Issuu

Feature Story Noella Lopez

October 2015 // issue 104

I N G H A M W • •

AKOOSTIK FESTIVAL

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT HARDYMAN

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editor's note.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG MASON.

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editor. editor.

fromfrom the the

Welcome the March edition of Manning-Great Lakes FOCUS. Welcome toto the October

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hhh … March! St Patrick’s Day, Seniors interview some amazingly gifted seniors in our on October 30 - 31. We hope you enjoy James ctober … The downhill slide Week, International Women’s Day … community. The Manning Valley U3A Silver Tones Bennett’s and Roy Rose’s interviews on pages 15 to Christmas, when we all it seems to be the month for inspiring Singers not only entertain the masses, they raise and 29 respectively. begin to wonder how on events and people. funds for needy charities too. INSIDE THIS ISSUE Earth the year ran away from We have both a Seniors Week feature and a The Great Lakes Art Society will host the 33rd Around this time of year, when our HSC students us so quickly, and take stock Women in Business Feature inside this issue, so Annual Open Art Competition again this month; are preparing foroftheir exams, many are of what we’ve managed we’ll certainly get to meet a few wonderful locals with a prize pool overfinal $5,000, it will attract considering next year’s study options or possible to accomplish (or not!) There are so many and read about their achievements. some top notch entries. And local trio the Tree job opportunities. We have a but special careers and individuals our community March! I hardworking never thought thisinmonth, was anmake especially month in the past, I’ve changed With March still a warm thewho busy Woodies, live music lovers and entrepreneurs, are my mind. education feature inside this issue, which may deserve to be acknowledged because they have most of it and head down to Beach Bums to hosting an awesome music event, The Descent, youLakes someWinery freshGreat ideas! managed to accomplish a great deal, despite the atjust hrove rove Tuesday Pancake Day,meal families. Lakes 14. Viking enjoy a (or coffee or a lovely overlooking Main thegive Great on March The Challenge, which Our other interviews cover talent as diverse speed with which the year is passing by! Among as we like to callCheers! it in Australia), ON THE COVER is set take place as on March 8 and 9. Beach.... headline act is Cheap Fakes - atoone-of-a-kind champion windsurfer Anton who’s toorout there – don’t these the many volunteer committees who St Patrick’s Day, Seniors Week Living life to the fullBrisbane are the band. vibrant, For allPain, you soccer fans ON THEare COVER If you like rock, funk, soul,off pop compete the Nationals next month, to thefast paced action! work behind scenes of here ourand local … and this is intirelessly addition to the colourful Silver Ukulele miss this a side, I mentioned inspiring women, and aretalented just anything inatbetween, this event is six a must-see. Upper Lansdowne Players,And profithat t organisations, or those bringfeature sual monthly events take Strummers, who on our cover ispresenting in addition to all the plays, a not fewfor of them! Every year FOCUS has awho Women Whether you’re young, orwho’ll notthis sobeyoung, be two onethis act comedies October. together of theLakes fabulous community ound theinManning-Great this month. This friendly bunch ofmonth movies, and performances happening in Businessall Feature … We’re proud of ourevents local inspired - ourthroughout locals are amazing! We also get to meet the new Director ofwoods the we get to enjoy.and Thank -locals you’re local isalljust one of the groups from our neck of the this month. Told businesswomen, youyou should be too! They’re EDITOR’S LETTER PHOTO Manning Regional Art Gallery, Noella ing of Seniors Week, which the Manning (University you it was anlegends. enterprising, creative and talented bunch,Valley U3A This month’s beautviful image of busy! theLopez, iconic and admire local photographer John Stranack’s skill ON THE and they’re part of the reasonof ourthe area is such a WeForster-Tuncurry bridge was shot by Brian Gymer. year from 15 - 23COVER March, Third Age). couldn’t fit the EDITOR’S PHOTO behind lens. October defi nitely for group music lovers special to live. The bridge features photos, as it’s such known for evoted quite a place fewis pages in the month entire on our cover, as the there are in many Shane Chalker is well SAY and festival goers, with both thewere Lakeside and so you’ll Thanks to all the women who aFINAL classic landmark, can’t say I’ve seen too e - and our cover - to celebrate some 40involved of them, have to go but Iproducing amzing images - and this with this feature, to Linda the pics it taken at month’s night. done, Brian Wingham Akoostik Music Festivals rmly in the pagemany “The badof news flies.Well The goodletter news-photo is no ry important members ofand our toBryant theirfifor interview to meet the restis time Editor’s stunning photography. great shot!the pilot.” -”exception. limelight. is you’re Michael Altshuler. nity. of them. INSIDE THISfeatures ISSUE forget your local photos to jo@ Our cover musician James Bennett, ife!’ is the catchcry for Seniors Many thanks to LindaDon’t Bryant fromto email Don’t forget to send your images to This month up with Kirbythe and Carl like to see them in who’ll be onewe ofcatch the stars toPhotography wow crowd nd we certainly have an by Lindafocusmag.com.au for this month’s if you’d jo@focusmag.com.au from the Akoostik Saltwater Boardriders Club ahead of the on the stage. Both stunning festivals feature aimage.FOCUS. group of locals doing just that! cover FINAL SAY club’s 50th anniversary amazing achievement, FINAL SAY troduce you to members the INSIDE THIS “You can’t help getting older, but talented line up ofofmusicians, so make sureISSUE you Jo Atkins – Editor guys! also interview Page Samis on who stops learning is old, whether g Valley Quota Club, Wendy Weand haven’t forgotten“Anyone the younger you don’t have to get old” - George keepWe the dates free: theSean Akoostik Festival jo@focusmag.com.au Thomson, as these two talented teenagers have at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning om the Forster Hospital of our community either! Burns. 16 -18Private October, followed bymembers Lakeside Festival beenofchosen to represent as a part of Emmastays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep bout some the fantastic newAustralia We interviewed Polson from the Australian Auroras Under 16 dragon boat your mind young.” EDITOR: Atkins s available in the hospital’s new Manning Dairy Youth - aJovery proactive - Henry Ford. jo@focusmag.com.au crew later this year. Well done, Sean and Sam erapy pool, and Phil Webster and enthusiastic group of young people Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont us proud! Rodhamdofrom the Great who are determined to see the dairy jay@focusmag.com.au Focus? Contact us Lakes for more information. Jo Atkins – Editor And on the the otherimpact end of theindustry spectrum, we SENIOR Jo Atkins – Editor DESIGNER: Gaul Support Group share continue to thrive in theDylan Valley,

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focusinterview.

MEET THE NEW DIRECTOR OF THE MANNING REGIONAL ART GALLERY - NOELLA LOPEZ. Noella brings a wealth of experience to her new role and plans to build on the gallery’s existing reputation for excellence … i Noella. Tell us a bit about yourself. What’s your career background? What brought you to the Manning-Great Lakes area? As a child born in a seaside resort called Arcachon in the south west of France, I was certain of two things: I would live in Australia and would speak English as a grown-up. I migrated to Australia 20 years ago as a London resident and settled in Sydney, a most gorgeous city. It was a great relief to have found where I was going to live for the rest of my life. Fifteen years ago, friends introduced me to this region, and I loved it instantly. I have been visiting many times a year on holidays and have always hoped to live here one day. So here I am, delighted by this fated sea change in my life. My experience is diverse and extensive as an executive in arts management, curating exhibitions, marketing and development through my roles at the Australian Museum and Eckersley’s. I am also the founder and curator of Noella Lopez Gallery, an innovative online gallery representing emerging and mid-career artists working in various practices. As an advocate for practising artists, I am on the board of Critical Path, a not for profit choreography research arts organisation: a small incubator of ideas, inspired by artistry, integrity and academia attracting artistic collaborations. As you can see my knowledge and understanding of the arts in general, art practices, the art market, arts policies and funding are both broad and versatile. What’s your current role at the Manning Regional Art Gallery? What does this role involve on a day-to-day basis? It is a great privilege to be the new Director of the Manning Valley Art Gallery and to have been offered this opportunity by the Greater Taree City Council. One of my favourite parts 4

manning-great lakes focus.

Photo credit: Caterina Pacialeo.

MIKE BOUCHET, Refresh Everything 2010, artist produced diet cola on cotton, 120 x 240 cm. Courtesy of the artist and Marlborough Chelsea, New York.

of the role is to work with artists and create opportunities for them to meet and educate audiences, enjoy art, have fun and make art accessible for all. We are a small team of dedicated professionals here, so on a daily basis I may focus on issues needing immediate attention or visualise and plan for studios to visit. I can’t projects which may Having met with wait! come into place in l a few of the loca Describe the current a few years. Tasks erges artists , what em exhibition the gallery can be as diverse l ca lo r is how active ou w is showcasing … as coordinating ho d art scene is an The 2015 Manning the logistics of es iv at iti it inspires in e Art Prize: Naked & th the delivery of an of ns io ct across se Nude is now showing exhibition, in which .” ity un comm at the Gallery. It is some artworks weigh a fantastic exhibition, more than 100 kg, showcasing great diversity selecting the next products of practices and interpretation. for the shop, watering the There are 72 finalists, with works garden, or talking to the media. I including paintings, sculpture, photography love this diversity and find it really stimulating. and drawing. I strongly recommend it. Come Unpacking the artworks sent by the Manning and visit us; you will have great fun and enjoy Art Prize finalists, discovering these gems and some art appreciation. And if you still not talking point pieces, was absolute bliss! sure - don’t be shy, feel free to talk to us. The What have you enjoyed most about exhibition is on until 25 October - entry is $5 experiencing the Manning area so far? for adults (free for kids). Don’t miss it! I love this area! Walking on the beach While you’re here, have your say and vote for with dolphins swimming nearby or being the People’s Choice Award. The gallery is open surrounded by so many birds in the bush are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm and on always delightful moments. I saw a bower Sunday 1pm - 4pm. bird setting up its nest with the blue bits in What are your plans and vision for the preparation for the spring season. How special gallery moving forward? is that! And, the view from the hilly area of The Art Gallery has been instrumental in Hallidays Point overlooking the entire valley and enabling the artistic focus for the region, whilst the ocean in the distance ... is just spectacular! It puts a smile on my face every day. supporting local artists. I see my role very What are your initial impressions of the much about continuing and strengthening this local art scene? approach, as well as bringing a fresh view and Having met with a few of the local artists, energy to articulate an exciting programme what emerges is how active our local art scene of events and exhibitions, to support cross is and how it inspires initiatives across sections collaborations and art practices. Promoting and of the community. There is so much to discover, putting this gallery out there as an art venue so many artists to meet, stories to share and of choice recognised nationally by artists and

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Above: ROBERT MALHERBE, Woman in a Black Coat, oil.painting. audiences is part of this plan. I look forward to collaborating with the wonderful supporters of the Gallery to bring this to fruition and whoever wants to engage in a meaningful partnership which would benefit the community at large. The arts in general have proven to be a catalyst for new ideas and for social cohesion, and I feel that artists and the arts can play a positive role with various social issues that can have impact in our community. Ultimately, my vision would be to see the Manning Valley develop into a destination for creative industries - a growing component of the economy of this country - and for the arts to support tourism, artists’ communities, arts professionals and the local economy. What upcoming exhibitions do we have to look forward to? The fascinating exhibition Stars + Stripes: American Art of the 21st Century opens on 30 October. It is a wonderful opportunity to discover contemporary art by artists from New York and Los Angeles not easily accessible to Australian audiences. Drawn from the private collection of Sydney-based Lisa and Danny Goldberg, this exhibition is a vibrant selection of new American art by some of America’s hottest young names. Where can readers find out more info about the gallery? www.manningregionalartgallery. com.au or www.facebook.com/ ManningRegionalArtGallery Thanks Noella.

inside this

Issue 104 - October 2015

john stranack. A lot of thought and developing of ideas goes into John Stranack’s artistry. John believes creativity is learned, not just gifted, and constantly seeks to improve his photography. Seen through his eyes, everyday items and scenes become the extraordinary …

Forster Fly Muster.

23.

If you enjoy our local waterways, a relaxed day out, the chance to meet new people and most especially, a fresh, succulent feed of fish, here’s the weekend event for you!

44.

roy rose. Since he was just a young chap, Roy Rose knew music was going to be a part of his life, spending his earlier years playing in concert bands and touring up and down the coast.

15. James Bennett 19. Brushes with Life 43. Anton Pain 54. The Big Book Night

usual suspects.

the

11. What’s On for October 22. eat featuring local restaurants 42. Star Guide with Terri 49. Tourism Update with Donna Hudson No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @

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

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focusinterview.

Sharyn MUNRO

THE UPPER LANSDOWNE PLAYERS THE UPPER LANSDOWNE PLAYERS ARE A DIVERSE, TALENTED GROUP OF COMMUNITY MINDED INDIVIDUALS, AND THEIR THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS ARE ENJOYED BY MANY! SHARYN MUNRO FILLS US IN THEIR UPCOMING PERFORMANCES, WHICH WILL SHOWCASE TWO ONE-ACT COMEDIES …

i Sharyn. What brought you to the beautiful Manning Valley, and how long have you called the area home? After 36 years on my remote Upper Hunter Wildlife Refuge, in September last year I moved to Upper Lansdowne, whose beauty and peace allowed me to bear the transition. I wanted to be closer to my daughter and family, who had left the coal-dominated Hunter for the clean air and friendly lifestyle of Old Bar and the Manning. At 67, it was also time for me to adjust to living amongst people instead of wallabies! How and why did you become involved with the Upper Lansdowne Players? A leaflet in my letterbox earlier this year sought new recruits for The Players, explaining their importance for the hall and the community, and offering a free acting workshop by Tyran Parke. It was the impressive quality of Tyran’s workshop that hooked me into joining them. At the time I had no idea whether I’d act or help build sets; in fact, it’s both, and I am finding the whole creation of the theatrical illusion fascinating. And fun. I hadn’t acted since university days, so I learnt a great deal from the May season, Every Crook and Nanny. I’m now on the Actors’ Committee. This time I have four roles - and lots of fast costume changes! Tell us a bit about the group ... Do you know much about its history, or when and why it was established? It was started in 1983 by local Vera Hewins, and has been going ever since. The troupe is run by its Actors’ Committee, of whom the Chair is Vivienne Scott, who took over The Players in the late 1990s. Actors’ Committee member, Richard Coleman, says, ‘’Over the years we have become at least halfway respectable actors, Vivienne being rewarded with the Greater Taree City Council’s 6

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‘Citizen of the Year’ award in 2006 for her ways do they contribute to or help the local efforts.” area/economy? Vivienne has undertaken directing courses and The revenue from the performances is shared continues to learn to facilitate her passionate between the Hall Committee and the local aim for the troupe and the performances to be groups who cater. the best they can. This funds the ongoing upkeep of our How many people (roughly) are members charming traditional timber hall, available for of the group these days ... Are all members hire, and much utilised by the community for adults, or are some youngsters involved as regular events such as the Thursday Craft group well? and the twice-weekly community library. We currently have about 16 active Players. Our shows are renowned for the quality Our ages range from 75 to 15! - and generosity - of the food, as There are five teenagers in this much as for the fun! Dinners production: Josh Lythgoe are three courses, B.Y.O., ke ta ill (15), Maddison Dorahy and the afternoon w s ow sh ll A er (17), Ciahn Pertzel (16), teas are served preplace in our Upp orial Mikaela Beckett (17) and show and more at Lansdowne Mem r Fabian Pertzel (19 - not interval. Hall (wheelchai rd ay related to Ciahn). They are a accessible). Satu sh ows All but Fabian are major fundraiser evening dinner th , 17th will be held on 10 an d still at school and for the various er, and 24th O ctob were involved in the community bodies n tea oo rn te af Sunday last season’s play too. who cater for th 18 , th matinées on 11 Vivienne chose the each performance ” . er ob and 25th O ct October plays specifically to - the school P & C, be able to offer roles to them the Anglican Church all, to encourage their enthusiasm group, the Hall Committee and nurture their talent - as she has and members, sometimes the done for quite a few in the past! PCYC, and sometimes St Clare’s Maddy is at Great Lakes College and is food technology students. (Their teacher, actually currently doing her HSC. With such Laurent Gonford, is on our Actors’ Committee, dedication, it’s not surprising that she plans to and adds a French flavour to every play!) undertake full-time theatrical studies next year. Players’ members actually undergo acting Ciahn and Mikaela, who are also dancers, are training throughout the year. Tell us a bit in Year 11 at Taree High. Dancing commitments more about this please ... kept them from rehearsals last season - but they As Richard Coleman says, “To continue raising were wonderful stage hands. our skill level and as a recruitment aid, we bring Fabian, a 2014 Taree High graduate, would high calibre acting coaches from Sydney once or like a career in the creative arts, including drama. twice every year, unused places being available Josh, in Year 11 at St Clare’s, is keen to to non-members.” continue his acting beyond school too. His To fund these, a tiny amount is put aside by parents have even taken on acting roles in this the hall from each show. production - it’s catching! Director Vivienne and Assistant Director The Upper Lansdowne Players is a very Tony Shurety continue the “upskilling” in our community oriented organisation. In what rehearsals. The Players are far more than a bunch

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of egocentrics hamming it up on stage! Upper Lansdowne Players will be staging two one-act comedies, George and Half an Idea throughout October. Describe these plays and their plots briefly for us (without giving too much away!) Both plays are British. George, by Derek Hickman, is set in a hospital ward, where one patient’s confusions and delusions have everyone playing along, while searching for a cure. But who’s really in charge here? Half an Idea, by Bob Larbey, is the two part result of a novice playwright’s efforts to write serious and savage drama. But, frustratingly, his wedding scenario and the following funeral one both read and act like comedies. When and where will this production be staged? All shows will take place in our Upper Lansdowne Memorial Hall (wheelchair accessible). Saturday evening dinner shows will be held on 10th, 17th and 24th October, and Sunday afternoon tea matinées on 11th, 18th and 25th October. (If the bookings over run our seating capacity by a large enough number, we may extend for the following weekend.) How much do tickets cost, and where will they be available for purchase? Dinner show tickets are $35 each; matinée/ afternoon teas are $25. Bookings are already open, so be quick! Fill out the easy booking form (for tables of eight or individuals) online at upperlansdownehall.org.au/book/plays/ or call Pieta on (02) 5507 6066 or 0409 456 846. Where can readers find out more info about the Upper Lansdowne Players? At the recently revamped Upper Lansdowne Memorial Hall website, upperlansdownehall. org.au, there is a special section for the Players. We are very lucky that a local I.T. professional, Alastair Breingan, has given his time to bring us up to date! Thanks Sharyn.

manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

john

Stranack P H O T O G R A P H E R

A LOT OF THOUGHT AND DEVELOPING OF IDEAS GOES INTO JOHN STRANACK’S ARTISTRY. JOHN BELIEVES CREATIVITY IS LEARNED, NOT JUST GIFTED, AND CONSTANTLY SEEKS TO IMPROVE HIS PHOTOGRAPHY. SEEN THROUGH HIS EYES, EVERYDAY ITEMS AND SCENES BECOME THE EXTRAORDINARY …

i John. Introduce yourself to our readers please ... What brought you to the Manning-Great Lakes area initially, and how long have you called it

home? My wife, Wendy, and I moved to Hallidays Point in 2002. I had retired from corporate life in Sydney, and we had spent some time looking for a place to retire. Sydney was not an option for us, as we had no long term links to the city other than our sons. Having arrived in Australia from South Africa in 1983, we had no strong ties to any particular location, so had been looking far and wide. Whilst exploring the North Coast on one trip for a potential retirement location, we stumbled across Hallidays Point and knew instantly that that we had found the spot. We bought a bit of land almost immediately and built a house. How did you photography journey begin who or what initially inspired you? Whilst I have dabbled in photography over the years, it is only in retirement and with digital photography that I have applied myself. Whilst on a fishing trip to New Zealand, my brother,

manning-great lakes focus.

raphy has

Photog who is a professional r brought anothe photographer in South r fo el av dimension to tr Africa, encouraged me to s nd te w no me, and that get into photography. ce en flu in e m to have so Where are some places go. ” about where we you’ve travelled that have especially motivated you to pick up the camera? What was it about these locations that fired your imagination? Photography has brought another dimension to travel for me, and that now tends (lighting) is not always right, and this can be to have some influence about where we go. a real problem with short stop travel. We have travelled to Europe, the UK, New So whilst travel is sometimes a catalyst for my Zealand, Norway and of course, many parts of new ideas, these factors can conspire against Australia. A recent trip to the Northern Territory you unless you spend time. Living on the highlighted some aspects that one has to Mid North Coast allows me to apply all these remember when planning travel photography. elements, so it’s a great place to photograph. Firstly, I have to put in the time. Then I really What is your favourite camera/lens combo have to experience a place. A snapshot of a and why? sunset as I travel the outback is unlikely to This is an interesting question, as I have just convey the true feel of the place. Don’t simply bought a new camera system, the Fujifilm XT1 be seduced by the subject matter and rush to and lenses. The reason for this decision is to shoot it, but take the time to develop the idea. reduce the amount of gear when I travel, whilst A sunset is a sunset, but what is the story, the maintaining the quality of capture. My stay at unique message or character of the place? Finally, we just have to accept that the time home gear is a Canon 5D MK II with a number

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of lenses, flashes and other items. Both these systems are fantastic tools, but it’s a question of what tool does the job best for what you are trying to achieve. There is no perfect camera system to cover all situations, and there will always be a trade-off. I have a trip planned to Namibia next year, and I know that the Fuji will struggle with game photography, but I also know it will be the best for cultural images being more discreet. It seems to me that talented photographers are able to see the beauty in the detail, or in small things, that many others may not observe. You’ve taken many photos of ordinary, everyday things - such as

focusinterview.

teacups, or footwear, and turned them into works of art. How do you do you know that an object will make a good subject for a photo - are you good at visualising? A photographer friend of mine has a saying, “If it moves, you shoot it”. I wish it was that easy for me. I need to go through a process of interpretation. I will look at something that catches my attention, and then try to develop an idea. I find there are three stages in creating an image: the idea stage, the capture stage and the development stage. The easiest is the capture stage, and the most difficult for me are the ideas. I consider myself a photographer, rather than an artist, and have to work at being creative. That’s probably why I have to put in the time. I don’t specifically aspire to be creative or artistic just for the sake of creativity, but try to see photography as a means of communicating an idea. I believe that visualising is a practiced skill. For me it is, and I’m still learning. What/who/where do you one day dream of photographing that you haven’t accomplished yet? I love Australian rural scenes, and I would like to spend time on an outback station capturing the life and times of the stockmen, cattle, horses, the dust and their world. Maybe even a muster, or time on the long paddock. If you could give one tip to a novice behind the lens, what would it be? Try to avoid simply concentrating on the capture phase, or the recording, documentation stage. This is something that anyone can do with the modern camera. Shoot in Raw. That captures the most data, allowing maximum development flexibility. Taking that raw data from the camera and converting or developing it into an idea through Photoshop that communicates to the viewer is the challenge. Start from the very beginning to shoot in Raw,

lly

and as quickly as I don’ t specifica aspire to be possible learn your tic tiv gear, so you can crea e or artis of ke just for the sa use manual mode to see y tr t bu , creativity without thinking a means photography as an about it. g in of communicat Study your craft idea .” by looking at other photographers’ work, as well as the art, by studying other artists. Creativity is learned, not just gifted, so work at it. What camera clubs/associations/ photography. publications are you affiliated with, Final say … and how have these helped with you There have been a few of photographers photography? who have influenced me. Professor Des Crawley I am a member of the Forster Digital seriously challenged my basic understanding Photography Club and the Australian of photography. As I once said to him, he Photography Society. The Forster club hold “scrambled my brain”. I am still working regular meetings and monthly completions. through his concepts and particularly applying It’s a good place to meet people with similar the language of photography. Rob Smith, a Port interest and share ideas. Macquarie photographer, has also had a big Where can readers view your work? I have web page and blog at: www.stranack. influence about how I think about photography.

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Guy Tall, an American photographer, has also impressed me with his landscape images. On the development phase of my photography, Tony Kuyper who developed the use of Luminosity Masking, has had an important influence on my development workflow and finally, David DuChemin, who is a humanity/ travel photographer and author based in Canada. Thanks John. manning-great lakes focus.

