come into focus. Tidy up your finances and consider where your time and energy are going.

difference than trying to change everything at

Know your worth. Something you’ve worked hard

once. Make time for something you enjoy.

towards could finally start gaining momentum.

Lucky colour: Green

Lucky colour: Navy

GEMINI. Your social side is ready to shine. October encourages creativity, connection and fun. Revisit an idea

LIBRA. It’s your season! October brings fresh energy and a chance to focus on yourself. Think about what

you’ve been sitting on. In relationships, being

you want your next chapter to look like. A personal

honest about what you want could bring some

goal may suddenly feel much more achievable.

welcome clarity.

Lucky colour: Pink

Lucky colour: Yellow SCORPIO. October starts quietly but builds momentum. Trust your instincts and give yourself space to work out

CAPRICORN. Career and ambition take centre stage. Your hard work is being noticed, even if you haven’t seen the results yet. Take initiative and back yourself, but remember you don’t have to say yes to everything. Lucky colour: Charcoal AQUARIUS. Broaden your horizons this month. Travel, learning or a new experience could shift your perspective. Stay curious and don’t dismiss an opportunity simply because it wasn’t part of your original plan. Lucky colour: Aqua

what you really want. Let go of what’s no longer

PISCES. elationships, finances and emotional boundaries come into focus. An honest conversation could

comfortable. Don’t feel responsible for solving

serving you and make room for something new.

bring much-needed clarity. Trust your intuition and

everyone’s problems. Protect your energy and focus

Lucky colour: Burgundy

choose what feels right rather than always trying to

CANCER. Home and family take priority. You may feel inspired to reconnect with someone or make your space more

on what matters.

keep everyone else happy.

Lucky colour: Silver

Lucky colour: Sea green

60 COFFS COAST focus

Enjoy More of Coﬀs Harbour WITH A

Healthy Smile

offs Coast living is all about making the most of the good things - weekends at the beach, lunches with friends, family adventures and spending time outdoors. The last thing anyone wants is a dental problem getting in the way. At Maven Dental Park Beach, we’re all about preventative dental care and helping our patients stay on top of their oral health with regular dental check-ups. Keeping up with regular dental check-ups can help identify potential problems early, before they become painful or require urgent attention. As a local dental practice, we’re proud to care for the smiles of our community and help our patients enjoy a healthy smile for years to come. Don’t wait until you’re in pain to visit the dentist. Life gets busy. It’s easy to put off a dental appointment when your teeth feel fine, but not all dental problems have obvious symptoms in the beginning. Problems such as tooth decay and gum disease can happen quickly without any noticeable issues and can really become a problem if you’re not visiting your dentist regularly. We recommend regular dental visits so your dentist can catch any changes early and provide advice or treatment before a small concern becomes a bigger one. In many cases, early intervention can mean

simpler treatment, less discomfort and fewer unexpected interruptions to your busy schedule. Good habits are important. Preventative dental care is also important at home. Brushing twice a day with uoride toothpaste for two minutes, ossing daily and being mindful of how often you consume sugary foods and drinks all contribute to a healthier smile. Making good oral health habits part of your everyday routine can make a big difference. We also recommend visiting us for regular hygiene treatments so you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and fresh. Professional hygiene cleans can help to remove plaque and tartar that can be difficult to remove by brushing and ossing at home. Make dental care routine. At Maven Dental Park Beach our team provides comprehensive dental care for the whole family and with English, Hindi and Punjabi spoken in clinic, we make quality dental care more accessible. Whether you’re due for a check-up, it’s been a while since your last visit, or you have a concern you’ve been putting off we can help you stay one step ahead. Conveniently located in the heart of Coffs Harbour, near Park Beach Plaza, Maven Park Beach makes it easy to fit dental care into your routine. Book your next dental check-up with us and keep your smile healthy, confident and ready for whatever life brings. COFFS COAST focus 61

he search is on again to recognise outstanding women in the Coffs Coast region who demonstrate innovation, commitment, and a significant contribution to empowering members of the local community. The International Women’s Day (IWD) - Coffs Coast - Woman of the Year Award, an initiative of the IWD Planning Committee in 2015, was set up to acknowledge the positive contribution of women in the region of the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire. It aims to recognise the achievements of inspirational nominees who are involved in voluntary, community, business or professional work, and who, within that arena, have made an outstanding contribution to their community. Nominations are now being called for the 2027 IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award, to be announced at the IWD Breakfast on Friday 5th March 2027. The three major women’s groups in Coffs Harbour: the Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc, BPW Coffs Coast and the Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network Inc (BWN) come together to organise the IWD Breakfast to acknowledge the positive 62 COFFS COAST focus

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR THE IWD COFFS COAST WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD 2027 contribution of women and girls in the region of the Coffs Coast, and to recognise the winner, and runner up of the IWD Woman of the Year Award. Criteria The International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award 2027 will honour a woman who: Makes a significant contribution in enhancing and improving either the economic, cultural and/or social well-being of citizens within the local community. Uses vision and initiative over and beyond their normal role to pursue a goal/cause that will make a difference and have a positive impact on the local community. Is actively engaged with the local community in either a voluntary, community, business or professional capacity. Is a resident of the Coffs Coast (Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire). There will be two awards consisting of an inscribed trophy and publicity for both women and their cause. The major award winner will receive a cash prize of $1,500 sponsored by The North Coast Hotel Group. The runner up will receive a cash prize of $1,000 sponsored

by One Agency Coffs Harbour. Both cash awards allow the women to continue to advance their objectives. All finalists will be recognised and acknowledged for their own achievements. Past award winners include Christina Monneron (2015), Charlotte Young (2016), Jane Tavener (2017), Aunty Bea Ballangarry (2018), Shelley Lowe (2019), Lily Isobella (2020), Emma Aspen (2021), Jade Naidu (2022), Doris Cowan (2023), Falak Othman (2024), Tiga Cross (2025) and Angela Martin (2026). In 2018 a Runner Up Award was introduced, won by Kyla Holley (2018), Kamla RuthnamWebb (2019) Auntie Kerrie Burnet (2020), Lisa Nichols and Angelika Aulerich (2021), Jodie Wood (2022), Yvonne Richards (2023), Heather Duncan (2024), Lee Millard-Newton (2025), Nicola Mackie and Penny Westman (2026) Nomination forms are now available from the International Women’s Day Coffs Coast iwdcoffscoast.org.au, IWD website at Coffs Coast Facebook or by email from iwdwoy2027@gmail.com. Closing date is 18th November 2026.

focus_contributor.

Tracy Rogers

an you tell us about your business? I am not the expert in the room. You are. That may sound like a strange way to describe my business, but it is the foundation of The Clarity

Nannie.

People often come to me when something important still does not make sense. They may have received advice, gathered information and tried every direction they know, yet there is still a piece nobody has been able to reach. I do not enter their life to fix them, stand above them or become another person telling them who they are. I come close enough to truly see them. I gather the pieces scattered across their life, connect what others may have kept separate and translate what their own system has been trying to show them. Then I lovingly say the thing everyone else may have been circling and stay while it begins to make sense. That is the Nannie. A Nannie doesn’t take over or make herself more important than the family. She enters gently, notices what has been missed, tells the truth with kindness and holds each person without doing it for them. My greatest offering is the safe, honest connection in which someone can finally hear, trust and choose themselves again.

T H E

C L A R I T Y

Women inBusiness

with CATH FOWLER

BUSINESS WOMEN NETWORK COMMITEE

N A N N I E

What’s your favourite part of the work you do? That “Aha!” moment when someone says, “That makes so much sense!” about what is really going on. It is when something they have judged, worried about or feared within themselves finally has context. They can see that their system is not broken or sabotaging them by attacking itself. It has been responding for a reason. ho is yo r reatest in en e in siness My greatest in uence in business came from learning to be my own in uence. I built my business by testing it first on myself and thinking: if this works for me, someone who had exhausted the external search after 54 years of trauma and was ready to give up, then I know it will work for anyone who is open and ready to connect fully back to themselves. My other greatest teachers and in uencers have been the thousands of clients I have worked with over the last six years. They have shown me what no book could, and they are the measuring stick for what works for them individually. What do you love about living and working on the Coffs Coast? The Coffs Coast gives me the quiet and space to remain grounded while connecting with people and families around the world. I can finish a deeply personal session, step outside, breathe in the ocean air and remember what life is really about. There is something very special about creating globally while remaining rooted in a community

where people still notice and care for one another. hat ie e o ad i e wo ld yo i e women making their way in the business world? Women are continually told to improve what can be seen: strengthen the strategy, refine the offer, post more, sell better and push through resistance. That is all above-ground, external noise. The truth is that businesswomen need to grow down first. Their root system includes so many facets: their relationship with visibility, money, receiving, authority, responsibility, belonging, family and data from genetic downloads. What looks like undercharging may not be a pricing problem. What looks like procrastination may not be laziness. What looks like poor visibility may be a system that once learnt there was a price for being seen. These are often outdated instructions that can weaken the root system, because you cannot shame a root into producing better fruit. Stop measuring your entire tree by its current season. Discover what is strong, what is still protecting you and what does not belong to you at all. Then grow from there. ow an eo le learn business?

ore a o t yo r

claritynannie.com Tracy Rogers tracy@claritynannie.com COFFS COAST focus 63

Month Help me shine the Help me shine the spotlight spotlight on our local small on our local small businesses businesses community community

OCTOBER OCTOBER is is

SmallBusiness Business Small Month Month

Gurmesh Singh Member for Coffs Harbour

Gurmesh Singh Gurmesh Singh Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements. Member Memberfor forCoffs CoffsHarbour Harbour Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements. Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements.

64 COFFS COAST focus

Nominate your favourite local business

Nominate your Nominate your favourite local business favourite local business

CLEAN WATER

focus_contributor.

FOR EVERY REGIONAL COMMUNITY

STAT E OF

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

t’s quite clear that regional water infrastructure has been sorely neglected by the NSW and Australian Labor governments.

It makes me extremely proud to announce the NSW Nationals and Liberals have unveiled a $5 billion, 10-year investment plan to secure the state’s water future. Under our Regional Infrastructure Guarantee, a new fund will be established to replace the previous Safe and Secure Water Program. The fund would be backed by legislation and supported by royalties. Future governments would be locked into continued investment in the sector so that no community is left behind. This program will be the largest ever 10-year investment in regional water in the history of NSW and it will ensure clean water for every community. In the villages, towns and cities across regional NSW, housing growth, industry, local economies and job creation are being sti ed by infrastructure that has reached its limits, whether it be aging, failing or non-existent. In some communities, people don’t have access to clean water. Brown water coming

out of your tap is just not acceptable in 2026.

development.

However, this program is a whole lot more than just water security. It will unlock more new homes across our regions, in an effort to ease the pressure on the supply side of housing.

The Safe and Secure Water Program was a lifeline to regional areas, however, it did not fund programs to support housing development and industrial growth.

It will also build economic activity in local communities, which will enable new and improved industrial projects to get under way. Unfortunately, both the Premier and the PM have twiddled their thumbs while regional water infrastructure has declined.

Our new program is designed to build the foundational infrastructure needed to attract new families However, this and new business to program is a country areas, now and whole lot more than in the future. just water security. It

will unlock more new homes across our regions, in an effort to ease the pressure on the supply side of housing.

But now, under the NSW Coalition’s Regional Infrastructure Guarantee, regional NSW will finally see the investment it needs and deserves. Importantly, this initiative was designed following extensive consultation with the water and local government sectors, ensuring that funding is available to replace aging infrastructure and support regional

Money will once again ow into more pressing infrastructure projects, such as pipelines and treatment plants, to ensure the health and liveability of residents today.

The fund will be supported by royalties, meaning that regional communities will directly benefit from the resource sector they predominantly host. The resources sector relies on the strength of regional communities, and therefore, we see it as only fitting those royalties contribute to regional infrastructure. COFFS COAST focus 65

66 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

CROCODILES

Reptile W with MATTHEW McEWAN REPTILE SPECIALIST

ow many crocodiles do you currently have at Reptile World? We currently have one crocodile, a young saltwater crocodile named Lyle. For many years we had Snappy, who became a bit of an icon around the Coffs Coast. We had him for almost 20 years, so he was a huge part of Reptile World and a lot of local families grew up knowing him. Unfortunately, with the upcoming closure of the reptile centre, we had to return Snappy to Koorana Crocodile Farm, where he can continue to live in a suitable long-term environment. We did feel, however, that the people of Coffs Harbour were missing out on the opportunity to interact with a crocodile. So we decided to bring Lyle into Reptile World. He is still a young crocodile and is currently being included in some of our displays, giving people the chance to see and learn about a crocodile up close and have that experience while we can. What species of crocodile do you have, and where do they naturally come from? We have a saltwater crocodile, Crocodylus

porosus. They’re the largest species of crocodile in the world and are naturally found throughout northern Australia and parts of Southeast Asia. In Australia, they occur across the tropical north, particularly around northern Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland. What is the biggest misconception people have about crocodiles? Probably that they’re just mindless, aggressive animals that are constantly looking for something to attack. Crocodiles are very instinct-driven animals, but those instincts have been incredibly successful for a very, very long time. Crocodilians have been around for roughly 180 million years, and the way they hunt, conserve energy and respond to their environment has evolved to make them extremely effective predators. They’re not constantly looking for something to attack or eat. A crocodile can sit almost completely still for hours, waiting for the right opportunity, and that patience is a big part of what makes them such successful predators. They don’t need to constantly be moving or hunting because their instincts have been working for them for millions of years.

