Feature Story
COFFS COAST
October 2013// issue 37
Funky Journals
editor's note.
focus C O F F S C OA S T
Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au
contacts. EDITOR: Melly Dee melly@focusmag.com.au
SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont
Melly Dee.
editor.
from the
Welcome to the October issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.
louise@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe nicci@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com
ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au
SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery annalise@focusmag.com.au
COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins reg@focusmag.com.au jo@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
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e’ve done it. One hundred pages. Our biggest ever edition! I’d like to take my hat off to Nicci Seccombe and Sam Dawson. These FOCUS girls work tirelessly flying the FOCUS flag each month and thanks to their mammoth efforts, a great community spirt and a genuine interest in business owners on the Coffs Coast, that in your hands right now is our biggest ever edition! We love what we do, but it wouldn’t be possible without YOU, our dedicated readers. Thank you so much for being a part of the FOCUS journey. Insert me raising my peppermint tea in a cheers! IN THIS ISSUE Where do I start? A huge Real Estate Experts feature. The Sustainable Living
feature. Get the inside scoop on all things weddings. This month we get behind a range of great community events: Show Us Your Dish, a cooking competition at Growers Market and of course, Dancing With The Coffs Coast Stars (DWTS). Early next year I will be participating in DWTS (pray that I don’t fall flat on my face ... no, seriously. Pray for me!) Birch Carroll and Coyle, the Cancer Council and I would like to personally invite you to the screening of Dirty Dancing (Wednesday 9 October, 6pm) where ticket sale proceeds will be donated to the Cancer Council. Tickets are only $18, including nibbles and a chance to win prizes, including a helicopter flight donated by Jo and the team at Precision Helicopters.
COVER Green thumb Costa Georgiadis iss n a landscape architect and television personality, best known as the hostt of the ABC’s Gardening Australia, and he will once again be joining us in celebrating the Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival. EDITOR’S PICTURE This month’s editor’s picture, Pelicans, was taken by Leah Mooree at Mick’s Retreat in Sawtell. www.leahmoore.com.au FINAL SAY “It matters not who you love, where you love, why you love, when you love or how you love, it matters only that you love.” – John Lennon.
Melly Dee – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Twitter: @le_mellydee
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inside this
Funky Journals Original and one of kind, we meet David Miles from Funky Journals. David uses old and discarded books to create imaginative and creative journals for people of all ages ... to encourage people to write down life’s journeys.
Issue 37 - October 2013
usual suspects.
44.
Costa Georgiadis The 2013 Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival will be an inspirational celebration of all things sustainable. Costa Georgiadis from ABC’s Gardening Australia will once again be joining us at this year’s festival.
the
6. what’s on for October 28. eat featuring local restaurants 42. tourism with Tourism Coffs
62. social scene with Carole Beros 82. star guide with Terri
Coast
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No matter where you are in the world,, read Focus for free online every month th @
Matthew O’Garey Ma
www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat
THURSDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER · 4PM – 8PM · FREE ENTRY
TS EN ! HM ED ES ID FR OV RE PR
BR M ING AT A E!
Matthew O O’Garey ... a local athlete performing on the worl world stage. The way Matt paddles, you would tthink that he has an affinity with the ocean! Matt recently finished 13th (in the world) aat the World Ocean Paddling Championships in Molokai, Hawaii. Champions
COFFS HARBOUR
TRADE EXPO GET THE LATEST INFORMATION FROM OVER 20 LEADING BRANDS AND SUPPLIERS! PLUS YOU COULD WIN A TRUCK BOX OF AMAZING PRODUCTS ON THE DAY! REGISTER TODAY BY CALLING BLACKWOODS ON 13 73 23
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NORTH SAPP H I
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GAUDRO
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SPLIT SOLITA RY R
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The Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast Fashion Festival
Inaugural Golf Ball drop for Woolgoolga
A fun Ambrose game of golf will take place on Sunday morning, followed by a BBQ. Then 1000 golf balls will come raining from the sky, via a helicopter. The … is set to touch down on the runway Saturday, nearest to the pin will get first prize. Golf balls will be sold at $5 each from the golf October 5 at Pacific Bay Resort. Tickets are selling like club, and Woolgoolga newsagent in Nightingale St. And via the contact below. hotcakes! When 2pm on Sunday 20 October. Where Woolgoolga Returned Services Golf When Saturday, October 5 More info mbccff.com
Club, Clu b Saf Safety ety Be Beach Beach. a . Enquir ach Enquiries u ies Kar Ka Karen e Sedgwick – 0410 039 805.
Bonville Golf Resort Legends Lunch Hosted by John Eales with a 3 course lunch + premium beverages. When Friday 25 October;12.30pm. Cost $120 per person. Business attire. Phone (02) 6653 4002.
It’s Nomination Time Time to nominate for the Australia Day Awards 2014. There are a lot of people out there, of all ages, who are deserving of an award and You Know Who They Are! Nominate them now and inspire others to do the same! Nominations are invited from individuals, service clubs, schools, associations or community organisations in the following categories: • Citizen of the Year Award • Young Citizen of the Year Award • Sportsperson of the Year Award • Community Event of the Year Award Contact Christine Artist at the Mayoral Office on: 6648 4002 for details, or pick up your nomination form from the Council Administrative Centre, your local Library or Council's website www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au Nominations close on Friday 6 December 2013.
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Dancing with Coffs Coast Stars
Coast Out Festival
All info on pages 12-13.
An arts, sports, cultural and social festival over three days and nights.
When Wednesday 9 October - 6pm. Tickets On sale at the door or for group bookings, call Melly to ensure your tickets. All proceeds will benefit the Cancer Council. Cost $18, includes movie ticket and nibbles Phone 6650 9343.
When Friday 25 to Sunday 27 October. Where Park Beach becomes the 'Coast Out' Village for the festival period. Cost Tickets from $25. Contact www.coastout.com.au
up! 5 door man. from
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Polo Trendline 5 door man. from
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The new Golf 90TSI man. from
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Tiguan 118TSI man. from
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Celebrate Volksfest with incredible deals. The Germans have a word for a good old fashioned celebration: Volksfest. And with incredible deals across a huge range of Volkswagen models, we couldn’t think of a better reason to have one. So visit Geoff King Volkswagen today and join in the fun.
Your Volkswagen Partner
Geoff King Volkswagen 6 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour MD1000 Tel. 02 6659 1000 www.geoffkingmotors.com.au ^Driveaway Deals Offer: ^Driveaway Prices (on vehicle(s) as shown) available on new stock vehicles only sold and delivered between 1st September and 31st October 2013. While stocks last. Not available in conjunction with the advertised 0.0% p.a. comparison rate offer, any other offer or with Volkswagen’s Corporate, Corporate Plus, Rental or Government assistance programs. Volkswagen Group Australia reserves the right to change or extend the offer. *0.0% p.a. Comparison Rate Offer: *0.0% comparison rate available to approved personal applicants of Volkswagen Finance** for the financing of new Jetta, Golf Wagon, The Beetle, Golf Cabriolet, Eos and CC stock vehicles (excluding demonstrators) over 36 months. Balloon restrictions apply. Vehicles must be sold and delivered between 1st September and the 31st October 2013. While stocks last. Standard fees and charges apply. Full conditions are available on application. Not available in conjunction with the advertised Driveaway Deals offer, any other offer or with Volkswagen’s Corporate, Corporate Plus, Rental or Government assistance programs. Volkswagen Finance** reserves the right to extend or change this offer. **Volkswagen Finance is a trading name of Volkswagen Financial Services Australia Pty Limited ABN 20 097 071 460, Australian Credit Licence Number 389344. Comparison rate based on a 5 year secured consumer fixed rate loan of $30,000. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Capped Price Servicing: Capped price servicing is available on up! 3 and 5 door manual models first sold by an authorised Volkswagen dealer on or after 6 October 2012; The Beetle manual and DSG models first sold by an authorised Volkswagen dealer on or after 23 February 2013; Polo, Golf, Golf Wagon, Scirocco R, Jetta, Passat Sedan, Passat Wagon, Volkswagen CC, Passat CC, Golf Cabriolet, Eos, Tiguan, Passat Alltrack and Touareg models with their respective transmissions (manual, automatic and/or DSG) first sold by an authorised Volkswagen dealer on or after 1 January 2013; and New Golf manual and DSG models first sold by an authorised Volkswagen dealer on or after 27 April 2013. Capped price servicing applies to the first 6 standard scheduled services of your vehicle which are scheduled to occur at every 15,000 km/12 month interval (whichever occurs first). Exclusions and conditions apply. For details on pricing, items not included in the capped price and for full terms and conditions please see volkswagen.com.au. Volkswagen Group Australia reserves the right to at any time modify or discontinue the Capped Price Servicing program.
focusinterview.
David Miles
Journals Original and one of kind, we meet David Miles from Funky Journals.. David uses old and discarded books to create imaginative and creative journals for people of all ages ... to encourage people to write down life’s journeys.
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here are you from Dave; when and why did you decide to relocate to Bellingen? Originally from the UK, I met my wife in Perth on holiday, fell in love and moved to Bellingen on a 100 acre property 11 years ago. Tell us about Funky Journals? What are they, and how was this business born? Four years ago I was visiting a gallery in Tweed Heads, where an artist had used just the front cover of a Vintage Girls Annual and made it into a notebook. The idea intrigued me and a couple of years later I acquired a binding machine and thought, “Let’s have a go”. My first market was at Bellingen; I sold nearly all my stock and was amazed at the response from young and old alike. In the early days, each journal would take thirty minutes to make, but now with better equipment the process is much more streamlined. How do you get the inspiration for many of your hand-made pieces? The inspiration for the notebooks and journals comes mainly from my customers. Both my wife and I are journal writers, but combining that with the 'emotional attachment' we all have with books from our past I believe makes them both practical and unique. From the early days I have tried to put my own stamp on the makeup of a Funky Journal. Each notebook is the original pre loved book, which now contains 100 pages of writing or drawing paper with the original story interleaved throughout the book. There is also a study pocket at the front, which was my wife’s idea; she is continually collecting feathers, cards and an assortment of strange objects. Some would say I was one of them. The books themselves cover a wide range of subjects. Little Golden Books make great journals, as they are a good size, but more importantly they have such a strong place in all Australians' upbringing. At
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the stall I continually hear; “I have that one and that forgotten so quickly. Your journal will be with you for one”, or, “I still have all my Golden Books at home”. always, and looking back through them 5, 10, 15 years At a Harbourside market one Sunday, a lady even later is such a fun thing to do. found a book given to her by her late mother with her Your wife is an artist. Tell us about her career … name in the inside cover after 30 years. Needless to My wife, Jodi, helps me with all the markets we do say, there were tears and yes ... she did buy it. I try to and also promotes her large, vibrant pieces of art at provide a wide range and diversity of subjects in the our stall: http://jodisart.blogspot.com books I use for journals, and I never know what will Our market run continually grows and as well as be of interest. The other popular themes are Coffs Harbourside and Bellingen Markets, we Superheroes like Batman, Transformers, are now travelling from the Gold Coast and Superman and also retro TV all the way down to the markets at Series such as Dr Who, Star Trek Glebe and Bondi. This October All the and Thunderbirds. long weekend we are doing feed back I Australiana is very popular, our first two day festival at Old y get is that a Funk with characters such as Bar, which is really exciting. Journal makes Blinky Bill and Bib and Bub. Working seven days and then ly a wonderful All the feedback I get is that getting up at 4am and set up t en es pr different a Funky Journal makes a is a challenge but once we are , as m st ri for Ch d an s, wonderfully different present ready, I love the market vibe er ow sh baby for Christmas, baby showers, with locals and tourists out to birthdays.” and birthdays. One of the things see new things. that has really taken off is getting What plans do you have for the an annual with the year of someone’s future? birth, such as the 1979 one in the Our plans for the future involve photo, as a birthday present. These can also be developing a couple of new products for the personalised with family photos and memorabilia. markets. On our trips we often come across old Describe some of your designs; what makes magazines from the '50s, '60s and '70s. These have them different and unique? the most wonderful adverts, which we frame, and they Sourcing pre loved books for the journals is great become pieces of art in their own right. fun and as well as going to book fairs, I travel for a The second product launch is to make notebooks living and always look out for those op-shops and from preloved vinyl records using the record for the antique shops. Now I even have the ladies from front cover and the album cover as the back. Vinnie’s and the like calling me and putting damaged Thanks David. books aside for me, instead of throwing them away. In such a throwaway society, reusing these great books which still have so much to offer is a wonderful way of the plug! doing my bit of upcyling. I always promote to my customers the great benefits www.funkyjournals.com.au of journalling and recording our life adventures, Harbour Side Markets twice a month. frustrations and successes and in an age of iPads Bellingen Community Markets. Facebook etc. many of these memories are just
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focusinterview.
Steve McEwan. Steve McEwan has had a lifelong involvement with reptiles; he caught his first lizards when he was 5 years old and kept his first pet snake when he was 10. Reptile World is a mobile reptile display which travels up and down the NSW coast , educating school children and the general public about reptiles.
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here are you originally from, and when did you move to Coffs Coast? What do you love about
living here? I left the rat race of Sydney in 1996 when we moved to Coffs Harbour. As a child, my parents would take the family camping at Sawtell Caravan Park every Christmas. I had fond memories of Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas and thought that it would be a great place to bring up kids. Coffs Harbour has everything for young families: a relaxed atmosphere, great people, good education, beaches, bush, and many other things to keep the kids occupied. How did you first develop an interest in reptiles? When I was about five years of age, I inadvertently killed a little lizard. I was so upset, it made me want to learn everything I could about them. My interest then grew to include all reptiles, and I used to keep all manner of little creatures when I was a boy. My mother never used to know what she would find in my room! Do you have a family, and how does your wife react to you dealing with some of the world's most venomous reptiles? I am married to a wonderful lady (Debbie), and we have two children: Sarah, aged 21 and Matt (Macca), who is 18. Deb and I have been married for 25 years, and during that time she has been through so much with me and my reptiles. Any other woman would have left me 24 years ago (laughs). Terri Irwin wouldn’t have been through half of the exciting times with her Steve as we have together.
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I remember an incident where Deb was about to use the toilet, when she saw a small object in the water. When she called me and I touched it, our two metre Diamond Python, Bubba, shot out of the toilet, where it had been with a major in fisheries. They are curled in the S bend. That both quite comfortable with for snake was in the toilet om en tiv an handling reptiles. e Th t because I forgot to lock What type of work does this snake was ou told by the door to its cage. as w I so , te Steve McEwan's Reptile da of e park On another occaWorld do? What does a the owner of th . It en sion, Deb was watchnever to get bitt day in the office involve hold the ing TV one night with took 3 people to as so for you? it w the lights off. What snake, because Reptile World is a mobile big and strong .” she thought was part reptile display which travels of a black extension cord up and down the NSW coast ended up being my pet educating school children and the black snake, Sooty, who had general public about reptiles – not squeezed through a gap in the lid of only about the worth of these wonderful his cage. The snake was lying in the same posicreatures, but also about how to avoid a bite tion for about half an hour before it moved and from snakes and how to survive if ever bitten. caught her eye. She has many more stories to There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work tell and can add to them almost every day. involved in keeping the reptiles clean, well fed I bet you were a hit with your kids and and happy. their friends when they were growing up? How was this business born? My kids loved growing up with reptiles. We About 10 years ago, I thought it was time to were different to other people because they had utilise all of the knowledge I had accumulated dogs or cats as pets, but we had scorpions, bird and put a program together so that I could eating spiders, frogs, turtles, lizards, snakes and spread the word about these much maligned crocodiles. Their friends loved to come over to and misunderstood animals in a way that was our place and play with our pets. educational, rather than being sensational or Have your kids decided to follow in your 'over the top'. footsteps Have you had any books published? Have Sarah loves all animals and is studying Vet you been a part of any docos? Science in Queensland; when she finishes she I have written two books: Snakes of the North wants to go to the States and specialise in Coast of NSW and the other is the Snakes of the reptiles. East Coast and Tablelands of NSW. I have done When Matt finishes school he wants to go to a few docos in the past and supplied reptiles to uni and do a Bachelor of Environmental Science feature in other film work. About 12 years ago I
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did a feature on snakes of Australia for German television. I did another on catching snakes called Dangerous Destinations for National Geographic, where a Red-bellied Black Snake climbed up the inside of my pants ... not in the script, but it did make pretty exciting TV! I have also appeared with Dr Harry on Better Homes and Gardens and several times on Totally Wild. What's the best reptile you've ever worked with? Why was it awesome? I have worked with some awesome reptiles over the years, but the one that stands out the most would be the King Cobra. I was only 15 years old and employed as the reptile keeper at the Reptile Park on the Central Coast back in the '70s. I looked after a King Cobra, which was about 4.5 metres long. The antivenom for this snake was out of date, so I was told by the owner of the park never to get bitten. It took 3 people to hold the snake, because it was so big and strong. By the way; I never got bitten! What's the plan for you in the future? At the moment I am quite content with the travelling reptile show, but I think the ultimate would be to have a small reptile park in Coffs. Schools and the general public could come and see many more reptiles than I could take on the road. I would have to get a huge croc and maybe a cobra, a rattle snake and a giant python. I think having those on display would certainly bring in the crowds and would be a great tourist attraction for the Coffs Coast. Thanks Steve.
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Photo Emma Rhoades Photography
Coff
Do you love watching Dancing With the Stars on TV? The glitz, the glamour, the excitement? Then Dancing With Coffs Coast Stars is the event for you. After many months of committee meetings, Cancer Council NSW has launched its 2014 gala fu fundraising event.
n Saturday 1 February 2014, over 450 attendees will cheer, laugh, and cry (!) at the annual gala event. Ten high profile Coffs Coast business people have been partnered with ten local dance professionals, so they can learn to perform one dance on the night. The launch, kindly hosted and donated by Park Beach Surf Club Restaurant & Bar, saw the Coffs Coast ‘stars’ and professional dance teachers officially meet their chosen dance partners for the first time. Now they have a long road ahead, as they commence months of fundraising and dance training. The MC for the launch, Mayor Denise Knight, who has previously danced as a star in the very first year, spoke about her experience and gave the 2014 stars some valuable advice. She said, “Train hard, listen to your dance teacher, and be careful on the stairs as you walk down to the dance floor!” The dance couples will be competing for three prizes: Highest Fundraiser; People's Choice, as judged by the audience; and Judges' Choice, as judged by the expert panel of three judges. Last year the Highest Fundraiser Award was won by Ray Ellicott, who raised an amazing $15,111. The dance
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n to styles are an exciting schools on the Coffs Coast are Train hard , liste r, he ac te e nc da mix this year – zouk Sunsmart accredited. your the (Coffs Latin Rhythms), and be careful on down So who are the stars, you k ballroom (Pacific stairs as you wal ask? Drum roll! Jesse Taylor or!” to the dance flo Dancentre), ballet (Hara (Partners in Recovery, Mission Beyond Movement Australia), EJ (2CS), Steve Allan Studio), musical theatre (Urunga Amcal Pharmacy), Tony (Woolgoolga Dance Studio), Cahill (C.ex Group), Nicole Martin Argentine tango (Kulturithmik), (NSW Police), Bridgette Vartiainen (Red rock and roll (Razzle Dazzle Rockers), Sparrow Tea Company), Cherie Parik (The disco (Toll Priority) and swing (So Dance Edge), Vicky Hunter (Coffs Harbour Racing Studios). Club), Khane Duncan (DFA Financial Planners) and
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The money raised through Dancing With Coffs Coast Stars, funds four areas within Cancer Council NSW: cancer research to find more targeted treatments and cures for cancer; cancer support and information services to help locals who are diagnosed with cancer and to help their families; cancer prevention campaigns to promote ways that we can prevent cancer; and advocacy to lobby governments so they can legislate to help prevent cancer. A recent new service provided by Cancer Council NSW in Coffs Harbour is transport to treatment at NCCI Coffs Harbour for disadvantaged cancer patients and their families. Cancer Council NSW has also worked locally, ensuring that all primary
our very own Editor Melly Dee! Tickets to the 2013 event were sold out, so to avoid disappointment in 2014 get along to C.ex Coffs and buy tickets, or pop online at: www.cex. com.au – tickets are $55 each. The event could not take place without the generous support of our major sponsors. Emma Rhoades Photography, Coffs Coast FOCUS, Southern Cross Austereo, C.ex Group, Parrys Jewellers, The Coffs Coast Advocate and Michael Crossland have all generously donated to the event. To get all the latest updates, hop on to the Facebook page – Dancing With Coffs Coast Stars – or contact Fiona Foulkes at Cancer Council NSW on 6659 8400.
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da v i d tsi re ka s
k i c k s o f f i n octobe r
LASER PLUMBING. H A B I TAT F O R H U M A N I T Y
Two Coffs Coast tradesmen recently donated their time and skills to leading charity, Habitat for Humanity, in the fight against the growing issue of overcrowding in New Zealand. an Bamford and Glen Hearne of Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour flew to Auckland recently to volunteer for a charity task force program, which was a part of the Laser Group Annual Conference. “We first learned about Habitat for Humanity through our association with the Laser Group and were happy to volunteer for the task force in Auckland,” Ian said. Ian and Glen joined over 90 other Laser tradies on the day to build three fully equipped sleepouts, which are designed to provide additional accommodation for existing New Zealand homes, giving young children and teenagers more suitable sleeping conditions, and to reduce overcrowding. “From the stats that Habitat for Humanity showed us, we saw that overcrowding amongst underprivileged families increases the risk of serious diseases and also has a negative impact on the wellbeing and education of young family members,” said Ian.
Once completed, families in need purchase the sleep-outs at a reduced price, and on a 0% interest payment plan, provided that they also volunteer their own time and effort to producing the sleep-out. Having the team from Laser Plumbing and Electrical help out with the construction of sleepouts has obviously relieved some of that burden for the families. “Despite having to contend with heavy rain and strong winds, the team still managed to get the job done,” said Ian.
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th to good to be able ” ... t help them ou
Infectious diseases from household overcrowding accounted for one in 10 admissions to New Zealand hospitals for the treatment of infectious diseases such as pneumonia, hepatitis, meningococcal and tuberculosis, but for Maori and Pasifika people, that figure jumped to one in five. “It’s obviously a huge issue in New Zealand and one that needs to be addressed, so we were more than happy to help out by working together to build these sleep-outs,” said Glen. The sleep-outs constructed by Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour and their peers were roughly 2 m x 3 m in size and built in a way that allow them to coffs coast focus.
be transported easily and cost effectively.
“Three sleep-outs were 90% completed, and we were also able to upgrade the facilities in the Habitat for Humanity buildings. It was pretty obvious to us that they It was pretty don’t spend any money on obvious to themselves, so it was good t n’ us that they do on to be able to help them out ey on m spend any as w it with that as well.” so , es lv emse
According to a recent report by the University of Otago Wellington Campus, household overcrowding is rising in New Zealand, and the country is facing a severe shortage of affordable housing.
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The month long festival has an impressive calendar of events that will take food lovers on a gastronomic journey.
The Laser team also installed new lighting throughout the Habitat for Humanity offices, upgraded their bathrooms with new toilet suites and basins and also installed air conditioning units into the buildings.
The initiative raised over $7,000 in cash donations for the charity, thanks to the contribution of Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour and their Laser Group peers, and suppliers also pitched in over $30,000 worth of product donations for the build day. “It’s great to be part of a network that is so willing to chip in for a good cause,” said Ian.
For more information on Habitat for Humanity or to learn how you can support the organisation Visit www.habitat.org For more information on Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour, visit coffsharbour.laserplumbing.com.au
he start featuring a Vintage Favourite ingredient to cook with? Car Vineyard Tour and French It’s hard to pin down an absolute favourite, inspired lunch at Oasis by but I’d have to say that cinnamon is an the River on October 6 ingredient that I use in a lot of sweet and savoury and culminating with the dishes. main event, SBS Feast Tastings on Hastings, Best local product you would like to use? overlooking the picturesque Hastings River on Line caught local Jew Fish or new moon hand October 27. Visit tastingsonhastings.com.au for caught prawn and Blue Swimmer Crabs. the full calendar of events. Advice for producers looking to get noticed The recipe for the main event will satisfy the by metropolitan restaurants? most serious foodies. Add over 100 exhibitors We could learn a lot from countries like who grow, bake and make the specialties of this Greece, where they stick to the seasonality of fertile food bowl, cooking demonstrations by ingredients. This ensures that the produce is the leading local and SBS Chefs, an impressive lineup cream of the crop, appropriate for the season of leading local bands, children's entertainment and the price is always better than higher, under the sprawling Town Green fig tree and the inflated out of season prices. FOCUS Spaghetti Eating Competition. Mix it with Thanks David. a dash of ambience and a splash of David will join other well known SBS a brilliant riverside location, and Chefs in the cooking demonstration you’ve got an award winning pavilion, including: Patrick event! Freisen from Ms G’s in Potts FOCUS caught up with Point (Contemporary Asian), My cooking David Tsirekas from Mitchell Orr, who was in e th is inspired by Xanthi Restaurant in the 2010 Good Food Guide ek re G e ak flavours that m d ve Sydney, who will be and was the Josephine lo d an ue food so uniq le a special guest at the Pignolet ‘Young Chef of op pe of ns by millio ” e. festival’s main event on the Year’ (Italian cuisine), ob gl e th nd arou October 27. and local champions Eric David, where did your Robinson from The Other love of and passion for Chef Fine Foods and Craig food and cooking begin? Freudenstein from XS Food. I actually was a swim and water SBS Feast Tastings on Hastings is polo coach before taking up cooking when I was focused on supporting and promoting the 28. I found the love and passion in cooking from farmers, food producers, wineries and brewers reading books on Ancient Greece, and I wanted from throughout the Greater Port Macquarie to find out what more there was to the Greek region. cuisine than the stereotypes of lamb moussaka This fertile food bowl produces avocados, and souvlaki. strawberries, tomatoes, macadamia nuts, garden What influences you most for your dishes at vegetables, free range eggs, chicken, duck, pork present? and a range of dairy. My cooking is inspired by the flavours that The region has a long history of producing make Greek food so unique and loved by millions wines and boasts six vineyards and more recently of people around the globe. has become a hotspot for brewing boutique You'll be visiting Port Macquarie in October; beer. have you travelled here before? What are Join the colour, spectacle and excitement of you looking forward to? the SBS Feast Tastings on Hastings and celebrate Yes. Tasting some of the local produce is at the bounty from the Greater Port Macquarie the top of my list. I love the beach and ocean region. For more information on the festival or to swimming, so I hope to take a dip while I’m grab yourself a great accommodation deal, visit there. tastingsonhastings.com.au
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Originally from Germany, Danni Auch has lived many different lives. Falling in love with Australia at a young age, she has travelled, studied and worked all over the world. She raised her two children in Bundagen, a self sufficient community 30 km from Coffs Harbour, where she still lives today.
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orn in Germany, you came to Australia at the mere age of 18 and then decided to move here for good in your later life. What originally brought you here? I was born in the south of Germany and by the time I was 16, I already wanted to travel to Australia. I started to read every book about Australia and also began to learn Pitjanjara (Aboriginal language), as I thought this was the normal way when travelling in a foreign country. I came to Australia with a girlfriend when I was 18, bought a car and had a marvellous 6 months' travelling time along the East Coast and through the desert to Alice Springs. Camping mostly in National Parks, meeting kangaroos, snakes and kookaburras, I fell in love with Australia’s amazing nature life. Back in Germany, I studied fine arts at the University Stuttgart. I had many art exhibitions and art performances in groups and by myself. Did you move to Coffs Harbour straight away? What type of work did you do in Sydney? Another opportunity arose for me to revisit Australia – this time with my two children and a friend. We arrived in Sydney and things just seemed to work out. We started different jobs until I found work as a scenic artist, painting dinosaur backdrops for museums and movie sets in the Fox studios. My highlight with scenic art in Sydney was painting for the 2000 Olympics, which was so much fun. We also got free tickets to watch the opening ceremony! What is Bundagen Community, how long have you lived there, and what initially attracted you to this type of lifestyle? Straight after the Olympics, it was time to leave Sydney. I had two small kids, and I was looking for an alternative lifestyle in the beautiful bush of Australia. I found a place called Bundagen, 30 km south of Coffs Harbour. Bundagen is a community with its
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land situated in the middle of Bongil Bongil National of Health Science, we opened Remedia – HomoeopaPark, close to the beach. Everybody living here has thy and Massage Centre, which I’ve operated now solar energy and tank water, as we are not confor five years. nected to the grid system. I was very attracted to live Tell us about your time in India? a simple tribal lifestyle, so I ended up living in a tipi During this time I went a few times to India, (North American Indian tent) for one year. Now I live mostly Mumbai, to study more Homoeopathy, as with my partner in a self-build, round, pole house. Homoeopathy is a well-used medicine in India and Bundagen is a perfect place for children to grow up, many countries around the world. The last time I as they can just roam around in little groups; travelled to India was in 2010 to attend a sometimes you have 5 - 10 kids passHomoeopathic Conference, where I ing by, and another time they are presented a case study on gallstone all at a neighbour's place. My problems and depression, which kids are grown up now, but highlight y M was very successful. even now the tribal connecwith scenic art in Remedia is a well-estabtion is still there; it is like g dney was paintin cs, Sy lished holistic health centre in they have a deep brotherly mpi for the 2000 Oly h fun. the Middle of Coffs Harbour and sisterly connection. uc m which was so ts ke in the CBD. tic What is your current ee fr t We also go g in en op Homoeopathy is a holistic business? How can we e th ch to wat ” y! connect with you? on healing method that considers m cere Coming to Coffs Harbour, all three levels of health – the I had to change my profession, mind – the emotions – the physical as there is not a lot of scenic art body. business around. I had already started Homoeopathy is based on the nature’s training as a massage therapist. When we law of Cure, namely 'Like Cures Like'. This were travelling to Australia, we stopped in means that Homoeopathy acknowledges each Penang for three months, where a Chinese person as an individual. The prescribed homeopathic master introduced me to the practice of therapy remedy has to match the presenting picture of the massage. This was a very special time embraced in treated person. Homoeopathy offers long lasting to Chinese medicine and also learning Tai Chi, as they permanent cure, treating the disease from its roots. believe 'no good massage without practising Tai Chi'. Massage and Homoeopathy complement each I started massaging people in Bundagen and in other. Massage is mainly for the physical body, to redifferent clinics in Coffs and parallel enrolled to study lease muscle pain and stress and bring relaxation and homoeopathy at the School of Natural Medicine. inner peace. Homoeopathy is a healing from within; Homoeopathy is a well-used holistic medicine origit helps to restore back the inner balance. inating in Germany. Growing up with a homeopathic The Plug: mother, I got introduced to this fascinating healing modality early in life. After I achieved the Advanced Ph 6651 7001 Diploma of Homoeopathy, followed by the Bachelor www.remediahealth.com.au
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Pack & Send I had a friend who found it very difficult to send her old iPhone to her mother who lives in the UK. Can Pack & Send do this? We are certified to do this, as with most electronics such as I phones and laptops they contain lithium batteries and require special packaging, documentation and labelling to send when air freighted. Can you help people who are looking to move overseas? Yes, we have helped many of our clients move to places like the United Kingdom, America and New Zealand. We have several options to send personal effects, such as sea and air freight. Tell us about your corporate and business client accounts? Our business clients enjoy the fact that they don’t need to worry about organising their freight any more, as we take over the whole process from the packaging, paperwork and even the daily tracking of the packages. This gives them time to concentrate on their business and not worry about freight. What else is happening with Pack & Send? We have some very exciting things happening within the next few months and look forward to sharing them in next month’s issue.
