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Feature Story Ride for Sick Kids

September 2016 // issue 115

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Welcome to the September issue of Manning-Great Lakes FOCUS.

appy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads, grandads and great grandads in the Manning-Great Lakes! We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to ways to show our appreciation the wonderful men in our lives - why not catch a show, treat him to dinner, or shop at one of our eclectic local businesses! If recognising the importance of fathers this month isn’t enough reason to celebrate, how nice will it be to welcome spring - the season of new growth and opportunity. Maybe the garden could do with some attention … or it’s time for a spring-clean. Whatever you choose to do during September, may it be an awesome month for you all. ON THE COVER Who doesn’t love a laugh! Cam Knight is emceeing the Sydney Comedy

Festival Showcase this year, which will visit the MEC on September 15. Purchase your tickets fast, to experience an evening full of belly-aching laughter and a stellar line up of supremely funny men and women. FASHIONS FOCUS were a proud sponsor of the recent Fashions on the Field at the Taree Wingham Cup last month. A big thank you to Club Taree and Taree Central, who helped out with some great prizes for our lucky winners and runner ups. Our winner for the Most Elegant Lady was Melinda Allan, and Best Dressed Gent was Darren Dark. IN THIS ISSUE Have you ever marvelled at the people and organisations who seem to have no end of community spirit? We meet Frances Breen this month - the Deputy Commander at Forster Marine Rescue. You’ll see that this role is just one of many that Frances performs in service to our

community … We also speak to Graham Kelly from the Great Lakes Sub Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association - a group that provides support and camaraderie to many of our Vets. Elands Public School also celebrates its centenary very soon - that’s 100 years of educating and supporting local kids and their families. HOME OF THE MONTH We’re very proud to showcase a beautiful house this month, that was designed by Coast Building Company. Chrissy Jones takes us on a walk-through this stunning home. FINAL SAY “When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years ” - Mark Twain.

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d McDo RonalH O U S E nald •

THE RIDE FOR SICK KIDS IS AN ANNUAL EVENT THAT RAISES FUNDS FOR

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RIDE FOR SICK KIDS

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE. THIS YEAR PARTICIPANTS WILL CYCLE 519 KM, CALLING IN AT VARIOUS TOWNS ALONG THE PACIFIC HIGHWAY ENROUTE TO BOTH RAISE FUNDS AND AWARENESS OF RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE AND ITS PROGRAMMES. RHIANNON CURTIS FROM RONALD MCDONALD FAMILY RETREAT, FORSTER, AND CRAIG EVANS, LICENSEE OF MCDONALD’S TAREE TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS EVENT...

RHIANNON CURTIS- RONALD MCDONALD FAMILY RETREAT

hat is the Ride for Sick Kids? Ride for Sick Kids is an initiative of Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW that has been taken up by several other Ronald McDonald House chapters right around Australia. The first Ride for Sick Kids was in 2005, not missing one year since. Each year the ride is alternated between the Pacific Highway and The New England Highway. Along the way, the riders stop in at primary schools to spread the message of bike safety, as well as giving two lucky students at each school a brand new bicycle! During these visits the riders and children also talk about Ronald McDonald House and how we help families with sick and injured children from their area. When will the ride take place this year? Ride for Sick Kids will take a coastal route this year. Starting at Grafton on Monday 5th September, the riders will make their way to Ronald McDonald House, Newcastle on Saturday 10th September. That’s 519 km! They will make stops at Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Forster and Salamander Bay. The group of riders are not professional athletes; they are all regular people from a number of different fields. The Executive Officer of Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW, Ross Bingham, is one of the founding riders and hasn’t missed one ride. We have lots of local support for the Ride and will have a local rider this year, Craig Evans, Taree McDonald’s Licensee. How will the ride benefit those in our larger community? In 2015, over 680 Manning-Great Lakes families were supported at one or more Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW programmes. We provide a home away from home through accommodation at John Hunter Children’s Hospital for those families with a child admitted to hospital, meaning that families are kept close

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during trying and stressful times. Within the hospital we have our Ronald McDonald Family Room, which provides families with a welcoming and homely space to come together to have a chat, grab a cuppa, do some laundry, have a sleep or just take some time out from being on the ward. Their children can play, watch TV and have some time away from the surrounds of the hospital ward and have the opportunity to just be a kid. For those families needing some support after a stay in hospital, families can take a holiday at a Family Retreat, one of which is located right here in the Manning-Great Lakes in Forster. Families can take up to seven nights at no cost in a fully self-contained unit. For children who have fallen behind at school because of multiple absences due to illness, we have the Ronald McDonald Learning Programme, which provides one on one tutoring for up to twelve months. The funds raised on the Ride will go directly to all of these programmes. What’s the aim of the ride this year? The aim of the Ride this year is to raise $200,000 and raise awareness about the services we provide regional families. Since Ride for Sick Kids began in 2005, over $2.3 million has been raised to go towards supporting families with a sick or injured child. Where can people find out more info and or/ donate to the cause? We are holding the Ride for Sick Kids Family Fun Night at Forster Entertainment Centre on Thursday 8th September. Tickets are $30 each for a fun night of ten pin, putt, putt, laser skirmish, with dinner and drinks included. We will also run some raffles and have some added fun of face painting and a photo booth. We encourage everyone to jump on Facebook to follow and donate to the Ride at https://www.facebook.com/ RideForSickKidsNNSW or you can get in touch with us at 0428 301 088 to find out how you can support the riders or our Family Fun Night.

CRAIG EVANS - MCDONALD’S TAREE

i Craig. Tell us a bit about yourself … I’m the McDonald’s Franchisee for Taree and Taree Service Centre. I have lived in the Manning for nearly all my life. My family moved back to the area when I was eight years old; I grew up on a farm at Kolodong half way between Taree and Wingham. You’ll be taking part in the Ride for Sick Kids in September. What prompted you to take part? I’ve been involved with the ride since 2008. Having worked for McDonald’s since I was 16, I have a long association with Ronald McDonald House Charities and have always been actively involved with fundraising for the charity and also the establishment of the Family Retreat in Forster. There are a lot of local families who have utilised either the house at Newcastle, Westmead or Randwick and like any charity, these rely on fundraising to keep their programmes going. The ride enables us to spread the word about the charity and its programmes through local communities from Grafton to Newcastle and fundraise along the way. 519 km over six days is a mammoth effort. What training have you been doing in the lead up to the ride? I’d like to say that I am an avid cyclist and I train every day, but that would definitely be a lie! Saying that, my training has been a

little more intense than past years. I’ve been completing a Medafit class and a spin class per week and also walking 5 km per day and riding about 100 km per week. What are you most looking forward to about the event ... and what do you hope you’ll achieve? The comradery amongst the riders is great and there is definitely plenty of banter travelling along the Pacific Highway, but the most gratifying thing is meeting families who have benefited from Ronald McDonald House at the nightly events held in each town. We have a goal of raising $200,000 again this year, which comes from donations by the public, and all McDonald’s Restaurants on the Mid North Coast and in Newcastle will be donating 50 cents from every tall McCafe Coffee sold during September - which has the potential to raise over $100,000 alone. How can Focus readers assist you? Focus readers can go online and make a donation at https://everydayhero.com.au/event/ rideforsickkids2016 or they can attend the local event that is being held on September 8 at Forster Entertainment Centre. It should be a great night for families, which includes dinner, two drinks plus entry into Putt Putt Golf, Ten Pin Bowling and Laser Tag for $30 per person. There will be raffles and a silent auction on the night, with all profits going to the cause. Tickets can be purchased from Forster Bowling Club.

