Focus 59 - Manning-Great Lakes

focus MANNING-GREAT LAKES

Feature Story Great Health Great Lakes Project

January 2012 // issue 59

inside this issue.

R E T A W SALT WATER F R E SH

RIDING FOR THE DISABLED Our local branch of RDA shares the news about their latest fundraiser – ‘Raise the Roof’ .

BUDDHIST RETREAT Tibetan Lama Sogyal Rinpoche will lead a 10-day retreat at Tiona Park, from 12 to 22 January.

editor's note.

editor.

Karen Farrell

from the

Happy New Year to the Manning-Great Lakes and visitors to our region. his month FOCUS welcomes

channels the iconic John Lennon.

the plethora of visitors who

THIS MONTH This month we speak to Rick Naylor, Healthy Communites Co-ordinator of the Great Health Great Lakes project, about the importance of this new lifestyle program, with its goal to reduce lifestyle related chronic disease factors.

T

flock to our area during summer ... In this issue you’ll

find plenty of hints for things to do

during your stay, ranging from horse riding to water sports to great places to eat. For the more adventurous, you might even like to paticipate in a game of paintball at the newly opened Skirmish Down Under at Old Bar. ON THE COVER Casey Donovan is one of the many performers taking to the stage at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival on Australia Day. The Festival is the largest regional Aboriginal Cultural event on the Mid North Coast and being a nomadic event, relocates to a different location each year - this year it’s taking place at Taree.

Talking entertainment ... We catch up with comedian Mikey Robins, who is performing in Celebrity Autobiography at the Glasshouse and also chat to singer songwriter John Waters about Looking Through a Glass Onion, in which he

contacts.

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We learn all about a 10-day retreat being led by Tibetan Lama Sogyal Rinpoche at Tiona Park.

Margie Lewis tells us of her fundraising aspirations for the organisation Riding for the Disabled, a centre providing equine assistance for people with disabilities.

We hope you enjoy reading our first edition of the year as much as we have enjoyed putting it together for you.

send them to me at karen@focusmag. com.au IPHONE APP A reminder to always check our iPhone app, eat Dining. The app features some of the best restaurants and cafés available in the Manning-Great Lakes.

You’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips, including the type of cuisine, meal prices and directions to the venue. You can download the app for free at focusmag.com.au/eat LAST WORDS When asked about his views on heaven, the late British author and journalist Christopher Hitchens said, “[Heaven is a] place of endless praise and adoration, limitless abnegation and abjection of self; a celestial North Korea.”

EDITOR’S PHOTO Thanks to Sylvain Allard for the fantastic photo of Old Bar Beach behind me in my editor’s letter this month. What a great photo! If you have any great pictures of the local area you have taken and would like to see published in FOCUS, please

Karen Farrell – Editor karen@focusmag.com.au

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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. Manning-Great Lakes Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

manning-great lakes focus 3

Riding for the Disabled

focusinterview.

Riding for the Disabled (RDA) is a voluntary organisation providing equine assistance activities for people with disabilities. The organisation is hoping to generate support with its fundraising project, Raise the Roof, to enable it to build and erect a roof enclosure for its arena. RDA Taree President, Margie Lewis, tells us about RDA’s work, its volunteers and the importance of Raising the Roof … hat does the RDA program involve?

The program provides an opportunity for all participants to experience the joys of riding and at the same time gain many therapeutic benefits. Riding has long been known as a therapeutic form of exercise, as a horse’s muscles stimulate muscle activity in the rider, which is often unable to be activated.

The relationship that develops between horse and rider can increase self esteem and confidence, plus provides a sense of belonging.

For a person who uses a wheelchair, the program can assist with their mobility.

Sitting astride a horse provides a level of independence not otherwise possible.

Participants are taught as far as possible about how to look after the horses, as well as ride them. If they wish, riders can progress to competitions at local, regional, state and national level. This is the case both for riding and carriage driving.

How does the centre operate?

The centre is run by a team of very dedicated volunteers. There is no recurrent funding available for the program. The centre relies on generous donations from people and businesses in the community and from fundraising activities they hold.

All monies raised goes directly back into the centre to assist in feeding and caring for the horses, which are the mainstay of the program and also to purchase safety and activity equipment, to ensure a high-quality of service provision continues.

What are the responsibilities of coaches at the centre?

The coach is responsible to ensure the safety of all participants, including volunteers.

They assess the abilities of a rider when they first commence, matching them to a horse suitable to their needs. In consultation with the

4

manning-great lakes focus.

rider and any support people they may have with them, the coach develops an individual program with goals for them to aim for.

The coach develops a lesson plan for each riding lesson. Over time, the lesson plan assists riders to progress towards their goals. When developing lesson plans, the coach may consult with parents, carers, therapists and teachers.

In doing this, the lesson plans can include learning being undertaken by the rider in other areas of their life.

How many volunteers contribute their time and assistance?

Currently, there are 60 volunteers registered with the centre. They range in age from early teens to their 80s. Some people give their time a few days a week – others a few hours once a week or fortnight.

The volunteers are a pivotal part of the program. Volunteers walk beside the riders and assist them to understand the instructions from the coach and assist them to carry out the instructions. The volunteer in this capacity can also provide physical and emotional support to the rider as required.

Volunteers lead the horses for the riders and when the riders are ready for an increase in independence, the leader reduces the amount of support by allowing the rider a longer lead. Volunteers develop partnerships with the riders and become the person in which the riders trust. We also have volunteers who give their time in other areas such as catering, fundraising, committee and PR. Any advice for people with a disability who are apprehensive about riding a horse?

RDA would be a great place to start. The program and support are tailored to meet the needs of each individual. Keeping safety in mind at all times, that support can be as much or as little as is needed.

Riders are encouraged to extend themselves and to try new things or levels – although,

I saw a child who couldn’t walk, sit on a horse, laugh and talk.

Then ride it through a field of daisies and yet he could not walk unaided.

I saw a child, no legs below, sit on a horse, and make it go through woods of green and places he had never been to sit and stare, except from a chair.

I saw a child who could only crawl mount a horse and sit up tall.

Put it through degrees of paces and laugh at the wonder in our faces...

- John Anthony Davies.

expectations are not placed on anyone.

Participation in the program is a consultative process between the coach, rider and support people.

What is ‘horse driving’?

Carriage driving is an alternative program for people who would like to be involved but do not want to or can’t ride. In this case, the Whip (coach-in-carriage driving speak) is in the carriage with the person learning.

There are two sets of reins – one set for the participant and one set for the Whip. Again, the level of independence is assessed, and the support provided by the Whip is adjusted to suit. The horse is specially trained, as are the Whip and the team of volunteers who assist.

Tell us about the fundraising project, Raise the Roof ...

Raise the Roof is all about putting a roof over the arena. Currently our riding arena is open to the elements, meaning that in inclement weather we can’t ride. This creates disappointment for the riders and sometimes also creates increased levels of anxiety, due to unpredictability.

Some of our riders can only tolerate a short time in the saddle, due to being out in the sun and the heat. Having a roof would mean people could ride for longer periods. It would allow our program to be accessible to more people and to groups of people.

Once our arena has a roof, we will have a highly sought after facility. When not in use by us, we could hold clinics or run schools for other equestrian enthusiasts, thus bringing additional and much-needed income to the centre.

Thanks Margie.

Make a donation.

Contact Jacqui Nuttall Fundraising Committee on 0415 845 745.

To become a volunteer, contact President Margie Lewis on 6339 2100 (BH) or 6553 5383 (AH).

Address - RDA Taree, 1856 The Lakes Way, Rainbow Flat

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Issue 59 - January 2012 Shaun Clark

8.

Contemporary artist Shaun Clark’s first time entry in the Archibald in 2000, a painting of iconic Australian actor Ruth Cracknell, hung in the Salon des Refuses. He has painted a slew of other well-known Australian identities, and a self-portrait titled Blood, Sweat and Fears, painted in his own blood, toured Australia in 2007.

Buddhist Retreat

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Tibetan Lama Sogyal Rinpoche is leading a 10-day retreat at Tiona Park, from 12 to 22 January ‌ We talk to Ross Mackay from Rigpa Australia – a centre for the study of Tibetan Buddhism and modern meditation. Ross is Sogyal Rinpoche’s most senior student in Australia and former National Director of Rigpa Australia.

21.

John Waters John Waters is one of Australia’s most critically acclaimed television, film and theatre performers. Many would readily recognise John from his roles in All Saints, Offspring and as co-host of Playschool ... yet John’s first and great love is music, and 20 years ago he co-wrote Looking Through a Glass Onion, an homage to the music, mystery and memory of John Lennon.

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usual suspects.

the

10. what’s on for January 16. eat featuring local restaurants

53. business voice with Forster

22. social Scene with Donna Carrier 45. star guide with Terri

69. tech talk with Cameron Illingworth

Tuncurry Chamber of Commerce

70. gone fishing with Tony Elkins

47. tourism update with Richard Old

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

www.focusmag.com.au u follow us on www.facebook.com/mgl.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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manning-great lakes focus 5

focusinterview.

Great Health Through the National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health, the Australian Government is providing funding under the Healthy Communities Initiative to support local government areas to deliver effective community-based physical activity and healthy eating programs. As part of this initiative, Great Lakes Council recently announced Rick Naylor as the Healthy Communities Co-ordinator to deliver the Great Health Great Lakes project over the next 18 months in their local government area. Rick talks to us about the importance of this lifestyle program … ell us about the Great Health Great Lakes project: The overall goal is to reduce lifestyle related chronic disease risk factors for people who are not predominantly in the full-time paid workforce within the Great Lakes local government area.

The project is focused on recognising and treating the causes of many chronic diseases, not just the symptoms. In so doing, we will be implementing a range of programs and activities designed to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviours and to improve dietary intake and food-related behaviours.

One of the over-arching characteristics of our project is that it aims to assist people to make realistic and sustainable changes to their behaviour and lifestyle – forever. To achieve this, we’ll be encouraging people to get involved in a number of different programs and activities within the project, with each reinforcing and complementing the other.

For example, somebody may initially get involved in the project by joining a walking group, but then progress to a structured exercise program, a cycling class and then volunteer as a ‘bike-bus’ leader or get involved in the local community garden as a volunteer.

Which age demographic is the project 6 manning-great lakes focus.

targeting?

The project is concentrating primarily on adults who are not engaged in the full-time paid workforce and who may be at risk of developing a chronic condition or who have already been diagnosed with a condition that can be addressed through lifestyle changes.

We are also encouraging partners and family members of this target population to get involved, to ensure that the lifestyle changes we are promoting will be reinforced and supported in the home environment.

How are the Australian Diabetes Council, National Heart Foundation and Cycling Australia involved?

These organisations have established structured programs that we have elected to use in our project. Rather than reinventing the wheel, we will be implementing programs such as Beat It, Heart Foundation Walking and AustCycle in various locations throughout the Great Lakes.

In addition to these, we will also be conducting a program called Healthy Dads Healthy Kids, which was developed by a research team at Newcastle University, and Healthy Eating Activity and Lifestyle (HEAL), which was developed in partnership between the Macarthur Division of General Practice and Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).

The project targets people who are not predominantly engaged in the full-time paid workforce who may be at risk of developing a chronic disease(s). Why is this?

The National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health acknowledges that many people within this target group may not have the ability to pursue a healthy lifestyle due to a range of barriers, one of which may be financial. This funding will enable us to provide a range of programs and activities at either no cost, or at low cost, to the participant to help address some of the lifestyle causes of chronic disease, by eliminating the financial barrier.

You’re an accredited exercise psychologist and recently completed a Masters in Clinical Science (Lifestyle Medicine). With these qualifications, it sounds like you’re serious about helping people improve their health for the long term ...

I’ve worked with a wide cross-section of people in my private practice as an Exercise Physiologist and have also had prior experience in corporate health and the fitness industry.

In this time, I have seen a plethora of health programs that work really well for the shortterm, but there are very few initiatives that I have seen which result in genuine long-term

behaviour change and health improvements.

I have become disillusioned with the way in which ‘exercise’ and ‘diets’ have been promoted as optional extras to our lifestyle – such as, something that we should or could do if we had the time, money or motivation. I think it is vital that we promote physical activity and nutrition as embedded components of a healthy lifestyle, not just something we do each January as the result of a New Year’s resolution.

The Great Health Great Lakes project will promote this embedded health concept throughout all of its various programs and activities to reinforce the notion that physical activity and nutrition are much more holistic and sustainable than exercise and diet.

We don’t just want people to get excited and embrace the project for the next 18 months – we want them to use these programs and activities as the catalyst for long-term behaviour changes, which leads to improved and sustained health outcomes.

How can people participate in Great Health Great Lakes?

We are endeavouring to make it as easy as possible for people to get involved. Some people may be referred by their doctor, or

We have data ost m at th shows thatreat G e th adults in tly Lakes are currengh ou not active en eir to improve th e health, let alon maintain it.

others may sign up themselves.

There is no single gateway to enter the project, and there is no restriction as to how many programs or activities in which people can be involved. The project will include programs such as HEAL, Beat It, Healthy Dads Healthy Kids, AustCycle, and activities including Heart Foundation Walking Groups, lifestyle seminars, cooking demonstrations and classes, supermarket tours, plus regular themed events and volunteering opportunities.

What makes the Great Lakes an ideal area to attain optimum peak fitness?

Optimum peak fitness is an admirable goal; however, this will not be a priority in the Great Health Great Lakes project. There is a strong link between physical inactivity and the development of many chronic diseases, so the promotion of increased physical activity as a starting point will be our primary goal. We have data that shows that most adults in the Great Lakes are currently not active enough to improve their health, let alone maintain it.

While I acknowledge there are some people in our community who have managed to embed a vigorous exercise regime into their lifestyle, and there are some fantastic local fitness centres and personal trainers providing excellent services to support this, the fact remains that the vast majority of adults in the Great Lakes find the word ‘exercise’ confronting and intimidating.

Therefore, one of the major goals of our project is to first and foremost help reduce the levels of physical inactivity, and to subsequently help increase the levels of light to moderate physical activity, often through incidental activities associated with daily living.

The Great Lakes is an ideal area in which to do this, as we have so many inexpensive and accessible choices available to us.

Realistically though, it can be quite difficult to be physically active when we live in a world surrounded by labour-saving devices or machines that do the work for us. It does require a conscious effort to be less

sedentary and more active.

Can people be fit at any age – what are your thoughts on this?

Yes, but we need to first define what we mean by ‘fitness’. Fitness is a general term referring to the ability to carry out a physical task. This can refer to endurance, strength or flexibility, or combinations of these, and are most often related to particular sporting skills or athletic abilities.

In our society, the word fitness has also become associated with how we look – whether we are lean or overweight, but this is a story in itself. In the context of your question, if we describe health-related fitness as either stamina, strength or suppleness, then yes, we can be fit at any age. It is possible to produce improvements in each of these fitness domains by doing various things consistently. For example, by walking regularly we can improve our stamina; by joining a Yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi class we can help improve our suppleness; and by doing hard physical work in the garden or some regular resistance activities, we can maintain or improve our strength. Ideally, we should be aiming to work on all three.

How do you feel when you see overweight children and unhealthy eating habits setting in at a young age?

This is a difficult question. The mainstream media has tended to promote being overweight and obesity as the cause of many chronic health problems and has simplistically promoted weight loss as the solution. In other words, if we all lost weight, there’d be no chronic disease epidemics. However, I think the real problem is much more complex than this, and for many of us it comes down to the lifestyle choices we make or are compelled to make.

In the last two generations, we have seen an exponential increase in motor vehicles and other labour saving devices. At the same time, we’ve also witnessed a phenomenal increase in the availability of foods that have been highly processed and are energy-dense.

It has gradually become the norm, not the exception, to make food choices that reflect

how well the food marketers have done their job and to let those labour saving devices do the work for us.

Sadly, our children are growing up in a world where not many of them walk or ride a bike to school, climb trees, play in the backyard, bushwalk, meet in the local park to play spontaneous games, eat fresh food, only eat when they are hungry and have treats as special occasion foods.

For many families, it is very difficult to buck the societal trend, and by not doing so we unwittingly reinforce the very lifestyle behaviours that we acknowledge aren’t that helpful, but as parents often feel powerless to change.

Hopefully, one of the programs that we’ll be offering in the Great Health Great Lakes project can go some way to address this.

Healthy Dads Healthy Kids acknowledges that fathers have a major influence in the physical, social and emotional development of their children. This program aims to help fathers make healthier lifestyle choices and improve the activity and eating behaviours of their children.

Who and what are some of your inspirational sporting heroes or success stories?

I am an avid sports fan and have played a range of sports over the years. In so doing, I have seen some amazing sporting achievements, both live and through the media. These days, elite sports persons are mostly professional and are surrounded by a team of therapists and trainers, so while their achievements are often exceptional, it is almost an expectation that they will succeed.

I tend to find inspiration from ordinary

people who succeed by doing extraordinary things. To this end, I derive immense satisfaction from seeing people make realistic and sustainable lifestyle choices that have had a huge impact on their lives Do you practice what you preach – what do you do to keep fit?

Yes, although my wife would argue that she’s much more active than me! In my early adult years, I used to play a range of sports and trained hard, adopting a very scientific approach to my training. Fortunately, for most of us, age brings wisdom, and I began to realise that this sort of exercise regime was not sustainable.

I’ve given away competitive sports in favour of participative activities and tend to focus more on doing things for the sheer enjoyment of doing them. Possibly my one concession is in backyard cricket with my son Charlie – no holds barred. As a family, we try to leave the car at home as much as possible and walk or ride to our destinations – in other words, to walk the talk!

Thanks Rick.

the plug!

For more information on Great Health Great Lakes contact: Forster-Tuncurry Community Health on 6539 6300. Drop in at the Community Health Centre in Breese Parade, Forster to complete a registration form, speak to your GP, or for general enquires, contact Rick Naylor on 0418 378 882. manning-great lakes focus 7

focusinterview.

artist.

Profile

Shaun Clark.

Contemporary artist Shaun Clark’s first time entry in the Archibald in 2000, a painting of iconic Australian actor Ruth Cracknell, hung in the Salon des Refuses. He has painted a slew of other well-known Australian identities and a self-portrait titled Blood, Sweat and Fears, painted in his own blood, toured Australia in 2007. Shaun works from a studio at his bush property at Topi Topi, near Bungwahl. ow long have you lived in the Manning-Great Lakes?

I have lived in the ManningGreat Lakes for 10 years. It’s one the best decisions we have ever made. I knew that Australia was fantastic in wildlife and colours, but I hadn’t realised just how incredible the East Coast is and what it has to offer to a creative mind.

I was always copying nature in my paintings and since I’ve been here, I’ve developed techniques that to me feel like nature itself. I feel now that I have become more in tune with nature and am more at ease with making art, rather than forced.

What brought you to the area, and how has the city-to-bush transition been?

The transition from city-to-bush has been fantastic – cathartic to the soul, as they say. I had a fairly hectic business and entertainment life in Sydney and found being in the bush incredibly calming.

When I was in the city, I felt more competitive and driven to impress and make money and found that doing something I loved became tiresome and monotonous. I started becoming commercial, which I think is death to a true artist.

Now that I do house painting as a main income and I’ve found that it’s taken the emphasis off commercialising my work, I can paint for pleasure again.

You painted the late iconic Australian actress Ruth Cracknell at her home in 2000.

Was she as regal in life as she appears in the painting?

In doing portraiture, I think Ruth Cracknell was the most nerve-wracking entry into that field. Not because of Ruth, as she was extremely patient, elegant and gracious. I had to 8 manning-great lakes focus.

overcome my awe of her as quickly as possible, or the work was not going to make it.

Her talent, of course, was superb, and in painting her I hoped in the very least that she would like the picture. Ruth is an Australian icon. Few Australians know that she could have had a career pretty well anywhere in the world, but she chose to remain in Australia – as it was so incredibly dear to her and she would not leave it.

I was incredibly honoured that she agreed to sit for me. The painting was selected for the Salon des Refuses that year.

Tell us about the background in this painting?

I don’t consider myself a portrait painter, but I enjoy a challenge – and as an artist, to paint a person is the greatest challenge. The painting of Ruth was my first formal portrait sitting, so it had to be a great picture no matter what, because I couldn’t have her looking at that picture and not liking it.

When I paint a portrait, I like to have the person sitting in the room with you in spirit.

Unfortunately, Ruth passed away within a couple of years of me painting the portrait, and I feel when I look at the picture that she’s still here and I always say hello when I go into the studio.

The following year, actress Lisa McCune sat for me. This was a very intimate portrait session, as she was six-and-a-half months pregnant and this painting is the only picture of her first pregnancy.

I have also painted opera singer Cheryl Barker, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, actor Ryan Kwanten, and Archibald-winning artist Euan Macleod.

Your self-portrait, titled Blood, Sweat and Fears, was selected as a finalist in the 2007 Doug Moran Portrait Prize ... you used your

d Once finished an h is rn va sealed with the I entered it intora it rt Archibald Po ar and ye at th r fo Prize fter was rejected. AI to ok it n io ct je that re d an ly al very person rn the bu to d wante picture. .

own blood to do this painting?

As I am always looking for new ideas, one day I walked out of my studio and reached down and picked a stone up by some razor grass and cut my finger.

The blood pooled in my hand, and I went back to the studio to clean it. When I looked at the blood and appreciated the colour, instead of cleaning my hand, I dipped a brush in the blood and did a quick sketch. It fascinated me and gave me an idea that I executed. This became a self-portrait in my own blood.

As this was an unusual medium, I consulted with a doctor friend of mine who took my blood and put it into glass vials with anticoagulant, which I kept refrigerated.

Working quickly, I completed the painting in three days.

Once finished and sealed with varnish, I entered it into the Archibald Portrait Prize for that year and was rejected. After that rejection, I took it very personally and wanted to burn the picture.

The painting was a very personal statement about my hard work and frustration in making art. I was using the most valuable paint I could use and with the constant images of the Iraq ‘war’ bombings and draining of life, I had expressed my fears about the future from that war and my ‘internal’ war as an artist.

I used the reverse side of the canvas to achieve the effect of rawness – there’s no pencil or pen marks; the whole painting is organic, canvas and blood. These were my own rules for

this particular picture, as all my pictures have their own rules.

What motivates you to paint?

