e 190 NOVEMBER 2026
VANESSA ASHFIELD G L E N E S S I H I G H L A N D S
Tomorrow is made by you At Southern Cross University we offer an experience designed for you to thrive and step confidently into what comes next. With flexible study options, dedicated support, and strong career outcomes, we help you turn ambition into opportunity. Whether you’re finishing high school, returning to university after a break, or considering postgraduate study, including research pathways such as a PhD, Southern Cross University in Coffs Harbour offers the perfect mix of world-class education and a home-grown community. We believe learning and research has the most impact when it moves the world forward, when knowledge becomes action, opportunity is accessible and ideas change lives. Every discovery, every connection, is part of the making of tomorrow.
93% of our graduates get jobs
5-Star Student support in five study areas
Graduate income above national average
Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025
Good Universities Guide 2026
Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025
Apply now to start studying in 2027 CRICOS Provider: 01241G TEQSA Provider Code: PRV12043 Australian University
2 COFFS COAST focus
COFFS COAST focus 2
4 COFFS COAST focus
COFFS COAST focus 4
6 COFFS COAST focus
COFFS COAST focus 6
8 COFFS COAST focus
Black November
BIG SAVINGS. BETTER COMFORT.
20%to50% OFF
Incredible offers across our leading comfort brands
Stressless® La-Z-Boy IMG Comfort 20-30% OFF*
20% OFF
PLUS 20% OFF
Dining • Bedroom • Australian-made sofas Everything else in store*
20% OFF FREE
Delivery & Installation Woolgoolga to Kew
50% OFF SELECTED FLOORSTOCK
*
WORTH THE DRIVE TO BEATTIES Over 43 ears of family-owned service. Honest advice, & great furniture
*See instore for details. Excludes items already on sale. Limited quantities available on floorstock specials
Beatties
Quality Furniture
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday - Day Off Sunday 10am-2pm 2 Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484 2/158 Lake Rd, Port Macquarie PH: 5572 9500
www.beattiesfurniture.com.au
FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION
over
EST
. 1983
COFFS COAST focus 9
I ue 190 - NEVEMBER 2026
INTERVIEWS
14 24 96 56
A L I N TA C A R B E R RY
AUS S I E P I C K L E C O.
T O M M I E S T RY D O M
Proud Gumbaynggirr and Dungutti woman Alinta Carberry has gone from growing up on the Coffs Coast to working with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Vogue Australia.
Three local blokes, one humble cucumber and a big idea! Founders Dustin, Don and Taj have turned Woolgoolga-grown cucumbers into premium pickles, supporting local farmers and have plans to take the Aussie Pickle nationwide.
For Orara Valley RFS Captain Tommie Strydom, volunteering is about protecting the community he calls home. Tommie tells us about life in the brigade, the importance of local knowledge and the dedicated volunteers.
OUR CONTRIBUTORS 50. Reptile Watch - Matthew McEwan 93. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 98. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 113. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 115. Message from the Mayor - Nikki Williams CONTRIBUTOR
120. Education Update - Simon Doyle
OF THE MONTH
130. Finance Solutions - Jim Morrison
JIM MORRISON
134. Property Report - Shane Brooks
Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. Follow us on 10 COFFS COAST focus
coffscoastFocus
51 focusmag.com.au
COFFS COAST focus 11
W
WELCOME TO THE NOVEMBER 2026 EDITION.
ell, here we are, November already! an you believe e re bringing you our second-last edition of F for hat a year it s been, and hat a onderful ay to finish it off, celebrating the people, places and communities that make our region so special. his month, e re heading inland for our much-loved rara alley feature, and hat an incredible community e ve had the pleasure of getting to know! From oramba and ana len to pper rara, long and lenreagh, the valley is filled ith fascinating people, hardworking families, thriving small businesses and generations of locals who are incredibly proud to call this
beautiful part of the world home. hroughout these pages, you ll meet the people ho make the valley tick. From local business owners and schools and the organisations that bring everyone together, there s so much to celebrate. t s a community built on connection, resilience and a genuine illingness to lend a hand, and e ve loved sharing their stories. Gracing our November cover is the gorgeous lenessi ighlands in lenreagh. ome to a beautiful fold of cottish ighland cattle, Glenessi offers unique farm experiences and cosy country stays. t s the perfect place to slo down, reconnect with nature and enjoy a little country charm. e caught up ith anessa shfield to discover the story behind this special property, and e re delighted to share it with you.
FF
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.
s e turn our attention to ecember, e re already busy putting together our final edition for , and it s shaping up to be a beauty e ll be celebrating hristmas ith our hop ocal, upport mall usiness feature, kicking off our summer ub, lub ar ra l series and inspiring your next geta ay ith ere, here very here, our special travel feature showcasing holidays close to home and adventures further afield. here s plenty to look for ard to as into the festive season!
e head
no someone ith a great story each out to us, we would love to hear from you. For no , grab a cuppa, settle in and en oy our ovember edition. hank you, as al ays, for supporting F and the onderful community e re so lucky to be part of.
EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe - nicole@focusmag.com.au
DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone - kyle@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Samantha Dawson - sam@focusmag.com.au
COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy - info@focusmag.com.au
ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont - jay@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au
SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul - dylan@focusmag.com.au
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney - Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com
69
omments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or vie of the ublishers. ll reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. nformation appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, ho ever no liability ill be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. hile all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice ith individual businesses and industry professionals. rticles marked as ntervie or ontributor are non-sponsored content. offs oast Focus is published by reative ouse ublications . Material in Focus is opyright reative ouse ublications and may not be reproduced hole or in part, in any form, ithout permission of the ublisher. ll rights reserved. F is printed by ustralian ommunity Media rint ogistics orth ichmond. ur paper is FF and F certified and meets ith accreditation.
12 COFFS COAST focus
CELEBRATING CELEBRA RA RAT ATING
Bishop Druitt College Named Among Australia’s 5-Star Best Schools 2026
EXCELLENCE E EX CELLENCE IN ACTION
Empowering Regional Excelle Excellence ence on the World Stage
Stat State at a e Honours Selection Ensemble Program (SHEP) Congratulations to these BDC High Performance Perf rfo rf formance Perf rfo rf forming Arts Performing students on their selection fo fforr the prestigious State Honours Ensemble Program at Griffith University. y. y Following a rigorous video audition process alongside hundreds of applicants statewide, their inclusion in this competitive program is a wonderf r ul reflection rf wonderful of their musical talent and commitment to artistic excellence.
Simon Vivas-Gutierrez
BDC High Performance Perf rffo rf ormance Program athlete Te T Tehani hani Badke competed against top international showj w umpers in Mexico—securing multiple podium wj showjumpers finishes and earning the Highest-Perf rrfffo orming Highest-Performing International Rider title at the Puebla CSI2* Global T To ur! Te T hani’s journey was made possible through Tour! Tehani’s the BDC High Perf rrffo formance Program and Performance extraordinary backing from local businesses. Tehani T Tehani took out 2nd place as NSW Reserve Champion 1* Eventer at the State Interschool Championships and is now set fo fforr Nationals!
Daniel Viva Vivas-Gutierrez vas va as-Gutierre rez re ez
w umping China International Exchange Showj Showjumping wj Competition Selection BDC High Perf rfo rf formance Program student Zara Harris has Performance been selected as one of just ffo ur PC Australia riders to join four the Australian team travelling to China fo fforr the China International Exchange Showj w umping Competition! She will wj Showjumping compete in showj w umping up to 1m, alongside young riders wj showjumping from China, New Zealand and South Africa, while also taking part in cultural and educational activities.
bdc.nsw.edu.au COFFS COAST focus 13
Alinta Carberry
Proud Gumbaynggirr and Dungutti woman Alinta Carberry has gone from growing up on the Coffs Coast to working with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Vogue Australia. We chat with Alinta about her modelling journey, career highlights and the importance of First Nations representation in the industry.
14 COFFS COAST focus
but I sent my information, and had some photos taken. Eventually an agency based in Sydney named Chadwick Models reached out confirming they ould like to fly me do n to have a chat. I ended up signing a contract and that’s where the magic started.
I’ve always dreamed about working with the team since starting off in my career, ge ing the phone call for Vogue twice was crazy.
My first ever ob booked as he uardian Australia. Call time was 4am and I remember waking up to frost all over my window - it was absolutely free ing. pushed myself to ump out of bed and get ready. I was feeling a bit a k ard at first but they quickly made me feel comfortable. Soon we arrived on set in the Blue Mountains on a large farm with various types of amazing animals: emus, peacocks, water buffalos, donkeys, and many more. I met such an ama ing production team. My second ob as for ree f ife. got a call from my agent letting me know they wanted to shoot and I’ve always loved this brand, so I was stoked!
H
i Alinta. Can you tell us a little about yourself, your upbringing here on the Coffs Coast and how your journey into the modelling industry
first e an
Ginnagay Coffs Harbour! My name is Alinta Dawn Vivienne Carberry, I’m 23 years old, a proud Gumbayngirr and Dungutti woman. Growing up in Coffs Harbour has had its pleasures - living close to the beach, being able to go pippy shuffling, fishing ith my uncles and cousins, visiting sacred sites with my mum and aunties, and learning about Dreamtime and our history has had a big impact on me since I was young. o first got into modelling as through Instagram. I saw an ad promoting free photos as a way to get into the industry. I was hesitant being quite a shy and anxious person. It's hard to get out of your comfort zone,
You've already achieved some incredible things in your modelling career, including working with names like Vogue Australia. Can you tell us about some of those experiences and what they've meant to o 17 years old and working for Vogue, not once but twice, was pretty incredible. First it was a collaborated 7 piece capsule collection, the striking unga print designed by i i artist eresa Munkanome, it as really an out of body experience. he second time as for Miss ogue, it as about self-expression, which is the core of the revamp by experimenting and having fun with fashion. I’ve always dreamed about working with the team since starting off in my career, so getting the phone call for Vogue twice was crazy. Being able to wear brands like Chanel, Fenty, and Dior was unreal, especially coming from a small town and having never seen these brands in person. It means so much working with such an amazing brand like Vogue Australia, it was a big tick for me. Continued over... COFFS COAST focus 15
Growing up is such a roller coaster, you have your highs and lows, but pu ing your best foot forward and doing yourself proud is a huge accomplishment. You’ve had the opportunity to walk runways and work on some exciting campaigns. Is there a particular moment or career highlight that stands out as es e ia memora e or si nifi ant I think one of my biggest and proudest moments in run ay as being part of the first ever Indigenous Runway on Gadigal Country (Sydney) Fashion Week in June 2021. Having amazing performers like Barkaa, Electric 16 COFFS COAST focus
Fields, William Barton, DRMNGNOW, dance troupes, and designers Grace Lilian Nungula, maara collective and many more and to be able to walk with Samatha Harris, Elaine George, and Charlee Fraser, Kobie Dee. The Guardian said ‘A movement not a moment’. But I’ve been lucky enough to have been able to attend and walk in 3 First Nations Runways that have made
waves and a massive impact on everyone all over the world. Representation of First Nations people in fashion and media has grown in recent years. What does it mean to you to be part of that movement, and why do you think that visibility is so
im ortant It means so much, I really can't put it into words. Growing up is such a roller coaster, you have your highs and lows, but putting your best foot forward and doing yourself proud is a huge accomplishment. I think the reason visibility means so much to me is that
everyone deserves to be seen and heard. Can you give us a little insight into what life as a model actually looks like behind the scenes? What's involved in preparing for a runway show or major campaign? Now this is a fun one. The excitement, the thrill of where you’re travelling next, what brands or businesses are booking you, I’ll definitely say it s not al ays about the money but the people, places and memories. Being an on-call model is where you kind of have to make a very big decision to drop everything and sometimes it’s a bit tricky if you work a day job and model. Fortunately I picked up an amazing retail job at Pushkar in Coffs Harbour City Central which is owned by a lovely couple named Tina and Nathan Cashman, they were so understanding of how much modelling meant to me and if I needed to go they would understand. The beautiful girls I work with have watched me grow into who I am today and support me in every bit of my journey.
are some of your biggest aspirations for your modelling career? I think what I’m most excited about in my upcoming years is just being able to work with amazing brands, small businesses and really building and speaking for my community and for the younger generation. I also just want to say a massive thank you to Coffs Coast Focus for having me. Thanks Alinta.
Fashion can be such a powerful form of creative expression. What do you enjoy most about modelling, and how has your own relationship with fashion and personal style evolved? I think in my time of modelling my style has flourished, plus the help of the ushkar girls, but being exposed to the fashion industry has opened my eyes to how you can express yourself in many ways with clothing, piercings, tattoos and dancing. What advice would you give to young First Nations kids, particularly those growing up in regional communities, who dream of pursuing a career in modelling or the creative industries? My advice for the jarjums (kids) is to stay strong, believe in yourselves even when the times are tough. You’re going to push through. You can achieve anything you put your mind to. We are worthy. Reach for the stars, we ourselves hold us back but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel and our ancestors are always watching and protecting us. What have you got coming up that you're excited about, and looking ahead, what COFFS COAST focus 17
ARTIST of the MONTH
COCO ELDER H
i Coco. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey as an artist?
Inspired by the natural beauty of Gumbaynggirr Country, Bellingen-based artist Coco Elder captures the region’s landscapes and native flora through her richly textured paintings. We chat with Coco about her creative process, connection to the landscape and upcoming exhibitions.
18 COFFS COAST focus
I grew up surrounded by the smell of oil paints up in the attic of our terrace home where I would watch Dad paint on weekends. I used to sit on the floor and dra beside him. e also had a little cottage in the Blue Mountains where we used to collect clay at the side of the road and make little pinch pots to fire in the fireplace at night. n reflection, these sensations and experiences were perhaps the
seeds of my artistic passion.
Gumbaynggirr Country in the Bellingen Shire. What is it about this landscape that continues to inspire you?
There is something quite feminine with the towering rainforests and the abundance of meandering rivers, creeks, waterfalls and uncrowded beaches.
I initially studied Landscape Architecture, which inspired my interest and understanding of the delicate microclimates in the natural landscapes. Once the realisation hit that I’d be sitting in an office, I left this degree to pursue my interest in Drawing and enrolled in a Bachelor of Fine Arts at City Art Institute, now UNSW School of Art and Design. I found myself having to major in Painting and minor in Ceramics due to lack of places. It was a steep learning curve to evolve from drawing with the brush and shift from working with acrylics to dappling with oils. Your work is deeply connected to the landscape around where you live on
This area fascinates me with the variety and velocity with which plants grow from subtropical to cold climate. Being a high rainfall area, the land always seems to look green and the surrounding mountain ranges give out this beautiful blue/purple haze I find so cathartic. here is something quite feminine with the towering rainforests and the abundance of meandering rivers, creeks, waterfalls and uncrowded beaches.
practice? What mediums and techniques do you work with, and what draws you to them? I work predominantly in oil paint for its rich, buttery texture and slower drying ability for reworking areas. Once the paint is dry, I use an engraving tool to carve into the surface of the birch or pine board to enhance the texture, create more detail and a sense of dynamism. This way, I’m able to bridge the two mediums of drawing and painting. I also like to carve into thick watercolour paper and my ceramic slab vases and vessels when the clay is leather hard. How important is it for you to spend time physically observing the landscape before creating a piece? Do you sketch, photograph or collect other visual references as part of your process?
Beneath this, it’s the geology of the land and the history it holds with remnants of the connection to the supercontinent Gondwana and the ancient species of Antarctica Beach.
The more time I spend in a landscape, the more it opens and the more I see. Sketching plein air always helps the authenticity of the colour palette and light. The camera helps with recalling nuances and deciding on composition which is paramount in engaging an audience.
Can you tell us a little about your art
Continued over... COFFS COAST focus 19
ARTIST of the MONTH
20 COFFS COAST focus
Can you share a bit about your creative process when working on a piece?
I love painting Australian native flora, particularly the different hardy banksias and waratahs. I have painted the Never Never River many times as it never ceases to engage me with its enchanting, magical atmosphere.
The challenge is to know when a painting is complete. I often envisage a miniature vie finder and scour each section of the painting for its paint quality and degree of resolution. emoving it from the studio and hanging it in another space and photographing it also helps ith kno ing hich areas need fine tuning.
environments.
you over the coming months?
Do you have a
I’m currently working on a large-scale commission of the ever ever for a ydney client that missed out on a painting at my recent exhibition at rt Muse allery.
favourite part of the creative process - the initial observation, developing the composition, the physical making of the work, or seeing the finished ie e
Finding the right sub ect can be challenging. I’m always looking for an engaging vista or an alluring play of colour and light. established, grapple
Is there a particular plant, landscape or art o the e in en re ion that o find yourself returning to again and again?
larger forms
love painting ustralian native flora, particularly the different hardy banksias and aratahs. have painted the ever ever iver many times as it never ceases to engage me ith its enchanting, magical atmosphere. lthough sadly it has been over frequented, and at times polluted by holiday makers that are still learning the importance of respecting and honouring hat is left of our natural
to the paint
nce
ith sketching in the
ith charcoal before painting.
aim for alla prima, mostly because
ust like
to get it done but usually have to come back ork to refine it a fe
times.
find the carving process the most playful, spontaneous and uninhibited part of my process. lthough having said that, it is loud and requires
earing protective eye, nose and
ear gear. What are you currently working on, and what can people look forward to from
ver the next several months leading to ards May, ill be orking on my theme for the offs arbour egional allery - arilla rts Museum duo sho ith Mel augh ivers of umbaynggirr . Where can readers see your work, and are you involved in any upcoming exhibitions, projects or local events? his ovember, m one of plus artists participating in the ellingen hire rts rail eekend. mong studios and galleries that ill open their doors from orrigo, ellingen to runga. ill be exhibiting at yde af in ellingen ith an opening night Friday th ovember. ll are elcome. hydebellingen.com.au/pages/art-at-hyde eople can also vie my ork at my ydney gallery rt Muse and online art2muse.com.au/artists/coco-elder and on my ebsite cocoelder.com.au Thanks Coco. COFFS COAST focus 21
4 6-29
CHMCC PRESENTS - 9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL.
TRIVIA NIGHT. Key Free Networking and Trivia Night for Coffs Businesses. For more information call Courtney on 0466 551 875 RSVP Essential - Nibbles and prizes! When Wednesday 4 November Where Key Café: 61 West High Street Coffs Harbour Time 5-7pm
7-8
ased on the iconic film, to he Musical is a hilarious, feel-good comedy featuring Dolly Parton’s music. Follow three unlikely friends as they challenge their sexist boss in a whirlwind of friendship, revenge, empowerment and laughter! When th until th ovember Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com
7-8
NOVEMBER
TIDAL SOUNDS MUSIC FESTIVAL. idal Music Festival brings
ARTS TRAIL WEEKEND. The perfect opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Bellingen, while meeting the artists, makers and craftspeople who call it home. When 7th and 8th November Where Throughout Bellingen Time 10am until 4pm More bellingenshireartstrail.com
13
22 COFFS COAST focus
-15
- COFFS COAST -
2026
together incredible live music, talented artists and a vibrant atmosphere, celebrating community, creativity and connection. When 7th and 8th November Where oey Moey Cost Free Entry - Tickets hoeymoey.com.au
OZTAG SENIOR AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS.
PROMENADE CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL PARTY.
The Australian Oztag Sports Association hosts the Senior Australian Championships annually. The event showcases the talent of senior teams from all over the state as they compete against each other in the three-day tournament. When 13th, 14th, 15th November Where C.ex Stadium
Enjoy a magical evening of delicious cocktails and canapes, great entertainment and festive cheer, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Coffs Creek. All proceeds go to Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club When 27th November Where The Promenade Tickets $85 from coffspromenade.com.au
27
Celebrate the Silly Season with your team, above it all!
Baske Rooftop Bar Christmas Parties EVENT DATES
Late November - December. We’d love to hear from you!
PARTY NIGHT DETAILS
Ready to lock in your Xmas Party? functions@cex.com.au or Contact: 6652 3888
Rooftop Vibes Music Share Plates Cocktails
MINIMUM 20 GUESTS UNDER 20 PEOPLE? JOIN FORCES WITH ANOTHER BUSINESS TO ELEVATE YOUR PARTY!
LIMITED DATES AVAILABLE!
60+ GUESTS?
WE’LL ADD A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA
Complimentary bubbles on arrival Barefoot Bowls discounts
& &
COFFS COAST focus 23
24 COFFS COAST focus
Aussie Pickle Co. D O N ,
D U S T I N
&
T A J
Three local blokes, one humble cucumber and a big idea! We chat with Aussie Pickle Co. founders Dustin, Don and Taj about turning Woolgoolga-grown cucumbers into premium pickles, supporting local farmers and their plans to take the Aussie Pickle nationwide.
A
ussie Pickle Co. brings together three blokes from very different backgrounds, united by a love of a good pickle! Can you tell us a little about yourselves and how the idea for the siness first ame a o t Three local blokes from different backgrounds saw an opportunity in the humble cucumber. a osan h is a fifth-generation oolgoolga farmer who brings a wealth of agricultural kno ledge and financial expertise to the business. Don Cummings has spent much of his career in the foodservice industry, connecting some of Australia’s best producers with leading chefs and restaurants. He brings that experience in sourcing quality ingredients, building relationships and getting great Australian produce into professional kitchens, and m usty o ie-Ford, a chef and restauranteur. a gro s beautiful -grade cucumbers in oolgoolga, but even the best local produce doesn t al ays find a buyer. he recent decision by Coles to move away from sourcing cucumbers, bananas and pumpkins directly through local supply arrangements highlights the challenges facing Coffs Coast farmers. It reinforces why creating alternative markets for locally grown produce is so important. Meanwhile, my burger restaurants were buying imported pickles. hy bring them halfway around the world when fantastic cucumbers grow on our doorstep? hat sparked ussie ickle o. e anted to celebrate cucumbers gro n in oolgoolga and across the Coffs Coast, create another
market for local growers and keep more value in our community.
supporting Australian growers and suppliers hile producing a orld-class pickle.
You each bring something quite different to the table. How have your individual skills and experiences complemented one another in i din ssie i e o
Can you take us through the process of turning a locally grown cucumber into an ssie i e
Between us, we cover the journey from farm to kitchen. Taj understands farming and its pressures. I develop recipes and know what chefs need after years in kitchens and restaurants. Don builds the brand, manages distribution and connects with customers.
t starts at a s oolgoolga farm. e harvest the cucumbers, prepare crinkle-cut slices, stackers or hole spears, pack them in foodgrade containers with a carefully balanced brine of vinegar, sugar, salt and spices.
Our pickles are unpasteurised, so they avoid the high heat that can diminish fresh crunch Put simply, Taj grows them, I pickle them and flavour. e let the flavours develop, and Don gets them keep them refrigerated into people’s hands. and distribute them Different skills, one to kitchens. Seeing a shared goal. As a chef, I’m cucumber go from the particular What makes Aussie farm onto a burger is about balancing i e o di erent incredibly satisfying. acidity, sweetness, What were the key You’ve chosen to salt and spices. It things you wanted produce premium should taste just to get right when refrigerated pickles. as good straight developing your Why was that from the bucket as rod t important, and what on a burger. e anted a premium difference does it Australian pickle ma e to the finished without compromising rod t on crunch, texture exture matters as or flavour. s a chef, m particular about much as taste. Nobody wants a soft, lifeless balancing acidity, sweetness, salt and spices. pickle e chose refrigerated, unpasteurised It should taste just as good straight from the pickles to retain that fresh cucumber crunch, bucket as on a burger. rather than making something designed to sit ur -grade cucumbers thrive in the arm on a shelf for years. coastal conditions of the Mid orth hen someone bites into an ussie ickle, e oast. e source as many ustralian want them to notice the crunch, acidity and ingredients as possible, including sugar, balance of flavour immediately. vinegar, water and sea salt. Even our packaging is Australian made. It’s about Continued over... COFFS COAST focus 25
Aussie Pickle Co. If we can build that in Woolgoolga and eventually reach kitchens nationwide, we’ll be proud. The future isn’t necessarily about growing more; it’s about making more of what we already grow. What have been some of the biggest challenges or surprises in getting Aussie Pickle Co. off the ground? Making a great pickle recipe was the easy part. Building a food manufacturing business is another challenge! Scaling up consistently, sourcing packaging, managing refrigerated storage, meeting food safety requirements and organising distribution take serious work. ven finding buckets and lids that fit properly can be a headache. We’re three blokes juggling other businesses, but we’re learning and enjoying building something from scratch. Looking ahead, what’s the vision for Aussie Pickle Co.? Are there plans to expand your product range or make your pickles more widely available? We want Aussie Pickle Co. to become a national foodservice brand. With The Provedores, another locally owned family business, our pickles are already reaching kitchens from Byron Bay to Port We’d love to Macquarie and west to expand into Armidale. major capital cities. Woolgoolga and the wider Coffs Coast have a strong agricultural history. What does it mean to be building a business that takes locally grown produce and turns it into something with the potential to reach kitchens across Australia? We live among hardworking farmers growing some of Australia’s best produce, but many rely on a small number of buyers. More ways to value-add locally grown crops could 26 COFFS COAST focus
create opportunities and reduce that vulnerability.
