Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i231

Pearl... A Hidden Gem, Now Open In Murray Street

As we approach the midpoint of the year, there’s a lot to celebrate across our vibrant community. Yes, I said celebrate, and this is the reason. After the end of May ‘weather situation’ our community once again came together to support one another, and that is worth celebrating. In hard times and when our friends and neighbours are struggling this community steps up and supports each other. When it comes down to it, we really do have each others’ backs. We may not be a small

town anymore but it’s so nice to see we still have the small town mentality. June is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and eventful months yet! Pour & Explore Festival: A Toast to Culture, Music & Community. We’re thrilled to welcome the inaugural Pour & Explore Festival - a brand new celebration of food, wine, and music and some big named artists coming to town such as Bliss n Eso, Ball Park Music and our cover star Thelma Plum. For a full calendar of events and what’s on check out our Special Pour and Explore feature starting on page 61. You can also read her interview starting on

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Welcome to the JUNE 2025 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie focus.

page 16. Thelma will be playing at Finnians on the 27th June. Make sure you grab tickets, not only for Thelma, but for all the other cool acts we have coming to town too.

Business Awards 2025. Congratulations to all the incredible businesses recognised at this year’s Business Awards. A special shoutout goes to Willow from Brows by Willow, who took home 4 awards on the night including Business of the Year.

Well until next month keep on supporting one another and enjoy your June edition of FOCUS.

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathinson kyle@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au

CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

Minnie Longstaff’s bold, psychedelic illustrations and deeply personal tattoo art have earned her a devoted following on the Mid North Coast and beyond. Minnie shares her creative journey.

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.

ISSUE 231 - JUNE 2025

INTERVIEWS

SID THE

Iconic Australian singer songwriter Pete Murray will be playing a show at Panthers Port Macquarie on Friday 4th July as part of his Australian-first solo acoustic regional tour.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

43 Hayley Young - e Fashion Forward

44. Lusanna Klotz - Monthly Musings

55. Bryan Hanks - What's in Season

57. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures

58. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar

87. Dr Kristy - e Beauty of Ageing

88. Bernie Ginnane - Find Your Calm

103. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice

113. Bec Farnsworth - Money Ma ers

114. Peter McLoughlin - Education Update

119. Jeremy Brigden - Legal Light

126. Tarym Wright - Real Estate

134. Leanne Webber - Design Defined

Thank you for your contribution to focus

From superyachts to global stages, Buckingham Palace to Port Macquarie and the Luminosity stage, Sid is a world-class vibe creator and one of our leading multidisciplinary entertainment specialists.

MINNIE LONGSTAFF

PETE MURRAY

LEANNE WEBBER

J U N E 2025

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

For the first time ever, The Rocky Horror Show hits our region in a glitter-drenched, corset-clad explosion of sci-fi & sass. Get ready for a time warp of feisty frolics and frivolity in this thrilling LIVE production bursting at the seams with timeless classics including Sweet Transvestite, Dammit, Janet! and of course the pelvis thrusting Time Warp, it’s a guaranteed party! Book before the lab doors close!

When Saturday 5th July 5-6.45pm Where 56 Hollingworth St, Port Macquarie Tickets trybooking.com

STARS UNDER THE VINES

WAUCHOPE JOCKEY

CLUB CUP DAY

Hosted at Port Macquarie Race Club. We’re excited to welcome you trackside for one of the most anticipated race days on the calendar! When Sunday 15th June 12pm-5pm To reserve your seat, call us on (02) 6581 1964 Or email admin@portmacquarieraceclub.com.au

STREET FEAST

Join us for a night of food trucks, dessert stalls, boutique retail stalls and music. When June 27th Where Wauchope Showgrounds 4pm until late Cost $3 Entry Per Person (Card Only) Where Wauchope Showgrounds

Lucy Humphries Dance for Cancer fundraiser. Join us for a magical evening under the stars in support of the Cancer Council. Hosted by Lucy Humphries Photography and MC’d by the fabulous Marry Me Mindy, with music from crowd-favourites Ready Set Boom and the talented Charlotte Rose, this night promises entertainment, elegance, and generosity. When Friday 13 June 6:00pm –10:30pm Where Cassegrain Winery

DANCE FOR CANCER FUNDRAISER

Hosted by Tegan Wright. Join us for a celebration filled with music, dancing, laughter, and a powerful purpose. It’s truly a night not to be missed! Step back into the glamour and elegance of the Roaring Twenties at the Great Gatsby Gala Event, proudly sponsored by Support Services For You! When Friday 20th June, 6pm–11pm Where Mercure Centro Roof Top

YOUR FAVOURITE 30+ CLUB

Calling all Early Birds! We are super excited to see you all at Finnian’s Tavern!  Come join us for our daytime clubbing party for seasoned party goers who are 30+ and love going to bed at a reasonable time... Our DJ’s will be spinning all your fave hits from the 70s through to the early 00s for one unforgettable evening. When SATURDAY 28TH JUNE. 18+ Tickets bit.ly/EBPORTMACQ Doors 2PM.

‘I’M SORRY, WHERE IS THAT?’ REGIONAL TOUR

Thelma Plum

Thelma Plum will be returning to the Mid North Coast with her ‘I’M SORRY, WHERE IS THAT?’ REGIONAL TOUR! SHE WILL BE HITTING THE STAGE AT FINNIANS TAVERN, Port Macquarie, on June 27th.

Hi Thelma, we’re so excited to welcome you back to Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour! What can fans expect from your live shows on this leg of the tour?

Well they can expect to see half of my family in the audience! They can definitely expect that. I’m so excited about those shows because a lot of my family are from Dorrigo and Coffs Harbour, so I’m super excited to be playing there! I really mean it. And I love Port Macquarie as well. We played there a couple of years ago. It was so fun, we played somewhere where they had fire on stage and everything... It was very cool. Port Macquarie turned up for me last time, so I’m excited to come back! You’ve played in so many places around the country – what do you enjoy about playing smaller regional shows?

shows for a chat and to kind of, get to know each other! That sounds so strange I know. It’s just very intimate and special at these smaller shows.

Your music blends vulnerability and strength so beautifully. Where do you often draw inspiration from when you’re writing?

I love Port Macquarie as well. We played there a couple of years ago. It was so fun, we played somewhere where they had fire on stage and everything... It was very cool.

Oh, gosh, I think they feel … I don’t even know why this is, but I always find that they feel a little bit more intimate, like there’s a little bit more space in these

Thank you. I draw inspiration from lots of different things. I guess it changes, you know, sometimes it is just day to day things. Often when bad things happen to me I love to write about it, it’s a kind of release. So that’s probably where most of my inspiration comes from, the terrible times! Sometimes I also have to force myself to find some inspiration. That might look like going to a show or watching my favourite film or listening to some music that I know that I love ..or listening to new music, which I’ve been doing heaps of lately, when we were trying to find the local support artists for the upcoming shows. That’s been really great hearing all of this incredible music that I just didn’t know was out there, so it’s been awesome.

Continued over...

‘I’M SORRY, WHERE IS THAT?’ REGIONAL TOUR

You’ve been a strong voice for representation, truth-telling, and healing. How does it feel to see your music resonate so widely with people from all walks of life?

Oh, I mean, that feels really, really special. I feel incredibly honoured that people want to listen to my music. I love that people maybe listen to my music and they feel like they can relate to it and that they maybe feel themselves in those songs as well. I love that, you know, that’s what it is all about for me. So it’s really special!

Is there a song that you’re especially proud of or excited to perform live on this tour? Or one that always gets a big reaction from the crowd?

I

love that people maybe listen to my music and they feel like they can relate to it and that they maybe feel themselves in those songs as well. I love that, you know, that’s what it is all about for me.

You know what, it’s changed since this record’s been out. I’ve noticed that ‘Nobody’s Baby’ feels really fun now, which is exciting, it will be actually really exciting to perform on this tour. And ‘Homecoming Queen’ is always a favourite of mine to perform. So yeah, that’ll be really nice too. I also wouldn’t mind playing some covers, I think we’re going to throw in maybe some Casey Chambers or something. ‘The Captain’ is one of my favourite songs to cover, so maybe we’ll do a Casey Chambers cover for the regional tour!

Do you have any favourite memories from previous trips to the Mid North Coast—or anything you’re looking forward to seeing or doing while you’re here this time?

Literally, my whole childhood! I grew up visiting family on the Mid North Coast. I actually just posted some photos of me at the old Pet Porpoise Pool in Coffs on my Instagram the other night! Me as a child brushing a dolphin’s teeth.. which I was like, this is probably not allowed anymore! And there was another of me kissing this seal. I have all of these great memories. There was a great water park that I used to go to a lot as a child. I really spent my whole childhood, all my school holidays, in Coffs, because my great granny lived there. And all my family are from Dorrigo, up on the mountain. So it’s just so special to go back there. I can wait, and I’ve made sure that after the shows I’ve got a couple of days off because I was like, ‘I’m coming home, baby!’. You’ve already accomplished so much—what’s next for you musically or personally in 2025?

Yeah, 2025… It’s looking like I will do this tour, which will be really nice, and then once the tour finishes I’m pretty keen to just get into writing again! I should probably give it some time and space, but I want to write another record already, so I’m really keen to do that. I’m just totally in that headspace again. Sometimes after a record, it can take me a while to get back into that place again. But this time, I don’t know why, it was like I’ve just got all these new ideas now. So, I’m gonna get into the next record! Thanks Thelma.

I’M REALLY KEEN TO DO THAT. I’M JUST TOTALLY IN THAT HEADSPACE AGAIN. SOMETIMES AFTER A RECORD, IT CAN TAKE ME A WHILE TO GET BACK INTO THAT PLACE AGAIN.

Communities love their Ocean Pools... we want to join them...

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Gerry Byron says:

“Since many people are not comfortable, getting in the surf, an ocean pool would be loved by locals and make our town an even more attractive spot to visit.

at portmacquarieoceanpool.org.au or email info@portmacquarieoceanpool.org.au

Wollongong

Yamba

Minnie Longsta ’s bold, psychedelic illustrations and deeply personal ta oo art have earned her a devoted following on the Mid North Coast and beyond. In this interview, she shares the creative journey that took her from band T-shirt designs to ta oo art.

ARTIST of the MONTH IMAGES BY NOUGHTS & CROSSES

i Minnie. Can you take us back to where your art journey began - what sparked your initial love for illustration and creativity?

When I first started out

For sure! I’ve always enjoyed expressing myself creatively, I had a lot of support to pursue creative endeavours both musically and artistically in my childhood and so there was never a time where I didn’t have some kind of project on the go. I was lucky to be surrounded by supportive people who encouraged my creativity even when I didn’t know exactly where it would take me.

How would you describe your artistic style, and how has it evolved since your early days?

I love bold outlines, high-contrast & vibrant colour palettes, and I often include a mixture of playful and meaningful themes in my work. I would say my style is sort of a lowbrow psychedelic vibe with a nod to traditional and neo-trad tattoo art. When I first started out I explored art in all sorts of ways from painting and illustrating to textile creations and everything in between. It was all just a lot of fun and I spent years making art for fun before it turned into a full time career.

I explored art in all sorts of ways from painting and illustrating to textile creations and everything in between.

like, or what inspired them?

Your artistic career started with T-shirt illustrations, do you remember what some of those early designs looked

It did, and it eventually led to me working as a designer with awesome local screen printers, BlackDog Ink. Mez at BlackDog printed all my initial designs and he and Erin really are so great to work with. My first ever T-shirt design was actually for a band I was in at the time called Dead Goat. Back in 2016, I was doing heaps of artwork inspired by musicit’s always been a big influence for me. I also got really into surf art and street art styles, and a lot of my early designs had a playful vibe. I love a good pun and I kept things pretty light-hearted in that way when I first started out. Continues...

What led you to transition into tattooing in 2018?

I think every artist appreciates some trust in this process and a li le creative freedom and I’m no di erent in that way.

I’d been interested in tattooing for a long time before I actually had the chance to dive in properly. In 2018, my husband at the time, Hendo, and I opened a tattoo studio and art gallery called Death Do Us Art here in Port Macquarie. We’d just had our fourth baby, so life was pretty chaotic, but having our own space made it easier for me to start learning at my own pace. Tattooing takes a lot of time and commitment to learn properly and I had a great mentor in Hendo and also in Emma McDonald who worked with us at the time. These days, I work out of Wild Karma

Tattoo in Wauchope - a beautiful, welcoming all-female studio. It’s such a supportive space, and I feel really grateful to be part of a team that brings so much good energy to the work we do.

Tattooing is such a personal and collaborative art form. What do you enjoy most about working with clients to bring their ideas to life?

It really is! It is such an honour to have people trust me with their ideas, and their skin! I think my favourite thing about tattooing or even creating commissioned artworks for clients is when they come to me not really knowing what they want and we’re able

to put our heads together and bring their vision to life! I think every artist appreciates some trust in this process and a little creative freedom and I’m no different in that way. I love seeing my clients’ reaction to their finished tattoo or artwork, knowing that they got what they wanted.

Can you walk us through your creative process when designing a custom tattoo or illustration?

Definitely! Most of my consultations happen via email or Instagram DMs - it’s usually the most efficient way for both me and the client, and people are generally great at communicating their ideas that way. I do offer in-person consults too, and some clients prefer that. Once we’ve settled on a concept, I’ll either collect reference images or ask the client to send through anything that inspires

them, and I use that as a starting point to sketch. These days I do all my design work digitally - it keeps things tidy, cuts down on waste, and makes it easy for me to work from anywhere. There’s usually a bit of back and forth during the design phase, and I’ll talk my clients through composition, flow, and placement before we lock it in. Are there any particular tattoo styles or subjects you especially love to work with?

I’m drawn to colour-work, especially anything a bit mystical, or slightly surreal. Folk tales, mindfulness practices, old-school tattoo flash, neo-trad tattoos and the Art Nouveau movement have all inspired me in different ways. I also have a bit of a soft spot for blackout tattoos which is a different vibe altogether but is definitely satisfying in its own way.

How do your digital illustrations and tattoo practices influence/complement each other?

I took a break from tattooing in 2020 only 18 months after I had started and it was then that I really took a deep dive into

of the MONTH

commission illustration work. I noticed that when I got back into tattooing in 2022 my composition, line work and mental focus had improved dramaticallyjust from the time I had spent illustrating. They remain intertwined now, and I’m always pushing myself to be better in both fields. I find that switching between mediums helps keep things fresh and prevents me from getting stuck creatively. What do you hope people take away from your artwork?

I took a break from ta ooing in 2020 only 18 months a er I had started and it was then that I really took a deep dive into commission illustration work.

work that holds a little magic, that captures a moment or an idea in a way that sticks with someone. If a piece makes someone feel more like themselves or helps them celebrate who they are then I’ve done my job.

How can we view your work, find out more, or get in touch?

I hope people find some joy, maybe some curiousity or perhaps they feel some connection to my work in one way or another. Often nowadays my illustrations are reflecting my own personal journey and I hope to reach people who might be having similar life experiences. I try to make

The best place to check out my work would be my instagram page @minfinite_ where I post process videos and upload new content regularly. You can get in touch with me via DM or you can check out my website, online portfolio and shop at minfinite.online. I also have a contact form on my site or you can email me directly at minnie@minfinite. online.

Thanks Minnie.

ARTIST

Wendy Ranger

COLLINS

BOOKSELLERS

Nestled in the heart of Clarence Street, Collins Booksellers in Port Macquarie is more than just a bookstore - it’s a vibrant hub for readers, thinkers, and community conversation. Behind this welcoming space is a passionate bookseller whose journey began on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and led to a flourishing independent bookstore on the Mid North Coast.

Hyou came to own Collins Booksellers? What inspired you to take that leap?

I previously owned a small, independent bookshop in Collaroy on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. There I found the best thing about owning a bookshop is the community interaction. Bookshops can become a point of friendship and good conversation by providing a connection between people who have similar interests.

When we moved to Port Macquarie in 2020, I wanted to own another bookshop. Once the lock-down was over, I opened up a Collins Booksellers bookshop in Clarence Street, and after nearly two years, I can say it was the right decision.

What makes Collins Booksellers different from other bookstores?

Collins Booksellers’ primary differentiator is that it’s a trusted, well-known brand across Australia. Its reputation speaks for itself and I am very fortunate to be part of the Collins Booksellers group. All Collins bookshops are independently owned and operated, rather than being part of a corporate chain. That provides a lot of flexibility for each shop, most of which are located in regional towns and cities like Port Macquarie.

How long has your store been operating, and how has it evolved since you took over?

Customers are always the best part of our day, talking about books, making recommendations on what to read, and ge ing to know our regular customers.

I established my bookshop in 2023 as a retail bookshop, but I have plans to grow my business. With the retail shop now well

established, I’m turning my mind to school libraries. Schools are where a love of books and learning begins for kids of all ages. Teacher/librarians have very busy schedules, so I aim to make it easier for them to select books that are relevant to their schools.

What’s a typical day look like running a bookstore?

As we like to say: ‘books in, books out”. We get plenty of books delivered every day, so there’s a lot of ‘unpacking and stacking’. But customers are always the best part of our day, talking about books, making recommendations on what to read, and getting to know our regular customers. I keep in mind our reading community and

their particular tastes in literature when I’m ordering from publishers. Our most popular genres are history, fantasy, classics, true crime and children’s books so I always make sure I’ve got plenty in stock.

What genres or authors do you personally gravitate toward?

Authors that I will always read are Isabel Allende for fiction, Nick Bryant for current affairs and politics, and Rick Stein for my food fix.

What are some of your all-time favourite reads, and what are you currently reading?

Two of my all-time favourite books are “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt, and “A Fortunate Life” by A.B.Facey. Although I do have quite a long list of both fiction and nonfiction books that I love.

I recently read “Dreams: The Many Lives of Fleetwood Mac” a book that all Fleetwood

Mac fans and blues fans should get into. I have just finished reading “The Retirement Plan” by Sue Hincenbergs which involves three wives, three husbands and a hit-man. Hilarious story; a really fun book.

How do you keep an independent bookstore thriving in the age of online retail and eBooks?

Readers are increasingly moving away from audio books, and are buying actual books. I think there are a couple of reasons for that. First, there are so many digital platforms to keep up with. Social media, television, mobile phones, podcasts, for example are all time-consuming, and easy to get lost in. Being able to relax and lose yourself in a good book and let your

The joy of having a book, flicking through the pages, and lying around on the couch or in bed with a book is very much regaining popularity and hard to beat.

mind wander is one of the best ways I know to relax. The joy of having a book, flicking through the pages, and lying around on the couch or in bed with a book is very much regaining popularity and hard to beat. One of my favourite things to do. Tell us about what customers can expect when they enter your store.

Collins’ customers can expect to feel relaxed and comfortable when in the shop with plenty of good books to browse through. I’ve set up the shop so that we have wide aisles that are wheelchair, walker, and pram friendly so there is plenty of room for everyone.

Collins Booksellers 64 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie 2444

Phone: (02) 5590 0797 | website: portmacquarie.collinsbooks.com.au

Email: portmacquarie@collinsbooks.com.au | Socials: @collinsbooksportmacquarie

BOOK REVIEWS

BOOK REVIEWS

FEBRUARY

JUNE

White Teeth

By Zadie Smith

RRP: $55

Bake With Brooki

By Brooke Bellamy

RRP: $49.99

A stunning new reissue of one of the most iconic fiction debuts of all time, marking the 25th anniversary of this modern classic. First published in the year 2000 the book is unny, generous and big-hearted. It deals with - among many other things - friendship, love, war, three cultures and three families over three generations. Add into the mix one brown mouse, and the tricky way the

Step into the kitchen with wildly popular baker Brooke Bellamy, owner of Brooki Bakehouse, and discover how to create the most delectable, sweet treats for every craving and occasion. Bake With Brooki has everything - those chunky cookies that have gained a cult following, plus brownies, cupcakes, traybakes, macarons, cheesecakes, cakes and more. These are the triedand-true recipes behind the bakes that have made Brooki Bakehouse famous, plus the brand-new personal favourites that Brooke loves to make at home for friends and family.

past has of coming back and biting you on the ankle. A life a irming, riotous must-read book.

Tested

By Pat Cummins

Silverborn

RRP: $34.99

By Jessica Townsend

RRP: $18.99

Inspiring, revealing and deeply personal, Tested is an exploration of the remarkable place where challenge, crisis and opportunity meet, and how it’s only in the moments when we are tested that we discover what we are made of.

When Morrigan is invited into Nevermoor’s wealthy Silver District, she discovers a world of extravagance and a family mystery she’s eager to unravel. She could never imagine where it will lead: a white wedding, a golden dragon and a red pool of blood. As shadowy forces awaken in Nevermoor, can Morrigan find a killer and

From a charity leader to Australia’s first female Prime Minister, a Test cricket great to a ground-breaking scientist, an Indigenous leader to a bestselling author and podcaster, Pat interviews eleven extraordinary people whose own stories of

solve the mystery in her own past . . . before the clock strikes midnight?

perseverance and resilience have inspired him. Tested is a book of insight and hardearned wisdom about how the power of resolve to make decisions is at the heart of all our stories.

How to Kill Men and Get Away with It

The Warrior

By Christopher Clarey

RRP: $34.99

By Katy Brent

RRP: $22.99

Sports journalist Christopher Clarey illuminates the skill and determination it took to accomplish Rafael Nadal’s most mind-blowing achievement: 14 French Open titles. But clay, the slowest and grittiest of the game’s court, is where it all comes together best for his tactical skills, whipping topspin forehand and gladiatorial mindset. Clarey draws on interviews over

Kitty Collins finds herself addicted to murder following a particularly nasty encounter with a stalker, which doesn’t end well. For the stalker, that is. This book is funny, and somewhat gruesome, but you can’t help liking Kitty. As she develops her serial-killing skills by eliminating nasty men she considers shouldn’t be entitled to be among the living, she

many years with Nadal and his team and with rivals like Roger Federer. Not just a book about tennis, The Warrior draws much wider lessons from Nadal’s approach to competition.

learns the most effective ways to commit murder, and more importantly, how to clean up the mess afterwards, and get away with it every time. It’s a fun book – in a dark sort of way – that I couldn’t resist. Book two, You’d Look Good in a Coffin will be out in March, and I can’t wait to find out what Kitty does next!

Friday Barnes

Quicksilver

By Callie Hart

By R.A. Spratt

RRP: $34.99

RRP: $16.99

Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets, until she comes face to face with Death himself. A er surviving the Undying Queen’s wrath with the help of a Quicksilver portal she accidentally opens, Saeris is thrust into Yvelia, a fae land full of ice and snow. Landing in a centuries-long fae war as the only one that can control the quicksilver and create new relics has her mistakenly

When girl detective Friday Barnes solves a bank robbery, she uses the reward money to send herself to the most exclusive boarding school in the country, Highcrest Academy. On arrival, Friday is shocked to discover the respectable school is actually a hotbed of crime. Can Friday solve Highcrest

binding herself to Kingfisher, the handsome fae warrior who saved her. Secrets, lies, and a romance to die for awaits in this dark romantic fantasy.

Academy’s many strange mysteries, including the biggest mystery of all – what’s the point of high school?

JOSH BURT

JOSH BURT WAS THE OPEN MEN

WINNER OF PMQ STRONGEST 2025,

HIS

SECOND WIN IN A ROW IN A TOUGH COMPETITION!

