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COFFS COAST

November 2015//issue 62

Will Mcclennon 2015 AUSTRALIAN TIME TRIAL CHAMPION

1 coffs coast focus.

Feature Story Close to the Wind


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focus COFFS COAST

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PHOTOGRAPHY/CONTENT: 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 2015 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the November issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

H

ow good is daylight saving? Our days are a little longer, giving us all extra time after work to go out and enjoy the sunshine. There is so much happening around the Coffs Coast this month. We have officially been invited to the Big Banana Water Park Grand Opening this weekend, and we couldn’t be more excited. Djs and waterslides ... Sounds like our kind of party. The very first Living Coast Festival will take place from 1- 30 November 2015, celebrating the natural beauty of the Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Nambucca regions and providing sustainable living inspiration. Check out our Sustainable Living feature starting on page 40. Another event we are really ex-

cited about is the Cancer Council’s Star of the Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer fundraising event, which we are fortunate enough to be the major sponsor of. The event is held at C.ex Coffs on Saturday, November 14th. Tickets are available from C.ex. INSIDE THIS MONTH’S EDITION Marc Renshaw’s art is inspired by nature and process. Working as an educator, he shares his passion for creativity with students. FOCUS spoke with the artist about his work and upcoming projects. For the first time FOCUS is bringing to you an Animal Lover’s guide - 10 pages full of things to do with animals and pets. The title of “Man’s Best Friend” has long been held by our loyal,

friendly, furry companion, the dog. They fill our homes and our hearts with memories, love and fun and are loved by children and adults alike. FOCUS met 6 year old Bailey, his best friend Coco the Chocolate Labrador and Bailey’s mum, Kelly, to learn more about their family, their adventures and the special bond between Bailey and Coco. Summer is here, and with almost 20 years working as a lifeguard on the Coffs Coast, Greg Hackfath has spent more time on the beach than most. FOCUS paddled out with the local waterman to get the lowdown on what the job takes. MEET THE EXPERTS FEATURE Coffs Harbour is full of businesses

providing professional service and years of experience in each of their individual fields. FOCUS brings you the annual “Meet The Experts” feature. Check it out from page 80 onwards. FRONT COVER Will McClennon is a 15 year local Sawtell legend who has had some amazing achievements this year in the world of cycling. He has just been crowned 2015 Australian Time Trial Champion in his age group. FOCUS caught up with Will to find more about his achievements in this ever growing sport. FINAL SAY “Friends are the family we choose for ourselves.” - Edna Buchanan.

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inside this

Issue 62 - November 2015

18.

Greg HACKFATH. With almost 20 years working as a lifeguard on the Coffs Coast, Greg Hackfath has spent more time on the beach than most. FOCUS paddled out with the local waterman to get the lowdown on what the job takes ...

Marc RENSHAW.

28.

Marc Renshaw’s art is inspired by nature and process. Working as an educator, he shares his passion for creativity with students. FOCUS spoke with the artist about his work and upcoming projects.

70.

Travers ROSS. Travers Ross is a mutlitalented performer, singing, dancing and choreographing his way around the world. FOCUS brewed a pot of herbal tea and invited the young dynamo to drop by.

10. Close to the Wind 16. Will McClennon 50. Georgia Redmayne

usual suspects.

the

9. what’s on for November 30. eat featuring local restaurants 65. star guide with Terri 72. social scene with Carole Beros

No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat www.focusmag.com.au/eat 8 coffs coast focus.


AROUND THE REGION //NOVEMBER 2015

Melbourne Cup Race Day

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LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION with JOHN WATERS Licensed bar and refreshments open from 6pm.

Tickets on sale NOW online @ trybooking.com/158104. $49 adult, $47 student (+booking fee). Where Branson Centre, Bishop Druitt College. When Saturday, November 28th - 8pm. Call JLE 6652 8266.

nov

Living Coast Festival The very first Living Coast Festival will take place from 1- 30 November 2015, celebrating the natural beauty of the Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Nambucca regions and providing sustainable living inspiration. When 1st - 30th November. To check out what’s on offer, or for more information on events in the lead-up to the Festival, go to www.ourlivingcoast.com.au

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Presented by Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Be on course to win - Park Beach Plaza Fashions on the Field. When Tuesday 3rd November 2015. Gates open 10am. Gate entry $10 adult; under 16 years - free.

Christmas at Bonville Golf Resort Bonville is the perfect venue for your Christmas party. Treat your team to the “Bonville experience” with our award winning menus in one of our function areas - why not play golf first? Christmas Day at Bonville provides a relaxing experience with traditional fare and a visit from Santa! For a Christmas Day to remember, please contact us. Contact 6653 4002. Email stay@bonvillegolf.com.au www.bonvillegolf.com.au

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to the

French ex pat Pierre Gal learnt to sail soon after learning to walk, acquiring a lifelong skill set that has seen him win most of the major sailing regattas held along the East Coast. FOCUS climbed aboard to hear his story and to check out the local yacht that will be competing in the next Sydney to Hobart.

C

an you briefly tell us a bit about your background? Born in France, and I started sailing at five years old on the family boat. Began my sail making apprenticeship at 16; I haven’t stopped racing boats since. I have raced in the Americas Cup for France on the yacht France 3, won the Hamilton Island race week twice, Pittwater to Coffs three times, two national titles in different classes and won many other big events around the country. How did you become involved in sailing? With my parents in the Mediterranean, when I was very young, maybe five years old, sailing around Marseille. My father was a policeman and had a month holiday each year. We had a small boat and spent that time sailing around. I raced with my father as well, when I was eight. Tell us a bit about the yacht that will be entered in the Sydney to Hobart? The boat is called Dolce (which means “sweet" in Italian) and I own it with Doug Gayford. We purchased the boat three years ago and did a major renovation on it, replacing the mast, giving it new sails and a new keel. Ironically, I won the Pittwater to Coffs race with this boat 21 years ago, and it was called the Vendetta. It is now anchored in the Coffs Harbour Marina. The boat is now quicker than ever, and we are

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Perfect. We train in light and strong weather. In looking forward to doing well in the Sydney to Hobart. the summer we have twilight sailing, and there are It is the same model as the famous Wild Thing, usually about twelve boats. and only four were built. The hull shape Have you been in the Sydney to was ahead of its time; it is wide and Hobart before? shallow - even today they are not Yes, I was sailing on a boat making much better boats. n tio that was sponsored by va no re The Are there other locals at bo e th Peugeot, and we had a of involved? ffs Co al re a en be major collision inside the has Yes, there will be five fair, Harbour love af Heads. A rope jammed rent local crew involved in the with many diffe and we couldn’t change g usin Sydney to Hobart. locals involved s ill tack - smashed into a timber The renovation of the eir different sk

“ th

yacht and almost sunk it. Very boat has been a real Coffs to help out. ” unfortunate, and it put us out Harbour love affair, with many of contention with the handicap different locals involved using their different skills to help out. we were given for the accident. Actually, we are looking for Do you spend time sailing with the sponsorship, and we have also recently teamed same crew, so they can get used to the up with White Ribbon - men against domestic boat and working with each other? violence - 10% of any sponsorship will go to Yes, the five local guys are always on board. I have them. sailed with some of these guys for over 20 years, and What sort of preparation does the boat need they finally are getting used to my bad temper. for this event? If you could have the perfect sailing conditions, We check all of the boat from bottom of the keel what and where would they be? to top of the mast, make new sails, and practice For the Sydney to Hobart, the best wind to suit with the crew. Do you test the boat in the local area? Yes, we do a lot of training in Coffs and test the new sail design. What is the local area like for sailing?

the boat will be a gale from the north-east. Fair Winds and Following Seas - Pierre, Doug and crew. Thanks Pierre.


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JIMMY jimmy dawson DAWSON JIMMY DAWSON IS A PASSIONATE LOCAL FOOTBALL PLAYER WHO LOVES NOTHING MORE THAN CHASING THE BALL ROUND THE PADDOCK. FOCUS LACED UP THE BOOTS TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE LOCAL SCENE AND JIMMY’S HOPES FOR THE FUTURE.

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hat is your growing up in Alice Springs. I had to make a connection to the decision when I was about 12 years old about Coffs Coast? which sport to play, and I decided to continue My beautiful partner, playing football. Allyson, grew up and Is soccer popular in the local area? lives in Coffs, and Some would argue yes, as I think a lot of her family are also from here. My father, Scott, young people do choose soccer over the other also grew up here, and we always visited every codes. year on holidays to see my grandparents. It was How often do you train? always a great holiday, and I always I train at the gym every day, as well as looked forward to coming over team training twice a week. from Alice Springs to visit the Can you successfully pull off Coffs Coast. a bicycle kick? How long have you LOL - something I ur fo at I started e played soccer? am known for always lic A in d ol years I started at four attempting; the coach ve ha I d an Spring s, me. ga e years old in Alice gets angry when I do, but th d ve lo s alway e om es Springs, and I have I can do it! aw d ha ve I ha been 17 always loved the Do you look up to any co aches! It has ” . w game. I have had of the international years no awesome coaches! It players? has been 17 years now. I love to watch football What have been some and have my favourite players, of the highlights and although I tend to look up to a lot achievements? of the older boys that I play with in the Kanga Cup at the age of 14 was a local premier league. awesome highlight for me; it is where I What advice would you give to younger was first coached by Rachael Oberleuter, a people who would like to get involved in woman who still to this day is my coach (I don’t the game? know how she still puts up with me) ha ha. Treat every game like it’s your last; be What position do you play? competitive, but have fun and enjoy. I have always played as a striker; I’ve never In the future do you see yourself becoming been the most keen defender! a Socceroo? Do you have a memorable game or goal? Is the Pope Catholic? No, just kidding. I love A few weeks ago against Coffs Coast Tigers, the local football and what it has to offer. For coming off the bench in the second half to score me, playing my first season in premier league is a double and win the game 2 - 0. a massive achievement. I would love to tell you Rugby league is the usual choice of leather that yes I could see it, but unfortunately I don’t ball sports in the local area; why did you think so - my partner Allyson would love to tell decide to take up soccer? you otherwise ha ha! I played both football and rugby league Thanks Jimmy.

“

12 coffs coast focus.

meet a KARL PHILLIPS

local.

When and why did you start your business? My wife, Amanda, and I started the business in December 2014. The reasons behind beginning were primarily that I had been managing other people’s workshops for the past 15 years, and the opportunity arose to lease workshop space in a premier position close to the CBD. We saw it as a natural progression, so we took the jump. What makes your business stand out? For me, the standout would my dedication to giving the customer optimum service at a reasonable price. Having been in the trade for over 30 years, I bring an overall wealth of knowledge, particularly in the field of diagnostics. I am a firm believer in continual learning, and I think this makes a big difference with vehicles constantly changing. Evolving your own skills helps keep up with these advances. What services does your business offer? We offer a range of services, from the basic lubrication service through to the most comprehensive Log Book Servicing. Also, a range of brake, steering, suspension and mechanical repairs. Vehicle management diagnostics are also a major part of the

business. While you wait Rego Checks and Blue Slips, and local customer drop off and pick up are available. What has been the best business advice you have received? My mentor in business gave me two pieces of advice: always work to a system, and never tell anyone anything that you can’t follow through with. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? I moved back to Coffs Harbour 9½ years ago for one main reason. I love the lifestyle, and it’s great for the kids. Thanks Karl.


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focuseditorial.

DYE HARD FUN RUN Dye Hard Group is a private business that provides a regional exposure to metropolitan events. The Dye Hard Fun Run is one of many events put together for people to enjoy local facilities, rather than having to travel to the major capital cities.

Image of the month. About: This is my beautiful view on my morning walk in Nana Glen. Photo by: Rikki McMenemy. Camera: iPhone 6. Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email nicole@focusmag.com.au

focuseditorial.

D

ye Hard Group have been running an event called the DYE HARD FUN RUN in regional NSW including Wagga, Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo and Mudgee with the ability to now expand to the eastern seaboard, having added Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour on this year’s calendar. The event can only be described as a spectacle of colour, usually run over distances of 3.5 to 5.5 km, where participants run through colour stations every kilometre and get covered with our own unique non toxic bio degradable powder, and finish in a dance party with frequent releases of amazing colours and prizes. Anyone can enter; the main focus is to bring people together, be active, have fun and enjoy some of the beautiful areas in your own regions. The group also supports charity, and for this year’s events a percentage of every entry

goes to the McGrath Foundation. We are also happy to support local businesses and charities who want to come along and help out on the day. Throwing colour at people is sooooo much fun! Walk, run, dance or stroll your way around York Street Oval in the first Dye Hard Fun Run Coffs Harbour! Fun for all ages and fitness levels. A great family day out! EVENT DETAILS Location York Street Oval, Coffs Harbour. Date Sunday 29th November, 2015. Time 9:30 am start. Check in Saturday 28th November, 2pm - 5pm and Sunday 29th November, from 7:30am. To register, head to dyehardfunrun.com.au or contact through Facebook.

focusinterview.

JACOB VENN •THE BRAND NEW•

JETTY WALKWAY at the Jetty4shores

Everyone is invited to join in the community celebrations to mark the official opening of the new Walkway at the Jetty4Shores on Sunday, October 25.

T

he magnificent Walkway is the centrepiece of the entire planned transformation of the Harbour,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight. “The quality of the design, its presence and the way it draws people to the historic Jetty - the heart of the Harbour - perfectly illustrates just what we’re trying to achieve with the improvements to the foreshores area. "The Walkway has set the standard very high mainly because of artist Tony Hart’s wonderful turtle motifs and the way the features all the way along capture and emphasise the Aborig-

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inal and European heritage of the harbour. So come along and help us celebrate this brilliant start to the new-look Jetty Foreshore and show everyone how much we love our Harbour.” The Official Opening celebrations will begin at 10am at the Turtle (railway line end) and will include a Welcome to Country and a Community March along the Walkway. At 10:30am there will be a Mayoral Picnic with a fund-raising sausage sizzle in the grounds of TS Vendetta. Anyone coming along should bring their own picnic supplies and seating. Plus, there will be a wide selection of foods available from the Harbourside Market stalls.

Local legend Jacob Venn is one of the most outgoing, flamboyant and entertaining people we have ever come across.

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ith a passion for fashion, he is nothing short of a breath of fresh air. FOCUS caught up with the Uptown Local fashion expert to find out more about what is in fashion this summer ... What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and raised on the beautiful Coffs Coast and am lucky enough to have my close family and friends living either here or close by. What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? I love the coastal lifestyle. Having the beach at my fingertips, incredible restaurants and a cheeky night out never goes astray. When you're not giving fashion advice to Uptown Local customers, you are ... Enjoying the beach, the company of my friends, and family. What are your fashion tips for this summer? This summer is all about enjoying lighter fabrics, teamed with denims, whites and sunglasses to complete the perfect outfit - all of which can be found at Uptown Local.

meet a

local.


coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

Will McClennon is a 15 year local Sawtell legend who has had some amazing achievements this year in the world of cycling; he has just been crowned 2015 Australian Time Trial Champion in his age group. FOCUS caught up with Will to find out more about his achievements in this ever growing sport.

Will Mcclennon 2015 AUSTRALIAN TIME TRIAL CHAMPION

winning the Clarence Street Cup Wheel Race, le which has been running Having the who to for 33 years; Tour NSW team there ong with Leader and overall cheer for me, al and my whole family es winner Hunter Valley aw my Co ach Kev H tter Junior Two Day Tour h be made it so muc 2014; Tour Leader e th with than just going and Overall Winner ily m fa y team without m g Hunter Valley Junior lin el av and co ach tr Two Day Tour 2015; 2nd l.” el down as w State Individual Pursuit Championships; NSW State track team acceptance; 5th in the Individual Pursuit Australian helping me pay for all my cycling kit Track Championships; current NSW and bikes. They take me everywhere State Hill climb champion; NSW State Time I need to go around Australia to race Trial champion; NSW State Road Team my bike. They help with the motivation of acceptance; and most recently, Australian me getting up early most mornings, and my Time Trial Champion, which stands as the mum with cooking me the right athletes’ biggest achievement in my career so far. foods. My sister and I do miss a bit of school, Tell us about your most memorable but we both obviously don’t mind. achievement. Your father, Rob, is pretty heavily My most memorable achievement would involved in the cycling world in Coffs have to be becoming the Australian Time Harbour. Tell us how his influence in Trial Champion. Having the whole NSW the sport has helped you with your team there to cheer for me, along with my achievements. whole family and my Coach Kev Hawes My dad comes out training with me most made it so much better than just going mornings, motivating me to try and get as with the team without my family and coach travelling down as well. The whole far away as possible from him on my efforts. experience of National Titles with the NSW He raced bikes for many years and knows team was very fun with lots of memories a lot of the technical side of cycling. He is and long lasting friends made. always giving me advice on things to do What sort of tracks/roads do you race with cycling. on, and how do they differ? Tell us about some of your big I race on many different road courses achievements. in the NSW, QLD and Vic areas. They are Some of my big achievements include:

“

D

o you remember how old were you when you rode your first bike? I don’t honestly remember the first ride, but Dad told me I had a Mongoose brand bike, and it was small - 12 inch wheels with trainers. My first ever ride was at the Toormina cricket fields with my dad. Not long after that, I had the training wheels off and was on my own pedalling along. What was it that drew you into cycling? My dad grew up riding bikes and is still riding to this day. Around three years ago he took me down to track training one night. I absolutely loved the sport and decided I would have a good crack at it. Three years of high intensity training has led me to where I am today. How important is the support of your family? My family’s support is massive with 16 coffs coast focus.

usually out and back courses, with it easier one way and harder the other. They all have completely different profiles, with some being extremely hard and hilly, windy, flat for the sprinters and/or very fast average speeds. The track courses differ with bank steepness and track length. There are also timber tracks I race on that are very fast, but most of the time I race on concrete tracks. How important is it to regularly service your Bike? What sort of bike do you ride, and what makes it unique to your style of ride? Rainbow Cycles have looked after me a lot in the past couple of years, servicing my bike every few weeks and always searching for upgrades that could assist me with my racing. I am currently riding a Cervelo S3 sponsored through Rainbow, which has a lot of the top of the line gear on it like electronic Di2 gear shifting system and a Garmin 520 computer fitted to my bike. This style of bike represents my style of racing, because it’s more of an aero bike for time trials but also great for hill climbing, making it great for those long endurance races. Your coach, Kev Hawes, is a bit of a cycling legend. Tell us about how he guides you towards your goals and helps you in all aspects of the sport. My coach, Kev, is a great rider and raced overseas when he was a bit younger. Kev was part of the Real Aussie Kids team for Australia. He returned to Australia and completed a psychology degree at uni. Kev gives me a different cycling programme every month, pushing me to achieve all my goals by the end of the season. We sit


focusinterview.

Will Mcclennon 2015 AUSTRALIAN TIME TRIAL CHAMPION

He raced bikes for many sa s year and know l ca ni lot of the tech e H g. in cl side of cy me is always giving to advice on things ” g. in do with cycl

“ regularly and access my training programme, goals - my health, both mental and physical, is very important in cycling. You have to be in peak physical shape but also have the right attitude to be able to get up most days at 5am and push yourself for training. He has me peaking at different times of the year also, which depends on the racing that I am attending, but he had me at my biggest peak for the Australian Titles. Kev and I have a great bond, which is significantly helpful when training gets tough and/or I get sick, where he can easily help me through those stages. Kev has been coaching me for almost three years now and has been awesome every step of my cycling journey. Leading into the Australian Titles I also had Danny Lupinski of Split Café (Junior Development Team) and Matt Sillince helping Kev out by motor pacing me behind our postie bike. It has a roller on the back that I stay next to, and they monitor my heart rate on my Garmin that is on the handlebars of the motorbike. They then ride along at speed and monitor my heart rate, pushing me harder if needed by going faster on the motorcycle. This really works on my top end fitness and is like a race. What does your training, preparation and nutrition involve? Talk us through the process you go through in the lead up to an event. I train 5/6 days a week under the guidance of my coach, Kev, and try to focus a lot on the nutritional side of training to give me that extra percentage at races and to help

me recover to my absolute best. Each night I stretch for about half an hour or more, which helps me on the bike. The night before my races, I always like to have pasta to give me carbs and long lasting energy for the next day. I always hydrate as well by drinking plenty of water and recovery drinks. I try to go to bed reasonably early the night before racing, to wake up the next day feeling fresh and get down to the event and set up with my mum and dad. Once I arrive I let my family set everything up and just chill, trying not to become too nervous too early. I start warming up 40 to 30 minutes before my event on a set of rollers and don’t get off until five minutes before the start, so I am ready to go. The last thing I do is think the race over and have my race moves/attacks ready to go in my head. Give us a brief rundown of the Coffs Harbour Cycle Club and how they have helped you become such a champion. I am currently riding for the Split Espresso Development Team, which support my riding exceptionally. The Coffs Harbour Cycling Club have put a lot of effort into run road racing, track racing and criteriums, which helps you with racing in a bunch just like you would at an away race. There are also awesome bunch rides that run nearly every day of the week, varying in length and intensity that I go on, and the other riders always give me encouragement to go hard. Do you have any future plans to compete at an international level? If so,

where would you like to compete, and what races would they be? Yes, I do have plans to be racing professionally in the future by starting small and racing overseas as a junior trying to get noticed and maybe getting picked up by a semi-professional team. My main goal is to race in a fully professional cycling team, making that my one and only job. I would love to have said I have raced and completed the three major grand tours: Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a Espana. It’s crazy - you are only 15 and have achieved so much already. What’s up next for you, Will? First is to recover well from the end of the season and my broken arm. In the Australian

Road Titles Road Race, I fell with 3 km to go, as the bunch was very tight and we were all rubbing shoulders at about 40 km/h. I fell hard and broke my left arm. This has put me out of a few races at the start of the track season, but as soon as the cast is off I will be back on the bike. I will then be sitting with Kev again and looking at my goals for the season and working my training programme around them. I will start this season as a first year U17 rider, where my gearing changes this year go up to a larger gear of a 7 m roll out. I look forward to racing again both on the track/velodrome and road. Thanks Will. coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

Greg H a c k f a t h

lifeguard story WITH ALMOST 20 YEARS WORKING AS A LIFEGUARD ON THE COFFS COAST, GREG HACKFATH HAS SPENT MORE TIME ON THE BEACH THAN MOST. FOCUS PADDLED OUT WITH THE LOCAL WATERMAN TO GET THE LOWDOWN ON WHAT THE JOB TAKES ... hat is your connection with the more interested in surfing than being a clubby, and my dad once Coffs Coast? told me, you will never make a living being a bum surfer. The My family moved to Sapphire when surf club taught me a lot of valuable skills, which must have sunk I was 13 years old (1977) and then in. Surf clubs and surfing are both great ways of learning how moved into Coffs in the same year, the waves and ocean work, but as a surfer, I think you learn it exwhen my mum and dad’s house perientially. When the opportunity came up for the position was completed. I attended Orara High until Year in Council, I jumped at it ... and well, here I am. 10, before heading to Newcastle to do an How long have you been a lifeguard? apprenticeship as a Metal Fabricator/Welder. Nineteen years. I’m in my 28th year with I came back to Coffs (WE Smith EngineerCoffs Harbour City Council and hope to I’ll admit that ing) and had a couple of other advenstay here until I can retire - barring any I was more g tures working in different towns in NSW injuries, I should make it ha ha. I’m pretty in rf su interested in d an by before settling permanently in Coffs settled; I have a great team of guys and ub cl a than being e, m ld to Harbour with my lovely wife, Sharen, girls working with me, and we have ce on my dad e ak m r ve and three awesome kids. all worked at improving the Lifeguard ne ill w you bum a g in be g To me, Coffs has given me a comService the entire time. The whole team is in liv a pletely balanced life. I love surfing, pretty proud of what has been achieved. surfer.” spear-fishing, scuba-diving as well as What position do you hold? white-water rafting, kayaking, photography My position is Team Leader; I basically coand just enjoying the environment and lifestyle ordinate all the day-to-day operations, strategic we have. We live in a place that caters for all of this direction and planning, equipment requirements and within easy travel distance from the city; we really don’t financial responsibilities for the service. know how lucky we are to live in this area. How many lifeguards are there working in the local How did you become a lifeguard? area? I have always loved the surf and the ocean. I remember as During peak time (Christmas holidays), Council employs up to a kid wanting to learn how to surf; my old man told me I had 22 lifeguards; 16 of these are casual. Numbers vary throughout to get my Bronze Medallion before I could go to the beach by the year, but the core team is made up of three temporary (sevmyself, so I joined Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club. I rowed en-month, surf-season) lifeguards and three full-time lifeguards. boats for the club and competed in the odd swim event, but During the five months of the off-season, the three permanent generally just enjoyed going to the beach. I’ll admit that I was staff work a seven-day rolling roster to keep Park Beach open all-

“

18 coffs coast focus.

year round. I have to mention the assistance from the four surf clubs who conduct volunteer patrols every weekend and public holiday at Sawtell, Park, Woolgoolga and Red Rock beaches; these volunteers conduct their patrols for seven months (surf-season) of the year. Can you briefly describe a typical day in the life of a lifeguard? No day is ever the same, as you just never know what may happen. Even on the most benign of days, people can and do get in trouble. On a quiet day last January, two of our lifeguards resuscitated a man at Woolgoolga Caravan Park after he had a heart attack. He is alive today because of their efforts. We have lots of pretty funny incidents (mostly involving clothing, sand and being dumped by a wave), we give away colouring-in books to the kids and provide soft-boards for tourists to use when conditions are good, we speak to people about all manner of topics, educating them about the surf, what the weather will be like tomorrow, next week, next year (really), what attractions there are in Coffs, best restaurants, activities, accommodation. Generally, I think the local population and visitors appreciate us being there. Quick shout-out to the Ambos and Police, as well as all the emergency services such as SES and Marine Rescue; they make our job much easier. Without these groups, life at the beach would be a lot tougher for us. What sort of training do you need to be a lifeguard? Number one is, you need to understand the surf. Don’t expect to get a job as a lifeguard if you come from the bush and have only visited the beach during holidays, even if you are a champion swimmer. In many instances it’s not physicality that we look for: understanding of our environment, knowledge of


what effects changes in conditions, good public relations skills, a cool head in an emergency and empathy are many of the qualities we look for. However, there are some physical requirements that need to be addressed. Prospective lifeguards need to pass an 800 m timed pool swim, a timed lifeguard mission consisting of a 600 m ocean swim, 800 m beach run, 600 m ocean board paddle and a further 800 m run. We currently also have a separate 1,600 m timed beach run. After completion of these requirements, they will need to pass first aid scenarios, emergency scenarios, single and multiple person rescue scenarios and training in a number of pre-hospital care courses. There have been several shark attacks along the East Coast recently; what is your opinion on what should be done? I haven’t seen a great deal of evidence of increased shark activity in our area. Certainly if you look at statistics, activity up north has taken a significant jump; however, shark activity in South and Western Australia has taken a significant drop. I really don’t support culling; these magnificent animals are part of our environment, we are entering their environment, and let’s face it - they are an apex predator. Evidence still supports that 99% of shark attacks are mistakes where a shark bites once and swims away, because it realises that we are not its normal food source. Unfortunately with our larger sharks, these instances can cause permanent disabilities and, in the worst case, death. I don’t believe that rotary wing surveillance is good value, as the cost is huge. Fixed wing is cheaper, however, only picks up on what it briefly passes over. The new type of barrier devices show great promise, as they are a hard barrier rather than netting, which shouldn’t be detrimental to turtles, whales, dolphins etc. Nets are indiscriminate killers; they trap any animal that swims into them. Some I really don’ t ; of the sonar technology has promise as well. support culling t en fic ni In the meantime, surveillance from elevated these mag of positions is what we have. animals are part t, en nm ro vi en But, let’s put shark attacks into perspective: our their we are entering let’s so far this year, we have had two fatalities from d an t, en environm sharks, 18 people injured and nine incidents apex an e ar ey th face it that didn’t result in any injury. Last year, we predator.” had the lowest road toll since records began - 4.87 people per 100,000 (1,155 deaths) - in 2012; 34,091 people were hospitalised after a road accident. In all reality you are 577 times more likely to be killed whilst driving to the beach than being attacked and killed by a shark and 1,894 times more likely to be injured by a vehicle than a shark. What is the best thing about your job? We are outside, we can interact with a variety of people from all over the world, we can experience first-hand dolphins, turtles, sharks, fish and whales in their natural environment. When we have a successful rescue, we feel that we have just been the rainbow in someone’s otherwise cloudy day. We can make a difference; there is nothing like saving a life. I would also like to say to the guys and girls I work with, “thank you" - you all make my job easier. We have some tough issues to deal with at times, but ultimately we have a strong relationship; we always work through problems that arise. I really couldn’t ask for a better team. Any words of advice for the public now that the weather is warming and we are returning to the beach? Honestly, respect your own ability, don’t be lazy; if the red and yellow flags are up, swim between them PLEASE, even if they are a 500m walk away. If you must swim in an unpatrolled area, make sure you take the right precautions: always have a flotation device with you, if possible swim near other surfers/body boarders, never swim in creek or river mouths especially on an outgoing tide, educate yourselves on the beach, the waves and the creatures in them and lastly, if you’re not sure on something, ask us. Most of all though, enjoy and look after our environment; we live in a pretty special place. Thanks Greg.

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focusinterview.

meet a

local.

Tanya Watts Meet the Sales and Marketing Manager of Opal Cove Resort - a role that Tanya says is both busy and exciting! What is your role at Opal Cove? As Sales and Marketing Manager, my role is diverse and exciting! I work with a great team at Opal Cove, promoting the Resort to new and existing clients. Other aspects of my role include managing the Leisure Club memberships, where locals can experience the Resort facilities for $250 per couple, advertising, social media and website development. I love the fast paced environment of the tourism and hospitality industry, meeting new people, using my creativity and promoting the Coffs Coast. It is refreshing to work in a family owned resort who value their staff, are community minded and support new ideas! At Opal Cove there is always a new exciting project to work on! What has been your biggest achievement in life? My greatest achievement is a work in progress that I will be able to reveal in the coming months! Past achievements include the formation of the Education Campus in Coffs Harbour, where

I lobbied the student body to form Southern Cross University in the mid ‘90s when I was President of the Coffs Harbour Campus of UNE. The land swap between the Council and C.Ex Group to build the Education Campus, along with ensuring the Campus met the needs of the student body. The flow on effect to the local economy is massive, along with cultural and social benefits! On a professional level, working with the Marriot Group overseas was a fantastic learning experience, where I was heavily involved in the marketing and opening of a new hotel in the heart of London. What do you love about living on the Coffs Coast? I love everything about the Coffs Coast, living in paradise surrounded by amazing clean beaches, stunning rainforests and national parks! Creatively, Coffs is bursting with talent, and there is something for everyone! I met my partner when I moved back to Coffs a few years ago, so there is plenty to love about living on the Coffs Coast!

rotary police awards

Members of the Coffs Clarence Local Area Command celebrated in style at the third Police Awards Dinner organised by the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak at Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour, on Saturday 26th September. Many people understand and respect the work undertaken, often in horrific and traumatic conditions, which police men and women have to contend with on a regular basis. However the diversity of roles undertaken is not always fully comprehended. Some officers are on the beat attending to day to day matters such as traffic accidents, robberies, drug incidences, domestic violence ... Others are spending days, months and even years following up on forensic evidence or chasing leads and witnesses into murder cases or paedophile investigations ... Due to shortages in staffing levels caused by illness, injury and budget constraints, it is not unusual for officers to work long hours under considerable duress. Hence the purpose of the event was to recognise those efforts of serving police officers throughout the Coffs Clarence Command during 2014/15. Superintendent Mark Holahan spoke of his pride in the command, then 20 coffs coast focus.

presented the awards to the officers nominated by their peers. The winners were Senior Constable Joleene Brooker for the specialist section, Senior Constable Matt Conroy, the southern half of the command and Senior Constable Scott McLean from Yamba in the northern half. The Community Award judged from nominations submitted by members of the general public was presented by Deb Thompson, Community Director of the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak, to a stunned Detective Senior Constable Tony King from Grafton. A special mention for this award was given to Senior Constable Paul Matts. The organising committee wish to congratulate the winners and thank everyone who sponsored the event, those who attended and those who submitted nominations. Special appreciation goes to the officers who serve in our local command.