What has been the most impressive thing you’ve witnessed a crocodile do? Probably seeing the sheer power and speed they’re capable of when they decide to use it. Most of the time a crocodile can look incredibly slow and relaxed, but when they want to move, they can do it incredibly quickly. Watching a large saltwater crocodile launch itself out of the water or grab food is a pretty impressive reminder of just what these animals are capable of. If you could tell people one thing about crocodiles that they might not know, what would it be? I’d probably say that you should never mistake stillness for stupidity. Crocodiles are incredibly well adapted predators and have been around for millions of years for a reason. They’re patient, observant and incredibly efficient animals. I also think people should have a healthy respect for them. They’re fascinating animals and an important part of Australia’s natural environment, but they’re still wild predators. The best way to appreciate a crocodile is to understand and respect what it is, rather than treating it like a big lizard. COFFS COAST focus 67

68 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

Message

Mayor with FROM THE

NIKKI WILLIAMS

COFFS HARBOUR

s Mayor, and as a mum raising a family here on the Coffs Coast, I’m excited about what the next few months will bring for our community.

We’re heading into the home straight for the Coffs Harbour Bypass, with the project on track to open in December. For residents of the Northern Beaches especially, that day can’t come soon enough. For so long, people have dealt with changing traffic conditions and disruptions as this massive project has taken shape. While the journey hasn’t always been easy, the destination will be worth it. At $2.2 billion, the bypass is the largest infrastructure investment ever made on the Coffs Coast. Once completed, it will transform the way traffic moves through our region. Through traffic will no longer need to navigate the bottleneck in the heart of Coffs Harbour, particularly during busy holiday periods such as Christmas and Easter. That means a safer, more efficient network for locals while also improving the experience for visitors travelling through. Importantly, the bypass presents a once-ina-generation opportunity to rethink the old highway corridor through our city. Rather than seeing it simply as a road, we can begin imagining a welcoming, vibrant boulevard that

re ects who we are as a community. Council has already done significant work planning for life after the bypass. We’re now moving into the exciting stage of turning those ideas into actions. Recent works, including the removal of the old planter boxes along the highway median, are among the first visible steps in that process. Future improvements will focus on creating an attractive green median strip, upgrading the Harbour Drive intersection, developing new gateway statements into the city centre and introducing fresh streetscape guidelines across the corridor. These projects will help create a more attractive, connected and people-friendly environment. Another initiative I’m particularly enthusiastic about is the future of the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. Stretching approximately 60 kilometres from Red Rock to Sawtell, this remarkable trail showcases some of the most spectacular coastal scenery anywhere in Australia. Council has supported a broad-brush analysis of the route to identify opportunities and infrastructure gaps. With the right investment and planning, I genuinely believe the walk has the potential to become a nationally recognised adventure tourism experience, bringing visitors

to our region while celebrating the natural beauty locals already know and love. I also want to touch on a couple of important community matters. Firstly, nominations are now open for the 2027 Coffs Harbour Australia Day Awards. Every day I meet people making a difference through volunteering, community service, sport, culture and countless acts of kindness. These awards are our opportunity to recognise and celebrate those contributions. I encourage everyone to think about someone deserving and submit a nomination before 1 November. Secondly, I remain deeply disappointed by the decision from a major retailer to stop sourcing bananas directly from Coffs growers. As a proud local, it’s difficult to understand why fruit would be transported from more than 1,000 kilometres away when world-class bananas are grown right here in our backyard. I hope the company listens to the concerns of growers and the broader community. The months ahead will bring significant change, but they also bring incredible opportunity. From the bypass and coastal tourism to community recognition and economic development, there is plenty to be optimistic about. The future of Coffs Harbour is bright, and I’m proud to be part of the journey. COFFS COAST focus 69

HEADED TO PERTH FASHION WEEK Year 12 Textiles students Amelie Carpenter and Hannah Gallagher, have become the first BDC students selected to showcase their work at Eco Fashion Week Australia! The pair hand-crafted, designed, and botanically dyed their own raw silks, wools, and linens using natural plant materials for their HSC Major Works.

DANCE CALLBACK SHOWCASE NOMINATIONS Year 12 Dance students received an incredible seven nominations for NESA’s prestigious CALLBACK Showcase: Ruby & Stanley – Core Performance and Major Study Performance, Amelie – Core Performance, Core Composition and Major Study Composition. These nominations recognise exemplary achievement across performance and composition, including artistry, technical skill, choreographic creativity and the students’ ability to articulate and justify their artistic process.

NSW STATE WIN AFL TEACHER AWARD Head of Sport, Kellie Reinhold named the NSW State winner for the AFL Schools Teacher of the Year category in the Toyota National Volunteer Awards! Recognised for her leadership and passion for growing footy across the Coffs Coast.

ALL-AUSTRALIAN WOMEN’S FOOTBALL TEAM t 2026 2026/27 School Leader Charlotte Bunny selected in the All-Australian Women’s Football Team. The national selection follows Charlotte's outstanding performance at the National Championships in Melbourne, recognising her as one of the country's premier young footballers. Bishop Druitt College Named Among Australia’s 5-Sta 5-Star Best Schools 2026 70 COFFS COAST focus

bdc.nsw.edu.au | Enrolling Now for 2027 & Beyond

focus_contributor.

Creativity is a capability for the future

Education

Update with SIMON DOYLE

PRI NC I PA L , NSW NORTH COAST

e often talk about preparing young people for a future that will require critical thinking, character, citizenship, communication and collaboration. Perhaps one capability sits across all of these: creativity. Performing and Creative Arts provide wonderful opportunities for young people to generate ideas, experiment, take risks, solve problems and respond when things do not go according to plan. These are not capabilities reserved for students considering a career on the stage, in music or in an art studio. They are capabilities our young people will carry into university, workplaces, relationships and communities. Importantly, creativity strengthens rather than competes with academic learning. Australian Arts Education Researcher Professor Robyn Ewing, has highlighted that arts-rich learning is not simply a welcome break from the academic curriculum. It is cognitively demanding learning involving interpretation, communication, imagination, inquiry and re ection. And creativity begins early. As parents/carers, we love seeing our children draw, paint and create. Many of us remember that first drawing of mum, dad or someone special. It probably wasn’t technically perfect, but that didn’t matter. It was personal, created

with joy and proudly presented. Before children worry about whether something looks “right”, they experiment. They mix colours, build with playdough, discover clay and ceramics, dance around the lounge room, sing loudly and make things simply because they can. The texture, movement and experience can be as important as the finished product. Somewhere along the way, we need to make sure we don’t lose that freedom to create. At Bishop Druitt College, we have recently enjoyed a wonderful period where our arts creativity has been visible through our EYE Festival, HSC Dance, Drama and Music showcases, the creativity of Seen Ya’s On Show, and Year 12 Textiles students Amelie Carpenter and Hannah Gallagher being invited to Eco Fashion Week in Perth. Alongside trial HSC examinations and final academic preparation, these experiences demonstrate that creativity, wellbeing and academic achievement can sit comfortably together. Our students can experience specialist Performing Arts teachers across drama, dance and music from kindergarten through to the HSC. They can participate simply for the joy of it, or pursue an area with considerable depth. Showcase evenings, HSC music recitals, choirs, the Year 6 production of Pirates of the Curry Bean and our 2027 College Musical - soon to be revealed - all provide different opportunities to belong, perform and create.

As a parent, I have become increasingly aware of the value of these opportunities by watching my own children enjoy art simply for fun. There is definitely some talent there too, ceramics, sketching, dance and even graphic art, although I can confidently say their artistic ability came from their mother! Whatever stage your child is at in their schooling, encourage them to create while they can. Let them draw, dance, perform, move, design, make music, get messy, experiment, get something wrong and try again. They don’t need to become an artist. The creativity itself is valuable. Performing and Creative Arts is not an addition to a child’s education; it is one of the places where creativity, character, confidence, collaboration and belonging are most authentically developed. As Cate Blanchett, actor and former Sydney Theatre Company co-artistic director, said: “The arts are what we stay alive for, what we work all week for, what we dream about, what connects us.” Simon Doyle Principal Sources. Cultivating Creativity: A study of the Sydney Opera House’s Creative Leadership in Learning programs in Schools 2020 The Arts and Australian Education: realising potential ACER 2011 COFFS COAST focus 71

Image credit: Mid North Coast Local Health District

The power of

an hour

HOW AN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY STUDENT HELPED CREATE MOMENTS OF

CONNECTION, MOVEMENT AND JOY FOR LONG-STAY HOSPITAL PATIENTS.

simple idea is making a meaningful difference for patients spending time on the medical ward at a hospital on the NSW Mid North Coast.

Occupational therapist Nicky Hui and Southern Cross University student Eli Vaughan together designed and piloted a new group activity program called Happy Hour at Macksville District Hospital earlier this year. Happy Hour offers gentle activities that help patients maintain motor skills, coordination, confidence and helps prevent further functional decline in hospital, while also giving them the chance to connect with others. “Being involved in the Happy Hour program from the beginning has taught me so much about quality improvement. We’ve tweaked things as we go, and the feedback has been

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fantastic,” said Eli.

activities that encourage movement, focus and social interaction. Eli Vaughan, a third-year student occupational “Afterwards, the patients come together for therapist on placement, lunch, taking a moment was involved in the to connect and share. program from its earliest Being involved This quickly became a stages, working closely in the Happy highlight for me.” with Nicky and fellow Hour program from the Unlike most supervisor Melissa to beginning has taught rehabilitation or activity shape and refine each me so much about programs which session. quality improvement. traditionally take place He said the project We’ve tweaked things in dedicated rehab was both a learning as we go, and the units, the Happy Hour opportunity and a feedback has been program is delivered rewarding experience. fantastic. directly on the medical “I really enjoyed my ward. placement,” said Eli, Mr Hui said long hospital stays can be lonely who grew up in Coffs Harbour. as patients wait for accommodation, plan “Each session brings patients together for

the next step in their recovery or take time to

It’s been great to work on something meaningful. Seeing patients smile, talk with each other and feel more connected – that’s what makes it worthwhile.

regain strength after a major setback. “We noticed long-stay patients sitting in their rooms with very little to do,” Mr Hui said. “This wasn’t about starting a formal project, it was about improving their experience in the hospital and putting a smile on their face. li is my first T placement student. We’re learning together how small changes can make a difference. The partnership model with Southern Cross niversity is benefitting both current patients and future clinicians.

introduced a simple 1-to-5 enjoyment scale for patients, which has received an overwhelmingly positive response. Eli said seeing the positive impact of the Happy Hour program on patients has reinforced his passion for occupational therapy.

“It’s been great to work on something meaningful. Seeing patients smile, talk with each other and feel more connected – that’s what makes it worthwhile.” ne of li’s occupational therapy lecturers at Southern Cross University, Dr Linda Furness, said she was delighted a student-led initiative was helping change lives.

The team plans to continue refining the program with the hope that it can be expanded or adapted for more patients in the future.”

“Southern Cross University appreciates the opportunities provided by occupational therapists that enable our students to gain valuable industry experience on placement. It’s very exciting to hear how students can support service delivery through their placements,” Dr Furness said.