Congratulations on your win! How does it feel to be crowned in Port Macquarie’s Strongest?

It felt great competing in PMQ Strongest again. Hayden and the Raw team have consistently put on an amazing event for two years. This year's competition was tough, with strong competition among the open boys (over 105kg). Only one point separated Josh Evans and me heading into the final event, Atlas Stones. Taking the title this year was pretty special. My kids were there cheering me on every step, every rep. It was also great to see so many supporters cheering on all the competitors. Strongman and strongwoman events aren't your typical spectator sport; it's not like watching a game of footy.

Can you tell us a bit about your training leading up to the event? Any specific goals or routines you focused on?

To be honest, my training hasn't been as

consistent as I would have liked over the last few months. I know this isn't as inspirational as saying I trained my heart out for this event. I've been strength training since I was 16, originally focusing on rugby union. After retiring from rugby, I competed in Strongman for a year back in 2015.

These days, my focus has shifted to raising two very energetic daughters with my wonderful wife, balancing health and wellbeing, and rehabilitating the community through Hastings Physio and Health. Ideally, my pre-competition training would consist of three to four months of consistent strength and power work, with the four weeks leading into the competition focusing on specific lifts and techniques. Developing a generalised strength and power base, adaptable to specific lifts, is crucial for anyone wanting to compete in multiple strongman/strongwoman competitions.

What keeps you motivated and on track when you’re working towards a goal like this?

Honestly? My kids! When I told them I was entering PMQ Strongest again this year, they constantly hounded me. "Dad, are you going to win again this year?" "Dad, can we come and watch you again?" I think they loved it more than I did. They didn't have to deal with the muscle soreness for days afterward.

One of my motivations is the idea that I'm capable of lifting things most people cannot. There's a certain confidence you carry knowing you're more than likely the strongest person in most rooms you walk into. Not every room, but most rooms.

What was the competition like on the day? What did you feel were your biggest challenges and what did you feel set you apart?

This year offered a mixed bag of events. Some events suited taller competitors, others shorter ones. My biggest challenges on the day, other than my lack of training, were the 255kg yoke and the 100kg per hand farmers carry, both for 15m. These are my least favorite events.

There were some heavy implements and some events required as many repetitions as possible in a minute. Anyone who knows me knows anything more than six repetitions is considered cardio.

The competitors are a good bunch of lads. Some travelled hours to compete; I think Stuart said he travelled seven hours! One of the greatest attributes of strongman/strongwoman is that the loudest cheers when you're lifting often come from the people you're competing against. I haven't really seen this in any other sport.

What set me apart from the rest was mediocrity with a splash of dominance. You need to hold your own in basically all events and be dominant in a few. That's why I came out on top. I placed third in the first event, second in the second, and first for the following three. Keeping a level head after the first two events, while sitting three points behind the lead, gave me something to chase in the final three events.

What inspired you to get into strength sports in the first place? Have you always been into fitness, or has this been a more recent passion of yours?

Back in 2015, we moved from the UK back to

Port Macquarie. I started training with no real goal in mind. After a few months of aimlessly lifting heavy things, I entered a Strongman competition here in Port. I placed third out of five competitors. I went on to compete in a few more competitions that year, winning some and enjoying every minute.

Keeping a level head a er the first two events, while si ing three points behind the lead, gave me something to chase in the final three events.

I've always been into sport; fitness only existed to facilitate it. I played baseball with the Wauchope Giants until I was 16, then rugby union with clubs including Randwick Rugby and Westcombe Park (UK National 3s). My love for sport led me to sustain several injuries over the years. Rehabilitating these injuries inspired me to become a physiotherapist. Winning a strongman title takes a lot more than brute strength, what role does mindset play in your preparation and performance?

Brute strength definitely helps. Mindset is crucial for preparation and performance in any sport. In strongman, we face weights most people will never dream of attempting. Thinking or believing you're capable isn't usually enough; knowing you are capable is the key. Being able to close your eyes, visualise a lift, and run it through your head repeatedly until you're

confident you can perform on the day is part of my mental preparation.

There's a trap some people fall into leading up to and on competition day: they focus on the overall outcome, like whether they'll win or where they'll place. I know I've fallen into this trap before. Instead, on competition day, being confident going into each event and focusing only on the immediate challenge ahead clears the mind and allows for that single focus. You don't even really hear the crowd cheering anymore. You almost go into a trance, like autopilot. You've done this in your mind a thousand times already. How hard can it be?

How has the local strength community in Port Macquarie influenced or supported your journey?

My journey started in 2015 training out of the High Performance Centre. Back then, the barbell gym concept was relatively new to Port Macquarie, apart from CrossFit gyms. The strength community was maturing and developing together at that stage. Fast forward to 2024/2025, the reintroduction of strongman/ strongwoman competitions to Port Macquarie has allowed individuals to showcase their strength and skills, providing a platform for anyone interested to try strength sports. Hayden and the Raw team have done a fantastic job providing this platform. They offer the facilities and knowledge to help anyone ready to upgrade their skills and step into the world of strength sports.

Thanks Josh.

CAITLIN MASON PLACED FIRST IN THE UNDER 80KG WOMEN AT PMQ STRONGEST 2025, PRETTY IMPRESSIVE FOR HER FIRST COMP! CAITLIN MASON

ongratulations on your win! How does it feel to be crowned in Port Macquarie’s Strongest?

Thank you so much! I’m very new to the competition scene so to walk away with a podium spot on my first comp is really special. A huge thank you to Raw Performance Den for an awesome environment and my coach and handler Corbin!

Can you tell us a bit about your training leading up to the event? Any specific goals or routines you focused on?

My main training focus before this competition was in powerlifting so my coach and I knew it was my endurance that would be my weakness. We focused hugely on training at not the weight on the day, but as heavy as I could handle to help build that endurance. A lot of it came down to pushing to be better than I was the week before, be that moving faster or lifting heavier or eating better.

What keeps you motivated and on track when you’re working towards a goal like this?

I admire people who can train without competing, I thrive with a set in stone goal. I chose the weight class I wanted to go for, and

my coach set a 12 week prep cycle to keep me focused. The novelty of going from powerlifting, a very strict controlled sport, to flipping tyres in the parking lot definitely helped. I’m a full time uni student and work part time so strongman training became something of an escape.

I picked up weights a little over two years ago with no real idea of what I wanted. Then I discovered deadlifting and it all kind of spiralled.

What inspired you to get into strength sports in the first place? Have you always been into fitness, or has this been a more recent passion of yours?

I was a really active kid and competed in indoor rock climbing, but a couple big injuries, a heart condition, and a chronic illness had me on the sidelines for a few years. I picked up weights a little over two years ago with no real idea of what I wanted. Then I discovered deadlifting and it all kind of spiralled. My illness is still ever present but now I can flip a 160kg tyre and that’s pretty sick.

Winning a strongwoman title takes a lot more than brute strength, what role does mindset play in your preparation and

performance?

My home gym isn’t set up for strongman style training so a lot of my training was mental. My coach and I had to approximate as best we could and then trust it would all come together on the day. I walked in having never touched an axle bar before and just had to take a deep breath and rip in. On game day, you’ve trained all you can and all that’s left is to have faith in that training. The huge positive energy from the crowd is a huge help. What message would you give to anyone thinking about entering next year’s competition or just starting their strength training journey?

People think you have to have a certain level of strength to start but that’s a lie. The whole point is you get stronger along the way. Find the fun in working out, be it jogging, deadlifting, or flipping massive tyres and follow that joy. If you can, find a coach or friend or class and stick with them.

Thanks Caitlin.

ongratulations on your win! How does it feel to be crowned in Port Macquarie’s Strongest?

Thank you very much. It’s a pretty good feeling to earn the title for two years straight now. There was a fair amount of hard work put into training, and I’m happy with the results.

Can you tell us a bit about your training leading up to the event? Any specific goals or routines you focused on?

Preparation for this competition was interesting to say the least. I managed to smash one of my main goals in exploding my overhead strength and breaking a two year personal best in the process. My pulling strength seemed to have hit a wall, until the day of the competition. The biggest hurdle my training partners and I ran into was the lack of implements to work with. So the overall objective was to get as strong as possible.

What inspired you to get into strength sports in the first place? Have you always been into fitness, or has this been a more recent passion of yours?

I’ve been highly active ever since I could walk. I have competed in many different sports at

JAKOB WEBBER

JAKOB WEBBER CAME IN FIRST FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW IN THE UNDER 105KG MEN AT PMQ STRONGEST 2025!

many different levels. From local to international competitions. I became heavily interested in strength around four to five years, delved into powerlifting, produced respectables numbers (nothing crazy), and slowly became intrigued by the sport of strongman. I thought, why not, started adding strongman into my training, and now want to pursue it further.

Winning a strongman title takes a lot more than brute strength—what role does mindset play in your preparation and performance?

Mindset is a major part of any sport. Every athlete needs to understand how to go from calm and collected to locked and focused in an instance. For me, I become very twitchy and hyper focused on the lift in front of me. Nothing else matters for this one moment.

Fitness have helped and pushed me more than I could have done by myself. The desire and drive to one up each other inside the gym, while simultaneously being proud as punch as they demolish your personal best is something special. There is no jealousy in our gym, just a drive to improve.

For me, I become very twitchy and hyper focused on the lift in front of me. Nothing else matters for this one moment.

Additionally, Raw Performance Den has provided plenty of strength events to challenge and develop athletes’ own strength goals. And for that, I am grateful for the opportunities, as I wouldn’t have taken that step into competition without them.

What message would you give to anyone thinking about entering next year’s competition or just starting their strength training journey?

How has the local strength community in Port Macquarie influenced or supported your journey?

My training partners at Hybrid Strength and

What have you got to lose? The community is awesome, you’ll gain strength, confidence, and friends. Who knows where or what strength training can do for you.

Thanks Jakob.

Born to Be Wild: Koala Joeys Bring Hope to Guulabaa

Not only is the Wild Koala Breeding Centre at Guulabaa – Place of Koala, now the temporary home of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, they’ve also just celebrated the incredible success of their first breeding season of the Wild Koala Breeding Program: every breeding pair in the inaugural season has successfully produced a joey.

That’s right—every single one.

Led by the passionate team at Koala Conservation Australia (KCA), the program is the first of its kind globally to breed koalas specifically for release back into the wild. It’s a major leap forward in the race to save this iconic species, which is currently on track to face extinction by 2050 without urgent intervention.

“For us, these joeys represent far

more than just cuteness overload,” says Dr Kate Farquharson, Wild Koala Breeding Manager. “They are a symbol of hope. Each one brings us closer to rebuilding healthy, genetically diverse koala populations in the wild.”

KCA’s Wild Breeding Program’s focus is “wild to wild.” This means maintaining minimal human contact and creating conditions that promote natural behaviours,

ensuring the young koalas are equipped for independent life when released into their native habitats.

The new arrivals are already displaying those vital wild instincts. Some are climbing trees, exploring their surroundings, and learning to forage—skills essential for survival. Others are still snug in their mothers’ pouches, growing stronger by the day.

A Local Legacy Built on Community Spirit

Guulabaa’s Wild Koala Breeding Program and Visitor Centre was born from the ashes of the 2019–2020 Black Summer bushfires, built entirely thanks to the generosity of individuals across Australia and beyond. Notably, the project runs without government funding—every dollar comes from donors, volunteers, and visitors who believe in the mission.

For locals and tourists alike, Guulabaa offers a meaningful, family-friendly experience rooted in conservation, connection, and

Why You Should Visit Now

While the 50+ year old Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is being redeveloped, all of the organisation’s services have relocated to the new centre at Guulabaa – Place of Koala, including treatment in the state of the art vet clinic, rehabilitation, and research in the new laboratory.

With koala populations still vulnerable to habitat loss, disease, and climate change, the Wild Koala Breeding Program

represents a bold and hopeful future. The team at Guulabaa –Place of Koala, isn’t just making history—they’re rewriting it, one joey at a time.

So if you’re looking for an experience that inspires, educates, and truly makes a difference, Guulabaa belongs at the top of your list. Come for the koalas, stay for the story, and leave knowing you’ve played a part in something extraordinary.

community. The Centre is also home to KCA’s permanent koala residents who can be viewed from the accessible observation deck, while informative displays and hands-on exhibits provide a behind-the-scenes look at the science and care driving the program.

“Guulabaa is more than just a place to see koalas—it’s where people can actively be part of the solution,” said Dr Kate. “When you visit, adopt a koala, or donate, you’re helping ensure these joeys grow up wild and free.”

Plan your visit or donate today at: koalaconservationaustralia.org.au/pages/guulabaa

BARBARA SHEPPARD

Port Macquarie-based photographic artist Barbara Sheppard is known for her striking abstract interpretations of the natural world, where minimalism meets creative experimentation. Ahead of her upcoming exhibition Into Nature at the Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery this August, Barbara shares her artistic process, inspirations, and the joy she finds in breaking the rules of traditional photography.

Hi Barbara. How would you describe your approach to photography? What draws you to abstract interpretations in particular?

My general approach to photography is via Minimalism, where I like to separate the subject from its busy surrounds and focus on its intricacies. I guess this is my inquisitive nature wanting to explore and learn more about my subject. I am then drawn to abstract interpretations - especially in nature - because it allows freedom from rules and expectations, and sometimes even recognition, leaving plenty of room for experimentation and creative play. The ambiguity of abstract photography allows the viewer to interpret the image for themselves based on mood and feelings. Your use of colour and form is striking, do you begin with a vision in mind or let the subject guide you in the moment?

I usually always let the subject guide me in the moment. When I study the image later I decide how and if the image needs to be developed further in Post processing. Sometimes the image is completely created in camera and at other times there is often a part of a larger image that speaks to me, so I crop this and work on it until I have created an image that speaks for me.

Where do you find inspiration for your work? Are there particular places, themes, or moments that spark your creativity?

I am then drawn to abstract interpretationsespecially in nature, because it allows freedom from rules and expectations, and sometimes even recognition, leaving plenty of room for experimentation and creative play.

love being outdoors where I find a calmness to create. Nature has an abundance of colours, textures and patterns complemented by the play of light and shadow which enhances the beauty of the natural world. I also like to photograph architecture, and again this lends itself to creative abstraction using form, colour, light and shadow.

Often I just pick up my camera and shoot shadows, bright lights, out of focus, low key or high key and I enjoy intentional camera movement. Images become more expressive and interpretive, the more I play with them.

A lot of my inspiration comes from nature. I

Continued over...

BARBARA SHEPPARD

You’ve exhibited across the Mid North Coast, can you tell us about one or two exhibitions that were particularly meaningful to you?

My first exhibition was with my Photographic Club (Port Macquarie Panthers Photographic Cub) in 2016, at Masterpiece Framers here in Port Macquarie. I was thrilled to exhibit there and more so that I sold several of my photographic art pieces. In 2020, 2023 and 2024 I joined with several other photographic artists to exhibit at The Macleay Valley Art Gallery at Gladstone.

In the 2023 exhibition - “Inspired my Nature” and the 2024 exhibition - “Nature’s Tapestry” I exhibited with Denise McDermott, Giang Duong and Robyn Mussett. These were the most meaningful exhibitions for me. Apart from selling some of my art, I really enjoyed sharing my work with the wider community and speaking about my techniques and the joy of photography.

You have an upcoming exhibition at the Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery in August, what can visitors expect to see?

Yes, this year I am exhibiting again at The Macleay Valley Art Gallery with Denise McDermott and Giang Duong. Our exhibition this year is “Into Nature”. Visitors can expect to see a collection of high quality photographic art pieces. Each photographer has her own unique interpretation of the natural environment, be it flowers, trees, leaves or water. There will be a range of subjects and techniques which will complement the exhibition holistically.

Nature”. Each of us have our own way of photographing nature. My collection will have a mix of abstract, mixed media and contemporary photography

Apart from selling some of my art, I really enjoyed sharing my work with the wider community and speaking about my techniques and the joy of photography.

The exhibition runs from the 6th through to the 17th of August at the Macleay Valley Community arts Hall in Gladstone.

Is there a central theme or message behind the collection you’re showing at Macleay Valley?

As I mentioned, the theme this year is “Into

How do you hope people feel when they view your work? What kind of response or reflection are you hoping to evoke?

It is a pleasure to share my work with the wider community and I hope that they will enjoy my work by taking time to view and reflect on the images. It would be nice if the images can be viewed without the “how” and “why” of explanation and with whatever feelings or emotions the images evoke in the viewer.

Can you share a bit about your process? Do you usually like to capture everything in camera or do you like to play with post

production to get some of your effects? I like to mix up my processes and play around with new techniques. I have some “in-camera” techniques generated by the camera and often these are all I need. ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) is a technique that I use frequently to produce impressionistic images. Something I am enjoying using at the moment is double or multiple exposure. These can produce some interesting results. In camera I can use up to 10 exposures at once and the results can be quite stunning. Another technique I am trying is multi media, where I use another medium

Something I am enjoying using at the moment is double or multiple exposure. These can produce some interesting results. In camera I

can use up to 10 exposures at once and the results can be quite stunning.

plus my photography eg. a drawing of leaves, a photograph of the same leaves and then I combine the 2 images as a double exposure. I also like to create triptychs of images that speak to each other individually, and also tell a story together as a whole. What’s next for you beyond the August exhibition? Are there other projects or artistic directions you're excited to explore?

with. I have just entered the 4th quarter of my life and feel blessed that I am able to continue to create. Other artistic areas I am looking into are drawing, gelli printing and bookmaking. I am happy to let things unfold as time permits. Where can we find out more about the exhibition, your work, or get in touch?

I hope the first thing after the exhibition will be some time to travel and explore more of our beautiful country, and of course let my creative spirit roam and bring back memories to play

There will be advertising across social media, on the radio and around different art supply outlets. I have a FaceBook page (Barbara Sheppard) but I show most of my work on Instagram at the moment @ bsheppard180 Thanks Barbara.

PLAYERS

THEATRE

is set for a busy second half of 2025.

The Players Theatre is having a very busy mid-year period having recently completed a very successful run of Bonnie & Clyde - The Musical directed by first-timer Kate Simpson. They also held their information session for their next big show Billy Elliot - The Musical, plus held another enjoyable Open Mic Night. And now they are gearing up for their popular biannual One Act Play Festival, as well as hosting two external groups, Hastings Choristers and Rhythms Of India.

ONE ACT PLAY FESTIVAL - We are thrilled to announce that we have a full weekend of one act plays ready for the June long weekend, proudly sponsored by the Port Macquarie Hastings Council community grants.

There will be two sessions held on Saturday and one morning session on Sunday followed by the afternoon awards and presentation where our special guest adjudicator, Jo Bloom will give feedback to the contestants and prizes

for category winners. Sessions are on Saturday 2pm and 7pm, and Sunday 10am. Each session will have three plays, making a total of nine and you can purchase passes for a single session or an all-session pass for the weekend.

Entries come from the local region, NSW, QLD and VIC. It’s especially good to see that a few entries are from Port Macquarie writers and many of the plays are originals. The plays cover a range of genres with comedy featuring highly. As in previous festivals, there will be delicious, home-made soups and other food available throughout the weekend as well as a coffee van out the front. Patrons will be well looked after! Please support the weekend with

your attendance at the festival. It promises to be an excellent weekend of live theatre.

UPCOMING

EVENTS:

Hastings Choristers ‘Patterns’ Musical Theatre concert - Sat 31st May and Sun 1st June. (Theatre hire)

One Act Play Festival - 6th, 7th, 8th Junetickets on sale now.

Rhythms of India Music & Dance - Sat 14th June. (Theatre hire)

Annual General Meeting - Thursday 19th June.

Auditions for Billy Elliot The Musical – Saturday 21st June.

Kylie’s Art

STUDIO & SUPPLIES

With an unwavering commitment to art and creativity, Kylie Johnson has been supporting locals, artisans and students hone their skills with her Laurieton store that proudly stocks all major art supply brands. Focus caught up with artist and teacher Kylie to discuss all things art.

Hi Kylie. You have now operated your increasingly popular store for more than 14 years with customers coming from far and wide to purchase quality art equipment or seek your professional creative advise as an artist. Tell us a little about the range of products stocked and your journey in business?

Kylie’s Art Studio and supplies caters for all levels from students to professionals. We have a vast range of professional art brands including Winsor and Newton, Daniel Smith and Gansai Tambi in watercolours, Art Spectrum, Winsor and Newton Artisan in oil paints, Matisse, Atelier and Jo Sonja in Acrylics and a range of pastels from Art Spectrum,

PanPastels and Mungyo Gallery. We also stock Pastelmat and Colourfix pastel papers. For the coloured pencil artists we have Prismacolor and Faber-Castell Polychromos, Posca pencils and Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel pencils.

I decided to open as I was teaching at a local art shop that closed down and I knew there was a need for quality art supplies, we started with basic supplies and over the years have been able to build up to the extensive range we have now which I have been told is one of the best stocked art shops between Newcastle and the border by many customers especially visitors to the area.

You also teach multiple art classes weekly to encourage people to develop their skills and collaborate with other artists.

What have been some of your highlights? I have had many students over the years and what I love most is seeing the progression of artwork from people who have never painted before joining a class to someone who has skills and confidence to paint a piece they are proud to hang on their walls. Some of my students have entered local competitions, which is wonderful.

winter is Here

A Mum’s Guide to Slaying Style While Still Finding Matching Socks

Look, we get it. It’s winter in Australia which means two things:

1. You’re suddenly expected to attend events with having to actually think about your outfit with layers and outerwear and no more birkys or beach to bar attire; 2. BUT your legs are finally safe from the tyranny of razors because, let’s be honest, pants are in, and so is letting it grow wild, baby, or is that just me…...TMI?

We see you, you’re juggling kids, work, chaotic mornings, looking for kids’ jumpers and matching socks because barefoot is not an option now summer has gone. And yet, somehow, fashion still calls or at least the need to look somewhat put together and try not to forget your jacket so you don’t freeze when you’re racing from work to the ice age of soccer training, standing in the freezing cold! Yes honey, Mum saw that goal, go you! So, here’s the lowdown on what’s hot this Aussie winter (besides your heated car seats).

Moto Tees: Because Mums Deserve to Look Badass Too, enter in “Only Lovers Left”, they are locals and they are nailing the “Cool Mum” moto style tee.

Say goodbye to boring basics - think vintage rock band vibes, bold graphics, and “don’t mess with me, I haven’t had my second coffee yet” energy. These pair perfectly with denim, leather,

or even leggings if you’re feeling rebellious (and haven’t done laundry).

Vegan Leather: Looks Expensive, Won’t Make You Sweat Like a Real Cow It’s stylish. It’s guiltfree. It’s vegan leather and it's everywhere this season, from high waisted pants to shackets to skirts that say, “I might be on my way to a board meeting… or school pick-up with an oat latte in hand.” Boot Season is Here: And YES, We’re Bringing the Wide-Fit Glory. Let’s talk boots.

It’s finally time to strut around town like the glamorous winter queen you are and this year, we're levelling up. The Curve Collective is bringing in wide fit knee-high boots, because fashion should fit you, not the other way around. You deserve to zip up those stunners without a wrestling match in the hallway. If you are keen to get on our waitlist, DM or email us ASAP, limited stock and sizes available. It's WINTER. Why so Many Events? So Little Chill.