PHP/WordPress Web Developer Needed Klaustel Phones & Data Klaustel Phones and Data have been servicing the Coffs Coast and surrounding areas for over 15 years. We offer business telephone systems with no interest payment plans. We offer business landline, internet and NBN, with the flexibility to style a plan to suit your business and offer great savings with VoIP telephone services. We are truly local family owned and operated business. We offer wireless headsets and long range cordless phones. We are Krone certified data cabling installers, offering a 15 year warranty on Krone. So if you are starting out, relocating, expanding or simply upgrading, we can look after all your telecommunication needs just by calling our local number: (02) 6651 5288. And remember, always get a second opinion before signing any contracts. Check out our website: www.klaustel.com.au
We are a Web & Graphic Design Agency based in Coffs Harbour on the North Coast of NSW. We are seeking a talented WordPress Developer to join our creative team. Immediate start. Experience: • Custom WordPress Development • HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery • E-Commerce and Shop integration • Responsive Design Experience • SEO Principles • Must have at least 3 years' experience Desirable: • iPhone/Android App Development • Plugin Development Rate: From $25 to $45 per hour, depending on experience Apply: Send resumes and sample work to info@giantmedia.com.au or call (02) 6651 5322.
Pack & Send Coffs Harbour. We treat every job as a Special Delivery. overseas g anywhere in Australia or We pack and send anythin s item able valu and e, awkward Specialising in fragile, larg ia tral Aus oss acr y ver deli Priority door to door courier removals supplies for storage and Do it yourself packaging r store bou Har p off at our Coffs We pick up or you can dro
PACK & SEND Coffs Harbour 6/163 Orlando Street (Cnr Lawson Crescent) Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Email: coffsharbour@packsend.com.au
Phone: (02) 6651 3027
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Sonja Wallis e esCarpade is Camp Quality's biggest annual national fundraiser and a Australia's wackiest outback motoring A adventure ... a culmination of yeara rround fundraising by dedicated and hard-working fundraisers a ccommitted to making laughter the best medicine. Interview: Sonja b Wallis, Fundraising Coordinator, W North NSW, Camp Quality. N
Camp Quality Camp Quality is the children’s cancer charity whose purpose is to create a better life for every child living with cancer in Australia.
Your Heading Here!
The services provided for children (0 -13 years) living with cancer and their families help create a better life by building optimism and resilience. Camp Quality supports families no matter where they live in Australia, throughout each stage of their cancer journey. With specialised programs devised to meet the identified needs of families who have a child living with cancer, Camp Quality connects children and their families living with cancer through interactive education and resources and creates opportunities for all families to embrace normality and celebrate life in a supportive environment. Right from diagnosis, throughout treatment and in remission or bereavement, our programs support the whole family by building optimism and resilience: at hospital, at home, at school and at camp. Camp Quality camps provide children living with cancer and their families with an essential break from hospital, stress and intensity. They’re especially designed to encourage strength, confidence and independence. Camp Quality is urgently looking for energetic, fundraising volunteers to help at local events. For more information, please contact Sonja Wallis at sonja.wallis@campquality.org.au or on 6651 4486.
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i Sonja. What is your latest project? esCarpade is a sevenday outback motoring adventure driving distances of 300 - 350 km each day, all off the beaten track. We stop in rural towns for lunch, visit schools to spread the esCarpade cheer, and we always brake for CARaoke and cricket at our fun stops. esCarpade is a well oiled machine that limits cars to just 80. esCarpade is neither a speed event, nor a race. It is a chance to drive on back roads through different parts of Australia. It’s a family friendly and wonderfully inspiring event that has people returning year after year. esCarpade has now been operating for 22 years, and we are so proud of the support that we receive from communities before and during the event, from local government, police, schools, service clubs and associations throughout Australia. What is the route the cars take? This year the adventure starts in Bundaberg, travelling on unforgiving roads through the South East of Queensland, tracking down the Great Dividing Range to finish in Wollongong – all on very few sealed roads! How long does the adventure take? Seven fun-filled, adventure-packed days from 12 to 19 October. What is the criteria to enter? All vehicles entered in the event must be at least 20 years old, which can lead to all sorts of challenges! To register and be a part of the fun, the minimum participation fee is $5,000, which the teams raise in many ways. But, we encourage entrants to raise as much as possible to help kids living with cancer and families in their local areas.
Do we have any local participants? This year we have a Coffs Harbour team taking part. The team at Mike Blewitt Ford have entered and were last seen making some much needed modifications to their 20 year old Ford. What better name for a local team than the ‘Banana Benders’? We also have Poles & Underground as well as a NAB Business team from Tamworth, who have been working hard raising fun and funds for Camp Quality in our area. Will esCarpade be travelling through Coffs Harbour? Yes! We are very excited to be having two nights in Coffs Harbour, with a rest day in between. The esCarpade cars and support vehicles will be rolling into town on Tuesday 15th and leave on Thursday 17 October. The event delivers approximately $35,000 per day back into the communities it stops overnight at by way of accommodation, meals, fuel, car supplies and incidentals. We are very pleased to be able to reinvest into the local community, which has been so supportive of the work Camp Quality does. What will happen along the way? Lots of fun and games! Each day a few of the esCarpade teams will be stopping at primary schools along the way for kids to see the Camp Quality Puppet Show. The puppets have a unique way of building trust and engaging children quickly, so they can address issues and dispel concerns regarding contact with children who have cancer. The characters help children understand how their actions impact other children by reinforcing anti-bullying and what they can do to be a supportive friend or classmate. Several times each day the cars stop in
the middle of nowhere for a ‘fun stop’, where games are played, drivers are revived and laughs are shared. There are three theme nights during the course of the event – a military night in Dalby, a Rock ‘n’ Roll night here in Coffs Harbour on Tuesday 15th and a racing theme in Bathurst. We’re looking forward to a great night where the ‘esCarpadians’ can let their hair down and relax as they have a rest day on the Wednesday to enjoy Coffs Harbour and stock up on supplies! How much do you anticipate raising? Being a national event with teams travelling from Victoria, Queensland and all over NSW, this is a million dollar event. Our target this year is to once again exceed the $1M mark, with monies raised going back to children living with cancer in the local areas entrants come from. How can we get involved? If you see an ‘esCarpadian’ around town or driving their cars (which are easy to spot!), please give them a wave and say hello. Our esCarpadians will be having breakfast at the Deep Sea Fishing club just prior to heading out of town at approx. 8.30am on Thursday 17 October, so why not go and see the cars and wave them off before heading to work or school? esCarpade is an annual event, so anyone who would like to join the fun next year can contact the Coffs Harbour office on 6651 4486, via northen.nsw@campquality.org.au or visit esCarpade.org.au. How can we donate? By going to esCarpade.org.au and clicking on ‘make a donation’. If anyone would like to directly support the Banana Benders/Mike Blewitt Ford team, please contact the team on 6648 3525. Thanks Sonja.
Partnerships create jobs Coffs Regional Conservatorium This month, the Con is overjoyed to advise the Coffs Coast community that Trish O’Brien will be joining us as our cello tutor commencing in term four this year. Trish has been a member of the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Seymour Group, Hazelwood Quartet, Adelaide Chamber Orchestra and Adelaide Contemporary Ensemble. She has performed as guest principal cellist for the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra and held the position of Associate Principal for six years. As guest artist she has performed with the Australia Ensemble, Australian String Quartet and Sydney Soloists. As a concerto soloist, Trish has performed with the Sydney Symphony and Queensland Symphony Orchestras and has recorded commercially for the ABC and 2MBS FM. She was the featured cellist in the ABC TV promotional ads, and her portrait, painted by Anne Ingebout, won the 1997 People's Choice at the Archibald Competition. Always pushing the boundaries, Trish was the Director of the highly successful 'Piazzolla Project' and the Artistic Director of the Camden Haven Music Festival. For the past five years Trish has been the creative force behind Jetty Images here in Coffs Harbour. Trish has enjoyed a remarkable musical career and will be accepting cello students for private tuition from October 8 onwards.
make music
Innovative local partnerships between businesses and schools have resulted in local youth obtaining casual jobs at Woolworths and BIG W. In separate partnerships, Woolworths and BIG W have partnered with Coffs Harbour High School and Orara High School to give students a real taste of the workplace. The partnerships have allowed local youth to gain an insight into the operations of the organisations and to experience work. “Local work experience and employment is often difficult for young people to obtain. These partnerships have generated work readiness training and opportunities for our students to gain genuine experience in a workplace,” commented Dionne Court, Careers Adviser at Coffs Harbour High School. Youth Directions Partnership Broker Emma Aspden has assisted the schools, Woolworths and BIG W to develop the programs, which include work readiness training for participants (including resume writing and interview techniques). If your business or workplace is interested in developing sustainable partnerships that have youth employment, skill development or work readiness outcomes, please contact Youth Directions. Image: Yordanos Tesfamichael and Jaymin Hyland Taylor from Coffs Harbour High School (at Woolworths) Further details: contact Emma Aspden at Youth Directions on 6653 2900 or visit www.youthdirections.com.au
COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL CONSERVATORIUM
LEARN TO
play sing record write Bray Street Complex Cnr Bray St & Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour Call now to book on 6652
1592 or visit www.coffscon.org.au
coffs coast focus 19
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As if one star in a family isn’t enough … Dave, ave, y, Dee, Liz, James and somewhat reluctantly, Nick Tune, regularly share the limelight. A lovee of music and performing pulses throu ugh through thei ir veins and the stage has become a sec cond their second hom me for this Coffs Harbour theatre famil ly. home family.
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ow did you get started in theatre? Dave: My theatre experience began with five years in Brisbane Gang Show and brief stints with Queensland Musical Theatre and Mustardseed Theatre Company, before becoming a founding member of Blackboard Inc., a group dedicated to producing original local musical theatre. During my ten years with Blackboard, I performed many roles, including full stage productions, theatre restaurant shows, a panto (as a giant teddy bear) and even at a wedding. I still marvel at the experiences we had, what we learned, and how much fun it was. Dee: At nine I started singing in my school choir. After performing in my first musical at eleven I had the performing bug. Six years and six musicals later, I graduated from high school and moved to Brisbane to study for a Medical Radiation Science degree. I was invited to join Blackboard Inc., where I met Dave. I had fun performing, working backstage and generally making a show happen. In January 1995, I was accepted into the inaugural Musical Theatre Summer School run by the Queensland Performing Arts Trust in conjunction with John Frost, one of Australia’s top theatrical producers. We studied for two weeks under leading professionals who live and breathe musical theatre plus we played on the Lyric Theatre stage - wow, talk about space in the wings. Which local productions have you been involved with? Dave: Jesus Christ Superstar and The King & I. In 2012, I played Herman in Sweet Charity and the Duke of Cornwall and Herald in King Lear. I was Assistant Director for Sweet Charity and Stage Manager for The 39 Steps. Earlier this year I played the monster in Young Frankenstein, a role which my family felt I was perfectly cast. Dee: In 2011, I played Mrs Anna in The King & I and was Stage Manager for Rent. In Beauty and the Beast I played the wonderful role of Madame de la Grande Bouche, a former opera diva turned enchanted wardrobe. This year I ventured into the serious theatre in Brilliant Lies
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and after that, I performed in the ensemble for on record as saying he ‘doesn’t want to be an Young Frankenstein. actor’, although he knew all of the lyrics to every You’ve both performed in musicals, dramas, song in Young Frankenstein - he may yet catch even Shakespeare, which genre is your first the bug. Nick studies guitar with John Mostyn. love? Each of them studies music, either voice or an Dave: Easy - comedy; I love making audiences instrument. laugh. I love singing, although my vocal abilities How does the family’s involvement in the pale when compared to Dee. Having said that I theatre effect home and school life? very much enjoyed playing the Duke of Cornwall Dave: At the time of Superstar, having a in King Lear - the Bard’s work is amazing. young family Dee and I decided that we both Dee: I loved Madame de la Grande Bouche couldn’t be on stage. Since then, as a family because she was just so over the top. I could we have embraced the joy of theatre. The really play with her from a comedic view point. kids sometimes refer to themselves as ‘theatre With Dave and Lizzy both having performed brats’. Homework has been done back stage Shakespeare I now have a little Shakespeare on numerous occasions, and I’m sure there’s envy going on … been days at school with big yawns and drowsy Two of your three children minds, but overall the impact seems have embraced the minimal. Liz has proclaimed, ‘I have theatre tell us about no social life – I’m always at their experience? rehearsal.’ s The theatre give Dee: Our Have any of the family me a chance to daughter Lizzy is considered a professional I’m be someone that ings 13 years old. In career in the theatre? th not and discover I 2012 she won the Liz: Since I was little at about myself th ‘Traditional Folk/ … I’ve wanted a career as a n ow may not have kn National Song’ performer. In 2010 I was Liz – 13 years. ” category for her invited to audition for the age group in her first role of Jane in the professional vocal Eisteddfod, and production of Mary Poppins. I this year she got highly was thrilled to be considered for the commended. She played in the role but unfortunately I was too tall and I The King & I and has been in the Young wasn't able to audition. I was still excited that Actor’s Studio in Coffs for many years. She the casting agents liked my biography enough played Lucy in Narnia, and Mrs Darling in Peter to accidentally overlook my height. Pan. Last year she was the youngest performer Dee: The opportunity of a lifetime for me was for Shakespeare’s A Mid Summer Night’s Dream. to attend a Musical Theatre Summer School She worked backstage for Beauty and The Beast, at QPAC. It was a wonderful experience and Young Frankenstein and The 39 Steps. the door was open if I’d have wanted to walk James is ten years old. He was cast as one of through it. Looking back now though, if I’d the King’s children in The King & I but pulled out chosen that path, I wouldn’t be where I am early in the rehearsal season. He was eight at today - no Dave, no kids - a life I can’t really the time and probably a little overawed. Since contemplate. It was a nice dream, but I do this then he performed as a pirate in the Young because I love it and its fun. I think enjoyment Actor’s Studio production of Peter Pan and has wanes quickly once it becomes a necessity and done holiday workshops run by Harbour Arts a chore. which has improved his stage confidence. Dave, you’re directing The Secret Garden, Nick (nine years old) has emphatically gone which opens at The Jetty Theatre,
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Photo – Steve Little
Interview by Fran Stephenson
November 9, how has it adapted from children’s book to stage musical? The show was created by Pulitzer winning playwright, Marsha Norman and composer, Lucy Simon (sister to Carly Simon). It’s based on the much-loved novel by Francis Hodgson Burnett and premiered in London in 1991 subsequently winning three Tony Awards. The story is centred on Mary Lennox and her journey after her parents’ death in India to her uncle’s neglected mansion on the Yorkshire moors. She discovers her late aunt’s garden and through her own personal discoveries and growth she brings about change in all those around her. What’s particularly beautiful about this show is the clever delivery of the story, not only in the words but through the emotional music and complex harmonies. Dee persuaded me to see the Australian professional production in 1995 (I admit I wasn’t interested thinking it was a bit ‘girly’), I left the theatre feeling uplifted and stunned by the power of the performance. The song, Lily’s Eyes (then sung by Anthony Warlow and Philip Quast) has been with me ever since as one of my favourites from a musical. Dave, what influence did you as director have on the casting of your family members? None. I was excluded from even being part of the discussions in casting the roles for which my family were auditioning. The risk of any or all of them not getting a role in the show was discussed at home, and that the decision of the casting panel was final and that I had no avenue of appeal. Liz and James, what does the theatre mean to you? Liz: The theatre gives me a chance to be someone that I’m not and discover things about myself that I may not have known. It’s a place to express myself and entertain - my home away from home. I just love being there. James: The theatre to me is a place where you can be proud to pretend to be someone else. It also means many late nights. Thank you everyone.
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Three of the best!
COCKTAIL - Thurs 17 Oct Tracey Spicer Respected news-reader, journalist and mum Tracey Spicer is probably the most versa le media personality in the country. She is in high demand as a speaker and a reless charity worker. Lucky for us she is coming to Coffs.
Emerald Beach Plumbing
The Secret Garden
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XMAS PARTY Fri 6 Dec We’re going to the newly-renovated Pasfields Restaurant to dance the night away to Chris na Monneron’s six piece South American band! Huge verandah, wonderful cuisine, complimentary arrival drinks, ocean breezes wa ing through the doors. Don’t miss out! TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
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Emerald Beach Plumbing has been in business in Coffs Harbour for 18 years now. Its humble beginnings started in the front yard of Peter and Pandora’s home in Surf Street, Emerald Beach.
Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company are busy working on their latest production, and in November, you will be able to see the beloved children’s classic, The Secret Garden on stage.
It has been fantastic to enjoy longevity in this industry and still grow through some very tough economic times and the flattening out of the building industry, especially in Coffs Harbour.
Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, this enchanting classic of children's literature is brought to life as a musical by composer Lucy Simon (sister of Carly Simon) and the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Marsha Norman. The show premiered in London in 1991, and won 3 Tony Awards.
We can only credit the fact that we are the ‘Emerald Beach Plumbing EXPERIENCE’. It’s not just about plumbing for us, but also helping people out and providing a friendly, helpful and professional service. We like to leave people with that WOW experience.
Two of the major roles in the story are played by children: Lizzy Tune and Samantha Lagettie, both 13, will share the role of Mary, and 11 year olds James Tune and Jack McCormack share the role of Mary’s cousin, Colin Craven.
We continue to innovate sustainably, with technology and also with Work Health & Safety requirements. We make sure we continue to train regularly with all our staff, including ourselves as owners of the business. If you don’t grow with your business and are willing to change, then nothing changes.
The beautifully haunting musical tells the story of young Mary Lennox, orphaned in India and sent to live with her reclusive uncle Archibald in Yorkshire, England, in an old mansion filled with secrets and sorrows. Will Mary discover who is crying in the night and unlock the secrets of the house and garden? Featuring a cast of local theatrical talent and many beautiful musical numbers, this production will delight all members of the family.
We recently won the State Training award for Small Employer of the Year 2012 North Coast and also became one of the top 3 Finalists in NSW – a great reward and acknowledgement for our amazing team at Emerald Beach Plumbing. We are very proud of the dream team at Emerald Beach Plumbing and consider that we have some of the best people working for us. We are only as good as the amazing people that make up Emerald Beach Plumbing.
A vibrant young talent not to be missed!
This month at the Jetty The Jetty Memorial Theatre brings you some powerful local and international talent this month … From Friday 11 - Sunday 20 October, CHATS presents 2 Floors Up, a superbly-crafted play from local playwright, Kelly McLoughlin-Wilden. This witty, contemporary drama raises many issues about our modern society and both confronts and delights. On Sunday 27 October, Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium & Arts NSW presents Sunday Soundscape #4 - Six Ensemble. This ensemble has been awarded some of the highest international honours in choral music, including gold medals at the World Choir Games. This is vibrant young talent not to be missed! Back by popular demand, Coffs Harbour High School presents Garlambirla on Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 October, an original musical telling local creation stories. Stephen 'Baamba' Albert, the original Uncle Tadpole from the stage version of Bran Nue Dae, will perform a selection of Broome songs with the cast. Experience the talent this month, visit www.jettytheatre.com now for further details.
Love & Kisses
Coffs Antiques has moved
What’s the big question at Love & Kisses this week? Where ARE they going to fit all the dozens of cartons of new Christmas stock that are piling up in the storeroom?
… to shop 2, Park Ave opposite Woolworths next to the Cheese Cake Shop. Our hours are between 9am - 5pm, 7 days a week.
The last week of October is when it all happens, so if you want to get 'first pickings', make a note on your calendar, or ask Judy to phone you when all the Christmas goodies go out.
The shop stocks traditional antique furniture, china, glass ware, military, tribal, silver, vintage and retro items and assorted collectables. You can also find us at Bellingen, Woolgoolga and Yamba monthly markets.
And on the subject of calendars, this year for the first time Love & Kisses have the very popular Lang calendars for 2014 in stock now – but they’re selling fast, so call in soon while there’s still a variety to choose from. Calendar frames are in stock too. Judy has also restocked the little robot clocks which sold out after last month’s FOCUS ad, and a third delivery of the wild and whacky 'Groovy Grannies' tea cosies arrived this week. Most popular new items in the shop this month are the lovely multi coloured blown glass Friendship Balls. Eight new colours have just arrived, they’re beautifully boxed with lovely words, and they are just the best gift when you need something different for a special friend. So if it’s a birthday gift, a baby gift, an unusual book, some fun jewellery for you, or the start of your Christmas list ... take ten minutes to check out Love & Kisses before you look anywhere else. You'll be glad that you did.
Why are antiques great? The antique world needs not be dour, stuffy and full of dust. Antiques mix well with modern spaces, add character, charm and show off your ingenuity. Just one interesting piece will set off a room! Buying antiques, vintage and retro is the ultimate in recycling and up-cycling. Up-cycling is taking an old piece and giving it a new life or use. Buying up-cycled goods means a smaller carbon footprint. Buy with us and you're buying locally, which also means low carbon miles. Baden has been a licensed dealer for 36 years in the Antique Trade. He has one of the widest range of knowledge and experience in the whole region in antique furniture and other old items. We can offer advice on a wide range of matters to do with antiques. Call in to 2 Park Ave, Coffs Harbour to meet Baden and Gary.
2 FLOORS UP
Fri 11th - Sun 20th Oct CHATS productrion 2 Floors Up will both confront and delight. Don’t miss it! Adults only.
Awarded some of the highest honours in choral music, not to be missed...
Sun 27th Oct
SIX - ENSEMBLE GARLAMBIRLA
Wed 30th -Thu 31st Oct Back by popular demand, Coffs Harbour High School presents Garlambirla. Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon - 4pm jettytheatre.com | 02 6652 8088 facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au 337 Harbour Drive
Proudly supported by
jetty memorial theatre
SEASON 2013 coffs coast focus
23
focusinterview.
Why Web? Three Good Reasons IMAGE MATTERS a monthly feature by ◎
saso.creative
1. Google Trumps Yellow Pages. Yep, the verdict is in: Yellow Pages is out, Google is in. People are more likely to use Google (31%) than Yellow Pages (30%)* when searching for products, services or businesses. If your target market is younger (15 - 40 years old) that jumps to a staggering 81% of people preferring Google. Where’s your business when people are
Destiny Rescue House
Googling the products or services you provide? If you’re not on the web, you’re missing out. 2. Small Business, Big Opportunity. Fifty percent of small businesses (6 - 100 employees) do not have a website. Eighty percent of micro-businesses (up to five employees) do not have a website. Put another way, a micro-business with a website has a five-to-one advantage over their competitors who do not have a website. Competitive advantages don’t get much better than that. 3. Oustanding Benefits and Value. An eighth-page display ad in a business directory costs roughly $1,300. Your business is featured on a page alongside your competitors. You cannot change your ad for 12 months. There is no referral mechanism. It’s a big, bulky book. Its value is static. Its pay-for-space structure favours big business over small business. By contrast, a website focuses a prospect’s attention on your pitch, not on your competitors’. It can be updated as frequently as needed. It can feature fresh marketing and sales ideas as they occur. It can generate word-of-mouth and other cloud-crowd referrals. It requires only a mobile phone as a search engine. Its value is dynamic. It is democratic – there are no inherent costs that favour big business or disadvantage small business. saso.creative has been helping businesses of all sizes realise their web potential for more than 15 years. Call for a chat about getting your business onto the web. Next month’s Image Matters feature: Focus on Logos.
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TARGETED DESIGN
FOR YOUR BUSINESS Make your business CLICK! Make the web work for you. Call saso.creative to discuss the possibilities and potential.
WEB DESIGN PRINT DESIGN PACKAGING
SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR PACKAGE DEALS
LOGO DESIGN ◎ BRANDING COPYWRITING
www.sasocreative.com.au
02 6656 4625 0402 325 501 * Sources and references available on our website.
24 coffs coast focus.
Destiny Rescue is based in Northern Thailand – a team that works tirelessly to rescue trafficked children from brothels and bars, where they are forced daily to service the sex industry in Northern Thailand. Cue: ‘Rescue House’, a project where a group of dedicated Coffs Coast folk are building a property to sell, with the proceeds being donated to the victims in Northern Thailand. First priority is intensive counselling, rehabilitation and skilling the girls for legitimate work. ow was Destiny Rescue House born? The idea of the ‘Rescue House’ was born following a visit to the Destiny Rescue facility in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Our taxi bus broke down on the way into town, so six Aussies, Steve and Rosie Brown (Builders), Neil and Di Sanderson (bakers), Bruce Watts (doctor), all of Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, and Andrew Smith (developer, of Toowoomba), had time for a good look at what was happening at the facility, the jewellery workshop, the almost completed hairdressing salon and the restaurant/café, which was running. The Australian founders of Destiny Rescue, Tony and Jenni Kirwan, patiently answered our many questions and by the time the taxi was finally repaired, we were ‘hooked’ on the fantastic work being done. A Queensland couple, Phil and Debbie Jarmy (already living in Chiang Mai), had been asked if they would take on the setting up of a facility and programmes there, for skilling the rescued girls and boys, ready for future independence. An American donated a brand new T-shirt printing and drying machine for Phil to set up a Destiny Rescue business, and Debbie was already teaching cooking, hospitality and restaurant business skills to some of the girls. Phil is an artist and painter by trade and Debbie is a chef, who worked in the Australian Army as such. We saw the massive need for more programmes and therefore funding, so set about thinking of ways to raise money. Steve’s trade has been building, from which he had previously planned to retire. That is what he knows, so that is where we became focused for this major fundraising event. What is your involvement, and how did you get involved? We emailed the Australian Head Office of Destiny Rescue,
outlining our fundraising proposal with the ‘Rescue House’. Their CEO, David Jones, came to Coffs Harbour to go over the project with us – to establish that it was feasible and that we would be able to fulfil what we were planning to do. He visited the proposed site with us, asked a multitude of questions and took photos. He then returned to Queensland and presented the proposal to the Destiny Rescue Board, who approved the project and the association. What projects are you working on locally? We originally showed the movie Trade of Innocents at Birch Carroll and Coyle, as an awareness event. Destiny Rescue had representatives present, who spoke at the movie and also sold items made by rescued kids. We had a great response to that, with donations being made in addition to the tickets that were sold. The money raised from that event went into the Rescue House project. We have been generously offered the opportunity to fundraise at an upcoming dog show, being held in Coffs Harbour later this month. Coffs Harbour Council also offered the opportunity to fundraise at various locations, so as soon as we can coordinate that, we will. Who has shown support of these projects? The response from local tradies, professionals, suppliers, insurance providers, the Housing Industry Association, the public in general and even local Council has been nothing short of phenomenal! We are amazed and hugely encouraged by the generous spirit of those who believe that the child trafficking industry is out of control and needs to be stopped. The Sapphire Beach Estate developers have been incredibly generous with their terms for the land on which the Rescue House is being constructed.
What else do you need to get the project off the ground? The Rescue House is ready to commence in mid-September, and from then it will be all systems go. Funding, material supplies and qualified trades are still needed in various areas. How can we get involved? Anyone who has great fundraising ideas and/or is willing to help with fundraising, please either ring Steve on 0411 399 207, or email us at the address supplied. Those who wish to just fundraise individually are encouraged to do that. Follow the progress on the website www. rescuehouse.com.au – or for those who are local, it is located at Lot 23 Oceanfront Drive, Sapphire Beach Estate, Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour. This is a fantastic beachside location, with direct access to the beach through a walkway right across the road. How can we donate? There is a 'Be A Part – Buy A Part' initiative on the website, where anything from bricks to toilet roll holders can be donated! We encourage the public to access this facility. The website also gives information on how to donate to the project, with bank account details available, or we can be emailed at encompassprojects@gmail.com Every donation made increases the end profit for the charity and its Chiang Mai programmes. The building and sale of the ‘Rescue House’ will not be the end of the project for Coffs Harbour residents. There are plans for opportunities to be available for people to visit the facilities in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai as part of their Thailand holiday. We will continue with the website beyond completion, so that donors and interested people will be able to see where their donations have gone and the continuing growth of the programmes.
Big Gareth & Lisa Owen are the owners ow of Big Garden Furniture, based in the beautiful coastal town of Woolgoolga. Chrissy Jones called in for a chat. hey have a great showroo showroom om displaying llocally ll manufactured f d and d handcrafted h d f d furniture, and it’s right on the Pacific Highway near the Woolgoolga roundabout (the iconic blue shed), so you can’t miss it! The furniture ranges from contemporary, modern designs to rustic styled, Australian hardwood timber furniture for indoor and outdoor use. So, how is your furniture made? All our furniture is made by hand using selected pieces of timber that best suit the design and location (i.e. outdoor no cover, outdoor undercover or indoors). We incorporate a ‘half-lap’ style joint to our outdoor furniture, due to the type of material we use, then ‘double fix’ using hot dipped galvanised bolts. All our furniture is finished with Aussie Clear Exterior Oil. Where is the furniture made? We manufacture right here in our factory at Woolgoolga, with 90% of our timber being sourced locally, which saves on transport and reduces our carbon footprint. This area also has some of the best Blackbutt, Tallowood and Ironbark in Australia, so we use all three species in most of our construction. Are customers limited to your designs? No way; we love designing one-off pieces for customers. In fact, it’s a major part of our business, and working one and one with customers really enhances the finished product. We’ve also designed furniture for holiday parks, Councils and schools across NSW and QLD. Our showroom is there purely to show customers hat is available from our standard range. Whilst what
size and the parameters remain the same, the sizes bi i li i l combinations are limitless. Is there anything special that you love making? Daybeds! We have a passion for making furniture that embellishes both form and function, and there’s nothing better than a daybed for relaxation. We have two designs: one contemporary, and the other rustic. The Cosmo is more slender and modern in design, while the Sultan is big and chunky, yet majestic and very comfy. Lisa makes all the covers for the daybeds, so all customers have to do is choose the fabric to suit their décor. What’s new to the business? We started making dining chairs earlier this year due to closure of another local business. All our dining chairs are iconic and elegant Australian handcrafted designs; there are six styles to choose from, with either a fabric or leather seat. Shown in the photo is our Byron Chair made from Victorian Ash with a black leather seat and back insert. Then there are the dining tables; again, all made locally and made to stand the test of time. Shown in the photo is our latest table made from Narrow Leaf Peppermint Tree which is complemented by the Byron Chair in Victorian Ash. Your message to people reading this: Come down and see for yourself that you can purchase 100% Australian made furniture at very competitive prices; we’re happy to accommodate just about any custom design or ideas you might have. Thanks Gareth and Lisa.
coffs coast focus 25
p o s t
2 0 1 3
asebo isit
26 coffs coast focus.