Access to locally grown cucumbers and Australian ingredients gives us a solid supply foundation.
Food manufacturing takes investment, infrastructure and compliance, but Aussie Pickle Co. shows what’s possible: take a quality Australian cucumber and turn it into a premium product that supports local farmers.
We’d love to expand into major capital cities. Access to locally grown cucumbers and Australian ingredients gives us a solid supply foundation. We’re also developing slices, stackers, hole spears and ne flavours, as a chef, I’ve got plenty of ideas! But it’s about more than selling buckets.
We want regional businesses and Australian farmers to grow together without losing our roots. For locals who are keen to try Aussie Pickle Co. for themselves, where can they find o r rod ts and ho an the o o a on ith hat o re doin You might already be eating our pickles without knowing it! We supply restaurants, cafés, pubs, clubs and burger shops across the Coffs Coast, including The Box Factory Burgers and Ground Earth Café. Next time you order a meal with pickles, ask if they’re Aussie Pickle Co. If not, give the venue a friendly nudge towards local produce! Foodservice businesses can order our range through The Provedores in Coffs Harbour. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or visit
www.aussiepickle. com. nd fina we have to ask – what’s each of your favourite ways to eat a i e re o traditiona r er o es or ha e o dis o ered some more ne e ted om inations a on the
A pickleback margarita with a splash of Aussie Pickle brine goes down a treat a er a day in the office or on the farm.
Don snacks on Aussie Pickles with a good old Jatz cracker and aged cheddar, or serves them with his homemade curries. And Taj? He’s our margarita man! A
a
I’m a burger bloke, so a cheeseburger with pickles is hard to beat. As a chef, I also love the brine: we use it for fried chicken at The Box Factory Burgers, while Ground Earth Café uses it in sauces and hollandaise and turns leftover spices into mustard.
pickleback margarita with a splash of Aussie Pickle brine goes down a treat after a day in the office or on the farm. Whether it’s on a burger, alongside a curry or in a margarita, there’s more to a good Aussie Pickle than meets the eye! Thanks guys. COFFS COAST focus 27
BIG FUN All year long.
Tiga Cross Celebrates Business Award Success Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary Managing Director Tiga Cross has been named utstanding Young Business Leader at the 2026 Business NSW Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards, securing the title for the second consecutive year. Tiga’s achievement recognises her dedication, leadership and commitment to building a brighter future for wildlife and the local community. After helping save the former Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in 2023, Tiga and her family transformed the much-loved attraction into the not-for-profit Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary,
28 COFFS COAST focus
championing wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, conservation and education. Her leadership philosophy centres on working alongside her team, volunteers and supporters to create meaningful change. The award also acknowledges the wider community that has stood behind the Sanctuary and its mission.
Introducing The Big Banana Locals Annual Pass! You asked. We listened! The Big Banana Fun Park is giving Coffs Coast locals a whole new way to enjoy their favourite local landmark with the launch of the brand ne Locals Annual Pass. For ust $199 per person, enjoy 12 months of unlimited access to classic attractions, making it easier than ever to make everyday life, big fun. An afternoon after school? Sorted. Looking for something to do on the weekend? Easy. Kids asking for just one more ride? Now you can say yes! From the water park and plantation coaster to the toboggan, ice skating,
laser tag, mini golf, giant slide and more, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained throughout the year. ass holders also receive 10% off escape rooms and axe throwing perfect for wet weather. Because some of the best family memories aren’t planned weeks in advance. They’re the spontaneous afternoons, the unexpected laughs and the moments that turn an ordinary day into something special. 12 months. Unlimited fun. Just $199 per person. Make a BIG habit of it. Buy your annual pass today at bigbanana.com
COVER DISH A vibrant Mexican feast at La Hacienda 101, Woolgoolga! Enjoy flavour-packed tacos, cheesy
nachos, traditional tamales and fresh guacamole, topped with zesty salsa, herbs and creamy sauces. Paired with colourful cocktails, it’s a delicious taste of Mexico on the Coffs Coast. COFFS COAST focus 29
LA HACIENDA 101 We’ve been delivering authentic Mexican flavours for years. ith the largest range of margaritas on the offs oast it s definitely the place to dine out or ust en oy drinks ith friends or family. 16 Market St Woolgoolga Ph 02 6699 2665 www.lahacienda101.com.au
GREEN ONE CAFE F - pring is here. rop into reen ne afe for fresh coffee, breakfast or lunch in a bright coastal setting. alk-ins elcome and takea ay available. Open 7 days a week from 6am–2:30pm View the menu at www.pbbc.com.au reen ne afe at ark each o ls lub, the greens.
here the ocean meets
HORIZONS RESTAURANT & BAR - OPAL COVE fter the cra iness of the school holidays, ori ons estaurant and ar is back to normal ith its ne a la carte menu featuring modern ustralian cuisine. he creative menu takes full advantage of the region s freshest produce and seafood. ookings preferred. Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5-6pm daily. Open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – 7 days a week. 30 COFFS COAST focus
COUNTRY ROCK WITH ATTITUDE:
DON ROGERS BAND hs Sa RSL
G
et ready for a night of hardhitting country rock when the on ogers and brings its po erful sound and high-energy performance to a tell on aturday,
ovember . lending the grit of outla country ith the soulful edge of blues and the ra energy of rock n roll, the on ogers and delivers a sound that is unapologetically ustralian, packed ith attitude, rhythm and plenty of
At the heart of the band’s music are real stories and relatable themes, delivered with a distinctive countryrock edge.
heart. Fronted by singersong riter on ogers, the band combines commanding vocals, driving guitar riffs and a dynamic stage presence to create a live music experience that gets audiences on their feet. ra ing on the storytelling traditions of country music hile embracing the freedom and intensity of rock, their sound appeals to
music lovers ho en oy their tunes honest, their guitars loud and their performances full of energy. t the heart of the band s music are real stories and relatable themes, delivered ith a distinctive countryrock edge. here is a rugged authenticity to their approach, bringing together the spirit of the open road, the soul of the blues and the rebellious streak of rock n roll.
COFFS COAST focus 31
Discover what’s new!
KOREAN
B E AUTY
FASHION | FOOD | TECHNOLOGY | HOMEWARES | HEALTH & BEAUTY | SERVICES
32 COFFS COAST focus
SHOP LOCAL
WIN BIG Simply spend $25 or more at any participating business in November for your chance to win...
$1,000 EVERY WEEK!
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY GOWINGS COFFS CENTRAL & COFFS CITY CENTRE Terms & Conditions: Promotion valid for purchases made in participating businesses in Coffs Central and the Coffs City Centre between 1 November and 30 November 2026. One entry will be drawn every Wednesday at 11am from 4 November, with the final draw on 2 December 2026. Entry Forms must be completed and returned to the Coffs Central Information Desk to be eligible. Entries are not carried over from previous weeks. For participating retailers and full terms and conditions, visit facebook.com/CoffsCityCentre
COFFS COAST focus 33
COFFS CITY CENTRE T H R O U G H
LOCAL EYES We asked four Coffs Coast locals to share the places they love and the li le things that keep them coming back.
THE HAPPY FROG n ark venue you ill find he appy Frog, a locally loved cafe and grocer, committed to ethical, fair trade and locally sourced products herever possible. offs local and appy Frog regular olly says it s the little things that make this elcoming spot feel like a second home .
When you come in and whatever you want, big or small, they are always lovely and friendly. They have time for you; the smiles, the hello, the special service. It feels like a second home. olly is also a fan of the cafe s ide range of dietary options, delicious food and locally gro n and roasted coffee.
I mean the food is like, wow! Most of it is organic and vegetarian food, and their coffee is divine. 34 COFFS COAST focus
TALLOW AND TIDE + S U G A R P L U M C A K E RY
ver in ane, local favourites oph and Mon have teamed up to create a retail destination that s the perfect blend of style and s eetness. tep inside and you ll discover allo ide s consciously curated collection of omen s fashion and accessories, kids toys and home ares, alongside delicious cupcakes, cookies, coffee and specialty cold drinks from ugar lum akery. t s the best of both orlds under one roof. oyal customer am describes being in this beautiful space like a big arm hug, or visiting family.
The environment created isn’t just a shop, it’s a destination that puts the Coffs Coast on the map. It’s a warm hug, therapy session and more. It honestly feels so homely. The warmth, love and care that you offer as well as a listening ear is just amazing. Each visit feels like visiting family. The idea that you can shop, have coffee and cake is just a wonderful experience.
Dad loves the outdoor area to enjoy his bacon brekkie wrap, which is also perfect for us pups to soak up the morning sun and, when we get thirsty, enjoy a big bowl of water. Oh yeah, and because I’m such a good girl, I even got a few ear scratches from friendly peeps passing by!
GOWINGS COFFS CENTRAL
Local lived-experience advocate for people with disabilities, Connor, shares why he loves rolling through Gowings Coffs Central Shopping Centre.
PALATE & PLY C A F E & R O A S T E RY
Coffs City Centre’s celebrity doggo, Hannah, loves hanging out with her hooman for pawtastic piccolos and a spot of people-watching at one of her favourite dog-friendly cafes.
The staff at Palate & Ply Cafe & Roastery welcome me with big pats and deliver Dad a freshly brewed coffee. I’m trying to sit still, but my tail won’t stop wagging. This place smells so good it’s making my nose twitch!”.
The shops here have such a welcoming energy; they’re easy to roll into, easy to move through, and everything feels clean and unobstructed. For me, that equals freedom. I don’t have to plan every movement or worry about tight spaces – it just flows. The fact that I can bring my service dog, Loki, with me makes a huge difference, too. It means I can fully be myself there. And with the Coffs City Centre welcoming four-legged visitors, there are even more reasons to make a day of it!
Follow @coffscitycentre and @shopcoffscentral on socials for upcoming events, special offers and even more local gems to discover. COFFS COAST focus 35
BOUTIQUES, JEWELLERY, Y FLOWERS, GIFTS & MORE! Y,
SHOP S HOP
LOCAL L LO OCA O OC C CA A L D ore isc o v er M
Scan to shop local on Coff ffs ff fs Coast the Coffs
36 COFFS COAST focus
Rediscover your favourite independent businesses – and find a few new ones – right here on the Coffs Coast.
icole Mc ennan, conomic Development & Tourism, City of Coffs Harbour
NEW WAYS TO PLAY ON THE COFFS COAST
N
This Christmas, skip the usual and give someone a Coffs Coast experience instead.
ovember arrives and suddenly the Black Friday emails start rolling in, social feeds fill ith deals and Christmas shopping moves very quickly from “plenty of time” to “I really need to get onto that”. t s easy to get s ept up in the rush. ut before you buy another present to put under the tree, take a look a little closer to home. You might find a i t that i es them somethin to oo or ard to not st somethin to n ra There are so many great experiences right across the Coffs Coast, and plenty of them make brilliant gifts. You can learn to surf or stand-up paddleboard, try cheesemaking or breadmaking, head out on a trike tour, book a ‘pick and sip’ experience or get a group of friends together for a game of padel. here are some reat ne o tions a earin too Coffs Canyons is bringing a completely different adventure experience to the region. Redd’s Golf Zone and Velocity Golf offer indoor golf, hatever the eather. scend ouldering adds another challenge for those ho like to get active, hile uminary brings something
his year, e ve made it easier to find ideas completely different again, perfect for the teens in your life. through a ne ift a offs oast xperience What I really love is seeing local businesses page on the offs oast ebsite, bringing back themselves, invest in ne ideas and create together local tourism and experience experiences that give people a reason to get businesses offering gift vouchers. out and do something different. It gives visitors o before filling your cart on one of the big more reasons to stay and explore, but it also overseas shopping sites, have a look at hat is gives those of us ho available here first. live here more reasons o mi ht find to rediscover our o n somethin that What I really backyard. doesn t need love is seeing Experiences make great local businesses back atteries on t end gifts for another reason.
themselves, invest in in the a o he reate time new ideas and create to ether a han e to a oard and is experiences that give tr somethin ne ar ess i e to e people a reason to get and ho e a ood iet re i ted ne t out and do something stor a ter ards It ear different. might be a day out ith Instead, you could the kids, something fun give someone a ne ith friends, a ne skill favourite place, a great to learn or simply an memory or simply a good excuse to spend time excuse to spend time ith someone you care together. about. In the process, you’re supporting a local business When you buy that experience locally, the benefit goes further too. our spend supports the operator, the people they employ and the other local businesses they ork ith.
and keeping more of your Christmas spend right here on the Coffs Coast. o s oast om i t a o s oast e
erien e
COFFS COAST focus 37
REBEKAH CHIPPINGTON T E M P L E
38 COFFS COAST focus
O F
T E A S E
i Rebekah. For readers who may be discovering Temple o ease or the first time, can you tell us a little about yourself and how your journey into burlesque began?
Get ready for a wild night at the saloon as Temple of Tease brings its brand-new burlesque production, The Legend of the Last Saloon, to Bellingen Memorial Hall on the 21st of November. We chat with creator Rebekah Chippington about her journey into burlesque and what audiences can expect from this unique theatrical experience.
I pivoted into burlesque from classical dance during the pandemic. At this time much of my life was falling apart. I had suffered consecutive miscarriages, my marriage was breaking down, and I had slowly lost touch with myself feeling consumed by my identity as mother. The pandemic brought me an unexpected pause at a really crucial time. In lockdown I discovered somatic therapy and developed a personal practice around it. Somatic therapy helped me recognise just how disconnected I had become and how deeply I was longing to know my own desires. This launched into a quest to re-invigorate, of which I found burlesque, and that was it. I was hooked.
What was the inspiration behind creating Temple of Tease, and what did you want to reate hen o first started Burlesque has brought me so many profound shifts I really wanted to provide a space for women to experience the same. I developed a 10 week mentorship program, The Baptism of Burlesque, which takes women on a guided deep dive into the art of burlesque, somatics and archetypal exploration. Participants learn to tune into their inner world while also developing an understanding of movement and burlesque. We then apply these learning through a series of 1:1 sessions to create a unique solo act to perform in a showcase. This course was really successful andI was so thrilled to see that these women were also experiencing such incredible shifts. Its success resulted in the opening of Temple of Tease where I run Baptism of Burlesque annually, hold workshops, classes and even launched my first male mentorship this year, hich as pretty cool. Continued over... COFFS COAST focus 39
T E M P L E O F T E A S E
What is it about burlesque that appealed to you, and what do you love most about performing and creating shows? I see creativity and play as an essential part of emotional regulation and processing. I am a mother of 4 and I love watching my kids make sense of their world through play, or be empowered to become anyone within their games. Burlesque provides just this, but in an adult format discussing adult concepts. I love the outlet of creating stories and persons. I am personally drawn to the goofy, silly and outlandish because I love making people laugh. What do you think burlesque can offer audiences that they might not get from a more traditional theatre or live performance? It is an art space dedicated to telling stories of taboo from fringe perspectives, and I think that is essential. We need healthy, diverse spaces to explore off-bounds adult themes and the burlesque community is so diverse it welcomes you in any stage of life. It honestly is the most supportive community I have ever found myself in. You’re bringing a brand-new production, The Legend of the Last Saloon, to Bellingen Memorial Hall on Saturday, November 21. Where did the idea for this Wild West-inspired story come from? My husband Franko Franki is an artist and welder and he was making some Western props for a showcase of which he was also developing a western character for, which in turn inspired me to develop my own western character. This is how the show dropped in. I delivered him the concept and in one conversation we had the scene set. I’m blessed, when Frankie and I gel on an idea we really can become a bit of a force together. 40 COFFS COAST focus
The show is set in 1885, with a storm brewing outside and plenty of secrets inside the saloon. Can you tell us a little about the world and characters you’ve created? I wanted to offer a burlesque show that explores human relationships. Much like a murder mystery plot the scene was set and the 8 cast members were each linked to a brief bio, persona and an archetype. We have a sheriff, a priest, the saloon owner’s daughter, an oil merchant’s wife, a snake oil salesman, a desert witch, a bounty hunter and a saloon girl. But the connections may not be as they seem. Each cast member was tasked with exploring their archetype and creating a set that revealed a truth from their perspective, delivering a unique voice. I then immersed myself in these narratives and weaved them into a series of sets and collaborations over a three part show, The Masquerade, The Provocation and Ecstasy. The result is a gritty yet wonderfully silly production celebrating story and contradictions which I feel relate to the complexity of our shared experience. This is described as part theatrical revue and part wild night at the saloon. What can audiences expect when they walk through those doors?
I then immersed myself in these narratives and weaved them into a series of sets and collaborations over a three part show, The Masquerade, The Provocation and Ecstasy.
My vision was to push a revue to its limits. How interconnected could I make this show and the cast members’ stories without it becoming a play. What has come together is a truly unique piece of theatre. The delivery is very interactive, when you enter, be ready to be transported into a saloon environment with the stage on the floor and the sets playing out
amongst the audience.
For someone who has never been to a burlesque show before, why should they come along to The Legend of the Last Saloon? It is going to be spectacularly entertaining and quite honestly something I think many will have never experienced before. I am
collaborating with such incredible artists who are bringing their genius to the production. My husband has made a really beautiful set for the audience to be transported into. I am honestly so proud of the work and so excited to be bringing this show to Bellingen. Not to mention coming along is a direct investment into your local arts community being an artist lead and artist funded project. Thanks Rebekah COFFS COAST focus 41
42 COFFS COAST focus
Graham Tupper (Friends President), Patsy Cave (Friends Vice President), Kate Lane (Friends Communications Co-Ordinator), John Bliss (Friends Maintenance Crew Team Leader)
Friends of the Botanic Gardens The Friends of the Botanic Gardens play an important role in supporting and celebrating the beautiful Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden. Helping to bring the community together through events & activities, conservation & education, volunteering and fundraising, we caught up with some of the volunteers from the Friends of the Botanic Gardens to find out more about the work they do, the events they hold and how the community can get involved.
F
or those who may not know, what is the Friends of the Botanic Gardens and how did it come about?
The Friends of the Botanic Garden are a registered charity which helps support the Botanic Garden by raising funds and providing volunteers. The Friends were formed in the early 1980’s to protect and restore the former waste dump site which is now the Botanic Garden prior to the formal opening of the garden 1988. Thousands of plants were planted and kilometres of paths made to turn this area into the ‘green heart’ of the City of Coffs Harbour that we enjoy as a community asset today. What is the role of the Friends and what are some of the ways you support the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden? The Friends have over 340 members of which 150 volunteer regularly to help with garden maintenance, conservation work and provide tours and visitor services. The Friends raise over $140,000 annually to invest in garden facilities as well as conservation programs such as seed banking. You host and support a range of events and have two events coming up to tell us about.
The Friends of the Botanic Garden are launching two new events on November 7th and 8th to celebrate Australian Pollinators Week. The Big Native Plant Sale starts at 9am on Saturday 7th November and a Pollinator Picnic on Sunday 8th November is full of fun activities for the whole family from 10am to 2pm. Come along to and learn about creating a colourful pollinator friendly garden using plants with purpose. A free guide will be available to assist the local community on how to grow our native plants to attract pollinators into your garden. Pollinators such as birds, bees, butterflies, beetles and bats are vital to the health of our eco-systems. Growing colourful pollinator friendly native plants not only brightens home gardens it supports a healthy Coffs Coast environment. At the Pollinators Picnic on Sunday 8th November a range of free family fun activities will be offered from 10am to 2pm on the front lawn just inside the garden entrance and leading up to the Education Centre. Everyone is invited to bring a picnic and people of all ages can learn how to identify different types of pollinators, make a pollinator palace, make a native seed bomb, taste the honey of native bees and have their face painted as a pollinator.
The proceeds from the plant sale support the education and conservation work funded by the Friends in the Botanic Garden which spans the Living Plants Collection with rare and endangered species, the herbarium or plant library, the plant nurseries and our seed bank supplying native plant seed for restoration projects in the north coast region in partnership with organisations like Landcare. We asked John & Patsy to tell us about volunteering at the Botanic Garden? John Bliss – Friends Maintenance Crew Team Leader “My role involves keeping the gardens neat and tidy, carrying out repairs and improvements, and helping ensure a safe environment for visitors. Volunteering also gives me the opportunity to work and socialise with people from a variety of backgrounds.” Patsy Caves – Shop Coordinator and Buggy Transport Coordinator “I’ve volunteered at the gardens for 8 years. I love making a difference, being part of a team and enjoying the healthy atmosphere. Taking visitors around in the electric buggy and seeing how much they enjoy the gardens is particularly rewarding.” COFFS COAST focus 43
44 COFFS COAST focus
95 to
THE MUSICAL COFFS HARBOUR MUSICAL COMEDY COMPANY
Get ready for big laughs, catchy tunes and a whole lot of Dolly Parton magic as Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company (CHMCC) brings 9 to 5: The Musical to the Je y Memorial Theatre this November. We caught up with director Dee Tune to hear about the inspiration behind the production, the talented local cast and what audiences can expect.
D
ee, what can audiences expect from CHMCC’s production of 9 to 5: The Musical? Audiences can expect a joyful, empowering and heartfelt night of theatre. Full of Dolly Parton’s trademark wit, warmth and musical storytelling, our production celebrates friendship, resilience and female empowerment through big laughs, vibrant characters and toe-tapping songs. We hope audiences leave feeling uplifted and carrying a little of Dolly’s magic with them. What inspired CHMCC to bring this musical to the stage? This show holds deep personal meaning for me. Some of my favourite childhood memories are long schoolholiday car trips with Dolly Parton playing through the speakers. Growing up in a tiny farming town, Dolly showed me that humble beginnings don't limit how far you can go. Last year, a friend suggested I direct 9 to 5. I listened to the soundtrack and instantly fell in love. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate
Dolly's extraordinary talent, generosity and the hope she's shared with the world. What's involved behind the scenes in bringing a production like this together? Our cast has been rehearsing since July, dedicating months of energy and heart to bringing these characters to life. Behind the scenes, our set, lighting, sound and costume designers, musical director and choreographer have worked tirelessly to transform my sometimes vague ideas into something special on stage. Their passion and creativity are what make this production possible. How does the show bring Dolly Parton's music, humour and themes of female empowerment to life? Dolly wrote the score for the stage adaptation, and her unmistakable wit, charm and storytelling shine through every number. The show celebrates women who refuse to be underestimated, find strength in one another and stand up for what's right. Her music brings these themes to life in such a clever,
heartfelt way. There's also a little Dolly cameo in our production, which is a lovely way to honour the woman who inspired it all. What makes the cast and creative team behind this production so special? CHMCC brings together incredibly talented local people who share a passion for delivering quality entertainment to the Coffs Coast. One of the most beautiful things about community theatre is watching strangers become a theatre family. Over months of rehearsals, friendships form, confidence gro s and everyone contributes something special. It's that sense of teamwork and shared passion that makes the final production so re arding. When and where can audiences see the show, and how can they book tickets? 9 to 5: The Musical runs from 6 to 29 November at the Jetty Memorial Theatre in Coffs Harbour. Tickets are available through the Jetty Memorial Theatre website at www.jettytheatre.com. COFFS COAST focus 45
Y O U R
C U S T O M E R S
F
S
C O
A
C O
D I
E
•
T
•
S
F
I
D
N
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN
N
G
G U
I
DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD INTERVIEW
1/4 PAGE DINING GUIDE
DINING GUIDE COVER
The dining guide in focus is beautifully presented in full gloss with stunning photography to show off your restaurant or cafe to our hungry 35,000* PLUS readers each month. You can even change your photos each month to suit your menu.
BOOK FOR 4 MONTHS AND GET • DOUBLE page chef profile in one month valued at $2310 • Dining guide cover in one month valued at $1430 • 1/4 page dining guide each month
NICCI SECCOMBE 0413 816 010 | nicole@focusmag.com.au SAM DAWSON 0417 861 045 | sam@focusmag.com.au 46 COFFS COAST focus
35,000 *Readership estimated @ 3.5 readers per copy
900k
Issuu Reads online
$385 ALL THIS FOR JUS
T
INC GST PER MO NTH. MIN 4 MONTH
BOOKING
FROM ICONIC PHOTO STOP TO BIG EXPERIENCES
The Evolution of
THE BIG BANANA For more than 60 years, The Big Banana has been one of Australia’s most recognisable landmarks. But what was once a quick photo stop along the Pacific Highway has evolved into a destination where families, friends and colleagues come together to create lasting memories.