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Brett F O R S T E R

F L Y

M U S T E R

If you enjoy our local waterways, a relaxed day out, the chance to meet new people and most especially, a fresh, succulent feed of fish, here’s the weekend event for you! Brett Wilson introduces us to the inaugural Forster Fly Muster - a free event, open to everyone, which will show you how to fish using flies. October 31st and November 1st … keep these days free!

i Brett. You work in the fishing and tackle industry, so please tell us a little about what you do? Currently I am the national product manager for the Tackle World group, who are the largest independent chain of fishing tackle stores in Australia; currently we have 53 stores and growing. It’s a challenging role, with stores from Weipa and Broome all the way around to Tasmania, but it’s enjoyable to deal daily in a field that you’re passionate about. Previously I spent 10 years at Shimano Australia, and from there learnt the way of international business and now travel Australia and the world designing, developing and sourcing fishing tackle, then when it hits our shores, it’s time for the promotional side of the business - so it’s pretty full on. How did you become interested in fly fishing? About 15 years ago I saw a programme on TV called Wildfish, hosted by Peter Morse. He explained fly fishing and the destinations it took him, which changed the way I started to look at my own fishing. I read up about fly and took some casting lessons - and the rest his history. I now travel Australia and the world doing it. But I guess the irony in the story is that Peter Morse is now a good mate, and we have just finished a full length feature film together. What’s involved with the sport ... How does it differ from other forms of fishing? It is different and yes, different equipment is required, but I guess the myth about it being elitist and for the wealthy trout angler is pretty much that - a myth. It’s so accessible for anyone wanting to take their fishing elsewhere and try something new, and at times fishing fly can be the only way to target species and actually catch them. There are plenty of options for people wanting to start out, and you don’t have to spend big dollars; you can get some good quality general purpose outfits to start off, but it’s like anything - get bitten by the bug and it’s going to cost you 10

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more, but it’s worth every cent. Your casting is the key, as you are using the weight in the fly line itself to propel a small fly as you cast, so the presentation can be a lot more subtle and therefore result in more fish. Brian will be in Learn to cast well, and sting charge of the ca you will have fun and r te as m a is tuition; he catch fish. or in both casting instruct handed What are some of the le single and doub fact , is Brain Henderson more usual fish species in d an es qu ni ch te and some other e anglers aim for when in th e only instructor e th volunteer casting er fly fishing locally? ph Southern Hemis sting instructors, then ca You can fish fly in fresh to hold all three tions! ” ca go fishing. ifi rt and salt, and the fresh is instructor ce The day will start where it all started and where at 7am and then wind most people associate the up fishing at 2:30pm, then sport - which is why we are trying we move onto the social part of to bring awareness to the saltwater side the weekend. of it all. Your usual bread and butter species What activities are planned for the like Bream, Flathead and Whiting are all easily Fly Muster - will it be open to anyone, caught on fly if you’re willing to put in the effort. beginners and experienced anglers? This region is perfect for it, with so many options We have fly casting tuition and of course fly - be it land based or in a boat, we are spoilt for fishing itself, and you can choose land, boat or choice. kayak. At the end of the day we will have profesYou’ve also released a film about fly fishing sional fly makers showing the anglers how to tie called Aquasoul. What has been the feedflies and giving them the opportunity to tie one back you’ve received about this film? themselves and perhaps use it the next day. The Aquasoul film was made last year and It’s a relaxed weekend, and the aim is to prois currently touring Australia then onto NZ and mote the pastime. It’s a no charge, no egos, fun South America and has been received very well. weekend. So far we have everyone from comYoung QLD film maker Ben Godfrey from Krank plete novices to the very expert, and at this stage Productions is an extremely talented one man we pleasingly have 11 ladies as well, so it’s open band and is really going places in the film world, to all as that is what the weekend is about. and it was an honour to be a part of this film. You’ll also have a special guest at the event The DVD can be purchased from the Krank local fly fisherman Brian Henderson. What Productions website. experience/qualifications does Brian have in You’re planning to hold the very first Forster the field? Fly Muster on October 31st and November Brian will be in charge of the casting tuition; 1st - which will be a free event. Where will he is a master casting instructor in both single this be held? and double handed techniques and in fact, is the Basically, the event will start with a briefing, only instructor in the Southern Hemisphere to then the anglers can choose to go straight out hold all three casting instructor certifications. He fishing or have a two hour casting tuition with

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has been around fly fishing for many years. Brian has recently moved to the area from the Snowy Mountains and is conducting casting classes in the area, and people are travelling to be taught by him and have a great weekend away. Brian saw the weekend was on and offered his services free of charge. It’s a privilege to have someone of Brian’s calibre on board and makes the weekend even more special. Not only is he a genius in his field, but a very humble and gracious person only too willing to help. Brian’s Business is called Brian Henderson’s fly fishing. He has a website: www.flyfishing.com.au and also a Facebook page. Where can people find out more info about fly fishing, or register their interest in the event? The vibe of the weekend is a relaxed one and is shaping up really well. The lake will be our playground for the weekend and the venue for after fishing activities is TBA, depending on final numbers. The Forster Fly Muster will be held on October 31st and November 1st; we have a Facebook page and if anyone is interested, just drop Brett an email on brett@tackleworld.com.au Although no one will be turned away, for organisation purposes it’s preferred they are registered, so we can make sure all are accommodated. Thanks Brett. Note: Those wanting to take part in the event should bring along their own equipment - a fly rod and reel in the 6 to 8 weight category would be ideal.

A R O U N D T H E R E G I O N / / OA CU TG OU BS ET R 2 20 01 41 5

31 HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR Halloween Spooktacular - The Kingfisher Café will be hosting a Halloween Party from 6pm to raise money for The Ronald McDonald Family Retreat at Forster. The price will include a buffet meal, finger food and a “trick or treat” for children. There will be silent auctions, prizes for the best dressed child, best dressed family and best dressed adult. We will also be having a dance of to Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Bookings are essential. When 31 October 2015. Where Kingfisher Café, Blueys Beach. 6552 9222 Tickets - $65 for adults and $35 for children.

JAZZ FINE AND MELLOW

Jazz Fine and Mellow, presents Reminiscing In Rhythm. When Monday 12th October; 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Where Great Lakes Library. Tickets $15 available at the Great Lakes Library, Forster, during normal library hours and at the door on the night of the concert.

JOSH AND JOEY - ACOUSTIC DUO

Josh and Joey an Acoustic musical duo from Newcastle will play live from 7pm. Bookings are essential. When 17 October 2015. Where Kingfisher Café, Blueys Beach, 6552 9222. Check them out: youtube.com/watch?v=DDu8y1AQFqM

19 & 20 REVOLTING RHYMES AND DIRTY BEASTS

Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes and Dirty Beasts - Manning Entertainment Centre. Roald Dahl’s wickedly funny take on your favourite bedtime stories leaps off the page in this spectacular new live show, taking the world's best-loved fairy tales and rearranging them with some unexpected and hilarious twists. Where Manning Entertainment Centre. When October 19th and 20th. Bookings call 6592 5466, call into our box office or book online at themec.com.au

Opening weekend - tickets on sale now! www.bigbanana.com manning-great lakes focus.

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Tastings on Hastings makes et a perfect gourm r fo ay weekend aw es ili m fa d couples an e th ng si ca ow sh alike, e in w very best food , on has and beer the regi to offer.”

“ ungry crowds will flock to the riverside to tempt their tastebuds and sample exciting new flavours, soak up the live entertainment and enjoy the food-fuelled

good vibes. Attracting more than 100 exhibitors and 17,000 people from right across the North Coast and beyond, Tastings on Hastings has evolved into three action-packed days of culinary celebrations and is one of the region’s premier events. Themed “Fire, Water, Harvest”, Tastings on Hastings 2015 will ignite all the senses with a smorgasbord of events, including a night time festival, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and the popular main event. With a wide range of accommodation options available in Port Macquarie, many within walking distance to the festival, Tastings on Hastings makes a perfect gourmet weekend away for couples and families alike. Exciting flavours from the regional food bowl Tastings on Hastings showcases the very best food, wine and beer the region has to offer, and last year featured more than 110 exhibitors, including farmers, artisans, food producers, wine

growers, brewers, restaurants and cafés. Exhibitors come from the “100 Food Mile” region spanning from Port Stephens in the south, Armidale in the west, and Woolgoolga in the north. Matt Moran will cook up a storm Celebrity chef Matt Moran will head to Port Macquarie for the weekend and is set to ignite the region’s passion for fresh local produce. Matt Moran is a passionate foodie, successful restaurateur and a firm believer in reducing unnecessary waste and creating more sustainable food practices, making him the perfect match for Tastings on Hastings 2015. Tickets to the Matt Moran dinners at The Stunned Mullet sold out in just four minutes, but visitors can still grab tickets to hear Matt’s top tips and tricks for the kitchen in a cooking demonstration on the Saturday. Night time festival - Friday 6 November The weekend’s festivities will begin with a unique Fire Water Festival on the Town Green, which will see the foreshore alight with fire twirlers, lanterns, braziers and torches. The Fire Water Festival will be a cultural fusion of local art, musical and street performers, night

FROM FRIDAY 6 TO SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER, PORT MACQUARIE WILL TRANSFORM INTO A FOOD-LOVERS’ PARADISE DURING THE 13TH ANNUAL TASTINGS ON HASTINGS FESTIVAL, PROUDLY PRESENTED BY PORT MACQUARIE-HASTINGS COUNCIL.

markets and an exciting array of food stalls. This free event is open to the public from 4:30pm to 9:30pm. Cooking demos, workshops and masterclasses - Saturday 7 November A tasty line-up of workshops and masterclasses will be held from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 7 November. Matt Moran’s Love Food Hate Waste Cooking Demonstration will highlight how easy it is to reduce household food waste with recipe creations that utilise everyday leftover foods. The session will kick off with the announcement of the BioCup ArtSeries Competition Winner, and $5 from every ticket will be donated to food rescue organisation REAP by OzHarvest. People interested in unlocking the nutritional value of food can learn about the secret microbial world of sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha with Sammi Zajko from Fermenting Australia. Cheese lovers will learn how to make Paneer, Ricotta and Haloumi easily at home and sample a variety of homemade cheeses from Artisan Cheese Maker and Author Lyndall Dykes. The afternoon sessions begin with a Wine Masterclass with a panel of experts from Wine

Selectors, who will explore some hidden gems from NSW’s less well known vineyard regions such as the nearby New England. Attendees will have an opportunity to taste surprising varieties such as Fiano, Arneis, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo. Those who enjoy a good brew can learn more about boutique beers with Australia’s leading beer writer, broadcaster and educator Matt Kirkgaard, and sample some exciting new styles. Tickets range from $10 to $25 and can be purchased via www.glasshouse.org.au Popular main event - Sunday 8 November The ever-popular main event from 9am to 4pm on Sunday 8 November will provide visitors with the opportunity to sample new products, chat with producers, share tasting plates, shop for local produce and enjoy the entertainment on the Town Green. Entry is just $5 and provides access to several exciting precincts including the Farmers’ Markets, the Restaurant Precinct, the Main Stage, the Beer and Wine Precinct and the Makers’ Markets. While sitting back to savour the flavours of the festival, visitors will enjoy a great line-up of live entertainment, including the soulful sounds of popular North Coast singer Lisa Hunt and more. For all the event action, head to tastingsonhastings.com.au, sign up for the newsletter and follow us on facebook.com/tastingsonhastings

Featuring Celebrity Chef

MATT MORAN

F R I D AY 6 - S U N D AY 8 N O V E M B E R

#TOH2015

For a full schedule of events visit

www.tastingsonhastings.com.au 12

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COASTfront REALTY

Matters. [ w ith Alan Tickle ]

Dear Alan, I friend of mine told me that he claims credits from shares even though he doesn’t put in tax returns. How does that work? SH

and then once that was processed and the

Dear SH, Due to the floats of mutual companies such as Insurance and Building Societies, Australia has a higher percentage of share investors per total population than any other country, so I would hazard a guess that there are millions of dollars that remain unclaimed by tax payers for Franking or Imputation Credits.

claims where there is a joint share holding.

Australian companies pay tax at around 30%, and when a dividend is paid by a company from their after tax profits, that dividend has a credit attached to it called an Imputed or Franking credit.

details were in the system, they then phoned the ATO for the remaining years. You need to halve the credits and submit two A single senior Australian can earn taxable income of $33,279 and a couple $28,974 each before paying tax. Where it is known that you will not reach those levels, then a letter to the ATO advising them that your last return was your Final Return is all that is needed to enable the simple telephone

ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY SHAKE & STIR THEATRE CO

claim for the franking credit refund.

ORIGINALLY CO-PRODUCED WITH LA BOITE THEATRE COMPANY

Managed funds that have tax credits in their income distributions can also be claimed for refund in the same manner as direct shares.

Typically, many retirees or others who are not required to lodge tax returns, will receive dividends from investments (not super) that are paid from shares or managed funds that have those franking credits attached to the dividend.

It is recommended that you check with the ATO

Even though a tax payer might not need to lodge a tax return because of their low income, they can complete a two page form available from the Australian Tax Office to claim those franking credits.

used to reduce the taxation liability within the

Once a tax payer has established a bank account to receive refunds, they can then even claim the refund of franking credits over the phone.

alternatively, gathering up dividend advices and

A couple of weeks ago, a client produced eight years’ worth of dividends from IAG (NRMA) shares which amounted to a refund from the ATO of over $7,000

on investing in higher yielding portfolios that

They had some help with the oldest year claim,

accounts.

or seek advice from your tax agent to confirm your situation. Pension or superannuation funds claim the tax credits on behalf of members and either is then fund or in case of the pension fund, actually boost the return. Googling refund of franking credits provides a link to the ATO form to apply for the refunds or enlisting the assistance of a registered tax agent to claim the refund is the alternative option. Claiming back those credits or seeking advice contain franked income, can result in income significantly higher than what is being paid on fixed term deposits or cash management

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

MONDAY 19 OCTOBER, 6:30PM

Tickets available from www.theMEC.com.au, 6592 5466, Stockland Forster or from the Theatre A cultural service of Greater Taree City Council Focus.indd 1

18/09/2015 3:44 pm

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This for th Que

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LOCAL MUSICAL TALENT JAMES BENNETT IS JUST ONE OF MANY AMAZING ARTISTS PERFORMING AT THIS YEAR’S WINGHAM AKOOSTIK FESTIVAL. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH JAMES ABOUT ALL THINGS MUSIC, INCLUDING HIS DEBUT ALBUM AND NATIONAL TOUR ...

•JAM ES•

BENNETT WINGHAM

AKOOSTIK FESTIVAL

t’s been nearly three years since we last spoke to you at FOCUS we can only imagine it’s been an amazing journey to where you are now! Give us a little insight … Yeah, it’s been a very quick three years too. Well, for the past year I've been based in Newcastle, but in doing what I do I'm never really anywhere for long. I guess most of my time is spent on the highway driving to and from my gigs, then surfing on the days inbetween. In the midst of the highway life I've been working on an album and trying to get it done before the end of this year. It will be my first album, so I'm just trying to get it to a level where I think I’ll still be stoked about it in years to come. Being in the studio is hard for me; I like to do my own thing at gigs and at my own kind of pace, so when it comes down to all the finer details, I tend to get a little frustrated - hence it’s taking a long time ha ha. What is your biggest dream and goal? My biggest dream at the moment would be getting into some bigger festivals and maybe heading overseas. My ultimate goal is to make people feel happy and enjoy the music that I create and also to hopefully inspire others to play or write music like others did for me. Have these changed over time? No not too much, except the festival thing. I love to play at festivals, and I have played quite a few in the last few years, but these days I prefer to play to a small attentive crowd where the songs really get a proper listen. I've done festivals where people are just too drunk and wild to really care for the music, which is fine, but at the end of the day it’s not the audience I want to attract. In saying that, there are smaller boutique festivals that have that intimate vibe that attract the right kind of people, so I guess the

The most important s part of any song . cs ri ly e th e ar to me e th if ys da e es Th song meaning of the first at od to is unders t no s it’ en th listen, ” good enough .

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goal is just to find the right ones to play at. I still want to go overseas to play. I did a surf trip to New Zealand earlier this year and sussed out some bars and places to play at, so if I go anywhere overseas to play anytime soon, it would probably be there! To the last part of the question [my goal] I know I've accomplished this to some degree; I've had many people tell me they've walked down the aisle to some of my music, and I'm always being told stories of my CDs being played on long car trips, so that’s pretty darn cool as well. How has your music progressed over the past few years? I’d say the biggest comparison to when I first started out would be my lyric writing. The most important part of any songs to me are the lyrics. These days if the meaning of the song is understood at first listen, then it’s not good enough. I really try to write so that anyone could put their own spin on what the song might be about - not to say my older stuff wasn't done this way; the only difference is, I think a lot of people start out writing love songs (as I did). I try not to write love songs anymore - unless of course, you want to see it as one. Tell us about the single Colourful Kites; what’s the tale behind it? Colourful Kites is pretty much a story I've always wanted to write that will never become a story; it’s quite true to some degree and tells the tale of myself as a child and (putting it nicely) being afraid of my dad. It’s a sad song with a happy feel to it. You’ve worked alongside some amazing

artists - Ian Moss, Wendy Matthews, to name a couple. What was it like working alongside these iconic storytellers? Sure, I love it - you learn a lot from being around people who've been doing it forever. The most memorable support shows I played were for Wendy Matthews and her band just over a year ago. I did about six shows with them and after about the third show, they invited me to hang with them back at their accommodation, where we’d play guitar ‘til an ungodly hour of the morning, hear all their stories of past tours and their opinions on certain things. I've got beautiful memories of hanging out with Wendy and her band, and we still keep in touch! We are excited to have you playing at the Wingham Akoostik Festival; what can we expect from your onstage vibe? Yes, it’s great news! I played at the Wingham Akoostik Festival in 2013 as well; it’s just a great festival with great organisers, and I'm really looking forward to playing at it again. As for “what to expect”, I used to feel very insignificant on a big festival stage with no band to make me stand out, and I got stuck into thinking I needed that - but the last couple of years I've worked hard on my solo on stage sound to the point where I don't think I ever want a band (well, at this stage at least). I‘ll have a six string guitar, a twelve string guitar and my Weissenborn Lap Steel on stage, along with a stomp box and tambourine (feet percussion) that I've been doing for a while now and of course, harmonica and vocals. I think I’ll play a few new songs and a couple of older ones. I like to think my vibe comes out

as a mixture of Bob Dylan and John Butler. You’re about to release your first album and embark on a national tour. You must be very excited - tell us about the production process and gearing up for your tour… As I said before, it’s taken me a long time to get the album ready, so it’s due for the end of this year. I'm not sure of a name yet; it'll most probably be self titled. I'm recording it all out at a studio in Beechwood west of Wauchope; the same studio recorded my Colourful Kites single. I'm trying my best to make it sound no different to how I would sound at a gig. It’s all sounding beautiful at this stage; I just need to add those finishing touches. My plan is to do a national tour for 2016, which I've never done. I've already started booking the tour, and I’ll be starting off in QLD, then I’ll work my way down the coast and head over to Western Australia around February March (maybe Tasmania). Where can we buy your music and follow you? All my music is on iTunes, and hard copies are available from my website: www. jamesbennettmusic.com I always have hard copies to sell at my gigs too! People can follow me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/jamesbennettsound Instagram jamesbennett_ and you can find my videos on YouTube as well. Thanks James.

the plug! Don’t miss James Bennett at the Wingham Akoostik Festival, 16 - 18 October.

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W I N G H A M A K O O S T I K M U S I C A LW IFNE GS HT AI VM A AL K O O S T I K M U S I C A L F E S T I V A L

LAUNCHING STUNNING NEW ALBUM

THE LAST TIME JODI MARTIN VISITED THE EAST COAST, HER TOUR WAS A SELL OUT! JODI'S VERY EXCITED TO REVISIT THE AREA, AS SHE HAS SOME NEW STORIES AND SOME NEW SONGS TO UNVEIL ...

Fri 9 October, 8pm

Crescent Head Public School Communal Hall

Sat 10 October, 8pm Glasshouse Theatre, Port Macquarie

Sun 11 October, 4pm

Pacific Palms Recreation Club

Thurs 15 October, 7pm dinner for 8pm show Bent on Food, Wingham

(Akoostik Festival Pre-show)

Sat 24 October, 8pm Bangalow Bowling Club

Fri 30 October, 8pm

No 5 Church Street, Bellingen

Sat 31 October, 8pm

Pelican Playhouse, Grafton

NEW ALBUM OUT NOW! download your free track at

www.jodimartin.com

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elcome back ... What have you been up to since we last caught up? Touring with the single Saltwater in My Hair has been taking me on some amazing adventures, playing shows from Port Fairy Folk Festival in Victoria to Cairns to Darwin and a regional South Australian tour. I was lucky enough to spend four weeks on tropical Groote Eylandt as well, running songwriting workshops in remote communities and playing a couple of shows there too. I am loving these regional tours, and my dream is to cover the whole country. I want to play more than just the capital cities with the Saltwater album! I was based in Canada for several years playing music over there, and when I returned to Australia, I stopped touring for a while so I could move back to my hometown to be close to my family through a very difficult time. So being on the road again and reconnecting with my people and my place means a lot to me. You’re back this October for another tour along the East Coast. Your last tour was sold out ... How does it feel to come back to somewhere after having such a great first encounter with the area? It is very special to be back, for many reasons - particularly because the Mid to North Coast of NSW is like a second home to me, as it is where I came of age as an artist at 19 and found my voice. On my January tour here, the people were amazing and made me feel so welcome to be back on every level. It’s important to me to honour that. What made you decided to come back so soon? What I am loving the most about being back on the road is connecting with

“

ough I’m

Alth people - from brand new songs on this e not releasing th friends who tour as well. These are y ad re al single yet, I have d in have known songs that have been an o made the vide me for the born on the road as ’s le op pe response to em th ve longest time I’ve been touring the gi to t an w votes, I by w ie to new ones. first single Saltwater ev pr k ea sn the deo at vi e I turn my raw in My Hair around th g in en re sc is tour!” life experiencthe country. In the last the shows on th es into songs, few years leading up to and it’s amazing this album I’ve faced some to share these with big losses, and as the tour has people who have gone gone on, I have realised that there is through similar things in life, more to say than I initially thought. More and get to hear their stories as songs have been flowing out to become well. It’s a really special thing, and I the soundtrack of this chapter of my life. don’t want to leave it too long before I see What are your plans after your tour is everyone again. complete? I am also coming back on a promise! It After the next couple months of was really fun to have audiences voting touring, including the Great Ocean Road on songs during the last tour… At every tour in November/December 2015, I plan show, people voted for which song they to take some time out with family, hit the wanted to be the next single and music beach, reflect some more and do some video to be released. The clear winner was more writing which will come from these Diesel, with 11 out of 12 shows winning coming dates. the Diesel vote! Although I’m not releasing The new Saltwater album was birthed the single yet, I have already made the after a very tough couple of years, where video and in response to people’s votes, I I faced a great deal of loss - most painfully want to give them the sneak preview by being the loss of my brother. Initially I screening the video at the shows on this thought I had finished the Saltwater altour! bum, and said everything I wanted to say. What can our readers expect for this But the more I’ve gone on, the more I’ve show? realised how much this record has affected A subtle change is that there is more me. As I’ve talked with people about their music and less talking this time around. Of own experiences, I now know there is course, stories are an important part of a more to say before I close this chapter. Jodi Martin show, and I will always make I’m currently back in the studio with sure that the strongest and funniest stories Shane Nicholson recording one of these get told. Actually, one of these stories is new songs and knowing there’s more I about a near-death experience which was need to say about the Saltwater story, I one of my most embarrassing moments can say that the record will be re-released ever - and it actually happened on my last some time next year, with the second tour here, near Coffs Harbour. I love telling chapter. And for anyone who has bought this humbling true story to have a good it in its current incarnation, they will be laugh - and it’s also a great philisophical able to access free downloads of whatever lesson for life! shape this takes. I am really excited about unveiling some Thanks Jodi.

WINGHAM AKOOSTIK MUSICAL FESTIVAL

Blue stars And Platypuses Gloucester Celebrates Blue Stars and Platypuses

Bent on food October Events Byron Bay’s very own Blues, Roots and Reggae troubadours the Jesse Morris Band are coming to Bent on Food, Wingham this October. Jesse has been performing and travelling across the globe for just over 10 years and has recently returned to Australia and laid roots back in the Byron hinterland. Jesse will be visiting as part of a national tour - sharing soul music and emanating positivity. The Jesse Morris Band continue to share uplifting songs about the earth, travel, change and growth. Positive sound vibrations and words to inspire love, freedom and kindness. Jodi Martin, Singer Songwriter: Jodi Martin began spontaneously composing songs as a three year old, and her career as singer and songwriter grew steadily throughout her young life as she developed her talent. Jodi recently released a new album and video and will be touring the country to celebrate their release. Jodi’s live shows make a unique connection with every single person in the audience. Her songs, stories and humour authentically celebrate life in all its richness, and draw the listener in to what is an inspiring and uplifting experience. Jodi has headlined her own national tours, and played Australia’s major festivals including Woodford, The National and Port Fairy Folk Festivals and The Byron Bay Blues and Roots Festival. Both artists appear at Bent on Food this October. Book tickets now.

The 2015 NSW Regional Blue Star Sustainability Awards and the Gloucester Platypus Festival have merged into a weekend-long celebration of sustainability. Featuring the best Gloucester has to offer in every way shape and form, layered with a generous helping of community spirit. Celebrations kick off at Billabong Park on Saturday 7 November, commencing 8:30am and continue through to 2pm. The Platypus is an iconic Australian mammal that symbolises sustainability… Without healthy rivers and eco-systems, these unusual creatures would have no home. The Gloucester Platypus Festival celebrates these ideals through information, craft, artisan and food stalls, music, and creative play for the kids. Platypus spotting and hands on workshops with Wildcraft Australia are highlights of the festival. Kids of all ages can learn about bushcraft, wilderness education and can learn how to construct a natural shelter. Junk Percussion is on board to teach us that music can be made with just about anything - all you need is your imagination and a beat. The local Bluegrass band “The Grasscutters” will provide some toe tapping tunes during the festival, and you can cool down with a range of food options, that will be provided by Gloucester service organisations, including steak and salad provided by Rotary, corn cobs by Lions and fresh sandwiches from the CWA ladies. And in keeping with the reuse/recycle theme, all food will be served on crockery plates sourced from second hand shops, with wash-up stations staffed by the local student representative council. Unwind under the trees by the Billabong with a relaxing Tai Chi class.

The PHOTOGRAPHY hub At The Photography Hub, our “Hub Club” is so well received by our members. We absolutely love our members, and it feels so good to be able to give so much. We are often asked by people when they sign up, “But how much extra do we have to pay for the photos?”… And the answer is - “Absolutely nothing!” That’s the beauty of the Hub Club. For such a small amount each week, we reward our loyal members with themed shoots throughout the year, as well as a full family session after nine months of membership. And all of the photos are included on USB - retouched and ready to share with family and friends. And we even have a “look great guarantee”! We know how to take photos of people looking their best, and we know how important that is. For newborns, we’ve created a new package that combines with Hub Club membership and includes all of the babies’ first year photo shoots. We’ve had so many newborns in and love that we’ll be capturing their entire first year when they grow so quickly.