WANDA AMOS.

Talented local photographer Wanda Amos recently travelled to India, and her amazing photos share the story of her visit in a way words would fail to achieve …

issue I S S U E

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TAREE TORNADOES. The Taree Tornadoes Under 12 Girls’ representative basketball team are standing out as a team of the future. Taking out their division in the NSW Country Basketball Championship In Newcastle in June, coach Steve Atkins shares the girls’ amazing achievements and details their future opportunities ...

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S E P T E M B E R

WHAT’S ON FOR SEPTEMBER HEALTH REGULAR FEATURE

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BUSINESS MINDS JEREMY THORNTON 55. TOURISM INSIGHT SHARON BULTITUDE 54.

44. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI HALL

living AND RETIREMENT

CABINET OF WONDERS.

“Wunderkammer” translates from German as “Cabinet of Wonders” … and this upcoming exhibition at the Manning Regional Gallery is certainly that. Artist Rod McRae presents an exhibition that showcases his skill as a taxidermist, but also an exhibition that is bound to create conversation, perhaps a little controversy, as it brings to the fore many social and environmental issues facing our world today …

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No matter where you are in the world, read FOCUS for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au

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FRANCES B R E E N

EVERY SO OFTEN YOU FIND OUT ABOUT ONE OF THOSE WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHO ARE SO COMMUNITY ORIENTED, THEY GIVE UP COUNTLESS HOURS OF THEIR TIME TO HELP OTHERS. FRANCES BREEN IS ONE OF THESE PEOPLE … RETIRED COURT REGISTRAR, PASTOR, SCHOOL ASSISTANT, CHORISTER, AND DEPUTY COMMANDER OF FORSTER MARINE RESCUE, FRANCES IS AN INSPIRATION …

i Frances. Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your family… I am married with three children and three delightful granddaughters. The first time I visited this beautiful part of the world was in 1958, the year before the bridge was opened. I travelled with my family from Tamworth to a church reunion at Tiona campgrounds. I still remember the ride on the Tuncurry/Forster punt as a seven year old, the most exciting thing that had happened to me up to that point in my young life. From then on, I became a regular visitor to the area. I eventually introduced my husband to the area before we were married; he couldn’t wait to retire and reach his “liberation day”, the day in 2007 when we (our daughter included) left the noise and busyness of Sydney to retire to our home by the water in Forster. Maybe because I began my working life later than my husband, it wasn’t long before the urge to get back into a rhythm of work and the daily challenges of running a court house beckoned in the form of a phone call from the Attorney General’s Department. I jumped at the chance to fill in as Registrar at Coffs Harbour for a few months and eventually took on the role of Registrar/Assistant Coroner at Taree, from where I finally retired (again) in 2011. What was your work background? I began my career in the Local Court of NSW in 1987 and worked my way through the ranks to become Registrar of some metropolitan courts

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goings on of Marine Rescue developed from then until this year, when I was elected the first female Deputy Commander of Forster/Tuncurry Marine Rescue. My role as Deputy Commander is to generally work collaboratively with the Commander, om support his role and fill in if fr ds ar w re The ng he is absent. I am also the ri ee nt lu vo . ed et current administration ofac tif ul m are (Parramatta, Burwood, ficer, which involves preI get to work with Ryde and Hornsby) as paring correspondence many wonderful well as some regional people , whose and working closely with ded courts, Dubbo, Coffs community min the “behind the scenes” g and Harbour and Taree. spirit is amazin team which keeps the I would say mine was infectious .” engine room running. one of the most rewarding Intermingled with this, I careers I could imagine, never also began to fulfill my childhood two days the same, each day filled dream of becoming a teacher by volunwith challenges of all kinds. A day in the life teering at local schools to help young peoof a court Registrar can consist of dealing ple struggling with literacy and numeracy skills. with staffing issues, liaising with architects I have conducted one on one coaching, as well over the new court house, making decisions in as provided group assistance for teachers who bail courts, talking with the media, settling fencwork in learning support, some with disengaged ing disputes, counselling the grieving over the students. The result of seeing a child begin to sudden death of a loved one and topping off the flourish and enjoy their school life is worth more day by joining two people in marriage. than any monetary reward. What first sparked your interest in volunWhat church are you associated with, and teer/community work? what do you most enjoy about your role One day, when I was busily working away there? at Taree court, my husband walked into the I have been a lifelong member of the Commudownstairs door at Forster Marine Rescue and nity of Christ Church and am currently co-pastor discovered a whole new world of radio operating of the Green Cathedral Ministries at Tiona. Our and boat crewing - a chance to live out some mission is to share the message of Christ, to of his dreams of working on boats. We would promote communities where love, joy, hope compare notes at the end of the day. He would and peace abound. My enjoyment comes from sprout tales of learning about knot tying, drift sharing with the many visitors who come to the patterns and search and rescue techniques, whilst Green Cathedral from all parts of this land as I bored him with my courthouse stories. well from overseas who bring home the fact that I admit I didn’t take too much notice, until I indeed, we are one in the eyes of Christ, we all retired, and as a bit of a fun thing to do, talked share common challenges and have an innate my neighbour into coming with me to learn desire for peace and justice, wherever we live. about weird radios that go by the name of VHF, 27 meg, HF, DCN, UHF etc. My interest in the I've also been informed that you enjoy sing-

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ing. What choir are you a member of? From our small congregation at the Green Cathedral was formed the Green Cathedral Community Choir, which usually meets weekly to practice in an informal setting, have a few laughs and generally come up with a presentable version of a song. We perform at major church services, for community groups such as the View Club, the CWA, at the local aged care facilities and wherever else we are invited. We welcome new members and are especially looking for more males to join our happy group of choristers. What is it about being a volunteer that keeps you inspired? The rewards from volunteering are multifaceted. I get to work with many wonderful people, whose community minded spirit is amazing and infectious. I get to “get out of the house” quite often, priceless for one who is domestically challenged. I get to enjoy the satisfaction of the “thank you” from the stranded boatie, or the passing yachtie who expresses their gratitude for their ability to feel safe, knowing we are keeping an eye on them; the email from a grateful parent whose child has progressed in school to an extent not imagined because of a few hours of coaching, the feel of the age worn hands encircling yours at the end of a choir performance in the local nursing home; the list is endless. Final say … It is said we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before. This is certainly true with our unit in Forster. The unit operates solely because of the dedication of its current members combined with the legacy of those who put countless volunteer hours into creating the building itself and contributed endless hours to the training, fundraising and operations that result in the well run unit we have today. My hat goes off to them. May your waters always be calm and may you always find that safe harbour in your life. Thanks Frances.

We’re expanding! We’re expanding! …and doubling the size of our village!

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We’ve listened to your suggestions and our new 2 bedroom units will be larger, with more storage and separate laundries, complemented by a new community lounge.