Sometimes I don’t feel like painting at all and divert to my other great passion – the garden. It is another source of shape, colour and organic ideas that I can shape and manipulate at any level I want to combine. But when I feel like painting or have an idea, I have to work and everything else is sacrificed to that idea. Even though I’m self-taught, seeing other art and talking to people triggers ideas and motivates me to paint.

There’s a hint of the surreal in your work. Is Salvador Dali an inspiration?

I love the clarity of Salvador Dali and maybe I am somewhat influenced by his surrealism; but really, my own surrealism is that I’m not a surrealist, but I am – in the sense that you are influenced if the painting needs it, and a flicker of someone like Dali trickles through.

I am an abstract artist, I am a realist and an expressionist, but really what I am is a mood painter – how I’m feeling at the time comes out in my pictures and is often not where I envisioned beginning.

Where can we see your work?

At the moment, a few of my works are in the Manning Regional Gallery – and I’m really delighted, as they have some fantastic works there.

What are your favourite words to live by?

Time is fast, and I better make sure I do as much as I can to make my life as full as possible.

Thanks Shaun.

Volkswagen has just taken home Australia’s Best Car across five categories.

We’re very proud of our success at this year’s Australia’s Best Car awards. And it’s all the more sweet because most of the winning cars happen to be newest models.

The awards range from Best Light Car over $20,000 to the Best Luxury SUV over $60,000. So why not visit John Oxley Volkswagen and take one for a victory lap today?

Your Volkswagen Partner

John Oxley Volkswagen 130 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie MD7571 Tel. 02-65888588 www.johnoxley.com.au manning-great lakes focus 9

W H AT ’ S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 2

what’s

12 ’70s and ’80s Music ‘Feastival’ - Tuncurry Racecourse.

This is the third year for the Saltwater Freshwater Festival, and this year its in Taree. The Festival is a celebration of Aboriginal culture on the Mid North Coast. Our region, where the saltwater and freshwater meet, is rich in Aboriginal music, art, dance and food.

The ‘70s & ‘80s Music ‘Feastival’ will be a great afternoon of live music at Tuncurry Racecourse. Entertainment includes performances by Ross Wilson and Band Dragon (original line-up) and Maximum Groove. Gates open at 5.30pm. Tickets can be purchased at a special pre-sale offer for $55 from Ticketek or by phoning 4929 1977. Tuncurry Racecourse will provide food and drink stalls for patrons. Alcohol stalls include beer, wine, soft drinks and water. This is an 18+ event only (ID required).

No eskies or alcohol permitted.

When 26 January 11 - 5pm. m.

Where Queen Elizabeth Park. rk.

When Thurs 12 January. Where Tuncurry Racecourse.

Contact Details Phone 4929 1977 or www.maximumgroove.com.au

Saltwater Freshwater Festival.

The Wolverines.

8 26

An entertainment experience not to be missed ...

WOLVERINES COMING TO CLUB TAREE! Where Club Taree.

When Sunday 8 January; 8pm.

Cost $22 adults; $12 kids.

Learn to swim program.

2-20

The YMCA learn to swim program will start on January 2 and run through until January 20.

When Mon 2 – Fri 20 Jan. Where Great Lakes Aquatic Centre. Contact 6591 7199.

10 manning-great lakes focus.

Australia Day. Australia Day Celebrations commence in Forster Tuncurry with a Pilot Hill Flag Raising Ceremony & Breakfast at 8.30am then move on to the Australia Day Awards ceremony at 11am at Club Forster.

At John Wright Park in Tuncurry there is a Rotary organised Family Fun Day including a magician, live music, carnival rides, a Lions train, castle, car display and clown face painting. The flag raising ceremony will be at 1.30pm.

When Thurs 26 January.

Where John Wright Park and Club Forster.

Contact Club Forster 6591 6591.

26

Music in the back paddock at Great Lakes Winery on Australia Day!

Relax at a great family day out at Great Lakes Winery at Wootton and listen to DE JA VU play favourites from the 60s & 70s. Find a comfy spot on the green and order a picnic box and enjoy local produce including cheeses, cold cuts, fresh salad and something sweet to finish!

When Thurs 26 January.

Tickets & Picnic Boxes pre-booked on Phone 4997 7255.

manning-great lakes focus

11

Matters. [ with Alan T ickle ] Dear Alan, My family are visiting for a few weeks, and I wanted to broach a few financial matters with them.

What are some of the things we should discuss? We are reasonably comfortable and can provide some financial help as well. PW Dear PW, Once the Christmas period is over, there is a good opportunity to have some serious family discussions around the issues that you have raised.

Wills and Estate Planning It is important, first of all, to make sure that you have a Will and if so, that it is still appropriate.

Circumstances can change in families, and the sort of triggers that need to be addressed is when a beneficiary is facing financial issues where creditors are making claims, or where a marriage is floundering and there is a potential of a property settlement.

There may be a change in health or mental capacity of a beneficiary or executor.

In the circumstances described, your intended wishes for distribution of your assets upon death might be in jeopardy at the hands of others.

Getting advice and reviewing your Will through an accredited specialist can protect the assets and ensure that your beneficiaries received their entitlements, not those who might be eyeing off the asset for their own purposes.

It is also appropriate to think about whom you would appoint as an Executor and also who you could trust to manage your financial and personal decisions for you if you are unable.

The documents I refer to are Powers of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship.

No-one knows if they will retain a sound mind and body during their whole lifetime, but for a substantial majority, there will be a time when we are not capable of caring for ourselves.

Assisting Families A little while ago, a client indicated that they wanted to assist their 18 year old grandchildren with a gift of $10,000.

Divided up, the $10,000 would not have gone real far, but some of the better options we discussed were around establishing risk insurance for them while they were young

12 manning-great lakes focus.

and the premiums low.

Risk insurance covered such things as a death benefit, trauma (major illnesses) and income protection.

Paying a few years' premiums gave them a kick start and not only protected the grandchildren, but when they stopped and thought about it, if there was a health issue or accident, the burden would fall back on the parents, so providing that cover was a real family protection benefit and a loving act from the grandparents.

Home Saver The other suggestion discussed was to help the grandchildren with a home saver deposit account.

Opening up one of those special accounts that some institutions offered enabled up to $950 government contribution to the savings account, provided that $5,500 was deposited to the account.

Young Grandchildren and Savings The rules have changed on how unearned income (e.g. interest) will be assessed for minors where money was given to them.

It is best that advice be obtained from a taxation adviser that can take into account the parent's taxation position before determining how an account, for example an education fund, should be established.

Risk Insurance Often the last thing young adults think about is insurance, because they think that they are bullet proof.

Unfortunately young adults have accidents, or suffer illnesses and as a result not only does it change their life, their parents suddenly are thrust back into a caring and financial support role.

This financial risk can be avoided through insurance.

A 25 to 30 year old taking out cover on a level premium is one of the best financial risk management decisions that they will ever make, because the premiums are so cheap in that age bracket.

Parents, give them a nudge, drag them screaming if you have to, but get the message across.

This information and advice is of a general nature only and no reliance should be placed on the information before seeking individual advice from a Financial Planner and Taxation Adviser to ensure the appropriateness to individual circumstances. Alan Tickle and Your Heritage Financial Planning are both authorised representatives of Securitor Financial Group AFSL 240687 ABN 48009189495.

legallight.

Post-Christmas financial stress

Justin Stack.

Hard to believe it’s that time of year again, yet here we are – 2012. It would be nice to begin the year in a secure financial position.

For many Australians though, post-Christmas is a scary time. It’s the time of realisation – when Christmas spending catches up with you.

Credit card bills start to mount. Expenses start to roll in, like back-to-school needs.

Many consumers have taken advantage of retailers’ interest-free loans. These obviously seem attractive – take the goods home today and pay later. If you can pay within the interest-free period of the contract, then there’s no problem. But if you can’t, the repayments escalate dramatically.

The cycle of debt can be difficult to escape.

Can’t pay off a credit card? Just get another one to pay it off, right? It’s a worrying pattern.

Young consumers, perhaps more inclined to put things on credit that they can’t really afford, are particularly at risk. They may not understand the impact that having a default recorded on their credit report can have on their future borrowing needs.

It would seem that now is a critical time to put good financial management strategies in place. A New Year’s resolution. But how?

A good starting point is to work out where you stand financially. How much do you owe? What can you realistically afford to pay back?

If you can’t make a repayment by the due date, don’t be afraid to seek an extension.

Creditors may be happy to negotiate. Many financial institutions have a hardship team that deals with these requests.

From a practical point-of-view, it’s a good idea to make a weekly budget and record everything you spend. Avoid spending on credit, particularly making cash advances which attract high interest rates. Pay back as much as you can, not just the minimum credit repayment.

Seeing a registered financial planner can be a good move, to help you establish a longterm plan. For example, consolidating all of your debt under one single personal loan or mortgage can mean a lower interest rate than your credit card rate.

There are also legal solutions you can explore, such as a debt agreement, personal insolvency, or bankruptcy as a final resort.

These decisions should never be taken lightly, or without first seeking specialist advice.

You should also be aware that if there is a dispute about what you owe, the Consumer Trader and Tenancy Tribunal has wide powers to make orders in a fairly informal setting.

If there is enough at stake, you can apply to the court to set aside or vary an unjust contract under the Contracts Review Act and the Australian Consumer Law. Good financial management now is imperative. ASIC’s consumer website (www.moneysmart.gov.au) has some great tips.

focusinterview.

!

.

S N I ROB

The award-winning international smash hit comedy, Celebrity Autobiography, visits the Glasshouse direct from the Sydney Opera House this February. Mikey Robins tells us about the show.

Y

We are basically just reading from their ou’re visiting Port words and as I say ... you can't make this Macquarie in February s**t up! for the Celebrity I get to be Ricky Martin, Richard Autobiography show.

Willkins, William Shatner, and bizarrely Tell us about the enough, Carol Channing ... plus others. concept and how it works ...

And which celebrity has made you It is basically using the own words of laugh the most on reading from their celebrities against them (laughs). It is autobiography? amazing what really famous people will Oohhh ... Ricky Martin! He's put in print about themselves. exceptional.

There is a cast of five or six of us, You see, Ricky has two characters in his including James O’Loghlin and Fiona head … there's Ricky and there’s Kicky, O’Loughlin. who argues with Ricky (laughs).

So how did you become involved?

You cannot believe how self obsessed They asked me! It was just one of these people can be. And as I said ... I those things ... nothing much happens in mean, these are the kind of thoughts you January in TV, radio etc. or with corporate should maybe tell a psychiatrist or work. I used to go on holidays a priest, but they choose to in January, but my agent put them in print. called me and said to I think Jeremy Sims have a look at this ay d Any a on am is reading from Justin show. I Googled I at th Bieber’s, I mean … it, saw some of TV stage or livel stage with Pau shouldn't you at least the stuff that was McDermont is go through puberty happening in New going to be a is fi rst before writing an York, he asked if I good day – he auto biography? wanted to do it, so I the best!

How does the show said: “Yep”! play out on stage? Is There have been some it just reading from the great reviews for the books? shows in New York, haven’t Well yes, there is reading, but with there? some of these autobiographies you get It has run for three years sold out in two different celebrities recalling the New York. same event, so they cut into each other.

Tell us about some of the Wayne Harrison is putting together the autobiographies you will be reading script and is directing it, and he has made from, and who'll we'll be laughing at.

it more of a theatrical piece than the New York show.

Who will enjoy the show?

Oh well, anyone who likes to laugh at famous people.

I got the script last week and I have read it a few times – and I still laugh out loud in parts of it.

Having done a lot of radio, TV and stage shows, what do you enjoy doing most?

Well, it is all the same job. It’s all just making up stuff really and hoping people laugh. And any day that I am on a TV stage or live stage with Paul McDermont is going to be a good day – he is the best!

Thanks Mikey.

the plug!

Starring: James O’Loghlin, Fiona O’Loughlin, Mikey Robins and Jeremy Sims. Laugh non-stop when outrageous celebrity memoirs are presented live on stage. The all-star cast will perform word-for-word extracts from the brilliantly banal, deliciously ridiculous and absurd autobiographical ramblings of the rich and famous.

Wednesday 1 February, 8pm. $49.50 Adult; $42.50 Concession/Group 6+ Call the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit www.glasshouse.org.au

manning-great lakes focus 13

14 manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

Bu h t retreat.

Tibetan Lama Sogyal Rinpoche is leading a 10-day retreat at Tiona Park, from 12 to 22 January … We talk to Ross Mackay from Rigpa Australia – a centre for or the study of Tibetan Buddhism and modern meditation. Ross is Sogyal Rinpoche’ h ’s most senior student in Australia and former National Director of Rigpa Australia.

C

ould you please provide some background information about Tibetan Lama Sogyal Rinpoche?

Sogyal Rinpoche is a worldrenowned Buddhist teacher and the author of the highly acclaimed The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying.

Born in Eastern Tibet, Sogyal Rinpoche received a traditional education in Tibet and India, then travelled to England for Western education at Cambridge University. Rinpoche has travelled to many countries, observing the reality of people’s lives and searching how to translate the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism so as to make them relevant to modern men and women of all faiths – by drawing out their universal message, while not losing authenticity, purity and power.

He has been teaching for over 30 years and continues to travel widely in Europe, America, Australia, and Asia, addressing thousands of people on retreats, teaching tours and speaking at major conferences on a wide variety of subjects, including medicine and healing, interfaith dialogue, peace and non-violence, business and leadership and hospice care. He is the founder of Rigpa, an international network of over 130 Buddhist centres and groups in 41 countries around the world, under the patronage of His Holiness Dalai Lama.

Rigpa has been visiting the Great Lakes for retreats since 1989 ... Could you please provide some background information about how the retreat started?

Sogyal Rinpoche first came to Australia in 1985 and returned each summer to teach. His group of students grew, and we looked all along the East Coast of Australia for a suitable venue, when one student who knew this area found Tiona Park.

The first retreat in 1989 had approximately 80 participants attend. In 2011, the retreat will have over 500 adults and 100 children.

What draws you back to the Great Lakes annually?

Tiona Park is located on a narrow spit of land with the shore of Wallis Lake on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. The natural beauty of the Myall Lakes provides an ideal setting to hold a meditation retreat. Each year we set up a large marquee overlooking Wallis Lake – with its calm expansiveness that inspires the peaceful state of a meditative mind. The beaches and township make it ideal for people and families to attend a meditation retreat, plus also have some holiday time.

What can participants expect from the 10-

day retreat, which is titled ‘The Wisdom of Compassion: Awakening the Mind, Opening the Heart’?

Every morning, Sogyal Rinpoche gives teachings from the Tibetan tradition, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to listen to such a renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher in an informal setting. Participants receive instruction on meditation, and there are presentations by Rinpoche’s senior students. We aim to integrate and stabilise meditation and the teachings in an environment of retreat.

Two main themes of the retreat, and you could say of Buddhism in general, are compassion and wisdom. Meditating in a retreat environment helps us to unlock our natural wisdom and compassion. It helps us to When we first , see things more clearly, begin to meditaete th e us en we oft with less attachment, enter into a peaceful meditative s breath as the focu and allows us to be st environment. Added to that is ju of the practice – ing more compassionate to ch at the study of ancient wisdom w mindfully . ourselves and to others. th ea teachings, which are based on the br the Could you please tell us understanding of the suffering of this about the basic principles life and the way to overcome that by behind meditation and the showing how to fulfill our human potential benefits it may have on mental of limitless compassion and wisdom. wellbeing?

Leaving behind the flurry of our daily lives, The great masters say that the first practice of meditation is a way of being rather than doing, and meditation is to allow the mind to settle into a it is within this space that rejuvenation of body and state of ‘calm abiding’, where it will find peace mind can take place. Worries, fears and constant and stability. It can then rest in the state of nonbusyness will have less hold on us, giving us a wider distraction, which is what meditation really is. and deeper perspective of what is important in life.

When the mind is able to settle and be peaceful, Buddhism is a philosophy and less a religion. our innate wisdom and compassion will naturally Can you please explain the difference? arise.

Buddhism analyses and understands the nature When we first begin to meditate, we often of our existence and works with that, rather use the breath as the focus of the practice – just than dependence on a creator. Everything is mindfully watching the breath. If thoughts or subject to change, so grasping onto thoughts and emotions arise, we just note them and then return phenomena, which constantly change, will bring to watching the breath. us suffering. We have the capacity to create the This is actually a great way of training our mind, causes and conditions for a positive future, relieving of being more able to work with our thoughts suffering and to bring happiness to our fellow and emotions. We are less likely to follow negative beings and ourselves. thoughts and get bogged down in negative or Who can participate in the 10-day retreat? anxious stories.

The retreat is open to anyone – you don’t have There are many scientific studies that show, even to be a Buddhist and you don’t need to have ever on brain imaging, that meditation creates a lasting meditated before. Many people come to retreat to impact on brain function that promotes positive learn to meditate for the first time. It’s the perfect thoughts and compassion for others, decreases environment for a beginner. At the same time, anxiety and depression and boosts immunity.

Buddhist practitioners who have spent years in Is attending a retreat a good way of retreat, come to hear the teachings and meditate. rejuvenating the mind, body and soul?

Is it appropriate for children to attend?

A retreat is a way of simplifying your life, by The children’s program is designed for school removing yourself from your daily routine as you age children and teens. The children attend

daily Buddhist sessions, which include teachings, meditation and compassion practices and creative and expressive arts.

The children love to debate in the sessions and to investigate and discover answers for themselves, and they really do learn to meditate! Parents love being in an environment that provides an education for their children’s hearts – nurturing inner values such as peace, love, compassion, forgiveness and understanding.

People can find out more about the retreat at an Open Day. Please tell us about this?

We are really looking forward to people from the local area coming to meet us at our Open Day on the afternoon of January 15 and to see what retreat is like. At the Open Day, people can learn about meditation, participate in short guided meditation sessions, go on a tour of an authentic Tibetan Shrine and generally experience a special insight into Tibetan culture right here in Myall Lakes. There will be activities for children and families.

Thanks Ross.

Open day info.

More information on the Open Day will be available on our retreat website at rigpa.org.au/tour/retreat/

Bookings For bookings or more information about the Rigpa Retreat, you can go to rigpa.org.au/tour/retreat or (02) 9037 4002

manning-great lakes focus 15

Manning-Great Lakes

Cover Dish Chicken and chorizo terrine with baby figs from Bent on Food.

eat. Dining Guide is now available on the App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 16 manning-great lakes

.

eat.

Harrigan’s Irish Pub Located on the banks of the beautiful Manning River in Harrington, Harrigan’s Irish Pub is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week, we offer a variety of daily specials, as well as a great à la carte menu.

Harrigan’s can also cater for groups and functions. Please contact our Functions Manager for more details.

Monday – Friday: $12 specials. Choose from 12 great menu options for just $12 each.

Saturday: $17.50 steak night.

Sunday: $12.50 roast.

Contact us on (02) 6556 0555 to reserve your table.

Coffee Grind Coffee Grind is a boutique Coffee Shop and Café located in the Main Street of Forster.

Friendly owners Matt and Cara invite you to come down and enjoy their beautiful breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea. With gourmet cakes, slices, freshly baked muffins and of course.. ‘the best coffee in town’.

Head Chef Dale Phillips.

Owners Cara and Matt.

Harrington Waters, Josephine Blvd, Harrington t 6556 0555 59 Wharf Street Forster t 6557 5155

open Breakfast: 7.30am-10.30am. Lunch: MonFri 12noon-3pm, 6pm-8.30pm. Sat 12noon9pm. Sun 12noon-8.30pm

open 7 days. From 8am.

Beach Bums

Corner Restaurant

Beach Bums Café boasts a unique position situated five steps from the sand, overlooking Forster Main Beach.

Great food and coffee are the heart of Beach Bums, but you won’t find the snobby coffee crowd here. What you will find is a delicious team, a sexy and simple menu, fresh tunes daily and a great atmosphere. Sit back, relax and watch nature at its best!

The Corner offers a relaxed and contemporary vibe with a modern Australian menu driven by fresh, seasonal produce.

• Delicious summer menu showcasing local produce • New drinks menu, including craft beers and local wine • Afternoon menu available • Exclusively serving Campos Coffee

Current opening times Sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week (weather permitting).

• Listed in 2012 Good Food Guide • NSW Tourism Awards 2011 Bronze Award Restaurants • Follow us on Facebook

Corner of Munster and Clarence Sts, Port Macquarie t 6583 3300 w www.cornerrestaurant.com.au open From 7am - 7 Days. Coffee all day.

Head Chef Todd Richardson

Owners Kate and Darrin.

Reservations are recomended for dinner, but we apologise – we don’t take bookings for brekkie or lunch.

Located at the corner of North & Beach Streets, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au open Sunrise to Sunset , 7 Days a week (weather permitting) manning-great lakes focus 17

eat.

The Belle Bistro

Club Taree New menu options.

Club Taree has recently added a range of new menu options to our freshly cooked to order à la carte menu.

Perfect to enjoy in the summer months, try our all new lemon pepper chicken salad or freshly made vegetarian pizza served with a Greek salad. Indulge in a home style favourite of chef’s pie of the day, or chicken breast kiev, or any meal from the range of salads, pastas, char grilled and seafood varieties available.

Children’s meals, snack menu, desserts, cakes, slices and hot and cold beverages available.

Chef Kevin Williams.

121 Wingham Rd, Taree t 6539 4000 w www.clubtaree.com.au

Have you experienced the Bellevue Hotel Bistro lately?

Bring the whole family down and enjoy a great meal by the pool.

Afterwards, the kids can have a dip or play in the games room.

Come down on a Friday night and enjoy some quality fresh local seafood in the bistro and listen to great live music, or come and join in the fun on one of our feature nights (Monday – poker, Wednesday – trivia, Thursday – karaoke).

Be sure to try our lunch steak special for just $9.50 (7 days). Also keep your eyes out for shopper dockets, to receive your second main meal for just $5.

Our experienced, friendly staff look forward to seeing you soon.

Manning Street, Tuncurry t 6554 6577

*Opening times vary.

open 7 days. Lunch Mon - Fri, 11.30 - 2pm; Sat - Sun 11.30 - 2.30pm.

Dinner: Sunday - Thursday, 5.30pm - 8pm; Fri - Sat 5.30pm - 8.30pm.

