Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i233

BEN WATERS

Dr R achel Ling

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

AUGUST

Detective Galileo

by Peter Helliar

Bake With Brooki

RRP: $15.99

By Brooke Bellamy

RRP: $49.99

For as long as he can remember, it has been Galileo’s dream to become a police horse.

But when his dream comes true, he soon realises he’s not there to solve crimes, but merely as a vehicle to carry around the ‘real’ human detectives.

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

When Galileo witnesses a crime, he decides to take

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.

matters into his own hands. He has a lot to learn, but each crime he solves is sure to take him one step closer to becoming a real detective...

How to Kill Men and Get Away with It

Metal Slinger

by Rachel Schneider

RRP: $34.99

By Katy Brent

RRP: $22.99

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

Even though she’s not one of them, Brynn has spent her life among the Alaha, training to be a guard and waiting for the chance to attend the annual market hosted by Kenta-the very same people who exiled her adopted community to a life at sea. Brynn’s loyalty to the Alaha is tested when the truth of who she is is brought to light by the soldier who’s taken an oath to bring her back to where she belongs. Narrowly escaping death

on the violent high seas, Brynn’s connection to the Alaha is further tested when she learns about the world of magic she’s been denied.

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!

Tested

The Good Losers

By Pat Cummins

RRP: $34.99

by Meg Bignell

RRP: $34.99

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. 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

Callie March is fascinated by human absurdity, including the habits of the upper class. So when she pushes her screen-addicted teenage son to join a local rowing club, she is thrilled to discover a whole new world of odd behaviours, irrational obsessions and riverside rooting. Thrust into a support crew and a very silly uniform, Callie has inadvertently volunteered for a season of pre-

dawn parenting, endless fundraising, and pandering to insu erable dickheads. But she also finds friendship, intrigue and lust, while her son might just find love.

challenge, adversity, 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.

Friday Barnes

The Complete Fundamentals of Drawing

By R.A. Spratt

by Barrington Barber

RRP: $16.99

RRP: $49.99

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

This comprehensive drawing book is an invaluable reference source for anyone looking to improve their skills in still life, portraiture, figure drawing and landscapes, for beginners and more confident artists alike.

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

Gum Disease

S ILE NT & S E RIO US

Did you know it’s been 5 years since we introduced the new size and new look along with our new delivery method? 5 years.. WOW a lot has happened in those 5 years. Looking back at our magazine we sometimes ask ourselves why we left it so big for so long...the new smaller version has been an absolute hit and even the new delivery method. We are finding that we are getting a higher readership and engagement with our magazine than we did when it was home delivered! Who would have thought that in

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. Welcome to the AUGUST 2025

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie

POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie

WEB www.focusmag.com.au

IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

the peak of social media not only would this local mag come back, but be more popular than ever. Good old traditional media aye... never in doubt.

On the cover - Men IN Business edition for 2025. This one has soooo many new faces and it’s really exciting to meet the new men in business in Port Macquarie. Our cover star however is not new. Ben Waters has owned and operated PC Pitstop for almost 30 years and it’s an absolute pleasure to be able to offer him our cover for this year. Ben is a legend in the IT world and has built up an iconic and

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITION COORDINATOR & SALES MANAGER Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

fabulous business. Congratulations on 30 years Ben! That’s a huge achievement and we loved having you as our cover star for this month. Inside this edition - As mentioned, it’s our annual MIB edition, so check out our amazing local lads starting on page 76. We also have a great range of interviews this month. We got to chat with some really cool local legends such as Andrew Lieback, Tim Webster and Abbie Jane, just to name a few.

So as always, grab a cuppa or visit one of our awesome cafe/resturants and dive into your August edition of FOCUS.

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone 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

INTERVIEWS

A local artist whose nature inspired work brings the colours and textures of landscape to life. Fiona shares her process, inspirations, style, and the joy she finds in transforming everyday moments into visual stories.

Local photographer Adam Dederer has built a creative life chasing light, landscapes and mysteries of the night sky. His work invites viewers to slow down and reconnect with nature’s quiet beauty.

From her first tap-dancing penguin routine in the Kendall Community Hall to the dazzling stage of the Moulin Rouge, Molly McLaren’s dance journey has been one of passion, discipline, and unstoppable determination.

. Bernie Ginnane - Find Your

. Dr Kristy - e Beauty of Ageing

Troy Baker - Education

MOLLY MCLAREN

FIONA SOLLEY

ADAM DEDERER

EMILIE COOPER

HASTINGS FARM GATE

The Hastings Farm Gate Tour is a celebration of quality locally grown produce. The tour allows locals and visitors alike to tailor a self-drive tour of host properties across the greater Hastings, Port Macquarie & Camden Haven region. A diverse array of properties open their gates over the 02-03 August 2025 weekend showcasing regenerative farming techniques and products. More info hastingsfarmgate.au

TRAVEL & CRUISE EXPO!

A day filled with exciting travel opportunities and cruise deals. Whether you're dreaming of a tropical getaway or a European adventure, this event is your one-stop shop for all things travel-related. Discover new destinations, chat with travel experts, and take advantage of exclusive offers. On the day, there’ll be thrilling lucky door prizes, fabulous giveaways, and best of all, every registered attendee goes into the draw to win Travel Managers Gift Vouchers! Where Port Macquarie Golf Club When 10am

NO SCRUBS

AUGUST 2025

BETTER HOMES PRO-AM DINNER

90S + EARLY 00S PARTY

Finnian's Irish Tavern DOORS @ 8:30PM 18+ TICKETS bit.ly/NSPORTMAC25

Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner and wine on arrival with special guest speakers: Tony Mowbray – Sailor, adventurer and motivational speaker, Caroline Steffen-Murray – Triathlon World Champion Where Port Macquarie Golf Club Tickets $90 per person. Limited seats available – book now at reception or call (02) 6582 0409

CONFETTI & CHAOS

Strap yourself in for this brand-new comedy brought to you by the people behind the global smash hit, Faulty Towers The Dining Experience. All tickets include a three-course meal and three hours of beer, wine & soft drink & live interactive show. Where Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges When 6:30pm for 7:00pm show Tickets $135pp

2ND ANNUAL LONG FLAT BAKE OFF

This year there will be 3 categories - decorated cakes, adults and kids and once again the winner will receive the golden apron and their name on the perpetual trophy. Entries in to the pub by 2pm please. Judging will commence at 2:30pm and once the winners are announced, we dig in and taste all the entries! Everyone is welcome to come along and enter, or simply spectate and enjoy the afternoon. Where Long Flat Pub and Bistro

From pulling apart electronics as a kid to running one of the region’s

further. As a child, I used to pester my mother to take me to garage sales to buy electronics to pull apart and see how they worked. I started my career close on 30 years ago, training locally and becoming Trade Certified in Electronics at Port Macquarie TAFE and diving into the world of repairs and

PC Pitstop itself was born in the Camden Haven back in 1998, marking my 27 years dedicated specifically to this venture. It all

began with what I thought at the time was a simple observation: our community needed reliable, approachable tech support with the emerging dot com era.

Back then, technology was explodingpersonal computers were becoming household staples, but people were overwhelmed by crashes, viruses, and how to use them. I saw an opportunity to fill that gap. Starting small from a garage-based operation, I focused on custom-built solutions and repairs that

provided the support others were not.

Back

then, technology was exploding - personal computers were becoming household staples, but people were overwhelmed by crashes, viruses, and how to use them. I saw an opportunity to fill that gap.

Early challenges included keeping up with rapid advancements, like the shift from dial-up to ADSL Internet, but my electronics background gave me an edge in building durable, tailored systems. You had to be a jack of all trades back then with expansive electronics knowledge that required most repairs completed on-site within the hour. PC Pitstop was born!

Over the past three decades, it has evolved into a full-service IT business, employing local tech gurus and expanding to managed business support services.

What started as a passion for problem-solving has grown into a trusted hub for the Greater Port Macquarie region.

You trained locally and have spent your entire career here in the Greater Port Macquarie region. What has kept you rooted in this community all these years?

Port Macquarie has always been more than just a location - it's the heart of everything I do. I've never felt the pull to leave because this community offers everything I need to thrive personally and professionally.

For my ongoing electronics itch, I’m an active member of the Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club, I’m part of the Hastings District Flying Club and sail with the Port Macquarie Yacht Club. The stunning waterways and expansive hinterland, the supportive small business network, the local clubs and the tight-knit feel helps keep it real.

Family ties play a huge role too; my wife Suzie works for NSW Health, raising our kids here and building lifelong friendships has made it our home.

Staying local means, I can build genuine relationships with customers who aren't just clients but like family and friends. It's rewarding to see the impact: employing locals, supporting community organisations, and contributing to the economy all creates a ripple effect.

For PC Pitstop, in a sea of interstate tech support companies, being rooted here allows us to offer personalised service that I feel truly understands the community's needs.

That sense of belonging and purpose means a lot to me. It's why I've stayed home and why PC Pitstop remains proudly local after all these years.

Continued over...

PC Pitstop has become a trusted name in the region. What do you think sets your business apart in such a fast-changing industry?

In the whirlwind of this AI driven tech evolution, what truly sets PC Pitstop apart is our blend of real-world expertise and genuine, face-to-face care.

We're not just reactive fixers; we're proactive solutions providers. We offer advanced services like Microsoft 365, remote monitoring, managed security, and cloud backups that all work to help prevent issues before they arise.

But it's the human element that I feel differentiates us - we listen actively, avoiding jargon to ensure customers feel heard. Then rolling up our sleeves to “bolt the solutions together”

In a fast-changing industry where AI and cybersecurity threats evolve daily, we've adapted by investing in ongoing training and testing cutting-edge software tools. We’re local experts who build long-term relationships, aiming to turn one-time fixes into regular ongoing reliable support.

This trust I truly feel has been earned through results, consistency and reliability, making us the go-to for businesses and individuals alike. It's about empowering our clients with knowledge and solutions that fit their lives, not just selling tech!

Over the years, you’ve picked up quite a few local business awards. What do those accolades mean to you and your team?

Those awards are more than trophies, they're affirmations of our team's dedication and hard work. We've been honoured with 10 business awards, Hall of Fame recognition, and in 2025, we took home Excellence in Sustainability and Excellence in Innovation. It also means our customers know they are dealing with a business they can rely on. They're a reminder of how far we've come since 1998, pushing boundaries in tech.

They really do boost morale; the team feels seen and motivated to innovate further, like enhancing our environmentally sustainable practices or developing new data recovery techniques.

The tech landscape has transformed dramatically since I started. Key shifts include the internet’s rise, cloud computing, remote work, and now the AI boom.

With almost three decades in business, you’ve witnessed major shifts in the technology space. What changes stand out the most, and how have you adapted over time?

The tech landscape has transformed dramatically since I started. Key shifts include the internet's rise, cloud computing, remote work, and now the AI boom. We find many local businesses just don’t know the tech readily available to them to help their own teams work smoothly and more efficiently.

In the early years, we mainly dealt with hardware faults; now, cybersecurity threats like AI generated Phishing SPAM and malware

demand 24/7 monitored defences. Our systems take the monitored alerts and let us know if one of our customers are at risk. To adapt, we've evolved from you-breakthen-we-fix repairs to proactive support, becoming a Microsoft Partner for local business access to enterprise-level tools.

We’re

incredibly excited about the road ahead for PC Pitstop, building on our recent 2025 awards for Excellence in Sustainability and Excellence in Innovation.

While continuous training helps keeps us ahead, especially with AI and how businesses can create and train their own unique AI model to make solid business decisions. I can’t wait to run some classes on this! These adaptations ensure we're not just surviving but leading, helping clients navigate changes with confidence.

What’s been one of your proudest moments as a business owner so far?

Personally, one standout moment was opening our first store in Port Macquarie in 2010. We built the business up in the Camden Haven. This move was pivotal to PC Pitstop becoming what it is today.

As an owner, nothing beats seeing my team's pride in implementing tech solutions. It's the culmination of 30+ years: staying local and ongoing support of the community – so thank you everyone in the community for your support over the years!

Looking ahead, what’s next for you and PC Pitstop? Any big goals or new directions on the horizon?

We're incredibly excited about the road ahead for PC Pitstop, building on our recent 2025 awards for Excellence in Sustainability and Excellence in Innovation.

As we've grown busier serving the Greater Port Macquarie region, we're shifting our focus toward more proactive IT care to better

support forward-thinking customers.

It's fast moving towards being about helping preventing issues before they disrupt operations, rather than just reacting to breakdowns. We live in a digital age where if the computers are not working, no one is getting any work done and the business stops making money.

Our goals include expanding proactive services to a progressive and receptive segment of our 14,000+ clients.

Personally, I'm passionate about evolving PC Pitstop into a true tech partner for progressive customers who value prevention instead of cure and peace of mind.

By staying ahead of tech trends and honouring our community roots, we're poised to help more people and businesses not just survive but thrive in a digital world. The future in Port Macquarie looks brighter than ever!

Thanks Ben

Port Macquarie Ocean Pool

Let’s make it happen

community has spoken With 90% support*, its time

“There’s no capital investment required by Council.”

“Free access for all. A place to swim, meet and relax.”

“Will be a boost for tourism (est, 28,000 p.a.)”

“A place to exercise and stay healthy, for those who don’t feel safe in the surf and don’t like chlorine.”

“With 100,000 visitors the pool is economically warranted & costs just $3 per person pa to maintain”

“With a ramped entry the pool will be easily accessible for the elderly and families with children.”

Pat Conaghan

“An important place for rehabilitation, low-impact exercise, and social connection for older adults, and disabled people.”

Robert Dwyer

* Survey of 808 conducted May and June 2025.

This Pool Needs You

We are asking for Council to include the Ocean Pool Project in their Recreation and Open Space Plan update at the Aug 21 meeting. Your support is critical to help make this happen. If you want the Ocean Pool to become an official Council project go to portmacquarieoceanpool.org. au/get-involved/

Member for Cowper

Member for Port Macquarie

Pool

With planning now well underway, the Port Macquarie Ocean Pool Committee is working steadily towards bringing a long-envisioned community project to life. We spoke with the team to hear how the development is progressing, what’s planned for the site, and how locals can help turn this vision into reality.

Can you give us an update on where the project is currently at in terms of planning and development?

After many years of relentless work, the committee are committed to completing the required planning submissions in 2025. Accordingly, comprehensive new studies and some additional reports have now been completed, relating to biodiversity (ecology), traffic and parking, multiple coastal engineering studies, cost estimates for maintenance and construction, cost benefit analysis and a geotechnical survey. All of these have been submitted to Council.

How has the planning phase of the ocean pool project been funded so far?

As a long-term advocate, Pat Conaghan’s support was instrumental in assisting with the Federal Government grant of $4.5m for feasibility planning.

Pat’s ongoing advocacy has also been demonstrated by attending community updates, providing letters of support and where necessary direct intervention.

Pat’s ongoing advocacy has also been demonstrated by attending community updates, providing letters of support and where necessary direct intervention. It’s fair to say that our rapid progress in recent times is a measure of his dedication to see the project become reality.

Former Port Macquarie Member, Leslie

Willliams made a positive contribution by facilitating a grant of $50,000 in 2019 for the initial feasibility studies. What can you tell us about the design and features of the proposed ocean pool?

The pool and wider facility have been designed to provide a free and safe meeting, social and recreational place, enhancing the sense of well-being, health and longevity.

Key elements of the design include:

• An Olympic-size (50m x 25m) lap pool with eight (8) swim lanes

PORT MACQUARIE

• A ramped entry/exit providing wheelchair access

Construction funded by Federal Government, not requiring capital investment from Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

• A separate recreation and leisure zone (wading pool)

• A public space including concrete seating

• Amenities for male and female change room facilities, including toilets and showers.

• A new pathway and additional parking along Pacific Drive

• Universal access for everyone, including the elderly, families with children and those with a disability.

The design also prioritises environmental sensitivity through native landscaping, integration with natural rock formations, and the incorporation of "living seawalls" on external pool walls to encourage marine

habitat creation, ensuring the facility enhances rather than detracts from the coastal environment while serving the community's recreational and health needs.

The final design will incorporate an "indigenous interpretation space" with indigenous design elements, and the committee has committed to ongoing consultation with traditional landowners for the project's entirety, ensuring Aboriginal cultural values are respected and celebrated. What are some of the key benefits this pool would bring to the Port Macquarie community?

Free access for all including the high demand demographics of seniors, families with young children, people living with a disability, schools and sporting clubs especially swim clubs and surf lifesaving clubs.

Improved safety of ocean swimming with protection from rough surf and ocean predators.

Physical and mental health benefits resulting in quantifiable cost savings to the health system.

Social benefits and sense of community. Accessible location close to CBD.

Construction funded by Federal Government, not requiring capital investment from Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

Ocean pools offer users different recreational experiences compared to a beach or an aquatic centre. The Oxley Beach Ocean Pool can therefore be expected to service different markets which are currently not served within the Port Macquarie-Hastings region providing a boost from interstate and international tourism modelled at 28,000 in year 1.

Employment during construction.

The proposed ocean pool will be economically viable. The benefit cost ratio from council expenditure on maintenance costs alone is estimated at $7.71 for every $1 spent, suggesting the project is economically warranted.

Continued over...

The proposed pool will offer features such as zero-depth ramp entries, stable walking surfaces, handrails, and edge markers allowing users to access the water independently or with minimal assistance, fostering a sense of confidence, autonomy, and belonging and a rare and valuable opportunity - especially for those with limited mobility, vision impairments, or low water confidence.

As such the pool will become an important place for rehabilitation, low-impact exercise, and social connection, particularly for older adults, people recovering from injury, and those managing chronic conditions.

Will the project require funding from council to move forward with construction?

No. Construction funding will be facilitated from the Federal Government via our Member for Cowper, Pat Conaghan. We should think of this as a gift. What other recreation facility

will be enjoyed by 100,000 users p.a. without any council capital investment?

Council’s only financial requirement will be to maintain the pool, at a cost estimated at around $186k p.a. or approximately $3 per person pa.

At the monthly meeting on August 21, we want the councillors to pass a resolution to include the Ocean Pool Project in the Recreation and Open Space Plan 2025 update.

What are the next major steps or milestones for the project?

With a view to gaining PMHC approval in the next few months, the committee’s agenda is:-

• A submission to be included in the PMHC 2025 Recreation and Open Space Plan Update (completed on 26 June).

• A council resolution for inclusion in the 2025 Recreation and Open Space Plan Update to

be held at the 21 August Council meeting.

• Submission of the Planning Application in August or September 2025.

• Development Application in September or October 2025.

What kind of support or commitment are you hoping to see from council?

At the monthly meeting on August 21, we want the councillors to pass a resolution to include the Ocean Pool Project in the Recreation and Open Space Plan 2025 update. This does not commit council to any planning approvals for the pool, nor does it require Council to make any financial or ownership commitment. What this does is allow the project to be formalised, provide strategic

Pl

support and a clear signal to the broader community that the project is on a defined path.

Our Planning Application will be submitted around September and a prompt response from council staff will continue progress along the approval pathway towards state planning approval. Again, a prompt response to our DA after lodgment will continue momentum toward the final approval and enable construction.

In May and June 2025, a survey of over 800 locals and visitors was conducted with 90% strongly in favour of the idea.

What kind of response have you seen from the local community around the idea of an ocean pool?

Clearly our local community has a longstanding passion for the project which needs to be recognised by council. This has been repeatedly demonstrated by a

petition of 19,000 signatures in 2019 and a survey of 1,276 in 2023 and indicating nearly 80% support.

In May and June 2025, a survey of over 800 locals and visitors was conducted with 90% strongly in favour of the idea.