These brand new units will be available early in 2017. We’ve already had many enquiries, so please don’t delay in contacting us to register your interest.

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P U B L I C

S C H O O L

Centenary Celebrations - October 1st

I N T E RV I E W W I T H P R I N C I PA L J O B O L A N D A N D P & C P R E S I D E N T A S P E N C H A R L E S W O R T H .

i Jo. What can you tell us about the history of Elands Public School? In 1914, an application for Half-Time schools at Bulgong and Doyle’s River was granted in November of that year. Elands Public School was originally known as Bulgong Public School. Bulgong School was built in 1916 and started operating the same year. The schoolroom was constructed of split slabs, on wooden stumps, with an iron gabled roof and measured 4.8 m X 4.8 m. There were sixteen students originally enrolled, consisting of six families. Mr Angus Rose was in charge of both Bulgong and Doyle’s River schools. In 1924 the school became known as Elands Public School, in the previous year Doyle’s River school changed its name to Glenwarrin Public School; this school eventually closed in 1970. How long have you been the principal at Elands, and what have been some of the biggest changes you've witnessed during your time at the school? I was appointed as Principal of Elands Public School in July 2013 and commenced duties at the beginning of Term 3 that year. Currently the school has eighteen students enrolled. Three days per week we split the infants and primary classes for literacy and numeracy. I take the K - 2 class, and Andrina Sheahan teaches the Years 3 - 6. On the remaining days (and afternoons), the two classes combine for other lessons and activities, which Andrina and I teach on alternate days. I wouldn’t say there have been major changes made at the school in the past three years, just more of a steady influx of the

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reliance upon technology to be integrated into lesson plans and activities, and also the implementation of the new Australian Curriculum has created opportunities to refresh and invigorate one’s approach to planning and teaching. What do you feel are some of the school's/ school community's greatest strengths? As part of my research into the events and activities of the past 100 years at the school, it has been mentioned and recorded a number of times how the community has actively supported and valued the school. This is still very much evident today, and even more so with the preparations for the centenary celebrations. We have community members on the centenary committee, teaching students sewing, knitting and basket weaving, donating or making beautiful handmade items for the centenary memorabilia and raffle, as well as running barbecues to raise money for the centenary funds. With their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm, we have the makings of a memorable milestone event that we (as a whole community) can share in and be proud of. As the school gears up to celebrate its centenary, what are your goals for the greater school community moving forward? This coming event will provide an opportunity for the younger members of the school and the newer members of the community to learn about the history of the area and the school and to also see what can be achieved by working together, accepting others’ differences and opinions, looking for the positives, not the negatives to achieve set goals, and value the importance of celebrating

significant milestones. These are the ideals that have always been the underlying strength in this eclectic community. As new people join us and younger generations move back, choosing to live and work here, we are optimistic that these ideals will be passed on, so that the community continues to be strong, tolerant and vibrant. Hi Aspen. What types of activities/ responsibilities does the Elands Public School P&C committee typically undertake? Elands Public School is a small school in a beautiful, rural community in the Upper Manning Valley, 40 km west of Wingham. The nature of the mountain road means the relative isolation is greater than the distance suggests. The small P&C Committee work hard to bring in extra funds, which provides a more enriching educational experience for the children. Travel fees are a predominant cost, bringing programmes to the school, such as gymnastics, dance and music, as well as excursions. Excursions are of particular importance to students living in remote areas, as they provide a great opportunity for the children to interact with the wider community and form bonds with other small schools in the region. As part of our extra fundraising to assist with the centenary, community members have generously donated their time, skills and gifts. It is wonderful to see the community of Elands support this historic occasion. The P&C committee has been busy organising a special centenary celebration for the school. Firstly, where and when will the celebrations take place?

The Centenary Celebration will be held at Elands Public School on the 1st October, from 10am ‘til 4pm. This event is free. The school is located in the village of Elands, less than a minute’s drive from the majestic Ellenborough Falls, on the Tourist Drive No. 8. What are some of various activities/ forms of entertainment that have been organised? The celebration will include performances by past and present students, fun stalls, old time games like sack races, three legged race, tunnel ball, captain ball and more. The community has also been working hard to collect historic memoirs and audio/video recordings from people who attended schools in Elands and the Bulga from the 1920s to recent times, which will be presented on the day and made available in a book form. The Bulga Soldiers Memorial Hall (in Elands) is joining the school celebrations by holding a Photographic Exhibition and Bush Dance at the Hall. It starts at 4pm with Wingsong Choir, followed by twenties music, a bush dance, then rock ‘n’ roll with Red Cedar Band, and will continue into the night with local bands and DJs. Dinner from 6:30pm is $10. Dance from 5pm is $15; concession $10. All this is happening on the Bulga Plateau October 1st 2016 - if you would like to make a weekend of it, there is camping available. Ring Jane on 6550 4402 or Barbara on 6550 4429. Where do readers find out more info about the celebration? For more information, call the Elands Public School 6550 4557 or check out Facebook.com/ elandspscentenary Thanks Jo and Aspen.

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PHOTOGRAPHY CAN BE INSPIRED BY SO MANY THINGS … PEOPLE, EXPERIENCES, SIGHTS AND SOUNDS - AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO SHOWCASE THIS, THAN WITH A SPECIAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCE? TALENTED LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER WANDA AMOS RECENTLY JOURNEYED TO INDIA, AND HER AMAZING PHOTOS SHARE THE STORY OF HER VISIT IN A WAY WORDS WOULD FAIL TO ACHIEVE …

i Wanda. Where Ireland in 2008, looked at my photos and just did your interest had this idea I could do better - I picked up in photography the local newspaper, and there was advert for begin? club night at Forster Digital Photo Club … it I can remember was serendipity, really. Mum and my aunts Club photography fosters information having Kodak Box and interaction between members; the Brownies, and it was competitions system inspires you to develop always fun hamming it up for the camera. skills in seeing and capturing that image, and Dad gave me his Agfa camera with a 120 the critique of judges and fellow members film, and I was amazed at the quality of the provides another outlet for learning. photos compared to the I also belong to popular Instamatics of Mosman Camera the 1960s. Club and several What have been some photography groups of the best lessons on the ‘net. Landscape photography you've ever learned You recently takes planning, "behind the lens" travelled to India. patience and about capturing great Tell us a bit about often getting out images? the trip ... How long of bed early in the The camera/lens is only were you away, and morning - all skills a small part of getting an what areas did you I have had to work eye catching image - it is travel to? on!” mainly the eyes and mind I did a three week behind the lens, and road trip in March sometimes good timing. across northern India Friendly interaction from Varanasi, Agra between you and your subjects nearly always home of the Taj Mahal, the colourful deserts produces better photos. and cities of Rajasthan, to Gujarat state in the Landscape photography takes planning, west. patience and often getting out of bed early in The group of 12 was led by two the morning - all skills I have had to work on! professional photographers - Malcolm What photography clubs/groups are Fackender was one with whom I have you a member of, and how have these travelled before. He gets you to places and groups helped hone your skill? gives you the best opportunities of getting I had used point and shoot cameras for the photo. many years of travel. I came home from It was a great opportunity for people and