S
ince opening in 1964, The Big Banana has held a special place in the hearts of generations of Australians. For many, a family road trip along the East Coast simply wasn't complete without a photo in front of the famous landmark. Today, while the iconic photo opportunity remains, there's a whole lot more happening beyond the Big Banana. Under the leadership of CEO Michael Lockman for almost 14 years, The Big Banana has undergone a remarkable transformation from roadside attraction to one of the region's leading tourism and entertainment destinations. ver the years, e ve made significant investments in expanding and diversifying our attractions, creating experiences that appeal to visitors of all ages," Michael explains. "From the biggest water park between Sydney and the Gold Coast and Australia's largest giant slide, to our world-class escape rooms, axe throwing and, most recently, our $5.8 million Plantation Coaster, every investment has been focused on giving people more reasons to visit, stay longer and return." The Big Banana is no longer somewhere visitors simply stop on their way through Coffs Harbour, it’s a destination worth planning a
trip around, with enough variety to entertain families across multiple days. More Than a Day Out The Big Banana is also becoming a popular choice for celebrating life's special occasions, from children's birthdays and teenage milestones to Christmas parties, corporate team building and end of year celebrations for sporting teams and community groups. For families, birthday celebrations can mean a day of waterslides, mini golf, ice skating and rides, without parents having to organise all the entertainment themselves. For teenagers, an Escape Room challenge or competitive Laser Tag session offers a celebration with a difference, and for workplaces and community groups activities such as Axe Throwing, Escape Rooms and the Plantation Coaster provide opportunities to connect, compete and share a few laughs. The team at The Big Banana can help take the pressure off the organiser, assisting with the planning and coordination. Putting People at the Heart of the Experience For Michael, the evolution of The Big Banana has always been about more than adding new attractions. "At the heart of everything we do is the guest experience. We're continually
looking for ways to improve every aspect of a visit, from guests planning their day to the moment they leave. That means not only investing in new attractions, but also im our people, facilities, accessibility and the overall quality of the experience we deliver. Ultimately, we want every guest to leave with great memories and a reason to return." hether it s a child s first ride on the toboggan, friends working together to escape a locked room, colleagues discovering their competitive side or grandparents sharing a favourite attraction with the next generation, it's these moments that give The Big Banana its enduring appeal. A Destination for the Next Generation With the opening of the Coffs Harbour bypass The Big Banana is looking towards the future. "Our focus is on ensuring The Big Banana remains a must-visit destination that people actively choose to visit, rather than simply a stop along the highway," Michael says. "Our goal is simple: to honour the rich history that made The Big Banana an Australian icon, while continuing to innovate and create memorable experiences that will attract and inspire visitors for generations to come." Visit www.bigbanana.com to explore party packages, attractions and group options. COFFS COAST focus 47
HANNAH GALLAGHER Local BDC students Hannah Gallagher and Amelie Carpenter are taking their creativity to the national stage, with their HSC Textiles Major Works selected for the runway at Eco Fashion Week Australia in Perth. We chat with the talented young designers about their inspiration, passion for sustainable fashion and this exciting opportunity.
C
ongratulations on being selected to showcase your HSC Textiles Major Works at Eco Fashion Week Australia! What were your reactions when you found out you had been invited to take your work from the classroom to a national runway? Amelie: When my teacher received the email and informed me, I was confused and didn’t believe her. But then we realised how big of a deal it is, and I was so excited. I ran and called my parents, and they didn’t believe me either. It was so surreal! Hannah: I was in pure disbelief, and when I told my parents, so were they. Then, after more conversations over email with Australia Eco Fashion Week, it became more and more real, and I realised how incredible this opportunity is. Tell us about the major works you created for your HSC Textiles projects. What was the inspiration behind your designs and what did you want to express through them? 48 COFFS COAST focus
Amelie: I always wanted to produce a Major Work that emulated my love of dance and movement. I understand that the fashion industry contributes to large amounts of landfill, and anted to make an item that as made from natural fibres and botanical printing. The corset and skirt are draped to suit the female form and move with the body elegantly. Growing up in Coffs Harbour, we have such a diverse natural environment, so I wanted to connect our local Australian leaves and plant life to my work. Both of you used botanical or ecoprinting techniques and natural dyes in your work. What initially drew you to working with natural materials and plant-based colour? Local artist Kerrie Stewart’s work inspired the printing techniques we used in our projects. efore entering our final school year, annah and I spent time with Kerrie, observing her methods and learning from her knowledge and experience in this area, as we had never explored these techniques before. We were instantly mesmerised by the process and knew straight away that we wanted to
incorporate botanical printing into our final HSC projects. How much work goes into creating a piece like this from scratch? Can you take us through some of the process? Holy Moly, I don’t think we can add up the hours we spent making this project. This became our hyperfixation for the entire year. We spent all of our free periods in the textiles room, experimenting, researching and sewing, as well as many hours beading on the couch at home. We have loved the process of watching our projects blossom into functional costume items. Your collection has been selected to appear alongside established sustainable designers from across Australia, and EFWA has directly sponsored your arti i ation o si nifi ant is that support for you, and what are you most excited about when it comes to seeing your work under the runway lights? Amelie: Industry experience is everything. I am moving to Sydney to pursue my passion for the creative arts. I will be attending a full-time dance school, and this opportunity
AMELIE CARPENTER
works strongly alongside the career path with me wanting to create something quite I am following. I can’t wait to learn how ethereal, while Hannah wanted to create these events work and what it takes to be something connected to Fantastic Mr Fox. a successful designer. I’m also really excited I really enjoy fabric manipulation and to see everyone else’s ideas, meet other constructing garments, whereas Hannah is creatives and network very, very talented with people who are in decorative already working in embellishment It has been the industry. Having and textile art great having the opportunity to techniques. We have someone to bounce showcase our work at become very close ideas off, encourage EFWA and experience throughout the each other and a professional runway process and have share the excitement is something I never helped each other when something imagined I would get develop and grow finally works! to do while still at our projects. It has school. been great having How has working a on side ea h other in en ed o r e erien e o o ha e di erent reati e st es and ha e o earned an thin rom one another thro ho t the process? Amelie: Hannah and I have worked closely together throughout our senior years. We definitely have very different creative styles,
complex designs and patterns, as we are both passionate about this industry. By continuing to sew and create more garments, we aim to become versatile seamstresses, as we strongly believe that it is extremely valuable to have (what we call a “toolbox”) of skills, allowing us to keep exploring everything this industry has to offer. ina hen eo e see o r o e tion a do n the r n a in erth hat do o ho e the ta e a a rom o r work?
o o d ontin e e orin o r desi n or e ond this ro e t hat o d o o e to reate or e eriment with next?
We hope the audience appreciates that even though we are only 18, we are passionate and have big dreams. We didn’t just spend a year on a “school assessment”; we quite literally poured blood (I have a small blood stain on my corset from pricking my finger ith a needle . s eat and tears into our projects. We hope that the audience recognises that although we may only be emerging artists, we have so much to offer, and we can’t wait to learn and soak up every opportunity thrown our way.
We both want to keep creating more
Thanks girls.
someone to bounce ideas off, encourage each other and share the excitement hen something finally works!
COFFS COAST focus 49
focus_contributor.
Reptile W with MATTHEW McEWAN REPTILE SPECIALIST
C
Understanding Reptiles: Why Early Education Matters
an you tell us a little about Reptile World and what inspired you to take reptiles into schools and the community? Reptile World is operated by Steve and Matt McEwan, a father-and-son team who have spent more than 20 years sharing their knowledge of Australian reptiles throughout the Coffs Coast and surrounding region. Through visits to schools, preschools and community groups, they introduce people to reptiles in a safe, educational setting. The aim is to help people better understand these often-misunderstood animals, their behaviour and their important role in the environment. Education is particularly valuable from an early age, helping children develop curiosity about the natural world and learn how to respect wildlife rather than fear it. What happens during a typical reptile education presentation? A presentation introduces children to a selection of reptiles, explaining their characteristics, habitats, behaviour and place in the ecosystem. Seeing a real animal up close can make learning memorable, encouraging children to ask questions and engage with the subject. Where appropriate, children may have the opportunity to interact with certain reptiles under supervision. These experiences can help bring classroom
50 COFFS COAST focus
learning to life, while reinforcing the importance of treating animals gently and respecting their needs. Safety for both the audience and the animals remains a priority. Why is it important for children to learn about snakes and other reptiles from a young age? Early education helps shape the way children understand and respond to the world around them. Snakes can provoke strong reactions, often because people have limited knowledge or have grown up hearing frightening stories about them.
ing these steps helps children understand that safety does not mean harming wildlife. Giving a snake space is the safest option for both people and the animal. How do children typically respond when they see a reptile up close? Reactions vary. Some children are immediately curious and eager to learn, while others prefer to observe from a distance. Both responses are perfectly normal. ne of the benefits of educational encounters
Learning about reptiles in a controlled environment can replace some of that fear with understanding. Children discover that snakes prefer to avoid people and that reptiles play valuable roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems, including helping control populations of rodents and other small animals. Developing this knowledge early can encourage respect for ildlife, build confidence and establish safe habits that children carry into adulthood.
is seeing children become more comfort-
What should children know about staying safe if they encounter a snake? The key message is simple: stay calm, keep your distance and leave the snake alone. Children should never attempt to touch, catch, provoke or kill a snake. If they encounter one, they should move away when it is safe to do so and tell a responsible adult. Adults can then seek appropriate assistance if necessary. Teach-
about what an animal needs to survive, why
able as they learn. Having the opportunity to observe, listen and ask questions at their o n pace can help build confidence
ith-
out pressure. How can families continue this learning at home? Parents and carers can encourage children to observe wildlife respectfully; explore local habitats and talk about the animals they encounter. Simple conversations it belongs in its environment and how to respond safely can make a lasting difference. By encouraging curiosity, providing accurate information and modelling respect for wildlife, families and educators can help children grow into informed, confident and environmentally aware adults.
E X P L O R E
T H E
ORARA Vey COFFS COAST focus 51
For Ian and Kay Smith, the Orara Valley has been home for generations. From working the land and raising their family to watching the community grow and change, their roots run deep in Karangi. We caught up with Ian and Kay to share their family’s history, treasured memories and the legacy they hope will continue for generations to come.
T
GENERATIONS OF THE VALLEY
ell us about your family and your connection to Karangi and the Orara Valley.
Ian's family moved from Sydney to a property on Convincing Ground Road at Karangi in 1949. I grew up alongside my three brothers, Ron, Leon and Mike, and my two sisters, Pam and Lois. We all attended Karangi Public School. Life on the farm was busy, and everyone had a job to do. We grew small crops and operated a little sawmill, cutting timber to make banana cases. Convincing Ground Road itself has quite a history. It's one of the oldest roads in the Coffs Harbour district and was once the main link between the gold mines at Bucca Creek and the village of Coramba. The name came from an area known as the convincing ground, where opposing groups of miners would settle their differences.
52 COFFS COAST focus
I A N
&
K A Y
S M I T H
Kay's family also has a long connection to the Valley. Her great-grandfather was one of the early settlers, and her family lived on a farm at South Branch, Upper Orara. Her parents eventually sold the property to the Patterson family in the 1940s and moved into Coffs Harbour. How many generations of your family have now called the Valley home? Our family has been connected to the Valley for several generations, and we're fortunate that both our daughters, Alison and Roslyn, still live on parts of the original family property on Convincing Ground Road. e no have nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Although most have moved away for work and other opportunities, they still come home to visit regularly. Two of our grandchildren continue to live in Karangi. It's lovely knowing that the property is still part of our family's story.
What do you remember most about Karangi when you were growing up? It was a very different place back then. There were only a handful of families living in the area, most of them dairy farmers, and everybody knew everybody. Our family home was very old and fairly rundown. We didn't have electricity, so we relied on hurricane lanterns and candles for lighting and a kerosene fridge to keep our food cool. Corned beef was a staple because it kept well. One of the things I remember fondly was watching the steam trains. There was great excitement hen the first diesel train came through. It was a big event for a small country community! What was life like for children growing up in the Valley in those days? We certainly didn't have televisions or the entertainment children have today. Most of our time was spent outdoors, playing with our
brothers and sisters, exploring the property or riding horses. There were always chores to do before and after school. We'd chop fire ood for the stove and help pick the crops our parents grew to sell.
We didn’t have a lot of luxuries, but we never went without good food. We had fresh milk from our house cow, vegetables straight from the garden and Mum would o en prepare one of our chickens for dinner.
I walked about a kilometre to Karangi Public School, barefoot along a gravel road. Some of the other children rode horses to school. We didn't have a lot of luxuries, but we never went without good food. We had fresh milk from our house cow, vegetables straight from the garden and Mum would often prepare one of our chickens for dinner. Looking back, it was a simple life, but a good one. Your daughters also attended Karangi Public School. What are some of your favourite memories of raising them here?
Three generations of the Smith family have attended Karangi Public School, which is something we're very proud of.
a real sense of community among the families.
When Alison and Roslyn were there, the school had approximately 35 students and two teachers, Mr Ian Kensett Smith and Mrs Diane Lee.
Our daughter Roslyn and her husband Chris live on the land where the original Smith family home once stood. They have seven children: Matthew, Chelsea, Hannah, Morgan, Bianca, Pat and Tom.
Both teachers were incredibly dedicated, and it was a beautiful environment for children to learn and grow. There was also a very active P&C, and families were always involved in school activities. The girls loved their sport and participated in swimming, athletics and cross-country events. Being part of a small rural school meant the children knew each other well, and there was
Tell us a little more about the Smith family today. Our eldest daughter, Alison, lives with her husband Scott on part of the original family farm. Their children are Jake and Erin.
Roslyn and Chris's children have all moved away for work, but the farm remains a special place for the entire family. It's wonderful having our daughters close by and seeing the next generations return to visit the place where so many family memories were made. Continued over... COFFS COAST focus 53
What are some of the family traditions that have been passed down over the years? One of our favourite traditions was our annual bonfire night on May. hroughout the year, e d collect and stack timber into an enormous pile, ready for the big night. hen May came around, e d invite all our neighbours and friends over for a barbecue and bonfire. t as something everyone looked for ard to, particularly the children. hose gatherings ere about more than ust a bonfire. hey brought the community together and created memories that have stayed ith us for years. Your family also established a successful kiwifruit farm. How did that come about? hen ay as orking for the epartment of griculture, someone suggested e try gro ing ki ifruit. e started
ith ust
54 COFFS COAST focus
vines, and it gre
from there. n , e purchased acres from an s mother and began planting more vines. ventually, e ere supplying ki ifruit to markets in ydney, risbane and Melbourne, as ell as overseas.
Throughout the year, we’d collect and stack timber into an enormous pile, ready for the big night. When 24 May came around, we’d invite all our neighbours and friends over for a barbecue and bonfire.
t as very much a family operation. lison and oslyn ould help make up the fruit trays before heading off to school, and later e moved to packing the fruit into -kilogram boxes. For many years, e sent fruit to the orthern istrict xhibit at the ydney ho . ne year, e ere thrilled to in first pri e for the best fruit at the sho ith one of our ki ifruit. longside the ki ifruit, e also gre avocados and ran a small herd of beef cattle.
here as al ays plenty of ork to be done, but it as re arding to build something together as a family. How has Karangi and the wider Orara Valley changed during your lifetime?
he biggest change has probably been the gro th of the community. ears ago, e kne almost everyone living in the alley. e do miss that smaller, close-knit feeling. t s lovely to see the rara all committee organising monthly meet-and-greet barbecues, giving ne families the opportunity to connect ith locals. echnology and infrastructure have certainly come a long ay too. e ent from having a limited manual telephone exchange, operated by Miss i ie uchanan, to landlines, internet
and mobile phones.
Quite a few people our children went to
The road from Karangi into Coffs Harbour was once entirely gravel. Now it's sealed all the way, and we're seeing major changes with the new Coffs Harbour bypass.
school with still live in the area, which says
The way people work has changed as well. Years ago, families were often home on their properties and could respond quickly if there as a fire. hese days, ith so many people working in Coffs Harbour, it can be difficult to find enough volunteers.
move back here if land was available at a
Ian was involved with the Karangi Fire Brigade for many years, so we know just how important those volunteers are to a rural community. What is it about the Orara Valley that has kept your family connected to the area for so long? We all love the rural lifestyle. There's something special about having space around you, being close to nature and enjoying the peace and quiet, while still being only a short drive from Coffs Harbour.
a lot about the connection people have to the Valley. We think more of our family would love to reasonable price. Once you've grown up somewhere like this, it tends to stay with you. When you look at your children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, what do you hope they remember about growing up as part of the Smith family in the Orara Valley? We hope they remember the freedom they had, the importance of family and the hard work that went into creating the life we've all enjoyed here. Karangi has always been home. It's where our family's story began, and we're proud to see that connection continuing through the generations. Thanks Ian and Kay.
COFFS COAST focus 55
For Orara Valley RFS Captain Tommie Strydom, volunteering is about protecting the community he calls home. We chat with Tommie about life in the brigade, the importance of local knowledge and the dedicated volunteers who help keep the valley safe.
TOMMIE STRYDOM
56 56 COFFS COFFS COAST COAST focus
RFS
C
an you tell us a little about yourself and your ro e hat first rom ted you to join the RFS?
By day I’m a dentist, I run Coffs Dental Studio in Coffs Harbour,. Home for me is the Orara Valley after moving here in May 2021, and the RFS has been a big part of my life here for 5 years. I joined in 2020 at the tail end of the fire season because hate feeling useless. became aptain of edhill in 2024 and at the end of the 2026 season I transferred to Orara brigade as I live in Orara. hat does ein art o a o a ri ade a t a in o e Far more than most people realise. Turning out to fires and incidents is the visible part, but behind that are regular training nights, truck and equipment checks, ha ard reduction burns, property visits, community meetings, fundraising and a fair bit of paper ork. Members also give up eekends, family time and sometimes ork to deploy to bigger fires else here in the state. t s a commitment, but it s shared everyone contributes hat they can, and it all adds up to a brigade that’s ready when it’s needed. he rara a e has e erien ed some si nifi ant shfires o ha e those e ents sha ed the omm nit and the a the re ares he fires of left a real mark on the valley. eople sa ho quickly conditions can change and ho much difference preparation makes. ince then, residents are much more engaged more people have bushfire survival plans, are clearing around their homes and are coming along to community meetings. For the brigade, those fires reinforced the value of ha ard reduction, good communication ith landholders, and training for the worst day rather than the average one. We review every significant fire and build those lessons into how we prepare. o im ortant is o a d rin an emer en
no
ed e
t s critical. n the middle of a fire, ith smoke and limited visibility, kno ing hich roads are passable, hich bridges ill take a truck, here the dams and ater tanks are, and hich properties have elderly residents or livestock can save valuable time and lives. Maps and technology help enormously, but nothing replaces kno ing your patch and kno ing your neighbours. hen out-ofarea cre s come in to support us, our local members are often the ones guiding them around the valley. hat does o nteerin mean to o ersona and hat moti ates eo e to t their hands
has good support available for members after difficult obs, and e make sure our cre s use it. e ond fi htin fires does the o a a
hat other ro es
e respond to motor vehicle accidents, storm damage, fallen trees, flooding support and other emergencies, often as the first on scene in rural areas. e help police search for missing persons help landholders ith ha ard reduction and permits, run community education about bushfire planning, and support local events. he fire shed is also a bit of a community hub a place here neighbours get to kno each other, hich pays off hen an emergency hits.
For me it s about community. ut here e don t have a fire station around the corner, e are the fire service, and that s a hat do o o e most a o t the responsibility take seriously. here s also real Orara Valley and satisfaction in it the the omm nit o friendships, the skills, ser e and kno ing you ve The fires of 2019It’s a beautiful part helped someone on 2020 le a real of the world, but what might be their mark on the valley. what really stands out orst day. think most People saw how is how people pull people put their hands together. When things quickly conditions up for the same reason get tough, neighbours can change and how they love here check on each other, much difference they live and want to turn up with food for preparation makes. protect it. ome oin the cre s, and offer after experiencing a whatever they’ve got. fire themselves, others That spirit is what simply want to give makes serving this community so re arding. something back. hat s i s do o nteers need to de e o and ho do o re are them veryone starts ith ush Firefighter training, hich covers fire behaviour, safe ork on the fireground, using pumps, hoses and radios, and orking as part of a cre . From there, members can go on to village firefighting, cre leader, chainsa , first aid, driving and other specialist qualifications. e train regularly as a brigade, running realistic scenarios so people are confident ith the equipment and ith each other before they face the real thing. ust as important is looking after people after ards the F
someone is onsiderin e omin an o nteer hat o d o sa to them and ho an the et in o ed ome and have a chat you don t need any experience, and there s a role for almost everyone. Not every volunteer is on the end of a hose e also need people for communications, logistics, catering, admin and community education. ou ll be trained, you ll learn skills that are useful for life, and you ll be part of a great team. ou ill make friends. o find out more, visit oin the F ural Fire ervice share oo e s ri i COFFS COAST focus 57
SCOTT SECCOMBE M AY O R O F K A R A N G I (SELF PROCLAIMED)
58 COFFS COAST focus
From growing up on the family property in the Orara Valley to serving overseas with the Australian Defence Force, Scott Seccombe has lived an extraordinary life. Today, he’s back where it all began, dedicating his time to supporting veterans, mentoring others and giving back to his community. We caught up with Sco to hear about his journey, his passion for helping others and what’s next.
cott, tell us about growing up in the Orara Valley and your family’s connection to the area. I grew up in the Orara Valley and attended Karangi Public School. My parents lived on Mastons Road, about 500 metres from where my wife and I live today. Growing up here was an adventure. We spent our childhood outdoors, surrounded by family and the beautiful countryside. Our family has deep roots throughout the Valley. My cousins grew up here, and over the generations, our family has owned sawmills and properties throughout the area. The Valley has always been home, and that connection has never left me. You spent eight and a half years in the Australian Defence Force. Where did your military career take you? fter finishing high school, got married and joined the Australian Defence Force. During my eight and a half years of service, I travelled extensively, serving in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Borneo, England, Scotland, Wales and Canada. I also served operationally in Bosnia in 1997. Later, I was posted to the School of Military Engineering, where I instructed in mine warfare, demolitions and unarmed combat. It was an incredible chapter of my life that gave me experiences and skills I still draw upon today. What happened when you returned home to the Valley? After being medically discharged from the military, my wife and I established a corporate team-building and paintball centre on our property. It became a really successful business, and we enjoyed welcoming people to the Valley. Around 2009, however, I began experiencing significant mental health challenges. y 2011, we had to close the business, and I
formally retired from the workforce. It was a difficult period, but those experiences have shaped the work I do today, particularly supporting other veterans facing their own challenges. Supporting veterans has become a huge part of your life. Can you tell us about that work?
sport, recovery and shared experiences is very meaningful to me. How important is giving back to the local community? Community has always been important to me. I’ve served as Parade Marshal for the Coffs Harbour RSL for approximately 12
or 13 years and have been involved with I work directly with veterans who are local rugby league clubs and mentoring often experiencing serious mental health young people. The Orara Valley has a crises, sometimes at a point where they’re wonderful history of community spirit, considering suicide. My role is to listen, from its local halls and sporting clubs to understand what’s happening and help the families who have supported one them navigate the support they need. I another for generations. I enjoy getting also advocate for veterans through the involved wherever I can and contributing Department of Veterans’ Affairs and in Canberra, and in ways that make a I’ve represented difference. families who What’s next for have lost loved The Orara you, Scott? ones. Having Valley has a I’m moving into experienced my wonderful history public speaking and own challenges, of community offering one-on-one I understand spirit, from its local karate and selfhow important halls and sporting it is for veterans defence training clubs to the families to feel heard, who have supported for locals. I’ve also supported and one another for recently completed understood. It’s generations. my autobiography, work I’m incredibly An Average Bloke passionate about. Doing Not So You’ve also been Average Shit. The involved with the Invictus Games. manuscript has been sent to the printers, What has that experience meant to and I’m hoping to secure a publisher and you? have the book released early next year. I’ve been fortunate enough to compete I’ve been fortunate to experience some in the Invictus Games, which was an extraordinary things, but my greatest incredible experience. More recently, I motivation is sharing what I’ve learned spent six weeks in Belgium working with and helping others. I’m looking forward to a team to develop a concept of operations reconnecting with the community through to support Belgium’s ambitions to host the public speaking, mentoring, martial arts 2031 Invictus Games. My assistance dog, and my book. No matter where life takes Smurf, travelled with me and is rarely far me, the Orara Valley will always be home. from my side. Being involved in something that brings veterans together through
Thanks Scott.