COASTAL designer kitchens Coastal Designer Kitchens is a locally owned business that prides itself on a personalised approach to their work. Andrew and Mel manage a small team of specialised and experienced tradespeople, enabling CDK to provide a more personalised service which ensures that their exceptionally high standards are always met. CDK’s impeccable reputation across the Coffs Coast is testimony to their professionalism and commitment to their work, customer deadlines and treating their customers’ needs as the utmost of importance. CDK are on top of current trends in the industry and are constantly researching and updating the latest products and designs. They understand that this is essential to offer their clients modern designs, as well as superior craftsmanship. Mel has a particular eye for colour and a passion for

design. Mel is qualified in kitchen, bathroom and interior spaces design and is available to assist you with the entire design process of your project. CDK offer finance to their customers, so they are able to get their kitchen now and pay it off over time with a take home lay-by payment plan with no interest. This is a fantastic option for renovators, as you can include appliances, glass splash backs, laundry, vanity and your built-in robes as part of the package and pay it off with one easy fortnightly repayment. They can also co-ordinate other trades such as plumber and electrician and manage your entire project for you. Drop in to the showroom and ask about how you can apply for the Ezi-Pay Payment Plan. CDK would love the opportunity to provide you with a quote on any project you may have in the future.


Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate HOME! To make matters worse, one post even had the comment: “Hanging out while Mum and Dad are away,” with the location map tagged as “HOME” and the photo - dare I say it exceptionally provocative and suggestive … I kid you not - and this was a 12 year old with a public account! Parents please take note: the online world is ONLINE SAFETY TIPS not a game. It is an X rated, uncensored world FOR PARENTS accessible to everyone of every age. Would you leave your 12 year old child home alone with the front door wide open? No! So why, parents, are we treating the online world differently to our real world, and why are we allowing our kids to treat it differently? I’m not suggested that banning your kids from the use of social media is a necessary or appropriate step; social media is an important WOULD YOU LEAVE YOUR CHILD HOME ALONE WITH THE part of their teen world and like it or not, it has become a necessary part of life. I believe banning FRONT DOOR WIDE OPEN? it will actually send them searching for it without realise I have touched on this subject in accounts belonging to kids - local Coffs Harbour your knowledge. previous columns; however, I have serious kids - and I could not help but notice that their My recommendation is to set your kids’ online concerns that the message is simply not Instagram accounts are still public. Not only are devices up safely, set some rules and most getting through! the accounts public, but the kids are posting importantly, talk to your child daily about their This week I spent some time checking out photos and including a location map, tagging online world just as you do about every other my kids’ activity on Instagram; who’s following themselves in the photos with “HOME”, leading aspect of their life. who? Who is who? Who’s posting what? Do everybody - and I mean everybody - straight · Ensure your child’s account is set to private and they know all their followers? Do they know to their front door! Just in case you don’t if it’s not, then you really need a good reason who they are following? This is something I understand what this means, it means anyone why. If they have an account for a business or suggest all parents should take the time to do from anywhere in the neighbourhood, the city, community or sporting group, then it should at every few weeks on any or all of their children’s the state, the country, or the world, can click on least be administered by you - not your child. social media accounts. that location tag and open a map that literally · Ensure the geolocation is turned off on your Once again I stumbled across Instagram takes you to the child’s exact location … their child’s camera. This can be done on iPhones,

cyber mum.

I

iPads and iPods by setting up the parental restrictions in settings. · Ensure you establish some rules with your child about not using the location tagging service on posts and status updates, especially the tag “HOME”. · Ensure you discuss with your child the appropriateness of what they are posting because I can tell you now - the number of tween/teen girls posting semi naked selfies is alarming. · Set up your own accounts if you have not already and ensure you are following your child and they are following you, and make sure your account is private. · Encourage your child to only follow or friend people they know or the “official pages/site” of celebrities of people of interest. Try to explain that it’s not a competition to see who has the most followers or friends; it’s a competition to see how many they actually know! · Accept follow requests from your child’s friends, as this allows you to keep up to date with what’s going on. · If you see something that seems odd, wrong, or attention seeking from your child or their friends, talk to your child about it. · Encourage your child to talk about what they see, what they post and any chatter or images that they think are inappropriate. · Share this information with your friends and family to help protect as many children as possible. Cyber Mum. www.cybermumaus.com www.facebook.com/cybermumaus

coffs coast focus.

21


BLINDS &

SHUTTERS

DIRECT

Where did Blinds & Shutters Direct come from? Purchasing Doors Plus 10 years ago, I very quickly found my customers wanting more than just doors. So I chose to diversify into window furnishings, adding to our already excellent products and customer service. I found most of our customers were renovating, building new homes or just updating, and we wanted to be able to give them the quality options for their window furnishings as we did for their doors. I had previously worked fitting blinds and shutters for several exclusive local interior design businesses, as well as being a licensed cabinet maker/builder for over 30 years, so it was an easy addition to my business. How did you do that? Doors Plus staff and I constantly source from industry qualified manufacturers using the best quality components, fabrics and fittings. We are very aware of the need for affordable options. Our customers drive our business in that way; we listen to their needs and with our experience, source the best options. But we don’t leave you there ... We have a team of experienced fitters to complement your

22 coffs coast focus.

purchase. Just part of the service; all our blinds and shutters come with full installation included in the price. What sort of things do customers want? Basically, a wide range of window covering options. We are able to provide emerging products and new trending items to fulfill their needs. Roller Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Timber Venetian Blinds, Roman Blinds, Panel Glides, Plantation Shutters … Come and ask how we can help! The latest trend is shutters. Most customers don’t realise the range and options available for shutters alone. Thermal, Aluminium, Bass Wood and composite … each with their own application, look and purpose. I am proud to say that most of our blinds are manufactured in Australia. Come on down to our new showroom on Cnr Pacific Hwy and Marcia Sts, and we can help you with your choices and show you the differences in products, so you can make your informed decision, not based on price alone. What about outside blinds and awnings? Due to customer demand, we have also introduced a large range of external fabric awnings, which will be adaptable to most applications, from a simple pull down blind

over your west facing window, to fully automated systems for your enclosed alfresco area. Come and speak with George or Danny about your needs. The best thing about our awnings is they are made in Australia What if I don’t really know what I want? We provide a free in house consultation measure and quote service, so we can come and see the area in need and talk with you about what you are trying to achieve and talk about what products may work best. Having someone with experience in a wide range of options for blinds, shutters and awnings opens up your choices and will leave you with the best solution and look possible. What is different about Blinds & Shutters Direct?

Most other blind, shutter and awning suppliers DO NOT offer a happiness guarantee. Typically, their products do not allow returns or exchanges. At Blinds & Shutters Direct, we are different! Our commitment is to provide great products and service. We also pride ourselves on turning up every time and on time to our measure and quotes. Faulty items are unacceptable, and therefore will be replaced, repaired or refunded and service well, we guarantee that you will be happy with everything we offer. With Blinds & Shutters Direct there will be no compromise; you will be looking up at your newly furnished windows, doors or patios in admiration for many years to come. We guarantee it!


focusinterview.

Beccy

Cole Country songstress Beccy Cole has delighted Australian listeners and concert goers for more than twenty years. The Adelaide-born star’s glowing warmth, honeyed voice, bawdy sense of humour and perpetual smile have helped make Beccy one of the nation’s best-loved and most celebrated artists.

W

ith her stunning the truest measure of a life well-lived lies not in tenth release Sweet personal achievement, but in the people who Rebecca, Beccy choose to come along for the ride. Sweet Rebeccolours these winning ca is a dedication to the people who have made qualities with bitterBeccy the treasured artist she is today: from sweet remembrance her musical parents Carole and Jeff, to faithful and reflection on her life thus far - both onstage friends, colleagues, and confidants met along and off. the way. With nine Golden Guitars to her name (inHaving served an apprenticeship in her mothcluding four for Female Vocalist of the Year), as er’s band Wild Oats, in 1991 Beccy joined Kasey well as multiple ARIA Top 10 Country and Top 40 Chambers and family in the Dead Ringer Band. Mainstream albums, a Top 10 DVD, three gold Less than two years later, in 1993, Beccy took out certified releases, and more than a dozen No. 1 the coveted Toyota Star Maker title. In the years Australian country singles, Beccy Cole is since, Beccy has toured with Slim Dusty, one of Australia’s most successful Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, and singer-songwriters. Glen Campbell, has performed Since 1997, Beccy has as a Young Star with Felicity piloted a succession of Urquhart and great mate e or I think the m stellar releases, including Adam Harvey, and wowed e, ar u honest yo is most recent ARIA audiences as a Songbird ng so e th the better te ro w I r nominated studio effort fte with dear friends Sara A . be going to ady to re as w Songs and Pictures Storer and Gina Jeffreys. I , ok bo the at least or – s ng (2011), featuring the Against a backdrop so te ri w me Golden Guitar-winof paint-stripping guitars ready to write so ! ” ed ning hits Waitress and and popping banjo, pub words that rhym Millionaires (with Kasey stomper Damn Fool considChambers). Sweet Rebecca ers one of the more damaging follows hot on the heels of mistakes Beccy counts among Beccy’s phenomenal collaboration her “lessons learned” - falling under with Melinda Schneider, Great Women of the spell of a toxic lover. Country (2014). “The more wicked the witch, the greater As the title promises, Sweet Rebecca is the itch, the more lies that she tells.” the most personal album of Beccy’s career. The Precious Times finds Beccy sharing the microrelease coincides with the publication of Beccy’s phone with unflagging friends Sara Storer and strikingly candid memoir, Poster Girl. It was the Gina Jeffreys - with whom Beccy has performed frequently gruelling task of penning this tell-all intermittently as The Songbirds since 2007. With account of her life and career to date that the uplifting Happy 16, Beccy gives joyous thanks inspired the intensely, grippingly honest songs of for her shared life with son Ricky, celebrating the Sweet Rebecca. generous spirit of the “not-so-little man” who “For me, every time I write songs it’s a very used to sleep through his mum’s gigs swaddled cathartic experience, because I write about my in a velvet-lined guitar case. life,” Beccy says. “I think the more honest you are, the better the song is going to be. After I the plug! wrote the book, I was ready to write songs - or See Beccy on Friday, November 27 at Sawtell at least ready to write some words that rhymed!” RSL. Tickets on sale at sawtellrsl.com.au As Beccy’s remarkable story demonstrates,

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coffs coast focus.

23


focusinterview.

HARLOW HAIR AND BEAUTY

40 THE UK’S MOST SUCCESSFUL REGGAE BAND, UB40, WILL LAND IN AUSTRALIA THIS NOVEMBER FOR A NATIONAL TOUR, INCLUDING A BUNCH OF REGIONAL DATES SEEING THE BAND PLAY FROM THE CITY SKYLINES OF SYDNEY, BRISBANE, PERTH AND MELBOURNE, ALL THE WAY THROUGH TO THE BEACHSIDE HAVENS OF COFFS HARBOUR, NEWCASTLE, CAIRNS AND THE GOLD COAST.

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aming themselves after joined by new lead vocalist Duncan Campbell, the unemployment benefit have moved forward, flourishing as they go, form, UB40 formed in keeping the UB40 legacy alive and well. 1978, releasing UB40 are Robin Campbell (cotheir debut lead vocals and guitar), Duncan album, Campbell (lead vocals) Earl st The band’s late Signing Off, in August Falconer (bass, vocal), al bum , 30 p To 1980 - considered by Brian Travers (sax and e Storm’, ‘G etting Over Th Radio many to be one of the keyboards), Jimmy C was awarded BB k’ greatest reggae albums Brown (drums), Noree W e Th 2’s ‘Album Of ed iv ever released by a man Hassan (percusce re d accolade an e th om fr s British band. It was the sion, vocals). ew vi 5-star re its on s es pr ic start of a career that The band also feaus m UK’s ber em pt Se in e as has since seen the band ture, Martin Meredith le re 2013. ” have over forty UK Top 40 (sax) and Lawrence Parry hit singles and achieve sales (trumpet), who have both of over 100 million records, been in UB40’s touring line-up making UB40 one of the most for over twenty years, and Tony successful British groups of all time. The Mullins (keyboards). band’s latest Top 30 album, Getting Over ub40.co.uk || facebook.com/ub40official The Storm, was awarded BBC Radio 2’s || instagram.com/ub40official “Album Of The Week” accolade and received the plug! 5-star reviews from the UK’s music press on its release in September 2013. Don’t miss UB40 at C.ex Coffs Harbour. With nearly four decades of success that has Tuesday 17th November spanned over forty hit singles, international $69 + bf presale | $75 Door stadium tours, festival headline slots and the Doors Open: 7pm dramatic departure of long-time lead singer Tickets available through club reception or call Ali Campbell back in 2008, the remaining (02) 6652 3888 or online www.cex.com.au | founding members, and principal songwriters, www.oztix.com.au 24 coffs coast focus.

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Up Box.


Admintechniqs Your Professional BAS Agent/Bookkeeper What is the difference between a BAS agent and a Bookkeeper? First and foremost, BAS agents can correspond with the ATO on your behalf. The ATO requires Professional BAS Agents to:

bob wallis cycles Spring has sprung, daylight saving is upon us, and the conditions for riding have been great. Barry has just returned from competing in the Swiss Epic Mtb stage race in Switzerland, and a number of riders are preparing to take part in the Sydney to Woolongong MS Challenge, so everyone has been keeping busy at BWC. Good luck to those taking part in the ride. Our new range of Trek children’s bikes are in store and with Christmas only a couple of months away, people are already getting in early and putting bikes on lay-by. New clothing ranges are in store, so it is a good time to freshen up your riding kit for the warmer months; this has also left some great buys on our “specials” racks. We have a good range of Electra cruiser bikes, and now is the perfect time to cruise the foreshores on these classic bikes. As our 2016 range arrives in store, we have some great buys on our remaining 2015 bikes with up to 25% off, so call in to BWC to check out some great deals like a 2015 Emonda S4 WSD full carbon frame with 11 speed Shimano 105 for $1,850! Our friendly staff look forward to you seeing you in store at BWC.

• Have a minimum of 4,800 hours of relevant experience • Have completed a minimum of Certificate IV Financial Services (Bookkeeping) • Have Professional Indemnity Insurance • Complete 45 Hours of CPE (Continuing Professional Development) every three years • Register with the Tax Practitioners Board admintechniQs is here to help clients understand and learn how to manage their business from the books up! Therefore we provide training in the following areas: • Filing in conjunctions with your computerised accounting system • Electronic Accounting - MYOB, XERO and any other software from data entry to reconciliation • Payroll - set-up, weekly data input, payroll reconciliation • Superannuation - the use of clearing houses for both employer and employee superfunds • ATO requirements - BAS and Payroll • End Of Year - reconciliations for BAS and Payroll, Car mileages, stocktake, capital expenditure, loan entry, lease entry, fuel tax credits and much more If you believe your business could benefit from real time data, from your software, to enable budgeting and planning contact admintechniQs, where the “Q” stands for quality.

Langlands Property Langlands Property want the process of buying and selling to be the celebration it should be. No excuses; just results. We are excited to have shaped an organisation that excels at every level, continually reinventing ourselves to find better ways to achieve our clients’ goals. We are committed to being recognised as “The Coffs Coast’s most customer-centric real estate company” and will accept nothing less. Langlands Property is known for quality marketing and effective sales strategies that recognise the importance of understanding both online and print marketing. Through the use of technology and good old fashioned customer service, we will maximise your results, while continuing to offer an outstanding experience. Proud to sell a full range of properties, from modest apartments to prestige homes, with every property receiving the same high level attention, as we strive to achieve the very best price. Amanda Langlands, our founder, is a Coffs Coast local who wants to share her love for the region through real estate. In the establishment of Langlands Property, Amanda and her team have the opportunity to showcase properties, look after clients’ investments and also share what Coffs Coast has to offer.

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COFFS coast NO.1 european specialist. bmw audi volkswagen porsche peugeot renault saab mercedes-benz land rover mini shmotors.com.au

6652 4625

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focusinterview.

we’re

obsessed HAVING BEEN A LEADING INDEPENDENT MOTOR VEHICLE SERVICE AND REPAIR SPECIALIST FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS IN COFFS HARBOUR, S&H MOTOR REPAIRS WAS SOLD BY THE ORIGINAL OWNER FIVE YEARS AGO TO EAMONN MULHALL, WHO’D EMIGRATED FROM IRELAND.

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without brilliant and dedicated operators,” he he pair had a long-standing relationship, and Eamonn’s concludes. background of 40 years in “This service is cutting edge and can vastly the motor trade includes improve your vehicle’s performance, including preparing BMWs for race and saving fuel and generating more power and rally applications, maintaining torque.” performance cars and running one of Ireland's After a home, an individual or family vehicle leading rental car companies. is the next largest and longest life investment Since taking over the business, Eamonn for most people. Preserving their investment grew the workshop with a shift in focus to through maintenance and upgrading can be European models like VW, BMW, Mercedes, far more effective than replacing and buying Audi and Porsche, utilising the tools and up. In some cases, like BMW, there are no local techniques from a vast experience in dealership options, so the vehicle automotive technology. “We saw has to go to Port Macquarie or a newer breed of car lover the Gold Coast for regular who realise the economy of servicing. st maintaining their vehicle’s I spent part of la ng S & H Motors is a real ni technical performance year in Italy lear es m m dealership alternative ra og pr through the computers te how to wri e, but ar w ft for those looking to so ed that drive the car, as ifi for mod machines ic st no service their valued ag di t well as making sure ar sm art tools are European vehicles. all the fluids and parts and state-of-the illiant t br nothing withou “We have a full suite are synced correctly,” erators. ” and dedicated op Eamonn explains. of tools, technology and He assembled a team model knowledge across a with equally impressive broad range of Euro brands talents - professionals rather than to perform dealership level practitioners. They have extensive diagnostics and maintenance. experience in dealerships and independent “I’ve spent many years in dealerships facilities, but have also performed a at service management levels and know how wealth of other precision work, including they work. I also know that we can offer a building touring cars, racing prep, luxury car real alternative, especially when talking about performance road handling tweaks, and even vehicles which may be still relatively new but some 4 x 4 improvements. may for example be out of warranty,“ Eamonn S&H is continually investing in the latest analyses. “We rely on our vast experience equipment and diagnostic tools and has and technical skill and can often deliver a cost recently added engine optimisation through effective solution for clients. software upgrades by fine-tuning the vehicle “We’re known by the company we keep beyond manufacturer specs. and we have incredible loyalty from our Eamonn imports critical software advances clientele, as well as being a female-friendly from Europe from manufacturers and top operation. Whether it’s a check-up, repair trade developers and even distributes it or inspection, we try to go the extra mile,” Australia-wide. “I spent part of last year in Eamonn emphasises. “We’re not rev-heads Italy learning how to write programmes for or macho auto-enthusiasts. We’re not just modified software, but smart diagnostic committed to great service. We’re obsessed!” machines and state-of-the art tools are nothing

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KlausTEL Ian and Phil Klaus specialise in all things Telecommunications. As well as having 20 years’ experience between them, they have the privilege of working alongside Max, their father, having 48 years’ experience and knowledge. As well as the three boys out in the field, they have their sister, Amy, running the show from their office. “Our business has grown immensely over the last few years with the introduction of our personalised service provider branding. We offer competitive rates on our NBN, phone line and phone system pricing.” Remember, “At Klaustel the people that sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it.” Plantronics wireless headsets are so comfortable and discreet that you may forget you’re wearing them - until that crucial call comes through, and you’re ready to respond instantly. Plantronics Headsets give a maximum 100 metres’ range (about 50 metres in a typical office), so you can stretch your legs, attend a meeting, touch base with a colleague, grab a coffee, and still be confident that your team or customers will get straight through to you.

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focusinterview.

MARC

INSPIRED BY NATURE

MARC RENSHAW’S ART IS INSPIRED BY NATURE AND PROCESS. WORKING AS AN EDUCATOR, HE SHARES HIS PASSION FOR CREATIVITY WITH STUDENTS. FOCUS SPOKE WITH THE ARTIST ABOUT HIS WORK AND UPCOMING PROJECTS.

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focusinterview.

MARC

I WO U LD LI K E TO BE H EN R I U TR EC ’S LO TO U U SE -L A N T, TA ST U D IO A SS IS I’M IF H E H A D O N E! N H IS O N EE K O N OT TO T I LOV E PA IN TI N G S, BU S AND ER A LL H IS PO ST ” S. D R AW IN G

“ hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Thora Valley near Bellingen in 2008 after hearing that it was a creative area. Although I knew no one here, it wasn't long before I met some great people and fell in love with the beautiful surrounds. I’m originally from Perth, which is fairly flat, dry and hot, so this seems like paradise! Also, my son was born here, so now it’s his home too. Where does the inspiration for your art practice come from? Inspiration for me can come from almost anything. I love to visit the city to experience a different way of living. I also love to be in nature, in solitude, so a variety of experiences is important. Nature often ends up in my work. Nature is perfect and imperfect; it’s a great teacher. I find the work of other artists very inspiring; it pushes me to want to work more and try new things. Process is very important to me, putting objects together or pulling them apart, exploring and trying to master techniques through play and experiment. When and why did you start making art? I have always been creative, since I was a kid. I remember making and painting objects like boats from the stuff my dad brought home from work. He was a builder, so we had this great shed full of tools and materials. In my early teens some of my friends and I started doing street art or spray can art. We attempted to imitate all the images we could find from New York. No internet meant waiting two months for the next magazine or book to arrive. I have loved all forms of street art since then. I studied printmaking and painting at university and combine elements of both these traditions in my work. How would you describe your style? My style is fairly broad due to the variety of mediums and materials I like to use. I’m certainly

influenced by graphics and pictorial imagery, which I use a lot. Process and assembling or combining objects also forms part of my usual style. I like my work to keep the mistakes, recording my workings and a sense of expression. My work clearly shows that someone made it, showing both flaws and successes. I have a process driven practice; I like to assemble, collage and collate imagery. I like texture and layering. And then my street art is always about ecological issues or beauty in the everyday, usually as paste ups or stencils. What artists do you admire or draw influence from? Robert Rauschenberg and Jean-Michel Basquait were big early influences. I love the whole street art movement since the seventies, and before that pop culture of the fifties and sixties. I like the gig posters of this era also. Other influences would include John Olsen, Fred Williams, Barbara Kruger, Joseph Cornell and endless printmakers. Nowadays I really like NY duo Faile and the succession of work on the streets. I admire anyone who creates. It’s certainly not an easy pursuit. You work as an educator of art; can you tell us a bit about that? Early after leaving uni, I began working on public art projects with local councils in Perth. This required me to host workshops at schools and interact with a wide array of community groups. I enjoyed the enthusiasm of the kids. I have done some relief teaching at TAFE also. Since moving to Bellingen, I have been involved with E.Y.E. and Jetty Bunker (JBYS) and festivals such as Saltwater Freshwater. I will normally teach workshops on printmaking or street art techniques with a big group of kids. Then we complete the learning with real life opportunities such as a mural for a business or festival decor. The kids love to learn, but I find they need a

project to own too. Now I am co-ordinator of Big Fig Arts and we have a big workshop programme. We have a series of life drawing classes coming up. We are calling them dynamic life drawing, as they involve drawing an artisan practicing their craft, like dancers and singers etc. The first one was the drawing of musician Katie Crane as she performed at The Bellingen Brewery & Co. This was a great mix of creative drawing, music and socialising. We have a school holiday programme coming up too. We are really excited about working with the kids; they are always very enthusiastic and fun students. If you could live anywhere in the world to experience a specific period of art, which would you choose and why? I would say to be in Monmarte, Paris, for the 1880s Post Impressionism. I would like to be Henri Toulouse-Lautrec’s studio assistant, if he had one! I’m not too keen on his paintings, but I love all his posters and drawings. I think it would have been a very interesting time. What advice would you give to someone who is considering taking up art either as a profession or a hobby? I would say work hard at what you love. I think everyone should do something creative, even as a one off. I think creativity is a natural thing to want to do. I definitely encourage everyone to try something and express themselves. As far as a profession, it seems to choose you!

Following your creative passion is more a lifestyle than a traditional career, so that has its positives and negatives. Practice, practice, practice! Follow your passion! What are your plans for the future? The most exciting thing for me at the moment is a project I have recently undertaken with a few other local artists. Big Fig Arts is an artist run initiative organising projects and workshops in Bellingen. We host exhibitions and events at The Bellingen Brewery & Co., a venue that has a boutique bar, brewery and our gallery wall. We operate as a not for profit association and promote accessible and inclusive arts. Our aim is to become known as a dynamic little arts organisation, encouraging a thriving and creative arts culture in this area. We have lots of different and exciting projects planned. I really enjoy working with other artists and the community. I generally have one solo show a year and am involved in up to six group shows a year, so they are always part of my plans. At the moment I am working towards an exhibition involving four artists that will show at The Bellingen Brewery & Co. over summer. The show is called Honey, and its theme is birds and bees, looking at nature, biology and lifecycles. All the works created for this show must be made from re-claimed materials, or found and recycled objects. This will be the next big opening night for Big Fig Arts on Thursday, December 3rd. Thanks Marc. coffs coast focus.

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Half roasted duck, celeriac purĂŠe, grilled pears, pickled fennel and port jus from flooded gums restaurant

download our eat. dining guide for iPhone & Android www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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la hacienda 101 La Hacienda 101 a funky ol’ building with great ambience and a quirky vibe. David and Michael invite you into a little bit of their Mexico. With over 25 Mexican beers, a selection of cocktails and a wine list to suit plus the selection of Mexican soft drinks, it will be hard to choose what to try first. Then comes the menu with a blend of authentic and not so; it is again hard to choose what to have on this trip. Hence ... after this experience you will be booking your next visit soon with friends and family. “Day of the Dead” is celebrated over the last weekend of October, so be sure to book. Then for a Christmas party with a difference, think outside the box. With winning the FOCUS 2015 signature dish and with our popularity, please book in advance to avoid disappointment at the door.

DRIFTWOOD dining and café Park Beach Bowls is excited to announce the opening of its new casual dining experience, Driftwood. Conveniently located on Ocean Parade, Driftwood offers relaxed dining facilities with delicious modern Australian cuisine for lunch and dinner every day. Café options are also available from 9:30am daily. Enjoy our Coffee and Cake of the Day special for only $6.50 or choose from our great value $10 lunch selections. (Member pricing.) Become a member for only $5 and get discounts on all meals and drinks.

Head Chef Gerry Spatz.

So come down and try our NEW mouthwatering menu at Club prices.

Owners Michael and David.

Kids welcome!

60 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3622 www.pbbc.com.au/dining

101 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com

Café open daily from 9.30am. Lunch 12-2.30pm. Dinner 5.30-8.30pm. Open 7 days

Veal Carpaccio and house made Gnocci with a blue cheese and walnut sauce.

Open 7 days during school holidays from 5pm ‘til EDST. (Daylight Saving).

Pizza Vino Matt, Adam and the team welcome you this spring to Coff’s Harbour’s newest place to eat and catch up with friends. Pizza Vino is fully licensed, offering gourmet pizza, pasta, tapas and share food with a twist. Not forgetting of course, a delectable selection of wines. As the weather warms up, try our delicate gourmet veal carpaccio as a perfect spring entrée, followed by our house made gnocci with a blue cheese and walnut sauce. Book NOW for your work Christmas party and try our mouth watering spring and summer menu. Pizza Vino are now open Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm for dining in or takeaway.

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar Open seven days for breakfast and lunch from 7am. Our beachside deck has been fully glassed in and newly carpeted, making it entirely weatherproof, so it can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Please book to reserve your spot on the deck so you don’t miss out.

Pizza Vino Italian Pizzeria

Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.

Head Chef Adam Gallo

10, 361 Harbour drive ( Jetty Village ), Coffs Harbour 6650 9112 Open Tuesday-Sunday from 5pm ‘til late and Lunch from Fri-Sat for dine in and takeaway.

Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch. coffs coast focus.

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Pork Wellington (pork fillet rolled w mushroom duxelle, prosciutto & puff pastry) served with a seeded mustard jus, trussed cherry tomatoes, baby onions and green beans.

horizons restaurant & bar

Chocolate Delice

SUMMER IS ON THE HORIZON Try our new menu: be tempted with the grilled chermoula king prawns on a quinoa, sundried tomato and roasted pumpkin salad or chicken breast filled with wild mushroom, baby spinach and feta on baked polenta with a thyme lemon sauce. Remember to leave room for dessert, with the decedent dark chocolate mousse with raspberry jelly and macadamia praline yum! BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY! TAKE THE WORK OUT OF CHRISTMAS DAY JOIN US FOR COFFS HARBOUR'S BIGGEST CHRISTMAS PARTY ,WITH A HUGE FESTIVE BUFFET LUNCH AND ENTERTAINMENT - taking bookings now.

flooded gums restaurant The spring menu at the Flooded Gums is in full flow. In the warmer months, there is no better place to be, as when the sun goes down, the Flooded Gums restaurant at Bonville Golf Resort is transformed into an intimate fine dining experience - the best Coffs Harbour has to offer. Flooded Gums have received an Award of Excellence (Wine Spectator Magazine Wine List of the Year Awards - only property in Regional NSW to be awarded). A wine list featuring age release and current vintages from acclaimed producers in the greatest regions; the potential for serious food and wine matching is limitless.

Executive Chef: Darren Ryan.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

North Bonville Road, Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au Open 7 nights; bookings essential.

pasfields restaurant BAr deck

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald BeaCH

Enjoy Pasfields for a fine dining experience or casual meals. Our first class food speaks for itself with our reviews. Our ambience and setting is welcoming and stunning.

Surf St Café is less than 15 minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour on the new highway. Located at Emerald Beach with one of the best views on the coast, check the surf and watch the whales while you enjoy breakfast or lunch on the deck.

Birthdays, reunions, engagements ... We can tailor make to your budget. Up to 300 guests. Pasfields love weddings ... Come in and plan your perfect day in one appointment. $12 13” dine in pizza and happy hour, Thursdays, 5 - 8pm. Christmas function bookings are now being taken, so book early to get your chosen date: admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

Head Chef Kim Robson.

Inside it’s cosy at night for dinner, and we have heaters if you wish to be outside. Our food is fresh, local, and prepared by award winning chefs. Thursday is “Blackboard Night”: entree $10, mains $20 and dessert $10, and the menu changes every week. Taking bookings now for your Christmas party!

675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au Tues - Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. (large functions anytime).

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104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au Wednesday - Sunday for breakfast & lunch Thursday - Saturday for dinner.

Head Chef Sam Allinson.


fHerb & pinenut crusted Barramundi fillet with steamed brocolini and roast capsicum sauce.

the pier hotel

café o.p 81

At the Pier Hotel we’re excited to announce the opening of the new “Cellar Lounge”.

Turmeric latte - cold pressed juice of turmeric root with ginger and a dash of honey and some Chai spices. The ideal caffeine free drink to tantalise your taste buds and also make you feel on top of the world.

We welcome you to come down and feast your eyes on Coffs Harbour’s most historic hotel. With our winter menu about to finish up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new menu shortly. Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the great produce he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to the Pier Hotel.

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg.

We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

Turmeric is widely known for its healing and has a compound called Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people with all sorts of disease states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer. Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the brain by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear.

Owners Matt and Bree.

So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes a go at O.P 81 café.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection to choose from and you can have these eat in or takeaway. Come in and check out our takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily.

mr. good beans We pride ourselves on bringing a personalised service and product: a finely tuned espresso coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet café food made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience to all who walk through the café door.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm.

Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring, made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring light, yet very satisfying.

Head Chef Kristy Deveson.

Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans

Shop 1 Moonee Marketplace, Moonee Beach 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au Monday – Saturday 6am – 4pm and Sundays 8am – 3pm coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

Molly & ME D R I F T W O O D

GerrySpatz

Exciting things are happening at Molly&Me Café this month. With chef Andrew Cook joining the team, we will be launching a new menu, with a focus on seasonal, fresh and local produce with specials available daily. Rest assured we will still be serving our famous pulled pork roll with apple and fennel sauce and our tasty tacos, so make your way down to Molly&Me Café and try one of our new dishes or a classic original. All our meals are available to dine-in or take away, and we also offer a wide range of house made pies, sausage rolls and fresh sandwiches and wraps daily. We now also take orders via email; just ensure you place “Order and the pick up time” in the subject line and send the

PARK BEACH BOWLS CLUB IS PROUD TO INTRODUCE GERRY SPATZ, THE NEW HEAD CHEF AT THE ALL NEW DRIFTWOOD DINING AND CAFÉ. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH GERRY TO FIND OUT ABOUT HIS BACKGROUND AND WHAT HE LOVES ABOUT WORKING IN THE KITCHEN.

W

here are you from? What brought you to the Coffs Coast? I lived in Coffs Harbour many years ago and have returned because I love the area. For the past 10 years I have been in Ballina working as Executive Chef at the Ballina RSL and Bowling Club.

What is new in the restaurant?

What is your role at the Park Beach Bowls Club? I am the Head Chef for Driftwood at Park Beach Bowls, where I am responsible for the quality delivery of all our meals, including Café, Bar Bites, Restaurant and Functions menus.

a café menu from 9:30am every day and a Bar

When and where did you begin your chef career? I started my apprenticeship with Sheraton Hotel, Yulara, Northern Territory in 1986. And your earlier career? With both my parents in the hospitality industry, I started my career in the kitchen as soon as I was tall enough to stand on a milk crate and wash dishes!

Everything LOL! The casual dining experience at Driftwood is all new - from the menu to the team. It is exciting to be working with a new crew and to be able to bring the members at the Club some fresh flavours, as well as all their favourite dishes. Our $8 Sunday Roast Lunch is definitely a big hit. We also now offer patrons Bites menu for people who are just after a snack. Do you like MasterChef and MKR - what do you think these shows bring to the industry? Yes, I enjoy watching them. It certainly has unlocked the cooking industry, fine food and customer expectations of taste and quality. However, the reality of kitchens is quite different to what you see on TV. When you're at home, what do you cook? Simple home style food cooked with love, though my kids would say Bolognese! What are your favourite things to cook, and

What was it about cooking that inspired you to become a chef? My father was the most inspirational person in my life, not to mention my mentor as a chef.

what do you cook on special occasions?

What are your favourite things on the menu? I would have to say our pastas and the daily specials that we offer.

Thanks Gerry.

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I love to cook everything with the right ingredients. Fresh, quality ingredients are the key to all my favourite dishes. 60 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour Phone 6652 3622 www.pbbc.com.au/dining

email to molly_mecafe@outlook.com. We will also be popping up around Coffs with our new coffee cart and food van. Keep your eyes open; if you see us around town, at the Jetty, or the markets on the weekend, make sure you come by, say hello and try one of our delicious pies, coffees or burgers. Molly&Me Café is open Monday to Friday for breakfast and lunch from 7am to 3:30pm and Saturdays for brunch from 8am. We would love to do your catering and private functions, whether it's for five or 45 people. Come in and meet the team; we would love to bring a smile to your face. Instagram: @mollymecafe Facebook page: Molly&ME Cafe


Jetty theatre Upcoming shows There may only be two months left in 2015, but there’s still plenty of live and on-screen entertainment to enjoy at the Jetty Memorial Theatre.

CHMCC Latest Production Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company’s latest production, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, opens on November 6th. Featuring all the characters you love from the movie, Jeremy and Jemima, their father Caractacus Potts and the lovely Truly Scrumptious set out to rescue Grandpa from the evil Baron Bomburst. Jemima is played by 12 year old Grace Jones, who loves performing arts, and studies ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary dance at Harbour Performing Arts Centre. She was very excited to be cast in her first musical! The role of Jeremy is played by 9 year old Harley Hayes, who loves to sing and perform, and is ecstatic to be playing Jeremy. He hopes this is just the beginning of a long and successful performing journey! The children are on stage in almost every scene, and have had to learn lots of lines, as well as several musical numbers. They have worked really hard, attending up to 10 hours of rehearsal a week, alongside school and other commitments. Somehow, they have remained bright and cheerful throughout! Will they win through? Will the Baron and Baroness be defeated? Will Grandpa be rescued? With teamwork, imagination, and the help of a magical car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang flies, swims, and rides to a breathtaking finale!

CHMCC Presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Friday 6 November - Sunday 29 November

Looking through A glass onion LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION with JOHN WATERS Bishop Druitt College in association with local promoters JLE is proud to present the prestigious LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION with JOHN WATERS on Sat, Nov 28 in a first for the school, who have made the facility available for a fully public event for the very first time. “Yes, it’s a great coup to secure such a show for the very first public event,” said promoter John Logan. John Waters is one of Australia’s most recognised, respected critically acclaimed actors and singers. He has retained an audience across four decades of theatre, musicals, TV, film and music, interrupted only by various digressions into personal and creative exploration - all of which have only added to the credibility surrounding him. Born in London, 8 December 1948 to Scottish actor Russell Waters and his West Indian-born English wife Barbara, John and his four siblings lived in Teddington Middlesex, close to the Thames TV Studios. Appearing in school plays such as Macbeth, his first appearance was as an “extra” at age ten in the original Titanic movie, A Night To Remember, followed by another bit of background work in the Disney classic Dr Syn - both courtesy of accompanying his father on film locations and being given something to do to while away the time.

Featuring all the characters and songs you love from the MGM movie, Jeremy and Jemima, their father Caractacus Potts and the lovely Truly Scrumptious set out to rescue Grandpa from the evil Baron Bomburst. With teamwork, imagination, and the help of a magical car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang flies, swims, and rides to a breathtaking finale! Cinematinee Presents Iris - Thursday 5 November True style is ageless. Be inspired and enchanted by Iris Apfel, the quick-witted, flamboyantly dressed 93-year-old New York style icon and muse. Iris is a woman whose enthusiasm for fashion, art and people remind us that dressing, and indeed life, is nothing but an experiment. “It’s like time spent with your coolest, funniest and most sage aunt” - New York Daily News. Cinematinee Presents Umrika - Thursday 19 November 2015 Sundance Film Festival Audience Award: World Cinema Dramatic. A small village in India is invigorated when one of their own travels to America (aka, UMRIKA) and details his adventures through letters home, sparking community debate and inspiring hope. “A feel good movie between Slumdog Millionaire & The Lunchbox” - The Hollywood Reporter. See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office noon - 4pm, Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088. CHMCC Presents…

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG

Featuring all the characters and songs you love from the MGM movie, plenty of imagination, magic and a breathtaking finale! Friday 6 – Sunday 29 November A Cinematinee Screening…

IRIS

Be inspired and enchanted by Iris Apfel, the quick-witted, flamboyantly dressed 93-year-old New York style icon and muse. Thursday 5 November 10:30am and 1:30pm Directed by Maureen

Burgess * Musical Director T im E gan

A Cinematinee Screening…

UMRIKA

Winner 2015 Sundance Film Festival World Cinema Award. Sweet, funny and very touching. Thursday 19 November 10:30am and 1:30pm Proudly supported by

Box office hours Tues to Fri 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 02 6652 8088 email: jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour

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GREENER? THIS GREEN SMOOTHIE IS PACKED FULL OF GOODNESS, HEALTHY FATS, SUPER FOODS, AND LOADS OF GREEN DELICIOUSNESS.

¼ avocado 1 green apple Handful of chopped fresh pineapple 1 cup coconut water Small piece cucumber Handful of baby spinach 2 kale leaves Teaspoon maca powder ½ tsp spirulina Handful ice Blend together: serve and top with chia seeds.

T I R E D FRONTED BY THE ENIGMATIC SOPHIE HOPES, TIRED LION’S INFECTIOUS MELODIES ARE BROUGHT FORTH WITH RAW HONESTY AND INTENSITY, CALLING BACK TO THE RICH TRADITION OF STRONG AUSTRALIAN FRONT WOMEN.

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heir fresh take on ‘90s nostalgia most memorable things. It was amazing and will ring both true and loudly to the something that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. ears ... FOCUS caught up with Ethan How would you describe your style as a from the band in the lead-up to their band? FOTSUN and Coffs Hotel gigs ... We’re mainly influenced by grunge and rock How did you first come together as a band? and that kind of thing, and I think that shines Nick, Matt and Sophie all went to high school through a lot, but I know for Sophie as well as together and starting jamming more of like a myself and the others, we all listen to a lot of folk type vibe when we first started, mellower music as well, and I think and then we really started lyrically that shines through. getting interested in rock Personally, what inspires We’re mainly and grunge. We initially you? influenced by had a bass player (not Growing up-wise, my and that grunge and rock I think Nick) and then we brother was my biggest d kind of thing, an h a lot, found Nick - and here inspiration for why I ug ro th es in sh that we are today. play music - but mainly phie as but I know for So the You guys are on the for me I look to rock d well as myself an to a bill for FOTSUN this stars and all those kind n te others , we all lis as ic year. What are you of guys. But my friends us m lot of mellower lly ca ri ly looking forward to and family inspire me k well, and I thin ” h. ug ro the most? more, because I have a lot th that shines That’s a difficult of musician friends. When question. I’m really looking I see them play or hear what forward to a big sound festival; a projects they’re doing, it inspires me lot of our friends are going to be there, and even more so than if I watch a video of it’s just going to be a good time, I think. Dave Grohl or someone like that ... What experience can we expect from What’s on the horizon for Tired Lion? your onstage vibe? We’re going to be working on the new album I guess we are just going to be a couple of for the next year or so, playing and touring, I young go getters trying to have has much fun guess. as possible! Where can our readers follow you guys? You guys are touring with fellow Facebook, Instagram and Twitter FOTSUNNERS British India; you must be www.fb.com/TiredLionBand pretty pumped about that … @tiredlionband Yeah, it’s really exciting! We did another little tour with them earlier in the year; we’re all the plug! friends already, so it’s going to be fun, you know Catch Tired Lion at FOTSUN 11 - 12 - just hanging out with your mates around the December, Sundowner Breakwall country again. Tourist Park: www.fotsun.com and the Since your discovery, what’s been the most Coffs Hotel, December 10, Cnr Grafton memorable moment of the journey? and West High Streets: For me it would have to be playing Splendour www.coffsharbourhotel.com in the Grass - that was definitely one of the

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of The

• strawberry moscow mule •

The crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip have thrown a spring twist on a classic borne out of the 1940s vodka craze. With muddled fresh strawberries, lime, vodka and ginger beer over crushed iced, the Strawberry Moscow Mule sings out “put feet up and kick back” on a sunny spring day!

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PRESENTED BY TRIPLE J, THE MUSIC, SOUTHERN CROSS TEN, FOCUS & SAND EVENTS

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focusinterview.

IT WAS IN 2012 THAT FIVE BOYS FROM THE SMALL NSW COUNTRY TOWN OF MENANGLE PACKED THEIR BAGS AND FLEW TO NEW YORK CITY TO RECORD THEIR DEBUT ALBUM. THEY HAD 14 SONGS AND ONLY $20 PER DAY TO SPEND ON FOOD, BUT GRAMMY WINNING PRODUCER, DAVID KAHNE (LANA DEL REY, THE STROKES) HAD HEARD THEIR MUSIC AND SENT A PERSONAL INVITATION. THAT WAS THREE YEARS, A PLATINUM ALBUM AND NUMEROUS SOLD-OUT TOURS AGO, AND NOW THE RUBENS ARE BACK WITH THEIR SOPHOMORE RECORD, HOOPS …

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he last time we caught up was in the lead up to FOTSUN back in 2013. I can only imagine the last two years have been filled with memorable moments - can you name a few of them? The last two years pretty much has been … we finished touring the album in late 2013, so since then it’s just been writing and recording Hoops, which has been a whole lot of fun. We did a lot of writing in a house south of Sydney for five months and came up with a whole bunch of material, and then ended up going up to Byron Bay for pre-production, which was beautiful, and then recorded in New York. So, we’ve done a lot of travelling and been to a lot of sweet places, and then now of course we get to start touring and see a lot of great places again! We’re so lucky! You’ve now dropped your new album, Hoops, which has already made it to #2 on the ARIA chart; you guys must be chuffed! It’s a crazy thing; you spend so long recording and sitting in a studio doing all this stuff, and then you kind of forget why you’re doing it ... and when you get a stat back saying that is charted second, that’s amazing! That’s why we’re doing it. What was the experience like going into the studio for the second time? It was good. We worked with the same producer as last time - David Kahne - so this time around we weren’t in for a lot of surprises.

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Last time we’d never been in a studio before, and all of a sudden we were working with this big name producer who’d worked with so many cool people and so many of our heroes; it was a bit scary at first, but this time around we didn’t have to be scared. We’re good friends with David, and we can just get along and work hard on the music and have fun. I think this time we weren’t as green; we were able to speak up a lot more. Before if we didn’t like the sound of something or maybe a song was going down a road we didn’t like, this time we were able to speak up and have a discussion about that and steer it more in our direction, which meant that we were a lot happier with our end product. We knew how studio time works and how exactly we could pull the sounds that we wanted; it was exciting for us, because we knew what album we wanted to make and we knew were capable of doing it - it was a very fun experience. I read the song Switchblade off Hoops has a bit of a comical story behind it … Sam wrote that one; he wrote it when he was really drunk! hH decided to sit down at the laptop, write a song and have a couple of beers, - I think it ended up being a lot of beers - and in the morning we had a listen to it, and said, “Oh s*@t, we have a song here!” The album Hoops incorporates a lot of different music styles; what inspired the decision to bring those different influences forward? We listen to a lot of different music between

us. We listen to a lot of Hip Hop and then obviously Blues, and Rock and stuff. When you’re listening to that kind of music, it kind of creeps in with what you write, and we’re not afraid to branch out across an album and have a new song that’s quite RnB, and then another song that’s quite straight up Rock ‘n’ Roll. If that’s the songs we’re writing, then that’s us and what we’re playing. We don’t think any articular song isn’t “Rubens” enough ... When we wrote Hoops, it’s sounds quite RnB, but we still like it. There’s no fear of being eclectic on an album. You’re stopping by in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Can we expect a mixture of both new and old? And what are you looking forward to most about getting back on the road? At the moment, we’ve been building steps in working out how things are going to flow, and it’s looking like it will be half and half at the moment, which is fun - going back to the old stuff is more fun than we thought it would be, because we haven’t played it in a while, and it feels fresh again. It’s a pay off for us to be finally playing this new stuff live; you spend so much time indoors making it - live, it feels good. Being brothers, you must disagree at times. How do you calm the fire when problems arise - especially while on the road? We’re pretty good - we see eye to eye on pretty much everything, whether it’s creatively or

business wise - like going to certain places and things like that. When we were cutting down songs, we had about 35 songs for the album and that had to be cut down to 11; we had differences of opinions, and everyone was OK with listening about why their song should be on the album or why this song shouldn’t be on the album. It can get heated, but everyone respects each other well enough to listen to each other’s decisions. It’s part of being a band; otherwise, it’s going to be a s@#t time. What happens to those songs that don’t quite make the cut for the album? We have some that we just didn’t do well enough with and they’ll probably just go in the scrap heap and will never see the light of day, but then there’s a bunch that we feel really strongly about - whether they’ll be reworked on a third album or whether they’ll end up on some sort of deluxe version as they are. There’s a lot of material there that we feel strongly about and really hope they’ll see the light of day someday. Thanks.

the plug! Don’t miss the Rubens with special guests Saskwatch & Winterbourne at C.ex Coffs Harbour on the Hoops national tour. Saturday 7 November 2015 (opening 7pm). www.cex.com.au. 18+ tix $39.80


President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Martin Wells

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martin wells. AS THE SEASONS CHANGE, DAYLIGHT SAVING COMMENCES AND THE VIBE ON THE STREET SWITCHES FROM SEMI-HIBERNATION TO THE EXCITEMENT OF SPRING AND SUMMER, THE CHAMBER HAS BEEN FRANTICALLY PREPARING FOR AN AMAZING STRING OF SAWTELL SUMMER SESSIONS.

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hey were a resounding success Surf Life Saving Club. It is from these premises last year, with hordes of people that season after season dedicated volunteer making the most of First members keep Sawtell’s locals and visitors alike Avenue being closed to come safe as they make the most of our surf and sand. down, enjoy a meal, enjoy The development application has been approved the festivities and soak up the by council and the concept plans for the multiflood-lit figs. This year each Summer Session will million dollar construction look sensational, have a theme aligned with it (from Antique with increased club facilities for its 400 Roadshows, to Cuban Nights, members, additional café space, from petting zoos to fire trucks and new outdoor showers buskers, arts and craft), so etc. From a tourism aspect, ity Economic activ lock these dates in your it will be just another continues to diaries: reason for visitors to hout be strong throug ss Thursday 12th November keep coming back. The ne the Sawtell busi ty 2015; Thursday 10th other big ticket item ci pa houses , with ca ng ri du December 2015; is the Sawtell Cinema n accommodatio s ay lid Thursday 14th January renovations. Activity the school ho d se ea cr in 2016; Thursday 11th of Sawtell and Coffs in resulting ” e. ad tr d an fic February 2016; Thursday Coast tradies continues af foot tr 10th March 2016. to draw much interest. At Economic activity continues last report, the anticipated to be strong throughout the opening is still on track for Sawtell business houses, with capacity December 2015. accommodation during the school holidays As Christmas races towards us at a resulting in increased foot traffic and trade. seemingly increasing pace, the Chamber There are some significant events coming up, invites all Coffs Coast residents and those from with the Australian Junior OzTag Championships further afield to pop on in to Sawtell early to bringing many families to the region. A plethora check out what is on offer to fill the stockings. of the 170 teams competing (and their families) If nothing else, you can secure some beautiful will be calling Sawtell home during the three fashion items and accessories, and treat yourself days of competition. to some of the best local food and coffee on Excitement continues to build as two of offer. If you haven’t been for a while, you will be Sawtell’s most recognisable landmarks continue surprised and delighted!! We look forward to (or are soon to commence) their transformations. welcoming you. Plans recently went on public exhibition for the Yours in business. long overdue redevelopment of the Sawtell Martin Wells - Vice President.

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ouse of the Le Dain Designs view their products there is a website and is situated on First Face Book page ‘Le Dain Designs.’ Avenue in the Along with both designer picturesque and everyday jewellery, beach side town there is a wide of Sawtell. The selection of fashion. boutique is opulent From casual wear to Dressing ladies but definitely being dressed up to of all ages, of all welcoming and the nines for that dress sizes for any affordable. It has special occasion, Le the charm of an old Dain Designs has occasion. fashioned store but it all. the pizazz of today. House of Le Dain There is an emphasis Designs is one of on personalised the Major Sponsors for service with after hours the Park Beach Fashions styling sessions available with on the field, so there is always a sensational selection of millinery available. experienced stylists available at all times. To

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ed by the Inspir LIVING COAST FESTIVAL

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The very first Living Coast Festival will take place from 1 - 30 November 2015, celebrating the natural beauty of the Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Nambucca regions and providing sustainable living inspiration.

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he Coffs Harbour Sustainable Living Day on Sunday 1 November at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden will open the festival and is the signature event for the Coffs

Coffs Harbour Sustainable Living Day Sunday 1 November 10am - 3pm North Coast Regional Botanic Garden with Costa from ABC TV Bello Spring LeaF Learning Festival 2 - 29 November, across the Bellingen area Nambucca River Festival 28 - 29 November, Macksville Plus over 50 events being held across the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Regions, including: arts exhibitions & workshops, celebrations, community garden open days & tours, cycling & surfing, fashion exchange & talk, canoe & kayak tours, gardening and plant workshops, electricity workshop, film screening, food and cooking workshops, farm open days, growers market competition, guided bushwalks, local food forums and launches, Landcare & tree planting activities, openings, a party, picnic, poetry and youth nature camp.

We acknowledge the Gumbaynggirr people as the traditional custodians of this land and pay respect to the elders both past, present and future. 40 coffs coast focus.

region. Join special guest Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC’s Gardening Australia, landscape architect, permaculturalist and sustainability advocate in the beautiful setting of the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens. Visit the stalls to buy native plants, herbs and veggie seedlings, local artisan foods, arts and crafts, investigate solar power for your house and get advice on the best way to rid your garden of weeds. Try the Kids’ Zone with live reptile shows, story-time and hands-on craft and gardening activities, relish the delicious tastes from myriad food stalls, or just kick back and enjoy the live music. Entry is by gold coin donation. The headline Festival event for the Bellingen region is the Bello Spring Learning Festival (LeaF) from 2- 29 November. Highlights include the opening of the Bellingen Sustainability Centre with Costa, Northbank Community Garden tours and workshops, an overnight Bushwalk for adults to Watergum Falls, as well as a Bellingen Environmental Youth Experience (EYE) camp. In Nambucca, the focus will be the Nambucca River Festival on 28 - 29 November in Macksville. The Festival includes a water ski show, power boat races, the Brian Cockbain Memorial Cycle Ride, entertainment, food and wine stalls and the Lantern Parade down the river after dark,

which is followed by fireworks and a musical street party to dance the night away. There really is something for everyone, with over 50 additional festival events held in November across the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca council areas. These include art exhibitions and workshops, celebrations, community garden open days and tours, cycling and surfing, a fashion exchange and talk, canoe and kayak tours, gardening and plant workshops, an electricity workshop, film screening, food and cooking workshops, farm open days, a growers market competition, guided bushwalks, Landcare and tree planting activities, openings, and even a party! A highlight cultural event is the Tern Up Sawtell Community Arts programme, which includes an art exhibition, twilight street parade at the Sawtell Summer Session to welcome back the endangered Little Terns, a poetry and sand performance evening and a birdwatching family picnic at Bonville Headland, Sawtell. Local food highlights include the 2015 Mid North Coast Food Forum at the Bonville International Golf Resort and the launch of the Bellingen Shire Local Food Guide, with local celebrity chef Clayton Donovan. Proud Gold Sponsor of the Living Coast Festival is the Coffs Coast Advocate, with 105.5 Star FM the proud silver sponsor. To check out what’s on offer, or for more information on events in the lead-up to the Festival, go to www.ourlivingcoast.com.au The Living Coast Festival is an initiative of the Our Living Coast Regional Sustainability Alliance of Coffs Harbour City Council, Bellingen Shire Council and Nambucca Shire Council.


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Wholly ORGANIC When we think about sustainable living, we often think about things like using solar panels, using less water, conserving electricity and perhaps eating organic food - but did you know the clothes you wear can be sustainable too? Here at Wholly Organic, we love to showcase Australian clothing labels who are making gorgeous clothing - but they are truly ethical and sustainable businesses. What does that all mean? Put simply, the fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries, and many clothes that are available to us have been made in sweat shops and produced using many toxic chemicals. This is not only harmful to the environment, but also for the people who make them - right down to the consumer who wears the clothing. At Wholly Organic you will find beautiful clothing made from natural fibres like organic cotton and organic bamboo which have external accreditations from G.O.T.S & Oeko-tex, to be sure the environmental and social standards are being met. If the garments have been produced overseas, then they are Fairtrade, and our labels work with the whole community, from those who grow the organic cotton, to the weavers (many of which is done by hand using a backstrap loom), to those who dye the fabrics using plant based dyes, to the tailors. These people are skilled artisans and are well paid, supported and appreciated. If the clothing is made in Australia, then it has been accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia. If you’d like to know more, please pop in and have a browse and a chat. You can also check out Fashion Revolution Australia or check out #whomademyclothes and be part of the change.

kombu wholefoods The Coffs Coast is not only a stunning part of the world to visit, but also provides some of the best growing conditions on the East Coast. Local climate zones vary from frost-free coastal living to steamy hinterland valleys and then up into the frosty (and at times snowy) mountain ranges. Combine that variety with fertile land and some of the most reliable rainfall in Australia, and you have the potential for a local food paradise. With that in mind, the team at thriving Bellingen-based organic grocery and healthy living store Kombu Wholefoods have been working to stock as wide a range of chemical free/ organic local produce as possible for close on ten years. With a dedicated local produce coordinator, the range has been growing year on year, and they now offer some of the best local and regional produce available on the Coffs Coast. When produce is not available locally, the team source from regional markets, ensuring an ongoing variety in store. With the aim of being an eco-friendly discount one-stop shop for everything their customers could need, the produce has been complemented by over 2,500 other products, ranging from organic meat through to hundreds of affordable bulk lines, to natural cosmetics and hair care. You can shop in store Monday to Saturday or order much of the range online at www.kombuwholefoods.com.au

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Sustainable Living

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BestPRACTICE WASTE MANAGEMENT

The three bin system we use in Coffs Harbour is recognised as the NSW best practice waste management system for the type, size and collection frequency of household bins.

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se of this system since 2005 has You can do this yourself simply and cheaply by contributed to making our city obtaining designated bins for waste, recycling become the number one recycler and food scraps and organics. in NSW. While we are doing a If your business or workplace uses bulk bins, great job at recycling and reducing contact your service provider to see what they our waste to landfill, there is still much that we can do to help you reduce your waste and can do to become a zero waste community. increase your recycling. Most providers are able Reducing the amount of waste we send to give businesses the option of a paper and to landfill and recycling as much as we can cardboard service, and some can provide a comakes good sense for our environment, our mingled recycling service. community, schools, homes and Disposal services for other waste workplaces. materials. A few simple changes to There are a range of the way we do things on options for the disposal of a daily basis can have One of the best materials that do not go ways we can a huge impact on our into household bins. waste environment. help reduce our At the Englands e bl na is through sustai e What can you do Road Waste Facility, on st Ju purchasing . at home? residents are able to ip tr ng pi op weekly sh One of the best 60 to drop off the following up te ra ne can ge ways we can help ing cl cy re materials free of nno of s item reduce our waste is charge. packaging. ” through sustainable • Clean Polystyrene purchasing. Just one • Paper and Cardboard weekly shopping trip can • Household recyclables generate up to 60 items of • Fluorescent globes non-recycling packaging. Look for • e-Waste (computers, printers and items with less packaging, use re-usable computer hardware) shopping bags and wherever possible, get • Paint and chemicals your produce in paper bags, not plastic. • Gas bottles and fire extinguishers Items such as jars and plastic containers with • Oils and fuels lids are easy to reuse in a multitude of ways. Asbestos is accepted only under strict There are literally thousands of great websites conditions and only on Thursdays, Fridays and for inspiring reuse ideas - why not take a look Saturdays between 12:30pm and 3:30pm. at these sites for a start: Contact the Coffs Coast Waste Services Hotline www.upcyclethat.com/ on 1800 265 495 for more information. www.viralnova.com/upcycled-products/ Further information. www.apartmenttherapy.com/smartIf you need more information, you can visit the moneysaving-creative-reuse-ideas-122566 Coffs Coast Waste Services Website or Planet Ark What can you do at work? websites: Did you know that it costs a great deal more http://coffscoastwaste.com.au/ to dispose of garbage than it does to recycle? http://businessrecycling.com.au/ Most businesses can do more to recycle http://recyclingnearyou.com.au/council/ and reduce waste disposal by implementing CoffsHarbourNSW effective internal waste separation systems.

Twice a year council provides a kerbside collection of bulky items to Coffs Coast residents. There are a few guidelines as to what items we can and cannot collect, and how these items should be placed out for collection. • Place your items out on the kerb the night before the scheduled collection date. Placing your items out before this time is classified as illegal dumping, and may result in a fine. • Items must be in a NEAT pile on the kerbside, no bigger than the size of a standard box trailer (approx. 3 metres x 3 metres). • Small items must be in bags or boxes for ease of collection • No car parts, tyres, batteries or hazardous items such as paint, chemicals and gas bottles • No builders waste

with Ben from Kombu Wholefoods

KALE

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• No sand, soil or rocks • No general household garbage or green waste • No broken glass or mirrors These items are collected by hand, by two people. Excessive items will not be collected. Please go to www.coffscoastwaste.com.au for area pick up dates and the bulky Goods guide. If you have any questions about bulky goods/kerbside collections, or your collection dates, please contact Coffs Coast Waste Services - 1800 265 495.

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Kale is an amazing food that has grown from humble roots (and shoots) to its current position as one of the top superfoods. Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, is loaded with powerful antioxidants and is an excellent source of vitamin C. It even contains a wide range of compounds that are believed to help protect against cancer. Combine all those benefits with how easy it is to grow, and no wonder kale can now be spotted in many of our local gardens. Kale grows easily from seed (Eden Seeds, $3.29) or you can buy trays of seedlings ($3 for six organic seedlings) and transplant into your garden. As the sun grows stronger, shade cloth can be useful - and watch out for local wildlife, which from experience is also well aware of the nutritional benefits! Too busy to grow it yourself? Kale is available fresh from most supermarkets and grocery stores. Rip up, blend, toss into salads, enjoy.

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Find out more about Kombu: visit www.kombuwholefoods.com.au


Sustainable Living

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saving water TOP TIPS

ETIKO

thongs FOR GOOD

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hese are “Thongs for Good” by Etiko, who are Australian leaders in ethical and Fairtrade clothing and footwear. These thongs are made from natural and recycled rubber (no nasty petroleum based products), are Fairtrade, and

there are four designs which support four different charities. Green is the Wilderness Society, White is Save the Children (Australia), blue is Surfrider Foundation, and black is The Orangutan Project. Available at Wholly Organic in Sawtell.

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BAG

Each month we distribute your FOCUS in a plastic sandwich bag to protect against weather. Being quite small, it’s easy to toss them into the rubbish bin. There are many ways in which you can reuse your bag. We hope these ideas inspire you … • DIY Gloves. Perfect when you need to clean something messy. • Portable water dish when walking the dog. • Easy to pick up poop bag when walking the dog. • Pastry bag. Fill bag with frosting. Push out air and seal. Cut a small hole in the corner and push out frosting. • Cold pack. Fill with water, freeze and use on sore muscles after exercising. • Disposing of cooking oil. Pour in used oil, seal, and toss in rubbish.

• Bath pillow. Taking a long bath: blow air in to bag and seal. • Survival kit. Keep your goodies in when travelling in car. Tissues, bandaids etc. • Floatation device for valuables. If you're stand up paddle boarding or down at the beach, keep phone and keys inside and seal shut to protect against water or sand. • DIY funnel. If you have any further ideas of ways to reuse your FOCUS sandwich bag, please feel free to post your idea on to Coffs Coast FOCUS' Facebook page.

Reducing your usage of water will eliminate or defer the need for new dams and supply systems, reduce operating costs for treating and distributing water, reduce your household water charges and possibly your energy bills as well and also protect the health of our beautiful rivers.

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ead Your Water Meter Front load washing machines are Regularly recommended as a great way to reduce your Being aware of how much water consumption and save money on your water you use by reading your water bills. On average, an old top loading water meter regularly could save washing machine will use about 180 litres of you lots of money if you identify a hidden water per wash. The average front loading water leak early. washing machine will use just 80 litres of Fix Leaks ASAP water per wash, many even less than that. Quickly fixing leaking taps, showers and Multiply this saving of 100 litres per wash by toilets could save you lots of the number of loads of washing in money. your house in a year, and this Reduce the Flow is clearly a big water saving You may be surprised for your house - and your By choosing to at how much water wallet. purchase water is used around the Install a Rainwater ts over efficient produc ucts , house in everyday Tank od water wasting pr activities. Old showers Rainwater tanks can om fr you save water can use up to 25 u provide an alternate yo y da the very first w litres of water every source of water ne ur yo g start usin minute; whereas, water and therefore save t.” produc efficient showers use just you money off your 9 litres per minute. Some water bill. You save the kitchen taps can use 25 litres most amount of water when of water a minute, but water the rainwater tank is plumbed to efficient flows are just 8 litres/minute. fixtures which use water all the time, Reducing the water flow will not only save such as your washing machine and toilet. you money on your water bill, but also Be Smart about How You Use Water your energy bill. Here are some handy hints on how to save Use Water Efficient Products water all year round: By choosing to purchase water efficient • Take a short shower using a low flow shower products over water wasting products, you nozzle save water from the very first day you start • Only use the dishwasher with full loads using your new product. There are water • Use plugs in the sink saving products to save you money all around • Don’t leave taps or hoses running your house. • Keep cold water in the fridge Take Advantage of Rebates for Water • Use a bucket when washing the car, keeping Saving Products the hose for the final rinse Financial incentives, such as rebates or • Wash your car on the lawn free giveaway competitions for water saving • Don’t water the garden in the heat of the products are designed to help you save water day and reduce your water bill. Some incentives • Place mulch on all garden flower beds and may only be offered for a limited time, so get around the base of shrubs and trees in early! • Clean paths with a broom rather than a hose Swap to a Front Load Clothes Washing By following these tips, your family can save Machine up to 450 litres of water each day. It’s worth it!