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B E H I N D

architectural photography and meeting locals. What are some of your favourite memories from the trip? The sights, sounds and smells of Varanasi the masses of colourful people, their customs and daily life lived out on the steps and backstreets beside the river Ganges. The country life in Gujarat, staying in a mud hut eco-village - we spent time with nomadic herders of camels, goats and sheep â€Ś Also the gypsy-like workers who form camps on the outskirts of the cotton fields, where they work as pickers, plus in the local towns selling trinkets, snake remedies and as fortune tellers. Nearby, the Rann of Kutch is a wildlife reserve for migrating birds including flamingos and cranes; plus, the Salt Farms - the monsoon floods are drained from the desert, leaving saltpans. Really hard work is required to harvest the salt. Seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise and trying to capture the different angles and light on this amazing piece of architecture. The smiles and friendliness of the people - often so happy to have their photo taken and then see the results on the back of your camera. The food from farms, to markets, to the table! And that Rose Petal Lassi in Udaipar was to die for! The scary traffic! It was like being on a two way roller coaster that was often on the same track not only with other vehicles and bikes, but people, cows, goats, camels and elephants all contributed to the traffic hazards. Our driver said to drive in India you need good eyesight, good brakes, good horn, and good luck.

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What do you feel were some of the greatest contrasts between the daily life you experienced in India, and your own life in the Manning-Great Lakes? A total contrast - we have so much in material possessions; they have so little. The lack of obvious conflict in a society that lives so close to each other, even on the roads. The customs and religion (Hindu, Moslem, Buddhist) that seem to be a part of everyday life. Why would you encourage others to visit this country ... and what are some tips you can give about the best camera gear to take with them? It is country that will overwhelm you with the friendliness, colour and culture and of course, the delicious food. The best camera to take is the one you are familiar with, so you donâ€™t miss those opportunities that are gone in an instant. If you are into architecture, make the most of it with a wide angle lens. I use the mirrorless system Fujifilm X T1 and E1 with various lenses. My favourite lens is a 35 mm f1.2 prime lens, which is perfect for street and candid people shoots. Where can we see more samples of your photography or find out more about you? Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/wanda_ oldbar/albums On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amosMwanda Or my Haiku poetry (my other passion) on https://www.facebook.com/haiku. wandarings Thanks Wanda. manning-great lakes focus.

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T H E S Y D N E Y C O M E D Y F E S T I VA L S H O W C A S E I S B A C K O N T H E R O A D W I T H A H U G E 2 0 1 6 T O U R !

he funniest comedians from this year’s Sydney Comedy Festival are hitting the road and bringing all-star comedy showcases to Taree, Port Macquarie and Newcastle. With an epic comedy line up expertly curated from this year’s festival, audiences will be treated to a huge night that is sure to leave them sore from belly laughs! MC for the night is the highly energetic, highly entertaining Cam Knight (The Comedy Channel, ABC, Channel 9), who will have the audience wrapped around his finger with his wickedly absurd flights of fancy and quick one liners. The showcase will feature Jacques Barrett, comedy circuit veteran and heavy hitter, who will be delivering consistent blows of killer lines. With over a decade of experience rocking stages globally, David Williams’ unique brand of humour will also be entertaining the crowds, as will the quirky yet charming antics of award winning comic Penny Greenhalgh. Gearard McGeown, who starred in last year’s Breakout Comedy Showcase for Sydney Comedy Festival, will be showing the crowd why he was selected to feature as a hot emerging talent of the

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Sydney comedy scene. With more special guests also in the line up, you will not want to miss these two hours of hard hitting laughter. Get in quick and grab your tickets to the funniest night you will see all year! FOCUS caught up with the Emcee of the show, hugely talented and funny Cam Knight, in the lead up to this year’s showcase… What was it about comedy that made you think, “This is where I want to be”? It's not an office job; my hourly rate is really good, and I can drink on the job whilst saying and doing whatever I like. Why would I ever want to be anywhere else! How/when did you break into the comedy scene? I dunno; I guess when I got a support cast role in the sketch show Big Bite on Channel 7 back in 2000 and something ...That got me noticed to audition for a show on Fox 8 called Chain Reaction, which then led to me hosting a bunch of shows on The Comedy Channel for about five years. Tell us about your very first stand up experience … My first gig was in 2000. It was in an open mic room in a pub in Melb with about eight people in the audience. Half of them were

other comedians ... I wouldn't say I changed history that night, but they gave me a few free beers, so, swings and roundabouts. You’ve had an impressive career spanning over many years and facets of entertainment on and off the screen. What have been some of your biggest highlights? I just interviewed John Cleese a few days ago for a behind the scenes doco on Fawlty Towers Live, which was really special. My parents gave me The Life of Brian for my 12th birthday, so to say I'm a big fan is an understatement. Some people say you should never meet your idols, but that's a load of bollocks and those “people” are idiots. What is the formula and process to writing a good joke? I'm still trying to work that out! Usually I make some stupid mistake in my life, then I think about it a bit until I think I'm comfortable retelling the story on stage. Then I start telling it until it makes me laugh and feel OK about myself again. So in a nutshell ... tragedy+time does equal comedy. What makes you laugh? At the moment? My two year old son, my actor mate Andy Ryan, comedian Ray Badran, Bill Burr, Rick and Morty and Bojack Horseman.

You’ve been given the ever so important job of Emceeing this year’s Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase; what are you looking forward to, and how do you feel about setting the vibe for the show? These shows are the best! I love emceeing them. Huge, appreciative crowds. Killer line up of great comedians, plus free pizza backstage. Bingo bango bongo! Who is joining you on the bill? I'll be joined by comedy circuit veteran Jacques Barrett, the charming David Williams, award winning Penny Greenhalgh and emerging legend Gearard McGeown awesome line up, not to be missed! Thanks Cam.

the plug! Don’t miss your chance to enjoy two hours of laughs at the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase at the Manning Entertainment Centre. Thursday 15 September 2016; 7:30pm. Visit www.mec.gtcc.nsw.gov.au for details.

focus_What’s On Manning Great Lakes

September

DAD’S DAY - MUSIC IN THE PADDOCK

Dad’s Day - Music in the Paddock @ Great Lakes Paddocks (aka) Great Lakes Winery with “BIG FINS” ... This band gets everyone up and dancing barefoot in the paddock with their selection of tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. TICKETS - $15 (under 13 FREE). Tickets available at the gate or pre-purchase from Great Lakes Paddocks; call 4997 7255 or email info@greatlakeswines. com.au - pre-book SET MENU - two course lunch @ $30 per head. Pre-book a Paddock Picnic Box for two adults - $40, includes: cheeses, crackers, pate, fruit salad, drinks vouchers, BBQ vouchers and choccies. See you for some fun in the BACK PADDOCK! When Sun 4 Sep 2016; 1pm - 4pm. Where Great Lakes Winery, 115 Herivals Rd, Wootton. Website www.greatlakespaddocks. com.au Phone 4997 7255. Email info@greatlakeswines.com.au

2016 PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS FAMILY FUN DAY When Sun 4 Sep 2016, 10am - 2pm. Location River St, Taree NSW 2430. Phone (02) 6555 4099.