COFFS COAST focus 59
60 COFFS COAST focus
ALEX & LISA YOUNG Eastland Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Proudly family-owned and operated since 2012.
A
lex and Lisa, tell us about Eastland Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and how the business has grown. We established Eastland in 2012, building our reputation on reliable, quality service and strong customer relationships. As a family-run business ith five staff, we’re proud of how far we’ve come. Our focus has always been on delivering professional service while maintaining the personal approach our customers appreciate. What brought your family to the Orara Valley, and what do you love most about living here? We’ve called the Valley home for two years, and it’s been wonderful raising our two young children here. We love the relaxed lifestyle, beautiful surroundings and genuine community spirit. There’s something special about living somewhere people know each other and look out for one another. What’s it like balancing a growing business with family life? It’s certainly busy! Running
a business while raising young children comes with challenges, but we wouldn’t change it. Having a dedicated team makes an enormous difference, allowing us to continue growing while maintaining our commitment to customers and family. How important is supporting other local businesses? It’s incredibly important. We regularly work alongside local trades and understand how valuable those relationships are. Supporting local businesses strengthens the community and creates opportunities for everyone. We believe when locals support locals, everybody benefits. What’s next for Eastland Air Conditioning and Refrigeration? We’re focused on continuing to grow, supporting our fantastic team and delivering quality service. Personally, we’re looking forward to watching our children grow up in the Valley and continuing to contribute to this wonderful community we’re proud to call home. Contact Eastland Air Conditioning and Refrigeration 0488 549 288 alex@eastlandair.com.au COFFS COAST focus 61
JODIE-ANNE WILSON-HOCKING
W
C O M M I T T E E
SOLUTIONS 181
hat is Solutions 181 and what services do you offer? Solutions 181 is my independent business helping small and growing businesses make the day-to-day side of running a business easier. I started Solutions 181 in 2016 after seeing a need for practical, tailored solutions without the complexity or expense of larger providers. I work across business systems, processes and technology, helping businesses improve software, streamline processes, connect systems and reduce repetitive tasks. I also specialise in ServiceM8, particularly for tradies and servicebased businesses. When an off-the-shelf solution doesn t fit, love finding or creating one that does. Ultimately, it’s about making someone’s working day easier. What inspired you to start the business? I’ve always been the person who looks at something and thinks, “There has to be a better way to do this!” Throughout my career, I naturally looked at how businesses operated and how things could be improved. I saw a gap for small businesses
62 COFFS COAST focus
UPPER ORARA HALL
that needed support but didn’t necessarily need a big consultancy, so I wanted to offer practical, affordable solutions tailored to how they actually work.
Upper Orara Hall is a community-owned hall with a wonderful history dating back to 1908.
T
he hall was built by early What do you love about living settlers of the Valley at and working in the Orara Valley? a cost of approximately It’s the community. People genuinely £26. The greatest look out for each other, support gathering that ever assembled at local businesses and celebrate each Upper Orara was at the opening other’s wins. of the new Public Hall, on the night of 25th September 1908. Much of my business has grown through local connections and word Dancing continued until 3am. The community had raised the funds of mouth, so ve seen firsthand so that the Gospel Mission Hall how valuable those relationships are. There’s something special about which was built on John McCleod’s property in 1899 could be being part of a community that replaced. It was built by Mr Perkins wants to see each other succeed. from plans supplied by Mr Hurd. What’s next for Solutions 181? Technology and AI are changing quickly, and many small business owners are wondering where to start. I want to help businesses make sense of it, working out what technology is genuinely useful and helping them use it confidently. Sometimes that means implementing a new system; other times it s a five-minute phone call to solve a problem. For me, it’s about making technology work for the business, not the other way around. Contact Jodie on 0423 757 941.
What role does the hall play in the Upper Orara community today? The hall remains a muchloved meeting place for locals and community groups. It hosts yoga, pilates, sewing and craft groups, as well as weddings, private celebrations, wakes and other gatherings.
hall brings locals together. Our produce stall is named in honour of Jo Fenwick, a stalwart of the Valley who sadly passed away a few years ago. Locals donate excess produce, while residents also make jams and preserves to sell. During summer, we hold a neighbourhood barbecue on the first Friday of each month. t s a relaxed way for the community to come together and provides a wonderful opportunity for newcomers to the Valley to meet their neighbours. What does the future look like for Upper Orara Hall? As one of the few community-owned halls in the region, we rely entirely on selffunding, grants and our dedicated committee of volunteers.
Importantly, the hall also provides a place of safety for the community during times of need, including floods and fire evacuations.
We all value our much-loved hall and are constantly looking for new ideas to keep the doors open and maintain it for generations to come.
Tell us about the produce stall and some of the other ways the
Contact 0439 521 414 or visit ww.upperorarahall.com.au
NO DUST ARE US C L E A N E R S P T Y LT D
For Dearne Stanley, owner of No Dust Are Us Cleaners Pty Ltd, running a business is about more than keeping spaces spotless. It's about helping people, building relationships and making everyday life a li le easier. Proudly servicing the Orara Valley and surrounding areas, Dearne and her team have built a reputation for reliable, professional cleaning with a personal touch.
D
earne, tell us a little about yourself and how No Dust Are Us Cleaners Pty Ltd began.
I’m a mum, business owner and proud local who loves helping people. I started No Dust Are Us Cleaners Pty Ltd because I wanted to offer a reliable, professional service where customers knew their homes and businesses would be treated with care and respect. What began as a small business has grown through word of mouth, wonderful customers and a fantastic team. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built. What services do you offer, and which areas do you cover? We provide domestic and commercial cleaning, DVA and NDIS cleaning services, and bond cleaning. Our team services areas from Sawtell through to Sandy Beach, including the Orara Valley. What’s helped you build such a loyal customer base?
Reliability, quality and genuinely caring about our customers. We do what we say we’re going to do
and take pride in every job. A clean, organised space can make a huge difference to someone’s day, and knowing we’ve helped take some pressure off means everything.
D E A R N E S T A N L E Y
What’s it like running a business in the Orara Valley? You really can’t beat living and working in a close-knit community where people are always willing to lend a hand. There’s something special about the Valley and the way locals support one another. What’s next for No Dust Are Us Cleaners Pty Ltd? We want to continue growing and become a trusted name throughout the Orara Valley, while also building our reputation in commercial cleaning. Our focus will always be on delivering quality service and looking after our customers. How can locals get in touch? Email is the best way to reach us at hello@nodustareuscleaners.com. You can also call 0438 233 583 and leave a message if m out cleaning, or find us on Facebook at No Dust Are Us Cleaners Pty Ltd.
COFFS COAST focus 63
64 COFFS COAST focus
Good Times Ahead at
CORAMBA HOTEL
There’s plenty happening at Coramba Hotel this November and December, with live music, family-friendly entertainment, community markets and good old-fashioned country hospitality bringing the Orara Valley together. ust 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour, Coramba Hotel is the perfect spot to gather your family and friends, enjoy a delicious pub meal and soak up the beautiful valley views. November kicks off with a fantastic lineup of Sunday Sessions, featuring Tim Stokes on November 1, Solo West on November 8, Maanus Black on November 15 and Brody Ireland on November 22. With free live music, Sunday roasts and a relaxed country atmosphere, there’s no better way to spend an afternoon. A highlight of the November calendar is the Coramba Hotel Sunset Markets on Saturday,
November 21. From 4pm, visitors can browse local market stalls, enjoy great food and drinks and make an afternoon of it in the heart of the valley. There’s plenty happening throughout the week, too! Monday mornings bring Bingo in the Valley, while Thursday nights are all about putting your knowledge to the test with popular trivia nights. Musical ingo also returns on the first Wednesday of each month, combining favourite tunes, prizes and plenty of laughs. For families, the Koala Kids Club keeps little ones entertained every Saturday and Sunday with free activities, making the hotel a wonderful
weekend destination for all ages. As December rolls around, the good times continue with regular bingo, trivia, weekend entertainment and opportunities to catch up with friends and family as the festive season approaches. With its spacious beer garden overlooking the surrounding farmland, welcoming atmosphere and delicious bistro favourites, Coramba Hotel offers the perfect setting for everything from a casual lunch to an end-of-year get-together. Whether you’re a valley local or visiting from the coast, there’s always a reason to head out to Coramba.
the coramba hotel G O O D F O O D • G R E AT P E O P L E • C O U N T R Y H O S P I TA L I T Y • T H E C O R A M B A H O T E L .C O M . AU COFFS COAST focus 65
Stevie King VALLEY PRES CHO OL
S
tevie, tell us about yourself and your role at Valley Preschool. I’m the Director, Nominated Supervisor, Early Childhood Teacher, and Educational Leader here at Valley Preschool. While I look after the behind the scenes operations, compliance, and paperwork, I’m always around throughout the day for our children, families, and team. My main focus is mentoring our educators and guiding our educational program so every child and staff member feels supported, valued, and ready to thrive. What makes Valley Preschool special? Hands down, it’s our educators. Between the seven of us, we bring over 100 years of combined experience, deep knowledge, and genuine love to our children every single day. Keeping children safe is always our highest priority, creating a secure space where every child feels cherished. On top of that, our team delivers an amazing nature-led program set against the stunning backdrop of the Orara Valley, where children's unique rhythms and curiosity naturally flourish. How does the Orara Valley inspire your approach to early childhood learning? Our incredible outdoor environment lets the valley’s natural beauty act as a "third teacher." The children get stuck into daily play with
66 COFFS COAST focus
Nestled in the heart of the Orara Valley, Valley Preschool provides a nurturing, natureinspired environment where li le learners can grow and thrive. With a dedicated team of educators and strong community connections, Director Stevie King shares what makes this special preschool so unique.
native plants, mud, and river stone, building confidence, managing risk, and learning to care for the land around us. Where else can you be greeted by a bowerbird at the front door or give the local farmer a wave as he checks on the cows in the paddocks?
have an active committee in place to remain open. We warmly encourage local families and community members to get involved, and we’d love for anyone to reach out ahead of our AGM in Term 1, 2027 to help support the
governance and future of our preschool. How do you help children build What's next for Valley Preschool, and onfiden e and re are or s hoo Getting what would you like local families to ready for big school is all about building know? We are currently emotional resilience, in the biggest fight for self-regulation, our funding, which and social skills, Our team has been slashed not sitting at desks delivers an heavily despite what doing worksheets. amazing nature-led official government We support children program set against announcements might to build real
the stunning backdrop
suggest. We will not independence through of the Orara Valley... everyday self-help stay silent and watch skills, navigate peer our high standards relationships with of quality, safety, and empathy, and explore educator wellbeing be foundational STEM and literacy through compromised. We want local families to know play-based learning. Connections with our that e stand firmly committed to fighting for local primary school mean that when the our community's children so they retain access time comes, children step forward feeling to the exceptional early childhood education confident, familiar, and prepared. they deserve. Our doors are wide open, How important are community and we welcome you to stand with us and connections to Valley Preschool? They experience alley reschool firsthand. are our lifeblood, especially the vital role (02) 6653 8600 played by our Management Committee. As a community-managed service, we simply must director@valleypreschool.com.au
VALLEY
T
CONSTRUCTION
ell us a little about Valley Construction and how the business began.
Valley Construction is a new locally owned business based in Upper Orara having recently relocated from the Northern Territory. Built on years of hands-on experience in the construction industry, our goal is to provide quality workmanship, reliable service and honest communication. What type of work do you specialise in? We specialise in residential and commercial construction, renovations, carpentry, repairs and property maintenance. We take on everything from smaller jobs to larger projects, always focusing on delivering a quality result.
What do you enjoy most about working in the Orara Valley?
something for the future.
The lifestyle, the beautiful surroundings and the people. It’s a great place to live and work, and I enjoy building genuine relationships with local clients.
We’re looking to continue growing across Coffs Harbour and the surrounding region, taking on more residential and commercial projects while maintaining the personal service and quality workmanship we’re known for.
How important is supporting other local businesses and trades? It’s very important. Supporting local trades and suppliers helps keep our community strong. We value working with reliable local businesses and believe everyone benefits hen e support each other.
What’s next for Valley Construction?
0415 714 378 adam@valleyconstructionnsw.com.au.
What makes the Orara Valley community special to you? There’s a real sense of community here. People look out for each other, lend a hand and support local businesses. It’s a great place to put down roots and build
T H O M A S S I P P L E A D A M H I N T O N
L O G A N R E E S
COFFS COAST focus 67
OASIS OF HOPE: A Hidden Retreat in the Orara Valley
T
ucked away in the peaceful Upper Orara Valley, a short 20-minute drive from Coffs Harbour, Oasis of Hope is a private retreat and event destination created for people to gather, rest and celebrate. Set across 14 acres, the property is ideal for weddings, family reunions, group getaways, church camps, corporate retreats, wellness weekends and special celebrations. For group bookings, one of its greatest strengths is privacy: guests can enjoy exclusive use of the property, with 14 acres to themselves. Guests can stay in the Homestead and Garden Wing, accommodating up to 21 people in comfortable beds, or enjoy the property’s campsite, with powered and unpowered camping options. The campsite is supported by a large amenities block with showers, toilets and laundry facilities, making it well suited to camps, retreats and larger group stays. For smaller stays, Oasis also offers a twobedroom, two-ensuite unit, ideal for couples or families who want to explore the property without camping. 68 COFFS COAST focus
The facilities include generous lawns, a covered chapel and food hub area, a stage for music, teaching or presentations, a large sandstone fire pit area, s imming pool, wellness area with sauna and spa, and beautiful spaces for meals, meetings and connection. One of the most unique experiences at Oasis of Hope is the natural setting itself. Guests can explore the creek, enjoy the valley views, or take the breathtaking waterfall walk on the property, a memorable hike through nature that makes a stay here feel far removed from everyday life. For weddings and celebrations, the property offers room for marquees, food trucks, music, firelight and long-table gatherings. For retreats and corporate groups, it provides peaceful spaces for reflection, teaching, workshops, worship or team connection. Whether you are planning a wedding, reunion, retreat, family getaway or quiet weekend away, Oasis offers a beautiful setting where guests can slow down, reconnect and create lasting memories.
Nana GlenYOGA
A
A Wellness Hub for Our Community
fter more than 33 years of teaching yoga, I’m delighted to open my new Nana Glen Yoga studio in the beautiful Coffs Harbour Hinterland. Having made Nana Glen my home, I wanted to create a welcoming space where people could come together, practise yoga and make their health and wellbeing a priority. My yoga journey has taken me to India, where I studied and practised Ashtanga Yoga in Mysore before deepening my Iyengar Yoga practice under the guidance of a teacher who had studied with B.K.S. Iyengar. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of practical experience and a deep appreciation for how yoga supports not only our physical health but also our mental clarity, resilience and overall wellbeing. haring these benefits continues to inspire my teaching. My classes focus on building strength, balance, flexibility and stability, while caring for our joints and supporting healthy ageing. As we get older, maintaining mobility, strength and confidence becomes increasingly important. Yoga offers a practical way to
improve body awareness, support balance and keep us moving well in everyday life. ou don t need to be flexible or have previous experience to begin. Yoga isn’t about touching your toes or achieving perfect poses; it’s about working with your body, at your own pace, and discovering what is possible. My vision is for Nana Glen Yoga to become a vibrant wellness hub at the heart of our local community - a place where people can connect, build friendships, support one another and feel a genuine sense of belonging. Beyond the yoga mat, I hope the studio encourages people to prioritise their wellbeing and enjoy a healthier, more connected life. I also host yoga retreats in Australia and overseas, including Bali and Türkiye. These offer an opportunity to step away from everyday responsibilities, deepen your practice, explore beautiful places and enjoy time for rest, connection and renewal. My message is simple: it’s never too late to invest in yourself. Yoga is not about age or what we can achieve on the mat; it’s about maintaining the strength, balance and vitality to live life as fully as possible. COFFS COAST focus 69
CHRIS FENECH
M
A LIFE SHAPE D BY HORSES, TH E OUTBACK AN D ADVE NTU RE
From an impulsive teenage purchase to building tourism experiences in the Kimberley and establishing a horse business on the Coffs Coast, one man’s journey has always been guided by a passion for horses, people and the Australian landscape.
70 COFFS COAST focus
y life with horses began ith a fistful of notes, a newspaper advertisement and considerably more enthusiasm than
experience.
s a young teenager, saved enough money to buy my first horse. n those days, there ere no smartphones or internet searches, so finding a horse meant scouring the classifieds and making a fe enquiries. hen discovered a horse sale
at indsor in estern ydney, caught a train, took a taxi to the sale yards and arrived ready to bid. here hat
as ust one small problem as doing.
had no idea
My girlfriend at the time owned a grey horse, and naturally, anted one too. hen a rather impressive, 16-hand Anglo-Arab grey entered the ring, began bidding. he horse pranced around ith an exuberance that, ith the benefit of hindsight, should have told me everything needed to kno about my suitability
skin. Its vast cattle stations, rugged ranges, spectacular gorges and remarkable wilderness create a landscape unlike anywhere else. Once you have experienced it, leaving becomes difficult.
El Questro became a pioneer in this field, developing accommodation and experiences that showcased the region’s natural beauty while welcoming visitors from around the world.
as its owner. I won the auction. The celebrations were short-lived. When the seller asked where my parents were and how I intended to get the horse home, I explained that
hat first horse taught me lessons no book could have provided. I learned by observing experienced riders, listening to advice and, occasionally, discovering just how much confidence can exceed ability. here ere exhilarating gallops, intimidating jumps and plenty of moments when staying in the saddle felt like an achievement in itself.
horse float nor any transport arrangements.
Looking back, those early experiences planted the seeds of a lifelong passion for horsemanship.
The laughter around the sale yard quickly turned
Discovering the Kimberley
to frustration.
Years later, that passion led me to the East Kimberley, where I accepted a position as Director of Public Relations, Sales and Marketing with El Questro Wilderness Park, working alongside its founder, Will Burrell.
I had arrived by train and taxi. I had neither a
Fortunately, the seller eventually agreed to drive the horse home for me. For almost a year, my parents had no idea their son owned a horse. Any horse gear that appeared was conveniently attributed to my
t
as a defining chapter in my life.
girlfriend.
The Kimberley is a place that gets under your
Will had a vision that was ahead of its time: to create exceptional wilderness experiences that combined the authenticity of outback station life with the comforts of luxury tourism. El Questro became a pioneer in this field, developing accommodation and experiences that showcased the region's natural beauty while welcoming visitors from around the world.
Working alongside Will, I helped develop Mount Cockburn Safari, including a safari lodge that formed part of a broader circuit around the Cockburn Range. Guests could experience remote country, dramatic landscapes and the unique character of life on a working cattle station. It was an extraordinary introduction to outback tourism, business development and the importance of sharing Australia's remote landscapes with visitors. Will was more than a boss. He became a mentor, and I remain grateful for his guidance, friendship and the opportunities he gave me. When ownership changed and the business entered a difficult transition, recognised it as time to begin another chapter. Continued over... COFFS COAST focus 71
Tourism with a Purpose I established ID Services Australia, a consultancy helping pastoral businesses diversify their income by developing tourism opportunities alongside traditional cattle operations. Many stations possessed extraordinary natural assets, including rivers, waterfalls, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. With the right planning, these attractions could support accommodation, camping, guided activities and other visitor experiences, helping pastoral businesses become more financially sustainable. ne of my most significant pro ects involved working with the Indigenous Land Corporation at Home Valley Station, alongside its pastoral operations and Indigenous training initiatives. The vision was ambitious: to combine a working cattle station, a tourism destination and opportunities for Aboriginal employment and training. The tourism offering included accommodation, campgrounds, dining facilities, horse riding, cattle mustering experiences, overnight packsaddle rides and multi-day heritage cattle drives. 72 COFFS COAST focus
Fishing tours, scenic helicopter flights and birdwatching provided further ways for visitors to experience the Kimberley.
I am proud to be part of the Coffs Coast and the wider Mid North Coast tourism community, where passionate people continue to create experiences that showcase our region to Australia and the world.
The approach created multiple income streams while supporting a broader ob ective of sustainable employment and training. Home Valley Station grew into a substantial tourism operation, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors annually. Eventually, I moved from consultancy into the role of station manager. It was a particularly rewarding period, coinciding with the birth of my daughter and bringing together my professional experience, love of horses and appreciation for the people who made these operations work.
family and I returned to the Coffs Harbour region, where my parents lived. Here, I established HWH Stables, bringing together the practical experience and business philosophy I had developed throughout my career. Today, the business offers a range of experiences and services, including rainforest, river and beach rides, riding lessons, horsemanship clinics, horse training, breakingin, problem-solving and transport.
Bringing the Journey Home
The underlying principle is simple: there must always be something in it for the horse.
After many years in the Kimberley, my growing
Horses are not simply a means of delivering an
A LIFE SHAPE D BY HORSES, TH E OUTBACK AN D ADVE NTU RE
experience. They are partners, teachers and individuals whose welfare must remain central to every decision. Whether introducing a child to riding, helping an experienced rider develop their skills or providing opportunities for people with additional needs through equine-assisted programs, the responsibility remains the same: to care for people and horses alike.
that the experience is memorable for the right reasons. where passionate people continue to create experiences that showcase our region to Australia and the world. I often joke, when my children ask how work went, that it was an excellent day if nobody
As I look to the future, I remain thankful for the horses that have shaped my life, the mentors who have guided me, the communities that have supported me and the opportunities to turn a lifelong passion into a profession. From that inexperienced teenager bidding on a grey horse at Windsor to a career spanning the Kimberley wilderness and the Coffs Coast, the journey has been anything but predictable.
Building the business has required hard work, patience and plenty of blood, sweat and tears. It has also brought wonderful relationships with local families, visitors, staff, volunteers and fellow tourism operators.
died and everybody had fun. Behind the
I am proud to be part of the Coffs Coast and the wider Mid North Coast tourism community,
be their first and only opportunity to connect
But one thing has never changed: it has always been about the horses, the people and the privilege of sharing both with others.
with a horse, making it all the more important
Thanks Chris
humour is a serious commitment to safety, particularly when working with children, older people and people with disabilities. For many of our visitors, a horse-riding experience may
COFFS COAST focus 73
DAV I D A ND VANESSA ASHF IEL D
GLENESSI
HIGHLANDS
Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Glenreagh, Glenessi Highlands is home to a gorgeous fold of Sco ish Highland ca le. Offering unique farm experiences and cosy farm stays, it’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy a li le country charm. We caught up with the owners to discover their story and what makes this special part of the Orara Valley so unique.
T
ell us a little about Glenessi Highlands and what you offer?
We also have two cosy farm stay cabins. The Bothy is our peaceful off grid retreat, while The Cubby sits right at the heart of the farm.
photos and interacting with the cattle. We wanted to create a safer, more respectful experience for everyone.
We’re registered Scottish Highland cattle breeders, and while breeding is our primary focus, sharing our fold with others is something we love.
How did Glenessi Highlands come about?
What we hadn’t anticipated was the impact these beautiful animals would have on people. Watching visitors slow down, smile and become completely absorbed in the moment is incredibly rewarding.
We offer private, immersive farm experiences where visitors can learn about this amazing breed while patting, brushing, feeding and cuddling our cattle. It’s been surprisingly popular! I think people are craving something genuine. My fondest childhood memories are of family farms, and I believe that’s what places like ours offer, a chance to reconnect with our roots. 74 COFFS COAST focus
It certainly wasn’t part of a grand business plan! Guided by regenerative agriculture principles, we wanted livestock that worked with the land rather than against it. After trying different breeds, we discovered Highland cattle and quickly realised they were much more than pretty faces. e purchased our first three cattle from reputable breeders and registered our fold, Glenessi. The Highland Cattle Experience actually developed quite naturally. We noticed guests wandering through the paddocks, taking
What makes Glenreagh the perfect home for Glenessi Highlands? It has everything we love! Our property sits between sandstone escarpments, with a river, rolling pastures, bushland and a pecan plantation that changes beautifully with the seasons. There’s also a wonderful history here. The property was once the original creamery and a
What can people expect when they visit Glenessi Highlands?
stagecoach stop. t feels fitting to still be caring for cattle and elcoming visitors more than a century later.
We’re a genuine working farm, not a commercial a raction. Our Highland Ca le Experiences are deliberately private, personal and unhurried.
What do you love most about being part of the local community? eople genuinely look out for one another and ant to see others succeed. e ve received incredible encouragement and support since starting lenessi ighlands. eing involved in this year s lenreagh imber Festival really highlighted ho special this community is. e also love introducing visitors to the area. hether they stop at the bakery, the olden og or the eneral tore, every visitor helps support our little to n.