WHAT COFFS HAD TO SAY
T
he recent Sasebo Mayoral Delegation demonstrated yet again the importance of the past 25 year sister city relationship with the regional Japanese coastal city. The official civic delegation of 11, joined by 18 community members from the Japan Australia Society and coinciding with the youth exchange visit of four school students and their teacher, was welcomed in the spirit and generosity for which the Coffs Harbour community is renowned. The two-day visit was packed with an array of education and industry tours, as well as cultural, ceremonial and official celebrations. The educational pursuits of North Coast TAFE was demonstrated by students providing a welcome feast of locally-prepared
dishes served at the Osprey Restaurant venue, followed by a tour of local training facilities. Southern Cross University promoted the strong international links its English Language Centre has established and highlighted the additional opportunities for overseas students to learn and live within the University and Coffs Harbour community. The visitors were extremely interested in the guided tours of facilities at the National Marine Science Centre and the University of NSW Rural Clinical School. They enjoyed the sights from the new Bruxner Park Skywalk and the marvellous North Coast Regional Botanical Gardens where a traditional giftgiving ceremony was followed by the tastes of a ‘good ole fashioned Aussie barbeque’
hosted by the hard working volunteers of the Friends of the Gardens in the Japanese Teahouse. The visitors ventured north to learn of the large horticulture operations of Berry Exchange who provided a fascinating show, taste and tell tour of their major blueberry and raspberry growing business. The visit concluded with the official dinner at Pacific Bay Resort themed with our local Indigenous culture and arts and enlivened by speeches and the exchange of gifts During the various speeches, the Mayor of Sasebo, Mr Norio Tomonaga, expressed a strong desire for the reciprocal visits between Sasebo and Coffs Harbour to continue, so that our Cities could mutually benefit from the cultural, educational, social and
economic opportunities that are evident. The 25 year anniversary of this important international bond sought to highlight the wealth of goodwill between the two cities and the benefits of the cultural exchange of ideas, learning, student and visitor programs, and community awareness. The Sister City Program has strengthened many current and past friendships enjoyed by the civic leaders and broader community. This was emphasised by the large attendance at a dinner hosted by the Australia Japan Society during the visit. The future of this relationship can only grow in strength as both cities continue to celebrate the partnership, build on past achievements and investigate further crosscultural opportunities for the future.
mayoral address We in council are still reeling from the wonderful visit we had from the Mayor, Mr. Tomonago, his wife and the Sasebo delegation. They were pretty tired when they left as we showed off our beautiful city with the taste of the Coffs Coast and aromas of our local produce; they were very taken with all the stops on their tour, breathless at our coastline, our welcoming community also our indigenous heritage. The relationship with Sasebo is something to be nurtured not just for the educational and cultural links but the harmony and good will of the two cities sharing and embracing what is clearly a mutual respect and admiration for each other.
Mayors display NC TAFE’s Vocational Training logo
Building the existing sister-city relationship is an
Future developments could include:
North Coast TAFE was honoured to be able
This Sasebo delegate visit allowed us to show-
important step toward creating a more globally
the establishment of an undergraduate and
to host the delegation from Sasebo for the
case our new clinical skills lab and emphasise
connected, economically dynamic and cultur-
post-graduate student exchange program in
Welcome Lunch in the Osprey restaurant, and
the cross institutional links we have built with
ally vibrant regional centre here on the Coffs
Marine Science; to secure funding for an an-
be able to display the skill level of our teachers
the other tertiary educational institutions in
Coast. In particular, it provided a chance to
nual scholarship that alternatively provides the
and students as demonstrated through the
Coffs Harbour. It gives us an opportunity to
showcase the Coffs Harbour Education Cam-
opportunity for students from both countries
preparation and servery of the lunch.
reflect on our achievements in a manner that
pus (CHEC) and what is a unique arrangement
to undertake short exchange visits; to explore
North Coast TAFE is interested in further con-
gives our student body cause to feel proud of
between three educational partners and al-
opportunities for collaborative research projects
tributing to the sister city relationship through
their school.
lowed the mayoral delegation to be introduced
examining aspects of sustainable aquaculture
the development of potential partnerships in
to the great diversity of educational programs
as a primary food source as well as mechanism
areas of arts exchanges, cultural exchanges,
Alison Seccull
co-located on site, while seeing first-hand
for re-stocking of fisheries species in the wild;
opportunities to study spoken and written
UNSW Rural Clinical School
some of the innovative teaching and research
to develop an aquarium display in Sasebo of
English, studies in technical and trade areas,
Acting Head of Campus
happening in Coffs in the fields of nursing,
species from the Solitary Islands waters of
and the possible export of the Certificate IV
hospitality and English education.
Coffs Harbour and a similar one at the National
in Training and Evaluation which has been
Future visits to Sasebo should aim to foster
Marine Science Centre of species from Sasebo
successfully delivered in both Abu Dhabi and
these relationships and would not only be a
which would also assist to promote public
China.
gesture of goodwill, but would also greatly
awareness of the connection between the two
North Coast TAFE looks forward to continu-
facilitate dialogue toward formalizing ties
sister cities.
ing to support the development of the sister
The Sasebo-City Municipal Office has signalled
Professor Les Christidis
community.
enthusiasm toward expanding educational
Director
links with Coffs Harbour, and it is in our inter-
National Marine Science Centre
city relationship for the benefit of our local
between these institutions.
Paul Taylor
est to capitalise on that expression of interest
Campus Manager
by following up with our sister-city partners.
North Coast TAFE
David Lynch Head of Campus SCU Coffs Harbour
coffs coast focus 27
Coffs Coast Coffs
Roast duck leg & breast with rubarb eschallot compote, fondant potatoes & red wine jus from Saltwater CafĂŠ & Restaurant.
eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat
28 coffs coast focus.
eat. Char grilled chilli & garlic squid with chorizo sausage, baby cos & romesco dressing
Saltwater Restaurant With the weather warming up, there is no better place to sit by the ocean, relax and enjoy the fabulous food, than Saltwater Café and Restaurant. Our new spring menu will tantalise your taste buds whilst you enjoy the laid back and friendly atmosphere of Emerald Beach. Saltwater’s new owner, Amy Kebby, knows that there is nothing more important than offering great food, friendly, efficient service and offering very reasonable priced food to gain loyal customers. Saltwater is now a fully licensed restaurant, with great new Australian wines. Open Wednesday to Sunday. Live music on Sunday afternoons.
Chicken Teriyaki Bento Box.
Sarong Bar & Restaurant Have a yen for amazing Japanese food? Well, you no longer need fly to Osaka, because Makio and Makiko are right here in Sawtell, preparing the dishes of their homeland, with flavours and textures that will delight both the well 'travelled foodie' and those eager to experience authentic Japanese cuisine at its very best. Along with Udon, Sukiyaki and Yakitori, the kitchen cooks four different Bento Boxes daily. Choose from Wagyu Beef, Chicken Teriyaki, Vegetarian or Sushi, Sashimi and Tempura. After dark the menu explodes into our fantastic pan Asian selection. Curries, stir fries and a great range of small plates – perfect to share over a drink.
REVIEWED BY
Guide
104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach t 6656 1888 w www.saltwateronthebeach.com open: From 8am. Breakfast, lunch and dinner - Wed to Sat. Breakfast and lunch Sun. Sunday Sesh live music from 3pm.
Chefs Makiko & Maiko.
1/24 First Avenue Sawtell t 6658 5857 open Lunch 11:30am – 2:30pm Monday – Friday Dinner From 5pm Monday – Saturday
Seaview Tavern The Seaview Tavern Family Bistro is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. In between we have a great little bar snacks menu – so you are always able to get a great feed. After the winter months and being warmed by our open fires inside, or alfresco in our large beer garden, warmed by mushroom heaters, the warmer weather continues to make it a great place to dine all year round. Our $10 meal deals make us the popular choice from Monday through to Friday, plus we have daily blackboard specials sure to please even the fussiest of palates. We also do takeaway meals – please ring through your order on 6654 1206.
Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar Zulus has moved into a dessert inspired breakfast menu, where we have taken the best elements of dessert and the greatest nutritional benefits of breakfast and devised some low sugar, low GI breakfast desserts ... Or Bresserts ... Or Deakfast?
Chef Joel McCulla.
27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) t 6652 1588 w www.zuluscoffs.com open: Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am. Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.
Head Chef Paul Lynch.
51 River St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1206 w www.seaviewtavern.com.au fb fb.com/seaviewtavernwoolgoolga open: 7 days, 12noon – 3pm and 5pm – 8.30pm (extended trading for daylight savings)
coffs coast focus 29
eat. Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill Breaky, lunch or dinner with the best views on the Coffs Coast! Serving fresh mouth-watering seafood, fish and chips, flame-grilled steaks, daily specials and coffee and cake with a bonus backdrop of THE BEST OCEAN VIEWS on the Coffs Coast ... come and experience the difference at Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill. Open daily for lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm and NOW OPEN FOR BREAKFAST ON SATURDAY, SUNDAY & WEDNESDAYS from 7.30am – we’d love to see you at Fishos soon! VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE FOR THE LATEST! www.coffsfishos.com.au
Finz on The Beach Finz on the Beach is located at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort. With the perfect ocean view and spring menu, Finz on the Beach is a beautiful setting for your next dinner date. Open 7 days a week from 6pm, with an early bird menu and afternoon drinks from 3pm. You can choose from delicious dishes such as 'Szechuan Spiced Pork Belly' or the popular dessert, 'Warm Chocolate Fondant Pudding on a bed of strawberry minted salsa and King Island double cream'. YUM! You can now make your reservations online at www.breakfreeaanukabeachresort.com.au Don’t forget happy hour from 5pm - 6pm, 7 days a week.
Executive Chef Tim McClay-Talivai
Head Chef Jason Watterson.
1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 1534 w www.coffsfishos.com.au
Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 2400 w www.aanuka.com.au
open: 7 days. Lunch and dinner and for breakfast from 7.30am on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday.
open: from 6pm, 7 days a week.
Horizons Restaurant & Bar
Wholly Cow Café
BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY Spring is here, so join us for lunch!
Wholly Cow is now part of the ‘suspended coffee’ movement and is the first café on the Coffs Coast to offer this random act of kindness. The concept is simple – you buy your coffee and at the same time purchase a ‘suspended coffee’. Then someone in need can ask for a ‘suspended coffee’.
THE OC LUNCH DEAL – for $23.50pp Enjoy a glass of house wine, domestic beer or soft drink, your meal and espresso or tea at Horizons Restaurant & Bar on the terrace overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views or in air conditioned comfort.
Wholly Cow offers two beans to choose from, both organic and Fairtrade, roasted by Amelia Franklin. They have the award winning Mama Quilla blend and the single origin Café Femenino.
11.30am - 2.30pm, 7 days. Bookings preferred. Our new menu spring/summer dinner menu starts after the school holidays.
Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour t 6651 0510 open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week. Bookings recommended. Fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5-6pm daily.
30 coffs coast focus.
Clinton Hunter Head Chef.
So buy local and support your local community at Wholly Cow. Paying it forward one coffee at a time!
2/39 First Avenue, Sawtell t 6658 2682 open: Monday to Saturday 7am to 5pm Sunday and Public Holidays 7am to 3pm
Owner Ricky Lee
eat.
Bluebottles Brasserie
Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck
Come and enjoy our new spring menu – and some old favourites – in a relaxed alfresco setting.
In a spectacular setting high on the hill at Paradise Palms Resort, the newly renovated Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck Function Centre (ex Beaches & Rum Runners) is now open and offering a complete dining experience. Fine dining such as Two Tails: crocodile and Balmain Bug tails, casual bar snacks such as nachos and wedges, amazing cocktails and bar or takeaway pizzas are on offer.
Opening Friday and Saturday nights towards the end of the month. Book early for all Christmas functions catered for any night. Dietary requirements catered for.
The exquisitely renovated restaurant and/or deck provide the perfect setting for weddings (with Chapel too), Christmas parties and functions. Head Chef Gerard Geerligs.
Now with Social Sundays to unwind, with relaxing solo and bands in the background on the deck while tasting all day tappas, pizza ... and daily happy hour 4.30pm-6pm Dinner Dance mid Wednesday of each month with band and full a la carte menu begins October. Try it soon.
675 Pacific Highway, Korora t 6653 7710 w www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au
Shops 1 & 2, 53 Beach St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1962 open Breakfast and lunch daily.
open: Dinner 7 nights from 5pm, Weekend Breakfasts. Lunch Thurs - Sun.
Macauleys Restaurant
Bacio Café
Summer is so close, we can almost touch it ... and to celebrate the onset of the deliciously warm Coffs Coast weather we have another 'Tunes and Food' event locked in on Saturday 4 October, featuring the talented acoustic maestro, Ryan Martin. Be prepared to embrace the coastal Blues vibe whilst enjoying the most sensational food on the coast.
Something you may not know about Bacio is that we can assist with you catering needs. We offer catering for breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea. We have a selection of platters and combinations available at very affordable prices, for just a few people to a large group.
We’ll have our SUBLIME 'à la carte' Macauleys Restaurant menu available PLUS we’ll be showcasing the amazing seafood currently available with our FAMOUS Surf and Turf steak special.
We are also able to cater to dietary requirements e.g. gluten free options and local delivery is available. Call us or view our website for options and pricing, and don't forget to keep us in mind for Christmas ... dare I say the word! ...
Bookings essential ...
Head Chef Craig Clarke.
99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour t 6652 5970 w www.macauleys.com.au open: Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm.
Owners Lara and Craig.
9 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 0499 w www.bacio.com.au open: Monday to Friday 8am-4pm. Saturday 9am-2pm coffs coast focus 31
interview.
with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s
LILLI PILLI
WH
AT ’ S I N
In Season
The lilly pilly is about to come e out of hiding g as the summer t li gardens d h months draw nearer; and Australian everywhere will become awash with red, pink and magenta fruits and their ever so slight fragrance. More commonly used as an ornamental shrub than as a source of ingredients, the lilly pilly’s gastronomical importance is all too often overlooked. Recently my love for this underachiever of Australian bush food was reignited when I visited the Bakarindi stall at Toast Urunga (FYI if you haven’t visited their stall at the Grower’s Markets ... do so!) with their lilly pilly jam. This astringent fruit, which isn’t very sweet on its own, was served up to me in a delicious jelly hinting with ginger, and since I have served it on pikelets, scones and toast! It has secretly provided me with a rich and exotic form of vitamin C during the cold and flu season.
To continue reading about unique ingredients, including a few useful tips and recipes, visit my blog on the Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar website: www.zuluscoffs.com
Clinton EXECUTIVE CHEF OPA L COV E R E S ORT
The new spring / summer menu promises more tantilising delights for diners and will show off Clinton’s talent for presenting an array of new seasonal produce at its best ...
here are you from? What brought you to chef at Horizons? I’m originally from Newcastle, but moved to the North Coast when I was 15 and stayed for the next five years. I then travelled for the next 10 years working around Australia and have found my way to Coffs Harbour, where I have started my family and settled down.
IN OCTOBER
I was excited to work for Horizons Restaurant at Opal Cove Resort, as they had a great reputation and excellent kitchen brigade, which I now have the pleasure of leading.
Cafe O.P 81 is now open Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights Serving pasta/risotto, salad and breads dine
wherever possible, we have gluten free
in or takeaway. Come in and indulge in our
options and now serving lactose free milk.
famous pastas, risottos and sauces.
Now everyone can really enjoy a great
First of all, choose your sauce then choose
meal and our brilliant blend of coffee from
your pasta or risotto, think about breads or
single origin roasters through cold drip or
salad, and dinner is done ... at our place or
espresso.
yours! Starting on 3 October.
Lick your lips for breakfast, lunch and
Why not stop in prior to grab a copy of our
dinner at O.P81 café.
menu and try our new breakfast and lunch
7am - 2pm, Tue, Wed, Sun.
menu, just in time for summer.
7am - 8pm, Thur, Fri, Sat.
Made with love, passion, local or home
81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour ...
grown ingredients from our garden
Ph (02) 6652 9011 – BYO.
32 coffs coast focus.
When and where did you begin your chef career? I began my chef career in Coffs Harbour working for a few establishments at the same time, The C.ex, Passion Fish Brasserie, and Stetsons Steakhouse was where I started my career at the age of 17. I then moved to Byron Bay to finish my apprenticeship at Café Fresh and Olivos Restaurant. What are your favourites on the menu? On our current menu I like the pear cider poached duck with almonds and honey, and for dessert, banana and date pudding with hazelnut ice cream. But the new spring/ summer menu is out after the school holidays with some exciting dishes.
Do you like Masterchef & MKR - what do you think these shows bring to the industry? Well honestly, I don’t get much time to watch these shows; I’m usually working. But as for what I have seen, I believe they bring huge product knowledge to our customers and also show some of the pressures chefs are under these days. Overall, I think it’s a good thing, as it’s pushing chefs harder to improve all aspects of our food, service and restaurant business. What can we look forward to at Horizons? The weather is warming up, so our new summer menu will be in place soon with a new array of seasonal produce. Also, Christmas is fast approaching, so we are getting busy with Christmas parties as well as our very popular large Christmas Day seafood buffet lunch. Can anyone book, even if they are not staying at Opal Cove Resort? We have a lot of regular locals who dine with us but would love to see more; outside public bookings are welcome, and we would love to see you at the resort! How can people book? For the restaurant – book by calling Horizons Restaurant & Bar on 6651 0550. For Functions & Christmas bookings – call our functions team on 6651 0553. Thanks Clinton.
Homemade bacon is one of the better things in life!
Phoen Wong How long has Phoen Wong been in business, and who makes up your staff? Phoen Wong is the oldest Chinese restaurant in Coffs Harbour, originally established right back in 1964, but we took over the business in 1999 and have been serving locals for over 13 years. We would like to thank all our loyal customers, past and present! Newly relocated just a few doors up from 10 to 14 Park Ave and still open 6 days a week from Tuesday –Sunday for lunch and dinner. We have the same great menu with the same great prices too. What do customers enjoy most about the menu? Phoen Wong prides itself on always serving fresh food, home made secret sauces by Andy with an aim of giving our customers the best food at reasonable prices. Apart from our high standard of food, we have a brand new kitchen and equipment, as well as our dining facilities with comfortable seating. Do you host birthday parties/banquets at Phoen Wong? Yes, we are a really popular venue to host parties. We often host school and office parties, as well as farewells and birthdays. Should people book or turn up? Most customers book, especially for dinner and larger groups. We do have many regulars who just turn up to enjoy our new bigger refurbished premises. Do you provide takeaway? Takeaways are a popular choice – people either ring and order and pickup, or order and go shopping and grab dinner on the way! Phone 6652 3246 or 6652 9390 - Disability Access & Toilet.
Pig in a pickle Hi, my name is Ebony, and my husband and I run preserving workshops.
Megsie’s Meats Jetty Butchery is located at Jetty Village Shopping Centre. The business has been owned and operated by Megsie for over 11 years. We have just recently refurbished the shop, giving it a very modern and clean, fresh look. With the weather warming up, we have a good range of flavoured sausages, beef and chicken rissoles and BBQ meats on display. Megsie can advise you on what meats to use on various dishes or what size quantities you need. All our meats are of the highest quality and standard and are from grass fed stock that’s sourced locally. You will find our prices are competitive and very reasonable. If you want one on one service for quality meats come in and see Megsie. We are open 5½ days a week. For pre-orders you can call Megsie on 6652 1293 or email jettybutchershook@ hotmail.com
We love food, and we love showing people how to preserve food. It is such a rewarding hobby that can very quickly become an addiction! Homemade bacon is one of the better things in life! Preserving meat goes back centuries to when we did not have the convenience of fridges or freezers that we do today. So why preserve meats today? The answer is, the flavour and the price! You cannot beat the flavour when making it yourself, and the price is always better then shop bought. This is by no means fast food ... this is slow food made with love. Once you have learnt a few techniques, you will in no time be whizzing up treats at your next dinner party. Our past students have gone on to produce wonderful smallgoods in their own homes and businesses; we are like proud parents when we receive Phoentos. Learn how to make salami, bacon, pancetta, tie like a butcher, stuff sausages and more!
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focusinterview.
Join Deb Ryan and the team from Mid North Coast Community Care Options at a We Care community day that o showcases the best the Coffs Coast has to offer. Featuring local musicians and entertainers, food and market stalls, family, children and youth precincts,, there will be something for everyone!!
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hat is your role at CCO, and how did you get into this particular field of work? I am the General Manager of Mid North Coast Community Care Options and have been in this position since 2007. I provide leadership and direction to the organisation’s 160 or so staff and am responsible for the provision of quality client outcomes through service delivery for over 1,500 clients across a number of programs. Services support people with a disability, the elderly, people with dementia, carers, people being discharged from hospital and others requiring community care. I came into the disability sector in 1982, specialising as a Registered Nurse in Developmental Disability. I have more than 30 years’ experience across a number of settings – large residential, group home, drop in supported accommodation, respite – centre based and in home, community based support, case management and in home care. I am passionate about supporting people with a disability specifically, and people in general, to achieve a better quality of life and to realise their potential. What is We Care Week about? From Monday 14 until Saturday 19 October Mid North Coast Community Care Options will stage three key events in Coffs Harbour. The aim is to encourage people on the Coffs Coast to care about those in our community who may need support to maintain their
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independence and engage with the wider Tell us more about We Care Day? community. The spotlight will be on We Care Day is a community festival supporting and connecting people to services designed to build a stronger community, and supports. engaging people to come together and Kicking off the week are two days of celebrate what we have, our people, our community workshops being held at the assets, the richness and diversity within our Coffs C.ex. Sessions will run from 10am community. - 5pm on Monday and Tuesday With many changes occurring that week and cover topics in both the Disability Sector, such as healthy lifestyles, with the implementation legal issues for older of the National Disability It offers people, how to cope Insurance Scheme something for with loss and grief, (NDIS), and the Aged , music everyone – live mily keeping your home Care Sector, with the fa kids, youth and safe, home power implementation of d an zones, health as , es saving programs, as Consumer Directed iti fitness activ t ke ar m d an od well as managing your Care, we thought it well as fo medication. timely that we raised stallholders.” From Wednesday the profile of these until Friday the inaugural groups and supported our Real People, Real Choices, community to understand Real Solutions aged care and their needs and to learn how as disability services sector conference will a community we can better use our be hosted at Opal Cove Resort. Delegates resources and assets to support them. are expected from across the state to In your opinion, what is the importance learn more about reforms, opportunities of our community sharing something like and changes to the sector. Comedian Paul this together? McDermott will MC the three day event and We need the community ‘to care’ about award winning journalist Ray Martin will be itself and the people in it who require the special guest at a Gala Dinner on the support. As an organisation, we provide Thursday night. support and ‘care’ to a diverse range of We Care Day is the final event being held at people. As an organisation ‘We Care’ about the Jetty Foreshore on Saturday 19 October. the outcomes we facilitate. We want our It offers something for everyone – live music, community to be a place where people kids, youth and family zones, health and feel accepted and supported and cared for, fitness activities, as well as food and market regardless of who they are. stallholders. We live a truly beautiful place – the Coffs
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Coast. We have a wealth of assets, experience and knowledge in our community. We also have a lot of people who need support. We all need help at some point in our life – just to get through it. It actually takes a community to care about its members, not just service providers. Many people feel marginalised and disconnected, and it is important that as a community we come together to celebrate where we live, identify what is available and promote social inclusion. The community will be a richer place when this is possible. We want to harness the energy and synergy of our community, to be proud of where we live and how we live. We are hoping that this will become an annual event for Coffs Harbour and encourage people to get involved in whatever way they can. How do people get involved, and what is the cost to be involved? The best place to start is our website. Visit www.cco.net.au and click on the events tab. The workshops program, conference registration form and a link to the We Care Day website www.wecareday.com.au is there. We are also on Facebook. Workshops at the Coffs C.ex all run for one hour and cost $2 for clients and $5 per session for anyone else. Cost to attend the conference or Gala Dinner featuring Ray Martin are listed on the registration form. We Care Day is a free community event; however, a gold coin donation is welcome. People wanting to have market stalls at We Care Day or participate in some way can get more information on the We Care Day website. Thanks Deb.
coffs coast focus
focus on legal.
F I S H B U R N WAT S O N O' B R I E N
We’re here for working families.
Meet Renae
SEPARATION AND YOUR CHILDREN Secure attachment for children is key to their healthy development, and separation of their parents can interrupt this attachment and create anxiety, depression, underachievement as well as behavioural and health problems for children.
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t Fishburn Watson O'Brien we recognise that being a family lawyer means assisting our clients to resolve matters on the basis of sound legal advice and in a cost effective manner. We can provide expert advice on your rights and obligations, but also guidance during what can be a difficult period, always promoting outcomes that focus on the best interests of the children. We aim for a prompt and efficient resolution of family law disputes. No matter how contentious the separation, it is imperative for children to maintain an ongoing relationship with each of their parents. Parents normally have equal shared parental responsibility for their children and should discuss and agree on major aspects such as education. The Family Law Act places a responsibility on parents to support each other's involvement in their children's lives. Courts can only decide a children's matter if the parents have attempted to negotiate a settlement in relation to all aspects concerning their children. Only when this mediation attempt fails, the court is at liberty to look at the matter (except in circumstances like family violence, etc). Being a nationally accredited mediator, I have seen great results from genuine attempts by the parties to resolve their property settlements using mediation rather than the courts. It is not necessary for separating
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couples to end up in court. Who is better placed to resolve their property issues than the parties themselves? All it needs is a sensible approach. At mediation the same approach (legal principles) are used to determine the entitlement of the parties – but it is a more friendly and informal process with the focus on a solution. Once a solution is reached, it can be finalised through Consent Orders with no appearance at court by the parties. Interestingly, parties at court often settle their matter with very similar results to what they could have done months earlier at much less cost and emotional strain. We can help you with your negotiations and, if necessary, court proceedings for family law issues including: • Mediation • Parenting Plans and Consent Orders • Property and Financial matters and settlements • Financial Agreements (including pre-nuptial agreements) • Divorce If you would like more information as to how you could resolve both property and children aspects of your separation, please contact Marius Eden on (02) 6650 7057. I am 100% focused on assisting you to resolve your matter, avoiding protracted court proceedings.
What inspired you to open a child care service in Coffs ? After spending 4 years in Sydney working in various Child Care Services, while completing my university degree in teaching (Early Childhood) back in 1991, it was clear that the city offered a unique service We also have for working families eliminated the put that Coffs Harbour morning stress ing to sh ru es ili m had still not tapped on fa k on or get ready for w into. the
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service. Services provided are nappies, bed linen, hats, sunscreen, drinks g in and what sets us apart, id ov time, by pr r ei I grew up in Coffs, th l al ith nutritionally prepared and w children r ei th and with this r fo es iti cooked meals prepared ss nece e. ” ic rv se foresight for a business e th at y by qualified chefs from the da opportunity and a desire Surf Club Restaurant and Bar to return to the coast to delivered daily to the service. start my own family in a more No more need for busy parents to relaxed environment came the worry about providing their children with establishment of a purpose built child healthy lunch box choices. The whole family care service for working families, '3 Bears is welcomed by accepting children from 6 weeks Cottage Early Education Service'. to school age, eliminating the need for parents What makes your service unique? to make a number of drops offs in the mornings We are a family run business, locally owned for to various services. We accommodate this by 18 years. Having 6 children of my own in which having two baby rooms, one toddler room and all 6 children at various times have been enrolled one pre-school room. at the service, while I worked sometimes a 10 We have been told that 3 Bears has an hour day in the early years of establishment, I outstanding team of educators ... had a great understanding of what busy families Yes, our team was named in the 2013 wanted and needed. Australian Child Care Week Awards as a As we focus on the needs of the whole family, finalist for the work we do as a team. We we don't believe in closing over school holidays, were rewarded with a spectacular dinner in as parents still need to work during these times Sydney at the Westin, which was just a great and finding alternative child care arrangements opportunity for all our educators to be in the brings many challenges for busy families. We room with some of the finest in the industry. operate 52 weeks a year, Monday to Friday, 8am Recognition for sometimes what others view - 6pm. We also have eliminated the morning as merely babysitting is a positive step in the stress put on families rushing to get ready right direction for publicly lifting the profile of for work on time, by providing the children the important work as educators we do in our with all their necessities for their day at the community.
C O F F S
H A R B O U R
Suncorp Group is the leading provider of general insurance, banking, life insurance and wealth management in Australia. Our local Coffs Harbour branch has just moved into their brand new location in Coffs Central. to our customers and our local community. At our branch we provide people with solutions in home and personal loans, savings and transaction accounts, credit cards and Suncorp Bank is ing foreign currency. We thrive Australia’s lead part on providing products and regional bank , as up, Gro of the Suncorp finding outcomes that suit ian a top 20 Austral the individual needs of our company.” customers. Our fee free banking banking needs. approach and products like the Everyday Basics Account are We invite you to come in to helping customers save for things that the branch to meet Casey and are important to them, faster. our experienced team, to see how we
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ho makes up your friendly team at Coffs Harbour Suncorp Bank, and what are their roles? The team is led by our Branch Manager, Casey Phyland, who works closely with all staff to deliver the best outcomes for customers.
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We have an energetic team of six people working at the Coffs Harbour Branch. Our staff have a combined total of 66 years’ banking experience and are ready to service all of your
can assist you with your banking needs. What services do you provide to the Coffs Community? Suncorp Bank is actively involved in the Coffs Harbour community. Through charity fundraising, community partnerships and staff volunteering programs, we are able to give back
Why would people consider switching to Suncorp Bank? The Coffs Harbour staff offer genuine, friendly personalised service, taking the time to explain the options. We also respect your time and keep in touch as your needs as a customer change.