EKAM YOGA FESTIVAL

If you enjoy yoga, meditation, the sounds of gongs and singing bowls and healthy living, a visit to Port Macquarie for Ekam Yoga Festival on Sunday 18 September and Ekam Out and About on Saturday 17 September is a must. Tickets are $98 and available online now at www.ekamyogafestival.org.au. Connect to the Ekam community on Facebook/ekamyogafestival.

BROOKS FORSTER RUNNING FESTIVAL

SEASIDE HERITAGE QUILTERS EXHIBITION An exhibition of bed quilts and art quilts with morning tea, raffles and sales table. When Saturday, Sunday and Monday 1st to 3rd October 2016 - October Long Weekend. Where Holy Name School Hall, Forster. Open from 9:30 to 4pm - Sat and Sun and 9:30 to 2pm Monday. Entry is free. More info Vicki Buchanan 6554 3310.

Come and celebrate the 7th Brooks Forster Running Festival. The success from previous years has seen numbers grow to over a thousand competitors since the inaugural event in 2011.Not a runner? Team up with your friends and family and enjoy the beautiful four kilometre walk and talk. All competitors throughout the day receive finishing medals, fresh fruit and ice cream for their recovery. When Sunday 11 September. Where Corner Oyster Parade and Beach Street, near Main Beach, Forster. Phone 0404 835 060. Email peter@ forsterrunningfestival.com.au Website www.greatlakes.org.au/ events/showcase-events/event/67066-forster-running-festival

LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK

You can create a brighter future for people with blood cancer by signing up for the Leukaemia Foundation's Light the Night walk. Gather family and friends to light a beautiful lantern at twilight, gold to remember someone, white for your own journey, or blue to show you care. A short walk will follow to reflect the community united in hope for a brighter future free of blood cancer. Sign up now online or by phone. Where Old Bar Beach. When Oct 1st. Contact 1800 500 088. Website www.lightthenight.org.au

Matters. [ w ith Ala n Tickle ]

The The Legal Legal Light Light W I T H

J U S T I N

S T A C K

Justin Stack VEHICLE ACCIDENT VICTIMS LOSE OUT IN CTP CHANGES

General Advice Can be Costly I’m sure most people have phoned their superannuation fund at some point and have heard the general advice warning.

Is an account based pension the right solution? The situation just described highlights the need for strategy reviews.

The warning, put simply, says that the advice isn’t really advice; it’s just information that is generic.

This is particularly the case when there is a bereavement leaving a widow or widower.

The value of advice hit home to some new clients, who were referred to me by an accountant.

While account based or superannuation pensions might have been a simple solution for retirement income needs for a couple, the tax consequences for an estate needs to be considered when one of the couple dies.

The clients, who were the sole beneficiary of their late father’s estate, were shocked to discover that $30,000 tax was deducted from the proceeds of an account based pension fund held with an industry superannuation fund. Their father did not have an adviser providing on-going advice and the telephone client service staff, who could not provide individual advice, did not point out that making his adult children beneficiaries under a binding nomination, would attract tax, as they were not financial dependents. Their father had a terminal illness and had there been individual advice sought from an adviser, they would have pointed out that the fund could have been cashed in before he died, to avoid the tax applying. The claim that the industry fund was cheaper than other funds was also under question, but the real cost was their father not having an advice relationship, and therefore not being able to openly explain his changed circumstances to a trusted adviser who could have assisted him get his affairs in better order.

A single age pensioner with no other income could have around $153,900 invested in managed funds and bank accounts and still receive the full pension. So in those cases, if an account based pension makes up the invested sum, a re-think of the strategy would be wise, to avoid future tax to the estate of the widow or widower when they die. Non-concessional contributions Keeping non-concessional contributions in a separate superannuation fund, and drawing from the concessional components is also a smart strategy in estate planning to minimise tax consequences, because personal contributions for which no tax deduction was claimed, can flow free of tax to an estate. Getting advice on how to draw on super and re-contribute as a personal contribution on retirement is a smart estate planning strategy to avoid or reduce the impact of tax to an estate in the future.

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.

manning-great lakes focus.

inety per cent of people injured in vehicle accidents will have to battle giant insurance companies alone and without legal assistance under controversial changes to the NSW CTP Green Slip scheme put forward by the government. This is just one of the detrimental effects of the proposed reforms for the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme announced by the NSW government, said Justin Stack, Managing Director of Stacks Law Firm. “While the current CTP scheme has problems, these reforms go too far against the interests of the victims of vehicle accidents, and give too much power to the giant insurance companies,” Mr Stack said. “Insurers have a vested interest in not paying out for injuries, so the entire focus for justice for victims has shifted.” The government has proposed a no-fault, low-benefits, compensation style scheme for motor accident victims. After a certain period, only about ten per cent of accident victims receive any ongoing benefits. Instead of a government agency dispensing benefits which has some sort of oversight and obligation to treat accident victims fairly, the scheme will rely on five powerful private insurers whose only motive is to maximize profits and squeeze victims. “The vast majority of people with long-term

loss of earnings and long-term medical needs will be pushed into reliance on Centrelink payments or public hospitals and Medicare. The taxpayer will effectively be picking up the bill for the insurance giants.” “If victims dispute a decision on lost earnings and future medical needs, it will be the insurer who receives the appeal, the same company that just denied the benefit.” “This is obviously unfair, and groups like the Australian Lawyers Alliance are deeply concerned there will be no independent way to review decision making by the insurers, and that ninety per cent of claimants won’t be allowed to engage a lawyer to assist them to access benefits to which they are entitled.” “Insurers have powerful teams of highly experienced in-house legal experts, and to expect accident victims to battle against them without anyone qualified to help or support them is a denial of justice.” “Stacks Law Firm has extensive experience in this aspect of law and we are concerned vehicle accident victims will be denied their rights, and insurance giants will pocket massive profits.” “It sounds good for the NSW government to say the changes will bring down the cost of a green slip, but we've seen what happened with similar changes to the NSW Workers Compensation scheme - accident victims got less and insurers’ profits went up.”

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER | COOPERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU | HELLO@COOPERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU 15

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U12 GIRLSâ€™ REPRESENTATIVE TEAM

16 manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview. The Taree Tornadoes Under 12 Girls’ Representative Basketball Team are standing out as a team of the future. Taking out their division in the NSW Country Basketball Championship in Newcastle in June, coach Steve Atkins shares the girls’ amazing achievements and details their future opportunities...