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SteveAttkins.

from Great Lakes Winery

watch. steve attkins

Umrika (M) St Joseph’s School Hall Wingham - 7pm Monday 12th October.

to find him. With the help of his best friend Lalu

12th October.

to find himself charting one of his own. Set in the

A small village in India is invigorated when one of

mid-1980s, Umrika is a funny and meaningful

their own travels to America (aka, Umrika) and de-

story of the lengths taken to realise one’s dreams.

tails his adventures through letters home, sparking

Tickets are $14 including coffee cakes and

community debate and inspiring hope. But when

chatting. For membership or further information,

the letters mysteriously stop coming, his younger

please visit www.tareefimsociety.org.au or phone

brother Rama (Suraj Sharma) sets out on a journey

6552 3476.

aree Film Society pops up at St Joseph’s School Hall Wingham with the charming comedy-drama Umrika (M) 7pm Monday

RO SE; THE WINE O F TH E MO M E N T ONE OF MY FAVOURITE WINES IS ROSE, AND I’M NOTICING I AM NOT ALONE. IT HAS REALLY BECOME THE WINE OF THE MOMENT. ROSE, OR BLUSH AS IT IS SOMETIMES CALLED, SEEMS TO WORK FOR BOTH RED AND WHITE WINE DRINKERS, WITH THE COLOUR BEING SOMEWHERE BETWEEN WHITE AND RED, RANGING FROM SALMON TO PINK TO LIGHT RED.

oses typically have a light berry flavour with a floral aroma, resulting in a fruity and refreshing wine that is best served slightly chilled. Many have a little residual sugar highlighting the berry. I don’t think you can go past a Rose when it comes to a lunchtime wine or as an apertif.

the skins, to give it the colour profile without retaining the tannin from the skins. Rather than crushing the fruit, the whole bunches

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Melons

are placed in the vat, with the pressure from the fruit causing the fruit to release its juice, and fermentation begins. The vat is

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with Horticulturalist Neville Donovan - Greenpatch Organic Seeds

Rose is a wine that has spent little time on

then sealed and the fruit bursts under Today, many red grape varietals pressure, releasing more juice. are used to make Rose, and Once the skins are removed, Great Lakes Dragonfly Rose is made from the wine is made in a y an m y, Shiraz blended with similar way to a white Toda e ap gr d re a little Barbera. A wine, resulting in a low ed to more traditional varietals are us tannin, light, refreshing Great make Rose , and variety of grape flavoursome wine. Rose Lakes Dragonf ly used to make Rose Like many wines, it iraz is made from Sh is Gamay, which is tle lit is common to use blended with a the preferred grape fruit from a couple of Barbera. ” variety used to make vineyards, with each the famous French contributing its own Beaujolais. The Beaujolais unique characteristics. The region in France is all winemakers’ art is blending the about Gamay Noir. The variety of juice proportionately to achieve the flavour Beaujolais wines is something to be explored, balance that is being sought after. as vineyards of the region are grown in both An alternative way to make a Rose is blending granite and clay. The granite brings a mineral red and white wine for the same result. With element, while the fruit grown in clay are this technique, the blending skills, along with lighter and less complex in flavour. While most the fruit quality, is key to achieve the desired Beaujolais wines are light and designed to be colour and flavour profile. drunk when they are young, there are some If you are not a red wine drinker, I suggest you premium Beaujolais which are full bodied red wines with more complexity and as they age, they take on characteristics of an aged Pinot Noir. You don’t find a lot of Gamay in Australia, but it is similar to Pinot Noir in that it is held in very high esteem.

(Tony Revolori), Rama retraces his brother’s path

try some Rose - especially this time of year, as we head into the warmer part of the year. The Great Lakes Dragonfly Rose is very popular with both red and white drinkers, so we are happy to have struck the right balance.

AT ’ S I N

If you already have fruiting trees growing and are regularly picking fresh fruit, then consider adding to the annual planting calendar rockmelon and watermelon! This will increase the range of fruiting summer edibles. Included in this group are the green fleshed honeydew, traditional orange rockmelon, large and small red or yellow fleshed watermelon. Melons are an annual vine, easy to grow and relatively pest and disease free. By planting in spring, the plants have enough time to grow well through the hottest time of the year. Choose an open sunny position, well drained soil, and reasonable fertility. Allow at least 3 - 4 square metres in a home garden to grow a few melons. Rockmelon is a compact growing plant and only produces relatively short vines. The best time to plant is October, and delicious fruit is ready to pick between January - February, usually before the wet weather arrives. The fruit is sweet, juicy and depending on the variety,

mainly orange in colour. A handy tip to remember when harvesting fruit is to look for the browned off tendril near the fruit and also for a prominent ring at the stalk attachment. The fruity aroma of the melon will also give it away. Rockmelon and watermelon enjoy regular deep watering during dry periods. It’s important to keep plants moist and not let them dry out, as this will stunt their growth. Watermelon will take up more space as the vine forms dense growth and the stems get longer. They can be planted in 50 cm circular mounds of 3 - 4 plants; allow to grow in different directions to cover a grassed area. Watermelon fruit is more tolerant of rainy conditions, maturing as the vine starts to die off, with the tendril turning brown and the fruit will be dull on top, light green-yellow underbelly. Rich colour of red or yellow inside. Try the good old tap of the melon for readiness and listen out for that hollow sound!

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The Brushes with Life project gives people with a lived experience of mental illness, their families, carers and mental health professionals the opportunity to express themselves through creativity and art. The group will be holding an exhibition of their work from October 8 - October 12 at 16 Manning Street, Taree, and the community are invited to attend. We speak to some Brushes with Life committee members and contributing artists to find out more …

•W ITH

BRUSHES life •

KIRSTEN OLSEN, LINDA CHUDY, ELIZABETH KEMPERS, AND SAM EVERETT - BRUSHES WITH LIFE COMMITTEE MEMBERS/REPRESENTATIVES

hat’s your role with large. the Brushes with Life In essence, how does Brushes with Life work? project, and how did How do community members access the you become involved? project, and where and when are your regular Linda: I’m an Art workshops held? Facilitator of workshops, It’s open to anyone interested in art, from provide one-on-one mentoring and instruction, and beginners to more experienced artists. I’m a committee member. Workshops are held the first Thursday of every Kirsten: I’m a committee member and month, from 10am - 2pm at the Cundletown RichmondPRA Manager [RichmondPRA is Uniting Church Community Centre. an organisation that formed in 2012 There are no costs. through the merging of the Anyone interested can contact Richmond Fellowship of NSW Kirsten Olsen on 0448 060 661 and Psychiatric Rehabilitation or 1300 770 9270. Australia, whose aims are To coincide with Mental The exhi bition runs from to assist individuals with Health Week (which is held ctober mental health problems from 4th - 10th October), Thursday 8th O O ctober to Monday 12th et , become a part of their local there will be an exhibition re at 16 Manning St community.] to showcase Brushes with Taree. ” Elizabeth: I was at the very Life participants’ artwork. first meeting, and my main When and where will this contribution has been through exhibition be held? taking the minutes. The exhibition runs from Sam: I’m a committee member. I Thursday 8th October to Monday was approached to facilitate workshops, so 12th October at 16 Manning Street, turned up to a meeting. Taree. The public is invited to attend the Explain the aims of the project ... launch on Thursday 8th October at 5:30pm and • To provide a safe and supportive space to create view works on Friday 9th October from 11am art 5pm. Works can be viewed on the Saturday, Sunday • Helping people find their own creative pathways and Monday from 10am - 2pm. • To provide guidance and artistic instructions For anyone interested in entering works, • To make art more accessible to the public for registration forms are on Brushes with Life’s enjoyment and participation Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ • To utilise the links between creativity, recovery, and brushes-With-Life-2015. the maintenance of good mental health through Will there be any costs associated with learning to think creatively attending the exhibition - and where can • To destigmatise mental health and promote social readers find out more info? inclusion It’s a gold coin donation to attend the exhibition. • To promote a wider network of good will amongst For further info, contact Kirsten Olsen on 0448 060 artists, and between them and the community at 661 or 1300 770 9270.

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KANE HOLMAN AND ANDREW RICHARDS -ARTISTS

ow did you become involved with the Brushes with Life project? Kane: I was invited to attend, and I have been to every workshop since. I have painted approximately 60 paintings. Andrew: I became involved in 2013; I started through Diane Hamilton at RichmondPRA. How has Brushes with Life helped you/been beneficial for you? Kane: It stabilises my mind and body; it’s relaxing, and has greatly helped my

confidence with my art. Andrew: It’s been beneficial because I have a more three-dimensional look at things. My ideas are now on canvas and paper, so people can see them. What types of artwork do you most like to create, and what are some of the pieces you’ll be displaying in the exhibition? Kane: Landscapes, animals and birds, oceans, waterfalls and sunsets. Andrew: I like cartoons. One piece that will be in the exhibition is a doll, and the others are mostly paint on canvas. Thanks everyone. manning-great lakes focus.

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Cheetahs BILLABONG ZOO

Billabong Zoo in Port Macquarie is delighted to announce the much anticipated arrival of their two cheetah brothers, Warrior and Vongani. Chrissy Jones chatted with excited zoo owner Mark Stone about the new additions.

ou officially opened the all new cheetah exhibit during the September school holidays; how have Warrior and Vongani taken to their new home? They are loving it. When we first put them in there, they checked out every inch. We were in there with them first up, and they explored every corner of the enclosure. They play soccer with Christy, my head keeper; she has formed a real tight bond with them. They are really loving their new home here at Billabong Zoo. Why did you choose cheetahs? A few reasons. First and foremost, we wanted to promote the plight of the Cheetahs here in Port Macquarie, similar to what we have done with the snow leopards. There is only an estimated 10 thousand left in the wild and there are only a few small organisations doing wonderful things in South Africa, but it’s all on a shoe string budget. Secondly, in NSW you aren’t allowed to work with big cats once they reach a certain size, but in Queensland and the ACT you can. In my opinion, Cheetahs are the most suited big cat to work in close contact with, as they have a different disposition to most other big cats. They have the advantage of their speed; they are the fastest land mammal on the planet, so if they are threatened they run. A lion for example, can’t run as fast, so he needs to be able to stand his ground and fight to protect himself; whereas, the cheetah would run. That is believed to be one of the reasons why a cheetah is a much more placid animal to work with. Cheetahs are well known for their long-legged, slender bodies with a beautiful golden tan coat that is covered in around 20,000 black spots count them if you don’t believe it! They have short, sparse fur and black tear marks that run from the corner of their eyes, down the sides of the nose to their mouth, which protects the eyes from the harsh sun and accentuates the facial expressions. Built for speed, these animals have a small streamlined head, long light limbs, powerful hind legs, flexible shoulders and spine, long muscular tail, semi-retractable claws, enlarged liver and heart, wide nostrils and increased lung capacity, which combine to make them the fastest sprinter 20

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on Earth. Capable of as opposed to us just being a e At points in tim reaching speeds of 100 stranger in their world - and up t ge ld they wou , km/hour or more, us you just need to be patient. om fr ay and move aw ay st the cheetah can Both the boys are totally st ju ld ou w and we ey Th cover nine metres in different. Vongani is a ladies e. er w e w where us for half ft a single stride and man, quite charismatic - he le ve ha ht ig m en all of a almost four strides per loves Christy - and Warrior is an hour, and th ld come second. Warrior and just a cutie, a big sook. sudden one wou .” us Vongani are certainly no Leaving South Africa with back and sit with exception! the cheetahs must have been You brought Warrior and very exciting, as well as nerve Vongani out from South wracking … Africa. Tell us about the process? To prepare the cheetahs to come home When we first decided that we wanted was again a process. They travel in specially constructed travel boxes, and they have to be to include cheetahs at the zoo, we looked conditioned to be comfortable to walk in and at all our options. I handed the ball to my out of their boxes and be happy once in the head keeper, Christy, who researched the internet boxes for the door to be closed. They handled in search of different refuges in South Africa that work with cheetahs. She found Cheetah Outreach, this extremely well; I guess because they are used to being taken for walks even off site from who have exported them before to other countries Cheetah Outreach Centre. It must have been including New Zealand and also to Australia, such a surprise for Mr Average in South Africa to which was a great advantage. If we imported our be out for his afternoon stroll by the lake, and all animals and could work in with them, people of a sudden to come across half a dozen people would be more inclined to learn about these taking a couple of Cheetahs for a walk. beautiful creatures. We then made contact with The day before departure and the day of Cheetah Outreach, approximately 2½ years ago. departure was the most stressful for us, checking Then the massive importation project began. and double checking everything was in place. If you start looking at importing animals from Our transport plan, the vet checks as the boys overseas, the Government Authorities have many, were boxed, our permits were with us for both many hoops to jump through and boxes to tick. export and import, transportation on arrival in We had to be so careful. We had to demonstrate Australia, etc. etc. And it’s not every day cheetahs our professionalism in our operations, what we are exported out of South Africa, so the South planned to do with them, and how we planned to Africans kept a very keen eye on every step we manage them. made. Christy and I went to South Africa to Cheetah Most people would not even think about Outreach and spent a week with the boys, getting what’s involved in flying something that size; to know their personalities, their likes and dislikes some planes they wouldn’t fit, some planes don’t and for them to get used to us. Every day from have temperature controlled cargo holds, some open to close we would go into their enclosure, don’t carry live animals and of course, we wanted go up to them, touch them, feed them, and pat to make sure we were on the same plane and them, getting them used to us. We would sit with flight. them; they would lay down beside us. At certain As I said, they travelled extremely well, which points in time they would get up and move away is wonderful, as it is always our major concern. from us, and we would just stay where we were It came down to preparation; it’s like anything: and wait for them to return to us; this would go if you prepare well, which we did, then the on for hours at a time. They might have left us for outcome should be good. The professionalism half an hour, and then all of a sudden one would right from the start to finish was amazing. come back and sit with us again. At that point From Sydney the cheetahs cleared customs, we knew that they were taking us on board; they and then it was down to Mogo Zoo on the South were coming to us, they wanted to be with us,

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Coast to quarantine them in Australia for 30 days. Mogo Zoo and their team were fantastic. I would like to thank Sally Paidy and the team for taking such good care of our new boys. Christy spent the first week with Warrior and Vongani at Mogo Zoo, my wife Danena and I spent the second week, the Mogo team spent the third week with them, and then Christy spent the fourth and final week with them until I returned to bring them home - just so they always had a familiar face with them. Now they are here at Billabong Zoo, are they difficult to care for? I have always said anything that is pleasurable is not difficult, but in relation or by comparison to some of the other big cats species, I think not so - which is probably due to their placid nature. We have very strict guidelines that we work to, so as to ensure ours and their safety; this also makes a big difference The brothers have travelled all the way from Cheetah Outreach in Cape Town, South Africa and come with an important message. What’s that? The cheetah is the fastest land mammal, capable of reaching speeds of 100 km per hour, but they are losing the greatest race of all - their race for survival. Since the turn of the previous century, population numbers have dramatically declined from 100,000 animals down to as few as 10,000 today. They are currently listed as critically endangered. Warrior and Vongani are here to raise awareness and support for the conservation efforts being undertaken by Cheetah Outreach. Billabong Zoo applauds the work of Cheetah Outreach and encourages everyone to get behind them and raise awareness or donate to ensure this vital work continues. Check out their website for more info: www.cheetah.co.za I would like to thank all the people and the business houses that have gotten behind us and this huge project. I can’t thank everyone individually, but I would like to acknowledge the tireless work of David Doherty, who kept pushing this project forward, and last but by no means least a very heartfelt thank you to my wonderful family and our very, very dedicated staff, whose support is endless - thank you. Thanks Mark, and welcome Warrior and Vongani.

TAREE

volkswagen VOLKSWAGEN TAREE IS NOW OPEN. MEET PAUL, THE OWNER OF THE NEW DEALERSHIP. COME IN TODAY AND TEST DRIVE THE GREAT RANGE OF VOLKSWAGEN, NOW AVAILBLE RIGHT HERE IN THE MANNING.

i Paul. Congratulations on the new Volkswagen dealership in Taree. Can you introduce your team to us? It is very exciting for us to have the Volkswagen brand back in Taree. We initially have a team of five people working for us - a service manager, two technicians, a yardman, John our sales manager and myself. As we get a bit bigger and more established, we will be looking at employing more staff. Volkswagen Taree has a connection with Great Lakes Nissan; can you tell us about this? About 11 years ago, my business partner Chris Eschler and I purchased the Nissan dealership in Tuncurry. Chris moved up from Sydney with his family and has run the

We will be selling new and used cles , Volk swagen vehi ed us r he ot ith w along e cars . Our servic of course department will agen sw lk service all Vo s, but el od m d makes an her ot e can also servic ” l. el w brands as

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business successfully for 11 years. The dealership has won NSW Dealer of the Year with Nissan, as well as a number of other awards, including two global Nissan awards. One of the reason for this success with the dealership is the number of repeat customers coming back due to the high level of customer satisfaction. We now hope that we can carry that over to the new dealership. We have a great brand to sell; it’s been about 7 - 8 years since Volkswagen were last in the area, so there has been a lot of interest in the

product. We are excited to bring the sales, along with a high degree of customer service, as we do with Nissan in Tuncurry. Can you tell us about the the Volkswagen Dealership? We will be selling new and used Volkswagen vehicles, along with other used cars. Our service department will of course service all Volkswagen makes and models, but can also service other brands. We have a parts department with a full range of parts and accessories. We also offer Volkswagen

finance; come in and talk to one of our sales staff, take one of our vehicles for a test drive and enjoy Volkswagen being back in Taree. How can our readers find the new dealership? The dealership is located at 1-5 Chatham Avenue, Taree, or they can jump onto our website: www.tareevolkswagen.com.au. Our office hours are Sales - Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm and Saturday, 8am - 1:30pm. Services, parts and accessories Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm, or you can phone us on 6557 8077. Thanks Paul.

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b r u s c h e t ta w i t h lo ca l b l ac k d u c k b r e w e ry b e e r f r o m C l u b ta r e e - d i n e o n 19

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

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Flow café. restaurant. bar. October Spring has definitely sprung here in Old Bar, and with that comes the warmer weather, the October Long Weekend festivities and the launch of the new Summer Menu. You’ll find local oysters back on the menu, fresh and in season lamb and other delicate dishes with hints of sage, thyme and rosemary. October Long Weekend Line Up: Fri 2 Oct, James Thomson and The Strange Pilgrims, 6:30pm. Sat 3 Oct, The Lonesome Heroes (Austin, TX), 6:30pm. Sun 4 Oct, The Urban Chiefs,12:30pm.

Reef Fillies, Fashion and Fine Food - Race Day at Reef Kick off the summer season by indulging in a delicious two course lunch for race day at the Reef, with champagne on arrival and nibbles to begin. Enjoy Melbourne Cup in style with a fashion parade and prizes for best dressed and best hat, as well as lucky door prizes, all in support of the Heart to Heart Foundation. Limited seats available, so be quick! The lunch starts at 11:30am for a 12pm start, Tuesday November 3rd; to book call 6555 7092.

Head Chef Peter Tjourneland

Our $15 lunch specials are offered daily. To view our menu or to find out more details about hosting your next wedding or function at Reef, visit: www.reefbargrill.com.au

31 David St, Old Bar Beach 6557 4224

Shop 1 Reef Apartments, Wharf St, Forster 6555 7092

Tues - Sun: breakfast & lunch 8am - 3pm. Thurs - Sat: dinner from 6pm. Please see facebook.com/flowcafe for happy hour, weekly live music and menus.

Open daily for lunch from 12pm. Open Monday - Saturday for dinner from 6pm.

mi casa cafÉ & restaurant

Spice Monkey

Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and Spanish vibe at Mi Casa Spanish Café, Restaurant and Tapas Bar. With great views overlooking the Town Green, the wide menu range boasts an array of tapas, seafood dishes and traditional Spanish favourites. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a table outside with friends for social dining and drinks. Choose from a wide selection of tapas dishes including Croquetas, Carne De Res Marinada, Chorizo con Gambas and many more! Premium selection wine menu is available, try the popular Carlos Serres Rioja Viura, or share a jug of our famous Sangria (pictured above). • Group functions and parties • Bookings preferred

Melbourne Cup Cocktail Soirée at Spice Monkey

3/2 Horton Street (Located on Town Green), Port Macquarie. 6584 4559 Lunch / Tapas: Wed - Sat from 11:30am - 2pm. Dinner: Tues - Sun from 6pm.

Owners Brendan & Jennis Field.

Put on your finest frocks and suits to enjoy an afternoon indulging in gourmet Asian fusion cuisine, fashion and racing. Your ticket includes one free beer, wine or champagne on arrival, an indulgent canapé luncheon, with proceeds going to the Great Lakes Education Fund Scholarship Programme. Tickets include a fashion parade plus prizes and sweepstakes. The luncheon kicks off at 11:30am for a 12pm start, Tuesday November 3rd. Call 6554 8767 to book! Don’t miss happy hour 4 - 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, with $4 Monkey Magic schooners, $4 wines and $8 cocktails. Live music Friday nights from 5:30pm.

Chefs Trent Tesoriero and Brian Rout

spice

Shop 3 to Shop 4, Reef Apartments, Wharf St Forster. Access via Memorial Drive. 6554 8767 Open Tuesday - Sunday, 11:30am ‘til late.

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focusinterview.

T R E N T T E S OR I E RO & B R I A N ROU T

Kingfisher CafÉ Welcome to the new Kingfisher Café. New owners Caroline and David invite you to experience all that is on offer both via menu and atmosphere. Embrace the smell of slow cooked beef brisket, beef ribs and chicken whilst you sit on our deck surrounded by trees and native birds. Sip on a glass of local wine or craft beer or

OFFERING FLAVOURS FROM ALL DIFFFERNT PARTS OF ASIA, SPICE MONKEY PROVIDES A FEAST FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Set back from the bustle of the shops and Boomerang Drive, the newly renovated and

i Brian. You are the head of course! But along with that, the crispy duck chef at the new restaurant in wonton stack is delicious and the Hotate Yaki Forster, Spice Monkey. Tell us are pretty unbeatable! The Japanese lunch and a bit about yourself and how dinner box are always super popular. you first started out in the hospitality What do you think makes Spice Monkey industry? stand out from other restaurants in the I am in my very early 50s - a Scorpio all the area? way - who grew up in Manly, but fell in love Spice Monkey is unique. It’s something that with the Mid North Coast. I moved to the area has never seen before, and Hokkaido, Japan in 1985 when I it works - people are loving decided I wanted to learn to that we offer Japanese, but be an Australian Japanese the fact that we offer all chef. I spent 15 years different flavours from It’s quite a large training and perfecting restaurant many different parts quiet the art of Japanese and can offer a of Asia means that cuisine before moving intimate dining EVERYONE can enjoy o, or back to Australia. experience to tw ning the menu. Oh, and di n Spice Monkey has get together fu the extensive range ” ! been open for a for twenty of Asian beers and couple of months now. cocktail list keep the For those who haven’t customers happy too! been and experienced Is there something for all what the restaurant offers, members of the family on the can you tell us what Spice menu? Monkey is all about? From the kids to grandma, we have Spice Monkey has the “WOW” factor, mouth watering dishes for everyone! without the clutter of some restaurants. It’s Do you cater for functions and work quite a large restaurant and can offer a quiet parties? intimate dining experience, or get together We certainly do! We offer a range of fun dining for twenty! We have beautiful banquet menus ranging in price to cater views, attentive staff, great food and a large for work dos, birthdays, or just large family bar with all kinds of tasty beverages, including get togethers! We also have an extensive traditional sake and Japanese whiskies. We cocktail menu for stand up functions such as take pride in what we do. engagement parties and weddings too! What would be your favourite item on the Thanks Brian. menu, and what is the most popular? 6652 9870. What do you think! The Monkey Magic Beer,

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even a boutique coffee.

managed Kingfisher Café is an oasis in a casual bush setting. Our modern Australian menu with a twist reflects travel experiences, nostalgia, favourite dishes and utilises our American grill to produce unique and fun dishes that represent value for money. A sense of fun is reflected in the décor of the restaurant, with colourful chairs and recycled timber table tops. We look forward to welcoming locals and holiday makers alike to The Kingfisher Café.

focuseditorial.

Club forster Entertainment OCTOBER THIRSTY MERC - Sunday 11th October, 8pm. It’s been 12 years since Thirsty Merc burst onto the Australian music landscape delivering a swag of classic, radio staples like 20 Good Reasons, Someday Someday, Mousetrap Heart and In The Summertime along the way.