Suncorp Bank is Australia’s leading regional bank, as part of the Suncorp Group, a top 20 Australian company. Suncorp Bank has a clear vision to be recognised as the best bank for middle Australia in the areas of personal banking, SME and agribusiness. The bank has built genuine connections with more than one million customers over 111 years and prides itself on offering a strong value proposition around customer service and satisfaction – big bank capability, small bank connection. Suncorp Bank customers have access to over 200 branches, agencies and Business Banking Centres across Australia and over 2,000 ATMs. How can people find you? The Coffs Harbour Branch is centrally located in Coffs Central Shopping centre, facing Harbour Drive. You can also contact the branch directly on (02) 6691 7188, or visit us online and in the app store.
How long have you got left on your home loan? Genuine can help you pay it off sooner. At Suncorp Bank we know that every dollar we help you save can bring you a dollar closer to paying off your home sooner. So talk to us today about our ongoing discount. Carol Starr Lending Consultant Coffs Central Shopping Centre 35 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour
HOME PACKAGE PLUS STANDARD VARIABLE HOME LOAN
1.05
DISCOUNT FOR THE LIFE OF THE LOANˆ
02 6691 7188 Suncorp-Metway Ltd ABN 66 010 831 722, Australian Credit Licence 229882 (“Suncorp Bank”). Approved applicants only. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. ^The discounted rate offer available only to new Home Package Plus customers who take out a Standard Variable Rate Home Loan as part of the package with a balance between $250,000 to $499,999 and where borrowings are less than or equal to 80% of security property value. If you vary your loan, the advertised discount rate of 1.05% p.a. may be withdrawn or changed. Offer current as at 26 August 2013 and may be withdrawn by Suncorp Bank at any time before a loan contract is entered into. 22990 10/09/13 A
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Norm Jordan Function Rooms
Coffs Showground
PATRICK GIBBESON
Coffs' Premier Venue This premier venue is one of the most versatile and adaptable spaces on the Coffs Coast. The rooms can be hired together, separately, or in conjunction with the boardroom, for an ideal break off area. The rooms are identical in size – both seating more than 200 people. The north room features a garden lined patio with a western wall, perfect for a stage or presentation area. The south room has easy access to the open grass areas of the grounds and parking through the southern doors. At the Coffs Harbour Showground you can choose to self-cater, have us provide morning tea, or treat yourself to Sparechef’s onsite catering service – you choose what level you would like to have. Whether you choose the north or south room, the Norm Jordan Function Rooms are the ideal venue for training seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, parties, weddings or just about any other type of event you could imagine. The possibilities really are endless! With the recent renovations now complete, the rooms are modern, with new carpets, tiled foyer and bar area and a new colour scheme; it can all be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort. For further information, please visit our website at: www.coffsshowground.com.au - or call our friendly staff on 6652 8401 to check availability.
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Ever wondered how our Showground works? Pat Gibbeson is the Trust Manager and here he explains …
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ho runs it? Is it the Coffs harbour City Council? No, Council does not own, manage or fund the Showground in any way. The 'Coffs Harbour Showground and Public Recreation Trust' runs and manages the Showground on a daily basis. The grounds are owned by the NSW state government but funding and running the reserve is the sole responsibility of the Trust. Who is the Trust? The Trust is made up of a Trust Manager, a groundsman, a part time cleaner and part time office bookkeeper. Our small team looks after all the grounds including 40 acres of land, nine function rooms, 11 permanently leased buildings and 8 outdoor structures. We are all long time locals with a passion for working within a great little team. The Coffs Harbour Showground is a not-for-profit organisation. How is the Showground funded? The only source of funding for the grounds is what income we receive for renting and hiring buildings and grounds. There is no external funding and no subsidies received to assist in the running of the Grounds. No funding? How does the Showground stay open and pay its bills? The showground rents out buildings for concerts, shows, meetings and celebrations. We also have many groups that are permanent tenants in the grounds and from this income we pay the same bills as the average homeowner has to pay, except a lot bigger! What about income from the Caravan Park? The Holiday Park is managed and run by another separate trust. All income received stays in that Trust. It is
completely separate to the Showground Trust. Doesn’t the annual Show raise enough money to run the Showground? No! The annual show is run by a completely different organisation who need to meet their own costs. It would be unreasonable for the Showground Trust to rely on the Show Committee to pay for improvements and maintenance to the grounds and buildings. What about ticket sales for big events? Doesn’t the Trust earn lots of money from these events? The Trust only hires the grounds and buildings to event organisers. The organisers of these large events pay a set fee to hire the grounds regardless of attendees. Any extra ticket sales and money earned by other sales is kept by the event organiser. Competing to host large events is a very competitive business! Don’t you have volunteers who help around the place to keep costs down? We have a work for the dole group who come in on a weekly basis to assist us, and Friends of Coffs Creek are regularly in the grounds working on the creek bank. Apart from some help with labour, we still need to buy materials and pay tradesmen to complete tasks such as plumbing and electrical work. What are the community’s responsibilities to the Showground? For our Showground to remain a venue for community use, we need people and groups to hire the facilities. It really is as simple as that! Donations and sponsorship are always welcome to help us maintain and improve this wonderful asset. I thought Showgrounds were only used for the annual Show and agricultural events?
Many, many years ago this was the case. After all, it’s why they were built! It also had volunteers who donated time, materials and labour to keep it looking good for the annual Show. Times have changed and Coffs Harbour is no longer the Agricultural hub it once was. To keep our Showground moving with the times we need to make sure we cover costs by introducing new income streams. Our sources of income in order of highest to lowest are listed here; • Daily function room hire • Permanently leased buildings • Regular community group gatherings • Shows and Expos What about all the talk of the Showground being sold off for development? Is it true? It’s all rubbish! It is a well-known tactic of developers to cast doubt on public assets to start a debate on whether a parcel of land can be sold for their financial gain. Unfortunately all this talk and politicising of the issue only damages the public’s perception of the grounds and casts doubt over it future. This always impacts our ability to cover our costs to keep the Showground running as prospective hirers want security before committing to holding an event here. Where to now for the Showground? It's business as usual for our friendly team. We will always continue to work towards improving our facilities and what services we can offer. Go ahead, make an enquiry about hiring one of the rooms for your next birthday, meeting or celebration of any kind! Visit our website, send us an email, give us a call or drop in! Our office is open 7.30am to 4pm Monday to Friday, Pat, Sandi, Chris and Andy. Phone: 6652 8401. Email: info@coffsshowground.com.au Website: www.coffsshowground.com.au 123 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour NSW.
Australian Hearing For many Australian veterans and their families, the noises of war are still taking their toll in the form of hearing loss.
experiences in the armed forces. To be able to help them hear the sounds they love is very rewarding.”
We encourage all veterans and call us their families to e about to find out mor alth and he their hearing be ay m at services th .” em th to e availabl
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or many Australian veterans and their families, the effects of war are still taking their toll in the form of hearing loss.
Hearing is the second most common medical condition reported by Australian war veterans and war widows, with 55% reporting hearing loss as a current medical condition. This Veterans’ Health Week (14 - 20 October 2013), Australian Hearing is spreading the word that there is no reason to suffer in silence. Australian Hearing Coffs Harbour Manager, Karina Morrison, says Veterans’ Health Week is a good time for veterans, war widows,
widowers, current and ex-Australian Defence Force members to focus on their hearing health and wellbeing.
“Good hearing health is critical for our veterans to stay connected with the world and enjoy a healthier, happier life,” Karina said. “Our hearing affects our basic ability to communicate, so any hearing loss left untreated can leave sufferers feeling isolated and disconnected from their friends, family, and even partners.” “It is such a privilege to hear the stories these men and women share from their
Australian Hearing was originally established in 1947 to help those diggers returning with hearing damage from noise exposure during their service in World War II.
Today, Australian Hearing continues to support our diggers and their families by providing a full range of hearing services to eligible veterans, including hearing assessments, hearing devices and support. “Many people don’t realise that having a hearing check isn’t just about finding out if you need hearing aids. With advances in technology, there are now a number of listening devices available, designed to help with hearing in everyday life,” Karina said. “Sometimes it’s just hearing the TV at
normal volumes, hearing your doorbell, or conversing with friends on the phone that’s the problem.” “The good news is there are many solutions to help in these specific situations. This includes devices that make everyday hearing easier, like headsets for watching the TV and alert systems for the doorbell.” “If you hold a Department of Veterans Affairs’ (DVA) Gold Card, or a DVA White Card (specifying hearing loss) you could be eligible to access a range of services and devices under the DVA’s Rehabilitation and Appliances Program.” “We encourage all veterans and their families to call us to find out more about their hearing health and services that may be available to them,” added Karina. Australian Hearing will be conducting free hearing checks during Veterans’ Health Week, 14 - 20 October 2013. Call 6652 0700 or visit the Hearing Centre at 2 Lyster St, Coffs Harbour.
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focustravel with Susie Boswell
Imagine a European Holiday Imagine a European holiday where you unpack only once and where you have all the time in the world to relax and watch the world go by. Where you can take in the views of medieval castles and quaint cobblestoned villages, lush hillside vineyards and ancient cities, and where everything is included. This is European river cruising – a leisurely style of travelling that’s growing in popularity, where every meal is part of the journey, sparkling wines with breakfast, regional beers and wines with lunch and dinner and unlimited lattes and premium coffee throughout the day, plus mouth-watering cuisine created by onboard chefs using high quality regional produce! Leisurely river cruising where you have spacious onboard accommodation with
luxurious Egyptian cotton bed linen and bathrooms with L’Occitane bath products, and where each suite provides uninterrupted views of the breathtaking scenery along the romantic
T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N : CABLE BEACH CLUB, BROOME
Rhine and Danube rivers, River cruising is becoming more and more popular, because it’s just such a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. Not only do you have all the comfort of a luxury hotel with fabulous food and local wines, but you also get to see the historic and cultural sights the way you prefer. Shore excursions can be as organised or as leisurely as you wish, and yes, they are included too! The team at Quadrant Australia has specialist knowledge about European river cruising, so why not come and talk to us. 2014 could offer possibly the best holiday you’ll ever have!
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lthough Australia has countless fascinating locations and sights, we’ve precious few true icons: the Great Barrier Reef, of course; Ayers Rock-Uluru; Kakadu; Port Arthur; Margaret River among them ... and Broome, arguably the most remote destination of them all. Yet we travelled there last month in what seemed the blink of an eye, leaving Port Macquarie at 7am and crossing the continent to arrive in Broome at 6pm, in ample time for a dip and dinner, and to shrug off a cold-weather mindset and bask in Broome’s eternal summertime. The pearling capital of Australia is a genuinely unique destination with a history – and present day culture – that every Aussie should experience, yet such a lucky few do. It’s a 10,000km round trip, yet comfortably achieved on the forward journey in a day, overnight (3hrs 40mins from Perth to Sydney) on the return. If you fly the main leg in Business Class as we did, it’s a snack. Not only is Broome itself a special locality, the town’s own iconic spot is Cable Beach, widely recognised for its images of camel trains strolling the sand, silhouetted against the horizon. And the icon within the icon is Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, whose spectacular Sunset Bar right on the beach was specially created to highlight views of the camels’ parade, plus the awesome daily sight of the huge golden orb of the tropical sun setting swiftly on the Indian Ocean. The resort, spread over and mingled via winding pathways throughout acres of glorious exotic gardens (home to wallabies and cute desert lizards), was built by British visionary Lord Alistair McAlpine 35 years ago, when tourism was essentially unknown along the vast northwestern Kimberley coast. In tribute to the town’s heritage its architecture is a charming blend of Chinese influences with Outback corrugated iron. It sounds incongruous, but works perfectly – and in part is the reason a stay at Cable Beach Club is so relaxing: it is totally unlike anywhere else in the world. As well, the buildings’ style is completed by valuable Chinoiserie antiques and treasures and other – originally commissioned – artefacts and sculptures populating the resort’s public spaces and rooms, a tribute to Broome’s multicultural
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background. Timorese, Chinese, Japanese, European and Aboriginal settlers have blended to create the tiny town’s character and charm. Among them are Chinese terracotta warriors flanking the doors to the foyer and a pair of Chinese lions (traditionally, to ward off evil spirits) guarding the resort entrance. Among the collection of paintings on display are Sidney Nolan and Elizabeth Durack originals. Art and history tours are offered. Accommodation covers a broad spectrum of comfort and rates, from studio rooms – many opening, via your own sun lounge space, directly onto the adults’ pool, to bungalows and private villas, or luxury suites with a private butler. There is a separate pool complex for families, with waterfall, adjacent kids’ playground/water park, tennis, mini golf and casual poolside dining. With four restaurants and bars – including the remarkable, mustdo Club Restaurant – Cable Beach Club encompasses the entire Broome experience: everything you want and need to do is right on hand at the resort, with the resort’s Tour Desk taking care of everything from pearl farm visits, town tours, hire cars, maps and sightseeing suggestions, such as the renowned Staircase to the Moon and beach markets experience, and bookings for golf, deep sea fishing and diving. To complete the “everything-at-your-fingertips” philosophy of the Club, there’s a gym, luxurious treatment spa and Buddha sanctuary for tai chi and yoga. A branch of reputable Linney’s pearl shop is on site. The Club’s airport transfer service means the tedious task of checking flight times is left up to the resort. It’s a magical place for an uncrowded wedding or honeymoon with romantic sunset cocktails, dinner under the stars and moonlit beach strolls to make for memorable moments. Best months to visit are June to October inclusive. Average humidity (65%) is less than Cairns (73%) or Bali (84%), and rainfall negligible. Combined flight-accommodation packages are the most economical option. I noticed an online offering of four nights at the Club this month, for example, for $2193pp twin share with flights ex Sydney. Resort packages are at www.cablebeachclub.com or call 1800 199 099.
If you go down to the woods today, you’re in for a big surprise! SW State Forests offer a range and quality of nature-based tourism experiences that have something for everyone. You can pitch your tent and light a campfire, enjoy free picnic and camping facilities, take in the views at spectacular lookouts, get a burst of adrenaline by riding along dirt tracks on your mountain or trail bike, explore via 4WD or bushwalking, ride your horse and even bring your dog. The warmer months are a great time to get out and enjoy your local State Forest. And even if you’re travelling, there are plenty of opportunities to explore NSW forests without veering too far from the Pacific Highway. Here’s the lowdown on some favourite State Forest destinations in your local region: SWAN’S CROSSING Kerewong State Forest Close to: Kendall, Kew. Opening hours: always open. Cost: free. Best known for: family-friendly camping. Swans Crossing in Kerewong State Forest is a popular picnic and camping area set on a former dairy/beef property owned by the Swan family. With plenty of open spaces for the family to play, the surrounding regenerated native forest and hardwood plantations provide a lush backdrop to this beautiful, expansive area. The nearby shallows of Upsalls Creek provide a cool swimming spot and plenty of places for wading and splashing fun. The historical Longworth’s Tramway Heritage Walk is only a short drive away, with connecting bushwalking trails offering even more for the nature lover. Getting there: take the Pacific Highway exit to Kew. Travel via Lorne Road to reach Upsalls Creek Road; follow to Kerewong State Forest.
OLD BOTTLEBUTT vation zone) within Orara East State Forest. Burrawan State Forest. The forest is luxuriant with lush rainforest Close to: Wauchope, Port Macquarie. areas to be found along walking tracks and Opening hours: always open. dirt roads. Cost: free. The centrepiece of Sealy Lookout is the Best known for: a uniquely-shaped towerimpressive Forest Sky Pier, a majestic viewing tree. ing platform offering spectacular views over Burrawan State Forest is worth a visit to Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas. Cansee the 'Old Bottlebutt' – an ancient and tilevered off a natural cliff and 15 metres impressive Bloodwood tree with a large above the forest floor, the viewing platform flanged base, in an area of protected remsways ever so gently as visitor walk along it. nant rainforest. Old Bottlebutt is accessible It is constructed from native North Coast via a comfortable 600 metre loop walk inhardwood beams, with Turpentine decking corporating 3 pretty footbridge creek crossand Blue Gum handrails supported by a ings. A timber viewing platform and seating stainless steel cable structure. The Forest are in development and will allow visitors Sky Pier is safe and accessible to all (includto experience this magnificent ing wheelchairs and strollers); you can Bloodwood in all its glory. drive and park within metres of A picnic shelter and the Pier itself whilst picnic, toilet facilities are extra seating and toilet fad located at the cilities are also available. It is constructe th or N start of the Getting there: Turn from native s, am be d walk. off the Pacific Highway Co ast hardwoo g in ck de e tin Getting there: just north of Coffs with Turpen ils ra nd ha um G Turn off the Harbour, onto Bruxner and Blue nless ai st a by d te or Pacific Highway Park Road. Drive up supp ure.” ct ru st e bl ca l ee at Herons Creek through banana plantast (Wauchope exit) tions to Scenic Drive – onto Bago Road. turn left and follow to the Forest Sky Pier. SEALY LOOKOUT & NSW State Forests are open FOREST SKY PIER free for public use. They are an imporOrara East State Forest. tant asset for both the timber and tourism Close to: Coffs Harbour, Korora. industries; State Forests are sustainably Opening Hours: daylight hours. managed and productive, whilst also proCost: free. viding places for people to play, appreciate Best known for: amazing views over Coffs and enjoy our beautiful natural landscape Harbour, the coastline and surrounding and Australian environment. hinterland. Want to know more? Sealy Lookout is an award-winning tourwww.forestrycorporation.com.au ist attraction, having won both Bronze and Want to share your experience? Gold tourism awards since its revitalisation www.facebook.com/forestplayground in December 2011. The Lookout is located www.twitter.com/visitnswforests on an escarpment 310 metres above Coffs instagram: #visitNSWforests Harbour, only 9 kilometres from the city tourism@fcnsw.com.au centre. It lies inside a flora reserve (conser-
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focustourism.
Coffs Coast Family Law – with Charmaine ne Tanner
with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.
Bellingen Music Festival performersACO2 with Helena Rathbone
CHILDREN'S
MATTERS
charmaine tanner
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robably the most emotional and difficult matters in family law occur in matters involving children. The law states ‘the best interests of the child(ren)’ is the paramount consideration in parenting matters. Some parents lose sight of that overriding factor when making decisions about the children.
There is a misconception in the general public
Parents can get tied up in the emotion of separation and, as a result, attempt to involve the children in the ‘battle’ between parents. I recommend trying to keep things as ‘normal’ as possible during the period just after separation. That requires real effort from some (most) parents.
are given the opportunity to have a relationship
It’s not that parents want to harm their children, it’s just it is so difficult to separate the emotional turmoil of the relationship ending with looking out for the kids. Most parents feel quite justified in refusing to let the children see the other parent. It seems this is the best thing to do, to keep them away from the person who has caused the upheaval. I mean, you don’t want to see that nasty person, so why should the kids? This can put the children in a situation where they may actually want to see their other parent, but they know it might upset the other parent. It’s bad enough for the kids to cope with one change, maybe the other parent moving out, so why add to that by making them feel guilty about seeing a parent they have seen, probably, every day since they were born? Parents or people concerned with the care of the children are required to attempt to resolve disputes about parenting matters using dispute resolution services before applying to a court. There are occasions when it is not appropriate to wait to arrange a mediation, such as if there is urgency, allegations of child abuse, or family violence.
that parents have a right to spend equal time with the children. I tell parents they have no ‘rights’; they have responsibilities. It’s the children that have a right to spend time with their parents, and not necessarily equal time.
UPDATE
Social Science research indicates children develop into better adjusted adults when they with both parents. Of course, every set of circumstances is different, and every child and adult is different, so there is no set formula as to what will work within a family.
denezahner Spring brings a fresh influx of visitors to the Coffs Coast and with the boost we’ve seen to the local community off the back of recent events and superb weather, we’re looking forward to a fun and prosperous holiday season ahead.
If a mediation can’t resolve a parenting issue, each parent or person concerned with the welfare of a child has a right to apply to the court, either the Federal Circuit Court (recently renamed from the ‘Federal Magistrates Court’) or the Family Court. Once one person files an application in the court where they specify the orders they want, like who the child or children should live with and specific times they say the children should spend time with the other parent, then the other parent can file a Response, specifying the orders they say would be best for the children. At any time the parties can agree to a final set of orders and get out of the court system. They do not have to go to a hearing, and most often parties do agree to a compromise of some final orders before it becomes necessary to engage in the costly exercise of a full hearing. Two things to keep in mind; just because both parents are able to look after the children on a ‘week about’ basis, is that really the best thing for your children? Do you have enough holiday leave in your job to have the children for half of every school holiday; if not, then why argue for it?
e’re so lucky as a region to Other events coming up soon include the Bellingen Music Festival and Arts Week (Sept have the ability to attract 20 to 28) and the HOG State Rally (Oct 18 to major events and have the 20). What is that, you ask? HOG stands for capacity and determination ‘Harley Owners Group’, and late October the to make them a success. Recently we’ve seen city will rumble to the sound of over 1,000 the spectacle of the Offshore Super Boats awe inspiring machines as the many riders tearing up the harbour and packing the Jetty who have travelled from near and far take the precinct with spectators, the high octane opportunity to explore our region, its eclectic thrill of the World Rally Championships, the villages and culinary delights. This will diversity of the Bellingen Jazz provide a great stimulus to our Festival and the laid back local economy, so be sure to Toast Urunga Festival, line the streets and give which in its seventh this diverse group of year attracted over people a big Coffs of the events ll A 8,000 people, a Coast welcome to you experience t, third of which ensure they return n the Coffs Coatastract o were from to our region and big and small,er of outside of the bring along their a huge numbr region, Coffs Coast visitors to ou comes family and friends. region. Then and with thatonomic For more info, check social and ec s all.” add to that the out www.mnchog. u r fo s it benef Coffs Harbour org.au Running Festival and About us: the Busker’s Festival, Tourism Coffs Coast is a not and you have an actionfor profit organisation that is packed few months! committed to developing a vibrant All of the events you experience on the Coffs and thriving tourism industry within the Coffs Coast, big and small, attract a huge number Coast to maximise the social and economic of visitors to our region, and with that comes benefits for our community. social and economic benefits for us all. This month we welcome on board new
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The success of these events is not only thanks to the organisers, but also to the wonderful hospitality that the Coffs Coast community demonstrates. From the tourism operators that our visitors directly interact with to the welcoming smiles and hospitality shared by locals, it’s the entire experience that keeps our visitors coming back, and we should all be proud of what we as a region have achieved.
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members ‘The Hidden Garden B&B’ from Emerald Beach, organic sourdough pizza restaurant ‘Thirty Three on Hickory’ from Dorrigo and ‘Easy Street Retreat’ on the Bellinger River. If you’d like to join Tourism Coffs Coast, please contact us via: info@tourismcoffscoast. com.au And remember, tourism is everybody’s business!
meet a
local.
Peter Hood BUSINESS AND THE NBN
Mark Dugdale from Fastway Couriers Coffs Harbour
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here are you from and when did you move to town?
I moved to Coffs Harbour with my family when I was four years old, after school I spent several years working in Hotels and Resorts on the Gold coast & Brisbane. I then moved back to my home town Coffs with my wife to start our family.
Peter Hood shares how using the NBN will improve local businesses ... he provides five examples of how C3 Group helps locals use the NBN to improve their businesses.
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he National Broadband Network any device, anywhere and at any time. This (NBN) is one of the largest is regardless of whether accessing services infrastructure projects in our ‘in the cloud’ or on-premise. The results nation’s history and aims to in improved productivity and allows provide affordable high-speed employers to provide flexible broadband to all Australians. working arrangements. Despite the new Back up key systems government’s differing to the cloud: In the business NBN policy, this aim For any key systems realm , the remains unchanged. that remain at the ly
“ ar NBN is particul
In the business office, regular aller relevant to sm re he w s, on realm, the NBN backups of these ti sa ni orga nally is particularly systems can be it has traditiost to been very co telyrnet relevant to smaller sent to a secure implement In similarly organisations, where location in the services with it has traditionally cloud. This reduces .” high spee ds been very costly to business risk by implement Internet ensuring that all critical services with similarly high data is automatically speeds. There are many ways backed up offsite, and that a that small businesses can be improved by solid Disaster Recovery (DR) plan is in leveraging high-speed broadband. Five place. examples include: Communication & Collaboration: Move’ to the cloud: Traditionally it has been expensive for businesses to purchase, operate and maintain the infrastructure required to deliver key IT services. Businesses are now able to move these services to external cloud hosting providers, and access them securely via high-speed broadband. This allows for scalable IT solutions at a reduced cost, all as an operational expense. Be productive and work from anywhere: High-speed broadband allows businesses to access to applications, data and people from
High-speed broadband enhances internal and external communication and provides for highly collaborative experiences. With solutions ranging from HD video calls and conferencing, through to document & screen sharing, businesses can collaborate like never before. This leads to enhanced productivity and employee satisfaction. Cloud-based telephony: Telephony can be delivered from the cloud, allowing all staff to be connected to the business phone system regardless of their location and reducing the costs associated with traditional on-premise systems.
What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? I love the relaxed easy going lifestyle, getting to the beach whenever I can, excellent climate along with the great community spirit. Everyone involved in Fastway lives and works in the Coffs Harbour community which allows them to really know their customers and how to assist them. When was your business born and how many staff make up your team? Fastway has been operating in Australia since 1993. There are 25 Regional Franchisees operating delivery hubs around the country with over 700 Courier Franchisees moving in excess of twenty million parcels per year.
The Coffs Harbour franchise was established 17 years ago. Current owners Kevin and Gai Hoare have been a part of the Fastway community for 24 years. I’ve been with the company for over six years and along with six Courier Franchisees, two office staff and one hub operations supervisor, work alongside local businesses to help them grow their business. What services do you offer? We offer a cost effective, reliable, timetabled courier service with local, shorthaul and national courier distribution around Australia. Backed up by the latest computer technology, online parcel track and trace facilities and include up to $1,500* insurance at no extra cost. Our prepaid courier label system enables customers to enjoy savings on their usual freight costs, as well as providing a simple system free of any extra paperwork or addon charges. For medium to high volume customers, we also have an electronic labelling system. 6658 6922.
MOBILE
PETTING
FARM We come to you for a visit with our very friendly animals.
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e have goats, sheep/lambs, alpaca, mini pig and pony. The children can interact with the animals by feeding, patting and grooming them. All the animals are hand raised so the children can get up close and personal with them. Parties are usually 2 hours and are very reasonably priced. Call A & A Party Specialists today to book your special event. Phone 6653 6262. coffs coast focus
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from Gardening Australia
The 2013 Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival will be an inspirational celebration of all things sustainable. The festival aims to engage and inspire you to live more sustainably through a range of engaging and fun activities, including performances, stalls, presentations, workshops, open days, food, children’s activities and art. he festival focuses on all areas of sustainable living, including healthy lifestyles, ethical choices, energy saving, backyard biodiversity, local food, water and waste. This year’s festival will kick off on Sunday 3 November with the annual Botanica Spring Fair at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, celebrating all things sustainable through a range of engaging and fun activities, talks, children’s events, demonstrations, stalls, music and great local food. Other events already confirmed for the week long festival include Mulching Monday Schools Day, Spring Harvest Dinner, Cheese Making Workshop, EcoPractive Workshop, Show Us Ya Dish, Spotlighting Tour, Super Saturday Workshop Series and Coffs Regional Community Garden Open Days. Costa Georgiadis from ABC’s Gardening Australia will once again be joining us at this year’s festival. The popular presenter, landscape gardener and slow food advocate has attended the last two years and is a strong believer in providing people the opportunity to connect with what’s going on around them and learn more about how easily they can be part of a sustainable community. COSTA GEORGIADIS from ABC's Gardening Australia Have you always been a green thumb? Green thumb – schmean thumb. I don't believe in green thumbmanship. I believe that we all have normal thumbs and our passion and interest in gardening is far more important than the colour of our thumbs. I judge green thumbness by the little details ... when I meet someone 44 coffs coast focus.
who is mad/crazy about something, a detail of their latest worm farm experiment, their first compost success, a little succulent, a vegie garden harvest, I think, "Yeah, that's where it's at". In your opinion, what is the importance of looking at the future sustainability of our food and water supplies? I am constantly playing with the perspective on things, looking at the big picture and the finest of details. It's pretty simple – without food we are pretty much done in a couple of days at best. Without water, we won't be functioning at all within the day. So when I look ahead to the world that I want to pass on to kids, I want it to be functioning well ... for water and food to be abundant. The reality is that food and water are the two biggest issues facing us as a planet in the next 10 years. They are the oil of the next two decades, and it is pretty simple to me – food security needs to be placed at the top of the priority list alongside water. Everything else around accumulation and consumption is pure window dressing, this is serious, but the answers are in our day to day hands and actions. What does looking at a local food system mean to you? A local food system is one where the people growing the food, our FARMERS, are paid a fair price for their efforts and the landscape in which it is grown is paid its fair price in the form of regenerative practices that help rebuild and fuel the soil that provides us with life sustaining food. A local food system is one where local farmers are respected within the community for providing healthy, nutritious food grown in season and not transported thousands of kilometres. A local food system
is one where local people are fed first and Coast Sustainable Living Festival? One then the produce is sold beyond the region as thing I love about spending time in our regional a signature range characteristic of the area. A centres is that I am building connections and local food system is one where people have relationships with the community. This will equal access to food every week and one where be my third year in a row that I have come to the local economy supports local jobs that are Coffs and been a part of this real community creating health and wealth for the event. I support it and want to help community. Food is culture, continue to feed its growth and and culture is habit. A fair success as a regular part of the local food system is one annual calendar. Coming based on good habits. back and seeing people d o ...a local fo It is the health system is a big part of it for me, system is one we fail to recognise. because I mean it when not I say I want it to flourwhere food has Tell us your inspirands sa u o ish and build awareness th d le el tional story of how av tr across the community of ” s. re et you became friends m of kilo what an amazing climate with your neighbours and opportunity you have in ... how can we all your region to become a real take a leaf out of your fair food community and region. book? Local food is as simple I'll be at the Sunday gathering in the as growing some pots of herbs on Botanic Gardens doing some workshops your street or a garden in your nature and a talk, chatting to people and hopefully strip or verge. When you start, it will crescaring the scarecrows. ate conversation. People will look first and
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then start to talk and ask questions ... it is about building community right outside our front doors. And by growing things on the street, we are breathing life back into the arteries of the communities, the streets. Bringing people back to the street is where the reconnections can happen. It's not just about growing food; it's really about growing people and connections. And I can tell you for a fact that it works. Gardening is non confrontational once you get over the first hurdle and get your hands in the soil. From then on it is a health initiative, not an environmental one alone.
The Coffs Coast rocks, and I'm looking forward to be back.