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and WELLBEING W I T H G L E N O ’ H A R A , A R E A M A N A G E R , I N T E R R E L AT E C O F F S H A R B O U R

W I T H L AU R E N V E S T E Y F RO M L I V I N G D O L L

men depression and

DEPRESSION IS A SERIOUS AND SURPRISINGLY COMMON CONDITION FOR MEN, WITH 1 IN 6 AUSTRALIAN MEN SUFFERING DEPRESSION AT ANY ONE TIME.

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epression is not a reflection of how “strong” or “together” a man is, but is a sign that your usual positive feelings and sense of wellbeing have been overwhelmed as a result of circumstances, changes in life-pressures or health-related issues. It’s often very hard for men to acknowledge or recognise the signs of depression, but it’s important to seek help and not ignore these feelings due to fear or stigma. Depression can be described as feeling consistently sad, miserable or down for more than two weeks and can include the loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities. Depression in men can result in the pulling back from friendships and social connections, increased dependence on alcohol or drugs, reduced concentration, a heightened sense of hopelessness and strong negative thoughts of failure, guilt or worthlessness. Other symptoms may include physical changes such as tiredness, sleep problems, appetite and bodyweight changes. The risk factors for depression in men include relationship issues, separation or divorce, health problems, work pressure, unemployment, parenting changes, increased use of alcohol and

other drugs. When compared with women, men statistically are at significantly greater risk of depressionrelated suicide and are also statistically much less likely to seek help. Some tips for getting help: • See your GP, psychologist, or counsellor • Access good quality information • Share your feelings with family, mates or helplines • Exercise most days • Eat and sleep as well as you can • Be kind to yourself, and don’t act on all your feelings Other sources of information: Mental Health Access Line: 1800 011 511 (24/7 NSW Health) Interrelate Counselling: www.interrelate.org.au or 1300 473 528 Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au or 1300 224 636 Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7) Dads In Distress Support Services:1300 853 437 Mensline: 1300 78 99 78 (24/7) Suicide call back service: 1300 659 467

A GOOD HAIRCUT IS REALLY EMPOWERING.

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t can not only turn any bad hair day into the best one ever, but your new added layers or bangs can completely sky rocket your self-confidence, leaving you feeling like you can take on the world for weeks to come. The big chop seems all the rage during the warmer months, but whether you’re thinking about a pixie or you’re just trying to take a few inches off your locks, there’s a thing or two you should know about cutting your hair. Below are six little known facts about cutting your hair, and some tips to help you get the best out of your hair. 1. Cutting your hair more often doesn’t make it grow faster: getting rid of the ends of your hair doesn’t directly affect hair growth. Trimming simply keeps hair healthier as it grows, by cutting off the split ends so that they stay intact, instead of fraying and breaking off quicker than your hair actually grows. Lauren explains, “Millimeter trims - I like to call micro trims - make a huge difference when trying to grow your hair.” 2. Layer accordingly: when cutting your hair, you should layer it according to your hair texture. Tighter curls work best with layers that aren’t perfectly even, while straighter hair works best with more even layers. However, don’t look past the very fashionable solid cut, at that LOB (long bob) length. 3. Love an (on-the-go) wash and wear hair-

JA N E L L E A K E R S – F R E S H D E N TA L C A R E

With A GREAT SMILE CREATES A GREAT IMPRESSION, PERSONALLY OR PROFESSIONALLY. IF YOUR SMILE IS LESS THAN PERFECT, IT CAN AFFECT YOUR SELF CONFIDENCE AND THE WAY OTHERS PERCEIVE YOU.

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FAST: you could be six months away from the fantastic smile you’ve always dreamed of, with the revolutionary CFAST treatment. What is CFAST? CFAST is a gentle, minimally invasive treatment for adults that uses sound orthodontic principles to straighten the upper and lower front six teeth - the “social six” that make up your visible smile. Using a tooth coloured wire and clear brackets, it gently straightens your teeth to give you that healthy, beautiful smile.

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How does it work? CFAST uses special nickel-titanium wires to straighten your teeth in a controlled and predicatable way. The treatment uses lighter forces than traditional orthodontics, so it is more comfortable, as well as much quicker. Will the teeth stay straight after treatment? After completing CFAST treatment, you will need to wear a retainer to support your teeth in the new position - ideally with a bonded retainer. Some cases are not always suitable for CFAST and may require specialist orthodontic treatment.

style: it’s important to let your stylists know how you style at home, so that they can address this and cut accordingly. In most cases, wash and wear styles are best cut dry. 4. All bangs aren’t cut equally: if you’re thinking about getting bangs (fringe), know what works best for your face and for your hair texture. Long, wispy bangs usually work best for a long face or high forehead, while softer, shorter bangs work best to frame a round face. However, if you have a dreaded cowlick, remember - is it worth all that work! 5. Short hair takes work: cutting off your hair doesn’t mean less trips to the salon. To keep it maintained, shorter cuts usually require more frequent trips to the salon to keep the shape and style fresh. But don’t despair - you’ll find it’s outweighed by the ease of styling it at home. 6. Bring options: sure, we’ve all got our Pinterest boards full of haircut inspiration, but make sure you bring multiple options. When you get to the salon, your stylist may explain that a certain cut won’t work with your texture, or that it will actually require much more work. So keep an open mind and trust the stylists, because that is what they are trained to do. Be brave, embrace a new you and come and speak to one of the Premier Stylists at Living Doll today. XO Dolls.


& WELLBEING

Dr Alan Burrow Optometrist

Dip Optom F.B.O.A. (HD) D.C.L.P. D.ORTH. F.B.C.O. MSC.(Med.) G.C.O.T. M.OPTOM. G.C.B.A

prepare for summer. It is definitely heating up on our beautiful Coffs Coast and for all the tradies out there sweating it out, we are getting incredible results from our BCAAs - (Branch Chain Amino Acids - essential for health, hydration, recovery and to continue to push on a balanced level with no high or low crash in energy levels), which are fuelling hard working days and keeping our tradesmen super hydrated. This product is fantastic for all outdoor activity, whether you are working outdoors, exercising at the gym or taking part in any sport or sun baking on our beautiful beaches. Our cyclists are raving on about this product pictured below. Darren says he has added many extra kilometres due to staying hydrated, and his BCAA helps him to recover so he can ride again the next morning. Another popular product that continues to fly off the shelves at Mass Nutrition is “RAPID SHRED�, the fat burning thermogenic for males and females wanting to remove fat from stubborn areas, so you can hit the beach for summer with confidence.

Living doll is Looking for you Calling all hair stylists ... Living Doll is looking for their next Premier Stylist to join their dynamic and talented team. Open to first, second, third year apprentices and senior hairdressers. Do you think of hairdressing as a passion, and not just another job? Then we want to speak to you. Living Doll pride themselves of having their Premier Stylists trained to the highest standard. We will provided any additional training that is necessary. Plus, our ongoing training programme, taught by some of the industry leaders, keeps us all up to date with the latest trend. Living Doll will support you as your talent and passion continues to grow. Want to attend industry events all over the Australia? Living Doll is here to make this a reality. Fantastic positive work environment, where the team really becomes your second family. Please email Lauren a letter of application and current resume to info@livingdollstylists.com.au.

We constantly search for innovative optical and medical techniques and products which incorporate superior technology to provide patients with optimal vision and comfort. Lens technology is at the forefront, advancing at a rapid rate, spurred on by sophisticated computer-generated designs and new high-tech materials. The latest generation Transitions prescription lenses incorporate technology which delivers exceptional clarity indoors, automatic glare reduction and UV protection outside, all with the comfort and unsurpassed convenience of just the one pair of spectacles. The lens reacts to the sunlight by becoming darker in bright light while lightning in low light conditions. Add to this the inclusion in the range of a New Clear to Dark Graphite Green tint option for multifocal and single vision lenses and Transitions adaptive lenses have become the lens of choice for many because of comfort, protection, convenience and Style! To see the full range of lenses, visit alanburrow.com.au, click on lenses and then the Transitions range or scan the QR code below.

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NIELS PLEYSIER A T

CHIEF ENGINEER B A R I N G A

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P R I V A T E

H O S P I T A L

ell me about yourself ... My background is as an electrician and refrigeration mechanic. I have spent most of my working career in the maintenance and repair industry. I started my maintenance career in Sydney, completing my electrical apprenticeship at Arnott’s Biscuits and have moved around but always continued to work in the maintenance field, primarily as a troubleshooter. I love a challenge and thrive on making what seems impossible, possible. I am married with two children and have two beautiful granddaughters. I I moved my love riding my motorcycle and going family to Coffs s ago flying whenever I can, and I enjoy all Harbour 11 year as w manner of sports - as long as they and still feel this on burn high-octane fuel. the best decisi the Have you always lived in Coffs we’ ve made for e are w ily m fa Harbour? whole d all very happy an After moving to Australia from ” settled here . Europe when I was eight, I grew up in the Blue Mountains NSW, where I met my wife and spent most of my earlier working life. I moved my family to Coffs role at Baringa. I have been given the Harbour 11 years ago and still feel this was the best autonomy and support in this role to make decision we’ve made for the whole family - we are all Baringa “my hospital” and to develop systems very happy and settled here. and relationships which ensure that only the highest How long have you worked at Baringa? level of workmanship is accepted here. Apart from I’ve been at Baringa for the shortest 10 years of my my obvious role of “keeping things running” and life. Always having a challenge and something to strive maintaining compliance, I am always encouraged to do towards makes the time fly by. It didn’t take long after so at the highest level possible. In my almost 10 years joining the team here to realise that this position was here at Baringa, I have also played an important part always going to be a long-term commitment, and I in a lot of the major construction projects such as the have certainly been given every opportunity I needed to new theatres complex, a four bed palliative care unit, make this “my hospital”. an upgrade to our day procedures unit to double its What do you like about being the Chief Engineer capacity, a 12 bed mental health unit, and I am now at Baringa? actively involved in an extension of one of our theatres and a part of the kitchen to make way for a new I love the constant challenges of my ever evolving

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BPH Airport Signage 2400x600 0512OL.indd 1

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vascular unit. These projects have all been important extensions of our service to the Coffs Harbour region, and I feel extremely proud to have played a part in them. I also have a passion for energy conservation and am constantly looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint. Again, I have the flexibility and encouragement here to be able to implement efficiency initiatives which, so far, have shown tangible reductions in our total energy cost without impacting on our high level of service. These are all the types of things which make the difference to me between simply “going to work” and “having a job to do”. I have been lucky enough to surround myself with some amazing people who all work together to help us achieve great things. Thanks Niels.

17/05/12 11:25 AM


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& WELLBEING

INTRODUCING CRAIG DALEY, OWNER OF MASS NUTRITION COFFS HARBOUR AND CASSIE SCULLY, 2 X SPORT AEROBIC WORLD CHAMPION, 9 X AUSTRALIAN CHAMPION, 14 X NSW CHAMPION AND OWNER OF CASS ENERGY.

CRAIG DALEY CASSIE SCULLY

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ust going off the sensational reviews and results from the locals, Mass Nutrition has taken Coffs Harbour by storm. From the hard working business man and woman, to the hardest job in the world - our stay at home mothers - to the elite sportsperson through to the person who enjoys light exercise, the incredible success everyone is achieving from the products at Mass Nutrition is the number one reason owner Craig Daley loves his job. Craig knew he just had to bring Coffs Harbour one of these incredible stores. "There's so much help out there when it comes to supplements. You don't have to accept feeling tired, unmotivated, constantly struggling to shift stubborn fatty areas, being unsuccessful with your weight loss or finding it almost impossible to increase muscle mass," Craig says. Mass Nutrition has so many products to help with your individual worries when it comes to health and fitness. There's a fantastic product for even something as simple as keeping yourself hydrated. Mass Nutrition's super popular product is their BCAs (Branch Chain Amino Acids), which help keep your energy levels balanced, help you continue to stay hydrated at home, at 48 coffs coast focus.

There’s so much

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help

it comes the beach, at work, win World Titles out there when t n’ do u Yo . ts during exercise in Europe and en to supplem ed , tir g in el fe pt ce and the list goes can't even count have to ac ntly ta ns co , ed at iv on. the number of unmot ift stub born struggling to sh Craig's number bodies she has ul sf es g unsucc fatty areas, bein one goal is to transformed or t loss with your weigh stock products during her nine impossible to t os m al it ng findi ” s. which focus purely years of being a as m e increase muscl on health and Personal Trainer. fitness. "I absolutely Cass specialises in recommend our alkalizing training women to help greens powder to feel the them reach their personal absolute best you can, to have health and fitness goals and so much energy while looking after believes her success as a trainer your body every day and getting your is due to knowing how to teach her daily serving of veggies into you simply clients to train their minds to achieve their in one glass. There are no excuses for not goals. being happy and healthy with how easy this Cass has been running her CASS ENERGY product makes it," Craig says. Sport Aerobic Club for school students for The support and positive feedback 14 years now, and it is truly a passion of hers from our local gyms: Genesis Fitness to not only train her students to succeed Club, Powerhouse Gym and Nexus Gym in their competitions, but to improve their Woolgoolga has been amazing for the Mass self confidence, feel amazing with their Nutrition brand and what it represents. body image and to transform their minds to On behalf of Craig Daley and the Mass become more positive, happy and healthy. Nutrition staff, they would like to thank the Cass feels so honored to mentor her students community for their ongoing support since and help them grow into strong, successful, opening in June 2014. motivated, goal driven women. Cassie Scully, owner of CASS ENERGY, "Unfortunately, poor body image issues is a number one Personal Trainer on the are starting earlier and earlier in our young Coffs Coast. Cass has trained athletes to girls. I have had a student as young as four

worried about her body weight, and this is something that makes me really sad to see start so early. I love being able to work with my students and educate them on the correct ways to fuel their bodies with as much fruit, veggies, good meats, nuts and healthy carbs as possible. “Unfortunately, I personally grew up getting weighed and having skin folds conducted every morning at the age of 9, and we were told to starve to get our desired body, so it has always been a mission of mine to never let my athletes have to feel like that or go through anything like that. Luckily, we have the education nowadays, and I've made it a personal goal for me to learn everything about proper nutrition to help my students," says Cass. Although Cass strongly believes in her athletes, she really pushes the point across that the main priority when her CASS ENERGY students get onstage is to HAVE FUN and in every training session to LAUGH, meet new friends and ENJOY what they are doing. With saying that, every year Cass produces outstanding results, with her athletes again this year winning many gold medals at the State and Australian Championships, and she is set to take her athletes to the 2015 World Championships in the Caribbean in the December.


& WELLBEING

Dental PROSTHETIST

THE FIRST STEP TO A BETTER SMILE IS A DENTAL PROSTHETIST. A DENTAL PROSTHETIST WORKS DIRECTLY WITH THE PATIENT TO HELP MAINTAIN DENTURE COMFORT AND ORAL HEALTH.

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rosthetists specialise in the design, fabrication, insertion and adjustment of removable dentures using the latest technology to ensure maximum benefit to the patients. If a denture is maintained well, the life of the denture can be easily doubled.

reasons - the most common being gum resorption and weight loss. Relines can mostly be done in a single day.

A reline can bring back suction, comfort, stability and stop food from going under the denture. Relines are often needed for many

ground parking and a bus stop at the door.

Generally it is recommended that dentures should be relined once every 2 - 3 years.

Geoff is skilled in the clinical and laboratory aspects Relines are An initial consultation of making dentures often needed with the Prosthetist son as for each individual re y an m r fo on will determine which making sure comfort, the most comm is the best avenue for natural appearance being gum you, whether it be new resorption and and chewing ability es dentures or remodelweight loss . Relin are all addressed in all ne do be can mostly ling existing dentures. types of new dentures � in a single day. If your existing dentures including flexible partial are in good condition and dentures and Implant teeth look good, there might retained dentures. Also for the not be a need for a new denture. sporting adult or child our Bump A reline could solve the issue of ill fitting custom made mouthguards are a must. dentures. No referral is needed, with plenty of level

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Call for a consultation: 6699 2737. 6 Glynn Ave, Coffs Harbour. coffs coast focus.

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& WELLBEING

student dr

• STUDENT DOCTOr •

GEORGIA UNSW Rural Clinical School and its Coffs Harbour campus help strengthen rural healthcare and train the next generation of rural doctors. FOCUS caught up with Georgia Redmayne, who is currently studying at the facility to gain an insight into what it's like to be a student doctor.

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hat course are you studying? I am a third year student, studying the Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine (BMed/MD) at UNSW. Why did you choose to study this? I have always been interested in anatomy, body systems and recovery from injury and disease. Health appealed to me as a career pathway that was stimulating, dynamic and centred on helping others. Furthermore, as a rural student I am passionate about addressing health inequities in rural and remote Australia. How many years is the course? Six years. Do you need to complete extra practical experience after this? Most of my practical requirements are incorporated within my course. However, this is particularly well catered for by the Rural Clinical Campus at Coffs Harbour. Students here have access to hospital clinics and procedures, as well as a multitude of community services. Lecturers and doctors make time to teach as well as mentor students, which is much appreciated. Following graduation in sixth year, I’ll have to complete hospital-based internship and registry years prior to pursuing a specialisation training pathway. What do you enjoy about attending the local school? The Coffs Harbour Rural Clinical School is a friendly and welcoming environment to study within. Facilities are first class, and the 50 coffs coast focus.

ancillary staff make you feel at home. We and my aim in studying medicine is to be of have preferable student to staff ratios, which some help to the health of rural and remote facilitates excellent bedside learning. Our communities disadvantaged by location. My campus has fantastic engagement in the local placement here in Coffs Harbour has enabled community, disseminating positive healthcare me to witness some of the challenges in messages through events such as Teddy Bear rural health firsthand and further reinforced Hospital and Health Careers Expo this desire to "give back" to the days. community. I also feel that The rural environment rural life is a healthier, more also nurtures a more carefree option - who t en ud relaxed lifestyle to st wouldn’t want to live l ra ru I am a om fr pursue recreation by the beaches on the lly na gi (ori r North Fa e th on activities and enjoy North Coast! e ill Alstonv aim in y m d the company of Do you see an t), as Co ine is to be other students (of innovation and studying medic the health all year groups). technology playing of some help to e comot of rural and rem taged by Our annual trip to a large part in the an munities disadv the Coffs Cup race future of health? location. ” day was a particular Yes, I feel that GPs highlight! in particular will become Is it of benefit being more technically savvy to so close to a major health address the inequalities and facility? access issues in remote Australia. I live in accommodation quarters Digitalisation of medical records and attached to the clinical school, which continual advances in screening, imaging, and eliminates travel time and allows me drug regimes will require the whole profession to head into the hospital at any time to see to embrace innovation and technology. I’ve patients and research particular cases. This always viewed medicine as a profession of is certainly a change from the commuting lifelong learning, and I doubt this will change in labyrinth in Sydney! For assignments I can the future! easily access patients, and lecturers are never What is it about the health sector that far away. Consequently I have more free time! inspired you to study this course? When you graduate, would you like to In addition to earlier sentiments, I have return to the local area? always been inspired by the importance Definitely. I am a rural student (originally of teamwork and collaboration between from Alstonville on the Far North Coast), medical professionals in order to achieve

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positive patient outcomes. This appealed to my background and experience in sporting teams, where I have learnt to appreciate shared responsibility in striving to reach a goal. Any advice for others who might be looking at studying at the local school and taking on this course? Just give it a go. If you are interested in health and medicine, it is definitely a worthwhile opportunity, so don’t dismiss your chances! Each year UNSW have a large intake of rural students, and campus is always an exciting place to be. Current students are a great resource for tips on the application and interview process. Outside of studying, do you relax by taking part in sports? Sport has always been a central part of my life and a great way to balance the demands of medical study. Being in Coffs, I’ve definitely had more time for recreational activities this year. Our student body have entered teams in local multisports competitions, and I’ve also enjoyed competing in weekly social competitions as part of the Sawtell Tennis Club. As a member of the NSW Lend-Lease Breakers cricket team, I’ve been kept busy through regular flights to Sydney for squad commitments and grade games. I am extremely grateful that everyone on campus has supported both my medicine and sporting endeavours. For more background on the school, try these links: rcs.med.unsw.edu.au/ www.facebook.com/unsw.rcs Thanks Georgia.


& WELLBEING

• but at what cost? • The continuing rise in the demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures has led to an increase in the number of people administering these types of treatments at incredibly low prices.

Whilst this might sound like good news for the consumer, unfortunately it’s far from it. Non-surgical cosmetic procedures, and injectables in particular, are costly for very good reasons. The expense involved in using quality products, providing excellent service and meeting the necessary safety requirements is significant, so in order to meet these costs, quality practitioners have to set their prices accordingly. In order to help educate the public about what exactly they are getting for their money when they invest in a quality non-surgical procedure, we’ve put together a brief guide about what

goes into bringing you a treatment you can trust. Research Companies that manufacture premium product for cosmetic use have invested millions of dollars in developing, researching and providing evidence of its safety and effectiveness. They also continue to invest in further research and development, discovering new ways their medicines can be used and developing new products. The cost of this investment is reflected in its price. Training Responsible non-surgical cosmetic practitioners will invest heavily in training and ongoing education in order to expertly deliver treatments and having received initial training, will continue to invest in further education. A Safe Environment Practitioners must ensure that they comply with health and safety legislation, are able to safely supply and store medicines and that they can securely store medical records to protect confidentiality. They must also implement and uphold relevant policies and procedures to minimise risks. Assessment You must be consulted face to face by a prop-

erly qualified practitioner; they will invest time in consultation and assessment to ensure that you receive the correct treatment for your individual needs. They will also take time to answer any questions that you may have, in order to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with your treatment. Registration with Regulatory Bodies As well as the above mentioned costs, there are other expenses involved in setting up, running and maintaining a non-surgical cosmetic clinic, many of which underpin its safety. Registration and revalidation with regulatory bodies such as The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is mandatory, as this body is responsible for regulating medical practitioners and nurses. Serious practitioners often choose to join professional associations which provide peer-to-peer support, education and training, and keep them updated on industry standards, regulations and policies as they develop. Is “Cheap” Worth the Risk? In order to offer cheap procedures, practi-

tioners are unlikely to invest in any of the above, as when offering cheap treatments, the cost of provision has to be minimal in order to make a profit. However, we strongly believe that profit should never come before safety. Practitioners who don’t invest in training, the clinic they work in, care standards and protection are an accident waiting to happen. There are risks involved in cosmetic procedures, and without the necessary safeguards in place, side effects and complications are more likely to occur. Patients receiving treatments have the right to expect a quality service in an appropriate environment. Injections should never be administered at a party, in a hotel room, at a shop or beauty salon. All patients, when researching and receiving these treatments, should expect to be: treated with respect; kept fully informed; and to be given time, care and attention throughout the entire experience. In order to ensure their safety, patients should always select a qualified, established practitioner who has built up a good reputation over time.

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•HEART & SOUL•

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HEART AND SOUL - EMPOWERMENT THROUGH HEART CONNECTION

hat is Heart and Soul programme. Foundation? What are your reasons for running the Heart and Soul programme? Foundation provides To let a little light and possibility into the lives of programmes to support women who have been through trauma. I believe women who have been these are essential programmes and there are so through violence and trauma, allowing nourishment many women who do not have access to programmes of heart, body and soul. Our vision is to have women like this, not just because of lack of finances, but from feeling inspired and to bring them into not even knowing that there is a possibility to wholeness - feeling connected to self experience something so nurturing and and community, and therefore life-changing. able to move from surviving into How long has the foundation thriving. I have been been operational? working on the How do people find out I have been working on couple about the programme? idea for the last the idea for the last couple to le ab of years and was ster ’ Currently it has been of years and was able to ‘ta e run a pilot of th through word of mouth d run a pilot of the “taster” an ay M in programme and the excellent working ” . programme in May and June ar ye is June of th relationships with the of this year. We are currently Women’s Resource and running the “enrichment” Information Centre and Warrina programme and will be running Domestic and Family Violence our next taster in March 2016, Specialist Services, who provide access followed again by the enrichment to the women they work with on a daily programme. The more connections and the basis. I am also in contact with Uniting Care more funds made available, the more opportunity Burnside and CHESS and would like to develop there is to run continuous programmes. relationships with other support organisations that Describe your programmes ... work with women in need. I know the need is great There are four streams: Nourish, Luscious, Inspire and that there are many women out there who and Joy, made up of yoga, meditation, nutrition, are ready for this programme - we have a group facials, body scrubs, massage, life coaching, of women waiting for the next funded “taster” counselling, deep healing work, dance, music and

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creativity. The taster programme runs over eight weeks, giving the women a taste of each of the four streams and the enrichment and more in-depth programmes run over six to eight weeks. What responses/outcomes have you achieved from the participants? Out of the ten women who attended the pilot programme: three returned to work, two women returned to full-time study, two of the women reconnected to family, and all of the women developed better relationships generally. All of the women left changed, inspired and ready to take the next steps into a new life. As one of the women said so beautifully when asked what she got out of the course, “That I am worth something and I do matter.” How can people finance or support your foundation? It costs $7,000 to run an eight week taster programme or just $700 to support one woman into this programme. To run the six - eight week enrichment programmes, it costs between $3,000 and $5,000. Heart and Soul also appreciates “in kind” support, such as website design, business planning, marketing and fundraising expertise, venue hire and other resources for the programmes. Please call Jane on 0421 745 994 for more information on the programmes and how you can support. Thanks Jane.


Love & KISSES You’ll be so glad you waited!

Toormina Physiotherapy Since 1985, Chris Duffy and the team at Toormina Physiotherapy have been dedicated to bringing to the people of Toormina, Sawtell, Coffs Harbour, Bonville, Boambee and the rest of the Coffs Coast an up to date and enthusiastic physiotherapy service. We treat all sorts of problems with your musculo-skeletal system, such as sore backs and necks, knee pain and shoulder pain, ankle sprains, shin splints, sporting injuries, running injuries, work injuries. We rehabilitate after fractures and car accidents. We look to find the cause of your problems and not just treat the symptoms. For example, your knee may be sore because you are rolling in on your foot, or your shoulder may be hurting because the muscles holding it in the socket are not working in the correct way. We make sure you understand what is causing your condition, and we aim to help you to manage the problem correctly. Need help with an injury or long term pain? Call Chris Duffy and the team on (02) 6653 3850.

Christmas is coming to Love & Kisses this year on Monday, November 2nd, and you won’t be disappointed. Judy says each year more people give Christmas treasures as gifts to friends and workmates, and many grandmas start a collection for each grandchild and give a special Christmas ornament every year. A special Christmas decoration makes a lovely gift for teachers too, to be remembered each year when the tree goes up. Judy’s anxiously waiting on a delivery of ELF ON THE SHELF from the USA, but she says if they’re late arriving she has more elves than Santa anyway, so you could easily do your own - ask her for the story!

Spring is in The air Let’s boost and brighten your skin with an Environ or ASAP Peel treatment, adding a vitamin infusion by Sonophoresis. Our new treatment from environ, using sono dfp 312 peptide to visibly improve the appearance of the skin, including tone, elasticity and hydration, applied with sonophoresis and followed by environs Alginate Mask to cool, soothe and promote hydration. New product to complement the treatment is the advance dfp peptide cream for home use, and also environ’s revival masque for home use up to three times per week. The masque has lactic acid, helping to create smoother, younger and more refined skin. 24th October - 7th November Special menu - choose one service from each course for ONLY $90.

You’ll also find musical snow globes, nativities and advent calendars, things quirky, things gorgeous, and even some amazing things for $2.50.

Entrée: Lip and Eyebrow Wax OR Eyebrow Wax and Eyebrow Tint OR Eyelash Tint and Eyebrow Wax.

Love & Kisses Christmas has built a big following over the years, and people come from far and wide to look and shop. Judy says every year more and more city folk time their trips through Coffs Harbour to shop for Christmas at Love & Kisses.

Dessert: Manicure OR Mini Pedicure.

Join the people “in the know” - take your Christmas list and make time to browse in this great little shop. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll find, and how easy it is on your budget.

Main: Full Leg and Bikini Wax OR Purifying Facial OR Peel Treatment with Sono. ASAP and environ have fantastic skincare packs available now, with great savings to get you started on a new skin regime Look forward to seeing you soon! Jan Young.

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Woodland Pet cemetery The Woodland Pet Cemetery services Coffs Harbour and surrounds from Kempsey in the South to Yamba in the North to Armidale in the West. Now in business for over 10 years, we believe that success in business depends on a high level of service and assure you that your trouble is no trouble to us. Woodland Pet Cemetery was originally conceived as a Pet Cemetery offering dignified and caring burials for pets in a woodland setting. It also offers cremations for animals large and small and has a range of associated products to complement them. The Pet Cemetery is located near Lowanna, a small village west of Coffs Harbour in the hinterland, about a forty minute scenic drive via Coramba. “Rose Avenue Veterinary Hospital and Toormina Road Veterinary Clinic have been using Woodland Pet Cemetery since 2003. From the commencement, Garth has provided us with an excellent, reliable, professional service that is cost effective and responsive to our needs. Nothing is ever too much for the Woodland team. We have no hesitation offering Woodland Pet Cemetery services to our clients.” Andrew Graham-Higgs Rose avenue Veterinary Hospital Coffs Harbour and Toormina Clinics.

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Rose Avenue Toormina Veterinary Clinic Andrew Graham-Higgs, principal of Rose Avenue Vet Hospital (Est. 1990) and Toormina Road Vet Clinic took over the practices in 2001, moving here with his wife and then four young children. Andrew enjoys all aspects of small animal practice, with a special interest in surgery.

Katleybarns Boarding Kennel Katleybarns Boarding Kennel is a small, family run kennel situated in the beautiful Orara Valley. The accommodation consists of six large, well ventilated and very clean kennels. Both Len and Liz have owned and loved dogs all of their lives.

In 2011 the Rose Avenue Hospital undertook a major renovation. Building work was done by local builders FJ Maione. The rear section of the old practice was demolished, and the front section was completely gutted. The new state of the art premises are a dream to work in and help facilitate our high standard of care.

For us, dogs are a part of our family, and we understand that it is hard to leave your four legged family members behind when you have to go away.

Andrew is ably assisted by several highly experienced vets.

While we are taking care of your dogs, they become part of our family, which means they are given lots of love and attention. Your dog will be exercised and played with several times a day, and you can be assured that we do not let dogs run together unless they are part of the same family. The returning visits by many former dogs shows that we have managed to make the dogs and their owners feel comfortable and happy during their stay.

Alexia Wilson, who has been with the practice since 2011, is a graduate from the United Kingdom. Alexia’s favourite area of interests are dermatology, cardiology and emergency medicine. Rolando Quesada has been with the practice for 12 months. Having worked in Costa Rica, the USA and New Zealand, he has had a lot of experience with exotic animals and has excellent medical knowledge. He is particularly interested in management of our tick paralysis cases. Damon Brearley, our regular part-time vet, graduated in 1999 and most recently worked in Melbourne. Damon enjoys all aspects of canine medicine and surgery.

We encourage you to bring blankets and toys from home that have familiar scents on them, as this will make your dog more comfortable during their stay.

We always welcome a visit from anyone considering us to look after their dogs; please do not hesitate to contact us at any time to discuss any questions you many have. Thanks, Liz and Len.

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Photo: Coco, Bailey & Carri from Salty Dog Canine Coaching

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Kelly, Bailey & Coco The title of “Man’s Best Friend” has long been held by our loyal, friendly, furry companion - the dog. They

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fill our homes and our hearts with memories, love and fun and are loved by children and adults alike.