U12 GIRLS’ REPRESENTATIVE TEAM

i Steve. Tell us about the junior basketball scene in the area and how kids can get involved. Basketball continues to be a very popular sport right across Australia. Locally, there are hundreds of kids playing junior basketball, and if you wander into Taree’s Saxby Stadium over the weekend, you will be amazed by the positive environment and put simply, the great time all the kids are having. We are highlighting the achievements of this great group of under twelve girls in this article, but Taree Tornadoes have had a wonderful group of representative basketballers across many age groups this year - Under 14s Girls and Boys, Under 16s Girls and Boys and Under 18s Boys teams. Our goal, of course, is to get more and more kids into basketball, playing in local competitions, coming along to our training sessions to develop their skills, and strengthening our representative teams to go on and compete at a high level. Basketball is a great sport, especially for kids. When they are on the court, they get to do everything, and it’s a very dynamic game - fast and skillful. We find kids really like this. For all those interested kids and parents out there, we have kids as young as five years old training and playing, all the way up to the end of high school and into the adult competitions. We want any kids or adults keen to play, or interested in learning how to play, to reach out to us and we will invite them in; there are new kids pitching up to train and/or play every week.

eat Basketball is a gr ly al ci sport, espe . When they are on ds ki for t to do the court, they ge s a very it’ everything, and st and fa dynamic game really ds ki skillful. We find like this. ”

“ Who are the current members of this champion team? They are: Maddy Prowse, Annika Scott, Mariah Raddburn, Mikayla Collins, Amarley Bron, Kirra Simon, Taya Hunter, Charlotte Nguyen, Layla Ney and Bridie Cooper. Also training with the squad are Olivia Nguyen and Kayla Evans. Over the June long weekend this year, the girls played Queanbeyan in the final of the NSW Country Championships at Newcastle, taking out the match 38 to 10. How tough was this competition? The final match was really tough. The girls won all their six pool game matches by a much larger margin, and that was the closest game of the weekend. People would be surprised at just how rugged and bruising basketball is - even for the Under 12 girls. It’s very physical ... our Taree girls are very athletic, and they were right into the competition, all game, every game. Amarley Bron was named the most valuable player in the championship final. She must have just tipped out her good mate, Mariah Raddburn, for the honour - the two girls shared the captaincy of the team over the weekend. All the girls are amazing ... I’m very keen for them all to keep choosing basketball as their preferred sport. The girls are really enjoying their basketball and on top of being a very talented group, they are very dedicated to a structured training routine. And the girls hadn’t played together for very long prior to this championship? No, this was basically the first major championship. We had one primary school tournament in Tamworth prior. The girls all

come from different Primary Schools, St. Josephs (Taree), Taree West, Wingham Public, and Forster Public, so it really is a regional team. The girls come together to form a great team on the court, but have also built great friendships off the court. The next big tournaments are in Port Macquarie in November and Bellingen in December. The way the girls have been performing at training, I expect the competition are in for another difficult weekend against our youngest Tornadoes. What do you feel some of the girls’ greatest strengths as a team are? Their sportsmanship and attitude is fantastic. The girls train very hard, but also have loads of fun, and we all make it a priority to enjoy ourselves. Normally in Under 12 girls basketball, it’s rare to have a team that are both organised on the court and super quick ... our girls are both. It’s not all about the speed, but getting up the court quickly with the ball is important, and the girls excel at this. The team’s defence is also very, very strong, and their teamwork is excellent. It’s a pleasure to coach this group of girls, along side Assistant Coach Elisha Raddburn and the team Manager Miranda Bourke. How often do the girls train? Closer to tournament times, we will step up our training sessions from once a week to twice a week. The girls are obviously still only young, so at present we are training just once a week, but also playing as a group one day

over the weekend, on top of the girls’ school based team competition. After six or seven matches at a tournament ... it can get very tiring and tough physically, so it’s a fine line between being prepared and overdoing things. The girls are playing in a winter comp at the moment. Summer’s normally the “big camp” for kids, but because there are so many kids wanting to play basketball at the moment, there’s a demand for a winter camp as well. I sense this summer is going to be our biggest year for kids’ basketball yet. How can kids interested in playing basketball locally join a team, or find out more? It’s really just a case of the parents getting in contact with Taree Basketball, or enquiring through the kids’ schools (we would love to get more school based teams involved). Everyone’s also welcome to turn up to weekend matches. We are happy to get any interested kids involved in a team. We also hold a great Magic Monday training session for all kids’ ages and all skill levels from 4pm to 5:15pm every Monday afternoon; just turn up and get started! For any enquiries or information, please contact Taree Tornadoes Basketball: email: tareebasketball@hotmail.com Website: www.taree.basketball.net. au Telephone: 6551 7456 or look for Taree Basketball or Saxby Stadium on Facebook. Thanks Steve. manning-great lakes focus.

focuseditorial.

focusinterview.

WARDROBE RULES

MANNING VALLEY NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES (MVNS), A LITTLE TO THE LEFT STUDIO & GALLERY AND THE FASHION COMPASSION CREW ARE WORKING TOGETHER AND INVITE YOU TO TAKE PART IN THE CREATIVE COAST’S MOST FASHIONABLE UPCOMING EVENT: MY WARDROBE RULES 29TH OCTOBER – BLUE CROSS CHURCH HALL, TAREE!! We are collecting quality, special clothing and all things fashion (think shoes, bags, hats, jewellery) so that some can be restyled by our team of fashion passion people into complete outfits available for purchase on the day. Think: clothes that you know will never fit you, never wear again and yet you hang onto them.

And then - grab your girlfriends and come to our event!

All we ask from you is to dig deep into your wardrobe, and let go of those really good things so that we can give them a new lease of life!

So be generous, and have some fun! Funds raised will support the work of MVNS. Join the Fashion Compassion Crew if you would like to get involved with organising. The more people, the more fun we can have and the more funds we can raise, together! Contact Susie 0405 250 399 or Sam 0401 108 070 for more information.

Splash Dance

LIVE

There are three designated convenient drop-off points - ring us for details ASAP! Please be the one to help start the momentum with your workplace, club or group of friends.

The day promises to be the most fashionable fun this side of Milan, with repurposing demonstrations, personal styling talks, trend forecasting, tea leaf reading and lucky door prizes.

SPLASHDANCE IS THE NEW HIT SERIES FROM ABC KIDS TV. THE SERIES PREMIERED ON AUSTRALIA DAY THIS YEAR, AND REACTION TO THE SHOW FROM FAMILIES HAS BEEN SO STRONG, THAT ABC TV IMMEDIATELY RETURNED ALL 26 EPISODES TO AIR AFTER THE FIRST RUN.

ow families will have the opportunity to experience SplashDance Live, with the cast performing a special school

thing I love most is getting on stage and performing for the kids. I love to see their smiling faces dancing and singing along with us at our shows!

holiday performance at Club Forster on Tuesday, September 27th. The performance will commence at 11am, and tickets are on sale at the club now. FOCUS had a quick

SEVERAL MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION AND AFFILIATES (NASHOS) GREAT LAKE SUB-BRANCH ATTENDED A 65TH ANNIVERSARY SERVICE IN HOLSWORTHY ON AUGUST 7.

he service commemorated the first intake of the 12th and 19th Battalions into Holsworthy camp in 1951. The group was welcomed by Lt Col

John Moore AM (Rtd) and Chaplain Lt Col Colin Aiken OAM RFD, who read the prayer of remembrance. Maj. Gen Paul Irving AM. PSM. RFD gave the Remembrance Address, and State

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President Mr Ron Brown OAM, JP read the Ode of Remembrance. The group were also addressed by other dignitaries. The chapel was almost at capacity, with approximately 200 National Servicemen in attendance. Lunch was provided after the service by the Australian Army Cadet unit based at Holsworthy.

chat to Adrian from

My favourite is ‘Fly We e Can Fly’, becaus t ge h uc m ty et I pr e th nd to run arou to ng di en stage pret ” e! an pl ro ae be an

“

the group in the lead up to their live show!