How will you be involved in the Coffs
Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival: Sunday 3 to Sunday 10 November 2013.
Thanks Costa. This year’s festival is supported by Coffs Harbour City Council, Our Living Coast and Friends of the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden. The Festival Committee would also like to thank their generous Silver Sponsors: Coffs Solar Energy, CHYFM, Coffs Coast Health Club and Coffs Coast Kids Club. For more information, visit: www.slf.net.au The Plug
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Products range from jams, pickles and chutneys to satay sauces, seasonings and jellies.”
Bakarindi Bush Foods. Phone 6649 1150 Web www.bakarindi.com.au Bakarindi Bush Foods was created with passion and commitment to inspire people to respect and love Australian native bush foods. Recipes in the product range were developed by utilising bush foods to give new and exciting taste sensations that are uniquely Australian. Products range from jams, pickles and chutneys to satay sauces, seasonings and jellies. Bakarindi’s Ringa Stinga Relish was an award winning product at Sydney’s Royal Fine Food Fair in 2012, and we have just won bronze for our Tomato Relish and Macadamia Satay in 2013. Look for us at the Coffs Coast Growers Market every Thursday, or shop online.
birthday cake. We are celebrating our 10th birthday on Thursday 31 October, and we invite the community to come down and celebrate from 9am.
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The ability to get direct feedback from our customers has been instrumental to our continued search for quality in every cup.”
Artisiti. Phone 0422 094 123 Web www.artisti.com.au Meet Joe Banffy; he is one of the coffee roasters for Artisti Di Espresso Boutique Coffee Roasters, Coffs Harbour’s only coffee roaster. We bring our award winning coffee blends and our specialty single origin blends fresh roasted for you to enjoy. The ability to get direct feedback from our customers has been instrumental to our continued search for quality in every cup. We love the interaction with our coffee friends. See you next week to begin your coffee journey. 46 coffs coast focus.
it's WILD SEAFOOD. Phone 6652 3000 Web www.itswildseafood.com.au It's Wild Seafood is the only wholesaler and retailer ler of 100% locally caught seafood on the Coffs Coast.. Our plied A rated export seafood processing factory is supplied s. The with the freshest seafood direct from our trawlers. passion and direct aim of It's Wild Seafood is to supply n local our local families and communities with their own seafood. We use only sustainable and responsiblee fishing practices and never use preservatives or additives.. Our product is processed and blast frozen within 24 hrs of h saw being caught. It is our dedication to quality which It's Wild Seafood appear in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide.
Me-Healthy Farm. Phone 0409 543 711 Web www.fb.com/mehealthyfarm Coffs Coast Growers Market has been the launch pad for Me-Healthy Farm. We started at the Market five years ago; it was the perfect platform for us to showcase our locally grown custard apples. It gave us the opportunity to personally connect with our customers and share our passion about growing fresh and chemical free. Thursday is the highlight of our week, and we have formed so many amazing connections within the community. Our stall empowers locals to grow their own strong, healthy herbs and seedlings. We have organic seeds and grow by the moon calendars. Me-Healthy Farm wants to help you grow. Come celebrate with us at the Coffs Coast Growers Mark Market.
Bellingen Pasta. Phone 0448 805 336 Web www.bellingenpasta.com Why Bellingen Pasta is fabulous; in a word, taste. Bellingen n fresh pasta might just be your most delightful pasta eating experience. The pasta is hand crafted using only premium ingredients, local free-range eggs, durum semolina from Bellata Gold near Tamworth and locally grown fresh herbs and vegetables. Bellingen Pasta transforms a quick simple dish into a delicacy – and one that is highly nutritious. We love fresh pasta! Made fresh for every Growers Market.
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Blue Berrylicious started as an idea dreamt up by three ladies from Sandy Beach in 2009.”
Chris & Jack. Phone 0412 632 561 The Growers Market is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our product to the local community. The support from the local community is tremendous, as they appreciate locally grown produce and the freshness, as it is picked the day before. As it is well known that fresh produce is seasonal, we grow a wide range of vegetables and greens e.g. spinach, kale, salad mix and fruits e.g. kiwifruit, melons etc. We also carry local produce from other local growers from the area.
Blue Berrylicious. Phone 0437 047 029 Web www.blueberrylicious.com.au Blue Berrylicious started as an idea dreamt up by three ladies from Sandy Beach in 2009. With the support of the Coffs Coast Growers Market, the business has been able to engage with the community and gain feedback direct from our customers. This has helped grow our business and launch our products on a national level and win awards such as a bronze medal for our Blueberry Dessert Sauce at the Sydney Royal Fine Foods Show in 2011 and 2012. coffs coast focus
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Melissa HARDY. Melissa Hardy is passionate about food and local seasonal produce and for the past couple of years has entered the Show Us Your Dish Competition
Why and when did you enter Show us Your Dish? I have a passion for cooking good food and as I travel a lot for work and my sporting adventures, I get to experience many great restaura restaurants and food around Australia and the wor world. When I’m not working, my head is usuall usually buried in a cookbook or the latest food ma magazines.
I entered the competition in 2011 and 2012. The first time I entered I was up against Ste Stefano Mazzini, the Chef from Fiasco, and he was unbeatable. Last year they changed the competition, so I was One of the most competing against exciting things other cooks like k is the for me each wee asonal myself.
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se surprise of new e stall th at th s nt ingredie g, on al g in br s er hold y skills m e which challeng I gs in th w to create ne .” re fo be d ie tr haven’ t
What do you love about cooking? I love to transform the seasonal local ingredients into meals like those from my travels. I find it’s a way to relax, and the best part is cooking for friends and family who apprecia good food. appreciate Do you try to buy locally? Are you passion passionate about local produce? What is imp the importance of keeping things local?
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How important is using seasonal fruit and vegetables to your cooking? My weekly shopping routine involves a trip to the Coffs Growers Markets. The ingredients are so fresh in comparison to those from the supermarket. I find the flavours are much more intense and the produce lasts so much longer and contributes to making the flavours of your cooking so much better. One of the most exciting things for me each week is the surprise of new seasonal ingredients that the stall holders bring along, which challenge my skills to create new things I haven’t tried before. The Coffs markets are now supplying such unique ingredients that you wouldn’t normally find in city based food stores. It’s also good to support the local farmers so they continue to supply such great fresh ingredients at the markets. In your opinion, why should people enter Show us Your Dish, and what did the competition do for you? People should enter the competition to help challenge their cooking skills. I won a fantastic BBQ last year, which has been a great addition to my culinary equipment and I’ve been able to cook great meals with it. It’s so big, it’s like a portable kitchen in itself! Thanks Mel.
building competition S P R I NG H A RV E S T D I N N E R After the success of the 2012 Coffs Coast Spring Harvest Dinner, held under the stars in the beautiful surrounds of the North Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, the 2013 Spring Harvest Dinner is once again being held in the Gardens on Monday, November 4, this year as part of the Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival. Attendees will be treated to 3-courses of locally sourced food prepared by the award winning team at Fiasco Restaurante and Bar. The inaugural Coffs Coast Spring Harvest Dinner was held in 2012 but was limited only to those working in the local food industry including producers, chefs and restaurateurs. Attendees were treated to the likes of slow roasted goat from the Dorrigo Plateau, locally caught fish and Nambucca Oysters, hand made gelato and fresh produce from the Coffs Coast Growers Market, paired with the likes of Raleigh and Two Tails Wines and beers from the Bellingen Brewery. In 2013 tickets will be available to the public;
however, they’ll be strictly limited, with only 120 seats available. Host of the evening will be none other than Costa Georgiadis from ABC Television’s Gardening Australia. Costa, patron of the Sustainable Living Festival, has a passion for local food, and this will be a great opportunity for the industry and public to get up close and personal with Costa and to hear his thoughts on some of the amazing things that are happening around the country in the local food scene. Tickets are $88; to reserve your seat, phone 6648 4087.
It’s scarecrow building time again on the Coffs Coast! Design and create the best scarecrow for the 2013 Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival and win a share of over $500 in prizes for your school or centre! offs Harbour high, primary and preschool students are invited to let their imagination run wild in this year’s Sustainable Living Festival Scarecrow Competition.
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The competition is one of the many highlights of this year’s Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival, a week of fun and all things sustainable for locals and visitors alike on the Coffs Coast. The winning scarecrows will, once again, be judged by our special guest, Costa Georgiadis from ABC’s Gardening Australia at the Botanica Spring Fair on Sunday, November 3. Winners will be announced from 1.30pm. The Scarecrow Competition will gives schools an opportunity to build their own scarecrow
using recycled and recyclable materials such as old terracotta and plastic pots, wood, plastic pipe, tin cans and old saucepans; pretty much anything you can find that is recycled. The best scarecrow will win $300, and two runners up prizes of $100. Schools that want more information and an application form should contact: Coffs Harbour City Council’s Sustainability Officer, Nicole Larkin, on 6648 4643. The Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival Scarecrow Competition is proudly sponsored by Coffs Harbour City Council, Our Living Coast and Coffs Coast Local Food Alliance. For more information on this year’s Sustainable Living Festival, please visit www.slf.net.au
WHO would have thought a global force like the internet would turn out to make it easier to start a community gourmet food hub in the Orara Valley? uilding on the success of their Harbourside and Nana Glen produce stalls, permaculture farmers Joshua and Tomoko Allen have put out an appeal on the internet for investors in their proposed food based community enterprise.
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“In crowdfunding, investors pledge their support for projects and only pay if funding targets are met,” Joshua said. “Unlike many other crowdfunding offers, we have rewards
for investments of as little as $12 and many fresh fruit and vegetable rewards meet or exceed the value of the original pledge.” If they reach their target of raising $30,000 by October 24, they will be able to open a farm-gate gourmet food stall with locally produced fruit, vegetables, cheeses, dry goods and nature’s super foods. Visit pozible.com/ synchronicityfarm to learn more. Ph 6654 3554. coffs coast focus 49
EMERALD E N E RGY REG LATTER E L E C T R I C A L Reg Latter Electrical has been providing electrical installations and maintenance services – since 1979 – and is, as always, committed to delivering the best service to our customers. The business employs highly trained and qualified staff who are on call 24/7, for your domestic, commercial or industrial property, which will be attended to in a timely manner, with repairs carried out effectively day or night. Reg Latter Electrical offers the following services: Level 1 Service Provider – Accreditation No 3450 providing all of your network infrastructure requirements within the Essential Energy area. Level 2 Service Provider – Accreditation No 3141 – 'A' Grade Level 2 Service Providers in the Essential Energy area. Hot water repairs – warranty agents for Rheem, Vulcan, Solarhart, Edwards, Chromogen, Aquamax, Apricus, and repairs to other makes and models, tank replacements, electric and solar hot water systems. TV antenna installations and repairs. DATA/PHONE/COMMUNICATIONS Austel accredited open registered cablers and installers. THERMAL IMAGING AND REPORTING – preventative maintenance. SAFETY WORKPLACE STANDARS RCD Testing and test and tag services. Employing over 20 highly qualified staff, who are committed to maintaining the highest quality of workmanship and site safety, allows us to complete your project on schedule.
More and more people are looking for energy efficient products when renovating their homes. Emerald Energy offers a range of products designed to both reduce your energy use and make your home comfortable. Being the proud dealer for Solahart in the Coffs Coast region, Emerald Energy offers the world leading Solahart solar hot water system, as well as Solahart’s range of solar power systems, ranked as one of the most efficient in the world. Both products are backed by a Solahart warranty, which offers peace-of-mind in today’s changing world. Emerald Energy is also the dealer for Solatube. With its long reputation for quality and innovation, 'Solatube' is the brand name in the skylight market, now offering four models to suit most homes and budgets. Also available through Solatube is the Solar Star solar roof ventilation system, which cools your home, reduces humidity and freshens the air. Heliocol solar pool heating allows you to swim morning and night and extend your swimming season. A Heliocol system is built to last, with patented individual tube design and tough cockatoo resistant collectors, Heliocol provides a worry-free 25 year warranty and has been a world leader in solar pool heating for over 30 years. For more information, call 6651 9926 or visit our website www.emeraldenergy.net.au
GEO L I N K NSW State Government Updates the Planning System. The recently released ‘White Paper’ signals a fundamental change to the NSW Planning System. Led by the introduction of a new Planning Act, the new planning model will be based on strong strategic planning, at State, Regional and Local levels. There is much community concern that this shift will favour developers and prevent local communities from having a real say in local development. The reality is that, if the strategic planning is done properly, communities will have a greater say in how their local areas will look and feel in the future. The difference is that they will need to do this more holistically. It is likely that the process of this change will take some years, as the State Government must first finalise regional strategies before local councils can move to the required new plans. One thing is very clear – the next 3 to 5 years will bring confusion and delays, as State and Local Governments works toward transitioning to an entirely new planning model. Our advice to clients who might have development projects in mind – act now to lodge applications before the new planning legislation is enacted. The government has said that applications lodged, but not determined, before that new legislation will be dealt with under the current system. GeoLINK are ready to help you with this process. If you need to understand how this change might impact your projects, please call Simon Waterworth or Simon Williams in our Coffs Harbour office.
GeoLINK Helping to create a sustainable Mid North Coast for over 20 years
Planning | Engineering | Landscape Architecture Environmental Auditing | Ecology For help with your next project visit us online at www.geolink.net.au PO Box 1446 COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 02 6651 7666
quality solutions sustainable future
50 coffs coast focus.
IT's COFFEE. Who is 'It’s Coffee' and Organo Gold? 'It’s Coffee' is a distributor/marketer er of Ganoderma infused coffees and products, in Australia, New Zealand and thee USA. Organo Gold was launched in Australia on 6 June. Prior to that, Peter Duncan and Paul Harley, the proprietors of 'It’s Coffee', have managed many SMEs, including online sales networks. Organo Gold was formed in 2009 to develop a home based business opportunity with a real, down to earth and healthy product (coffee, tea and chocolate) infused with Ganoderma. What is Ganoderma? Ganoderma is the King of Herbs, with over 2,000 years of documented history. It has been used in medicines and may assist: • A positive mood • Refreshing deep sleep • Increased mental focus • Cold and flu prevention • Healthy liver function • Stronger immune system • Your body’s antioxidant capacity • Healthy skin, lungs and urinary tract • Healthy blood and cholesterol levels • As a preventative and immune enhancing product. • Maintain the brain oxygen level for a feeling of well being. Our coffee is good for you. With the inclusion of Ganoderma, we have a niche product.
There are over 3.6 million web pages about Ganoderma and how it is able to benefit you. The Business Organo Gold is a global family, represented in many countries worldwide and now also in Great Britain and Kenya. In Australia, Organo Gold is based in Chatswood, NSW, with stock managed from there. Using the marketing systems, 36 people in the USA have already moved into the high Six Figure Income earning bracket over the past four years. In Australia, we are moving towards that level. This is a real product, a real market, with real people. Customers are plentiful. Think about it – who do you know that drinks coffee? Coffee is recession proof. If you are tired, stressed, or just need a break, what do you drink? If you are financially encumbered, you still relax with a cup of coffee. That is what we do; we drink and share coffee and get paid for it. Greg Norman and Great White Shark Enterprises have secured their distributorship, rating Organo Gold as one of the best organisations and having the best earning potential plan in the world.
'It’s Coffee' is suitable for fundraising, with schools coming on board to promote the product and benefit financially. 'It’s Coffee' already has Distributors in Brisbane, Melbourne, the Sunshine Coast, North Coast of NSW and South Australia. Explore further and find out whether this is your big opportunity to enjoy the benefits of working with us to promote and sell the products and to create your own personal wealth. Call or email today. The first 50 people to contact us will receive a range of samples to try. For the first 10 distributors ready to move on this exciting business opportunity and who act before November 30, 'It’s Coffee' will do your Business Setup and 6 months of one on one mentoring to ensure your success. Don’t delay – contact us today. Would you like to have been among the first people to become investors in Starbucks or Gloria Jean's, or any of the international chains of coffee houses around the world? This is your opportunity to do just that. Visit www.itscoffee.com.au – email one of us at harley@itscoffee.com.au – or peterd@itscoffee. com.au – for further details.
Two questions to think about – Q. Do you or does anyone you know drink coffee at least occasionally? A. You know plenty of people drinking coffee.
Q. Do you get paid to drink your coffee? A. You might not – but we do.
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www.itscoffee.com.au coffs coast focus 51
with Go Vita Coffs Central. Ph: 6652 2993
By Nicola Taylor - Director Girlfit
E LOV SELF YOUR
Last month I wrote about motivation. I know it’s hard to get your butt off the couch and to get active. So today, I’m going to give you some simple easy steps to move again, feel alive again, and love yourself again. Have I got your attention? … Well, read on! • Admit that you’re fat – OK, so maybe you’re not fat, and maybe you are. Whatever the case, we all know that exercise has amazing health benefits. If you’re bigger than you want to be, it can help you shrink. If you’re scrawnier than you want to be, it can make you bigger. If you’re really old ... well, it’ll make you feel younger too. Whatever the case, admit that you want your life to be better in some way that exercise can improve it. • Commit to a start day – make a goal to start exercise today. • Make sure you’ve got your gear – set your clothes out the night before, so you’re not scrambling in the morning. • Don’t worry about the 'walk of shame' – the first day back at Girlfit after a hiatus is always
the hardest. Maybe you put on a couple of pounds. Maybe you’re embarrassed by your long-term absence. Get over yourself. • Find an inspiring role model. They’re everywhere – amazing women. Is it your mother, best friend, or maybe a sporting hero? Finally, ask yourself one simple question: what are you afraid of? It seems like every time I ask myself that question when it comes to exercise, I can never come up with a good answer. It’s an activity where pretty much every single outcome is positive. So if you want to move again, feel alive again and love yourself again, check out our new 42 Day blitz commencing October 14 at www.girlfit.com.au Girlfit is a supportive, caring way to provide you accountability to achieve your goals. Beach is calling!
the plug! Nicola Taylor – Director Girlfit 0417 045 825.
with Renee Atkins,owner Beach Bodies Health Club
Spring has sprung!
Are you ready to hit the beach with your new body? It’s that time of year again, where the winter layers start to come off and we bare our bodies on the beach. It also the time of year where the majority of us go, “Now, where did THAT come from?” (Referring to the extra layer we have developed over the cooler months) and we go into the ‘get fit for summer meltdown'. The best place to start to get ready to enjoy this summer and be in the best shape that you can be before summer is all started in your planning and preparation! The most successful people in life are those who are also the most prepared! So the first steps for ultimate success, you need to plan and prepare your fitness and food each week. When planning your exercise program, you need to ask yourself the following questions: • Am I going to work out in a gym, at home or outside, or a combination? • Would I feel more drive if I worked out with a PT or with a fitness instructor? • When am I going to work out? Set the times into your planner. The hardest challenge that most people 52
coffs coast focus.
have is changing their diets – this also requires planning and preparation but once started, can become part of your normal life and is not so much a chore. You need to ask: • What is my plan to change my old eating habits to new ones? • Is everybody in the house going to eat what I am eating? • Is my fridge and pantry full of health food? • Have I set time aside to prepare my meals? And remember that results take time – speak to an expert who can guide you in the right direction to help you reach your goals – if you would like to know more, please email renee@ beachbodies.net.au for more information on getting healthy for life and the summer body you are working towards.
traceyhayes.
Cholesterol …Friend Before Foe Like air and water, we can’t live without Cholesterol. That’s right, you do need cholesterol.
T
he idea that Cholesterol is evil is very much ingrained in most people's minds. But this very harmful myth needs to be put to rest right now. What am I getting at? Cholesterol is not an enemy to your health, but instead essential and crucial for a wide variety of vital functions in your body. And here’s why … Cholesterol is found in every cell in your body, where it helps produce cell membranes, is the raw material your body uses to make many hormones, Vitamin D and bile acids that help your digestion. Cholesterol also helps in the formation of your memories and is vital for neurological function. Pretty important, right? But there’s a catch … It’s very high cholesterol levels and the ratio between two types of cholesterol, HDL (protective to your heart) and LDL (a culprit that may contribute to heart disease) that may cause problems with your health. In a nutshell, keep your LDL lower and HDL higher. Whilst I would never advise anyone to disco continue Cholesterol medication, here are a few si simple and natural remedies you can have every day that have been shown to support healthy cholesterol levels. They taste good too. Cocoa or Cacao powder. Yes, as in chocolate (the darker the better). A recent American Journal of Clinical Nutrition report revealed that, just after 12 weeks, volunteers who participated in research which involved adding cocoa powder to their diet each day (tough gig, but someone had to do it!) had a 24% increase in their protective HDL levels. Try pure cacao powder … no sugar and great added to a smoothie or stirred through yoghurt. Walnuts. Scientists found ‘significant’ improvement in cholesterol levels and blood vessel flexibility, which helps blood flow smoothly, just four hours after people consumed either the
shelled nuts or walnut oil! Opt for Aussie grown walnuts – fresher and not as dried out as their Californian counterparts. Taste better too! Just a handful a day will suffice, or add to your favourite salad. Berries. Blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. It’s no newsflash that berries are nutritious, but here’s something you may not know. The liver is the organ that helps your body lower high cholesterol levels. Compounds found in berries appear to activate genes in the liver that help the liver do its job. Fresh or frozen, but there’s also a powdered version that’s easier, cheaper and great in a smoothie. Lecithin. Outstanding results published recently from a trial using lecithin showed a significant reduction in total cholesterol and of most importance, LDL concentrations in just the first month! Lecithin keeps your liver in tip-top shape, important for managing cholesterol. Just sprinkle a dessert spoon onto muesli, stir though yogurt or just add to your favourite smoothie. It has a really pleasant flavour. A note on quality … make sure your lecithin comes from a non-GMO source. German lecithin usually fits the bill. If the granules don’t appeal, capsules might. Chia seeds. What a superstar! The outer coating of the seed, when moist, provides loads of gel-like soluble fibre – essential to managing healthy cholesterol levels. With more fibre than oatbran, these little powerhouses also contain nature’s richest plant based source of omega 3, more magnesium than broccoli, more calcium than milk and more vitamin C than oranges. Oh so easy to add to anything, because they have no flavour of their own! Need to know more? Just ask. And remember … if you need to, consult your healthcare specialist.
Our local award winning village pharmacy.
Jetty Village Pharmacy Recently The Jetty Village Pharmacy was nominated for Pharmacy of the Year, and they won finalist status for NSW and were graded in the top 3 in the state!
COFFS
PHYSIOTHERAPY & BACKCARE
Sarsi Webber, the Retail Manager and resident Naturopath of the Jetty Village Pharmacy, was over the moon with the accolade and nomination. "This is an amazing achievement for all the team here over the last 12 months. The hard work and dedication each team member has put in has obviously resonated with our customers and our peers.
Lateral Hip Pain After extensive travelling and working in other clinics, Sean has now returned to Coffs. His special interest in hip, groin and pelvic girdle pain has him delivering the most effective evidence based treatment currently available.
"Here at the Jetty we have a real sense of community and love getting involved with charity events and helping those around us.
L
ateral hip pain? You must have superficial muscles, or where one habitually bursitis, traditionally the most loads the hip in adduction, e.g. long periods common diagnosis. However, of sitting crossed legged, standing with hip research has established dropped to one side, or sleeping with top that bursitis, if even present at all, is leg pulled up and over. Changing from this secondary to the main problem – static position then often triggers a pain tendinopathy of the deep hip stabiliser response. muscles gluteus medius or Traditionally treatment has minimus [GMT]. GMT occurs been ice, stretching ITB, and in 20% of people with lots of ‘clams’ or side-leg arthritis of the hip, and G M T occu rs raises. However, evidence whe n th ese 20 - 35% of those has demonstrated this e te nd on s ar e with low back pain th to in d approach has potential se es pr co m er of (often leading to years to aggravate the greate r trochant th e of inappropriate and th e hi p be ne ath tendinopathy. Effective . B) ili ot ib ial band (IT ineffective treatment). long term control requires ” GMT is more common a combined approach of in females than males, thorough and complete peaking around menopause, assessment of the underlying but is also seen in younger mechanics, education about GMT, athletes, particularly runners or those pathology and unloading strategies. Most working in step training, and the pain can importantly, specific, targeted retraining and travel as far as the knee. graduated strengthening of gluteus medius
"One of the things I love most about working here, is the ability to offer our customers a complete health solution, which nurtures the naturopath in me."
We also enjoy educating people regarding their health, and this also improves their confidence in alternative medicines. Another one of our valued team members here is Rebecca Bruce, who has a passion for skin and beauty. You may have seen Bec around our local schools demostrating makeup for stage performances, job interviews and general everyday applications to our local students. She is available for consults regarding your skin tone, redness, ageing, skin care, allergy, sun damage and general correct colour selections. Bec's warm and bubbly personality is much appreciated by the customers and staff, as well as her cheeky sense of humour. You can come in and speak to Sarsi or Bec any time; no appointment is necessary, but is advisable, and they will be happy to assist you.
“
GMT occurs when these tendons are compressed into the greater trochanter of the hip beneath the iliotibial band (ITB). It’s aggravated by tightness of the lateral
and minimus in association with deep core stabilisers of the trunk – ideally using a Real Time Ultrasound to confirm the targeted muscles are firing.
coffs coast focus 53
Dr Elvy is participating in World Vasectomy Day where he will carry out Vasectomies in two locations, The Medical and Vein Centre Coffs Harbour and Sydney Vasectomy Crows Nest.
with Doris Cowan
Living a healthy lifestyle can be a simple equation. Balanced nutrition and regular exercise equals a healthy lifestyle.
A
fter having my two children, I found myself weighing in at 110 kg. The weight gain was a combination of bad eating habits over a few years and a decline in physical activity. Reality hit when I saw a photo of myself and did not recognise it as me.
one on one personal training, small group indoor training in my personal gym and a group boxing/fitness classes held at the Sawtell public school on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights from 6pm for both males and females of all fitness levels. My passion for personal training stems from being able to relate to people wanting to become healthier through both nutrition and exercise.
I transformed from a size 22 to a size 12, which I was happy with and able to maintain. Around seven years ago after losing my dad to cancer I moved to Coffs Harbour to start a fresh life.
Since becoming a new person both mentally and physically my life has been enriched by being able to help many others.
I loved the exercise, as it was my stress release, not to mention the extra energy. As I got fitter I wanted to educate myself on exercise and fuelling my body, so I completed my Certificate 3 & 4 in fitness. I eventually stepped out of my comfort zone and started my own personal training business Get Up and Go Fitness. My business includes
Also I have achieved things on my bucket list like trekking Kokoda trail, skydiving and swimming with the sharks just to mention a few. Love life and live it to the fullest. By Doris Cowan – Personal Trainer for Get Up & Go Fitness 0411 428 761
Ricotta & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast with Sweet Potato and Broccolini INGREDIENTS 4 chicken breasts 1 large sweet potato 250 g low fat ricotta cheese 1 bunch broccolini 50 g baby spinach (chopped) 1 egg Fresh chopped chilli (optional) Cracked black pepper
wan
Doris Co
e Recip
METHOD Heat oven to 180°C or 160°C fan forced. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, spinach, egg, chilli and pepper. Set aside. Make a pocket in each chicken breast by inserting a sharp knife into the larger end of the breast and running it ¾ of the way along so there is an opening for the stuffing. Using either a piping bag or large spoon, fill the pockets with the ricotta stuffing. Place the chicken on a tray that has been lightly sprayed with cooking oil and bake for 25 minutes. While chicken is cooking, peel and roughly chop sweet potato. Boil for 15-20 minutes. Steam broccolini in a steamer on top of the sweet potato for the last 3-5 minutes. Drain and mash with a little bit of natural yoghurt. Remove chicken from oven and cut in half diagonally, placing over a bed of sweet potato mash and topping with broccolini and balsamic glaze. 54 coffs coast focus.
Vasectomy Day
hat is World Vasectomy Day and why are you participating? World Vasectomy Day (WVD) is the largest male-oriented global family planning event ever, taking place on October 18, 2013. The goal is to have 1,000 vasectomies performed in 24 hours and we’re calling on men around the world to participate. The worlds most prolific vasectomist Dr Doug Stein from the US, will perform vasectomies in front of an audience at the Royal Institution of Australia in Adelaide to launch the inaugural World Vasectomy Day on 18 October 2013. Dr Elvy has had an interest in family planning for over 30 years and has performed 4,000 non scalpel vasectomies. Dr Elvy has actively embraced the advances in this procedure and adopted the open ended technique (lower complication rates), fascia interposition (lower failure rates) and use of Penthrox® (patient relaxation). He demonstrates this procedure to medical students regularly and has trained other doctors in his technique. Dr Elvy is participating in World Vasectomy Day to promote the advances in vasectomy technique and the benefits to men who have completed their family. What will happen on WVD? The flagship event of WVD will be the live vasectomies performed in front of invited experts, webcast from Royal Institution of Australia. WVD will promote vasectomy as a permanent form of contraception. It will help dispel the myths and concerns of men regarding vasectomy. What age are men generally when they come to you for this procedure? Most men that have a vasectomy are between 30-50 and have completed their family. Legally, any man over the age of 18 can request a vasectomy. It is important to understand that vasectomy should be considered as a permanent form of contraception as reversals aren’t guaranteed. Most men are terrified of this procedure -
should they be? Vasectomy is NOT castration. Vasectomy only interrupts the tubes that carry sperm from the testes to where they are added to your semen. The penis and testes are not altered. Hormonal and sexual function is unaffected, so your voice, body hair and interest in sex remain the same. Your body still produces semen, and erections and ejaculation occur normally. The only difference is that your semen no longer contains sperm. With the use of Penthrox® and local anaesthetic block the procedure is virtually painless. Any pain post-operatively can be relieved by simple pain medications. Generally 1-2 days rest is recovery enough before men return to work and most normal, non-strenuous physical activity. Sex can usually be resumed 7 days post-operatively. Men who have a vasectomy are no more likely than other men to develop cancer, heart disease or other health problems. In this day and age do you think it's the responsibility of the male to take charge of the fertility in the family? Many men understand the responsibilities of taking charge of their fertility. Their partners have gone through the process of pregnancy and childbirth, as well as taking the contraceptive pill or an IUCD for much of their adult life. A vasectomy removes the worry of an unintended pregnancy. When is World Vasectomy Day and how can we contact you? I carry out Vasectomies in two locations, The Medical and Vein Centre Coffs Harbour and Sydney Vasectomy Crows Nest. I will be taking part in my Sydney Vasectomy practice at Crows Nest on the day and patients can visit my website HYPERLINK "http:// www.sydneyvasectomy.com.au" www. sydneyvasectomy.com.au or phone 02 6658 0222 to make a booking for World Vasectomy Day or any other day that might suit their schedule in Crows Nest or Coffs Harbour. Thanks Dr Elvy.