OCUS met 6 year old Bailey, his best friend Coco, the Chocolate Labrador and Bailey's mum, Kelly, to learn more about their family, their adventures and the special bond between Bailey and Coco. The relationship between Bailey and Coco is a little different to just any love between a boy and his dog; Coco can also be known as Bailey's very own Furry Therapist. Bailey is one of thousands of children growing up with Autism, a lifelong developmental condition that affects, among other things, the way an individual relates to his or her environment and their interaction with others. Indicators of Autism in young children can be detected as early as 18 - 24 months of age and Bailey's mum, Kelly Gater, discussed with FOCUS that Bailey was diagnosed with the condition at the age of three. There are many different channels of support, workshops and therapies to help children, adults and families affected by the condition. Kelly tells FOCUS how she turned to Pet Therapy to help Bailey. Coco was made a member of the family as a puppy and was introduced to Bailey as Bailey's dog, and their bond has been strengthening from the day Coco and Bailey first met. Coco is currently in training with Carri Robinson from Salty Dog Canine Coaching, as well as being in training with Assistance Dogs Australia and is training towards becoming an Autism Service Dog. What is an Autism Service Dog? Autism Service Dogs are specially trained dogs which act as companions to children on 56 coffs coast focus.

the autism spectrum between 5 - 16 years social relationships. Before Coco joined the old. The dogs are highly trained and have to family, Kelly tells us how if the family went to complete two years training for this special a public café and a server came to the table, role. Although they are designed to encourage Bailey would not engage with them as this was and support the children, it doesn't stop there; outside of his comfort zone, but now, thanks these special dogs can provide support to the to the confidence Coco has given Bailey, he whole family, young or old and can will happily talk about Coco to new act as companions to the child people. This is what is called a as they develop through to social “ice breaker”, which adulthood. Kelly attended has helped Bailey connect in a PAWS workshop with others as he has ay w Another s ha co (Parents Autism some great stories Co which ith w is y support Workshop) to tell people about ile Ba helped n. tio ep rc pe with Assistance him and Coco. Kelly ile ct his ta feeling is y ile Ba Dogs Australia and tells us how Bailey n he W ed or decided to apply for would become quite anxious, frustrat what he sad, he turns to s’. ” an Autism Assistance anxious about going le calls ‘Coco Cudd Dog after attending the to school and of other workshops. Usually dogs social or new situations are raised and trained by a that weren't familiar to volunteer at Assistance Dogs him, to the point when Bailey Australia before being matched with did not wish to play outside - a their client. However, Kelly’s situation is heartbreaking situation for a young slightly different; she has raised Coco from child and for an encouraging family. This all a puppy, allowing Bailey and the whole changed thanks to Coco, who acts to reduce family to be a part of the training. In this way, Bailey's anxiety and put Bailey at ease. Coco has had a fantastic start to her training, Another way in which Coco has helped as she has grown up alongside Bailey. This Bailey is with his tactile perception. When inclusive training is a great way for dogs to be Bailey is feeling anxious, frustrated or sad, he raised, especially as Assistance Dogs Australia turns to what he calls "Coco Cuddles". The often struggle to find volunteers to raise a pressure of Coco's body against Bailey gives puppy. Bailey the tactile and therapeutic fulfilment How has Coco helped Bailey? that he needs to bring him back to calm. For Kelly tells FOCUS about the very special and times when Coco isn't there to lend a helping close bond Bailey and Coco have and how paw, Bailey has a weighted pressure stuffed Coco has been an essential part in building on animal that looks just like Coco to cuddle Bailey's communication skills, confidence and when he is feeling anxious. Kelly tells us,

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"Actually, he has a few Coco toys; if he sees one, he has to have it!" Kelly insists that Coco is the anchor of the whole family. The Furry Therapist offers Bailey a great deal of routine and stability in his day to day activities. Kelly kindly showed FOCUS Bailey's visual schedules, which is made up of pictures acting as visual reminders with instructions for daily activities for both himself and for Coco. Kelly explains that often if you asked Bailey to do a list of tasks, he would find this challenging and frustrating, so the visual schedules work as a daily checklist, made fun because Coco is involved too! The visual schedule links Bailey's and Coco's activities together, so when Bailey wakes up, Coco wakes up, Bailey feeds Coco breakfast and then Bailey has his breakfast, Bailey brushes Coco's fur and then brushes his own hair. This responsibility and ownership over Coco has worked immensely for Bailey and has built on his environmental understanding, as well as teaching him the importance of each daily task. Kelly tells FOCUS about Bailey's bedtime routine, where Coco cuddles up to Bailey each night until Bailey falls asleep and then climbs into her own bed until woken up by Bailey the next morning. Coco has done a lot for Bailey and his family and the love, companionship and empathy shared between the adorable pair is clear to see. Thanks Kelly, Bailey and Coco. To find out more about Bailey's condition, please visit www.autismspectrum.org.au and to find out more about dogs like Coco, please visit http://www.assistancedogs.org.au.


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Bright BESSY

DOG TRAINING

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i Kyra! So what would you consider to be the attributes of a good dog trainer? Formal, recognised qualifications and at least 100 hours “on the job” experience. A dog trainer should not use physicality or aggressive techniques while handling a dog. As a matter of fact - they shouldn’t have any need to touch the dog at all. They should recognise that every dog is an individual and should be trained bearing that in mind. A good trainer shouldn’t need to use equipment in order to make a dog comply. A dog should work through trust- not fear. It should also be recognised that a dog trainer does not necessarily have the skills to treat behavioural issues. What services does Bright Bessy Dog Training provide? Bright Bessy Dog Training facilitates puppy schools and is the recommended dog trainer for Blue and White, Woolgoolga and Rose Ave vet surgeries. Our puppy schools are different from the norm in the safe and gentle method that the pups are trained and the skills that they are taught. We offer different levels of pup training and also run small classes for older dogs that need socialising and a little tweaking manners wise! We also provide an at home behaviour correction and obedience training service.

tised by people who should know better. Bright Bessy Dog Training has initiated I have been training a beautiful dog that a Community Dogs programme. This had lost all trust in people, because a programme involves the intensive group person who had been asked to correct a training of dogs to a high standard so behaviour had done so in a totally aggresthat their skill level meets standards that sive, invasive and inappropriate manner. enable them to visit particular organisations in the community - an example of What is the best aspect of being a this service being CHILLI, a Bright dog trainer? Bessy Community Dog Many aspects - training pups who is now the Pets and seeing them again as Therapy dog at later as happy adult dogs. Baringa Private Training a dog that is Bright Bessy Hospital. We totally confused and D og Training y invite people stressed for an owner facilitates pupp e who have a who has just about schools and is th dog dog that they given up on them, recommended and trainer for Blue would like then seeing the bond lga White , Woolgoo to be trained between dog and t and Rose Ave ve for such a owner strengthen, surgeries.” role in order to anxiety disappear and join our team - to smiles appear as training contact us about our progresses. Training a dog to Community Dog course. help its owner or members of the Community Dogs also provides community in some way. This really help for individuals in our comfills my heart with warmth. munity that need the support that Lastly, what is the best advice that a dog can provide. We have several new you can give to dog owners? programmes just about to start that fulfil Choose well, treat well and train well. this need. We also provide presentations Do your research, ask questions and don’t and workshops pertaining to dog ownersettle for second best or the cheapest alternative. Don’t forget - you will possibly ship, care and training. have your dog for 15 years - make them What is the most difficult aspect of happy ones! being a dog trainer? Thanks Kyra. Seeing a dog that has been trauma-

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Coast are the Eastern Brown, Red-bellied Black, Do not give alcohol to the patient. Carpet Python, Common Tree and the Brown Tree PRESSURE AND IMMOBILISATION TECHNIQUE Snake. Encourage the patient to remain calm and as still HOW TO AVOID BEING BITTEN. as possible. Leave snakes alone! Apply a broad pressure bandage(s) over Do not attempt to catch or kill a snake. the bitten area as soon as possible, Look on the ground in front when walking. starting from the lower portion of the limb (FinWear protective clothing e.g. boots, long baggy gers or toes). pants, long sleeved shirts. Apply the bandage(s) as firmly as you would for Snakes react to movement; stand a sprain. still if you are close to a snake. Extend the bandage(s) as high as Use a torch at night; many possible up the limb. species of snake are Immobilise a bitten leg with Most nocturnal. a splint. venomous Clean up around the Immobilise a bitten arm adic snakes are nom house; keep grass with a splint to the elbow ly feeders, constant short, gardens neat and a sling. on the move in and builders waste, fire It is very important to er at w , search of food wood etc. stored off keep the bitten limb still. � and shelter. the ground. Bring transport to the If you have chickens or patient if possible. birds, clean up left over Get medical help to the seed and grain. patient as soon as possible. EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER IS 000 Trap or bait rats and mice, as these The wide variation in colour and pattern attract snakes. of our snakes can often lead to the wrong idenKeep compost in compost containers. tification. Some snakes have a mild venom that Keep animal foods in tightly sealed bins or may result in localised pain and swelling. Howcontainers, so that vermin cannot get to it. ever, as with bee stings, some people may have Electronic snake repellents or sprays do not keep a more serious reaction which may, in extreme snakes away! cases, result in anaphylaxis. Snakebite First Aid I believe all snake bite victims, no matter what Do not cut or suck the bite. kind of snake they think they have been bitten by, Do not apply a tourniquet. should perform the pressure and immobilisation Do not wash the bite. technique and seek medical attention. Do not try to catch or kill the snake.

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REPTILE SEASON

is here, with Reptile Expert Steve McEwan

About three thousand people are bitten by snakes every year in Australia, with most bites occurring in country areas.

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ost people get bitten because the snake has felt threatened either by someone trying to kill or catch it, or accidentally treading too closely to, or on it. Therefore, the best way to avoid a bite would be to avoid the snake by leaving it alone and looking where we walk. Most venomous snakes are nomadic feeders,

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constantly on the move in search of food, water and shelter. That is all a snake needs to survive, so if we can reduce or eliminate one or more of these, we are well on the way to reducing the numbers of snakes that will reside around your house, sheds, stables etc. The snakes most often seen around the Coffs


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TARRARAY STORY

Tarraray pet retreat Tarraray Pet Retreat is a unique concept in pet care, offering first class facilities to ensure owners’ peace of mind, when it is necessary to be away from their pets. We also want to help owners have peace of mind when it comes to their dog being protected from fleas and ticks, especially at this time of year.

TARRARAY PET RETREAT

Firstly, I (Scotty) and my partner, Bec, would like to thank everyone for the positive feedback and well wishes we have been receiving since purchasing Tarraray Pet Retreat back in March this year.

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elieve me when I say we both work hard to make our facility what it is: clean, safe and comfortable for our customers. We would like to get the word out through this issue of FOCUS that not only at Tarraray Pet Retreat do we look after your beloved pets when you go away on holidays or for work, but there are many other occasions where we can help pet owners. Day Care Day stays can be a great way to get your pet looked after for that peace of mind when getting renovations done. Save yourself the stress of losing your beloved one from having a gate accidently left open. Bring them out to Tarraray; your pet won’t be in the road or be running away from the noise. Visitors to the area use our day care to get in a bit of shopping or to enjoy the many attractions of our beautiful Coffs Harbour where their travel companions can’t go. Doggie day care is an excellent opportunity for your dog to enjoy socialising with other dogs of similar size and temperament. Take away the boredom of being home alone and bring them out for a fun filled day of play. Overnight Stays Birthday parties, weddings, anniversaries, funerals - whatever the occasion, good or bad, Tarraray is here to look after your pet,

giving you once again peace of mind that by bringing them out to stay with us at nothing is going to happen to them while Tarraray. you’re busy doing what you’re doing. Six months ago we started using the Long Term Pet Accommodation high quality dry food made by Royal A problem that we come across quite Canin. We use this for both regularly is people having trouble finding a our dogs and cats. Different sized dogs rental that accommodates both them and have different health requirements and their pets. This can be a stresstherefore need ful time, so let us help by nutrition to suit their taking care of your furry size. This is why we or feathered loved use the food appliones. cable to your dog’s Visitors to theday Building a size and weight. area use our of a bit home can have We care to get into joy shopping or acen a lengthy time don’t just tions the many attrful Coffs frame, or even feed everyone of our beauti e their just waiting for the same. Harbour wher ions the fence to be We also untravel compan finished. We are derstand you may can’ t go. ” here to help by have your pet on providing a secure a particular diet and environment during this don’t want this to be time. changed whilst they are in What a lot of people don’t realise our care. We are more than hapis that even though your pets are in py to accommodate any special diet our care, while our doors are open for and health requirements, including adtrading you are more than welcome to ministering medications - tablets, creams, come and get your pet for the day or just ear/eye drops etc. at no extra cost. pop in for a quick hello. You don’t have to Situated on Bonville Station Road, just just drop off and come back at the end of south of Coffs, Tarraray offers accommotheir stay. dation for dogs from $20 per day, $15 Another time where we can be of for cats, $10 for rabbits, birds etc. Our assistance is when your dog is in heat. opening hours are between 9am - 12pm There can be many dramas during this and 3pm - 5pm weekdays, 9am - 10am time, with male dogs in your area trying and 3pm - 4pm weekends. Call in and check us out. to get into your yard. Solve this problem

The paralysis tick can be lethal. It causes symptoms in a variety of forms, but typically starts with weakness of the hindquarters, progressing to total paralysis of all four legs. Dogs should be inspected daily for ticks and, if a tick is found, it needs to be removed immediately with tweezers or a tick-removing device. After removal of the tick, if owners are unsure as to whether their dog is showing any symptoms of tick paralysis, they should contact their local vet immediately. Although summer is the prime season for fleas and ticks, many homes and pets have problems year round, so it is important dogs are protected throughout the year. This is why at Tarraray Pet Retreat we stock the new oral products NexGard, which protects against both tick and fleas for a whole month and Bravecto, which lasts up to four months against ticks and three months for fleas. Both these products are a tasty chew and being oral, swimming or bathing does not detract from their effectiveness. We offer competitive pricing on these products; give us a call today on 6653 4423.

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OPEN 7 DAYS

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he Solitary Islands Aquarium, Located at Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre, serves as an important community asset helping to bring an awareness and appreciation of our marine environment through education and science

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Aquarium STEPHAN SOULE Located at the National Marine Science Centre, a teaching and research facility of Southern Cross University, the Solitary Islands Aquarium is a public aquarium and science discovery centre profiling and highlighting the marine ecology of the Coffs Coast through a series of saltwater aquaria and interactive displays.

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tephan Soule, Manager of the Solitary Islands Aquarium, talks about this key Coffs Coast tourist attraction and the work he does there. What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coffs Harbour in 2005 after immigrating to Australia from the United States of America in 1998. Since arriving in Australia, I have lived in a number of locations and states and worked in a number of research and commercial fisheries operations. With its beautiful surrounds and home to the National Marine Science Centre, I gravitated to Coffs Harbour to work at the NMSC. Can you tell us a bit about your role at the aquarium? From designing tanks and collecting animals to teaching students and managing aquarium staff members, my role as Manager is quite diverse. Overseeing all operations, I am supported by a small team of dedicated staff to design, maintain and operate the aquarium. I am also the principal instructor of our Schools Programme and work closely with primary and secondary teachers to deliver appropriate and topical subjects in marine and coastal science. 60 coffs coast focus.

How did you become involved? truly set my heart on pursuing marine science Prior to the creation of the aquarium, as a career. I received an undergraduate I was employed at the National Marine degree in marine biology from the University Science Centre as a teaching associate for of California at Santa Barbara in 1990 and a government funded Schools Programme soon after, worked in the Solomon Islands as initiative, to give high school students a research officer at the WorldFish opportunities to gain a greater Centre. I then completed awareness of the marine a Master’s Degree in environment, work aquaculture from s nd la alongside marine Deakin University in The Solitary Is at d te ca lo scientists and inspire Victoria. Following , Aquarium ’s ity rs ve ni U s them to consider that, I worked in Southern Cros e nc ie Sc e in ar a career in marine the commercial National M an as es rv se science. I assumed aquaculture Centre , ity asset, un m m co t an rt the role of manager industry. In 2007, impo an awareness g in br to g in lp of that programme I completed a he n of our and appreciatio the following year. I Graduate Diploma ent through marine environm nce. ” concurrently worked in Secondary ie education and sc as a research assistant Science Education. with NSW Fisheries. With The marrying of my extensive background my passion for marine in aquaculture, I started to science with education has assist with the construction of the provided me with a diverse and new aquarium and assumed the role of interesting career. Manager in 2010. What purpose does the aquarium What career path have you followed? serve? I have always had a strong affinity with the The Solitary Islands Aquarium, located at sea. It was a chance tour of Jacque Cousteau’s Southern Cross University’s National Marine ship the Calypso when I was 10 years old that Science Centre, serves as an important

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community asset, helping to bring an awareness and appreciation of our marine environment through education and science. Our facility is focused on regional species, resource management and conservation. The aquarium provides an intimate experience for guests to learn about and to interact with marine life of the Coffs Coast. Coffs Harbour is noted for its spectacular coastline and home to the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Allowing visitors to explore this unique environment without getting wet, the Solitary Islands Aquarium exclusively profiles and highlights the marine ecology of the Coffs Coast through a series of beautifully presented saltwater aquaria, interactive activities and interpretive displays. Being uniquely located at Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre, the visitor experience is enhanced by the fact that we use trained marine biologists. These biologists conduct hourly fish feeding and touch pool demonstrations, as well as being continuously available to answer questions and help interpret information. The aquarium is also uniquely positioned to allow visitors to come face to face with the research being conducted at the NMSC and how this research and its findings are relevant to their daily lives.


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How long has it being in operation? The aquarium has been in operation since March 2009. Where is it located? The Solitary Islands Aquarium is located at 2 Bay Drive, Charlesworth Bay, next to the Pacific Bay Novotel Resort complex. Do you have educational tours? The Aquarium runs a schools education programme for both primary and secondary school students throughout the year, offering a variety of outdoor and lab-based activities relating to marine biology, geography, and chemistry. These activities have been specifically designed to align with the Board of Studies curriculum. The aquarium also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including bi-monthly marine discovery lectures by prominent marine scientists and an annual National Science Week event. Along with general public admissions, the aquarium is also a major attraction for senior groups, aged care facilities, philanthropic societies, and disability care groups. Is it used by the university to assist in

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Visitors can see

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teaching courses? depicting a mous animals made fa o’ em N The aquarium assists number of key ding in the movie ‘Fin and our undergraduate ecosystem ng like the Blue Ta while a h, and graduate students habitats found is ef the Anemon ith w ite ur vo in the course of their along the fa particular and s ou ri cu e th degree programmes. Coffs Coast. is visitors octopus. ” nt ge lli te in As the aquarium Visitors can see ly high highlights Coffs Coast animals made species and habitats, famous in the students can get first movie Finding Nemo, hand insight of the marine like the Blue Tang and environment of the Coffs Coast the Anemonefish, while a while studying at the NMSC. Students have particular favourite with visitors utilised the aquarium for specific research is the curious and highly intelligent projects. The aquarium is also involved in a octopus. fish breeding programme, culturing the Wide The aquarium also has a specifically Banded Anemonefish. designed interactive and hands-on marine What animals are contained within the discovery zone. This area allowing visitors to aquarium? learn about sustainable recreational fishing The Coffs Coast is home to an amazing practices and experience creatures up close variety of tropical and temperate marine with our touch pool featuring sea stars, sea organisms due to the convergence of two urchins and sea cucumbers. Overlooking the great ocean currents. Allowing visitors research tank system, visitors also learn about to experience this diversity, the aquarium some of the research being conducted at the has over 60 species of fish and over 20 NMSC within our research focus display area. invertebrate species in a variety of tanks What plans are there for the aquarium in

the near future? We continually enhance the visitor experience with new displays and animals which highlight key marine issues and research. Next year we are looking to add additional tanks in our research focus display area to showcase some the work being conducted at the NMSC. We will also be introducing an annual pass, so visitors can return whenever they want. When is the aquarium open, and how can the public access it? The aquarium is open every Saturday and Sunday, as well as every day during the NSW school holidays from 10am to 4pm. Group bookings are available by appointment during the week. A visit to the Solitary Islands Aquarium will be a memorable and enriching experience for all ages. Entry is via the first level of the National Marine Science Centre. All areas of the aquarium are wheelchair accessible, including amenities. The aquarium also has a small gift shop. More information can be found at www.solitaryislandsaquarium.com Thanks Stephan. coffs coast focus.

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shark SAFETY

Sharks patrol these waters, or so it seems of late, with an increase in activity of these apex predators along the North Coast of NSW. A recently held shark summit looked at ways to help protect the public. FOCUS spoke with a representative from the Department of Primary Industries to find out more ...

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t the recent independent review into shark deterrent technology, what options were discussed? Shark deterrent technology is constantly changing and advancing. The NSW Government invested $100,000 to properly consider all emerging options to better protect all NSW beachgoers. The review considered a wide range of technologies, including: • chemical repellants • electrical repellants • land-based “shark spotters” • barriers • magnetic technologies • sonar technologies Has there been sufficient testing of these solutions? An ongoing consultative process will identify a small number of potential options for trial and further scientific evaluation in NSW. That recommendation will be made to Government regarding which technologies to trial, including which popular beaches might be used for field trials. We are expecting those details shortly. The NSW Government is expected to announce shortly, trials of successful projects shortlisted as part of the review of emerging shark deterrent technologies. It is anticipated that some of these trials will take place on the North Coast this summer. Currently there is a Shark Smart app available; what does this do? The Shark smart app provides information to help swimmers in all of the state's waters (including all beaches and estuarine environments) and is designed to complement other safe swimming messages. The app includes sharksmart messages and information about species of sharks, as well as information about the NSW Shark Meshing 62 coffs coast focus.

(Bather protection) Programme. programme to the Christmas school holidays. Are sharks to be tagged so that their If a shark is spotted at a popular area what movement and location can be tracked? is the strategy employed? What steps are Eight sharks have been tagged as part of the taken? programme to date. If a shark is spotted in an area close to swimmers or surfers, the public should call 000. The shark tagging programme involves locating and tagging sharks with both externally Are there rules swimmers and surfers can mounted satellite tags and surgically inserted observe that will help reduce their chance acoustic tags. The tags register the of being bitten by a shark? natural movements of the sharks Swim between the flags. to determine the environOne of the simplest safety mental and biological routines for people to factors affecting their SW follow is to only swim at The N is t en nm er abundance and distripatrolled beaches and G ov ce un no an to ed bution. to stay between the expect of ls ia tr , tly We are able to flags. This is the best or sh ts successful projec of the access data from place to swim, because rt shortlisted as pa shark sharks tagged with lifesavers and lifeguards ng review of emergi gies .” acoustic tags from reare there to monitor lo deterrent techno ceivers called “listening all manner of risks and stations” that can detect maximise the safety of when a tagged shark passes swimmers. Pay attention to close by. the advice of the lifesavers and It is anticipated that understandsafety signs. Patrolled beaches may ing these underlying factors will assist in also sound shark alarms. You should identifying potential areas of increased risk leave the water as soon as one is sounded or to water users. a shark is spotted. The CSIRO, which has extensive experience SharkSmart swimmers and surfers in shark capture and tagging, is assisting DPI • Tell an on-duty lifesaver or lifeguard if a shark Fisheries staff with this programme in the NSW is spotted near swimmers or surfers. North Coast waters. • Don't swim too far from shore. This new research initiative is separate • Swim in groups. to the ongoing CSIRO white shark tagging • Avoid swimming and surfing when it's dark programme in NSW, which is part of the or during twilight hours. Australian Government National Environmental • Avoid murky water, waters with known effluents or sewage. Research Programme Marine Biodiversity Hub. • Avoid areas used by recreational or commerIs there to be aerial observation on a regular basis? cial fishers. The NSW Government will review the aerial • Avoid areas with signs of baitfish or fish feedshark surveillance from the recent school ing activity; diving seabirds are a good indicator holiday period and meet with the Ballina Shark of fish activity. Advisory Group and consult with the commu• Do not rely on sightings of dolphins to nity before any decision is made to extend the indicate the absence of sharks; both often feed

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together on the same food. • Be aware that sharks may be present between sandbars or near steep drop offs. • Avoid swimming in canals, and swimming or surfing in river/harbour mouths. • Avoid having pets in the water with you. • Do not swim/surf near or interfere with shark nets. SharkSmart divers, snorkellers and spearfishers • Understand and respect the environment. • Find out about what kinds of sharks you will likely encounter and what behaviour to expect from them • Realise diver safety becomes increasingly difficult with decreasing visibility, such as at night or in turbid water, and with increasing depth and current. • Discuss dive logistics and contingency plans such as hand signal, entry and exit considerations and separation procedures with your dive partner before you enter the water. • Be aware that using bait to lure fish may attract sharks. • Don't chase, grab, corner, spear or touch a shark. • Don't use bait or otherwise attempt to feed a shark while underwater. Feeding may radically change the shark's behaviour and may lure other sharks. • Observe and respond to a shark's behaviour. If it appears excited or agitated, exhibiting quick, jerky movements or other erratic behaviour, leave the water as quickly and quietly as possible. • Be aware of the behaviour of fish. If they suddenly dive for cover or appear agitated, leave the water as quickly and quietly as possible. • Do not attach speared fish to your body or keep them near you; use a float and line to keep your catch well away. More information can be found at: http://www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/info/sharks/tips-to-reduce-your-risk-of-shark-attack.


A N I M A L

L O V E R S

CHART Party consultants come together for wildlife. Do you love animals, one or two laughs and most importantly, helping a great cause? Join us on the 21st November to raise money for CHART.

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“Ladies Night”. Arrive at Dolphin Marine Magic for a 4pm start, where the fun will be waiting! Your Inspiration at Home by Jennifer Gaiter, Jamberry Nails By Cathy McRae, Homecare Direct shopping By Sue and involve all and her team, Tupperware By organisations Eileen Russell, Belinda Hill involved in the from Arbonne, Henna by CHART Volunteers research, rescue, Riana and Harmony Tea are dedicate theirgsp rehabilitation and just to name a few - have time to raisin much release of native come together for one funds for this nary wildlife. CHART's night only, offering 10% of needed veterial for vision is to build their sales to CHART while triage hospit t. ” a wildlife hospital offering you the latest and the Coffs Co as in Coffs Harbour greatest Christmas presents. that is capable of Expect fun games, great providing specialised care prizes, demonstrations, taste to all native animals - for the testings, champagne, shopping deals benefit of individual animals and just in time for Christmas and a charity the conservation of our endangered BBQ for when your tummy rumbles. species. CHART Volunteers dedicate their spare time to raising funds for this the plug! much needed veterinary triage hospital for the Coffs Coast. While others commit their time to Saturday 21st November, 4pm Coffs Coast Markets - educating the public about 8:30pm at Dolphin Marine Magic. animals, why we need to recycle, keeping our Tickets only $5 per lady (all ticket oceans clean and enlightening them of CHART’s sales go to CHART). Goal of a Triage Hospital on the Coffs Coast. 18+ ladies only event There are many ways to help - to find out how Pre-sale from Dolphin Marine YOU can make a major difference to the future Magic ticket desk (cash only) or on of our native wildlife: the night Follow CHART on Facebook at Check out Facebook.com/ www.facebook.com/ events/871231596295480 CoffsHarbourAnimalRescueTrust coffsharbouranimalrescuetrust@ Volunteer by contacting CHART@ gmail.com dolphinmarinemagic.com.au Join like-minded animal loving women for a he Coffs Harbour Animal Rescue Trust (CHART) was founded in 2012 by Dolphin Marine Magic as a way to include

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64 coffs coast focus.


with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

NOVEMBER 2015

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Some fresh goal setting is urgently required to still the frustration of not knowing what is coming. You can feel change coming into the picture, you can even sense its outcome, and this is feeding the feeling of waiting for something big. Ruby shatters negativity and aligns us with our destiny or life’s purpose

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Change is being called for. A new way of looking at things will happen as your attitudes begin to alter. Then you may anticipate a new set of social influences, through a group or class you may attend. You might even experience “itchy feet” for a while, until change in your environment takes place. Clear Quartz is a powerful energiser - wear some.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 You may be tempted to run away from a situation; this is only because you’re feeling powerless. Work on yourself and rebuild your personal strength, so you won’t be manipulated. This will bring back the honour and respect you are craving. Rose Quartz initiates a vibration of happiness and gratitude.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

You have lost touch with your positive attitude regarding abundance. Set your sight on what you want, plan it out and begin seeking it towards mid-month. Your practical way of thinking will be your strength all month, but don’t compromise any new standard recently set. Try wearing some topaz for wellbeing and prosperity.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Adventure is on the horizon. Pay attention to all detail while you journey, as there will be many successful opportunities waiting. The only vulnerability comes back to your sense of self-worth. Consideration needs to be given to an unfinished project or task from the past. Turquoise is great for personal power, amplifying it.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

A wonderful feeling of accomplishment will be a strong influence early in the month, followed by a sense of adventure and travel opportunities. Quite a busy social calendar can be anticipated, with some unexpected visitors and catching up with old friends. Carrying moonstone helps cycles end and new ones begin.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 You are about to tumble into an experience that you are completely unaware of. There is nothing to fear, as you are being divinely guided. You will be pursuing life with a sense of romance and will enjoy discovering a new talent. Your confidence will surge and you can expect to feel great about yourself. Calcite assists us with spontenaity.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23

Relationships are going to continue being a challenge for you unless you begin to honour your needs. You prioritise everyone’s needs above your own, and then wonder why you are so frequently taken advantage of. Begin today to love yourself as much as you care for others and enjoy the difference your reality brings. Calcite assists us with spontenaity.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Your very clever mind and wisdom are likely to be drawn on by those around you this month. You have an innate talent with problem solving, and these next few weeks will prove to you how clever and important in the bigger scheme of things you actually are. Azurite is a powerful crystal for insight.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Justice is being served at present. Your reality is likely to change soon with a balancing of outstanding debts, both physical and etheric. Look at your last cycle constructively, not critically, if you want clarity. There will be remnants of other people’s input you may need to tidy up, but don’t lose heart, as this is also drawing in good karma. Azurite is a powerful crystal for insight.

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

Laughter’s your perfect motto for this month, as your vulnerability has been that lately you’ve taken life far too seriously. This leaves you feeling trapped by your circumstance, rather than in charge of it and has led to possible depressing emotions.It’s your life and it isn’t a rehearsal, so get on with it and use that wicked sense of humour. Carnelian is a very powerful motivator.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

To achieve that feeling of having everything that you could possibly wish for, tune into your personal strength. You have such talent with perfectionism, so enjoy manifesting every bit of reward you deserve. Just know that there is no challenge too big for you to easily conquer. Smokey Quartz dispels negativity and is very grounding for your energy.

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focus_tourism with Stephen Saunders of Tourism Coffs Coast

tourism UPDATE

Do your visiting friends and family pump you offered via heart icons, so users can store their with questions about what to do on holiday favourite attractions, events, restaurants and in Coffs? Well, there’s a fabulous new tool tours to refer to later. available to help your visitors get the most out To complement the recent launch of the of their stay in our little piece of paradise. Coffs Coast travel app, the website also uses Coffs Coast Council has unveiled a new geo-targeted mapping for accommodation look for www.coffscoast.com.au - the properties and attractions, as well as region’s official tourism website - providing connection to Coffs Coast’s social media travellers from around the world channels. These include Facebook, with enhanced access to Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube, destinations, unrivalled travel while showcasing some experiences, mapping, beautiful reposted Instagram D O YO U R campaigns, touring imagery from visitors who G IN V IS IT D N trails and events. The hashtag #coffscoast. A S D N FR IE YO U website coffscoast. Website visitors over the FA M ILY PU M PIO N S W IT H Q U E STT T O com.au welcomes coming months will also A B O U T W H ADAY IN 350,000 visits a year. As “e-meet” some of Coffs D O O N H O LI the virtual gateway for Coast’s favourite local C O FF S?” visitors considering a trip personalities and characters to the beautiful North Coast as they share their favourite of NSW, Australia, the site hot spots and insider tips, along offers over 101 things to do and with blogger stories that will take 200 places to stay. visitors beyond the main attractions. More than half of visitors now In recognition of tourism being an essential access coffscoast.com.au via a mobile or element to the greater visitor economy, tablet device, so the revamped website makes valuable information for individuals and it easier for people to source, plan and book a businesses interested in working, studying, holiday, while also offering more opportunities doing business, investing, living and relocating for travellers to share information in exciting to Coffs Harbour is also contained within the ways while on the move. The redeveloped new coffscoast.com.au website. website is optimised for different devices and Why not have a look and “heart”your designed to be visually-engaging, destinationfavourite spots and experiences? focused, socially-connected and easy to So, go on, have a sticky beak, you’re navigate. A more personalised experience is welcome!