To assess the program’s impact, the team

“Industry placements provide students with rich

learning opportunities in workplace settings to consolidate their practice skills and confidence in preparation for transition to practice after graduation. “Thanks to Macksville District Hospital and supervisor, Nicky, in particular, for supporting Eli during his placement.” Eli is on track to complete his Bachelor of ccupational Therapy at the end of 202 . He has since completed another 0 week placement at Mackay in Queensland, where he experienced many rich learning opportunities, including occupational therapy service provision and skill building in the NDIS, support-at-home, and mental health sectors. Looking for a rewarding career in health? Visit scu.edu.au COFFS COAST focus 73

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Money MATTERS

MOTOR VEHICLE EXPENSES, CENTS PER KM OR LOGBOOK METHOD: WHICH IS BETTER?

roadly, tax deductions for car expenses (i.e. the costs you incur to own and operate a car) are available where you use your car for work-related trips, such as for travel between workplaces or to perform your work duties. Ordinary commuting to and from work cannot typically be claimed as they’re considered private expenses, except in certain circumstances, such as carrying bulky equipment. Cents per kilometre method The cents per kilometre method allows you to claim a fixed rate for each work related kilometre you travel, up to a maximum of 5,000 km each year. This fixed rate per km covers all your car expenses for a year, including decline in value, registration and insurance, maintenance, repairs and fuel costs. For the 2025-26 tax year, the rate of deduction is 88 cents per kilometre, which means this tax time, the maximum potential amount of deduction is $4,400. (The rate of deduction has been increased to 91 cents per km as of 1 July 2026, meaning a total potential deduction of $4,550 in the 2026-27 tax year). ne of the benefits of using the cents per kilometre method is that it’s relatively simple, as you don’t need to keep receipts for your fuel or car expenses. However, you do need to keep records to show how you’ve calculated your work-related kilometres (for example, a diary),

and you also need to be able to show that you own the car you’re using for work. Logbook method If you have a lot of work-related car expenses and have the time, you might find that the logbook method gives you the best deduction. The logbook method allows you to claim the work-related portion of your actual car expenses. This means that you can claim for a percentage of the actual expenses incurred on running costs such as fuel, electricity, servicing, registration, insurance, loan interest, and the decline in value, provided you’ve used the car in the course of your work.

with TANYA McMANUS

F R O M C L AY T O N & F O S T E R

destination of every work-related journey, the odometer reading at the start and end of each journey, and the total kilometres travelled on the journey, include odometer readings for the start and end of the logbook period and the total kilometres travelled during that period. Each journey in your logbook must be made at the end of the journey or as soon as possible afterwards.

If you don’t have a valid logbook, then unfortunately you cannot use the logbook method to claim car expenses, although the cents per km method may be available instead.

However, as the potential deductions under the logbook method are higher, there are stricter record-keeping requirements to meet. This includes keeping a logbook, which allows the calculation of how much you can claim back, it must: cover at least 12 continuous weeks and be broadly representative of your travel, include the reason and purpose, as well as the

If you don’t have a valid logbook, then unfortunately you cannot use the logbook method to claim car expenses, although the cents per km method may be available instead. Which is better?

The answer to whether you should choose the logbook or cents per km method is very dependent on your personal situation. If you have low work-related car use and don’t love keeping extensive records, the cents per km method may be better suited to your needs, while those who use their car for work frequently may receive a higher deduction under the logbook method. If you’re unsure which method is best for you, speak to a member of our team today. COFFS COAST focus 75

Bringing a splash of colour and relaxed coastal style to Nambucca Heads, The Cubana is a boutique resort offering the perfect base for a Mid North Coast escape. Located on Riverside Drive, the resort combines accommodation with spaces to eat, drink, unwind and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere Nambucca is known for. Whether you’re planning a weekend away, catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for somewhere different to stay, The Cubana offers a fun alternative

to the traditional coastal motel. With its vibrant styling and resort-inspired feel, it’s the kind of place that instantly puts you into holiday mode. Best of all, you’re perfectly positioned to explore everything Nambucca Heads has to offer – from beautiful beaches and waterways to local cafés, restaurants and scenic coastal spots. For your next coastal getaway, The Cubana Nambucca Heads is well worth discovering.

NAMBUCCA HEADS & SURROUNDS WHERE COASTAL SERENITY MEETS ENDLESS EXPLORATION Based at the vibrant Cubana Resort, embark on a five-day coastal escape through Northern NSW, blending rainforest, beach, heritage sites and vibrant regional culture into a relaxed yet immersive touring experience. With scenic lookouts, waterfalls, river cruises, themed dinners, and curated group experiences throughout, tours with Cubana Resort are designed for guests seeking comfort, connection, and memorable regional discovery.

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BOOK NOW! 76 COFFS COAST focus

+61 2 6568 8044

sales@thecubana.com.au

www.thecubananambucca.com.au/tours

COFFS COAST focus 77

N E W

C H A P T E R

Steps into the Future A er more than 35 years under a familiar real estate banner, a well-known local agency is stepping into an exciting new era.

he business formerly known as PRD Real Estate has officially become Salt & Cedar Property, marking a significant new chapter for owners Steph and Sean and their team.

While the name, branding and office are undergoing a transformation, the foundations of the business remain firmly in place. The agency is still located where clients have known it for years, supported by an experienced team and the same commitment to helping local people with some of life’s biggest property decisions. or Steph and Sean, becoming independent was an opportunity to take the business they are building and shape its future in a way that felt more personal, more exible and more connected to the community around them.

78 COFFS COAST focus

We had been part of a franchise for a long time, and we reached a point where we felt ready to create something that was truly our own, Sean says.

A New Name With a Local Connection

It wasn’t about walking away from everything we had built. In many ways, it was the opposite. We wanted to take that experience, those relationships and everything we had learned over the years and build the next chapter around them.

Steph and Sean wanted something that felt connected to the region and re ected the lifestyle that makes the local area such a special place to call home.

Sean says the decision was one they had considered carefully. oing independent is a big step, he says. “But it also gives us the opportunity to have more control over where the business goes and how we want to grow it. We know our clients, we know our team and we know our community. We wanted the freedom to build a business around those things.

Choosing a new name was one of the biggest and most personal parts of the transition.

The result was Salt & Cedar Property. Salt represents our connection to the coast and the beautiful beaches that define our region. Cedar is the hinterland, and the older story. ed cedar drew the first timber industry to the valleys behind this coast, and the trade shaped where towns were established and how the region was first opened up. eal estate can sometimes feel very corporate, and that’s not who we are. We wanted to create a brand that felt

A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

approachable and re ected the lifestyle and environment around us. or Sean, the name also represents the balance they hope to bring to the business. There’s a strength to the name, but it also feels relaxed and welcoming, he says. That was important to us. We wanted the brand to feel professional, but still personal. More Than a Rebrand While there is plenty of excitement surrounding the new name and look, Steph and Sean are quick to point out that Salt & Cedar Property is about much more than a rebrand. At its core, the move represents an opportunity to operate independently and make decisions locally. or us, being independent means we can be more responsive and make decisions based on what’s right for our business, our clients and our community, Sean says. The real estate industry is constantly changing, and independence gives us the exibility to evolve with it. That exibility is something both owners see as an important part of the agency’s future. Technology, marketing and client expectations have all changed significantly during the agency’s long history, and Sean says the move allows them to continue evolving while staying true to the personal service that has always been important to them. There’s no doubt that real estate looks very different today than it did 0 or 20 years ago, he says. But some things haven’t changed. Buying, selling or managing a property is still a really personal experience, and people want to know they’re dealing with someone who understands them and understands their local market.

Built on People and Relationships

Looking Ahead

or Steph and Sean, the agency’s greatest strength has always been its people.

or both Steph and Sean, launching Salt & Cedar Property is about looking forward with confidence.

ver the years, the business has worked with countless local families, investors, tenants and property owners, often helping clients through different stages of their lives. We’ve had the privilege of working with people when they’re buying their first home, growing their family, investing in property or selling a home they’ve had for decades, Sean says. ou become part of those important moments in people’s lives, and that’s something we never take for granted. Steph agrees that the relationships built over the years are among the business’s most valuable assets. Property is what we deal with, but people are the reason we’re here, she says.

The business has decades of experience behind it, but the owners say they don’t want to stand still. We’re proud of our history, but we’re also really excited about the future, Sean says. As Salt & Cedar Property officially begins its next chapter, the owners are embracing the opportunity that comes with independence while remaining grounded in the experience and relationships that brought them here.

Our clients aren’t transactions to us. They’re people we know, people we see around town and people we’ve o en worked with more than once.

ur clients aren’t transactions to us. They’re people we know, people we see around town and people we’ve often worked with more than once. Those relationships are also shared by the team behind Salt & Cedar Property. While the branding may be new, familiar faces remain at the centre of the business. ur team has been such an important part of this transition, Steph says. They’ve been involved in the excitement of creating something new, while still continuing to provide the service and care our clients expect.

The name may be new, and the office may soon look very different, but the values at the heart of the business remain unchanged. xperience. elationships. ocal knowledge, and a genuine commitment to the community.

That’s what has always mattered to us, Steph says and that’s what will continue to matter. or Sean, the future is about building on those foundations. We’ve got a great team, a strong history and an exciting opportunity ahead of us, he says. We’re proud of where we’ve come from, but we’re even more excited about where we’re going. or Salt & Cedar Property, this isn’t simply the end of one chapter. It’s the beginning of a new one. COFFS COAST focus 79

A NEW CHAPTER THE SAME LOCAL EXPERIENCE F O R M E R LY P R D R E A L E S TAT E N O W P R O U D LY I N D E P E N D E N T After 35+ years in local real estate, Steph, Sean and their experienced team are excited to introduce Salt & Cedar Property. A fresh name. A new direction. The same trusted people. With deep local knowledge and a genuine commitment to our community, we’re here to make your next property move personal, professional and straightforward.

BUY SELL INVEST MANAGE

Residential Sales Property Management Investment Property Property Appraisals Local Property Advice

PEOPLE FIRST. PROPERTY SECOND. For generations, we’ve helped local families navigate some of life’s biggest property decisions.

EXPERIENCE . REL ATIONSHIPS . LOCAL KNOWLEDGE . PERSONAL SERVICE . 80 COFFS COAST focus

READY FOR YOUR NEXT MOVE? COME & MEET THE TEAM Salt & Cedar Property 181 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6652 5833 COFFS COAST focus 81

with SHANE BROOKS PRINCIPAL & LICENSEE OF STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

COFFS COAST PROPERTY – WHAT THE NUMBERS ARE REALLY TELLING US ne of the advantages of being in real estate for a long time is learning to look beyond the headline numbers.

Our latest Stone Real Estate Coffs Harbour Market Report looks at eight key local suburbs, with some interesting trends emerging as we move into spring.

moving, but buyers are less forgiving when a property is priced ahead of the market. Not One Market – But Several There really isn’t one “Coffs Coast property market”. Different suburbs, property types and price brackets behave very differently. Current median house prices include: Toormina: $866,000

Across the Coffs Harbour LGA, the median house price is around $957,000, with 12-month growth of 12.33%. Every suburb analysed recorded double-digit annual house price growth.

Boambee East: $936,000

They’re strong numbers, but they need context.

Sawtell: $1.447 million

The Market Has Changed

Published rolling data indicates well-priced three-bedroom homes in Toormina and Boambee East have generally been among the faster-moving segments, while some higher-value coastal properties are taking considerably longer to sell.

Most published property statistics are historical, re ecting sales across many months. What we’re seeing on the ground at Stone is that the market has slowed considerably over the past three months. Higher interest rates, in ation, cost of living pressures and broader economic uncertainty have affected buyer confidence and borrowing capacity. Buyers haven’t disappeared, but they’re more cautious, price sensitive and taking longer to make decisions. Well-priced properties are still 82 COFFS COAST focus

Coffs Harbour: $956,000 Woolgoolga: $1.15 million Moonee Beach: $1.28 million Sapphire Beach: $1.492 million

However, these figures are backward looking and don’t fully re ect the softer conditions we’re experiencing now. That’s why suburb, price bracket, property type, presentation, competition and, above all, realistic pricing matter more than any headline statistic. The Rental Market Remains Tight

The rental market tells another story. LGA vacancy sits at just 1.31%, while median weekly rent is around $679. Property prices, however, have been growing considerably faster than rents, compressing investment yields. For landlords, careful rent reviews, tenant retention and professional property management are increasingly important. Looking Ahead There are still strong long-term fundamentals supporting the Coffs Coast, including population growth, major infrastructure investment and the approaching completion of the Coffs Harbour bypass. Spring should bring more properties and buyers to market, but sellers shouldn’t assume strong annual growth means their property will automatically achieve yesterday’s expectations. In the current environment, good presentation, strong marketing, accurate pricing and experienced negotiation matter more than ever. ote arket figures are general market indicators sourced from publicly available data including omain, R , htag, the Reserve ank of ustralia, W overnment and ity of offs Harbour sources. igures are historical or rolling-period data current at or about eptember , may vary between data providers and should not be relied upon as a valuation, financial advice or a guarantee of future market performance.

Thinking of Selling? Think Claudia Corfe

As part of the team at Stone Real Estate Coffs Harbour, Claudia brings a professional, approachable and dedicated attitude to every property journey. With a strong understanding of the local market and a genuine commitment to providing exceptional service, Claudia takes pride in building lasting relationships and ensuring her clients feel informed and supported throughout the sales process. Experience the Stone difference for yourself today.