Yo u t h D i re c t i o n s ’ C o f f s C o a s t
of CAREERS EXPO AND FORUM
Fleas and Ticks
Five years ago mobile tablets didn’t exist. Ten years ago Facebook didn’t exist. As technology races towards an unknown future, career and employment options are constantly changing.
I
t can be a daunting task for students, parents, job seekers and career changers to investigate the possibilities.
Dustie, Bree and Sarah
What is the difference between a flea and tick? Fleas are insects and ticks are arachnids. Fleas and ticks both live on blood and inject foreign bodies into its host. But ticks inject toxins which can be fatal for dogs and cat.
• Advantix (ticks + fleas)
Are ticks and fleas more common at different times of the year? Fleas are common all year round and ticks are always a danger and a lot more savage in the warmer months
are treatable but prevention and early
Are only dogs affected? Both dogs and cats are affected by fleas and ticks and so are a wide variety of other animals
the right product for their pet for ticks
How can ticks be controlled? Ticks can be controlled with some of the following.
and if they are not sure of the weight they
• Killtix collars (ticks + fleas) • Preventic collars (ticks only)
your pets in the shop. See our web site for
• Frontline plus (ticks + fleas) • Frontline spray (the only tick prevention safe for cats) If not controlled, can ticks be deadly? Yes they can definitely be fatal. Most cases detection is the key. Your pet needs to have preventative treatment regularly and they need to be checked daily for ticks. Can people come and talk to you about and fleas? Yes for sure. We need to know the pet’s weight so we can treat them appropriately can bring them in and we can weigh them in store free of charge. We love to see opening hours.
sessions with qualified Careers Advisers. Parents, job seekers and general public are all encouraged to attend.
The evening session sponsored by North Help is at hand! Get Informed and Inspired Coast TAFE will offer a program of insightful at the Youth Directions’ Coffs Coast Future mini-talks on The Future of Work in key of Work Careers Expo and Forum. Three occupational areas, along with keynote separate sessions will cater for speakers on the Regional Labour different audiences and Market and the value of showcase a range of Mentoring programs. career and training Three separate In partnership with Medicare pathways. sessions will Local, throughout the nt Venue: Coffs Harbour cater for differe day a limited number audiences and Racing Club of e ng of hands-on workshops showcase a ra Date: Thursday 24 ng ni ai tr d relating to occupations an er re ca October 2013 ay s. ” in the health sector will w th pa Sessions: 9am to 3pm provide participants with School visits - 3pm to the opportunity to talk to 5pm practitioners and become informed Open session – job seekers, and inspired about career pathways and career changers, parents, general public. opportunities in the Health Industry. With 5.30pm – 7.30pm Future of Work Forum predicted jobs growth the Health sector – $15 ticketed event with range of guest stands out as a viable option for anyone speakers and finger food. considering an interesting career on our The School session will inspire Year 10 and scenic north coast. Year 6 students from across the region to Registration for the Health Workshops is consider their options and plan a pathway essential. to a successful future. Defence Force Recruiting, Australian Tax Office, NSW Police, Students register through your school
“
TAFE and several Universities are among the many exhibitors.
Careers Advisers. Job Seekers register
The Open Session will include a Jobs Board listing local and regional employment opportunities and Free careers counseling
Directions.
through your Job Services Agent or Youth Tickets or Registration for Future of Work – Youth Directions 6653 2900. coffs coast focus 55
focusinterview.
O'Garey
Matthew O'Garey ... a local athlete performing on the world stage. The way Matt paddles, you would think that he has an affinity with the ocean! Matt recently finished 13th (in the world) at the World Ocean Paddling Championships in Molokai, Hawaii. Originally from Tasmania, Matt met his wife in Coffs Harbour and now happily calls this pocket of the world home.
56 coffs coast focus.
focusinterview.
Photos by Jimmy Trifyllis and On Shore Photography
“
The conditions in the Kauai channel can change from completely flat to 5 metre seas and 40 knots of wind! I call it my Everest, and it is one of the most rewarding and challenging races I have ever done.”
Matt Ogrady
O'Garey
W
hat is ocean ski paddling? Ocean ski paddling is a developing sport, with races all around the country. We paddle very fast skis that are around 20 feet long, only 42 inches wide and weighing around 10 kg. We race in open water and in all conditions – distances are anywhere from 10 – 70 km! When and why did you first get involved in ocean ski paddling? I assume you originally surfed? I grew up in Tasmania in surf lifesaving and developed into the Olympic sport of sprint canoeing. The technique is very similar to ski paddling, so it was easy to train and race in both disciplines. How have you progressed your career? In 1993 I moved to the Gold Coast to train at the Australian Institute of Sport and spent three years training with some of the nation's and world's best paddlers. What is the World Ocean Paddling Championships in Molokai, Hawaii, and how did you place? The Molokai World Championships is a 53 km ocean ski race starting on Molokai, crossing the infamous Kawaii channel and finishing on the island of Oahu. It is one of the most well recognised and prestigious ocean ski races in the world and attracts the best international paddlers. I have spent the last three years preparing for the race, culminating in a 2nd place in my age group and 13th outright in this year's race. The conditions in the Kauai channel can change from completely flat to 5 metre seas and 40 knots of wind! I call it my Everest, and it is one of the most rewarding and challenging races I have ever done. It is very addictive, and I can’t wait to go back and
try and break in to the top 10 outright. career I have paddled with best mate, national paddler and now What other competitions have you competed in? coach, Julian Norton-Smith. He was always just that bit faster I race all over Australia and try to support as many races as I and a great carrot to chase! can. I was fortunate enough to have back to back wins in the Do you have any other competitions coming up? last two seasons in the PACOS Ocean series, which is an ocean My next big race is in my home state of Tasmania in ski series which runs races up and down the QLD coast. November – a 63 km relay race from Wynyard to Devonport What has been your proudest career moment? covering all of the open ocean that I trained in In 2010 I was chosen to represent Australia growing up. I can’t wait to get back there and in the Outrigger World Champs (another get reacquainted with an amazing stretch of story!) A very proud moment, but nothing water. I just hope it’s a little warmer than I e m so t ee compares to the satisfaction of a podium remember! m You g in az am e, ng finish in one of the world’s toughest Where in your opinion is the best ra st people. l na io at ir sp races, being Molokai. place to hit the water in Coffs in and ill ever be w I k in th t n’ What career aspirations did you Harbour? do I ith what I truly satisfied w have as a young bloke, and would We are very fortunate to live in an e are a lot have done. Ther you say that you've achieved those amazing location. We have some great there, and of fast guys out goals? stretches of open water, marine parks a lot.” I can still learn As a young athlete I always wanted to and out near the Solitary group of islands, be good enough to represent my country and when the weather turns nasty, the and paddle against the world's best, race harbour and even Bonville creek at Sawtell paddlers from other nations and continue to learn allows us the opportunity of paddling in relative more about my sport. You meet some strange, amazing safety. and inspirational people. I don’t think I will ever be truly What's on the cards for the rest of the year? satisfied with what I have done. There are a lot of fast guys out I was just reviewing my commitments for the rest of the there, and I can still learn a lot. I don’t think I will ever know it calendar year last week, and it is just about full! I run a paddling all, or be the world's best paddler, so there is no finish line! and coaching business, Wet Fitness and travel all over the Who has been your biggest influence? country holding clinics and helping people learn to paddle I have a few great mentors in my career. My first coach in and improve their skills and fitness. It is a sure bet that if I am Tasmania, Jeremy Norton, was an enormous influence, AIS not racing on a weekend somewhere, I am coaching the next coach and Olympic medallist Grant Davies and more recently, generation of paddlers. local Coffs Harbour legend Mike Mills-Thom. Throughout my Thanks Matt.
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M O R E
T H A N
pring is here, and the team at the Coffs Harbour War Memorial Olympic Pool is gearing up for summer. The 50 m solar heated pool is open and the 25 m pool is 29.5 degrees all year round and under cover for protection from the weather.
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SWIMMING
With Supervised Fitness Sessions, Coffee Shop and Kiosk, Learn to Swim and Squad for adults and children and a Children’s Water Playground, the Coffs Harbour War Memorial Olympic Pool offers you the best in swimming, fitness and a great day out.
POOL All your swimming and fitness needs in one place
Lap Swimming Lap lanes are available for those who like to swim for fitness. For opening times, see coffsolympicpool.com.au
The Coffs Harbour War pic or Mem ial Olym e th u Pool offers yo g, in m best in swim t fitness and a grea day out.”
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Learn to Swim C.H.O.P. Swim School has swimming programs to suit everyone from babies to adults. AUSTSWIM certified instructors teach a balance of water confidence, aquatic survival and swimming skills in a safe and friendly environment. Classes are held in the indoor pool out of the weather for a comfortable learning experience for your child. Class sizes are kept small, to ensure you and/or your child receives the best quality tuition. Squad The triathlon, surf and swimming competition season is about to start, so get a head start in our Squad Training Program for all ages and abilities. Programs for all ages and abilities from juniors moving up from Learn to Swim to competitive swimmers, triathletes and masters, as well as swimmers just wanting to improve their stroke and
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fitness while having fun. Pool and Surf competitors are catered for, and all coaches are accredited with the ASCTA. Birthday Parties There are plenty of shaded grass areas for children and adults of all ages. Barbecues can be booked for a sausage sizzle, or party packs are available. The Buccaneer – an inflatable aquatic obstacle course – can be hired for the 7 - 14 year olds. Innergy Fitnes and Yoga – Strong Body Calm Mind Group fitness for weight loss and functional strength suitable for all fitness levels, and your first session is free. Boxing, circuit, strength training and yoga build a strong, supple body and a calm mind. Our sessions are based on building mobility, stability and flexibility using movement, breath and focus. When you move properly, your body is efficient, so train your body for strength and functional power and you will burn fat naturally. It’s not about being skinny – it’s about being strong, courageous and confident in your body and your mind. Metaqua The name Metaqua means increasing your metabolism using water. It’s not aqua aerobics nor lap swimming; it is Metaqua. It’s a simple design using a pair of fins, kickboard or noodle. Metaqua™ rotates exercises around your body using your legs, arms, side and stomach. The benefit of using water exercise is the low impact ‘gentleness’ of water. Resistance in water is what makes water fitness effective. You can modify the movement of your limbs and hands to have the resistance that best suits you. This results in a full body workout to suit all ages and levels of fitness.
Plastic Surgery of the Breast This includes the correction of asymmetry, the enlargement of the small breast, the reduction of the large breast, and the lift of the sagging breast. reast Asymmetry is usually a birth defect, but sometimes a result of surgical removal of breast tissue. Correction is by adding volume to the smaller breast or by removing volume in the larger breast.
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brassiere and clothes choice and interfering with physical activity, also cause great pain and discomfort to the back, neck and shoulders, due to the ‘drag’ of the weight of the breast, and reduction surgery fixes all of the above problems!
Breast Enlargement is augmentation of breast volume, usually by using an implant.
There are a number of methods of breast reduction, but there is no doubt that the method that gives the best result is the vertical method, initially championed by Lassus in the ‘70s, popularised by Lejour in the ‘90s, and demystified and simplified for even better outcomes by Hall-Findlay in the last 10 years and more.
Of the implants available, the rough surfaced, high cohesive gel implant made by Allergan, and used in my practice, is easily the safest and best implant. It does cost more than most other implants, but what price safety? Breast Reduction to reduce the size of the breast, is a very popular operation due to the very significant improvement in symptoms/problems after the surgery. Large breasts, besides limiting
This method gives a very good breast shape and projection and with long-lasting results due to the breast segments being stitched together and the skin only used to cover and drape the breast; unlike most other methods, where the skin envelope is used to shape the breast, resulting in
improvements which are short lived. The Sagging or Ptotic breast is also corrected with many methods, mostly with poor outcomes, again due to the skin envelope being used to shape and lift the breast. The best outcome is with the vertical approach, as in reduction surgery. The late Dr. John Bostwick of Emory University, Atlanta Georgia, Professor Madeline Lejour of the University of Brussels and Dr. Elizabeth Hall-Findlay of Banff in Alberta Canada, are three leading contributors in breast surgery, experts in reduction and ptosis correction, with the latter two specialising in the vertical method. I have spent time with all three of them, giving me the opportunity to learn from them. This knowledge and expertise is available to you at my practice in Coffs Harbour.
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focushealth.
Today I thought we would interview Steve Marquette, who is the Campus Director of Australian Institute of Personal Trainers Coffs Coast to find out a bit more about Personal Training. ogether with his fellow campus director, Tracy Welsh, they are the local industry leaders that educate people who want to become a Personal Trainer in a real health club, face to face environment. Steve says … “I love being a Personal Trainer; it is one of the most rewarding careers, as I play a crucial role in improving the lives of others. These days more people are choosing to work with a Personal Trainer and as the fitness industry continues to grow, it is important to understand what I do and how I play a role in future Personal Trainers. My workdays vary – I can often be up at 4.30am for clients who have early work schedules. I always start my day with a nutritious breakfast and ensure my day’s meals (and coffee) are planned. Depending on the weather and my client’s preference, I can be running indoor or outdoor sessions. Each and every session I run is client specific
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as everyone has different goals. I also spend considerable time creating the best fitness plans for my clients and always recommend healthy meals before workouts and plenty of water for hydration. The middle of the day for me is usually spent working with clients including mums and mature age groups that like to work out together as a group; I am always prepped with fresh fruit to keep me going before and after lunch. In the afternoon to early evening I am working out with clients who like their training sessions after their work day – training in the afternoon/early evening is a great way to unwind, and getting the heart rate up can easily get rid of the day’s stress! Dinner time, I stock up on a balanced meal of protein, carbohydrate and laden with vegetables. My workday can be as flexible as I like, which allows me to fit in my friends, my personal tasks, my workouts and of course, my family. I love all the people I work with, and they vary from non-gym goers to the seriously fit
and healthy types. Everyone, including the super fit, have goals and being able to help them achieve their desired outcomes is so rewarding. It is about the journey and the transformation. As a Personal Trainer, I try to dispel the myth that we are ‘task-masters’. I don’t yell or scream at my clients; I am about motivating, encouraging, and rewarding. I chose to be an Australian Institute of Personal Trainers Campus Director, as there is a genuine need for qualified Personal Trainers locally. I am responsible for guiding
new Personal Trainers and ensuring they graduate with a high level of qualification and expertise. I truly believe in what I do and that is what I instil in all my students; they are trainers that real people want to help them reach their goals. All my students become success stories, whether they start their own business, get employed by a local facility or even here at Coffs Coast Health Club. There will never be too many qualified Personal Trainers – we all need someone by our side to encourage, motivate and reward us.
Girls’ Night Out! Birthdays, hens’ nights and those special times when the girls get together over a few friendly bubbles will never be the same in Coffs Harbour again! rt By Trudy owner, Trudy Smith, is better known as a talented face painter and body art expert and is really a special part of the fabric that makes up the talent that we are so proud of here in our own backyard of Coffs Harbour.
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that will break the ice and have the entire bridal party in stitches!
Trudy is unique and a well known local who has her beautiful works stamped on our town, with her talents displayed at the Coffs Harbour Hospital and local restaurant, as well as adorning the walls in private collections.
Trudy has participated in many events with the local Coffs Council, Buskers Festival, local shopping centre promotions and outside radio broadcasts. Trudy is seen at many local watering holes providing entertainment with her amazing face painting activities and is often attending private events like baby n ..see how she ca belly painting and parties for not OW W at add th just children, but adults too. ur event
Her two very talented daughters have inherited her talent. Meeka and Bonnie have been an integral part of her team at gigs for over 10 years. She is now taking her extraordinary talents to the wedding industry with a very professional and tasteful show combining her much sought after Life Drawing Classes in the form of the hens’ night!
Trudy is well known in the corporate world for holding Life Drawing classes, and these have been a great hit for such events as Christmas parties.
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factor to yo n or party - she ca ur yo at th e te an ar gu ing lk ta guests will be long ry ve a r fo about it time!”
The Life Drawing lessons provide a sophisticated, tasteful, yet titillating and alternative fun event. Her professional models provide the inspiration for a hilarious and creative life drawing experience.
If you are looking for something different and fun, why not talk to Trudy and see how she can add that WOW factor to your event or party – she can guarantee that your guests will be talking about it for a very long time!
Even if you have never drawn before, you will lose all inhibitions within the first 10 minutes. Trudy will organise 3 hours of fun, spontaneity and fast paced activities
For more information, contact Trudy Smith on 0408 329 009; she is happy to tailor a party to suit you!
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s o c i a l s c e n e with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs
Below. Merle Hoyle and Nuccia Hughes
Right. Jan Crump and Colleen Hull
Right. Keith Rosser and Helen Barnier
Left. Nicola Taylor and Dale Sagar
Right. Adam Hawke, Dale Simpson, Todd Weeks, Brad Daymond, Mick Chatto, Darren Ryan Above. Colleen and Jon Hill
Above. Judith wheeler and Anita white
Social/scene.
Hold on, because it’s full steam ahead towards the silly season. Tourists from far and wide are flocking in to enjoy the events and festivals we stage on our amazing Coffs Coast.
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have heard many times from numerous visitors that this will be the favoured destination of choice for their retirement. We have to be doing something special! There is actually no reason not to be out and about enjoying ourselves! All this activity keeps the Beros men happy. Especially ‘The Husband’, who was part of the action at our Coffs Coast NSW Rally Australia. He enrolled as one of the Officials and was lucky enough to be on duty in the thick of it at the Service Park at Brelsford Park. Exciting times for the Coffs Coast! Rally is one of the few sports where any appropriately licensed competitor can compete against the world’s best. It was stated that there were spectacular points at every single stage of the Rally! Talk about proud of our very own Nathan Quinn, who of course competed in a WRC car on the factory backed official Mini Rally Team. The dust was flying, the speed was on, and everyone had the most amazing time! Another event to keep the guys happy is the array of Hot Rods, which will take Sawtell’s First Avenue by storm. They will be closing off the street and showcasing a stream of gleaming motors. This exciting display will be presented on September 24. Definitely not to be missed. An event for the ladies was a Fashion Parade staged at the Sawtell Anglican Church. The Hall was bursting at the seams for this mini runway event. Not all parades have to be 62 coffs coast focus.
big and glitzy! The models were all over it. Anita and the girls hit the catwalk in style, modelling an array of fashions ranging from beachwear to cocktail. You would never have guessed the clothes were selected from their Opportunity Shop! After the show the guests were treated to an afternoon tea hard to beat at any ritzy affair. Entertainment on the day was provided by the Marion Grove Ukulele Group band. Tables on the deck were laden with homemade cakes and slices, along with salmon sandwiches and delicious savouries ... yum, is all I can say. I heard that over $1,000 dollars was raised on the day. Well done girls ... well worth the effort. I joined editor Melly Dee to attend the launch of our ‘Dancing with the Coffs Coast Stars’. The event was held at the shore front Coffs Harbour Surf Club. Melly is joining the team of fundraisers who donate their time to be trained up to dance the light ‘FANDANGO’ well … in Melly’s case, it’s ‘THE TANGO’! The day was to announce the dancers and their trainers. There were gasps of relief and a few small screams (of delight I hope!) as performers learned of which dance they had to perfect; I’m sure Fiona Foulkes of the Cancer Council enjoyed dishing out the news of who had to tackle what! How brave they all are. I am definitely not shy, but this would give me the absolute horrors! Good luck to you all, I say. And to Melly Dee, you’re a braver man than me! The Jetty Memorial Theatre has a never
ending stream of performances to keep us all entertained. Keyim Ba recently hit our local stage, and boy was that special! Combining vibrant colour, dance with the rhythm of West African Music, this show was a must. It was the joining of forces of several of Australia’s most talented West African Musicians. You couldn’t help but be mesmerised by this performance. It consisted of the fusion of Rap, Reggae, Funk, with African music. Great night out! We attended the Official Opening of the Woolgoolga Lillipilli Art and Craft Exhibition just recently. It was held at the quaint Woolgoolga Art Gallery and certainly pulled in a crowd. Once again we attended the Annual Antique Fair, which is held at The Norm Jordan Pavilion. We absolutely love this weekend. It is always a popular event, seeing many a bargain hunter and antique collector relish in the abundance of a bevy of antique dealers displaying their wares to peruse and maybe purchase. Apart from the fair, there is also the opportunity to sit, relax and enjoy an afternoon cream tea consisting of homemade scones, jam and cream ... scrumptious! For a great night out, grab your girlfriends and make a date to go a see the forever fabulous movie Dirty Dancing. It will be shown at the Birch Carroll and Coyle Movie theatres on Wednesday 9 October. The evening is to raise funds for the Cancer Councils ‘Dancing with the Coffs Coast Stars’. Lots of great
prizes to be won on the night. Precision Helicopters will be giving away a chopper flight – lots of other great prizes to be won! The ladies were certainly dressed to impress for the Black, Bling and Pink Girlfit Ball just recently. The event was held at the fabulous waterfront Coffs Harbour Surf Club, with delicious dishes provided by Nicole and her team from the Surf Club Restaurant. The event was, of course, a ‘Full House’ affair and was nothing short of fantastic. Funds were raised on the evening to support the MBCF. Entertainment was provided by ever popular Ben Francis, who kept the guests up on their feet and dancing until the wee small hours! Seriously though, who can keep up with those birds from Girlfit! Certainly not moi! ‘The Husband’ has actually morphed into a bit of a ‘Social Butterfly’ recently. After three years of watching me whizzing around, the boys have been picky about attending ‘stuff’, as they kindly put it. While ‘The Son’ is being your normal everyday git type teenager running around with his mates, ‘The Husband’ is suddenly enjoying being out and about! I queried this sudden burst of enthusiasm to be part of the action. To which I got the reply, “Well, I figured if you can’t beat them – you just have to join them!” To that comment, I have to say, I think, “The worm has turned!” Here is to getting out there and enjoying yourself. Carole, Le Dãin Designs.
Friday 23 August, OzPrintShop, in conjunction with Sawtell Framing and Beachscapes Gallery, ran a Coastal Landscapes photography competition with an exhibition at Beachscapes Gallery – with the intention to raise funds for Camp Quality. Here are the competition results …
n exciting new photography competition organised by Ray Meyer (OzPrintShop) and Ryan (Sawtell Framing) encouraging local talent that have an interest in photography. The entries were professionally printed and mounted and were on display at the exhibition. There were three major categories open to anyone. Experienced, Amateur, and Under 16.
success. The quality of entries was beyond expectation, and all photographers should feel a sense of pride in their works and the exhibition. A great sense of camaraderie and generosity was felt by all involved. The competition raised over $3,600 (before cash prizes) for Camp Quality, to help the most important people in the world – our children.
After an exciting session judging all the entries, The winners of each category are as follow: with the quality level at a very high standard, Under 16 Section: Matthew Greyling, Amateur Judges photographer Tom Woods (ST Section: Mark Nolan, and Experienced Section: Images), Steve Young (Steve Young Ian Spagnolo. photography), Rob Cleary (Seen exhi bition e Th If you want to order any of the entries, Australia) and Drew Hopper (Drew opening was a contact Ray at OzPrintShop, and he will Hopper Photography) all had a ith great success, w put you in contact with the owner of the few tough decisions to make. The d very lots of guests an 0% image. - 10 judging panel judged on three generous sales p Ph 6651 5344. m Ca key points, being composition, of which goes to technical and use of lighting. Quality!”
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The exhibition opening was a great success, with lots of guests and very generous sales – 100% of which goes to Camp Quality! All prizes were donated by Sawtell Framing, OzPrintShop, Parry’s Jewellers, and images were donated by Drew Hopper Photography, Tom Woods from ST Images and Steve Young Photography. Volunteers included staff from Camp Quality and The Men’s Shed Coffs Harbour, plus staff from the above businesses. Sawtell Framing, OzPrintShop, Parry’s Jewellers and especially Camp Quality thank all participants and congratulate them in helping to make the 2013 Photo Competition a great
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F O C U S
SOUTHERN CROSS SKIN CANCER & WOUND CLINIC
H E A L T H
E X P E R T S
F E A T U R E
COFFS CENTRAL MEDICAL CENTRE O N E C O N S C I O U S B R E AT H YO G A
Dr Hilton Beck has provided a medical service to the Coffs Harbour community for 23 years. He has concentrated on his special interest in skin cancer medicine for the past 16 years. The rates of skin cancer and related conditions in this part of Australia are particularly high, and early recognition and effective treatment is essential to reduce potentially serious complications.
Do you want to FEEL more relaxed and flexible,
Dr Beck and colleagues Dr Annemarie Winters and Dr Andrew Croaker are relocating to a new clinic. As of 26 August 2013 (9 Sept for Dr Winters) they will no longer be associated with the Coffs Coast Skin Cancer Clinic at the Jetty. Our new clinic will have all past patient records available and is equipped to a high standard to continue to provide up to date treatments and diagnostics.
One Conscious Breath Yoga Studio is situated right in the heart of Coffs Harbour. We run group yoga classes, corporate yoga, seasonal yoga intensives, private yoga sessions, and three yoga retreats to India each year. We can accommodate everyone from beginners to more advanced yoga practitioners.
In addition, we are happy to announce that the Wound Clinic will once again be servicing the community under the very able and caring guidance of Sr. Ann Fowler, Clinical Nurse Consultant. Our friendly and fully qualified nursing and office staff complete our team. The new clinic will operate from premises which until now have been home to Coffs Diabetic Centre and the Osteoporosis Clinic; the latter will continue from the current location for the foreseeable future.
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stronger, calmer and more grounded? Then Yoga is perfect for you! As the weather is getting warmer and summer feels like it has arrived, it is the perfect time to start moving your body, start to look at the food you are eating and make a decision to live a happier, healthier life.
In 2013, in partnership with our sister company Integrity International Tours, we are excited to be taking three yoga retreats to Northern and Southern India, combining adventure and relaxation in one life changing journey. Jasmine teaches Vinyasa flow yoga, a gentle and dynamic style of yoga with a constant flowing movement, set to a great soundtrack to get you moving and breathing with joy. Come in and try a class, or book a private yoga session and watch the stress and tension simply melt away. Make a commitment TODAY to start living your HAPPIEST, HEALTHIEST, BEST life!
Coffs Central Medical Centre would like to introduce two of their doctors. Dr Nicholas Bostock-Ling is our dedicated skin cancer professional, who has a special interest in the early detection and treatment of skin cancers. With summer almost upon us, it is a good time to think about your skin. If you have a skin lesion you are concerned about, the Australian Cancer Council recommends you have it checked. Dr Bostock-Ling uses the latest in computerised video dermoscopy to aid in the diagnosis of your skin lesions. He also provides a comprehensive range of skin cancer treatment services and a body mole mapping service. So for peace of mind, phone or come in to make an appointment for a check up today. Dr Gavin Nichols is an Australian trained General Practitioner and has practiced in Coffs Harbour since 1998. He truly believes that Coffs Harbour is the perfect place to raise a family. He focuses on providing a premium quality service to his regular patients and potential new patients. He is generally available six days per week. He provides longer appointments where necessary and prioritizes punctuality as being pertinent. He prides himself on being a most thorough General Practitioner. His special interests include influenza and other respiratory viruses, mental health issues and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
F O C U S
H E A L T H
E X P E R T S
F E A T U R E
TRISH PLUNKETT
Commencing her career in Community Nursing at the Central Coast Health Service, later joining Coffs Harbour Base Hospital as a generalist Community Nurse and Nursing Unit Manager (10 years’ service). During this time Trish identified a need for private services in the local community, which led to her establishing Coffs Harbour Home Nursing Service, as it was known. Having grown from what was a one person operation, Trish now employs 50 staff, with the company providing services across 3 LGAs. Over the years CCHCC has employed 165 staff and countless others indirectly through contract and brokerage arrangements, making a significant contribution to the economic development of the region. CCHCC currently provides community care services to over 300 clients, including a range of Government funded contracts (via the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Health & Ageing) and services to private clients. Central to the service is Trish’s philosophy of empowering clients and carers to make informed choices about their care needs and providing them with the option to remain in an environment of their choice.
If you are like most busy women, you want MORE in life! More time, more freedom, more energy, headspace, more connection, balance, fulfilment, more happiness. The problem is that most of us don’t really know how to make MORE happen so we rush around hoping for the best and sometimes settle for mediocre instead. Life is short. And you don’t necessarily get the life you want, or wish for or dream of. You get the life that you go after ... the life that you commit to. The simple truth is, in order to change your life for the better, you have to change your thinking first. And this is good news – because once you know how to do this, you can transform more in a few weeks than you may have done in years! My name is Georgie Cooke, and I’m a Wellbeing Consultant and Personal Coach. I specialise in helping busy women reconnect with their strengths, confidence and clarity to create more happiness, vitality and fulfilment. So, if you’re at a crossroads and you know it’s time for positive change, I invite you to take the first steps... Here’s to a life filled with your heart’s yearning for MORE of what matters to you!
Trish Plunkett is a Registered Nurse with over 30 years of clinical and administrative experience, having worked extensively throughout remote and regional NSW.
GEORGIE COOKE W E L L B E I N G C O N S U LTA N T
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COFFS MEDICAL CENTRE What does HIPPOPOTOMONSTROSESQUIPADALIOPHOBIA mean? Fear of long words. Coffs Medical Centre (opposite Olympic pool) has recently completed a 12 month refurbishment and expansion of its practice premises. With 12 doctors, we continue to offer a high standard of care for all of your family. Our doctors offer experience in skin checks, family planning, men’s healthcare, children’s healthcare, mental health support and we also boast the best GP obstetrician in Coffs Harbour! The doctors are supported by four fabulous nurses, excellent reception staff and allied health staff, including an exercise physiologist, audiologist and psychologist. We have on-site pharmacy, pathology and parking – what else could you want (other than a coffee Shop)? We are expanding our opening hours, and our doctors are welcoming new patients to the practice. Please phone us on 6648 5222. P.S. our doctors are trained not to use long words.
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coffs coast focus 65
focusinterview.
Who knew that Beards could be such a serious topic of conversation? As Louise Beaumont found out, despite the quirkiness of this band and their chosen theme, beards are no laughing matter. Nathaniel Beard fills us in ...
H
ow many of you are in the band – and who has the best beard? There are four of us in the band. And as for who has the best beard? Well, I don't want to toot my own horn, but I would say … that I have the best beard.