How do your stage shows differ from the television broadcasted shows? Is there audience interaction? The biggest difference is being able to interact with the kids and their parents at the live shows.

SplashDance. In SplashDance we play

What is your favourite song to perform and why? My favourite is Fly We Can Fly, because I pretty much get to run around the stage pretending to be an aeroplane!

ourselves, so I just get to be me! I love to

Your favourite colour? Orange.

sing, dance and goof around! What do you love most about being

Best Joke? How do you get Pikachu on a bus? You POKE him on!

a part of this dynamic show? The

Thanks Adrian!

Hi Adrian. Introduce us to yourself and your character with SplashDance ... Hey! I’m Adrian Espulso; I’m one of four members of

LIVE THE DREAM.

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LIVE THE DREAM AT McGUIGAN BMW FROM

$55,990

DRIVE AWAY*

McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Ph 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au DL7571 *Offer based on drive away price for a new BMW X1 sDrive18d ordered and delivered between 01.08.2016-31.12.2016. Price is based on the vehicle being garaged in NSW and a private owner with a good driving record. Price may vary according to individual circumstances. Consult McGuigan BMW for details. ~BMW Scheduled Servicing is based on the vehicle’s Condition Based Service monitoring system for 5 years from date of first registration or up to 80,000kms, whichever occurs first. Normal wear and tear items and other exclusions apply. Scheduled Servicing must be conducted by an authorised BMW dealer. ^Complimentary BMW 5 years/200,000kms Extended Warranty based on whichever comes first from date of first registration. Consult McGuigan BMW for details.

grilled lemon myrtle Haloumi with roast vegetables from wild fig.

manning-great lakes focus.

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

club taree At Club Taree we are passionate about food, whether it be our inspiring restaurant menu in Dineon19, our amazing range of house made cakes and desserts through Café Connect, or our award winning functions catering. It’s clear that we LOVE food, and we spend a great deal of time ensuring that you have innovative, fresh and inspiring options here at Club Taree. We understand that food is important, and we appreciate that every day people choose Club Taree as their preferred dining option. Introducing the Secret Garden, a new and unqiue way to entertain.

Head Chef Murray Phillips.

121 Wingham Rd, Taree 6539 4000 Lunch from 11:30, 7 days. Dinner from 5:30pm.

Crispy Pork Belly

kEnny’s thai kitchen Enjoy a taste of Thailand! $11 Lunch Specials. Entrée and your choice of one main meal; entrée includes a spring roll and curry puff. Choose from a range of delicious mains, including the popular crispy fried Angel Prawns with Thai herbs and coconut cream, stir fried crispy Pork Belly with Phi King sauce and peanuts (pictured above), deep fried sweet chilli Barramundi fillets, traditional Green Curry (chicken or prawn or beef), Mango chicken, Pad Thai or Pad Mee Mao Drunken Noodles.

Head Chef Kenny.

Club Forster, 19 Strand St, Forster 6591 6591 Open Wed - Sun, lunch and dinner. Lunch: noon until 2pm. Dinner: 5:30pm until 8pm. manning-great lakes focus.

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I LY

ell us about yourself and your family ... My name is Deb O’Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that “home” was a pretty awesome place and made the decision to move back. I would describe myself as a unique blend of quirky and earthy, and I believe Wayward Jerseys Farmstay reﬂects that. Wayward Jerseys would not be, without the love and support of my husband, Lauri Pulkkinen. Lauri is the type of man who not only supports his wife to follow her crazy dreams, but also says, “Fine, you want to buy a milking cow … Well, let me build you a dairy”. We also have three beautiful little girls, ranging in ages from six to eleven, who love their way of life and love sharing it with other people. I have always loved animals and am passionate about the New England area. I truly believe I have the best job in the world! What prompted the beginning of Wayward Jerseys? The name “The Home for Wayward Jerseys” (shortened to Wayward Jerseys for convenience) was initially a term that my husband jokingly used to describe my penchant for Jersey cows. It also alludes to what we see as their unique personalities. Simply, we wanted to share with

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

others what we consider to be fortunate to Pop as well. I ﬁnd our guests often come from have. At Wayward Jerseys we believe in the either Sydney or Brisbane, or both in a lot of philosophies of free range kids, natural produce cases, as it is a good place to meet in between and being surrounded by lots of animals, and (we are exactly half way between Sydney and we wanted to give people the opportunity to Brisbane). We also get a lot of overseas guests experience this too. who are interested in getting off the beaten What can visitors experience at track and seeing what Australia Wayward Jerseys? is like outside the cities. Basically, a visit to Wayward As to what “type” of Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favourite things is being a petting zoo … On pleasant surprise child at steroids! We are extremely has been how nice introduced to a stay a the beginning of interactive, so expect to all our visitors down who has their head get up close and personal have been - kids their and focused on to the animals. We are and adults alike. game, and favourite video stay famous for our “morning I have thought a their of by the end tell you routine”, which includes lot about why this they couldn’t even device learning how to milk one is, and this is what where their gaming of our Jersey cows, feeding I have come up with. is. ” our baby animals and collecting The types of people eggs. For our day tour people, who visit a Farmstay are added to this is a country style, home the types of people that are cooked morning tea and marshmallows to engaged with their children and toast on the ﬁre. Our overnighters get all of this family, interested in how others live, complimentary to their stay, as well as other love animals and they’re prepared to try inclusions such as an optional ghost tour at something new. All in all, this makes for pretty night. amazing people, on the whole. What type of demographic visit the farm? Tell us about some of the reactions you get I must say the majority of our visitors are from visitors? families with children. We accommodate up to “Milk comes from where?” Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

“

comes from a supermarket, and a wonderful part of my job is educating them otherwise. Our guests are a pretty open minded lot and even if incredulous at the beginning, it is not long before they get into the spirit of things and are milking cows like a professional. Actually, one of my favourite things is being introduced to a child at the beginning of a stay who has their head down and focused on their favourite video game, and by the end of their stay they couldn’t even tell you where their gaming device is. Do you think locals like us take for granted what’s in our own back yard in regards to primary produce? Yes and no. Yes, because I think we are truly spoilt here in regards to our primary produce. But just because we are spoilt, doesn’t mean that most people don’t know they are on a good thing by living here. It’s like this area is a wonderful secret, and all us locals are in on it. There is a lot of buzz around local food and produce at the moment - justiﬁably so - and there are also a lot of amazing and dynamic people starting to really do some incredible things. I would have to say that it is pretty exciting times here in New England. Plans for the future? Yes, yes and yes. At the moment my lips are sealed, but think tourism and think local produce, and watch this space! Thanks Deb.

greenpatch organic seeds

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download...