Abstract Entertainment presents this unforgettable tribute to the biggest names in Country Music this century. Phillip Bauer as Johnny Cash has been recreating the sound and the look since 1985. This, with Phillip’s uncanny natural resemblance and his stage presence leaves his audiences spellbound, as he recreates the era of Jackson, Folsom Prison Blues and all the songs that made Johnny Cash the King of Country Music. Marion Deaton as the outlaw Willie Nelson is the world’s leading Willie tribute artist and as well as working with the Kings of Country, he also does his own show extensively in the United States. Marty Edward as Kenny Rogers is no stranger to Australian audiences, having toured in Australia twice before to enthusiastic audiences. Marty has the looks, sound and charisma that is Kenny, and he is endorsed by the man himself. Three great performers on stage together combined with their own band make The Kings of Country a must see show.

gabrieldarzi

Founder/Executive Chef of The Sicilian

regional Coffee Culture

opened my business, The Sicilian, in Taree regional areas has truly evolved. More city-dwellabout two years ago. Since then, a lot of ers visit regional areas and demand better blends, people appreciate what we’ve done in a better roasts and better coffee. I remember a few small regional town. We overcapitalised years ago you didn’t have much choice when goFast forward to 2015 and Thirsty Merc are still the budget and we set the bar to how a ing out to have a great coffee with your friends. excited to be making music, but all things must coffee shop should be. I get a lot of appreciation But now, you see a bunch of funky cafés opening change and after selling over 200,000 records from locals and tourists about the “WOW” factor, up all over Taree, Forster and in small towns like with Warner Music, this time around the band considering how much we’ve spent in a regional Wingham. Many great cafés exist in Taree and are tackling the recording and release of their area. They say if we took this business anywhere Forster which serve superb coffee, but one in fourth studio album, and first new material in else, we’d do well. I was sitting at the front of my particular which ticks all my critic-boxes from five years, independently, and very differently. shop having a coffee with a nice Amanti-blend knowledge about coffees, how to serve them, Ahead of the first single from the album, The espresso produced from a La Marzocco machine. blends and aromas and selling them is Tropical Good Life, Thirsty Merc have announced a new A well-known lady in Taree told me that 20 years Coffee. national tour which takes in all mainland states ago she opened a coffee shop here, but it didn’t I’ve eaten there with my friends and family. and territories. work out. She admired what we’ve created in a Their food is great! Their coffee is amazing! The The Kings of Country - Sunday 18th October, small regional town like Taree. good thing is, you can buy the coffee beans you 8pm. The Kings of Country, direct from the Sometimes in life, you don’t do drink. The owners, Christine and Clay, work exUSA and after sell out shows in North America, things for money. Don’t get me tremely hard to keep their reputation high. wrong - money is necessary Fifteen years of long, hard work to be to live. We don’t do this on top of your game is no easy task. for a charity organisaYou will have many stressful days I was born to tion, since we have and nights and give up much do this and overheads, bills, staff of your social life to make your , tly Visit www.abstractentertainment.net for more or purchase to purchase tickets. VisitVisit www.abstractentertainment.net www.abstractentertainment.net for for more more info info orinfo to orpurchase to tickets. tickets. most importan and food costs, tax and customers happy. As a restau. is th I love to do the list goes on and rateur, I take my hat off to the in is y lit Hospita on. But besides all of hard-working family and staff ” d. oo our bl that, I was born to do at Tropical Coffee. Remember, a this and most importantly, coffee machine is integral to the I love to do this. Hospitality is end result, but the operator of these in our blood. mystical machines must possess a very From Espresso to Affogato, many specific kind of instinct to present you with people are addicted to coffee. One story your magical liquid. Tropical use local ingredients, claims that a goat-herder discovered local producers and even fresh herbs from the coffee after his goats became overly excited from garden. They employ locals, and I am a huge beeating it, whilst another says the ancestors of liever of supporting local. As a professional chef, I today’s Oromo people were the ones to cultivate love anything simple and original. its energetic powers. Whatever its history, we There might sometimes be health or preference should be grateful for this glorious black, bean matters that might have someone order skim, magic. I can proudly say that we Italians have soy or half strength. But for God’s sake, please taught the world how to produce, consume and do not order an eighth-strength, skim, soy, decaf, enjoy coffee. It’s “blended” into our culture. The Capa-Latte Ristretto with cinnamon on the side coffee culture has been adopted by people and just because your friend ordered it. We sometimes cities in such ways that we even call our breaks, receive some bizarre orders such as a Cappuccino, “Coffee-breaks”. As a chef, I use coffee for my half-strength, with some extra water both in and marinade, desserts and even food. One of the on the side. If you prefer this, so be it. Who are most popular desserts in the world is the Italian we to judge? But just think about all the different Tiramisu. We also have the Affogato Del Corso. beans in the world - the vast range of blends Let me explain: 30 ml fresh Amanti-espresso and exotic aromas. There’s a standard coffee for coffee. 30 ml Frangelico Hazelnut liqueur. One everyone; you just have to discover it. generous helping of Vanilla Gelato topped with I highly recommend that next time you visit a Salvadori biscotti on top, so you can scoop up your local coffee shop, try this: Hazelnut Latte all that goodness in the end. And of course, the with an Almond Biscotti, no sugar. I guarantee infamous Espresso Martini. you’ll love it … Let’s talk about the coffee culture in regional Garbriel Darzi, Executive Chef areas. In the last ten years, the coffee culture in The Sicilian Restaurant.

DIRECT FROM THE USA AND AFTER SELL-OUT SHOWS DIRECT DIRECT FROM FROM THE THE USA USA AND AND AFTER AFTER SELL-OUT SELL-OUT SHOWS SHOWS INNORTH NORTH AMERICA, ABSTRACT ENTERTAINMENT IN IN NORTH AMERICA, AMERICA, ABSTRACT ABSTRACT ENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS THIS UNFORGETTABLE TRIBUTE TOTHE THE PRESENTS PRESENTS THIS THIS UNFORGETTABLE UNFORGETTABLE TRIBUTE TRIBUTE TOTO THE BIGGEST NAMES INCOUNTRY COUNTRY MUSIC THIS CENTURY! BIGGEST BIGGEST NAMES NAMES IN IN COUNTRY MUSIC MUSIC THIS THIS CENTURY! CENTURY!

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MUSIC ART FOOD WINE MUSIC MUSIC ART ART FOOD FOOD WINE WINE S a t u r d a y 31 s t O c t SSaat ut ur dr daay y31 31s st tOOcct t

John Wright Park John Wright Wright Park Park Tuncurry John Tuncurry Tuncurry

11am - 6.00pm 11am - 6.00pm - 6.00pm Gates open11am 10.30am Gates Gates open open 10.30am 10.30am 7 hrs of live music, art displays, 7fine hrs 7 hrs ofof live live music, music, artart displays, displays, food, wine fine fine food, food, wine wine & kids entertainment. & &kids kids entertainment. entertainment. Entry $10 kids under 16 free Entry Entry $10 $10 kids kids under under 1616 free free

Plus... Friday 30th Oct Moonlight Movie Plus... Plus...Friday Friday30th 30th Oct OctMoonlight MoonlightMovie Movie A night for all the family to enjoy.

Bring a chair... enjoy dinner A night A night for all for the alland the family family to enjoy. to enjoy. a glass of wine from one of Bring Bring a chair... a chair... enjoy enjoy dinner dinner andand Free local shuttle bus our gourmet a glass astalls. glass of wine of wine from from oneone of of all day ourour gourmet gourmet stalls. stalls.

Free Free local local shuttle shuttle busbus Saturday - see all day all day website Saturday Saturday - see - see Gates 6pm Movie approx 7.45pm website website kids entertainment till movie starts. Gates Gates 6pm 6pm Movie Movie approx approx 7.45pm 7.45pm G

Entry $5 kids under 16 free. till movie kidskids entertainment entertainment till movie starts. starts. Photo by East Coast Photography Entry Entry $5 kids $5 kids under under 16 free. 16 free.

Photo Photo by East by Coast East Coast Photography Photography

vents are fully licensed. Under 18's allowed only under direct supervision of parents. No BYO or pets. Both Both events events areare fully fully licensed. licensed. Under Under 18's18's allowed allowed only only under under direct direct supervision supervision of parents. of parents. No No BYO BYO or pets. or pets.

more info visit: ForFor more more infoinfo visit: visit: esidefestival.com.au www.lakesidefestival.com.au us www.lakesidefestival.com.au at Facebook Evermore Retirement Living ~ Manning Great Lakes Focus ~ Sails Apartments ~ East Coast Photography ~ Club Forster Find Find us us at Facebook at Facebook focus. 28Forster Evermore Evermore Retirement Retirement Living Living ~ Manning ~ Manning Great Great Lakes Lakes Focus Focus ~ Sails ~ Sails Apartments Apartments ~ East ~ Coast East Coast Photography Photography ~ Club ~ Club Forster manning-great lakes

focusinterview.

ROY ROSE

SINCE HE WAS JUST A YOUNG CHAP, ROY ROSE KNEW MUSIC WAS GOING TO BE A PART OF HIS LIFE, SPENDING HIS EARLIER YEARS PLAYING IN CONCERT BANDS AND TOURING UP AND DOWN THE COAST.

for nearly ten years. I was moving in a different direction in life and felt like music had already played her part, until a good friend persuaded me to do a show. I picked up a guitar, and what came out was completely different to what I’d done before. It was Folk and Blues driven, and I was now flying solo. In terms of writing, where do you Folk inspired songs. draw your inspiration from? Roy uses variations of acoustic I listen to a ton of music and guitars, slide, stomp box and harI picked up draw topics and stories from life monica; his music will have you a guitar, and itself. I’m always playing and moving your body and wanting came out was t ha w experimenting with sounds at more … re nt completely diffe home. Some writing sessions Take us back to the moment to what I’d done can be quite relentless, driving in your early life, when you lk before . It was Fo , en me and all those around first discovered music as a and Blues driv g in fly w me crazy. Other times, a song passion ... and I was no will be done and dusted in an I’ve always had music around solo.” hour or two. I think staying open me. My grandfather was a drumto different ideas and genres is key; mer, my great grandmother was a however, I have a soft side for old school pianist and Dad was an avid Blues fan, Delta Blues and Appalachian style music. so I guess it's in the blood. When I was seven, It’s so raw and honest, and it can be haunting my grandparents gave me a saxophone, and from and quirky at the same time. Muddy Waters, Robert there I got a taste for performance and sound. Johnson and Son House are on high rotation at home As a young musician, did you do a lot of travelright now. It's the type of music that has survived fads ling around for gigs? Playing in bands? What’s and phases, and it will always have an audience. your story? Many will recognise you from playing around I started off playing woodwind for the school the place. You’ve also been on the bill for some orchestra and shortly after joined the local marching great festivals, and this year you’ve nailed a set band. I was only seven or eight years old, playing at both Lakeside Festival and Akoostik - you must shows from Sydney to Brisbane. Halfway through high be stoked? school, I began gigging with bands up and down the I love the festival vibe and mixing it up with other coast, and finally I made the move to Melbourne. artists on the bill. It's always a cool thing to be invited You’ve had a big break in between; how has your to these types of events. music progressed from then until now? As these festivals are within the same region and I came home from MeIbourne and gave it all away e then made the move to Melbourne, where he played for a few more years before putting the brakes on. Ten years on he’s back touring, playing local and festival gigs with his dirty Blues and

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only a couple of weeks apart, there are a lot of keen festival goers who are likely to attend both. How will you mix up your sets to keep them fresh? I tend to play a set by ear, so no two are identical. You only have a short set at a festival, so I like to go out there with energy and sweat it out for 45 minutes. Who are you looking forward to seeing and listening to at these festivals? Wingham Akoostik Festival has a fantastic line up. I’ll be keen to watch Ed Kuepper (from the Saints). Also Joe Camilleri, Black Sorrows and the Backsliders will be great. Caravãna Sun will be at Lakeside, letting the punters show off their dance moves. Tell us a bit about the EP you’re set to release this year? I’m aiming for a hard copy release before the end of the year - five tracks of original Blues and Folk driven songs. It's been a (slow) work in progress, but I’m getting there! If I didn’t procrastinate so much, it would’ve been done already. And lastly, where can our readers follow your journey and listen to your music? Catch a show or check out the website: www. royrose.net for songs and info. I also have a Facebook page: www.facebook.com/royrosemusic. Thanks Roy.

the plug! Don’t miss Roy Rose at Lakeside and Wingham Akoostik Festivals. Check the websites for details: lakesidefestival.com.au and www.akoostik.com.au

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T H E

L A K E S I D E

F E S T I V A L

YEAR 3 SHOULD BE THE BEST EVENT YET FOR LAKESIDE FESTIVAL. ON SATURDAY 31ST OCTOBER, AN EXPECTED 3,000 PEOPLE WILL LINE THE SHORES OF PICTURESQUE WALLIS LAKE AT JOHN WRIGHT PARK, TUNCURRY, TO ENJOY THE SPOILS OF THE DAY. A FEAST OF MUSIC, ARTS, FOOD AND WINE.

here’s a new addition on the eve of the Festival - Friday 30th, with the “Lakeside Moonlight Movie” making a weekend of the event. An outdoor big screen movie for all the family right by the lake. Gates open at 6pm, and there’s no need to cook ... Delicious gourmet food and wine will be on sale at our fabulous food stalls. Bring a chair or blanket and come put your feet up. Being a licensed event, under 18s must be in direct and constant supervision of parents. A jumping castle and clown van will keep the kids entertained ‘til the stars come out, and the movie begins at approximately 7:45pm. The whole family will love Paddington, a story of the journey of an optimistic and polite young bear from Peru who travels to London in search of a home and a family. When the Brown family invites him to stay with them, little do they realise

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how much comic mayhem one young bear will Lakeside Festival is a great opportunity to bring to their everyday family life. check them out. In support are one of New Admission for the Lakeside South Wales’ best-loved Gypsy Swing bands, Moonlight Movie is $5 per adult, Up In Annie’s Room. Taree locals with accompanied kids under Circus Mule are sure to get the 16 free. The Lakeside dancing started with well Festival committee are loved Aussie covers. The Jay Make it a date donating $1 from Davis Trio are planning to d with friends an every ticket sold deliver fresh and funky air family, bring a ch us to Breast Cancer family-friendly Rock with in or blanket and jo ory research - something a mix of popular covers e gl as we bask in th we’re really and original tunes. s, on of the Great Lake of passionate about. Roy Rose will bring an ores the stunning sh Saturday will include earthy feel to the day Wallis Lake .” seven hours of live with Rock, Soul and Indie music, with Caravãna vibes. Roy is just finalising Sun headlining the bill. the recording of his EP. And to Returning home from their start the day, there’s Sarah Morris, recent “Ashes” European tour and a singer songwriter from Port Macquarie with a new album set for release in early 2016, influenced by such as Angus and Julia Stone, Bob

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Marley and many more. Sarah has a voice that is just perfect in its raw and unadorned beauty. Performers’ CDs will be available for purchase, with an opportunity to meet the guys and get an autograph. The Lakeside Gallery will be brimming with local artworks, including works by Rex WinstonWalford, an Aboriginal artist who brings modern expression to an ancient custom. Rex has sold paintings around the globe to such famous people as Alice Cooper and The Eagles. The Lakeside Gallery is managed by the Great Lakes Art Society. Surrounding the gallery will be an array of display stalls featuring pet portraits, glass beading, scrapbooking, handmade wooden toys, cards, jewellery, fibre art, glass art and amazing cutlery sculptures. Of great interest to the fellas will be Forged and Fused, a display of blacksmith artistry by Doug Moseley, with an onsite forge where people can watch him at work.

T H E

F E S T I V A L

favourite topping. World ranking fresh oysters, how spoiled we are! You can also learn about our local oyster industry and see how oysters are grown. Wineries supporting the event include Old Inn Road Wine Bulahdelah, Faulls Ridge Wines Gloucester, Great Lakes Wines ke Fresh Wallis La Wootton, and Douglas be Oysters will at at bo Vale Historic Homestead e delivered off th d an y tt Je and Vineyard from Port de the Lakesi d an e or sh Macquarie. Also from Port on d shucke esh fr y bu to e Macquarie is Black Duck bl and macadamia la avai urite vo fa ur yo ith Brewery, bringing a range w nuts can be or topping. ” of locally brewed beers. The purchased to take Bellevue Hotel will be running home. Then head a full bar for those who prefer a for a freshly brewed meaner beverage. coffee, or it might be a Responsible service of alcohol rules good opportunity to relax with will apply, and under 18s must be in direct a glass of local wine. Everything fresh supervision of parents. Why not leave the car at and local, giving all who attend an indulgent home and catch our free shuttle bus servicing the feast for the taste buds. Forster-Tuncurry area? The bus route is on the Fresh Wallis Lake Oysters will be delivered off website - www.lakesidefestival.com.au. the boat at the Lakeside Jetty and shucked on The younger among us will have a great day at shore and available to buy fresh or with your

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Local restaurants have recognised the value in the event and will have their signature dishes available for purchase. Local food producers’ culinary delights will naturally include fresh local seafood. Come with an appetite; you won’t be able to resist the temptations on offer. Indulge in everything from oysters to pizza, noodle boxes, Mexican, Kransky’s chicken satay, curry puffs, prawn rolls, pulled pork rolls, locally produced gourmet cheese platters and gozlemes. A sweet tooth will be catered for, with frozen pure fruit whips, sno cones, homemade muffins and gluten and dairy free cakes. Delicious preserves, sauces

L A K E S I D E

the “Look at me Photo Booth”, hanging out on the jumping castle and giant slide or getting their face painted at Lakeside Kids Spot. Fairy floss, popcorn, milkshakes and mini melts will delight the children. Other attractions include fishing, boating and marine information about our gorgeous waterways and exhibits by sponsors. Great Lakes Council’s 3D model of the lake catchment will fascinate young and old alike. An event not to be missed, supporting local industry, showcasing local talent, building the region’s economy while providing a wonderful, memorable experience for the community and for visitors from out of town. A great day planned for all. Admission on Saturday is $10 per adult, with accompanied kids under 16 free. Make it a date with friends and family, bring a chair or blanket and join us as we bask in the glory of the Great Lakes, on the stunning shores of Wallis Lake. Want to find out more information or to get involved in 2016? Visit www.lakesidefestival.com. au or call Katerina on 0409 320 620. Like and get event updates at www.facebook. com/lakesideforstertuncurry

Looking to start your dream career? North Coast TAFE has hundreds of courses and qualifications on offer at Taree and Great Lakes Campuses. Do something today that your future self will thank you for. Visit northcoasttafe.edu.au or call us on 1300 628 233 to start your journey today!

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ALPINE focusinterview.

OFF THE BACK OF THEIR TOUR OF THE STATES, ALPINE WILL BE HITTING OUR SUNNY SHORES FOR FESTIVAL OF THE SUN, BRINGING WITH THEM THEIR ECLECTIC POP MUSIC AND STORY BOOK ADVENTURE ON-STAGE VIBE ….

ou guys are on the bill for “FOTSUN” this year. What are you looking forward to the most? Coming from Melbourne, at the moment it’s freezing and grey and a bit sad, so we are looking forward to having the sunshine and the warmth - something we’re not used to in Melbourne. And I think just being in a festival environment always has a real sense of escapism - being in an outside performance space, you can really see the people in the crowd, so you get to share the experience with everyone, and that’s something that we love. If the crowd’s having a good time, we vibe off the crowd. What experience can we expect from your show on the stage, and what sort of vibe will you be pumping out? It’s a very energetic live show. In our band there are six members, and it’s very much like an adventure story book watching an Alpine show. Everyone has got their own thing happening, and it can look quite chaotic - I think that’s what makes it quite special. Phoebe and I are the two female lead co-vocalists and performers; we’re bringing that girl power back. I think we perform in a way that’s quite raw; we don’t try to perform like we’re really good dancers, we know that we’re not, we just wanna move to the music and just have that sense of freedom that comes with however you want to express yourself. We definitely want to get people to kind of feel like they’re involved with it as well … It’s been three years since you released your debut album, A is for Alpine. How

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There are moments pass where I can just over e on ph the micro d an d ow cr to the ing the fans are sing st ju ’s at along, and th ” amazing.

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has your sound progressed, and how has that been reflected on your new album, Yuck? When we did A is for Alpine, we had just sorta emerged as a band, and we were still trying to formulate what our sound was. A lot of people compared us to Phoenix and Lykke Li ... There was definitely, I guess, a sense of innocence to the music, and then three years later I think we’ve really as a band understood what our influences are. We’ve become a lot more confident; there’s definitely a lot more sass and elements of ‘90s R&B mixed in with a little bit of Hip Hop. There’s a assertiveness in the way Phoebe and I have explored new territories. A is for Alpine was about trying to understand the world around us and understand ourselves individually, and I think when we came to writing Yuck, those three years were a long time. I think Pheebs and I had grown up a little bit more and realised more things and also realised that life still does stay difficult and great and exciting ... And I guess commenting on that and realisations and the realities of things when you come into your own bit more, you’re kind of owning it and not being afraid of it. Speaking of your new album, the title, Yuck - what is this in reference to? So, the title came from the first song we started writing, Foolish; it’s a lyric in that song. It’s a reaction to a relationship that ended -

you know you kind of relapse sometimes and it’s hard to completely walk away from a good thing, even though you know it’s past its used by date. So the word “Yuck”, just really ended up summing up the album. It’s kind of playful as well; I think yuck is quite a funny word. When you say “yuck”, you know you’ve had a really raw reaction to something, and you don’t ever want it to happen again, whether it’s like a smell or an experience, or something that you’ve seen. So it just seemed to be this word that really kind of summed up the attitude of the album, and it still brought it back to our genre of Pop Music. The last few years touring must’ve brought along some memorable experiences. What has been the highlight? We got to headline Metro in the Forum for the Sydney and Melbourne theatre shows, which has always been a dream of ours. It’s so amazing to think where we started, to this recent tour and the huge turnout that we had, and people were singing along to the songs. There are moments where I can just pass the microphone over to the crowd and the fans are singing along, and that’s just amazing. You really start to recognise longevity and fans and supporters of our music … And then in terms of shows that we’ve done, touring with Empire of the Sun across America was incredible. We got to perform on Jimmy Kimmel, which was again amazing - I felt like it was over in two seconds, because I was just so high on adren-

aline. The fact that we get to tour anyway is incredible; a lot of bands don’t even get to the stage that we’ve got to, so every time we get to go anywhere or go to an airport to play a show is pretty much a highlight. The future for Alpine is looking bright. What’s on the horizon? We are about to head off to the States again, and we’re doing a really big tour with a band called Joywave. We have festivals like Falls Festival coming up as well, and we want to get straight back into the studio as soon as we come back; we are really keen to get our third album in the works. I think it’s just as many shows as we can get thrown at us; we are ready to do that and keep creating and writing. You never know what’s around the corner - we are just stoked to be able to do it. Lastly, where can our readers follow your journey and purchase your music? We are across pretty much most of the Social Media platforms, and it’s @alpineband so, instagram, twitter, and Facebook. The music you can get on iTunes or you can purchase at JB Hi-Fi. You can watch our music videos on YouTube. Interview with Lou James.

the plug! Catch ALPINE at FOTSUN. 11th - 12th December. For full lineup and tickets, head to www.fotsun.com For enquiries email info@fotsun.com

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focusinterview.

AFTERNOON

INTERVIEW WITH WORLD RENOWNED AUSTRALIAN VIOLINIST, IAN COOPER.

i Ian. I spoke to you over a year ago, when you visited both the Glasshouse and the Manning Entertainment Centre. What’s been keeping you

busy since then? I’ve just been on tour with the guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, where I joined him on stage at the Sydney Opera House, Melbourne and Brisbane Concert Halls. We have just released an album together called Just Passing Through, available in the iTunes store. I’m very excited about it, and it’s some of my best violin playing! Prior to that in July I gave 12 concerts in remote towns for the Queensland Music Festival with the brilliant pianist Ambre Hammond. We flew to each town in a light plane, and our selections ranged from Classical, Gypsy and Irish music. You’re visiting us again in October, presenting An Afternoon at the Proms - A Musical Spectacular! Introduce us to your fellow performers; who’ll be lighting up the stage with you on this visit? I’m so excited to be sharing the stage with 40 performers: three magnificent sopranos; a Principal Tenor from Opera Australia; the amazing Hawkesbury Nepean Valley Pipe Band, who are the current Australian Pipe Band champions; the Performance Arts Western Sydney Dancers, who will dance Classical Ballet to Ravel’s Bolero and

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Strauss’s Blue Danube Waltz - all accompanied by the Blue Danube Orchestra. Fill us in on the repertoire for the show. How varied are the pieces of music that will be presented? The show will take us on a musical I love it when the pipers and journey all across ch in Europe - music from drummers mar the of ck ba e from th Italy, France, Spain, no e auditorium . I’v popular Arias, music in from the back of ce their need to announ from the famous ete pl m the auditorium. I’ve co a s it’ d arrival , an Hungarian Gypsy !” rn tu s no need to announce ad he se surpri orchestras and The their arrival, and it’s a Waltz King - Johann complete surprise - heads Strauss. We will include turn! It’s a little piece of musical theatre: I Dreamed the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. a Dream from the worldwide I’ll be playing some numbers on smash hit Les Misérables; Amigos violin with the pipers, which introduces a Para Siempre (Friends for Life) from the Scottish flavour to the show, and when the Barcelona Olympics; Time to Say Goodbye pipers and orchestra combine and all play (Con te Partirò) made famous by Andrea Bocelli together, that’s such a magnificent sound. and Sarah Brightman; Scotland the Brave and This show has won the ACE (Australian Club Amazing Grace with the pipers; perhaps a little Entertainment) Award for “Best Production something from Fiddler on the Roof; Strauss’ Show” in Australia. Why do you think this famous Radetzky March and of course, we invite production has been so successful, and why the audience to sing along to an absolute Proms would you encourage audiences to come favourite - Land of Hope And Glory. and see it in person? What’s your favourite part of the The music and songs we’ll be presenting have programme? really stood the test of time, and much of it has I love it when the pipers and drummers march been popular for centuries. I feel very privileged

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not only to be able to bring music like this to Port Macquarie and Taree, but being able to do it with some of the best talent Australia has to offer makes it extra special for me. The whole cast and I look forward to coming to The Glasshouse on Saturday afternoon 10th October, and Manning Entertainment Centre on Sunday 11th October. Thanks Ian.

the plug! See An Afternoon at the Proms - A Musical Spectacular at the Manning Entertainment Centre on 11th October at 2pm. Tickets: $65 adult; $60 concession; $55 group 10+/child under 18 Visit www.themec.com.au or buy tickets from Movies, Games and More.

socialscene

Dave Carrier’s Birthday

Graceand Jai

Julian’s Party

Kellee and Russell’s Wedding

Lauren and Craig’s Wedding

Joyce Witchard, Shirley Smith & friends

Lauren and Craig’s Wedding

Nicole and Steve’s anniversary

Mum’s Birthday

Social/scene.