Claudia Corfe

02 6652 7888 claudiacorfe@stonerealestate.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 83

HARBOUR PEST SOLUTIONS At Harbour Pest Solutions, we believe quality pest control is about more than simply treating pests. It’s about protecting homes, businesses and the people who live and work in our local community. We provide comprehensive pest control services across residential and commercial properties, covering all areas of pest management with professionalism and care. As fully qualified pest management professionals, we bring knowledge, experience and a genuine passion

Billy Nolan

0423 421 441

Kassey Reeves

0432 145 998

@venuerealestate

venuerealestate.com.au

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for what we do to every job. We love our work and take great pride in delivering reliable, effective solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. Our commitment to exceptional service, attention to detail and customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. When you choose Harbour Pest Solutions, you can count on a dedicated local team that cares about protecting your property and keeping our community pest-free.

5 Things You Need to Know Before Selling Your Property A successful sale often starts well before the property hits the market. The decisions made in those early stages can shape the entire campaign and result. Here are five things I believe every seller should know before going to market. 1. Presentation Matters More Than Most People Realise. Buyers start forming an opinion before they ever step through the front door. The photography, styling, landscaping, light and overall feel of the property all in uence how buyers respond. That doesn’t mean every home needs to be renovated before selling. Often, thoughtful preparation, decluttering, minor maintenance and presenting each space at its best can make a much bigger difference than expensive improvements. The goal is to help buyers connect emotionally with the property from the very first image. 2. The Start of the Campaign is Incredibly Important. When your home first launches, it has something valuable: freshness. Active buyers are watching new listings closely, which means those early days are often when you have the greatest opportunity to create momentum. That is why I believe the strategy should be clear from the beginning. Photography, marketing, copy, pricing, inspection times and

buyer follow-up should all work together. A strong launch gives you the best chance of attracting attention and competition early. 3. Pricing is About More than Choosing a Number. Every seller wants to achieve the best possible result, but that doesn’t always mean starting with the highest asking price. Pricing should be strategic. It needs to consider recent comparable sales, current competition, buyer demand and how purchasers are searching online. The right pricing strategy encourages buyers to engage with the property, inspect it and compete for it. Creating competition is often far more powerful than simply putting a high number on the listing and being willing to discount below. 4. Buyer Feedback is Valuable. Not every buyer will have the same opinion of your property, and one comment should never dictate a campaign. However, when the same feedback starts coming through repeatedly, it becomes important. Buyers are showing us how the market is responding in real time.

A good agent should filter that feedback, identify the trends and communicate them clearly and honestly, so sellers can make informed decisions throughout the campaign. 5. Choose the Agent whose Strategy you Trust. The highest sale appraisal isn’t necessarily the best reason to choose an agent. Ask them how they plan to position your home to achieve that sale result, who they believe the likely buyer will be, how they will reach them and what they will do if the campaign doesn’t initially perform as expected. Selling a property is much more than uploading it online. It takes preparation, good marketing, buyer follow-up, communication and consistent effort from your agent! If you’re thinking about selling, even if you’re only considering your options, I’m always happy to have a confidential conversation about your property and what I would recommend before going to market. Sam Hinton Licensed Real Estate Agent | 0400 560 323 sam.hinton@lifestylegroup.com.au COFFS COAST focus 85

STRONG DEMAND PROMPTS STAGE 2 RELEASE AT SWELL WOOLGOOLGA!

Swell CONSTRUCTION AND SALES POWER AHEAD

WOOLGOOLGA

with JIM HILLERY

SENIOR DEVELOPMENT & ACQUISITIONS MANAGER FOR CLARENCE PROPERTY

t Clarence Property, we’re pleased to bring forward the launch of our second stage of the Swell Woolgoolga masterplanned community.

Swell Retreat - Release 2a will deliver another new level homesites into the tightly-held and supply-constrained Coffs Coast residential market. With over 3,000 enquiries to date, we’ve had a really strong response to our first land release, now nearing completion and approaching sell-out, so we’re excited to launch Stage 2 and give more locals an opportunity to build their new home in this sought-after coastal community. We’re seeing pent-up demand for wellplanned, well-priced housing in Woolgoolga, with locals also attracted to the new range of house and land packages on offer in Stage 2. Swell is delivering something the local market has been missing - quality homesites and a good selection of new homes in a wellplanned community. ust . km to the beach and close to schools, shops, recreation and a range of employment and education options

86 COFFS COAST focus

nearby, with Coffs Harbour CBD located just 2 minutes south. Sharon Green, who has lived in Woolgoolga for 0 years purchased a homesite in the first stage of Swell. “I absolutely love this town, and I’m retiring in a few years, so I started thinking about what my next chapter would look like – building at Swell just felt like the right move,” said Ms Green. “What drew me to Swell was the setting - the trees give it such a private feel, and it’s going to be a prestigious community, in a quiet, understated way, which is exactly what I was looking for. “For me, building new means no maintenance headaches and a home that suits my life. “As a single mum, raising a teenage daughter, it was important to find somewhere that felt safe, peaceful and established. Ms Green added, “I can’t wait to settle in and enjoy everything this beautiful community has to offer.” elease 2 homesites range from 0 to 70 square metres and are priced from ,000. This is the second release in the 7 homesite

“Retreat” neighbourhood, with completion of Stage 2 expected in mid to late 2027. The first 30 homesites are nearing completion, with the final homesites in elease priced from 0,000. Connected to the adjoining Wiigulga Sports Complex by wide, pram-friendly footpaths meandering through mature trees, Swell provides residents with convenient access to a range of local amenities, including open spaces, cafes, play areas and Woolgoolga High School, which is a short, safe bike ride away. We’ve also expanded our local builder network, to offer a wider selection of new house-and-land packages in Stage 2, providing buyers with a range of three, four and five bedroom homes in single and double storey configurations priced from under M to around . M. Site inspections at the Newmans Road property are by appointment only, or buyers can drop into the Swell Sales Display at the Cardow & Partners office in iver Street Woolgoolga. Plans and price lists are available by scanning the QR code on the Swell ad in this issue of Focus.

Release 2 NOW SELLING NEW Homesite Release in Swell Woolgoolga + Discover a selection of new house & land packages now selling. Swell’s first release of homesites is nearing completion, and almost sold out. We’re pleased to introduce The Retreat - Release 2, home to just 19 level homesites and our newest opportunity to secure your address in this well-connected neighbourhood, just 1.5km to the beach. Release 1 - Over 75% sold & nearing completion. FINAL homesites from $490,000*. Release 2 - Anticipated for completion in 2027. NEW Homesites priced from $515,000*. NEW House and Land packages priced from under $1,000,000*.

<SCAN SCAN forfor information NOW Open Day including location and details 2 plans and prices. as Release well as project plans, pricing and information. Call project team now now on 1800 961 021 Callthe theexclusive exclusive project team on 1800 961 021 Disclaimer: *Prices subject to availability and change. Whilst every care has been taken by Clarence Property in the preparation of this advert, Clarence Property does Disclaimer: Prices and availability subject Whilst every care has been taken by Clarence Property theyou preparation of this advert, Clarence not make any* representation or warranty as to to thechange. accuracy or completeness of any statement in it, and will not be liableinfor relying on any information containedProperty in does not make any viewing representation orshould warranty as to their the accuracy or completeness of any it, and be liable for you relying on any information this advert. Persons this advert conduct own inquiries and investigations, andstatement seek their in own legalwill andnot financial advice. contained in this advert. Persons viewing this advert should conduct their own inquiries and investigations, and seek their own legal and financial advice.

COASTAL PLUMBING GROUP WA D E F R E E M A N A N D RORY HUGGINSON From joining forces in 2021 to a growing team, new premises and a strong commitment to giving back, Coastal Plumbing Group has plenty to celebrate. We caught up with Rory Hugginson and Wade Freeman to talk business, community and what’s next.

ory and Wade, tell us how Coastal Plumbing Group began and how it has grown?

Coastal Plumbing Group officially began on ctober 202 , when H Plumbing and reestyle Plumbing joined forces. Both businesses were busy and growing, and we realised there was a great opportunity to bring our experience, workloads and teams together. What started as two local plumbing businesses became one team with a shared vision. ive years on, we’ve grown considerably in both our team and the scale and variety of projects we undertake. It’s been a big five years, and we’re proud of what Coastal Plumbing roup has become. You’ve recently moved into new premises, what does this next chapter mean for the business? 88 COFFS COAST focus

We recently purchased and moved into our new shed and office at 2 Hawke Drive, Woolgoolga. We originally operated from Wade’s property before growth saw us move into a rented commercial shed in Bosworth Drive.

We aim to create a workplace where people are supported to learn, take pride in their work and enjoy coming to work. We try to lead by example, be approachable and give our team opportunities to grow. The business wouldn’t be what it is without them.

wning our own premises was always a goal, so when the right opportunity came up, we jumped at it. The new space gives our team more room, better facilities and a base that can grow with us. It’s a great milestone and an exciting start to our next chapter.

What services do you offer and what has helped build your reputation?

Tell us about the Coastal Plumbing Group team and the culture you’ve created. ur team is without a doubt our biggest asset. ne of the most rewarding parts has been watching apprentices start their trade with us, develop their skills and become qualified plumbers. Some have continued their careers interstate, while others have stayed and progressed into further study.

We cover residential new builds, commercial and civil plumbing, metal roofing and roof plumbing, maintenance, hot water systems, blocked drains, leak detection and emergency plumbing. As we’ve grown, we’ve learnt the importance of maintaining a sustainable workload so every project gets the attention it deserves while we still have capacity for urgent work. or us, a strong reputation comes back to quality workmanship, good communication, reliability and delivering what we say we will. Giving back is clearly important to you

A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

Your charity golf day is coming up in October, can you tell us about it. Our second annual Par for a Purpose Charity Golf Day will be held on 23 October 2026, raising funds for the Black Dog Institute. It’s a four-person Ambrose event and the support has been incredible, with all hole and challenge sponsorships sold out. Our focus is We’re still welcoming on building raf e donations and a strong team, place prizes from taking on the right businesses wanting to opportunities get involved. both, who are you proud to support? We both grew up locally and were

and continuing to deliver the quality service and workmanship our customers expect.

heavily involved in sport, so we know firsthand what support from local businesses can mean to a club. Now our own kids are involved in local sport, so it’s come full circle. We’re proud to sponsor Woolgoolga Seahorses Rugby League, Woolgoolga Netball Association, Woolgoolga Cricket Club and Woolgoolga Swimming Club.

Last year we raised just shy of $17,000 and this year we’re hoping to go even bigger. It’s a great day for local businesses and the community to come together, network, have a few laughs and raise money for an important cause. The raf e will also be available online, so you don’t need to attend to get involved. Why is supporting the community that supports your business so important? At the end of the day, we’re local people too. Outside of work we’re two blokes with

families, kids, hobbies and mates. We live in the same community we work in, and so do our staff and their families. When the community chooses to support a local business like ours, we believe it’s only right that, where we can, we return that support. What’s next for Coastal Plumbing Group? There are always things happening behind the scenes and we’re currently tendering on some exciting projects across different areas of plumbing. For us, growth isn’t simply about getting bigger. Our focus is on building a strong team, taking on the right opportunities and continuing to deliver the quality service and workmanship our customers expect. We’ve achieved a lot in our first five years, and we’re excited to see where the next five take us. How can we get in touch? For plumbing and booking enquiries, call 02 6654 9747. For emergencies, contact Rory on 0431 751 790 or Wade on 0432 114 859. Follow @coastalplumbing.group on Instagram, Coastal Plumbing Group on Facebook or coastalplumbinggroup.net.au. Thanks guys. COFFS COAST focus 89

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For Melissa Edwards, joining the family business meant swapping 17 years in government for trucks, logistics, work boots, and occasionally Birkenstocks! Since joining Lite Moves in 2021, Melissa has helped drive the business forward alongside her husband Michael, their growing team and a fleet that now stretches well beyond Coffs Coast.

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A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

MORE THAN MOVING FURNITURE

M E E T

T H E

ongratulations on being named the 2026 Aurizon AFRA Woman of the Year! What did the award mean to you?