We don’t know who’s organising winter these days, but can we have a word? Between the wine nights, long lunches, fundraisers, awards nights,coming discos and galas, WHEN do we get to Netflix and chill? Well, when you do leave the house for a glamorous event (against your better judgment), we’ve got your back with:

- Long-sleeved designer dresses for a little extra warmth;

with HAYLEY YOUNG FROM THE CURVE COLLECTIVE

- And a lush order of faux fur jackets, shrugs and snuggly extras incoming very soon, perfect for both elegance and warmth.

What’s New in Store? Glad You Asked We’re so excited to be dropping:

- Current season Zulu & Zephyr, incoming over the months of June - August – dreamy textures, effortless shapes, elevated basics –keep your eyes peeled for the announcement - Raef the Label’s new season – because minimal doesn’t mean boring. These pieces are made for layering, lounging, living… and maybe even leaving the house.

Final Words of Winter Wisdom

Whether you're front row at a fashion event or front row of Bluey with a wine in hand, style doesn’t need to be sacrificed. Winter can be fun with all the layers, cute leather options,

Boots r us and doing it all without needing to Venus the legs and Bondi Sands the body.

Charlotte and I are here to keep you warm, fabulous, and feeling like the main character in your own winter movie (just with more washing and less plot twists).

Pants are in. Shaving is out. Boots are made for walking (and comfort).

And you, gorgeous LADY, are killing it.

Until next time ladies – happy slow cooking and red wine sipping xx

focus contributor.

Well, who would have thought we would be here again so soon? In so many ways it feels like only a few months ago that we were mopping up from the last major flood in our region.

This week as I write many are preparing to embark on that familiar journey, while others are experiencing a flood recovery process for the very first time. Either way, it’s a daunting challenge but one that is rarely endured completely alone.

We’ve seen it time and time again in our region and that of our regional neighbours, when disaster strikes it’s the local community that comes to the rescue.

If I’m being transparent though, this week has been a challenge for me. There’s a phenomena known as “Survivor’s Guilt” and this week that concept has been very apparent for me.

Being in retail is interesting. Many use a “visit to the shops” as a way to escape their reality. Some come to simply have someone neutral to listen to them or occasionally even cry with them. Others are simply so bored by their circumstances (in this case the restrictions placed on them due to the floodwaters), they simply want to come and vent about how much they have been inconvenienced.

In my industry, it’s important to “meet people where they are at” even if that doesn’t quite line up with where “I am at” at the time. Helping someone by simply listening to them, is an often overlooked superpower that many in service

industries possess, and it’s times like these that those superpowers really come into their own. I’ve come to realise that when a region is impacted by a disaster, everyone is affected but to varying degrees. Many people have asked me this week “have you been impacted by the floods?” and my answer has remained the same “not physically by the water, no.” But have we been impacted by this natural disaster? Absolutely.

No one escapes when a region is dealt a blow like this. The impact is simply relative to each individual, their situation and their outlook in general. From “inconvenienced” right through to “severely impacted with loss of homes or livelihoods” everyone feels it, and no-one escapes completely.

From a business point of view, this week saw my muscle memory transport me right back to the days of that dreaded “C” word that reared its ugly head in early 2020. The days where our shops sat there full of stock, without a person walking through the doors. This time though, we were prepared and I knew exactly what to do. Connect with people.

When we are forcibly isolated, it seems that all we crave is seeing another person! So this week, I decided to use our social platforms to connect with our followers and simply just “be” with them.

Sure, we had some sale stock to move, so that gave me a good excuse to feel slightly less weird about being LIVE on Instagram again, but it actually just felt good taking action and doing something productive.

But I also believe that there’s a time and place for things like this. There’s always a cycle that surrounds an imminent disaster, well ones that we have a little bit of warning for anyway. For us this time, it was the days of rain leading up to the actual flood. I find this is when people feel the most “inconvenienced” because nothing has really happened yet. We’re simply in a holding pattern of hopeful anticipation, that the rain will soon stop.

There were many examples of other local businesses “pivoting back” to their COVID strategies, whether that be by physically delivering theirs goods to their customers or making use of technology where need be. But tragically there have also emerged stories of those who simply may not be able to physically, mentally, emotionally or financially rally enough to rebuild.

As we enter the next phase of the disaster cycle, let’s all commit to doing as much as we can for those we meet, no matter the extent of their impact. When we do, we show we truly value being a part of this community and deserve to be here.

Colonial Cobbler retires after 50 years in business.

Everyone’s favourite cobblers Lee and Sabrina Subiotic are retiring from their beloved footwear business after an incredible almost 37 years in business serving the Port Macquarie Hastings community with quality fitting European footwear.

Winter fashion is in full swing at Colonial Cobbler. Pick up a new favourite pair of winter boots, or backpack and leather handbag with all stock now heavily reduced by 40%. This is the closing down sale of the year with all sandals, sneakers, pumps, boots and accessories all reduced by 40%. Come and have a walk through the diverse ranges of quality European brands stocked in-store where you

can be expertly fitted by the friendly and knowledgeable team and walk away with your favourite new shoes in tow, at 40% off! Find the team in the Colonial Arcade, Hay Street, Port Macquarie.

Sabrina and Lee sincerely thank the community and their devoted staff for their support over the last almost 37 years where they have loved serving their loyal customers. They are now looking forward to what retirement brings!

CARAMELS AT CATHIE

FRANKIE’S

Fun vibes, delicious food and sunny mornings!

Our space has been created to share with you, yes YOU!

With a fun team and a delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us!

Our burgers are fantastic and a great reason to forget your

lunch during the work week, not to mention the most delicious and freshest salads.

Fresh juices are perfect for these warm days or treat yourself to an iced coffee or chocolate. Come and check out our cabinet of amazing sweet treats and pair any great cake with a great coffee.

BEACHFRONT BAR AND GRILL

Beachfront Bar and Grill is your newest dining destination with stunning views of the beautiful Oxley Beach, Oxley Oval, and our bowling greens. Located on level one at Port City Bowling Club boasting 180-seat capacity featuring private dining spaces for larger groups, providing a perfect setting for any occasion. Open for drinks and nibbles from 12pm and dinner from 5pm Wednesday to Friday, and all-day

Saturday and Sunday, this will no doubt be a highlight destination for dining and socialising in Port Macquarie. Whether you're a local or enjoying a holiday in the Greater Port Macquarie region, the Beachfront Bar and Grill is set to become a favourite destination for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. With its stunning views and delicious menu, it promises an experience that is as satisfying.

CARAMELS AT CATHIE

- DINE IN TODAY!

Warm up this season with our all-new winter menu at Caramels at Cathie. Whether you're after a hearty breakfast, a delectable brunch or lunch on the go, we've got you covered.

Try our crowd-favourite Benny Burger, the indulgent Berry Crumble Pancakes or our brand new Halloumi Rosti Stack – just a few of the delicious new flavours waiting for you. Our menu is full of mouthwatering options made with highquality, locally sourced ingredients. You can view our full menu online, order ahead for pick-up, book a table or place an order.

We’re located in the Woolworths Complex at Lake Cathie, with plenty of easy parking and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

As a locally-owned and operated cafe, we’re proud to serve coffee made from the freshest beans by

the Byron Bay Coffee Company –crafted by passionate coffee lovers who know what makes a truly great cup.

WARM UP THIS WINTER AT THE KOVE!

There’s nothing better than good food, great company and a cosy atmosphere on a crisp winter’s evening, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at The Kove at Panthers Port Macquarie. Our talented chefs have been busy behind the scenes, curating the perfect winter menu full of hearty classics and seasonal favourites.

At Caramels, we’re all about making life easy, fast, and convenient for our community. That’s why we’re open seven days a week (takeaway only on Sundays), and also offer small event catering, perfect for your next gathering. Visit caramels.com.au to explore our menu or make a catering enquiry.

Good coffee, good food and good vibes! Come find your new favourite spot at Caramels.

Savour the richness of our Braised Lamb Shank, slow-cooked in red wine and rosemary, served with seasonal vegetables and creamy mash, or try the colourful Vegetable Stir Fry, tossed in a soy and sesame glaze and served with noodles, fried onions and shoots. Craving Italian? Our Gnocchi Italiano is a must, tossed with roasted vegetables, olives,

baby spinach, white wine and roasted tomato, and finished with parmesan shavings.

With live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm in the TAPP Bar, The Kove is the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends. Our new Winter Menu is launching later this month, come in and taste the season at The Kove!

BAGO Maze & Wine

NATIONAL CHEESE DAY prouy cebres

National Cheese Day is celebrated on June 4th every year in Australia. It’s a day for cheese lovers to unite and to enjoy their favourite cheesy treats discovering new flavours and varieties. Focus caught up with Bago Maze & Wine’s proprietor Jim Mobbs to talk through his long-standing passion for locally produced cheese.

Hi Jim. You are a cheese lover at heart and have long been passionate about sourcing quality local cheeses for people to enjoy. Tell us a little about your journey and passion for all things cheese?

As a child growing up in Port Macquarie, I remember the only cheese available was Kraft Soft Cheddar. It wasn’t until college in Sydney that I learnt there was more to it. I recall having some great late nights with friends, a flagon of dry white wine, some pickles and delicious cheeses. After being back in this area for many years I learnt that there were a few cheese producers in the area that were not actually selling the cheese locally, only sending it to Sydney. Attiki Cheese at Comboyne was one. They made a romano, pepato and two types of feta. Advanti also produce a halloumi, feta and bocconcini at Wauchope but you could not

actually buy them locally. Around year 2000 we introduced cheese platters to our cellar door. They included all these local cheeses. Around the same time the Farmers Markets started in Wauchope, and I began selling all the local cheese there, I became known in the market circles as “The Cheese Man”

National Cheese Day is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, share culture and discover new types of cheeses. How will Bago Maze & Wine be celebrating the annual event?

For National Cheese Day on the 4th of June, as well as on each Wednesday throughout June, we will be holding a special cheese appreciation session, guided by myself. Visitors will be able to sit down with a specially designed cheese platter beautifully paired with our wines and I will talk about my long-standing passion for locally produced cheese. Participants will learn where and how each cheese is made; how

different levels of maturity affect the flavours and what wines and condiments they pair best with. It should be great fun. Bookings can be made at bago.com.au

You also have a keen interest in incorporating local farm grown produce into the gourmet platters served at the vineyard. Why is this an important attribute for you in business?

I am a farmer, and I love growing things, but I am incapable of small-scale gardening, I get carried away and plant way more than I need. My growing endeavours always result in excess produce. I can’t stand to waste any of it, so it all gets preserved in various ways for future use on the platters. We have staple items like mulled wine jelly and our various pickles like beetroot and cucumber and tomato and harissa chutneys.

Thanks Jim.

What’s in

Season

I’ve been called a few things over the years but by far my favourite nickname is the Onion King (LOL).

Now don’t take the name too seriously, its not because I smell like onion or anything... let me ask you an interesting question… What’s your favourite vegetable? I can tell you what it is before you even answer…

The onion!!! It’s everyone’s favourite vegetable. Here at Growers Market we sell over two tonne of onion on any given week, and sometimes over five tonne when they’re in peak growing season and nice and cheap. Think about itthey’re in everything: Thai, Chinese, Italian, soups, burgers, chutney, Mexican, salad. It’s definitely harder to think of main meals that don’t have onion than those that do - and who can be blamed for that? Onions are the base of flavour, then everything builds on that base. Here at Growers Market we keep a lot of onions - french onion, spanish onion, brown onion, shallots, white onion, spring onion, pickling onion, onion shoots… and I’m sure I’ve missed a few. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own particular zing, sweetness, or bite, and while you might not think of them as the star of the show, they’re often the quiet hero that makes the dish sing. Let’s talk brown onions for a second. These are your workhorse onion. The everyday, nofuss, toss-it-in-anything onion. Want to make a stew? Brown onion. Sausages and mash? Brown onion. Need to caramelise something

until it’s sticky and golden and smells like a warm kitchen hug? Brown onion. They’re reliable, easy to peel (mostly), and cheap as chips when in season.

Then there’s the red onion, also known as spanish onion. A little sweeter, a bit more colourful, and they’re perfect raw. Thinly sliced into a salad, tucked into a burger, or pickled quickly in vinegar with a touch of sugar, they brighten up the plate and give that little zingy lift that makes all the difference.

Now shallots are a different story. Smaller, more delicate, a little posher if we’re being honest. They’re the ones you use when you want onion flavour without shouting. A french sauce or a subtle vinaigrette? Shallots. They cost a bit more, but a little goes a long way.

Spring onions and onion shoots are the fresh, green cousins ideal for sprinkling over stir fries, omelettes, or mixing into a cold noodle salad. They’ve got that mild onion kick with a bright, clean flavour, and you can eat the whole thingwhite bulb to green tip.

And don’t even get me started on pickling onions. You might think of them just around Christmas when the jars start popping up on the shelves, but they’re an all-year treat if you’ve got the time and vinegar. Small, strong, and brilliant with cheese or in a ploughman’s lunch.

It’s easy to overlook how much onions do for our cooking. They're cheap, they last forever in the pantry (well, almost), and they transform

with heat. Raw, they’ve got bite. Sautéed, they mellow. Caramelised, they’re like sticky gold. There are whole recipes that exist solely to show off the onion - think of French onion soup. That’s hours of slow cooking, coaxing out every bit of sweetness and savoury depth. You top it with bread and bubbling cheese, but the real star? Still the onion.

And for those who swear they hate onions— well, most of the time, they’re eating them without even knowing. They’re the invisible backbone of pasta sauces, the secret in grandma’s gravy, the lift in your curry. You might not see them, but you’d miss them if they were gone.

At Growers Market, we love a vegetable that works hard, and no veg works harder than the onion. Whether you’re feeding a family on a budget, making a fancy dinner for friends, or just trying to throw together something decent after work, the onion’s got your back.

Next time you’re in, have a look at the onion section. Notice how many types we keep, how fresh they are, how they practically glow under the lights. That’s not just a pile of veg, that’s potential. That’s dinner. That’s comfort food, celebration food, midnight snack food.

So, the next time someone asks you your favourite vegetable, feel no shame in saying what we already know: it’s the onion. Humble, honest, and the real MVP of the kitchen. Until next time.

with BRYAN HANKS OWNER - GROWERS MARKET

Fun vibes, delicious food and sunny mornings!

Our space has been created to share with you! Yes YOU!

With a fun team and delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us! Our burgers are fantastic and a great reason to forget your lunch during the work week, not to mention the most delicious and

freshest salads. Fresh juices are perfect for these warm spring days or treat yourself to an iced coffee or chocolate.

Come and check out our cabinet of amazing sweet treats and pair any great cake with a great coffee.

Open 7 days a week from 6:30am till 3:00pm Closed Public Holidays

INUNDATION

It’s nice to see the sun again - how’s that for an understatement? Well at the time of writing there was sun. Seems as if we can’t catch a break from the relentless rain and after the devastation caused to our region by last week’s flooding, we find ourselves experiencing the worst kind of déjà vu, being right back where we were in 2021 in terms of the scale of destruction and disruption to the lives of so many within our region.

It's a once in 100-year event they said in 21… who would have ever imagined we would be facing a repeat a mere four years later.

Each and every one of us were affected somehow last week. Many as I write a week later, still remain flooded in or worse –contemplating how to rebuild their lives.

Playing the waiting game, being stuck at home, unable to work, unable to send the kids to school. Such events used to be few and far between, but it seems to have become a somewhat more frequent occurrence, certainly one our children recollect with familiarity from their lifetimes.

It would be easy to disappear down a rabbit hole of negativity right about now but somehow we on the Mid North Coast do not succumb to that kind of thing.

As we nervously watched the rain drum down last week it was very much a time of unease, recalling back the trauma of the past few years not just of repeated flooding, but fire and pandemic too.

On the contrary, such tumultuous times instead bring out the very best of our community. The boundless resilience that has us cleaning up and rebuilding as soon as the water subsides. The care and kindness that we show to each other, the willingness of so many to lend a helping hand. The way we check in on our neighbours, colleagues,

Palate

with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

friends, families and those we’ve never met. Once again, we’ve proven what an amazing community we are and will continue to be. We can take a beating from Mother Nature and then some… then regroup, rebuild and carry on – stronger than ever.

Each and every one of us were affected somehow last week. Many as I write a week later, still remain flooded in or worse –contemplating how to rebuild their lives.

As we emerge from the waters and hose off the mud, we remain stoically determined to get on with things.

Masters now at picking up where we left off, the cancelled events are rescheduled and postponed celebrations are rebooked. Once again, visitors will start to return to our region. Still for some time, we may scan the weather app with a bit of trepidation and eye off the passing clouds with suspicion. But let us harness each sunny day with a bit of extra gratitude and remember to celebrate life when we’re able to. Because sure enough the rain will fall again and all we can do is wait for the sun to re-appear.

HBILLY DIETRICH

i Billy, tell us a bit about yourself. Where did you grow up and what’s your professional background? I was born and raised in Port Macquarie and with a family background in hospitality, it felt like a natural path. I started out at 14 washing dishes at the old Town Green Inn and stayed in the industry throughout school, learning as much as I could. After finishing school, I spent a year in Victoria playing rugby under contract, then returned home and started working in a local bottle shop. From there, I took every opportunity to learn, often volunteering in different areas of the pub to build my skills. It paid off and by 21, I’d worked my way up to Duty Manager at TPT. I went on to work in a variety of cafés, cocktail bars and hospitality venues, but in my late 20s, I came full circle — returning to Tacking Point Tavern, where I’ve been ever since. You also wear another hat as Vice President of the Port Macquarie Pirates Rugby Union Club. What’s your connection to rugby, and when did you first get involved with the Pirates? Tacking Point Tavern is a community minded business and a major sponsor of the Pirates, so taking on the Vice President role this year aligns well and has been a real honour. I first got involved with the club back in high school, starting in the under-18s. It was the beginning of friendships and connections that have lasted to this day. I took a long break — about 12 years — to focus on work and building a stable future, but in 2024 I felt the time was right to return.

After a season back on the field, I knew I wanted to do more to support the club that gave me so much growing up. It’s been incredible to see how far the Pirates have come. We’ve grown from a small senior club to one that now fields teams from under-6s right through to senior men. Seeing that kind of passion and growth in junior rugby, especially in a regional area, is something really special. Huge credit goes to everyone who’s helped make that happen and to the future first graders coming through!

The Pirates have a strong community focus. How did the club respond during the recent floods? Community is everything to us, and we try to show that not just in words, but in actions. When the floods hit, there wasn’t even a question — the call went out for help and Pirates of all ages showed up. Groups headed out to assist in clean-ups and offer whatever support they could to those impacted. Some people made big contributions, others helped in small but meaningful ways — it all mattered. As a local club, we believe we have a responsibility to step up in times of need, and we’re proud of how our players and supporters responded. Our thoughts are still with everyone affected, and we want the community to know we’re here if anyone still needs a hand.

From a sporting perspective, how have the floods impacted local rugby this season? This season has honestly been one of the most disrupted I’ve ever seen; constant rain, field closures and game cancellations have made it really tough. As a club, the Pirates have done

what we can to support council crews, including pitching in to help them get more urgent sites sorted. Everyone’s working hard under difficult circumstances, and we all know it’s out of anyone’s control.

How can locals get involved with the club, whether as players, supporters, or volunteers? There are so many ways to get involved, and we welcome everyone with open arms.

You’ll find us every Friday from 6pm at our major sponsor, Tacking Point Tavern, running community meat raffles. It’s a great chance to meet people and support the club. Training happens multiple times a week:

• Seniors train Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm at Stuart Park

• Juniors are there Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30pm

We’re always looking for players across all age groups and love seeing supporters down at the field. If you’re a rugby fanatic or just want to give back to your community, reach out via our social media or in person to support the Pirates, the best rugby club in town! Thank you to my amazing wife Roxy for the time and effort she puts in behind the scenes for our club - especially with things like social media which are so important. All the links are on our website www.portpiratesrugby.au

Thanks Billy.

with ALISTAIR FLOWER MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

Welcome to Pour & Explore — a month-long celebration of the Hastings region’s vibrant hospitality scene! Presented by the Hastings Liquor Accord, this June festival invites locals and visitors alike to explore, experience, and enjoy a wide variety of events hosted by participating venues.

This June, Pour & Explore is bringing the Hastings region to life with 30 events over 30 days, making every day an opportunity to experience something new. From cra beer tastings and themed parties to live music, workshops, and community gatherings, each day of the month offers a fresh way to connect with local venues and celebrate the vibrant hospitality scene. Whether you're a foodie, music lover, or just keen to discover hidden gems across the region, there's an event for everyone—every single day of the festival.

FOR THE FOODIES

A Gourmet Guide to Pour & Explore

Pour & Explore is more than just a festival; it's a tribute to the creativity and community spirit of the Hastings area. It promotes responsible enjoyment and safe nightlife, making it the perfect opportunity to discover new venues and support local hospitality.

For more information and to see the full lineup of events, read through our mini magazine and visit pourandexplore.au

W: pourandexplore.au

FB: Pour & Explore

IG: @hastingspourandexplore

This June, Pour & Explore takes over the Hastings region and for the culinary lovers among us, it’s nothing short of a gourmet playground. From elegant dinners and flavour-packed fiestas to masterclasses led by world-class mixologists, here are just a few of the must-visit food and beverage experiences throughout the month.

Winter high tea- Cassegrain’s winery

Step into sophistication with a glass of Cassegrain Sparkling Rosé on arrival, followed by a stunning spread of gourmet sandwiches, delicate slices, decadent cakes, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, and a colourful arrangement of fresh fruits. It's the perfect mid-winter indulgence in a tranquil vineyard setting.

Petaluma Wine Dinner

Bird Rock Bar and Grill

Experience the harmony of modern Australian cuisine and fine wine at Bird Rock’s exclusive Petaluma Wine Dinner. With a seasonally curated set menu, each dish is thoughtfully paired with wines from one of South Australia’s most iconic vineyards—highlighting singlevineyard elegance and timeless flavour profiles.

Little Shack’s Little Fiesta

Turn up the heat for the winter solstice with Little Shack’s Little Fiesta. Enjoy live Latin fusion music, street food specials, chips and guac, and ice-cold margaritas. It’s a beachside celebration of flavour, rhythm, and community vibes.

Flight of Flavours

- Port Macquarie distillery

Embark on a handcra ed tasting adventure at Port Macquarie Distillery. The Flight of Flavours gin tasting experience showcases the artistry behind their four signature gins, premium vodka, and refreshing kumquat liqueur. It’s a spirited journey you won’t want to miss.

Hastings Hotel – Jack Daniel’s Dinner

Whiskey lovers, prepare to indulge. This three-course dinner is expertly paired with a curated selection of Jack Daniel’s finest—including Old No. 7, Gentleman Jack, Single Barrel Select, Bonded, and Triple Mash. It’s bold flavour, elevated.

Cocktail masterclass- Club Lake Cathie

Whether you're an amateur shaker or an aspiring mixologist, there’s a class for you. Club Lake Cathie celebrates World Gin Day with a fun, hands-on cocktailmaking class. Learn the basics of creating beautifully balanced drinks and take your gin game to the next level.

Chop and Chill hosts an exclusive session with Sherwin Ljou

Ranked among Singapore’s top 10 cocktail mixologists. Known for his mastery of flavour profiles and mixology science, Sherwin will guide guests through cra ing complex, unique cocktails with flair and finesse.