Tuncurry Bowling Club

i-Dragon Chinese Cuisine

Sail Away Café Specialising in fresh seafood and succulent steaks, the menu offers a delicious range of meals.

Try our traditional beer battered fish and chips, a mouth watering mixed grill, tender salt and pepper calamari, or tempura King Prawn cutlets.

Club Café Open all day, 7 days a week Club Café offers a great range of indulgent cakes, slices and biscuits and also a great range of snacks, gourmet sandwiches and melts, plus classic burgers.

From being upstairs to a ground floor, we now have a new location and new name. But it is still us: Jenny & Tony Ng operating.

Now that it’s summer, mango chicken is available. If you like to challenge your hot taste buds, you have to try our signature dish, ‘Evil Hot Lamb’, that has been tried by a famous TV chef and is now in one of his popular cook books.

Take away and dine in.

We wish you all a happy, successful and healthy New Year.

LUNCH from $8.50. MAIN from $12.50.

21 Parkes Street, Tuncurry. t 6554 6477 Sail Away Brasserie open 7 days.

Lunch 11.30am – 2.30pm, Dinner 5.30pm – finish.

18 manning-great lakes focus.

Head Chef Haley.

Shop 1/10 Head Street, Forster t 6555 2092 open Tuesday to Sunday (B.Y.O). Lunch 12pm to 2.30 pm Dinner from 5pm.

Owner Jenny and her kids.

eat.

Weekend breakfast & lunch at the Bean Bar .

Bent on Food

Bean Bar

• Dinner Friday and Saturday nights • Cookery classes for adults and kids, including cheesemaking • Catering • Private functions • All your gourmet goodies, specialising in local produce.

Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, with an exclusive café menu, and à la carte dinner or Tapas Thursday to Saturday.

Tony, Ray and the staff at Bean Bar work effortlessly to prepare amazing meals in a waterfront venue, designed and fully licensed to cater for intimate functions such as weddings, business seminars and birthdays. Bean Bar has now introduced an amazing range of seafood, including oysters, seafood plates and platters, as well as expanding the night dining menu.

Head Chef Michael James.

Head Chef John Barriball.

1 Pulteney St, Taree, set on the Manning River t 6550 0022

95 Isabella Street, Wingham NSW t 6557 0727 w www.bentonfood.com.au

open 7 Days Breakfast and lunch.

open Breakfast and lunch 7 days a week (phone to check hours on public holidays)

Black Head Bowling Club Finalist 2011 Best Casual Dining Venue in NSW Sun Night – $10 Roast.

Mon Night – Pensioners $5 discount on main meals.

Tues Night – Kids eat free from the children’s menu with each main meal purchased (including a free soft drink).

Wed Night – $15 steaks, Thurs Night – $10 pizzas.

Fri Night – Members badge draw and raffles.

A very happy New Year from the team at the Bowlo Bistro.

Main Street, Hallidays Point club 6559 2923 bistro 6559 2971 open 7 days, 12pm - 2pm. Dinner: Mon - Thurs, 6pm - 8pm. Fri - Sun, 5.30pm - 8.30pm.

Raw Sugar Café Bowers Café

Raw Sugar Café, open seven days. Open for breakfast at 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am and afternoon tea until 4pm. Our food is prepared by our qualified chefs, using only the freshest local ingredients and served by experienced and friendly staff. Our specials board changes weekly!

Don’t forget our fantastic fresh fruit smoothies, frappes and fresh juices this summer!

Come in and enjoy the five star experience today.

Freshest local ingredients.

214 Victoria Street, Taree t 6550 0137 open 7.30am to 4pm.

Bowers delights in making all food in house, using the freshest local produce and serving locally roasted coffee.

Perfect for functions and intimate weddings.

Only 5 minutes from Taree, with a peaceful rural outlook.

Artist & Farmers Market Saturday 21 January 8.30am - 2.30pm.

461 Kolodong Rd, Taree t 6550 1230 open 9am – 5pm, 7 Days. Closed public holidays. manning-great lakes focus 19

focusinterview.

’70s & ’80s ‘Feastival’.

The ‘70s & ‘80s Music ‘Feastival’ is on at Tuncurry Racecourse on 12 January!

Bands performing include the original Ross Wilson Band and Dragon plus Maximum Groove. Tickets can be purchased at a special pre-sale offer of $55 from Ticketek online, or ring 4929 1977. Tuncurry Racecourse will provide food and drink stalls for patrons.

Alcohol stalls include beer, wine, soft drinks and water. NO BYO. 18 year plus event (ID required). BYO rug – no eskies or alcohol …

Gates open at 5pm.

Dragon perform classic hits: April Sun in Cuba, Still in Love, Celebrate, Are you Old Enough, Young Years and Rain, just to name a few!

Dragon perform live!

Plus heaps more ...

Robertson.

R HEAD CHEF // TUNCURRY BOWLING CLUB

Maximum Groove delivers all the classic soul, Groove, dance tunes from Stevie Wonder to Aretha Franklin e.g. Superstition and Respect, with classic funk ‘70s tunes like Play That Funky Music.

Bands ing m or perf include the original Ross Wilson Band and Dragon plus Maximum Groove.

Ross Wilson plus band perform Eagle Rock, Hi Honey Ho, and Come Back Again, Daddy Cool Classics. Not forgetting the smooth rock groove of Mondo Rock hits, including Cool World, Come Said the Boy, State of the Heart and Chemistry.

Started by Ian Edwards in Perth in 1992, they have played at all class venues and corporate functions throughout WA, including the Burswood Casino. They have toured in Australia and overseas, including the Grand Hyett circuit in Asia.

Legendary ‘70s & ‘80s Cover Band.

For information on the ‘70s & ‘80s ‘Feastival’, please go to: www. maximumgroove.com.au

Tuncurry Bowling Club Head Chef, Ian Robertson, comes to the club with a vast background of experience in the catering field. t an early age, Ian took an interest in cooking, which led him to a start with Byron Bay’s nt Beach Hotel – that establishment owned by John Cornell (Strop) and the illustrious Paul Hogan. He moved on just down the road al miixed d a mouth watering mixed Try our tradition to Ballina RSL Club, sh fi d re grill, seafood platters or tte Ba er Be outh then onto the Ballina tempura King Prawn and Chips, a m grill, Beach Resort. watering mixed cutlets with a zesty lime or seafood plattegrsPrawn A relocation to mayonnaise. Our menu in Tempura K zesty lime Forster Tuncurry saw a ith w has a great selection ts cutle Ian as Head Chef at mayonnaise. of light meals, burgers, the Sporties for some six pastas, steaks and seafood years. A change of scenery plus a fantastic breakfast and enticed him for two years as tempting specials every day. Don’t Manager/Chef at Storm Retirement forget to check out our specials board!

Village. Currently, Ian holds the position of Brasserie opens at 5pm during winter.

Head Chef at our Club after two years. A It is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a great achievement saw Ian presented with week; lunch from 11.30am to 2pm, dinner the title of winner of Great Lakes Master from 5.30pm and also has an all day café Chef competition of 2011. menu featuring cakes, biscuits and slices, The ability to create exciting, succulent sandwiches and wraps, and pies and food dishes with local produce is a highlight sausage rolls. for Ian, as it brings out his talents.

So why not bring your family and friends The club can cater for all your family and down and meet Ian and try one of his friends’ birthdays, anniversaries, weddings succulent meals! and more and even that romantic dinner for The plan for Tuncurry Bowling Club is to two; we will impress. make it known throughout the ManningThe Sail Away Brasserie is reknowned for Great Lakes district and to have the best its seafood cuisine and succulent steaks. Try food in town – with friendly service to make our traditional beer battered fish and chips, your dining a night to remember.

20 manning-great lakes focus.

focuseditorial.

John Waters is one of Australia’s most critically acclaimed television, film and theatre performers.

Many would readily recognise John from his roles in All Saints, Offspring and as co-host of Playschool ... yet John’s first and great love is music, and 20 years ago he co-wrote Looking Through a Glass Onion, an homage to the music, mystery and memory of John Lennon.

n the 31st anniversary of the shooting of Lennon, John Waters is once again channelling the iconic musician in his Up Close and Personal tour ...

In 1992 I had the good fortune of seeing you and Stewart D’Arrietta in the debut production of Looking Through a Glass Onion at the Tilbury Hotel in Sydney. Fast forward 20 years and many successful Glass Onion tours later, and you are again reprising the role that explores the essence of Lennon through song and spoken word. Tell us about the show: Glass Onion was conceived essentially as a challenge I wanted to give myself – namely, to devise a way to get back to my early years as a singer and musician in bands, but add to that what I’d since learned about being on a stage and talking to an audience.

I had flirted with a vague idea about using the songs of John Lennon in a way that celebrated the essence of who he was as a person or, more correctly, how I imagined him to have been.

A call from the Tilbury Hotel in Woolloomooloo with an offer to do a show to fill an unexpected vacancy occurred.

This gave me the drive, and the necessary deadline, and with my close friend, musician Stewart D’Arrietta, the show came into being ... a collage of song and monologue that has proved to be a fairly unique experience.

For baby boomers, the show must be quite an emotional trip down memory lane. How do audience members respond to the show?

JOHN A N

I find the emotional response to the show extends beyond the baby boomers for whom Lennon is a first hand memory, to much younger people who are still touched by the honesty of a man they only know from handed down history.

This is probably the aspect of doing the show that gives me the best buzz.

It means that this is a piece that works, regardless of preconceptions.

Which songs can people look forward to hearing you perform?

There are many (about 30 I think), and they were chosen either for just being classic examples of Lennon’s writing, or because they are tellingly biographical in nature – even if in a cryptic way. So from the landmark piece of song-craftsmanship of Strawberry Fields Forever we go to How Do You Sleep? (Lennon’s savaging of his best friend, Paul McCartney). Along the way, there are many Beatles and Lennon solo tracks, most of which are part of everyone’s life.

Also, a few songs less well known, that add to the audience involvement by filling in gaps for them. Mother, God, How, Isolation and Working Class Hero provide the ‘other side’ to Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds, Nowhere Man and All you Need is Love.

Why the track, A Glass Onion?

The song, which is on the classic White Album, is a kind of retrospective on the Beatles as an entity and as an era. It’s lyric, which begins with: “I told you ‘bout Strawberry Fields; you know, the place where nothing is real…” seems to hint at the unreality of life itself in the goldfish bowl of ‘Beatlemania’, and that made the refrain a good title. Or, so I thought. I’ve since

A U S T R A L I A N

I C O N .

realised that not everyone listens to every track on an album!

In 2014 you are planning to tour the show in New York … Are you hopeful that Yoko Ono will see the show, and have you received feedback from Yoko about the show to date?

We’ll be doing a tour of New Zealand in late 2012, and then we’re planning on doing a three-month off-Broadway stint in New York for 2014. It’s been on my wish list for some time to perform the show in New York.

Yoko, while not yet having seen the show, gave approval for the show to go ahead in London’s West End previously, so with a show in her hometown of New York we would hope that she could make it along.

Some of her friends have seen the show in London or Australia and given it the thumbs up, so if that’s a gauge of what her thoughts might be, then we can only hope!

Tell us about your former life as a professional Rock musician?

I was invited to join a Blues band called The Riots when I was 16. They were older guys from my area of South-West London, who saw me sing and play guitar at a coffee bar in Richmond in Surrey. It turned out they needed a bass player who could sing.

I wasn’t a bass player, but I learned to play well enough not to be really bad!

The band had pretty regular gigs at weekends in various venues around the South of England, but never succeeded in getting a recording contract – which was a pity, but that’s the way it went in those highly competitive days.

You continue to be one of the most employable actors in Australia ... what advice would you give to aspiring actors?

I think self-belief is the most vital thing to have in your armory. Not blind ego – you must be a listener – but knowledge that you can ‘do this thing’.

Beatles or Stones – no brainer?

Pointless comparison. Both are great bands, but in different ways. I don’t have favourites.

Thanks John.

the plug!

Where: Manning Entertainment Centre.

When: Sunday 8 January.

Bookings: P: 6552 5699 W: www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au/mec

manning-great lakes focus 21

focusssocial. with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.

social scene.

Right Stephanie Alexander at Forster Public School.

I feel a bit like I got all the good gigs last month. So social was December, I don’t know if I will get it all on one page.

Below Joan North - @ Good Beginnings Lunch

Right WFHC team is Olivia, Bruce and Di Stewart, Phil Rayson and Aleesha, RN at WFHC.

E

very year when I sit down to write around 50 people on December 4. It was a glorious the January Social Scene, I consider day and very relaxing to sit by the beautiful dam whether I should begin by talking in a peaceful setting and enjoy some great food about ‘the year that was’, but I did a amongst friends. It was a successful event raising bit of that last month. How about my much-needed funds for Good Beginnings, a resolutions? Well, I think that would bore the pants wonderful charity that helps to give children a off you if you have been reading my column for a good start in life. few years, as it’s how I start most Januaries.

Speaking of children receiving a good start in Keeping fresh really is the spice of life, which life, what better way to learn about the origins of leads me into my latest thoughts on how we all our food than in the garden? I was most privileged need to reinvent ourselves from time-to-time. to attend the launch of the Forster Public School So, I have decided on 2012 as being the year of Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden on December no resolutions, just a few re-inventions, for the 9. This was a wonderful morning, and I was able businesses and for me. I haven’t decided what they to walk in the garden with Stephanie while she are yet, but it will come to me, I am sure. chatted with children and looked over the garden.

Wingham Beef Exports held the launch of their She was very impressed that the children and the new brand on Thursday 24 November, with a volunteers at Forster were ‘living’ the garden and crowd of 70 people attending the cookery really enjoying it. school to sample some of the new There were some wonderful MSA graded Manning Valley grass speeches from the children, fed beef that now wears the volunteers, teachers and of Keeping fresh e Manning Valley Naturally brand. course, Stephanie. We also ic really is the sp ads le ch hi Bent on Food chef, Michael got to eat what the children of life, w st me into my latew James, prepared the beef in a cooked from produce direct thoughts on ho number of ways, showcasing from the soil. Bent on Life is to we all need elves the product as Carpaccio, really proud to be a sponsor of rs ou nt reinve e. served with Bent on Food Spicy this project, and I was incredibly from time-to-tim Beetroot Relish, divine Yorkshire excited to meet Stephanie puddings, satay sticks, and a great Alexander. juicy steak sandwich, just to name a In 2011 I met the most influential few of the divine delights. Not a night for women in the industry – first Maggie Beer the vegetarians, but if you love beef, this product and then Stephanie Alexander ... I will never top is fabulous. that one!

Guests enjoyed the evening, and the space Wingham Chamber of Commerce held their looked brilliant with all the branding displayed infamous Christmas Carnival on December 15 in the room. Great Lakes Wines was the drink of with Santa, Hooker Bear and the NSW Fire brigade choice for the evening. Guests were impressed mascot Burnie Cinders all in attendance, along with the new Manning Valley Naturally branding with many Police, who were wonderful at keeping created by local firm, Juzvolter. the crowd in line.

Good Beginnings held a luncheon at Bowers for All of the usual charities attended, with local

22 manning-great lakes focus.

sporting and community groups raising funds as they do each year. The bed races were another hit and got the crowd barracking for their teams; it’s hard work pushing those beds uphill, apparently!

Each year I am privileged to be a part of Celebrating Abilities day in early December; I get to be the chief judge of the cooking competition, and I really enjoy this role. I love to stay for the concert, as it is a wonderful celebration. This year was no different, with singing and dancing, stories and instruments.

I thoroughly enjoyed my morning, and I enjoy seeing the smiles when we announce the winners of the cookery competitions. There certainly are a few budding chefs amongst the competitors.

I particularly loved Mary Grima’s rendition of Jingle Bells, and I would like her to teach me that dance that she does so well … I have been practicing, but just can’t quite get it right – maybe next year?

Bent on Food turned 7, and we had a cocktail party on Friday, December 16. Thanks to all those who attended; it was a great night with around 60 guests coming and going throughout the evening.

Michael cooked up a storm, and wine flowed as we reminisced over the past 7 years and talked about future plans.

It was a big week for us with our very yummy staff Christmas party held at Tellers a few days before; it was most enjoyable, and it is lovely to spend time out of work with staff. Speaking of staff, I would particularly like to congratulate Bec House for completing her apprenticeship (at Bent on Food); she is now a fully qualified chef!

Happy New Year to all the readers. Please stay in touch with your events … I would love to hear about what you are up to, so I can write about it.

Send pics and info to: donna.carrier@bigpond.com Cheers, Donna.

% 10 50 off all jewellery

Corner Albert and Manning Streets Taree 6551 5858 Wharf Street Forster 6555 8356

www.occasionsjewellers.com.au manning-great lakes focus 23

SteveAttkins.

from Great Lakes Winery

WINE

Fresh Seafood.

‘The seafood we sell daily is the seafood we catch daily.’

The Wallis Lake Fishermen’s Co-op was established in 1947.

Many of the fishermen today are children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of the first fishermen to form the co-op back in 1947. The co-op has changed its focus in the past few years, and has become a market leader in fresh sustainable seafood in the area and at the Sydney Fish Market. Wallis Lake Fishermen’s Co-op offers the freshest seafood on the coast. The seafood comes directly from the boat to the shop 7 days a week.

The fish shop sells local caught whole fish, fillets, prawns, crabs, oysters, lobsters and bait. We have 35 fishermen catching ocean and estuary fish/seafood 365 days per year. We promote the availability of quality seafood that comes from our local ecologically sustainable wild fisheries.

We were recently a finalist in the ‘Excellence in Primary Industries’ in the Great Lakes Business Awards 2011.

Hear it the way it was.

This is a complete night of authentic 1960s music ‘THE WAY IT WAS’. The show represents all that was good during a golden era of music, plus some hilarious skits peppered throughout. If you are a person who likes the music of such greats as THE SEARCHERS, GERRY & THE PACEMAKERS, THE HOLLIES, THE BEATLES plus many, many more then book early, as this is a MUST SEE SHOW! The British 60’s Show is presented by 4 men who were actually there in the ‘60s and actually played music in the ‘60s. They demonstrate the immaculate dress of the era and understand that the volume control can be turned to the left! If you’re a fan of the ‘60s, don’t miss this one.

Sunday, 8 January 2012, 7.30pm.

Members $10; Non Members $12; Children U18 $10.

Wineries – an experience not just for wine drinkers!

Chardonnay ... a great comeback! ... but I don’t think it really ever went away.

Chardonnay went seriously and passionately out of fashion in 2009-2010, in much the same way as it was so passionately embraced by the drinking public back in the ‘90s. Many of us did get sick of Chardonnay, and quite often in the cellar door the very first words from many tasting customers was: “I’ll try everything but Chardonnay – please!”

And while this was going on in one sector of the market, another sector was continuing to drink Chardonnay and no doubt enjoyed some very good Chardies at very low prices.

During this time, we sold out of our Chardonnay and have been increasingly amazed by the volume of customers who now come to the cellar door specifically looking for our Chardonnay – so for our regular customers, it seems this varietal has hung in there.

But now I’m told by those in the know – the wine fashionistas of the world, whoever they are – that Chardonnay is now officially fashionable again.

But I think winemakers have probably learned a little and are making Chardonnays that rely on the characteristics of the fruit, as opposed to relying on using oak to impart and in many cases overwhelm the fruit itself.

So it will be interesting to see which variety is in the “I’ll try everything but … ?” territory this year!

24 manning-great lakes focus.

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holidayfun!

Taking the Hassle out of Boating.

Feel like a day on the beautiful Great Lakes waterways, but don’t want the hassle and headaches associated with owning your own boat? Why not try Boab Boat Hire, Forster?

Look what’s new at the Zoo! Billabong Zoo is delighted to welcome their first Snow Leopard into their state of the art exhibit. Be one of the first to be amazed by this beautiful and mystical big cat, one of the most endangered on the planet.

The estimated numbers of the Snow Leopard in the wild are below 4,000, and there are only 4 zoos in Australia that have them.

Watch out – babies about!

Breeding season has been in full swing, and we have babies of all different shapes and sizes, including koalas, quolls, wallabies, pythons and our very special endangered Southern Hairy Nose Wombat.

GET CLOSER THAN YOU THINK Our daily keeper talks allow you to get hands on with some of our unique wildlife.

Hands-on presentations happen throughout the day and feature our koalas, dingoes, snakes and crocodile.

Other keeper talks allow you to learn about our endangered park residents, such as our Black Handed Spider Monkeys, Spotted-tailed Quolls, Cassowaries and Snow Leopard.

AND IF THE MUNCHIES STRIKE A visit to our zoo café is a must, with yummy home-made desserts, fresh ground coffee, scrumptious sandwiches, wraps and burgers, decadent ice chocolates and many other tempting treats.

Boab is different from all other boat hire in the local area, as they can offer you and your family the opportunity to cruise, fish or water ski at any location in the local area in one of their high performance boats.

Fantastic fishing experience.

Forster Estuary charters offer guided fishing charters on the Wallis Lake. Tony and Gudrun have been fishing the area in excess of 20 years and have a good knowledge of what is biting and where.

Our boat Estuary Magic is a purpose built boat 6 metres in length, with a capacity for 8 passengers. The boat is the perfect fishing platform to get you off the bank and to where the fish are. With a large canopy for all day shade and back to back centre seating, it is comfortable and stable – so sea sickness is not an issue.

We offer a great range of options on our charters, including fishing, crabbing and bait gathering. Charters are tailored to suit the individual needs, so everyone’s expectations are met.

All equipment, rods, reels, bait and tackle is supplied. Tony has an extensive knowledge of the estuary, the wildlife and history of the area, thus creating an opportunity to take the family out onto the water and have a great day with an experienced skipper looking after your needs.

Boating and fishing enthusiasts, Michael and Kristie Stark, ‘launched’ Boab in October 2010, after spending many family holidays in the Great Lakes region and recognising that there was a gap in the market for high performance boats.

Boab allows its customers to tow the Sports Rider to any destination for a day, weekend, week or longer … It is suitable for a family wanting to take the kids out cruising on the lake, the boys on their fishing trip, as well as people who want to try their hand at something a little more energetic such as wakeboarding or water skiing … all you need is a boat licence!