For people who are passionate about seeing this become a reality, how can they get involved or support the project?

I urge interested readers to join our growing community of over 1,000 supporters and become a voice. Our collective voice now is more important that ever as we enter the critical approval process. Focus readers should go to portmacquarieoceanpool.org.au and fill in the Get Involved form.

PORT MACQUARIE

Fiona Sey

Fiona Solley is a coastal-based artist whose vibrant, natureinspired work brings the colours and textures of the landscape to life through both traditional and digital media. In this interview, she shares her creative process, the inspirations behind her bold, expressive style, and the joy she finds in transforming everyday moments into visual stories.

ARTIST of the MONTH

Can you tell us about your journey into the world of art and design?

My journey into art and design has been driven by a love for storytelling and visual expression. I'm a multidisciplinary artist working across traditional and digital media using materials like gouache, pencils, oil pastels, and digital tools to create colourful, detailed illustrations and paintings. My style blends playful shapes with intricate compositions to tell visually striking, emotionally resonant stories. I especially enjoy collaborating with brands and creatives to turn ideas into imaginative, narrative-driven visuals for editorial, packaging, campaigns, and digital content. It’s a path fueled by creativity, curiosity, and continual growth. Nature clearly plays a huge role in your art. What is it about the coastal landscape here that continues to inspire you?

Nature has always been central to my work, and living along the coast offers a constant source of inspiration. The mix of calm beaches and rugged bushland creates a landscape that’s both peaceful and wild, shifting with the light, tides, and seasons. It’s this everchanging beauty that keeps drawing me in.

What captivates me most are the pa erns and contrasts: the structure of a banksia cone, the rhythm of waves, or dappled light through eucalyptus leaves.

These details inform the bold, intricate motifs in my work.

What captivates me most are the patterns and contrasts: the structure of a banksia cone, the rhythm of waves, or dappled light through eucalyptus leaves. These details inform the bold, intricate motifs in my work. It’s less about depicting nature literally, and more about capturing the feeling of being immersed in it.

Through my art, I hope to reflect the wonder and reverence I feel for this place, inviting others to pause, notice, and reconnect with the natural world.

How would you describe your own art style? What would you say are some of

your influences?

I’d describe my art style as bold, expressive, and driven by the emotional power of colour. Colour is central to my work, it’s how I convey energy, mood, and atmosphere. I’m not focused on realism; I choose colours based on the feelings I want to evoke. Lately, I’ve been especially drawn to fluorescent pinks for their unexpected vibrancy and impact.

From a young age, I was inspired by Matisse and the Fauvists, as well as the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, artists who used colour to express how the world feels, not just how it looks. In a similar way, I draw from memories and impressions of nature, using a reimagined palette to create vivid, emotional responses

through colour.

Can you walk us through your creative process, from that first spark of inspiration to a finished piece?

My creative process is rooted in a deep connection to this environment. I often spend time outdoors, walking through coastal trails or along the shoreline with my camera, capturing the subtle details of native flora, textures in the landscape, or the way light dances on the water. These moments are later translated into my studio practice, where I work primarily with gouache, coloured pencil, and oil pastel. I begin by sketching these natural elements onto paper or plywood, slowly building up layers of gouache, starting transparent and becoming more opaque, to preserve the texture and rawness of the material beneath.

Continued over...

You often use a beautiful mix of gouache, coloured pencil, and oil pastel. What do you love about working with these materials?

I love how each of these materials brings something unique to the table. I’m definitely a fan of layering, it's a big part of my process. I usually start with translucent, watered-down acrylic gouache to block in broad areas of color and set the tone. Then I build up with more opaque gouache to add depth and structure. Coloured pencils and oil pastels come in later to sharpen details and introduce texture. Each layer adds its own character, and I enjoy the control it gives

me over which parts of the piece feel more refined or more expressive. It’s that mix of precision and spontaneity that really keeps me inspired.

Each layer adds its own character, and I enjoy the control it gives me over which parts of the piece feel more refined or more expressive.

Is there a particular piece or collection you’ve created that feels especially meaningful to you?

One of my most meaningful collections is Everyday Artistry: Repurposed Elegance, a series of twelve paintings inspired by overlooked items like food packaging. In these works, vases reinterpret traditional vessels, creating a dialogue between image and object. The collection explores the intersection of surface pattern, texture, and form, celebrating the transformative potential of the mundane.

By turning disposable materials into collectible art, it invites viewers to reconsider the beauty and value of everyday things. At its core, the work is about creativity, sustainability, and the quiet elegance of daily life; an invitation to see the ordinary anew. Can you share a bit about some recent projects or pieces you have been working on?

Recently, I’ve been working on a couple of exciting projects that have allowed me to explore different applications of my art. One is a series of illustrated gin labels for Bush Bloom Distillery, where I’ve used bold colour and intricate patterns to reflect the unique botanicals in each blend. It’s been a great opportunity and a fun collaboration to bring fine art into a commercial context while still staying true to my style.

I’m also currently working on a largescale piece for Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s Uncontained Street Art Project.

ARTIST of the MONTH

I’m transforming a shipping container into a vibrant, immersive artwork that explores surface pattern, texture, and storytelling in a public space. It’s still in progress, but I’m excited by the scale and the opportunity to connect with the community through street art.

What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects, exhibitions, or collaborations we should keep an eye out for?

I’m continuing my collaboration with Bush Bloom Distillery, creating new illustrated labels that build on the visual identity that Carla, from Bush Bloom Distillery, and I have developed.

I’ve got a few exciting things on the horizon. I’m continuing my collaboration with Bush Bloom Distillery, creating new illustrated labels that build on the visual identity that Carla, from Bush Bloom Distillery, and I have developed. I’m also in the early stages

for a future exhibition, exploring ideas around surface, form, and colour.

Alongside that, I’m making space but a chance to experiment and push my practice in new directions. I’m excited to see how it all unfolds and as always adding new artworks and products to my Kaleidoscope Port Macquarie stall.

for a personal project—still taking shape,

work, projects, and updates. I also run The Sketchy Collective, a relaxed, community-

Where can we follow your art journey or get in touch?

You can follow my art journey on Instagram (@solleyfiona) and through my website (www.fionasolley.com), where I share recent

focused sketching group that meets every third Wednesday of the month at Florence Jones Wine and Cheese. It’s a great way to unwind, connect, and explore creativity through drawing and everyone’s welcome, no matter your skill level!

Thanks Fiona.

Let’s go DRAGON

BOAT RACING

Following a big year Camden Haven Dragonboat Club is in the last weeks of organising its second major Dragonboat Challenge. At Stoney Aqua & Activity Park on 13 and 14 September Dragonboat paddlers from south east Queensland to the far south coast of NSW will descend on the site just 15 minutes from Port Macquarie CBD. With generous support from Port Macquarie Hastings Council and Laurieton United Services Club, this year the challenge is expected to surpass all expectations after 2024 paddlers hailed the unique program

one they didn’t want to miss next time round.

Two full days of racing will test the 20 and 10 paddler crews in womens, opens and mixed teams as well as an All Cancer Survivors race and a novelty 1.4km race around the two small islands at each end of the lake.

In the words of Club President Anni Yaringa “Paddlers will be out of one boat and into another and on the water many more times than their usual experience at a local regatta. Races will be running every 10 minutes over the two days.”

To focus on the need for safety in all water activities there will be a simulated boat roll-

over and recovery conducted as well as an equipment maintenance workshop included on the program.

Port Macquarie Marine Rescue will provide takeaway food options and there will be plenty of coffee to help cope with the 6am starts on both days. Local DJ Sir Rocco will keep the vibe jumping with music and race results, adding to the festival atmosphere. Stoney Park offers on site accommodation from self-contained cabins to free camping, with pets also welcome on site. For more information contact Alvena Ferguson on 0401 608 240 or alvenamary@outlook.com

PLAYERS THEATRE PRESENTS

THE FINE ART DECEPTION of

Suzanne Faith, a glamorous former model, partied in the 1970s with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and she established a London gallery with her late husband. Her impressive private collection includes a portrait of herself by Francis Bacon which is worth millions of pounds. A handyman attends her beautiful Chelsea home to do a simple repair job on some steps. What could go wrong? Suzanne’s old friend Margo pays an unexpected visit and refuses to leave. Written by Carl Caulfield, from Newcastle NSW, and featuring a small cast of five very talented and experienced actors, this play is sure to intrigue, startle and amuse in equal measure. Regular audiences may recognise Amanda Gordon and Sim Berry, two of our

popular leading ladies from many of our shows over the last 20 years, and young Tom Allen, the star of the comedy play Clue earlier this year plus many musicals. Rounding out the cast is Jim Mitchell from Me & My Girl and The Doll’s House, plus newcomer Theresa Muusers.

Director Guenter Bieniasch is no newcomer to directing, and has directed several plays for The Players Theatre, including Quartet, Anne Frank and Me, and Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Story. He is assisted by Caroline Ames who wrote the award winning one act play “The Old Nick” performed here and at Wyong Drama Festival last year. Don’t forget coming up later this year is Billy Elliot the Musical, directed by Wil Ferguson, which opens 31st October. Rehearsals

are well underway and we will have more information in the next issue.

Tickets for The Fine Art of Deception are on sale now at the Glasshouse and online at www.playerstheatre.org.au/bookings. The box office will also be open one hour before each performance. (*Warning: Strong coarse language and some violence).

ADAM DEDERER

DEDERERLIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

Local photographer Adam Dederer has built a creative life around chasing light, landscapes, and the mysteries of the night sky. From sweeping coastlines to star-strewn skies, his work invites viewers to slow down and reconnect with nature’s quiet beauty.

i Adam. What first sparked your love of photography? And how did you find your way into specialising in landscapes, seascapes, and astrophotography?

Photography started for me as a personal escape, a way to capture moments that felt meaningful. Over time, it grew into something more intentional and artistic. I found myself drawn to the natural world; sweeping landscapes, dynamic coastlines, and the magic of the night sky. For such a long time, I’ve been fascinated with the stars. There’s something incredibly beautiful about looking up at a dark sky away from the glow of city lights. It’s a perspective we’ve largely lost in modern life, but for thousands of years, it was everything; navigation, story, connection. That timeless sense of wonder is what inspired me to explore astrophotography.

You’ve captured some incredible images of the natural world. What draws you to the outdoors as your canvas?

Nature has a rhythm that encourages you to slow down. When you’re standing by a waterfall at sunrise or watching the ocean reshape the coastline, you’re reminded that we’re just one part of a much bigger picture. The outdoors challenges me creatively but also grounds me personally. Whether it's the energy of a storm rolling in or the stillness of a misty forest, I’m always chasing the feeling that there’s something deeper just waiting to be revealed through the lens.

When you’re standing by a waterfall at sunrise or watching the ocean reshape the coastline, you’re reminded that we’re just one part of a much bigger picture.

What do you love most about shooting the night sky?

Astrophotography in particular is such a technical and awe-inspiring artform.

I love how humbling it is. Standing under the stars, camera set and shutter open, you’re in sync with something ancient. But the process is also demanding. One of the most challenging parts is the planning. It’s not just a matter of showing up and pointing the camera at the sky. You’ve got to consider weather conditions (especially fog and dew), moon cycles (a new moon is ideal for dark skies), tides if you’re on the coast, and even where the Milky Way will be at that time of night. I rely heavily on apps like PhotoPills and several weather tools to help with timing and positioning.

Continued over....

DEDERERLIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

Is there a favourite local spot that always brings you inspiration or challenges you creatively?

Our national parks west of Port Macquarie and north toward the Dorrigo Plateau are personal favourites. There's so much beauty in those areas, from ancient rainforests to elevated plateaus with panoramic views. Each visit reveals something new, whether it’s light falling differently on the trees or a chance wildlife encounter. It’s a part of the world that keeps me inspired and always reminds me why I started.

You also run photography workshops. What do you enjoy about teaching others, and what’s one tip you always share with your students?

I love seeing that moment when someone “gets it”, not just technically, but emotionally. My workshops are about more than just camera settings; they’re about helping people connect with the scene in front of them. One tip I always share is to slow down. Spend time observing before you take the shot. Let the light guide you. Photography is about patience and being present.

ADAM DEDERER

Capturing a powerful image often requires patience and planning. Can you walk us through what goes into preparing for one of your more complex shoots?

Preparation often starts days, even weeks ahead. I scout locations during the day to plan compositions and understand access. I’ll study tide charts, moon phases, cloud coverage, and seasonal weather patterns. For astrophotography, it’s especially important to line everything up from light pollution, humidity, moonlight, even atmospheric conditions. Sometimes everything aligns perfectly. Other times, you can plan for hours and still have clouds roll in at the last minute. That’s part of the journey, and the reason why the wins are so rewarding.

Photography can be both deeply personal and universally relatable. What do you hope people feel or take away when they look at your work?

I want people to feel a sense of connection to the land, the sky, and something bigger than ourselves. If someone pauses and feels even a moment of peace, nostalgia, or awe while looking at one of my photos, then I’ve succeeded. For me, photography is about telling stories through stillness, and reminding people of the beauty that still

exists all around us if we slow down and look.

What gear do you rely on most in your kit? Has your approach to tools and technology changed over time?

For most of my astrophotography and landscapes, I use the Canon EOS RP with a Laowa 12mm f/2.8 lens. I also use the Canon EOS R7 paired with a 100–400mm lens when I want to capture wildlife or unique perspectives. I’ve learned over time that it’s not always about having the latest gear, it's about understanding how to use what you have to its full potential. I also rely heavily on NiSi filters to control light and enhance detail in my daytime shots. Planning tools like PhotoPills and weather apps are just as crucial to me as the camera itself.

I love seeing that moment when someone ‘gets it’, not just technically, but emotionally. My workshops are more than just camera se ings...

you're hoping to shoot?

What’s next for DedererLive Photography? Do you have any upcoming projects, exhibitions, or places

I haven’t got any exhibitions set in concrete just yet, but I’m not ruling anything out for later this year. It’s something I’d love to explore further when the time and opportunity align. As for travel, I’m really looking forward to an upcoming trip to the South Island of New Zealand. It’ll be a mix of a family vacation and quietly scouting out new locations. The goal is to get a good feel for the landscape, the light, and the conditions, so we can plan a more in-depth photography-focused return trip down the track.

Thanks Adam.

From her first tap-dancing penguin routine in the Kendall Community Hall to the dazzling stage of the Moulin Rouge, Molly McLaren’s dance journey has been one of passion, discipline, and unstoppable determination

We caught up with Molly as she prepares to return to Paris, reflecting on her career so far and what it means to come home to the Mid North Coast.

MOLLY M c LAREN

HWas there a particular moment when you knew you wanted to turn your love of dance into a professional career?

Each stepping stone to reaching the stage was magical and was only heightened by the amazing casting directors and choreographers who created such a vibrant and positive work culture throughout the entire cast.

I recall being 12 when I decided I wanted to truly succeed with dance as a recreational sport, and 14 when that feeling developed into an unwavering sense of determination and certainty to create what I love into my professional career. I remember driving home one evening from Taree Eisteddfod with my Mum sat beside me, and boldly declaring that dance was what I wanted to solely focus on and eventually turn into my career.

i Molly. You grew up in Kew and trained in Laurieton, can you tell us a bit about your early dance journey here on the Mid North Coast?

I have always adored the fact that I got to experience a lot of integral dance training milestones in my beautiful hometown. Long before growing dance into my professional career, my Mum enrolled me in my first dance class which was held in the Kendall Community Hall when I was only 4 years old. I believe one of my very first dance routines was when I was a tap-dancing penguin! Seeing my new joy ignited, I continued to grow and train in ballet, tap, jazz and acrobatics. I was lucky enough to receive local dance training from very passionate teachers who pushed me to reach my full performing potential and guided me through district competitions from Newcastle to Port Macquarie.

I was able to win opportunities at these competitions, like scholarships for dance intensive programs in Sydney and industry workshops, which only helped me to continue developing my skills as a performer.

From that point, dance evolved into who I was, rather than what I did, and it made my path very clear. I’ll always be grateful for the tremendous amounts of support from my family and community, especially Nan Bowman and the women at the CWA Kendall, who understood how serious I was and helped me in the pursuit of my dream career.

Dancing at the Moulin Rouge is a dream for many performers. Can you share what it felt like arriving in Paris and stepping onto that iconic stage for the first time?

The excitement I felt not only arriving in Paris, or leading up to my first rehearsal inside the historic Moulin Rouge building, and my first professional performance on stage as a Parisien showgirl, is truly indescribable. Each stepping stone to reaching the stage was magical and was only heightened by the amazing casting directors and choreographers who created such a vibrant and positive work culture throughout the entire cast.

I remember the applause after my first adrenaline fueled and breathless performance of the French Can-Can on the Moulin stage, happiness and relief combined to create an overwhelming sense of pride. The hard work, years of training and rehearsals felt so incredibly worth it and justified in that moment.

Continued over...

What’s something people might not realise about life as a Moulin Rouge dancer?

With all the Swarovskis and feathers, it can truly depict an effortless and glamourous lifestyle of a showgirl, but the physical demand of two shows a night, six days a week is no joke! Work doesn’t stop once you exit the stage; it’s a full-time gig that becomes your way of living. Maintaining the high expectation of flexibility, strength and appearance, whilst prioritising recovery and correctly fueling your body is essential to a Moulin dancer’s life. You’ve also performed on cruise ships,

Maintaining the high expectation of flexibility, strength and appearance, whilst prioritising recovery and correctly fueling your body is essential to a Moulin dancer’s life.

which sounds like a totally different kind of experience! What did you love about performing at sea, and how did that shape you as a dancer?

Yes! I have recently been sailing the seas and performing with Royal Caribbean Cruiselines. I’ve kicked a leg on board ships in Europe, Asia, the USA, the Caribbean, and islands all the way across the Pacific between Australia and Alaska! Besides being able to travel without sacrificing my dance career, the highlight of that venture for me was meeting and working with such diverse and extremely talented people, I now have lifelong friends across the globe that I treasure dearly. When you’re back home on the Mid North Coast, what do you love most about returning to your roots?

Returning home to visit Kew always feels like

I’m looking forward to returning to my passion and sharing what I love with audiences almost every single evening, on one of the most famous stages in the world.

a great big exhale for me, I get to slow down and connect with the people I love and have missed whilst being away. Growing up, I didn’t understand how truly gorgeous the piece of Australia is that I’d been raised in, which I now happily boast about unapologetically to my friends I’ve met on my travels. Later this year, you’ll be heading back to Paris to rejoin the Moulin Rouge. What excites you most about returning?

Having previously lived in Paris for three years, returning feels very nostalgic and like I’m coming back home. I’ve missed the city and my dream job at the Moulin Rouge. I’m excited to experience it all over again through a new lens and with more training under my belt. I’m looking forward to returning to my passion and sharing what I love with audiences

almost every single evening, on one of the most famous stages in the world.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for such demanding, high-profile shows?

It truly is a lifestyle choice to be a professional dancer, and I love it! I wouldn’t have it any other way. I always prioritise my physical activity, dance training, and how I fuel my body when preparing to return to any stage. The gym mentally becomes my ‘9 to 5’, ensuring my cardiovascular fitness is at its peak, it gives me the confidence I need to be able to complete an hour of dance to my full ability on stage without fatigue.

Are there any future goals or dream projects you’re working towards that you can share with us?

The passion I have for dance is a continuing driving force for me, I would love nothing more than to pass on my practical experience and industry knowledge to other young Australian performers who share the same determination and dream to create their own dance career. I hope to soon build a functional learning tool that can help set clear progressions for dancers to achieve their goals professionally. I hope to also offer advice and guidance on my social media (@ molly_mclaren) as a more conversational and interactable platform. Other than that, I plan to keep dancing until my feet burn out!