FOR THE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FANS:

Turn It Up with Pour & Explore

June in the Hastings Region isn’t just about food and drink—Pour & Explore is also turning up the volume with a stellar lineup of music and entertainment events that’ll have you dancing, laughing, and singing along all month long. From massive live gigs to themed parties and local showcases, here's your guide to some of the hottest happenings across the region.

Bliss N Eso (with Ivan ooze) - Panthers

Hip-hop royalty Bliss n Eso are landing in Port Macquarie for one explosive night. With special guest Ivan Ooze on the mic, this is set to be a high-energy, crowdshaking show packed with anthems, lyrical fire, and a whole lot of hype. A must for Aussie music fans.

Running

Thelma Plum - Finnian’s Tavern ARIA-winning singer-songwriter Thelma Plum brings her soulful, honest, and deeply moving music to Finnian’s. With hits like “Better in Blak” and “Homecoming Queen, ” this intimate gig promises goosebumps, powerful vocals, and storytelling straight from the heart.

Ball Park Music with Bean Magazine & Angela Rose – Finnian’s Tavern Indie darlings Ball Park Music headline a magical night at Finnian’s, with support from rising local acts Bean Magazine and Angela Rose. Expect irresistible melodies, big energy, and that warm, summery BPM vibe that fans know and love.

The Rams - Wauchope Country Club

Touch (DJ Set) - Finnian’s Tavern

Don’t miss Running Touch in full DJ mode, bringing his genre-bending beats and immersive soundscapes to the dance floor.

This set is perfect for those who want to move, lose themselves in rhythm, and catch one of Australia’s most innovative electronic artists live.

Kevin Bloody Wilson - Panthers

Brace yourself for side-splitting laughs and outrageously cheeky songs as the legendary Kevin Bloody Wilson takes the stage at Panthers. With his classic no-holds-barred humour and cult-favourite tracks, this is an unfiltered night of Aussie comedy gold.

Apres Ski Party - Settlers Inn

Get your country fix with The Rams, bringing boot-stomping rock 'n’ roll to Wauchope. With tight harmonies and rugged riffs, they’ll have the dance floor swinging in no time.

The Traps - Wauchope Country Club

Love the classics? The Traps take you on a journey through the decades with timeless rock hits from the ’60s to the ’90s. It's all killer, no filler—just pure live band energy for music lovers of all ages.

Korderoy Acoustic Show - Lake Cathie Tavern

Snow bunnies and party lovers unite! Settlers Inn transforms into a cosy alpine retreat for its Après Ski Party—complete with DJ sets, themed drinks, winter gear, and that après energy straight from the slopes. Just bring your best snow style and good vibes.

Soak in the chill local vibes with Korderoy, performing an acoustic set at Lake Cathie Tavern. Supported by gritty alt-rockers Royal Chant and the soulful Pearl Bennetts, this showcase of homegrown talent is a true celebration of the region’s musical soul.

Annual Dachshund festival

- Tacking Point Tavern

Yes, it’s about the dogs—but there’s also live music, tasty bites, and all-around good times. The Annual Dachshund Festival is one of the quirkiest, most beloved events in the calendar—and it’s not just for sausage dog owners!

You’ve had the same lineup since the beginning. How do you think your chemistry as a band has contributed to your sound evolving over the years? We were pretty young and naive when we met. Most things were just done in earnest. As time goes on you become more and more thankful for the friendship that we've sustained and you start to think more deeply about what it truly means to collaborate with other people. When that respect is there, you can discover some great things. It means sometimes you can open right up and feel comfortable with other people contributing to the process. That respect also means that each of us know when to step back and be comfortable when someone is needing to take the reins creatively.

Over the course of eight albums, how has your creative process changed or stayed the same? We've never had a strict process for how things are made. I think with each record we've just tried to keep moving forward, always trying new ideas and new approaches. The only thing that needs to stay the same is the spirit or heart of the band. And that's a hard thing to quantify. That seems to be this mysterious factor that the five of us can just sense, we just know when that special 'thing' is there or when it's still missing.

Is there a particular album or song in your discography that you feel stands out as a pivotal moment for the band? There's quite a lot of songs I see as pivotal moments in our story. Early on, recording Sad Rude Future Dude marked

Sam

Crowmack

a turning point where we suddenly found some confidence in the studio. Releasing It's Nice To Be Alive is an obvious one, we really sensed that that song was pushing us forward and helping us reach more people. Many years on, I'd say Cherub reinvigorated us.

Being a five-piece band, do you each have specific roles when it comes to songwriting or do you collaborate on everything? We sort of have roles, but it's never a hard rule. I've always been the main writer, but Dean has contributed a handful of songs over the years and there are a number of tracks that have been an open collaboration between the five of us. The collaborative element of our writing is almost editorial, just talking about the song in a general sense and without our instruments. Even if I write a complete song and have lots of ideas, it never really finds its way to being finished without some guidance from the others.

How do you balance the creative differences that inevitably arise in a group dynamic, especially when working on new material? The push-and-pull of ideas is one of the fundamental elements of a good band, in my opinion. Early on, it's easy to ruminate on this tension and to have an instinct to constantly fight against it. As time goes on, hard as it may sometimes be, you come to accept that it's an essential component of who we are. You start to aceept that none of us can know everything and that welcoming people in can be the path to somewhere interesting and new.

You’ve toured extensively, and live performances seem to be a big part of your

Ball park music

identity as a band. What’s been one of your most memorable gigs? There are so many. Lots are memorable for all the wrong reasons. Sometimes the most disastrous ones stick in your mind the most. We o en say that our set at Splendour In The Grass in 2014 was one of our best. We felt good, felt relaxed. It was a breakthrough in our thinking too; we started to approach the more exciting events with no expectations and that helped us to appreciate the moment more.

How do you prepare for a live show, and is there a particular moment in your set that you look forward to every time? The time between soundcheck and the gig is a strange, restless, emotional limbo. There's practical things to check off. We usually have a few beers a er soundcheck, hang out, get some dinner. These days I like to watch the support acts as much as possible. It gets you in the mood to go onstage yourself. As showtime approaches, it's nice to get changed, write the setlists, warm up, have some whiskey. I think the moment we look forward to, and I'm sure the others would agree, is just starting. The moment you set foot on stage, something else takes over. You've started the ride and you must ride it to the end. It's a thrill and it never gets old.

What are you looking forward to the most about playing In Port Macquarie this month? It's always good and interesting to get to regional Australia. It's full of surprises. Also looking forward to a good pub meal.

Thanks guys :)

Bower On Lake

AMY VANDENHURK

Designed to bring joy, Bower on Lake is Laurieton’s treasure trove of a diverse collection of pre-loved, upcycled, vintage and new pieces perfect for your home, gifting or entertaining. Focus caught up with founder and lover of all things vintage Amy Vandenhurk.

Hi Amy. congratulations!

Bower On Lake is proud to celebrate its first year in business. What have been some highlights over the last 12 months?

After 17 years in the Navy for Dan and 16 years for me in Weddings and Events in Sydney we took a leap and decided it was time for a change. The past 12 months has certainly been that, with the decision to open our retail store, Bower On Lake in June of last year. Coming up to our first birthday I feel proud of the store we have created. For sure it’s the people, the support we have received from our community has been incredible! As a lot of our items are one off pieces it means our store is constantly changing with new finds coming in all the time, that keeps things interesting for both us and our customers. It’s been rewarding growing our range and working with local artisans. I love it when a customer comes back after making a purchase and shows us a photo of how they have styled a piece in

their home, it’s lovely to see. Being asked to style at The Westport Club and host the ‘photo with Santa’ at our store last Christmas (organised by Susi of Forgiving Foods) were also highlights.

You have a keen interest in vintage finds. Where has your inspiration stemmed from?

As a stylist I love how unique pieces can be used to transform spaces and vintage pieces have a charm and quality about them that adds a unique character to a space and moves away from the mass produced. Discovering that both Dan and I share a love of treasure hunting and giving new life to old finds, the vision for Bower On Lake was formed. As a child I would tag along with Dad to garage sales and my mum bought me my first piece of cane furniture when I was about 6 and I’ve often incorporated cane when I am styling. I love the sustainability aspect of upcycled, preloved and vintage.

Tell us about the diverse collection of pieces stocked in-store?

The items in store are pieces that I love and

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK AND SHOP IN-STORE BY 20 JUNE 2025 for a chance to win a $100 in-store voucher and nominate a local registered charity to receive a $100 donation. (Entry forms in-store at purchase)

we have curated a collection of quality, quirky, beautiful and meaningful finds and homewares. Just as the Bowerbird brings treasures to its nest, the ‘Bower’, we are bringing treasures to our store so that our customers may find that special piece to compliment their home or a unique gift. We have a range of vintage, ex-styling items and upcycled furniture. Our new products have been carefully sourced based on quality, brand ethos and aesthetics and include Australian and European designed and/or made homewares and gifts. We have vintage pieces from all around the world as well as a unique collection of dolls house miniatures. What is on the horizon for Bower On Lake?

We have been speaking with some local artisans to design and make various products specifically for our store with some unique jewellery coming soon. We are always working with suppliers to bring new products into the store that are not currently available in our area and hope to have our website and online store up and running later this year.

HOTEL

PROUDLY UNVEILS ITS NEW LOOK PUB DESTINATION.

HFocus caught up with Proprietor Alistair Flower to find out all the details about the breathtaking transformation.

i Alistair. Can you give us an overview of the renovation works carried out at the Hastings Hotel and the difference they are already making?

We’ve just completed a major renovation at the Hastings Hotel, and we’re really proud of the result. The most noticeable change is our fully refurbished entertainment room – it now features high ceilings, beautiful finishes and plenty of natural light, making it the perfect spot for everything from lunch with friends to community events and live music.

We’ve updated the bistro and bar areas, refreshed the interiors throughout, and given the venue a new lease on life while keeping the character that locals love. The feedback so far has been fantastic – people are excited to have their local back, looking better than ever but still feeling like home.

The Hastings Hotel is a home away from home for locals, a place to celebrate sporting success, enjoy a classic pub-

style meal and relax with friends in a community-centric environment. How did this lead you in the renovation works?

That sense of community has always been at the heart of the Hastings Hotel, and it’s something we’ve really leaned into with the renovation. We’ve created spaces that encourage people to come together –the bistro has been refreshed and is perfect for family dinners and catch-ups, while the front bar is completely new, offering a warm, welcoming space where mates can meet after work or settle in for a session.

events. The function room has had a full update and is now a gorgeous, characterfilled space with a cozy fireplace and loads of charm – ideal for private events, gatherings, or community functions.

The Hastings Hotel has been part of Wauchope since 1897, and that country charm –the warmth, the character, the feeling that everyone’s welcome – is something we didn’t want to lose.

A major highlight is our huge 3-metre screen, which has transformed how locals watch live sport – it’s been a real game-changer, especially for State of Origin nights and big

We’ve also stayed true to our roots in supporting local sport and community groups – something we’re genuinely proud of. The Hastings Hotel has always been a place where teams come to celebrate a win or a season well played, and now it’s an even better backdrop for those shared moments. It’s a local’s pub, through and through – welcoming, relaxed and full of character.

The Hastings Hotel is a unique destination, steeped in history, dating back to 1897. I know it was important

1908 Grants Hotel

for you to maintain the country charm the hotel carries whilst modernising the bar, bistro and entertainment area and hotel rooms. How have you managed to navigate a contemporary style meeting the historic and country feel?

It was really important to us to honour the history of the building while bringing it up to the standard that today’s customers expect. The Hastings Hotel has been part of Wauchope since 1897, and that country charm – the warmth, the character, the feeling that everyone’s welcome – is something we didn’t want to lose.

We’ve focused on using natural materials, warm tones and classic design details that nod to the past, while introducing contemporary touches that improve comfort and usability. The high ceilings, timber finishes and open fireplaces are still very much part of the experience – but now they sit alongside updated lighting, modern furnishings and an improved layout that really brings the place to life. It’s a thoughtful balance of old and new, and the response so far from locals has been fantastic.

The Hastings Hotel has always had a lot to offer the local community. Since the renovation, what new activities or entertainment options have been introduced?

There’s always something happening at the Hastings Hotel – we’ve made sure of it. Monday and Wednesday nights in the bistro are locals’ favourites, with our $15 menu and 2 for 1 offer making it easy to enjoy a midweek meal out. Friday night karaoke continues to be a hit – it’s a fun, relaxed vibe where everyone’s welcome to step up and have a go. On Saturdays, we’re open late and bringing the entertainment to Wauchope, so there’s no need to head into Port Macquarie for a great night out. We’ve got well-known bands, DJs and tribute acts locked in over the coming months – the Luke Combs Tribute Show later this year will be a big one. We’ve also introduced a new cocktail list and added some fresh beer options on tap, both of which have been really well received.

A new website has also come with the renovation, so that’s where people can keep up to date with all the special events and offerings www.hastingshotel.com.au The year is swiftly flying by and the team

is encouraging people to book in early for their Christmas party and end of year functions. For people wanting to book their next function, how can they best get in touch?

It’s hard to believe we’re already talking about Christmas, but the end of the year always sneaks up quickly! We’re encouraging people to book their Christmas parties and end-ofyear functions early so they don’t miss out –especially now with the renovated spaces we are expecting a very busy Christmas season. Hastings Hotel manager Amanda Tonks is the go-to gal for all things functions. The best way to reach her is via email amanda@hastingshotel.com.au

1944 Hastings Hotel Timber Getters

en Crepaz

Schuch

Hi Ellen. For those unfamiliar with your talented self, please tell us a little about you. I’m Ellen Crepaz, founder of Mid North Coast EaTs, a platform that champions local food, small businesses, mental health, and community causes. I’m also the proud Regional Connect Network Member for Multicultural NSW and a 2025 Hidden Treasure Honouree, recognised for volunteering across regional NSW. Recently, my family and I became the owners of Little Fish Restaurant and the Innes Lake Wine Cellar. We have leased the most beautiful winery on the Mid North Coast, launching EaTs Estate, a destination for food, wine and connection, officially opening on June 11th.

You've taken up the challenge to step into dancing shoes amongst your already packed schedule. How are rehearsals going so far? Let’s just say I can’t dance to save my life, but I’ll absolutely dance to help save someone else’s. I’m belly dancing as a tribute to my Greek heritage and even dancing to

“Ya Habibi” by my cousin from the group Kings. It’s been a fun, meaningful experience with my amazing teacher Sati and fabulous backup dancer Katie.

What makes you passionate about this particular fundraiser for the Cancer Council? Cancer has deeply affected my family and so many in our community. This fundraiser is a way to raise hope, not just funds. At EaTs Estate, everything we do centres on community, and this is one more way we can give back.

Tell us a little about your sponsors and support team who have helped you on this journey. Rather than one big sponsor, we’ve created two exciting raffles, including a $5,000 event package and a $20,000 wedding giveaway, to raise funds and give something special back.

How can we contribute to your cause? Head to www. midnorthcoasteats.com.au to donate or grab tickets, and join us for EaTs After Dark on July 18th for a night of food, wine, music and magic

Why did you say yes to this year's DWTS? Giving back to the community is something I deeply value, but this cause holds a special place in my heart. As a cancer survivor, I’ve personally experienced the incredible support provided by Cancer Council, and I’m honoured to contribute to their vital work.

This isn’t just a chance to support a cause I’m passionate about— it’s also a unique opportunity to connect with others, challenge myself, and have some fun along the way.

What style are you doing?

I’m bringing Acro to the stage alongside the talented Jorjia-Rose from Coastal Dance. A huge thank you to Lauren and Jorjia-Rose from Coastal Dance for their time and dedication. Acro is all about big tricks and dynamic movements— expect flips, lifts, and some gravitydefying moments that will bring an exciting edge to the performance! Tell us about your fundraising event and how people can purchase tickets. My fundraising event will be a truly unforgettable celebration of mystery, music, and meaning. Guests will embark on a

journey to three secret locations, enjoying a day filled with great food, live music, cocktails, surprise entertainment, and plenty of fun along the way.

The event kicks off at 11:30 AM on Saturday, July 19. Tickets are $120, with all proceeds supporting Cancer Council’s invaluable work. Limited tickets are available, so act fast! Purchase your tickets here: trybooking.com/DBIBP.

What are you most excited about? What are you most nervous about? I’m most excited about fundraising and making a meaningful contribution to a cause close to my heart. It’s incredible to be part of this generous community.

As for nerves—Mastering the technique of the dance is a challenge, and I’m excited to push my body to try new things— embracing the physical demands and technical precision required for this performance.

How can our readers donate? Every donation is truly appreciated! You can contribute via the following link or find me on Facebook: stars.cancercouncil. com.au/fundraisers/ emmaschuch/stars-of-hastings.

adison Tegan Wilson Wright

Hi Madison. For those unfamiliar with your talented self, please tell us a little about you. Hi, I’m Madison Wilson — wife and mum of four, full-time financial services professional, and the proud owner of four award-winning businesses including Letz Get Lit 2444 and Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food. I thrive on bringing joy to others through unforgettable events, but beyond business, I’m deeply passionate about giving back to my community. You've taken up the challenge to step into dancing shoes amongst your already packed schedule. How are rehearsals going so far? Taking on Stars of Hastings has definitely added another layer to my jampacked life, but every sore muscle and rehearsal is worth it. It’s been chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly emotional. I’m loving every second, especially knowing it’s all for a cause close to my heart. What makes you passionate about this particular fundraiser for the Cancer Council? Cancer has affected too many people I love.  I lost my Pop 21 years ago,

and it’s affected both my Nan and Mum in various ways as well. This is my chance to do something bold, fun, and meaningful. As I now say "Be the reason someday, someone, gets to live a little longer."

Tell us a little about your sponsors and support team who have helped you on this journey? I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my sponsor - David Gray, CEO of Lifestyle. He has always believed in my husband and I. In addition,  the incredible crew who have backed me, from my family and friends to the legends who’ve donated, shared my events, and lifted me up when I doubted myself. Thank you!

How can we contribute to your cause? You can help me reach my fundraising goal by donating via my Cancer Council page, or simply spreading the word about my smaller upcoming fundraisers. Details will be shared on my Letz Get Lit 2444 Facebook page. Every little bit helps and means the world, not just to me, but to families facing the toughest battles of their lives.

Why did you say yes to this year's DWTS?

Joining DWTS is a deeply personal journey for me. Last year, I was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma—something I discovered through a social media post highlighting someone else’s experience. That post led to my own diagnosis, proving just how crucial awareness and early detection are. Through my participation, I want to raise awareness about skin cancer, encourage regular skin checks, and promote sun safety. My goal is to help others recognise warning signs early - just as that post helped me. Additionally, I’m using my platform to support the Cancer Council’s resources and fundraising efforts, ensuring more people have access to vital information and support. What style are you doing?

Showgirl - a dazzling, theatrical style that blends grace, glamour, and spectacle!

Tell us about your fundraising event and how people can purchase tickets. On June 20th, the stunning Mercure Centro will transform into a glamorous Art Deco venue for an evening of live

entertainment, fine dining, and spirited dancing all for a great cause.

Dress in your finest flapper dresses, tailored suits, and vintage accessories as we step into the grandeur of The Great Gatsby. Expect spectacular performances, themed souvenirs, and timeless charm.

Tickets are available now via Humanitix - scan the QR code to secure yours today!

What are you most excited about? What are you most nervous about? I'm most excited about bringing awareness to this cause and witnessing the community unite in support. At the same time, the thought of performing in front of everyone makes me a little nervous!

How can our readers donate money to the event? Donations can be made via my fundraising page stars.cancercouncil.com.au and searching for my name. Thanks!

Hi Jimmy. For those unfamiliar with your talented self, please tell us a little about you. My name’s Jimmy Laing and I have grown up living in the Camden Haven for the past 31years. I’m a dad to one ‘cute and she knows it’ 2-year-old daughter and one very sooky staffy. I have been a DJ for 15years. Alongside my wife Chloe we started our business “Ready Set Boom” in 2023 providing entertainment to all events and recently introduced our LED dance floor.

You've taken up the challenge to step into dancing shoes amongst your already packed schedule. How are rehearsals going so far? Yes, talk about adding into our already packed schedule! Tahnee from Soul Fire Pole Dancing has thrown me straight into the deep end testing me on what we can achieve. Battered, bruised and having motion sickness the first few weeks, we are getting some fun choreography together now. I’m already getting excited to take this on the big stage.

What makes you passionate about this particular fundraiser

for the Cancer Council? I feel that anyone you talk to would have been affected by cancer in some way, whether it has been their own journey, family or a close friend. Personally, my Dad has had his own cancer battles defeating it each time. The BRCA2 gene that significantly increases breast cancer unfortunately is in our family and has affected women on my Mum’s side including herself, her mother, sister and recently her niece.

Tell us a little about your sponsors and support team who have helped you on this journey? The support team that has helped out in such a short time is incredible. I teamed up with Steve from Silver Quinn who is another fellow star dancing who has assisted early with everything. So many vendors supporting our fundraiser has been very humbling. How can we contribute to your cause? You can contribute to my fundraising via my QR code or attend our Black & White event at The Port Macquarie Racecourse on June 28th tickets on sale at humantix – Winter Wonderland.

Laing Lucy Jimmy Humphries

Why did you say yes to this year's DWTS? I said yes because I love a challenge, and this was the perfect mix of creativity, courage, and community. I have many family members and friends who have been affected by cancer, including my Mum, so this is a chance to step out of my comfort zone while supporting a cause that truly matters.

What style are you doing?

I'm dancing 'Cabaret Jazz' with the incredible Ange from Port Macquarie Performing Arts. It’s elegant, sexy and fun, and pushes me physically and mentally in all the right ways!

Tell us about your fundraising event and how people can purchase tickets? For my fundraising event, I’m hosting Stars Under the Vines on Friday 13 June —an evening of music from Charlotte Rose and Ready Set Boom, great food from Seed Catering, Soul Sister Grazing and Blue Cow Gelato, a live and and a silent auction, balloon pop prizes, and cocktails from Maria River Distillery, all set at the stunning Cassegrain Winery and MC'd by

Marry Me Mindy. It’s going to be a magical night with goodie bags, lucky door prizes and so much more. Tickets can be purchased through my event website events. humanitix.com/stars-under-thevines-cocktails-at-cassegrains What are you most excited about and what are you most nervous about? I’m most excited about connecting with so many inspiring people and seeing our hard work come to life on stage. The energy, the lights, the audience - it’s going to be electric. On the flip side, I’m definitely nervous about performing live. It’s a whole new world for me, having never danced before, but I’m embracing the nerves! How can our readers donate money to the event? I would love your support! You can donate directly through the Dancing with the Stars website under my name or through my personal fundraising page stars.cancercouncil.com. au/fundraisers/lucyhumphries/ stars-of-hastings AND every donation goes into the draw to WIN a photo session with me valued at $800! Every dollar helps make a difference, and I’m so grateful for the support!

George

SARGENT

Why did you say yes to this year’s Dancing With The Stars? I’ve been itching to get back on stage and there’s nothing quite like the buzz of live performance. But what truly sealed the deal was the chance to do it for such a meaningful cause. Raising funds for Cancer Council makes every rehearsal, sore muscle, and bombastic costume feel that much more special.

What style are you doing?