As more people realise that boating and fishing can be enjoyed hassle free, for little cost and at any time of the year, the Boab Boat Hire name continues to grow. Over the past 8 years, the Boab franchise network has expanded, with 23 locations across Australia.

Boab is a fun, easy and cost effective way to enjoy our beautiful waterways this summer. We provide gift vouchers, so get in early for the perfect Christmas present!

Want to find out how you can make the most of our beautiful waterways this summer? Visit www.boabboathire.com.au or call Michael or Kristie on 0410 524 232.

manning-great lakes focus 27

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The Great Lakes Winery Tour.

Saltwater Surf school Saltwater Surf School instructors and brothers, Joel and Luke Reading, started surfing at the age of six and have competed in surf events in Australia and around the world on the World Qualifying Series. Luke is also now a regular scoring judge for the ASP World Tour.

Having lived at Wallabi Point for 30 years and knowing the best surf spots like the back of their hands, it made sense that Joel and Luke started Saltwater Surf School – a surf school committed to teaching beginners, intermediate or advanced levels of new and old surfers.

The school is licensed to run Vegemite SurfGroms – a national junior development program aged at 5 to 12 years – which enhances kids' surfing skills through a series of 12 hours of coaching. Every Vegemite SurfGrom participant receives a free Quiksilver backpack brimming with great Quiksilver and a tube of Vegemite!

Depending on weather conditions, Saltwater Surf School Girls is running Girls Get Out There surf day on 21 and 22 January. The girls Get Out There day is a grass roots program catering to all levels and ages. Each participant receives a showbag with a T-shirt plus other assorted goodies! The event is supported by Rip Curl and Dolly magazine and is endorsed by the Australian sports commission.

28 manning-great lakes focus.

Celebrate New Year On The Beach Celebrate the New Year in with six of your best friends or family with our newest ride. We will pick you up, then you will enjoy a wonderful ride from bush to sand, arriving on the beach in time for the amazing fireworks, then return to the barn for a BBQ and drinks, before being chauffeured home after a wonderful night of celebration.

Call today and book; very limited bums allowed for this fantastic adventure. The only beach ride in the Great Lakes area.

Craig’s love for horses and the country is shown in each ride, with local knowledge to share with all.

We are the only horse ride that takes you for a 3-hour ride through bush country to the stunning white sands of our local beach.

Why not bring the family and friends for this fantastic value activity this Christmas holidays We pick you up from your home or holiday place and return you after the wonderful experience with our amazing horses and stockhands.

The Bus and Coach Charter Specialists In these uncertain times and faced with tough industry competition, we at Mid Coast Shuttle are continually developing exciting new services for our local communities and visitors to Great Lakes and Manning Valley. From providing basic bus and coach charters to organising the total holiday package, we can now offer services that are not only cost effective, but flexible to all customer needs.

If you’re organising an end of year party or wedding, you may like to book our 21 passenger mini bus; or if numbers blow out, step up to a 53 or 65 passenger coach. You can also book your group on a one day or overnight extended tour. Our drivers are Senior First Aid trained and are qualified in Advanced Resuscitation and Defibrillation. This is just one example of our commitment to going over and beyond the call of duty, which provides peace of mind – no matter what your needs.

Our coach services are ideal for sporting and work groups, seniors’ tours, school excursions and Rock festivals, such as JJJ Big Day Out. Don’t forget to check out our local winery tour, which is a great way to celebrate the end of 2011. Our priorities are focused on safe, reliable and cost effective Transport – Steve Gatland.

focusinterview.

Forster Fishing Charters Forster Fishing Charters is a family run business and is the longest-running fishing charter currently operating within the Forster-Tuncurry area.

R

obbie and Rochelle are always flexible with their fishing operations and as a result, can organise a charter to suit everyone – from the serious fishermen through to the novice, family groups, singles and even the work Christmas party.

We have recently upgraded our boat to a 38’ Randell, so there is plenty of room on board for a great day out fishing.

The new boat has all facilities on board, including a toilet, shower, kitchenette and lounge.

the trip.

Fishing includes trolling, reef and game fishing. Forster Fishing Charters covers areas from Crowdy Head in the north to Seal Rocks in the south.

Depending on the time of year, people can expect to catch, Snapper, Flathead, Pearl Perch, The new boat s on King Fish, Dolphin has all facilitiein g ud cl Fish, Tuna and board, in , er ow sh t, ile a to Sharks. tte and

kitchene

The boat has a large awning, so people can be sheltered from hot weather, making for a very comfortable trip. A fly bridge is a great spot for photos and checking out the fishing action below.

The boat is regularly lounge. visited by our resident dolphins, who love to put on a show, riding the bow wave. At the right time of year, whales can also be spotted as they migrate up and down the coast.

Rods, reels, bait, tackle plus a light lunch and cold drinks are supplied ... we even clean the catch at the end of

Over the Christmas school holiday period, Forster Fishing Charters will be running charters almost every morning

and afternoon ... as this is a busy time for Forster Fishing Charters, bookings are essential.

The 38' Randell is currently moored along the Tuncurry break wall in Rockpool Road, where there is plenty of parking.

Bookings: call Robbie on 0409 352 871 or visit our website at: www.forsterfishinghcarters.com or email: forsterfishcharters@bigpond.com

manning-great lakes focus 29

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Following the roaring success of Skirmish Down Under at Port Macquarie, and much to the excitement of paintball aficionados both young and old, a brand new paintball facility is imminently opening in the Manning-Great Lakes….

W

hat motivated you to open a second Skirmish Down Under Facility in the Manning-Great Lakes

region?

For starters, we love the area. As part of our broader business plan, we expect to open fields all along the East Coast. The opportunity presented itself to take over an existing field (Bundy’s Paintball) as the owners are exiting the industry, and we gladly took the opportunity.

Paintball hit the scene around 25 years ago and is considered by many to be one of the most exciting outdoor sports ... why?

Paintball provides a unique opportunity of interactive adrenalin that not many other sports can offer. The thrill of being tagged gets the adrenalin flowing, and players are in full control of their outcome.

The sport is played by men and women from all ages, professions and lifestyles.

How come it appeals so easily to both genders?

The great thing about paintball is that is one of the only sports in the world where gender and strength play absolutely no part in who is good or not. In fact, in many ways the fairer sex has a distinct advantage, being that they are just as capable of pulling the trigger, but are smaller targets. Many of the best players

30 manning-great lakes focus.

in the world are, in fact, ladies and smaller games have players eliminated when ‘tagged’ males. Paintball is a great outlet to have fun, with paint, while other games allow players to get an adrenalin rush and be in the great continue (but be disadvantaged) when tagged. outdoors. That mix appeals to a lot of people Some of our most popular games actually across all demographics, which is why our involve shooting at 3rd party targets (pretend ducks hidden in trees) or having a ‘medic’ who clientele is so diverse. can bring people back in by tagging their own Do you have to be both adventurous and players once they are out. competitive to play paintball?

You’ll never get to play all the games in You don’t have to be either of those, but one session, which is a great reason to come usually the best players have an element of again! these qualities. We often find people that What safety precautions must players are generally reserved and / or quieter types take? when they start the day can often All players are provided a safety discover their inner competitive brief on arrival, conducted by one flair and become serious In fact, in s of our experienced referees. players by the end of their ay w many Ladies and younger players first session. Our staff will the fairer sex has a distinct g are given half body armour always provide helpful in advantage, beju (covering the torso), and all hints and ideas to assist that they are st players are provided optional new players, and this of e as capabl r ge ig tr gloves.

Our referees will host learning often assists e th pulling the day and explain the rules bringing people out of but are smaller targets. prior to each specific game. their shells and builds their They’ll be with players all day, to confidence. ensure everyone is playing by the rules What is the object of the game? explained to them in the safety brief. We have The game was initially started with a a perfect safety record, which is something we simple objective of one team trying to capture are very proud of, and paintball as an industry a flag (generally located in the middle of actually has the lowest injury rate for any sport the field) and eliminating the opposition in which statistics are taken. team. Over the years, new games have been Does it hurt!? developed, and today we have over 30 If paintball is refereed correctly, it doesn’t different game styles people can enjoy. Some

really hurt at all (no shooting within 5 metres).

The impact is similar to an elastic band sting, and once the adrenalin is flowing, people are surprised by how little it does hurt.

What’s the minimum age requirement to play?

The parent / guardian must sign a form to say the player is 16 years of age or older.

Will we ever see paintball at the Olympics?

We think there is a reasonable chance, as it was on the short list as a demonstration sport at the Beijing Olympics. The sport has massive growth around the world (where younger players can access it) and hopefully when Australia falls into line with the rest of the world (UK, Europe, Americas etc) and lowers the age limit to 12, we’ll have more rapid growth here too.

A sport growing is generally the trigger to get a look in at becoming an Olympic sport, and being that there are fully professional players across most of the world, we are certainly on the right track to becoming an Olympic sport.

Thanks Trevor and Glenn.

Opening details: When 1 January 2012.

Where Old Bar. Contact Number 1300 822 222.

Address Half Chain Road (off Old Bar Road).

Website www.skirmishdownunder.com.au

Coasting Home

Saturday 14 January 9am

AmandaPriester

Family Fun Day @ Mik’s Pet Barn.

colour

in

{ Colour makes a come back }

In March this year, US Elle magazine declared that colour was back; and all through its pages, designers like Prada and Gucci were showing bold, strong colours blocked together in striking combinations of contrast. range, red, purple, green, yellow and pink are all having their day in the sun and after many seasons of neutrals and skin tones, we are It can be as e as changing experiencing a riot of pl m si the cushions e, strong colour. on your loungp of Great, you may say, maybe a grould years ago was a deep but how does this move vases, or a bo cherry red sofa; how I love into my home décor – print. that colour. The lounge and would I want a home maker at the time could easily styled with loud colour? monitor its progress, just from Colour can be confronting, and watching the colour moving through we are often drawn to it because the warehouse. it catches our eye and intrigues us with its I used it as a base to decorate around – warmth. and found it an easy anchor.

Soft neutral tones are common, because Furniture, as simple as a great chair in a it seems they are more peaceful and easy to bold colour can do that for a room, creating live with, creating light and space. Well, that a statement and visual strong point to work is a great place to start. The addition of one around. strong colour to a neutral palette may be all Think about your favourite colour and it takes to move your home into a brighter where it will fit. summer.

Outdoors is probably the easiest place What is you favourite summer colour: is it to use colour. Striped table cloths, funky red, pink, turquoise, green? coloured lanterns and cushions on your How can you introduce this into your daybed are great places to use colour – the existing space? It can be as simple as sun and outdoor light enhance this and changing the cushions on your lounge, brings you colours alive. maybe a group of vases, or a bold print. A Look around; there is always coloured statement of colour is all it will take. Pick drinkware and serving ware for outdoors, so some visual strong points in your room and mix and match your colours with patterns focus your colour block there, use it as a highlight, or go the whole way and mix a few and stripes. Don’t be afraid to be a bit over the top, as it will only enhance the vibrancy colours together – do not be afraid. Today of this. there are no rules. Remember to use shades Being eclectic is nothing to worry about. So of one colour, or keep the tone of your many make your summer full of happy bright, bold colours the same – garish is not gorgeous. colours and enjoy ...

My first major furniture purchase many

On Saturday 14 January from 9am until 4pm, Mik’s Pet Barn is hosting a Family Fun Day, which will be jampacked with fun activities for the whole family …

What’s On: • From 11am - 2pm the Australian Reptile Displays is running reptile shows, which will feature a whole host of amazing creatures including an Olive Python … The reptile talk allows people to get up close and personal with some fascinating and exciting creatures and provides loads of useful and factual information.

• All-day jumping castle … Come along to Mik’s Pet Barn and have a jump on the super fun jumping castle.

• Face Painting … Have your face painted by an expert face painter (perhaps you might like your favourite animal painted on your face!)

• Meet the very exotic and beautiful Coco – a scarlet coloured Macaw.

• Drop in and enjoy some food at the free sausage sizzle …

Discounts There will be loads of in-store specials to take advantage of, with selected items discounted up to 50% off. Items on special include complete fish tanks, dog kennels and bird cages …

Stacks of products and supplies are also on special, so make sure you drop in to pick up a bargain and a snag.

In-store specials start on Thursday 12 January right through until 4pm on Saturday 14 January.

manning-great lakes focus 31

focusinterview.

Forster-based bodyboarder, Pearson Tully, recently received the PMBA Ben Hall Scholarship, which came with 500 bucks and another trophy to add to his growing collection. Pearson is amped to take his love of bodyboarding to great heights and across the globe on the World Tour …

H

ow old were you when you first started bodyboarding, and how did you get into the sport?

I have been bodyboarding for approximately five years – since I was about 11 years old. I remember sitting on the shore watching my brother’s bodyboarding, which is what inspired me to get into the sport. It’s also when I started watching clips of professional bodyboarders, which drove me to practice as much as possible and to learn how to do the tricks they do.

I have been competing since I was 13 years old. The first bodyboarding club I joined was MGBA (Manning Great Lakes Bodyboarding Association), based in Old Bar. You’ve achieved some amazing competition results recently. Tell us a bit about them.

In July 2011, I entered Round 2 of the State Bodyboarding Titles in Cronulla.

Fortunately, I managed to win most of my heats and placed 1st at the event in the Cadets division (15 years and under). I was ecstatic, as I wasn’t even expecting to make it past the quarterfinals. With my combined points in Rounds 1 and 2, I placed 2nd overall in NSW in the Cadets division.

Nationals have definitely been my greatest achievement to date. It was the first time I made it through State and into Nationals, and I was super excited.

When I was knocked out of the cadets division in the quarter-finals, I was very disappointed with my performance.

Fortunately a good friend, Jane Dunn, convinced me to enter the Juniors division. I won my first three heats, came 32 manning-great lakes focus.

PEARSON

TULLY.

2nd in the semi-final and placed 2nd in the actual final, despite competing against older competitors. I was also awarded a Found bodyboard as the New Talent for the event.

Why is bodyboarding considered the poor cousin of surfing, and how would you defend the sport?

I think bodyboarders are equal to surfers, but many surfers believe they are more worthy. This is because surfing was invented back in the 1800s, long before bodyboarding. Consequently, there are many more surfers than bodyboarders, and it’s an internationally growing sport.

More and more people are trying it, and bodyboarding has greater sponsors than ever before. Companies like Red Bull and Rebel Sport are investing large sums of money into the sport, both nationally and internationally. These sponsorships mean bigger and better competitions, better prizes and greater publicity for the sport.

What training and commitment is required at an elite level?

Bodyboarding keeps me fit! I’ve always had a healthy diet, and I’ve never been seriously sick. It’s really important to be healthy, because the sport is prone to injuries such as neck and spinal damage, lacerations and shoulder dislocations. I stretch most nights, plus wake up early and ride to the beach for a bodyboard ... Generally speaking, I try to bodyboard as much as possible …

What tips would you give on how to ride a bodyboard and selecting the right size and shape?

The best advice I can give would be to take it slowly and to not just paddle out into the line up and attempt back flips straight up. Take it step-by-step and learn the basics first, followed by learning tricks like spins (then you can start to work your way up to rolls).

To find the correct sized board, simply stand the board up against your body, and it should reach two inches above or below your belly button.

When it comes to the shape of a bodyboard, it doesn’t really matter as

long as you are comfortable riding it. In my case, my board is the same shape as the VS Ryan Hardy micro model, but was custom made by Turbo Bodyboards in Port Macquarie. I’m keen to try out my new Found board and compare it to the Turbo.

Who are some of the riders in the sport that you look up to?

The riders I look up to include Mitch Rawlins, Dave Winchester, Nick Gornall, Jake Stone and Eddie Solomon.

You’re only 15, so you obviously have a great future ahead of you in the sport. What are some of your goals?

Next year I’m hoping I can enter State round 1 and 2 and make it through to Nationals … Also, maybe enter some Pro comps and hopefully get my hands on a sponsorship. I’m also keen to make it into the Australian Institute of Sport bodyboarding camp at Casuarina Beach, which runs for a week. When I’m older, I’m keen to travel a lot in search of perfect uncrowded waves and also hoping to compete on the Australian Tour and make it through to the World Tour.

Have you had any sponsors or supporters so far that you want to give a plug to?

Unfortunately, I have not got any sponsors to date, but there have been a lot of people who have been a great help and put a lot of time and effort into my success that I would like to thank.

Mr Lim, a teacher at my school, has been a great help; he has been talking to some bodyboarding companies on my behalf and has really helped boost my confidence. I would also like to thank Jane Dunn, who has been a great help and friend … If it weren’t for Jane, I wouldn’t have made it through any of my heats at both State and Nationals.

She has given me lifts to comps, great advice and a huge confidence boost.

Thanks Jane, Mr Lim and of course, my family too.

Thanks Pearson.

www.crossroads.com.au

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focusinterview.

May

- Author

Experiencing first hand the impact children with special needs have on families inspired May Sharp to first establish a special outreach camp and then become a published author. May has just written her second book, Additional Needs! Additional Love! published by Spectrum Publications.

W

hat’s your background, May? I’ve lived in the Taree area for the last 25 years. I was a diversional therapist working with the elderly in nursing homes and hostels. By age 54, I stayed home to nurse my aging mother, prior to caring for a very disabled infant boy to give his parents some respite.

Within another year, my own grandson was born and was eventually diagnosed to have moderate Cerebral Palsy by 16 months. At that time, I joined my daughter here in Taree to assist in the raising of this son and a new baby boy.

From these experiences, I realised what life was like for parents of additional needs children and the challenges they each faced, no matter the diagnosis.

What inspired you to write your book, Additional Needs! Additional Love! ?

I wrote and had published a small book about my grandson, Cameron, describing his life from birth to age 7. It discussed the milestones he missed, the challenges we each faced, as well as his triumphs and the positive side of his condition – a side few would expect.

This first book was in his school library and gave him amazing confidence, plus a feeling of pride and importance that buoyed him up and let him know he was worthy, just as he was, regardless of the fact that he could not stand or walk as others could.

Summarise Additional Needs! Additional Love! for us please ...

The book I have now had published contains the stories of 8 children whom we have met though organising and holding special camp opportunities for children from birth to 16, who have additional needs. We have been doing this for 11 years to 2011. I was thrilled that so many of our camp children’s parents were keen to allow me to include their child or children in my new publication.

34 manning-great lakes focus.

My aim was to bring the same joy to other my blinkers, and I was able to view their lives children that my grandson had experienced from an empathetic viewpoint – regardless of – and now that has happened. Cameron’s the diagnosis. Titles change, but the longing to update from 7 - 18 is included in the rear of make it better … somehow … remains the same his book. I have kept my promise made many for us all. years ago by updating his life story. He is now a Tell us a bit about Camp Memories. FOCUS wonderful young man who has just completed featured a story on the Camp back in 2010, Year 12 in mainstream schooling and is ready for but please jog our memories – and fill us in employment. I couldn’t be more proud of him … on what has been happening since then.

Just as he is!

Camp Memories on our property has I had placed my ‘searching for children to happened for 11 years. It grew from just 7 include’ story in FOCUS just a few months prior families to up to 33 families each time we met to our 2010 camp, that is held annually off by 2011. One third of our families travel from our property here in Pampoolah, just up to 4 hours away from the Central out of Taree. This did not result Coast to find the love and in additional needs children activities we have on offer. The applying for inclusion; but other 2/3 come from the Port I was thrilled our instead, I found my publisher.

Macquarie/ Hastings and that so many of camp children’s en Then I sent out our Camp the Manning Valley. The parents were ke Memories application age range is birth to age to to allow me or ild paperwork to up to 40 16, with all able siblings ch r ei th e ud incl w families a few months later and parents fully included. children in my ne on, and I asked who might Swimming, art and craft, a publication. like to be included in my new jumping castle, concerts, rides manuscript. I was blown away with in motor bike side cars, vintage applications from past attendees and cars, trucks and many more activities newcomers, who were to meet me for the first take place in organised teams, with a fully time at the camp weekend that was about to structured program. The fun is immense, and happen. I commenced writing, so sure that I had the love and joy on the property has to be seen an almost certain publisher waiting in the wings to be understood.

– provided I wrote well enough.

At our last camp, 73 children were divided Given how many people with special needs into 6 teams. Each person had a ball, with 23 you know, how hard was it to pick just 8 families sleeping in our pre erected tent city families to feature? and each family heavily subsidised, so that all The parents of each child valued the fact could afford attendance from Friday – Sunday. that what I was about to do would hold There was fantastic food, and Santa brought the their child or children up with pride. It would weekend to a close. also bring personal pride, as well as increase The Manning River Lions are to be caretakers understanding, tolerance and acceptance. from 2012 on, and the movement will move to All parents crave these things for their Tinonee – just five minutes away. We are thrilled children. I craved it for each of them, as I fully that this is happening and know the Lions understood their situation. Being the Nanna will be amazing managers of this important of an additional needs child had fully removed volunteer movement. My husband and I will

remain attached and included with activities.

What feedback have you received about your book so far?

I had 100 books last week in my care. I now have 8 left! The book is beautiful and is going to do what I knew it would! Feedback so far is very touching. The stories contained are enlightening, thought provoking and challenging, as well as touching and funny in parts. Anyone who reads my book will not let it be borrowed without return guaranteed.

Where can people purchase a copy?

It is available at reputable book stores and can be sent for through Spectrum Publications, if your store does not have stock. Manning Books in Taree has copies presently and can acquire more.

Do you plan to write another book in the near future?

Yes, I would like to write again. I have my eye on one particular subject; but for now, it is time to recuperate and assist the Lions to take Camp Memories into the future. I pray that they are successful and that Camp Memories Outreaches happen across our country – maybe though this group’s success!

Final words ...

Mr. Kerry Bales, of the Bales Stokes family from Nabiac, donated $15,000 to assist in the continuation of Camp Memories at a surprise presentation on our final evening concert on our property on Saturday 19 November.

Kerry had come supportively for many years with his daughter and grandchildren, one of whom has additional needs. Kerry had lost a young son to cancer some years prior and had a trust that he was now dividing amongst worthy charities. Kerry and his family had loved the ethos at our outreach and decided to be of assistance. His donation was humbly given and gratefully received.

Thanks May. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Saltwater Freshwater Festival www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au Proudly Supported by Focus

Australia Day 26 January 2012 11am – 5pm Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree Entry by gold coin donation This event is alcohol, glass and pet free.