Describe your beard then. My beard is like, just a big bush ranger beard that comes down to my chest … it's pretty impressive. So there are four of you in the band. Tell us how you got together and how 'The Beards' was born ... Some of us met at university, where we joined a Beards Club. We would just get together and meet and talk about beards. (Laughs.) We'd stroke each other's beards. And we would try and get more people to join, but there were only three of us in the group. (Laughs.) And beards weren't very popular back then – this was in the early part of last decade. In the early 2000s, beards were not popular at all; we copped a lot of flak, and we didn't think that was really fair. So we would stick together in solidarity and eventually we met our fourth member, whom we saw busking on campus and singing songs about beards. We thought we could join forces with him and use music as a vehicle to promote beards. So we did ... and ever since that day, we haven't looked back. So musically, what are your foundations – are you a Rock band? Yeah, we think Rock is pretty fair description – that's a pretty beardy genre. But really we don't like to limit ourselves to any musical style, because like beards, music is
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about diversity, and we like to experiment with different kinds of music and different kinds of beards. So all of your songs are about beards? Yes!
We like to le entertain. If peop is it y, nn fu find our lyrics e W e. nc de ci in mearly a co s ou ite seri are actually qu ” . ds ar be about
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And how many different beard topics are there? Well, I like to think there are limitless topics in the field of beard related songs. We have currently written 40 songs about beards and released 3 albums. And we are currently working on our fourth beard related album. Ok, so what are the stereotypical things that go with beards? Everything goes with beards; that is the thing. For example, you can wear any type of clothing ... think of any kind of clothing and add a beard to it; it's an improvement. Likewise with music; add any type of beardedness to it, and it will instantly become better. I see there is a comedy element to what you do. We like to entertain. If people find our lyrics funny, it is merely a coincidence. We are actually quite serious about beards. I thought you might have had someone who wrote your material for you and added in comedy? No, we write all our own material and sort of use our own beards as inspiration. So you are very serious about it; it's not funny? It's not funny to us. (Laughs.) Have you been touring the world far and wide the past year? Yes, we have been inspiring lots of people to have a
beard, and we are not going to stop until everyone has a beard. This December you will hit the stage at FOTSUN in Port Macquarie, yes?
Yes, that will be our first festival and show back in Australia after we tour North America. It's going to be great to perform at the start of the Australian summer festival season, as that is normally shaving season. So we want to remind people that having a beard is not just for the winter months – it is an all year round thing. And also to remind people of the many benefits of having a beard.
So what are your keys tips for maintaining and looking after a beard? The most important tip for anyone who wants to maintain or grow a large beard is to not shave. That is really important. In terms of maintenance, you have to treat it like you treat hair. You have to wash it, condition it, treat it. Most importantly – be proud of your beard. Thanks Nathaniel.
the plug! Tickets are on sale now for Festival of the Sun, 13 - 14 December at Sundowner Tourist Park, Port Macquarie. fotsun.com
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TICKETS ON SALE NOW coffs coast focus 67
Photo by Lyss & Her Camera www.lyssandhercamera.com
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Robin Russell Photography Choosing a photographer is often one of the biggest decisions that you have to make, as your beautiful images will last a lifetime and evoke the emotions of your big day.
The Perfect Venue Opal Cove Resort offers the authentic resort experiences. Situated on Korora Bay in Coffs Harbour, we are regarded as the ‘complete resort’, and our absolute beachfront location is perfect for your special day. Opal Cove Resort is set on 36 hectares of pure natural beauty – an ideal venue for your perfect wedding reception and/or ceremony. Capture the moment with your ceremony location, whether it be a garden ceremony with freshwater lagoon and ocean backdrops, or on the terrace with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean – the choice is yours. Opal Cove Resort boasts one of the most beautiful reception venues in New South Wales. Our Opals room is fully equipped with its own DJ booth, fully equipped bar, tiled dance floor and has natural lighting with full views of the Pacific Ocean. Our Professional Wedding Coordinator will guide you in making the most important day of your life stress free and memorable.
We pride ourselves on being a team of two, making sure every moment can be captured using the latest Canon professional equipment. With a combined background of 35 years' experience plus a strong family background, we feel confident in asking you to consider us. We have many examples of our work and are happy to see you obligation free and take you through what we can offer you. We go the extra mile and and spend the whole day with you, from getting ready with the bride and groom right through to the reception, speeches and cake cutting, and you will be really surprised at our competitive 2 packages that we offer – the Ultimate Wedding Package and the Deluxe Wedding Package. Our other point of difference is that we supply all of our photographs on four DVDs. 1. Getting Ready 2. Ceremony 3. Photo Shoot 4. Reception and Photographers' Highlights. We also give you a complimentary photo book, and we offer extras like Wreck the Dress and pre wedding shoots. We can also offer a DVD slideshow put to music of your choice and extra books for the family. Give us a call on 0423 666 534 and check us out on Facebook as well.
Pasfields Function Centre In a spectacular setting high on the hill at Paradise Palms Resort, the newly renovated Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck Function Centre (ex Beaches and Rum Runners) is now open and offering a complete dining experience. Fine dining such as Two Tails: crocodile and Balmain Bug tails, casual bar snacks such as nachos and wedges, amazing cocktails and bar or take away pizzas are on offer. The exquisitely renovated restaurant and/or deck provide the perfect setting for weddings (with Chapel too), Christmas parties and functions. Now with Social Sundays to unwind with relaxing solo and bands in the background on the deck while tasting all day tapas, pizza … and daily happy hour 4.30 - 6pm. Dinner Dance mid Wednesday of each month with band and full à la carte menu begins October. Try it soon.
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All food is homemade; no commercial products are used. f e a t u r e
Exquisite Cakes
Catering for your Event Coffs Coast Event Catering is owned and operated by Annette Mavin. Annette has over 20 years of experience in all aspects of the hospitality industry, and this enables you to gain the benefits of her experience at your special event. Annette has a mobile kitchen, so catering at a venue of your choice is an option. Styles include but are not limited to the traditional, such as buffet, finger food, wedding breakfast, sit down menus or for something different, try Thai, Moroccan, Indian, Seafood, Mexican, a BBQ or even pizza. To make your life easy, we have a list of venues available to hire, as well as celebrants, DJs, decorators and more. Coffs Coast Event catering prices include all crockery, cutlery, napkins, food, service staff, equipment and utensils and hire of the mobile kitchen, so you know exactly what your costs will be for the day. As everyone has different tastes and budgets, we can design a menu to suit your special day. All food is homemade; no commercial products are used. We cater for special dietary requirements. Menus are available by either phoning Annette on 6653 6262 or by email: annettecook1@bigpond.com
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Signified by visually striking designs, these edible works of art have a focus on intricate craftsmanship and flawless finishes. Chic Designs Trained by world leaders in cake design and sugar artistry, you can be assured your cake will be the epitome of style. Luscious Flavours Freshly baked to order using the finest quality ingredients, ensuring what you taste is just as indulgent as what you see. Sweet Love Cake Couture is a boutique cake decorating business based in Coffs Harbour. Specialising in handcrafted cakes for weddings and celebrations, Nicole from Sweet Love Cake Couture will design and create a stunning cake that is a true reflection of your unique style. Using only the finest quality ingredients, Nicole expertly combines the traditional method of baking from scratch with the latest techniques and trends in cake design. With over 10 years’ experience, Nicole has been voted as one of Australia’s Top 10 Favourite Cake Decorators by the Australian Cake Decorating Network. Sweet Love Cake Couture’s services are in high demand during wedding season, so if you would like to treat your guests to a slice of cake heaven, contact Nicole at Sweet Love Cake Couture today.
The Occasional Parrot Wine Merchant and Microbrewery Looking for that extra touch on your special day? Call The Occasional Parrot to discuss how they can help put your label on their hand picked wines. Photographs, illustrations and text all in full colour can be used on wines you choose. Match your theme, provide gifts for guests, or use them as an invitation. A range of whites, reds, sparkling and fortified wines is available. Their house label wines also provide exceptional value and quality for your reception. Marshall, the Melbourne based wine buyer, has the contacts and palate to ensure all their carefully chosen wines represent good value, typically 50% cheaper than the same wine in a bottle shop. Coming directly from the vineyards, the wine selection currently includes areas such as the Barossa and McLaren Vale in South Australia, Rutherglen and the King Valley in Victoria as well as some lesser known areas like Alpine Valleys and Gundagai. A broad range of tastes can be accommodated with prices to suit any budget. Give Andrew a call on 6651 6106 to discuss all your wedding wine needs.
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Wedding Season
Wedding season has arrived, with the summer sun shining over our amazing Coffs Coast – the ideal wedding destination! Living Doll Premier Stylists are the leaders in hairstyling trends, with our stylists excited to start the season.
t has been an eventful year for the Salon, with Living Doll’s Breea Gal and Lauren Vestey chosen from hundreds of stylists across Australia to represent the GHD styling Team at Australia Fashion Week in Sydney. Australian Fashion Week is one of the hottest places to be – a place where trends for 2013-14 are put down the runway and now taken into the salon. The runway was better than ever this year, with both Lauren and Breea working backstage alongside GHD on shows such as Romance was Born, Karla Spetic, Lisa Ho and Emma Mulholand, to name a few. After such an inspiring week, Breea and Lauren have been able to bring their knowledge and enthusiasm back into the salon for all of the girls and then recreate these looks for everyday and special occasions. Wedding styles this year are fresh from the catwalk … soft undone looks are this season’s hottest trend, with braiding and twists to add more texture and interest. Every trend we re-
ersonalise to suit each individual.. create and personalise on for hairstyling, we can create creatte With a passion ream! any bride’s dream! Dreamt of a wedding hairstyle that seems ssible? Not enough hair, fine, limp almost impossible? or no length?? Well, now any style is at your ith Living Doll’s Exclusive Brand fingertips, with of European Human Hair Extensions. Come in and speak to any of our stylists for a free consultation. At Living Dolll we have specialised VIP Wedding onze, Silver and Gold packages Packages. Bronze, are available for wedding groups from 2 to 22. We caterr in salon or on site. Our Romance l de hair and makeup done by lu Packages include remier Stylists, Stylists chocolate coated one of our Premier strawberry platters, cheese deli boards and a bottle of bubbly to help calm those butterflies. When you enquire about our wedding packages, come and enjoy a coffee and read through our Living Doll’s Wedding Hair Guide for helpful hints and tips. This will help you on your way to the wedding of your dreams, and
Living Doll will have the pleasure of sharing in your special day! Contact us today on (02) 6699 2122 or pop in to see us at 362 Harbour Drive Jetty Strip. Don’t forget to Like us on Facebook at livingdollpremierstylists, and follow us on Instagram.
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with Barbara Wenman from La Fleur D'Alyse
La Fleur D’Alyse La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser & MediSpa is located at 296 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. Our clinic offers the latest and safest non-surgical cosmetic treatments to the Coffs Coast.
ur private facility caters for individuals, couples and groups up to 10 people. Detox, lose weight, burn fat and rejuvenate your body in our Infrared Sauna. Our 1 to 4 person sauna and our 2 to 10 person spa or private spa bath are perfect for winding away the stresses of everyday life. Our products capitalise on what science has discovered about natures anti-ageing properties, particularly gold, crushed pearl, essential oils, and are infused with a range of vitamins, minerals and Dead Sea clay to bring out your natural beauty. We also offer a large range of facial peels, including Aspect and TCA. La Fleur D’Alyse’s spacious spa facility and perfectly manicured gardens make it the ideal venue for a wide array of gatherings, from hens' celebrations to birthday parties, girls' nights to baby showers.
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A La Fleur D’Alyse experience is waiting for you! We also offer a full range of beauty therapy treatments, waxing, wedding and special occasions makeup. Why not have a pre-wedding spa treat with your bridesmaids and mum and receive complemintary trial makeup? We have plenty of spa packages for couples and for the groom and his support team. We offer a full bridal plan beginning 12 months before and up to your special day, to have you looking radiant. We utilise the latest in anti-ageing techniques, which include Oxygen Infusion Therapy, and the Dynamic Lift Non-Surgical Facelift is another of our Rejuvenation tools. La Fleur D’Alyse also offers less invasive cosmetic treatments. These include non-surgical facelifts using Promoitalia revitalising absorbable threads. We also offer a full range of injectable fillers. Why not have your lips kissable, ready for your big day with our special Lip Enhancement Package. These
treatments can last 6 to 12 months, with others up to 2 years. At La Fleur D’Alyse we’re all about relaxation and indulgence. Our deluxe herbal tea of the day is a perfect way to begin, and at the completion of your stay enjoy a complimentary refreshing bubbly beverage garnished with gold leaf or hibiscus flowers and of course, a devilishly good chocolate treat combined with a special take home gift. We offer a wide range of laser treatments, including IPL, Yag and Radiofrequency for facial rejuvenation, hair removal, and broken capillaries. Find us online at www.lafleurdalyse.com.au – email us at lafleurdalyse@bigpond.com or phone 6652 8943.
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Bonville Golf Resort The complete wedding experience Winner of the 'Australia’s Best Wedding Resort Reception Venue' at the 2011 and 2012 Australian Bridal Industry Academy Awards for Excellence, Bonville Golf Resort offers award winning menus and venues to complement your day. A variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony locations and reception venues allows Bonville to cater for a wide range of styles and ideas.
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onville Golf Resort provides the complete wedding experience. We can guide you through any decision you need to make and can tailor a package to suit your personal requirements. From the time of the initial booking to the morning after the event, Bonville’s sales team and function staff cannot be surpassed for professionalism and personalised attention. The experienced staff will ensure that every bride and groom's special day is all that they dreamed it would be. Bonville Golf Resort has extensive experience in coordinating wedding ceremonies and receptions. Our unique ceremony locations will create the perfect setting for you to say, “I do”. The tranquil rainforest setting is idyllic for an outdoor ceremony in natural surroundings, or the picturesque 1st or 17th holes to take in the stunning beauty of the golf course and gardens. The Terrace Lawn, adjacent to the federation style clubhouse, is an intimate setting for ceremonies, pre-dinner drinks and wedding receptions for that truly unforgettable and unique backdrop of Bonville’s 18th fairway. Reception venues are varied and cater for all sized weddings, from the smaller intimate receptions held in the atrium style Gallery, for 30 guests, on the 1st floor of the clubhouse, to the Classic Room seating up to 150 guests comfortably, also on the 1st floor. The Classic Room is a private, spacious venue surrounded on
two sides with large Queenslander style verandahs which overlook the beautiful award winning golf course, gardens and surrounds. For something a little different, Bonville offers the Flooded Gums Restaurant and the Terrace Lawn, which are both located on the ground floor and offer unequalled views and setting just metres from the golf course. The Flooded Gums Restaurant with bi-fold doors on all sides open onto the magnificent terrace for an alfresco setting and experience on your special day. The Terrace Lawn offers uncompromised views and a memorable setting, which will leave you and your quests with enduring memories of your special day. For a ‘one of a kind’ wedding day, why not look at whisking your guests away to a secret marquee reception location on the golf course? The 17th hole offers a unique setting with a natural stream and lush gardens, which provides a romantic backdrop for your pre-dinner drinks and marquee reception. Bonville Golf Resort continues to be a leader in the wedding and catering industry and has recently retained their 1 ‘Chefs Hat’ status for the Flooded Gums Restaurant in the highly prestigious 2014 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, continuing to be the first and only Golf Course/ Resort in Australia to do so. The wedding and function menus are a reflection of the food served in The Flooded Gums Restaurant, with many dishes from the à la carte dinner menu crossing over to the wedding and a of ne ‘o function menus. Our a r Fo restaurant chefs are kind’ wedding ok at lo t no hy also our function chefs, w y, da ests ensuring consistency in whisking your gu away to a secret quality and presentation. ion marquee recept For those looking for golf location on the a more relaxed catered course?” wedding, Bonville offers menus to suit all tastes, including BBQs, cocktail canapé menus and carvery buffets at very affordable prices. The resort features 30 accommodation rooms comprised of resort and executive rooms, enabling your wedding guests to stay on site. With all receptions of 60 adults guests or more, Bonville provides a complimentary bridal suite for the night of the wedding, full hot breakfast for the bride and groom the next day and a late checkout to relax and rest before starting the first day as husband and wife. All of Bonville’s accommodation overlooks the first fairway and have modern conveniences to ensure the best possible night’s sleep for you and your guests. For more information on having your wedding at NSW's most awarded wedding location, phone Stephanie Kesby on (02) 6653 4002, or visit www.bonvillegolf.com.au
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Photos by Mike and Amy Photography
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Melissa & Cam Hardy Melissa and Cam Hardy recently tied the knot at Surf Club Restaurant and Bar. With a tie the knot theme, they couldn’t be happier with the scenic venue.
ow did you guys meet? Was the attraction instant? Where did Cameron propose? Cam is from Diggers Beach, and I grew up in Central Queensland. We first met at university in Brisbane in 2006. I’m not sure if the attraction was instant? Cam wanted to share my table at the library, and I had said, “No” (laughs). But despite the tough initial interaction, Cam proposed just after Christmas in 2011 on the headland between Diggers Beach and Charlesworth Bay. Why did you decide to get married in Coffs Harbour, and why Surf Club Restaurant and Bar as a reception venue? We love coming to visit Coffs Harbour; we get to have a relaxed beach holiday while catching up with local friends and family. Coffs Harbour is a good midway point for guests from
Brisbane and Sydney, and there are plenty of accommodation choices. We only considered the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar for our reception. They consistently offer great food and service when we visit (we have breakfast there every time we visit from Brisbane), and the beachfront setting is unbeatable. The ability to have the full use of the facilities (including the amazing front verandah) is quite unique and means you only have to share your special days with your guests. How did you plan your special day, and how did Surf Club Restaurant and Bar help in making your wedding day perfect? We gradually planned the day over the 15 months between the wedding and the reception. There was one big spreadsheet on the computer with every detail, and we sourced a lot of suppliers over the internet. We
also had regular visits to Coffs Harbour to organise the details of the ceremony, cake, music, food and flowers. The Surf Club Restaurant and Bar helped out with guidance on the typical timing and run of events, planning the menu, drinks and recommending a venue decorator. Did you have a theme for your wedding, and how did that tie in to the stunning Surf Club Restaurant and Bar scenery as a venue? The wedding theme was nautical inspired –‘tie the knot’. We both love the ocean; Cam is a surfer, and I am a sailor. Our theme colours were navy and ivory, and the décor of the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar worked in really nicely. We were able to hang a spinnaker sail from my regular yacht on the rafters in the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar roof and had fairy lights in the shape of boats along the bridal table.
Our cake had our names spelt out in nautical signal flags, and we used navy and white striped ribbon as a feature on candy favours and tea light lanterns. What advice would you offer to others who were planning to have their wedding reception at the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar? Firstly – book in as soon as you have a date in mind – the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is becoming very popular! Nicole and her team are a great source of local knowledge; they work with the local wedding suppliers on a regular basis and can advise on some good options to help the planning to go smoothly. Relax and enjoy the day – everything goes so quickly! Don’t worry about all of the little details – your reception is about you and your new partner celebrating with all of your guests, and the team will have everything covered.
Commemorate Your New Life Together... with a special Commemorative Marriage Certificate.
Holding Hands
Waratah
Rose
Diamond Rings
Cut the Cake
Marriage Rings
Commemorative Certificates are a unique memento of your wedding day and can be displayed in a frame as a keepsake or become part of your album as an everlasting memory. Commemorative Certificates are purchased as a $74.00* package that includes a Standard Marriage Certificate (valued at $51.00) that can be used for official purposes. With each package, additional Commemorative Certificates can be purchased for $23.00 each. To apply for your certificate, speak to your celebrant, visit our website or call the Registry on 1300 655 236.
*Prices are correct at time of printing and include postage, handling and GST where applicable. Commemorative Certificates are A4 in size (210mm x 297mm).
w w w. b d m . n s w. g o v. a u l P h o n e : 1 3 0 0 6 5 5 2 3 6
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Abbey Hair Studio We would like to introduce Annette as our Bridal Specialist. Annette loves to create beautiful upstyles and meets the demands of every bride and bridesmaid, creating individual styles from vintage through to what’s trend setting for now.
ou can contact Annette at
your wedding day.
Abbey Hair Studio, where she
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about her work. She always attends training
Abbey Hair Studio is happy to
and keeps up to date with the latest styles.
announce its 1st birthday!
Annette will come to you wherever you are
A year long and going strong, and things
staying, or you may book the salon out on
just keep getting better for local business
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owners Beth and Yasmin.
Weapon of choice for the girls is the matrix range, which has provided unbeatable results! were really happy with the quality of matrix products, recently introduced to the salon is gloss sync colour, which is an exciting
ammonia free colour range specially formulated for comprised hair and any skin sensitivities. Abbey hair studio would like to introduce new members Jade Humphreys, Zoie Shreiwes and Annette Gaddes all are professional stylist and acknowledge their skills and craftmanship using their experience and creative approach they interpret trends from high fashion to commercial reality, they will offer you the VIP treatment when you book in for your appointment.
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Alyssa Evans My name is Alyssa, and I am the founder of Lyss and Her Camera. I am a local Coffs Harbour girl, and I specialise in relaxed, natural light portraiture and documentary style wedding photography. I like to be unobtrusive and blend in with the wedding guests, to make sure I capture special moments as they actually happen. I don’t do a lot of photoshopping, complicated lighting or posing. I enjoy getting to know my clients quickly and intuitively and using imagery to tell the story of their lives in that moment of time. I love to capture the simple joys of life and evoke memories for you and your family for generations to come. I’ve been an enthusiastic photographer for about 15 years now. My background includes 2 years of a Bachelor of Photography (James Cook University) and then a further 3 years to obtain my Bachelor of Art (Visual Art) from Curtin University in Perth. I welcome all enquiries and offer individual and obligation free quotes. Please pop online and view my work. If you think my style suits you, get in touch . I’ve been lucky enough to shoot weddings in Whistler and Utah in the last year and I hope to be lucky enough to capture more destination weddings in the future.
How to choose a Marriage Celebrant
electing a Celebrant to suit you both is a really important decision which can really add to making your day perfect. I think it is important to understand the different style of celebrants out there, what they're like and what to expect and it is important that A celebrant can really set the who you choose y and tone for your da ally someone that re you need to feel will “fit” with that ith w le ab rt fo m co you both. Make be ill w person who the time to ugh the guiding you thro whole investigate them. remony and the
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It is great if they are transparent and you can ce see blogs or A celebrant can legal process.” testimonials really set the tone from their for your day and weddings as this also you need to feel really helps you to form an comfortable with that person idea of their personality and who will be guiding you through abilities. It is important that you the ceremony and the whole legal find a celebrant who can create and process. deliver your personal, special wedding Firstly, all celebrants are not all the ceremony. same and the price they quote doesn't So, how do you find the celebrant you always denote the quality of Celebrant want? that you book. If you want wonderful memories You want a celebrant to suit you. Not to last a lifetime - be sure to ask a just any old celebrant, but one who prospective celebrant: understands what you want. Ring What do clients say about you? How them up, send them an email and see long have you been a celebrant? what they offer through their websites What celebrant qualifications do you or social media. have? How many weddings have you
conducted? And most importantly of all, make a time to meet with your prospective celebrant and see how you get on. Is she or he your type of person? You may need to meet with a couple of celebrants or so before you feel happy. When you do meet check to see what sort of help they provide in ceremony resources, help and information. Do they have comprehensive information to offer on your wishes, beliefs and traditions? Do they have a great sound system and are they open to your ideas? Very importantly do they provide an on-site rehearsal? When you’re completely satisfied make your booking quickly. Good celebrants are booked well ahead and you don’t want to miss out on your preferred marriage celebrant. Sam DawsonMarried By Sam 0417 861 045. coffs coast focus 77
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BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort An absolute beachfront tropical opicall style styl st ylee resort perfect to host yourr wedding. wedd we ddin ing. g. Whether small or large or even en to elope ell op opee – you can expect exceptional sservice e rvice ce ffrom rom ro m our experienced wedding ng te tteam. am.. am
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Photo Scott Carle Photography
A
anuka Beach Resort is known as a premier wedding venue. What sets you apart from other options in the Coffs area? Aanuka caters to 100+ weddings every year; this is what sets us apart. Our team are highly experienced and continually offer a very high standard of service to our brides and grooms. It is not only our elite team of wedding professionals who offer this constant level of service, it is our entire team: our friendly front office team, who greet our wedding parties and assist with all accommodation enquiries; our housekeeping team, who ensure each and every room is clean; our chefs, who source seasonal produce to create a variety of tempting menu options; and last but not least, our food and beverage team, who cater for each and every wedding reception. How many reception venues does the resort have? We have 5 potential reception venues, 3 of which have stunning ocean views of Diggers Beach. All venues are special and unique in their own right; we have 2 venues that are relaxed in their feel, comprising neutral colours with natural wood textures and constantine doors that bring the outside in. Our largest venue has a more formal feel, with dramatic high ceilings and high set windows to capture the sunlight through the gorgeous tranquil settings. We also have a smaller venue catering for intimate wedding receptions, again with stunning ocean views and a gorgeous manicured private lawn that can be used for ceremonies or pre reception canapés. The resort can cater from small weddings in a private function room for a minimum of 25 and up to cocktail style reception for 250 and seated dinners up to 150 guests. Can couples book their ceremony at Aanuka also? Absolutely. We have the luxury
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of having ample options for ceremonies. For those looking for a beach backdrop, our beachside lawn area is perfect. We work closely with the Council and book this area for each couple; for a small fee payable to the Council, a 2 hour block is set aside for each ceremony. For those wishing to have a vintage or more formal setting for their ceremony, the Resort Chapel is perfect. Situated in a private area of the resort surrounded by lush tropical greens and a feature water fountain in the courtyard, the Cedar chapel is simple in its decor and can be themed as each couple wishes; it is also perfect as a wet weather option. There are so many suppliers to organise, such as theming, celebrants, photography ... where should couples start? Our top two recommendations to every couple after setting their date is to book the venue and their celebrant. At Aanuka, we are very lucky to work with fantastic suppliers who offer an exceptional quality of work and high level of service. We recommend couples speak with their suppliers directly, as this ensures questions and requests are relayed correctly, so the desired outcome is achieved. Recommended suppliers are listed in our wedding kit and are a great place to start. What theming is included? Included in each reception venue hire, Aanuka will set all guest tables with white linen table cloths and white linen napkins, glassware, cutlery and crockery, provide a white linen boxed cake table with cake knife, gift table boxed in white linen along with a white linen boxed signing table for the ceremony. The resort will also set the Chapel with bridal carpet (red), white silk pew ties, a silk flower arrangement and candles – any additional theming such as umbrellas for the ceremony, chair covers, sashes, ceiling canopy etc. can all be arranged through a wedding theming company. Do couples need to source a caterer? No,
Aanuka is a self catering resort. All menu items are prepared onsite by our team of creative and talented chefs. Our wedding menus incorporate produce from our local area, ensuring they are always seasonal and fresh. We also use some high quality produce from outside the local area – items such as Tasmanian Salmon and Sydney Rock Oysters. Each menu can be tailored to suit any couple’s personal tastes; we also offer specially made dishes for any weddings guests who have dietary requirements. Aanuka also stock a wide selection of beverages. Couples can choose a beverage package for their reception or have the flexibility of a bar tab option. Any special beverage requests can be made to our coordinators, such as a particular champagne for toasting, and Aanuka will look into sourcing this option. Can couples try the menu? Absolutely. We encourage all our couples to book a menu tasting; this certainly makes the decision much easier, as there are so many delicious options to choose from. We offer menu tastings any day of the week, with a minimum of 5 working days’ notice; the bride and groom can book a menu tasting for up to 6 guests. Menu tastings are offered at a reduced rate of 20% off the current wedding menu price, and complimentary tasting of our house wine is also included. What accommodation is on offer for wedding guests at Aanuka? Aanuka have 130+ accommodations rooms, situated over 15 acres of sub tropical gardens with beach access throughout the resort and 5 car parks. The resort can accommodate all your guests’ needs. Accommodation ranges from hotel rooms suitable for travelling friends or individual travellers, one bedroom spa suites for couples and for larger families or group bookings, we offer two and three bedroom apartments.
Our larger apartments are a fantastic option for the bride and groom the night before the wedding to get ready with their bridal parties, with ample bathroom space, lounge space and mirrors. For wedding receptions of 50+ guests booked at Aanuka, we offer a fantastic discount on accommodation for all wedding guests for the duration of their stay, when they book direct with the resort. How does the booking process start? We recommend couples contact our events team on (02) 66527 555 or email their details to aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au – a current copy of Aanuka’s wedding kit and menus will be emailed along with any additional information requested. From here, couples can book a time to meet a coordinator onsite to answer any questions, discuss wedding ideas and have a hosted site inspection of the resort facilities and venues. If the bride and groom are wanting to book a date for their special day, they can discuss the booking process and deposit requirements. What do couples say about weddings at Aanuka? After each wedding, our coordinators meet with the bride and groom to ensure their day was everything they hoped for. We always get to hear their beautiful and funny stories of how their special night evolved. Many couples email their testimonials with wedding photos, which are an absolute delight to receive. A recent wedding at Aanuka was for Jessica and Adam Richards; thank you, Jessica and Adam, for your beautiful words and images of your beautiful wedding day! “We would sincerely like to thank all the team at Aanuka for their efforts in making our wedding day such a great success. The day ran smoothly, and the staff, food and accommodation were absolutely fantastic. We would recommend Aanuka Beach Resort to anyone wanting a beautiful wedding.”
c o f f s
c o a s t
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Dolls Roller derby is a contact sport played by two teams of five members roller skating in the same direction around a track. The Coffs Coast Derby Dolls are taking the state by storm. This sisterhood of roller derbies are fast, furious and love to have fun!