Thanks Molly.

Alanna

Alfaro

Alanna Alfaro is a local children’s author whose debut picture book, Serena and the Sun, celebrates the quiet magic of nature and friendship. In this interview, Alanna shares how her love of storytelling, performance, and the natural world inspired her to write a story that invites children to see wonder in their own backyards.

Hi Alanna. Congratulations on publishing your first children’s book! Can you tell us a little about the story and how the idea for Serena and the Sun came to you?

Publishing a children’s book has been a lifelong dream, so I’m incredibly grateful to be here. I wrote the first draft in 2018. I was asked to perform a story for the Winter Lantern Festival, which Port Macquarie Steiner School holds (almost) every year at The Lost Plot Community Garden. I searched everywhere for a story that would suit both our climate and hemisphere, something without snow! When I couldn’t find one, I decided to write my own. While our seasons aren’t so dramatic, we do experience shorter days in winter and subtle shifts marked by our plants and animals.

One day, out in the garden with my kids, the story just about fell from the sky. It followed

me inside and demanded to be written down. That first version only took five minutes to draft, but it’s evolved since. I first performed it with handmade props, a standing doll, and just the right amount of glitter to catch the dusk light. The most recent performance in 2023 even featured live music with chimes and clarinet.

The story feels both gentle and profound. What message or feeling did you hope children (and their grown-ups) would take from it?

It’s honestly my favourite part of being a children’s author. I get to read my stories aloud and kids have the most honest facial expressions!

I hoped it would inspire readers to see their own gardens, parks, bushland or beaches as magical places, just like Serena does. I want children to notice the seasonal rhythms and feel their changes.

When I first saw the finished illustrations, I

realised the story is so much about friendship, though not necessarily just the human kind. It’s about the sense of belonging we can find in nature, and how curiosity and imagination can connect us to the world around us. Since becoming a parent, I’ve kept a mantra: if I want my children to protect and care for the world, I first need to let them fall in love with it. At your book launch, you read from the story and even made one up on the spot with the children. What do you love most about connecting with young readers?

It’s honestly my favourite part of being a children’s author. I get to read my stories aloud, and kids have the most honest facial expressions!

My background is in theatre, so the

performance element is something I naturally enjoy. Although what really drives me is encouraging young storytellers to believe in their own creativity. I had amazing teachers who supported me as early as Kindergarten.

I’ll never forget when Alison Lester visited my Year 3 class at Nhulunbuy Primary. I was in awe, and I remember thinking, “Wow, maybe I could be an author one day too.” I want my young readers to know they have stories too, the magic begins here. What was it like holding your finished book for the first time?

I felt delighted, relieved and grateful. My youngest climbed onto my lap and asked me to read it to him. Even though he’s heard it so many times, it felt like reading it for the first time, especially seeing Claire Westwood’s stunning illustrations in print. Many picture books are rooted in emotion or personal experience. Was there something in your life that inspired Serena’s journey?

It wasn’t anything specific, more an intrinsic love of nature and a vivid imagination. There’s definitely a little bit of me in Serena. What surprised me recently is how much of Claire, the illustrator, is in her too. She’s also a nature lover, and Serena’s dog was entirely her addition. I think the dog needs a

name… maybe in the next book?

What surprised you most about the publishing process?

How long it takes! I had no idea it would be two years before I’d be holding the finished book. It was absolutely worth the wait. I enjoyed working with the editor, reviewing the illustrations, every part of the process. You seem to have a very intuitive, heart-led approach to storytelling. Do you follow a creative routine, or is it more spontaneous?

Definitely both. Sometimes I write every day and carry a notebook everywhere. Other times I need to carve out a routine to stay consistent. Then there are quieter seasons, when I don’t write much at all, and I’ve learned that’s not great for my wellbeing in the long run. Life gets busy with family and work, but if you’re a creative, it’s important to prioritise time to create.

What’s next for you? Are there more stories waiting to be told?

I’m planning some local creative writing workshops for both adults and children, so watch this space.

Where can we find Serena and the Sun, get in touch, or learn more?

There are definitely more stories! I have a few almost ready to send to the publisher. I make up new ones all the time for my kids, but not all of them make the cut.

I’m also working on poetry, a screenplay and a novel (though those might be years away).

You can buy it at Bookface or any bookstore, if they don’t have it, they can order it in. Signed copies are available on my website: alannaalfaro.com.au

To stay in touch: @alanna.alfaro.writer @alanna.alfaro.writer

Thanks Alanna.

Photos by Carlie Sings Photography

Apple & Cinnamon

French Toast…..apple & cinnamon bread soaked with egg then topped with fresh Granny Smith apple & raisin compote with fresh mascarpone and crumble from SOCIAL GROUNDS

PORT MACQUARIE MUST Viss

FLORENCE JONES

Your friendly Wine & Cheese Store. Choose something delicious to go - grazing boxes, wine or foodie gift - or take in the view and enjoy cheese, wine and all the good things in house! 74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie, Bookings for 10 or more - 0475 740 621

DOCKSIDE

Welcome to Dockside Restaurant, where every meal comes with a view! Nestled by the harbour, Dockside Restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience with boats gently bobbing on the water and a menu featuring fresh seafood. 9/18 Park Street, Port Macquarie 6582 1551

Just 15 minutes west of Wauchope, the Beechwood Hotel is a classic country pub nestled in the scenic Hastings Hinterland. Enjoy hearty pub meals, cold drinks and genuine hospitality. The bistro’s open Wednesday lunch to Sunday dinner and there’s even a hitching rail out front for your horse!   735 Beechwood Rd, Beechwood 6565 6170 beechwoodhotel.com.au

HASTINGS HOTEL

Step inside the newly renovated Hastings Hotel, proudly serving Wauchope since 1897. This iconic country pub blends rich history with fresh charm with cosy fireplace, hearty meals, cold beers and friendly faces. Whether you’re a local or passing through, it’s a mustvisit spot in the heart of town.

12 High Street, Wauchope 6586 1963 hastingshotel.com.au

BILLABONG ZOO

At the multiple award-winning Billabong Zoo you can get up-close and personal to Australian and exotic animals. Pat, feed, hold, hear and see over 100 species of mammals, reptiles and birds.  61 Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie | billabongzoo.com.au

BEECHWOOD HOTEL

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.

Food, Family & Footy

The Ultimate Father’s Day at Panthers Port Macquarie

Make this Father’s Day one to remember by celebrating at Panthers Port Macquarie – the perfect place to gather the family and spoil the special men in your life. Whether your Dad’s a foodie, a sports lover, or just up for a good catch-up, we’ve got something to make his day unforgettable. Join us at The Kove Kitchen for hearty lunch or dinner specials Dad will love. Or, if he’s more of a classics kind of guy, treat him to one of our signature favourites –tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in red wine and rosemary, juicy steaks grilled to his liking, or sautéed garlic prawns served over a bed of rice. Delicious flavours Dad will enjoy.

If a casual drink is more his style, head to The TAPP Bar for an icecold beer, tasty tapas and all the live sport action on our big screens. It’s the ultimate relaxed Father’s Day hangout.

In the lead-up to the big day, we’re also giving you the chance to win amazing prizes in our Father’s Day raffles – from BBQs to pizza ovens and gift cards.

Bookings are essential. Call us on 02 6580 2300 to secure your table at The Kove Kitchen or TAPP Bar today.

Funion HOW TO

In restaurant lingo it’s known as a function. To the rest of the population, it is referred to as an occasion or a celebration.

What better way to herald any type of event than with a great meal at a nice restaurant? So simple…. a neutral location, no mess, no fuss. Letting someone else do all the hard work leaves time for everyone to mingle, for a host to remain relatively unflustered, for guests to kick back and let off a bit of steam.

Whether it’s simply a birthday, a landmark anniversary, a work do, a Christmas party or even a wedding or a wake – restaurants are often the first point of call in the organisation of a group gathering.

Sometimes it’s an intimate soiree, other times a sardine crammed room of raucous revellers. Whatever the occasion, a great venue will try to meet the needs of their clients and tailor the event to make their experience perfect. This is indeed a finely honed balancing act which involves firstly agreeing on cost, then planning an appropriate menu, creating the right kind of atmosphere…the list goes on. And then there’s getting it all right on the night. The pressure is on in the kitchen

getting multiple meals out all at once, the front of house staff madly coping with drink orders en-masse and trying to keep things tidy and avoiding a descent into chaos.

The pressure to perform is real - as it may not just be a couple of tables that aren’t happy with their experience, but rather an entire event that remains memorable to its attendees for completely the wrong reasons! What is fantastic about functions and also what makes them somewhat stress inducing is that no event is the same as another.

Every group creates its own specific atmosphere – some contain an abundance of hard core partiers with cocktails flowing, raucous laughter galore and require some additional assistance from the team in departing the premises at the end of the evening. Others are much more low key with soft drinks and early bedtimes. There can be awkwardness apparent when clearly nobody really knows each other too well – that feeling when you’re sat at a table of strangers and need to do some small talk legwork... There’s the inherent restraint of corporate gatherings, where you might be having fun but can’t let loose completely! Some guests care a lot about what is on their plate in front of

Palate

them and some can’t even remember what it was that they ordered. Some folks are there for the buzz, some for the booze. Some for networking and others for the free feed.

Whatever the vibe, there’s always fun to be had, as well as the odd challenge or situation where we need to think on our feet!

The show must go on…whether it’s having to duck out to get another few cases of your guest’s favourite beer, troubleshooting technological glitches on the fly, or finding last minute fill ins for unwell team members… you name it, it happens!

Whatever the case may be know that there is a team of people working hard to create a special event, just for you and your friends/ family/colleagues.

This us why outsourcing your next event is always a fantastic idea. We’ve been there, done that. In fact, this is what we do for a living! Whatever you can imagine, we can make it happen – whether it’s mingling with killer cocktails and canapes, a twelve-course degustation menu with incredible wines, a corporate presentation served up with delicious food and drinks, or anything in between.

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET with LOU PERRI

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.

BEACHFRONT BAR AND GRILL

Mango Countdown The

You know that feeling when the first hint of warm air brushes your skin and you can just smell the promise of summer?

That’s the same feeling we get when the first mangoes of the season arrive sweet, golden, juicy and totally irresistible. Yes folks, mango season is officially kicking off, starting in August, and we are here for every bite of it.

It begins way up north in the Northern Territory, where the mango trees bloom first and the fruit begins to ripen under that dry season sun. The mango magic slowly trickles down through Queensland, New South Wales and beyond, delivering a steady supply of sunshine in fruit form all the way into the new year.

But August? August is the first taste when the cravings begin to be satisfied. It’s when mango lovers start hovering near the produce shelves, looking for that familiar golden glow, that perfumed aroma that no other fruit has. Mangoes aren’t just a fruit, they’re a full sensory experience, and after months of winter apples, pears and citrus (delicious, yes, but let’s be honest…), a mango is pure tropical joy.

Let’s talk varieties.

When people say “mango,” most of us picutre a Kensington Pride, the OG of Aussie mangoes. Sometimes called Bowen mangoes, these beauties are golden-skinned with a rich orange flesh and that familiar floral sweetness.

Kensingtons are the first to arrive in the season and are grown mainly in the Northern Territory and northern Queensland.

As the season rolls on, we see other contenders like the Calypso mangoes. They’re a little firmer, with less stringy flesh and a more subtle flavour. Ideal for slicing into neat cubes or fanning over a summer pavlova.

Then there’s the R2E2, a big, bold mango with a stunning blush and a longer shelf life. Less perfumed than Kensingtons, but beautiful in a salad or smoothie. Honey Golds show up later in the season, with a denser flesh and a toffee sweet taste. And for the real aficionados, Keitt mangoes bring up the rear with a deeper flavour and rich colour, often hanging around well into late summer. But right now? It’s Kensington time!

How to pick the perfect mango?

Forget colour - some mangoes have a blush, some don’t. What you’re really looking for is a strong fragrance from the stem end, a slight give to the flesh, and skin that feels smooth and taut, and don’t be afraid of a few black spots - those are sugar freckles, and they often mean more sweetness.

When you get them home, resist the urge to refrigerate them straight away. Let them ripen fully on the bench, then chill for a few hours before eating if you like them cold. Sliced, diced, in smoothies, on cereal, or just eaten over the sink with juice running down your arms, mangoes never disappoint.

What’s in

Season

with BRYAN HANKS OWNER - GROWERS MARKET

What makes Aussie mangoes so good?

Apart from the perfect growing conditions, there’s a lot of love and care behind every tray. Aussie mango growers are a passionate bunch. Many farms are family run, passed down through generations, and the knowledge they hold about growing the perfect mango is something you just can’t manufacture. Every tree is pruned, fertilised, watered, and monitored to perfection. Then, when harvest time comes, the fruit is handpicked and packed carefully to make sure it arrives looking and tasting its best.

It’s not just about taste either, it’s about timing. Mangoes are picked at just the right stage of ripeness to allow them to finish maturing on the way to market. That means by the time they hit your fruit bowl, they’re at peak sweetness, ready to devour.

Beyond the fruit bowl.

Of course, you can eat mangoes fresh but they’re also amazing in recipes. Try mango and coconut rice for a tropical dessert or mango salsa with lime and chilli over grilled fish or prawns. Mango smoothies, mango cheesecakes, mango lassi, mango sorbet… even a mango daiquiri if you’re feeling festive. If you’re really looking to impress, try layering fresh mango slices with mascarpone cream and crushed meringue for a quick and show stopping dessert. Or toss chunks into a salad with baby spinach, avocado, grilled haloumi and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Absolute heaven. Mangoes = sunshine + nostalgia!

THE WAIT IS OVER… THEY’RE BACK!

COMFORT TUESDAYS

Every Tuesday from 5.30pm

TRIVIA AND SCHNITZEL NIGHT

Every Wednesday from 5.30pm

RIBS AND GRILL NIGHT & PUTT FOR DOUGH

Every Thursday from 5.30pm

MEAT & SEAFOOD RAFFLES

Every Friday from 6pm

MEMBER’S BADGE DRAW

Fridays at 6.30pm and 8pm

SUNDAY ROAST

Every Sunday from 1130am

HAPPY HOUR

Schooners & House Wines | $5.50 Every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm

Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 5pm

TIM LANE

AT BIRDROCK BAR & GRILL

Hi Tim, how long have you been in the Port Macquarie area, and what are you doing with yourself these days?

I’ve been living in Port Macquarie for nine years now. I own and operate the management rights at Ki-ea Apartments, looking after holiday rentals. Until recently I was also managing Beachcomber Resort, which kept me busy for the past five years. What drew you to the area originally?

After 14 years coaching rugby overseas, I was ready for a new chapter and looking to invest in a business. Port had a great feel about it with a beautiful location, relaxed vibe and Ki-ea Apartments really appealed to me. I saw its potential and what it could offer to holidaymakers.

When you’re not working, how do you spend your spare time here on the Mid North Coast?

I play golf twice a week at Port Macquarie Golf Club, which is a fantastic country course. I also enjoy dining out with friends a couple of times a week. We’re really spoiled for choice with the amazing restaurants and bars around town.

Are you still involved in rugby union?

When I first moved here, I helped out with some of the local clubs and was involved with the Mid North Coast representative side during the Country Championships held in Port a few years back. I haven’t been handson in recent years, but I still like to watch the occasional game with mates.

What are your thoughts on the current Wallabies squad?

FRONT in the BAR

with ALISTAIR FLOWER MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

FORMER WALLABIES PLAYER AND INTERNATIONAL RUGBY UNION COACH.

A er 14 years coaching rugby overseas, I was ready for a new chapter and looking to invest in a business. Port had a great feel about it with a beautiful location.

The Wallabies have been inconsistent over the last few years, and the upcoming three test series against the British & Irish Lions will be a huge challenge. The Lions will come in well prepared with six or seven matches under their belt against our Super Rugby teams, whereas we’ve only had one warm up match - against Fiji, which we were lucky to win. We've struggled to find a consistent, game controlling number 10 and have been chopping and changing at halfback too. That lack of continuity hasn’t helped. Hopefully, our forward pack can match the Lions physically, and our outside backs, who are strong in both attack and defence, can really step up. It should be a great series.

Thanks Tim.

The

history of

Great coffee

After creating Cafe Culture Magazine, Sean & Kristine continued down the coffee road setting up Peak Coffee and an international coffee media business. The following interview looks at Sean and Kristine’s journey throughout the coffee world over the last 23 years.

Tell us how did you get started in coffee?

I always had a fascination for coffee, I loved the flavour and smell and like most young people I was only ever exposed to instant coffee at the start of my journey. I had my first real coffee when I got my license, and I would drive to Sydney and go out to cafés in Leichardt which at the time were run by Italians – the masters of coffee. They created a real mystery around the product and the shiny lever operated espresso machine fascinated me being an electrical engineer. I loved how this large contraption could make such a wonderful beverage. The passion grew with Kristine, now my wife, when we travelled around the world being constantly exposed to so many types of coffees and different brew methods. Espresso coffee was always my go to, with those deep rich full flavours and that syrupy body that mystified my tastebuds.

Where was your first café.

Kristine and I both worked in the coal mines in the Hunter Valley and had the time and money to travel, but we soon become very unsettled with mining life and wanted to

explore our own business and destiny. We accidentally found Comboyne on a road trip and fell in love with the town and decided to fill a gap in the community and started the Udder Cow café. The café is still there today after 30 years. We had no real idea of coffee so we went down the rabbit hole and using my engineering brain I pushed every barrier to fully understand the dynamics of espresso. I travelled and chatted to every industry expert at the time to decode the secrets behind the perfect espresso. I formed some great relationships which led to a group of coffee nerds and myself putting together the first national coffee standard called Prepare and Serve Espresso Coffee. This was also the start of my media journey.

Why start a coffee roastery in Port Macquarie.

Port Macquarie had lots of cafés and restaurants and at the time I counted over 150 espresso machines - a roastery made sense! Peak started out as bit of a side project as I was fully committed to running Café Culture magazine and our event called Café Biz. We had a few local businesses that wanted to get involved and a year later we had a 40kg roaster and we were producing the first locally

roasted coffee in Port Macquarie. We also saw a huge opportunity to train cafes in making amazing coffee and support our growing brand. We started a service company which would fix machines and do maintenance programs for local cafes. We still have a full-service business today and keep cafes operating in the area.

Tell us about the global side of your business.

Our Café Culture magazine turned into a full-blown media business, and we created lots of events and tradeshows to support the Australasian café.

We created one event called The Golden Bean Roasters competition and that now is run in North America, China and soon Europe. Our overseas ventures turned into consulting work for some large corporations in the US and for the last 5 years we have been creating major Brands in the Plant Milk space. We helped develop billion-dollar brands like Almond Breeze and Planet Oat. We had used the knowledge of this space to do the same in Australia for companies like Alternative Dairy Co with Sanitarium. Consulting was very strong during COVID when the coffee industry took a dive in the wholesale sector so we

focused on this part of our business, and we could scale up and down easier.

We are hearing all the dramatic talk of high coffee prices and the $12 latte; can we get your take on the industry movements?

The coffee industry in the world is in a lot of trouble and the consumer will see a small rise in the cost of their daily café coffee. This is because we have had some major weather events in coffee growing areas like Brazil and Vietnam that has cut supply tonnages. China is also fully online now with their coffee culture and their demand for coffee has taken a big chunk out of the supply chain also. The good news is a $6 latte may go up by a dollar or two which in turn will help roasters deal with the massive surge in green bean costs. Beans that cost $5 a kilo two years ago are costing $20 a kilo and things like rising energy costs and freight are also impacting on all hospitality businesses. At Peak we are not prepared to cut our quality of specialty coffee so we are communicating to our wholesale customers that service, training and maintenance should be a good reason to support a local business versus chasing cheaper coffee from a corporate beverage company.