Casey Donovan, The Stiff Gins, Yuin Ghudjargah Dancers & The Black Turtles

Enjoy a day of Aboriginal culture music & art

The Official Program manning-great lakes focus 35

e r F r e t a w t al Saltwater Freshwater Festival

The Entertainment

Welcome YIIGU MARA, YII BIRPIGUBA BARRAY Welcome, this is Biripi People’s Country The Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2012 is being held on Biripi land, Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree.

The Biripi people are the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of all land and waters of the Greater Taree area.

“We the Biripi people welcome visitors to our country. All we ask in return is that people respect our culture and protocols when they are on traditional lands and behave responsibly, with understanding.”

Marraungbah Cottage Elders Group This is the third year for the Saltwater Freshwater Festival and we are so excited to be with you in Taree. Our Festival is a celebration of Aboriginal culture on the Mid North Coast.

Our region, where the saltwater and freshwater meet, is rich in Aboriginal music, art, dance and food, all of which will be on offer in Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree on Thursday January 26 Australia Day.

The day offers something for all the family – from incredible music by Casey Donovan, Microwave Jenny, The Stiff Gins and Black Turtles to weaving, Gathang language, didge, weaving and design workshops.

The Festival is the creation of the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance Aboriginal Corporation which represents ten Aboriginal communities from Karuah to Coffs Harbour. Each year our Festival moves to a different location along the Mid North Coast creating a platform for the development of Aboriginal artists, workers, performers and businesses.

Microwave Jenny Microwave Jenny is Australian duo Tessa Nuku and Brendon Boney. This intriguing match has been wooing music lovers across the country with its silky harmonies since the pair first joined forces four years ago.

We believe that it is important that this Festival is held on Australia Day because it is about celebrating our collective identity. We can acknowledge our history so that we can celebrate our future in a positive way together, as Australians.

The Black Turtles Founded by legendary Indigenous artist Walangari Karntawarra and acclaimed Koori filmmaker Troy J Russell, The Black Turtles fuse an urban contemporary sound with a traditional roots, reggae and rockabilly edge. They’re set to rock the riverfront at Taree on Australia Day, with a live show that will appeal to young and old alike.

Alison Page Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance

Saltwater Freshwater Festival Transport NEED A LIFT - BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

and Forster to Taree so you DON’T MISS OUT.

$5 per Family (2 adults 2 kids) or $2 per person, each way. Children under 15years must be accompanied by an adult.

Community Transport in your region can arrange a lift to the Designated Coach Stops.

Saltwater Freshwater Festival will be running buses to the Festival from Coffs Harbour to Taree

36 manning-great lakes focus.

Casey Donovan Casey Donovan’s spectacular voice has been enjoyed by sell-out crowds across the country.

Her journey has inspired many, as the talented young Gumbaynggirr girl who became an Australian Idol winner and then forged her path as an independent and powerful chanteuse.

For more information go to the Festival website www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au

Stiff Gins Stiff Gins are one of Australia’s best known and most loved Indigenous acts. These two women combine their stunning harmonies and wicked humour to transport you to a world of joy, spirit and song.

Yuin Ghudjargah Dancers The Yuin Ghudjargah Dancers have performed and travelled throughout Australia and in 24 other countries representing Australia at many festivals and major events, including the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, Rugby World Cup, the Pope’s visit to Sydney and recently helped open the new Shoalhaven Cultural Centre in Nowra.

Dancestry Grounds On the foreshores of the Manning River, the specially created Dancestry Grounds will feature a range of dancers to delight audiences. From the local Gangga Marrang dancers to internationally renowned Yuin Ghudjargah.

SWFW Unearthed Can you sing, play the didge, tell a joke, dance, rap or strum a guitar? Then we want you up on our Unearthed Stage. We have nine x 5 minute slots available for you to show us how black & deadly you are, no matter what your age!

Children’s Story Telling Circle Be enchanted by traditional stories of country and dreamtime, told by Michael Jarrett, in language.

DreamBox photobooth DreamBox is a place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share their dreams in words and photos. Over 1,000 dreams have been shared at Indigenous festivals around the country since March 2011. Join in and share your dream with ABC Open DreamBox photobooth. See all the dreams at abc.net. au/open.

Yarn Tent Big Yarn “Skills and Training for a Career” come and join the discussion at an informative Yarn session that tackles the big questions about, employment, training and economic participation within our Aboriginal communities.

Little Yarn “Can we change in One Generation” a conversation with young Aboriginal people who are following their dreams, as they discuss what can be done in one generation to make Aboriginality an advantage.

Cooking with Clayton Aboriginal Master chef Clayton Donovan from Jaaning Tree Restaurant will wow you with his culinary delights in this demonstration.

F r e t a w h s e Saltwater Freshwater Festival

What’s On

TIME

10.30am

FRESHWATER STAGE

DANCESTRY GROUNDS

UNEARTHED STAGE

Gates Open

Gates Open

Gates Open

Microwave Jenny 11.30am - 12.30pm

Official Festival Opening 11.00am - 11.30am Gangga Marrang Dancers 11.40am - 12.00pm

11.00am 11.30am 12.00pm 12.30pm 1.00pm

The Black Turtles 1.00pm - 1.45pm

1.30pm 2.00pm

Stiff Gins 2.00pm - 3.00pm

2.30pm

Yuin Ghudjargah 12.30pm - 12.50pm Movement + Performance & workshop.

Register @ info Tent FREE 1.00pm - 1.40pm Yuin Ghudjargah 2.00pm - 2.20pm

3.00pm 3.30pm

Casey Donovan 3.45pm - 4.45pm

4.00pm 4.30pm 5.00pm

Movement + Performance & workshop.

Register @ info Tent FREE 3.00pm - 3.40pm Gangga Marrang Dancers 11.40am - 12.00pm

Gates Close

GENERATION ONE YARN TENT

Song Circles: Stiff Gins 12.30pm - 12.50pm Unearthed 1.00pm - 1.45pm Song Circles: Stiff Gins 2.00pm - 2.20pm Unearthed 2.30pm - 3.15pm

Generation One Big Yarn 11.30am - 1.00pm

Generation One Big Yarn 1.30pm - 3.00pm

Cooking with Clayton Donovan Indigenous fusion cooking demonstration with the head chef from Jaaning Tree Restraunt 3.30pm - 5.00pm

Song Circles: The Black Turtles 3.30pm - 3.50pm

Gates Close

YILI DESIGN WORKSHOP

Gates Open

Gates Open

Children’s Storytelling Circle 11.30am - 12.10pm

LINGO & DIDGE WORKSHOPS

FISH TRAP WEAVING WORKSHOP Weaving Workshop

Design & Screenprinting Workshop

Gathang Language Workshop Thirty places available Register @ Info Tent Free 11.30am 12.10pm

Didgeridoo Workshop Fifteen places available to men of all ages Register @ Info Tent Free 12.30pm 1.10pm Children’s Storytelling Circle 1.30pm - 2.10pm Didgeridoo Workshop Fifteen places available to men of all ages Register @ Info Tent Free 2.30pm 3.10pm Gathang Language Workshop Thirty places available Register @ Info Tent Free 3.30am 4.10pm

Come learn traditional weaving techniques.

Festival-goers and the artists will work to build a 3-metre sculpture of a traditional fish trap Open to everyone FREE Drop-in sessions all day

Twelve places available Register @ Info Tent For Ages 12+ Workshop fee $20 11.30am - 1.00pm

Design & Screenprinting Workshop Twelve places available Register @ Info Tent For Ages 12+ Workshop fee $20 1.30pm - 3.00pm

Design & Screenprinting Workshop Twelve places available Register @ Info Tent For Ages 12+ Workshop fee $20 3.30pm - 5.00pm

Gates Close Gates Close

Lingo Workshop – Learn some

Weaving Workshop – Learn

simple Gathang words and phrases – discover the language of Biripi Country.

traditional weaving techniques and help build a fish trap sculpture.

Didge Workshop – Learn the technique of circular breathing and didgeridoo playing. For men of all ages.

Yilli Design Workshop – Create your own design and screen print a bag you can take home. $20 per person to cover materials.

Dance Workshop – Contemporary indigenous dance workshops being held on the Dancestry ground. Opportunity to participate in a 20 minute workshop learning contemporary movement with traditional influences.

Aerosol Art Workshop – Ash Johnston returns with the urban craft of aerosol art. Ash will work with teams to create a massive graffiti mural masterpiece.

Victoria Street

Pulteney Street

The Workshops

Manning Street Festival Entrance

Festival Food

Art & Craft

Dancestry Grounds Kids Playground

Graffiti Wall

Info

Elder’s Tent

Festival Entrance

Dreambox

Unearthed Stage

Yarn Tent Weaving Workshop

Canoe Display Lingo & Didge Workshop

Design Workshop

Freshwater Stage

Canoe Display

Manning River

QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK TAREE 2012 This map is not to scale and is meant as a guide only

With our vision for a nation in which the First Australians are economically independent and an integral part of the economy, IBA is proud to sponsor the 2012 Saltwater Freshwater Festival.

manning-great lakes focus 37

Join us at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2012 and sign up to the movement to end the disparity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. You can find us at the: GenerationOne Yarn Tent GenerationOne Stall Big Yarn on Employment Youth Leadership Forum

FInd out more or join online at www.generationone.org.au

ERX0436.126.125.5

GenerationOne is the proud principal sponsor of the Saltwater Freshwater Festival

ESSENTIAL ENERGY IS PROUD TO SUPPORT

THE SALTWATER FRESHWATER FESTIVAL. Call 13 23 91 or visit essentialenergy.com.au

focusinterview.

ATERER SALTW AT F R E SH W

Casey Hot on the heels of a hectic year of performing, Casey Donovan will showcase her unique style and voice at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival on 26 January 2012.

W

hat’s been keeping you busy professionally in 2011?

I've been extremely busy this year. 2011 started off with the continuation of The Sapphires doing a season in Penrith NSW, Canberra ACT, then we travelled over to London for 2 weeks of shows at the Barbican Theatre.

Then I came home, did some Big, Beautiful & Sexy shows up the north coast of NSW and around Sydney.

I then started a production down in Melbourne Called The Flower Children. It was a sell out season and an amazing experience playing the role of Mama Cass Elliot.

To fi nish off the year, I am now in a Shakespeare production with Company B Belvior, called As You Like It. As you mentioned, you’ve most recently been involved in the musical Flower Children: the Mamas and Papas Story. How much have you enjoyed the transition from singing/songwriting to acting as a medium?

That I have! I have enjoyed it immensely!

The transition was great – it has opened my eyes to a new side of performing. Music will always be my first, but the acting world is a new avenue, and I very much like it.

What did you like most about performing in this musical?

I think I like the learning side of things – learning about Mama Cass and trying to get everything right. There was a lot more pressure, for in this music, Mama Cass being such a free spirit and being so young when she passes, there wasn’t a lot to go by.

For example, I knew that she was a very happy, living life kinda gal, but it was the emotional stuff that got me. The writer, Peter

Fitzpatrick, showed a lot of Cass' hurt, being the bigger girl, and being so in love with Denny Doherty… that would have had to be the most challenging part for me.

One of your more recent awards was for Best Supporting Actress at the Daegu International Musical Festival, for your role in the stage show The Sapphires.

Of all the accolades you’ve received since your Australian Idol days, which ones mean the most to you – and why?

Wow ... that’s a hard My eyes question! I would have have definitelyto to say the award you just been opened w getting out there and new things, neand asked about. Why? Behaving fun and keepes iti n u opport cause I was in a completely lp he to ay ing the music rolling. w a so al different country, they With stage perforpeople. didn’t speak English, they mances, if I was doing a had no idea who I was, and BBS Show (Big, Beautiful they didn’t judge me! And to be & Sexy), I like to talk through awarded for that and my acting ability the show as if I'm telling a story … I would have to say that one. with music. People get an intimate show; You’re performing at the Saltwater they get to know me ... and I love that feelFreshwater Festival in Taree on Australia ing.

Day 2012. What does Australia Day mean How big an impact has your indigenous to you personally – and how would you cultural background had on your life – normally spend the day if you weren’t personally and musically? performing?

I think it has had a big impact – that beI know – and I'm so excited! To me, this ing a very good one. I have learnt about my day means a whole bunch: it’s a day of culture; I have helped out communities. My celebration being part Aboriginal; it’s a day of eyes have definitely been opened to new survival, a day of remembrance, and a day to things, new opportunities and also a way to get out in the sunshine and enjoy. If I wasn’t help people. working, I would be down at the beach havWhat are you most looking forward to ing a BBQ and having a swim. about performing in Taree?

What’s the contrast for you between The great atmosphere! I've been to Taree a performing at festivals, as opposed to little bit, and I like it up there … I think it will stage performances? Do you have a be a great day! preference?

What stage are you up to with producI think festivals are more music based, just tion of a new album ... will we be getting

“

”

to experience some new music from you soon?

Fingers crossed, I will be back in the studio next year. 2011 has been so busy for me, I really haven’t had time to do anything else ... but I will be pushing to get back in the studio and laying down some new tracks I have been working on.

Where’s the best place for people to go if they’re interested in purchasing your music?

Website: www.caseydonovan.com Facebook: Casey Donovan Twitter: @caseydonovan and YouTube: CaseyDonovanMusic.

Thanks Casey.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photo credit this page and front cover: (c) 2011 Cee Dee Services Pty Ltd.

the plug!

Readers can see Casey live at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival at the Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree this Australia Day from 11am – 5pm. www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au

manning-great lakes focus 39

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focuseditorial.

Viv’s Now the silly season’s winding down, your party shoes can go back in the closet and we can focus on fashion for now.

Vitality and Strength THERE’S NO BETTER TIME THAN NOW TO JOIN A YOGA CLASS at Yoga Directions. Classes and teachers to accommodate every body. So many good reasons to join a Yoga Course. Reduce your back and neck pain, high blood pressure and stress. IMPROVE your sleep problems, depression and anxiety.

Pick up your VITALITY and STRENGTH and slow down your AGING PROCESS, as well as stretching your muscles, joints and massaging your various organs.

From 2012, Laura Armstrong and Chris Harry, two inspiring Hatha Yoga teachers in the Satyananda Tradition, will join Peppa to bring more opportunities for everyone.

On Monday morning, enrol in Laura’s Healthy Weight Management course, that will include traditional Yoga practice, philosophy, weight management issues, as well as herbal and nutritional knowledge, so that you can move towards a happier and healthier YOU. For those new to Yoga, join Chris, Laura or Peppa in the Beginners classes on offer during the day and evening in Taree and Wingham, as well as Intermediate sessions for those with previous experience.

Classes are also expanding in Wingham on Wednesdays, with Fit and Fabulous Women at 10am and Beginners at 6pm.

So step up and into wellness this New Year, and don’t put your health off any LONGER.

take a deep breath It’s now time to catch your breath after the hectic festive season …

At Glow Beauty, we understand the importance of nurturing body and mind so that you can cope with life’s daily stresses. Our holistic approach to beauty, plus the high performance ASAP Skincare range offers the ultimate de-stressing experience, while still achieving outstanding treatment results.

If your skin has suffered from the excesses of the holidays, you may need our help. We welcome you in to have a ‘complementary skin analysis’ with our highly qualified and experienced therapists. Advanced skin analysis helps us to more accurately determine your skins condition, so we can offer the best suited salon treatment and home care advice.

Let our caring staff help you on your way to creating some ‘me’ time this new year; it’s never too late to take some time out for yourself, and what better excuse to start afresh than a whole new year.

We would like to extend to you a $25 discount off Advanced Facial Treatments (valid ‘til 31/01/12,) plus receive your complimentary Skin Analysis to achieve wonderful standout results. Phone the salon for bookings on 6551 4569 and mention our New Year deal.

Your therapists, Melissa Battishall, Kylee Walker, Katie Schielzeth and Amy Anderson look forward to welcoming you in 2012 for a new and exciting year.

S

o it’s lazy days by the pool and balmy nights dining alfresco – the best time of the year in the fashion calendar. Firstly, the caftan: transform this little wonder from day beach coverup to evening glamour; try some wide leg palazzo pants in a soft jersey and a matching cami underneath, some jewelled sandals, a little bit of bling, and you have made the effortless transformation from day to night, va voom!

How about this season’s must have ¾ denim jeans in white – day time a cute tee will suffice, but for evening try an eye popping neon coloured wedge (think lime, fuschia or yellow) teamed on top with an oversized bright blouse in a contrasting colour ... it’s called colour blocking – the brighter the better, so be bold. Of course, the old faithful L.B.D. deserves an airing – update this classic now. Have you seen the gorgeous new chunky necklaces, beaded with turquoise or coral and matching cuffs ... blow those cobwebs away!

Remember when layering was new? Well, now for a new idea for anyone who requires a sleeve, try popping on a cap sleeve tee underneath a sleeveless garment, and a whole new fashion world will open up to you. A good brand is Blank Canvas; it will not detract from your outfit, just enhance it.

A fashion prediction for the year ahead ... new minimalism, not as severe as last time around, but a good reason to buy quality clothing that is versatile.

Now, let’s look at some fashion faux pas from 2011; these are trends we hope to never see again!

‘The Mullet‘: no, not Billy Ray Cyrus’ hairdo! It’s that short at the front, long at the back look that’s been everywhere; after this month ends, hopefully never to be seen again.

Double denim: you know, denim on denim really isn’t flattering – unless you’re Erin Wasson or her lookalike.

Manzires: Yes, bras for men. Shudder – and burn them now.

This year, expect to be seeing a lot of tangerine; it’s the new pink. Also, the wetsuit look (neoprene) – big in Europe and the USA. Michael Kors and all the big designers have this look covered; check out December’s edition of Vogue, featuring Gisele Bündchen showing us how it’s done.

As for shoes, we will be seeing lots of ‘Sledges’– these are platform wedges as opposed to platform stilettos that were around last year. Bring it on for us shorties!

For all the handbag queens, the prediction for the ‘it bag’ in 2012 ... wait for it ... the doctors’ bag! Can’t wait!

For now, remember fashion is fun – enjoy! manning-great lakes focus 41

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Gather the Girls! endota spa diamond beach and forster is the place to share some spa fun with 3 - 5 of your friends!

“Our Girls’ Day Out packages are filled with relaxation and a trio of nurturing treatments, starting with a Billabong footbath, 45 minute organic facials, 45 minute relaxation massages and a sole soothing express pedicures. Afterwards, polish off a platter of antipasto and a glass of champagne in our retreat lounge,” says Spa Director Avalyn Jackson.

Think about hitting the beach this summer wearing the endota ‘tan-dota’ organic spray tan. Bursting with The NEW earthly good ingredients of endota tan walnut shell, sugar cane, extender has witch hazel, cranberry seed arrived and g extract and sea kelp, to will prolon n ta y ra sp deliver a beautiful fragrant your or allow you to summer tan. The NEW splash some endota tan extender has on anytime, arrived and will prolong your anywhere! spray tan or allow you to splash some on anytime, anywhere!

endota spa has a new spa menu with lots of new treats to WOW you, like our ‘spa mix’,

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endota spa diamond beach 6557 3801; endota spa forster 6555 8956. Bookings essential to avoid disappointment.

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MAR 21 - APR 20

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You’re always searching for and chasing ‘that dream’. This is not a bad thing if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the ‘you’ you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness.

Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.

You are entering a new cycle, with lots of excitement and laughter. At first your fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths.

Calcite Brings spontaneity into the picture.

You have answers to other people’s dilemmas. This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher and other people are drawn to you, because they know you have their answers.

Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive.

Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.

TAU RU S.

V I RG O.

C A P R I C O R N.

APR 21 - MAY 21

AUG 24 - SEPT 23

DEC 22 - JAN 20

Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends. By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength.

Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22 Your talents have been activated, which will wake up new gifts. Set some new goals now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside, you have your own answers, but unfortunately you are lacking the confidence to listen. Trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong.

Labradorite brings magical energy into the picture for manifestation.

Family matters are likely to be an issue at present. Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved. Besides – did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things?

Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.

This month your awareness is being called toward your usual happy way of processing life. The reason why you are so fearful at present, is because you are currently taking life far too seriously, lighten up and bring back your laughter and watch your fears disappear.

Pyrite will bring back courage.

LIBRA.

AQ UA R I U S.

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

JAN 21 - FEB 19

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction. As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly.

Spend some time in nature to release your tension.

Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

You Y may be b feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any ‘hasty’ decisions.

Soon you will notice personal change and higher self-esteem. Good luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more, and try to have no expectations of your relationship.

Turquoise is for confidence boosting.

CANCER.

S C O R P I O.

P I S C E S.

JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU

OCT 24 - NOV 22

FEB 20 - MAR 20

You are about to receive a special gift. This was your wish made several months ago.

Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.

Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change.

You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your new found qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt.

Turquoise is great for self-validation.

It is an exciting time for you dear little fish.

As the fish is the most sensitive to stress of all the animal kingdom, you naturally will be affected by the currents of stress around you, and you may have taken on someone else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way. ENJOY!

manning-great lakes focus 45

BUC KET LIST We talk to three locals about what they hope to achieve in 2012.

Jay Davis.

1. Continue to write and perform original music.

Record my solo album, and work with the talented musicians across the Manning Valley and beyond. I am currently looking for enthusiastic committed musicians to write and record with.

Get in touch via my email if interested: notaard@hotmail.com

Jessica Fordham.

I am Jessica Fordham, and I recently completed my Higher School Certificate at Gloucester High School.

It was definitely a tough year, but all my hard work paid off as I was awarded Dux of my school and received an ATAR result (94.8) that will allow me to pursue my ideal future career in Law.

2. 2011 has been an exciting year for the revival of the Gathang Language. With the support of the Gathang Language Group and the North Coast TAFE, we have a number of Certificate I Graduates throughout the Manning and Great Lakes. In 2012, I hope to see this trend continue and for the language program to be implemented across schools. In addition to this, I look forward to the implementation of the Bro Speak Program for schools. Bro Speak focuses on motivating and influencing young men with the support of strong male community members. The Bro Speak Program will initially run for ten weeks but is an ongoing program that I hope to see all schools adopt.

3. See our comedy pilot come to fruition. Filmed on locations around the Manning Valley, I am looking forward to seeing our crew immortalised on the silver screen in various incarnations.