Photo: Trav Shadows
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It's also a new sisterhood - even at nally be though we margi there d the Valkyries an ts , we hi ge hu e were som party as r te af e went to th fr ie nd s. ”
“
hat is Roller Derby? Where does it originate? Roller Derby originated in the 1930s, where it was started as a WWE type of entertainment. There were no real rules, and it was orchestrated. This soon died out in the 1970s, but there was a revival around 1990 in Texas where a group of women put on skates and made up some basic rules for game play. It has since grown to a legitimate sport, with Women's Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFDTA) being the primary Directors. There is now 'Merby' (Men's roller derby) who play by the same WFTDA ruleset, and Junior Roller Derby. The sport is definitely taking the world by storm! What are the rules of the game? The WFTDA Ruleset is 43 pages long, so there are a lot of rules. It's a fairly basic sport to watch. There are four 'blockers' from each team on an oval track. The eight blockers collectively make up the 'pack’. Then there is one 'jammer' from each time line up behind the pack. Jammers must pass through the pack once to establish 'lead jammer' status (Lead Jammer is awarded to the jammer who first makes it through the pack legally). The second time that the jammers pass through the pack, they will score one point for each member of the opposing team that they pass. We are essentially trying to stop the opposing jammer but help our jammer through – so we are playing offense and defence at the same time. In terms of legally passing someone, you
cannot hit opposing skaters in the head, middle of the back, or trip them over. If you are knocked out of the track, you must re-enter behind the skater that knocked you out. How was the Coffs Coast Derby Doll team born? We were started in 2010 by local lady Allison Lowden, who is our founder. I met Allison through Facebook, and we then planned how we could start a league. We went to the newspaper to run a story on 'expressions of interest' to see if it was a viable cause, and it turns out that it was. We officially became an Incorporated Association in June 2010 and soon after started training. How many teams are there in our region? There are many! Port Macquarie Roller Derby League has just had their first home bout to a crowd of 700+ spectators. There is also Clarence Valley Roller Derby League, Northern Rivers Roller Derby League, The Bay Rollers and Tweed Valley Rollers. Tell us about your team's recent success? On September 7 we took on the 'Valkyries' from Central Coast Roller Girls. This is almost a rematch from a bout last year that we won quite significantly. In this bout, it was not so easy. While there were lots of lead changes and some huge hits, we came away with a win! It came down to the final two minutes, and we took the lead by 2 points: final score 119 - 121. The Valkyries are a tough bunch of women – with only eight skaters and a lot of injury, they had us fighting for our win until the last jam.
In your opinion, why should people get involved with this sport? As a working wife and mum, I have found roller derby to be the most positive influence I've had in my life. I'm constantly challenged by my teammates and coaches to skate harder/ faster/better. It's also a new sisterhood – even though we marginally beat the Valkyries and there were some huge hits, we went to the after party as friends. After playing many seasons of netball and softball, this is by far the most fit I have ever been. Roller derby has given me new friends, a second family, a new life attitude, and confidence. If you are at all interested in joining us or learning more, please get in touch. Even if you don't want to be a competitive skater, we have training for people who want to just skate for fun. What are the seasons? There is no real competitive season, but most leagues compete between February through to November. How can we contact you? We have a Facebook fanpage (www.facebook. com/coffscoastderbydolls), Twitter, and brand spanking new website, thanks to Saso Creative (www.coffscoastderbydolls. com). You can send us messages through Facebook or email us: info@ coffscoastderbydolls.com
Dolls
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OCTOBER 2013
WITH TERRI
ARIES.
CANCER.
LIBRA.
CAPRICORN.
March 21 - April 20
June 23 - July 23 Ju
September 24 - October 23
December 22 - January 20
Exciting changes are fast approaching, so connecting with your ‘Gypsy’ energy will ensure no opportunity is missed. New friends are approaching with shared interests to enjoy. Travel opportunities are also coming into the picture. Carrying Citrine with you will help release any fear.
Words need to be expressed, but your fear of consequence makes you bite your tongue. This leaves you feeling weak and powerless. Regain you strength by owning your reality. If you keep it about you, there can be no manipulation. Turquoise helps with positive communication. Good Luck.
A journey may present a paid opportunity for one of your talents to be explored. You will be likely to feel this is your destiny and enjoy all related emotions. It is time for you to receive, as you have given so much in the past. Moldavite is very good for aligning talent discovery.
Now is the time to release all past hurts, as a fresh beginning awaits your heart energy. Personal growth through relationships will be high on the agenda, so don’t make anything unnecessarily complicated. Just view issues without emotion and be completely honest with yourself lovingly. Rose quartz strengthens love.
TAURUS.
LEO.
SCORPIO.
AQUARIUS.
April 21 - May 21
July 24 - August 23
October 24 - November 22
January 21 - February 19
Even though you may not feel like much is happening in your reality just now, there is an abundance of good fortune and luck just waiting for your recognition. Put that brilliant headstrength to work and set some fresh goals. Lemon Quartz is wonderful for attracting happiness.
The universe asks for you to decide what you desire. You are being guided, so listen to your intuition, set goals to cater to all aspects of life and then enjoy the contentment of NOT needing or wanting anything. Ruby is great for connecting with the excitement of the unknown.
A promotion at work can be anticipated with financial rewards. You will be feeling much more secure and honoured for your efforts. A happier atmosphere in the work place is likely to come into effect soon, so help make it happen. Citrine attracts happy, bright energy and shatters any negativity.
GEMINI.
VIRGO.
SAGITTARIUS.
PISCES.
May 22 - June 22
August 24 - September 23 A
November 23 - December 21
February 20 - March 20
Be patient just a little longer, as your efforts are about to be rewarded. Do not give up on your dream; you will gain confidence by focusing on your truth and feel the success waiting. Remain positive. Selenite will help to keep a confident outlook.
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Don’t be hassled by not participating in some family conflict. You are the advisor, counsellor and arbitrator. Being segregated from everyone else is perfectly where you need to be for now, as this keeps you objective and preserves your energy. Chrysocolla helps with loving communication.
You can expect smooth waters and contentment. Good luck and great opportunities surround work. Terrific new friends with like minds are entering your reality and perhaps some travels or adventure into new experiences. ENJOY! Blue-Lace Agate is very calming for your thoughts.
Your mind needs satisfaction, or else your thoughts will become your own worst enemy. Find a topic of interest or intrigue and pursue it. Spend as much time as you can in nature or outdoors to keep your imaginative energy strong. This is where you connect with knowing anything is possible. Moonstone and Labradorite help realise dreams.
A happy, bright outlook on life can be expected, as your focus is drawn to nurturing. Family life holds much laughter and happiness for your next cycle with adventure. Set some fresh goals and enjoy! Clear quartz helps with direction in life.
First Year Honours Winning national awards is rare for any business in their first year, but one local building company has just done this. “For our first year running Spanline Coffs Harbour, winning so many business and design awards is a credit to the whole team,” said co-owner Peter Pappalardo. Mick Loxley and Peter Pappalardo took on the Coffs Harbour franchise of Spanline Australia in August 2012, and their commitment to an exceptional level of customer service has won the award for outstanding business development and improvement in the franchise group. Both Peter Pappalardo and staff member Erin Williams made the top ten sales team nationwide, an honour Peter has achieved every year since joining the company as an employee ten years ago.
He also won highest conversion rate of sales leads and shared a commercial design award with builder Mike Neal for Attitude Burgers’ new outdoor dining area at Coffs Harbour Marina. Local market leaders in the building of home additions such as patios, glassrooms and carports, Spanline products are backed by a nationwide 15 year warranty. “One of the reasons people choose Spanline is because we don’t have a cookie-cutter approach. Instead, we are able to adapt each job to become part of the house, rather than just an addition,” Mick Loxley said. “We turn up on time, have products which stand the test of time, great designs and also builders who are methodical in their approach to the Spanline construction method,” Mr Pappalardo said.
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focusabode.
The HIA-Shriro Commercial Northern NSW Housing Awards
C O F F S
C O A S T
property guide
HOME OF THE YEAR C re at iv e Wo rk s C o n s t r u c t i o n s P t y Lt d , P o r t M a c q u a r i e
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focusabode. Brian Hopwood Homes Category H I A N o r t h e r n N S W C u s t o m B u i l t H o m e u p t o $ 6 0 0 ,0 0 0
C re at iv e Wo rk s C o n s t r u c t i o n s P t y Lt d , P o r t M a c q u a r i e
about. t h e ab
awards
The HIA-Shriro Commercial Northern NSW Housing Awards remain the ultimate plat platform to showcase the talents of the region’s top builders and designers. Win Winners are selected from a list of region based finalists, with awards in 18 separate cate categories. Judg Judged by industry professionals, the awards acknowledge the talent of builders, designers and building companies who plan and construct quality new housing, apartments, reno renovations, kitchens and bathrooms. The HIA’s Housing Awards program present an ideal way for HIA members to showcase their outstanding workmanship and design and to make their business stand out to consumers looking to build or renovate.
looking for a qualified, reliable builder in your area? an HIA member is just what you need > Professional and trustworthy > Work within a strict code of conduct > Have access to all the required contracts for the job >ØØØ QDØPT@KHÚØDCØ@MCØQDFHRSDQDCØHMØSGDHQØRS@SD > Adhere to WorkSafe standards > ØØ'@UDØSGDØA@BJHMFØNEØ@ØM@SHNM@KØ@RRNBH@SHNM
look for the HIA logo or ask your building professional if they are HIA members 3NØÚØMCØ@ØLDLADQØNEØSGDØ'NTRHMFØ Industry Association in your area, visit housinglocal.com.au
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tuscan homes Category HIA Northern NSW Custom Built Home $200,000 to $400,000. Partnered by Shriro Commercial. Winner The Toscan Group Pty Ltd.
Project Description The owner was looking for a traditional well-constructed home using all the tried and proven construction methods of yesteryear, together with all the latest materials and modern technologies currently on offer in the market place today. The bathroom and ensuite were to remind the owners of their favourite hotel in Singapore. The tiles selected were what the owners had in mind, but the sizes were incorrect. To overcome this, all the wall tiles have been cut with a wet saw to the correct dimensions to match the floor tiles.
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Houston Constructions Pty Ltd Category HIA Northern NSW Renovation & Addition Project of the Year. Partnered by WorkCover NSW. Winner Houston Constructions.
P Project Description The initial brief for this project was to d design an expansion of an existing covered deck so that it ccovered a swimming pool below. Additionally, the expansion o of the deck posed some interesting challenges due to rrestricted space. It was also decided at the time that it would be possible to iinsert a new media-games room over the existing double h height garage. The level one bedroom was refurbished
after the elevator installation and the bathroom was totally renovated. Rumpus room and office were refurbished after installation of the elevator to that floor. The bedrooms on level two were renovated with removal and addition of walls to certain areas in these rooms to make the area more livable. The bathroom on this level was totally renovated, including new windows and arrangement of wastes and services in the room.
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Why use an HIA member? A building or renovation project can be one of the biggest investments made, and it is important you do your due diligence and choose a tradesperson carefully. Choosing an HIA professional helps give you confidence that there is minimal risk and the work will be expertly done, giving you great peace of mind and an enormous sense of achievement.
“Look for the HIA logo or ask your building professional if they are HIA members.”
HIA members subscribe to the HIA National Code of Ethics (the ‘Code’), under which they commit to acceptable standards of commercial behaviour. Before engaging a professional, make sure they:
About HIA Housing Industry Association (HIA) represents a network of over 40,000 building professionals Australia-wide. HIA provides its members with the latest industry advice, ongoing training and support and commits them to ethical and high quality services. HIA members include builders, carpenters and joiners, bricklayers, plasterers, ceramic tilers, roofing contractors, painters, electricians, as well as kitchen and bathroom specialists. HIA is also the voice for the residential building industry, supporting its members on building related issues, including housing affordability, legislation and red tape, as well as providing up-to-date forecasts and reports on the state of the building economy, both regionally and nationally.
• Use contracts which protect you under the Home Building Contracts Act. • Carry the right insurances to safeguard your building works. • Actively improve their business with continued professional support. • Have a licence or are registered to carry out the work. • Adhere to a Code of Ethics. • Have access to Australian Standards, the Building Code and Statutory requirements.
Find the floor you’ve been searching for
CARPET
TIMBER
BAMBOO & LAMINATE
Choices Flooring Coffs Harbour - 6652 2473 48 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour choicesflooring.com.au 88 coffs coast focus.
VINYL
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Kitchens and bathrooms guides and tips ps HIA’s Kitchen and Bathrooms Survey shows you tend to renovate your kitchens and/or bathrooms every 15-25 years. Given that you do not invest in this type of project often, you will want to get it right the first time and ensure it is best designed to suit your needs and lifestyle. We have made it easier for you to get your ideal dream kitchen or bathroom by producing simple step-by-step guides that are packed with everything you need to get started, right through to what to expect through the process of the project like checklists, the time it takes and how to find a professional. Simply download your copy at housinglocal.com.au/ideas/publications.aspx
How to find an HIA member? We have made it easy to find a qualified, reliable builder or tradesperson by simply searching our local trade directory, or list on eQuote to get a quote for your building or renovation works. http://housinglocal.com.au/gethelp/find-a-tradesperson.aspx. A place to get inspired – housinglocal.com.au Housinglocal.com.au is designed for homeowners wanting to build or renovate their home. Take a moment and browse this trusted site and see some of Australia’s HIA award winning builders and designers, showcasing stunning, inspiring and highly sought after housing designs, features and products. Housinglocal is easy-to-use, provides practical tips and information and has industry expert advice to help you make the right decisions. You can also browse through photo galleries room-by-room on the latest home, kitchen and bathroom designs and get some inspiration. housinglocal.com.au/hia-awards.aspx
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Brian Hopwood Homes Category HIA Northern NSW Custom Built Home up to $600,000. Partnered by Shriro Commercial. Winner Brian Hopwood Homes.
Granite Transformations, Coffs Harbour Category HIA Northern NSW Kitchen Project of the Year. Partnered By Coffs Coast FOCUS. Winner Granite Transformations, Coffs Harbour.
Project Description The client required a new kitchen for a recent extension to the existing home. The new open plan space could easily accommodate a large modern kitchen, designed for both everyday family living and entertaining guests. The client brief included a kitchen with lots of drawers and storage space, an island bench with hidden under mount sink, a large walk-in pantry, new 900 mm gas cook top, microwave, dishwasher, some glass display cabinets and feature wine rack.
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Project Description This tri-level home was designed together by Brian Hopwood and the owner, combining contemporary design features with a resort style influence. Upstairs leads to three spacious bedrooms adjoining a multifunction relaxation space, along with a three-way bathroom to service the area. Downstairs is an open plan living area consisting of high ceilings and a pristine galley style kitchen with a deep ocean blue splashback. Also on this level is the family and dining room, which lead onto the alfresco paved area which looks over the swimming pool. The master bedroom also has views of the outdoor and swimming pool area. The entire home is tastefully furnished and decorated, which boasts style and sophistication.
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Real Estate Experts Feature
THE EDGE COFFS HARBOUR AND THE EDGE COMMERCIAL; ‘ T H E E D G E ’ I S P R O U D T O B E O N E O F T H E S T R O N G E S T, M O S T D O M I N A N T R E A L E S TAT E S E RV I C E P R O V I D E R S I N T H E R E G I O N .
ith 30 full-time employees and responsibility for over $500 million of local real estate, The Edge is a locally grown success story thanks to the commitment of our team, the integrity of our relationships, the results we produce, and the continued and repeat business from clients, tenants, contractors, other professional organisations and the Coffs Coast community. Why are so many people choosing The Edge? 1. Client Focus The Edge acts in YOUR best interests. We drive your return on investment in the right direction – especially during tough economic times! We provide comprehensive services and have the flexibility to meet your individual needs. We understand that no two clients are the same. We listen, learn, inform and act for YOU! 2. Respect & Relationships The Edge forms respectful and professional long term relationships with our clients, tenants, contractors and other professional service providers. The Edge endorses knowledge sharing, collaboration and trust – enabling us to deliver
quality service solutions for everyone we work with. Referrals and repeat business are a big part of our success. “Thank you for helping us become the strong property agency we are today”. 3. Trust & Expert Advice Trust can’t be demanded; it must be earned. The Edge works hard to earn your trust and works even harder to maintain it. The strong mutual trust we develop with our clients, tenants, contractors and professional affiliates ensures continuous information exchange on current market conditions, relevant current affairs and legislative requirements, allowing The Edge to provide REPUTABLE, RELIABLE, EXPERT ADVICE.
principles is something The Edge is very proud of. Conscious of the impact our actions have on others, The Edge provides ethical service and contributes positively to our community, the environment and local economy. “We are proud that through our companies growth we are able to provide more jobs for locals”.
5. Reliability & Results The Edge understands the local property market. We provide S accurate and reliable A H E “ TH E ED G information and service E G D TH E K N O W LE based solutions. D
BA SE A N EX PE R IE N CE G ET R EQ U IR ED TO E! ” TH E JO B D O N
Combining extensive local knowledge with the professionalism and practices of a major local agency, we work hard to ensure you get the results you deserve for your property.
“The right advice makes a significant difference in today’s property market”.
The Edge provides local knowledge with national coverage!
4. Commitment & Integrity “The Edge is committed to giving back to the community in which we live and work.”
6. Qualified & Experienced Staff Anyone can claim to be an expert, but the title of expert should be earned through successful practices and education in a particular field.
Being honest, fair and having strong moral
The Edge has armed itself with some of the most committed and qualified staff available on the Coffs Coast. From the wealth of experience of our residential and rural property management and sales team, who regularly partake in industry related professional development training, to the 25 years’ experience of our in house business broker and auctioneer, to the unrivalled Australian wide work experience and property economics university education of our commercial, industrial and retail property portfolio manager, to the market leading results achieved by our commercial sales and leasing team – The Edge has the knowledge base and experience required to get the job done! We operate according to the highest professional standards and abide by all industry codes of conduct. The Edge delivers cost effective; hassle free; results! Give your property the edge! Call us to find out how we can HELP you achieve YOUR PROPERTY goals today... P: (02) 6652 9888 E: info@theedgecoffsharbour.com.au A: Suite 3/29-33 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour.
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with Chris Hines from Unrealestate
focusrealestate.
Real Estate Experts Feature
Real Estate f e a t u r e
Mbt Lawyers
real Marketing in Real Estate
ith so many differing opinions on marketing in real estate being spruiked by various media platforms, as well as agencies, I thought it was probably about my time to add my two cents’ worth. When properties first began to be marketed on the internet, many believed it was going to be a fad and that the only way to sell a house was to advertise it in a newspaper and on window cards at the front of a real estate office. Times have certainly changed, with many now saying that print advertising is dead and real estate offices can now be run online without even a shopfront. Indeed, some say that the internet is all you need to market your home. There are even some trains of thought out there that you can even market your home yourself on the internet and maximise your profit by not having to pay a real estate agent to assist you in the sale. My thoughts are simple; none of the statements above will achieve you the best outcome ... that is, the most money in your back pocket at the end of the sale process. What will however, is using a skilled real estate agent, with high level marketing and negotiation skills utilising a diverse marketing campaign with a blend of both online and print media marketing. Put simply, after deciding that you are going to place your home of the market, the most important decision you then make is, which agent do you select? Why is it so important? Because the right agent looks at maximising the amount of money you receive at the end of the transaction. How does the agent do this? By a tailored high impact marketing campaign that maximises buyer interest and then the use of superior negotiation skills to get you the best available price in the market. Online marketing is now a mandatory part of a campaign, with as many as 9 out of 10 buyers using online as part of their search for property. According to a Marketing Hitslink Survey, however, 75% of buyers don’t go past the first page of their internet search! Another interesting fact is that the same survey showed that 69% of buyers used a combination or online and print to search for a home. 94 coffs coast focus.
This is predicated by the fact that in any market there are 2 types of buyers – active and passive. Active buyers are looking for a home, because they have a reason to buy right now: moving for work, upsizing, downsizing etc. Passive buyers, however, are opportunistic buyers; they aren’t particularly looking to purchase right now, but when something they like comes up, they are prepared to consider it. Both these types of buyers can also be either local, or out of town buyers. Whilst online is extremely important in attracting the active buyer, print media is equally as important in attracting the passive buyer. How many times have you flicked through a real estate magazine or paper and thought, “Wow, so and so is selling that nice home”, or, “Hey, remember when we looked at that house when it was on the market before”, or even, “That place looks really nice; we should go to the open house”. Whilst each of the methods may bring a buyer to the home, the best possible outcome is to bring more than one qualified buyer to the home, because competition brings the best price. This is why it is so important to market your property effectively. It is also important to bear in mind that an agent who is prepared to market to a small segment of the market, either online or off, or maybe just to their own database, may well be doing you a disservice in achieving you the best possible result. Don’t just take my opinion; an RP Data Maximiser Survey showed that properties marketed across both print and online media - Were more likely to be sold than those advertised in just one media, - Spent less time on the market, and - Discounted their sales price less than home advertised in just one media. Above all, when choosing an agent, choose wisely. Ask them about marketing; ask them about results. Realise that the agent whose only point of difference is that they are cheap, is probably for a good reason. Above all, as stated earlier, choose the agent who at the end of the sale realises you the best possible result in your account at the end of the transaction.
Are you thinking of buying or selling a house? Perhaps leasing commercial premises? Mbt Lawyers has a division solely dedicated to satisfying all your conveyancing needs: Coffs Harbour Conveyancing Services (CHCS).
acquisitions, subdivision and leasing matters.
At CHCS, we have the advantage of providing reliable and effective conveyancing services by a Licensed Conveyancer at very competitive prices and with the assistance of experienced lawyers if your matter is more complex.
Stacey is assisted by Sue Timothy and Kelsey Woods, legal clerks, as well as Bruce Woolnough, Partner. Our team is structured to ensure your matter is handled in a timely manner.
Stacey Price, our Licensed Conveyancer, runs CHCS with an iron hand (in a velvet glove), and she gets the job done! Stacey is currently studying a Diploma in Law to attain her lawyer stripes, although we can’t imagine she could be any more capable than she is now! Stacey has extensive experience in residential conveyancing, business sales and
At CHCS, all matters are conducted by knowledgeable and friendly professionals who understand your needs and can explain the steps and process of your transaction to you in plain language.
We understand how it can often be an exciting and momentous (sometimes stressful) event to buy or sell your property, and we get our own thrill from being involved in your experience. Give us a call at Coffs Harbour Conveyancing Services on (02) 6648 7600 or email us at info@mbtlawyers.com.au You’re in expert hands.
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M E E T hat makes you a real estate expert and how long have you been in the industry? Christine: I’m not sure that I can claim the title of expert; however, being a Licensed Agent and in business for over 25 years, I’d like to think that my experience and local knowledge holds me in good stead. I’ve always believed in ‘Continuing Professional Development’, so training is a priority on my yearly calendar to stay up to date with latest legislation and market trends. Scott: I’ve been managing and selling real estate on the Coffs Coast since 1985. I finished a bricklaying apprenticeship in the early '80s, but followed in my father Kevin’s footsteps and entered the real estate industry as a Property Manager. With no mobile phones and only basic computer systems, it was much more hands on back then, making for very long days, but it was a great grounding for my real estate career.
W
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Is selling homes the core of your business? The combined strength of two Raine & Horne’s Raine & local Raine & Horne offices vast resources, includHorne is a ‘full - Coffs Harbour and Toormina/Sawtell. ing our strong internaservice’ network tional network, give our – in property there offices a competitive adis nothing we can’t vantage. This distinctive edge do for you – manhas resulted in Raine & Horne age, lease, sell, appraise, consistently being listed as a leadauction and consult. Both the ing real estate organisation with one of Coffs Harbour and Toormina offices the highest sales turnovers in the nation. All have qualified staff in sales, property advertising undertaken on behalf of our clients management and administration, and benefits from Raine & Horne’s strong corporate Christine is an accredited Auctioneer. image, which boasts striking impact, maximum What makes your business stand out above exposure and a better overall response. the rest? What tips do you have for selling a home? Scott and I have both had our offices for 25 It’s pretty much a truism, that a well presentyears, so we offer our own experience, backed ed property, correctly priced for current market by the reputation of the Raine & Horne family conditions, should sell reasonably quickly. In brand, which is 130 years old!
order to achieve this, it is imperative to price the property for today’s market. Presentation of the property is crucial. First impressions are lasting, so ensure lawns and edges are neat and tidy and flower beds cultivated. A bright, cheery, tidy home invites inspections! De-cluttering is a necessity – remove everything that is not absolutely essential. Kitchens should sparkle – pay particular attention to appliances. Fresh flowers are always an attractive way to brighten a room, or a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen or dining room. During inspections, it’s best to leave the house and allow the agent to ‘do their thing’. People present during inspections can make potential purchasers feel crowded or uncomfortable. And it’s best to take Rover for a walk at the same time – not everyone loves your pets like you do!
Real Estate f e a t u r e
SMS Strata Management After two decades, SMS Strata Management Group
Avalon Connor Conveyancing
is proud to be a stand-alone strata management company, the only one of its kind in Coffs Harbour. We focus purely on Strata Management. Our rapid response to the emerging needs of property investors and homeowners is what sets us apart. Plus, our size gives us a distinct advantage - improved resources at the front line and better service levels for our clients. We have more than $15 million held in Trust for our 8,000 clients. Just ask Mrs Duffy about our service; she wrote, “We’ve been with SMS for years, and it’s their response times that really make a difference. They have sorted out some tricky situations for our Strata; we feel we can rely on them,”Beryl Duffy, Exec Committee Member, 12 Lot Strata, Coffs Harbour. SMS Strata Management Group now manages more than 1,000 buildings, and our portfolio extends across the Far North Coast, including Coffs Harbour, Ballina, Byron Bay, Yamba and Port Macquarie. Our team of 20 staff members are always willing to outline the services we offer - read more about the energy and expertise of our people on our website: www.smstrata.com.au Make a change this financial year!
Avalon Connor Conveyancing is based in Boambee East, which is near Coffs Harbour and has been established since 2001. Avalon Connor, the Licensee, is a fully licensed Property Conveyancer with over 30 years of experience. Avalon Connor Conveyancing is all about catering to all people entering into property transactions in New South Wales including interstate & international investors. At Avalon Connor Conveyancing we understand that buying or selling a residential, commercial or industrial property is a big decision and a significant matter for most people. We are committed to providing you with individual personal service and a stress free transaction. We are also committed to explaining your transaction in plain English not legal jargon and will keep you informed during your purchase or sale. We assist first home buyers, property developers, real estate agents, banks, mortgage brokers and surveyors. Our conveyancing services are offered at competitive, fixed fee rates, and we deliver them through highly qualified staff. Contact us to arrange an appointment. We provide a complete Conveyancing service so call us today!
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with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Marketing
MICK AINSWORTH
ick, you are as local as they come, having been raised in Macksville and now based on the Coffs Coast. Tell us a little about your background? Growing up in Macksville was good, as there was always plenty to do and see. From a young age I wanted to work in a trade and once I completed school, I enrolled in a carpenter/joiner trade and was one of the only students to complete the trade in the direction of steel framing. I joined the family business shortly thereafter, and I’ve never looked back. I raised my family in Coffs, and it’s a fantastic place to live. In 2002 I purchased Yarra Steel from my father, as he was retiring. However, over the past few years the downturn in the economy and slow manufacturing sector has had a great impact on the business. This has led me to sell off the machinery side of the business and relocate the framing and design side of the business to Coffs Harbour, where I can work from a home office and outsource the manufacturing side to suppliers whilst still remaining competitive and offering the same trusted service. Yarra Steel has been a long-standing steel business based in Macksville for over 20 years. Tell us about its rich history? My father started Yarra Steel in 1991. He was a builder of 40 years’ experience and saw the advantages that steel offered over timber frames and trusses, and so began Yarra Steel. It started out servicing direct consumers and then built a reputation within the building market and grew this side of the business with many local builders' support. Yarra Steel is a niche operator, being the only of its kind between Newcastle and Brisbane. It also services a fairly small part of the overall building/manufacturing market, being around 5%. Nowadays, the business is based in Coffs Harbour and does not have in-house manufacturing, but rather, we outsource our manufacturing of frames, trusses and other products to reliable and reputable suppliers who have state of the art machinery that delivers an accurate result. This move has made the business more competitive in an already tough and somewhat dying 98 coffs coast focus.
industry. We can now service our clients just as well and more competitively. What sort of services does Yarra Steel now provide its customers? We offer four dimensions to the business being 1) steel house frames and trusses 2) sheds and carports, being a reseller for Austeel 3) outdoor areas and QLD rooms utilising Solar Span materials and 4) kit homes, including full home builds or to lock up stage for other trades to complete the internals. We mainly work for owner builders or builders looking to sub contract or A customer once for us to install. Our kit told me, “You homes are especially good Ainsworth are a ” suited to rural areas or re itu rn fu brand of efficiency and accuracy. level of granny flats and offer and I value this The computerised roll ill w od go d a reasonable quality reputation an forming machines which r ou ith and good value, are we have w cut lengths and rivet to” s. er built on site and procustom gether, produce a finished vide an easy and quick piece ready to go. solution for customers. From the planning perspecThe manufacturing tive, we used to manually draw industry has come under the the steel frame and trusses for a house spotlight of late for its long-term on paper and work off this drawing. Nowadays, viability as an industry. What have you I can draw all requirements using the CAD experienced? program on my PC, which creates a file that is The downturn in the economy hit us reasonready for the roll forming machine to use. This ably hard and we can only imagine what other software is also a software that is shared with industry players were experiencing, as our other machines and suppliers creating a seambusiness is somewhat insulated as a niche and less process for manufacture and build and thus competitive offering. The building industry reducing the amount of time needed for jobs, died about three years ago, and it has been a creating more efficient work practices. struggle to keep our head above water since. How has marketing played a role in your Manufacturing as an industry is just not susbusiness? tainable anymore I believe, as it cannot compete Outside of yellow pages, our marketing is all on a global scale against other nations with word of mouth and built on by reputation and lower overhead costs and increased productivity referrals. It’s quite funny that in the building or and ability to transport materials. Local players manufacturing industry traditional marketing like need to think about ways they can stay ahead advertising plays quite a small role in the overall of their competitors and use innovation in their success of the business. Our focus has always organisation and its products and services to been on the customer service side and providing gain a competitive edge in their sector. a good quality of workmanship and good value How has technology influenced the day-tofor the job. day operations of your business? We’ve pretty much survived on repeat busiTechnology has played a big role in our ness. Lucky for us that we are the only steel industry over the past decade. From manually supplier/manufacturer providing the services we cutting stock lengths of steel materials and do between Newcastle and Brisbane. So this welding together to now computerising this niche affords us with a high referral and repeat whole process, its leaps and bounds in terms of
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business from builders and owner builders across a wide regional span. I also think the level of service and reliability, which I pride myself on, plays a role in continuing customer loyalty. A customer once told me, “You Ainsworth are a good brand of furniture”. I value this level of reputation and goodwill we have with our customers. Do you have a mentor; if so ... who? My biggest mentor, without a doubt, is my father. I never make a big decision without consulting him first and gaining his guidance. He is an absolute legend and has been a solid foundation for me growing up and now in adulthood and my career. He built his business from scratch into a highly successful enterprise and has such a good work ethic and balanced approach to finding solutions. He keeps me on track! How do you create ‘work life balance’ in your position? With two daughters I always wanted to be an active dad and around for them when they needed, so I’ve been able to manage my work and life balance easily in this respect, as this is a core value of mine. Since relocating the business to Coffs Harbour, this move has also given me more time to exercise and keep fit and healthy, which is essential in both my career and living the life that I want. My work can be demanding, so keeping the energy levels up is key, and I have always found the mix of fitness and living a healthy lifestyle gives me the best overall wellbeing to perform at my best and keep me smiling. Thanks Mick.
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