It was incredibly special and quite surreal! The award recognised not just me, but Michael, our family, our team and the journey we’ve taken with Lite Moves. I hope it also encourages more women to see the opportunities available in transport and removals. It’s an industry where there is so much potential. ite o es has rown si nifi antly o er the past four years. What has driven that growth? Hard work, calculated risks, listening to our clients and adapting to changes in the economy. We’ve diversified into commercial furniture, contract deliveries, storage and interstate transport, with routes throughout Queensland, NSW, Victoria and the ACT providing affordable backload options. Growth isn’t simply about adding trucks. It’s about creating local jobs and having the people, equipment and systems needed to keep our promises to customers. What is it really like running a family business with your husband? There is no such thing as a quick conversation! A discussion about dinner can somehow turn into schedules, staffing, fuel prices and tomorrow’s Sydney run. Michael knows the practical side of removals, while I focus more on logistics, contracts, HR, compliance and marketing. We don’t always agree, particularly when it comes to pink

F A M I L Y

B E H I N D

L I T E

M O V E S

signwriting, but we share the same values and commitment to our clients.

employees and business, so giving back is part of who we are.

hy is yo r new enworth so s e ial This is the first truck I have chosen, so it represents how far Lite Moves has come. Visiting the factory and following its journey from production through to its custom-built body gave us an even greater appreciation of Kenworth’s renowned engineering.

We support Share the Dignity’s It’s in the Bag campaign, Pink Silks, Cancer Council, Rugby For Good and our local rugby community. Making a difference isn’t only about writing a cheque it’s also about using our trucks, people and connections to help others.

I believe such an impressive truck deserves What’s next for Lite Moves? We’ll continue pink signwriting and growing sustainably, its own Instagram strengthening page. Michael partnerships and Our goal isn’t respectfully disagrees! investing in our eet, o in an e stressful. How does Lite Moves make it easier? We remind our team that we aren’t simply moving furniture, we’re helping people through major life changes.

simply to become the biggest removalist. We want to be the company people trust, the one that turns up, sees the person behind the move and genuinely cares about the outcome.

Our clients may be buying their first home, downsizing, relocating or navigating a difficult transition. We communicate clearly, arrive when promised and treat every person and possession with care. As an AFRA-accredited removalist, Lite Moves is independently audited against recognised industry standards. For us, trust comes from accountability and doing what we say we will do. hy is i in a i ortant to ite Moves? The Coffs Coast supports our family,

technology and team. We’ve recently purchased a small storage facility and will be expanding the number of storage units available.

Our goal isn’t simply to become the biggest removalist. We want to be the company people trust the one that turns up, sees the person behind the move and genuinely cares about the outcome. If we can do that while supporting our community and adding a little more pink to transport, even better! GET IN TOUCH Lite Moves (02) 6654 3487 I 0418 669 177 Jump online and get your instant FREE quote. COFFS COAST focus 93

ANTON & JENNI CHEYNE

ell us a little about Wall to Wall Plastering. How did the business begin and how long have you been working in the plastering and building

industry?

Wall to Wall Plastering is a locally owned family business servicing Coffs Harbour and the Mid North Coast. It combines Anton’s 20-plus years of industry experience with Jenni’s 20-plus years in business management. Building is in our blood. Anton’s father was a builder, and the tradition continues with our sons. One a carpenter and the other a plasterer.

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Together, we created a business built on craftsmanship and reliable service. It has grown through recommendations, strong local relationships and our commitment to quality over quantity. You’ve been working across Coffs Harbour and the Mid North Coast for more than 20 years. What do you think has been the key to building such a strong reputation locally?

and complete every project to a standard we are proud to put our name to. What sort of work does Wall to Wall Plastering specialise in, and do you work across both residential and commercial projects?

or us, local comes first. We live here, work here and support our community.

Our capabilities extend well beyond standard plasterboard installation. Our focus is highend residential plastering for new homes, renovations and architectural projects, although we undertake selected commercial work.

Our reputation has grown through relationships with local builders, homeowners, trades and suppliers. We communicate clearly, do what we say we will

We specialise in evel finishes. The highest recognised level of plasterboard finish, creating uniform surfaces for interiors requiring exceptional detail.

A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

knowledge and problem-solving ability. Behind the scenes, Jenni uses modern business systems to manage enquiries, quoting, scheduling, accounts and communication, making the process clear and organised from enquiry to completion. We are passionate about developing the next generation of skilled plasterers. Anton takes pride in passing on his knowledge, attention to detail and respect for the trade, helping young plasterers carry quality craftsmanship into the future. A great plastering job is one of those things people probably don’t notice when it’s done ro erly, t definitely notice when it isn’t! What goes into a hie in a really hi h ality finish

We have a passion for ornate and decorative plasterwork, including detailed cornices, ceiling features, archways, bulkheads and custom finishes that bring individuality to a home.

We are passionate about developing the next generation of skilled plasterers. Anton takes pride in passing on his knowledge, attention to detail and respect for the trade, helping young plasterers carry quality craftsmanship into the future.

Tell us about the team behind Wall to Wall. Who are the faces people might see on site and what does everyone bring to the business? Anton and Jenni are the main faces behind Wall to Wall Plastering. Anton brings hands-on experience,

A high quality finish comes from experience, planning, skilled workmanship and close attention to detail. We are not driven by quantity. Our focus is quality. We would rather take the time to achieve a great result than rush to the next job. Anton holds every project to a standard he is proud to put our name to.

You work alongside builders, other trades and homeowners on projects of all shapes and sizes. How important are those relationships and having good local trades you can rely on? Those relationships are extremely important. We believe local businesses are stronger when they support one another. Good communication between builders and trades keeps projects running smoothly and produces better results. We value

our relationships with local builders, tradespeople and suppliers and, wherever possible, support businesses within our region. What are some of the projects you’ve worked on around the Coffs Coast that you’re particularly proud of, and what made them stand out for you? Choosing a favourite is difficult because we have completed many beautiful homes alongside exceptional local builders. We have also entered high-end work into the AWCI Awards of Excellence, which recognise outstanding craftsmanship within the wall and ceiling industry. One standout was a high-end home in Korora last year. It featured evel finishes and demanded exceptional attention to detail. We completed it alongside a respected, long-established Coffs Harbour builder whom we are proud to work with and readily recommend. Projects like this show what experienced local builders and skilled trades can achieve through a shared commitment to quality. Finally, why should someone choose Wall to Wall Plastering for their next build or renovation, and what’s ahead for the business? Our clients receive Anton’s trade experience, an organised family business and people who genuinely care about the finished result. Looking ahead, we plan to remain close-knit so Anton can stay personally involved and maintain the standard our clients expect. We look forward to strengthening existing relationships and building new ones with quality-focused local builders who share our commitment to craftsmanship, detail and exceptional residential work. How can we get in touch? Phone 0431 583 497 Website walltowallplastering.com.au Instagram walltowallplasteringcoffs Thanks guys. COFFS COAST focus 95

ELEVATE ELECTRICAL NORTH COAST L E W I S

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H E A T O N

et’s start with the story behind Elevate Electrical North Coast. How did the business come about and who are the people behind it?

I’ve been in the trade for over 10 years, working across residential and commercial service and installation, and picked up my Level 2 ASP accreditation along the way. Earlier this year I decided it was time to back myself and put my own name on the tools, so I started Elevate Electrical North Coast. It’s just me at the helm at the moment, with trusted subcontractors coming in when the workload calls for it. Being my own business means my name is attached to every job, so the standard of work is really important to me. You’re born and raised in the Coffs Harbour region and come from a family name that’s been known locally for generations. How important was it to build your own business here on the Coffs Coast? It means a lot. I’m a third generation in the construction industry. Both my dad and my grandfather were family-run builders here on the Coffs Coast, so building and trades is in my blood. Starting Elevate here wasn’t really a choice, it’s home, and there’s something special about carrying that family work ethic forward while building something that’s genuinely mine in the same community I grew up in. Tell us about the work you do. What services does Elevate Electrical offer across residential, commercial and Level 2 electrical? Day to day it’s general residential and commercial work fault finding, rewiring, adding or moving powerpoints and lighting, safety switch and smoke alarm upgrades, renovations, new builds and shop fitouts, plus ongoing maintenance for homeowners and local businesses. Being a Level 2 ASP on top of that means I can also take a job from the street connection right through to the last powerpoint, without bringing in another contractor, but the residential and commercial

A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

side is what keeps us busy day to day, and it’s just as important to get right. Your motto is “Elevate your Standard of Electrical”. What does that mean to you and what do you want people to experience when they book a job with Elevate?

disconnecting a property’s supply and installing power meters. People typically need a Level 2 electrician if they have an old switchboard that needs upgrading to modern safety standards, a new build connection to the network, a temporary builders pole so building sites have power whilst in the construction process, or a metering issue.

For me, it’s about raising the standard of What sort of projects are you loving at the whole experience, not just the electrical the moment and are there any recent work. I want people to know that when jobs around the Coffs Coast that you’re they book Elevate, I’ll turn up when I say particularly proud of? I will, communicate clearly, do the job properly and leave the site clean and tidy. I really enjoy upgrading older switchboards Good workmanship and mains installations. should be a given. It’s There are plenty of everything around it older homes around the that can turn a good Coffs Coast still running I want people to experience into a great on ageing setups, know that when one. so there’s something they book Elevate, I’ll satisfying about seeing turn up when I say One of the biggest the before and after. I will, communicate frustrations people You walk away knowing clearly, do the job have with tradies you haven’t just made properly and leave is simply getting it look better, you’ve the site clean and tidy. someone to turn made that home safer Good workmanship up! You put a big for the family living should be a given. focus on reliability, there. communication and leaving a job clean and tidy. Why are those little things so important to you? Quality electrical work is obviously a given, but those other things are what really build trust. Showing up when you say you will, keeping people in the loop and treating their home or business with respect makes a huge difference. They might seem like little things, but they’re often the reason someone calls you back or recommends you to a mate. You’re also a Level 2 Authorised Service Provider. What does that allow you to do and when might a homeowner, builder or business need a Level 2 electrician? Being a Level 2 ASP means I’m authorised to work on and around the network connection point, which a standard electrician can’t touch. In practice that’s service installations, switchboard upgrades, and connecting or

Finally, what’s ahead for Elevate Electrical North Coast? What are you hoping to build over the next few years and how can locals get in touch with you? I’d love to grow Elevate into a name locals know and trust, the same way my dad and grandfather built their reputations here before me. I’m not looking to become the biggest electrical business overnight. I want to build it properly, through good work, repeat customers and word of mouth. In a few years, I’d love levate to be one of the first names people on the Coffs Coast think of when they need an electrician. How can we get in touch? You can call me directly on 0401 197 814, head to www.elevateelectricalnc.com.au, or find levate lectrical North Coast on acebook and Instagram. COFFS COAST focus 97

SMART GARDENS A R E

Native Gardens

W H AT I F T H E S M A R T E S T T H I N G YO U C A N D O W I T H YO U R L AW N I S T O G E T R I D O F I T t sounds a little outrageous. We've spent decades being told that a good garden is a neat garden.

You don't need to be a horticultural expert or spend a fortune to create a thriving habitat at home.

But nature isn’t particularly interested in behaving itself - and perhaps our gardens shouldn't

You can start with one garden bed or one patch of lawn.

either.

The Coffs Coast is an extraordinary place to live. Our gardens don't need to look like little pieces of somewhere else. They can belong here. Imagine a front yard where owers bob above the fence, grasses catch the breeze and shrubs hum with bees. A blue-tongue lizard disappears beneath the protective skirt of a nearby shrub. A Superb airy wren icks through the foliage. Butter ies dance between owers and honeyeaters drop in for breakfast This is what happens when we stop treating our gardens as decoration and start thinking of them as habitat.

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When enough of us make small changes, our individual gardens begin to connect. Our neighbourhoods become something much more interesting: a living green network. Gardening is a remarkable activity. It connects you with nature, community, your body and your health, while somehow allowing you to be an artist, a scientist and weather forecaster all at once. You also become strangely invested in whether a particular plant is going to ower this week… Plant the right things and your garden becomes a hive of activity. A recent Brisbane study showed one backyard can be frequented by more than 1,000 different species in a year! That's a lot of neighbours.

Native gardens make practical sense too. Plants suited to our local conditions are better equipped to handle our climate and, once established, many need less care and supplementary water. On the Coffs Coast, that's increasingly important. We experience heat, heavy rain, storms, ooding and periods of dry weather. Our changing climate is bringing more and more volatility. A garden designed for this place can work with those conditions rather than constantly fighting them. Established trees provide shade and privacy. Thoughtful planting can soften hard surfaces, create welcoming entrances and make outdoor spaces feel like somewhere you want to be. Written by Chloe Brant - Nurserywoman, garden designer & horticulturist at Bonville Nursery

WANT TO PLANT YOUR OWN NATIVE GARDEN? You don’t need to know every plant or a ute full of equipment. You certainly don’t need to rip out your entire garden on Saturday morning and wonder what you’ve done by Sunday afternoon.

HERE’S HOW TO GET STARTED

01 Know your patch. Before choosing plants, look at what you’ve already got. Where does the sun fall? Which way does the wind come from? Is the soil sandy, heavy or compacted? Where does water collect after rain? These simple observations will tell you a surprising amount about what will thrive.