We’re diving into rock theatre - big vocals, powerful storylines, and the rebellious heart of rock music. It’s that perfect blend of traditional musical theatre and high-octane rock anthems. Basically, it’s loud, dramatic, and full of emotion, a bit like my radio show. Tell us about your fundraising event and how people can purchase tickets. We’ve got two huge events locked in:

Musical Bingo at Lake Cathie Tavern – Thursday 19 June making its Lake Cathie debut! I’ll be hosting alongside DJ Jimmy Laing (fellow star) who’s spinning nothing but bangers. There’ll be drink specials, $16 schnittys, and plenty of chances to win, all while supporting

Cancer Council. Breakfast With The Stars – Thursday 18 July at Port City Bowling Club. Join me and some very familiar faces. Local, national and international stars for a morning full of laughs, breakfast, prizes and entertainment that’s well worth getting out of bed for. Tickets to both events are available via the Triple M Mid North Coast Facebook page.

What are you most excited about? I can’t wait to hit the stage with the incredible Marina Trajkovich and take on Meg Smith’s brilliant choreography. These two are absolute powerhouses, and the energy they bring is next level. I know we’re going to have a blast and hopefully leave the audience wanting more… maybe we’ll form a permanent trio after this and tour!

What are you most nervous about? Look, I’ve got a bit of a history of going rogue… improv is my thing. The challenge will be staying in step and not getting too carried away in the moment.w can our readers donate to the event?

Google “George Sargent - Cancer Council”, you’ll find my page. Every donation makes a real difference. I’d be incredibly grateful.

‘SARGE’ Hayley

Young

Why did you say yes to this year’s DWTS? Honestly? I’m a sucker for a challenge and a dance floor. But more than that, saying yes was about doing something bigger than myself. Everyone knows someone with a story around the dreaded C word. So I said yes to help raise money for our local community, to push myself (way) out of my comfort zone, and show my 4 boys that Mum’s still got moves… or still, definitely does not have moves! What style are you doing? Let’s just say there’ll be lot of laughs. I will be living my childhood dream and being a cheerleader for a night, or 2 minutes. So my style is Cheer, oh my goodness, I said it, yes, I will be attempting Cheer…. eek!

Tell us about your fundraising event and how people can purchase tickets? We had a great fundraising event planned but I had a long think about it and after the floods, the rise of living costs and with so many other events over the next 2 months, we decided to keep it simple. We will be giving 10%

of total sales, instore and online for the months of April to July. And will be doing some smaller, fun fundraising things over the coming weeks, so keep your eyes peeled on our socials.

And also, if anyone feels they would like to donate to our DWTS crew, anything helps, even $1 to $100, it all counts, you can find the link to donate in our IG bio.

What are you most excited about? What are you most nervous bout? I’m excited to step outside my usual world of kids, chaos, and business, and do something for me, with a side of fake tan and pom poms. I’m nervous about… well, falling on my face. Or forgetting the steps. Or a wardrobe malfunction. Or all of the above. But hey, at least I’ll do it with jazz hands!

How can our readers donate money to the event?

You can donate directly through the DWTS fundraising link in The Curve Collective bio, or by coming instore or going to our website thecurvecollective.au to shop and donate at the same time. It’s a win win really.

Hping LOVED ONES

THROUGH SUICIDAL

When we notice changes in someone close to us - mood shifts, social withdrawal, or expressions of hopelessness - it’s natural to feel concerned. But fear of saying the wrong thing or making the situation worse often prevents people from reaching out. The truth is, starting a conversation could be lifesaving.

Trust Your Gut and Take Notice. Sometimes you may not be able to pinpoint what’s wrong, but you know that something is.

Maybe the person is withdrawn, has lost interest in things they once enjoyed, or made statements like “No one would care if I was gone.” These are warning signs that should never be ignored.

“What if I’m wrong?” or “What if I make it worse?” But research shows asking someone directly about suicide will not put the idea in their head. In fact, it often provides immense relief to be seen and heard.

It’s better to ask and be wrong than stay silent and risk losing someone.

If the conversation happens online or over the phone, check where they are and whether they’re safe. Avoid starting this conversation on social media or in a group se ing.

Other signs may include giving away possessions, changes in appearance, increased use of alcohol or drugs, or talking about death - jokingly or seriously. Take these signals seriously. They may be a cry for help. Don’t Let Fear Stop You. You might worry,

Prepare and Pick the Right Time. If possible, find a private, quiet moment where you won’t be interrupted. Be genuine and direct. You might say, “I’ve noticed you seem really down lately, and I’m worried about you. Can we talk?” If the conversation happens online or over the phone, check where they are and whether they’re safe. Avoid starting this conversation on social media or in a group setting.

Ask Openly and Listen Without Judgement. Start with open-ended questions like “How long have you been feeling this way?” rather than “Are you okay?” Avoid offering quick fixes or comparing stories.

If you’re seriously concerned, ask directly:

“Are you thinking about suicide?”

Or: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”

Avoid vague phrasing like, “You’re not thinking of doing anything silly, are you?” Be calm, compassionate, and non-judgemental.

Explore the Risk. If they say “yes,” find out more without panicking. Ask: “Have you thought about how you would do it?” “Do you have a plan?”

“Have you taken any steps to carry it out?”

The more specific the plan, the higher the risk. If there’s immediate danger, don’t leave the person alone. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or emergency services.

Encourage Help and Look After Yourself. Let them know they’re not alone and that support is available. Encourage them to speak to a doctor, counsellor, or someone they trust. Offer to go with them or help make the appointment. Finally, supporting someone in crisis can take a toll on you too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help yourself. With Practice, These Conversations Get Easier. This is not something anyone is born knowing how to do, but with empathy, preparation, and practice, you can make a difference. Training is available through services like Lifeline to build your confidence. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to care enough to ask.

FROM LIFELINE NORTH COAST with ANGELA MARTIN

PETE MURRAY

ICONIC AUSTRALIAN SINGER SONGWRITER PETE MURRAY WILL BE PLAYING A SHOW AT PANTHERS PORT MACQUARIE ON FRIDAY 4TH JULY AS PART OF HIS AUSTRALIAN-FIRST SOLO ACOUSTIC REGIOTOUR.

Hi Pete. Can you share with us a bit about how you were first drawn to music and the early days of your career? What inspired you to pursue being a musician?

It was all just lucky how it started for me to be honest. Music was never really on my mind. I was involved in sport, athletics and playing rugby, and I was studying natural medicine so I was going to be working with athletes when I finished my own career in sport. Then I injured my knee, and I picked up a guitar. I was just happy to play covers for a long time and just have fun with that, but then I started to get into writing songs, and once I did I was actually really hooked on it. I was like 21 or 22 when I first picked up the guitar, so that's late, and then by the time I got into songwriting I was maybe mid 20s and I recorded my first independent album at the age of 30, which is probably considered pretty old to start in music!

This is your biggest tour to date, with 55 shows across Australia including some regional towns you haven’t visited before. What made you decide to take on such an ambitious run and why did now feel like the right time?

acoustic stuff on the album, it seems like the perfect time to do this.

Your new single, I Am Fire, is a powerful tribute to everyday heroes. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind it? I was inspired by what was going on in a couple of the wars happening. I saw some footage of people getting in there and helping others, literally carrying other people, carrying women and children. It was horrific, but these guys were jumping in there and putting their bodies on the line to save other people. And it just inspired me to write about those heroes that do that. People that stand up against regimes, and risk their life to try and stand up for humanity. That is really what the song’s about, that they're the real heroes in the world.

Over two decades into your career, you’ve sold over 1.2 million albums and earned multiple ARIA nominations. What keeps you motivated to keep creating and touring?

Well, it's a job I love.

some highlights for you over the past 20 years?

It’s something that my management and I have been talking about for a long time, because I've never done a solo acoustic run in this country before.. I've done it overseas but I've never done it here. I’ve always had the band, I’ve always had albums that had the band on them so that's what I've been doing. But we've always talked about the solo acoustic run and we knew that when I was to do it, it was going to have to be big because there would be a lot of people wanting to come and see it. I guess all these songs have been in their life for 20 years now so to come and see those songs in the raw form, just myself and an acoustic guitar; how they were written, is interesting for people so there's been a lot of excitement about it which has been great. I'm also releasing a new album, and that album still has quite a few band tracks on it but it’s also got some acoustic songs as well. So there's new music coming out, there’s

When you play live, you just get this amazing feeling, and when you’ve got a crowd singing along it’s just beautiful.

I feel like I'm really blessed. Everyone loves music. But to play it and to be involved in its creation is even more special than just listening to it. It's taken me around the world. I've met and played with lots of amazing people through it. When you play live, you just get this amazing feeling, and when you've got a crowd singing along it's just beautiful. To have success in the music business you've got to put a lot of effort in. And to be very driven to keep going you’ve got to have a big love for it and a lot of passion for it, and I do love all aspects of it. I love studio work. I love playing live. I love the songwriting process. I feel very blessed that I'm one of the small percentage that actually has a career in it so I want to keep going.

Your breakout album Feeler turned 20 last year. How do you feel looking back at that era of your music? And what have been

Looking back at that album, it's incredible to see how far it went. When I first recorded it, I think I fell into a little bit of the ‘post album blues’ we called it, where you just don't hear the beauty of it. And it started to take off and become popular, and I could play the songs live, but I just couldn't listen to the album. And I didn't listen to it for eight years. I couldn't listen to it until Darren Middleton from Powderfinger texted me one day and said ‘Mate, I’m just listening to Feeler, what a great album” and I went, is it? I guess I've got to listen to this album. Everyone loves it. So I listened to it without being judgemental, from start to finish. And after 8 years I was finally happy, and relieved that I liked it. A highlight has been that I’ve had people tell me that the lyrics to Better Days have actually saved their life, when they've thought that they didn't want to go on any more for whatever reason, and they’ve listened to the lyrics and understood that we're always gonna get through hard times and when you do you’re going to be in a better position for yourself, and to help others. There's no better compliment than when your lyrics have helped save someone's life. It was just a song I was writing when I was going through difficult times and then other people really connected to it, so that's really nice.

Beyond the tour, what’s next for Pete Murray in 2025?

The new album is coming out in October, so there will be singles released throughout the year leading up to that, which I'm looking forward to. Everyone in my team, my close friends and everyone that's heard the new album loves it, so that feels nice. It feels like a really special album, hopefully another timeless album with a bunch of songs that people will enjoy for a long time. Thanks Pete!

MITCHELL HAGENBACH & NIKITA POLTORASKY

Local footballers Mitchell Hagenbach and Nikita

Poltorasky were chosen to represent Northern NSW at the Tokyo International U14s Youth Football Tournament in May. We caught up with them to hear all about the experience and their goals for the future.

Hselected to represent Northern NSW Football in Tokyo! How did it feel when you first found out you made the team?

Mitchell: I was very shocked at first and it didn’t really sink in until I arrived in Japan.

Nikita: I was excited to be selected from so many talented players in NNSW and to have the opportunity to play at such a high level.

Can you tell us a bit about your time in Japan, what was the experience like on and off the field?

Mitchell: Everyone was very kind and respectful, on and off the field. I enjoyed visiting the Golden Temple, the meditation session we did, and visiting the Tsunami Memorial.

Nikita: It was a great experience to see the Japanese culture and how different life is there compared to Australia. We went to the Tsunami Memorial and visited different sites. On the field it was a great experience to see the level of talent internationally.

What was the level of competition like? Were there any standout teams or players you faced that really challenged you?

Mitchell: The teams we played were all from Japan. They were very good with the ball, very fast and always attacking. There were also teams from China, Brazil, and Egypt.

Nikita: The skill level was incredibly high and the game was played at a fast pace. Sao Paulo who won the competition had outstanding

How did your team come together during the tournament? What was it like teaming up with other players from Northern NSW?

Mitchell: Before the tournament, I was rooming with boys I hadn’t met before, sitting next to different people on bus rides and when we were out sight-seeing. This gave me a chance to get to know my new team-mates and coaching staff.

Nikita: The team was a mixture of Jet academy players and NNSW selected players. I already knew some of my teammates from the regular season. I made some new friends from the tour and look forward to playing against them back at home.

What was a typical day like during the tournament? Can you walk us through a game day in Tokyo?

Mitchell: We would have breakfast, then a team meeting to talk about formations and game plans. We then got changed into our kit, warmed up and then played. After the game we would head to the showers, have an ice bath and dress in our team tracksuits. We were able to spend some time with our family (if they had also travelled to Japan) and then head to dinner and back to our rooms.

Nikita: Different everyday but as an example we would wake up to a nutritious breakfast, light training session, have a team meeting where we discussed tactics and goals to get out of the game, then a warm up before the game, play a game, lunch, free time and an ice bath back in the hotel for recovery, a second team meeting

about how we played and to get valuable feedback from our coaches then freetime and dinner.

What was your personal highlight from the tournament?

Mitchell: Getting to play against footballers all over the world.

Nikita: Playing activities with the other squads from around the world and getting to know them and having a laugh off the pitch.

How did it feel to represent not just Northern NSW, but also your club and local community on the international stage? Who are some of your biggest supporters?

Mitchell: Pretty amazing. My biggest supporters are my Mum, Dad, my sisters, grandparents and family, and my Mid Coast FC teammates and coaches.

Nikita: I felt honoured to represent the large area of northern NSW and to showcase the skill of a player from the area. I appreciated my teammates and friends who live streamed my games to support me while I played. My Dad watched all my games from home cheering me on and being proud of what I achieved.

What’s next for you both in your football journey? Are there new goals you’re already setting your sights on?

Mitchell: My goal right now is to work hard and try and get scouted to an A League Academy like Newcastle Jets or maybe an overseas club.

Nikita: Working towards getting selected for the state of Origin on the Sunshine Coast later this year and then The Nationals next year.

YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY

More Than Medicine

NMatters: Enriching Your Wellness with Every Bite

A healthy diet is essential for good health and protecting you from chronic diseases. Good nutrition is key in managing and preventing diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Eating a variety of foods and consuming less salt, sugars and saturated and industrially-produced trans-fats, are essential for a healthy diet. Farm Door meals have no added preservatives or artificial flavours or colours. Just ready-made, balanced home style nourishing food to make healthy

eating simple. Enjoy your meal-times

Eating well is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Farm Door meals are cooked using locally sourced ingredients and long time favourite family recipes, ensuring every bite is packed with balanced nutrients and flavour from farm fresh ingredients. No powders or additives, all sauces and bases are cooked from scratch with homemade stock, just as your favourite home cook would.

Farm Door frozen meals are stocked at: North Haven Pharmacy delivering to Bonny Hills, Kendall, Dunbogan and everywhere in between.

Farm Door is a family run farm and kitchen located 10 minutes north of Wagga Wagga, in regional NSW. Set in the Riverina Food Bowl, within a short drive we pick up barrels of local olive oil, locally farmed beef and lamb, buckets of freshly picked strawberries, local cheese and seasonal vegetables and fresh bunches of herbs from our own family farm.

As an eligible Home Care Package (HCP) or NDIS participant you can claim 70% of the cost of your meals.

Lord Street and soon to be Flynn’s Beach Pharmacy (due mid June) delivering to all areas of Port Macquarie and Lake Cathie.

Cooking with local farm fresh ingredients is great for your health, for regional communities and for our environment, so thank you for supporting local growers and makers. We hope you enjoy the meals and can taste our love!

STEP 1: Ask your Home Care Provider to set up an account here at your local pharmacy.

STEP 2: Each time you

We can’t wait for you to come in store and experience the tasty benefits of Farm Door firsthand.

“...blown away by the taste and quality. Your packaging was just perfect with minimum waste.”

“Thank you so much for providing fresh, healthy hearty meals. They’ve been a godsend for me.”

Convenience: We understand how busy life can get, or simply when cooking for one can be tiresome. Now you can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals without the hassle. Simply heat and enjoy - no prep, no stress, no washing up. The Farm Door trays can be heated in a microwave or oven and are compostable. The range of main and petite meals are paired with seasonal vegetables, so there's no need to add a thing. For those with a sweet tooth, there's even a dessert range…

The under-eye area is often the first place we notice signs of aging and fatigue. As a dermatologist, I field countless questions about dark circles, puffiness, and crow's feet. Today, I'm breaking down the science behind these concerns and sharing the most effective treatments.

Why is the under-eye area so prone to problems? The skin around your eyes is about 40% thinner than the rest of your face and contains fewer oil glands, making it more susceptible to dehydration and aging. We blink approximately 10,000 times daily, creating constant movement that contributes to fine lines. Lack of fatty tissue means blood vessels are more visible, contributing to dark circles. What causes dark circles, and are they all the same? Dark circles aren't one-size-fits-all – there are actually three main types. Vascular dark circles appear blue or purple and are caused by visible blood vessels, often due to genetics, allergies, or lack of sleep. Pigmented dark circles are brown and result from melanin deposits, common in people with darker skin tones or sun damage. Structural dark circles create shadows due to loss of volume or tear trough deformity, typically developing with age. Understanding your type is crucial for choosing the right treatment approach.

Do eye creams actually work, or is it just marketing? Eye creams can be effective with the right ingredients. For fine lines, look for retinol, peptides, or vitamin C. For puffiness, caffeine can help constrict blood vessels. For dark circles, vitamin K or arbutin may help with pigmentation. The biggest benefit is their gentle

formulation for this sensitive area.

Under-Eye Solutions: Dark Circles, Pu ness & Fine Lines Explained

I wake up with puffy eyes every morning. What's causing this? Morning puffiness occurs when fluid accumulates under the eyes during sleep since gravity can't effectively drain lymphatic fluid when lying flat. Common causes include salty foods before bed, sleeping position, hormonal changes, or genetics. Try sleeping with your head elevated, reduce evening sodium, and use a cool compress or jade roller in the morning.

Are there any ingredients I should avoid around my eyes? Several ingredients can be too harsh for the delicate eye area. Avoid high concentrations of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide near your eyes. Retinol should be introduced gradually, and fragrances can cause irritation. Look for products specifically formulated for the eye area, as they're typically gentler and ophthalmologist-tested.

What about those trendy treatments like eye patches and LED devices? Microneedle eye patches use tiny dissolvable needles to deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin, making fine lines less noticeable for several hours – perfect before events. We stock professional-grade microneedle patches at PMAC clinic for patients wanting that quick boost. LED devices show some promise for collagen stimulation but require consistent use for subtle results.

When should I consider professional treatments? If you've tried consistent at-home care for 3-4 months without improvement, or if your concerns are structural (like deep tear troughs), it may be time to come in for an aesthetic consultation with one of our doctors. We have a large range of professional

treatments specifically designed for the undereye area that can address fine lines, volume loss, and pigmentation concerns. During your consultation, we'll assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. Our experienced team understand the delicate anatomy of this area and can provide safe, effective solutions tailored to your specific concerns.

What's your daily under-eye routine recommendation? Morning: gentle cleanser, vitamin C serum (avoiding immediate eye area), hydrating eye cream with SPF, and sunglasses outdoors. Evening: gentle makeup removal, cleanser, and nourishing eye cream with peptides, hyaluronic acid, or low-concentration retinol. Always apply with your ring finger using gentle tapping motions.

How long before I see results from my eye care routine? Hydration improvements may be noticeable within days, but significant changes in fine lines or dark circles typically take 6-12 weeks of consistent use. The goal is often maintenance and prevention rather than dramatic transformation.

The under-eye area requires special attention, but with the right approach, you can maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin for years to come.

Thanks Dr Kristy.

fnd

your

with BERNIE GINNANE QUALIFIED COUNSELLOR

MEDITATION & MINDFULNESS FACILITATOR LIFE COACH

WHAT

IA MONTH MAY WAS FOR MANY ACROSS THE MID NORTH COAST.

f you, or a loved one, or a neighbour, friend, your pet, your livestock, your business, or your community was affected directly or indirectly by the devastating floods, I send you heart-felt and positive thoughts.

Recovering from the emotional distress can take time. Experiencing anxiety is very common for many people in general, but can be especially so following very challenging situations.

It is not so much about getting rid of anxiety, as learning to recognise the signs and utilise coping strategies to help lessen and manage the emotions.

FIVE STRATEGIES TO HELP COPE WITH STRESS AND ANXIETY & TO FEEL A GREATER SENSE OF STABILITY AND CALM.

Give Yourself the Space and Time to Feel and Process Your Emotions.

Some days may be more challenging than others, but with time, patience and selfcompassion, things will get better. Small Steps Matter.

Practice Grounding Techniques to Help You Feel More Stable and in the Present Moment.

1st Suggestion: 5,4,3,2,1

Find Five Things You Can See. Find Four things You Can Hear. Find Three Things You Can Feel. Find Two Things You Can Smell. Find One Thing You Can Taste.

2nd Suggestion: Feet on the Ground

Stand or sit comfortably with both feet firmly resting on the ground. As you inhale, visualise

breathing up through the soles of your feet, and as you exhale visualise breathing out through the soles of your feet.

PRACTICE BREATHING EXERCISES.

Our breathing is a powerful way to help regulate our emotions and calm our body. Breathe In for a count of Four. Hold for a count of Four. Breathe Out for a count of Four. Hold for a count of Four. Repeat FOUR Times. (Reach out to me for personalised suggestions or follow one of my many meditations and breathing practices on my YouTube channel.)

4. MAINTAIN A SELF-CARE ROUTINE.

Even a few minutes a day.

5. REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT.

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME

I offer COUNSELLING, both ONLINE via Zoom, accessible from anywhere in Australia, And FACE to FACE Sessions in Port Macquarie.

All sessions help to support emotional regulation, build resilience, and foster personal growth.

Session notes, tips and tools can also be emailed after sessions.

ONLINE SESSIONS: 20% Discount for June, July August.

Online Sessions can be 1-hour or 1.5-hour duration, and via Zoom.

Clients can choose weekly, fortnightly or a package of sessions.

Online Sessions provide therapy without the inconvenience of travel or finding a parking space.

Online Sessions are experienced in the comfort and privacy of your home or office, providing flexibility to help you get the support you need without disrupting your life.

Sessions are personalised for you, using either a traditional or holistic approach, or a blended approach.

Traditional Counselling includes:

• Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Narrative Therapy

• Solution-Focused Therapy

Holistic Counselling includes:

• Intuitive Guidance

• Sound Healing

• Numerology Reading

Sound Healing is a deeply relaxing experience that promotes stress release and deep relaxation using mindfulness and the gentle vibration and sound of therapeutic bowls.

Blended Counselling includes:

A blend of traditional and holistic counselling. I also offer a Free Resource on my YouTube channel. Over 260 Meditations and Short Chats, available 24/7.

youtube.com/@bernie888100/videos

HOW TO CONTACT BERNIE 0491 015 566

bernie224@gmail.com

Follow on Facebook and Instagram

bernie-ginnane-counsellor-spiritual-lifecoach.mailchimpsites.com

FREE event

CareTrogy

Information session: Take charge of your care

Use code TRILOGY at check-out to claim your FREE info pack

Trilogy Care supports you to live well at home for longer, by helping you build and self-manage the Home Care Package you want and need.

Our experienced team provides personalised care planning and budget administration, as well as the option for coordination of supports, to help you maximise your care hours and wellbeing. Choice, control, and independence – backed by Trilogy Care’s compassionate team of industry experts.

Our mission

Empowering older Australians to live independently in the home they love for longer.

Trilogy Care chose this mission statement as it aligns with our commitment to providing you with the confidence, control, and care you need and deserve, to age well in your own home.

Trilogy Care has first-hand experience supporting Australians to self-manage their Home Care Packages. We draw on this experience to empower you to continue to live an independent,

healthy, and supported life in the home you love.

Support at Home

Enjoy an easy transition with Trilogy Care.