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FOCUS TOURISM WITH STEPHEN SAUNDERS, SECTION LEADER, INDUSTRY AND DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT, COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCIL

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tephen heads up the Industry and Destination Development section at Coffs Harbour City Council, and is responsible for growing visitor

the private sector and in local government. A newcomer to Coffs, he remains in awe at the natural beauty and the potential experiences that Coffs can offer visitors.

numbers to the Coffs Coast. His extensive

NEW TOOL HELPS VISITORS EXPERIENCE

background in marketing includes time in both

THE BEST OF COFFS

66 coffs coast focus.


focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Highlights of italy With a taste of spain

Kerry Moss TOP 10 TIPS Ever wondered if travelling in a group is right for you? Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel gives you her top 10 tips about why it’s good to travel in a group. 1. You’ll gain valuable local knowledge and get access to things that you can’t do on your own. Whether it’s lunch in a 14th Century castle or knowing which street is the safest to walk on, being in a group allows you to learn from those who have travelled the path before you. 2. You can save money. Tour operators such as Quadrant Australia have access to group airfares and discounted hotel rates. When a company is able to purchase a larger number of rooms, they can get it for a cheaper price than if you were to book one room on your own. These savings are then passed on to you. Better still, share the cost of your room with a suitably matched person on the tour. 3. You can relax. Some say that when you travel as a group, you can leave the worry behind. You don’t need to think about flight times, travel routes and restaurant bookings; it’s all done for you in advance. Navigating red tape on your own can be exhausting, especially when you don’t know the language or customs. 4. Your time is precious. So you get your annual three week holiday, and you start planning it - an hour here and there and before you know it, you’ve forgotten to pick the kids up from school, because you were too busy researching how to get from Rome airport to your centrally located Rome hotel. Professional Tour companies do this for a living; they know when, where and how much, and it takes them a quarter of the time to find it. 5. You’ll share first-time experiences with someone else. Nothing nicer than trekking to the top of a mountain and turning to the

person beside you and saying, “We did that!” Sharing your experience with old and new friends enhances your holiday. 6. You’ll practice patience. Travelling with a group can be a selfless practice; you’ll share your space, you may compromise on timings and you might need to give up the front seat of the coach occasionally. You don’t need to see this as a negative - quite the opposite. It’s a good reminder of worthwhile life skills. 7. You’ll meet different people from different places. People who travel in groups connect with others who they may not have otherwise. These meetings can result in lifelong friendships or might just teach us tolerance, both nationally and globally but either way, you’re better for it. 8. Food tastes better with friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m comfortable dining on my own in a crowded restaurant, but nothing beats the laughter as you learn to use chopsticks together eating noodles in Shanghai. Being with a group gives you courage. I’m not sure I would have eaten jellyfish or haggis had I not been “encouraged” (some may say “pressured”!) by my new friends. 9. Safety in numbers. Need I say more? 10. No need to argue over directions any more. Be it in a bus, train or plane, you can be assured that your group travel programme will be well managed. Sit back and relax and let someone else drive for a while. It might even save your marriage! Convinced? Need to hear more? Stay tuned for next month’s Travel Tales. In the meantime, happy (group) travels ...

Local tour company Quadrant Australia are at it again! They’ve created a wonderful and unique opportunity for FOCUS readers to travel to Italy and Spain on their fully escorted, Highlights of Italy with a Taste of Spain tour.

Colosseum, the Vatican City and the stunning Amalfi Coast are also included and with the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites located in Italy, the 17 day tour is packed with experiences.

Quadrant Australia have been taking travellers around the world for more than 30 years. Their local office in Coffs Harbour is staffed by local people, and has been operating for more than five years.

With an optional extension to Spain to take in some of the country’s rich cultural heritage and best loved sights, this Quadrant Australia Tour is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for FOCUS readers.

They offer travellers the chance to experience the real country from an agricultural perspective. You’ll visit farms and get the chance to talk to the farmers. With visits to olive groves, vineyards, buffalo and donkey milk farms, it’s an opportunity to learn from the locals and sample regional produce directly from the farmers. The major sights such as the

This tour will be led by local travel guru, Kerry Moss. Kerry has travelled to more than 40 countries and has led a number of the Quadrant Australia tours over the years, including South America, UK and Ireland. If you’re interested in finding out more about this tour or to have a chat to Kerry, drop in to see the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour.

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focusinterview.

Business Minds

with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

PETER TIMOTHY PRIME7 SALES MANAGER

has This landscape ally ic at am changed dr s. ar ye w fe over the past many There are now so a challenge choices, and it’s em all. to understand th /7 and 24 e lin No-one is on ges ga en ne not everyo keting ar m al on iti ad with tr the ng di channels , so fin ” l. ia nt se right mix is es

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eter, people often assume you’re a local. Tell us a little about yourself and your background. I’m not quite a local, having just ticked over ten years here. I’m originally from the Riverina, where my family farmed wheat and sheep. I grew up south-west of West Wyalong in the thriving metropolis of Tallimba (population 1,500). It seems 1,500 acres wasn’t big enough for our family of eight, so we moved to Wagga Wagga. Prior to finding a career in media, I did my apprenticeship as a Fitter Machinist, backpacked overseas for a year and also worked in the swimming pool industry. I was offered the Sales Manager role for Prime7 here in Coffs in 2005. I didn’t seek out the role, it was offered to me, but my lack of self-confidence meant I hadn’t seriously considered it. My wife, Sue, and I flew up to Coffs to have a look. I think we were sold as soon as the plane banked over the jetty to land! It was a beautiful day and so lush and green. We’d never been here before and with the mountains so close to the ocean, we were captivated by such spectacular beauty and have never looked back. Is there such a thing as a typical day in your role as Sales Manager at Prime7? I’m very lucky, as the days differ so much. I deal with a terrific and varied mix of business owners/managers, and they all have their own style. We look after clients from a cross-section of different industries and you get to learn and appreciate all aspects of how their business functions and the challenges they face. We have many great, loyal clients who appreciate what we do for their business. So far, I’ve had a very enjoyable 13 years with Prime7. You’re exceptional at developing relationships, and at CornerPost we’ve seen that first-hand. What is the key to developing good working relationships? For me, it’s a mix of transparency, trust, communication, listening, understanding their 68 coffs coast focus.

business, having fun, under-promising and over delivering, respecting that business people have a lot on their plate and lastly, not taking things too seriously. To a degree, I see my role as a solution solver - so by better understanding their business, I can look at different ideas to assist them in either raising their profile or moving product. I can also be a different perspective or “fresh eyes”. I may share an observation and as business owners are usually proactive and receptive, that one suggestion can be something they’ll trial. What are the benefits for businesses in using TV as a part of their marketing strategy? There are a number of benefits; the most notable is reach. In any form of advertising, you want as many people as possible to know you and your product. The Prime7 signal stretches from Kempsey to Maclean and as Coffs Harbour draws a lot of consumer business from these areas, it pays to be letting viewers know who you are. TV advertising is also extremely cost effective. If I had a dollar for every time I’ve been told a spot on TV is worth $1,000, I’d have retired comfortably by now. If done right, Regional TV is the most cost effective form of advertising. It’s vital to be comparing apples with apples. In a lot of cases, the presumption is that television advertising is too expensive and so, without any investigation, people opt for what’s easiest and not what’s smartest. My advice is to take the time to do some research and ask questions so you can make an informed decision based on what’s best for your business, rather than it being a personal choice. You’re in contact with many local businesses - what do you think are the biggest challenges they face? Firstly, I really respect all business owners -

they take on the risk of running a business in a challenging and ever-changing climate and often have to wear many different hats. Each industry has its own set of challenges but in a broad sense, staffing seems to be a primary focus. Another challenge for the small business owner may be that they are time poor and struggle to find the time to work on their business and not just in it. It’s not as though they can simply switch off at 5pm, as the business remains on their mind. A few of my clients engage in a business coach to assist them with time management, among other aspects of running a business. Another challenge for local business is knowing their customer base. Quite often when I ask this question, business owners can be a bit hazy. Having a solid understanding of your customer profile is key. This enables business to be more targeted and specific in their advertising. The introduction of digital marketing such as apps and social media has changed the way we advertise. How do you think these new marketing channels can work with the more traditional means (such as television, print and radio)? This landscape has changed dramatically over the past few years. There are now so many choices, and it’s a challenge to understand them all. No-one is online 24/7 and not everyone engages with traditional marketing channels, so finding the right mix is essential. Using TV is still vitally important, as it reaches the masses but of course, it does depend on your target demographic and the product you’re selling. Often traditional channels like television and radio are integrated with online channels like email and social media for best results. Regularly testing results is also important. Social media, whilst it has many upsides, can

have flaws as well with negative reviews, posts and even trolls. It’s still important for a business to be on social channels that suit its core target market. Having a mobile app or at the very least, a responsive website, is super important, as most users are searching for businesses and products via their mobile phones now. Pete, you’re into fitness and triathlons. How did this come about? Sinclair Black roped me into the Coffs Tri Club six years ago. My first ever tri was quite memorable. I swim like a rock, so I opted for the short course. I reckon I swallowed half the jetty, the 10 km ride felt like 100 and the run was a painful crawl with jelly legs. I was half-dead - to put it in politely. Everyone was very supportive though, so I stuck with it, determined to improve on my woeful start. Training made it more fun and has led to other adventures as well. Since then, I’ve done three half marathons and two very ugly marathons on the Gold Coast. It’s challenging but rewarding to push yourself beyond what you think you’re capable of. What are your top tips for any small business to capitalise on the peak tourism summer season? Continue to think outside the square; be as proactive as you possibly can. Form an alliance with different business operators in town that you can leverage off. Everyone is looking for value, don’t assume people will come your way, make it happen. Ask them for a review on social media too, as this is how tourists research where to stay, eat or play. 32% of our visitors are visiting family and friends, so it pays to be targeting locals on a regular basis too. I think a lot of businesses fall into the trap of assuming that locals will know them, and well might they do; locals are key referrers so you need to be top of mind all year round. Pete, thank you very much for your time.


focusbusiness with Melanie from MJ Accountants

BUSINESS IN

BLOOM Kelly Finley has been running Flowers on First in Sawtell for three years, while raising her two small children. She talks to Mel about the joys and challenges of business ownership.

Langlands

PROPERTY

Tips to prepare your home for sale

1

. First impressions count Most buyers will have made a decision about your home within a few seconds of standing outside your front door. Essential things to do include tidying the front garden, painting the front door or window sills, plant flowers and trim back bushes. Make sure your buyer can clearly see your house number. You want your property to have kerb appeal! 2. De-clutter and de-personalise Potential buyers will want to imagine themselves living in your home, so it’s best to take down children’s posters and not have walls full of photos. Anything you don’t use on a daily basis should be put away. Kitchen work surfaces, around the bath and on top of drawers, all need to be clutter free. Viewers should be able to view your property without distractions. 3. Freshen things up A fresh coat of neutral paint in the hallway, new tiling around the sink, a new kitchen worktop or re-grouting around the bath are essential to keep your property looking modern and clean and appealing to a buyer. 4. The big clean! Clear out the under-stairs cupboard, dust above your wardrobes and shelves. Make sure your bathroom and toilets are clean and eliminate any animal and cooking odours to make your home smell fresh and appealing. 5. Define your rooms If you have three bedrooms, then present three bedrooms. Don’t use your third bedroom as a computer room or makeshift gym. Buyers tend only to see useable space and will

assume the bedroom is too small for a bed. This will put buyers off and depreciate the value of your home. 6. Keep it neutral and light. Neutral colours will not put buyers off, but often bright or dark colours will. Keeping your home neutral will help buyers see how they can put their own stamp on the property. A mirror hung in the hallway can give the illusion of space. 7. Make the most of your outdoor space. Gardens and yards can be great selling features, but an overgrown mess isn’t. Weeding, pruning and planting is vital to make outdoor areas useable and attractive to buyers. 8. The small things count. Be sure you have dealt with all the little jobs around the home. Replace blown light bulbs, tighten the screws and hinges of cupboard doors, put the kick-board back in the kitchen, and fix the skirting board or beading along the laminated flooring. 9. Neighbourhood How does your neighbour’s property and garden look? Do they have an overgrown garden or have rubbish on display? Have a chat with them and maybe offer to cut their hedges. It isn’t just your property that the buyers will be looking at. 10. Disassociate yourself with your home. Make the mental decision to “let go” of your emotions and focus on the fact that soon this house will no longer be yours. Not every buyer will love your home the way you do. So don’t take negative comments to heart!

You worked at the shop for four years before becoming an owner. It’s a big leap to go from employee to business owner; do you enjoy being in charge? I enjoy the creative freedom of being in charge: ordering new stock and building exciting displays. I love rearranging the shop when a pallet of new stock arrives. It’s nice having a bit more control over what we stock. We’ve expanded into nursery plants and pots. We’re more than just a flower shop. I think of it as “nursery lite”. And, of course, being in charge gives me flexibility to work around family and school hours - which is a huge advantage for a mum with young kids. What have been some of your successes since you took ownership? The expansion into nursery items has been great. We’ve really focused our offering on what we do best: flowers, pots and plants. We’ve made a real effort to attract passing trade - bringing stock out onto the street and extending our Saturday trading hours. This has worked really well. We’re getting a lot more impulse buys. I love the marketing side. We get a great response when we post specials on our Facebook page, and we’ve done some advertising in

FOCUS. We have a frequent flowers card and have hundreds of members who buy flowers every week. That sounds exciting. What about the challenges of being a small business owner? I suppose the most difficult thing is time management. I’m at the shop during school hours and on weekends. And then I have to find the time to do all the extra things like Facebook posts, invoicing and organising wedding deliveries. And I must admit that I’m more focused on the creative side than I am on the numbers and the business side. Those areas are a bit more of a challenge. What are you doing to overcome these challenges? We brought in Kristy from MJ Accountants to do the bookkeeping every fortnight. That’s been a big help. And we’ve just signed up for some business coaching. What are you hoping to get out of business coaching? I want to enhance my business skills so that I can grow our business for the future. I’m looking for advice on financial management and a sounding board for marketing and promotional planning ideas. A coach will help me with the really challenging aspects of running a small family business.

Do You Need a Coach? The day you become a small business owner, you are suddenly expected to be all things to all people. But there’s nothing in the rulebook that says you have to do this on your own. Coaching helps business owners face challenges, overcome weaknesses and build the skills they need to achieve business success without personal burnout. MJ Accountants offers 100% personalised coaching programmes. Call us today for a FREE in-depth business review and coaching plan.

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TRAVERS ROSS IS A MULTITALENTED PERFORMER, SINGING, DANCING AND CHOREOGRAPHING HIS WAY AROUND THE WORLD. FOCUS BREWED A POT OF HERBAL TEA AND INVITED THE YOUNG DYNAMO TO DROP BY.

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and bred here and am surrounded by many of the same blood, so family is key for me here in the harbour city. I love the ocean, mountains, the feel of the place. The area provided a good base for me to grow from and return to my roots to see the growth and share. You recently returned from the States and Japan. What were you up to over there, and who did you get to work with? I went to Japan in the beginning with my good mate/ lover “Kino” to visit her family and because we both felt like we had something to learn from the culture. I found myself performing in festivals, dancing, snowboarding, tennis, soccer, road trippin’ throughout all these random places, eating incredible traditional food and some weird things like ox tongue, which blew my mind left of centre. Then I started writing music with a producer named BERGAMOT. I truly fell in love with what we were jamming together and we couldn’t speak each other’s language, just one word here or there. We worked musically though, so we recorded and mastered it at the Chapter Haus studios by the founder Kashimura in IBARAKI. In amongst all this, Kino and I went to the States for three months for some urban arts inspiration in New York, Vegas and Hollywood, networking and more fun travel adventures. I worked with my good friend Swoop, assisting for Snoop Dogg and Pharrel Williams’ show for iHEART radio and Snoop’s European tour for his new album, BUSH. I also worked in with Killah Pride records’ (WARNER BROS) founder, producer, artist MADLION, I worked with who has decided to invest his time my good friend making me a Aussie reggae urban r g fo Swoop, assistin record. MADLION produced d Snoop D og g an a gold platinum track called s’ m Pharrel Willia RT SUMMERTIME by one of my EA iH show for s p’ oo Sn favourite all time bands SUBLIME, d radio an his r fo ur to an and the dude’s personal voice pe Euro SH’.” and music is nuts too! Lion and new al bum , ‘BU Sublime helped get me through high school with that track and album ha ha, it was so dope ... So I have a lot of gratitude for the vibes he was creating and still is. I went to Vegas and got amongst Cirque du Sole, backstage and the ins and outs to learn more about major scale productions, which is what I’m working towards with my music and dance. I met many other phenomenal artists of sorts that I could go on all day about. Kino and I walked the red carpet/green carpet in the famous Chinese theatre in Hollywood at the DANCES WITH FILM FESTIVAL for an Australian music video short film we choreographed and featured in called CARRY by SIETTA that got asked to be shown. It’s worth a watch on YouTube; I’m very proud to be a part of that. Can you tell us your most memorable story from your adventures? My most memorable was the last three weeks staying on a Japanese mountain by myself at one point. I came to another realisation of how in control of my thoughts I was and seeing how clear the power of the mind in sync with the body as one works … It is one to me. I have grown so much from that and feel more than I ever have. It has been an ongoing practice for many years now - and still is. So many stories existed within learning that, but one would have to be my morning walks into the Japanese jungle,

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climbing the mountain behind the house each day to find a shrine Do you feel you’re getting better at what you do the more at the top. I would meditate and experiment with my body like a experience you gain? douche bag, but have never felt better - man roaring, dancing, jungle Yes, every day, every moment - whether it be cooking, I am parkour (free running) flipping of trees over the river across fallen working to be creative and to be the NOW. trees in complete control and trust like a Ninja ha ha that gracefully To be the NOW trip I’m on really makes all my practices simular picked flowers - it was a fairy tale. I would sing to the trees and and allows me to achieve simular ground across all my passions, sound awful and awesome practicing and enjoying this avatar jobs, house stuff, relationships - you name it, without focusing body and breaking its limits. I can’t wait to share these stories on one obsessively. I could be swimming and learning about my through song and dance on festival stages and unite singing to do with breath … It’s crazy. people to celebrate this experience called life. If you could play any musical instrument, what How long have you been involved in the would it be and why? industry? I love to play guitar, didgeridoo, percussion and I found Michael I was born into this industry of the arts, the voice box, but I would like to spend time on Jack son very he entertainment and health healing, with a the piano. Yet I did just have a family reunion, t ha inspiring and w le beautiful set of parents I’d like to think I and an older fella of my history heritage ho w s brought to hi s hi g chose prior to entering this hectic planet. in played the bagpipes ha ha. It made me think ud cl being, in d an s er nc da A damn good choice, I tell ya - with the of rocking on stage free ballin’ kilt style, but s hi , music le he op pe y an backing of many others I'm sure would say yeah I don’t know what Kino would think m w ho e time that. They have taught me so much, that I of that. could unite at on g. ” elin have kinda created my own industry off the What style of music do you love? to celebrate a fe industry which supports me and allows me I love it all and don't tune in to it all - depends to provide as a consciously happy, creative man on where I’m at. The music we are writing now we with much more growth to come. call URBAN WORLD MUSIC. This is traversing cultures What have been your greatest successes so far? of all sorts in a new way, and I'm so PUMPED to share. We are Simply discovering happiness for what I got and creating with taking bookings now for next year to get moving. So please feel free what I got. Also discovering the NOW moment NOW and NOW. It to give us a call or email and get this show moving. allows me to be wholly focused on one thing at a time and achieve What era had the best tunes and why? beyond what I thought I could. A Super Sonic Shape Shifter of I think our era does. As it involves them all, you just can’t be lazy Awe ha ha! The name of my music and dance group. Success has and get on the net and search. Someone is still rocking what you definitely changed for me over time to allow me to find what I dig and creating something new with it. The access to music now is thought was small or big a success. My achievements of working beyond. with simply the guys I mentioned above shows you where I’m at Are you back in Australia for a bit, or are you heading back off musically and through choreography. However, I don’t like to be soon? judged by what I’m doing through them, as I am a shape shifter and I’m home and plan to base here and create everywhere. morph through many creative styles of all sorts. It’s infinite ... You’re Plans for the future; what do you hope it holds for you? infinite ... We are infinite. Well, it holds what I have been working on since birth and it’s What musician or performer do you find inspiring and why? happening now with this article starting here now in Coffs Harbour. I found Michael Jackson very inspiring and what he brought to his I see and hear our music shared into the planet followed by a solid whole being, including his music, his dancers and how many people uplifting show including Super Sonic Shape Shifting talents bringing he could unite at one time to celebrate a feeling. He is the closest to loads of people together as many times as possible to blow minds what I do, yet so, so, SO different, far and beyond along with many in to celebration and question, realising that they are a super sonic people who inspire me but will never be me being me. My inspiration shape shifter too. It's good to be home; thank you FOCUS for being has to come from within as much as without to be in the world and the bomb community magazine ... So good. then bring my bit to fit. Thanks Travers.

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with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Lynne Mak, Viv Hessey, and Myffie Coady

Bruce and Margaret Drever

Dr Andrew Ramsay, Jane Wilson, Haydon Dennis

Shellie Kelly and Ian Hartcher

Sawtell Art Group’s Annual Exhibition

Sawtell Art Group’s Annual Exhibition

Sawtell Art Group’s Annual Exhibition

Mr and Mrs Col Robson

Rudy Popisil and Tanya Watts

W

Social/scene.

hilst most of us are working a lot of the time, we live in such a fabulous place that after work or at the weekends we can be picnicking in the countryside or watching the whales and dolphins down on the beach in the blink of an eye. That’s why so many people choose to retire or take their holidays here on the sensational Coffs Coast. Lucky indeed! Coast; we always have something to celebrate up here! Staying with the beach theme, there was a splash of Hawaii in the air for one of the events that was held at the Marion Grove Estate just recently. This wasn’t even their Christmas party! This is yet to come! Marion Grove is not exactly shy of a party or two. It was all about dressing up to the nines beach style, in colourful Hawaiian shirts, cheeky coconut tops, colourful floral leis and the swish of vibrantly coloured grass skirts. John and Dympna Keogh were a fine example of partying, Hawaiian style! Pineapple shoes indeed, Dympna! Apart from the delicious BBQ and buffet, there was a bit of pampering going on. Irene Hannigan was there from Daisy Nail Care to pamper up the ladies. A talk from lovely ladies Donna Kerr and Carol Smith from Right at Home kept the guests informed about all the services that

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Long lazy evenings, blue skies, beaches and BBQs, sounds fantastic to me!

can be provided. There was even a mini beach complete with seashells by the sea shore at the entrance ... fun indeed! The Sawtell Art Group Inc. held their Annual Art Exhibition just recently. Even though the weather was a bit woolly to say the least, it didn’t deter the crowds from attending the ever popular annual event. Guests perused the art showcased in the exhibition, while sipping fine wines and enjoying a canapé or two. Mother Nature blew up a storm outside, blowing away the bar top roof, but it certainly didn’t interfere with the celebrations inside. Great evening out as usual! We attended the launch of something special for the talented Emma Rhoades from Emma Rhoades Photography. She is just about to open a fabulous studio, which is a celebration of five years of photographing the people of the Coffs Coast. Chatting over bubbles or two, Emma commented that she has enjoyed every minute of it. She has met amazing families, brides and grooms, got to cuddle gorgeous babies and meet many successful business owners. The evening was full of celebrating, and the excitement of what was yet to come. Emma Rhoades is, as usual, the voluntary photographer for the gala fundraising event “Stars for the Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer”. This event is coming up on Saturday, November

14th. The FOCUS team will definitely all get dressed up to attend this sell out charity event. I hear a few tickets are still available, so don’t miss out. Pop into Coffs C.ex, or book online. You would think with so many events there would be a few “empty houses”! But no, so up here, we like to be out and about and enjoying life. Another bumper to bumper event was staged at the Coffs Harbour Bunker Cartoon Gallery. Guests rolled up to enjoy the Stomping Ivories Duellin' Piano Show. From Lady Gaga to Gershwin, these two eclectic piano players are just at ease with the honky tonk on Elton John, AC/DC played on the piano or the swinging class of Frank Sinatra. The guys travel around and pack out the house, bringing smash out entertainment with their two grand pianos, a drum kit and a black chandelier! The drummer has played for both Pink and The Vines! The musical duo now turned vocal trio, swerves off a hit list of over 350 songs! Audience participation and camaraderie guarantees spontaneity and certainly a memorable event. Here at FOCUS we like to cover all types of events and news from people of all ages from all walks of life. Also coming up at the Coffs Harbour Bunker Cartoon Gallery is something special from a group of gifted students from the

Orara High School. Come and be inspired by refugee, indigenous, disability and students from other diverse backgrounds through their inspiring and revealing artworks. The exhibition is proudly supported by Orara High School, Youth Directions, Key Employment, Settlement Services International, Coffs Harbour City Council and STARTTS. The opening night is not to be missed and features the artwork, photography, and writing, sand art demonstrations, recital of literature, performances of dance, African drumming and music by students. The exhibitions Original Spirit and Climate Change open at the Bunker Cartoon Gallery on Friday, October 23 from 6pm and run through to Sunday, November 22nd. We attended the BWN monthly breakfast at the Beachfront Opal Cove Resort just recently. It was an event for the Cancer Council and Pink Ribbon Day. Special delicious pink treats were on offer for the guests, and the room was styled in Vintage Pink. Guest presenter Gael Drum and Pippa from the Cancer Council were tickled pink with the generous donations from the ladies in attendance! We are always so generous here on the Coffs Coast. Special way to start the day! Carole, Le Dãin Designs.


s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dト(n Designs

Karen Linton, Kerri Forster and Gavin Harwood.

Hayley Richardsonn.

Maureen Ewer, Sister Anne Henson, Pam Faircloth, and Paula Lenon

Pam Faircloth, Shaun Duffy, Paul Lennon, and Neil Wendt.

Barb & Peter Patten, Barbara Lott, and Lois Fay

Kym Bellamy, Maureen Ewer, and Gabriella May.

Joyce Green, Len & Janet Trup, Joan & Barry Woods.

Bill & Joan Jamieson, Barbara Cross, Dympna & John Keogh.

Mad Hatters Tea Party at Sails by Rydges

BWN Pink Ribbon Breakfast

Mad Hatters Tea Party at Sails by Rydges

John & Margaret Wright, Jim & Dawn Reid, Elizabeth Habgood.

Photos by Fab Photost

Mad Hatters Tea Party at Sails by Rydges

Marie & Brian Payne.

Marie & Brien Payne

Photos by Fab Photos

Photos by Fab Photost

Mad Hatters Tea Party at Sails by Rydges

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Our new Display Village will be officially open Sunday 8th November and showcases

Our Our newnew Display Village will will be officially open Sunday 8th November and and showcases Display Village beofficially officially open Sunday 8thNovember November showcases Our new Display Village will open Sunday 8th and showcases latest trends in be house design and interior styling. Find inspiration for your own the the latest trends in house design and interior styling. Find inspiration for your own thelatest latesttrends trendsininhouse housedesign designand andinterior interiorstyling. styling.Find Findinspiration inspirationfor foryour your own Cherry Street North Sapphire Beach the own Cherry Street North Sapphire Beach Cherry Street North Sapphire Beach dream home from six of the regions most renowned builders. Come down and and dream home from six of the regions most renowned builders. Come down and dream home from six of the regions most renowned builders. Come down dream home from six of the regions most renowned builders. Come down and celebrate the opening of the display village withwith a multitude of free fun family celebrate theopening opening thedisplay display village multitude free funfamily celebrate the ofofthe village with a amultitude ofoffree fun celebrate the opening of the display village with afamily multitude of free fun family activities, fromfrom a water slide, hugehuge jumping castle and and mechanical surfboard to a activities, a water slide, jumping castle mechanical surfboard Corner of North Solitary Dr &Dr Fisher Rd Rd activities, from a water slide, huge jumping castle and mechanical surfboard totoa a Corner ofNorth North Solitary &Fisher Fisher petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, Peppa Pig appearance, live music and x5 $50 Corner of Solitary Dr & Rd activities, from a water slide, huge jumping castle and mechanical surfboard to a pettingzoo, zoo,pony ponyrides, rides,face facepainting, painting,Peppa PeppaPig Pigappearance, appearance,live livemusic musicand andx5x5$50 $50 North Sapphire Beach petting North Sapphire Beach North Sapphire Beach VISAVISA cardcard giveaways, plus a major $1,000 VISA card prize for one lucky winner. giveaways, plusarides, amajor major$1,000 $1,000VISA VISAcard cardprize prize forone onelucky luckywinner. winner. petting zoo, pony face painting, Peppa Pig appearance, live music and x5 $50 VISA card giveaways, plus for

VISIT THETHE DISPLAY VILLAGE VISIT THE DISPLAY VILLAGE VISIT DISPLAY VILLAGE VISIT THETHE SALES CENTR E EE VISIT THE SALES CENTR VISIT SALES CENTR

VISA card giveaways, plus a major $1,000 VISA card prize for one lucky winner.

VISIT TH

Cherry St

VISIT TH

Corner of North Sap


SUGAR MILL THE PRISTINE NEW RELEASE AT NORTH SAPPHIRE BEACH WITH LOTS STARTING AT $252,000

E A S Y T O B U I L D, F L AT L O T S

TH E PE RFECT FAMI LY SETTING

NOW SELLING

Nestled between rainforest and Sugar Mill Creek, the latest release at North Sapphire Beach is the ideal setting for families. Large, private blocks, sun drenched yards and no more than a 5 minute walk to the beach along a network of timber boardwalks. Secure your lot today and experience life at this award-winning community!

VI SIT THE SA LES C ENT RE

Corner of North Solitary Dr & Fisher Rd North Sapphire Beach

OPE NING HOURS

Wednesday-Sunday 9am - 3pm or by appointment

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your dream home awaits

L A NJ D UST

FROM

$252,00

0

S P LIT

North Sapphire Beach is the kind of place you will truly be proud to call home. A place where the established and welcoming community is as much of a drawcard as the stunning coastal location. 76 coffs coast focus.

North Sapphire Beach Offers: · Lots ranging from 504sqm to 641sqm · Over 38 hectares of parks and open space · Cycle paths and timber boardwalk connect homes with the beach · Adenbrook and GJ Gardner display homes now open · Beachstone Café within the community · Huge playground and park next to café · Only ten minutes’ drive to Coffs Harbour and airport

SOLI TAR Y RD

VISIT THE SALES CENTRE Cnr North Solitary Drive & Fisher Road North Sapphire Beach OPENING HOURS Wed - Sun 9am - 3pm or by appointment


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fun day TO CELEBRATE NEW LAND RELEASE A T

N O R T H

S A P P H I R E

B E A C H

NORTH SAPPHIRE BEACH, AN ESTABLISHED AND GROWING COMMUNITY IN COFFS HARBOUR, IS HOSTING A FREE FAMILY FUN DAY FOR ALL IN THE AREA TO ENJOY IN A SPECTACULAR BEACHFRONT LOCATION ON SUNDAY 8TH NOVEMBER, FROM 12PM – 4PM.