Fresh air, beautiful surroundings and permission to simply exhale! e re a genuine orking farm, not a commercial attraction. ur ighland attle xperiences are deliberately private, personal and unhurried.
eople often arrive expecting to meet some cute, fluffy co s, but leave having formed a real connection ith these beautiful animals. What’s next for Glenessi Highlands? reserving and promoting this onderful heritage breed remains our priority. e ere thrilled to achieve first and third placings at this year s ational ighland ho , hich has inspired us to participate in more sho s. e re also developing spaces around the barn and exploring professional photography sessions and intimate events.
e don t ant anything big or flashy. e simply ant to create more opportunities for people to experience authentic farm life hile keeping everything natural. hat s hat makes lenessi special. How can people get in touch? e love elcoming people ho ant to experience a little piece of farm life, but lenessi is first and foremost our home and a orking farm, so visits are strictly by appointment. For farm stays, private ighland attle xperiences or photography enquiries, visit glenessihighlands.com.au or find us on Facebook and nstagram. Thanks Vanessa. COFFS COAST focus 75
HUNTER EVANS
MULLET WITH A MISSION For young Hunter Evans, a mullet is much more than a hairstyle. It’s taken him from his first competition at the Golden Dog Hotel in Glenreagh to the national stage at Mulletfest, where he’s made the grand finals year after year. Now a 2025 age-group champion, Hunter is using his famous locks to help raise money for brain cancer research, a cause very close to his family’s heart.
H
unter, tell us about your famous mullet! How long have you had it, and how did your Mulletfest journey begin?
I’ve had my mullet since I was three years old! I’ve never really had a proper haircut, just trims to keep my mullet looking good. It all started at the Golden Dog Hotel in lenreagh, here entered my very first Mulletfest competition and won! Since then, I’ve made it through to the grand finals every single year, hich has been pretty cool. never really thought too much about having a mullet. t s ust al ays been my hairstyle! (Smiles.) You took out Best Mullet in your age group at the 2025 Mulletfest Grand Final! o did it ee to fina in I was so excited! d been making it through to the finals for a fe years, so to finally in est Mullet in my age group in 2025 was an awesome feeling. t as something d been hoping for, and it made all those years of competing even more special. as really proud to bring home the
in
What’s your favourite part about going to 76 COFFS COAST focus
Mulletfest? efinitely making ne friends ve met some really great people through Mulletfest, and it’s always fun catching up with everyone when e go back. ut also absolutely love the skid cars! he burnout pad is one of my favourite things about the hole event. I love watching the cars doing burnouts. It’s so exciting! There’s always something happening, and I look forward to going every year.
We have a donation tin at our local shop, and Mum sometimes organises raffles or makes things to sell to help raise extra money. Every year, I take a tin of donations down to the Mulletfest Grand Final.
We have a donation tin at our local shop, and Mum sometimes organises raffles or makes things to sell to help raise extra money. Every year, I take a tin of donations down to the Mulletfest Grand Final.
You’ve also been raising money for the Mark Hughes Foundation. Can you tell us why this cause is so important to you and your family? I never got the chance to meet my Pop because he as un ell ith brain cancer.
That’s why raising money for the Mark Hughes Foundation and brain cancer research means so much to our family. e ve been fundraising for a few years now, and we try to do something every year.
It’s really nice knowing that something fun like having a mullet can also help raise money for such an important cause. What’s next for you, Hunter? Will we see you back at Mulletfest this year?
Yes! I only found out the other day that I won the Winter Warmers online heat, which means I’m heading back to the Mulletfest rand Final again in ecember m so excited and really can’t wait. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again, making more friends and, of course, watching the skid cars opefully, can bring home another in, but no matter hat happens, ll keep rocking my mullet and raising money for brain cancer research. t s become something really special for me and my family, and m proud to be part of it.
For generations, timber has been of life and work theOrara Orara Valley. Valley. Coffs Hardwoods is proud to be of that or generations, timber has been partpart of life and work ininthe CoffsHarbour Harbour Hardwoods is proud topart be part ofstory, that carrying story, carrying the region’s connection hardwood a modern businessserving serving customers the Coffs Coast andand beyond. he region’s connection with with hardwood intointo a modern business customersacross across the Coffs Coast beyond. Our business the knowledge, and hard workofofpeople people who who understand timber and the the value of making the most it. of it. Our business grew grew from from the knowledge, skillskill and hard work understandlocal local timber and value of making the of most Today, Coffs Harbour Hardwoods brings together a dedicated team across our Glenreagh mill and Coffs Harbour showroom. Together, we turn
oday, Coffs Harbour Hardwoods brings together a dedicated team across our Glenreagh mill and Coffs Harbour showroom. Together, we turn quality Australian hardwood into products for homes, businesses, builders and public spaces. quality The Australian hardwood into products for homes, businesses, builders and public spaces. business was started by Ray McCarthy in 1961 from its original location at Coffs Harbour Jetty and later moved to its current location at The business was bytoRay McCarthyRay in 1961 from aitsnumber originaloflocation Coffs Harbour and latersleepers. moved to its current location at Glenreagh instarted the early mid-eighties. also spent his earlierat years in the ValleyJetty cutting cedar Glenreagh in the early to mid-eighties. Ray also spent a number of his earlier years in the Valley cutting cedar sleepers. The Orara Valley is more than where our mill operates. It is part of our identity. The forests, towns and people of this district have shaped a
strong timber tradition, and Glenreagh remains an important continue that work. Being us close todistrict the region’s anda he Orara Valley is more than where our mill operates. It is part place of ourtoidentity. The forests, townshere andkeeps people of this havehistory shaped to the skills and practical knowledgeremains that have passedplace through timber industry overBeing manyhere years.keeps us close to the region’s history and trong timber tradition, and Glenreagh anbeen important tothe continue that work. o the skills and practical knowledge that have been passed through the timber industry over many years.
We produce and supply a broad range of hardwood products, including flooring, decking, cladding, lining boards, joinery timber, structural and sawn hardwood, posts, screening, handrails, parquetry and tool handles. Our customers include builders, timber merchants, We produce and supply a broad range of hardwood products, including flooring, decking, cladding, lining boards, joinery timber, structural manufacturers, tradespeople and homeowners. Through our showroom and sales team, we help customers choose timber that suits their and sawn hardwood, posts, screening, handrails, parquetry and tool handles. Our customers include builders, timber merchants, project, whether they are looking for a distinctive feature or a durable, practical material.
manufacturers, tradespeople and homeowners. Through our showroom and sales team, we help customers choose timber that suits their project, whether they are looking for significantly. a distinctiveModern featurehardwood or a durable, practical material. The timber industry has changed production involves careful management at every stage: selecting and preparing timber, drying it to suit its end use, machining it accurately, grading it and checking quality. Technology and machinery have
he timber industry has changed significantly. careful management at every stage: selecting and improved what can be achieved, while theModern work still hardwood depends onproduction experiencedinvolves people who understand the character of each board. Hardwood a natural material, and use, producing a reliable, finished product takes care,checking sound knowledge and a committed preparing timber,isdrying it to suit its end machining it accurately, grading it and quality. Technology and team. machinery have mproved what can be achieved, while the work still depends on experienced people who understand the character of each board. Whatismakes us proudest is the people behindathe products: their experience, workmanship and knowledge pride in producing that customers Hardwood a natural material, and producing reliable, finished product takes care, sound and atimber committed team. can
trust. We are proud to contribute to the Orara Valley’s working history while supplying products that become part of homes, buildings and projects throughout the region. We hope people across the Coffs Coast know that Coffs Harbour Hardwoods is a local business with deep ties What makes us proudest is the people behind the products: their experience, workmanship and pride in producing timber that customers can to the area, a skilled team and a genuine belief in the value of Australian hardwood.
rust. We are proud to contribute to the Orara Valley’s working history while supplying products that become part of homes, buildings and projects the our region. We hope people across CoffsCrescent, Coast know that Harbour Hardwoods is a local business Tothroughout learn more, visit showroom in Coffs Harbour at 32the Lawson speak withCoffs our team, or get in touch through our website at with deep ties o the area, a skilled team and a genuine belief in the value of Australian hardwood. coffshardwoods.com.au or phone 0266492006. COFFS COAST focus 77
o learn more, visit our showroom in Coffs Harbour at 32 Lawson Crescent, speak with our team, or get in touch through our website at coffshardwoods.com.au or phone 0266492006.
RILEY A N I S S E M
Glenreagh local Riley Massina takes lawn mowing to a whole new level, racing modified mowers at speeds exceeding 80km/h! We chat with Riley about this unusual motorsport, the thrill of racing and the growing community behind it.
H
i Riley. Racing lawn mowers isn't exactly your everyday sport! Can you tell us a little about yourself, ho o first
discovered the sport, and what it was that made you want to give it a go? From a young age I have always been into tinkering and fixing all sorts of appliances and mechanical equipment and picked up my first ob at a mo er shop as an apprentice mechanic. no
ork as a qualified po er
equipment technician so you can see it s 78 COFFS COAST focus
only natural got into mo er racing. first discovered the sport at an agricultural sho demonstration a couple of years ago. he members ere very helpful in ans ering any questions had and sho ed me all the different types of builds. he real nail in the coffin as hen had my first run on a member s mo er at a practice day, had such a thrill and it felt natural once got used to it. fter that, kne had to make my o n. Can you explain how it all works? What does a typical race look like? have attended a fe inter-club race days out of state. hese race days are quite official
ith flags, point systems and trophies like other motorsports. our race grade depends on ho fast you and your mo er are, and ho modified it is. he lo est grade begins at and goes up to grade, there is also an utla class here you are allo ed further modifications. t the ll ustralian this year qualified th in the country in grade. he race starts after all competitors are in their correct grid position and the green flag is aved. e can pass each other and push our machines to their limits for - laps depending on the track. These aren't your average backyard
engines as well. You have to run mower turf tyres and no suspension is allowed, there are rules on engine size/power depending on the class of mower and driver. We've heard these machines can reach speeds of up to 80km/h! What's it actually like racing one at those speeds, and how do they handle compared to other vehicles? It feels faster than it seems when you’re driving one of these because the mowers are lowered and widened to better handle these speeds safely. My mower will exceed 80km/hr on some tracks, and handles well on proper clay racing tracks. Due to the lack of suspension these mowers tend to handle more like a go-kart than a car with suspension. How much time and effort goes into building, modifying and maintaining your mower?
WE HAD A MONUMENTAL CROWD, SPANNING THE WHOLE WIDTH OF THE OVAL AND A VERY POSITIVE REACTION FROM THE FESTIVAL COMMITTEE AND THE PEOPLE WHO SAW IT.
lawn mowers! Can you tell us what's involved in transforming an ordinary mower into a racing machine?
First thing is to consult your local club about rules and build guides, most of the factory drivetrain and steering get removed and upgraded. The chassis is lowered, strengthened and widened to handle the higher speeds safely and cowlings/guards are made to suit. The motor has to have the internal speed governor removed to allow these motors to rev past their normal speeds for racing. Some mowers run motorbike
I initially built the mower in about 4 months and have been modifying and upgrading it ever since. It helps having experience in fabrication and mechanical repair when making the mower. I am quite pedantic with my mower and it gets cleaned/serviced after every race to ensure it's in the best condition.
Tell us a little about the lawn mower racing community. How many people are involved, and what sort of characters does the sport attract?
races and take part in demonstrations at country shows across NSW. Where has the sport taken you, and what have been some of your most memorable experiences? Earlier in the year we ventured to Maryborough to race at night under lights. My mower was going well earlier in the day, picking up a couple of first places, then my brakes failed midway through the 4th race, luckily as far enough in front to finish without braking! I have travelled as far north as Rockhampton to compete in the All Australian Titles. In a practice session, my motor blew up the day before qualifying, luckily I was able to locally source a smaller engine that fit so could continue to run. have travelled as far south as Sandy Hollow to the Charity Motorfest and throughout the state to partake in demonstrations, these days are really fun where we can show the crowd what these mowers can do. You recently put on a demonstration at the Glenreagh Timber Festival, what sort of reaction did you get from the crowd? We had a monumental crowd, spanning the whole width of the oval and a very positive reaction from the festival committee and the people who saw it. You could see the crowd grow as soon as the mowers started up. Are there any more upcoming races or local demonstrations where people can come along and see these machines in action?
The mower racing community draws on people of all ages and skill from all walks of life. At the titles the ages ranged from the younger Dirt Devils aged under 10 to the oldest, 94 years old. There would have to be well over 160 mowers currently racing in the country with many clubs per state/territory.
Next up for our club is the Mullumbimby ho , hich is held the first eekend of November. We are working on more events in the area, but due to having an ffice of Sport, we are now required to have a Recognised Sanctioning Body sign off on the tracks in for us to hold official race events. Working on this takes time which means we can only run demonstrations at the moment. ll events are filmed on my action camera on YouTube and we are working on making the 2027 Timber Fest even better than last year!
You travel interstate to compete in
Thanks Riley. COFFS COAST focus 79
A S C H O O L AT T H E H E A RT OF THE COMMUNITY
NANA GLEN PUBLIC SCHOOL
W
We are one of seven amazing public schools in the Orara Valley community. hat makes Nana Glen Public School such a special part of the local community?
hat are the enefits o attendin a r ra public school?
Nana Glen Public School is a community built on relationships, belonging and shared aspirations. Our staff know each student as individuals, recognising their strengths, interests and learning needs. We work in partnership with families ensuring every child feels valued, supported and empowered to succeed.
Our school has a strong sense of family, where students learn from one another, develop responsibilities and celebrate each other’s successes. A smaller school does not mean having smaller opportunities. We provide rich learning experiences that develop the kno ledge, skills, confidence and curiosity students need for the future. “The staff go above and beyond for every child.”
We are proud to be part of the wider Orara Valley community, fostering a sense of belonging where every student’s contribution matters and can achieve great things within their own community and beyond. “There is a wonderful feeling of connection between staff, children and families at NGPS.” 80 COFFS COAST focus
As a rural public school, we truly know every child. We build meaningful relationships, provide personalised support and respond to individual learning needs at the point of need.
hat ro rams and a ti ities do o o er o r st dents We provide a well-rounded education that supports students’ academic, social, emotional and creative development. Alongside developed explicit teaching in English, Mathematics, and all key learning areas, our
students are provided with extra-curricular opportunities to develop social, creative, physical and academic skills. We also prioritise leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, sporting pursuits, public speaking, debating, spelling and emotional intelligence. Our focus is on purposeful, engaging learning that builds strong foundations while encouraging independence. “Nana Glen is an inclusive school where every child is respected and given the opportunity to succeed.” o does the s hoo onne t ider omm nit
ith the
Strong community partnerships are central at NGPS. We value our relationships with families, local organisations, allied health professionals and community groups, recognising that it takes a village to raise a child. In addition, NGPS has a strong and supportive group of P & C volunteers who work tirelessly to support our school and students.
The staff go above and beyond for every child.
Our connection with Nana Glen Preschool and our feeder high school, Orara High School, is particularly important in supporting smooth transitions to school and continuity of learning. These relationships help children and families feel confident and connected as they begin and continue on their school journey. Our students understand that they are part of something bigger than themselves and that they can make a meaningful contribution and their voice is heard. “Nana Glen is like a warm hug for our family.” Tell us about some of your proudest achievements this year. We are incredibly proud of the growth, confidence and resilience demonstrated by our students. Seeing children become independent learners, supporting their peers and embracing new challenges is a powerful endorsement of what we do. We have seen children represent the school in state sporting events and success in a statewide writing competition. We are
also very proud of our cultural diversity and connection to every family in our school. Dedicated staff strengthen teaching and learning through a shared moral imperative, the deep implementation of emotional intelligence, explicit teaching practices, understanding of neurodivergence learning and ongoing professional learning. We are equally proud of the partnerships with families in our school. Our greatest achievement is empo ering students to become confident, capable learners who are proud of themselves and their school. “My child feels safe and supported and they like coming to school at NGPS.” What would you like local families to know? Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen learning, expand opportunities, and ensure every child is supported to thrive. We remain committed to high expectations, High Potential and Gifted Education, Explicit
Teaching, Inclusive Education and strong partnerships with families and our wider community. We invite you to discover what makes NGPS special: a welcoming environment where relationships matter, individual needs are understood and every child is encouraged to achieve. Please come in and see our amazing school. We are proud of our students, our staff, our community and our place as a valued NSW public school. “Our culture is seen, valued and celebrated at Nana Glen Public School and the school respects our family and our cultural background.” (All quotes from 2026 – Term 3 parent surveys) COFFS COAST focus 81
NATHAN PORTER P O R T E R
C I V I L
Based in Glenreagh, Porter Civil is making its mark on major infrastructure projects across NSW and South East Queensland. Family-owned and 100% First Nations owned, the business combines decades of industry experience with a hands-on approach to civil construction. We caught up with owner and Director Nathan Porter to learn more about the business, its involvement in the Coffs Harbour Bypass and what sets Porter Civil apart.
82 COFFS COAST focus
N
athan, tell us a little about yourself and how Porter Civil came about. I’ve spent more than 25 years working across civil construction and TFNSW government infrastructure road construction. I established Porter Civil in 2022 with a focus on delivering quality work while maintaining the personal service and accountability that comes with being a family-owned business. We’re based in Glenreagh and operate throughout NSW and lower South East Queensland. I’ve always believed that a handshake should mean something, and that’s the approach I bring to every project.
infrastructure project for our region, and being involved demonstrates the capability of a locally based business to contribute to major construction projects. What makes Porter Civil different from other civil contractors? For me, it’s about being personally involved. I’m not someone who sits behind a desk and leaves everything to others. Clients deal directly with me, and I’m actively involved on site. We have an experienced team, our o n fleet and strong orking relationships with organisations including Transport for NSW and Clarence Valley Council. We pride ourselves on being reliable, straightforward and delivering what we promise.
What services does Porter Civil specialise Porter Civil is also a 100% First Nations in? Civil construction is our core business, owned business. How important is that to with a strong focus on you? It’s an important working within road part of who we are. network corridors for local We’re proud to be a We’re proud to be councils and government registered Supply Nation delivering civil authorities. We specialise business and to represent works packages with in road construction, First Nations ownership Ferrovial Gamuda JV maintenance and repairs, within the civil on the Coffs Harbour pavement stabilisation, construction industry. Bypass. Our involvement drainage, earthworks, Being regionally based includes drainage, shotcrete and batter is equally important. shotcrete, earthworks stabilisation. We understand the
and associated civil
Our services also extend communities we construction activities. to subdivision works, work in and value the bulk earthworks, relationships we’ve built concreting and pavement throughout the region. construction. In addition, we provide wet and What does the future look like for Porter dry plant hire, experienced operators and project Civil? Our focus is on continuing to build strong management services. relationships, supporting our workforce and ith our o n fleet of machinery and a skilled, experienced workforce, we can mobilise efficiently, respond to pro ect requirements and maintain a high standard of quality across every stage of our work.
delivering quality projects. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and want to keep growing while staying true to our values. At the end of the day, it’s about doing the job properly, standing behind our work and maintaining the trust of our clients.
You’re currently involved in the Coffs Harbour Bypass, tell us about that project. We’re proud to be delivering civil works packages with Ferrovial Gamuda JV on the Coffs Harbour Bypass. Our involvement includes drainage, shotcrete, earthworks and associated civil construction activities. t s a significant
How can we get in touch? 0499 446 605 nathan@portercivil.com.au www.portercivil.com.au
COFFS COAST focus 83
JBZ BUILDING B R A D
S H A R P H A M
Family-owned and proudly based in the Orara Valley, JBZ Building is helping locals rethink country living. WE CHAT WITH BRAD SHARPHAM ABOUT THE RISE OF SHED HOMES, the benefits of their flexible home shed packages, and life running a family business in the Valley.
B
rad, tell us about yourself, your family and the story behind JBZ Building.
I’m Brad Sharpham, and family is at the heart of everything I do. My partner Jade and our two kids, Ziggy and Aura Belle, are my biggest motivation. The JBZ name comes from Jade, Brad and Ziggy, so the business has always had a personal meaning. We’re a family-owned building business based in the Orara Valley, working across the Coffs Coast. Alongside JBZ, I run Urban Living Building Inspections and The Shed Company Coffs Harbour. That mix of building, inspections and shed construction shapes how I approach projects, with a strong focus on practical design and getting the details right. Why are shed homes becoming so popular, particularly in areas like the Orara Valley? They suit the way people want to live here. Many people have land and want a comfortable home with room for a workshop, storage or outdoor living. A shed home gives them flexibility to bring those things together. We’re seeing interest in homes that feel open and connected to the property, with layouts that suit the owners’ everyday lives. Tell us about your home shed packages. What do they include and how customisable are they? We tailor the scope to the client, the property
84 COFFS COAST focus
and the budget. That can mean a home taken to lock-up, or a more complete build ith internal fit-out. epending on the agreed package, we can coordinate the shed structure, foundations, internal framing, insulation, linings, plumbing, electrical and finishes. ayouts can include bedrooms, bathrooms, open-plan living, verandahs or a mezzanine where the design allows. We work through what’s included early so clients understand what they’re getting and what they need to allow for separately. hat are the i est enefits o hoosin a shed home over a traditional home? For me, the biggest benefit is flexibility. ou can create a home that works alongside the other things you need on an acreage property, whether that’s a workshop, hobby space or somewhere to store equipment. The open spans can offer plenty of freedom with the layout. There can be cost and construction efficiencies too, but the final price depends on the site, engineering and finish. e look at the whole project when discussing value with clients. What should people consider when building a shed home on a rural or acreage property? Start with the land and approvals. Access, slope, soil conditions, bushfire requirements, drainage, water supply, wastewater treatment and po er can all have a big influence on the design and budget. A shed home needs to be
designed and approved as a dwelling, with the appropriate engineering and residential requirements addressed. Comfort matters too, particularly insulation, ventilation and orientation. Getting those decisions right early helps avoid surprises and makes a real difference to how the home feels once you move in. What does running a family business in the Orara Valley mean to you, and what’s next for JBZ Building? It means building relationships in a community we’re part of. Our reputation matters personally to me. I’m proud of our in-house tradespeople and the local subcontractors who keep showing up and doing great work. Having a dependable team makes a huge difference for our clients. Looking ahead, I want to keep growing JBZ sustainably, developing our people and delivering more homes and shed projects across the region. The goal is a business my family and our team can be proud of, with quality staying central as we grow. How can we get in touch? For shed-related projects, visit The Shed Company Coffs Harbour website and click “Request a Quote”. For custom-built home enquiries, head to the JBZ Building website at jbzbuilding.com.au and complete the enquiry form. We’d love to hear what you have in mind and help you take the next step.
COFFS COAST focus 84
Donovan Livestock & Property
T
ell us a little about Donovan Livestock & Property and the services you provide.
We are a locally owned business specialising in livestock, as well as rural and residential property sales throughout the Clarence Valley, Orara Valley and surrounding districts. With a strong connection to the land and the people who work it, our team combines local knowledge, industry expertise and a practical, down-to-earth approach to business. Clearing sales have always been an important part of the business, ith the first clearing sale held in the Orara Valley in 1996. They remain an important service for farming families looking to sell machinery, equipment, livestock and property. How did Donovan Livestock begin, and how has the business grown over the years? The business was established in 1996 by Mitch’s parents, Ray and Helen. Mitch and Sophie purchased the business nearly 10 years ago, continuing that legacy while expanding its livestock and property services. Today, the team works across livestock, rural and residential real estate, building on the foundations established while continuing to grow with the needs of the local community. he rafton office has six full-time staff, hile uke Matten manages the oramba office, ensuring clients are supported across both locations. We offer the complete package for rural property owners, with the ability to sell the farm, conduct the clearing sale and handle the livestock, all through one experienced local team. What does a typical week look like for the team, and what areas do you service?
86 COFFS COAST focus
Our livestock
No two weeks are What do you love team is the same at DLP. Our most about living regularly out in livestock team is regularly and working in the the field inspecting out in the field inspecting Orara Valley, and how ca le ahead of cattle ahead of upcoming important is the local upcoming sales and sales and assisting community to your assisting clients with clients with livestock business? livestock husbandry husbandry and other and other needs. The country villages, the needs. Our property team quality of the farming is busy with appraisals, country and the people inspections, marketing are a big drawcard. We and negotiations, working with buyers and enjoy being part of a community where people sellers across a variety of rural and residential know each other and local connections matter. properties. Supporting the community is important to us, We service the Clarence Valley, Orara Valley and surrounding districts, with our work taking us across a diverse range of country and communities.
particularly through local charity events and initiatives. We appreciate the support we receive and believe it is important to give back wherever we can.
What do you think has been the key to building a trusted name within the local farming and livestock community?
How can people get in touch with you?