May seems to be a popular month for weddings; we did two, and there Forster Runningwere Festival Forster Running Festival many visitors in town for other weddings held in the region.

erhaps it is that last little ray of sunshine that warms us before the winter sets in that makes it perfect for a country wedding. May is also a special month, as it is time to celebrate important roblem is,that I amvery back on the floor woman in ouroflife, our mum. Mother’s the café almost full-time,Day andisI pretty much fllove at out for restaurants all over the extra time with customers, the region, asbut families spend together to it means I amtime hopelessly behind celebrate mum. We were fortunate to have with everything else. Planning is not the Jaiitfrom Sweet mylovely strongGrace pointand when comes to myNothin own life; give me an event any time, but ask playing a few tunestoinorganise the backyard, with me to get the dogs to the vet, or fabulous weather contributing to schedule a great a trip to the and turned I will always struggle. day. My naturopath, own mum also 70 on 14th that amany people small May,I think so it was special timeinfor ourbusiness family. put themselves last, which is a shame, ascafé timeon canWe celebrated with breakfast at the notbirthday, be retrieved is important not to at miss her and and the it family got together out onHotel time for withnights lovedlater. ones.We NoNabiac for yourself a meal aorfew body would ever say they should have worked have connections to the hotel, as we all grew but I often wonder healthy work/ upmore, in Nabiac and spent thewhat odd anight there life balance is. I think it is important that you in our youth. My nephew, Schafer, shared enjoy your work, so it doesn’t feel like work. his 10th birthday with Mother’s Day, and I I took some time out to spend with my dad conducted a private cookingth class for Julianth and the family for Dad’s 79 birthday on 17 Fitzgerald and nine of his friends on 23rd September. We enjoyed a casual rainy night May. They all had a fabulous time making with Charcoal Chicken and chocolate cake, pizza dough and picking out their favourite no stress and lots of joy. Happy birthday to my toppings; the group loved making lemonade fabulous dad! fromWe home lemons, and with they our enjoyed havegrown become really busy catera ing, healthy icecream made from yogurt, and we love being part of people’shoney special and fruit. Julian gave me a beautiful card and th memories. On 29 August we were privileged a to lovely gift to thank me for conducting his cater for the wedding of Kellee Silva and party. It is these special gestures that make my Russell Coe at their property in Tinonee. Around job soguests special. 100 attended, with many travelling Another was the 75th all the wayauspicious from New occasion Zealand to help this birthday of the Martin Bridge. More than

Neil Johnson’s 90th

Wingham Wellbeing

Forster Running Festival

P P

with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.

manning-great lakes focus.

Quigley back in 2010, and it was at this a few days she is off to America to work as 4,000 people walked the bridge to celebrate already?We That meanswedding it's timethat forthis me to sort anreally au pairOctober in Denver, Colorado. enjoyed its birthday on Sunday 17th May. Down on Is it couple metout and later fell in staff farewell for Tori at the Reeffor Barthe andhomewares the riverbank, more celebrations were held, mya hamper brochures, buy store, and get ready love. Five years later, it was their turn to make in Forste, where we were wellstart looked with markets and entertainment keeping forGrill Christmas parties, which in November. their lifetime commitment, with Jason and after by friendly staff and enjoyed a beautiful everyone occupied. When I think of the Lauren as guests. The Wherrol Flat Hall was meal as we wished Tori well. Her family bridge, I feel many connections (excuse the lovely couple celebrate their special day. Sandra deserved. It was because of Manuel that I went a lovely Macquarie a few ago. Joyce had lived venue for ayears wedding, although we in also held pun). I think floodsjob in as the ‘70s, when Osborne didofa the fabulous their celebrant, intoand thefriends wine industry, as ahesurprise taught farewell me about Wingham for her entire life, and Shirley could have done with a larger oven. Theowned space for Every her on 16th at her home. usand Nabiac couldn’t go to school as Carl kids Muxlow photographed the occasion. wine. night weMay would try afamily new wine and looked a popular bed and breakfast years. It beautiful all lit up and for hasmany perfect Around people to saytobye the bridge was under; I think Our friends Helen Knight andof Hugh Cowley discuss its origins.40I loved hiscame dedication local was fabulous to see them both looking well. beams for hanging vintage lights. Our dessert bye for now to Tori, andmeet she the the beautiful sunrises over the set the mood with some beautiful sounds. produce, how he would go down and Seventy friends and family gathered at table went off a treat, and everyone enjoyed had no idea that everyone river I amwas sweating Thewhen marquee beautifully dressed for the trawlers every morning. I know he would be Killabakh Hall on Sunday 13th September to cellocal beef, local pork belly and entrees of conspiring behind it occasion, out at training; as was the Kellee, who wore a stunning proud of what I have was become. Many years after ebrate the 90th birthday of “Nell” Johnson (nee fresh prawns or vegetable and goats cheese b him, I would Jacofor Victorianto style a e tale ntIed worked him. hervisit back to He getwould the backdrop thedress. pool The guests enjoyedTh Otton). It was a wonderful occasion, with Bent rysthe bookings diary The wedding celebrant was Julie Blanch Harout buffetfor of Scotch Fillet in red wineCo jus,ok frombring show meWe how tarts. partyand organised. asstylish we waited on Food proudly catering for the event. Nell was fé ca e th at ed from Wingham and photos were by Matt Van ay macadamia crusted with many covers we used to handle. Heyou, keptTori! evt pl oulemon will miss the starting gun at salmon, chicken Look born at Gloucester on 10th September 1925, cob Ja . ay M nd 22 erything and loved to reminisce me.and Later Dyke from Iron and Clay photography in Port myrtle dressing and tasty roast vegetables. It on Friday Jen with Draper the school aquatic then moved with the family to Killabakh, where al song s many origininSydney, aysfriendly I sold him wine.her I loved our chats. I was a lovely with lots of plvery Macquarie. The speeches wereuntil a highlight, team held a carnival manywedding, years ic she went to Killabakh school 6th class, st ou ac smooth haven’t seen him for a very long time, but I still with people. We wish Kellee and Russell andafamily 6th birthday party ago. as they were spoken with love and lots of ating then on to Wingham Rural School to complete sound, incorpor talked about his famous stuffed snapper and his all the very best for their future together. ng lli for Wingham Not everyone humour. toryte her education. Nell still resides in Moon Street, me countrysParis Breast andon thank you isn’tbridge, often that I write about asoperson’s lk dessert. RIP Manuel, fo of e Wellbeing 15th lovesIt this nc se The talented Jacob fromfor Harrys es Wingham, where sheCook has lived the past 70 an d for your lessons. passing, but I feel the need to payan tribute to ns . ” io May at Bent on Food. but I suspect they just at rv se years. Nell has five daughters, 13 grandchildren Lookout played at the café on Friday 22nd ob Nicola and Steve Morton celebrated their 25th a man who was at the centre of many social The girls enjoyed a see rusty old metal and and 20 great grandchildren. Nell was suitably wedding anniversary in our backyard with can- May. Jacob plays many original songs with a occasions through his award winning Forster great meal and celebrated a lot of rattles, where the chuffedacoustic with thesound, event, incorporating and it was obvious smooth somethat apés, including local oysters, accompanied by a based restaurant, The Little Snail. I attended his with their own raspberry paleo community sees a beautiful there was a lot of love in that room. Nell and th country storytelling and an essence of folk few glasses of bubbly on 13 September with funeral in Cessnock a few weeks ago. I worked cake. Fortunately, they shared it with structure that connects us all in some her extended family have been visiting us for around 50 friends and family. Guests travelled observations. We all enjoyed his great voice for Manuel Damian when I was 21 years old, me, and I was pretty impressed with their special way. Thanks to the organisers of the many years; a few years back we catered for her from far and wide to help this lovely couple 30 years ago. As a boss he scared me, and and friendly disposition. We look forward to bridge celebrations for all their hard work and skills. granddaughter, Lauren’s, wedding, so we felt enjoy their evening. Their daughter, Toria, was at the same inspired me. He taught me silver having him back to play again soon, or you 9thapprentice May was abefore beautiful crisptoday for appreciation wonderful icon. like part of the family and thoroughly enjoyed our moving Newcastle. service, howoftothis carry four plates and which may catch him at Flow in Old Bar along with Lauren Wilson and Craig Greenaway to It is always diffi cult to lose an employee being a part of the day. We wish Nell a very She is an awesome baker; she had to work, so garnish to use; he taught me how to be a good other venues, either with the band or solo. exchange vows on the creek behind Craig’s who has been with you for a long time. Tori happy 90th birthday. she sent macarons to accompany our yummy waitperson. We served Margaret Fulton and I would love to hear from you if you have parents’ Stinson started with Manuel’s me 6 years ago, I would love to hear from you if you have any dessert home table. at Wherrol Flat. 106 people Len Evans; we working worked hard. dedicaany social events, weddings, parties anything! travelled from all over the place to help this where she would do some dishes, make the social events, weddings, parties anything! Send tion to his craft made The Little Snail in Forster Joyce Witchard and Shirley Smith visited their Send pics and info to donna.carrier@ coupleof celebrate their day. It odd milkshake andrestaurant help withthat thethe cleaning. pics and info to donna.carrier@bigpond.com possibly the best region has lovely hometown Wingham for wedding coffee with some was a special for us too,ladies as we catered Before she left, she and was accolades just aboutwere running ever seen. Awards well of their closeday friends. Both moved to Port bigpond.com Cheers, Donna. for the wedding of Lauren Steele and Jason the place, as she knew exactly what to do. In Cheers, Donna.

Social/scene.

“

manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

Jon

english T R I L O G Y

O F

R O C K

It’s been three years since Jon and his band were last in the area. We catch up with him to find out what he has been doing and what this show is all about ...

elcome back It’s highlights from the three Rock to the area. Shows we’ve done - lots of classic How long rock hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. has it been Beatles, and Stones, and The Who - no between name bands like that. Plus, there’s some visits, and of my stuff in there too. I’d get shot if I what made you want to return to did a show and didn’t sing Six Ribbons. do another show? What do you think the Yes, it has been a few audience will love years between visits - three, in fact. We about this show? were last here I performed at There’s timeless the Sweden Rock in 2012 at the great music and MEC with Rock Festival in 2013 ch everyone will whi again last year, Revolution, and nd A . know, a young was a big honour en before that it was we’ ve be se ur enthusiastic and co of in 2010 I think the ‘Trilogy of g in do very multi-talented with The Rock

“

Rock’ show. ”

Show. The shows were hugely popular, everyone loved them, so we thought, “Why not do a ‘best of’?” What have you been up to since you were last here? I’d probably have to do some research and write a novel to answer that. But there are a couple of things that stand out in my memory - I did a season as “King Arthur” in SPAMALOT at QPAC in Brisbane, with Simon Gallaher, Julie Anthony, and Frank Woodley, which was great fun. I performed at the Sweden Rock Festival in 2013 and again last year, which was a big honour. And of course, we’ve been doing the Trilogy of Rock show. What is this show all about?

manning-great lakes focus.

band, and it’s funny as well. Oh, and me. What’s next on the cards for the group? That’s a badly kept secret. But it

MIGHT just be an Oz Rock Show. We’ll see what happens. While ever people keep wanting to come along and see the shows, I guess we’ll keep doing them. How can our readers purchase their tickets? I have no idea, never bought one. No, not really - they tell me you can buy them online ... www.themec.com.au It’s looking like another sell out, so we’re pretty happy about that. Thanks Jon.

focuseditorial.

Garden Day

naked nude

•AND•

• H A N N A M VA L E •

HANNAM VALE OPEN GARDEN DAY - SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER

pring is definitely in the air and as the weather warms up, Hannam Vale gardens are again in full bloom and will be a delight to visit on Sunday, October 18. The annual Open Garden Day this year will have eight beautiful country gardens open to the public.

Vale Recreation Reserve, where you can enjoy delicious treats and tasty barbecue lunches all in a relaxing atmosphere, so bring a picnic rug and enjoy the ambience. The Hannam Vale P&C will once again assist with the provision of a variety of delicious cakes and drinks.

The gardens, in the very scenic Hannam Vale valley, open for inspection at 10am and include creative and charming cottage gardens, tropical gardens, woodland gardens and vegetable gardens. Programmes, including a map, cost $8 per person, which entitles visitors entry to all the gardens, and will be available at the Reserve. The Reserve is located at 1155 Hannam Vale Road, on the left as you enter the Hannam Vale village.

At the Reserve there will be stalls with quality nursery plants and seedlings, preserves, jams and honey, jewellery and bric-a-brac. Landcare will cover topics such as weed identification, bush regeneration techniques and weed control methods.

Visitors making their way to Hannam Vale should exit the Highway at either Moorland or Johns River and follow the signs for approximately 11 kilometres. Refreshments will be available at the Hannam

SYDNEY MORNING HERALD ART CRITIC AND JUDGE OF THE 2015 MANNING ART PRIZE, JOHN MCDONALD, ANNOUNCED THE WINNERS AT THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED GALA OPENING OF THE MANNING ART PRIZE: NAKED & NUDE ON SATURDAY 12 SEPTEMBER AT THE MANNING REGIONAL ART GALLERY.

n what was certainly a tough decision, the winner of the major $10,000 Acquisitive Prize for most outstanding work in the exhibition was Robert Malherbe for his oil painting, Woman in a Black Coat. Robert is from the small town of Blackheath in the Blue Mountains and is an exciting artist who specialises in landscapes and nudes.

Over 400 visitors attend this event annually. The Open Garden Day is co-ordinated by the Hannam Vale Recreation Reserve Trust, and funds raised go towards the upkeep and development of this wonderful community asset.

As the Manning Art Prize is an acquisitive prize, the Friends of the Gallery will donate Robert’s winning painting to the Greater Taree City Art Collection, which is a magnificent addition to an increasingly broad collection.

For more information, contact Anne Campbell-Cross on 0414 989 776 or Melinda Dean on 0402 351 732

The talented artists who were pipped at the post for the major prize, but won other non-acquisitive awards include:

2D Awards For Excellence Nerissa Lea with the oil painting The After Brack After Boucher Nude; Nicolette Page with the Mixed Media Painting Emma with Florence Broadhurst Prints [pictured above]; and Nicole Kelly with the oil painting Self Portrait (Nue). 3D Awards For Excellence Michael Buzacott with Crowdy Head Belle; David Tucker with Standing Women. The 72 finalists and prize-winners will be on exhibition until 25 October during normal gallery hours, Wed to Sat, 10am to 4pm and Sun, 1pm to 4pm. Entry is $5 for adults and children are free. And while you’re there, don’t forget to vote for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced at the conclusion of the exhibition.

CAN

ASSIST M A N N I N G

V A L L E Y

Comedy Gala Can Assist Manning Valley is delighted and humbled by the success of their 2015 Comedy Gala held at Club Taree on Saturday 29th August 2015. The event raised $41,291 for local cancer patients and their

families through the generosity of those in attendance, corporate supporters and associated donations.

aking on a Comedy Carnival theme, guests were entertained from the moment

they arrived with thanks to The Gymaroos, and Andromeda Dance Fusion, with a mix of acrobatics, belly dancing, roving clowns and even a fortune teller.

Local comedian Andy Saunders acted as the ever engaging MC, and comedians Harley Breen and Katie Burch injected some much appreciated humour into the evening. The charity auction was ever popular, with some items fetching up to $2,000. Can Assist Manning Valley

The evening opened with stunning

would like to thank the wide range

performance from local artist Stacey

of local businesses and individuals

Lee, who showcased a medley of

who provided auction items, which

cabaret and musical theatre. Stacey

in turn provided an additional

was joined by The Gymaroos,

fundraising opportunity for the

showcasing the pure talent that is

evening. The night was rounded

available locally.

out with additional performances by

Stacey Lee, this time being joined on stage by fellow local, Jim Bird. Fundraising was kicked off by two exceptional donations by two ongoing supporters of Can Assist Manning Valley. The first from Club Taree, who presented a cheque for $11,039.55 on behalf of their board, management, staff and members. The second was from Mayo Private Hospital for $14,419.33. For further information on Can Assist and its available services, please contact: CanAssistManningValley @outlook.com

manning-great lakes focus.

and WELLBEING Sugar Free Protein Balls These sugar free protein balls are so easy to make. Make a batch for the week to keep you super satisfied when you need a quick energy boost - or have a sugar craving! Because they’re free from processed sugar, you won’t experience the same blood sugar roller coaster. Try whipping up a batch this weekend - you’ll be prepped with healthy snacks before the work week even starts. And get creative! You can try a variety of different nuts and mix-ins to make each bite uniquely delicious. Chocolate protein powder is great!

Ingredients (serves 10) 4 tbsp LSA or 4 tbsp chocolate protein powder

1 tbsp chia seeds/psyllium husk - for the fibre hit

2 tbsp mixed seeds (try pumpkin and sunflower seeds)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp cacao

¼- ½ cup warm filtered water - start small and add more as needed

2 heaped tbsp almond butter

•EARLY CHILDHOOD/BABY•

Health Clinics

EARLY CHILDHOOD HEALTH CLINICS AND BABY CLINICS ARE RUN BY A REGISTERED NURSE WHO SPECIALISES IN CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH.

2 tsp stevia powder/drops

Method 1. In a high-powered blender or food processor, add all the ingredients and blend until the mixture is smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too wet, add more LSA mix; if the mixture is too dry, add a splash of warm water. 2. Roll into balls of your desired size and refrigerate. 3. These can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to seven days.

hese trained health professionals discuss any concerns about their child with provide information and advice to the nurse, as well as any parenting issues. the parents/guardians At birth, a NSW Child Health Record on a range of Book (“Blue Book”) is issued. childhood areas, and Take this to all clinic and these clinics are medical checks to record available in some any assessment or The parents/ pharmacies. information. This is a guardians are s us Pharmacy Baby great way of keeping sc di to e m welco out ab ns Clinics are available track of your child’s er nc co y an the on a regular basis progress. their child w ith any or whenever For more nurse as well as .” parenting issues you wish, as no information, or for a appointment is free consultation with necessary. our baby nurse, come in A consultation can and see Christine at Saxbys help with breastfeeding, Pharmacy. She will be here on formula feeding, solids introduction, Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9:30 sleep and settling, child behaviour, and 2:30. immunisation and general care of For more information, call us on infants and toddlers. Your child’s health and (02) 6552 1662, or come in and see our development will be assessed and monitored friendly staff. (i.e. weight, height and head circumference). Your pharmacists The parents/guardians are welcome to Ian, Shari & Erinn.

“

38 manning-great lakes focus.

Hangover Juice THIS JUICE IS PERFECT TO GIVE YOU A KICKSTART THE MORNING AFTER A BIG NIGHT, OR IF YOU’RE JUST FEELING A LITTLE SLUGGISH, BLOATED OR TIRED; THE REFRESHING AND ENERGISING EFFECT OF THIS SUPER JUICE BLEND IS AMAZING. Freshly squeezed orange Juice Freshly squeezed pineapple juice Freshly squeezed lemon Small piece of ginger

Blend all together with crushed ice for a delicious, nutritious beverage. It can help settle stomach pains and discomfort and is nourishing to your digestive system. Also energises and refreshes.

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40 manning-great lakes focus.

focushealth

with Dr Linda Dade - Chiropractor

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING. What’s THE most important thing? What matters to you? Living a dynamic and fulfilling life at any age should matter to all of us. Taking charge and being proactive with your health is a huge step in the right direction!

pparently, men (past a certain age) want PERFORMANCE, EXHILERATION and CONTROL in life (particularly when they are buying a car!) On the other hand (or sex) women reframe PERFORMANCE as a meaningful experience, CONTROL comes from building a network of supportive relationships and approach their later years with ENTHUSIASM. Knowing the answer to what we want can be tough; however, most of us know what matters to us. Staying healthy matters to me. It means I can stay enthusiastic about life, doing what I choose, like • Picking up my grandchildren (when I get some)

Mahatma G

andhi

without back pain • Walking the Great Wall of China if I want, with strong knees • Trekking the Inca Trail to Macchu Pichu in Peru at 60 (I just did) • Enjoying my chosen sport - golf, tennis, body surfing, paddle boarding, yoga • Doing the Grey Nomad thing if I choose with energy and enthusiasm • Getting on the dance floor for a boogie and living to tell the tale Your list may be very different to mine. How you manage these things with exhilaration, control and enthusiasm is possible with GOOD HEALTH. A fully functioning nervous system enables you to lead a dynamic and fulfilling life ...

my family x

Pain 9 Neck Pain 9 Back ion 9 Nutrit ies 9 Allerg yalgia 9 Fibrom

54 The Lakes Way Forster NSW 2428

Enjoy life

P. 6557 6333

Live, Love, L

ife manning-great lakes focus.

OCTOBER 2015

with Terri with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

Walk well, WORK WELL! Walk Well, Work Well! October is Foot Health Month! Foot Health Month is hosted by the Australasian Podiatry Council, Australia’s peak body for podiatry, each October. Having been a dedicated podiatrist to the Manning Valley region for nine years, Mid Coast Podiatry is proud to be involved in this year’s campaign. It’s not uncommon to hear that we’ve become far too sedentary. Of course, not everyone falls into this category. Doctors and nurses, tradespeople, factory workers, hospitality and retail staff, sports and recreation employees, and farmers (just to name a few!) are on their feet all day, every day. They often experience pain and problems with their feet. Walk Well, Work Well is all about getting in touch with employees in occupations such as these. Podiatrists offer profession skills and treatment services to help prevent and manage foot health problems. Foot Health Month events are being held by podiatrists across the country throughout October. If you are having trouble with your feet or legs, please call us on 6551 4815 to see how we can help or check out our website: www.midcoastpodiatry.com.au for more information.

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You may have been feeling left out or abandoned lately. Don’t despair; you were just being given a perfect time out time, to regather your energy and personal power. Work opportunities will soon take you on a new journey. Enjoy! Ruby is very effective for personal power.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 If life still isn’t satisfying you, perhaps your focus is a little too material. Try connecting with the essence of your childhood joy, and allow new adventure into your life. Your intellect will soon be satisfied, as study is a likely influence soon. Citrine brings an abundance of creative energy.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Don’t lose sight of your dreams; they give you opportunity to reconnect with that feeling of life’s purpose and joy. Use your restless energy to benefit you. Set some fresh goals and acknowledge how clever you are at manifesting. An inner contentment will soon fill your being. Citrine is great for change and empowerment.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Opportunity to enjoy your heart-felt connections will satisfy a yearning in your being. Don’t be afraid of commitment; instead, nurture the love you feel and enjoy its rewards. Mirror yourself in your partner or friends and learn knew things about yourself. Ruby releases us from fear.

manning-great lakes focus.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Expect the unexpected! Your leadership qualities and communication will be given opportunity to sparkle. You have an innate sense of justice and fairness and like to strive for win-win situations, so trust in your ability and allow yourself to be heard confidently. Turquoise helps us to communicate with high esteem.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Relationships may feel like hard work at present, as they are presenting challenges to your old belief systems. Practice patience with yourself and others and try debating your beliefs. Although it’s not easy, it can be very rewarding. Self-awareness will simplify things. Clear Quartz aids in personal development.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Undigested emotions are surfacing at present, to give you another opportunity to release the effects they have on you. This is why you may be feeling suspended. Work metaphysically with your body to free these negative components from your life. Look for insecurity and become the divine answer. Rose Quartz stimulates selflove.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Your wisdom attracts other people’s problems to you. You are a natural born counsellor, and others sense this. Hear your wise words that catch your attention when you are helping someone through a tough time. This is how you too are being guided. Turquoise helps us to communicate efficiently.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Although change can be a challenge, it is also a very rewarding part of life. Set some fresh goals and try giving yourself permission to succeed. If fear overwhelms you at the time of getting ready to step forward, try visualising yourself walking the walk. Apophyllite helps to visualise clearly.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Time for change is fast approaching, and you will find yourself extremely restless and feeling frustrated if you have no newfound direction. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to proceed without fear. Fake it until you make it, because success will breed further triumphs. Aquamarine washes away self-doubt.

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

Relationships are providing you with perfect opportunity to see how nurturing, loving and compassionate you can be. If you are feeling unappreciated, try looking inward at the gifts and talents you chose to incarnate with and thank yourself for these attributes. Rose Quartz will fill your heart with love.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Congratulations: you are about to receive a beautiful reward. Your faith is one of your strongest gifts, and even though you have been through rough times, you were still able to be true to yourself and remained yourself. You may now be showing others how to do the same. Turquoise enables us to receive our rewards effortlessly.

focusinterview.

ANTON PAIN W I N D S U R F E R

EIGHTEEN YEAR OLD ANTON PAIN IS PASSIONATE ABOUT WINDSURFING, AND HE HAS SOME IMPRESSIVE COMPETITION RESULTS ALREADY UNDER HIS BELT. ANTON WILL TRAVEL TO FLAT ROCK, NEAR BALLINA, IN NOVEMBER, TO TAKE ON A NATIONAL FIELD OF COMPETITORS. ANTON IS KEEN TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO TAKE UP THE SPORT … BUT HE HAS A WORD OF WARNING, SAYING WINDSURFING IS ADDICTIVE!

i Anton. Introduce yourself please ... What’s your family background, and where do you go to school? We moved to the Great Lakes area three years ago, after travelling in Australia and being home schooled. I started Year 9 in Forster, and I am finishing Year 12 in Tuncurry. My family came to Australia 14 years ago from the UK. My older brother is a fireman and my older sister is a shipwright in Sydney. My mum is an artist and dad a designer of sails; he is a passionate hang-gliding and glider pilot. We live in Coomba Park. How and when did you become interested in windsurfing? In May 2011, I had my first real go at windsurfing in Poland (my mum’s country) in Hel - a seaside resort on the Baltic - a really popular windsurfing destination for the Pols. Windsurfing simply looked like a fun thing to do. I soon realised that it was also very challenging. What do you most like about the sport? Why would you encourage others to give it a go? It is dynamic. It is it like surfing, sailing and jet-skiing all in one. I believe that this is one of the hardest sports to achieve real competence in. It requires courage, skill, physical ability, desire and dedication - more so when you get on the ocean waves. Wallis Lake, however, is a great place to start and go for speed sailing. Where do you regularly train, and what club/s (if any) are you associated with? I am associated with the Mid North Coast Marauders. This is a GPS speed sailing club, where after sailing with a GPS logger, you upload your data and compete online worldwide. There are thousands of competitors. I managed a top speed of 40 knots - close to 75 kph, which placed me first in the Junior section this year and second ever speed achieved by a junior windsurfer in the GPS challenge. The No. 1 ever is also an Australian, Isaac Perkins from Tasmania.