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ot to be missed, the event celebrates the official opening of our new display village, which features six new homes from six award-winning builders including G.J. Gardner, Perry Homes, Adenbrook, Blue Ribbon, McDonald Jones and Pycon Homes. All residents and the wider community are welcome to come along and enjoy the day, which will entail a multitude of free fun A variety of family activities, from a water slide, food and drink to huge jumping castle and mechanical will be available g a in ud cl surfboard to a petting zoo, pony rides, purchase , in n by ru le zz si face painting, Peppa Pig appearance, sausage ng vi Sa fe Li rf live music and 5 x $50 VISA card givethe Su e es Club, Vietnam aways, plus a major $1,000 VISA card eam food van, ice cr prize for one lucky winner. .” ns va e and coffe A variety of food and drink will be Stage 7, our latest land release available to purchase, including a sausage comprises 29 wide, flat blocks sizzle run by the Surf Life Saving Club, Vietof land that provide an easy-to-build namese food van, ice cream and coffee vans. The canvas, ranging from 504 sqm - 641 sqm, Star FM radio team will be on the ground running games, and priced from $252,000. Facing NW and NE, giving away prizes and airing live reads throughout the the orientation guarantees a sunny backyard and day. entertaining spaces. If you would like to find out more The event will take place in our new display village and neighbouring O’Sullivan Park on Cherry St. Parking is avail- about our available home and land packages and stunning selection of modern, contemporary homes, please visit our able on site and will be clearly signposted on arrival. new display village located on Cherry Street. “The day will be packed full of free family friendly activi“It’s an exciting time for our North Sapphire Beach ties for kids of all ages. Everyone in the Coffs Harbour area is welcome to come and enjoy the day. We understand the community, which is now 60% complete. This year will see us complete will see us complete stages 5, 6 and 7 out importance of giving back to the communities we operate of a total 10 stages. As part of stage 7 we will expand the in, and free events such as this are a great way to bring network of cycle and footpaths that run throughout the everyone in the area together,” said Chad Walker, Director community to provide easy access from all homes down of master planned communities at Walker Corporation. to the beach, Beachstone Café and adjacent park. This is For anyone interested in purchasing land, we are offerall part of our strategy to introduce facilities that create ing a substantial saving on land sales on the day of the family friendly social areas to foster a sense of community event, with $8,000 off the price of any lot sold and just a amongst new residents,” concluded Chad. $1,000 holding deposit required.

“

If you would like to find out more about the community at North Sapphire Beach, please contact the Sales Manager, Robyn Goddard on M: 0428 619 919, or visit the website: northsapphirebeach.com North Sapphire Beach Family Fun Day/ Display Village Launch • FREE to attend • Sunday 8th November • 12pm - 4pm • There will be all sorts of free “family fun”, including: Jumping castle, mechanical surfboard, petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, Peppa Pig (kids’ performer) • Live music (Richie Williams Duo and The Funk Thieves) • Star FM team running games, giving away prizes and live reads throughout the day (local radio station) • GIVEAWAYS - 5 x $50 VISA cards throughout the day and major prize of $1,000 VISA card! • Food and refreshments will be available to purchase, including: sausage sizzle by the Surf Live Saving Club, coffee van, Vietnamese food van, ice cream van. coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

What a Year FOR MARTIN WELLS AND THE TEAM

mcgrath

WHAT AN EXCITING YEAR IT HAS BEEN FOR MARTIN WELLS AND HIS AMAZING TEAM. COFFS COAST FOCUS OFFERS A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU AND THE TEAM IN YOUR ACHIEVEMENT OF WINNING NSW SMALL AGENCY OF THE YEAR AND ALSO NSW HOLIDAY AND SHORT TERM RENTAL AGENCY OF THE YEAR. WE WISH YOU EVERY SUCCESS IN YOUR NEXT CHAPTER.

T

he next exciting chapter for your agency is about to take shape. Tell us about McGrath Estate Agents. McGrath Estate Agents was born 30 years ago when founder, and current CEO John McGrath (who most may probably be more aware of from his roles on The Block and currently Shark Tank) had a dream and a determination to deliver the best real estate brand on the planet. John has gone on to build a reputable, quality mix of franchise and company-owned offices, built around the McGrath Company Values of Exclusivity, Excellence, Integrity, Humility, Respect, Innovation, Growth Style, Community and Charity, achieving amazing service and results for clients every day. You have made quite an impact in the Coffs Coast property industry in such a relatively short space of time. Why now the decision to take on the McGrath Estate Agent Franchise? It is hard to believe it’s just four years since I purchased our current business. In that time we have won back-to-back REINSW Awards for Small Agency of the Year in NSW (2014 and 2015) and also this year judged as the REINSW Holiday Management Agency of the Year in NSW. We are also Finalists in the 2015 Coffs Chamber Sunny’s Business Awards. The business has also responsibly grown to now employee 12 locals delivering great service and results for our clients on a daily basis. Growth is a natural state for any successful business. As CEO John McGrath explains, “We will expand into new metropolitan and lifestyle locations with a boutique offering, working only with the best people in each region to form an 78 coffs coast focus.

exclusive community of market leaders.” Grath Coffs Harbour The network now has 73 offices. Sarah Skurowski - Campaign Co-ordinator, When we were approached for considMcGrath Sawtell eration by McGrath, I invested a significant Julia Wills - Senior Property Manager, Mcamount of time in conducting research into Grath Coffs Harbour and Sawtell the company, talking with other McGrath Courtney Kibble - Property Manager, McPrincipals, talking to past McGrath Grath Sawtell clients, consulting with trusted Cherie Jurkewicz - Holiday local business advisors, the Property Manager, McGrath nd local community, my family, Coffs Harbour and Sawtell pa ex ill w e W and of course, my team. It Daniel Clark - Properinto new d an an ty Manager (Commerreally ended up being an lit po ro et m ns with cial), McGrath Coffs easy decision. Contrary lifestyle locatio ring , Harbour and Sawtell to some belief, we have a boutique offe ith the Jayde Scifleet not been bought out, working only w ch best people in ea Leasing Consultant, taken over, or merged. region to form an ity McGrath Coffs HarI am still the business un exclusive comm bour and Sawtell owner with ultimate s.” of market leader Lauren Thompson responsibility and accountability to our clients and Office Manager, McGrath customers. Sawtell. What property services will be How will the McGrath brand offered by McGrath Coffs Harbour and be advantageous to the property McGrath Sawtell? owners, investors, buyers and tenants Each office will offer nothing short of on the Coffs Coast? Award winning six star service and outstandAs a vendor you can be assured of receiving ing results in the areas of: first class service, from agents trained and Residential, Commercial and Development coached by the best in the business. Did you Sales, Residential and Commercial Manageknow that of the top 100 agents in Australia ment, and Award Winning Holiday Property this year, McGrath agents held 27 positions? Management. That is a powerful statistic when you think Our team consists of: about how many agencies and agents exist Martin Wells - Owner and Principal, Mcacross Australia. It speaks volumes of the level Grath Coffs Harbour and Sawtell of dedication, the unparalleled training, coachTroy Schlink - Sales Agent, McGrath Sawtell ing and marketing on offer within McGrath Olivia Gerhard - Sales Agent, McGrath Coffs and the unmatched results achieved for their Harbour clients. Our agents on the Coffs Coast will Felicity Box - Sales Agent, McGrath Coffs now have exactly the same access. Harbour As a property investor you can have peace Ros Taekata - Campaign Co-ordinator, Mcof mind that your investment property is in

“

the hands of property managers trained and updated by the best in the business. Property managers who understand the incredible level of trust placed in them to manage your biggest investment. Property managers who respect both clients and tenants alike, but never forget who their client is. As a buyer you will be up to date, informed, and not put under pressure. Without buyers there is no transaction, so our team understand the importance of building and maintaining effective relationships and communication with serious and qualified buyers. As a tenant you can expect the same level of service, respect and dedication from our team to help you find your new home, get your application sorted, talk you through the process, and get you settled in once successful with a minimum of fuss and stress. Where to from here? From Corindi Beach/Red Rock to the North, to Nambucca Heads to the South, and out to Bellingen we will have specialists available with intimate local knowledge and an expanding buyer and tenant database. McGrath Coffs Harbour opens the doors on the 27th October and the McGrath Sawtell premises will be undergoing an amazing transformation at its current site at 57 First Avenue, Sawtell. It is anticipated that McGrath Sawtell will be open mid-November. We aim to be the best agencies on the Coffs Coast. I invite all Coffs Coast property owners and investors to contact our teams at either McGrath Coffs Harbour or McGrath Sawtell for a chat to see how we can make the difference. No pressure, no obligation. You may just be surprised what is now available in your own backyard. That’s the McGrath Advantage. Thanks Martin.


McGrath has arrived. Martin Wells and his team have enjoyed making the experience for sellers and buyers in Coffs Harbour and Sawtell as rewarding as possible. The team have now joined forces with John McGrath to bring even more buyers and 6-star service to the area. Their wealth of experience and commitment to excellence and integrity make them a natural fit with the McGrath brand. If you’re thinking about buying, selling or leasing, contact your local team at McGrath today.

McGrath Coffs Harbour 2/19 Gordon Street Coffs Harbour

McGrath Sawtell 1/57 First Avenue Sawtell

mcgrath.com.au


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Tyreright has Coffs Covered

200+ Tyreright Locations All Major Brands & Sizes Monthly Deals & Specials Coffs Harbour Blinds and Awnings. Coffs Harbour Blinds and Awnings prides itself on being locally owned, operated and staffed for over 50 years. In that time, Coffs Blinds has established itself as one of the areas most respected and reliable manufacturers with a reputation of quality and excellence second to none. 2014 marked the 50th Birthday for Coffs Blinds, which was started in 1964 by Bill and Joyce Jeff. Now 50 years on, the business is thriving with their son Norm at the helm. They have a staff in excess of 35, and manufacture and distribute a wide range of window coverings and home improvement products. Coffs Blinds stands out from its competitors because of its long history with the town and its reputation for quality. “We are not a huge company whose head office is in another

state,” says Norm, “we are not a ‘here one day, gone the next’ type of company. We have been here in Coffs for 50 years, and with any luck, we will still be here in another 50 years. It’s our reputation for that kind of service that our customers respond to.”

Expert Fitters & Advice

2015 has seen some huge improvements for Coffs Blinds, with a brand new upgraded showroom showcasing all the latest trends in the window fashions industry. The new showroom has a heavy emphasis on motorisation. “Motorisation is the way of the future when it comes to window furnishings,” advises Norm. “There will always be a market for standard blinds, which we will always supply. However, if you want something really modern, something special, motorisation is the key”.

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159 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour coffs coast focus.

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Michelle Harding Lawyers. Michelle Harding Lawyer is a small local law firm with two offices, one in Urunga and one in Nambucca Heads. As we are only a small firm, we can deliver excellent individual service to our clients. We always aim to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients at the lowest possible cost. Our firm has a friendly team and a great atmosphere to work in. There are three solicitors, the principal Michelle Harding, Warwick Smith and Kerstin Thode, together with our licensed conveyancer, Lisa Waddell. Michelle Harding has a wealth of experience in Family Law, Employment Law and Wills and Estates and has practiced as a solicitor in the Coffs Harbour area for many years. In the past she also worked for the Department of Industrial Relations. Michelle is based mainly in the Nambucca Heads office. Warwick Smith has practiced as a solicitor since 1974. He is very experienced and his special interests are Criminal Law, Conveyancing, Wills and Estates and Litigation. Kerstin Thode’s special interests and experience are in Family Law, Wills and Estates. She is based at our Urunga office. Before Kerstin moved permanently from Germany to Australia in 2002, she completed her German Barrister Degree and worked as a German Lawyer in the areas of

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Family Law and Wills and Estates. She is also a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and has worked as a mediator for about six years. Lisa Waddell has worked for many years as a licensed conveyancer, and she is based at our Urunga office. Lisa’s two children were brought up and schooled in the local area. Lisa is very approachable and friendly, and she has many repeat clients who are very happy with her service. Elizabeth Lee and Kelly McDonough are our legal support staff and both have worked for decades in the industry. They both work very efficiently and always have time for our clients. We assist our clients with all aspects of their Family Law matters, such as Divorces, Disputes about Children and or Property, preparation of Consent Orders and representation of their interests in Court. We always aim to resolve the disputes as quickly and carefully as possible, so that our clients do not end up with enormous legal costs. Both Michelle and Kerstin enjoy drafting Wills and overseeing the administration of Estates. Kerstin’s background as a German Lawyer assists when there is property in Germany

or where beneficiaries of Estates may reside overseas. Michelle has lived in the Coffs Harbour/ Urunga area for approximately twenty-six years. Both her children were born here and attended schools in the area. Michelle’s children are now young adults and love to come home to visit. Michelle’s interests include attending a local book club, yoga, live music at local venues, the cinema and visiting theatre and dance performances. She also enjoys walking her dog on local beaches and travelling when she has the opportunity. Kerstin decided to move to the Coffs Harbour area when she fell in love with her husband

as well as the beautiful beaches in our area. Kerstin now has young children and believes that the Coffs Harbour area is a great place to raise children. There are so many opportunities for children, with interesting child-focused activities to choose from. When Kerstin is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family or walking the dog on the beach. Kerstin often travels up to Dorrigo with her family to visit the National Park with its magnificent rainforest and beautiful waterfalls. Urunga is such a great place with its little street cafés, the beautiful Beach Reserve and boardwalks, and it is only a short drive away from Coffs Harbour.


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3 reasons why

spring health kicks fail Is the warmer weather starting to make you feel like it’s time to get back into exercise? Do you want to lose a few kilos before hitting the beach, but have ridden this roller coaster before?

I

f you’re like most of us, you see the start of daylight saving as a reminder that it’s time to get active and fit again. However, in the past this has led to injury, frustration and excuses to give up! The team at Mid North Coast Physio have seen this time and again and are highly experienced in helping you manage your return to exercise, fitness and good health. Their innovative partnership with Coffs Coast Health Club now sees health and fitness experts working together to ensure you can reach your goals safely and free of injury. Owner and leading physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker discusses the three major reasons why so many people fail to sustain their spring health kick. • Too Much too Soon: People train too hard too soon without any support or advice. • Failure to Address Pre-Existing Injuries: Your body often has some underlying issues that haven’t been addressed - it might be a stiff joint, some tight muscles or some weakness in a particular muscle group - this leaves you really susceptible to injury. • Poor Exercise Choices: You start with your motivation at a peak, but the aches and pains of doing the wrong exercises usually drag you down and leads to giving up. What is the best advice you have to ensure your training programme is a success? It’s quite simple really - surround yourself with a team of experts who will support you, help you and keep you on track. The key

reason Mid North Coast Physio and Coffs Coast Health Club have joined forces is to empower the Coffs Coast community to be the happiest and healthiest community in Australia. By creating a team of physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, massage therapists, personal trainers and weight loss coaches, you now have all the knowledge and expertise you need to reach your goals in safe and supportive environment. This means you can see a physio to highlight and manage any underlying issues or old injuries within your body before they become a problem. You may need massage therapy to loosen out the tight spots before it leads to an injury, or have your personal trainer, massage therapist and physio work together to keep you moving well. This support network is vital to keep your body moving well, so you can enjoy the lifestyle you want. How does someone get started on the road to fitness and good health? Everyone’s needs are different, so there is no “one size fits all” approach - it needs to be individual to you. The best way to get started is to take up our special offer at Mid North Coast Physio of a FREE Physiotherapy assessment to find any underlying issues that may put you at risk of injury and hold you back from exercise. There are only 15 FREE assessments available across our clinic locations in Woolgoolga, Toormina, Urunga, and our brand new Moonee Beach clinic within Coffs Coast Health Club. Call NOW on 1300 27 37 47 to get started.

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Coffs Picture Framing. Coffs Picture Framing was established in 1990 and is celebrating 25 years of operation in Coffs Harbour. John’s experience and knowledge of the picture framing trade enables him to deliver an exceptional quality service tailored specifically to you. He will take the time to go through all the steps of framing your items, including matt selection, frame selection and the correct glass for your picture. He can supply frame lengths, matts and glass for you to complete your own project, and he can affordably repair your frames too. He can frame all manner of things, including pictures, memorabilia, oil paintings, paintings, photographs, posters and prints, certificates, war medals, coins, embroidery, maps and mirrors. Do you need a picture framed urgently? We offer, to the best of our ability, same day picture framing for customers needing their pictures framed in a hurry. We have available a range of art prints and stretch canvas products that you can order in any size.

John has framed wonderful, interesting, exciting, beautiful and some very unusual objects. Custom framing will always create a frame perfect for your needs. Get creative with your framing. Do you have a blank wall? A gap where it seems something could be missing? Get inspired, do something different, think about unexpected items you could frame that would make great, interesting pieces for modern art framing. We are easy to find on Lawson Crescent; we offer ample parking at the premises. Turn off Orlando Street into Lawson Crescent, and you will find us on the bottom corner. No appointment is necessary for our picture framing services. Simply drop by our store, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

• Cfast - cosmetic tooth alignment • Family friendly practice • Dental implants • In-chair & take-home teeth whitening • Late night and emergency appointments available

Email: coffsinteriorprints@bigpond.com Website: www.coffspictureframing.com.au Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm.

• Care plan membership from $1 a day

Areas: Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas.

Fresh Dental Care now offers Cfast Cosmetic Tooth Alignment, the revolutionary new way to achieve a straight, beautiful smile in 6 months*! Cfast is a gentle, minimally invasive treatment for adults that uses sound orthodontic principles to straighten the upper and lower front six teeth – the ‘Social Six’ that make up your visible smile. *Treatment time varies for each patient. Please discuss directly with your dentist

Grafton

Coffs Harbour

Urunga

Macksville

6643 2225 6655 5800

6651 1350

6568 1335

www.freshdentalcare.com.au 84 coffs coast focus.


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20 •years•

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hen and why did you start your business? After spending four 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 for working families that Coffs Harbour had still not tapped into. I grew up in Coffs, and with this foresight for a business opportunity and a desire to return to the coast to start my own family in a more relaxed environment came the establishment of a purpose built child care service for working families. November 1995, following the birth of the first of my six children, saw 3 Bears Cottage open its doors to the Coffs Harbour community with a team of just four Educators. The energy and enthusiasm of young children is what drew me to the industry, and the knowledge that I can make a huge difference in the lives of children and their families is what keeps me here. Working to empower families in their roles as parents, is the greatest gift I have been given in this role. What makes your business stand out? I treat and run my business like a family. I want our families and employees to feel like they are part of a bigger family. I believe that common values are the foundation of building a great family business. I ask myself what values are important to me and in return ask potential employees to identify what values they believe

are important to them and try to match them families. We also have eliminated the morning up. Values like honesty, trustworthiness, loyalty, stress put on families rushing to get ready for hard work, harmony, tolerance and courtesy work on time, by providing the children with are just some common qualities I admire. all their daily needs at the service. Services As a family business we are less bureaucratic, provided include nappies, bed linen, hats, and employees share a closer relationship sunscreen and drinks. What sets us apart is with management. My employees are given our nutritionally balanced and cooked meals many additional lifestyle benefits such as prepared by qualified chefs from the Surf flexible working schedules, paid time off to Club Restaurant and Bar delivered daily celebrate their birthdays with loved to the service. No more need for ones and the opportunity to busy parents to worry about pursue volunteer work or providing their children with d The care , love an personal projects that can healthy lunch box choices. kindness shown benefit the service. The whole family is girl is towards my baby ade Caring for someone welcomed by accepting m wonderful . I was rtable else’s children bears a children from six fo to feel very com e staff. tremendous amount weeks to school age, th and welcome by y da of responsibility and eliminating the need ch ea I walk her in to see the requires a serious for parents to make a smiling excited s.” or at commitment. We play uc ed r regula a key role in their overall - testimony. development and may well be someone they will remember their entire lives. We are the pinnacle of what cottage is defined as “a small frame-A family house”. As a result of our size, our Cottage offers customised service and focuses on the needs of the whole family. Having six children of my own, I have a great understanding of what busy families want and need. Shared vision - leads to success. We don’t believe in closing over school holidays, as parents still need to work during these times and finding alternative care arrangements brings many challenges for busy

“

number of drop offs in the mornings to various services. We accommodate this by having two baby rooms, one toddler room and one preschool room. Where are you now? With a vision to offer the market a fresh and innovative alternative and a steely determination to build the business, a team of fifteen is now renowned in the community for providing a highly personalised service that has been operating for twenty years. After twenty years of operation, the cottage is undergoing an aesthetic facelift to continue our commitment to quality, creativity and community pride, and we would like to invite past, present and future families to join us in our twenty year birthday celebrations on the 28th November 2015.

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Bellbowrie Motors. If you are after the experts in all things motoring, then come and see the team at Bellbowrie Motors. Bellbowrie Motors is your one stop destination for all your new and used vehicle needs, with over 200 new vehicles extending across nine franchises, and over 50 late model, low kilometre used vehicles. Bellbowrie Motors has exceptional facilities, including award winning service teams and modern service facilities for all makes and models, aftermarket facilities to take care of your vehicle and the recently opened Bellbowrie carwash for all your detailing and car cleaning needs. We can also handle all of your finance and insurance requirements, with truly competitive packages from specialist financiers. Moving from Orlando Street, Bellbowrie Motors opened its current facility in 1995, providing a great range of new models, including: Nissan, Suzuki, and Volvo. In 1997 the acquisition of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles required an extension of the showrooms and a specialist 4X4 SUV yard. This new, purpose built facility gave us the genuine edge in quality SUVs in an exploding marketplace.

In 2011, Bellbowrie European opened its dedicated European Vehicle Showrooms, Service Centre and Parts and Accessory facilities that hosts Audi, Volvo, Moving from Skoda, Land Rover and Orlando Street , ors Fiat, as well as a selection Bellbowrie Mot ent rr of handpicked European cu its opened , 95 19 used vehicles. We could in y Jimny and Grand facilit t range ea gr a g in now focus on what id Vitara. ov pr it was that Bellbowrie of new models ... If you are in the Motors had best been market for an SUV, known for on the East Coast which, by the way, is the - quality European vehicles and quickest growing market exemplary customer service. segment, Bellbowrie Motors is Now our SUV landscape includes truly a one stop shop. Range Rover, Discovery 4, Defender, Discovery As for prestige and luxury cars, the list Sport, Volvo XC90 and XC60, Audi Q7 and is even longer. And it doesn’t just stop at the Q5, The Evergreen Nissan Patrols, Pathfinder, sale. Bellbowrie Motors and Bellbowrie European Navara, X-Trail, plus the legendary Jeep have 15 technicians, all of who are fully factory Wrangler, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Compass trained to ensure that your pride and joy is and soon to be released Renegade, and don’t maintained to the highest standards, ensuring forget the small SUV that started it all, Suzuki greater resale values and reliability during

ownership. Businesses all over the world have points of difference. The Emphasis at Bellbowrie Motors is as per our Company Motto, “a Passion for Quality”. This is not just a catchy slogan, but the ethos on which the company has been built, and the team have been trained. The customer is at the centre of our business, and each of the team is coached to provide the best experience possible. So if you haven’t been in, or it has been a while, we welcome the opportunity to show you around, discuss your needs, or just offer some friendly advice. The Bellbowrie Team.

Specialising in Prestige, all types of SUV’s and Used Vehicles. With the largest range of late model, low kilometre vehicles on the coast.

Cnr Pacific Highway & Halls Road, Coffs Harbour

Phone: 02 6656 8700 88 coffs coast focus.

www.facebook.com/bellbowriemotors

www.bellbowriemotors.com.au DLN 15390


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SOS Phone Repairs and Accessories. Meet Tom from SOS Phone Repairs and Accessories, the Coffs Coast’s brand new go-to place for all of your phone repairs and technology accessories. What is your area of expertise at SOS? Seven years of Telco experience previously as Sales Coach/Senior Sales Advisor. What makes your business stand out? Whatever the tech emergency, SOS Phone Repairs is the first call. We repair smashed screens and damaged Apple iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, iPads with super quick turnaround, at prices that everyone can afford. We retail a range of leading mobile phones and devices both online and in our retail stores, at unbeatable pricing, as well as provide device customisations and only the best accessories on the market. The fact that we can offer what the big Telcos do, but not being bound with any restrictions is our key point of difference. This means we can offer a one stop shop for EVERYTHING our customers need from an IT perspective. And you have a family as well - how do you juggle it all? My parents were hard workers, and they’ve drummed the “need to work your business yourself in order for it to be successful” ethos into both myself and my siblings. Luckily, I’m

quite used to putting in the long hours; however, because I love my job, I don’t see it as work and actually enjoy doing what I do - I’m pretty lucky in that respect. When and why did you start your business? I started my business just over two years ago and wanted to be able to offer people everything that the Big Telcos couldn’t. We don’t JUST repair our client’s phones, tablets or computers ... We provide our clients with the most suitable tech solution based on their experience and needs in the most time efficient and affordable way. What is the best thing about your job? I genuinely enjoy being able to help people on a daily basis and love the fact that people come in with all sorts of problems/issues and our staff can solve their problems AND they leave with a big smile! What exciting plans do you have for 2015 and 2016? We officially franchised in 2015 and have opened our second store in Port Macquarie. We also have another two stores in the process of opening, with more planned for 2016. How do you keep your team motivated?

old friend who said to me, “The I’ve been very specific We repair only person that can put limits with recruiting my s smashed screen on what you can achieve team - they’ve all been pple and damaged A is yourself”.Very wise and in the telco industry ng iPhones, Samsu super inspirational words! FOCUS for many years, live ith Galaxy, iPads w would definitely agree with and breathe our nd , at quick turnarou ne can that one. “yes I can” attitude yo prices that ever and provide friendly, What do you enjoy most afford . customer focused about working on the Coffs service, training and Coast? advice (without the “hard There’s so much potential for sell”). They dig what they success in our region; however for me, I do, and they love sharing their tech love being able to live so close the coast (my knowledge with our customers. dog loves the beach) where the locals are happy What’s been the best advice you’ve received? The best advice I’ve ever received was from an

AND not getting caught in peak hour traffic like the big city! Thanks Tom.

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Emerald Beach Plumbing. Peter Coulson is the Director of Emerald Beach Plumbing and has been in business for 35 years. His wife, Pandora, is also a Director, and together they combine plumbing and her property management experience of 20 years to create an outstanding business that understands the needs of all their customers requiring plumbing maintenance and all aspects of the plumbing trade.

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Reg Latter Electrical. Reg Latter Electrical has been providing electrical installations and maintenance services - since 1979. As always we are committed to delivering the best service to our customers, employing highly trained and qualified staff that 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. Offering the following services:

Plumbing is a licensed industry, and it is important to have a licensed plumber attend your plumbing works to avoid unnecessary accidents, mistakes and damage to property.

Level 1 Service Provider - Accreditation No 3450 providing all of your network infrastructure requirements within the Essential Energy area.

As a licensed plumber, all our works are covered under insurance and regulated by the Governing Body. We take pride in our WH&S and make sure we are always up to date with the latest plumbing techniques, regulations and requirements in our industry. The team at Emerald Beach Plumbing is extraordinary, and together they combine a plethora of expertise, training and knowledge. There are six plumbers on the road at all times to service all needs at very short notice. We are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Most importantly is our service with a smile and a laugh to make your day. We are a very happy team who are passionate about what we do and how we do it and take pride in our workmanship to deliver an exceptional service.

Level 2 Service Provider - Accreditation No 3141 - “A” Grade Level 2 Service Providers in the Essential Energy area.

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Electrical Installations and Repairs - lights, power points, fans, data, TV points. 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. Employing over 30 highly qualified staff, who are committed to maintaining the highest quality of workmanship and site safety, allows us to complete your project on schedule.

Thank you! From Fuji Xerox. Thank you to all resellers for selling Fuji Xerox products. The Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast is the only authorised dealer in the area. We cover from Grafton in the north to Port Macquarie in the south and out to Wauchope and Ebor in the West. So put the king of multifunction printers to work for your business today and save. Descended from a proud lineage, our new generation proves cutting edge doesn’t have to be complicated. With a host of new features to save time and help workers get more done, productivity reigns supreme. Enhance productivity with easy to use mobile, cloud and wireless printing options and save time at the device with advanced features that simplify and speed up tasks to get workers back to important work sooner. Stake your rightful claim, rise above the masses and upgrade to a Fuji Xerox device now and get 4.99% finance and up to $3,000 back that will help to build your business empire. For a full Fuji Xerox experience, contact your only Authorised Dealer, the Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast on 13 14 12 for expert quality Fuji Xerox service and support. We’ll ensure your equipment operates at optimum Fuji Xerox Standards.


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We put passion into action Complete Pest Control What is a pest and termite specialist? It takes knowledge, experience and the latest equipment to successfully protect a home from pests - and especially termite attack. The annual damage bill to homes in Australia from termites is estimated at more than $100 million, so it’s essential to have someone that will take the time to understand your house and the issues you have.

same, so no property is ever the same.

Who uses your services? We have a large number of domestic clients, as well as a host of local restaurants, clubs, businesses, builders and senior villages. We still provide our customers with individual personalised service. No person is ever the

to school here, my partner is a nurse at the

What makes you different to other pest control services? Besides our dedication to quality of work and value for money, seeing that we are one of the largest pest companies on the Mid North Coast, one thing I’m so proud of is Complete Pest Control is 100% local. I went to school at Toormina, my kids will go hospital, and all jobs stay local. We sponsor two rugby league teams, as well as a local Motocross rider and other events in our community, and there are plans for further sponsorships into 2015 and beyond.

What are your stylists’ favourite looks for spring 2015? Our favourite looks for spring are shoulder length hair with loose waves in a smokey silver blonde with a subtle retro regrowth fade. What is retro regrowth, and why is it perfect for spring? Retro regrowth is a highlighting smudging technique we use at Inroe Art Hair. It allows for a sun-kissed and natural looking hair colour. It’s similar to what nature gives us as children - with softer, less noticeable regrowth lines. The principal idea being less is more when creating soft, natural looks. Coming in to warmer weather, everyone wants to achieve perfect tousled beach locks; how do you achieve this in the salon and at home? Obviously, you will need to start with a great haircut, then to style your hair De Lorenzo have some amazing products

to achieve your perfect tousled beach locks. To style at home we recommend Barrel Wave and Ocean Mist using your diffuser to gently dry your hair. What hair colours are hot this spring? There are so many to choose from for all hair colours. From Smokey Silver Blonde, Beige Blonde, Bronde mixture of blonde, to caramel and chocolates and for the brunettes, subtle sun-kissed ends. One for the guys - can you share some styling tips with our Coffs Coast bros? For the guys, a classic fade short back and sides with a quiff looks great. For styling we recommend using De Lorenzo Grit or Mudslide for texture to hold your hairstyle in place. Now we are coming into the warmer weather, the guys are moving away from their longer winter beards and opting for a shorter, well groomed beard.

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Col Williams, Louise Williams and Naomi Scolari

Coffs Coast Nutrition. What makes Coffs Coast Nutrition unique? We provide a nutrition, health and fitness service with a difference. Our team focuses on each person’s individual requirements. We believe that there is no one diet or way of Thethat PUMP HOUSE eating suits everyone, and that’s why we offer customised meal plans and personal training that takes your individual The Pump House Coffs Harbour has recently relocated The PUMP HOUSE circumstances into account. from CNR. Pacific HWY & Hurley Drive to unit 5/18 Cook The Pump House Coffs has recently relocated What are your areas of Harbour expertise? Drive Coffs Harbour. from CNR. Pacific HWY & Hurley unit 5/18 Weight management, sports nutrition, fitness, irritable This family business was establishedDrive inhealth, theto mid 1980’s byCook John Drive Coffs Harbour. bowel syndrome, food intolerances, coeliac disease, fatigue, & Sandy Mackay & has now been taken over by there son Luke thyroid cancer, arthritis/inflammatory conditions, This family business was established in the mid 1980’s by John who hasdisorders, had 15 years experience within the business. diabetes, heart health and much more. & Sandy Mackay & has now been taken over by there soninLuke We still offer the same friendly advice & service whether our who has had 15 years experience within the business. What exercise services are available? shop or at your place.