We believe being honest, down to earth and reliable has been a big part of building trust. Having the expertise and knowledge of our industry is equally important, as clients need to know they are receiving sound advice from people who understand their business and the local market. We value long-term relationships and believe in doing what we say we will do.
ou can find us in do nto n oramba bet een the pub and the servo or in South Grafton, easily recognised by the big Brahman bull on the roof. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell property, organise a clearing sale or need assistance with livestock, our team is always happy to have a chat. Same service, two locations.
ROCHELLE COURTENAY SHARE THE DIGNIT Y
COFFS COAST focus 87
Rochelle Courtenay Share the Dignity’s annual ‘It’s in the Bag’ campaign is returning this November, encouraging Australians to help women and girls experiencing hardship. We chat with founder Rochelle Courtenay about the difference a simple bag of essentials can make and how the Coffs Coast community can get involved.
H
i Rochelle. For readers who may not be familiar with Share the Dignity, can you tell us a little about the organisation and the work it does to support people experiencing poverty, homelessness and hardship? I founded Share the Dignity in 2015 after identifying a genuine, pressing need to provide essential period products to vulnerable women in my community. We have since grown into a national charity supported by thousands of incredible volunteers, donors and community partners across Australia. Working side-by-side with more than 2,500 dedicated volunteers and 3700 registered charity partners, the charity has delivered more than 6.1 million packets of period products and over 1.1 million essentialfilled t s in the ag donations to ustralian women, girls, and people who menstruate. At Share the Dignity, we passionately believe that access to period products should be as normal and accessible as toilet paper. hat s why this year we set a bold new goal: achieving menstrual equity in ustralia by . ts
88 COFFS COAST focus
an ambitious target, but with the support of communities across the country, I know we can get there. Your annual It’s in the Bag campaign is an important part of that work. What is It’s in the Bag, and how did the initiative begin? ack in , e launched this initiative specifically to address period poverty and other unmet needs during the holiday season. When a oman or girl flees an unsafe situation, basic essentials like deodorant and shampoo are often not front-of-mind in the little time they may have to pack, meaning they go without during hat is already an incredibly difficult time. The idea was and continues to be simple: encourage everyday ustralians to fill a bag with essential items, such as period products, shampoo, conditioner, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and soap or body wash, and pop in a simple, handwritten ‘Dear er note to remind her she matters. eople then donate their bags at their local unnings
Warehouse store. Each and every donation is personally collected, sorted, tagged and logged by our amazing volunteers before being distributed through our network of registered charity partners. These charities then ensure the donations are safely gifted to women and girls waking up in domestic violence shelters or homelessness refuges on Christmas Day. For someone who has never taken part before, how does the campaign work? What do people need to do to put together a bag? very ovember, you can get involved in t s in the ag by filling a ne or pre-loved bag in great condition with essentials for someone doing it tough. Choose an Adult, Teen or Mum ub ag, and fill it ith essential items, a hand ritten ear er card, and if you ould like, some special added extras. Our website has detailed packing guides to help you know what to include.
S H A R E T H E D I G N I T Y
Once packed, drop your bag at any Bunnings Warehouse between 6-22 November 2026. You will see our collection boxes near the entrance! From there, our volunteers collect every donation and deliver them to our local charity partners.
This year, in our tenth year of partnership, official collection points will be located at every Bunnings nationwide, including the local store in Coffs Harbour.
Every bag helps provide essentials, kindness, and dignity to someone who needs it! What can something as simple as a thoughtfully packed bag mean to someone doing it tough? I have seen it time and time again – it can honestly mean the world. Many women have shared emotional stories of how receiving something as simple as a fresh bottle of shampoo or a box of tampons meant everything, giving them an invaluable sense of hope and reminding them that someone cares. hen you are fleeing domestic violence or facing homelessness, basic dignities are often impossible... A thoughtfully packed bag restores a piece of that humanity and lets them know they haven’t been forgotten. The bags are designed for people experiencing homelessness or hardship. How do you ensure they reach people who genuinely need them?
We take transparency very seriously. We work closely with our 2,500 volunteers and network of charity partners across Australia to deliver donated products directly to women, girls, and people who menstruate who are currently in crisis. These trusted partners include homeless shelters, domestic violence refuges, community centres, schools, and local charities. By partnering directly with them, we help ensure our products and bags reach the people who need them most. What is happening with It’s in the Bag here on the Coffs Coast this year? Are there local collection points, groups or businesses getting involved? This year, in our tenth year of partnership, official collection points ill be located at every Bunnings nationwide, including the local store in Coffs Harbour. Share the Dignity also welcomes local community groups, workplaces and schools to host Packing Parties, at which groups can gather to pack bags or raise money for It’s in the Bag and women and girls in need. We love seeing local schools, community groups, and businesses jump on board every single year to run their own internal Packing Parties - it’s
incredible to watch the whole region come together for such a vital cause. If you’d like to run your own Packing Party, sign up via the Share the Dignity website to receive exclusive access to a wide range of tools and resources to help ensure your packing event is a success! If putting together a physical bag isn’t quite possible with your schedule this year, you can contribute in other ways, such as Sponsoring an It’s in the Bag online and we will pack a bag on your behalf or volunteering your time to help collect and deliver donations. Every contribution makes a massive difference. What are the key dates, drop-off details and the est a to find o t more You can drop off your packed bag at your local unnings arehouse during the official campaign period. For this year, collection points will be open from November 6-22. If you are unable to attend an in-person drop-off location, don’t worry! You can securely post your bag to our central address at PO Box 345, Virginia, QLD 4014. To check out the detailed packing guides or learn more about how you can support our mission, please visit the Share the Dignity website. We would love to see as many people as possible get involved and help make a difference this year! Thanks Rochelle COFFS COAST focus 89
W E LCO M E D E N TA L
MODERN DENTISTRY with a PERSONAL TOUCH
With practices in Coffs Harbour and Urunga, Welcome Dental combines personalised, friendly dental care with modern technology and state-of-the-art equipment. Owner and dentist Dr Sharon Marinucci is passionate about providing patients with access to the latest dental treatments and technology, including the equipment and expertise required for Invisalign treatment. We caught up with Sharon to find out more about her journey, the evolution of Welcome Dental and how investing in modern technology is helping provide patients with more choice and a comfortable, contemporary dental experience.
C
an you tell us a little about your journey into dentistry and what inspired you to become a dentist?
Funnily enough it was a visit to the dentist. I’d always liked going and had a check and clean two days before the Year 12 results came out. The dentist was so lovely, and I thought ‘this seems like fun’. So, I changed my preferences and the rest is history. What was the vision behind establishing Welcome Dental We chose the name and our logo, the Welcome Swallow because of its symbolism, which includes safe return, loyalty, and new beginnings. It was a sign that land was near to sailors and a herald of the spring to the land lubbers. t remains a perfect fit for our vision. We want people to know they are safe and
90 COFFS COAST focus
Dr Sharon Marinucci
well looked after and we want them to be happy to come back to see us.
lots of kids who would not have required
What is the most common myth surrounding dental care?
looked after and if they are lost early then the
One common misconception is that baby teeth don’t matter because they’re going to fall out anyway. They have a very important job!
adult teeth to come through. Looking after
Children need them to eat comfortably, smile confidently and hold space for their adult teeth. Decay can cause pain and infection, and losing baby teeth too early can affect the space available for adult teeth. There are
orthodontics if their baby teeth had been spaces may need to be maintained for the them from the beginning helps give children a healthy start. Welcome Dental has invested in some impressive, state-of-the-art dental technology and equipment. Why was having access to the latest technology so
probably seen worse! We see everyone from small children to great grandparents and frequently help people with dental phobias. What makes Welcome Dental so unique?
important to you?
them to move if we apply different forces.
Most people like to know what’s going on with their dental health. It is great to be able to get the records we need on site without having to send patients out and have them wait until we receive them. The detail provided by the new technology is phenomenal as anyone who has had a 3D photographic scan of their mouth will attest and it allows us to compare over time to assess for stability. The CBCT x-rays give us a much fuller picture of what’s going on than a standard 2D x-ray. We can now also digitally send impressions and have them arrive where they need to be within a few minutes instead of a week. Best of all for some patients we rarely need to use the old school gooey trays of impression material anymore!
Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that are fitted to your mouth specifically and almost invisible compared to normal braces which many people love. The aligners move the teeth slowly and gently over time. The clear aligners are custom-made and offer a discreet option for straightening teeth. Our digital scanning technology helps us explain the treatment plan so patients can better understand what’s involved.
Aligners are now a popular alternative to traditional braces. What are some of the advantages of having Invisalign technology and treatment available locally for patients on the Coffs Coast? I like Invisalign as it is the company that puts the most into the research and the development of their aligners. It also gives the ability to utilise CBCT technology to see how the teeth sit in the bone and how we expect
We also offer braces, because different approaches suit different people. We talk through the options, what each involves and the commitment required, so patients can make an informed choice. If someone hasn’t been to the dentist for a while, or has been thinking about improving their smile, what would you say to encourage them to make an appointment? Just do it! So many people feel shy or embarrassed about their teeth and that keeps them away. We are not here to judge. We here to get you back on track. For most people what they have is not as bad as they are expecting. Whatever you have, we have
I’ve been working in Urunga since 2004 and am now seeing the children of the kids I saw back then! We have a great diversity of wonderful dentists, hygienists, therapists and oral health therapists with different interests that we each get to focus on and which we love to work on, and whatever a person’s needs, more than likely we have at least one clinician that can address them. We have fantastic support staff that we could not do without. We have always had a strong community focus and have supported the Woolgoolga Longboard Club, the Urunga Cricket, Soccer and Bowling Clubs and many others over the years. Our Tooth fairy program has provided oral health education to thousands of local school and preschool children. The practices are beautiful with original artworks, mostly sourced from local artists and cheerful colours. We have avoided the traditional minimalist aesthetic and created spaces where we hope most people would feel comfortable, as they would in their own lounges. We have ‘healthy’ eating gardens at both surgeries with fruit and herbs that staff, and in Urunga, patients too, can pick and take home with them. o an eo e find o t more a o t Welcome Dental, Invisalign or book an appointment at the Coffs Harbour or Urunga practice? Come in and see us, book online or give us a call. We are located at 46 Bonville St Urunga Ph 6655 5800 and our new practice is at 10/3 Ted Ovens Drive which is behind the GP Supercentre on Stadium Drive Ph 6655 6005 www.welcomedental.com.au We are open Monday to Friday at both surgeries and two Saturdays a month in Urunga. We look forward to welcoming you! COFFS COAST focus 91
92 COFFS COAST focus
focus_contributor.
UNDERSTANDING RESENTMENT
R
esentment is a complex and deeply personal emotion that may quietly shape our relationships, mental health, and overall wellbeing. Often described as a lingering feeling of anger or bitterness, resentment arises when we perceive that we have been treated unfairly, disrespected, or wronged. While it is a natural human response, unchecked resentment may become a significant barrier to emotional gro th and connection. At its core, resentment is rooted in unmet expectations or unresolved conflicts. t often stems from situations where you feel powerless or unheard, such as in relationships, workplaces, or family dynamics. For example, a parent might feel resentment toward a partner who does not share the load around the house, or an employee might harbour bitterness toward a manager who overlooks their contributions. These feelings, if left unaddressed, may fester and grow, creating emotional distance and eroding trust. One of the challenges of resentment is its tendency to linger. Unlike anger, which is often immediate and intense, resentment may simmer beneath the surface for weeks, months, or even years. This prolonged emotional state may lead to a cycle of rumination, where you replay the perceived injustice in your mind, reinforcing feelings of bitterness and helplessness. Over time, this may contribute to stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues, as the body remains in a heightened state of tension.
with JULIE THOMAS
A BARRIER TO EMOTIONAL WELLBEING
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
note that forgiveness does not mean condoning Resentment also has a profound impact on harmful behaviour. nstead, it is about letting go relationships. When left unspoken, it may of the emotional burden and reclaiming a sense create alls bet een people, making it difficult of peace. to communicate openly or rebuild trust. For example, in a friendship, resentment might Cultivating empathy and perspective-taking manifest as passive-aggressive behaviour or may also help in managing resentment. By withdrawal, leaving the other person confused considering the other person’s intentions or or hurt. n romantic circumstances, you relationships, it may may find it easier to lead to a breakdown in Addressing understand their actions intimacy and connection, resentment and move toward as unresolved grievances requires both selfresolution. For example, overshadow positive awareness and a colleague’s perceived interactions. intentional action. The slight might be the result
first step is recognising Addressing resentment of their own stress or and acknowledging requires both selfchallenges, rather than the emotion. awareness and a deliberate attempt to intentional action. The emotionally hurt you. first step is recognising Ultimately, resentment and acknowledging the emotion. This involves is a signal that something in our lives needs identifying the source of the resentment and attention. By addressing it with compassion and reflecting on the underlying feelings, such as courage, we may transform it from a source hurt, disappointment, or frustration. Journalling of pain into an opportunity for growth and or speaking with a trusted friend or therapist healing. n doing so, e not only improve our may be helpful in this process, as it allows you own emotional wellbeing but also strengthen to explore your emotions in a safe and nonour relationships and create a more harmonious judgmental space. environment for ourselves and those around us. Once the root cause of resentment is understood, the next step is to take action. This might involve having an honest conversation with the person involved, setting boundaries, or seeking support to address the underlying issue. Forgiveness may also play a crucial role in releasing resentment, though it is important to
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 93
94 COFFS COAST focus
Stars t i t
N O V E M B E R
ARIES. November is your reminder to slow down and appreciate how far you’ve come. New opportunities are approaching, but don’t rush into decisions. Trust your instincts, nurture your relationships and make time for the things that bring you happiness. A little patience will go a long way. TAURUS. TAURUS Change is in the air, Taurus! Step outside your comfort zone and embrace something different. Relationships flourish through honest conversations, while work brings opportunities to shine. Remember, you don’t need to carry everyone’s responsibilities. Make yourself a priority this month. GEMINI. Your social calendar is filling up ovember brings opportunities to reconnect with old friends and explore exciting ideas. Focus on finishing hat you ve started before taking on more. A spontaneous invitation could lead to a wonderful surprise. CANCER. Family, friendships and emotional wellbeing take centre stage. You’ve spent plenty of time looking after others, but November encourages you to give yourself some love, too. Trust your intuition and let go of worries beyond your control.
2 0 2 6
LEO. our confidence is gro ing, Leo! Opportunities at work could bring recognition, while home life
SAGITTARIUS. Adventure is calling! ovember encourages reflection before your birthday season brings
offers comfort and connection. Don’t be afraid
renewed excitement. A change of scenery could
to show your softer side. The people who matter most will appreciate your honesty and warmth. VIRGO. Put down that endless to-do list! November encourages you to embrace life’s little imperfections. Your hard work is paying off, and an unexpected
inspire fresh ideas. Follow your curiosity, but keep your festive spending in check. CAPRICORN. You’ve worked hard all year, Capricorn. Now it’s time to enjoy yourself! Friendships, family gatherings
social opportunity could bring plenty of laughs.
and community connections bring happiness.
Remember, progress is more important than
Remember, success means more when shared
perfection.
with the people you love. LIBRA. Balance is your November theme. Reassess your priorities, set healthy boundaries and stop worrying
about pleasing everyone. Financial planning will
AQUARIUS. Big ideas are brewing! November encourages you to turn dreams into action. Career
bring peace of mind as Christmas approaches.
opportunities may appear, while friendships bring
Make time for the people who genuinely lift your
inspiration. Stay open-minded and trust your
spirits.
unique perspective. SCORPIO. Happy birthday, Scorpio! ovember brings fresh confidence and exciting possibilities. It’s time to release
old worries and celebrate your personal growth. Trust your instincts, embrace new beginnings and
PISCES. November brings creativity, connection and fresh inspiration. Explore somewhere new, follow your passions and protect your peace. Your kindness is
remember just how much you’ve achieved this
a gift, but remember to save some of that energy
year.
for yourself. COFFS COAST focus 95
JOINING HANDS TO
change the Future of Smiles ON THE COFFS COAST
Sometimes, the best new beginnings come from bringing together what we already know and trust.
F
or Dr Mimo Khzouz and Dr Peter Elfar, the coming together of Harbourside Dental and Sundial Dental is about more than a new name above the door. It’s about two dentists joining hands, sharing their experience and building on years of caring for their communities. Harbourside’s familiar faces and longstanding connection to Coffs Harbour are now joining Sundial Dental’s 20-year history of caring for patients across the Mid North Coast. With more than 20 years of clinical experience, Dr Peter Elfar brings not only his passion for dentistry but also the knowledge, technology and support of an established dental team. Together with Dr Mimo, he is looking forward to building on the care Harbourside patients already know and love, while opening the door to new possibilities. And there’s plenty to be excited about. Sundial Dental brings a range of modern dental technologies and treatment options to Harbourside, including CEREC same-day crowns, digital dentistry and CBCT 3D imaging, allowing for detailed diagnosis,
96 COFFS COAST focus
digital impressions and treatment planning. Patients will also have access to a broader range of dental services, including dental implants, All on 4 full-arch tooth replacement and LANAP laser-assisted treatment for gum disease. These advances are about more than impressive equipment. They offer new ways to approach dental care, explore treatment options and help patients make informed decisions about their oral health.
while keeping the personal relationships that make dentistry so much more than a visit to the dentist. Working hand in hand to change the future of smiles across the Coffs Coast.
Harbourside’s familiar faces and longstanding connection to Coffs Harbour are now joining Sundial Dental’s 20-year history of caring for patients across the Mid North Coast.
Behind the technology is something equally important: an experienced team ready to support Harbourside as it grows, bringing together clinical knowledge, fresh ideas and a shared enthusiasm for what lies ahead. For Dr Mimo and Dr Peter, the future isn’t simply about doing more. It’s about bringing together the best of what each has built,
Because while dentistry continues to evolve, one thing remains unchanged: the importance of making people feel comfortable, heard, understood and cared for. Good dentistry changes smiles. Great dentistry changes how you feel. Welcome to Sundial Dental Harbourside.
For more information about the treatments we offer, the technology, or the team, visit sundialdental.com. au or rin o r rooms on or o r em se rooms or sim sto by to see our newly remodelled rooms and our friendly team.
COFFS COAST focus 97
focus_contributor.
Donna Alderman
C
an you tell us about your business? LootPay helps business owners with what’s probably THE most important part of business - getting paid!!
We’re an Australian payment processing company, and authorised reseller of a number of well-known brands in the payments space. We’ve got ways to help tradies spend less time chasing up unpaid jobs and get back on the tools quicker. Ways to help cafes with busy lunchtime queues. Ways for gyms to collect membership payments, online and ecommerce brands to take payments. Those in health-related fields as ell. Whether a mobile terminal, fully integrated POS system incorporating kitchen displays and table ordering, customer self-serve kiosks or fully automated payments - we’ve got it covered! With the RBA surcharge ban now in place, it’s a great time for business owners to review exactly what they have, what they need and what it’s costing them. That’s where I come in - because it can be very challenging doing that alone. What’s your favourite part of the work you do? I absolutely love helping business owners keep more of their profit love that part and seeing their workload decrease because they no have a more efficient system. t s a great feeling! It’s hard keeping up with technology, 98 COFFS COAST focus
Women inBusiness
with CATH FOWLER
I N T E R N AT I O N A L W O M E N S D AY C O M M I T T E E
L O O T PAY and business owners are busy, wearing multiple hats so this often gets overlooked. A payment system gets put in place hen they first open their doors, and it’s never given another thought. here could be, and probably definitely is, ays to cut costs and raise efficiency but no one thinks to review it, bleeding the business energy and profit margin.
to climb and sticks to collect LOL!! The extended community: So many creative, innovative and caring people. Major national and global businesses operating from our little neck of the woods. Gifted artists, musicians, authors, chefs, entrepreneurs, teachers. Inspirational volunteers who freely
give their time, energy, Shoosh that li le Who is your greatest expertise advocating voice in your inspiration in for older people, taking head telling you you’re business? Average, those with disabilities not good enough and everyday people who give it a go! surfing, feeding hungry spark an idea and go families, protecting for it! People who, our native habitats, regardless of how scared sharing their culture and or unsure they feel; they step forward toward language or on the phones saving people’s lives their goal. Even if it’s eency-weency baby steps… - literally that’s inspirational to me! What piece of advice would you give What do you love about living and working women making their way in the business on the Coffs Coast? here do start he world? Shoosh that little voice in your head people: I’m so fortunate to be part of this telling you you’re not good enough and give community! We moved here 23 years ago and it a go! I’d rather go to my grave knowing I’ve made so many incredible friends - people something didn’t work out than always who’ve laughed with me in fun times; and those wondering if it could have. Now in my 60th amazing souls who lifted me up during not-sorevolution around the sun, my motto is “It fun times. wasn’t a failure, it was a pivot”. Our great outdoors: having raised 4 sons here, How can people learn more about your I’m so grateful for all that’s on our doorstep: business? Reach out for a chat beautiful beaches, freshwater swimming holes, parks, playgrounds, green spaces. All those trees donna@lootpay.com.au 0413790655
DECADES IN THE TRADE
COFFS COAST focus 99
AWARD
EUROPEAN
A FA M I LY B U S I N E S S B U I LT O N PASSION AND EXPERTISE
100 COFFS COFFS COAST COAST focus focus
DE C A DE S I N T H E T R A D E
Behind every successful family business is a story of hard work, determination and a shared vision. For Adrian and Eloise Ward, Award European has grown from a leap of faith into a trusted Coffs Coast workshop specialising in Volkswagen, Audi and Škoda vehicles. We caught up with the husband-and-wife team to learn about their journey, the people behind the business and what makes Award European special.
A
drian, where did your passion for the automotive industry begin?
My father was a mechanic, and as a child I loved spending time in his workshop. I’m sure I was more of a hindrance than a help, but he always let me lend a hand! I left school at 15 and completed an apprenticeship specialising in European vehicles. At 21, I was offered a foreman position within the Volkswagen dealer network and completed Master Technician training with Volkswagen and Audi. I moved to Australia 20 years ago, thanks to my qualifications and experience. ro ing up in the UK, European cars were my equivalent of Falcons and Commodores. They’re what I know and love. Eloise, how did Award European come about, and what was your background before joining the business? spent my career in banking and finance, including managing a finance branch. After 20 years working for Volkswagen and Audi dealerships, Adrian decided he needed a change. He told me we could either start our own business or move to Sydney so he could train technicians. Moving to Sydney? Absolutely not! So Award European was born. Those early days weren’t easy. Adrian was working more than 80 hours a week, and I was home with a toddler and a baby. We ere constantly exhausted, but e pushed through together. When our youngest turned one, I joined parttime. I’d completed an accountancy course during maternity leave, which helped, but
running a workshop was still a huge learning curve! Adrian, what services does Award European specialise in? e specialise in olks agen roup vehicles, including Volkswagen, Audi and Škoda. We use genuine factory diagnostic tools and specialist equipment to deliver everything from routine servicing to advanced electronic diagnostics, major repairs and complete rebuilds. With more than 60 years of combined experience, e can often identify potential issues before they become major problems. Our focus is on providing reliable, specialist service and getting customers back on the road. Eloise, what’s been the biggest challenge and reward of running the business?
aul brings years of experience and exceptional attention to detail. onnor started as an apprentice and is no qualified, bringing fantastic energy and enthusiasm. Our newest apprentice, Chaise, is showing great potential. They’re more than employees to us. They’re family, and we’re proud of the environment we’ve created together. Eloise, how do you balance business and family life? Our children are now 12 and 13, and we’ve found a system that works. Adrian handles school runs and our son’s activities, while I take care of our daughter’s commitments. We also made the decision to operate Monday to Thursday, working longer days to maintain customer service while giving everyone three-day weekends.
earning the automotive trade as definitely my biggest challenge! I was someone who simply got in the car and drove. Now I can carry out a basic service on my own vehicle and understand so much more about Volkswagen, Audi and Škoda.
It’s been fantastic for our family and staff. Fridays are for catching up on life, leaving weekends for family time.
In the beginning, every phone call was, “Can I speak to Adrian?” These days, customers ask for me directly. Knowing they trust me and value my advice is incredibly rewarding.
Finally, what does the future hold for Award European?
I’ve occasionally considered doing something different, and even tried it once, but eight months later the business needed me back. It’s a family business, and that’s what keeps me here. Adrian, tell us about the team behind Award European. We’re incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated team.
also have five grandchildren ho keep me busy hen find a spare moment, love reading or watching a good series.