1. I will be a full-time student from 2013 at Newcastle University, where I will follow my dream to study in the field of Law. 2012 for me involves a gap year before full on study at university in 2013.

So next year involves some practical stuff, like finding part-time work within the district to assist me financially in buying my first car (which I have been saving towards and thinking of for a while) and setting me up in accommodation in Newcastle. I would like to make my new place very home-like, so I will be able to work and study in comfort when I start my university course next year.

2. I would love to do some travelling around Australia and also overseas, as it will be a while before I get the chance again. Once I start uni, I will be dedicated to achieving the very best result in my course. I aim to make myself a better person and achieve my dream of becoming a very professional person in Law. 3. Most of all, I plan on just enjoying myself after such a hard year of study and work, which allowed me to achieve my score in the HSC. I must thank my family and friends over the past years for all your support and assistance.

46 manning-great lakes focus.

Gerlinde Sonter.

1. Return to Germany to see my ageing aunt and uncle ‌ 60 years ago I was born in Germany and visited for the first time in 2005. It was wonderful to be reunited with family I had not seen in all those years; I will always cherish that first meeting.

2. To see our two wonderful boys build a house on their land at Harrington and finally fly the coup. Although when the time actually comes we will miss them very much, I am sure we will cope and the food bill will be reduced dramatically!

3. To continue to work and enjoy my job. I am very fortunate to be able to say that I work with the best team of Community Nurses in NSW or even Australia. Since I took the position at Taree Community Health, I have never regretted my decision. We have lived at Blackhead for over 30 years and seen many changes, but when all things are said and done, we still live in the best place – and we will never leave.

focusTourism.

Richard Old from Great Lakes Tourism

We live in a tourism region. It is the biggest industry in town and it is everybody’s business ... The bottom line is, we’re all in this together.

Richard Old

UPDATE

G

and butter of our community, bringing new reat Lakes summer is in full swing. money, ideas and personality and then going The sky is blue, the waters clear, the back and marketing the region to their family forests cool and green and the sand and friends. The value of word of mouth expogolden. Nothing beats the warm sure is incredible. sun on your back or going for a swim (ensuring Without a doubt, it is the little things that you are being sun smart, of course)! I love this count, and these are the things that our region time of year and being able to grab a swim after can do well. Visitors today are after ‘real’ experiwork – it is a brilliant way to end a day. ences. They are different from even the visitor Right now is the peak season for the region.

During January, visitor numbers, local population two years previous, and they are discerning.

Visitors will not tolerate fake, manufactured movements and activity levels (economic, social, experiences – and definitely not poor customer cultural and environmental) are at their highest. service. They do their research before they travel People will be visiting their families, taking that and most importantly, they are after value for well-earned break, re-kindling relationships, money. Value for money does not mean they starting new relationships or getting the boat or will not spend, but rather they will only spend kayak wet. where they feel their dollar is being This is an exciting time of year. Everywell spent. one is out and about, and there is Therefore, this month the a general buzz in the air. success of our region is in all I have no doubt you maney The mon gs in our hands!

During summer, aged to squeeze out a few br tourism ’. ey on m everybody is effectively resolutions on December ew is ‘n an Ambassador for the 31. January is then, not It flows through d our economy an region. We already know only the start of the year, s et into the pock the how wonderful this place but also a time for change. of everyone in is, and now this is our What are you going to do community. chance to spread the word. differently this year? What are So – individually – say you going to accomplish, start, “Hello” when walking along the finish, learn, rekindle, repair or give beach or down the street, offer help up? What you may not realise is that to someone who looks lost, be patient when your resolutions have a ripple effect across the driving to the shops and be prepared to share community and the region. your favourite patch of sand. Practice one of For example, if one of your resolutions was those resolutions you were so passionate about to be a little more patient, then this will result in a couple of days ago. you contributing to making someone else’s day Business owners should focus on over delivera little better. ing on customer service, value-adding and most “How on earth does this relate to tourism,” importantly, networking. For tourism impact to I hear you say! Well – everything is part of the be maximised, yield must be increased – not visitor experience. The entire journey, from more people, but more spending. deciding where to go to travelling there to the Therefore, for the rest of summer everyone actual stay itself. Therefore, a decision to be pais encouraged to do their bit and not only tient may translate in a friendly “Hello”, which celebrate summer, but also help promote the becomes part of a visitor’s holiday experience. region.

It is the realisation that everything forms part Your local Visitor Information Centre has of the visitor experience that is crucial to our information and contacts for every possible region’s success. Everyone is a part of the tourscenario and will be open every day. So, make ism industry, and tourism is a part of the whole sure if you need anything to drop in. community.

All the best and – Happy New Year!

With over half of the total visitor activity for Richard Old, the region happening in this one month, there is Great Lakes Manager Tourism & Marketing. a lot on the line. Summer visitors are the bread manning-great lakes focus 47

focusadvertorial.

More Awards for Kularoo.

The Aged Care Standards have delivered great news for Christmas to BCS Kularoo Centre for Aged Care, Forster. BCS Kularoo has successfully achieved all 44 of the Federal Government’s Age Care Standards and Accreditation outcomes for the next three years. he external independent survey covered areas of management, care, lifestyle and safety issues.

The accreditation process involves three days of comprehensive assessment consisting of interviews with residents, their families, staff and volunteers, as well as examining many pages of documents pertaining to residential care.

The purpose of the accreditation process is to monitor compliance with the Aged Care accreditation standards and assist the service in its future plans of continuous improvement.

BCS Kularoo management and staff are committed to continually improving the service to their residents; this has been demonstrated by the results from the accreditation process and successful outcomes achieved.

BCS Kularoo Executive Care Manager, Deidre Moylan, said that she

T

would like to “praise the team of dedicated staff and volunteers for their contributions throughout the assessment and evaluation process, as well as accomplishments achieved by management and staff. The accreditation results send out a positive message to the community that BCS Kularoo is allows BCS to commend committed to excellence the commitment and The award in residential care. contribution that staff allows BCS to commend theand I would also like to have made over the last commitment at thank the families of 12 months. contribution the residents who took ad Mr Ross Low, the CEO m e av h staff time out to speak with for Baptist Community over the last 12 the assessors.”

Services, said in his speech months.

Following on from the to the award winning staff: success of 44 outcomes, the “It is staff such as yourself who Care Leaders Management Team go the extra mile while using your topped off the end of year by receiving individual gifts to respond to the needs of a BCS Inspire award at the Annual BCS our clients, and to each other, with hope, Celebration Dinner in Sydney. The award care and compassion. You go above and

“ BCS is the only place I could ever feel at home “

Naomi

BCS Resident

Serving Australian Seniors for over 65 years.

Our team of nurses, therapists and carers at BCS Kularoo Centre provide professional and dedicated care to clients with low, high or dementia care needs.

To discuss your care needs or arrange a tour, speak with our team:

BCS Kularoo Centre (02) 6555 1600 Cnr Kularoo Drive & Boundry Street, Forster

visit our website www.bcs.org.au 48 manning-great lakes focus.

beyond the call of duty, and you bring to life the values that BCS aspires to every day.” Congratulations are extended to the following members of the Management Team, who are all Registered Nurses with many years of experience in residential aged care – Jennifer Holloway, Robyn Beckett, Mandy Davies, Ann Gilmour and Sharyn Parish.

Deidre Moylan said it was a great way to end the year, with the awards highlighting that commitment and dedication is at the forefront of providing quality care to our residents.

Your Care | Our Passion

focusinterview.

Chiltern Lodge

Seachange

Chiltern Lodge is an all year round holiday resort for all ages and lifestyles whether it be a romantic escape for two, family fun or small group getaways.

The perfect venue for reunions, celebrations & special events. Four well appointed cottages in a tranquil bushland setting offers the perfect ambience for family fun , relaxation and rejuvenation. Check out the website for great deals.

Shirley and David McGrady

Shirley McGrady moved to Forster with her husband David three years ago and became immediately involved with the local community working with different charities. She is also an active member of the Great Lakes Tourism Committee.

Y

ou’re originally from the map alongside Port Macquarie and Scotland and have the Hunter Valley. moved around quite a How would you promote the Great bit, living in Tasmania Lakes as an area? prior to moving to ForI am very passionate about the Great ster. How long have you lived in the Lakes and what we can offer to guests.

Manning-Great Lakes?

What we have to remember is that the We arrived in Forster three-and-a-half Great Lakes is a wide area covering excelyears ago. Although it’s a warmer climate, lent towns such as Wingham, Stroud, Tea it’s similar to the Tasmanian landscape.

Gardens and Gloucester.

We decided early on to make ourselves My role is in the accommodation sector part of the community by getting involved of tourism and training our ever-growing in different charities and sponsor population about what we SIDS and Men Of League. have to offer the tourists What brought you to when they come into t It is also importan the area? town. at as to remember thcan We wanted to For tourists visita collective, we pact im be closer to our ing the Manningge make a hu r ou ... ea ar r ou grandchildren. Living Great Lakes, on t the purpose is to puthe in Sydney wasn’t an what would you reat Lakes on rt G option, as we wanted recommend they map alongside Po the a coastal environment. experience?

Macquarie and Hunter Valley.

The Mid North Coast Cruising on the lake has always attracted us, as to take in the tranquility we used to live at Nana Glen of the area … Fishing, kayaon a small farm. king, bike-riding through Booti The friendliness of the locals also was a Booti National Park. A visit to the Green factor, plus my husband likes to fish. We Cathedral, for those looking at planning found it a perfect balance of mountains a wedding or who just want a piece of surrounded by beaches. paradise.

Tell us about your passion for tourism: Don’t forget the camera, as the sunsets Wherever I go, I take an experience are great in the summer. I carry a camera with me and implement it into the next everywhere I go to catch a special shot. step of my life. Experiences are what Is there a particular beach that you makes our country so great, and I am love to spend time at? delighted to be a part of Great Lakes Blueys beach would probably be my Tourism Committee (GLAC) – we have a favourite … The blueness of the water great group of members. It is also imporgets me every time I go there – we are tant to remember that as a collective, we lucky to have so many to choose from. can make a huge impact on our area ...

Although we are living on the peninsula, our purpose is to put the Great Lakes on surrounded by great beaches, it’s a bonus

to get out of bed in the morning and not have to drive through traffic.

In your job as Manager of Kelanbri Holiday Apartments in Forster, you’ve come across some famous people ...

Yes, I have met some very famous people. Thanks to Forster Golf Club, I am lucky to be involved as a major sponsor for Men Of League. The persistence of President Doug Holmes and Chris Turner has contributed to great footy greats coming in to town, such as Johnny Raper, Steve Mortimer and Terry Lamb.

Iron Man Guy Leech stayed with us last year, when he came for the Anaconda Triathlon … More recently, Todd Hunter from Dragon and Ross Wilson from Daddy Cool – a lovely man and a great entertainer.

We had a midnight cook-up with Ross after his show at Tuncurry Bowling Club.

He had some amazing stories to tell of his journey in the Rock and Roll world.

What advice would you give to anyone considering a sea change?

Do your research and talk to the locals about what it’s like to live in an area.

Made any New Year resolutions for 2012?

My New Year’s resolution is to have more fun, meet new people and enjoy being in the moment.

Thanks Shirley and David.

Chiltern Lodge also specialises in Health & Well-being lifestyle holidays.

Learn to eat well and get fit and healthy in beautiful natural surroundings. At Chiltern Lodge you won't find gyms, leotards and mirrors. What you will find is forests, beaches, mountains, inspiration & encouragement.

Enjoy a 4 night, 5 day stay (Mon - Fri) with all the healthy meals and snacks provided. Each day takes in physical activities tailored to suit your level of fitness and led by your own lifestyle mentor. A saving of 50% with this Lifestyle holidays 2 for 1 deal. Normally priced at $1560 pp, with our 2 for 1 deal pay only $780 each If your New Year’s Resolution is to make positive changes, get that bit fitter, lose weight or achieve a special goal call us now and find out how we can help you make 2012 the best year of your life.

manning-great lakes focus 49

Home loan specialists to help y u find the right loan.

Whether you’re buying a new property or looking to invest, your home loan shouldn’t be hard work. That’s why we’ve been putting on more home loan specialists to help you find the right loan. With great rates, special offers and flexible features^ to suit you now and in the future, it’s no wonder we’re still Australia’s most awarded home lender.* To find an ANZ Home Loan that best suits you, call your local Manning area dedicated home loan specialist Geoff Greenwood on 0435 961 009 to book your complimentary A-Z Review® today.

anz.com

^Not all features are available on all loan types. *Money Magazine Home Lender of the Year Award 2010, 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005, and AFR Smart Investor Magazine Home Lender of the Year Award 2005, 2004, 2002, 2001, 2000 and 1999. Australian Lending Awards, Mortgage Lender of the Year Award 2011 and Best Investor Lender Award 2011. The Australian Lending Awards is an independent initiative of The Adviser and specialist research and advisory firm RFI. Terms and Conditions, fees and charges apply refer to ANZ Consumer Lending Terms and Conditions on anz.com/homeloans. All applications for credit are subject to ANZ’s normal credit approval criteria. Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522. Australian Credit Licence Number 234527. ANZ’s colour blue is a trade mark of ANZ. Item No. 85838B 12.2011 W258715

50 manning-great lakes focus.

Our motto is Playing to learn and learning to play

Great Lakes Children’s Centre.

At Great Lakes Children’s Centre, our motto is ‘Playing to learn and learning to play’, in recognition of the importance of play and learning.

The children’s learning is guided by the principles and outcomes of the Early Years Learning Framework and the new National Quality Standards. Our teams of qualified and experienced educators regularly reflect upon their curriculum practices and achievements and are involved in ongoing professional development and learning. ‘Learning Links’ is our well-resourced transition to school program.

Learning Links prepares children for Kindergarten and focuses on literacy, numeracy and self help skills.

Older children in their year before school are grouped separately to younger children. In mid 2012, we are planning a number of changes.

We are opening 8 additional places for under 2s, continuing planned renovations and plan-

ning to extend the range of foods prepared in our new commercial kitchen.

Parent Testimonials “We have ALL benefited from our involvement with GLCC ... Thank you that you have loved our children, cared for them and prepared them for big school and another step closer to the big wide world. We do consider you as partners who have helped us bring out the very best in our precious kids.” Steph and Pete Flower, 15 Dec 2011.

“I am so impressed and delighted to observe the progress Amelia has achieved while at your centre. I would especially like to mention the portfolio and Holy Name preparation book. I will be reading it to her during the holidays.

Thank you for the supportive environment you create for the children to develop their talents and achieve all they can.” Melanie Robertson, 13 Dec 2011.

Aussie Apprentice.

Thinking about hiring an apprentice?

Then you should contact Gabby Barlow at your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre in Taree. Gabby can provide you with all the information you need, including the government incentives available to employers of apprentices.

“Now is a great time to sign up an apprentice,” says Gabby. “Right now there are lots of school leavers searching for work, and an apprenticeship is a terrific career choice for them.

The apprenticeship system is also attractive to employers, not only because of the incentives offered, but it’s also an excellent way to develop trained staff in the way of your business.” Gabby is the Business Co-ordinator for Central West Community College’s Australian Apprenticeships Centre in Taree, providing free

recruitment support for employers seeking to sign up Australian Apprentices. “We provide fast and responsive service to local employers, and we guarantee a solution that is tailored to the specific workplace needs of each employer,” says Gabby. “We have up to date knowledge of the Australian Apprenticeship system and can come to your workplace at a time that suits you to explain everything.”

Call Gabby today to find out how an Australian Apprentice can help your business.

Central West Community College was established in Central West NSW nearly 30 years ago and has since grown to deliver services in 23 locations throughout regional NSW, including the Mid North Coast. We employ local people with a passion for their local community.

manning-great lakes focus 51

52 manning-great lakes focus.

focusbusiness.

wesley

uniting.

sharon fowle. ollowing our AGM on 9 December, Grant Hirst attend. Grant has an extensive it gives me great pleasure to conbackground in the management and develfirm the New Executive Committee opment of major supermarkets and shopfor 2012. ping centres. Grant provided us with insights Mr Peter Iverson, President; into the likely impacts of the supermarket Mr Bob Lee, Vice President; on Tuncurry, including the potential for it to Ms Jan Lee, Treasurer; draw an additional 15,000 visitors. Grant’s Mr Geoff Jackson, Secretary. presentation was followed with an opporExecutive Committee Members include: tunity to discuss what local businesses can Peter Iverson, President – Bella Villa Motel; do to prepare. A wide range of local experts Bob Lee, Vice President – Kayala; also attended the workshop. So there was Jan Lee, Treasurer – Great Lakes Packaging & a wealth of information available, which Party Supplies; enabled us to conduct a very effective brainGeoff Jackson, Secretary/Public Officer – storming session.

Endota Spa/Southern Cross Media It was a fantastic event, which benefited Exec Committee Members: all who attended. Everyone walked away Trisha Brindley – Swell Architects; full of hope and feeling assured that the Linda Dade – Banks & Dade Family ChiroWoolworths installation was going to be practors; very positive for our region.

Gary Gersbach – LJ Hooker; Many business reviews lead us Sarina Kreitmeier – Smartwallto expect a difficult year ahead ing/Wholesale Signs; financially. Some analysts are t es gg bi Shane McLeay – Southern thankfully promoting good The ar ye e th of ht lig gh Cross Media; things for next year, or at hi . was the Awards Michelle Newton – The least saying that things e es More of th ill w ts Training Transfer; will not be that bad. If you en ev tic fantas this John Stevens – Deputy are expecting a difficult take place againme year – with so Mayor. year in business, have additions.

The high calibre of you considered what you committee members is can do to make the best of a testament to the success it? Perhaps you could consider of the Business Chamber. This online marketing, or ways to do it commitment should ensure we continue to better. Online marketing is an area of busiincrease our profile and assist in growing ness which needs to be embraced. If done and developing our business community’s correctly, it is an extremely effective way to success. develop and grow your business. We have The Business Chamber experienced many invited Lee Dixon and his team from Joyer excellent events last year. Some of the to present at a breakfast on 25 January at big highlights included breakfast at Wallis Club Forster from 7.15am. Joyer will provide Lake Fishermen’s Co-Op and the Free Spirit us with tips and tricks on how to use the Cruise. The biggest highlight of the year internet to market our products and services. was the Awards. More of these fantastic They will explain why you should market events will take place again this year – with online and take us through some case some additions. Industrial Relations and ATO studies.Tickets are $25 for members, $30 events have already been added to the list of for non-members, including full breakfast. lunches we host.

Please RSVP to info@ftchamber.com.au by The biggest event for the district this Friday 20 January. coming year will be the establishment of Have a prosperous New Year! the new Woolworths in Tuncurry, set to be For more information about joining the completed in October. I attended a meeting Chamber or receiving our newsletter, please for the Tuncurry Village Business Centre last contact us on 0407 006 666. Alternatively month, where we were fortunate to have visit: www.ftchamber.com.au

F

Wesley Uniting Employment is now stretching its services to Gloucester, Purfleet and Tea Gardens.

Wesley Uniting Employment, as a provider of Job Services Australia, has now been successfully servicing the Manning and Great Lakes region for the past 11 years, and now also offers specialist Disability Employment Services.

To better service the needs of both employers and job seekers, Wesley Uniting Employment not only has branches in Taree and Tuncurry, but also now provides outreach services to Gloucester, Purfleet and

Tea Gardens.

Wesley Uniting Employment is very keen to work in partnership with industry to build business capacity, ensuring candidates meet employers’ criteria, offering training, wage subsidies, mentoring and ongoing post placement support where applicable.

If you would like to know more, call 1800 631 132 to talk to your nearest Wesley Uniting Employment office, the leaders in local knowledge.

manning-great lakes focus 53

STUDIO 1 Performance Centre.

2012 marks the Grand Opening of our new and spacious premises at 40E Muldoon St, Taree.

We have a Grand Opening Day, where we are inviting all of our existing and any prospective students to come and see our new Studios on Saturday 14 January from 11.30am to 2pm. We will be having a BBQ lunch, which everyone is welcome to join.

Our Enrolment Day for 2012 will be held on Saturday 21 January, from 10am to 4pm at the new Studio, 40E Muldoon St, Taree.

We have two talented students leaving us this year: Mikaela Norris, who will be attending the Urban Dance Centre in Sydney; and Emily French, who will be heading off to QLD to attend Ikin Dance. We wish both these girls the best of luck in their future career.

Principal Krys Molloy-Louis extremely proud of her students’ successes this year and is excited to be starting Studio 1’s 8th year in operation at a new premises, which will give students one of the largest practice performance spaces in the Manning Valley!

Achievements for this year include once again multiple placings with Group and Solo students, a 100% pass rate for our annual Ballet and Tap Exams (99% of students receiving Distinction), and we also have two students who have gained entry into full-time dance courses.

54 manning-great lakes focus.

Alex Cosway.

Kindilan Early Childhood Centre.

From birth through to the first five years of life, children participate in social environments that enrich and shape their learning. Educators at Kindilan use their knowledge of children, the wisdom that families contribute about each child and a broad range of teaching possibilities to actively engage with children in learning.

Our vast natural outdoor environments with sustainable gardens and environmentally friendly practices allow the children to explore, investigate and participate in learning experiences that promote positive wellbeing and lifelong habits.

Kindilan is a community where we strive to make the children, educators and families welcome, feel a sense of belonging and are recognised as active, valued contributors to our Centre. Children develop understandings of community, which includes respect for and inclusion of others, honesty, care and compassion and empathy for all. This is an integral part of Kindilan’s philosophy and the underlying values that have directed our Curriculum, teachings and practices since the Centre opened in 1986. If you haven’t been to Kindilan before, come along and visit our beautiful Centre; you will feel the difference.

Redsand is your locally owned ‘next-generation’ communications business, specialising in providing digital and IP phone systems, Unified messaging, voicemail, a suite of client applications, voice/data/fibre cabling, and Telstra business services, to help organisations communicate efficiently.

Did you know Redsand is the region’s exclusive dealer for Samsung Communications Australia? Whether you’re a small business with two employees or a corporate organisation with 300, we have an award-winning Samsung OfficeServ communication system for you. Redsand supports organisations large and small, from Forster to Coffs Harbour. Our customers are financial and legal firms, medical practices, real estate agencies, pharmacies, retail outlets, industrial manufacturers, transport companies, hotels/motels, club/pubs, schools, and government agencies.