From 1 July 2025, aged care at home is changing. The Support at Home program, the government’s new aged care program, will replace the current Home Care Package system, introducing a streamlined and more personalised approach to care.

Whether you’re currently receiving support or just beginning your journey, Trilogy Care is here to help. We make understanding the new home care program simple, ensuring you know what’s changing, what stays the same, and how to make the most of your care.

We’re ready to guide you with tailored advice, expert care planning and dedicated support every step of the way.

Dental splints (also known as a nightguard) is a dental mouthguard often made of a soft or hard plastic. It is usually worn at night as a snug fit covering all of the top teeth or the bottom teeth. It is custom made to each mouth to help protect the teeth from wear and tear, offering an alternative method to treating larger functional issues. Being non-invasive in nature it adds protective effects on the jaw and mouth from biting habits such as bruxism and TMD.

Why do I need a splint?

Splints are commonly recommended for:

• Bruxism: teeth grinding or clenching habits. Splints can prevent the wearing away of the tops of your teeth that ultimately cause tooth loss, fractures and sensitivity.

• TMD: temporomandibular (jaw) joint disorder. Splints can be recommended to treat joint or muscular issues, to prevent clenching habits during the night to prevent locking of the jaw.

• Splints can also help preserve and extend the longevity of dental work - such as crowns, bridges, implants and veneers from the effects of night time grinding.

• Splints can help correct bites that are misaligned, although this must be done with an orthodontist.

What I can expect.

The costs of treatment can vary. A night-guard has an estimated cost between $500-1000 and a

DENTAL SPLINTS UNPACKED

What is a splint, what is it used for and why has my dentist recommended I get one?

splint will last many years. While this cost may seem prohibitive initially a splint can help you sleep better, wake up more refreshed, suffer from few headaches/jaw aches and in the case of bruxism save wear and tear on your teeth and save you thousands of dollars over the long term. Splints are usually made of a hardened plastic such as acrylic or nylon, and can last up to 5 years with proper cleaning and care. Softer splints may be designed for certain cases where the mouth and teeth can only accommodate a softer material, and last up to 2 years. It is recommended to bring the splint to your routine dental exams for your dentist to monitor and change when needed.

How long should I wear an occlusal splint?

How long and when you should wear an occlusal splint depends on the reason for a splint. Typically splints for night-time grinding are to be worn for the hours of sleep only. Splints for day-time will also depend on the reason as well follow your dentists recommendations as to when/where you wear your splint.

Does it hurt to wear an occlusal splint?

Initially, it might be hard to get used to the feeling, but any discomfort should go away after wearing it for a few days. If it becomes painful, you should consult your dentist.

Can I talk or eat with an occlusal splint?

Talking and eating with an occlusal splint can be challenging. It’s generally recommended to remove it while eating, and talking may feel a bit

different when wearing it.

How do I take care of my occlusal splint?

You can clean the splint daily using a toothbrush with mild soap or special cleaning solutions designed for dental appliances. Avoid using hot water, as it could change the shape of the plastic.

What if I stop wearing my occlusal splint?

If you stop wearing the splint, you may experience a return of symptoms from bruxism or TMD such as jaw pain, headaches, severe tooth wear, especially if the root cause of the issue hasn’t been addressed.

When should I change my splint?

You should change your splint if you notice visible cracks, thinning of the plastic material due to bite marks, if the splint is not fitting properly, increasing pain from use, or if there are heavy stains and discoloration of the plastic material. Are splints toxic?

Usually occlusal splints are made from dentalgrade plastic materials which are not toxic. Most are made with hard acrylic resins (PMMA - Polymethyl Methacrylate) and are BPA free! You can always ask your dentist and the laboratory for further information.

If you or a loved one has been suffering with TMJ, Bruxism, jaw pain or headaches it is worth asking your dentist about an occlusal splint or night gard. For further information or an appointment call the caring team at Sundial Dental 6583 3533.

HastingsHome Hospice

For over three decades, Hastings Home Hospice has been a quiet but powerful force in our region, supporting those navigating the final stages of life with compassion, dignity and practical assistance. In this interview, we speak with the dedicated committee behind HHH to learn more about their collaboration with local health services, the difference their work makes, and how the community can help ensure this vital care continues.

Hastings Home Hospice (HHH) has been supporting the community since the late 1980s. For those unfamiliar, can you explain what HHH does and why its role is so vital in our region?

HHH provides support to residents in the Port Macquarie-Hastings Local Government Area who are being cared for by the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s (MNCLHD) specialist palliative care service. HHH’s motto is ‘Helping to ease the hardship’.

Through fundraising and advocacy, HHH provides assistance to those with a life limiting illness to maintain their quality of life, safety and independence. They help meet the community’s needs by supplying vital medical resources that are inaccessible for some members of the community.

Can you tell us about the collaboration between the Hastings Home Hospice committee and MNCLHD staff and highlight some of the incredible people working behind the scenes to support patients and families through their end-of life journeys?

HHH shares a deep and collaborative bond with the staff of Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to compassionate care.

Several committee members are proud to also serve as clinicians at the Wauchope Palliative Care Unit and on the Port Macquarie Hastings Community Palliative Care Team.

While our dedicated volunteers may not work directly with patients, they stand firmly behind the clinicians who advocate tirelessly for those in need. Together, this partnership blends decades of volunteer dedication with the clinical expertise and the insight of healthcare professionals,

ensuring that every palliative care patient is supported with dignity, empathy and the resources they deserve.

HHH helps people remain at home in their final days, if that is their wish. Why is this so important for patients and their families?

Many people living with a life-limiting illness prefer to stay in their own home or a familiar environment, giving them a feeling of independence, privacy, close access to family, friends and what is important to them.

Research suggests that 70 per cent of Australians, given the choice, would prefer to die at home.

HHH helps to achieve this by providing access to various supports to enable this to occur. Although not everyone will die at home, the Palliative Care teams and HHH aim to support patients at home, for as long as possible.

What kind of equipment or support can HHH help fund, and how do these things make a difference in someone’s quality of life at the end?

Caring for someone at home during their final journey is a deeply personal and meaningful experience and having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors over the past few years, HHH has been able to provide essential items through the palliative care equipment loan pool, including hospital-style beds, feeding tools and mobility aids that bring comfort and dignity to patients and help family members.

Raising funds is never easy, especially in today’s world where many families are under financial strain. Yet, the HHH committee continues to rise to the challenge with unwavering determination and heart.

We also recognise that the cost of end of life medications can be a heavy weight for many. That’s why HHH continues to support patients in need, helping to ease financial stress during such a vulnerable time.

In addition, we’ve proudly contributed to the Wauchope District Memorial Hospital Palliative Care Unit by donating funds to furnish both patient and carer rooms, creating warm, welcoming spaces where families can be together, surrounded by comfort.

Recently you celebrated National Palliative Care week, can you tell us a little bit about that?

The National Palliative Care Week was celebrated from 11-17 May this year. This year’s theme was a simple, yet powerful question, ‘What's your plan?'’.

It’s a direct approach to Australians and their loved ones to talk about what matters most at the end of life and to make a plan that empowers and respects their choices during the last years, months and days of life.

Some examples of good conversation starters between loved ones are talking about what you would want for your medical and care needs, who would you like to help make decisions if you could no longer, and where would you

prefer to have your endof-life care?

Many people may not realise how much of your work is volunteerdriven. Can you tell us a bit about the committee and what inspires them to keep going?

Every member of HHH carries a personal story, a moment when the need for palliative care touched their lives and inspired them to take action. United by compassion and a shared purpose, we are committed to making a difference for those in our community facing a life-limiting illness.

Raising funds is never easy, especially in today’s world where many families are under financial strain. Yet, the HHH committee continues to rise to the challenge with unwavering determination and heart. Under the strong and steady leadership of President Lyn, Vice President Lil and our longest serving member Marita who has dedicated over 30 years to this cause, HHH stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. We are also strengthened by the fresh perspectives of newer members like Catherine, a seasoned health professional and researcher, who passionately believes in every person’s right to choose where they spend their final days, whether at home or in a healthcare setting.

Our Treasurer David’s personal journey through the loss of his beloved wife, cared for by both

the Community Palliative Care Team and Wauchope Palliative Care Unit, brings a deeply human perspective to everything we do.

Together, we are more than a committee; we are a community of advocates, working to ensure that dignity, choice and compassion are at the heart of everything we do.

How can the community best support HHH moving forward?

We need you, our community, to help keep this incredible work going.

HHH is powered by the generosity and passion of volunteers who care deeply about supporting those facing a life-limiting illness. We are always looking for more hands to help, whether you can give your time, donate an item, contribute financially or simply shop at one of our fundraising stalls – every act of kindness makes a real difference.

You don’t need experience, just a caring heart and a willingness to help. Your support, no matter how big or small, helps provide essential equipment, comfort and dignity to palliative care patients and their families.

If you’re passionate about making a meaningful impact in your community, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can continue to shine the light on what matters most in the final days of life.

Contact us at: hhhospice@myyahoo.com or via: Box 2051, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444.

BUSINESS

Willow Brows By

WILLOW RISSEL

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

From launching her first beauty salon at just 19 to winning Business of the Year by 24, Willow Rissel has quickly become one of Port Macquarie’s most inspiring young entrepreneurs. Specialising in cosmetic tattooing, brows, lashes, skin treatments, and education, Brows by Willow is more than just a beauty salon - it's a community built on confidence, care, and creative energy.

Hi Willow, tell us about Brows by Willow and how you started this business?

Brows by Willow is a beauty salon based in Port Macquarie, specialising in cosmetic tattooing, brows, lashes, skin, body sculpting, laser tattoo removal and education. I started the business because I’ve always been passionate about helping people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

School was never really for me - I’m a hands-on, creative person. I left school at 16 to begin a beauty apprenticeship and fell in love with the industry. I opened my own salon at 19, and it’s grown ever since. Now, at 24, I lead a team of three amazing women, and we’ve created a supportive, empowering environment. We've also expanded into education, launching our own cosmetic tattooing academy, something I’m incredibly proud of.

Tell us about the moment you were called

out for Business of the Year.

It still gives me butterflies! I was completely shocked. I remember just sitting there, stunned, and walking up on stage with no speech prepared. It was one of the proudest moments of my life. Being recognised like that, among so many incredible businesses, meant the world to me and my team. We’ve poured so much heart into this business and it was such a beautiful reminder that the hard work is worth it.

It was one of the proudest moments of my life. Being recognised like that, among so many incredible businesses, meant the world to me and my team.

What has been your guiding vision or mission, and how has it played a role in your success? When I started, I just wanted to do what I loved

and make a living. Over time, that mission deepened. A big shift came after I participated in Dancing With the Stars 2022 for cancer - it inspired me to give back more. Now, our purpose is rooted in making a positive impact. We've donated to local fundraisers, raised money for Hastings Little Wishes, and I’m working towards offering free areola tattooing for breast cancer survivors. At the heart of everything is helping people feel like the best version of themselves - whether it’s through brows, skin treatments, or something life-changing like cosmetic tattooing. What were some pivotal decisions that helped you grow the business?

It hasn’t been about one big decision, but lots of small, intentional ones. Leaving school at 16 to pursue a trade, opening my salon at 19, choosing to build a team - each was a step outside my comfort zone.

Saying “yes” to things that scared me, like teaching or giving back helped the business grow in meaningful ways. The most important thing has been staying true to my values and leading with heart. That’s what makes Brows by Willow different.

What set your business apart from the competition this year?

The heart behind what we do. Of course, we offer high-quality services, but it's more than that, it’s the energy, the feeling people get when they walk in. We’ve created a space that’s welcoming, personal, and empowering.

My staff are legends who keep the vibes high, Mel, from Pure Lash is my sanity-saver, and my Mum is my biggest cheerleader and therapist all rolled into one.

We’re not just about beauty; we’re about purpose. From hosting White Night fundraisers to launching our tattooing academy, we’re always looking for ways to grow and give back. It’s not about standing still - it’s about building something real, raw, and rooted in care.

What have been some of the biggest challenges, and how have you overcome them?

One of the hardest parts was gaining respect and credibility as a young business owner. Starting at 16 meant I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. I had to let my work speak - showing up every day with professionalism and results.

Signing my first lease five days before COVID lockdowns was another huge challenge. It forced me to be strategic, adaptable, and calm under pressure. I also learned some hard lessons early on about setting boundaries and protecting the business from people who didn’t share my values.

More recently, navigating rising living costs has pushed us to keep evolving and offering

a standout experience. Each challenge has shaped me into the business owner I am today.

Have you ever felt like giving up? What kept you going?

Absolutely - sometimes daily, but what keeps me going is my incredible support system. My staff are legends who keep the vibes high. Mel, from Pure Lash, is my sanity-saver, and my Mum is my biggest cheerleader and therapist all rolled into one.

Surrounding myself with people who keep it real, lift me up, and make me laugh (along with a good coffee!) gets me through the tough days. I genuinely love what I do and the clients I get to help, and that’s what keeps me moving forward.

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs hoping to build an awardwinning business?

Don’t compare yourself to others, your unique

style and passion will set you apart. Focus on your own path.

Find a mentor and build a support network of like-minded people. Keep learning - your growth is never done. Say no to things that don’t align with your values, and protect your energy.

Be patient and persistent. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but if you stay true to your passion and keep showing up, the rewards will come. This is your story so write it your way.

How do you plan to keep the momentum going after such a successful start to the year?

I’m enjoying the ride, but I’m always thinking ahead. I’m constantly evolving by adding new services, dreaming up new ideas, and finding fresh ways to connect with our community. With my amazing team beside me, we’re building something that’s not just successful but meaningful. I can’t wait to see where the adventure takes us next.

Thanks Willow.

Brows by Willow

3/40 William Street, Port Macquarie 0480 281 308 browsbywillow.com

Head Office: 2/21-27 Grant St, Port Macquarie 6583 8644 info@linked.org.au linked.org.au

Lux Laser & Aesthetics Magni ed

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Accounting for business growth. magnified.com.au (02) 6583 5811

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sales@sovereignhills.com.au sovereignhills.com.au

7/18 Park St, Port Macquarie 6583 8785 seasaltportmacquarie.com.au

CHLOE MULLAN LUX LASER

lucy@lucyhumphriesphotography.com lucyhumphriesphotography.com

Hi ladies! Congratulations on your recent accolade. What does this award mean to you all?

This award means a great deal to us all. It shows that we are being recognised for our commitment to our clients and our community. We are exceptionally thrilled to have taken this prestigious award out now for two years running and we’ll be back next year for the hat trick!

(Amy) I couldn’t do this by myself so the credit definitely belongs to my amazing team, my supportive family and most importantly our loyal clientele.

What does it feel like to be a part of an award winning team?

(Emily) It feels amazing! We take pride in everything we do and it shows that we really are making an impact in our clients lives and this really motivates me to be the best that I can. Amy is an incredible leader who always supports us and goes above and beyond to help. Amy stands up for the team and is always there when we need her. I absolutely

Woman Wonder

Wonder Woman Cleaning Services takes out, for another year the ‘Cleaning and Property Maintenance Services’ award at the recent Port Macquarie Business Awards. Focus caught up with the superstar team led by business owner, Amy Walker, Emily McAlister, 2IC, Tiarna urtell, team member and Ashtyn Ardrey, CEO.

love working for her and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

(Ashtyn) I am incredibly proud to be a part of the team and it’s a fantastic achievement to win the award for two years running.

(Tiarna) It’s amazing to work with the Wonder Woman team!

Why is it so important to have a team mentality as opposed to a boss and staff?

(Emily) Having a team mentality means we all support each other and work towards the same goals. We are able to bounce ideas off one another to find the best outcome. It makes the job smoother, more positive and everyone feels valued.

(Tiarna) Working as a team means we have just all round positive and open communication with each other and it feels more like a family working environment.

(Amy) This mode of operating means we are all on the same page and no one feels superior to another. We are a solid team with one common goal and that’s to provide the very best service to our clients and I believe we do just that.

We are able to bounce ideas o one another to find the best outcome. It makes the job smoother, more positive and everyone feels valued.

What’s on the horizon for the team and business moving forward?

(Emily) To continue to provide exceptional service to our clients with a fast and efficient workflow.

(Tiarna) To continue to gain and build amazing relationships with our staff, clientele and other service providers that make our jobs easier.

(Amy) We aim to focus on growth over the next twelve months, growing our team, our services and possibly expanding into new areas. Stay tuned!

Thanks ladies.

Wow what a fabulous event the 2025 Coastline Bank Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards night was. We had amazing entertainment from Sophie Delightful and the Curbside Carnies thanks to our entertainment sponsor Lux Laser & Aesthetics. A big congratulations to Willow Rissel from Brows by Willow who took out four awards including Business of the Year. At the end of the evening I announced that I would be stepping down from Business Port Macquarie as of the 31st May. I have been very fortunate to have been a representative of the board of Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce/Business Port Macquarie for the past 13 years. What I didn’t expect was the beautiful standing ovation I received which touched my heart deeply, and I was lost for words (which for those who know me, know is rare!).

During my time on the board I have been lucky to be involved in many community projects such as introducing the Christmas Parade. The first year half of Horton St was blocked off and we had 11 walking floats, and by the last parade, 9 years later, we had all of Horton Street and 54 floats - both walking and motorised. Building on that success, we added fireworks and the Mascot race, but after Covid the council decided not to resurrect the event.

Bringing the New Years Eve fireworks to the community was also a real highlight. None of which would have been possible without some great business sponsorships. My position gave me the opportunity to get to know, and be associated with, some great groups, including Luminosity, Hastings Education Fund, Nautilus school and Charles Sturt University to name a few. Most of all though, I have loved being able to advocate on behalf of the business community, to be able to take your concerns to all levels of government and give you a voice. None of which would happen without the support and friendships I have received during these years. Thank you for backing me and trusting me to represent you. Facilitating networking and watching strategic alliances between very different businesses to support each other has been fantastic.

I am often asked why I am involved in volunteering and advocacy, especially as I have 3 other businesses. It is because I believe that we all need to do our part as volunteers, to give back to the community and help that community thrive. I am passionate about our community and the fantastic place we live in, and I am also passionate about business. Over the years I have been involved in many different organisations from 12 years on a pre school committee to School P&F, soccer coaching and club rep, representative soccer committee, drama committee, Little Athletics, junior triathalon club, futsal coaching and

managing. As my kids grew up and left home I say I graduated into more grown up groups such as Look Good Feel Better, Willing & Able Board and The Chamber Board and the Business Awards Committee. I can honestly say that I have loved every minute of it and would recommend being involved (maybe not quite this much) to everyone. Not only does it ensure that these events can happen, but it gives you a great feeling inside and opens you up to many people from different walks of life. Will I get involved in another project? Highly likely, but I am not sure what that is, after all none of the past had been planned it just came along at the right time so we will see where the road leads next.

I am proud to know that I leave Business Port Macquarie in good hands and present Peter Jones from Harvey Norman as your new President. Peter is a beautiful caring human being and a very good business operator with impeccable ethics. I know Peter will represent the business community well and his youthfulness will help keep the services offered to the business community current and up to date. Please show Peter the same support that you have afforded me over the years.

As I sign off it’s not goodbye, it’s see you around. I encourage each of you to find ways to contribute, connect, and continue building the thriving business community we all love. Take care, signing off - Alex xx

Open Day 2025

Port Macquarie – Sunday 3 August

Accounting. Environmental science. Education. Nursing. Psychology. Physiotherapy. These are just some of the exciting courses available at our Port Macquarie campus.

And you can discover them all at Open Day!

• Be inspired by our academics.

• Explore our cutting-edge facilities.

• Chat to our students about what studying with us is really like.

• Enjoy live entertainment and free food.

Check out Open Day at our other campuses

The ntertainer

His impressive career highlights include dancing alongside Guy Sebastian to open for Taylor Swift, movement consulting for the Hollywood blockbuster Thor: Ragnarok, playing to crowds of over 90,000 as the resident DJ for Gold Coast’s largest NYE party, and even bringing the hype to Buckingham Palace for the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay. With his unique, infectiously joyous energy, Sid the Entertainer is quite simply more fun than a room full of bubble wrap.

Hi Sid. Your vibe and journey is nothing short of remarkable and your passion and commitment to life will see you again grace this year’s Luminosity stage as a keynote speaker to inspire the next generation of young people to follow their pursuits. Can you share with us a little about yourself and your unique journey that has played a pivotal role in your life.

You’re too kind! My journey has been as ridiculous as it has been wonderful. I know it probably doesn’t seem like it when you look at me now, but I was a really shy child. At the age of 8 my family emigrated to Australia. I was a small, scrawny, Indian kid, with big ears and a

From superyachts to global stages, Buckingham Palace to Port Macquarie and the Luminosity stage, Sid the Entertainer, also known as Sid Mathur, is a world-class vibe creator and one of Australia’s leading multi-disciplinary entertainment specialists. As an MC, DJ, dancer, choreographer, and actor, Sid has made his mark on both stage and screen globally.

thick accent. Thankfully I’ve grown into my ears and out of my insecurities!

I was raised in a fairly academic family and my path seemed quite predetermined. The narrative I was brought up with was that if I went to a good school and got good grades, I could get into a good course at a reputable university and then go on to a successful job and thereby be happy. I followed the plan, became a solicitor admitted in the Supreme Court of Victoria and was ready to dive into the world of corporate law in Melbourne. This belief system wanted me to DO certain things, to HAVE certain experiences and thereby BE the most successful version of myself.

However, having grown up with a love for freestyle hip hop dance, I unknowingly formed another contrasting belief system deep within my subconscious. I was training BEING my authentic self, constantly DOING things that pushed me out of my comfort zone and suddenly HAVING experiences that were beyond my wildest imagination both on and off the dance floor.

The journey I’ve been on has seen that shy young kid discover a confidence that lay below the surface and I now use that gift to shift the energy in rooms all over the world. With a

ridiculously infectious love for life, I now make a living simply being a vibe and teaching others how to find the most confident version of themselves.

This year’s Luminosity theme is entitled ‘Imagine and Ignite.’ What do you hope to bring to the 2025 summit and how do you plan to engage and inspire this year’s audience?

My story is one of what is truly possible when you silence the outside voices, look within, and ignite the flame of passion and purpose. I hope sharing how my freestyle framework has forever changed my life inspires others to take a look at their own lives through a new lens.

We all have a burning desire within ourselves. Some are just more in tune with it than others. What can we do to train our awareness, get in touch with our intuition and unlock the mastery of the flow state? Believe it or not, freestyle dancing has taught me all these things. My message to the audience is simple - get out of your head, into your body and dance your way out of your comfort zone. As they say, “that’s where the magic happens!”.

Furthermore, when you’re living your life with definitive purpose, the universe moves in ways you could never conceive. When you’re

on a mission, what you imagine you can create. Visions go from your head to your heart to your hands, with ease. An ignited purpose with a creative imagination is a dangerous combination for making your wildest dreams come true.

Having personally transformed from a nervous and anxious kid to an international Vibe Creator and Confidence Coach I know what it takes to overcome self-limiting beliefs...

What is it that has driven you personally and professionally to living a life of purpose and possibility when others may have shied away from the challenge?

I honestly feel like I’m answering a calling. I don’t feel like I’m pushing myself forward, instead it’s like the universe is pulling me - it feels almost spiritual. In taking this path I’ve inadvertently become the mentor and role model I needed as a child. Having personally transformed from a nervous and anxious kid to an international Vibe Creator and Confidence Coach I know what it takes to overcome self-limiting beliefs - I’ve done it before and continue to do it time and time again.