02 Decide what you want from the space.

Do you want somewhere to entertain, a peaceful retreat, a wildlife haven or space for the kids to explore? A garden can do all of these things. And perhaps give the kids something more interesting to discover than an enormous rectangle of lawn.

03 Select your plants. Repetition, layers and movement are what make a good garden great. You don’t need 100 different plants but a healthy mix of diversity - Some of my favs are Leptospermums, any native pea, and grasses; for the love of god plant more grasses!

04 Mark out your garden.

06 Mulch first. This is one of our rules: mulch first, plant second. Mulch helps protect the soil, retain moisture and give your new garden a better start. You also won’t be tip toeing between newly tucked in plants if you lay your mulch first.

07 Plant, water & wait. Choose plants suited to your site, plant them well, water them in thoroughly and then give them time. Plants, annoyingly, have their own schedule.

If you’re feeling out of your depth, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. At Bonville Nursery, we want native gardening to feel exciting. We offer in-store and at-home consultations, garden design, installation and maintenance services; All bookable through our website www.bonvillenursery.com

Once you know what you want, mark out your beds. Understand your pathways and areas you need to functionally move through. Think carefully about the edges, especially where the garden meets grass. A good edge makes maintenance easier and helps your new garden feel intentional rather than like the lawn has simply surrendered.

Or come to one of our free workshops:

05 Prepare the soil.

• 24 October: Right Plant, Right Place — Local Species for Healthy Wildlife

If you’re replacing lawn, sheet mulching or solarising can be useful ways to get started. Then look at your soil. Aeration, compost and appropriate soil amendments can give your plants a much better foundation (we love using Earthlife Rock minerals). Good soil is one of the best investments you can make in a garden.

Our goal isn’t for every garden on the Coffs Coast to look the same. It’s to help people discover how much fun it can be to garden with the place they live.

• 3 October: How to Prune Your Natives 101 • 10 October: Pollinator Gardens — The Dos and Don’ts • 17 October: A Year of Native Flowers — Choosing Plants for Consistent Flowering

And, yes, perhaps a little less lawn. 325 Pine Creek Way, Bonville

www.bonvillenursery.com

ALL

KEEN ELECTRICAL JADEN AND OLIVIA We caught up with Jaden and Olivia Keenes of All Keen Electrical to learn more about their local electrical business, their journey so far and what they love about working in the industry and serving the Coffs Coast community.

ow did All Keen Electrical begin, and what inspired you to start the business?

spent three years working in Port Hedland, Western Australia, which gave him valuable experience across a variety of projects and working environments.

All Keen Electrical began from a desire to build something of our own as a husband and wife team. Jaden has always been passionate about the electrical trade, and with my background in administration and business, we felt our skills worked really well together. We wanted to create a business we could grow together while providing reliable, friendly service to our local community.

After returning home, we decided it was the

Tell us a little about your journey in the electrical industry and how the business has grown.

specialise in, and what sort of projects

Jaden has worked in the electrical industry for over 10 years across residential, commercial and industrial work. He also

and small commercial electrical services, from

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right time to start something of our own. We officially launched All Keen lectrical at the end of June, and the business has grown through word of mouth, local support, repeat customers and recommendations. We’re really proud of how far it has come in such a short time. What types of electrical services do you do you work on? We work across a wide range of residential general repairs and maintenance through to larger upgrades and renovations.

Our work includes switchboard upgrades, lighting, power points, ceiling fans, hot water electrical work, fault finding and general electrical improvements. We enjoy the variety and being able to help customers with everything from small jobs through to larger projects. What do you think sets All Keen Electrical apart from other electrical businesses? I think what sets us apart is the personal service we provide. Being a husband-andwife team, we’re both very involved in the business and genuinely care about the experience our customers have from the first phone call through to the finished job. We pride ourselves on being reliable, approachable and easy to deal with, while providing high-quality workmanship and clear communication. For us, it’s about more

A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

than completing a job, it’s about building a strong local reputation and earning the trust of our customers. What are some of the most common electrical jobs or services customers are currently looking for?

extra power points or making sure older electrical systems are safe and up to current standards.

a new business is a big step, so seeing the

What do you enjoy most about working together as a couple and building the business?

work is something we’re really proud of.

What we enjoy most is being able to build something together that we’re both proud of. We each bring different strengths Jaden focuses on the electrical side, while I take care of the administration, organisation and behind-the-scenes work.

we’re building a good reputation.

Working together definitely keeps us busy, but it’s rewarding being able to support each other, celebrate the wins together and build something for our future as a family.

personal, reliable service we’ve built the

How important is it to you to support and work alongside other local businesses, trades and suppliers?

businesses and trades, and eventually

Some of the most common jobs we’re currently seeing are switchboard upgrades, lighting and power point installations, ceiling fans, hot water electrical work and general repairs and maintenance. We’re also getting plenty of enquiries from people renovating or updating their homes, whether that’s improving lighting, adding

Supporting other local businesses, trades and suppliers is really important to us. We know firsthand how much local support means when you’re building a business, so wherever we can, we like to work with and recommend other local people.

There’s a great sense of community when local businesses support one another, and we’re grateful for the support All Keen Electrical has received so far. Being able to return that support is something we really value. Is there a particular project, achievement or milestone that you’re especially proud of? One of the biggest milestones for us has simply been seeing how much All Keen Electrical has grown since launching. Starting

local support and the number of customers who have trusted us with their electrical Every repeat customer and recommendation feels like an achievement and shows us Looking ahead, what are your plans and goals for All Keen Electrical? Our main goal is to continue growing All Keen Electrical while maintaining the business around from day one. We’d love to keep expanding our customer base, build strong relationships with local grow our team as the business continues to develop. Looking further ahead, we’d also love to broaden what the business can offer by bringing additional trades and services under the All Keen name, giving our customers access to a wider range of trusted services. Most importantly, we want to establish a strong local reputation and create a business that we’re genuinely proud of for many years to come. If someone would like to contact All Keen Electrical or discuss their next electrical project, how can they get in touch? The easiest way to get in touch with us is by phone, email or through our social media pages. We’re always happy to have a chat, answer any questions and discuss what’s involved in your next electrical project. Whether it’s a small job, a renovation or something bigger, we’d love to hear from you and see how All Keen Electrical can help. Thanks Jaden and Olivia. 0411 724 183 allkeenelectrical@gmail.com COFFS COAST focus 101

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KEMP BUILDING & PEST

SAM KEMP

ell us a little about your business and the people behind it.

Kemp Building and Pest is a locally owned building and pest inspection business operated by Sam Kemp. Sam has more than 15 years of experience in the building industry beginning with hands-on building and construction before moving into building insurance assessment and now specialising in pre-purchase inspections. That background gives him a practical understanding of how homes are constructed, how defects develop and what those findings can mean for a buyer. What do you specialise in and what sets you apart? We specialise in pre-purchase building and pest inspections for home buyers, investors and property professionals. What sets Sam apart is his extensive building background and practical approach to inspections. We want our clients to fully understand the property’s condition, not simply receive a long report full of technical terminology. Sam’s reports clearly identify major and minor defects, pest concerns, moisture issues and areas where further investigation or repairs may be recommended. What would you most like our readers to know about your business right now?

property purchase. We aim to make the process as straightforward as possible, from arranging convenient access through to completing the inspection and providing a clear, easy to understand report. Our usual turnaround is to complete the inspection within five days, with the report generally provided within 24 hours following the inspection. Sam is also available to discuss the findings and answer any questions clients may have after receiving their report. Why is being a local business and working within the Coffs Coast community important to you? We live locally and are building a business that we want to be part of the community for the long term. Working across the Coffs Coast also means understanding the types of homes, construction methods and property conditions commonly found throughout the region. We value building strong relationships with local buyers, agents, conveyancers and other property professionals and providing a reliable service they feel comfortable recommending. Book your building & pest inspection today. 0431 744 828 info@kempbp.com.au kempbp.com.au

A building and pest inspection is an important part of making an informed

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Adobe Adobe WE SPECIALISE IN Home Renovations Bathroom, Laundry and Kitchen Renovations Decks and Pergolas Home Extensions General Construction Services

0422 521 543 info@oceanedgebuilding.com oceanedgebuilding.com.au License #397831C

Harness the Power of the Sun Local~Proven~Trusted

Residential & Commercial Hybrid Battery Off Grid Systems EV Charger Installation Repairs & Service Commercial Electrical Work Call Us

6652 9700

Our Locations 15 Isles Drive Coffs & Coffs Central Shopping Centre

Visit Our Website www.megawattpower.com.au

Buildingowned Locally premium homes and family-run, across Wall tothe Wall Coffs Coastbrings Plastering for over years. over 2020 years of expertise to Specialists in: • Level 5 Finishes your dream • New Homes home project. • Renovations & Extensions • Square Set • Decorative Features

Contact our team today: 0431 583 497 Contact our team today:

0431 583 497 walltowallplastering.com.au walltowallplastering.com.au

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Elevate your Standard of Electrical. 24/7 Emergency Electrician Level 2 Accredited Residential & Commercial Locally owned Fast response

0401 197 814

hello@elevateelectricalnc.com.au elevateelectricalnc.com.au

hunter homes Hunter Homes has built its reputation as a family-owned builder with strong regional roots. How does that background shape the way you work with clients across Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie? For us, it comes down to being approachable and understanding of the communities we’re building in. We’re not interested in taking a one si e fits all approach. ur team takes the time to understand what each client needs, whether they’re building their first home, investing or creating a home for the long term. You include over 55 premium features ($100,000 in standard value) upfront. How does this level of price transparency protect local buyers from post-contract budget surprises? Building a home is a big financial commitment, so we think clients should have a clear understanding of what they’re getting from the beginning. By including many of the features people actually want in their home as standard, there’s less reliance on upgrades later in the

process. It gives buyers a much more realistic picture of their overall budget upfront and helps take some of the uncertainty out of building. Your Focus Series offers a streamlined building experience. How should a buyer decide which range best suits their lifestyle and budget? It really comes down to what matters most to the individual buyer. Focus is designed for people who want to keep things simple, with fixed designs, four curated colour schemes and a streamlined process that helps make building more accessible. ur Primary Series gives buyers a much broader choice of home designs and greater opportunity to personalise their home. ur New Home Advisors can sit down with a client, look at their land, budget and priorities, and help them work out which path makes the most sense for them. After winning HIA Northern NSW Display Home of the Year in 2025, the Kenneth display in Port Macquarie has now been

The Kenneth, 0 Acton St Port Macquarie

recognised with the 2026 HIA Northern NSW Kitchen of the Year award. What is it that continues to stand out? It’s incredibly rewarding to see the Kenneth recognised again. It was a huge achievement and reinforces the thought and attention to detail that went into the home. The kitchen is designed to be beautiful but also functional for everyday family life. It’s something clients can experience firsthand by visiting the Kenneth in Port Macquarie and seeing the quality, finishes and design for themselves.

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RTJ

CONSTRUCTIONS R H YS A N D T E R R I J O H N S TO N We caught up with Rhys and Terri Johnston of RTJ Constructions to find out more about their local building business, their journey so far and what sets RTJ Constructions apart.

ow did RTJ Constructions begin, and what inspired you and Rhys to start the business?

RTJ Constructions grew out of family. Rhys started working for his dad, Jock, at Johnform from the age of 17, learning formwork and structural concrete, and Jock also put Rhys through his carpentry apprenticeship. When it came time for Jock to retire, we started RTJ Constructions to carry that side of the business forward. With three boys of our own now, we’re hoping to keep building on the dream Jock started all those years ago with Johnform. Tell us a little about your journey in the building industry and how the business has grown. We’ve grown from a small operation into a team of more than 10 staff. What began as

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hands-on building and formwork has expanded into a full-service company covering suspended formwork, structural concrete, in-house steel fabrication and complete residential builds and renovations. That growth has come from doing the work properly and letting word of mouth carry us forward. Terri is now studying a diploma in interior design, which we’re excited to bring into how we help clients shape their homes. What does a typical RTJ Constructions project look like, and what types of building work do you specialise in? There isn’t really a “typical” RTJ project - that’s part of what keeps it interesting. In any given week we might pour a suspended concrete slab, fabricate structural steel in our own workshop, frame a timber wall, or run a full residential build from the ground up. Our core specialties are suspended formwork, structural

concrete, steel fabrication and residential construction, and having all those capabilities in-house means we can take on complex jobs without handballing them across five different subcontractors. What do you think sets RTJ Constructions apart from other local builders? Probably the range of what we can do under one roof. Most builders specialise in one thing; we’ve built a team covering formwork, structural concrete, steel fabrication and building, so clients get consistency and accountability across the whole job rather than a patchwork of trades. Being a genuine husband-and-wife business also means every job has our name on it personally. It’s our reputation on the Coffs Coast. Building or renovating can be a big investment. What do you think are the most important things clients should

A S P EC I A L FO CUS F E AT U R E

consider when choosing a builder?

gets made with the same priorities in mind. It also means we’re accountable to each other as Licensing and insurance are non-negotiable. much as to our clients, which keeps standards Always check a builder holds a current high. contractor licence and has the right How important is it cover. Beyond that, to you to work with It’s a look for a builder local trades, suppliers relationship who communicates and other Coffs Coast built over years, not clearly and is upfront businesses? about scope, with months. Jon Hibbard Working with local runs on the board for has backed us since trades and suppliers the type of project we first started out, is a big part of how you’re doing. Ask and that’s grown to we operate. It’s a to see past work where we now relationship built over and talk to previous subcontract on all of years, not months. Jon clients and make sure Hibbards jobs from Hibbard has backed us you’re comfortable Macksville through since we first started with how they handle to Grafton. out, and that’s grown changes along the to where we now way, because on any subcontract on all of build, something will Hibbards jobs from come up. Macksville through to Grafton. We also source What do you enjoy most about working materials and trades locally across the Coffs together as a husband-and-wife team? Coast, Clarence Valley and Northern NSW We each bring something different to the wherever we can, because we know their work table. Rhys is on the tools and across the and they know ours. technical side, while Terri keeps the business running behind the scenes and will hopefully have her interior design diploma soon. Having that shared investment means every decision

What has been one of the most rewarding projects or milestones for RTJ Constructions so far?