Is your business looking to cut its communications costs using the latest VoIP technology, GSM gateways, or changing Telstra plans?

Are you thinking of expanding or relocating? We link multiple offices together and connect remote employees to share your email, voicemail, faxes and contacts with Unified Messaging.

As a Telstra Business dealer, we provide Telstra bundles, lines connection and relocations, Business Broadband. Are you looking to rent or lease a new phone system? Make sure it’s a Samsung and Telstra TBS bundle.

We are your one stop shop for all your business communication needs. Give us a ring today; we are waiting for your call.

manning-great lakes focus 55

Australian Solar Timbers.

Australian Solar Timbers (AST) is Australia’s premium specialist manufacturer of hardwood flooring. Chrissy Jones tells us more ...

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hey currently employ approx. 80 people in regional Australia and remain proudly Australian owned.

Many employees have been with the company for years and have been instrumental in shaping AST into the industry pioneers they remain today.

With a history that can be traced back to 1919, AST has established a reputation for excellence, innovation and leadership through pioneering modern techniques and processes in the timber flooring industry. This has seen AST emerge today as the nation’s most modern and environmentally sound hardwood flooring manufacturer.

The majority of wood sourced by AST is from local sustainably managed State Forests that are

accredited under the Australian Forestry standard.

This means that AST hardwood flooring products are AFS and PEFC Chain of Custody certified to international standards of best practice, ensuring that they are from legally sourced and sustainably managed forests.

A hardwood floor purchased from AST is a carbon neutral, natural product resourced and produced under strict AFS guidelines.

AST’s commitment to a sustainable environment has also seen them become world leaders in solar kiln drying, a natural and environmentally sound process, providing a superior product and less green house emissions by replacing fossil fuels with the natural energy of the sun.

In essence, all of AST’s flooring products are seasoned by the power of the sun. A custom

built computer and controlled and monitored solar kilns capture and intensify the natural heat.

The warm air is then circulated around the kiln chamber to dry the timber to its optimum moisture content for use in domestic and commercial applications.

All AST products undergo strict, independent auditing. AST has twice in the past year been awarded ATIC recognition as being the best quality producer in NSW – a fact of which they are very proud.

The natural warmth and beauty of a hardwood timber floor is timeless and will add character, a sense of space and value for decades to come.

AST hardwood floors are produced from unique and beautiful Northern NSW species, which are amongst the densest and hardest timbers in the world – making them ideal for decorative flooring. Australian hardwood is unique in the world.

Variations in character markings, colour and grain should be expected and appreciated for their natural beauty and value.

An Australian Solar Timber floor can never be

replicated, making every floor a natural artwork with a living history.

The AST vision for the future is to innovate and adapt even further through a process of ‘natural excellence’, not only in attitude to their products, but also through a solid commitment to the environment. The recently produced Panache flooring is a perfect example of the AST vision.

Panache timber floors are the result of another AST environmental initiative, which utilises skilled craftsmanship and state of the art machine technology to reclaim timber from within the milling process to create heritage style flooring of excellent durability, quality and value. The result is short, random length overlay boards that come in a selection of tones to suit any commercial or domestic application. Panache is extremely economical and will last a lifetime.

AST has a rich history and is confident of an even more exciting and sustainable future by staying focused, real and dedicated.

For further information visit: www.astfloors.com.au

FORESTS NSW – sustainably managing forests on the mid north coast

www.forests.nsw.gov.au Forests NSW is a public trading enterprise within NSW Department of Primary Industries

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Forests NSW are responsible for managing one of our most precious natural resources: timber.

Staff from Forests NSW Central Region were excited to discuss some of the latest techniques and technology used to aid this process ...

Forests NSW

J

Justin: Central Region looks after 400,000 ustin Williams is Central Region’s hectares of wet and dry Eucalypt forests and Planning Manager and has worked rainforests between Gosford and Macksville. for Forests NSW since completing a Within this area we carefully manage about Natural Resources Degree in 1995.

140,000 ha of regrowth forests for timber He has spent much of his career production, while protecting all of the old growth protecting the region’s many threatened plant and forest and rainforest we manage. animal species.

We look after a wide range of forest types Tony Brown, Remote Sensing Project Manager, and timber species, from fast growing Blackbutt completed his BSc Forestry degree in 1995. Since and Flooded Gum forests on the coast, beautiful then Tony has worked in native and plantation Tallowwood and Blue Gum forests in the foothills, forest management in Tasmania, Northern to the wildlife rich Messmate, Stringybark and Territory and NSW. Tony has worked for FNSW in Manna Gum forests on the Tablelands.

Forest Resources and GIS for the last 5 years.

How many people are involved with working Kathy Jones is the Regional Manager Forests in the Central Region of Forests NSW? NSW Central Region. Kathy commenced her Kathy: Forests NSW Central Region employs career as a work experience student 27 years ago around 100 specialist staff and over 300 contract with Forests NSW, due to her great love for native staff, who work in road construction, forests and the amazing people who harvesting and haulage. The work in the forest and timber Regional Office is based at industry. Kathy has a Bachelor Wauchope. Customers include of Science Degree with Over 75% of the Boral at Herons Creek, honours in forestry and an as ld timber is so e used ar ch Australian Solar Timbers Executive MBA. hi w sawlogs, g and rin oo fl r fo at Kempsey, Koppers at What are Forests NSW lly ca lo power construction, or Grafton, Newells Creek chief responsibilities in an poles, and lessexthport Sawmill at Bulahdelah and managing our forests?

25% is sold as .

Haydon Timbers at Rollands Justin: Forests NSW and ps woodchi Plains. its staff are committed to State Forests within the region sustainable management of are increasingly becoming a major the public’s forests. Since 1916, tourist destination for both metropolitan foresters have identified areas of crown and regional visitors. This year Forests NSW won land with good potential to provide timber and the ecotourism category of the Hunter Central ensured they have been dedicated as State Forests Coast Tourism awards. to provide an ongoing source of timber for the Statistically speaking, where does most of community. our area’s timber actually end up?

Forestry staff work hard to protect the forests, Justin: The great thing about the region’s rivers and wildlife and its natural beauty for forest industry is most of the timber is sold and people to visit and enjoy, as well as build forest used within New South Wales, so it really is a roads, manage the logging, regeneration and local industry. Over 75% of the timber is sold growth of the forests and protect them from as sawlogs, which are used locally for flooring wildfire.

How large an area does the Central Region of and construction, or power poles, and less than 25% is sold as export woodchips. Our sawlog Forests NSW cover – roughly how many hectmarket competes strongly against imported sawn ares / what types of forests do you manage?

hardwoods, which mostly come from uncertified tropical forests in South East Asia.

How much forward planning goes into developing new systems / equipment and technology, to ensure our forests remain viable well into the future?

Kathy: FNSW spends considerable time looking for opportunities to better manage the public estate. Simple ideas on how to better manage a process might provide just as much improvement to our management as a high tech solution such as Lidar. Each opportunity is evaluated, and where safety, economic, efficiency or improved outcomes can be realised, changes for the better are often made.

Explain in layman’s terms what Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) is?

Tony: Lidar works on a similar principle to Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging); however, with Lidar a light beam is emitted instead of a radio wave. Essentially, a plane flies overhead with a sensor that emits around 150,000 pulses of light every second. Each pulse is reflected from trees, shrubs, grass, buildings or the surface of the earth, and the location at which the reflection is made gets recorded.

Each reflection represents a point in space, which are then processed by computer into digital ground and vegetation surfaces. From these surfaces, FNSW can accurately identify stream locations, slopes, vegetation types, roads, buildings and many other features.

Why is the development and use of Lidar in our area so significant?

Tony: Central Region is responsible for a large area of State Forest to manage and has only a limited number of staff to manage it. Lidar provides highly accurate information, allowing staff to quickly and easily identify areas requiring specific management.

For example, using Lidar derived ground models, office staff can identify steep areas and streams, enabling field staff to quickly locate these features in the field and appropriately

manage them. This data is also incorporated in operational machinery using Global Positioning Systems (GPS), thereby reducing the amount of difficult and sometimes dangerous bushwalking our staff has to do.

What other developments have taken place within our forestry industry in recent times that you deem significant?

Kathy: From a forest management perspective, we have a greater understanding of the positive contribution forest products and sustainably managed native forests can make to mitigating dangerous climate change and ecological conservation.

From an industry perspective, the introduction of mechanised harvesting systems have greatly improved safety and environmental outcomes in the field, while scanning and sawing technology have delivered increases in high-value product recovery from smaller logs.

What do you see as the future of our forests over the next 20 years, given all the recent advances in technology?

Justin and Tony: Timber and other forest products are still one of the most environmentally sustainable options for society to use in building, furniture, manufacture and even heating. These technologies complement FNSW intensive sustainable management, providing a higher level of terrain and vegetation information than previously available.

Further advances in technology will very likely include the integration of colour into the Lidar signal, providing a virtual 3 dimensional photograph, quite likely being captured from unmanned aircraft or satellites.

As these technologies become cheaper, more regular data captures will allow greater monitoring of forest ecosystems over time, studying their change and adaption over time to changing climatic conditions.

Thanks everyone.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photos courtesy of Bronwyn Ellis. manning-great lakes focus 57

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“

Local OAM awarded environmentalist and Manager at TIDE (Taree Indigenous Development and Employment Services) Chris Sheed speaks with Gemma Bellanto about his passion for the environment, travel, education and the Manning Valley.

”

Sheed. eing a 16 year old in London during the Summer of Love of 1968 has had a lasting impact on Chris Sheed; most of his major life decisions have been predicated by love, including his arrival in Australia and eventually the Manning Valley. Arriving in Elands in 1981 after years traversing the globe, Chris discovered terrain that was magical and under siege.

Tell us a bit about your formative influences and how you came to emigrate from England to Australia?

I had an English public school education thanks to a scholarship to study at Dulwich College in London. Living through the sixties, the hippy stuff rubbed off, and I was far more interested in Rolling Stones concerts and the liberal arts than attending school – so I dropped out at age 17 and worked odd jobs for a period.

As a 20 year old, my then girlfriend, her brother and friend decided to take the overland trip across India to Australia, so I decided to join them. I bought an Austin 1100 for 37 pounds, and we drove across Europe and Asia, through Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India through to Kathmandu, where I sold it for $400.

We were in South East Asia when we discovered that the Australian Immigration policy was due to become much more stringent on British arrivals from January 1, 1975 , so we literally booked the last berth in the last boat out of Singapore to arrive on December 28, 1974.

We anticipated travelling further to South America, but we loved Australia so much we all decided to stay – and are still here. I loved the wide open spaces and the rugged landscapes so far removed from inner city London. We were initially in Fremantle, and 58 manning-great lakes focus.

I spent some time working in the Pilbara before becoming a permanent resident.

In 1978 I left Australia to do some further travel through Asia and spent a year or so in India. While in Goa, I met my now ex-wife and followed her back to the Manning Valley – where she owned a property at Elands.

You received an OAM in 2000 for services to the Environment. Tell us more about this.

When I first moved to Elands, I got involved with setting up 2BOB radio through the Manning Media Co-operative from 1982. Our first studio was the old SES shack next to Wingham Town Hall. 2BOB went from strength to strength.

I became very interested in environmental issues and started doing a show in 1988 focusing on the environment. A friend invited me to come and witness the old growth logging operations happening up at Doyle’s River, and I was appalled at the destruction ... the waste.

We formed Wingham Forest Action to stop old growth forest logging and reduce the wood chipping. We were involved in a number of campaigns; the North East Forest Alliance was an affiliate that orchestrated protest activities. We held a number of blockades in places like Mummel Gulf and Chaelundi and at Elands.

Hundreds of us were arrested – including me. I appealed it, the arrest was upheld, but they quashed the conviction. That time of my life was serious but fun; we did lots of media work, publicity, promotion in addition to our protest activities. In 1995 Bob Carr came into power; he promised to protect the ‘old growth’ forests, and subsequently did a reasonable job.

In the late eighties, as the president of the

Oxygen Farm Association, I was involved in the establishment of the Hundreds of 900 acre Oxygen w us ere arrestedI Farm Conservation – including me. st Reserve on arre appealed it, the but escarpment at , ld he up was Elands. We didn’t ey quashed the th Aboriginal Land Council in an have the funds to conviction. eco-tourism role. I then moved purchase outright, into working for the Community so I conceived of Development Employment Program the idea to buy the (CDEP), where I remained until I took up a land, subdivide nine small position at TIDE several years ago. In that building blocks, sell them off and use the time I have worked closely with John Clark profits to fund the project and establish the OAM, who has been a tremendous boss, conservation reserve. There were fifteen mentor and friend to me. of us who contributed $5,000 to initially What are your priorities in the near fund it, who later got our money back with future? interest. This was only the second Voluntary My immediate priorities are to get TIDE on Conservation Agreement in NSW. a solid footing. As an indigenous controlled I was also the environmental entity, TIDE is well supported by funding representative on the first Manning from a range of government departments Catchment Management Committee and has built a good reputation in the chaired by the late Mick Tuck, and I worked community as a competent and trustworthy for a while as the Manning Landcare Coprovider of indigenous services. ordinator.

I am also keen to see the local business In 2000 I was awarded an Order of community take a greater interest in Australia for services to Conservation. indigenous employment, and TIDE is in the What is your focus these days? process of partnering with the Manning I currently work as the Manager at TIDE Valley Business Chamber to improve Services, providing employment, training indigenous employment opportunities. and other services to the Aboriginal What advice do you have for budding community. The pathway into this role was environmentalists? rather circuitous. In the ‘90s, I studied ecoThink globally and act locally. If I can tourism and natural resource management borrow from the cultural anthropologist and through CSU via distance education. This writer Margaret Mead (1901–78): “Never led to spending part of my Honours year in doubt that a small group of thoughtful, Vietnam interviewing ethnic minorities living committed citizens can change the world; in the recently declared Ba Be National Park, indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” where I studied the impacts of tourism.

Thanks Chris.

Not long after I had completed my Story by Gemma Bellanto. studies in 2001, I was employed by the local

MANNING-GREAT LAKES

property guide

Waylyn Homes of Distinction.

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Waylyn Homes of Distinction.

Building

The home boasts an extra large double garage that also incorporates a single garage for the golf buggy.

Beautiful Homes in Beautiful Locations.

aylyn Homes construct individual homes in beautiful locations, as is evidenced by this exquisite home, nestled expertly overlooking the 6th green in the Tallwoods Estate. Chrissy Jones takes a closer look with builder Wayne Munro ...

Taking full advantage of the magnificent views of not only the Tallwoods Golf Course, but also Cape Hawke, Forster and all of Tallwoods Village from every room; the home has been specifically designed and built to suit the individual needs and lifestyle of the

W

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owners, Rhonda and Lindsay.

Both are keen golfers, so it is important that the home boasts an extra large double garage that also incorporates a single garage for the golf buggy. Internal access to the entrance foyer has been provided to the home from the garage area, which has been conveniently installed with automatic panel lift doors to allow for ease of entry after a day on the course or a day at the shops or nearby beach. Due to the lay of the land, the garage floor is suspended concrete.

Visitors are greeted with a grand entrance

through a 1.2 m wide timber and opaque glass panelled pivot unit self opening and closing front door onto the generous entrance foyer. The beautiful timber floor underfoot throughout the home is a 108 mm wide Australiana Grade Blackbutt, that has been coated with a Bona product – non-yellowing polyurethane to keep the floor at its stunning best for years to come.

Step down from the foyer via seven stairs into the living area, which masterfully combines the kitchen, dining and lounge areas with verandah or patio areas either side –

indoor/outdoor entertaining just got so easy.

The modern kitchen has been built by Viison Kitchens designed to the owner’s specifications and is very functional, as well as stylish. From the 30 mm Caesarstone bench-tops, glass splash-black and quality Bosch stainless steel appliances, to the Electrolux electric induction cook-top and integrated Panasonic microwave tucked neatly under the island bench along with a state of the art dishwasher, nothing has

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been left to chance.

All kitchen drawers are soft close; these, along with the overhead cabinetry which feature down-lighting inside the glass fronts, cupboards and drawers in the island, combine to provide all the storage space you will ever need in a kitchen. A clever addition integrated into the island bench is a double power point conveniently placed on a side panel, which will prove to be very handy for the home cook.

300 sqm of living space on two levels, which are separate to the garage, along with 3 massive verandahs all overlook the golf course and the ocean. The outdoor deck flooring has been done with mod wood, a reconstituted plastic timber decking system – easy care and no maintenance needed. Made from reconstituted plastic milk bottles and plastic containers, it is a very environmentally friendly product.

6 m glass stacker doors both sides of the living area open out onto the private north east facing deck of the front courtyard, which is enclosed by stone retaining walls and the 2nd floor verandah opposite overlooking the 6th green. A fantastic outdoor entertainment or relax space has been created for the owners to enjoy, taking full advantage of the readily available ocean breezes and expansive ocean and hinterland views.

Comfort Plus glass has been installed in all windows, providing an energy efficient product to complement the reinforced polystyrene exterior wall sheeting that has been coated with reinforced polymer coloured cement render, expertly applied by APG Exteriors. This gives the home a very high energy efficiency rating. A built in feature recess in the end wall of the living area houses the TV and the home entertainment equipment and complements

the living, dining and lounge area to a tee.

At the end of the hallway, you will find a walk-in double closet that provides heaps of storage space for linen and towelling, conveniently placed adjacent to a powder room for guests. The 900 mm wall hung hand basin ads to the character and fresh, clean look of the guest amenities, which are further complemented by a large laundry wet area next door.

The laundry area has a large stainless steel sink, plenty of bench space, double broom cupboard and easy access to the outdoor drying verandah, that also has a ramp to garden and lawn areas and to the front of the home.

The master bedroom is extremely comfortable and luxurious, with its own private 1 m

wide balcony, which was determined by the length of the bedroom, once again looking straight onto the 6th green and boasting expansive views straight down the coast. Panel louvre windows allow in ocean breezes which can be adjusted to suit.

Having a fully fitted out walk-in robe, the master bedroom is very well laid out. The robe is ingenious, with both double and single hanging space, shoe racks and deep drawers; plenty of thought has gone into the cabinetry of this robe. Another energy efficient idea well implemented into the home is a long translucent glass window placed above the hanging space, that provides ample natural light into the wardrobe area around the clock.

Neat, clean lined and private, opening through double cavity sliding wooden doors – the main’s ensuite is a fantastic layout. Double his and hers vanity bowls have been placed below a large mirror, along with his and hers drawers for personal hygiene products and linen. continued over

Waylyn Homes of Distinction.

The beautiful timber floor underfoot throughout the home is a 108 mm wide Australiana Grade Blackbutt.

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Guarant d Excellence.

Waylyn Homes of Distinction.

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Crisp white tiles adorn the walls and floors of the ensuite and shower recess. The walls separate each amenity but don’t go to the ceiling, so the ensuite is actually all one room.

An island tiled section divides the toilet and the vanity and around the corner to a walk in shower which is quite big – out of sight, but very handy and easily accessible as well.

Completing the first floor is the home office, which could also double as a spare room for guests, having its own built-in cabinetry and of course, ocean views through a large picture frame window.

The second level of the dwelling is also easily accessible via a single flight of beautifully crafted timber stairs. Safety is paramount on the stairs, with both an aluminium powdercoated grab rail and screened by a glass and powder-coated aluminium balustrade; the

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stairs have also been installed with porthole lighting at the skirting.

This is the guest area of the home, and they have been very well accommodated.

Two bedrooms with double built-in robes, LED down-lighting and ceiling fans have been provided with their own living room incorporating a wet bar, bathroom with a deep bath and glass walled shower, vanity and separate WC – a home away from home by all accounts. Complemented superbly with its own expansive mod wood deck, which is a mirror image of the one above, overlooking the golf course and ocean views as well, the guest accommodation is sublime.

Storage is also abundant on the ground floor, with the slope of the block taken to full advantage by the designer and builder. The massive store room off the guest accommodation is floor to ceiling bench space, along with

under stair storage. Also taking advantage of the sloping block, a workshop has been incorporated that could one day be made into further accommodation if wanted, but at the moment provides an excellent space for all the gardening and workshop paraphernalia.

Hiding away the water tank as well, this is an amazing use of the lay of the land. Access to the outside has also been provided.

Finishing touches such as the CSR Jazz Cornice on the 2.7 high ceilings of the top level and 2.4 high ceilings of the ground floor help to create a light and airy feel. The design of the home has been very well thought out over a period of approximately two years – a collaboration of ideas from the owners, builder Wayne and designer James Collins of Collins W Collins.

All the boxes are ticked. Open plan living, easy maintenance, environmentally sustain-

able, lots of storage, expansive ocean and hinterland views and a modern colour scheme.

Finished off expertly with the installation of state of the art fittings and fixtures, the home is in an impressive position that will never date but will stand the test of time in the prestigious Tallwoods Estate.

Waylyn Homes construct individual homes in beautiful locations and look forward to designing homes that are specifically designed and built to suit their individual clients’ own needs and lifestyle requirements.

Having a fantastic association with innovative designers, Waylyn Homes are able to provide prospective home owners a magnificent design depending on the style and the dream you have to create your new home.

Being specialist builders in the Hallidays Point/Tallwoods area and having built an impeccable reputation over the past 20 years for

Home of the Month

quality and personalised attention, a call to Wayne to discuss your dream home on 0414 911 016 is essential.

ABOUT WAYLYN HOMES The principals of Waylyn Homes are Wayne and Lynette Munro. Wayne has been a licensed builder of 30 years, and Lynette is a qualified colour consultant and interior designer.

They started Waylyn homes in 2000 with the view of offering clients a fresh and innovative approach to constructing their new home. They have the expertise, personal caring attention and passion that most project builders lack.

It is their goal to take the worry and hassle out of the process of building your new home. Waylyn Homes takes the worry and hassle out of building through a solid reputation, commitment to quality and local knowledge. They have flexible contracts, no hidden costs, over 30 years in the building industry and an in house colour consultant. Their team of experienced tradesmen and quality suppliers will ensure all your expectations are met.