You had a trip to WA last summer, where you took out first place in both the Lancelin Junior Windsurfing Marathon and the Wave Competition. Describe these two events - how did they differ from each other in format, and how challenging were they? My parents took me to Western Australia for the summer, so I could train and enter two competitions in Lancelin. We trained at Coronation Beach, and this was my first real experience wave sailing. It was awesome! I was lucky enough to get some coaching from UK top sailor Ben Proffitt. He showed d me how to do loops, In May 2011, I ha at and one of my photos go al re my first shows Ben and his Poland windsurfing in try) in un partner critiquing some co ’s (my mum sort recorded loops. It was boards and sails for Hel - a seaside re ly al re a c lti Ba so good to get his tips. e different conditions and th on fing My first Lancelin wind strengths. Some popular windsur Pols .” the destination for Marathon of 26 km people carry a full set of in the open ocean was various sizes boards, while challenging. About 260 others just have to do with the competitors lined up, and we equipment they have. Some pros set off. The pros had poll positions, will have an amazing set of gear for all and people like me were in a melee of conditions, but most of us do not. competitors, trying to start as soon as there November will be a big month for you, as was a bit of space. The wind on the day you’ll be off to compete in the Nationals. was light, and my equipment was not ideal for When and where will this take place exactly, the conditions, but I gave it my best and ended and how much preparation have you been up first junior. doing leading up to the event? The wave competition was epic - lots of The Nationals are in Flat Rock near Ballina competitors, and good conditions for it. I saw on the 7 - 14 November. I will go there straight many world top windsurfers in that competition, after my HSC exams. Last winter was not good and it was so cool and inspiring to see them in for training, as there was little wind. My family action. and I will go to Flat Rock a few days earlier, so You also placed second in the NSW I can practice. I’m really looking forward to it! I Wavesailing Titles. How do you feel you know there will be lots of great windsurfers. This performed overall in this event? time I am better prepared and just had my 18th On the way back home I took part in the NSW birthday, and my parents bought me a board for Wave titles in Gerroa. I got the second place, the coming competition. It should be epic. which I was happy with. It was a great new and Looking further ahead, what are your challenging experience - very light winds. ambitions? I find each competition presents something I have been offered an opportunity to go to new to learn. Windsurfing requires different Maui and get involved in the windsurfing scene

“

over there. However, I have to fund it all or find a sponsor (partial sponsor). I have lined up work in Sydney for few months to save for the trip, so hopefully in March next year I will be in Maui. Windsurfing is weather dependent - and expensive if you want to perform at the top. Time is needed to take any opportunity of good wind and money, if I am to go to the top. It is challenging, but such an awesome sport. At the moment I have no other ambitions - just to have fun with windsurfing, do some motorbiking, and I need to learn a trade. I would like to acknowledge and thank my parents for supporting me. We all started to windsurf at the same time, and it’s great to see your parents learning such a difficult sport. There are other Marauders on the Wallis Lake: Rob, Chris and Gabe, Peter, Matt, Aza and Andre. Thanks for all the tips and support. Lastly, I would like to encourage young people to try the sport. It is second to none, and we have an amazing lake to practice on. A word of warning: the sport is addictive! For any questions about windsurfing in the area or any offer of help, please contact me at: windsurfer.online@hotmail.com Thanks Anton. Pic on the right features Anton with Ben Proffitt - one of the UK’s top windsurfers. manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

Business Minds

with Linda Bryant from The Photography Hub

RENAE TAYLOR

THIS MONTH’S BUSINESS MINDS INTERVIEW IS WITH RENAE TAYLOR FROM CPS (CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES), WHO IS DOING AN AMAZING JOB THAT HAS A HUGE IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY.

an you tell us a little about yourself? I grew up in Sydney and completed my undergraduate and postgraduate studies there, whilst working in related

positions. I wanted a break from busy Sydney life and thought I would try and work up this way, have a bit of a rest and spend some quality time with my family. My parents had moved from Sydney to Bohnock 12 years previously, and they were followed by my older brother - so this area had felt like home for a long time. Well 14 years on, I am still here! I am now raising my own family, partnered with a country boy who has told me firmly he has absolutely no intention of ever living in a city. I agree wholeheartedly, and our home is now the go to house for my Sydney friends needing time out of the city. How long have you been practicing as a clinical psychologist? I have been practicing as a clinical psychologist for 15 years now. I really am one of those annoying people who love their job. Every day we are working with lovely country people helping them to cope with life’s challenges and to have better quality of life. It is very real and also satisfying. When did you make the move to becoming a business owner? Initially, I worked at the Mayo Hospital, helping to provide inpatient and outpatient services. I had come from working in a concrete bunker at Bankstown Community Health and I was amazed that I could see rabbits jumping in the grass from the consulting room! Nature has always been my therapy, so I loved country life straight away. 44

manning-great lakes focus.

Every day we are working try with lovely coun em th g in lp he le peop e’s to cope with lif to have challenges and life. of ity al better qu also d an al re ry It is ve satisfying.”

“ This area is nothing short of spectacular. Very soon I had more work than I could manage and I had to either hire someone to help, or run! I took a deep breath, found some great mentoring, did lots of short courses and started CPS. I also have to acknowledge our Office Manager, Tanya Simmonds. She has been with me since those very early days and she has been absolutely instrumental in helping me to get, and keep, this business running. Learning how to run a business was, and still is, a steep learning curve. Running a business and the field of psychology has that in common; they are both dynamic, and you have to keep striving and up-skilling. As a business owner, I also enjoy and feel passionate about providing a warm and supportive work environment for other psychologists. Our job can be quite demanding. Being able to provide flexible working hours and letting clinicians have professional autonomy in their practice means a better quality of professional life and a happier workplace. We have a great team; we are likeminded and all strive for a cohesive, collaborative workplace with no icky politics! We are a client-focused practice - that is, our client care always comes first. I enjoy working in a supportive and ethical environment, and I know others do too. How much time do you spend between working with clients and working on your business? This continues to be a bit of a work in progress, to be honest. Like many working mums, juggling work life and home life is something I am always working on. Currently I spend 2 - 3 full days doing clinical work with clients and 2 - 3 days doing all aspects of running a business. Notice how that doesn’t

add up! All the small business owners out there are nodding about now. There is just always so much to do. I never ever get to the end of my To Do list. I also try and fit in the odd four day week to stay emotionally well and to be present for my kids. So the juggle continues ... You’ve just moved to a new location. What does this bring to the business? Moving into a purpose built space has been quite transformative for the business and for me personally as a business owner. For many years we had been bursting at the seams in a smaller but lovely old building. We desperately needed to hire more clinicians; we had long waiting lists, and we just didn’t have the space to grow. We were all sharing multiple rooms, and I didn’t even have a permanent space to work from in order to run the business! This was definitely making our business inefficient. The delay in getting our own space was because it was near impossible to meet our needs. We needed a very big space, lots of natural light and, of course, it needed to be dirt-cheap, as like nearly all small businesses, we have a very tight cash flow. What we needed was a miracle! Looking back, we were all so very patient, and frankly - I work with terrific people. We finally found the right space after harassing poor local real estate agents for years! It was all made possible because my partner was able to look after the fit-out of the new building, saving us a great deal of time and expense. We also managed to buy this premises, so we achieved something I thought we would never

be able to do. This was a big milestone for our small business. The new building feels spacious and welcoming. Tanya, Trudy and Caitlyn, who look after the CPS office, can now work their magic whilst not being on top of each other. For our 14 psychologists, we now all have our own rooms with natural light and lovely views, room for all our files, computers and resources. We can personalise these spaces and make them comfortable. This is a huge leap in the quality of our work life, as we spend all day sitting in a room either with a client or completing associated mountains of paperwork. We are also able to hire more clinicians, with varying expertise, to cope with our referrals and to service our GPs better. Do you see any interesting trends happening in our area? Just in the time I have lived permanently in the Manning, the mental health landscape has changed enormously. There is much better acceptance of mental health in general. I think it is becoming easier for people to ask for help. Mental health is now considered more like just another aspect of health. That is exactly how I think about it; it is just health. There are also more local organisations now providing good mental health services. Medicare and other government funding has enabled our service and other services to attract experienced and qualified psychologists to work and live here. It sure helps that the Manning Valley and Great Lakes area is so beautiful and offers a terrific quality of life. Who wouldn’t want to live here! Thanks Renae.

North South West Office technology TJL POWER OF ONE What is the TJL “POWER OF ONE” Strategy? Imagine being able to test the effect of your decisions before you implement them. Imagine knowing how a decision you make will affect your cash flow. TJL are able to demonstrate to you how this Power of One strategy shows the sensitivity of each key driver to your cash flow and profit. The Power of One is your starting point in your journey to optimise your Company’s Cash Flow excellence in understanding the 1% or one day changes in your seven key drivers. What are the seven key drivers of Profit and Cash Flow? Given a large number of businesses are feeling the pinch at the moment, it is a good time for us to share our thoughts on some of the key

North South West Office Technology has a long history. profit and cash flow drivers to look out for in your business. • Revenue growth • Average sales value • Cost of goods sold / GP% • Overheads relative to total turnover • Accounts receivable days • Accounts payable days • Inventory / work in progress days Disciplined cash flow forecasting and management is critical to your business. If you are experiencing some of these issues, it is wise to engage the services of a Business Advisory Specialist. TJL have many years of experience and understanding of how businesses can come from poor cash flow and unprofitable businesses struggling to manage these problems, to successfully helping them manage and grow a viable business long term.

Originally all employees worked for Office Data Systems and when they closed their doors, we became North South West Office Choice which was controlled by Coffs Harbour Office Choice. After three and a half years, Michael McHattan, who was the manager of NSW Office Choice, bought the business from Coffs Harbour Office Choice and has brought the business back to being locally owned. The staff of NSW Office Technology is as follows: Owner/Manager - Michael McHattan Salesperson - Brad Grant IT Consultant - Alan Myer Electronic Technicians - Kristen Bell, Jeff Jones, Paul Lockwood (over 60 years’ experience between them). Each tech is trained in all products that we sell

and service. NSW Office Technology sells and services the following product: • Toshiba - printers and photocopiers • Konica Minolta - printers and photocopiers • Epson - printers also warranty agent • Brother - printers also warranty agent • Fuji Xerox - printers also warranty agent • Lexmark - printer • HP - printers • SwiftPOS - Point of Sale Systems • Toners, Inks, A4 - A3 paper • Impact Computer Systems - Custom • Plus much more NSW Office Technology services a large area; we start at Kempsey and go down to Bulahdelah, including the Port Macquarie area, Taree, Forster area, and Gloucester. Our office hours are 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

manning-great lakes focus.

Chillis Galore

COMPLETE THE PICTURE MIDCOAST WATER HAS BEEN WORKING TO BUILD LONG TERM SOLUTIONS AND NEEDS THE HELP OF OUR COMMUNITY TO COMPLETE THE PICTURE.

idCoast Water, the water how they may impact on your water account and sewer authority for and let us know which scenario is the most the Manning, Great Lakes acceptable.” and Gloucester areas, has Mr Guiney said it was important for the been looking at the options community to know that while MidCoast Water available to deliver water security for the future is asking for opinions on some capital solutions as part of their Our Water Our Future review. for our water supplies, they are also committed The Our Water Our Future Strategy is to helping customers continue to save water. MidCoast Water’s 30 year plan that “We will continue our commitment to outlines how the organisation saving water through a range of will work to manage water activities, including education, resources for generations targeting high water users, The Our to come. the use of smart meters, ater Our W “Our community continuing to fund rebates ture Strategy is Fu has told us over the er ’s for rainwater tanks and MidCoast Watth at last few months what 30 year plan the behavioural change is important when it outlines how will programmes. comes to water and organisation age “Although water saving work to man es how they feel about rc programmes will make u so water re some of the options to s n io at er a contribution, they will n ge for we have to manage me.” not provide a solution on co water supplies over the their own over 30 years when next few decades,” acting population growth and climate general manager Brendan Guiney variability are factored in.” explained. Members of the community are “We have combined community encouraged to go to www.midcoastwater.com. feedback, with cost estimates and au and take part in the final Our Water Our technical knowledge to enable us to build a Future survey. combinations of solutions into scenarios for This survey will give respondents the future water management. Now we need our opportunity to have their say on three main community to provide feedback on which of areas these scenarios is the most acceptable to enable • future water provision us to complete the picture.” • the return of treated water to the For water supplies the solutions may include environment and indirect potable reuse - which means purifying • whether or not the extension of services to recycled water to mix with water sourced from small villages should be undertaken existing streams or groundwater and then Each option has a different capital cost undertake further treatment and distribution and different impact on the typical residential as drinking water, desalination or new water account, both of which are clearly illustrated to storages such as dams. the survey participant. “The larger infrastructure solutions for the To take part in the survey, please go to long term have costs associated, and now we are asking you to consider those costs, and www.midcoastwater.com.au

Tired of potted colour not lasting? Flowering cottage garden perennials can add year round colour to your garden. They are extremely hardy, handling dry conditions and still producing an abundance of flowers. We have a large range of Marguerites, African Daisy, Pigface, Verbena, Salvia and all sorts of interesting ornamental plants. Spice up your garden with chillies, ranging from mild to the mouth scorching hot! With 24 varieties available, we can cater for your needs, including the infamous Scorpion having a 10/10 heat rating. Some chillies are highly ornamental, such as the Black Pearl and Purple Tiger. Organic Vegetable Seedlings are a great way to get a head start whilst patiently waiting for your own seeds to germinate. We currently have a large range of spring/summer growers. Tomato, capsicum, pumpkin and cucumbers are now available for an excellent choice of

tasty Heirloom varieties! Become a Greenpatch Member and receive 10% off books, plants plus newsletters and a FREE seed packet of Red Noodle Snake Bean. • A $25 yearly subscription includes: six seed packets of your choice. • A $45 two year subscription includes: 12 seed packets of your choice. Visit our nursery Monday - Friday to browse the increasing range of succulents, bromeliads, indoor plants plus a huge selection of herbs, cottage garden and vegetable seedlings. We look forward to helping you achieve your gardening goals this spring! • Upcoming Gardening Workshop with Horticulturalist Neville Donovan. “Seed Saving”- cost $60 on Sunday 22nd November 2015. Book in early for this workshop. For more information, please visit www. greenpatchseeds.com/book-workshops.html

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manning-great lakes focus.

focusmotoring.

S M UG ’S R E VI E W

“The Smug”

THIS MONTH THE SMUG TEST DRIVES THE BRAND NEW 2015 JAGUAR XE 2.0 L 177 KW TURBOCHARGED PETROL (AUTO)

COURTESY OF JOHN PATRICK PRESTIGE CARS ON HASTINGS RIVER DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE.

f you read no further than this first paragraph, then "incredible" and "a must test drive" are the take-home messages from me to you on the brand new 2015 Jaguar XE 2.0 L 177 kW Turbocharged Petrol (Auto). With a sharp, sleek, prestige body shape and an elegant yet sporty interior, the 2015 Jaguar XE is one very special vehicle and putting it simply, she’s a beauty! Having just rolled off the production line and onto the showroom floor, there’s plenty to like about the focus on ensuring the Jaguar XE has all the bells and whistles one would want in a modern day vehicle. The new XE includes the use of the very impressive Aluminum Intensive Architecture, which is used to describe the aerospace industry derived light and sturdy structural framework. Not only does this new material provide an overall lighter bodyweight, it is structurally incredibly strong. Safety is a key consideration for all Jaguar models and in the case of the 2015 XE, particular attention has been paid to this - and it’s pretty impressive. For example, a unique feature I haven’t come across in a predominantly road vehicle to date is Jaguar’s All Surface Progress Control (ASPC) which is a low speed cruise control which operates at speeds between 3.6 km/h and 30 km/h. What the hay is this for, you ask? Well, it’s an all-weather and low traction control system that allows the

manning-great lakes focus.

driver to concentrate on steering rather volume control is very capable of punching than speed control and steering at the same out your best of Phil Collins compilation like time. Typical uses could include assistance on a boss. Other inclusions or features in the range of slippery surfaces, hill descents or steep inclines - maybe for that steep hilly driveway in the options include keyless entry, park assistance wet? including parallel and bay parking, 360 With six airbags, dynamic stability degree park distance control, air quality control, engine drag torque sensor and one of the largest colour control, torque vectoring by options range of anything I’ve braking, lane departure seen. warning, blind Taking this beauty out y ke a is spot monitoring, onto the open road is ty fe Sa autonomous simply a dream. The consideration odels emergency braking handling is incredibly for all Jaguar m of the se and adaptive cruise well balanced and and in the ca ar 2015 XE, particul paid control - you may responsive, and the en attention has be run out of breath turbocharged 177 kW pretty to this - and it’s trying to mention all is really exciting. The impressive .” the safety features, acceleration both off but you’ll be breathing the mark and in transit is easy whenever the impressive and for a 2.0 L, it situation requires their use. punches well above its weight. Apart from a stunning interior There’s plenty of interior room both design and the comfortable and roomy in the front and back and for a sedan; seating both in the front and back, one it’s really quite comfortable, with a decent very impressive feature is the InControl Touch helping of prestige throughout. command system. The crystal clear 8” touchWell priced and in the lower end of the screen displays the SatNav in superb quality, executive vehicle range, the Jaguar XE is huge and it also allows tablet-like swipe and stretch value for money and quite achievable for the gestures that is pretty cool indeed. young executive, semi-retired or for those If you enjoy bringing your own tunes to looking for a classy "weekend car" for those the ride, the Bluetooth connectable Meridian weekend escapes out of town. 380 W in-built sound system with 11 speakers Again, this is an incredible, must test drive including impressive equalisation and dynamic offering from Jaguar.

“

SNAPSHOT ENGINE & GEARS 96kW 177 kW 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol. S Speed Auto. BODY Sedan, 5 seats. FUEL 5 Star ANCAP Safety Rating. RANGE 2.0 L (132 kW) Deisel, 2.0 L (144 kW) Petrol & 3.0 L (250 kW) Petrol also available.

FAST FACTS The most advanced, efficient and refined sports saloon car that Jaguar has ever produced. The XE has the lightest body in its class, with sports-car equivalent body stiffness. Models use aerospace industry derived Aluminium Intensive Architecture. 50/50 weight distribution across vehicle. Start button, turn dial gear selection. Head Up Display (HUD) – projects key info onto windscreen.

focusTourism. Donna Hudson - Manning Valley Tourism

Donna Hudson

“

Tourism MANNING VALLEY GETS A HIT OF

spring fever

I RECENTLY LEARNED THAT “SPRING FEVER” IS A REAL PHENOMENON WHICH BRINGS AN INCREASE IN ENERGY AND VITALITY, AND INCREASED LEVELS OF OUR “HAPPINESS HORMONE” AS THE DAYS BECOME SUNNIER AND LONGER.

t’s no wonder then, that Manning Valley starts to come alive at this time of year, with an abundance of fun-filled activities and events on offer throughout October.

Kicking off on the long weekend of 3rd and 4th

October, the Old Bar Beach Festival is an annual

cars and kids’ entertainment. As the sun sets on Fun for all the family, the kids (and all those Saturday night, festival-goers can take part in big kids among us) can also experience the thrill the breathtaking “Light the Night” Leukaemia of this year’s carnival rides, try their luck with the Foundation lantern walk, followed by a fireworks sideshow attractions, and take home their favourspectacular at 7:30pm. The excitement continues ite show bag. with another action-packed day of entertainment If you’ve never experienced the stunning beauty on Sunday. With plenty of feel-good fun, it’s one of Upper Lansdowne, here’s your excuse! It’s the of the “must-see” festivals in our annual calendar. Upper Lansdowne Player’s spring season, where October is Show time in Taree, this year running you’ll be treated to two one-act comedies in the from Friday 9th to Sunday 11th at the historic Memorial Hall. Running 10 - 25 Taree Showground. Presented by October, you can choose a Saturday Manning River Agricultural night dinner show, or a Sunday r and Horticultural Society matinee which includes ve ne ve u’ If yo since 1878, the Taree afternoon tea. The Upper experienced the of Upper Show has become a Lansdowne Players are well stunning beauty your re’s fond tradition in the known for their fabulously Lansdowne , he pper excuse! It’s the U ’s Manning Valley and entertaining fun. er Lansdowne Play re is a true celebration Over to Wingham on he spring season , w two of our rich farming the weekend of 16 - 18 to d te you’ ll be trea e th in s heritage. October, music lovers are ie ed m co one-act ial Hall. ” or The 2015 line up inin for a real treat with this em M ic or st hi cludes show jumping, catyear’s Akoostik Festival. Over tle and sheep judging, poultry three sensational days, an incredjudging, the highly popular dog ibly strong line up of 70 artists will show, and camp drafting events. Visit provide the backdrop for some seriously the Agricultural Hall for a colourful display good times. Soak up the sun and celebrate live of the region’s finest produce. Ranging from music at its best - from Joe Camilleri and the Black prize roses, seasonal flowers and floral arSorrows, to Ed Kuepper and Bill Chambers. Check rangements, to Bonsai, fruit and vegetables, you’ll out the full programme at akoostik.com.au be amazed and inspired by the talent of this year’s If that’s not enough to whet your appetite, exhibitors. An exceptional variety of arts and crafts you can find more events happening around the on show will include a mouth-watering assortManning Valley by visiting the “events calendar” ment of home cooked fare, wood turning works, on our website. I’m aiming to cram as much as I metalwork, photography and newly introduced can into my October - look forward to seeing you scrapbooking. all out and about!

event that sees this usually quiet coastal village spring to life, attracting over 20,000 visitors. For the hippies-at-heart, the festival highlight is the coming together of hundreds of Kombis from across Australia in a celebration of cool! Visitors will also enjoy mega-markets, live music, classic

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NEW JAGUAR XE THE SPORTS SALOON REDEFINED

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New Jaguar XEmost is here. Our mostefficient advanced, efficient and New Jaguar XE is here. Our advanced, and saloon ever.the Born from of the F-TYPE, refined sportsrefined saloonsports ever. Born from DNA of the the DNA F-TYPE, its sporting is clear. the taut, aerodynamic its sporting intent is clear.intent Beneath the Beneath taut, aerodynamic XE has Aluminium Intensive Architecture and cuttingdesign XE hasdesign Aluminium Intensive Architecture and cuttingedge technologies edge technologies at its heart. at its heart.

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John Patrick Prestige Cars

169 Hastings River *Recommended driveaway Jaguar XE 20t. Prestige petrolpaint automatic. Metallic paint at $1,300 extra. Premium metallic paint at $2,600 extra. At participating dealers while stocksDrive, last. automatic. Metallic paint atfor $1,300 extra. Premium metallic at $2,600 extra. At participating dealers while stocks last.

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Phone: (02) 6584 1800 Web: www.jppc.com.au

manning-great lakes focus.

with Susie Boswell.

focus _Travel

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N :

M E R C U R E S Y D N E Y I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R P O R T

’ve found the secret to a smooth departure, to arriving at the airport unruffled and so, effectively, extending my holiday at the front end by relaxing from the very beginning ... instead of settling into a break with a sigh of relief only after the forward trip’s over, air travel hassles behind me, and I’ve checked in at my destination. Not only have I avoided travel trauma - airport agony? departure drama? – but I’ve actually experienced the fun side of travel, the thrills of air transport, even well before setting out for the terminal.

I’m admiring the aerial ballet, the smooth take-offs and swooping landings of an endless sequence of jets, enervated by the industrious hubbub of ground transport dashing, zigzagging about to help make the journeying happen, and thrilled in anticipation by the twinkling red, green and golden lights across the massive expanse of Sydney International Airport, stretching across the multiple runways to its control tower, and on to Botany Bay. Yes, I’m plane-spotting and the scene’s calling to me, beckoning me with that incomparable frisson that leisure travel ignites in us all. Not only this scene, from my window on the

top floor of the Mercure Sydney International Airport hotel: but also of cars and coaches - their headlights creating glittering ribbons - bustling like busy, purposeful ants below, streaming along the roadways to and from the complex. By day, the same aircraft movements are punctuated by a view of the glorious fairways and putting greens of Kogarah Golf Course and the lazy Cooks River, a relaxing vista peopled by tiny watchable figures strolling about their sporting pursuits, holing out, laughing, back-slapping. Yes indeed, I’d checked in to the Mercure overnight ahead of my flight out to Singapore. So what? Well: so that I know I’ll be on time for a comfortable check-in, unimpeded by unexpected traffic jams. So I’ll have a peaceful night’s sleep beforehand, untroubled by a lastminute flurry of worry: did I turn off the iron, did I lock the windows, did I turn on the alarm? I checked them all in comfortable time before setting out this evening. (By the way, I’ve only come from Darling Point, less than 15km away). But I’m not stressed, that’s the point. No one’s coming to the front door unannounced when my mind’s on getting away on my trip. I’m not fretful, wondering if my taxi will actually turn up in time. If there’s anything last-minute to be concerned about, I’ve plenty of time to deal with it. Did I pack the adaptor? My jewellery? My passport/itinerary? Yes, they’re all there and I’m not struggling with baggage and locks and credit cards and tipping cabbies or porters while trying frantically to juggle my bags to find out. I don’t need to worry about cooking dinner/ breakfast or cleaning up: the Mercure’s

restaurant and notably helpful and friendly staff are at my command. No bed-making either. I’ve stayed at the Mecure many times. It’s notably a home away from home for bushies who love that it’s so easy to reach, they can leave their car in the guest car park here in safety and at a good rate and hop the hotel’s shuttle across to the airport - relaxed, knowing it will get them there on time. And reliably bring them back without a long airport delay on the return. Ditto when visiting town for a Sydney show or event (CATS opens at the incomparable Capitol Theatre for just a four-week season from the 30th of this month!) If you’re driving to the city from the country remember that few hotels closer to the CBD have any economical, or quickly accessible, parking. The rates are terrific and it’s all under the guiding hand and genial welcome of GM Richard Holt, one of the smartest hospitality chiefs around – whose influence shows in his customer-savvy coterie of staff. See www. mercuresydneyairport.com.au for offerings such as the Ultimate Traveller Package: $199 for overnight accommodation with upgraded superior room, an airport shuttle for two and a $40 voucher towards dinner or lunch plus other available benefits. The hotel’s been recently refurbished: there’s a great bar, crisp linens and furnishings, Foxtel, Wifi, espresso coffee, choccies on the pillow - the works. And it’s double-glazed, deep-carpeted and whisperquiet with thick drapes. For me, it’s truly the way to ensure a “bon voyage”.