Winning 2026 Subcontractor of the Year at the Master Builders NSW Northern Regions Excellence in Building Awards for the Awarrawa Beach House project was a huge moment for us. We delivered that one alongside JTech, and having it recognised at an industry level, off the back of a genuinely detailed and demanding build, meant a lot to the whole team. Looking ahead, what are your plans and ambitions for RTJ Constructions? We want to keep building on what we’ve got. Growing the team where it makes sense and taking on more complex, multi-trade projects that use everything we offer in-house. Ultimately, we want RTJ to be known as one of the elite most sought-after builders in the region. so eone wo ld li e to find o t ore about RTJ Constructions or discuss their next building project, how can they get in touch? The best way is to give us a call on 0427 778 or email office rtjconstructions.com.au. ur office is at 27 Hi Tech Drive, Toormina, and you can also find us on Instagram rtjconstructions and Facebook, or through our website. Thanks guys. COFFS COAST focus 109

BUY NOW, MOVE LATER Securing your future home on the Coffs Coast, and putting it to work until you’re ready to make the move. Coffs Coast Accommodation (CCA) is a locally owned, award-

winning holiday property management company, helping owners create successful holiday accommodation while keeping their long-term goals in mind.

re you seeing people purchase on the Coffs Coast well before they’re ready to move here?

Yes. We have many owners who have purchased with a view to retire or relocate to the Coffs Coast, but may still be several years away. For some, purchasing now is about certainty. They’ve found the coastal community or property they see themselves living in long term and would rather secure it now than wait until retirement. The question then becomes: what do you do with the property in the intervening years? How can holiday accommodation help? A professionally managed holiday property can generate income while owners continue living and working elsewhere. That revenue can help offset the costs of holding the property, while still allowing owners some exibility to enjoy it themselves. What about people planning to build their future home? It can be helpful to talk to us before the home is completed if holiday letting will form part of the strategy before retirement. We can provide practical input on how the property will function for guests, but the furnishing stage is where we

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can really help bring everything together. We work with our preferred stylist, Parisi Interiors, to help owners make informed choices around furniture, bedding, artwork and styling. The aim is to create a property that presents beautifully for the holiday market, is practical and durable, while still re ecting the owner’s personal style and taste. Should accessibility be considered at the design stage? Absolutely. If you’re building a home you intend to retire into, it makes sense to consider how your needs may change over time.

Owners may want to visit periodically or gradually spend longer periods on the Coffs Coast as retirement approaches. Holiday letting allows them to adjust availability as circumstances change. When they’re ready to relocate permanently, the property can transition from holiday accommodation to home. Can CCA help before someone purchases or builds? Absolutely. We can review a prospective property or building plans and provide feedback on holiday-letting potential, guest appeal and practical considerations.

Step-free entry, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms and thoughtful circulation are far easier to incorporate during construction than retrofit later. Accessible tourism is also a growing sector of the holiday market, creating opportunities to welcome guests who have traditionally had fewer suitable accommodation choices.

Not every property is suited to holiday accommodation, so having that conversation early can be extremely valuable.

It’s an opportunity to future-proof your own home while broadening its appeal as holiday accommodation in the meantime.

Call us on 02 5606 3767 or feel free to drop by our office for a chat. That’s the advantage of dealing with a locally based business.

hy is e i ility i changers?

ortant or

t re sea

Because this isn’t simply an investment property, it’s their future home.

With some forward planning, future sea changers can secure their place on the Coffs Coast, generate revenue while they wait and enjoy it themselves along the way. How do they contact you?

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TWO DECADES OF TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY: C E L E B R AT I N G 2 0 Y E A R S O F G.J. GARDNER HOMES CO F F S H A R B O U R

here is something deeply profound about a home. It’s where life unfolds, where children take their first steps, families gather around kitchen islands, and a lifetime of memories is quietly woven into the foundation. or 20 years, ick and Susan ischer, the owners and operators of . . ardner Homes Coffs Harbour, have been helping local families turn their ideas, plans, and dreams into reality. ver the past two decades, they have watched the Coffs Coast grow and evolve, built lifelong relationships with generations of local clients, trades, and suppliers, and constructed hundreds of quality homes right across the region. eaching a 20 year milestone in the building industry is no small feat, but for ick and Susan, it isn t just about the bricks and mortar. It is a story of family, resilience, unwavering trust, and a shared passion for community.

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A Fifth-Generation Foundation To understand the story of G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour, you have to go back well beyond two decades. Building isn’t just a career for Rick Fischer; it is coded into his DNA.

looking after the Clarence alley area for . . ardner Homes, working out of the Ballina office. At the time, ick and Susan had just moved into their brand new, self built home with a newborn baby, Hayley.

I am a fifth generation builder within my family, so building has been part of our lives for a very long time, ick re ects. I started my carpentry apprenticeship with my father, Neil, when I was just years old. At the time, my mother had decided that I wasn t doing much other than having fun and playing as much sport as humanly possible, so it was time for me to get a job and start working

When I got the news that I had the job, the excitement was quickly followed by a bit of panic, ick recalls with a laugh. Six weeks later, we packed everything up and moved out so I could take on the new role.

Neil ischer was a Huxley Homes franchisee for years, building upwards of 00 homes during his tenure. rom a young age, ick was exposed not only to the craft of swing and hammer carpentry but also to the intricate mechanics of running a successful residential building business. ooking back, I suppose building was always in my blood, whether I realised it at or not The path that led ick and Susan to own the Coffs Harbour franchise, however, was far from a meticulously mapped out corporate master plan. In fact, it started with a big leap of faith and a split second decision. ears later, while living in Coffs Harbour, ick applied for a position as a Building Supervisor

or two and a half years, ick supervised construction throughout the Clarence alley, managing anywhere between 22 to 2 homes under construction at any given time. It was an intense, fast paced trial by fire, but it gave him an inside out understanding of the . . ardner Homes systems and philosophy. Meanwhile, Susan began helping out in the business with client colour selections, all while juggling life with a toddler and expecting their second daughter, Breah. Then came the turning point. The existing franchise owner approached ick and asked if he would be interested in buying into the business as a partner. Without really thinking about what I was saying, I immediately replied, No, I won t partner with you, but I ll buy the whole franchise from you. ick says. To this day, I m not really sure where that came from. It just fell out of my mouth

abode

Building Trust, One Home at a Time Building a custom home is one of the ost ersonal, e otional, and finan ially si nifi ant o rneys a a ily will e er nderta e e o nisin this wei ht has een entral to i and san’s hiloso hy sin e day one “Building in general is an incredibly rewarding industry,” Rick explains. “Taking someone’s thoughts and ideas from inside their head, putting them onto paper, and then eventually standing back with them as they walk into an absolutely stunning finished home is what gets us out of bed each day.”

While the owner initially declined, he returned a week later with a change of heart: he was prepared to sell the business in full. "That was when the real panic started to set in," Rick admits. "I remember thinking, 'What the hell have I just agreed to?' What started with me swinging a hammer alongside Dad as a 15-year-old apprentice eventually led to Susan and I taking on our own G.J. Gardner Homes franchise and building something together. We had a young family, another baby on the way, a new business, and plenty to learn. We simply saw an opportunity, backed ourselves, and worked it out together as we went."

However, over 20 years, you quickly learn that every client’s journey is unique. Some approach a build with pure excitement, while for others, the financial commitment brings a high level of stress. “We understand that we’re not just building a house. In many cases, we’re dealing with one of the biggest financial commitments that person or family will ever make,” says Rick. “There will always be challenging projects and challenging moments. That’s simply part of building. What matters is how you work through those situations.” For Rick and Susan, earning the trust of the Coffs Coast community hasn’t come from pretending that construction is awless, but from remaining steadfastly honest, transparent,

and approachable when challenges arise. “Materials can be delayed, weather can affect programs, and occasionally mistakes happen. Trust isn’t built by pretending those things don’t occur,” Rick emphasizes. “Trust is built by how you communicate with your clients and, most importantly, how you respond and work through those challenges when they do arise. We want people to feel that they’re part of our family while we’re building their home, rather than simply being another job number.” That ethos has paid dividends in the form of deep-seated community loyalty. A massive portion of G.J. Gardner Coffs Harbour’s business now comes through word-of-mouth recommendations, repeat clients, and secondgeneration builds. Local clients Jim and Melinda know this firsthand, having recently completed their third build with the Coffs Harbour team. “Our second building project has been a great success with record time completion, smooth operation, and a stress-free process. From the very beginning, the team was professional, friendly, and transparent... Our home was delivered on time and finished to a beautiful standard with careful attention to detail. Getting our keys on my birthday was the greatest gift we could have asked for!” COFFS COAST focus 113

Highs, Heartbreaks and Standing Ovations

Two Decades of Changing Tides on the Coffs Coast Looking back over 20 years, the evolution of the residential building landscape on the Coffs Coast has been dramatic. From architectural styling and material technology to finan ial in est ent, the way lo al families build today looks vastly different from 2006. "The changes we've seen in the building industry over the past 20 years have been enormous," Rick notes. "One of the biggest shifts has been the move towards lightweight construction and the incredible variety of cladding systems, composite, and recycled products now available. Twenty years ago, choices were much more limited." nergy efficiency and sustainability have also moved from niche requests to fundamental core pillars of design. Modern clients expect high-performing insulation, smart glazing, solar considerations, and strategic building orientation that maximizes natural light while minimising environmental impact. Furthermore, client expectations around design and luxury finishes have surged. Homes have become deeply individualised re ections of lifestyle rather than standard templated footprints. 114 COFFS COAST focus

"People aren't simply looking for four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a garage anymore," Rick says. "They want a home that suits the exact way they live. Kitchens and bathrooms have become major design showcases, outdoor living areas have expanded, and clients want home automation, luxury cabinetry, and high-end appliances." While construction costs across materials, labour, and compliance have undeniably increased, particularly over the recent post-pandemic years, Rick believes the Coffs Coast remains one of the best places in Australia to invest in property. "We're blessed to live and build in such a stunning part of Australia. We have an incredible climate, beautiful beaches, mountains, and a lifestyle that continues to attract people," Rick re ects. Because of that, property values have remained strong. Clients can invest significantly into building a beautiful home and still come out the other side with a property that represents very good value. People aren't just investing in a house; they're investing in a home, a lifestyle, and one of the most beautiful places in Australia to live."

Over 20 years, the team has built everything from odest nder ranny ats and first ho e ilds to s rawlin l ry residen es e eedin They have also earned prestige on the industry stage, claiming numerous Housing Industry Association (HIA) and aster ilders sso iation awards Standout achievements include a striking home in Bucrabendinni near Bowraville that became a national finalist in the prestigious Think Brick Awards, a coastal masterpiece at Sapphire Beach that earned a national finalist nod at the Australian HIA Awards, and a showcase display home that was featured on the national television program Best Houses Australia. et, when ick re ects on the projects that have left the deepest mark, it isn't always the glittering trophies or TV cameras. Sometimes, it's the moments of profound human connection forged through hardship. Local clients Yvonne and her family experienced this extraordinary bond firsthand after building their dream home; a customised Montville 380 design with G.J. Gardner Coffs Harbour in 2020, only to lose it in a devastating fire months later. "We lost our lovely new home to fire after 18 months of living in our dream home of the future," Yvonne recalls. "However, we asked Rick to assess and quote to rebuild the same house again. They had become like family and were as devastated as we were after the complete loss of our dream dwelling. The team was totally committed and super happy to see it being re-built, and it sits on the hill in majestic style. We very often call in to say gidday. Thank you for a wonderful dwelling we will treasure forever." For Rick, stories like Yvonne's encapsulate why they do what they do. "The awards and recognition are fantastic, and we're extremely proud of them, but the greatest achievement is still seeing someone walk into the finished home we ve created together and knowing we've delivered something they're genuinely proud to call home."