Our climate is perfect for the café lifestyle with beach and bush locations. We have many visitors from all parts of the world looking for specialty co ee.

What’s next in the café industry in our area?

We have seen a massive decline in skill levels in hospitality since COVID. Many hospitality workers, including baristas, left to go to more stable industries. We are lucky new technology in coffee machines has finally caught up with the barista skill. We have seen automation become a coming part of the café bar. Automatic tampers, auto dosing grinders and hi-tech espresso equipment. There is automatic espresso machine now in the market that will copy the skill of a professional barista. These systems are ideal for busy coffee systems like pubs, clubs, drive throughs and office cafes. If you can save on labour on any

business now to reduce cost, it will help you stay in business.

Do we have a good café scene in Port Macquarie and if so what drives this.

I believe Port Macquarie has an amazing café and coffee industry. Our climate is perfect for the café lifestyle with beach and bush locations. We have many visitors from all parts of the world looking for specialty coffee. I see it’s our duty to be at the highest level of coffee quality and service to appease these needs. Australians are great at food and beverage, and quality always wins over price in the long run.

We roast about 50,000 cups of coffee a week for Port Macquarie, and we are one of 3 local coffee roasters. The sad thing about locals not supporting each other is that many cafes are still bringing in coffee brands from other cities thinking it’s a point of difference. They forget they can get a far superior product from the local coffee company that roasts fresh daily. They also don’t value local service when your espresso machine breaks down on a Sunday morning! The local coffee guy can jump in and get you going quickly not letting them

loose a few days revenue. Our community will not have unique artisan businesses if they don’t support businesses like Peak. Let’s really understand what local supporting local really means when you are making an informed purchase.

What is the future for the Edwards coffee family?

Going to work every day in our industry is a passion more than a job. Things are very tough now in all hospitality industries but coffee is not going away quickly, it’s a daily indulgence we hope people still will pay for. We are enjoying having new people visiting us at our roastery on 30 Jambali Road, in Port Macquarie and our dedicated staff love taking people through our roastery helping them understand the dynamics of a coffee business. Our kids and staff have enjoyed the fruits of working hard in this business and hopefully they will take over the reins when we can’t get out of bed and go to work. We are still excited about our global coffee business and look at now changing the perception of the industry one country at a time. Our next adventure in coffee is Golden Bean Europe which we will be launching in Amsterdam next year.

Yours in coffee

Sean and Kristine Edwards

Kelly

THE HEART BEHIND PORT MACQUARIE’S MOST STYLISH SUSTAINABLE SPACE

Having grown up in Port Macquarie, Kelly has always loved the thrill of discovering unique preloved pieces. That love, combined with her deep commitment to sustainability, inspired her to launch a business that not only celebrates individuality and creativity but also supports the environment and local community.

The Clothing Space operates on a “rent-a-rack” concept, where anyone in the community can hire a rack to sell their quality preloved clothing. From vintage finds to nearly-new designer wear, each rack is a reflection of a different local’s wardrobe, offering shoppers a constantly evolving collection of style.

lease introduce yourself to our readers and your background.

I’m Kelly, proud owner of The Clothing Space – a place where members of the community can hire a rack space to sell their own clothing that they love, but no longer wear. I've had the pleasure of growing up in the Port Macquarie area and I’ve always loved secondhand clothing. What inspired you to open The Clothing

Space and focus on the concept of renting a rack?

Opening a much needed Port Mac rent a rack was inspired by my passion for preloved clothing and circular fashion.

The rent-a-rack concept really stood out to me as it allows people to have a space for selling their clothing without needing to manage it themselves. They drop their clean, tagged clothing into the store - they are then hung ready for sale and we handle the rest. It’s a hassle free way to make money

from your clothing. It's a unique selling and shopping experience. It keeps quality items in circulation, saves clothing from landfill and supports our local community. It's a place for like minded fashion locals to come together and support each other.

What types of clothing or styles can customers expect to find at The Clothing Space?

Customers can expect a diverse collection of quality pre-loved clothing from the local community. Each rack is owned by a

different member of the community and contains contents of their wardrobes. It's a collective space which is always changing. You can find timeless classics, unique pieces and sustainable fashion. There's everything from everyday wear to vintage, retro, designer and special occasion wear and handbags and shoes! Some is brand new or barely worn. We dont sell fast fashion brands like Shein, Cotton On, Anko, Supre and Best and Less etc...

What has been the response from the Port Macquarie community so far?

ere’s everything from everyday wear to vintage, retro, designer and special occasion wear and handbags and shoes! Some of the clothing is brand new or barely worn.

I’m incredibly grateful and humbled by the overwhelming support from the Port Macquarie community. It’s been amazing to see so many people embracing a more sustainable way to shop and sell. Everyone is really excited about the space. Shoppers love having a variety of clothing to choose fromseeing brands and pieces from all over the world, and sellers are excited to be making money from the clothing they have had in their wardrobes. I’ve also met so many awesome people! It's a really positive vibe. We are so lucky to be part of an amazing community like port Macquarie. How do you ensure the clothes stay fresh and well-maintained?

All clothing is washed, clean and ready for sale when brought into the store.

We encourage rack holders to stock quality brands and items in excellent condition. We don't accept clothing with missing buttons, rips, tears, odour, stains etc.

How do you see The Clothing Space evolving in the next few years?

I would love to see it grow into a hub for sustainability and our community. We are already seeing how passionate people are about secondhand shopping and supporting local sellers so I’d love to expand on that. We have put over $30,000 back into people of the communities pockets since opening.

The circular fashion movement is growing all the time. People are looking for a more sustainable way to shop. Rent a rack shops, clothing swaps, second hand clothing markets and op shops are all great ways to shop and save the planet from textile waste.

How can local designers or brands get involved with The Clothing Space?

Locals are encouraged to rent a rack space showcasing their designs as it’s an easy way to get up and coming brands out there. We provide the space, display the clothing and handle sales. Leaving more time for creating! What’s your favourite part of running the store so far?

I've met so many wonderful, like-minded people who are passionate about supporting the circular fashion movement and it's been incredible to see how much it's grown!

The Port Macquarie community has been wonderful. I feel lucky to come to work each day, open the doors, and welcome so many amazing people who come in to the shop and sell their preloved clothing.

Thanks Kelly.

from $740,000

Limited homes available

Back by Popular Demand: The Watonga

GLENFERN’S BEST-SELLING HOME DESIGN

Step into a new way of living with The Watonga. Glenfern’s most popular home design, now available once again by popular demand. With stylish interiors, low-maintenance features and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, it’s the perfect fit for relaxed, over 50s living.

Set within the vibrant Glenfern community in beautiful Port Macquarie, you’ll enjoy resort-style facilities, like a clubhouse, pool and bowling green, as well as a warm and welcoming neighbourhood of like-minded people.

Earl’s Anchorage Package

• Return flights from Port Macquarie to Lord Howe

• Meet & greet on arrival

• Return island airport transfers

• 7 nights in a 1 bedroom bungalow

• Evening restaurant transfers

• FREE coffee & muffin at Anchorage Restaurant

Departure Dates

30 September - 3 December 2025 from $4699* *Conditions apply. Per person twin share.

Beauty

Dr Elfar, can you tell us how your journey in dentistry began? I graduated from Sydney in 1997 and began my career working in Armidale, the Isle of Man as a school dentist and the UK. Later, I travelled to study advance dentistry in the UK, America and Brazil. My interest in complex rehabilitative care began to take shape because of the solutions I could offer my patients and seeing them through to the best outcomes.

What attracted you to placing dental implants? Implant dentistry is one of the most rewarding areas, you’re not just fixing a tooth; you’re rebuilding function, confidence, even identity for many people. In 2003, I trained in Switzerland with Straumann and later completed advanced implant training in America, Europe and Brazil. Since then, I’ve committed to staying at the forefront, from digital dentistry to full-arch solutions like All-on-4.

For those unfamiliar, what exactly is Allon-4? All-on-4 is a full-arch implant retained fixed solution; we place four strategically angled implants to support a complete set of fixed teeth, typically in a single day. This treatment is ideal for patients with failing teeth, dentures, or bone loss. The beauty is that a patient can walk out 24 hours later with a fixed, functional and

DR PETER ELFAR

REDEFINING HOW PATIENTS EXPERIENCE DENTISTRY.

Dr Peter Elfar, Principal Dentist at Sundial Dental has gained a reputation for incorporating the latest dental technology to bring advance dental solutions to our regional communities. In this candid interview, he shares his philosophy, approach, and the science behind the All-on-4 treatment that is transforming smiles across our region.

aesthetic solution to missing or broken teeth. You’ve brought All-on-4 to communities like Taree, Wauchope, and Port Macquarie. What motivated that? There’s often a misconception that this level of care is only available in capital cities. But regional Australians deserve the same standard. We’ve invested heavily in 3D imaging, cad cam technology, in-house milling, printing, and sedation capabilities, all of which allow us to deliver the same-day SMILES patients see in Sydney or Brisbane, often at a significantly lower cost.

How does your in-house workflow benefit your patients? It’s all about precision and efficiency. Our on-site lab produces acrylic, porcelain and zirconia final restorations, which means fewer delays, fewer appointments, better outcomes and we pass our savings on to our patients. We control every step, from imaging to surgery to restoration, and that results in a seamless, comfortable experience for patients and SMILES!!!

What’s a typical All-on-4 journey like for a patient at your practice? We start with a full assessment, 3D scans, medical history and we print models for our patients so they can see and feel their future smile. Once we’ve planned the case and the patient is happy, we schedule surgery. On the day, we place the implants and they return the following day to fit a high-quality

acrylic teeth. Patients walk out with a full set of functional, aesthetic teeth. A few months later, they receive the final zirconia restoration. It’s life-changing for many and we love being part of that change.

What kind of patients are ideal for All-on-4? Anyone facing full-arch tooth loss, whether from decay, gum disease, or trauma. We tailor the approach, and with sedation options, it’s a manageable process for nearly everyone.

What makes your approach to All-on-4 unique? We bring a specialist-level experience into a general practice environment. We’re able to offer advanced procedures with the warmth and accessibility of a local clinic. That, combined with our in-house digital lab and surgical protocols, allows us to deliver top-tier results at often $8,000–$10,000 less than the city clinics.

Any final thoughts for someone considering All-on-4? Don’t assume it’s out of reach, why not look at your options. A consultation and 3d x ray costs about $245, but it could change everything. Whether you’ve struggled with loose or ill fitting dentures or avoided smiling for years, there are solutions now that are faster, safer, and more effective than ever. We’re here to help people reclaim their lives and their SMILE! Call us on 6583 3533 to book a All-on-4 consultation today.

Thanks Dr Peter.

ndrew Liebeck

From styling celebrities to leading backstage teams at fashion events, Andy Liebeck, owner of Andy Pandy Hair Candy, is having a standout year. ere have been many ups and downs for Andy over the years, and he just keeps ge ing stronger and more driven than ever. We caught up with him about life behind the salon doors, working with high-profile clients, and what’s next for his pastel-coloured creative sanctuary.

This year alone you’ve worked on the hair of Teresa Giudice, Whitney Rose, JennaWithThePink, and Port Mac’s own Dr Kristy! What has it been like working with such high-profile clients?

It’s been such an incredible experience. Teresa and Whitney were both honestly so lovely, open, kind, and really down to earth. They made the whole process feel fun and relaxed. JennaWithThePink brought her usual bold energy, and Dr Kristy is absolutely blowing up on socials right now. She’s not only killing it online but also brings so much creativity and humour into our content collabs. Working with people who are not only successful but genuinely kind and real has been such a reminder of why I love what I do.

You worked behind the scenes at the Sensory Show and Macleay Valley Fashion Show. What did you love about those events?

Both events were incredible. The Sensory Show celebrated all kinds of beauty and inclusivity, which is something I’m passionate about. And the Macleay Valley Fashion Show? A full circle moment. I brought my apprentices with

me and we styled over 20 models, along with my sister Dee who also works in the salon and helped make the day run smoothly. Seeing everyone step up, work hard, and shine backstage made me so proud. These events light me up. They’re high energy, creative, and such a powerful space for growth.

I’ll never forget starting out mixing bleach in takeaway containers in a tiny bathroom. It wasn’t glamorous but it taught me grit. Being a sponsor for Stars of Hastings now is surreal and shows how far I’ve come.

Your salon isn’t just a workplace, it’s a sanctuary filled with colour, art, and emotion. How does your personal journey shape Andy Pandy Hair Candy?

Everything I’ve been through is woven into the space. I didn’t want just a salon - I wanted a place where people could feel completely themselves. Whether someone’s going for vivid rainbow hair or getting Jadore Hair Extensions for a full transformation, they walk into a space filled with warmth and freedom. I’ve had my own battles with identity, confidence, and healing and I poured that into the environment. That’s why it feels different. It’s not just a place to get your hair done, it’s where people feel

seen and safe. From starting out doing clients hair in a bathroom to now being the official hair sponsor for Stars of Hastings, your journey has been anything but ordinary. What keeps you motivated through the ups and downs?

I’ll never forget starting out mixing bleach in takeaway containers in a tiny bathroom. It wasn’t glamorous but it taught me grit. Being a sponsor for Stars of Hastings now is surreal and shows how far I’ve come. What keeps me going is the love I have for my clients and my team, and honestly, I couldn’t do any of this without my family. My Mum Denise, my Dad David, and my sisters Dee and Tezz have all supported me endlessly, whether it’s helping behind the scenes, lifting me up when I’ve felt burnt out, or simply believing in me when I needed it most. And my salon family? They’ve been by my side through every high and low. We celebrate wins together and ride out the rough patches together too.

Knowing I’m surrounded by people who genuinely care keeps me going, even on the hardest days.

Social media has played a huge role in your career. How did it feel to reconnect with your audience and go viral again?

It felt like coming home. I’d stepped away for a while and when I started posting again, raw transformations, bold content, and stories straight from the heart, the audience showed up. In the last 90 days alone, I’ve reached over 766,000 organic views on Facebook, with more than 480,000 views in just one month. That kind of response reminded me that people connect with realness. I’m part of the TikTok Creator Program and Facebook Meta Ads Program so my content is consistently landing in people’s feeds. Going viral again wasn’t just about views. It was about feeling seen and sharing something that matters.

You’re known for more than your technical skills, your space is a safe haven. What makes Andy Pandy Hair Candy feel different from other salons?

My team understands that behind every appointment is a story. We’re not just transforming hair, we’re transforming energy. at sense of freedom, safety, and joy is what keeps people coming back.

It’s the vibe. We don’t do judgment. We do real, raw, fun, and fabulous. You could be a mum wanting extensions or someone experimenting with bright colour for the first time. Either way, you’ll be met with love. My team understands that behind every appointment is a story. We’re not just transforming hair, we’re transforming energy. That sense of freedom, safety, and joy is what keeps people coming back.

You’ve shared parts of your trauma and personal struggles before. How does that truth help you and others?

It helps me breathe easier and it helps others do the same. I’ve had people reach out saying my story made them feel less alone or gave them hope. Whether it’s trauma, mental health

struggles, or simply not fitting the mold, people see themselves in my story. I don’t hide the hard stuff because I believe in turning pain into power. That honesty creates connection. I’m not perfect but I’m real, and that’s what people need more of.

You’ve got a big year ahead. Any sneak peeks into what’s coming over the next 12 months?

Big things are brewing. I’ve got some exciting collaborations coming up with brands I’ve loved for years. I’m diving deeper into content creation, education projects, and expanding what we offer in the salon. The salon is also celebrating its 7th birthday this year, which is such a proud moment for me. What started as a one-person setup has grown into a full creative hub, and it’s only getting bigger. We’re expanding in energy and creativity with more team training, fashion shows, and vibrant transformations to come. I’ll be sharing it all across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and even Google - just search Andy Pandy Hair Candy to follow the journey. Let’s just say I’ve never felt more ready to shine and I can’t wait to share it all.

Thanks Andy.

FPELVIC HEALTH IN PERIMENOPAUSE: Understanding the Changes

or many women, perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause, can arrive quietly.

A few irregular periods, some sleep disruption, maybe a few hot flushes. But what often catches women off guard are the pelvic floor changes that come with it.

As a Women’s Health Physiotherapist, I see women every week who are surprised by symptoms like leaking when they laugh, a sudden urgency to wee, or discomfort during intimacy. These aren’t just random signs of “getting older”; they’re often linked to hormonal shifts and muscle changes that occur during perimenopause.

What Actually Changes in Perimenopause

Perimenopause is more than just the leadup to menopause. It is a dynamic hormonal rollercoaster that can begin as early as your late 30s or early 40s and last for several years. It is marked by fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone, which impact virtually every system in your body, including your pelvic floor.

Here’s how these hormonal shifts can affect you physically, particularly from a pelvic health perspective:

1. Declining Oestrogen and Vaginal Tissue Changes

Oestrogen helps maintain the thickness,

elasticity, and lubrication of the vaginal and urethral tissues. As oestrogen levels drop, these tissues can become thinner, drier, and more fragile.

This can lead to:

Vaginal dryness or irritation

Discomfort or pain during intercourse

Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)

A burning sensation when urinating These changes fall under a condition now commonly referred to as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). It is incredibly common, yet still under-reported.

2. Pelvic Floor Muscle Weakness

The pelvic floor muscles are responsive to oestrogen. As hormone levels decline, some women may notice:

A loss of muscle tone or strength

Bladder leakage when sneezing, coughing, or laughing (stress incontinence)

Increased urgency or frequency of urination (urge incontinence)

A heavy or dragging sensation in the pelvis, which may indicate the beginning of pelvic organ prolapse

Even women who have never had children can experience these symptoms, as hormonal shifts alone can weaken the support structures of the pelvis.

3. Connective Tissue Changes

Collagen, the protein that keeps your skin, ligaments, and fascia firm and springy, also declines in perimenopause. This can affect: Pelvic organ support, making prolapse more likely

Joint stability, contributing to aches, pains, and increased injury risk

4.

Weight Distribution

Many women experience weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, during perimenopause. This shift increases intraabdominal pressure, placing more strain on the pelvic floor and potentially worsening symptoms such as leaking or prolapse.

What You Can Do

Start by speaking with your GP, especially if you’re considering options like hormone therapy, vaginal oestrogen, or if you’re unsure whether what you’re experiencing is related to perimenopause. A Women’s Health Physiotherapist can provide a thorough assessment and guide you through tailored pelvic floor rehabilitation, exercise, and education.

Remember, help is available, and you don’t need to wait until it’s “bad enough” to ask for it. Being proactive now can make a huge difference to your health, confidence, and comfort for years to come.

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE with GRAYCE GERKE

Tim Webster has dedicated his life to spreading joy and connection across the globe through the art of clowning and circus. Over the past 13 years, Tim has led hundreds of volunteer performers on international missions to some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities. His charity, Humanitarian Clowns, has brought laughter, relief, and emotional healing to thousands of children and families living in hardship.

Hi Tim. After surviving cancer, you chose to dedicate your life to bringing joy to others. How did that experience reshape your outlook and lead to the creation of Humanitarian Clowns?

I received a lot of support from family and an Organisation called Challenge Cancer Support Network and it was Challenge that invited me onto camps with other children suffering from cancer. As I got older I wanted to give back, and it was then as a leader on the camps, I witnessed a comedy magician performing and noticed the children rolling around the ground in laughter. It was at that moment I knew I wanted to be able to create that type of magic.