Coalition’s Infrastructure and Jobs package

delivering for the Manning and Gloucester

Just some of the Coalition’s initiatives since the election: •

$1.05 billion in funding to complete Pacific Motorway in Lyne

•

• • • • • • • • •

$9.6 million towards a major expansion of local water infrastructure $16 million from the Coalition’s 2014/15 budgets for the Bucketts Way upgrade $3.47-million local mobile phone blackspot funding $10-million for the GTCC Roads and Bridges package $292,000 for Taree CBD Security Cameras $2.55-million for local road blackspots $350,000 for sporting schools grants for Lyne $10-million in additional Aged and Home Care funding for Lyne $19,574,128 (2014-2018) in Federal Assistance Grants to Gloucester and Greater Taree Councils

• • • • • • • •

$14,557,642 (2014-2018) in Roads to Recovery funding to Gloucester and Greater Taree Councils $70,000 for Taree Motorcycle Club $50,000 for the new Gloucester School Bus Fast tracking of the National Broadband Network rollout - 22,100 premises $995,000 for the Trade Skills Centre at Gloucester High School $250,000 for local veterans projects and support programmes $50,000 to upgrade Wingham Scouts Hall New Green Army and Work-for-the-Dole projects to support local projects in $150,000 for Stronger Communities projects

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, 144 Victoria Street, Taree NSW 2430.

Dr David Gillespie MP | 50

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Federal Member for Lyne

focusbusiness. with Jeremy Thornton from Manning Valley Business Chamber

JeremyThornton I WRITE THIS DURING WHAT HAS BEEN - IN MY OWN BUSINESS - A MOST CHALLENGING OF YEARS. IN APRIL THIS YEAR OUR COMPANY COMMENCED A DEEPLY EMOTIONAL, INVOLVED AND INTENSE PERIOD WITH MANY OF OUR CLIENTS IN DUNGOG AND STROUD, AS THEY WERE HIT HARD BY A MAJOR STORM EVENT.

o this day we are still negotiating with insurance companies on positive outcomes for multiple clients. I’m proud of how our business has reacted to this devastation. What it has done though, is cement relationships and lead to a level of trust that in my business is crucial. One of our competitors allegedly thought it was funny that we had so many claims to manage, but we embraced it. This is when customer service in our industry becomes tangible, and we use this a point of difference to others that focus only on sales. To this day, our thoughts and prayers are with the community in the Dungog District. Customer service are two little words that get thrown together and used as marketing fodder. Saying you give good “service” is one thing, but doing it is another. Recently at a Chamber Breakfast at Taree’s Fish Fish Fish, customer service became a hot topic. It comes in so many different forms, and really it’s specific to your own industry. The friendly greeting and helpful mannerisms are one thing, but it goes much further. In our region, tourism is crucial. It is a drawcard for potential new residents and referrers. How many times do you go on holiday and come back spruiking to friends and family about the service at a particular place? You create memories and freely share your experiences. We need to be more conscious of this in everything we do. Customer service is different depending on your business. Most consumers if they get a bad experience will simply talk with their feet, meaning they just won’t go back. However, they will generally share the experience with family

and friends, then it spreads from there. The new trend though, is Social Media and electronic ranking. People will now rank your business, and this can go viral. Hence, the need to ensure customer service is front of mind 100% of the time. We live in one of Australia’s most beautiful regions, and we should be so proud of it. It’s time to now start a consistent and joint focus on customer service. This is not just at the front desk, but right through an organisation’s culture. Even little things like where you park your car have an impact. Parking outside your own business takes away the opportunity for customers to easily find a place to park and visit your business. Cleanliness and a striking shop front lead to pride and a desire for staff to focus more on the business. Being consultative with your staff and making them part of the process also assists with “buy in” and allows them to feel pride in the business as if it is their own. Customers see and experience this and share with others. We need to make it easier for customers. Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber has been championing customer service, and we applaud the initiatives. We are set to join them and commence promotion of customer service and even some education programmes. It is important as a group we are collectively promoting the Manning-Great Lakes region. Start thinking about what your business can do to enhance your customers’ experience and keep an eye out for some new Chamber initiatives over the next 12 months.

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FIND YOUR CAREER PATH A GREAT COURSE COMBINED WITH AN AMAZING PORT MACQUARIE LOCATION MADE THE OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY AT CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY (CSU) TOO GOOD TO MISS FOR PARAMEDIC STUDENT MARISSA LESO.

riginally from Wollongong, Marissa was attracted to CSU by the chance to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while studying towards her Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic). Already, Marissa has completed a community placement with an Aboriginal medical centre, learning more about the Indigenous culture while practising vital signs. CSU courses include many opportunities for workplace learning, as well as the chance to learn from people with real industry experience, offering a real insight into students’ future careers right from the start of their course. “By far, the lecturers have been a highlight,” Marissa said. Studying at CSU in Port Macquarie also gave Marissa the chance to volunteer at the Ironman 2015, where she wore her CSU Paramedic uniform with pride. Fellow CSU student Josh White was already

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living in Port Macquarie when he decided to enrol in the Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic). The ability to study at a university campus in his hometown was one of the drawcards for Josh, as well as the friendly atmosphere at CSU and its reputation in the community. But while he was from Port Macquarie already, Josh said one of the highlights of his study experience was the chance to expand his networks. “CSU is a great place to meet new people while still getting an education,” he said. As well as making new friends, Josh has started developing his professional network through a workplace learning placement in Boolaroo, near Newcastle. Paramedics is just one of the growing suite of courses offered at CSU in Port Macquarie. Students can also choose from Bachelor degrees in Accounting, Advertising, Business Studies, Criminal Justice, Gerontology and Healthy Ageing, Graphic Design, K-12 Education, Medical Radiation Science, Outdoor

Marissa Leso

Studying at CSU in Port Macquarie also the gave Marissalu nteer vo to ce chan an at the Ironm e 2015, where sh wore her CSUniform Paramedic u with pride. ”

Josh White

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Recreation and Ecotourism, Public Relations, Psychology or Social Work, providing diverse career opportunities for students without having to leave the Mid North Coast. In 2016, CSU will open the first stage of its new permanent campus in Port Macquarie, further boosting the opportunities for students to experience the best of uni life on their doorstep. The new campus will include practical learning facilities and social spaces, as well as offering students all the support and academic services needed to succeed. Scholarships are

Michael Ashworth

also available specifically for students at Port Macquarie Campus. Justice Studies student Michael Ashworth urged anyone thinking about studying at CSU in Port Macquarie to follow their dream. “Do it. It will be the best experience that you can think of,” he said. Find out more: Phone 1800 334 733 or visit www.csu.edu.au/port-info

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MID COAST CONNECT Why employers should get involved in Workplace Learning ... Workplace Learning programmes are an important part of the NSW secondary school curriculum. They enable young people to spend a period of time - usually a week - in the workplace gaining practical experience and building skills. For some students, workplace learning is their very first experience of the workplace, while for others they have already undertaken hours of paid work in part-time jobs. There are many benefits for employers who host students in the workplace: • Participate in the education, career development and vocational training of young people in your own community • Talk to young people about your industry, its career paths and future directions • Promote the attitudes and skills you want in your workforce • Identify young people with potential for your industry

• Strengthen your links with the community and raise your business profile • Increase supervisory, training and mentoring skills of your own team. “For young people, workplace learning is a vital link between school and the world of business and industry.” explains Jenny Fraser, Executive Officer of Mid Coast Connect, a locally-based non-profit organisation that assists young people with their transition from school into further education, training and employment. “Employers play an important role in creating opportunities for students to have first-hand experience in an industry of their choice, and to assist in helping youth to make informed career choices.” Work placement is a compulsory requirement of the following HSC courses: automotive, business services, construction, electrotechnology, entertainment industry, financial services, hospitality, human services, information and digital technology, metal and engineering, primary industries, retail services, tourism and events.

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EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE The future requires both education and experience! Is this possible? In past times when entering a career field you could “give it a go”, maybe not knowing anything about what you were taking on. Unfortunately, those days are gone; the current trend, to be ahead of the competition, is for young people to gain both education and experience. How do OUR local youth get that opportunity? With the ageing population of our area growing and many of our young people leaving every year in order to gain an education elsewhere, we lose their talents, abilities and contribution to our community and culture. How can we give youth local possibilities? In discussions with Stephen Bromhead MP last year, he said, “One of the biggest needs for the region is more post secondary education opportunities”. The WEA Coast, a local Training Provider, has picked up the gauntlet to deliver high quality education, creating local possibilities by engaging youth and enhancing their career aspirations.

In 2016 the inaugural intake for Internships covering two areas, Diploma of Business and Diploma of Community Services, will be delivered. Myola Woods, Business Development Officer at WEA Coast has put two requirements for success together: “The Internship Programmes have been designed to create an opportunity for both education and experience. Each student will be partnered with an organisation or business for work placement, who will provide meaningful projects, mentoring and share industry knowledge.” The programme will be ongoing, offering genuine career development to the youth of our local area, allowing them to stay, develop and weave their local knowledge along the way. There are Information Sessions for potential students, their carers and parents, being held on Tuesday 10 November, 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Phone 6554 9215 to book your place.

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big Book N I G H T

Steve Nicholas, Former Principal Great Lakes College, Founding Member of the Great Lakes Education Fund, member of Forster Fellas Book Club; and Chris Jones, Manager Great Lakes Library Service and member of Forster Fellas Book Club tell us about an upcoming event for all book lovers … the Big Book Night. Find out how your love of reading can also support the Great Lakes Education Fund …

hat can you tell us about book clubs within our local region ... Do you have a rough idea of how many clubs there are, and how many people may be involved? The Library has 49 book clubs using its service, which is pretty impressive when you think about it. It says a lot about the importance of book clubs. And they’re just the ones who have joined up to use the library service. We have no idea how many more book clubs, formal and informal, might be out there. You’re interested in organising a gathering of all the local book clubs. What’s the aim of this gathering - what do you hope to achieve? The purpose is two-fold. Firstly, to have an event that book lovers can look forward to, prepare for (by reading the books and thinking about them) and expand their appreciation of a book through spirited discussion. It should be lots of fun. Secondly, our book club was very keen to support the work of the local Great Lakes Education Fund, acknowledging the financial challenge for local families to support their children with post school education. Delegates from the Great Lakes Education Fund will be on hand on the evening to answer questions and to explain how individuals and book clubs can support young people through GLEF. Please tell us a bit more about the Great Lakes Education Fund and why it’s such an important local organisation ... The Great Lakes Education Fund (GLEF), an affiliated arm of the national Country Education Foundation of Australia (CEFA), comprises 12 local volunteers drawn from various sectors, including business, education (school, TAFE and

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university), and health who work to raise funds sounds as if the potential for some fun and locally to fund scholarships for needy local socialising for participants is very likely! youth (living or being educated in the postcode The evening focuses on three outstanding 2428) to pursue post school education. books: The Narrow Road to the Deep North Further education is expensive, especially for by Richard Flanagan, The Secret River by Kate country kids, and those costs are increasing. Grenville and Our Man in Havana by Graham Some families just simply cannot afford these Greene. Three discussion panels are being costs, so the dreams of a young formed, and discussion of each person can be squashed due book will be facilitated by to economic factors. GLEF’s Library Manager Chris work aims to redress Jones. There will be Over the last few s ha this situation for some both panel discussion ry ra years, the lib in young people. In and the opportunity th ow seen a steady gr s ub cl ok its fourth year of for audience bo of the number s is ow sh is th operation, GLEF contributions, as t ha w ... I think of the rs be em has awarded 32 m well as the chance y an that m ly enjoy and al re ity scholarships so far. to socialise and chat un m m co portunity Students receiving a over supper. even need the op ing ad GLEF scholarship may You don’t have to to share their re soci al a in s ce en experi also be able to access belong to a book club setting. ” significant matching to attend. If you love funding from some reading, are interested in universities who support the any or all of the books being work of CEFA nationally. discussed, or just like a good In our work GLEF hopes to make social night out, then come along. a difference to the lives of needy young What do you feel book clubs have to people. offer community members, both young What plans have been made to and old? organise this gathering? Has there been a Over the last few years, the library has venue, date and time allocated as yet? seen a steady growth in the number of book Organisation for this exciting event are well clubs. We were initially quite surprised to find underway. Readers should mark Thursday 12 out how many book clubs there were. I think November at 6:30pm in their diary. It will be what this shows is that many members of the held at Club Forster. We have many supporters community really enjoy and even need the for this event, including authors Richard opportunity to share their reading experiences Flanagan, Kate Grenville and John Marsden, in a social setting. So, what book clubs do who have all acknowledged the critical role is provide important social interaction; they ongoing education has in our communities. We encourage and celebrate reading, and they’re have some exciting contributions to our cause a great forum for debate and discussion. Pretty from each of these authors on the night. amazing, really! And if they can now work What activities do you envisage will take together to support such a great cause as the place at the event? Apart from helping to Great Lakes Education Fund, that’s even better. support the Great Lakes Education Fund, it Where can readers register their interest in

“

attending the gathering ... or even find out more info about joining a book club? Tickets can be purchased for $20 from the Forster Visitor Information Centre or at the door on the evening, although seating is finite. Information is available on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ events/1449413052029691/ where participants can indicate their intention to attend. There is also a dedicated email address bigbooknight@gmail.com - that can be used to make enquiries or indicate intention to attend. If you want to find out more about joining the wonderful book club service provided by the Great Lakes Library Service, just drop into any one of their branches. Our book club certainly uses it. Please add anything else you feel may be relevant ... All funds raised from the cover charge, raffle and book sale will go to the Great Lakes Education Fund. Any one off donations on the night are tax deductible. Through the generosity of our supporters listed below, there will be some very special prizes on the night, and many contemporary titles available for bargain prices. Renowned authors Richard Flanagan, Kate Grenville and John Marsden; Literary Editor The Age and The Book Club panelist Jason Steger; series producer of the ABC’s The Book Club Amber Ma; publisher/editor at Random House Nikki Christer; Jane Novak Publicity Manager at Text Publishing; Dumbo Feather Magazine; Forster Visitor Information Centre and Club Forster have generously donated books, magazines, accommodation, time and gift vouchers to our worthy cause, reflecting their genuine commitment to the work of GLEF. Thanks Steve and Chris.

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FORGING CAREER PATHWAYS AT MVAC A well-rounded education does not only impart knowledge, it also builds vital skills and helps students to develop key connections within the wider community. Learning does not take place in a vacuum; therefore, schools must work with businesses and industries to guide students along a pathway to their career goals.

Having found a goal to work towards, students

At Manning Valley Anglican College, students are given support to refine their strengths, interests and aspirations into a personalised career plan. As an acknowledgement that not every student will have a clear, long-term objective in mind, these plans aim to inform subject choices, extracurricular activities and further research as they progress through school, in order to make best use of their talents and help them build the skills they will most need.

expos take place throughout the year. We also

are then encouraged to seek every opportunity to make progress towards that goal. From day to day, we are committed to ensuring that every child is given the chance to study subjects and immerse themselves in activities which they find engaging and insightful. For students from Years 10, 11 and 12, careers host regular guest speakers from educational institutions, training providers and industry leaders, enabling students to connect with experts and recruiters and make an informed choice on their future. At MVAC, we will continue to support students as individuals, helping them to set personal goals and guiding them along the road to future success.

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DOLPHINS CHILDCARE Dolphins Child Care Centre provides quality care and early education for children aged six weeks to six years. We are a family owned centre, which has been operating for more than 15 years in the Tuncurry region. During this time we have built a great reputation for our personalised and friendly childcare services. We are a leading Tuncurry childcare centre and we believe in providing quality care for the whole family. Our centre is a caring environment where children can enjoy individual programs that are taught by qualified childcare staff. Dolphins Child Care Centre has small learning groups, which allows us to deliver age appropriate learning experiences for your child. We have a dedicated room for babies, which allows us to provide personal care for

all children in our care. Our centre has plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for children to enjoy, which assists with their development and social skills. If you are looking for before and afterschool care in Tuncurry, Dolphins Child Care Centre has a range of options available. Ask about our vacation care packages, where your children can take part in a number of activities run by our childcare staff. Contact us to discuss enrolments at Dolphins Child Care Centre. We are happy to take you through our facility and to discuss the many learning activities and day educational opportunities that we provide. You can rest assured that your children are in a safe and caring environment at Dolphins Child Care Centre.

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our business was one of three in the state selected as finalists, with Bale Defence Industry from Port Macquarie being nominated as the winner. How does this feel? Fantastic! Congratulations to Bale Defence Industries - good to see a local winner. The commitment to training has been an ongoing exercise of Mackie Electric & Refrigeration Pty Ltd (Mackie’s) going back to the ‘60s, when Ray Mackie (Dad) started putting effort into training staff. After being in Sydney for 2014 NSW Training awards, where our adult apprentice Mark Hardy received the apprentice of the year award, we decided to nominate for the 2015 Training awards. Mark got busy preparing a proposal this year following on from last year’s experience. How many people do you employ? Mackie’s currently employ approx. 40 staff with eight employees in the Alan Johnston Commercial Refrigeration division in Port Macquarie and 32 In the Mackie’s Taree operation, with 25 service and install vehicles on the road.

COMMITTED TO THE INDUSTRY

Mackie’s have purchased the 28 year old business Alan Johnston Commercial Refrigeration business. Tell us about this acquisition and

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how it sits with Mackie’s? A family business, Mackie’s was established by the late Ray and Joan Mackie and was always interested in expanding into the Hastings region to better service national clients. With an impromptu meeting with Alan Johnston, a discussion arose about the similarities in our businesses and how we could complement the two businesses, with Mackie’s having a bigger electrical team and Johnston’s having an emphasis on commercial catering sales and service, coolroom construction. July this year was the combination of the businesses, and we thank all the clients for supporting us and look forward to providing a diverse range of services from either of our local showrooms.

and managed Mackie’s since 1987 and turning 60 this year, it was time to let the younger generation into the busi-

The Port team is led by Michael Johnston, who has worked with brother Alan for approx. 25 years and Brad Schneider, also a dual trade technician, having been with Mackie’s since leaving school and moving to Port three years ago.

room/freezer installs.

The combined team are a major service provider to many local clubs/pubs, hospitals and the food industry, including meat processing and restaurants, national clients Woolworths and Global Foods, Kordia Telecommunications in the Mid North Coast. Who owns Mackie’s? Having owned

ness to run the daily operations, with Glenys Fowler Administration Manager and Mark Hardy Technical Manager as shareholders in the business. What is your point of difference? Mackie’s can provide a comprehensive range of commercial refrigeration, air-conditioning, automatic doors (commercial), electrical service and installation (solar grid and battery systems), hot water solar and heat pump options, switchboard upgrades and service work, as well as commercial catering equipment including fridge/ freezers service and sales and coolMark Dreyer runs our alternate energy sales and install division, with solar storage systems using batteries to allow you to disconnect from the grid or hybrid system allowing option of batteries or pole supply. I encourage readers to come and have look at the Taree and Port Showrooms that have been undergoing changes to stock an improved range of commercial fridges and freezers. Thanks Paul, and congratulations on the achievement!

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MANNING-GREAT LAKES

property guide

Evermore Retirement Living

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Evermore Retirement Living

Display Apartments

Open For Inspection

EDGE12002

18-30 Bruce Street, Forster See You There or Call 02 6557 5005

www.evermoreliving.com.au 58

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MORE LIKE A 5 STA R E S O RT TH A R N RETIREMEN A T VILLAGE

focusabode. Evermore Retirement Living offers an independent lifestyle where you choose how to spend your time. Relax in the resort style surrounds, engage in the activities and amenities on offer and enjoy the company of newfound friends.

More like A LUXURY 5-STAR RESORT than a retirement village his new level of supported retirement living is now available in the heart of Forster. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of being shown around the facility by Sales and Marketing Manager Gillian Evans. Entry to the complex is via an exquisite marble tiled entrance foyer comprising a luxurious lounge and lobby area and welcoming reception desk. Subdued lighting is allowed through the atrium overhead, adding to the sophisticated and five star resort feel of the complex. There are four levels of apartments and facilities.

Ground level Comprises the entry foyer, a combination of one and two bedroom apartments, and the common lounge and alfresco area. A fantastic place to sit and relax. The common lounge is made up of bar areas with large TV screens, gas fireplace, and beautiful Italian lounge suites. There is a separate sports bar for the men to watch their favourite sport while enjoying a cold one from the four different beers on tap; though itâ€™s not a licensed facility, the residents run their own bar. There is also a lovely morning/afternoon tea kitchenette complete with cake fridge and self serve coffee making facilities for the residents and guests if desired.

Pure cedar roofing around the bar accentuates the elaborate light fightings overhead in the common lounge/dining rooms. An outdoor tiled alfresco entertaining area adjoins the common rooms and is easily accessible via a bank of glass doors. There is an undercover alfresco entertaining space featuring an outdoor BBQ kitchen, heated in-ground swimming pool and beautifully landscaped surrounds - a highlight being the Royal Cuban Palm trees framing the alfresco and pool. On the ground floor there are also rooms for the Village Manager, Registered Nurse, hairdresser and a couple of professional suites that are available for visiting Doctors,

Podiatrists, Physiotherapists and also a nurseâ€™s room. A fully equipped gym, library and movie theatre complete the ground floor. Individual room basement car parking is provided. Each car park has its own storage cage, and an elevator takes residents to their respective floor. Very wide corridors throughout the facility have non-slip tiling underfoot, allowing for easy access to all areas. Break out lounges throughout and skylights overhead allowing natural light to come through all combine expertly to create a very, comfortable facility for residents and visitors.

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Evermore Retirement Living

The penthouse, as well as all , have the apartments d an telephone lines d an i iF are Foxtel W ing liv e th in y NBN read d areas, studies an s.” m oo bedr

“ Level 1 Made up of both one bedroom and two bedroom apartments, common dining room and bar area, level one is the home for the centrally located open stainless steel kitchen. Professionally fitted out with chrome top of the range appliances, the on site chefs will provide meals for residents from the restaurant. A private dining room has been provided for family functions and celebrations and also a craft or activities area. The restaurant is divided by an induction stone topped servery as in hotels and is used for buffet dining. The restaurant will serve a main meal at lunch and in room dinners for residents if required. Level 2 Is a mix of one and two bedroom apartments and break out lounges. Level 3 There are only three apartments on level 3 in this stage - one being the penthouse. The Penthouse Featuring expansive 180 degree views, offering glimpses of both the

ocean and hinterland from its private tiled balcony, the penthouse is its own private retreat. Internally the penthouse comprises two bedrooms that access through sliding glass doors the balcony, plus a large study, bathroom, laundry and second toilet. It has a very generous open plan living area taking in lounge, dining and kitchen spaces. The penthouse has plush carpet in the lounge area, study and bedrooms, timber-look vinyl flooring in the kitchen and high traffic areas and floor to ceiling tiling in the light filled bathroom and laundry. The penthouse, as well as all the apartments, have telephone lines and are Foxtel WiFi and NBN ready in the living areas, studies and bedrooms. The kitchen is fitted out with top of the range stainless steel appliances, including

dishwasher, refrigerator, easy access side opening electric wall oven, slide out butler’s pantry, ceramic in bench cook top with range hood above and under-mount kitchen sink in the L-shaped cabinetry. Window furnishings comprise beautiful white wooden plantation shutters and venetians, sheer curtains and block out drapes. One Bedroom + Study Nook Courtyard Apartment Suitable for both singles and couples, the one bedroom apartment is spacious and very comfortable. The ground floor apartment boasts a 30 sqm courtyard, and the apartments on the higher levels have their very own balcony. As well as the standard fittings and fixtures of air-conditioning, ceiling fans etc. in Stage 1 Evermore Living are giving as a gift, the two

Windows & Doors Proud supplier of Windows & Doors to the Evermore Retirement Living project.