The Next Chapter As Rick and Susan look toward the future, the next chapter for G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour looks bright and remarkably generational.

It Takes a Village: Culture, Team, and Family Running a high-volume building franchise while raising a family requires an extraordinary amount of synergy. For Rick and Susan, balancing husband-andwife business partnership with family life was a trial of stamina in the early years. “In the early years, Susan was heavily involved in the business and worked ridiculous hours, while somehow always making sure that our kids and family came first, ick says gratefully. There were plenty of late nights, early mornings, and weekends. I think it probably took us a good years just to finally get rid of the bags from under our eyes!” Today, their roles are seamlessly refined Rick focuses on construction, sales, client relationships, and strategic vision, while Susan’s expertise spans colour selections, administration, financial management, and accounts. We’ve certainly had our disagreements over the years,” Rick laughs. “Susan will challenge me when she thinks I’m wrong, and I’ll do the same with her. But the biggest thing is that we’ve always been working towards the same goal. G.J. Gardner Homes

Coffs Harbour isn’t just a business we’ve owned for 20 years; it’s been a huge part of our life together and our family’s story.” That spirit of family extends directly into the workplace culture they have cultivated. Rick refuses to view staff merely as “employees,” insisting that every team member, trade, and supplier has a voice and plays a vital role in their shared success. “I’ve always had a bit of a saying that no one really wants to work for a living, so if we all have to turn up every day, we may as well make it an enjoyable place to come and hang out ick says. We have a laugh, we give each other plenty of stick, and we don’t take ourselves too seriously. But when it comes to looking after our clients and getting the job done, everyone takes enormous pride in what they do.” rom the administrative staff in the office to the carpenters, electricians, plumbers, tilers, and painters on site, the extended network of local contractors is the true engine room behind their 20-year legacy. “Buildings might be made from bricks, timber, concrete, and steel,” Rick notes, “but a successful business is built by people.”

Their eldest daughter, Hayley, is currently working in the business; their daughter Breah is thriving on the Gold Coast; and their son, Levi, is currently a fourth-year apprentice carpenter working alongside one of the business’s local framing crews. Being a fifth generation builder myself, it’s pretty special to look around now and see our kids becoming involved in different ways, ick re ects warmly. Whether that eventually leads to the business continuing through another generation, we’ll have to wait and see. There’s certainly no pressure from Susan and I. We want them to find their own path, but it would obviously be pretty special to see that family building tradition continue.” And for those wondering if retirement is on the horizon for the couple? Think again. “Susan and I are both still under 50. Only just. The truth is, we still really enjoy what we do, ick grins. We enjoy building homes, we enjoy the challenges, we enjoy our clients, and we’re surrounded every day by people we genuinely love being around.” “Twenty years is a great milestone, but it certainly doesn’t feel like the end of the story. We’re still enjoying ourselves far too much to start planning the retirement party. So, for now, the plan for the next chapter is pretty simple: business as usual.” COFFS COAST focus 115

PROUD TO SUPPORT G.J. GARDNER HOMES

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

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Congratulations to the G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast team on 20 incredible years in business! We’re proud to work alongside a great local team and wish you many more years of success

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CONGRATULATIONS CELEBRATING 20 YEARS G.J. GARDNER HOMES COFFS HARBOUR

Visit www.pgh.com.au

G.J. Gardner Homes Advert_0926.indd 1

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14/9/2026 12:51 pm

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Shape a new home around you. by Local Builders you can trust. Call 02 6691 3509 or visit gjgardner.com.au

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

I N

T H E

T R A D E

Cebring LOCAL LEGENDS IN BUSINESS H AV E YO U B E E N I N B U S I N E S S FOR 10 YEARS OR MORE? It’s time to shine a spotlight on your success! Join us this November as we showcase businesses that have stood the test of time — and continue to grow, inspire, and lead.

W H Y G E T I N VO LV E D ? •

Celebrate your legacy

•

Showcase your business journey

•

Recognise loyal team members

•

Reinforce trust and credibility

•

Attract new customers who value experience

Whether you’re a family-run favourite, a quiet achiever, or a community cornerstone — this is your moment to share your story and inspire others.

L I M I T E D S P OTS AVA I L A B L E BOOKINGS CLOSE: 12 OCTOBER 2026 Nicci Seccombe 0413 816 010, nicole@focusmag.com.au

Sam Dawson 0417 861 045 sam@focusmag.com.au COFFS COAST focus 123

G L E N C A S S I D Y Northern NSW Branch Manager

20 2 6 H I A NORTHERN NSW HOUSING, KITCHEN & B AT H R O O M A W A R D S

The HIA Northern NSW Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards celebrate the region’s best in building, design and craftsmanship. We caught up with Glen Cassidy to hear more about the awards and the talented people behind them.

i Glen, another huge year for the HIA Northern NSW Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards! For those who aren’t familiar with the awards, tell us a little about them and what they mean to the residential building industry across Northern NSW? The HIA Northern NSW Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards are one of the region’s most prestigious industry events. They celebrate the outstanding builders, designers, kitchens, bathrooms, tradespeople and businesses that are shaping the future of residential construction across Northern NSW. These awards provide a platform to recognise excellence in design, craftsmanship, innovation and professionalism. Importantly, they’re not just about beautiful

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homes. They’re about acknowledging the people behind those projects, from apprentices and trades through to designers and builders. For consumers, the awards provide confidence in identifying businesses that are setting industry benchmarks, while for our members they represent recognition from their peers and independent industry experts.

Services, which won Custom Built Home of the Year, and Stroud Homes Coffs Harbour, which secured Project Home of the Year. Another business that stood out on the night was Forest Built, which secured multiple awards and further demonstrated the strength of craftsmanship and design excellence coming from the Coffs Coast region.

Let’s talk winners! Who took out some of the major awards in 2026, and were there any projects or businesses that really stood out to you this year?

What stood out most this year was the overall standard of entries. The depth of quality across all categories made judging incredibly competitive and highlighted the strength of the residential building industry throughout Northern NSW.

This year’s highest honour, the HIA Northern NSW Home of the Year, was awarded to JTECH Design & Construct for a remarkable contemporary coastal home that reimagines the classic Australian beach shack. The judges were particularly impressed by its sculptural concrete forms, organic curves and seamless connection to the surrounding environment. Other major winners included Bass Building

What are the major award categories, and what are the judges looking for when de idin what se arates a finalist ro an eventual winner? The awards cover a wide range of categories, from custom built homes and project homes through to display homes, renovations,

townhouses, residential design, kitchens, bathrooms and specialised construction projects.

materials or innovations coming through strongly in this year’s entries?

represented this year, which is a real re ection of the depth of talent we have within our local building industry.

A strong theme this year was the connection between indoor and outdoor living. Many entries embraced the Northern NSW lifestyle A strong theme by creating seamless this year was transitions between the connection living spaces and the between indoor and surrounding landscape. outdoor living. Many

One business that particularly stood out was Forest Built, which enjoyed a fantastic night, taking home multiple awards. Their success highlights the quality of workmanship, attention to detail and design excellence that local builders are delivering. The judges were impressed by their ability to create spaces that are not only beautifully finished but also highly functional and tailored to modern living.

We also saw a greater focus on sustainability, energy efficiency and durable natural materials. Timber features, highperformance glazing, textured finishes and environmentally conscious design principles featured strongly across many projects. The best entries demonstrated that sustainable design and luxury living can work hand in hand.

We also saw strong local success with Stroud Homes Coffs Harbour, which secured Project Home of the Year, and Paul Newton Constructions picking up Specialised Project. JTECH Design & Construct award-winning 2026 HIA Northern NSW Home of the Year was constructed in the Coffs region, which is still a fantastic re ection of the calibre of projects being delivered here. These results demonstrate that the Coffs Coast continues to attract and produce work that competes with the very best in NSW.

entries embraced the Northern NSW lifestyle by creating seamless transitions between living spaces and the surrounding landscape.

Judges assess far more than appearance alone. They’re looking at quality workmanship, innovation, functionality, design excellence, value for money and how effectively the project responds to the client’s brief. Winners are typically those projects that successfully combine technical execution with creativity and outstanding attention to detail. Northern NSW has such a diverse building landscape, from coastal homes to hinterland and rural properties. Did you notice any particular design trends,

Were there any Coffs Coast builders, designers, trades or businesses recognised this year? Tell us about some of our local winners and what impressed the judges about their work.

What impressed the judges most was the consistent focus on quality, innovation and creating homes that respond to our unique coastal lifestyle. It’s extremely encouraging to see so many local businesses recognised at a regional level.

The Coffs Coast was exceptionally well

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The awards provide an opportunity to recognise that collective effort. They celebrate the skills, dedication and professionalism of the people who contribute to residential construction every day and help promote the industry as a rewarding and innovative career path.

The Kitchen and Bathroom Awards are always a great showcase of design and craftsmanship. Who were this year’s standout kitchen and bathroom winners, and what made those projects special? The kitchen and bathroom categories always showcase some of the most creative and technically impressive work in residential construction, and this year’s entries certainly didn’t disappoint. Among the standouts was Forest Built, whose award-winning bathroom impressed the judges with its sophisticated design, exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The project delivered a genuine sense of luxury while maintaining practicality and liveability, which is exactly what the judges look for in a winning entry. The kitchen categories were equally competitive, with projects demonstrating innovative design, clever storage solutions, quality finishes and strong functionality. Hunter Homes took out Kitchen of the Year. Across both kitchen and bathroom, the projects that rose to the top were those that 126 COFFS COAST focus

successfully balanced aesthetics with everyday usability.

The kitchen categories were equally competitive, with projects demonstrating innovative design, clever storage solutions, quality finishes and strong functionality.

What continues to stand out year after year is how our builders and designers are pushing the boundaries of design while never losing sight of the practical needs of homeowners. That’s what makes these categories such an important showcase of the industry’s talent. Behind these incredible homes are teams of builders, designers, suppliers, trades and apprentices. How important are the awards in recognising the entire industry and the eo le ehind the finished product? They’re incredibly important. While people often see the finished home, they don’t always see the team behind it. Every project is the result of collaboration between builders, designers, suppliers, manufacturers, tradespeople, apprentices and support staff.

The awards also wouldn’t happen without the support of industry partners and sponsors. Who supported the 2026 Northern NSW Awards, and what does that ongoing sponsorship mean to HIA and the local building industry?

The awards would not be possible without the support of our valued sponsors and industry partners. Partners for major categories included SGA Architectural Window Solutions, Geotruss, Highgrove Bathrooms, Midcoast Trucks, Coffs Toyota and Focus Mag among many others who continue to support the program. Their ongoing commitment helps us celebrate excellence, promote industry achievements and create opportunities for businesses to showcase their work. Strong partnerships between industry suppliers and builders are essential to the continued growth and success of the residential construction sector.

For the businesses taking home an award, what happens next? Do any of our Northern NSW winners progress through to the NSW or Australian HIA Awards?

Many of our

Winning at the regional category level is a significant winners will now achievement in itself, progress to the NSW but it can also be the Housing and Kitchen first step towards even & Bathroom Awards, greater recognition. where they’ll Many of our category compete against the winners will now best projects from progress to the NSW other regions across Housing and Kitchen the state. & Bathroom Awards, in Northern NSW, and where they’ll compete what are you excited against the best to see heading into 2027? projects from other regions across the state. The calibre of this year’s finalists and winners Those who are successful at the state level may then advance to the prestigious HIA Australian Housing Awards, where they have the opportunity to be recognised on the national stage. Finally, after seeing the calibre of this year’s finalists and winners, what does it tell you about the strength of the building and construction industry here

demonstrates that Northern NSW continues to be home to some of Australia’s most talented residential building professionals. Despite economic pressures and ongoing industry challenges, our members continue to deliver projects of exceptional quality and innovation. Particularly pleasing was seeing businesses from the Coffs Coast perform so strongly against entries from across the entire Northern

NSW region. That success reinforces the fact that our local builders, designers and tradespeople are producing work that ranks among the best in the state. What excites me most about 2027 is seeing how builders and designers continue to embrace new technologies, sustainable construction practices and evolving lifestyle trends. If this year’s awards are any indication, the future of residential building in Northern NSW is incredibly bright. Thanks Glen. COFFS COAST focus 127

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