Your story is incredibly inspiring. Can you take us back to the moment you first realised clowning and circus could be more than just entertainment and that they could become a powerful form of healing?

TIM Web er

I had a small mental health breakdown and decided to go to East Africa to reground myself. On a 63 day overland tour whilst I was there, I came across 3 orphaned children in Uganda by the Nile River playing cards. I asked them if I could show them a magic trick and their eyes lit up. Calling me Magic Man, they asked for more so I told them to meet me at the front of my hostel in 10 minutes. When I went out to show them some more tricks, there was over 100 community members and kids chanting magic. Once I finished, the community grabbed their drums and started dancing and singing and the night became a festive celebration of exchange. It was pure joy and, in that moment, I knew I had something special - the gift of giving joy in exchange for getting to know the community and people.

I’ve

This was the beginning of my journey.

learned that presence ma ers more than performance. It’s not about being the funniest clown, it’s about opening your heart unconditionally to strangers, even in their darkest moments.

Over the past 13 years, you’ve travelled the world with teams of volunteer performers. What stands out to you most from those journeys? Honestly, so many factors and too many to mention, but I would have to say the main ones are when children who are in bad situations see us for the first time and their eyes light up and they have big smiles on their faces. Helping doctors that are doing painful procedures we can assist with the power of distraction to ease the child’s pain as laughter is the best medicine. My other favorite part is watching the growth of our volunteers during the trip's progress.

You’ve worked alongside some incredible figures in this space, including Dr. Madan

Kataria and Patch Adams. How have their philosophies influenced your own approach to humanitarian work?

Both have been mentors in different ways. Dr. Madan Kataria, the founder of Laughter Yoga, taught me that laughter doesn't need to rely on humour, it can be a powerful health practice. Patch Adams, who I met through clowning in Costa Rica, showed me that love and compassion can be revolutionary tools in healthcare. From both, I’ve learned that presence matters more than performance. It’s not about being the funniest clown, it’s about opening your heart unconditionally to strangers, even in their darkest moments. Many people see clowns as light-hearted entertainers, but your work proves they can be so much more. What is it about clowning that allows it to break down barriers and connect with people, even across cultures?

Clowning operates in the language of the heart. It bypasses logic and status and speaks directly to our inner child. A red nose and silly walk can disarm even the most guarded people. In places where language divides us, or trauma has silenced people, the clown offers connection through play, empathy, and spontaneity. There’s deep power in vulnerability. When I walk into a hospital in full clown gear and allow myself to be ridiculous,

Mid North Coast is where I recharge, dream big, and stay grounded. The support of my local community has been incredible. They’ve participated on trips, helped fundraise, and cheer from afar.

I’m saying, “It’s okay to feel joy again”. Your recent Circus for Humanity Tour through Cambodia looked like such a vibrant, joyful experience. What was that journey like for you and the team?

It was truly unforgettable. We brought together performers from Australia, USA and Cambodia, clowns, jugglers, hula hoopers, and acrobats entertaining more than 5000 children over 14 days in 40-degree heat. For most children, it was their first time seeing circus performers. But more than that, we offered them a chance to participate, to laugh, and play.

Despite your global focus, you remain deeply connected to the Mid North Coast. How does your home base influence the work you do, and how do you continue to bring joy to your local community?

Mid North Coast is where I recharge, dream big, and stay grounded. The support of my local community has been incredible. They’ve participated on trips, helped fundraise, and cheer from afar. I also volunteer locally in aged care homes when I can, and run workshops at local festivals and community events. How can people get involved, whether

they’re performers, supporters, or simply moved by your mission?

There’s room for everyone. Performers can apply to join our international trips through Humanitarian Clowns or Circus for Humanity. We also need people with skills in photography, admin, costume-making, social media, you name it! And of course, we rely on donations to keep our work going. But honestly, the best way to start is just by bringing more joy into your own world. Smile at a stranger. Play with your kids. Laughter is contagious, and world-changing. Humanitarian Clowns can be found on all social media channels or people can view our website.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes or dreams for the future of Humanitarian Clowns and Circus for Humanity?

I dream of partnering with circus schools or performing arts schools to run international trips for students to help train the next generation of joy-bringers. I’d love to see Humanitarian Clowns in every continent, and Circus for Humanity become a model for ethical, empowering cultural exchange. But at the heart of it, my hope remains simple: to remind people, no matter where they are or what they’ve been through, that joy is still possible.

fnd

your with BERNIE GINNANE QUALIFIED COUNSELLOR

MEDITATION & MINDFULNESS

LIFE

FACILITATOR

COACH

Experiencing change and varying degrees of stress and anxiety are a part of life. It is not so much that we go through change and experience stress, but rather, how we respond and how we manage any stress and anxiety that may follow.

For me personally, my ‘GO TO’ to help manage change and any stress in my life is:

A ONE MINUTE POWER MOMENT - also called the SELF-CARE MICRO MOMENT. Taking one minute to pause, slow my breathing down and relax any tension in my body, especially brow, shoulders and jaw. If you are feeling stressed or anxious, maybe commit to integrating.

ONE MINUTE POWER MOMENTS or SELFCARE MICRO MOMENTS INTO YOUR DAY. These short moments can be one minute long, or 8 -10 -20 rounds of breath.

Find what works for you.

TAKE A SELF-CARE MICRO MOMENT TO:

Pause. Slow your breathing down. Inhaling a little more deeply, extend your exhale whilst breathing out through your nostrils.

Maybe stretch a little during your self-care micro moment. Maybe focus just on your shoulders, or look out the window at the blue sky and inhale the fresh air, or run cool water over your hands.

Or Just Pause, Breathe, Relax and Smile.

OTHER WAYS TO DE-STRESS:

SELF-CARE MICRO MOMENTS

* Staying Present in the Moment.

Being mindful while you walk, write, create, cook, garden, exercise …

A Daily Meditation Practice.

Maybe three times a day for 1 – 5 minutes and gradually increase to 5-10-15 minutes.

Challenge any Negative Thoughts and Replace with a More Positive Thought.

Maybe Try the 5-5-5 Practice.

Take a deep breath for a count of 5. Hold for a count of 5. Exhale for a count of 5.

Or try the ‘TOMORROW SELF’ Exercise.

Ask yourself:

“What can I do now that my ‘Tomorrow Self’ will thank me for?’”

Schedule ‘WORRY TIME’.

Maybe try scheduling 1-3-5-10 minutes daily to journal and unload stressful or anxious thoughts and feelings so that they do not interrupt the rest of your day.

You can come back to your journaling later to process your thoughts and feelings, with yourself or someone you trust.

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME

I offer COUNSELLING, both ONLINE via Zoom, and FACE to FACE Sessions in Port Macquarie. Sessions can help you to manage stress, anxiety and overwhelm and help to support emotional regulation, build resilience and foster personal growth.

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

Online sessions provide therapy without the inconvenience of travel or finding a parking space and provide 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

Blended Counselling includes:

A blend of Traditional and Holistic counselling I also offer a FREE RESOURCE on my YouTube channel. Over 350 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

BERNIE GINNANE

Registered Counsellor, Mindfulness & Meditation Facilitator

Intuitive Guide & Sound Energy Healer

focus contributor.

with DR KRISTY KOSTALAS

OWNER - PORT MEDICAL AESTHETICS CLINIC

At Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic (PMAC), skin health isn’t just about appearance, it’s about understanding your body and its changes at every stage of life. And for many women, one of the most confusing and frustrating stages for their skin is menopause. It often starts subtly. A trusted moisturiser suddenly causes irritation. Skin that was once plump and even becomes dry, crepey, or blotchy. Breakouts might reappear along the chin and jawline, reminiscent of teenage years but this time, paired with fine lines and dullness. Many women wonder: what’s happening? The answer, more often than not, lies in oestrogen.

The Hormonal Shift No One Warned You About. Oestrogen isn’t just a reproductive hormone. It plays a vital role in the skin’s structure, hydration, and resilience. As oestrogen levels decline, the skin undergoes several noticeable and sometimes distressing changes. Collagen production slows, skin thins, hydration levels plummet, healing takes longer and pigmentation and sensitivity often increase, particularly in sun-exposed areas. In short, your skin is ageing differently now and the routines that served you well in your 30s may no longer meet your needs. That’s where a Skin Health Consultation at PMAC can make all the difference.

A Personalised Approach to Skin in Menopause. At PMAC, we believe every woman’s skin tells a story shaped by her lifestyle, genetics, sun exposure, and, yes, hormones. A Skin Health Consultation is a deeply personalised appointment with one

WHAT IS A SKIN HEALTH CONSULTATION - And Why You Should Book One (Especially During Menopause)

of our experienced dermal clinicians or skin nurses. It's not just about products it’s about creating a long-term plan that works for your changing biology.

Using tools like the OBSERV 320 imaging system, we look beneath the surface of the skin to detect early signs of damage, thinning, and inflammation, often before they’re visible to the naked eye. We also take into account your medical history, use of HRT, current skincare, and your goals for ageing well. What to Expect During Your Consultation

Step 1: Skin Imaging and Welcome. Your journey starts with professional photos and in-depth imaging to help identify where UV damage, pigment changes, or collagen loss may be silently developing.

Step 2: Holistic History Taking. We sit down with you to explore your health history, medications, hormonal status, lifestyle, and skin goals. If needed, we can coordinate with your GP or hormone specialist to ensure a cohesive care plan.

Step 3: Skin Analysis. We assess hydration, elasticity, barrier function, and sensitivity. Postmenopausal skin often presents with fragile capillaries, dullness, or flaking, and we tailor our approach accordingly.

Step 4: Custom Treatment Plan. Your clinician will design a plan unique to you. Treatments might include LED therapy, skin needling, or bio-remodelling injectables, alongside a curated regimen of cosmeceutical or prescription skincare to use at home.

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Review. You’ll receive a detailed digital summary outlining your treatment and product

recommendations. Follow-ups are encouraged, so we can track your progress and make adjustments as your skin adapts.

Why Book

One During or After

Menopause? This stage of life deserves specific care with clients often struggling with: Crepey or thinning skin

Sudden redness or flushing

Chin and jawline breakouts

Dry, dull complexion

Worsening pigmentation or melasma

Loss of firmness and volume

Many of these concerns stem from hormonal changes, and the solutions require more than just another moisturiser off the shelf. A consultation gives you answers, alongside the tools to feel confident in your skin again.

Why PMAC? We specialise in women’s skin health and understand the emotional and physical toll menopause can take on appearance. Our approach is evidence-based, compassionate, and collaborative, designed for real skin, real concerns, and real results. You’ll never be rushed, upsold, or offered a one-size-fits-all solution. A Skin Health Consultation at PMAC costs just $49 and is fully redeemable on product. Let’s create a skin plan that’s as individual as you are.

Jane bbie

Hi Abbie, congratulations on being chosen as part of LEGO Australia’s “She Built That” campaign! How did it feel when you found out you were selected as one of just three girls in the country?

Thank you! Honestly, it felt completely surreal. I was so shocked but also incredibly proud to be working with LEGO Australia, and to be part of the ‘She Built That’ initiative. Being from a small regional town, I never imagined I’d be part of something this big.

To be one of only three girls chosen in the

At just 14 years old, Abbie Jane has been chosen to feature in LEGO Australia’s ‘She Built at’ campaign; a national initiative celebrating girls’ creativity, imagination, and potential while breaking down gender stereotypes. As the founder of the Rainbow Shoelace Project, author of Abbie’s True Colours, and a passionate LGBTQIA+ advocate, Abbie is using her voice to inspire change and encourage others to embrace who they are.

whole country was such an honour. It made me realise that even if you feel like a small voice in a big world, your story matters. It’s been a really exciting experience, and I just hope it shows other girls (especially those who feel different or left out) that they can do amazing things too.

The campaign is all about celebrating girls as builders, creators, and changemakers, what does that message mean to you personally?

To me, ‘She Built That’ means that girls, regardless of how old they are, where they are from or who they are, can build beautiful things that can change the world.

empowering young girls is so incredibly

important and the way it’s been done through this activity is so powerful. I feel this message is very close to my heart, as I was once a young girl with big dreams and ideas. I have been lucky enough to turn those dreams into a reality and I hope by spreading the message of this campaign, it encourages other young girls to do the same.

You’ve already achieved so much, author, advocate, and now a national campaign ambassador, can you share a bit about some of your previous projects and what drives your passion for making a difference?

The Rainbow Shoelace Project is going from strength to strength. We have now given away over 350,000 packs of beads across the world. The packs of our beads have even made it all the way to Antarctica!

It all started because I was growing up in a small regional town, where I saw lots of bullying and discrimination happening around me, and then I experienced it first hand. That really motivated me to become the kind of role

It all started because I was growing up in a small regional town, where I saw lots of bullying and discrimination happening around me and then I experienced it first hand.

model I wished I had, and to try and remind other people that they are not alone. I wrote my book to help young people feel seen, and I started sharing my story online to open up conversations around identity and inclusion. What drives me is knowing that change starts small, and if I can help even one person feel more confident or accepted, that means everything.

What’s it like being part of the LEGO AU Girls Crew? Have you had any cool experiences or met anyone inspiring through the campaign?

It’s honestly been amazing. An absolute highlight was getting to meet the other AU girls, Charli Hately and Aurora Iler. Being surrounded by such a diverse group of strong, creative girls has been so inspiring. We’ve all come from different backgrounds and have different passions, but we’re all here to show that girls can be builders and changemakers too. I’ve made friendships I never expected, and I’ve had the chance to learn from other girls who are doing incredible things in their communities. I can't wait to see what the future holds for Charli and Aurora – they are both incredible!

Meeting Chloe Hayden was amazing. I’ve always admired Chloe’s work as she is a

phenomenal actress and disability advocate. I was definitely fan-girling over Chloe when filming, she was a total professional and so encouraging of me. I am so inspired by Chloe in the work that I do with my advocacy. What’s something you’ve built, literally or metaphorically, that you’re especially proud of?

I think the thing I’m most proud of building is my confidence. It didn’t happen overnight, but over time I’ve learned to be ok with who I am, and build it up day by day. My confidence has been really shaken after being bullied so much in the town that I used to live in. I still get negative comments from people in that town online, but I have to remind myself that so many more people give me positive feedback. Advocacy takes courage, especially at a young age. What have you learned about standing up for others and using your voice for good?

I’ve learned that it’s not always easy - but it’s always worth it. When you speak up, especially about things people might not understand or agree with, it can feel lonely at times. But I’ve also seen how one voice can spark a whole movement.

Being an advocate has taught me how powerful empathy is, and how listening can be just as important as speaking. Using my voice has helped me grow, connect with others,

and remind people that being different is something to be celebrated, not hidden. We can all use our voices to be kind.

What do you want other girls to know about building their own paths, especially when it goes against expectations?

Making a change and taking a stand can be hard. There will be bumps along the road and it won’t always go the way you want it to. There will be people who will be unfair and try to tear you down for trying to make a change. When you challenge others opinions it can create a target on your back, but having said that, standing up for what you believe in will not only help you, but also so many other people and that is the greatest feeling in the world.

Your authenticity gives you the power to relate to others and connect with people’s hearts. By having the bravery to speak up and be who you are, you are paving the way for justice so we can live in a kinder, more equal world.

Looking ahead, what are your dreams for the future, whether it’s in advocacy, writing, or something entirely new?

There are lots of things I want to do but I also need to remember that I'm in year 10 and school is really important! I’m really looking forward to working hard, particularly in Performing Arts and Drama at St Columba Anglican School. I really enjoyed working with the cast and crew, and collaborating with LEGO Australia, so I might even look for more of those opportunities in the future.

Thanks Abbie.

BEN WATERS

PC PITSTOP

Alifelong passion for technology sparked Ben’s journey into the IT industry, starting with electronics training in Port Macquarie. In 1998, he launched PC Pitstop, which has since evolved from a one-man workshop into an award-winning local tech team, offering a full suite of IT services to the Greater Port Macquarie region. From data recovery and computer repairs to managed business solutions and cloud services, PC Pitstop remains a trusted name nearly three decades later.

What sets the business apart is its local, proactive approach in a market crowded with remote, impersonal tech providers.

As a Microsoft Partner, PC Pitstop delivers cutting-edge IT and cybersecurity solutions such as endpoint security, automated backups, and cloud migration alongside face-to-face support and easy-to-understand advice. Their adoption of the government’s Essential Eight cybersecurity framework has helped countless local businesses stay secure and competitive.

At the heart of the business is a love of problem-solving. Whether helping a business grow or recovering priceless data for a local family, Ben finds the greatest reward in empowering customers with technology.

His role spans strategic leadership and hands-on consulting, built on over 30 years of industry experience. Starting with two-way radios and TVs, he quickly adapted to the rise of personal computers and saw a need for reliable local IT support.

Innovation is core to PC Pitstop’s longevity. The team continuously adopts AI-driven tools for predictive maintenance, cybersecurity, and productivity.

Pride comes from both the accolades such as the 2024 Professional Services Awards and 2025 Excellence in Sustainability and Innovation Awards and the impact they’ve had locally. The business’s success reflects genuine care, strong relationships, and a mission to help the Port Macquarie region thrive through smart, secure tech.

BRENDAN SCHMIDT

BETTER INSURANCE COVER

Give us a little snapshot of your story. I survived a major boating accident in 1997 at just 11, nearly losing both my legs and having to learn to walk again. At 16, I entered the work force and by 17 after a failed attempt at joining the army due to my pe-existing injuries, I advertised myself in the local newspaper as a keen 17 year old with a licence and car, ready to take on any office based work in an effort to prolong the use of my bad legs. Cue my first boss, Christine, who called me in for an interview as she liked my “initivative”. I started my first insurance broking job June 1st, 2004 and have been in the industry since. What is your point of difference in business? My point of difference in business is communication. I love explaining to my clients what the insurance market is doing, what insurers look for with different risks, who does what and why. I love getting an understanding of my clients’ business, how they

work, what makes them tick and what is important to them. That allows me to tailor my services to suit my clients whilst tailoring an insurance program to follow. When you engage me, you don’t just get insurance, you get my ‘can do’ attitude and my 21 years of skill that comes with it.

Can you tell us about some recent highlights or business successes you have been part of?

Correctly insuring businesses by listening to what they want and then delivering. In one instance I brought a clients premium down from over $130k annually to just over $100k while improving their cover. In another instance, I saved a local client over $8k a year. There have been multiple instances where I’ve identified incorrect underwriting information that would have caused issues if a client needed to claim and have worked to fix them as well.

brendan@bettercover.com.au bettercover.com.au

STEVE BRBICH

Renowned videographer and content creator Steve Brbich’s work continues to grow from strength to strength. Steve believes it’s important to keep up with the evolution of technology but also marketing when faced with a changing industry landscape. A.I is now embedded into our daily business lives and compliments the human element when it comes to production.

‘As a content creating company for television, social media, music, business, wedding and events, it is important to work in a space which is adapting with technology and trending styles. Innovation and quality are at the core of what SQP delivers.’

Regarding success in business, Steve

prides himself on possessing a clear vision with strategic goals. ‘Having a welldefined vision for your business and clear, achievable goals helps guide decisionmaking and keeps everyone aligned. Understanding your target market, their needs, behaviours and preferences allows us to tailor our service and end product effectively.’

Earlier this year Silver Quinn Productions claimed the coveted appointment of #2 Wedding Videography business in Australia for 2024 by The Australian Wedding Industry Awards, an outstanding achievement.