As an entrepreneur, what has been your most valuable attribute to bringing your journey and vision to life and making a difference to others?

I walk the talk. I practice stepping out of my

comfort zone as much as I preach it. Alongside being a Vibe Creator & Confidence Coach I also own one of the Gold Coast’s longest running dance studios, Ikin Dance. When I took over the reins, I flipped the traditional studio narrative. Parents put their kids into creative arts in the hope of making them confident. That story puts the artform in the spotlight and confidence is a secondary effect. Instead I asked the question, what would it look like if all we did was inspire confidence and resilience as a primary focus, and we just happened to do it through movement? The outcome was a brand new program and an energy unlike any other dance studio. Ikin Dance has become the premiere destination for confidence coaching on the Gold Coast, winning the Most Outstanding Performing Arts Business Award last year.

If you had one wish for young people today, what would that be?

Learn to fail successfully. What does that mean? Learn to enjoy the process of failure and everything it entails - how it feels, what happens during and after. Why? The largest successes you’ll ever have in your life will only come after you learn. In school you’re first given the lesson

then the test, in life it’s the opposite. You’re tested first and then you learn your lesson. If you’re not prepared to fail, you’re not going to try. If you never try, I can guarantee you’ll never win.

When you venture out of your comfort zone, you’re going to fail, you’re going to feel anxiety, you’re going to feel nervous. It’s going to feel uncomfortable. That’s the point. Everything you could ever want is on the other side of that fear. Don’t avoid it, embrace it.

For people interested in connecting with you, how can they best reach out?

Best place to find me is on Instagram @sidtheentertainer - you can get in touch with me directly and keep up with all my shenanigans there!

Thank Sid.

Interview: Sarah Baker

Challenging today’s generation to become the leaders of tomorrow.

GLASSHOUSE AND RYDGES PORT

Tony Cox Law would like to welcome Lyndel Rose Conveyancing to the team.

With a strong commitment to client satisfaction, the experienced team will handle all aspects of property transactions, including buying, selling, and transferring titles.

Our firm is dedicated to clear communication and transparency, ensuring our clients are well-informed and confident throughout their entire property journey.

Meet our team

Justine Scully

Justine Scully is a Licensed Conveyancer with extensive experience. Justine worked at Lyndel Rose Conveyancing for 4 years and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. She has many years of experience in the conveyancing industry.

Jenny Graham

Jenny has been with Tony Cox Lawyers for 11 years and is an experienced legal secretary of 42 years with a strong background in both legal and conveyancing matters. Her attention to detail and support ensures our conveyancing processes run smoothly.

Gina McNeil is a Licensed Conveyancer who has been a valued member of Tony Cox Lawyers for 10 years, Gina is a seasoned expert with over 25 years of conveyancing experience.

Melanie Connell is a qualified lawyer practising in Family Law, Wills & Probate, and Civil Litigation. She also plays a key role in conveyancing, assisting with Business Sale and Purchase Contracts, as well as Commercial and Retail Leases, and offers valuable legal insight to our team.

Gina Mcneil

Melanie Connell

Meet Lyndel Rose

Please introduce yourself to our readers. My name is Lyndel Rose, and I am a Port Macquarie local who has worked in the conveyancing and legal industry for 32 years

I am a Licensed Conveyancer and the owner of Lyndel Rose Conveyancing, a successful business I’ve operated here in Port Macquarie for the past 5 ½ years. Over this time, I’ve built strong relationships within the local community, which has allowed me to provide an exceptional, personalised service to my clients.

I pride myself on providing a highly personalised approach to each client, ensuring that every transaction is handled with care, clarity, and attention to detail. I am dedicated to making the conveyancing process as straightforward and stress-free as possible, regardless of the complexity or size of the transaction.

Outside of conveyancing I spend a lot of time outdoors with friends and family. I love spending time with my 2 adult children, my grandson and my new grand daughter. I also like to surf, play golf and mountain bike ride.

With this exciting new merger tell us how this benefits your current and future clients? We’ve come together to join forces to provide exceptional property services, combining the strength of our experience and knowledge to better serve our clients.

Our team includes skilled professionals who are committed to delivering clear, transparent, and practical advice throughout the entire conveyancing process. With a diverse range of expertise, this merger brings together the best of both worlds, combining our years of specialised expertise in conveyancing with the expanded resources and capabilities of a larger, more diversified law firm.

Tony Cox is a respected lawyer here in Port Macquarie with years of experience in a variety of legal areas, and his team of experienced lawyers and secretarial staff share his commitment to delivering exceptional legal services. Our clients will now have access to a broader range of legal expertise, not just in conveyancing, but across other areas such as family law, civil litigation, leases, wills and estates. This means that if your property transaction overlaps with any other legal matter, we can handle everything in-house with our experienced lawyers without the need to refer you elsewhere.

I am truly excited about this new merger, and I look forward to seeing what our team can achieve together and the many opportunities ahead.

Can you list the experiences and what types of property transactions have you handled most? With over 30 years of experience in conveyancing across New South Wales, I’ve had the privilege of assisting countless clients navigate the complexities of property transactions.

Prior to commencing Lyndel Rose Conveyancing, I worked with Brett Scott Solicitor for 25+ years firstly as a legal secretary then as a Licenced Conveyancer, in both his Law Firm and Private Mortgage Fund based in Port Macquarie and Milsons Point.

My extensive background has allowed me to build a deep understanding of property transactions, the local property market and a solid reputation for providing clear, expert guidance through every step of the process.

Over the years, I’ve managed a wide variety of transactions, and I have experience in handling:

• Buying and selling homes, apartments, vacant land and other residential properties

• Residential Property Transactions

• Off the plan property sales and purchases

• Strata title and community title transactions.

• First-time homebuyer transactions, including government assistance programs like First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme, First Home Buyer Grants and First Home Guarantee

• Transfers of ownership (including family transactions and gifts, family law property transfers, transfers between married and defacto partners)

• Commercial Property Transactions including Sales and purchases of commercial properties such as o ces, retail, and industrial sites

• Leasing and subleasing agreements for commercial properties

• Development Projects - Assisting developers with property acquisitions for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments

• Assisting with subdivision transactions, including the creation of new titles and land subdivisions

Suites 6-7, 111 William Street, Port Macquarie

Visit our website at www.coxlaw.com.au

Email lyndel@coxlaw.com.au | tony@coxlaw.com.au admin@coxlaw.com.au |Phone 02 6584 2487

Being knocked back for a mortgage can feel like a significant setback to your home buying journey. Something that is meant to be one of the most exciting times in your life can be overshadowed by a big black cloud of rejection. But don’t worry, you aren’t alone, with many finding themselves in a similar situation at one time or another, especially considering the complexities of the ever evolving lending landscape. If you’ve recently faced rejection from your bank, it's important to understand your options and how mortgage brokers can help you navigate this challenging terrain and turn that no into a yes. Mortgage applications can be declined for a number of reasons. Common factors include insufficient income, poor credit history, or not meeting the banks specific lending criteria. Lenders have strict policies and often rely on automated systems that may not fully capture your complete financial situation. Whilst a rejection can be disheartening, it doesn’t have to mean it is the end of your home-buying journey.

A mortgage broker acts as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders. They have access to a wide range of loan products from various financial institutions, which can be especially beneficial if your initial application was declined.

Here’s how a Mortgage Broker can assist. Expert Guidance: Mortgage brokers are well-versed in the lending landscape. They can help you understand why your application was rejected and what steps you can take to improve your chances of approval in the future. A mortgage broker can help present your financial situation in the best light by highlighting your strengths, and addressing any potential weaknesses that could lead to rejection.

Tailored Solutions: Every borrower’s situation is unique. A broker can analyse your financial profile and recommend loan products that suit your specific needs, even if you’ve faced rejection elsewhere. They have insights into which lenders may be more flexible or willing to consider special circumstances.

Streamlined Process: Navigating the mortgage application process can be complex and time-consuming. Brokers do all the heavy lifting for you by managing the paperwork, liaising with lenders, and ensuring that your application is submitted correctly, which can speed up the time to approval. Experienced brokers also often have established relationships with lenders, which can be advantageous. They can negotiate on your behalf and advocate for your application, potentially improving your chances of receiving a favourable decision.

Access to Multiple Lenders: Unlike a bank

What to do if you’ve been knocked back by your bank for a mortgage

that offers its own products, brokers can access a broader spectrum of lenders and loan options. This increases your chances of finding a suitable loan that aligns with your situation, even if your bank has said no. If traditional lenders are not an option, mortgage brokers can guide you towards alternative financing methods, such as non-bank lenders or private financing solutions, which may have different criteria for approval. As brokers understand the nuances of different lenders' policies, they can guide you to those that are more likely to approve your application based on your specific circumstances.

So, if you’ve been knocked back for a mortgage, consider seeking the expertise of a mortgage broker who can provide tailored advice and help you navigate the options available. Your chosen broker can conduct a thorough assessment of your finances, identify areas for improvement, and guide you on the best path forward. Be open with your broker and address any issues that may have led to your initial rejection. Whilst being knocked back for a mortgage can be disheartening, it doesn’t mean that it’s the end of your homeownership dreams. If you would like to discuss your situation and how we can work together to get you into the property market then reach out at farnsworthfinancial.com. au and with the right guidance, you can turn your homeownership aspirations into reality.

EDUCATION UPDATE

with PETER MCLOUGHLIN

ACTING REGIONAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE, HASTINGS REGION

As the Catholic Church welcomes a newly elected Pope, Leo XIV, the global Catholic community enters a moment of profound reflection and renewal. Beyond the grandeur of Vatican ceremonies, the event signals a fresh chapter in the church’s enduring mission and one that resonates deeply with Catholic educators and families here in the Hastings region.

Pope Leo XIV as the spiritual successor to Saint Peter, holds a unique and pivotal role as the supreme teacher and moral compass of the church. His vision shapes not only theological discourse but also the lived experience of Catholic communities worldwide.

Nowhere is this influence more evident than in our Catholic schools where the values and teachings of the Pope are translated into daily practice, nurturing students to grow in wisdom, compassion, and faith.

So, how does the Pope’s role and his leadership continue to shape the identity and mission of Catholic schools in our region?

The Pope serves as the spiritual leader of over one billion Catholics across the world. As the Bishop of Rome and successor to Saint Peter, he is entrusted with preserving and interpreting the teachings of the church. His primary role is to guide the faithful in living out the Gospel in the complexities of modern life.

While his influence is most visible on the global

Understanding the Role of the Pope and his influence on Catholic Schools in the Hastings Region

stage through official writings and worldwide addresses, the Pope’s leadership extends to local communities and institutions, including our Catholic schools. His teachings provide moral clarity on issues of social justice, human dignity and the importance of education in nurturing not only minds but especially hearts.

Education has always been central to the church’s mission. Successive Popes have highlighted the essential role Catholic schools play in forming young people who are not only educated academically to achieve their personal best but also morally grounded and spiritually enriched.

For example, Saint John Paul II (when Pope) described education as a vocation of love and service, a calling that leads young people to discover truth and meaning in their lives. More recently, Pope Francis emphasised that Catholic schools must be places of inclusion, dialogue and hope. Somewhere every child is welcomed and valued.

Pope Francis often reminded us that schools should not be mere institutions of instruction but true communities of life. In his vision, education is deeply connected to human dignity, promoting a sense of responsibility towards others and encouraging active participation in building a more just and compassionate society.

In the Hastings Region, Catholic schools are an integral part of the Diocese of Lismore’s commitment to nurture the whole person. The

Diocese’s Fullness of Life Framework reflects the church’s belief that education should develop not just academic skills but also character, faith and a sense of community responsibility.

This framework is a practical guide on our schools’ approach to learning, wellbeing, and community engagement. It encourages students to see beyond themselves, fostering values of service, stewardship, and social justice, all core aspects of the Catholic identity.

For instance, inspired by Pope Francis’ call to care for our common home (Laudato Si’), many schools have embraced social outreach projects, pastoral care programs, inclusive education practices and other tangible ways in which the Pope’s vision comes to life in the daily rhythm of school life.

Catholic schools in the Hastings Region strive to be not only centres of academic excellence. They aim to be vibrant communities where students are known, cared for, and guided to become thoughtful, compassionate individuals. Our schools focus on the dignity of each person, ensuring that every child feels a sense of belonging and purpose.

The election of a new Pope offers an opportunity to reflect on the enduring mission of Catholic education. His teachings and leadership provide a clear vision for how Catholic schools will continue to form young people who are well-educated, deeply compassionate, and committed to the common good.

One… One…

Catholic Education from K-12, united in faith, learning and life.

Year 11 2026 Enrolments

St Joseph’s Regional College

Year 11 Information Session

Monday 28th July @ 6.00pm

Newman Senior Technical College Year 11 Information Session

Tuesday 29th July @ 6.00pm

MacKillop College

Year 11 Information Session

Wednesday 30th July @ 5.30pm

Doug Gudgeon

For nearly two decades, one dedicated driver has been a steady hand on the wheel and a friendly face for countless residents across the Hastings and Macleay regions. What started as a way to fill in some spare time has turned into a 20-year journey of service, compassion, and connection.

Wto become a driver for Linked Community Services?

I started originally with Hastings Macleay Community Transport as we were called back then. I was looking for something constructive to do to fill in time, so I volunteered 2-3 days a week. I found it to be a worthwhile and rewarding experience.

How long have you been driving for the organisation, and what do you enjoy most about the role?

This is my 20th year of community driving. I started in 2005 as a volunteer and later became an employee. We became Linked Community Services in 2019. I have always loved driving, so that helps, but most of all I enjoy the interaction with, and the company of, our clientele. Our more elderly clients

have experienced a lot in their lives and have some interesting stories to tell!

What does a typical day look like for you as a driver?

Some days involve lots of local trips around Port Macquarie, while others may take me to places like Kempsey, Wauchope, Laurieton, or Camden Haven, or even further afield.

There is not really a typical day as such, nearly every day is different. Every morning, I receive a schedule with the names of clients to be picked up, along with times and destinations. Some days involves lots of local trips around Port Macquarie, while others may take me to places like Kempsey, Wauchope, Laurieton, or Camden Haven, or even further afield. Occasionally, I’ll start the day with an early morning pickup, it all depends on the needs of our clients. Many of the journeys are for medical, dental, podiatry, or physiotherapy appointments but we can take people anywhere. We also have a full calendar of social outings that are very popular too. We provide door-to-door service. We make sure that our clients are well looked after, to get where they need to go, and hopefully they also enjoy the journey along the way!

Linked Community Services provides transport for more than just medical appointments, what are some of the unique trips you’ve taken clients on? The first one that springs to mind is the odd trip to the vet with a client’s cat or dog on board. We do trips to Newcastle at times. I took a chap down one morning to see an eye specialist which went from a routine check to him requiring surgery that afternoon! Fortunately, it all went well but we didn’t get back to Port Macquarie until about 10pm! That doesn’t happen very often, but we wouldn’t leave a client stranded.

You get to know the clients well. A few years back we had an elderly client who quite regularly used to visit his wife’s graveside at Innes Lake. I would accompany him, and it normally ended with Bill saying to his wife “See you soon, darl.”. Bill is now departed, and I like to think they had a happy reunion.

The organisation emphasises social inclusion, how do you see your role helping to reduce isolation for seniors and other clients?

Well, its just what we do. Transport is vital to remain connected to the community. It may be taking people to see friends and/or relatives on a social basis, or those who may be in hospital or full-time care. The half-day and full-day social outings serve to bring people together in a pleasant and relaxed manner, meeting new people and often forging ongoing friendships.

LINKED COMMUNITY SERVICES

Linked also offers social outings and community trips, do you drive for those as well? What are some of the most popular outings?

I drive for the half day or full day social trips that are enjoyed by all, including myself! We go to lots of places – from restaurants, museums, tours of different places like the Akubra factory or Ricardoes, the zoo, cafes and clubs – even riverboat cruises. We conduct walking groups which include a reasonable stroll at various locations followed by morning tea at one of the lovely cafes in the area. It is one of our most popular outings!

I would accompany him, and it normally ended with Bill saying to his wife

“See you soon, darl”. Bill is now departed, and I like to think they had a happy reunion.

There are numerous weekly shopping trips to places like Aldi, Settlement City and Port Central. A day trip to Forster Stocklands Shopping Centre is one I have been doing lately and it seems to have been well received. How can the community support or get involved with Linked Community Services?

Have you seen firsthand how these transport services improve the lives of clients? Can you share an example? There are numerous examples of clients’ lives being enriched by just being able to get out of their residences for a while and interact with others. We have many clients who love it when we take the scenic route along Pacific Drive. Being able to see the ocean means so much to them. I receive comments on a daily basis from people who say they are just so pleased to get out and about, and how delighted they are with the service.

Linked Community Services are always happy to have new people volunteer as drivers or social outing bus assistants, or to get involved in the wonderful Aged Care Volunteer Visitors scheme, which is another program that we run.

Otherwise, we would love it if people could spread the word! We want everyone who needs us to know about us. If anyone you know needs transport, or could benefit from some social connection, we would love to help them.

linked.org.au 02 6583 8644

Lord Howe Island

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•Return flights Port Macquarie Port Macquarie to Lord Howe

•Meet & greet on arrival

•Return island airport transfers

• 7 nights accommodation

•Evening restaurant transfers

•FREE coffee & muffin at Anchorage Restaurant from $2649* *Conditions apply. Prices are per person twin share. Valid for travel 1 September - 20 December 2025.

ADEQUATE REASONS

The duty to give reasons is an integral part of any judge’s task in deciding a case.

Higher Court judgments frequently run into hundreds of pages. By way of recent example, a decision handed down (incidentally, in my client’s favour) by the Honourable Justice Meek of the NSW Supreme Court on 28 April ran into 187 pages, and 626 paragraphs! [Mills v Dodds [2025] NSWSC 396].

Not all judicial officers were as diligent as Justice Meek throughout history. Lord Mansfield, Lord Chief Justice of England from 1756-88, once advised a recently appointed King’s Justice that he should only ever give judgments (which would probably be right) and never give reasons (which would almost certainly be wrong) [Judicial Commission of NSW Handbook for Judicial Officers, October 2021].

My favourite example of the lack of judicial reasoning comes from my own family history. The trial of my great, great, great grandfather, the late Henry Sutton, was held before Justice Littledale in the Session’s House of the Old Bailey, January 10th, 1828. Henry was indicted for stealing from the house of Mary Clements of St Pancras - 1 watch, 1 pair of gold snaps, 3 bracelets, 12 silver forks, 15 silver spoons, 1 pelisse, 3 dresses, 16 pairs of silk stockings and 11 shifts, all worth about £150.

The testimony of the arresting officer includes: “I apprehended the prisoner on the 29th of

November, at Clerkenwell prison; he came there to see Mary Ann Green - he said his name was Williams - I told him I knew it was Sutton, and he must come with me. As I took him to the office I told him I took him on suspicion of Mrs. Kelly's robbery - he said he was innocent - that he knew nothing of it, and was never in the house in his life, no farther than walking to and fro. I took him before the Magistrate. I had no conversation with him; no threat nor promise was held out to him by anybody; what he said in the presence of the Magistrate, who took it down was "I now acknowledge that I did take the property, as mentioned by Green, and gave the two bundles to a man named William Smith".

Henry’s defence transcript reads:

“On the Thursday that the robbery was committed the servant beckoned to me to come in; I objected - I was asked to come in several times - I at last went in, and took part of a herring and roll; I then said I must go, as I had been ill for two months, and should lose my work if I did not attend to it; I went to the corner of the New-road. I had a subscription made for me while I was ill, and Smith had subscribed for me; I met him, and asked him

with JEREMY BRIGDEN

to go and take part of a pint of porter - we went to a public-house, and had a pint of beer, and afterwards sixpenny-worth of rum; he asked how the young woman was who nursed me when I was ill - I told him she was at the prosecutrix's house, and I was to have something to eat there, and what money I had I would spend on him, for his kindness - I stopped there with him for half an hour, and in our conversation he said I was to blame if I did not get some property from the house, and could I not do it - I said no, but after awhile he overpowered me; I went in, and brought the property.”

e trial of my great, great, great grandfather, the late Henry Su on, was held before Justice Li ledale in the Session’s House of the Old Bailey, January 10th, 1828.

The judgment, in all its reasoned glory, merely reads “GUILTY - DEATH . Aged 22.”

Fortunately for me, Henry was recommended to mercy by the jury, believing him to have been induced to commit the offence by Smith. His sentence was commuted; transportation to Van Diemen's Land aboard the ship Albion under the command of James Ralph. She departed Sheerness, England on 1 June 1828 and arrived in Sydney on 3 November 1828. She transported 192 male convicts to Sydney. Four convicts died during the voyage [For more on this see Albion (1813 ship) on Wiki]. Ironically, I now practice law.

Ha ings

e Baked Pickles, Hastings Secondary College’s Robotics Team, has recently returned from the FIRST LEGO League World Championship in Houston, Texas. We spoke to STEM Project O cer and team coach, Ryland O’Connell, about what the competition was like for the team and what they have gained from this incredible experience.

How did Hastings Secondary College (HSC) first start engaging in robotics?

Hastings Secondary College began its journey in robotics in 2017 through participation in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). The goal was to provide students with rich, hands-on STEM experiences - allowing them to design, build, and program robots for both regional and international competitions. From the outset, the program aimed to engage students from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds in real-world science and technology. It’s a vision that has been continually supported by the STEM Industry School Partnerships (SISP) program, our dedicated staff, industry mentors, and the wider community. What key skills are you seeing students develop as a result of these types of engagement programs?

Our robotics and STEM programs help students develop a powerful combination of technical expertise and essential life skills. They learn everything from mechanical design and programming to electronics and CAD. More importantly, they also grow as communicators, collaborators, and critical thinkers.

These students learn to lead, work under pressure, and bounce back from setbacks. Time management, initiative, resilience, and teamwork all come into play - particularly when working towards a common goal like preparing for a robotics competition. They’re not just building robots; they’re building confidence and character. These programs transform students’ self-belief and give them ownership over their learning in a way few other opportunities can.

Only one percent of teams globally qualify for the LEGO League World Championship. What do you think set The Baked Pickles apart and helped them reach this elite level?

The Baked Pickles stood out thanks to their remarkable teamwork, dedication, and five

years of experience. Each team member brought a unique strength - whether in coding, design, presentation, or researchbut what truly set them apart was how they supported and elevated one another.

They showed a level of maturity and calm focus well beyond their years, and they never stopped learning or improving. This team put in hundreds of hours outside school, not because they had to, but because they loved what they were doing. Their passion, combined with their strong technical skills and unity, helped them shine. More than building a great robot, they built a culture of professionalism and collaboration that resonated with judges and teams around the world.

Continued over...

This trip to Houston was the result of a five-year dream. What did it take to get to this level, and how did you keep the momentum going over the years?

Getting to Houston wasn’t about one competition, it was the culmination of five years of consistent effort, growth, and belief. Every season, the team set higher goals, learning from past challenges and building on previous successes.

Keeping momentum wasn’t always easy, but we focused on celebrating small wins, learning from every setback, and staying connected to our long-term dream.

Can you share a bit about the experience in Texas as a whole? What were some of the highlights and what do you think have been some of the main takeaways?