We cateroffer to varying abilities andadvice fitness&levels andwhether aim to ensure We friendly service in our We still do repairsthe to same most makes & models of pumps, specialising that each person meets their fitness and/or weight loss goals shop or at your place. in Davey & DAB with a huge range of spare parts available . without feeling intimidated or judged. You don’t need to see We do repairs most for makes & models of pumps, specialising Whether your to looking household our Nutritionists to utilise our personalpressure training pumps, services,drainand in Davey & DAB with a huge range of spare parts available . age, pools, well’s, bore pumps or a pump fornot irrigathereswimming are no joining fees or waiting for equipment. Why Whether looking for household pressure pumps, drain- it’s tion fromayour aone-on-one dam or firesession fighting weour have themor all, or maybe arrange with trainer bring a friend? age, swimming bore pumps a pump forwe irrigairrigation pipes, pools, fittingswell’s, & sprinklers, filtersoryou require can What do you enjoy most about your work? tion from dam or fire fighting we have them all, or maybe it’s supply thisa too. We love helping people and seeing the smiles on their faces irrigation pipes, fittings & sprinklers, filters you require cana So when think about your It’s water needs, Give Luke we &can Ash when theyyou achieve their goals. amazing that nutrition supply this too. call The aPump House Coffs haveatsuch dramatic effect onHarbour. a person’s health and wellbeing! So when you think about your water needs, Give Luke & Ash a call at The Pump House Coffs Harbour.

pump house pump house

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Coffs Mechanical Repairs Coffs Mechanical Repairs is a family owned business Coffs Mechanical Repairs Coffs Mechanical Repairs. where customers are able to speak directly to a Coffs Mechanical Repairs isa afamily family owned business mechanic. This has alwaysisbeen an important part of the Coffs Mechanical Repairs owned business where customers are able to speak directly to a business and Mark,are Mick, and Chris are where customers ableAndrew to speak directly to afocused mechanmechanic. This has always been important part of the on This providing excellent service at aanreasonable for all ic. has always been an important part of theprice business, business and Mark, Mick, Andrew and Chris are focused theirMark, customers. and Mick, Andrew and Chris are focused on providing on providing service atprice aAutomotive reasonable for all excellent service at a reasonable for all theirprice customers. CMR is also aexcellent member of Carline and Exhaust their customers. whichis allows parts to of beCarline sourcedAutomotive at very competitive CMR also a member and Exhaust, CMR also aparts member CarlineatAutomotive and Exhaust prices.isallows which to beof sourced very competitive prices. which allows parts to be sourced at very competitive Services provided providedinclude includelog logbook/new book / new vehicle servicing, Services vehicle servicing, prices. general servicing servicingand andrepairs repairstotoallall makes and models general makes and models including Services logexhausts. book new vehicle servicing, includingprovided suspension, brakes, tyres /and exhausts. suspension, brakes,include tyres and CMR is an RMS authogeneral servicing and repairs to all makes and models rised check station for Pink Slips (annual registration CMRe-Safety is an RMS authorised e-Safety check station for including brakes, tyres andvehicle exhausts. inspections) and Blue Slips (unregistered Pink Slips suspension, (annual registration inspections) andinspections) Blue Slips CMR is angas RMS authorised e-Safety check station for including vehicles. (unregistered vehicle inspections) including gas vehicles. Pink Slips (annual registration inspections) and Blue Slips As team combine their extenAs the the home homeof ofFathead FatheadRacing, Racing,the the team combine their (unregistered vehicle inspections) including gas vehicles. sive mechanical knowledge of everyday cars withcars thewith far more extensive mechanical knowledge of everyday

Jim’s Add-A-Room Scooters and Mobility. Jim’s Add-A-Room has many years’ building experience Jim’s Add-A-Room We bought Scooters and Mobility in 2007.

and are able to add on a room or rooms, construct granny Mobility playscarports a major role in ayears’ person’s independence, Jim’s Add-A-Room hasand many building experience flats, decks, awnings and undertake alland types Alan and Colleen have been helping people for years to get and are able to add on a room or rooms, construct granny of commercial and residential building work. In fact, we out and about. flats, decks, carports and awnings and undertake all types can take all the worry and work away from you and attend of commercial and residential building work. In fact, we The businessthe specialises in scooters and mobility products to obtaining engineering, submitting the Development at itstake Orlando showroom, offering wide range of can all the worry and work away from you and attend Application andStreet paperwork to Council. Weaorganise all trades motorised vehicles to get yousubmitting to your or across to obtaining the engineering, theshops Development as well as council inspections. The only local thing you need to do is town. the materials Application and paperwork to Council. We organise trades choose and colours you require. We areallmore than as as work council inspections. only thing you need to do is happy to with you to achieve what ‘you want’. Wewell stock five major brands ofThe scooters, covering 28 models choose the materials and colours you require. We are more than small can go into boot thethe car Ifranging you arefrom looking to ones buildthat a granny flat, youthe can’t goofpast happy to work with you to achieve what ‘you want’. to large onesSystem that can travel to 50 km on flat ground. InsulLiving® which is aup fully engineered, BCA-compliant IfBuilding youalso areSystem looking toproducts build a granny flat, you people can’t goto past the We offer hire which enables hire that is lightweight, straight forward and green’. InsulLiving® System which is a fully engineered, BCA-compliant them here instead of bringing them in the car on holidays, or InsulWall® by Bondor® is a complete system combining Building System that is lightweight, straight forward and green’. to try before buying. insulation between two steel skins to form a structural and load

As of Fathead Racing, team combine their technical challenges of working onthe high performance vehicles thethe far home more technical challenges of working on high extensive mechanical knowledge ofdifferent everyday cars with from several different of motor sport. This extensive performance vehiclesaspects from several aspects of the far sport. more technical of skilled working onthe high knowledge ensures the challenges team knowledge are very in diagnostics motor This extensive ensures team performance vehicles from several different aspects ofall and all aspects of aand safe, reliable for are very skilled inmaintaining diagnostics all aspectsvehicle of maintaining motor sport. This extensive knowledge ensures the team customers. a safe, reliable vehicle for all customers. are very skilled in diagnostics all aspects of maintaining CMR isis also aaproud member Motor Traders Association CMR also proud memberofand ofthe the Motor Traders a safe, reliable vehicle for all customers. of NSW. Association of NSW.

InsulWall® by is apanels complete combining Our ability to Bondor® repair all mobility products, Alan’sand trade bearing panel. InsulWall® lock system easilywith together when insulation between two steel skins to form a structural and load qualifications as a Motor Mechanic and as a Sheetmetal coupled with Solarspan® roofing, they form a fully insulated, Worker/Welder, making his experience in servicing the bearing panel. InsulWall® panels lock easily together and when structural shell. InsulWall® is produced using Bluescope steel scooters, lift chair, lifts and chairs a valuable asset coupled with Solarspan® roofing, they form aand fully insulated, which allows direct stair rendering on power the outside, painting on the to the business. structural shell. costly InsulWall® is produced using Bluescope steel inside, without and time consuming additional layers. which allows direct rendering onyears, the outside, andknown painting on the Working in the industry for 15 he 0266527771 is well Why not call Jim’s Add-A-Room today on toand discuss inside, without costly and time consuming additional layers. sought after for his knowledge. your needs.

CMR is also a proud member of the Motor Traders Association of NSW.

Why not call Jim’s Add-A-Room today on 0266527771 to discuss your needs.

jim’s add jim’s add a room a room


with Barbara Wenman with with Barbara Barbara Wenman Wenman

Meet the skilled and caring team Meetthe theskilled skilled and caringteam team at La Fleur D’Alyse Meet and caring ATLa LAFleur FLEURD’Alyse D’ALYSE at

Coffs Harbour’s premier cosmetic at laserLa andFleur medispa ...D’Alyse Our private facility caters for individuals, couples and groups of up to 10 people. Detox, lose weight, burn fat and rejuvenate your body our Infrared Sauna. Coffs Harbour’s Harbour’s premier premier cosmetic cosmetic laser laser and and medispa medispa ... ... Our Our private facility caters forinindividuals, individuals, couples Coffs private facility caters for couples Coffs Harbour’s premier cosmetic laser and medispa ... Our private facility caters for individuals, couples and groups groups of of up to to 10 people. people. Detox, Detox, lose lose weight, weight, burn burn fat fat and rejuvenate rejuvenate your your body in in our Infrared Infrared Sauna. Sauna. and and groups of up upspacious to 10 10 people. Detox, weight,results. burnTogether fat and andwith rejuvenate your body bodyWenman in our our Infrared have both Sauna. trained skin treatments La Fleur D’Alyse’s spa facility and lose looking perfectly manicured gardens the ideal La Fleur D’Alyse’s spacious spa make facilityitand

La Fleur D’Alyse’s spacious spa facility and perfectly manicured gardens make it the ideal perfectly make itfrom the ideal celebrations to birthday girls’ nights to venue for manicured a wide arraygardens of parties, gatherings, hen’s venue for a wide array of gatherings, from hen’s venue for a to wide array parties, of gatherings, fromto hen’s baby showers. celebrations birthday girls’ nights celebrations to birthday parties, girls’ nights to celebrations to birthday girls’ nights to Drshowers. John Wenman andparties, cosmetic nurse Barbara baby baby showers. baby showers. Wenman are veryand experienced in Cosmetic Dr John Wenman cosmetic nurse Barbara Dr John Wenman and cosmetic nurse Barbara Dr John Wenman andincosmetic nurse Medicine, having been theinindustry forBarbara over Wenman are very experienced Cosmetic Wenman are very experienced in Cosmetic Wenman are very experienced infirst Cosmetic 20 years and being among inforAustralia Medicine, having been in thethe industry over Medicine, having been in the industry for over Medicine, having been incosmetic the for over to years establish non medicine. 20 and beingsurgical among the industry first in Australia 20 years and being among the first in Australia 20 years and being among the first in Australia Dr. Wenman is a member of the Australasian to establish non surgical cosmetic medicine. to establish non surgical cosmetic medicine. to establish non surgical cosmetic medicine. Society of Cosmetic Medicine has been Dr. Wenman is a member of theand Australasian Dr. Wenman is a member of the Australasian Dr. Wenman is a member of the a Fellow of the Royal Australian College Society of Cosmetic Medicine and hasAustralasian beenof Society of Cosmetic Medicine and has been Society of Cosmetic Medicine and has been Physicians for over 40 years and was a Fellow of the Royal Australian Collegerecently of a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of made a life member for his services to medicine. Physicians for over 40 years and was recently Physicians for over 40 years and was recently Physicians for over 40 years and was recently Cosmetic Nurse Barbara Wenman is a made a life member for his services to medicine. made a life member for his services to medicine. made a life member his services to medicine. Registered Nurse andfor an Associate of Cosmetic Nurse Barbara Wenman is aMember Cosmetic Nurse Barbara Wenman is a Cosmetic Nurse Barbara Wenman is a the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Medicine; Registered Nurse and an Associate Member of Registered Nurse and an Associate Member of Registered NurseSociety and Member likeAustralasian all members, theyan maintain a commitment the ofAssociate Cosmetic Medicine;of to the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Medicine; the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Medicine; high standards of treatment, patient safety and like all members, they maintain a commitment to like all members, they maintain a commitment to like all members, they maintain a commitment ongoing training. high standards of treatment, patient safety and to high standards of treatment, patient safety and high of treatment, patient safety In standards skilled hands, cosmetic treatments canand ongoing ongoingtraining. training. ongoing training. turn back the hands of time and create natural In skilled hands, cosmetic treatments can In skilled hands, cosmetic treatments can In skilled hands, cosmetic treatments can turn turnback backthe thehands handsofoftime timeand andcreate createnatural natural turn back the hands of time and create natural looking results. Together with skin treatments La Fleur spacious spa facility andhen’s venue for aD’Alyse’s wide array of gatherings, perfectly manicured gardens make it thefrom ideal

suchas aslaser, laser,IPL, IPL,peels, peels,injectable injectabledermal dermalfillers fillers such

in Australia overseas and and client safety. staff training,and quality of results

Plasma to create a non surgical facelift.

looking with skin treatments andanti antiresults. wrinkleTogether injections, they create and wrinkle injections, they create anan

Wenman have both trained have strong ethical view All oura staff work under the supervision of Dr.

There is no downtime, as they have a unique

looking results. Together with skin treatments such as laser, IPL, peels, injectable dermal fillers such as laser, IPL, peels, injectable fillers effective andrelatively relatively simple waytodermal torefresh refresh the effective and simple way the and anti wrinkle injections, they create an and face.anti wrinkle injections, they create an face. effective and relatively simple way to refresh the effective and relatively simple way refresh Complications occur, aretorare. Youthe Complications can can occur, but but are rare. You face. face. needto tobe bewary waryofofpractitioners practitionerswho whoflyflyinin need Complications can occur, but are rare. You Complications canoror occur, butbecause are rare. You and flyout outfor foraaday day week because you and fly a aweek if if you need to be wary of practitioners who fly in need to beany wary of practitioners who inbebe experience anycomplication, complication, they mayfly not experience they may not and fly out for a day or a week because if you and fly out for a you. day available treat you.or a week because if you available tototreat experience any complication, they may not be experience any complication, they may not be Barbara specialises in the rejuvenating effects Barbara specialises in the rejuvenating effects available to treat you. available to treat you. of cosmetic injecting using dermal fillers and of cosmetic injecting using dermal fillers and Barbara specialises in the rejuvenating effects Barbara specialises in the rejuvenating effects muscle relaxing injections. She creatsa anatural natural muscle relaxing injections. She creats of cosmetic injecting using dermal fillers and of cosmetic injecting using dermal fillers and non surgical face lift, restoring youthfulness non surgical face lift, restoring youthfulness toto muscle relaxing injections. She creats a natural muscle relaxing injections. She creats a natural theface, face, eyesand and lips. the eyes lips. non surgical face lift, restoring youthfulness to non surgical face lift, restoring youthfulness Dr John Wenman specialises in absorbableto Dr John Wenman specialises in absorbable the face, eyes and lips. the face, eyes and lips. promoitalia threads, face, neck, andbody body promoitalia threads, face, neck, and Dr John Wenman specialises in absorbable Dr John Wenman specialises in absorbable rejuvenation lift. rejuvenation lift. promoitalia threads, face, neck, and body promoitalia threads, face, and Dr Wenman ofneck, the tobody introduce Dr Wenman waswas oneone of the first first to introduce rejuvenation lift. rejuvenation lift. this procedure to Australia and continually this procedure to Australia and continually Dr Wenman was one of the first to introduce Dr Wenman was training one of the first to introduce devises andattends attends training sessions improve devises and sessions toto improve this procedure to Australia and continually this procedure to Australia and continually the effectiveness and safety of this procedure. the effectiveness and safety of this procedure. devises and attends training sessions to improve devises and attends sessions to improve Dr John Wenman and Cosmetic Nurse Barbara Dr Wenman andtraining Nurse Barbara theJohn effectiveness and Cosmetic safety of this procedure. the effectiveness and safety of this procedure. Wenman both trained in Australia andBarbara overDr Johnhave Wenman and Cosmetic Nurse Drand John Wenman and Cosmetic Nurse Barbara seas have a strong ethical view to continued

Wenman have both trained in Australia and overseas and in and overseas and to Australia continued staff training, John Wenman. have a strong ethical view have aBolitho strong ethical quality of results and view client Linda has been with La Fleur D’alyse to continued staff training, to continued staffand training, safety. for over 11 years has been involved in the quality of results and client quality of staff results andfor client All our work under beauty/laser industry over 30 years. Linda is safety. the supervision of Dr. John asafety. certified Laser Therapist and Beauty Therapist. All our staff work under All our workgrade underlumenis one/IPL Wenman. We use thestaff medical the supervision of Dr. John theLinda supervision of Dr.been Johnwith Bolitho has La Fleur D’alyse and Yag Laser, which delivers accurate and Wenman. Wenman. for over 11 years and has been involved the reliable long term results and is tailored to in your Linda Bolitho has been with La Fleur D’alyse Linda Bolitho has been with La Fleur D’alyse beauty/laser industry for over 30 years. Linda is individual skin type and condition. for over 11 years and has been involved in the for over 11 years and has been involved in the a certified Laser Therapist and Beauty Therapist. Conditions treated: pigmentation, freckles, beauty/laser industry for over 30 years. Linda is beauty/laser industry forlines, over 30 years. Linda is We use therosacea, medical grade lumenis one/IPL capillaries, fine age spots, port a certified Laser Therapist and Beauty Therapist. a certified Laser Therapist and Beauty Therapist. and Yag Laser, which delivers accurate and wine stains, hair removal. We use the medical grade lumenis one/IPL We use long the medical grade lumenis reliable and isustailored your A revolution interm skinresults care allows toone/IPL offertoyou and Yag Laser, which delivers accurate and and Yag Laser, which delivers accurate and individual skin type and condition. rejuvenation without the need for any down time. reliable long term results and is tailored to your reliable long term and isthe tailored to your Conditions treated: pigmentation, La Fleur D’Alyse hasresults introduced PH freckles, formula individual skin type and condition. individual skin type and condition. capillaries, rosacea, fine lines, age spots, port skinConditions peels, Nimue and Vitry Skin care ranges. treated: pigmentation, freckles, Conditions treated: pigmentation, freckles, wine stains, hair removal. These peelsrosacea, successfully pigmentation, capillaries, finetreat lines,hyper age spots, port capillaries, rosacea, fine lines, ageintroduce spots, port La Fleur D’alyse would like to Emma chronic redness, acne, and prevent premature agewine stains, hair removal. wine stains, hair removal. Shaw, Specialist Laser Therapist in tattoo removal ingLa and lift and tighten the face and can eliminate Fleur D’alyse would like to introduce Emma Laneed Fleurfor D’alyse would like togeneration introduce Coffs Emma and skin rejuvenation - aand third the Fraxel laserTherapist microdermabrasion. Shaw, Specialist Laser in tattoo removal Shaw, Specialist Laser Therapist in tattoo removal The peel can a stand alone Coffs and PH skinformula rejuvenation - abe third generation and skin rejuvenation - a third generation Coffs treatment or be combined with PRP Platelet Rich

delivery system which allows the peel to penetrate to a cellular level where the rejuvenation happens, so you don’t have any post peel redness or skin peeling; the rejuvenation happens deep within the tissue. It islocal a course of treatments; mosttraining people Harbour returning after 10 years need at least three peels, two weeks apart, to and working in Brisbane’s largest Laser Clinics

Harbourthe local returning 10 years training achieve best result. after Harbour returning after years training with the local latest technology for10 laser tattoo

andalso working Laser ClinicsartWe have in onBrisbane’s our team alargest qualified makeup and working in Brisbane’s largest Laser Clinics removal. with the latest technology for laser tattoo

ist, beauty therapists and massage with the latest technology for lasertherapists tattoo Bianca Ling and Kasie Landrigan are fully who

removal.

removal. are ready to pamper you and help you achieve qualified with a Diploma of Beauty Therapy. Bianca Ling and Kasie Landrigan are fully

Bianca Lingdesire andinKasie Landrigan are fullyartistry the lookspecialises you forCertificate your special occasion e.g. Bianca 2 makeup qualified with a Diploma of Beauty Therapy. qualified with a Diploma ofoccasion. Beauty wedding, school or formal We offer for wedding, special occasions and Therapy. fantasy. Bianca specialises in Certificate 2 makeup artistry Bianca specialises in Certificate 2 makeup artistry full and and half Kasie day spa pamper packages, facials, Bianca also specialise in spray tanning for wedding, special occasions and fantasy. for wedding, special occasions andBianca fantasy. waxing, manicures, pedicures, massage and spray using long lasting products. Both and Bianca and Kasie also specialise in spray tanning Bianca and all Kasie also intinting, spray tanning tans, Lift non specialise surgical facelift, Hyperbaric KasieDynamic offer aspects of waxing, hand/ using long lasting products. Both Bianca and using long lasting products. Both Bianca andhot foot care, facials, peels, including Oxygen Therapy and havemassage a full range of skin care Kasie offer all aspects of waxing, tinting, hand/ Kasie offer all aspects of waxing, tinting, hand/ stone and reiki, dyanamic lift, and thetherapy, beautiful Miiangelic makeup range for sale. foot care, facials, peels, massage including hot foot care, facials, massage including hot hyperbaric therapypeels, facials. Have a complimentary makeup with every treatstone therapy, and angelic reiki, dyanamic lift, stone and therapy, and ment let one ofangelic our skinreiki, caredyanamic specialists lift, tailor hyperbaric therapy facials. hyperbaric therapy facials. a treatment package for you.

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M E E T T H E Armstrong Architects.

SureStep Podiatry. What is your area of expertise? Podiatrists are qualified health professionals specialising in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and conditions requiring minor surgery of feet and lower limbs. Podiatry is all about maintaining good foot health. The Podiatrist’s Scope of Practice includes paediatrics, diabetes, sports injuries, structural problems (biomechanics), treatment of the elderly and general foot care. I have a special interest in treating sports and musculoskeletal injuries of the lower limb. These may include heel pain, foot and leg pain and sporting injuries. Common conditions treated are plantar fasciitis, Achilles Tendonopathy, shin splints and bursitis. What makes your business stand out? Our clinic has been especially design for conducting biomechanical assessments. We use an onsite treadmill to film patients walking or running and use digital gait analysis software (dartfish) to investigate the recorded motion. We specialise in orthotic therapy and have a 3D laser scanner for foot modelling. We utilise the latest computer technology to generate custom orthotics tailored specifically for each patient, after taking into consideration his or her individual needs. We also have an onsite orthotic lab for alterations and adjustments. What plans do you have for 2015/2016? We have just started a clinic in Woolgoolga within the new Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy site to provide our specialty podiatry services to the people of the Northern Beaches.

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EXPERTS

Armstrong Architects is a multi-discipline architecture firm centred in Coffs Harbour and servicing the entire Mid North Coast. Owner and director Sarah Armstrong grew up on the Armstrong Architects. North Coast and is passionate about bringing creative and individual design solutions a variety of both residential and Armstrong Architects is atomulti-discipline architecture firm commercial projects in the area. centred in Coffs Harbour and servicing the entire Mid North Coast. They offer a range of services and focus on the delivery of truly exceptional design solutions while embracing Owner and director Sarah Armstrong grew up on theclient North Coast expectations. Aiming to bringing balance innovative withdesign and is passionate about creative anddesign individual deadlines, budgets and requirements, they are avid solutions to a variety of functional both residential and commercial projects about in the creating area. spaces that integrate with and respect the environment. They offer a range of services and focus on the delivery of truly exceptional design while embracing client expectations. Currently their very solutions exciting mixed use development is under construction in Woolgoolga. development consists of and Aiming to balance innovative This design with deadlines, budgets the Beach St Family Medical two other commercial functional requirements they Practice, are avid about creating spaces that tenancies luxury the townhouses. It will integrate and with three and respect environment . be completed mid 2016. Their latest projects include the ‘Rescue House’ at Sapphire Beachfrontarchitects Estate andare theable newtoEye Clinic design on the Pacific Armstrong provide servicesHwy for at Rose Avenue.. arewell alsoasvery excited to announce that Beach projects of this They size as high end residential buildings Street Medical Centre andThey Unitsalso arespecialise due to start construction and smaller renovations. in medical and in the new year in Woolgoolga. dental centre fit-out design. Sharing their their studio studio with with interior Design’ Sharing interior designers designers‘Two “TwoBirds Birds Design” allows them to offer an holistic approach to architecture allows them to offer an holistic approach to architectureininCoffs Harbour. Coffs Harbour. CallSarah Sarah on on 0425 0425375508 discuss your upcoming Call 375 508today todaytoto discuss your upcoming residential or commercial project. Initial consultations residential or commercial project. Initial consultationsininour our studio are complimentary. studio are complimentary.

Coastal Pilates & Fitness. Two birds Design.

After having worked as a Personal Trainer and a Pilates Two Birds Design is an studio that at specialise practitioner for over 10interior years, design I am still amazed the in delivering creative many optionshighly Pilates offers.and innovation design solutions. design principlesmethods of functionality, quality Pilates is oneUsing of the few exercise that allows youand to beauty we inject the life and sensory appeal into your project. workout whilst taking into consideration ill health or injury. We pride ourselves working closely with ensure your Rather than having on to stop completely, youyou cantocontinue to design suitable and thatbody the end resultfurther is what aggravating you expect. work onisthe rest of your without We believe that good design is not about the magnitude of your condition. the budget, but rather, the ideas behind the concept and the You attend an initial consultation first to have your posture, attention to detail in executing it. health and any injuries assessed. Then a specific programme offer just a broad rangeWhy of services which isWe written for you. not focus onreflect what the youclient’s can do position. You can engage us for basic consulting services from and not want you can’t! How empowering is that? a brief discussion and ideas development to full design services. You can then decide whether to continue on with more We guide you throughout the design process and provide a private sessions or join a semi-private group to begin working range of tools to assist you with capturing and defining your on your own body, at your own pace. requirements. We select & schedule colours, finishes, materials, Many of &you may and not can be in pain, but justproject how good is fixtures fittings complete each by providing our your posture after years sitting in front of the treatments, computer, designers’ finishing touchofwith furniture, window working a tradie, too much cycling orWe running? artworks,assoft furnishings & accessories. welcome you to call Kristie Kyliehave on 6652 9154, or into into the studio, Eventually you&may the option ofdrop moving a Pilates conveniently located at 91 West High Street, Coffs Harbour to mat class, which are graded, and with the knowledge now discuss your next project of what you can and can’t do during a class without further aggravating a in chronic Latest arrivals stock –condition. framed prints, indoor/outdoor rugs & lamps. So why wait any longer? Give us a call today to get started.

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Welcome Georgina to: Keiley Hunter Town Planning. Georgina, tell us a bit about yourself ... I moved to Australia from New Zealand in May this year. I am a qualified Environmental Planner and Landscape Architect with a background in civil engineering and the Transport Infrastructure industries.

The Wild Salt Sea The Wild Salt Sea is the Mid North Coast’s premier recycle/reuse centre; it's JUNK with a TWIST! We specialise in finding unique and interesting items that nobody loves anymore, breathe love and new life into them and present them to you, the treasure hunters, in quirky and unusual ways. We aim to inspire a new way of looking at and appreciating JUNK! We also source antique, retro and vintage furniture, vintage and retro fashions and accessories, rusty and rustic curios for garden, coffee table and man cave, CDs and vinyl, modern and retro collectibles such as fishing gear, old school video gaming items, funky ‘60/’70s tableware and crockery, beautiful linen and handicrafts, ephemera and much, much more. We love to hear from people who may be looking for new homes for their treasures as well. Whether it is a precious collection or something strange you dragged out of the shed or even something you'd just like to know a little more about, just give us a call during business hours and say, "Ahoy!" The Wild Salt Sea, 3/5 Bosworth Rd, Woolgoolga. OPEN Wed - Sun from 10am. Enq: 0422 319 294. ON THE CORNER, IN THE CORNER.

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Specialist Services Infertility: what is new in this field now available in Coffs? As one of the the Genea doctors offering these services, at our Centre we are able to help couples with the most up to date insemination techniques, and ultrasound guided cycle monitoring. Incontinence and prolapse: how common is this problem, and what options can you offer? This problem - little talked about - affects 1 in 3 post menopausal Australian women. It’s like a pelvic hernia.

What is your area of expertise? Keiley Hunter and I specialise in all aspects of urban and environmental planning, project management with specific expertise in Development Applications, Planning Proposals (rezonings), local government planning, community and stakeholder consultation-collaboration and relationship building across all sectors of society for a range of private and public projects. What makes your business stand out? We offer a personalised service that best fits our clients’ needs to provide the best solution for their project. While our business is small, we have established relationships with other professionals to provide a “complete” service to our clients in collaboration with other land development specialists.

Treatments involve pelvic floor muscle strengthening, and we combine physiotherapy with an assortment of internal supports called pessaries to help initially. I have presented internationally and keep my expanding database (over a thousand procedures) for research. Careful patient selection will best tailor the optimal treatment, which sometimes may be surgical. Close follow up for a year ensures best results. I am a vaginal mesh surgical instructor for Boston Scientific.

Share some expert advice with our readers ... Development proposals, design and implementation can be very confusing, complicated and expensive. My advice would be to engage a planning professional as early as possible to reduce uncertainties and potentially costly mistakes.

What other newer services have you added? Non invasive prenatal testing in early pregnancy. State of the art colposcopy for abnormal pap smears, advanced laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis and endometrial ablation as an alternative to hysterectomy for heavy bleeding.

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received? The best advice I’ve received was from a very dear friend many years ago. His advice was whatever I do, to always “follow my heart”. No matter what you do in life, whether it’s business or personal, if you have passion for something you will always succeed.

What plans do you have for 2015/2016? We plan to build our planning consultancy business together to increase our capacity to serve our clients’ needs.


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Matthew Dal pozzo Harbourside Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

East Coast Cabinets Spring is here, and it is not long until Christmas and the summer season of parties and visitors will be upon us. Now is the time to not only think about what needs modifying, updating or replacing in your home and business, but to plan and place orders for jobs required prior to the Christmas holiday period. East Coast Cabinets is a long established business located in Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour, since 1984. The long term team of employees and families have been staunch supporters, wherever possible, of local businesses and the community, contributing towards the area’s growth and economy as much as possible. They remain the only cabinetmaking business in the area to hold a NSW State HIA Top Homes Award for Kitchens, and through their association with local builders have supplied cabinetwork to many other award winning projects. Kitchens, vanities, robes and associated cabinetwork are not their only areas of activity. They are also widely recognised for their commercial fit-outs in shops and offices both locally and in the northern region of the state. Although the last 30 years have seen many changes in the industry, this business continues to operate under one roof, endeavouring to keep your money in the local area.

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What is your area of expertise? We cover a wide range of equipment, from the smallest residential air conditioners through to large commercial air conditioning. We also specialise in commercial and industrial refrigeration, including cool rooms and freezer rooms, we do custom fit outs for cafés, restaurants and bars, as well as commercial kitchens. We offer a full range of catering equipment, as well as coffee machines and accessories. We can maintain and repair all of your equipment. What makes your business stand out? As a family owned business, we get to know our customers very well. We provide the prompt, profesional service they require, and we can offer them the ongoing support that they need to keep their equipment in tip top shape. My wife and I grew up in Coffs and have lived here for the greater part of our lives; we are now raising our own family in this brilliant part of the world. We know the local area and the people who call this city home. When you ring our phone number for service, you will always talk to the same person. What is the best thing about your job? I would say that the best part of my job is meeting and developing a real relationship with my clients. We see them out and about on weekends or after work and there is always time for a chat. We eat at their cafés and restaurants, or shop at their business. To me, it’s all about supporting each other - that’s why we try to really get to know our clients and they get to know us in turn. We support each other’s business, and the winner is our community. We have such a top part of the world to call home, and by supporting local business we can continue to make the Coffs Coast the best place in Australia to live.


FREEDOM NURSING AGED CARE HOME

COMPARATIVE ITEMS

24 hour nursing services – immediate response to nurse-call technology Low, High and Palliative Care Dementia Care Government funding available Full domestic support Your own self-contained home, with a kitchen, bathroom, laundry and courtyard / garden Couples stay together Family and friends can stay whenever they want Pets are welcome Encouraged to live independently, while you are capable Move-in without ACAT assessment No means-testing or asset-testing required for move-in

Choosing a care option for a loved one can be a confusing and complex decision, as not all aged care is the same. For many decades, aged care has followed the same path and traditions, but Freedom Aged Care is the best of all choices combined.

Feel free to call us on 1800 984 840

WHAT’S

LIFE WITHOUT

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Get some fresh Air for your family.

Pay your deposit between 1st November & 30th November 2015 and you’ll receive four new Apple iPad Air 2’s for your family valued at $3116! Call (02) 6691 3509 email coffsharbour@gjgardner.com.au or visit gjgardner.com.au Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast. Builders Licence: 191313C.

4 Apple iPad Air 2’s valued at $3116! + + + + + +

9.7 inch Retina display Wi-fi and Cellular 16 GB 5mp camera 1080p video capture Fingerprint scanner security

DISCLAIMER: 1. Date of promotion: 1st November to 30th November 2015. 2. 4x Apple iPad Air 2, Wi-fi & Cellular, 16GB. 3. iPads provided upon completion of home. 4. Cannot be redeemed for cash. 5. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. 6. This promotion only applies to G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast.

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