SERVICES AT WAYLYN HOMES At Waylyn Homes, they offer clients services from local companies personally chosen

by Wayne and Lynette to help you achieve the best result possible. They believe there is much more involved in building your new home than just signing a contract, and they strive to make sure your building experience is a pleasure by offering an extensive range of services, all designed to fit individual clients and their personal needs. The list of services include but are not limited to a free initial consultation, design service and builder liaison, structural engineering, Council lodgement, surveying and contours, along with a free colour consultancy. They also

offer custom kitchen design and quoting, an individual tile and P.C. selection, along with air conditioning design, discounted floor coverings, landscaping and a total personal service from start to finish.

The extensive range of homes tailor to all needs and include modern functional designs covering a range of homes from traditional and eco-friendly solar homes to entry level and 1st home designs. Steep and difficult sites are no problem, along with extensions to existing dwellings. Working with new and innovative materials, you are assured a competitively priced and beautifully constructed home or renovation.

Wayne will be happy to take you around and show you some of the beautiful homes Waylyn Homes have constructed in the area or if you like, he will give you details of clients to contact to talk to about their experience with his building service.

Waylyn Homes have an enormous range, so you can see for yourself why so many people choose Waylyn Homes as their preferred builder in the Manning-Great Lakes.

FROM THE OWNERS – RHONDA AND LINDSAY “We are very pleased and happy with our new home, which has a practical open plan for easy living. Dealing with Wayne Munro has been a pleasure. From start to finish, Wayne has always been helpful, enthusiastic, most accommodating, always available and consistently communicative on the progress of our building, which was very important when living hours away from the site. Wayne competently and professionally manages his projects to a high standard, resulting in a scheduled completion date.”

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Wayne has always been helpful, enthusiastic, most accommodating, always available and consistently communicative.

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From the builder.

We are proud of our reputation in the area and have worked hard to continue to build distinctive homes of consistent high quality.

64 manning-great lakes focus.

Tell us about your business. How long have you been operating?

Waylyn Homes was formed in 2000 by Licensed Builder Wayne Munro and his wife, Interior Designer Lynette Munro. Wayne has been building quality homes in the Hallidays Point and Forster area since 1991, after moving to Hallidays Point from Scotts head. He has been a Licensed Builder since 1975.

“We formed Waylyn Homes eleven years ago to service an area of the housing market in this area that was lacking. We believed a specialty Building Company focused on design and construction of individual homes was important and under serviced.

Lynette is a qualified interior designer and has always worked to some extent with my clients. The vision we had for Waylyn Homes was to provide a package to our clients that makes building their dream home simpler and less daunting.

“This is achieved by giving the client options, advice and direction through the preliminary planning stages. Over the years, I have many people have a Sydney designer draw their plans, only to find the contours of the block are wrong or the building is way over their budget. A house needs to be designed for the terrain, the needs of the client, ease of building, composite materials and to blend in with the environment.

“Once the preliminaries are over, you have a design for your dream home that works and has been costed to your budget. Lynette’s part starts just prior to building commencement; clients have the option to use Lynette’s talents to their discretion. She offers a full interior and exterior selection service, helping you with colours, materials etc – the things that turn a house into a home. Alternatively, she will advise you only on specific parts of the project; the choice is yours.”

What are the types of building that you specialise in?

A major part of company policy is to only build a maximum number of homes at one time. To keep the consistent quality our reputation has been built on, we have only three homes being constructed simultaneously. These are planned to be staged at one going off and one coming on to construction; this allows for approximately six months construction period for each home. Due to these time constraints, we are often booked out a long way in advance. Some clients know they are retiring at a certain time, and we book them in sometimes 2 - 3 years in advance.

We are proud of our reputation in the area and have worked hard to continue to build distinctive homes of consistent high quality. Consistent quality comes through the quality of your employees, materials used, supervision, a belief and passion for the product you are creating.

Waylyn Homes is a specialty building company; our clients are people who expect something personal and unique, a home that is designed and built around their needs and lifestyle that will last long into the future.

You have loyal and long term relationships with your clients, suppliers and sub-contractors.

Our principle is that we don’t go out after the cheapest price; we know our suppliers and subbies – that’s how it should be.

Most of our clients come from referrals. This is a very satisfying way to do business, as there is trust right from the start, and our reputation in the area is second to none. Over the past eleven years we have successfully completed over 50 homes in the Hallidays Point/ Forster area, making us one of the most popular and trusted building companies in the area.

What are some of the featured design elements of this home?

V son Kitche

It really is an amazing aspect and a fantastic place to live after coming from Sydney. We love it here.

The home we are featuring was only completed five weeks ago for Lindsay and Rhonda.

This is the retirement home they have been planning and dreaming about for the past 3 years. Both Lindsay and Rhonda are keen golfers, and their beautiful new home is perched on a protected hillside in Tallwoods overlooking the 6th green and with panoramic views of the coast to Forster and the hinterland towards Gloucester. ”It really is an amazing aspect and a fantastic place to live after coming from Sydney. We love it here,” said Rhonda.

We started design work on their home over 2 years ago as Lindsay knew his date of retirement, so all the planning and approvals were completed well ahead of the start of construction. James Collins of Collins W Collins was appointed the Designer, and Lindsay and Rhonda worked closely with James during the process to achieve the successful final result.

Proudly supports Waylyn Homes

They had a fairly stringent criteria and budget to work with; also, the block of land falls away from the road and is quite steep. The design works perfectly with the contours, giving the home a level look from the road while stepping down the block evenly. The roof line works well, giving the illusion of the home being on one level – very appealing to the eye.

Thanks for your time.

more info.

If you would like to discuss the construction of your new home or would like Wayne to give you an obligation free assessment of your block or a block of land you are considering, give him a call today on 0414 911 016 to arrange a suitable time.

Everyone knows that building a home for a client involves an enormous amount of thought, effort and planning, beside the actual construction. So all successful builders know it’s vital to have a reliable, trustworthy association with the best local company when it comes to completing the cabinet fitouts in their projects, that in turn will leave them free to get on with the actual physical side of building.

Wayne and Lyn Munro from Waylyn Homes know from many years’ past experience that by sending their clients to the most experienced team of local professionals available at Viison Kitchens, it will always be a real winwin situation for them – with happy clients, and beautiful homes.

All Viison clients have extensive services available to them, including: • one on one computerised design consultation with their own Viison project manager; • beautiful, up to the minute, selection showrooms; • complimentary expert product information and colour assistance; • All goods locally manufactured at the hi-tech Viison factory at Taree, along with delivery and installation scheduled in to suit the builders’ timetable;

• All this is followed up with the security of knowing their project will have full warranty on all products and complete government backed insurances – something most competitors simply do not have.

Viison has worked together with Waylyn Homes on a long list of fabulous homes.

Some of these fitouts have included: kitchens, laundries, vanities, wet bars, entertainment units, built-in bedroom units and libraries, to name a few, and all tailored to suit each clients’ individual, preferred lifestyle and budget.

Lindsay and Rhonda both agree that their superb new Waylyn Home precisely reflects the look and feel they were wanting – and said they were thrilled with the patience and expert guidance from all the Viison staff, the first rate quality of the finished products, and with all the extra effort that was taken to make the planning and selection journey as stress free as possible.

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focus real estate

Once in a lifetime opportunity LJ Hooker Harrington is offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure one of the most admired properties on the Mid North Coast.

Commanding enormous river, ocean and hinterland views as far as the eye can see, this tri level masterpiece is due to go to auction on 11 February 2012.

Located in the seaside town of Harrington, this unrivalled property has been designed to drink in the view from every possible vantage point. The view, coupled with quality Þnishes and Þttings throughout, combine to make the ultimate in lifestyle living.

Sitting on 857 m² of land and split over 3 levels, all of which offer the most breathtaking of views, this home ßows seamlessly from 2 separate living rooms to large entertaining decks.

Imagine entertaining your guests, while celebrating the outstanding location and views that your new home will offer. This beautiful home is well suited to those who need space either for visiting friends and relatives, or even a large family.

This home features self contained accommodation on the bottom level,

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complete with a full sized kitchen and games room. Upstairs there is a huge chefÕs kitchen with quality appliances, an ofÞce and a dining area on the second level and a formal dining area, polished ßoor boards throughout and the spacious corner shower and separate spa bath in the main bathroom.

The captivating view that can be enjoyed from every room ensures this property is certainly the house of everyoneÕs dreams.

Mobile Paint & Bumper Repairs.

No longer get angry or embarrassed over minor bumper damage. The Touch Up Guys specialised on-site services include: dent and scratch repair, exterior car detailing, alloy wheel repair and safety parking sensor installation.

Over 1,000,000 touch-ups, and we’ve only just scratched the surface. Contact us today to arrange an on-site noobligation FREE quote.

New Team New Year!

vast interior.

Vast Interior Forster franchisee Kelly Williams says, “2012 will be an exciting year for our customers! I have a fantastic new team, where each member brings with them a speciality.

“Ashlee is brilliant with colour, co-ordinating original looks with homewares and soft furnishings and Bianca, a qualified florist, has natural creative flair. Her arrangements in the store are simply stunning.”

Vast Forster prides itself on having a unique flavour and a design ethos of both sustainability and excellent quality. This year, Core Collections will continue to fill the showroom but will be complemented by new, individual, eclectic pieces.

New ranges are constantly being designed and sourced by the group collectively, alongside quality Australian designed ‘Made in India’ exclusive lines with realistic price points.

As direct importers, Vast Interior has always maintained an ethical business model, choosing to give back to the environment and community who supplies them.

The Benefits to You: Most repairs cost less than your insurance excess. Don’t lose your car for days due to minor paint and bumper repairs; one day service from certified technicians at your home or work. All repairs are guaranteed, backed by a franchise network of 130 franchise operations worldwide.

How long does it take? The average repair will be completed between 1 and 4 hours. More extensive damage may take longer, but should be complete inside a day.

Where is the service performed? Touch Up Guys offers the convenience of coming to you. Our mobile vans are travelling repair stations.

What types of damage can’t you fix? We specialise in cosmetic repairs. Although we can fix extensive damage to plastic components like bumpers, mirrors, skirts and grilles, we do not repair major damage and dents to metal panels.

Will it look as good as if I took it to a body shop?

Touch Up Guys use high quality automotive paints and repair products. Our highly trained professional technicians can produce a repair equal to a panel shop for these cosmetic repairs. Remember: we will only take on a job which we know will meet your expectations.

TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. SEE IN STORE FOR DETAILS.

Forster Store 16/21 Breese Pde, Forster p: ((02)) 6515 0642 p e: forster@vastinterior.com.au

www.vastinterior.com.au

furniture & homewares fu

manning-great lakes focus 67

Save Water Save Money

www.laudersre.com.au

A reliable water supply is one of the benefits of living in the beautiful Manning-Great Lakes region.

While this is good news for our area, we still have to be careful with our water and continue to be a community of responsible water users.

This is particularly important during the busy summer months, when we have a larger population to supply with water.

Tourists flock to our beachside areas during the Christmas school holidays, and this always presents MidCoast Water with the challenge of ensuring there is enough water to go around.

MidCoast Water’s summer water saving program encourages residents to take care with our water, so there is enough to share.

Taking part in MidCoast Water’s summer water saving program is one way of helping out just by following a simple message: “Don’t spray in the middle of the day.”

The program has only one simple requirement – fixed hoses, sprinklers and microspray systems should not be used during the hottest part of the day – between 10am and 4pm.

The program applies to all homes, businesses, public parks, gardens and sporting grounds

across Greater Taree, Great Lakes and Gloucester Shire Council areas.

Supporting the summer water saving program will not only help water supplies; it is also more effective for gardens.

Watering during the heat of the day is inefficient, as the water evaporates before the plants have a chance to benefit from it.

Restricting watering to the cooler hours of the day is far more effective.

MidCoast Water is happy to provide information on water saving ideas. Brochures are available from the Taree and Forster Customer Service Centres.

MidCoast Water’s summer water saving program is conducted during daylight saving time to help control water use during the warmer months.

VALUE, LOCATION & LARGE BLOCK

WALLABI POINT 4 BEDROOM Immaculate and spacious four bedroom home positioned on an elevated but near level 750m2 block. The near new home is designed with an open plan living area, and opening to a generous alfresco dining area. The central kitchen is stylishly finished with stone bench- tops, and large walk in pantry. The bedrooms are large, the main bedroom has walk in robe and smart ensuite. Situated in a popular area amongst quality homes and within walking distance of the beach, this lovely property would suite the “new home” buyer.

Wallabi Point

$499,000

New kitchen with gas cooktop, electric oven.

• 3 way bathroom with access from the master bedroom.

• Formal lounge with wood fire, large spacious sunroom.

• Drive thru access to the large yard, 2 garden sheds.

• 8 panel solar system (1.5kW).

• Quiet cul-de-sac location, short stroll to beach.

•

COASTAL SMALL ACREAGE

HISTORIC RIVERSIDE HOME - PRIME LOCATION

Perfectly suited to a multitude of uses • Prime business location, Commercial kitchen • New bathroom, Lock up garage • Alarm system • Across street from the Manning River with views • Ample customer parking opposite, Attractive rental history.

•

$279,000

Taree

• Substantial quality 5 bedroom home.

• Lovely formal living areas- wood fire.

• Huge kitchen adjoins spacious casual living.

• Extensive verandahs, lovely outdoor area with pool.

• 6 + acres, suitable for horses.

• Established trees, shrubs & gardens.

• Just minutes to beaches and Old Bar shopping centre.

• Approx. 3.4 riverfront park like acres, excellent river access.

• Immaculately presented home designed over two levels.

• Large well appointed kitchen, new appliances, walk-in pantry & dumbwaiter.

• Extensive decking/outdoor entertaining, panoramic outlook.

• Original cottage/handy shed with bathroom.

• 15amp power, well maintained fencing, 50,000 litre water tank + dam.

Mitchells Island

$875,000

JUST LISTED This Duplex is in a great location.

• Private and ready for you to move in today.

• An easy care front lawn, simple gardens and a concrete court yard.

• Bright eat in kitchen, separate lounge.

• Bathroom with shower and bath tub, separate toilet.

• Freshly carpeted throughout.

•

Bohnock

$475,000

$259,000

Old Bar

EASY CARE ACRE Just metres from the river and great access to local boat ramp just minutes from Old Bar is this well built home on one acre. There is room for the whole family in the spacious home with lovely high ceilings throughout, formal lounge room, family room PLUS big rumpus room, formal dining room and casual meals area. Step out the rear door to the private covered outdoor area which adjoins the big rumpus room. Beyond this area is a 12 x 6 metre colourbond shed and another freestanding shed.

$690,000

Old Bar

STUNNING WATERFRONT RESIDENCE • Looking north over the beautiful Manning River and distant mountains.

$315,000

Old Bar

ONE FOR THE GARDEN LOVER

Attractive 8 acre (3.2Ha) property, Immaculate 5 bedroom home. Stylish & spacious living areas, Inground saltwater pool, double garage. Beautiful gardens & private surrounds, Convenient to river, boat ramp, and beaches.

A “Must See ’’ property.

Mitchells Island

$495,000

52 Old Bar Rd, OLD BAR (02) 6553 7700 Bob 0428 533 193

68 manning-great lakes focus.

Joel 0404 874 796

Michael 0416 195 028

focustechnology. with Cameron Illingworth from Harvey Norman

TECH

People often ask me what the latest products on the market are … At the moment, in computer retail, the answer is big. s a Harvey Norman Computers franchisee for two stores in Taree and Forster, my time to play is limited – which is unfortunate, because I love the technology I’m surrounded by every day.

It’s a tease! 2011 was a big year for technology, and 2012 doesn’t seem like slowing up any time soon.

Right now, the hottest items would have to be Smartphones, Tablet PCs and the newest kid on the block, Ultrabooks. These items, mentioned by order of popularity, have re-invented the way we access information and socialise.

So what are they?

Smartphones: These are everywhere. Everyone knows someone with either an Apple iPhone or a Galaxy S or S2. A Smartphone can simply be described as any phone which is 3G enabled (high speed connection to their network) allowing access to the internet and media content in real time. Of course, it makes phone calls too!

They can be categorised by the operating system they use (think Windows 7 or Mac OS 10). The two main types are Apple’s iOS, and Google’s Android. iOS is only on the iPhone, and Android is on nearly everything else, including the most popular phones – the Samsung Galaxy S2, Motorola Defy and the new Motorola RAZR (the Nokia N9 uses their own Symbian OS, but isn’t as big in the market yet).

Smartphones come in a range of sizes, and allow access to websites and applications downloadable from the Apple ‘App Store’ or Android’s ‘Market Place’. Great for people who want access to the web but aren’t that into it, because you can get a Smartphone for $0 upfront on a plan from $19 a month through carriers like Optus, which is a small investment.

Tablet PCs: If you’re always on the web, using Facebook or instant messaging friends, then a Tablet PC is for you. The larger screens and ultra portable size give you the perfect companion for any journey away from home. They have a long battery life when compared to larger sized

notebooks – some can be up to 12 hours.

Having a larger screen than a Smartphone means they can be an entertainment hub also, for watching movies or YouTube content. The bigger screen is also much more practical for a Tablet to be used for business purposes like email and document viewing.

Also worth mentioning is the fact that you can plug USB devices into many Tablets for easy data transfer. Once again, there are a few main players in this category. The Acer Iconia, Toshiba T100, Sony VAIO S and ASUS Transformer all use the Android 3.0 or above; whereas, the iPad is running the iOS. In Tablet land, we are also given the choice of Windows 7, which is great for buyers already owning a Windows PC at home, because the interface is the same and files can transfer seamlessly from one to another. The Acer Iconia, running the Android OS, is a great buy; at just $499, it has some of the best looks of any of the Tablets on the market and is one of only a few with HDMI output, meaning you can playback video and other content on flat screen TVs. Tablet PCs are taking over as the ‘must have’ gadget for anyone who is net savvy, or people who want to entertain the kids with Wiggles videos on road trips.

Ultrabooks: If you take the best features of Windows, the high speed of business computers and mix in the battery life and thickness of a Tablet PC, you’ve found Ultrabooks! High-end processors, feature packed connectivity, solid state hard drives for super fast data access and lower battery use make these the ultimate business tool on the market. The most notable of these would be the ASUS ZEN U31E. This sleekly designed machine boasts an i7 quad core processor, 4 GB RAM and a 256 GB Solid State Hard drive (no spinning motor – uses flash memory). It has up to 8 hours battery life with the optional 8 cell battery, and comes in at a remarkable 1.78 kg.

Whatever PC you use, watch this space.

There is always something new just around the corner.

manning-great lakes focus 69

focusfishing.

with Tony Elkins from Forster Estuary Charters

Gone Fishing. tony elkins What a great time of the year January is in the Great Lakes region. The water temperature is sitting in the estuary systems around 22 – 23 degrees. Deep Sea at the moment is a bit above 20 degrees, and there are some great fish about.

ull moon is 9 January, so the prawns should run about the 16th. High water will be about 5pm, so needing the darkness to spot the prawns, three hours of the run out from 8pm - 11pm should result in a good catch.

Flathead There are some great Flathead being taken in Wallis Lake at the moment. For the bank fisherman, Breckenridge Channel has been pro-

F

ducing some good fish (Breckenridge channel is the channel along Little Street, Forster). Tern Island, which can be accessed by foot from Point Road in Tuncurry, is a favourite spot and is a good spot to throw some soft plastics from the bank. If you are bait fishing for Flathead, the rig I use is between a number 6 to 4 long shank hook, with as light a weight as possible on a running sinker rig over a barrel swivel.

For bait I would go with a cooked prawn or mullet fillet; squid is a good stand by bait. For the boat fishermen, you need to drift the boat, and it is hard to look past the paddock the lake side of the bridge or the area around the cut (mouth of the Wallamba River). If you want to flick a soft plastic around from the boat, have a go at the area between Regatta Island and Bandicoot Island (north west of Wallis Island).

Whiting For the early morning fishermen from the boat, the Trumpeter Whiting are about under the wires Mather Island and Tern Island, in the paddock and at Hells gate area. Again, use a No. 6 long shank Whiting hook under a running No. 1 ball sinker over a barrel swivel.

For bait, use cooked prawns or beach worms.

There have been some nice Sand Whiting being taken around the area of the wires and a little bit west of the cut (in the deep water).

Bream There are some great Bream about at the moment on the top of the tide. From a boat,

target the oyster lease, but don’t forget to have a good look in the shallow ribbon weed beds such as behind Dago Island or the upper reaches of the lake. It is hard to beat a fish from the Co-Op wharf at Tuncurry or under the bridge if you are fishing from the bank. 1/0 hook and Mullet or squid are working well.

Blue Water There are still some good Snapper being taken on the reefs to the south around the Seal Rocks area and a few to the north, up around Snapper Rock. Out the front of Cape Hawke Harbour, some nice Flathead have been caught on Mullet baits.

Rock and Beach Both Forster and Tuncurry Breakwall saw some lovely Mulloway taken during the full moon period this month – of course, the full moon is the best time to target Mulloway on a run out tide. Full octopus or squid baits work well, along with the live Pike Herring or Yellow Tail, which can be picked up jigging in the same areas. 9 Mile Beach, Tuncurry, is producing some good Sand Whiting taken in close in the gutters, using either worm, prawn or pipis.

Look for the gutters and stay in close.

Fish well; travel safe.

Tony Elkins – Forster Estuary Charters. www.forsterestuarycharters.com http://www.facebook.com/ Forster-EstuaryCharters.

Phone 0427 431 131.

Magni¿cent Lakefront Development Opportunity forster tuncurry Q Blue chip location opposite Forster’s Wallis Lake baths & only a short walk to CBD & main beach.

Q Total area 2616m2 (approx) 37mtrs fronting beautiful Wallis Lake.

Q Zoned 2C - High Density Residential.

Q Current premise comprises 39 units in total, 35 bedsitters, 4 x 1 b/r units + common area.

Q All units vacant + require renovation to enable occupation Q Enormous potential for a residential re-development or renovate for occupation (for example motel/back packers/aged care) and await capital appreciation (STCA) Q Sites like this are extremely rare Q Inspections strictly by appointment only

For Sale By Tender – Closes 31st Jan 2012 For details & terms of Tender contact Professionals Forster Tuncurry PID: 516674

(02) 6555 6555 70 manning-great lakes focus.

Forster Tuncurry Professionals, 48 Wharf Street, Forster www.professionalsforster.com.au

manning-great lakes focus 71

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