@silverquinnproductions

@silverquinnproductions

silverquinnproductions.com

0423 515 051

SILVER QUINN PRODUCTIONS

TY ROMER

TRISS SERVICES PTY LTD

Tell us a little bit about the business. TRISS is a Port Macquarie based NDIS disability support provider offering services across the Hastings region. We empower people of all ages with disability to live a life of fullness by providing tailored supports including daily living assistance, social and community participation, accommodation support, and mental health recovery services.

What is your point of difference in business? We’re values-driven, with a strong focus on empathy, inclusiveness, and individual outcomes. Our strength lies in our innovative, flexible approach to service delivery and genuine commitment to empowering each participant to reach their goals in a supported, respectful environment.

Tell us a little about your role in business and how you started in the industry? I’m the Director of TRISS and was inspired to start this business after seeing firsthand the need for more person-centred, innovative support options in our community. What began as a small team has grown into a thriving organisation thanks to the dedication of our staff and the trust of the people we support.

What are you most proud of in your role? I’m most proud of the positive impact we’ve made in people’s lives, from watching participants build confidence and independence, to supporting our incredible team to grow professionally and personally.

What is on the horizon for your business as we head into a new financial year? We’re expanding our recreational and wellbeing events, introducing new supported accommodation options, and continuing to grow partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for people with disability.

Level 1, Suite 1 31-33 Horton St, Port Macquarie 02 5542 2076

info@trisservices.com.au trisservices.com.au

TONY JUDGE

SHOOT FOOTBALL

Football has been part of Shoot Football’s Tony Judge’s life since childhood. ‘Growing up in regional NSW, I was lucky to have opportunities through the game that shaped who I am. I also saw how rare access to quality coaching can be outside metro areas and that’s what inspired the creation of SHOOT Football. We’re not just about developing better footballers; we’re focused on building confident, resilient young people with strong values, leadership skills, and a love for being part of a team.’

Tony is passionate about his leadership role and enjoys watching his players grow the most, not just on the field, but as people too.

‘It’s incredibly rewarding to help them build confidence, develop resilience, and realise their potential.’

He strongly believes success comes from staying true to your purpose. SHOOT Football might be small, but it’s built on strong values, genuine relationships, and a deep commitment to youth development.

‘We’re finishing the year strong with our Academy teams heading to the Gold Coast for the Premier Invitational, a great opportunity to compete and grow. Looking ahead, planning is already underway for our next UK Tour in January 2027, where regional players will train and play at top academies. We’re also expanding our programs to reach more young athletes across regional areas.’

0405 152 920 shootfootball.com.au

info@shootfootball.com.au shootfootballmidnorthcoast shootfootballportmacquarie

ANATHAN WILSON

LIFESTYLE GROUP

s a licensed Real Estate Agent and Stock and Station Agent with Lifestyle Group Port Macquarie and Crescent Head, for the past fourteen years, Nathan Wilson has been focused on helping clients navigate the complexities of real estate, whether buying a first home, selling a family property, or investing in real estate. His unwavering goal is to provide supportive guidance making the sales process clear and seamless.

‘As Team Leader at Crescent Head office, I’m fortunate to work with a dedicated group of professionals who share my commitment to exceptional service. I believe in treating my clients like family, ensuring they feel supported and are well informed every step of the way.’

Nathan believes it is his deep connection to the community that sets him apart in the industry.

‘By being actively involved in local events, I gain insights into the market and the people within it. My clients are not just transactions; they’re valued members of our community. I also support several local charities and initiatives because I believe in giving back to the community that has supported me along the way.’

Nathan also takes great joy in seeing firsttime buyers find their ideal homes or helping families transition between properties that hold sentimental value.

0418 766 977

nathan.wilson@lifestylegroup.com.au

lifestylegroup.com.au

ourlifestylegroup

NOR AWANG & IRSYAD HAYEKAL

BLOOM PMQ

Bloom PMQ began as a shared dream between Nor and Irsyad. Both originally from Singapore with extensive backgrounds in hospitality, they both felt a deep calling to create something meaningful here in Port Macquarie.

Bloom PMQ’s point of difference lies in its unique fusion of authentic Singaporean flavours and influences from the wider Malay Archipelago, paired with modern Australian café culture.

The pair remark that what it is they enjoy most about their role is seeing how something they have both poured their hearts into, our culture, our food, our vision continues to resonate with people from all walks of life.

‘We also find joy in the creative process, curating the menu, designing the space, building a team, and constantly evolving what Bloom PMQ can be. It's incredibly rewarding to create a place that not only serves good food, but also tells a story, supports our local community, and offers a meaningful experience.’

Nor and Irsyad believe the key to success lies in authenticity, consistency, and connection.

‘Being authentic, staying true to who we are, where we come from, and what we believe in guides everything we do, from the flavours we serve to the way we interact with our customers.

Come by the café, we’re always up for a chat over a coffee or something delicious on the plate. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’re always welcome.’

1/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie

02 6584 1223

bloompmq.com

info@bloompmq.com /BloomPMQ @bloompmq

DR RHYS VAN DER RIJT

PORT SKIN CLINIC

Dr Rhys van der Rijt is one of Port Skin Clinic’s renowned plastic surgeons operating out of both Sydney and Port Macquarie practices.

Rhys grew up in Wagga Wagga, NSW and during the 2000’s trained as a medical student in Port Macquarie through the University of New South Wales Rural Clinical School. As such, he has always had an affinity to regional and rural living and is accustomed to some of the unique challenges that patients have when seeking specialist care in these areas.

Rhys is highly trained and experienced across the broad spectrum of plastic surgery, however, his training in Australia and overseas has led him to sub-specialise in three main areas including microsurgical reconstruction of the breast (DIEP flap reconstruction), aesthetic surgery of the breast and body and complex skin cancer reconstruction of the face, head and neck.

He works in several public hospitals in Sydney and is delighted to be able to treat patients in Port Macquarie exclusively at Port Skin Clinic. Bookings can be made by contacting his Sydney rooms on (02) 8074 4638.

259 Oxley Highway, Port Macquarie 02 8074 4638

portskinclinic.com.au | drrhysvdr.com.au

info@drrhysvdr.com.au

portskinclinicportmacquarie

portskinclinic | @drrhysvdr

RICHARD MORRIS TEP

PRINCIPAL SOLICITOR MORRIS SUCCESSION LAWYERS

What is your point of difference in business? We are not a general practice. We specialise in Succession Law – Wills and Estates.

Principal Solicitor, Richard Morris, has a Masters of Applied Law in Wills & Estates, and is one of only a handful of solicitors outside of Sydney to be admitted as a Full Member of the international Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP).

By specialising in our field of practice, we offer clients highly tailored expert advice on all aspects of estate planning, seeking to minimise tax paid by beneficiaries and protecting inheritances from claims by creditors or due to relationship breakdowns, and dealing with life’s unforeseen events such as a loss of mental capacity.

We are experts in dealing with deceased estates and remove stress for executors navigating their way through the legal process, including with complicated estates involving multiple asset structures, foreign and interstate assets and issues that can arise due to poorly prepared wills or intestacy.

What do you most enjoy about your role? Succession Law is all about helping people, and there is nothing more satisfying than receiving positive feedback from clients. Often it is making the daunting process of estate planning easy and painless, or assisting clients through the difficult process of losing a loved one, in particular the very elderly who might have lost a partner of many years and don’t know where to start.

Can you tell us about some recent highlights or business successes you have been part of? In the last 12 months we have had a number of estate litigation successes in the Supreme Court of New South Wales. We have twice prevented a long-term spouse from being homeless on the death of their partner, and we have also set a new precedent for the definition of what a de facto spouse is in the context of deceased estates where there is no will.

BRIGHT & DUGGAN

PROPERTY GROUP – REGIONAL

Can you tell us about Bright & Duggan Property Group and what the business does?

Bright & Duggan Property Group is a well-established name in strata, estate, and facilities management. With nearly 50 years of experience, the business operates along the eastern seaboard of Australia, managing a broad portfolio from small, two-lot strata schemes to large-scale estates with over 2,000 lots. The company is recognised for delivering tailored solutions with a strong emphasis on innovation and customer service.

What sets Bright & Duggan Property Group apart from others in the industry? According to Julian, it’s about much more than management - it’s about peace of mind. “Our experience shapes our decisions, but our responsiveness and problem-solving mindset set us apart. We don’t just identify issues; we provide real, practical solutions.” The company is also known for leveraging futurefocused technology to streamline operations and enhance the client experience. Small businessminded, big business-powered.

What are the most common questions clients ask? Clients ask everything from the practical to the complex. It could be whether the new lounge will fit in the lift, how lot entitlements

affect voting rights and levies, or the finer points of community association legislation. No two conversations are the same, and that’s what keeps it interesting.

Can you share more about your journey in the industry? Julian’s path into the property industry was driven by a passion for community. Over time, he’s built a skilled and dedicated team. “My role is to steer the business strategically, support the team, and ensure we consistently exceed expectations.”

What are you most proud of? “Without a doubt, our team,” he says. “They’re professional, passionate, and forward-thinking. I’m also proud of the growth we’ve achieved and being recognised as an employer of choice in a competitive market.”

What’s next for Bright & Duggan Property Group? The team is excited to grow its footprint in Port Macquarie and nearby areas, aiming to build lasting relationships and contribute meaningfully to the local community

PAUL THOMPSON

Born and educated in Wauchope, from an early age Paul Thompson was inspired and involved in the building industry by his father, Max Thompson who was one of the most respected established builders on the Mid North Coast. Today, Paul is very proud of his son who is also carrying on the family tradition. ‘I think we are the oldest established building family in the area.’

Paul has seen a lot throughout his career and enjoys teaching the ‘young ones’ the traditional building skills and construction methods he has honed throughout his career. He loves the fun of building things and the characters he has had the pleasure of working with over the years.

Paul completed his apprenticeship and Clerk of Works at Wauchope and Randwick TAFE and became a fully licensed builder in 1984 and has worked within the industry ever since.

Working on many varied projects around the area has been a highlight and Paul and his father were proud to win an MBA Excellence Award in 1993 for the Blue Gum Villas at Lake Cathie.

Paul remarks that his beliefs regarding success in business centre on a keen knowledge of the building industry; being able to effectively communicate with clients; inspire and direct staff and above all possess an uncompromising level of quality in workmanship. He is most proud of being able to create beautiful spaces that bring enjoyment to people.

MARCUS GUTHRIE

REGIONAL CEO – MAYO AND FORSTER

PRIVATE HOSPITALS, HEALTHE CARE GROUP

Marcus Guthrie and his family relocated to the Mid North Coast in January to take on the role of Regional CEO for Mayo and Forster Private Hospitals, part of the Healthe Care Group. With nearly a decade of CEO experience and 24 years in business, human resources, leadership, and project management across four countries, Marcus brings a wealth of expertise to the role.

At the heart of his leadership is a passion for people. “Working in private healthcare is complex, but incredibly rewarding,” he says. “We’re a team focused on delivering better experiences and outcomes for our patients, staff, and doctors.” Under Marcus’ leadership, innovation remains a key priority.

Healthe Care continues to invest in technology and expand its services, positioning itself as a market leader and an employer of choice across Australia. As the new financial year begins, both hospitals continue to expand services. Mayo Private Hospital now supports robotic assisted orthopaedic surgery and offers a range of inpatient and outpatient mental health services, including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and evidence-based therapy programs. As well as a variety of surgical, medical and rehabilitation services, Forster Private Hospital offers integrated, holistic cancer care and breast reconstruction services led by a team of dedicated specialists.

Marcus is most proud of the teams he leads—colleagues who show deep care and empathy for patients during vulnerable times. For him, success in business starts with people. “Any organisation is only as strong as its weakest link. Putting the right people in the right roles, and continuously developing people, is essential. We have a dedicated team of healthcare professionals both locally and visiting, giving greater access to care for our patients on the Mid North Coast” he says.

CHRIS WOOD

THE CHEESECAKE SHOP PORT MACQUARIE

Give us a little snapshot of your story. In early 2024, my wife and I opened The Cheesecake Shop in Port Macquarie. After spending 17 years running businesses in New Zealand, we returned home with our young daughter to settle back into the community where I grew up. It was a decision not just about business, but about lifestyle. We wanted to build something we believed in, and something that could contribute positively to our local area.

We spent a long time carefully selecting the right location. We didn’t want to just open another store, we wanted to create a welcoming space where people could connect, celebrate, and enjoy quality cakes. From sourcing the right equipment to hand-picking our first team members, every step was done with care. The response from the community has been incredible, from day one, we’ve felt the support, and that’s something we’re truly grateful for.

What is your point of difference in business? We genuinely care. Our cakes are made and decorated on-site with attention to detail, and we’re always looking for ways to personalise the experience for our customers. Whether it’s adding a custom message, going the extra mile on a cake design, or simply remembering someone’s favourite flavour, those small touches matter.

We’re here to serve. Every customer who walks through our door is celebrating something, and we take that seriously. Being part of those life moments, whether big or small, is a privilege.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

The most rewarding part of this role is seeing the joy our cakes bring to people. From wideeyed kids picking up their birthday cake to couples celebrating an anniversary, it’s special to be part of those moments. That feeling never gets old.

I also love the mentoring side of things. Training our team, many of whom are in their first job, and watching them gain confidence and pride in their work. It’s more than just a job for them, and for me.

What are some of your frequently asked questions? We’re often asked:

Do you do custom cakes? Yes, we love working with customers to bring their ideas to life.

Do you bake on-site?

Yes, all of our cakes are baked and finished in-store, except for our gluten-free cakes (made off-site for Coeliac Australia endorsement) and vegan cakes.

Do you work with community groups?

Absolutely. We’re always open to new partnerships and love being part of local events and initiatives.

We’re always listening to customers, to our staff, and to the trends in the wider market. Many of our new product ideas, like cheesecake sticks, cookie sandwiches, and themed cake pops, have come directly from customer feedback. We test, tweak, and adapt quickly.

We’re also expanding our wholesale reach, supplying cakes to local IGAs and aged care facilities. This helps us meet customers where they are, and opens new avenues for the business.

What do you think is the key to success in business? Consistency, connection, and care. You need to show up every day with a standard you’re proud of, care about your team and customers, and build real relationships. If people trust you, they’ll come back, and they’ll tell others.

Our shop is a place where people feel welcome, whether they’re customers or sta . I’m also proud that we’re building something sustainable that contributes to the local economy and community.

Tell us a little about your role in business and how you started in the industry. My first job was washing dishes in a restaurant when I was 14. That early exposure to hospitality taught me the importance of teamwork, hard work, and service. Since then, I’ve managed and owned a range of businesses, including a very successful franchise in New Zealand, where I learned how to scale operations while keeping the customer at the centre.

Today, I’m involved in every aspect of our Cheesecake Shop, from daily operations to marketing, training, customer care, and product innovation. It’s a full-on role, but one I truly enjoy.

How does your business remain innovative in a changing landscape?

What are you most proud of in your role?

I’m proud of the team we’ve built and the culture we’ve created. Our shop is a place where people feel welcome, whether they’re customers or staff. I’m also proud that we’re building something sustainable that contributes to the local economy and community.

Our opening day set a record within The Cheesecake Shop franchise. That milestone reflected the hard work we put in and the incredible response from the community.

Can you tell us about some recent highlights or business successes you have been part of? The launch of our store was a highlight in itself, the response was overwhelming, and it set the tone for what’s followed. We've also grown our social media following, strengthened our wholesale partnerships, and seen repeat customers become regulars.

My experience running a fast-paced, highvolume franchise in New Zealand has helped shape our systems and culture here. That

success is what’s allowed us to give back through sponsorships and donations , something that’s very important to me. What is on the horizon for your business as we commence a new financial year?

We’re planning new product launches, expanding our wholesale distribution, and working on more community-focused collaborations. We want to keep evolving our cake range, try new flavours, and offer even more customisation options.

Growth is great, but staying personal is key. Our goal is to keep our service heartfelt and local, no matter how much we expand.

Tell us about any community contributions you have made within your business. We support a variety of local causes , from sporting clubs and schools to the children’s ward at the hospital, Make-AWish Foundation, and organisations like the Alliance Française. We’ve donated to local fundraisers, supported flood recovery efforts, and continue to look for ways we can make a positive impact.

We also assist students with work placements through TAFE and Mid Coast Connect. It’s important to us that our business gives back and helps others grow.

How can we connect with your business?

Visit us at Shop 35a, 3 Bay Street, Settlement City. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram at @ thecheesecakeshopportmacquarie. Whether you’re planning something big or just want a little something sweet, we’d love to help.

Thanks Chris

Shop 35a/3 Bay Street, Port Macquarie

(02) 6582 0970

@thecheesecakeshopportmacquarie

PAT CONAGHAN MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR COWPER, SHADOW ASSISTANT TREASURER, SHADOW MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES

I’m incredibly proud to have been elected for a third parliamentary term to represent the people of the Cowper electorate on our beautiful Mid North Coast. The past six years as your local Federal MP have been the privilege of my career and a responsibility that I will never take for granted.

As parliament resumes this month and the new Government is sworn in, I will also be taking on a new role as the Shadow Assistant Treasurer and Shadow Minister for Financial Services. It is a great honour to have the faith of the Party Leadership Team and to be given the opportunity to lead these portfolios that directly impact all Australians, but particularly our business community. As a small business owner myself for 18 years prior to my first election, I know the pressures that businesses face each day, and I know that these pressures have only increased in recent years.

It has been a long time since a National Party Member was given the opportunity to hold a financial or economic portfolio, and I acknowledge the weight of that and what that means not just for the National Party, but Regional Australia as a whole.

This is an opportunity to ensure that Australia’s financial policy truly considers the needs of the thirty percent of our country that do not live in the city. I will not take that responsibility lightly. Despite the new titles, my primary priority will remain our community. I will continue to represent each of you in the halls of Parliament and will continue to fight for what you need and deserve.

My mobile offices are back with new locations every month, so take the opportunity to stop by for a chat, let me know your ideas or areas of concern. I look forward to working together to get the best outcomes for our community.

Level 4, JBC Building 41-47 Horton Street, Port Macquarie (02) 5507 9555

pat.conaghan.mp@aph.gov.au

MAT HONNERY

THE FUTURE POOL SHOP SPA WORLD PORT MACQUARIE

Mat Honnery, owner of The Future Pool Shop –Spa World Port Macquarie, has transformed a modest pool service business into one of the leading pool and spa retailers on the Mid North Coast. Taking ownership just 2.5 years ago, Mat started with a small client base of around 30 monthly customers. Today, the business serves several hundred clients each month and recently moved into a brand-new 275sqm showroom as a Spa World retailer, now representing industry-leading brands such as Fisher, Vortex, and Jacuzzi.

The business stands out through its dedication to quality products and outstanding customer service. Mat believes in sourcing only the best-performing products, ensuring that customers not only receive reliable solutions but also honest and approachable service.

With a background in waste management and two decades of experience leading major accounts for large infrastructure projects, Mat brings a wealth of knowledge to his current role. His entry into the pool and spa industry was unconventional, initially as a customer of the shop he now owns. Encouraged by the former owner and inspired by the challenge, Mat took the leap and hasn’t looked back.

Innovation plays a key role in The Future Pool Shop’s growth. Mat and his team stay ahead by listening to customers and offering energy-efficient solutions, such as high-efficiency spas and the world’s most energy-efficient pool heat pumps and 6-star-rated pumps.

Mat is proud of the rapid growth the business has seen while remaining family-owned and community-focused. With a busy year ahead, The Future Pool Shop is poised for continued success. The team remains actively involved in supporting local fundraising efforts and sporting clubs.