Eloise: We want to keep growing, strengthen our customer relationships and maintain the high standards we’re known for. Most importantly, we want to continue supporting our team while protecting that work-life balance we’ve worked hard to achieve. We’re proud of what we’ve built together, and our goal is to create a secure, happy future for our family while continuing to deliver a business our customers can trust. COFFS COAST focus 101
102 COFFS COAST focus
COFFS COAST focus 102
Darren O’Reilly
Specsavers COFFS HARBOUR CIT Y CENTRE
D
26 YEARS OF CARING FOR THE COFFS COAST
arren, tell us about your journey and how you got started in the industry?
It’s hard to believe it’s been 26 years! What started as an opportunity to build a career in optics has become a huge part of my life. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some wonderful people and help generations of families across the Coffs Coast. Receiving my 25-year service award was a proud moment and a reminder of how much this community and the industry mean to me. After 26 years in business, what are you most proud of? Without question, the people. The relationships I’ve built with customers, the friendships and the opportunity to watch team members develop their skills and confidence. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a customer leave feeling genuinely cared for, or watching someone you’ve mentored grow into a confident professional. I’m also proud of our recently refurbished City Centre practice and the wonderful team we’re continuing to build. How has eye care and the industry changed over the past 26 years? The advances in technology have been incredible. We can now assess eye health in ways that weren’t possible when I started, and
104 COFFS COAST focus
there are so many more options available to suit people’s lifestyles. But one thing hasn’t changed: the importance of listening.
incredibly rewarding. Teaching young people to respect the ocean and develop lifesaving skills reinforced the importance of teamwork, responsibility and looking after others.
For me, eye care is about much more than selling glasses. It’s about understanding someone’s needs, whether they’re working, driving, reading, or enjoying their favourite activities, and helping them find the right solution.
I’m incredibly grateful for the trust and support local people have shown me over the years, and I never take that for granted.
What has been the key to building a successful business for so many years?
It’s an exciting new chapter.
Treating people the way you’d want your own family treated. I believe in being approachable, listening carefully and making sure customers feel comfortable asking questions. I also believe that a great customer experience starts with a happy, supported team. Investing in training, mentoring and creating a positive workplace is something I’m passionate about. We’re always learning and looking for ways to improve. How important has the Coffs Coast community been to your journey?
What’s next for you and Specsavers Coffs Harbour City Centre? My focus is no firmly on pecsavers offs Harbour City Centre, where we’re continuing to build on our refreshed practice, develop our team and strengthen the experience we provide every customer. I want people to know that when they walk through our doors, they’ll be welcomed, listened to, and genuinely looked after. After 26 years, I’m just as passionate about that as ever. How can we book or get in touch? Visit our friendly team at Specsavers Coffs Harbour City Centre on Harbour Drive, or book an appointment via the Specsavers website.
It’s been everything. Coffs Harbour is home, and I’ve been fortunate to get to know so many local families over the years. My involvement in Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving as a Patrol Captain and Age Manager has been
Coffs Harbour City Centre City Centre Square, NSW 2450 02 6651 4300
22 Hickory Street Dorrigo NSW 22 22 Hickory Hickory Street Street Dorrigo Dorrigo NSW NSW 22 Hickory Street Dorrigo NSW 22 Hickory Street Dorrigo NSW Freehold Building THIS STUNNING LANDMARK CORNER SHOP IS FOR SALE THIS STUNNING LANDMARK CORNER SHOP IS FOR SALE THIS STUNNING LANDMARK CORNER SHOP IS FOR SALE
Refurbished to a very high standard
T H I S S T U N N I N G L A N D Completely M A R K C rewired O R N Eincluding R S H O three-phase P I S F O power R SALE T H I S S T U N N I N G L A N D Refurbished MARK CO R N E R S H O P I S F O R SALE to a very high standard
First-time Offered Freehold Freehold Building Building Occupy orBuilding Invest First-time Offered Freehold First-time Offered Freehold Building Tenanted or Vacant Occupy or Invest First-time Offered Occupy or Invest First-time Offered Tenanted Vacant Occupy oror Invest Tenanted or Vacant Occupy or Invest Tenanted or Vacant Tenanted or Vacant
New Occupation Certificate Refurbished to a very high standard Completely rewired including three-phase Massive drive-through garage to rear lane power Completely rewired including three-phase power New Occupation Certificate Huge storage areas Refurbished to a very high standard New Occupation Certificate Refurbished toinatown veryincluding high standard Massive drive-through garage to rear lane power Best position on WORLD FAMOUS Completely rewired three-phase Massive drive-through garage to rear lane WATERFALL WAY Completely rewired including three-phase power Huge storage areas New Certificate HugeOccupation storage areas New Occupation Certificate Best position in town on WORLD FAMOUS WAY Massive drive-through garage to rear lane WATERFALL Best position in town on WORLD FAMOUS WATERFALL WAY Massive drive-through garage to rear lane Huge storage Agent’s Interestareas Huge storage areas on WORLD FAMOUS WATERFALL WAY Best FOR MORE INFORMA T I Oposition N W Win W town .PETERANDERSON.AU Best position in town on WORLD FAMOUS WATERFALL WAY
JACINTA ANDERSON PETER ANDERSON FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.PETERANDERSON.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.PETERANDERSON.AU
0414 363 370 0414 0414 363 363 370 370
0412 281 133 0412 0412 281 281 133 133
JACINTA ANDERSON PETER ANDERSON J A C I N T A A N D E R S FOO NR M O R E I N F O R M A P ET TI EORN A NW D EWR W S O. N PETERANDERSON.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.PETERANDERSON.AU JACINTA ANDERSON PETER ANDERSON JACINTA ANDERSON PETER ANDERSON
COFFS COAST focus 105
FLOW RIGHT R O O F I N G
Andrew and Michaela Slater have been providing quality metal roofing on the Coffs Coast for over 20 years, across new builds and renovations, residential and commercial.
H
o did o ri ht oofin start? Andrew took up roofing after returning from anada and realising office life asn t for him. e founded Flo right on a simple idea do the ob properly the first time. ndre s orkmanship built this business, says Michaela, ho no runs the office. My ob is building the systems around it so e can gro ithout losing that. hat ee s o assionate a ter years? very roof is different, and on the offs oast the eather keeps you honest, ndre says. ut it s the people loyal customers, great builders and our team. atching apprentices become proper tradespeople is the best part. hat ser i es do o o er oof replacements and repairs, guttering, ne residential and commercial roofs, and storm and hail insurance ork. e ork mainly ith steel, plus insulated panels, cladding and aserlite polycarbonate. h hoose a meta roo and hat sho d homeo ners onsider Metal is strong, light eight, lo -maintenance and non-combustible, and it on t crack in hail like tiles can. onsider your distance from the beach salt air affects the steel grade you need plus your bushfire rating, estate colour rules, and gutters si ed for our do npours.
106 COFFS COAST focus
What’s the most ommon ro em o see? ld tile roofs that have become porous, silicone patch-ups instead of proper repairs, and blocked gutters overflo ing in heavy storms. yearly maintenance check heads off bigger repairs. hat does the o s oast omm nit mean to o verything. ndre as born and bred here, and e ouldn t live any here else. very roof e do is for a neighbour, and ord of mouth has al ays kept us busy. e never take that for granted. hat are o most ro d o he ctober hailstorm as the orst e ve seen. ur house as many neighbours eren t. hile out-of-to n storm chasers poured in, e orked long hours getting local families atertight again. ears later, e re still fixing their quick repairs and still here to ans er the phone. hat an stomers e e t lear communication, and e do hat e say e ill. licensed ic. , fully insured local team, a tidy site, and ork to ustralian tandards. ai season is here hat sho d o do o r roo is dama ed tay off the roof. hotograph the damage from the ground and any ater inside, then call your insurer. For urgent help, call the on . et a i
licensed local roofer to inspect it and be ary of storm door-knockers. e handle insurance ork, so call us early. hat s ne t and ho an eo e rea h o e re gro ing, so e can get to more homes sooner. eak, hail damage or a full re-roof e ll inspect it and give you a clear ritten quote. all ndre on , email info flo rightroofing.com.au or follo flo right.roofing on nstagram.
COFFS COAST focus 107
Nestled in the beautiful Crossmaglen Valley, Crossmaglen Public School is a small rural school with a big commitment to learning, wellbeing and community. Guided by its motto, Excellence Through Connection, the school provides a nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to reach their potential. We caught up with Principal Kristina Stewart to discover what makes Crossmaglen so special.
W
hat makes Crossmaglen Public School such a special place to learn and grow?
Surrounded by farmland, our semi-rural setting is one of our greatest strengths. It provides wonderful opportunities for outdoor learning while fostering a strong sense of community. Crossmaglen Public School values academic excellence inspired by close connections with our students, families, and the natural environment. We know our students individually and provide targeted teaching through flexible literacy and numeracy groupings, ensuring every child receives the support and challenge they need to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. What special programs and extracurricular opportunities are available to students? We offer a wonderful range of experiences beyond the classroom, including performing arts, Gumbaynggirr language, coached sporting opportunities and environmental education. Our setting enables authentic outdoor learning and sustainable practices, both on-site and through partnerships with
108 COFFS COAST focus
local initiatives like Oz Green and Cascade Environmental Education Centre.
connections between students, staff and families.
Our Kids in the Kitchen program is a favourite. Students work together in mixed-age cooking and gardening groups, using produce from our school garden whenever possible. Sitting together, expressing gratitude and sharing meals strengthens our sense of community, with valuable support from parent volunteers.
How important are community connections and partnerships to the school?
Students also participate in interest-based electives led by staff and community volunteers, fostering creativity, independence, and new skills while helping us identify and nurture their individual strengths and talents.
Our fortnightly playgroup welcomes all families, helping young children build friendships and develop confidence before starting school.
o do o en o ra e onfiden e resilience and a sense of belonging? Our personalised approach and point-of-need teaching enables us to extend high-potential and gifted learners while providing targeted support where required.
Community is at the heart of everything we do, reflecting our motto, xcellence hrough Connection, and we warmly welcome parent and community volunteers.
Another wonderful initiative is our Produce Box, inspired by the P&C, designed by students and built by a grandparent. Filled with surplus school-grown produce and local donations, it represents the generosity and connection within our school and wider community.
Families play an active role by supporting students with cooking, gardening, electives or reading, in addition to attending end-of-term sharing assemblies where students present their learning and achievements, boosting confidence, resilience, and belonging.
Being part of strong school networks enriches student experiences and broadens opportunities for learning and growth. This collaboration includes working with neighbouring schools through the RROC small schools network and the Bongil Bongil Community of Schools.
hese opportunities build confidence, celebrate individual growth and reinforce the strong
These partnerships provide opportunities in sport, academics, public speaking, performing
arts and high potential and gifted education. Through our RROC network, students participate in swimming, cross-country and athletics carnivals, with pathways to district, regional and state Primary School Sports Association competitions. Our students have recently competed at state-level mixed relay and shot put events. Our Stage 2 and 3 students enjoy annual camps either locally or statewide, while activities including the Bellinger River Writers Festival and musical performances broaden their experiences.
Bongil Bongil Dance Academy, under the guidance of Year 10 students, developing friendships, confidence and performance skills. These connections create opportunities that extend well beyond our school grounds, supporting transition to Toormina and other local high schools. What achievements are you particularly proud of this year?
A highlight is the annual Flourish performing arts extravaganza, which brings together students from six primary schools and Toormina High School to perform for audiences of 500!
Through our involvement in the Bongil Bongil Community of Schools, students engage in programs that nurture and develop talent, including sporting pathways such as soccer for stage 1 and sporting gala days as well as public speaking. A highlight is the annual Flourish performing arts extravaganza, which brings together students from six primary schools and Toormina High School to perform for audiences of 500! This year, students also participated in the
Our 2026 NSW Public School Survey results reflect the positive environment we’ve worked hard to create. 100% of parents described Crossmaglen as welcoming and inclusive, with strong communication and a safe, happy and inclusive environment.
Among students, 100% reported having a supportive adult at school, while 97% expressed a strong sense of belonging. In teaching and learning, 100% of students reported that teachers have high expectations, 97% said classrooms are calm and ready for learning, and 93% reported being engaged. hese results are a onderful reflection of our dedicated staff, supportive families and the strong relationships that underpin everything
we do. What would you like local families to know about Crossmaglen Public School? We’re a proud public school offering personalised learning, wonderful opportunities and a genuinely caring community. Our small-school environment allows us to know every child, celebrate their strengths and support their individual journey. We warmly invite families to visit, meet our team and experience what makes Crossmaglen such a special place to learn and grow. To arrange a school tour, contact Crossmaglen Public School on (02) 6653 4295. COFFS COAST focus 109
exam A F T E R
T H E
L A S T
With the HSC behind them, Coffs Coast school leavers are weighing up what comes next. For one local science graduate, the right choice came down to the support she’d find once she arrived.
T
he pens are down. ATARs arrive in December, and between now and then plenty of kitchen tables across the Coffs Coast will host the same conversation:
where to next?
It's easy for course lists and entry scores to fill that conversation, but if you ask students who have already made the leap to uni, they often point to something else: how much support they found once they arrived. Ausrae Harrison is one of them. The Coffs Harbour local and Bachelor of Science graduate studied at Southern Cross University's National Marine Science Centre. This experience has given her some perspective for anyone waiting on a number. "You don't need to have the 100 ATAR," she said. "You're starting from scratch when you start at university, and everyone else is in the same boat too." 110 COFFS COAST focus
Her path into science traces back to the coastline she grew up on and a school trip to Heron Island. "Growing up in Coffs Harbour, being so exposed to my surroundings pushed me to study marine science," she said. "Once I did the Heron Island trip, I was like, 'I have to.' It felt like a calling." Staying local was a deliberate choice.
"There wasn't that sense of fear about asking a silly question, because everyone was so welcoming and supportive."
There wasn’t that sense of fear about asking a silly question, because everyone was so welcoming and supportive.
"I decided to study at Southern Cross because I live in Coffs Harbour. It's a regional university and a smaller university, and I really appreciated that the lecturers and smaller cohorts allowed you to have closer relationships with everyone," she said.
Her experience matches the national picture. The 2025 Student Experience Survey, run by Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT), gathered responses from more than 324,000 students at 153 higher education institutions.
Southern Cross University undergraduates placed the University in the national top 10 for student support. For usrae, that support started in the first year, hen peer mentors helped her find her feet. "Programs like PALS mentorship were
integral in my first year, she said. hese are students ho have experienced these units first-hand, so they kno hat they re talking about.
As someone with work and sport commitments, the six-week terms allowed a lot of flexibility and because of the faster pace, I felt more engaged.
he niversity teaches through the outhern ross Model, hich runs study in six- eek terms ith small classes and close contact ith teaching staff. s someone ith ork and sporting commitments, the six- eek terms allo ed a lot of flexibility, usrae said. ecause of the faster pace, felt more engaged. ince the model as introduced, overall student success rates have risen by more than percentage points to per cent. ver the same period, attrition among
commencing students has fallen by more than percentage points to per cent. For school leavers still unsure hether university is for them, her message is simple.
f you re unsure about going to university, that is okay. ou can defer an offer or take a gap year. f it s not the one for you, you can stop and start another course, or take a break. here are al ays opportunities to start over again. usrae kno s the her through it.
ait
ell, and
ho helped
hen as going through the , Mum as the shoulder to cry on, she said. hen opened my , didn t ant
anyone around me, but the first person called
as my mum, because she d been
part of that ourney
ith me.
er advice for the parents at the kitchen table follo s from that. e part of the ourney
ith your kid. e
excited for every little milestone
ith them
rather than taking a back seat and letting them do their thing, she said.
t s good to
let them be free, but it s also really nice to appreciate their achievements and keep up ith ho
they re going. re they okay
o
they need support re you in ear
and thinking about your
future Find out more at scu.edu.au. COFFS COAST focus 111
The NSW Government is helping reduce the cost of living with more than 70 rebates and vouchers. By answering the tailored questions in the Service NSW Savings Finder tool, you can find rebates and vouchers relevant to you. You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code.
Gurmesh SINGH MP coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500
Authorised by Gurmesh Singh Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, MP, 1/9 1/9 ParkPark Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements September 2022 Funded using Parliamentary 112 COFFS COAST focus Entitlements July 2023
focus_contributor.
STAT E OF
PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP
BACKING IN SMALL BUSINESS
M
ake no mistake, New South Wales is going backwards under the Minns Labor Government.
In the September quarter alone, we’ve seen more than 1800 business insolvencies. This is well above the national average. Unfortunately, we’re punching above our weight in the wrong statistics. That’s why the Liberals and Nationals have introduced to NSW Parliament our payroll tax reforms that we are taking to the March State Election. The Coalition is determined to back business by creating the most competitive payroll tax regime in the country, which includes: • raising the payroll tax threshold from $1.2 million to $1.5 million; • reducing the payroll tax rate from 5.45 per cent to 4.75 per cent for businesses with a total Australian payroll below $10 million;
GURMESH SINGH
• introducing CPI indexation to payroll tax thresholds to eliminate bracket creep.
close their doors. Those main streets just
Small businesses everywhere are doing it extremely tough at the moment. They’re crying out for relief, for real help which will make a difference to their bottom line.
business community to thrive.
hey re fighting to stay afloat as extra taxes, fees and charges eat into already thin margins, yet the Minns and Albanese governments keep asking more of the people who can least afford it. Unfortunately, there’s an overwhelming feeling of dread leading into Christmas, a time when there is normally a feeling of excitement.
don t have the traffic they need for our small The Coalition’s payroll tax reforms send a strong signal to small business that the Liberals and Nationals have got your back. Our policy is an economy-wide measure
Small businesses everywhere are doing it extremely tough at the moment. They’re crying out for relief and for real help which will make a difference to their bo om line.
You only have to walk down any main street in our local communities and you’ll see shops
targeted at small businesses that actually impacts and benefits our entire economy. We want businesses to have the confidence to invest in their business, in their staff, in their own future. When businesses have confidence, the o ners
and the employees then have confidence to go out and spend in the local economy as well. COFFS COAST focus 113
114 COFFS COAST focus
focus_contributor.
Plenty of reasons to be
OPTIMISTIC
Message
Mayor with FROM THE
NIKKI WILLIAMS
COFFS HARBOUR
T
here’s no denying that times are tough for many people at the moment. The cost of living continues to put pressure on households, and local businesses are working hard to manage rising costs and keep customers coming through the door. These challenges are real, and I know many in our community are feeling them. But when I look at Coffs Harbour and what lies ahead, I also see plenty of reasons to be optimistic. We are just weeks away from the opening of the $2.2 billion Coffs Harbour Bypass. For years, the highway has divided our city and created frustration for locals and visitors alike. Its opening gives us the chance to reconnect the east and west, rethink our former highway corridor and create a more welcoming City Centre, with better spaces for people to walk, cycle, meet and spend time. Work is also progressing on the next chapter for the Jetty Foreshore, with the NSW Government finalising the re oning frame ork. his is an important step towards revitalising one of our most valued locations and creating better
public spaces, stronger connections and new opportunities for tourism and investment. Getting the balance right will be important, ensuring our community continues to enjoy the natural beauty and character that make the Jetty special. Together, these projects create opportunities to attract investment, support local jobs and strengthen our economy. We also have to plan sensibly for growth, making sure housing, infrastructure and services keep pace with the needs of our community. And it’s not just the big projects that make Coffs Harbour a great place to live. The recent Tag World Cup at C.ex Coffs International Stadium brought teams from around the world to our city. Despite the wet weather, the atmosphere was fantastic, and events like this deliver real benefits for local accommodation providers, restaurants, shops and other businesses. They also showcase our facilities and the welcoming spirit of our community. as equally pleased to officially open the ne Mangrove Boardwalk at the Botanic Garden alongside the Friends of the Garden. It’s a
wonderful addition to one of my favourite places on the Coffs Coast, giving residents and visitors another way to experience our natural environment. These moments remind us that Coffs Harbour has so much to offer. We have a diverse local economy, a strong community, beautiful natural surroundings and people who continue to put their energy into making our region better. None of this means the challenges facing households and businesses will disappear overnight. Nor should we underestimate the work required to turn major projects and investment into lasting benefits for our community. But we are moving into a period of real opportunity. Our job is to make the most of it, support our local families and businesses, plan responsibly and ensure the benefits reach communities right across the Coffs Coast. Coffs Harbour has never been just a place to stop along the highway. It is a place to live, work, raise a family and build a future. There is hard work ahead, but there are brighter days ahead too. And I’m excited about what we can achieve together. COFFS COAST focus 115
AMIA with TAFE
The id Nor oast
Where Business Excellence Thrives When people think about business success in New South Wales, they o en picture Sydney’s corporate towers and bustling CBDs, but those of us who live and work on the Mid North Coast know a different story.
T
his is a region where innovation happens in manufacturing workshops, healthcare clinics, tourism attractions, community organisations and family-owned businesses. It's where ambitious entrepreneurs build thriving enterprises, global companies grow from regional roots, and community impact sits alongside commercial success. The 2026 Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards provided a powerful reminder of just how much talent, leadership and innovation exists across our region. eld in offs arbour for the first time, this year's Regional Awards attracted a record 282 entries, reflecting the gro ing confidence and strength of the Mid North Coast business community. From emerging start-ups to internationally recognised organisations, the calibre of entries highlighted the extraordinary diversity of businesses helping drive our regional economy. Leading the celebrations was Birdon, which was named Mid North Coast Business of the Year after also securing Excellence in Large Business. 116 COFFS COAST focus
The 2026 Mid
North Coast What makes Birdon's Sustainability and Regional Business success so significant Excellence in Workplace Awards provided a is that it demonstrates Health & Wellbeing. powerful reminder what is possible from Clinic Director Dr Kristy of just how much regional Australia. Kostalas was recognised talent, leadership Growing from local as Outstanding and innovation origins into a globally Business Leader for exists across our respected maritime businesses with 20 region. engineering company, employees and under. Birdon has shown that Their achievements businesses based on demonstrate how the Mid North Coast successful businesses can compete on the world stage while creating today are combining exceptional service with jobs, investment and opportunity at home. a genuine commitment to people, workplace culture and sustainable practices. Another major winner was Linked Community Services, taking home Outstanding Community Organisation and Excellence in Innovation. CEO Carlie Comer was also recognised as Outstanding Business Leader for organisations with 21 employees and over. Together, these awards recognise an organisation that continues to improve lives while embracing innovation and strong leadership. Equally impressive was the success of Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic, which secured Excellence in Small Business, Excellence in
Tourism, one of the region's most important industries, was also strongly represented. The Big Banana Fun Park took home both Excellence in Sustainable Tourism and Outstanding Visitor Experience, recognising its ongoing contribution to the visitor economy. For generations, the Big Banana has been one of the Mid North Coast's most recognisable attractions, and its continued success highlights the importance of innovation even for established businesses.
The Big Banana with Gurmesh Singh and Rod Barnaby
The Social Flip
The full list of winners include: Outstanding Business Leader – 21 Employees and Over - Carlie Comer - Linked Community Services Outstanding Business Leader – 20 Employees and Under - Dr Kristy Kostalas - Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic Outstanding Young Business Leader - Tiga Cross - Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary Excellence in International Business - Planet Lighting Excellence in Sustainable Tourism - The Big Banana Fun Park Outstanding Community Organisation - Linked Community Services Excellence in Sustainability - Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic
Tiga Cross with Rod Barnaby
Partnership & Regional Visitor Economy Collective Excellence in Innovation - Linked Community Services Outstanding New Business - Remote Infrastructure Group Outstanding Employee - Nathan O'Connor Mid North Coast Allied Health Employer of Choice – 20 Employees and Under Magnified Employer of Choice – 21 Employees and Over Billabong Zoo Excellence in Micro Business - The Social Flip Excellence in Small Business - Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic Excellence in Medium Business - AMIA
Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion - ETC
Excellence in Large Business - Birdon
Excellence in Workplace Health & Wellbeing Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic
Outstanding Local Chamber - Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber
Outstanding Visitor Experience - The Big Banana Fun Park
Business of the Year - Birdon
Outstanding Visitor & 24-Hour Economy Collaboration - Coffs Coast Aviation
All of the winners from The Mid North Coast Awards were further celebrated at the Business NSW State Awards in Sydney on 30 October.