• Residential & Commercial Windows & Doors • Fly, Barrier & Crimsafe Screens • Shower Screens • Mirrors • Wardrobe Doors • Cut-to-Size Glass 10 Grey Gum Rd, Taree, 2430 Tel: 6539 3811 Fax: 6538 3819 Email: taree@gjames.com.au Web: gjames.com

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door stainless steel refrigerator, the microwave, smart television, washing machine and dryer. A European style laundry, study nook, bathroom with floor to ceiling tiling, frameless glass walled shower, stone top wall hung vanity, heat lamp and fan - all bathrooms are designed for easy access and functionality. The kitchen, supplied and installed by Concept Design Kitchens Port Macquarie, is compact and functional with all mod cons at hand, including an under-mount stainless steel sink, electric wall oven, soft close drawers and cupboards expertly incorporated under stone bench-tops. Flooring underfoot in the kitchen and study nook is a lovely timber-look vinyl, and plush 100% wool carpeting has been laid in the lounge and bedroom. Floor coverings are from Choices Flooring, Forster. The main bedroom fits a queen bed, has a built-in three mirror fronted wardrobe with plenty of shelving and having space. Window furnishings have been supplied and installed

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More like A LUXURY 5-STAR RESORT than a retirement village by Topstitch Curtains Port Macquarie and include sheer curtains and block out drapes for ambience privacy. The main bedroom opens out onto a private courtyard. Reverse cycle air-conditioning installed by AirCon Mid North Coast is available in the living area and all bedrooms. Soft downlighting, heat and smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are provided. All apartments are compliant with Aged Care and are all fire rated. The facility has been designed for the benefit and comfort of the residents, so they can age in place, everything is convenient for them.

Architectural Design The thoughtful architectural design of the apartments brings you a home that is comfortable, convenient and stylish - with everything at your fingertips. Your every need is catered for, whilst respecting your security and privacy. You can forget about any of the uncertainties that may arise form moving from your long-time family home and relax and enjoy countless enjoyable lifestyle choices that await at Evermore. Make new friends and become involved in the countless activities you can enjoy to whatever extent you prefer. Forget about previous responsibilities like

household maintenance, gardening and cleaning; that is all taken care of. Best of all, Evermore gives you the freedom of affordable resort-style independent living in a luxury one or two bedroom apartment that has all the appliances and facilities you need. Your apartment is fully self-contained, leaving you free to do you own cooking or entertaining as you please. Lots of room for your new relaxing lifestyle: Whether you choose a one or two bedroom apartment in one of the 10 designer floor plans, you will be able to set it up and decorate as you choose. It is entirely your home, for you

to enjoy with family, friends and guests. The smart seniors-friendly design of the facility ensures your rooms are not only spacious, stylish and practical, but have luxurious appointments. Relaxing outdoor courtyards on the ground floor or balconies on the upper levels add an extra private space to the apartments. Safety is a design priority, ensuring elimination of trip hazards, inclusion of easy light switches, convenient handrails, wide doorways, high-seat toilets and emergency call buttons throughout. You will enjoy your new home all the more knowing itâ€™s both comfortable and safe.

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Evermore Retirement Living

More like A LUXURY 5-STAR RESORT than a retirement village Evermore Luxury Home Inclusions High quality living is guaranteed with the inclusion of a contemporary kitchen with stone bench tops, quality appliances, internet and cable TV access, beautiful window furnishings with privacy blinds and reverse cycle air conditioning to keep you in year round comfort. Enjoy an independent lifestyle where you decide the best way to spend your day: Evermore enables you to enjoy worry-free independence, with the reassurance that someone is always there to lend a helping hand should you need it. It’s all about freedom of choice in every aspect of your life. You decide how much privacy you like, you engage in the activities that suit you best, you cook for yourself - or not - you can always enjoy a meal in the restaurant or have it delivered to your own room. You can also choose how many or how

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few housekeeping or other tasks you prefer to take care of yourself. Decide on your care provider for total peace of mind At Evermore it’s all about making your life easier. You select the care and services you need, secure in the knowledge that your support will be provided in an alert, supportive and friendly way. You will have at hand all the health care you will ever need, either in your own apartment, or through local health care providers, including the neighbouring Great Lakes Hospital and medical precinct. Some reassuring aspects of Evermore’s tailored health care options: A registered nurse or care provider is on site should you require assistance, and you have the opportunity to create you own individual care plan. You will have access to visiting doctors and other health specialists, assistance from visiting mobility

and rehabilitation specialists and access to the hydrotherapy pool next door. Evermore also offers personal care services, including hair dressers and podiatrists and can even arrange for your shopping or medicines to be delivered to your door. Your family and friends are always welcome: An essential part of contented retirement is having your loved ones close at hand, and knowing they are always welcome to call in and visit at any time is very satisfying. Your family will want to spend time with you at Evermore in the beautiful atmosphere of a luxury 5-star resort in this very special part of paradise … The perfect place to catch up with family. It’s all part of the plan Evermore Retirement Living has formulated to help people get the most out of life. You are encouraged to enjoy daily activities with your family and

friends. They also understand how much a small pet can add to your life and welcome them accordingly. The sales centre is located on the ground floor adjacent to the lobby. Interested persons are invited to view the display apartments. Enquiries and inspection bookings may be made by phoning 6557 5005, or call Gillian direct on her mobile 0431 456 322. Would you like to thank anyone? Thanks are extended to the community of Forster; they have been ever so supporting, particularly the neighbours of Bruce Street and the surrounding streets that have had to endure our construction phase. I wish to thank all our employees, contractors and consultants. A huge thank you to all those who have helped to bring the whole Evermore project to fruition. Thanks Gillian.

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A few words from Interior Designer Marilyn Wallace-Mitchell.

oyne and Mal from Evermore Supported Living Communities had the vision to create a contemporary apartment complex with five star hotel standard facilities, whilst at the same time giving residents the peace of mind that this residential complex had the added features of their own registered nurse, doctors and nursesâ€™ rooms. It is such a refreshing concept for a supported living project. This is why we were keen to design the interiors for this exciting project. It took us, a team of four very talented interior designers with experience in hotel and retirement i.e Jayne Hamparsum from JHD Interiors and Design Details trio - Ali Mott, Sheila Malvenan and myself, Marilyn WallaceMitchell, to transform the bare interior spaces into contemporary, interesting and functional areas. We set to work to design the overall concept whilst at the same time developing the layouts and designs of all the individual areas, such as the reception area, lounge and dining bars,

dining room, lift lobbies, cinema, library, hair salon, gym and back of house areas. Our scope included full documentation of working drawings, selection of finishes, furniture layouts and selection of all the loose FF&E i.e. furniture, artwork, lamps, floral arrangements to bring these areas to life. It is such a Most of the furniture has refreshing d been custom made in t for a supporte ep nc co is is Th t. Australia and overseas. living projec en to The artwork concept is a why we were ke s for or ri te in e th really interesting mix of design ec t. â€? oj pr g tin ci ex contemporary and historical is th photos of the Forster area. In addition to these design services, we created the two delightful display apartments. It has been an absolute pleasure to work again with Coyne, Mal and all the Evermore team. Wishing all the Evermore residents very happy times living in this fantastic environment.

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Evermore Retirement Living

colleen moat

osition within company: Registered Nurse/Care Manager Best part about working for Evermore Living: Apart from working in stunning new premises, I am excited and humbled to have the chance to be involved from the ground up in a new, innovative organisation that genuinely wants the best for our seniors. The best of quality, the best dining, the best location and the best of care. Experience within the industry: As an 18 year old I set out to begin my nursing career in a very run down “aged care facility” in Sydney. The Matron was lovely and offered to put me through some training; that was 30 years ago! Over the years I have worked predominately in aged care at all levels of nursing and although I have tried our Public Hospitals, Private Hospitals and Remote Nursing, I always drift back to Aged Care. In recent years I drifted towards community care, as this area is where the future of Aged Care is heading. With the implementation of the Federal Government’s

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“Living Longer, Living Stronger” campaign came the push to provide services and care for seniors in their own homes. The last three years have seen many changes to Aged Care and when the opportunity came up to join Evermore, I could see the benefits and how this model of care provision was definitely the future of senior living and care. At Evermore the apartments are specifically designed for senior living: no steps, roomy, safe bathrooms and 24 hour emergency care available. It has been a pleasure developing the care systems for our new residents and knowing that all levels of care can be now be provided; Doctors and Allied Health Specialists are available, and activities designed to keep the mind and body well are all here onsite. Advice for those who are interested in moving into Evermore Living: My advice would be to look at Evermore as a chance to jump back into life. Declutter, clear the mind and look forward to the things we can offer in an environment that is luxurious and at the same time friendly and secure. What is your favourite part of the new Evermore Living Retirement complex: My favourite part of Evermore would have to be the well-equipped, modern Doctors’ and Nurses’ Suites. Another favourite room is the beautiful restaurant. Our chef has done a superb job organising his kitchen and ordering all the stunning table settings - I am so looking forward to seeing our residents being able to dine in such elegant surroundings on a day to day basis. The other favourite area is the Foyer. I think it would be rather nice to invite friends over and have them welcomed into the grand “resort style” entrance. Evermore is truly a beautiful; A place that is grand yet warm and friendly, large yet cosy and full of activity.

Gillian Evans

osition within company: Sales and Marketing Manager. Best part about working for Evermore Living: The immense personal satisfaction of seeing how happy and relieved the prospective resident and their families become when they decide to move into Evermore. Knowing they have found their new home where they will feel safe and secure, have the availabilty of good nutritional meals if required and medical services and care on site. Experience within the industry: I originally started my career in nursing and then moved into sales and marketing in the medical industry. In recent years I obtained my Licence as a real estate agent and have focused

on working in sales for retirement Lliving, where, without doubt, has been my most rewarding experience. Advice for those who are interested in moving into Evermore Living: Don’t miss out! And don’t leave it too late - visit Evermore and experience what we have to offer and the quality of the facility and our display apartments. What is your favourite part of the new Evermore Living Retirement complex: All of it - the location, the amenities and facilities, the beautiful apartments and the people. The commitment, willingness and passion of the Evermore team is unsurpassed anywhere I have experienced.

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SERVICE EXCELLENCE 2015 AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS QUALITY AWARDS

Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds have been recognised for service excellence in the 2015 Australian Business Quality Awards, and also as a LUXAFLEX SHOWCASE ALLIANCE Dealer of the Year finalist. Chrissy Jones spoke with proud owner Greg Hill and Geoff Jeffries about the achievement and what it means to the local company to win the Gold Quality and LUXAFLEX Awards. Through a strong focus on customer satisfaction, your business achieved the esteemed Australian Business Quality Award for successfully adhering to its high service standards and going beyond customersâ€™ needs. How does this feel? We are truly proud of this accomplishment, which clearly demonstrates our commitment to please our customers by providing overall quality before and after sales service. Tell us about the awards ... We were a bit surprised but thrilled to be a finalist in the LUXAFLEX SHOWCASE Dealer of the Year, which encompasses some 80 stores Australia wide. The LUXAFLEX Window Fashions brand is one of the most widely known and respected windows covering brand in Australia. LUXAFLEX is synonymous with quality craftsmanship, innovation and value in the windows covering market. The LUXAFLEX

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brand is at the heart of our business. Now in its 7th year, the Australian Business Quality Awards acknowledges enterprises that exhibit outstanding service levels as assessed by their customers. The organisation measures businesses against a range of internationally recognised principles of best practice in customer service. The Australian Business Quality Awards aim to raise the bar in customer service by encouraging businesses to be the best at what they do and rewarding those who excel in their respective fields. Open to any enterprise, regardless of its size and the nature of its business, the awards evaluate how effective an enterprise is in performing against its own and best practice customer service standards. The organisation believes that customers always look for the best service, which positively impacts the business in various

facets, from recall to word of mouth and repeat business that all affect the bottom line. Providing a good indication of which businesses have strong customer satisfaction ratings, the Australian Business Quality Awards bestows the Bronze Award to enterprises that garner a score of 70% to 80%, the Silver Award for an 80% to 90% score, and the prestigious Gold Award for a score of 90% or higher. A complete list of the winners is available at www.businessquality.com.au. Tell us about your business: At Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds, we supply and install a large range of quality LUXAFLEX internal and external blinds and awnings, aluminium, timber and PVC polyresin shutters. We also supply and install APOLLO patio awnings and tropical roofs over caravans. We provide warranties on all products sold and

installed by our company. We are conveniently located at 42 Pine Avenue, Tuncurry, where we strive to provide the highest quality products and service to our customers. What is the future vision of Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds? Our business is actively involved in striving to keep up to date with any new products and technologies which become available in the market place, and we will continue to strive to make sure our customers are satisfied with our before and after sales service. We would like to thank all of our loyal customers and especially all of the local builders, real estate agents and caravan park managers for their continued support. Thanks Greg and Geoff.

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BERMUDA BREEZE T O W N H O U S E S LIGHTHOUSE BEACH

TONY RATHBONE AND PAUL LOUGHLAND

THIS EXCITING LIGHTHOUSE BEACH TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT IS AN EASY 900 METRE STROLL FROM THE PICTURESQUE WHITE SANDS OF LIGHTHOUSE BEACH AND THE ICONIC TACKING POINT LIGHTHOUSE.

his modern and unique development will provide you with easy to maintain living on two stunning level in a high finish townhouse. Backing on to a beautiful reserve and only minutes from Port Macquarie CBD, this location is as close to perfect as it gets. Each townhouse has been designed with quality in mind. The key features of these two story townhouse include: • Spacious open planned townhouse • Ducted air-conditioning • Stone bench tops in the kitchen • Galley style kitchen with stainless steel appliances • Timber, bamboo or tiled floors in the living area • Good size bedrooms, some with balconies • Two bathrooms plus an extra WC on the ground floor • Double lock up garage or single lock up garage • Undercover alfresco area • Secure yard Rental estimates have been received at $430 - $490 per week, giving the savvy property investor an estimated gross rental yield of 5.0% - 5.5%. With vacancy rates in Port Macquarie sitting at 1.5% for August 2015, this is the ideal time to jump into the market. As there is very limited vacant land remaining in this beautiful area of Port Macquarie, this beachside property may be your last chance to invest in this rapidly growing region. Construction of this new Bermuda Breeze

complex has begun, with Stage 1 expected to be completed in approximately July 2016, with stage 2 being completed later in 2016. Stage 1 is completely sold, and stage 2 is now open for sale. There are 10 townhouses in stage 2, with six of these having double garages and four with single garages. Stage 2 apartments are very competitively priced from $449,950. Beachside properties in this There are onlys area are few and 10 townhouseof h six far between and in stage 2, witd ou ble g in represent great these hav ur with fo d an s value to the garage single garages.” astute investor with an eye on future growth, or those wishing to downsize or begin their property journey. If you’re looking for a fantastic low maintenance lifestyle property located in a highly sought after beachside location, Bermuda Breeze Apartments tick all the boxes. Contact Tony today on 1800 223 768 to take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity at Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie. www.bermudabreeze.com.au Follow us on Facebook.

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SELLING FAST! STAGE 1 - COMPLETELY SOLD STAGE 2 – 2 SOLD IN THE FIRST WEEK

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Buying or selling Real estate Then Manning Valley Legal & Conveyancing (MVLC速) is your choice in the Manning-Great Lakes. With competitive fixed fee conveyancing and able to assist with all manner of conveyancing matters, MVLC has the expertise and experience to smoothly finalise your conveyancing transaction, whether it is buying or selling, leasing, subdividing, strata or community title, simple transfers or transmission applications, and whether such transactions be residential, rural or commercial. Kristie Dawes is our mainstay conveyancer. In 2008 she graduated from the Macquarie University course required for licensed conveyancers (the same class as Sam (below)). She also has a Diploma of Business (Legal Services). She worked for three years in a conveyancing firm, and six years in a law firm before joining the team at MVLC. We also have the benefit, where necessary, of drawing upon the further wealth of experience of our consultant conveyancer, Mrs Sam Clarke. Sam was a senior licensed conveyancer for many years in a major conveyancing practice before joining MVLC. Sadly for us, her creative side has now given priority to her dress making business and art history studies! Quentin Schneider is the solicitor-principal of the law practice, and brings 25 years of experience working in the law. He has both a Bachelor and Master of Laws from the University of NSW, and is the fifth generation of a local farming family. Two other experienced and qualified support staff make up the full team of friendly faces ready to lend their expertise to make your next real estate transaction as smooth as possible. We look forward to meeting you.

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with Amanda Tate - L.J Hooker

M RKET REVIEW

IT’S ALL OVER THE NEWS, WITH LAST SATURDAY CLEARANCE RATES IN SYDNEY THE LOWEST IN THREE YEARS. SO ONE DOES WONDER WHETHER THIS MEANS SYDNEY HAS REACHED ITS PEAK, OR COULD IT JUST MEAN THAT VENDORS’ PRICING EXPECTATIONS ARE NOW JUST TOO HIGH AND UNREALISTIC, PRICING THEMSELVES OUT OF THE MARKET?

and when they do come up for sale, the ith market entry levels salesperson’s phone is rung off the hook! pushing the magic Investors are still favouring our area due to $1,000,000, how can high rents showing great returns and just as young people afford to well, because our rental market is extremely buy in Sydney? tight. Vacancy rates are well under 1%, We are definitely seeing the Sydney and quality homes to lease are scarce. As market snapping up our beautiful properties expected, this is putting pressure on rents that showcase our area and all its treasures. moving upwards, especially at the higher Why wouldn’t they, when they can purchase end. My advice to tenants: look a gem for less than what they after your tenancy and lock sold their average three in your leases. bedroom red brick home s le sa Listing activity right in the city. Just last l a Residenti m a gh in W across the Manningmonth we have e/ in Tare re o ef b g in ll Great Lakes area seen ocean views area are se t a wiff is low, although in Forster sell for some even ge n the o spring has seen $775,000 and that they are ties under er market . P rop almost a flurry of new waterfront at re $200,000 a nd when properties. We are Forster Keys for ta non-existen up for sale , still experiencing $780,000. We are e they do com n’s phone a sellers’ market, finally seeing an so the salesper hook ! ” e th and buyers need to increase in activity is rung off be ready and reminded around Diamond that with the low quantity Beach/Hallidays Point, of homes for sale, they need with a sale in Tallwoods for to be organised to exchange $765,000 followed by a sale in quickly to avoid disappointment. Good Blackhead at $780,000, both modern time to remind buyers that real estate architecturally designed homes with agents cannot legally hold a property for amazing views. a buyer just because we have offer and Old Bar and Wallabi Point are still acceptance to purchase, and contracts have experiencing good sales and strong capital been issued. We are bound by rules and growth, with a sale on Lewis Street at regulations that ensure we continue to sell $850,000, despite all the negativity with the the property until exchange and are required beach front - and further afield resort style, to submit all offers to our vendors for their waterfront living at Mitchells Island for an consideration. impressive $1,300,000. Whilst most locals In a nutshell - we are seeing capital can’t see the value that is right before them, growth in all price ranges, possibly 10 - 15% city migrants are laughing all the way to the and getting reasonable inquiry and sales on bank. the high end properties. With vacancy rates Residential sales in Taree/Wingham area so low, we need more investors into the are selling before some even get a wiff market to ease the pressure on rents and that they are on the market. Properties housing in general. under $200,000 are almost non-existent

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WITH ENERYGY COSTS RISING AND THE PACE OF LIVING BECOMING MORE HECTIC, THESE BEAUTIFUL HOMES AT SEEANA ESTATE WILL PROVIDE THEIR NEW OWNERS WITH A SUSTAINABLE AND TRANQUIL LIFESTYLE ...

SUSTAINABLE

hese are very impressive homes. What makes them different to your everyday house? The outstanding difference of these homes is they have been designed using passive solar design principles, delivering up to 30% in savings on energy costs, providing year round interior comfort. Both houses are north facing, with the roof pitch being designed to take advantage of the changing angle of the sun throughout the year. In winter when the sun is lower in the sky, the living area acts as a thermal mass absorbing heat, bringing warmth to the interior. However, during summer the sun is higher in the sky and the pitch of the roof protects the thermal mass from the sun, so it cools the interior. This, combined with four-way cross flow ventilation at the ceiling and floor level, adds to the climate control of the homes. The combination of these and other design elements maintain a comfortable in-home temperature and minimise the need for expensive energy hungry devices such as air conditioners and heaters. What are the features of these two homes? You can’t help but feel happy when you go inside these two beautiful master built homes. They are both filled with light and open space, which contributes to a feeling of relaxation. There is a wonderful feeling of quiet comfort that comes from the double layered ceiling and wall insulation. The ceiling height of 2.4 m adds to the open plan feel and the houses’ liveability. All of the glass used in these homes is “comfort plus”, which is tinted, thickened glass that aids cooling and heating and is complemented by stylish ceiling fans to assist air-flow. Both homes have four bedrooms (or 3 with study) which are carpeted and have floor to ceiling wardrobes - there is plenty of storage! The kitchens have been custom designed 70

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t with European four star to the Pacific Highway, 30 You can’ t help bu n energy saving appliancminutes to Port Macquahe w y pp feel ha e es, soft close drawers rie airport or a quick five es th de si you go in r te as m and butler’s pantry. minutes to Taree airport. ul tif au two be ey are Th . The bathrooms are A selection of primary es m ho ilt bu light lovely and spacious, and high schools and both filled with that and so are the launan easy drive to Old Bar and open space eling fe dries. beach or a little further to contri butes to a ” of relaxation. Beautiful, easy to clean the beaches of Forster-TunEuropean floor tiles are in curry. The location is special all of the living spaces, adding and exclusive, with easy access to the fresh and light feeling of the to everything that’s needed. homes. All these features come together to Convenient internal access from the make these homes stand out as great value carport area will make it easy for bringing and a pleasure to be in! in the shopping. Can you tell us the reasons behind building And then there are the sustainable design this type of home? and energy efficient features throughout, with These homes were designed and built to suit inclusions such as water saving toilets, energy all types of families. Both homes will appeal to efficient solar hot water systems, the latest families with kids, business people looking for energy efficient LED lighting, kitchen appliances a sanctuary or retirees wanting space around with high energy efficiency star ratings, water them. These homes appeal to a variety of tanks for the garden and grey water use and people and with NBN available in the area - it double layered ceiling and wall insulation. would be a fabulous place to work from home. The cost of land development is ever Much has changed in home design and many increasing, and these homes are located in look nice on the outside, but the liveability is one of the area’s most recent rural residential not what it should be on the inside. In many development. Being rural residential, there is houses the winter sun is wasted, and the ample space to design a dream garden, put in summer sun bakes the interiors. Small but additional shedding, plant a vegie patch, grow important design details that add so much. For bird attracting natives and create a personalised example, the pitch of the roof is designed for outdoor living space. the changing angle of the sun throughout the The outdoor area living space is a blank year to enhance light and warmth in winter and canvas for the new owners to create their own reduce the heat absorbed during summer when masterpiece and add their personal touch. the sun is higher in the sky. These important The location of these homes is also a lovely design features are not considered when most attribute. Unable to be built out in the the tranhomes are built. quil surrounds of Kundle Kundle, these homes Interior comfort and the need to minimise are just off Lansdowne Road in a landscape of the cost of cooling and heating a house is a big soaring trees and abundant birdlife in the exclumotivator for homes such as these in Seeana sive Seeana Estate development, with only sevEstate. en rural residential home sites. Found an easy People now understand that homes do not 10 minute drive from Taree CBD, 10 minutes have to be costly to run if they are well thought

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out before being built. With energy costs still rising, many are seeking out homes that are environmentally friendly but also benefit the hip pocket into the future. How were the houses designed and built? These homes have been designed by a renowned local designer John Basden of Sunergy Designs. John is a specialist in passive solar house designs. Both of these cleverly designed homes have been built by local builders BHI from Old Bar. It was important to use local Master Builders who understand the concepts behind these homes. A stunning feature of both homes are the use of reclaimed timber feature posts that were sourced from our local Ironwood Timber Mill in Old Bar. Each post was handpicked and hand sanded to match the grain and colour of the post. How would the buyer benefit from this type of home? As mentioned earlier, these homes make you feel happy. The tranquillity of the street, the spacious country feeling of the land, the light filled comfort of the living spaces all contribute to a healthy living environment. There is great satisfaction knowing that your home is clever and is making good use of nature’s elements to create a comfortable living environment, while not having to be concerned about having to turn the air conditioner or heater on and worrying about the cost. So comfortable and cost efficient living is what you will enjoy for years to come when you decide to make one of these homes yours. Can you tell us how our readers can find out more? Visit taree.ljhooker.com or just call Andrew Tate at LJ Hooker Taree on 6552 1133 to make an appointment for a viewing, or come to our next open house on Saturday, 3rd October 2015. Seeana Estate can also be found on Facebook.

6 May Dries Close, Cundletown

Brand New Home Built With Sustainability in Mind With the changing economy the cost of living keeps rising, this is causing us to move towards the new coming trend of low cost, sustainable living. - Built-in robes in all bedrooms, main with ensuite - Spacious open plan living area with estate views - Large kitchen with stainless steel appliances - Separate toilet off main bathroom and laundry - Smart windows allowing comfort all year round - Large solar hot water system - Cross ventilation and steel window screens The Concept of these properties is extremely unique to the area and must be viewed to discover it's true beauty and advantages. You will notice the vendors have constructed the homes with the passion of sustainable living optimised at every given possibility.

For Sale

Offers Over $500,000

Contact

Andrew Tate 0437 135 716

TAREE

4 1133 2 02 6552

9 May Dries Close, Cundletown

Exclusive Brand New Sustainable Living Home With the changing economy the cost of living keeps rising, this is causing us to move towards the new coming trend of low cost, sustainable living. Just over 12 kilometres from Taree's CBD and 7 kilometres to the airport you will find these beautifully constructed homes, purpose built for efficient, sustainable living. Nestled in the quiet cul-de-sac of May Dries Close you will have peace and quiet all year round and also have the ability to live a cost and environmentally friendly lifestyle. The list of features is extensive which include: - Built-in robes in all bedrooms, main with ensuite - Spacious open plan living area with estate views - Large kitchen with stainless steel appliances - Separate toilet off main bathroom and laundry - Smart windows throughout the home - Solar hot water system and cross ventilation

For Sale

Offers Over $500,000

Contact

Andrew Tate 0437 135 716

TAREE

02 6552 1133

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