22 Central Rd, Port Macquarie 02 6581 4467

shop@futurepool.com.au

The Future Pool Shop

EDUCATION

& TRAINING

ZAC CAMPBELL

PCYC PORT MACQUARIE

Young Men in Business

Leading and Learning at Newman College

Jack Mackey - School Captain and Harry Holloway - Vice Captain, Newman Senior Technical College, Port Macquarie

Jack - I have always wanted to work in a practical, hands-on environment, which is why I enrolled at Newman for Years 11 and 12 and chose Electrotechnology and Automotive as part of my HSC subjects. I now specialise in Electrotechnology and am pursuing a career as an electrician or electronics specialist.

As one of the College leaders, I have represented the College at various events with pride and hope to lead by example through hard work and being a considerate member of our co mmunity.

Recently, I was awarded the silver medal in the WorldSkills VET in Schools Electrotechnology category It was a fantastic experience held in Brisbane; like a mini Olympics of skills. This level of competition has boosted my confidence in pursuing a career in this field and helped me measure my skills on a National level.

I am grateful for the support and mentoring that teachers provide at Newman College and for the opportunities the College offers in gaining realw orld experience The way the school connects you with businesses in our region and helps young people transition to employment.

For more information about Newman College or to discuss student enrolment, workplacement, or School-based Apprenticeship/Traineeship opportunities. Visit newman.nsw.edu.au, or call (02) 6580 3800.

Harry - My goal is to pursue a career as a carpenter, whether working within a team or as a sole trader

I am currently studying for a Certificate III in Carpentry as part of my HSC at Newman College and have secured a School-based Apprenticeship with Maher Building Projects.

My school week includes two days a week working with my employer, which is perf ect for me, as I really don’t like being confined to a classroom. My other subjects include Construction Extension, Sport, Lifestyle & Recreation, English and Industry-Based Learning, so it’s a really good mix of subjects to see me through to the end of Year 12 when I achieve the HSC.

Being part of the College leadership team has been a valuable opportunity for me to develop leadership skills and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a young adult I have a greater res pect for the responsibilities that come with leadership and hope to serve as a good example to others of how you can grow and change with the right guidance

Newman College has been a great choice for me, particularly in connecting with businesses and potential employers, and in having supportive teachers and staff who encourage me to do my best.

I hope to one day employ a Newman student when I run my own business I know that we would both receive excellent support through the Sch ool-based Apprenticeship program, and it would be rewarding to support another young tradesperson transition to employment and develop their skills.

Internion

YOUTH DAY 2025

LOCAL YOUTH ACTIONS FOR THE SDGS AND BEYOND

EDUCATION

UPDATE

with TROY BAKER

PRINCIPAL - ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL

PORT MACQUARIE

On 12 August this year, young people around the world will be recognised for their leadership, creativity and commitment to creating positive change.

International Youth Day 2025 will focus on the theme Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Beyond, drawing attention to the ways young people are leading efforts to meet the United Nations SDGs in their own communities. With more than 65 per cent of SDG targets requiring implementation at the local level, the message is clear: for global development to succeed, young people must be engaged as partners, starting right where they are.

In the Hastings region, Catholic schools are already showing how this can look in practice. From primary students walking in solidarity with global communities in need of clean water, to high schoolers raising funds to support women escaping domestic violence, these young people are not just learning about the SDGs in classrooms, they’re living them out.

In the Hastings region, participation in Project Compassion has become a tradition that connects schools to the broader mission of the church, promoting dignity, peace and solidarity.

The annual Project Compassion campaign by Caritas Australia has become a central way for Catholic schools to engage with sustainable social justice in a real and meaningful way. Held during Lent, the campaign invites students to explore stories of hope and resilience from around the world and to take action through fundraising and advocacy. In the Hastings region, participation in Project Compassion has become a tradition that connects schools to the broader mission of the church, promoting dignity, peace and solidarity.

At St Joseph’s Primary School in Port Macquarie, students took part in the Big Water Walk for Schools, a symbolic and physical effort to better understand the challenge of accessing clean water in some parts of the world. Their walk, and the funds they raised, contribute to sustainable solutions in places where water security is not a given.

In Laurieton, students at St Joseph’s responded

to more local concerns, raising money for people affected by recent flooding in their own community, through the Bishop’s Flood Appeal Day. The choice to focus their efforts locally shows how young people are recognising the needs around them and taking practical steps to help.

Similarly, students at St Agnes’ Primary have turned their attention to environmental stewardship through a project known as Planting for the Future –Supporting Our Koalas. This initiative is both an act of ecological care and a response to the growing concern for local wildlife.

Students are learning about the issues that shape our worldpoverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and then doing something about it.

Older students, too, are stepping up in powerful ways. At MacKillop College, a recent student-led initiative raised funds for the Legal Justice Fund, supporting victims of domestic violence. This type of work brings difficult, but vital issues into the open and empowers students to be part of a solution. It reflects a maturity and moral commitment that speaks directly to SDG 5, which seeks to achieve

gender equality and empower all women and girls.

While the term Sustainable Development Goals might sound abstract, what’s happening in these schools is anything but. Students are learning about the issues that shape our world - poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and then doing something about it. They are showing how small actions, when combined, can have a real impact.

As International Youth Day approaches, there is a renewed opportunity to shine a light on

the many ways young people are already leading the charge. For Catholic schools, this leadership is grounded not only in global frameworks like the SDGs but also in gospel values: compassion, justice, and love of neighbour. The integration of service, learning and faith is what makes these efforts so enduring and so authentic.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of global challenges. But in classrooms, playgrounds and local communities across the Catholic schools of the Hastings region, a quieter transformation is underway. Young people are not just preparing for the future, they’re shaping it. And in doing so, they’re reminding all of us that meaningful change begins close to home.

MORE

THAN A BADGE: GROWING

LEADERS

OF HEART AND PURPOSE IN THE DIOCESE OF LISMORE

In Catholic schools across the Lismore Diocese, leadership isn’t just a position it’s a practice rooted in service, voice, and personal growth. From the classrooms of St Joseph’s Regional College, to the corridors of MacKillop College and the hands on learning environments at Newman Senior Technical College, students are stepping into roles that shape both their communities and their character. Through the Student Representative Council (SRC) and beyond, young leaders are building the skills, values, and confidence they’ll carry into their futures. This is leadership that lasts real, lived, and full of purpose.

In Catholic schools across the Lismore Diocese, student leadership is far more than a title or a line on a résumé, it is something much deeper. It’s a powerful, transformative experience that builds young people into capable, confident, and compassionate leaders. Through the Student Representative Council (SRC), young people are stepping into meaningful roles that shape not only their school communities but who they are as people. It’s a journey of growth, purpose, and service that leaves a lasting mark.

At St Joseph’s Regional College, MacKillop College, and Newman Senior Technical College, leadership is not reserved for the spotlight. Leadership goes beyond speeches and badges. It’s about stepping up, speaking up, and making a difference in classrooms, on campus, and out in the community.

The SRC is where leadership begins. It gives learners a platform to represent their peers,

collaborate with staff, and take part in decision-making that impacts school life. It’s also where many Captains and Vice Captains start their leadership journey.

Student leaders in these schools are not just figureheads. They are doers, thinkers, and changemakers. Whether they are leading assemblies, running charity drives, or sitting in on school planning sessions, these student leaders are trusted voices in the room. They represent their peers, help shape school initiatives, and most of all, they lead with heart. They learn to communicate with clarity, advocate respectfully, and own the outcomes of their efforts. These are lessons that stay with them, well beyond the school gates.

At St Joseph’s Regional College and MacKillop College, leadership is about service, voice, and visibility. Leaders are involved in planning and facilitating charity events and peer-support initiatives. Their SRC adopt a servant leadership style and their members bring enthusiasm and

energy to finding ways to strengthen a positive community.

At Newman Senior Technical College, leadership takes a hands-on approach. With a strong vocational focus, students prepare for real careers. They take on leadership roles that mirror the real world. Whether they’re helping in leading programs, representing the college at industry events, or modelling professionalism on the job, these students are already making their mark in the working world.

Sure, there’s a badge, and maybe a speech, but what lasts is deeper. The real rewards of student leadership are the skills and self-belief that grow behind the scenes: the confidence built through public speaking, the resilience earned from balancing priorities, and the empathy developed in service to others. Student leaders gain the kind of wisdom that isn’t taught, it’s lived.

Leadership teaches students far more than

how to organise an event or deliver a speech. It begins with confidence and communication. Student leaders learn to express themselves clearly and connect meaningfully with others. Over time, this builds poise and the ability to speak with purpose.

Just as important is resilience and time management. Being a student leader means there’s a lot more in hand; schoolwork, leadership responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and even part-time jobs. And balancing them all is never easy. It takes focus, determination, and knowing when to push and when to pause. In navigating all this, students build resilience. They learn how to set priorities, stay grounded, and show up fully, without running on empty.

and self-direction. For those at Newman Senior Technical College, it connects directly to the world of work, offering practical experience that helps them stand out when applying for jobs or apprenticeships. Student leaders are taught to take initiative, manage time independently, and stay focused on long-term goals.

Sure, there’s a badge, and maybe a speech, but what lasts is deeper. The real rewards of student leadership are the skills and self-belief that grow behind the scenes...

For school leaders in Year 12, the final terms of school are both a challenge and a milestone. At St Joseph’s and MacKillop, as they study for their HSC and prepare for life after graduation, leadership becomes less about a role and more about who they’ve become.

training. But wherever they’re headed, they bring with them leadership experiences that have shaped their confidence and sense of purpose.

They lead not just through words, but by example, through their discipline, compassion, and continued commitment to the school community.

As students and families look toward the future, the Diocese of Lismore offers a helping hand with Transition Times, a practical, accessible resource full of tools, advice, and alumni stories that can be accessed through lism.catholic.edu.au/transition-times. Whether a student’s next step is university, training, work, or something in between, leadership experience adds real value.

Leading into the Future

Student leaders also grow in collaboration and compassion. By working alongside peers, teachers, and the wider community, they build the kind of empathy and teamwork that helps them understand people, not just projects. Finally, these roles equip students with futureready skills. For MacKillop and St Joseph’s students, leadership instils habits of initiative

These leadership roles help prepare students for the realities of adult life and the transition into university - balancing study, work, independent living, and financial responsibilities. In many cases, experience in the SRC can also strengthen their applications for university or college.

At Newman College, many leaders are completing qualifications, industry placements and traineeships or are continuing with apprenticeships. Others are applying for further

Student leaders across these three schools are living proof of what Catholic education strives for, an education of the whole person, one that inspires students to lead with wisdom and serve with heart. They are proof that student voice matters. Their leadership is grounded not in prestige, but in purpose.

Leadership doesn’t end with the last exam or the farewell assembly. For these students, it’s just the beginning. With every step into their futures, they carry the lessons, values, and experiences that shaped them, and they do so ready to make a meaningful impact wherever they go.

JESSE WISSELO DANIKA GLOVER

PROJECT MANAGER

PORT MACQUARIE HASTINGS COUNCIL

Tell us a little about the course you have undertaken through Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s Entry Pathways Program.

I completed an apprenticeship as a Systems Electrician with Council, where I gained a Certificate III in Electrotechnology. The apprenticeship covered all facets of the electrical industry, providing me with practical, hands-on experience that allowed me to apply my learning directly to realworld projects.

What have been some of your highlights looking back through the process?

Some of the highlights for me were being able to apply theoretical knowledge directly to real-world infrastructure and maintenance projects across the Council’s water and wastewater networks. Working alongside experienced tradespeople gave me practical insight that you can’t get from textbooks alone. Completing electrical installations and maintenance works with real outcomes for the community was

especially rewarding.

How has the program positively impacted your success within your current role?

The program provided a strong foundation of technical knowledge and hands-on experience, which has been invaluable as I’ve moved into further study of Civil Engineering. Understanding the trade-level detail helps me manage contractors more effectively and ensures I can communicate clearly across both technical and nontechnical teams. It’s also given me the confidence to make informed decisions around infrastructure delivery and asset management.

What is on the horizon for you career wise?

I’m currently a Project Manager overseeing capital works projects within Council’s infrastructure delivery team. Longer-term, I’m interested in advancing into senior leadership roles within operations, asset management, or capital works delivery. I’m also open to further technical training or qualifications that can complement my current project management skills.

FINANCIAL & COMMERCIAL SUPPORT OFFICER

PORT MACQUARIE HASTINGS COUNCIL

Tell us a little about the course you have undertaken through Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s Entry Pathways Program?

I completed a Certificate III in Business through the Australian College of Commerce and Management (ACCM). Both ACCM and PMHC were incredibly supportive throughout my studies. ACCM made the learning experience really enjoyable! They were helpful, easy to communicate with, and offered a flexible structure that let me work through the course at my own pace.

What have been some of your highlights looking back through the process?

Some of my biggest highlights have been meeting so many new and amazing people, some that I now consider lifelong friends. Expanding my knowledge in a field I was initially unfamiliar with, has been both challenging and rewarding; having the flexibility and work life balance

that I hadn’t encountered in previous roles and being able to explore endless opportunities and career pathways supported by a wealth of training and development resources.

I understand the program is designed to offer participants flexibility between work and study and includes an earn while you learn incentive. How have these attributes enabled you to ensure achievement of the program?

The flexibility was a key factor in my ability to successfully complete the program while continuing to perform in my role. Being able to balance study with work commitments meant I could immediately apply what I was learning in real-time, which reinforced my understanding and made the experience more valuable. The “earn while you learn” incentive also removed a lot of financial pressure, allowing me to focus on developing my skills without the added stress of choosing between income and education. This support made it easier to stay motivated and committed throughout the program.

samples

SAM TINSEY

Tell us a little about the course you have undertaken through Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s Entry Pathways Program.

I began my career as an electrical apprentice and used the Entry Pathways Program to build a strong technical foundation. During this time, I also completed a Certificate IV in Industrial Electronics and Control. In recent years Council has also supported me in my Certificate 3 in Instrumentation and Control and Diploma of Project Management. The program helped me transition from tradebased work into more advanced technical roles involving SCADA, telemetry, and instrumentation. I’m now continuing to build on that foundation by studying engineering, with a focus on control systems and automation and further strengthening my ability to contribute to complex infrastructure projects.

I understand the program is designed to offer participants flexibility between work and study and includes an earn while you learn incentive. How have

these attributes enabled you to ensure achievement of the program?

The flexibility was key to making it all work. Being able to earn while studying allowed me to gain valuable on-the-job experience without financial strain. It also meant I could take what I learned in the classroom and apply it immediately to real-life projects. This combination of theory and practice helped me retain knowledge better and build confidence quickly. It also helped me grow professionally while maintaining momentum in my studies and career.

What advice would you give someone interested in undertaking a course option?

Jump in and make the most of it. These programs are designed to help you succeed. They give you real skills, real experience, and the chance to earn while you learn. Take every opportunity to ask questions, get involved in projects, and connect with mentors. Whether you’re looking to become a tradesperson or step into an engineering pathway like I’ve done, this is a great place to start and grow a meaningful, long-term career.

TELEMETRY TECHNICAL OFFICER

PORT MACQUARIE HASTINGS COUNCIL

LEGAL Light

with

EMILIE COOPER

FROM PRIEST LEGAL

Family separations are rarely easy even if they are “amicable”. Generally, family and friends will have an opinion on the separation and provide plenty of “useful” advice. Domestic violence receives a lot of media attention, but the incidents of domestic violence continue to accrue notwithstanding the attention.

Courts are empowered to actively manage any type of family law proceedings through a less adversarial approach which aims to limit intimidation and the stress of court processes. Mediation is a key part of this less adversarial approach.

Only a small number of family law property matters (proportionately) require the court to be the final decision-maker. Most matters settle before a final hearing but many matters are negotiated in the “shadow of law” i.e. based on what would be the likely outcome if the matter was decided by a judge.

The key to a just and equitable property settlement is information. The Act requires both parties to make full and frank disclosure with respect to their financial interests to each other. Thorough record keeping can be very helpful in assisting the court and your solicitor in determining relative contributions.

A court must first decide whether any order should be made. It may be that the court

FAMILY LAW’S

EVOLVING LANDSCAPE

decides that no orders should be made to adjust the parties’ property interests. In all cases, whether or not orders are made, the court must be satisfied that the outcome is “just and equitable” in all the circumstances.

A “just and equitable” outcome often results in both parties feeling a bit like they have been “shortchanged” or that the outcome should or could have been better. However, to make a decision as to a just and equitable outcome requires the court to follow the following process:

• Identify parties’ legal and equitable rights and interests and liabilities in relation to any property.

• Consider the contribution made by each party to the relationship (financial/non-financial, parenting and any other contribution) before, during and after the relationship.

• Allocation of an overall percentage entitlement to each party based on their contributions.

• Consider each of the parties current and future circumstances and the impact this might have on the prior allocation of entitlements.

• Decide the overall percentage split for dividing the property.

Recent changes to the Family Law Act (Family Law Amendment Act 2024 (Cth))include an additional list of factors the court will

consider when assessing the current and future circumstances of the parties. New considerations include:

• Family violence - did this prevent one party from making contributions?

• Wastage - intentional or reckless material wastage of property such as gambling, alcohol or drug abuse; destruction of property.

• Liabilities - in particular the impact of liabilities on the financial future of a particular party and which party incurred the liabilities.

• Housing needs – particularly where there are children involved.

Companion animals – i.e. family pets not working animals or assistance animals are now classified as property that the court can make orders in relation to. The court will consider:

• Any history of actual or threatened abuse towards a companion animal.

• Any attachment by a child or a party to the animal.

• The ability of a party to care for the companion animal in the future.

If you, or someone you know, needs assistance with a family law related matter, contact us on 02 6583 1777 or email us on info@priestlegal.com.au or check out our website: priestlegal.com.au

CAMPBELL

PCYC PORT MACQUARIE CLUB MANAGER

With more than 50 young athletes representing Birpai Nation at this year’s Nations of Origin tournament, PCYC Port Macquarie is celebrating one of its biggest and proudest achievements yet. We spoke with Club Manager Zac Campbell about the tournament’s deeper impact beyond sport, and the community support that made it all possible.

Hi Zac. Can you tell us what it means for PCYC Port Macquarie to have more than 50 young people representing Birpai Nation at this year’s Nations of Origin tournament?

It means the absolute world to PCYC Port Macquarie to be able to field over 50 young athletes who represent Birpai Nation at 2025 Nations of Origin. To be able to send so many young people on a trip that they will always remember is an absolute honour and a privilege to us at PCYC Port Macquarie, and we are so grateful for everyone that contributes, no matter how large or small.

This event is much more than just a sporting competition. What makes Nations of Origin such a special experience for the young people involved?

For many, Nations of Origin is an experience that allows young athletes to meet new friends and peers, to make their Nation proud, and develop their own personal skills and attributes. It brings different Nations together whereby stories and laughs can be shared, lifelong friendships

formed, and experiences created, making Nations of Origin much more than a sporting competition. It is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to learn, grow, and have fun. What sports are your teams competing in this year, and how did the young athletes prepare for the tournament?

This year, we had 1 gymnastics team, 1 netball team, 2 female rugby league teams, and 2 male rugby league teams. A lot of training went into preparation for the tournament, with the gymnastics crew working hard each week at the PCYC Port Macquarie gymnastics space and the rugby league teams training throughout the week at local footy grounds. Our netball team also trained on Sundays at the local netball courts. Their hard work paid off, as we came home with a silver medal in gymnastics and a gold medal for our Birpai Black female rugby team!

Getting 54 young people to Sydney is a huge logistical challenge! How important was the support from Greater Bank and the local community in making this trip possible?