It was wonderful to see so many businesses in our region awarded this prestigious recognition at a state level. While the trophies have been presented and the celebrations have concluded, the significance of these achievements extends far beyond a single evening. Every winner represents perseverance, innovation, leadership and a commitment to excellence. Together, they tell a much bigger story about the Mid orth oast, a region filled ith ambitious businesses, talented people and growing opportunities. From Forster Tuncurry to Coffs Harbour and beyond, businesses across our region continue to innovate, invest and lead. They are proving that success is not confined to ma or cities and that regional communities can produce organisations that compete on state, national and international stages. The 2026 Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards have once again demonstrated that business excellence is thriving right here on our doorstep - and that's something every person and business across the Mid North Coast can be proud of. COFFS COAST focus 117
amp CrEatiVe N I C O L E
H
i Nicole. Camp Creative is gearing up for another exciting year in Bellingen. For those who haven’t experienced it before, can you tell us a little about Camp Creative and what makes it such a special event? Camp Creative is unique due to it being the only event of its kind in Australia, but it is also in its 41st year! This is an amazing milestone for an arts event that has been held in a small regional town for over 25 years. Camp Creative originally started in Bellingen, but it was then held in a different NSW location each year before settling back in Bellingen in . he first amp reative committee as started by Bill Lockley, a passionate violinist, (with the encouragement of his colleague, famous author Bryce Courtenay) in 1986. What can people look forward to at the upcoming Camp Creative? Are there any exciting new additions or changes to the program this year? There are plenty of new course additions, we do this every year to ensure the program stays fresh. It is a hard juggle to create a program 118 COFFS COAST focus
R U I G R O K
Bellingen’s much-loved Camp Creative returns this January, celebrating 41 years of bringing people together through art, music and creativity. We chat with coordinator Nicole Ruigrok about what’s in store for 2027, from exciting courses and workshops to live entertainment and community events.
that has something for all ages and covers a large range of genres. In saying that, we need new tutors, especially for kids’ courses. If anyone reading this has a creative skill they are keen to share, the course pitch form can be found on our website. We understand some courses have already sold out! Which ones have proven particularly popular, and for those still hoping to book, what courses currently have places available? Visual arts courses sell out fastest; especially Victorian artist Terry Jarvis’s The Wonders of atercolour, hich fills ithin days. hile 40 courses are already sold out as of midOctober, 46 are still open across all ages. Kids can jump into Stop Motion, Circus, Sewing, Drama, and Crafts; teens have Dungeons & Dragons, Photography, Dance, and Visual Arts; and adults still have plenty of choices in Music, Yoga, Short Film Making, Writing, Crafts, and more. Camp Creative caters to a wide range of ages and abilities. What age groups are the courses designed for, and are there opportunities for children, teenagers and adults to get involved? There’s a common misconception that Camp
Creative is either just for kids or just for adults, it's actually for everyone. With over 85 courses catering for ages 5 to 105, it is a true multi-generational event. For many families, spending the week at Camp Creative in Bellingen has become a cherished annual summer tradition. For someone who’s never tried a particular creative activity before, do they need any experience to enrol, or are there plenty of opportunities for complete beginners? hen founder ill ockley first conceptualised Camp Creative, it was described as "a multiart-form camp for talented people." The event has come a long way since those days, when less than 200 people attended and all ticket sales were made over the phone. The event now hosts over 1,100 annual participants, and you no longer need experience to join. Detailed skill descriptions for every course are available on our website. While some like String Orchestra Studio require prior competence, others like Joy of Dance welcome absolute beginners. One of the lovely things about Camp Creative is that the experience extends well beyond the classroom. What
additional activities and experiences are included with a course ticket?
Beyond the economic li , it turns our town into a vibrant creative hub, inspiring local artists through collaboration, learning, and shared energy.
A Camp Creative ticket offers much more than classes, it’s a chance to connect with fellow creatives and enjoy a packed evening schedule, with most events free for students (excluding our pre-camp Welcome Drinks). Plus, showing your student badge unlocks discounts at local businesses around town. The free evening concerts are always a wonderful part of the Camp Creative experience. Can you tell us a little about this year’s entertainment program and what people can look forward to? Are these events open to the wider community as well?
hile full lineups are being finalised, here is a preview of our public evening events: Tue 12 Jan – Bellingen Music Experience (Memorial Hall): A classical concert featuring Bill Lockley Strings Scholarship winners, local talent, and tutors. Limited public tickets available.
Wed 13 Jan – Songwriting & The Bash: Songwriting group performance at Bellingen Brewery, followed by The Bash student/tutor open mic at Bellingen Golf Club.
Thu 14 Jan – Party in the Park (Library Park): Our main celebration featuring a packed lineup of students, tutors, and local performers. ou can find full information about our events on the website. Camp Creative has become a much-loved part of Bellingen’s cultural calendar. What impact does the event have on the town, and what does it mean to the local creative community? With 90% of participants travelling from out of town, Camp Creative injects roughly $1.2 million into Bellingen’s local shops, stays, and eateries. Beyond the economic lift, it turns our town into a vibrant creative hub, inspiring local artists through collaboration, learning, and shared energy. What do you think keeps people returning to Camp Creative year after ear and hat do o ho e first
time participants take away from the experience? Students return for the fantastic vibe and the joy of learning, whether honing an existing skill or trying something completely new. Word-of-mouth spreads that joy fast. In fact, while packing down after Camp Creative , received a call from a first-timer ho d just heard about us from a friend and wanted to know when tickets went on sale for next year! Finally, for anyone keen to get involved, when is Camp Creative taking place, and where can readers explore the full program, check course availability and book their place? The next Camp Creative will be held 11-15 January 2027. While that sounds far away, we are already at 60% capacity, so get in quick to grab your spot. Here are all the essential links for Camp Creative: Learn more about the event: campcreative. com.au/about-the-camp See the course program: campcreative.com. au/2027-course-program Apply to be a tutor: campcreative.com.au/ run-a-course Volunteer at the event: campcreative.com.au/ volunteer COFFS COAST focus 119
focus_contributor.
Education
Update with SIMON DOYLE
PRI NC I PA L , NSW NORT H COAST
C
The Generosity of Traditions, Connecting Generations, Generosity of Spirit - Christmas hristmas in Australia on a scorching summer’s day” is a life most of us enjoy and have experienced, and I believe we all develop our own traditions from these times together.
The traditions of attending church on Christmas Eve, meeting neighbours, comparing new bikes or the latest LEGO on Christmas morning (with a few sneaky peeks into the Santa pillow slip!), and a hot roast lunch when I was a child are memories that still bring me great joy. As our own children grew, we spent time at Boambee Reserve enjoying our summer Christmas with a cold lunch among family and friends. ll of my memories reaffirm to me, as a parent and a Principal in an Anglican school, the importance of developing traditions through family, culture, and our summer environment. As our children move past the stage of wanting the biggest or most presents, they see the emphasis we place on connection and time together. Generosity of spirit is wonderfully visible on the Coffs Coast. At BDC, our community collects items for Christmas hampers to support local charities. As families, many of us support gift trees or invite over those who are away from home. These moments teach our children that presence is often far more 120 COFFS COAST focus
valuable than presents. Small acts of kindness make an extraordinary difference, hope through action.
leaving an extra place set at the table for an absent loved one or guest, a powerful expression of hospitality.
Germany: Advent wreaths and candles Having spent the last two years in Ukraine mark the weeks leading to Christmas, for Christmas, last year in -20 degrees, the demonstrating that preparation can be as generosity of those in great difficulty ith meaningful as the day itself. little to share was deeply humbling. Delivering humanitarian aid and Sikh Tradition: The seeing the immense practice of langar value placed on a simple As our children provides free meals packet of oats for bread move past the to all, beautifully or soup, or small gifts stage of wanting reflecting generosity for children, showed the biggest or most and service. me the power of quiet presents, they see the Whether exchanging generosity. Providing emphasis we place Kris Kringle gifts, opportunities for our on connection and driving through time together. children to help others neighbourhoods to ithout seeing the final admire Christmas outcome builds a caring lights, or gathering community. for worship, traditions As an Anglican school, Christmas is central to our Christian identity as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s gift of love, hope, and peace. The Christmas story challenges us to look beyond ourselves, welcome others, and live our values through generosity and inclusivity. Traditions also offer a wonderful window into our global community: Ukraine: Families celebrate Sviata Vecheria (Holy Supper) with twelve meatless dishes,
create belonging. Perhaps the greatest Christmas gift we can give our children is an example of how we love, serve, and care for others. This Christmas, treat yourself, be kind to your own spirit, and enjoy time with family and friends. On behalf of BDC, we wish the Coffs Coast a happy and holy Christmas. Simon Doyle Principal Bishop Druitt College
JTECH DESIGN & CONSTRUCT
COFFS COAST focus 121
JTECH DESIGN & CONSTRUCT
It’s an exciting time for JTECH Design & Construct, taking home two major honours at the 2026 HIA Northern NSW Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards, including Home of the Year and Spec Home. We caught up with Josh Torney to celebrate the wins, learn more about the award-winning project and discover what goes into creating a standout home. i Josh, congratulations on taking out Home of the Year and Spec Home! What was your reaction when JTECH was announced as the winner of both awards? You put so much into a project like Arrawarra Beach House, so to have it recognised at this level is pretty special. Winning Home of the Year was a huge honour, and taking out Spec Home as well made the night even more rewarding. We’re incredibly grateful and humbled by the recognition. It’s a credit to everyone who played a part in bringing the project to life, 122 COFFS COAST focus
and something we’re very proud of. It’s always rewarding to see the hard work, commitment and attention to detail behind a project recognised in this way. Tell us about the award-winning home. Where is it located, and what was the vision behind the project? Arrawarra Beach House is located at Arrawarra Headland on the NSW coast, around 30 minutes north of Coffs Harbour. I built it for my family, which gave me the freedom to explore an idea I’d had for a while: our own take on the traditional Australian beach shack, but in concrete ith a more refined, architectural approach. We wanted the home to feel relaxed and connected to the coast, while incorporating
strong architectural lines, honest materials and a sense of permanence. The intention wasn’t to create something extravagant, but to take a familiar concept and elevate it through thoughtful design, quality materials and considered detailing. What do you think made this particular home stand out to the judges? I think the home takes a familiar concept the Australian beach shack - and interprets it differently. It retains that relaxed, understated coastal feel while combining it with concrete construction, strong architecture and a high level of craftsmanship. There’s also a lot of technical complexity behind what appears to be a simple design. With exposed concrete, there’s very little room to hide imperfections, so planning, coordination and workmanship are critical at every stage. I think the judges recognised the balance between the architectural vision, the simplicity of the material palette and the quality of the finished construction. What were some of the key design features, materials or finishes that made this build special?
For me, the
Concrete was central beauty lies in the to the vision, giving honesty of the materials the home a sense and the precision of permanence and of the execution. allowing the structure It’s about allowing itself to define the the architecture to architecture to speak for architecture. Rather speak for itself and itself and creating a home than relying on creating a home that that feels connected to its conventional white feels connected to its surroundings. walls and ceilings, surroundings. we embraced raw Every project comes concrete, natural tones with its challenges. and tactile materials What were some of the biggest hurdles to create depth and character, with light and during construction, and how did your shadow playing an important role throughout team overcome them? the spaces. One of our biggest challenges was Cyclone Every junction and material transition was Alfred hitting during the formwork stage. We carefully considered so the home would sit ere aiming for a ra concrete ceiling finish, naturally within the landscape rather than so we’d erected a large protective tent over compete with it. For me, the beauty lies in the entire house to shield the formwork from the honesty of the materials and the precision the weather and prevent rust staining from the of the execution. It’s about allowing the reinforcing steel. When Alfred hit, the winds
ripped the tent off the building and deposited it on the neighbour’s roof. I had to get out in the cyclonic conditions to remove the tarp, which was one of the scariest moments of my life. In the days following the cyclone, the form boards began to delaminate, leaving us with a difficult decision. ecause the concrete as going to be exposed, any imperfections would be visible in the finished home. e ultimately decided to replace all the formwork and start again rather than compromise the result. t as a significant setback in both time and cost, but it reinforced something we believe strongly at JTECH: if you’re going to commit to a particular standard of finish, you need to be prepared to do what it takes to achieve it. COFFS COAST focus 123
JTECH DESIGN & CONSTRUCT
Tell us a little about your own background. How did you get started in the building industry, and what led you to establish JTECH Design & Construct? I didn’t take the traditional path into building. I left school in 2001 and started working for a glass brick company in Tweed Heads, which eventually led me into a carpentry apprenticeship. I’ve always appreciated carpentry and architecture, and over time developed a real passion for the technical side of construction, particularly complex builds. I established JTECH Design & Construct in 2013. My wife and I spent the following few years building spec homes, which gave us the opportunity to develop our own style and approach to building. Since moving into client builds in 2020, we’ve increasingly focused on architecturally driven homes that require detailed construction knowledge, careful coordination and a high level of execution. Winning Home of the Year with Arrawarra 124 COFFS COAST focus
Beach House is a particularly special milestone for JTECH, especially having also won Home of the Year on the Gold Coast in 2023, following our Queensland Interior Design Project of the Year achievement in 2022.
Since moving into client builds in 2020, we’ve increasingly focused on architecturally driven homes that require detailed construction knowledge, careful coordination and a high level of execution.
the architectural vision is supported by sound construction knowledge and precise execution.
hese milestones reflect the direction e ve taken as a business and the passion and commitment of everyone involved in bringing our projects to life.
We work closely with architects, consultants, trades and suppliers to coordinate the details, solve problems and achieve the intended outcome. On a project with exposed concrete and such a considered material palette, communication and workmanship are particularly important because there’s very little room for error.
A successful build takes a great team. Who are the people behind JTECH, and how important were your trades and suppliers in bringing this project to life?
ltimately, the finished home is a reflection of the collective effort of everyone involved. Having people who take pride in their work and share a commitment to quality makes a real difference.
A project like Arrawarra Beach House relies on the right people and expertise at every stage. My role is to bring the process together, ensuring
What do you believe sets JTECH apart when it comes to designing and building quality homes?
At JTECH, we believe great architecture needs more than good looks — it needs the construction knowledge to bring it to life properly. Our strength lies in delivering complex architectural builds, with a deep understanding of construction, structure and detailing. We enjoy working through challenging designs and finding practical solutions ithout compromising the architect’s intent, craftsmanship or structural integrity. We take a hands-on, collaborative approach, working closely with architects, consultants and trades to get the details right. We also place a strong emphasis on transparency and communication, so our clients feel informed, involved and confident throughout the building process. Ultimately, it’s our passion for construction, appreciation for architecture and commitment to quality that define . e en oy bringing ambitious designs to life and creating homes that are built to stand the test of time.
approaches to residential building. Arrawarra Beach House has set a benchmark for what we want to achieve, and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow JTECH’s reputation across the Gold Coast and Northern NSW. For us, it’s about continuing to take on projects we’re passionate about and delivering them to a standard we’re proud to put our name to. How can we get in touch? For project enquiries or potential collaborations, you can contact us through our website at jtechdc.com.au or via our social media channels. Follow us on Instagram at @jtech_dc and @arrawarra_beach_house to explore our work, completed projects and current builds.
What does winning these two prestigious awards mean for the business and your team moving forward? t s a significant milestone for and reinforces the direction we’re taking as a business. he recognition reflects the combined effort of everyone involved, from the architects and consultants through to our trades and suppliers. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but above all, we’re humbled and grateful for the opportunity to showcase our work. We never take that recognition for granted. Moving forward, we want to build on this momentum while staying true to what matters most to us: considered design, quality construction, attention to detail and creating homes that are rewarding to live in. What’s next for JTECH Design & Construct? Are there any exciting projects or plans on the horizon? We want to continue building architecturally driven homes where we can be closely involved in the design and construction process. We’re drawn to complex sites, interesting materials and projects that challenge conventional COFFS COAST focus 125
126 COFFS COAST focus
Blue Ribbon Homes Team up with a locally owned, long-established builder proudly cra ing beautiful, high quality homes on the Mid North Coast for over three decades. We believe building a new home is an exciting life experience that should be easy, transparent, and enjoyable.
A
t Blue Ribbon Homes, our service is personal, and our communication is friendly, open, and honest. While our company director works in the office daily to ensure you deal directly with the business owner, they are backed by a small, highly efficient team. e work closely together to guide you seamlessly through the process, keeping you regularly updated and making you feel involved every step of the way. Our combined experience and
skills
ill give you the complete confidence to
of all, a custom design with us costs no more
know you are in great hands, leaving you free
than building a standard plan. To ensure
to enjoy your building journey.
your custom layout perfectly balances your
Our main point of difference is our in-house
lifestyle, budget, and land, every journey
custom design service. We pride ourselves on
begins with a free site inspection, followed
crafting unique, tailored homes from scratch,
by a comprehensive, itemised quote with no
giving you the ultimate freedom to start with
hidden extras.
a blank canvas or bring us your own rough
eady to take the first step to ard making
sketches. If you prefer a starting point, we
your dream home a reality? Contact us today
can also easily modify any design from our
or visit our website to start your building
extensive range of standard floor plans. est
journey.
COFFS COAST focus 127
128 COFFS COAST focus
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
Our Locations 15 Isles Drive Coffs & Coffs Central Shopping Centre
0401 197 814
hello@elevateelectricalnc.com.au elevateelectricalnc.com.au
Air Condtioning & Refrigeration
RESIDENTIAL Split Systems Ducted Air Conditioning Air Conditioning Warranty & Repairs Air Conditioning Cleaning & Servicing
Residential & Commercial Hybrid Battery Off Grid Systems EV Charger Installation Repairs & Service Commercial Electrical Work Call Us
24/7 Emergency Electrician Level 2 Accredited Residential & Commercial Locally owned Fast response
Eastland
Local~Proven~Trusted
6652 9700
Elevate your Standard of Electrical.
COMMERCIAL Commercial Refrigeration Industrial Air Conditioning Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Contracts
SERVICING MID NORTH COAST
0488 549 288 alex@eastlandair.com.au eastlandair.com.au
Visit Our Website www.megawattpower.com.au
Buildingowned Locally premium homes and family-run, across the Wall to Wall Coffs Coastbrings Plastering for over years. over 2020 years of expertise to Specialists in: • Leveldream 5 Finishes your • 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
COFFS COAST focus 115
COFFS COAST focus 129
focus_contributor.
COULD YOUR EVERYDAY BANKING HELP YOU PAY OFF YOUR MORTGAGE YEARS EARLIER?
Finance
solutions with JIM MORRISON
FROM ABS OLUTE MORTGAGE & FINANCE
W
Home loan interest is calculated daily. This means the more money you consistently keep in a 100% offset account or as additional repayments available through redraw, the less interest you’ll pay over time.
• Pay off their mortgage approximately seven years earlier.
n offset account reduces the balance used to calculate interest, hile extra repayments into a loan ith a redra facility reduce the amount o ing, ith the ability to access those extra repayments hen needed, sub ect to the lender s conditions.
ffset and redra features differ bet een lenders, and the right approach depends on your circumstances, including ho you access savings and your future property plans.
• he right loan structure
y directing income and savings to ards your mortgage, managing expenses and consistently building savings, you can reduce interest and pay off your mortgage years earlier.
ive me a call for a free, no-obligation chat. can run the numbers on your current loan and sho you hether a different structure or a fe small changes to your everyday banking could make a real difference.
• etter everyday banking habits
The numbers might surprise you
ou could save thousands in interest and become mortgage-free years earlier. Making your money work harder
onsider a homeo ner ho took out a year mortgage and no o es , , ith years remaining at . interest.
hink about hat happens hen you get paid. our ages come in, bills get paid, groceries and fuel are purchased, and hatever is left often sits in a separate savings or transaction account.
f they maintain , in a fully effective offset account or as additional repayments available through redra , contribute another each eek and keep regular repayments unchanged, they could potentially
f your current setup is already doing the ob, you ll kno you re on a good thing. ither ay, you ll have a better understanding of your mortgage and the options available to you.
ut hat if that money could be harder for you
• Save over $170,000 in mortgage interest.
hat if a few simple changes to how you manage your everyday money could save you tens of thousands of dollars in mortgage interest? Many people speak to ant me to find them a better interest rate, and love doing that ut hat love even more is sho ing them ho the right loan structure and a fe small changes to their everyday banking habits can save them thousands more over the life of their mortgage. y combining three simple things •
competitive interest rate
130 COFFS COAST focus
orking
hat s a significant difference, ithout necessarily needing a higher income or a dramatic lifestyle change. It’s not just about the interest rate
urious hat this could look like for your mortgage
appy to chat over a coffee any here in offs. 0429 496 375 | absolutemortgage.au isclaimer Figures are illustrative only, based on a constant . interest rate, unchanged repayments, , maintained against the loan and an additional saved eekly. xcludes fees and assumes no ithdra als of additional savings. ctual results vary. eneral information only not personal financial advice.
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 Release 2 plans and prices. as 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.
COFFS COAST focus 131
132 COFFS COAST focus
132 COFFS COAST focus
with SHANE BROOKS PRINCIPAL & LICENSEE OF STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR
A
THE CHANGING FACE OF THE COFFS COAST PROPERTY MARKET
fter more than 20 years in real estate on the Coffs Coast, one of the most interesting things I’ve observed is how buyers’ expectations and priorities have evolved.
While location has always been important, the features people value, the lifestyles they aspire to and what they’re prepared to pay a premium for have changed considerably. In today’s more selective property market, understanding those changing preferences is more important than ever. Lifestyle Is Driving Decisions The Coffs Coast has always attracted buyers seeking a coastal lifestyle, but what that lifestyle looks like has evolved. Increasingly, buyers are looking for homes that combine comfort, convenience and lowmaintenance living. Some of the features we’re seeing attract particular interest include: • Single-level living, particularly among downsizers and retirees.
• Solar, battery and technology solutions built in or added on.
Sometimes relatively modest improvements make the biggest difference:
Of course, not every buyer wants the same thing. Families still value space, larger backyards and proximity to schools, while lifestyle buyers often prioritise privacy, views and access to our beaches.
• Fresh paint, flooring and thoughtful presentation. • Well-maintained gardens and attractive street appeal.
The Appeal of Move-In-Ready Homes
• Improving natural light and the sense of space.
One noticeable change has been the growing preference for homes requiring little additional work.
• Addressing outstanding maintenance before going to market.
With construction costs, trades availability and renovation budgets remaining significant considerations, many buyers are placing greater value on properties that are beautifully presented and ready to enjoy.
The objective isn’t necessarily to create the most expensive home in the street, but to make your property as appealing as possible to its likely buyers.
That doesn’t mean older homes or renovation opportunities have lost their appeal. Quite the opposite, particularly when they offer generous land, established gardens or soughtafter locations. However, buyers are increasingly factoring the cost, time and uncertainty of improvements into their purchasing decisions.
• Decluttering, a thorough clean and staging.
Understanding Your Buyer Ultimately, every property has its own market. A family home in Boambee East appeals to a different buyer from a coastal residence in Sapphire Beach or a low-maintenance villa in Sawtell. In a market where buyers have become more discerning, understanding those differences is critical.
• Open-plan designs with abundant natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.
A property requiring substantial renovation needs to be priced accordingly.
• Modern kitchens, quality finishes and energy-efficient features.
Something I’ve learned over the years is that the most expensive improvements don’t necessarily deliver the greatest financial return.
The homes achieving the strongest results aren’t necessarily the newest or most expensive. They’re the ones that successfully combine location, lifestyle, presentation and perceived value.
A beautifully renovated kitchen may attract buyers, but spending $100,000 on improvements doesn’t automatically increase a property’s value by $100,000.
And while buyer preferences will continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: understanding what buyers genuinely want is fundamental to achieving a successful sale.
• Flexible floor plans accommodating home offices, guests or extended family. • Manageable gardens and outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed without becoming a weekend chore. 134 COFFS COAST focus
Not Everything Adds Value
Thinking of Selling? Think Stone
At Stone Real Estate Coffs Harbour, our dedicated sales team combines extensive local market knowledge, industry expertise and a genuine passion for property. With a personalised approach and a commitment to achieving exceptional results, we pride ourselves on building lasting relationships and delivering a seamless, rewarding sales experience. Whether you're ready to sell or simply considering your next move, our experienced team is here to guide you with confidence every step of the way. Experience the Stone difference for yourself today.
Stone Real Estate Coffs Harbour 02 6652 7888 offsharbour@stonerealestate.com.au
COFFS COAST focus 133
26 WEEK BUILD TIME * up to $85,000 of upgrades including ducted air conditioning and flooring for only $6,990! *
NEW DISPLAY HOME NOW OPEN
Enjoy peace of mind when you build your dream home with Perry Homes on a 26 week build time guarantee*. Plus we’ll include all of our luxury upgrades for only $6,990! * That’s over 38 upgrades valued at up to $85,000! At Perry Homes, we can bring your vision to life. With a choice of over 150 different floor plans we can build on any size flat or sloping block, or even knock down your existing house to rebuild a new home.
Visit our stunning brand new display home today! Moonee Beach Estate 129 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Daily 10am - 4pm Contact: Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au
*Terms and conditions. Build time guarantee is for single storey, slab on ground dwellings up to 270 sqm only. Perry Homes reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. NSW Lic. No. 110970C. E34981.