The Texas experience was unforgettable. Walking into the FIRST Championship in Houston, surrounded by over 50,000 people from 58 countries, was nothing short of aweinspiring. The energy, the diversity, and the shared passion for innovation created a oncein-a-lifetime atmosphere.

Competing on a world stage and meeting teams from across the globe gave our students new perspectives and immense pride

in representing both Australia and Hastings Secondary College. Outside of competition, visiting NASA’s Johnson Space Center was a standout, particularly for our space-loving students. Seeing rockets up close and learning about future missions made the dream of working in space feel real. The Houston Museum of Natural Science was another hit, offering interactive learning that perfectly tied into our STEM focus.

And of course, the team loved Buc-ee’s! That larger-than-life Texas experience with its oversized snacks and quirky charm was a fun and unexpected highlight.

The biggest takeaway? That dreams are worth chasing, and STEM is truly a global language.

The team placed 47th overall - an impressive result. What were the biggest challenges they faced, and how did they

adapt?

A big challenge was transporting the robot. Despite our best efforts to pack it safely, some attachments were damaged in transit. The team had to adapt quickly, redesigning and rebuilding key components in their hotel room using spare parts. It was a real test of resilience and problem-solving. Their ability to stay calm, think critically, and work together under pressure showed just how far they’ve come. It proved that success isn’t just about the robot - it’s about mindset, adaptability, and teamwork.

The team had to adapt quickly, redesigning and rebuilding key components in their hotel room using spare parts. It was a real test of resilience and problem-solving.

celebrities.

At NASA, they had the chance to connect with scientists and engineers working on cuttingedge space missions. For students from a regional public school, this made the future feel exciting and attainable. They returned with a clearer sense of the paths available to them, and a belief that their ideas and talents have a place in the global STEM community.

The Baked Pickles are already talking about giving back to younger teams. What does that kind of leadership mean to you as an educator?

That kind of leadership shows empathy, responsibility, and a genuine passion for STEM. It also helps build a strong, supportive culture where students learn from each other. As an educator, there’s nothing more exciting than seeing that spark pass from one generation to the next.

Any exciting plans on the horizon for this program or others like it at HSC?

Absolutely! The Baked Pickles are now in Year 11 and heading into their final years of school. While their focus will shift toward the HSC next year, I know they’ll each go on to achieve incredible things, in STEM and beyond.

The students met a range of inspiring figures in STEM. How did this trip expand their vision of what’s possible?

This trip showed the students what’s truly possible in the world of STEM. They met engineers from around the globe and even spoke with the creators of the LEGO League challenge - a moment that felt like meeting

It’s incredibly rewarding to see students wanting to give back. That’s the ultimate sign of a successful program - when students not only succeed themselves, but turn around and help others do the same.

The Baked Pickles are already talking about mentoring younger teams, running workshops, and sharing their journey.

In the meantime, we’re preparing for the Duel Down Under Robotics Tournament at Macquarie University in Sydney. This year we’re proud to be sending three teams: The Hastings Heroes, our flagship team; The Hastings Sidekicks, our development team; and for the first time ever, an all-girls team - The Hastings Heroines. It’s a sign of just how much interest and excitement robotics is generating across the college, and I’m thrilled to see what the future holds.

Thanks Ryland.

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATORS, LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Saran Rajendran has been hard at work with his dedicated voluntary team to bring to life a series of colourful community engagements celebrating the rich tapestry of Indian culture, food and festivals along the Mid North Coast. From the sounds, sights and flavours of the recent Diwali Festival on Town Green last year, to the upcoming celebration of dance, music and culture with the Rhythms of India–our community is enjoying the intoxicating energy and excitement of this fascinating country and its customs.

Saran, you first came to Australia as an International Student arriving in Victoria and made your way to Port Macquarie 18 years ago where you now work as a Senior Reporting Systems Specialist with Essential Energy. You have become a passionate advocate for your adopted home and have raised your family here, now helping

Saran Rajendran

President of the Mid North Coast Indian Association

other families settle and connect in the region. What do you most love about Port Macquarie?

Port Macquarie has been my home for 18 years, and I love its vibrant community spirit and welcoming atmosphere. Its beauty, community spirit, and opportunities for growth make it a unique and cherished destination.

I cherish Port Macquarie’s cultural diversitycelebrating diverse traditions and customs. It has been a privilege to contribute through community engagements and witnessing the unity these events bring is incredibly rewarding. The supportive environment makes it easy for families to settle and thrive. Excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and growth opportunities ensure everyone can succeed. Helping other families connect with the community has been fulfilling.

Port Macquarie is not just a place to live; it’s a place to call home. I am grateful for the life I’ve built here and look forward to continuing to support and celebrate this incredible town.

You have been the President of Mid North Coast Indian Association (MNCIA) for the current financial year – can you share a little about what the association is and what you and the committee hope to achieve during your time as President?

I am honoured to share our mission and goals to celebrate and promote Indian culture on the Mid North Coast. We aim to enhance cultural awareness through hosting events like the Diwali Festival to raise awareness and appreciation of Indian traditions. These events opened our doors

to local Australians, allowing them to experience and enjoy the rich tapestry of our Indian culture.

As a team we work to support community engagement, promote multiculturalism and educational outreach, build partnerships and establish strong partnerships to advocate for, and enhance, our initiatives.

Our success relies on the support of our MNCIA team: Ashok Sanaw – Vice President, Harchetan Aneja – Treasurer, Phani Prakhya – Secretary, Praveen Rajuladevi – Public Officer, Committee Members Haritha Gadwal Ram Godavarthi, Amita Krautloher, Benhur Lingamneni and Swathi Thota from Taree to Coffs Harbour. Our vision is a cohesive and vibrant community where cultural diversity is celebrated.

How important it is to be able to share your culture with community?

I am deeply passionate about sharing the richness and diversity of our culture because it fosters a sense of unity, inclusiveness and belonging. Celebrating our traditions and customs allows us to connect with our roots and share the richness of Indian heritage with others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see people from diverse backgrounds come together, experience the vibrant colours, music, dance, and flavours that define our festivals, and gain a deeper appreciation of our culture. These events create opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding, breaks down barriers and builds bridges of friendship between communities.

What has been your greatest achievement in your leadership journey so far with MNCIA? Conversely, what was your greatest challenge?

My greatest achievement in my association journey has undoubtedly been the successful organisation and execution of the Diwali Festival on Town Green last year. The festival was a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, bringing together over a thousand members of the community to experience the sights, sounds, and flavours of India. It was incredibly fulfilling to see the joy and excitement on everyone’s faces, knowing that we had created a space for cultural exchange and understanding. This success would not have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of my passionate voluntary team. Their hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges and ensuring the event’s triumph. I have been deeply touched by the degree of volunteering and the willingness of people to contribute their time and effort. It is truly heartwarming to see how people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate and embrace Indian culture.

Conversely, my greatest challenge has been navigating the logistical complexities of organising large-scale events. Coordinating volunteers, securing permits, managing budgets, and ensuring the seamless flow of activities can be daunting. However, these challenges have taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, problem-solving, and perseverance, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of our association. Despite the hurdles, the positive impact on the community makes every effort worthwhile, and having a supportive team beside me has been crucial in tackling these obstacles. You are paying your own hospitable

welcome forward to international students and their families coming to our region by providing support, advice and connection to them as they settle into our community and into their studies. What are the key things you share that have the greatest impact on connection and inclusion?

One of the most significant aspects is ensuring that they feel a genuine sense of belonging and inclusion from the moment they arrive. It is crucial to bridge cultural gaps and make them feel at home and connected in a new environment.

Community involvement is essentialencouraging participation in local events, cultural and community gatherings or volunteer opportunities which foster friendships, create networks and make genuine connections. Providing practical support and advice like helping them navigate local transport, understanding local law, reduces the stress and confusion that comes with moving to a new country. Mutual cultural exchange plays a pivotal role, encouraging students to share their own cultural traditions, cuisine, and customs, enriches understanding and respect. Lastly, creating a safe and welcoming space where they can ask questions, express concerns and seek help without hesitation is the foundation of building trust and connection.

How instrumental have sages and critics been in the evolution of your leadership journey? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

Sages and critics have played a significant role in the evolution of my leadership journey.

Their wisdom and constructive feedback have constantly challenged me to grow and adapt. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of humility and the willingness to listen. They taught me that being a leader is not about having all the answers, but about fostering an environment where open communication, diverse perspectives are valued and where growth is a collective effort. This lesson has helped me build stronger, more resilient teams and has shaped my approach to community engagement, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected and ultimately helped us create a diverse program of events and grow our membership.

What event, project or collaboration are you most excited about for the future of the MNCIA?

Our upcoming Rhythms of India event is a vibrant celebration slated to take place on June 14th at Players Theatre and will be a mesmerising showcase of Indian dance, music and culture. The festival will feature performances from talented local artists, including traditional Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Odissi by Rathimalar Govindarajoo, Dr Shantona Bag and Akshi Patel, Kathak by Varsha Godbole, Kuchipudi by Dr Phani Prakhya. Additionally, attendees will be treated to live music featuring iconic Indian instruments such as the sitar played by Anil Dhital and Tabla by Jaspreet Singh Ryat. Further details can be found on our event page www.mncia.org.au or on https://www.facebook. com/p/MNCIA-Mid-North-Coast-IndianAssociation-100070077529906/

Thank you Saran!

TThe Smart Investor’s Tax Checklist for 2025

he end of financial year isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s your opportunity to fine-tune your strategy, maximise your returns, and start the new financial year ahead of the game. Here’s a guide to the most valuable (often overlooked) deductions available to residential property investors in 2025.

1. Loan Interest & Bank Fees

If you have a mortgage on your investment property the interest portion of your repayments is tax deductible. You can also claim:

• Loan establishment fees

• Mortgage discharge costs (e.g. when refinancing)

• Ongoing loan account fees

• Title search fees

Tip: Only claim the interest on the portion of the loan used for investment purposes, not personal use.

2. Depreciation Schedules

Properties built after 1987 (or those with significant renovations) may be eligible for capital works and depreciation deductions on fittings like flooring, appliances, and air conditioning units.

You’ll need a professional Tax Depreciation Schedule from a qualified quantity surveyor like Duotax, BMT, or Washington Brown. It's a one-time cost that can unlock thousands in tax savings.

3. Repairs vs Improvements

Basic repairs (e.g. leaking taps, damaged walls) are fully deductible in the year you pay for them. However, upgrades like a new kitchen are capital improvements and must be depreciated over time.

Tip: Your accountant can help you categorise and claim both correctly.

4. Property Management & Leasing Fees

If you have a property manager, you can claim:

• Management fees

• Leasing and advertising expenses

• Routine inspections

• Tribunal appearances (if needed)

5. Council Rates, Utilities & Strata Levies

If you cover any of these on behalf of your tenants, you can claim them:

• Council rates

• Water usage

• Body corporate and strata fees

• Land tax (if applicable in your state)

6. Maintenance, Cleaning & Pest Control

• Garden care and lawn mowing

• Rubbish removal

• End-of-lease cleaning

• Pest inspections and treatments

7. Insurance Premiums

• Building and contents insurance

• Landlord insurance

• Loss of rent cover

8. Accounting & Legal Fees

Tax agent or accountant fees, bookkeeping software, and legal advice relating to lease or

Real Estate

tenancy agreements are all claimable. (Note: legal fees related to the original purchase of the property are not.)

9. Travel (with limitations)

Since 2017, individual investors can no longer claim travel expenses to inspect or manage residential properties. But if your property is owned through a company or SMSF, you may be eligible, so check with your accountant. Record Keeping = Tax Confidence

To claim it, you’ll need to prove it. Keep records of receipts, invoices, bank statements, lease agreements and depreciation schedules. At Lifestyle, landlords receive a comprehensive EOFY income and expenditure statement.

End of Financial Year Support

From managing your property to maximising your returns, we’re here to help. Our experienced property managers work closely with landlords, accountants, and trusted local specialists to ensure your investment works as hard as you do. If you’re wondering what deductions you could be missing, or just want peace of mind, reach out to your local Lifestyle office and let’s talk strategy.

Download our checklist:

Link to access the checklist through our website: https://lifestylegroup.com.au/smartinvestor-tax-checklist-eofy-2025

Or directly to add a link to the checklist: https://lifestylegroup.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2025/05/2025-Investors-EOFY-TaxChecklist.pdf

HUNTER HOMES

Kenneth

The Kenneth

Coastal style on show at display homes

WHEN you’re making decisions about the new home you want to build, there’s nothing that beats being able to put yourself in the picture in real life.

The opening of two stunning new display homes built especially to harness the feeling of relaxed luxury coastal living is an exciting opportunity for Port Macquarie families. Leading NSW home builder Hunter Homes has thrown open the doors to these beautiful homes in the popular community of Sovereign Hills in Thrumster, providing the chance to wander through them and imagine living in them. Hunter Homes founder Jason Smith said he was excited to welcome people from the Port Macquarie region into the new homes.

“You can immerse yourself in the spaces, feel the flow, and speak to our expert team about how to build the home you’ve been dreaming of.”

Hunter Homes welcomes a brand new Colours Studio located on Hastings River Drive, Port

Macquarie, the Hunter Homes Colours Studio is a place where your ideal home becomes reality. Customers can personalise every aspect of their home. With access to an ever-evolving array of options, colours, textures and trends- paired with the expertise of the Hunter Homes Colour Consultants, you’ll be expertly guided through the entire colour selections process, bringing your vision to reality.

With Hunter Homes’ industry-leading 24-week build guarantee, you could be enjoying that home in no time at all, but still with the confidence that it’s built to the highest standards.

Plus all homes come with a huge array of Premium Inclusions included in the base price. Think stone bench-tops, state of the art kitchen appliances and higher ceilings throughout- luxury comes standard when you build with Hunter Homes.

The Kenneth

When you open the door to The Kenneth, you’re welcomed into a home inspired by Mediterranean coastal elegance. From its sweeping layout to its thoughtful detailing, this four-bedroom residence balances resortstyle luxury with everyday comfort.

A curved feature wall guides you into an open-plan living space both grand and inviting. A stonework fireplace is the

Mediterranean charm meets family functionality

beautiful focal point, adding natural texture and character to the living area. Soaring raked ceilings with skylights draw in natural light.

The kitchen is designed to impress. It features a walk-in pantry so spacious it could double as a prep kitchen, while a large island bench anchors the space, creating the perfect family and friends gathering point.

The Mooring

Hamptons elegance meets coastal comfort

With its soft tones and open spaces, The Mooring draws inspiration from the Modern Hamptons style, capturing the essence of refined yet relaxed, coastal living.

This single-storey design is made for families who value calm, comfort, and connection. Living spaces are located at the heart of the home, creating a warm, central hub where daily life can unfold with ease.

The kitchen is the hero. With its spacious island bench, generous prep areas, and

With the indoors flowing seamlessly into the alfresco, its a home that makes entertaining effortless and elevates everyday life. Meanwhile, the master suite is the parents’ luxurious private haven, designed for relaxation and indulgence, with an ensuite and dual walk-in robes. The home also includes a home theatre, additional living zones, and ample storage.

beautiful finishes, it’s functional and elegant. Overlooking the open-plan dining and living areas, it allows the chef to stay connected - whether you’re helping the kids with homework or hosting a lazy Sunday lunch.

Again, the master suite features a walkin robe and lavish ensuite, creating a true sanctuary for parents to unwind. For kids and guests, there’s a dedicated wing with three generous bedrooms and a family bathroom. A separate rumpus room provides a flexible space that could

be used for play, study, or movie nights depending on a family’s needs.

From its light-filled interiors to its calm, beach-inspired palette, the design blends beautifully with the Mid North Coast lifestyle, bringing together timeless elegance and everyday liveability. Head to hunterhomesnsw.com to find out more and then visit the new open homes to see for yourself how lifestyle, luxury, and family living can come together in beautiful coastal style. *This is branded content for Hunter Homes.

YARRUM

DESIGNER HOMES

is proud to now call Port Macquarie home.

e highly awarded Newcastle and Hunter Valley home builder is now constructing quality custom homes on the Mid North Coast. Focus caught up with Port Macquarie based construction supervisor Isaac Mathews to highlight all things the multi-awarded brand is proud of.

Hi Isaac. Thank you for your time and congratulations on the business expanding into the Mid North Coast. Can you tell us about the major services the building company is proud to offer its clients within our region.

Yarrrum Designer Homes was started by Stephen Murray, Yarrum being Murray in reverse. Stephen started the business in 2008 after many years working for a major project home builder at a senior level. He wanted Yarrum to be different from the others and therefore the business concentrates on the design and construction of quality custom homes in upmarket locations.

Port Macquarie and the surrounding areas have been identified as being an ideal location to expand the current business.

Yarrum Designer Homes boasts a proud history of unique builds including custom

prestigious homes, knockdown and rebuilds, tailored designs and quality constructions with a difference. What are the brand’s major key points of difference you strive to provide for your clients?

Yarrum is a leading custom home builder in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle region. In the Hunter Valley the business constructs large unique homes on acreage sites as well as individual homes on the Greg Norman designed, Vintage Golf Course Estate. The business has built more than 140 homes in the Vintage and every single one is a one-off custom home.

In Newcastle, the business concentrates on knock-down rebuild homes, assisting clients with all facets of the building process, from knocking down the original home, designing the new home, obtaining all approvals and finally constructing the new home. Most of the homes we have built are in and around the beach suburbs, near the city and on Lake Macquarie.

Our skills and experience is well suited to Port Macquarie which has many tired homes in great

locations, new subdivisions, and acreage sites throughout the region. Port Macquarie and the surrounding areas are seen as a perfect fit for our business.

The brand has been recognised with multiple accolades and most recently winning the 2024 HIA awards for Custom Built Home in two price categories, Kitchen in a Display Home, Display Home of the Year and Spec Home of the Year. What does the multi-award recognition mean to you and the team?

Winning the awards is a great complement from our peak body, the Housing Industry Association. It shows that we are the best at what we do and the awards generates a lot of work for the business. Many potential clients look to those builders who have won multiple awards as their builder of choice. It provides them with confidence that Yarrum will design and build a quality home for them and, you never know, their home might win a future award!

Can you share a little about Yarrum’s building process, from inception to completing a build and what do you think people are looking for when it comes to selecting a quality building company?

Yarrum prides itself on being a complete “start to end” builder. Yarrum has the in-house expertise to work with our clients from concept design, detailed design, colour selections and inclusions as well as interior decorating. We manage all approvals from the various authorities and of course we build their dream home.

Our clients are looking for something different. They want a unique home that suits their lifestyle, their block of land, and is in keeping with their location. They also appreciate that all facets of the design, approval and the construction are a one stop shop.

Throughout your career Isaac, what have been some of your highlights working alongside the Yarrum Designer Homes team?

I’m a Port Macquarie boy, having grown up in the region and trained as a carpenter here. The opportunity to work with Yarrum as a carpenter came along and I relocated to Newcastle. I guess the Yarrum team recognised talent and I was soon promoted to a trainee supervisor role and later a construction supervisor. In my 9 years at Yarrum I have managed many complex builds and also got the opportunity to manage

the construction of more than 100 houses at the company’s retirement project, Catalina Lake Macquarie.

I now have two children and really wanted them to grow up in this fantastic region and be close to family and friends. When I told Stephen of my intention to move back home, it “cemented’ his desire to expand the business here. He told me that when I move back here, Yarrum was coming with me! I guess it’s a real complement that I’m doing something right that the business has come with me to Port Macquarie!

For people wanting to find out more,

discuss their next building project or engage your services, how can they best get in touch?

We have recently opened our office at 4 Hastings River Drive, near the corner of Gordon Street, Port Macquarie. Yarrum is set to also build a display home located at 40 Hastings River Drive which will be a knock-down re-build and will commence in the next few months.

Our office phone number is 1300-017166 and our website is yarrumhomes.com.au

Finding Flow: A

Fresh Look at Interior Design

Hello and welcome to my very first column! I'm thrilled to be joining you here as a contributor, sharing insights, tips, and inspiration from the world of interior design. My name is Leanne Webber, and I’m the founder of Coastal Interior Group — a locally owned and operated business that has been helping clients transform their homes and commercial spaces for over a decade.

Designing interiors is more than just my job — it's my passion. Over the past ten years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients on everything from brand-new homes to renovation projects, and even the finer details like custom window treatments that bring everything together. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with commercial clients — helping to elevate offices, retail environments, and hospitality spaces that reflect their brand while remaining functional and welcoming. Whether it's a coastal home with sweeping views or a boutique office in need of a refresh, my goal is always the same: to create spaces that feel just right.

And that’s what I want to talk about in this first column — that feeling.

When people think of interior design, they often imagine paint colours, sofas, rugs, and lighting fixtures. Don’t get me wrong — I

love picking out the perfect statement chair or finding a fabric that just sings, but at its core, design isn’t about objects - it’s about atmosphere. It’s about how a space makes you feel when you walk into it.

That’s why I’m particularly drawn to the principles of feng shui, the ancient Chinese philosophy that focuses on harmony between individuals and their environments. Feng shui isn’t just about where to put your furniture — it’s about energy, movement, and the subtle balance of elements that make a room feel calm, energised, or inviting.

Whether or not you follow feng shui strictly, the principles can be incredibly helpful when thinking about how to design a space that supports your lifestyle and wellbeing. For instance, the simple act of removing clutter from an entryway doesn’t just make it look better — it changes how you feel as you walk in. It’s that sense of openness, of being welcomed home, that makes the difference. In my own work, I use many of these ideas when helping clients — even if we’re not explicitly talking about feng shui. I might encourage placing a favourite chair in a corner that receives soft afternoon light, or suggest shifting a desk to face a window instead of a wall. These aren’t random aesthetic choices — they’re ways to enhance how the space supports your day-to-day life.

Design De ned

with LEANNE WEBBER

COASTAL INTERIOR

One of my favourite transformations involved a renovation where a family felt disconnected in their own living space. It was beautifully decorated, but it didn’t flow. We rethought the layout, introduced natural textures, created defined zones for togetherness and solitude, and tweaked the lighting. The change wasn’t just visible — it was felt. The family told me it finally felt like home — warm, balanced, and truly theirs.

That’s why I love what I do. Interior design isn’t just a surface-level pursuit. It’s deeply personal. It’s about translating your needs, preferences, and dreams into a space that not only looks good — but feels right.

In upcoming columns, I’ll be sharing practical advice, design trends, project stories, and ways to bring more intention and joy into your spaces. Whether you're building your dream home, updating a single room, or just looking for a spark of inspiration, I hope you’ll find something valuable here.

Creating calm, always,

Leanne Webber

Coastal Interior Group

P.S. I’m writing this column from my own home — currently half-packed in moving boxes — which just proves that even interior designers sometimes have to live in chaos before finding the perfect flow!

The wait is over - Glenfern Stage 4 released

The highly anticipated Stage 4 has arrived at Glenfern, Thrumster. This new release sees the return of some of our most popular home designs, offering stylish, low-maintenance living in a welcoming, resort-style setting.

With no stamp duty, no council rates and no exit fees, it’s easy to see why Glenfern is so loved. Book a tour today and explore the display homes and experience a lifestyle that’s all about freedom, connection and ease.

Ideally located just 10 minutes from Port Macqurie, Glenfern is the perfect place to embrace your next chapter. Tour our display homes today and start imagining your life at Glenfern.