A trip of this size definitely comes with its challenges, and it is absolutely fair to say that it is not possible without the support of Greater Bank and other organisations such as Essential Energy and Werin Medical Clinic who very generously donated to the funding of the trip. We would also like to thank Port Macquarie Basketball Association, Junior Sharks RLFC, B&B Wheelie Bin Wash, and Twinkle Toes Podiatry whose contributions enabled so many young people to experience an amazing trip.

You’ve worked hard to ensure the experience is free for all participants. Why is it so important to you that every young person who earns a spot has the chance to go, regardless of their circumstances? In life, everyone deserves a fair chance. Everyone involved with Nations of Origin works so hard to ensure there is no cost associated with the trip to enable individuals who may have differing circumstances to be able to attend if they earn their spot. Trips like this can be expensive and we absolutely do not want this to be a deterrent to families, so again we send a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to this year’s Nations of Origin teams. Success can sometimes

come down to opportunity for many young athletes, and unfortunately some do not receive an opportunity which is why it is so important for us to make this trip free for all the athletes. Many of the kids involved may not have had the opportunity to travel or compete at this level before. What kind of impact do you see this experience having on them, both on and off the field?

New experiences and environments breed confidence, and that is the biggest impact I have seen at this year’s tournament. A lot of the athletes have stepped their skills up a level after stepping onto the field, and their off-field behaviour has also been amazing. Travelling and competing in exciting events like Nations of Origin builds a lot of character and we have been witnessing lots of growth amongst all our young people. A lot of players on each team had also not previously known each other, but have now formed solid bonds and relationships which also speaks of the impact the Nations of Origin experience has had.

Beyond the tournament itself, what role does PCYC Port Macquarie play in supporting and developing young people throughout the year?

PCYC Port Macquarie plays a vital role in the development of young people all throughout the year. No matter the individual, or their walk of life, we endeavour to have a positive and

long-lasting impact on each and every one of them. Whether this impact is large or small, it’s all important to us as this is what makes up the foundations of PCYC NSW. Whether it is a young person attending our Learn to Play Basketball programs, or a different young person attending our Fit for Life Police Program, we strive to instill positive and beneficial values in the individual through sport, mentoring, and activities.

A lot of players on each team had also not previously known each other, but have now formed solid bonds and relationships which also speaks of the impact the Nations of Origin experience has had.

How can locals get involved or support PCYC’s work in giving young people these kinds of opportunities?

Locals can get involved in so many ways. This can be as simple as popping your head in to check out what we offer and what we do, or it can be volunteering for us. It could also mean you register a team into one of our competitions or register your kids in our learn to play programs! The more people we have coming through the PCYC and the more contributions we receive means we can continue to offer more to the young people in our community. Young people are the future, and we are fully

committed to providing all young people with the tools for success and we sincerely appreciate any help we receive in this effort.

Finally, as the tournament continues this week, what are you most proud of when you look at your teams representing Birpai Nation?

It has been an amazing week, and I am so proud of every person involved in Nations of Origin this year. The young athletes have always put their best foot forward and have truly displayed the beautiful qualities of Birpai Nation and PCYC Port Macquarie. I am proudest of the way the young athletes have carried themselves through the trials and tribulations they have faced, both during their competitions and outside of their competitions. They have been incredibly respectful, kind, and have represented PCYC Port Macquarie and Birpai Nation to the highest standard. I could not be prouder of the culture we have created, and I truly thank every single person that has contributed in any way at all to this year's Nations of Origin tournament.

Thanks Zac.

BNAVIGATING THE HOME BUYING PROCESS: TIPS FOR SELF-EMPLOYED CLIENTS

uying a home should be an exciting time, but unfortunately this isn’t always the case for self-employed clients. As a mortgage broker with years of experience in helping clients secure their dream homes, I understand that self-employed individuals often face unique challenges when it comes to obtaining lending. So, if you own a business and are looking to purchase a home, here are some essential tips to help you through the process.

Work with a knowledgeable accountant to prepare your financial documentation

Work closely with your accountant when preparing your tax returns and ensure they understand your property goals for 2025. Unlike traditional employees, self-employed individuals may not have a straightforward income history. To demonstrate your financial stability, you will likely need to provide comprehensive documentation, including:

Tax Returns: Lenders typically require two years of personal and business tax returns to assess your income.

Financial Statements including Profit and Loss & Balance Sheet: Accountant prepared recent Profit & Loss Statements and Balance Sheets to showcase current financial health. This can be very helpful if your income fluctuates.

Bank Statements: Maintain at least three months of personal and business bank statements to provide a clear picture of your cash flow.

HOT TIP: If you have not been trading for 2

years, or do not have 2 years tax returns that support your application this does not mean that you can’t get a loan as there may be Low Doc loan options available to you, so ask your broker!

Maintain a Strong Credit Score

Your credit score plays a significant role in determining your mortgage eligibility and interest rates. As a self-employed borrower, it’s crucial to maintain a strong credit profile by: Paying Bills on Time: Ensure that you consistently pay your debts and bills on time, as late payments can severely impact your score.

Limit Credit Inquiries: Avoid applying for new credit shortly before applying for a mortgage, as multiple inquiries can lower your score.

Save for your House Deposit

Aim to save for a substantial deposit (between 5-20% plus costs) the more the better, to lower your loan-to-value ratio, which can result in better loan terms. If you are a first home buyer, or haven’t owned property in the last 10 years, there are government schemes available which may mean you will only require a 5% deposit and avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

Be Prepared for Additional Scrutiny

Lenders may scrutinise self-employed applicants more closely due to perceived risks. Be prepared to provide additional information, such as:

Explanation of Income Fluctuations:

If your income varies significantly year to year or even month to month, be ready to explain the reasons and how you manage your finances during lean periods.

Industry Stability: Be prepared to discuss the length of time in your chosen industry, and to discuss the stability and growth potential of your industry, especially if it’s a niche market.

Work with a Knowledgeable Mortgage Broker

This may just be the most important tip yet. Partnering with a knowledgeable mortgage broker can make a significant difference to the outcome of your application. A good broker will:

Advocate for You: They will understand your unique financial situation and package your application in the best possible light.

Simplify the Process: They will guide you through the paperwork and help you prepare the necessary documentation, ensuring a smooth stress-free experience.

They will help you Choose the Right Lender: Not all lenders have the same approach to self-employed borrowers. It’s essential to find a lender experienced in working with selfemployed clients.

Buying a home in 2025 as a self-employed individual may present challenges, but with careful planning and the right support, you can successfully navigate the process. By working closely with your accountant to prepare your financial documentation, maintaining a strong credit score, building savings, and enlisting a knowledgeable mortgage broker, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your home ownership dreams. Remember, every step you take today brings you closer to unlocking the door to your future home.

CREATING WINTER WARMTH AT HOME

As the coastal breeze turns crisp and the days grow shorter, our homes naturally become a sanctuary from the chill. While here on the coast we don’t experience the extreme cold of other regions, winter still brings a shift, a need to nest, to slow down, and to create warmth not just in temperature but in atmosphere.

At Coastal Interior Group, winter is one of our favourite times to guide clients through small, meaningful changes that make a big difference in how a home feels. Creating a sense of warmth goes beyond simply turning up the heater. It’s about layering texture, introducing softness, and using light and colour to foster comfort and connection. Here are my favourite design strategies to help your home feel like a cosy haven all winter long.

1. Layer with Textiles

Winter is the season of layering, not just in fashion, but in interiors too. One of the simplest ways to warm up a space is by adding soft, touchable textures. Think chunky wool throws draped over the arm of a sofa, plush velvet cushions in warm tones, and heavier curtains that insulate while adding depth to the room. Rugs are another powerful tool. Even if you have carpet, a well-placed area rug can visually anchor a space and add that extra sense of snugness. Look for natural fibres like wool or jute for texture, or consider a Persian-style rug

to introduce warmth through intricate patterns and earthy colours.

2. Play with a Winter Palette

In the cooler months, I often recommend introducing a seasonal colour palette. This doesn’t mean repainting entire rooms but even a few accessory swaps can have impact. Deep forest greens, rust tones, warm neutrals like camel and oatmeal, or even charcoal and navy can shift the mood of a space instantly.

Swapping out summer linen cushion covers for richer, moodier hues in velvet or boucle can be transformative. Adding a dark-toned ceramic vase, a warm-toned timber bowl, or a brass lamp base can introduce warmth without overwhelming your existing decor.

3. Embrace Ambient Lighting

Good lighting is essential year-round, but it becomes even more important in winter when natural light is limited. Harsh overhead lights can feel cold and clinical, so I suggest incorporating more ambient and task lighting through floor lamps, wall sconces, and table lamps.

Soft, warm-toned LED bulbs create a beautiful golden glow that mimics the feeling of sunlight. I also love styling with candles both for their ambient light and their ability to introduce scent and ritual into the home. Try clustering different-sized candles on a tray or styling them with books and dried florals on a coffee table for a curated, cosy look.

Design De ned

with LEANNE WEBBER

4. Incorporate Natural Elements

Bringing the outside in helps maintain a connection to nature, which is grounding and comforting during the quieter months. Timber finishes whether in furniture, trays, or even picture frames add instant warmth. So do natural stone, leather, and woven textures. Dried arrangements are a beautiful way to style in winter. Banksias, eucalyptus pods, and preserved grasses offer sculptural interest and soft neutral colour. And they last for months, meaning you can enjoy them long after the season ends.

5. Create Comfort Zones

Lastly, think about the experience of your home during winter. Where do you curl up with a book or have your morning coffee? Create small comfort zones that invite rest and ritual an armchair with a lamp and side table, a styled bed with layers of quilts and cushions, or a nook with a record player and warm lighting.

Adding warmth to your home doesn’t need to be a major renovation it’s often the smallest details that make the biggest emotional impact. This winter, I encourage you to look at your spaces with fresh eyes and ask: how can I make this feel more inviting, more tactile, more like a place to truly exhale?

Stay warm and inspired, Leanne Webber Founder & Creative Director, Coastal Interior Group

focus contributor.

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

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

David Burnton is changing the game. As the founder of Lawlux he has created a human AI Interface that removes barriers to legal advice for employers - a first in the Australian legal sphere. His exciting work is transforming one of the most established professions and is garnering both national and international interest and accolades for innovative design, equity and e cacy. David is passionate about ensuring a ordable and high quality legal advice for all employers and pursues this mission from his stunning home base of Port Macquarie with his young family.

DDAVID BURNTON

avid, over the last decade you have worked extensively in leading legal firms in both Melbourne and Sydney specialising in employment law for major clients across the country. What inspired you to take the leap into the unknown as a founder bringing your legal tech start up Lawlux to life?

I learnt a lot working in ‘big law’, but took the leap so I could leave my mark improving access to justice and improving the legal profession. I was seeing too many clients who couldn’t afford the fees that traditional law firms charge. That was the driving force behind building the free legal Q&A AI, and giving legal information for free without needing to speak to a lawyer. I also knew the legal profession would be disrupted. I wanted to be part of that change. To not be a victim of technological change, you have to move yourself up the value chain and own the software that creates the change. In a nutshell, that’s what we’re doing at Lawlux.

Lawlux represents an Australian first in the legal sphere - a human/AI interface that removes barriers to high quality legal advice for employers. What drives your passion for equity, access and affordable efficacy?

I have a lot of sympathy for employers. Employers generally want to do the right thing and just get on with running their business. I’m

a strong believer that it’s inherently unfair that employers (including many large ones) need to pay for legal advice to simply understand employment laws. It shouldn’t be that hard to run a business in Australia, and it’s a big problem. There are 2.5 million small to medium enterprises in Australia. They make up 99% of Australian businesses and employ 8 million Australians. But nearly half believe their legal fees are too high. There is a huge gap there for quality legal information and more efficient legal advice. We’re working hard to bridge it. David, you made the move to the coast in 2022 and now call Port Macquarie home with your wife Chantelle an anaesthetist, two young sons Johnathan and Austin and auspiciously named hound dog Hank. What was the allure of Port Mac?

Let’s just say Chantelle’s a smart operator! She grew up in Port and the first time we visited she took me to enjoy a coffee at Coast before running through the rainforest and along the water to Shelly Beach. It was (and still is) my favourite run - no better way to clear the mind and be grateful for where we live. Since moving here we’ve loved the community - very different to Sydney and Melbourne! People are incredibly warm and welcoming. Partnering with the Law School at CSU has been terrific for Lawlux, being able to fly to Melbourne and Sydney for work has been important for clients (although I do miss Bonza) and having Chantelle’s parents living in town has been a huge support with the young boys.  Shout out to Dave and Jen!

As founder of Lawlux you have led the company to global renown earning a swag of major awards recognising design and innovation. A recent win at the Good Design Awards included Lawlux being recognised for exceptional design that democratised access to quality legal assistance for SMEs though an AI-driven legal platform. What was that moment like and what does it mean for Lawlux moving forward?

That win was incredible. We arrived at the Sydney ICC for the Black Tie Award ceremony with companies like Tesla, Samsung and HP and we left with a Good Design Award for our AI chat interface. It was recognition for a 7 year investment of hard work, money and time into little more than an idea and a belief. It also vindicated the decision to engage Symplicit in the early stages. Symplicit is a user experience design agency who helped us test, build and refine Lawlux’s software and design so that every aspect of it reflected what our ideal clients wanted. Symplicit built us a beautiful software and derisked the decision for Andrew and I to leave our previous jobs to go ‘all in’ on Lawlux!

The accolades continue with the announcement Lawlux is a finalist in the prestigious 2025 Clio Reismen Awards in Boston, and the Australian Lawyer Awards 2025 where you were named finalist in Innovator of the Year category. How instrumental has this award process been

to the branding, reach and impact of the business?

Everyone

has to spend time understanding and knowing their

‘why’ - what gets you excited? What motivates you? Why do you get up and work every day? Without that, e ort is directionless.

Exposure and recognition for Lawux is important. We’re growing, but off a small base, and want to have a big impact. We’ve built the LLM but it’s only going to help employers if they know it exists and we can fund further expansion of it. We also offer our AI and client onboarding software to other professional service firms (lawyers, accountants etc) so the opportunity in October to put that technology in front of some of the largest and fastest growing firms in America and Canada is truly exciting, and, who would say ‘no’ to flights to Boston.

What has been your most effective tool or attribute as an entrepreneur that has enabled you to drive Lawlux forward in a rapidly evolving AI and legal multiverse? Early on I received insightful advice to only build Lawlux with a technical co-founder. Andrew came across from IBM to be Lawlux’s CTO, and we simply wouldn’t be here without him. Andrew’s built our own large language models for the legal Q&A (and even LLMs to evaluate them), our document generation systems, our conflict processes and our APIs so that our software plays nicely with ‘off the shelf’ legal practice management software. He

also has two young kids and shares my belief in the importance of being present with the family. I reckon we’re a good team! How instrumental have sages and critics been in the evolution of your entrepreneurial journey? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

Everyone has to spend time understanding and knowing their ‘why’ - what gets you excited? What motivates you? Why do you get up and work every day? Without that, effort is directionless. When your effort is aligned with your purpose, work stops feeling like work. I’ve also learnt it’s important to develop your own instinct and listen to it when making key decisions. Everyone has an opinion, all forged from their own experience, beliefs and risk appetite. So, of course I consider those opinions, but I don’t lose sight of my instinct. The reality is that if I solely acted on the (genuinely held and respectfully offered) concerns and risks that my colleagues held when leaving a safe career with my previous firm, Lawlux wouldn’t exist. I’ve since found that feeling excited and motivated for work is as precious as it is fulfilling.

i Paul, thanks so much for your time. Please tell us a little about your business specialties and services.

Thank you Sarah. We have been around for a long time now and have a vast knowledge of the building industry and are experienced in civil, commercial, heritage and domestic construction. Having the opportunity over the years to have worked with some of the best tradespeople and building professionals in Australia has given me a unique set of skills. Having a hands-on approach, a proficiency in most trades combined with a keen eye for design, an understanding of details and materials enables us to create the highest quality buildings. We are about creating unique and beautiful spaces.

The newly completed Guulabaa site within the Cowarra State Forest was

CONSTRUCTIONS

PAUL THOMPSON -

Quality builders specialising in hardwood finishes, Paul ompson Constructions caught up with Focus magazine recently a er the Bonny Hills based proprietor Paul ompson and his team completed their latest project at Guulabaa - Place of Koala.

completed using local timber and Paul Thompson Constructions was honoured to produce the builds for the Big Koala and Big Leaf, multiple bridges, the Yarning Circle, the entry sign, screens and much more. What are some of your highlights from this project in collaboration with Forestry Corporation?

Wow - where to begin! Guulabaa was an amazing project to be involved in. We were able to be really creative and play around with some amazing local hardwood that whilst practical for use, really beautified the facility for visitors. We built and constructed two traditional bridges from logs cut from onsite ironbark. Our next job was a special one building a ‘Yarning Circle’ for our mates at the Bunyah Land Council. A lot of logs, crusher dust, sand, decking and other materials got carted down the hill. A bit of classy chainsawing, hard work and my design. It ended up unique and beautiful!

The base for the Big Koala is another feature we are proud of showcasing the best hardwood in the world and from our state forests. The koala is sitting on nine different timbers including blackbutt, brush box, grey gum, ironbark, red mahogany, spotted gum and my favourite, tallowood.

I would like thank Forestry NSW and Kathy Lyons for having the vision and commitment to build this wonderful area that has already been recognised with international awards. It will be the number one tourist attraction between Sydney and Brisbane as well as ensuring the survival of our furry friends. A special shout out to the timber industry for providing us with this essential, and ultimately sustainable building material.

Kylie’s Hut at Diamond Head, Crowdy Bay National Park was originally built for acclaimed author Kylie Tennant in the 1940’s. It was here she wrote many books including The Lost Haven and The Man On

The Headland - a story about Ernie Metcalfe who sold her the land and built the hut. Tell us a little about your involvement in this work.

It was my children’s favourite camping spot. e area had a special karma about it. We set out to rebuild it just like it was but also keep the integrity of the aged look.

I was honoured to win the tender to rebuild the hut after it burnt down after the horrendous fires a few years ago. It was my children’s favourite camping spot. The area had a special karma about it. We set out to rebuild it just like it was but also keep the integrity of the aged look. This included replicating the concrete in the piers chimney and steps, ageing the roof and tank, making the chimney look like the old one and using old and weathered timber where possible. Previously, you were also commissioned by Boorganna Nature Reserve, Comboyne to design and construct a new shelter by National Parks in the second oldest nature reserve in NSW. How do you ensure traditional construction can withstand the elements whilst being respectful to the environment in which you are working?

We try to make our work look as though it just grew there. If it looks like it was always there we have succeeded. The shelter

originally had a flat roof that supported about 300mm of leaf litter so we built a gable roof with no gutters. I prefer traditional galvanised corrugated iron roofing in these situations as it just says “This is Australia”. For the frame we used local Tallowwood which is the longest lasting when exposed to the elements and white ants also don’t like it.

Paul, you have a great deal of rapport with your clientele with an array of testimonials complimenting your business on your professionalism, attention to detail, communication and knowledge and understanding of heritage techniques and handwork. Are these important attributes to you in business?

Absolutely, that’s what it’s all about - respect and understanding of all involved is essential.

Most of the work we do has daily challenges. It’s how you adjust and deal with them that matters. We strive for the highest quality finishes in all our work. I believe quality starts in the ground and we rigorously enforce the highest standards.

What is on the horizon for the business going forward?

I’ve been blessed to have had a career that’s been far from ordinary, having the opportunity to build unique, challenging and beautiful things in amazing locations. So nothing is going to change. You never know what job the next phone call will bring. I love that about the building industry. Our passion is building with our great local timbers and letting the materials enhance our Mid North Coast lifestyle, be it inside or outside.

Thanks Paul. Interview: Sarah Baker.