NOW ONLINE + FREE

WINGHAM AKOOSTIK festival The Wingham Akoostik festival is a celebration of music and culture, held annually each October. The festival is one of the most vibrant events on the NSW north coast. This year’s headliners are Ross Wilson, Ash Grunwald, Backsliders, Shannon Noll, Catherine Britt and Bill Chambers. A recent artist announcement added The Swamp Stompers, Dave Mason and Grizzlee Train to the three day line-up. Friday 14th October features 10 artists coordinated by the Mid Coast Council Manning Youth Action Team. Saturday 15th October opens with yoga at 8:30am and presents 20 bands performing across the day on two festival stages in the showground. Sunday 16th October features 11 bands and a guitar Masterclass by industry great Brendan Gallagher. Creative market stalls, the Smokin’ BBQ Challenge and children’s activities enhance the festival atmosphere. The festival takes place in the heritage town of Wingham, which boasts a very special blend of wholesome country farming, artisan lifestyle and scenic beauty. The convenient showground location has on-site camping and is a short walk to the vibrant town centre and train station. Tickets available locally at Bent on Life Wingham, Wild Fig Café Taree, and The Aztec Forster, or online with Oztix. Visit www.akoostik.com.au for full artist list and playing times.

14-16 OCTOBER WINGHAM

SHOWGROUND CAMPING • WORKSHOPS WINE BAR • ART • KIDSPACE FOOD & CREATIVE STALLS

VIEW THE MINIMAGS ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGPMQ

ROSS WILSON, ASH GRUNWALD, SHANNON NOLL, BILL CHAMBERS, CATHERINE BRITT, BACKSLIDERS, BRENDAN GALLAGHER, DAVE MASON, TRACEY MCNEIL

& MANY MORE LIMITED EARLYBIRD TICKETS FROM 1ST JULY 2016 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

manning-great lakes focus.

akoostik.com.au

Greenpatch’s Nursery is uniquely different producing all of our plants onsite and one of the only organic Nurseries in Australia. Our shop is located on Old Bar Road, just 1 km from Taree service centre. Greenpatch members save 10% off all our nursery plants and books year round. We have the largest range of organic heirloom seeds in NSW and a huge range of herbs, fruiting plants, vegetable seedlings, bamboo and succulents in our nursery. Greenpatch runs workshops throughout the year: Greenpatch Open Day - Sunday 23rd October. This is a great opportunity to visit our organic farm, getting an inside look at how we operate. There will be workshops and presentations running through the day to help you along with your veggie garden. Farm tours will be running with Neville and Sophia, the owners of Greenpatch, during the day. This is also a great opportunity to visit us if you can’t make it during the week. Seed Saving Workshop - Sunday 13th November - saving seeds from veggies, herbs, flowers and fruits. Includes practical and theory. Saving seeds is a passion of Greenpatch Organic Seeds, and we have been doing so since 1993. That's over 22 years of seed saving experience, so what better people to learn from! To Contact Us: Ph: 6551 4240, or visit our website: www.greenpatchseeds.com.au

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Gabriel Darzi - Executive Director The Sicilian Bar & Restaurant

Wild fig Wholefood cafÉ Delicious, healthy, fresh food at Wild Fig Wholefood Café is a drawcard for locals and visitors alike, with its beautiful location next to the Manning River, just over the bridge at the entrance to Taree.

on baby spinach with balsamic and olive oil

Owner and cook Janeece Irving has created an inviting and cosy space for guests to enjoy a homestyle meal from the ever changing menu, using the freshest ingredients.

with a focus on using healthier ingredients, such

Organic meats and free range eggs from the local surrounds ensure each dish is inspired by quality and flavour. There are always gluten free, sugar free, dairy free and vegetarian and vegan options available. Choose from low GI salads, including the grilled lemon myrtle Haloumi with roast vegetables, quinoa, greens and pesto, or the baby fig salad with Meadow Lodge marinated baby figs, goats cheese, toasted walnuts and beetroot

Gabriel DARZI

dressing. Also popular are the range of healthy smoothies; try the Shakti Shake with almond milk, banana, dates, cinnamon and cardamon.

WHY IS LOCAL FOOD SO IMPORANT?

The indulgent sweets are all made in house and as the light and rich chocolate cake, made with coconut oil, raw cacao powder and coconut palm sugar. Wild Fig is a great place to relax with friends for a long lunch in the charming heritage house garden, and browse through the retro vintage homewares and treasures featured throughout the house. The picturesque location also makes for a convenient stop for travellers for a delicious coffee and wholesome treat. Come and relax at the Wild Fig Wholefood Café at 2 Commerce St, Taree.

IMAGINE WHEN YOU HAND-PICK YOUR FRUITS AND VEGETABLES FROM YOUR GARDEN AND FEEL THE PRIDE OF PUTTING TOGETHER A DISH FOR YOUR GUESTS TO ARRIVE, AND YOU CAN’T WAIT TO EXPLAIN THAT THEIR MEAL IS FROM YOUR GARDEN. IT’S A GREAT FEELING, ISN’T IT?

ou grow them with passion, with care. As a chef, I understand that when you work hard to grow or produce something, you like feeling appreciated. I am very excited for each of my seasonal menus, because I can search for new local produce to put on my list. This means the ingredients that are bright, flavoursome and abundant at the time help me keep in touch with the seasons and also help us connect with local producers to create and design colourful dishes. As well as this, I absolutely love this natural trade, because of the support we show local producers by purchasing our fresh food from them. Everyone needs an exercise in going directly to the source; cutting out the middleman means more of your dollar goes into the farmer’s pocket. We as a consumer don’t have to just eat food which is picked raw and left in storage to mature. If you choose to always go to supermarkets, the fact of the lesser health benefits is always acknowledged. We at The Sicilian believe that local food is grown with love and should be cooked with pride. Supporting local food growers doesn’t just makes your food taste good; it also connects us with our local community. It creates a web of friendship; perhaps every mouthful comes with a story behind it … A story that tells us how hard they work to bring the best they can to our plates. If you eat locally, you will be beneficial to your community and farmers directly. Supporting your local café or restaurant that is part of that close-knit community could give them a chance to employ people from that community. One of the best things about Italy that tourists unknowingly experience in the little restaurants and cafés they eat at is the relationship and friendship of the grower and the restaurateur - the producer and the consumer. We live in an amazing valley! In recent years, our towns have boasted a number of monthly markets, great cafés and Italian, Indian and

Chinese restaurants popping up all over Old Bar, Nabiac, Johns River, Wingham, Blackhead, Tuncurry and Forster. There are plenty of opportunities to support our local growers, producers and hospitality industry. Times are tough for growers; we should be buying local, instead of getting our produce from out of town or often overseas. Giant supermarkets have the benefit of almost always having the stock you need, but unfortunately lack the quality we see in our local fruit shop or baker. Solomon’s Fruit Market at Taree take me to my childhood in Italy. That local shop owner bought a lot of local produce daily to showcase. I personally go to Solomon’s and buy from them. It feels good. It makes me happy not having to hear the constant blips from the scanning machine at the checkout machine. Wingham is a great town with a lot of local producers. Every time I go from Taree to Wingham, that journey takes me to Tuscany. I love driving down the winding roads, smelling the fresh air, seeing the lush greenery and free-roaming cattle. I’d like to introduce a café that supports local producers and serves local food. They also teach younger generations to bring them into the hospitality industry. I’ve been eating there; I like the food. Fresh. You can feel that you’re in a country town. Bent On Food was created as a stop-off for people to check out what the local producers of the MidNorth Coast of NSW have come up with. As a restaurateur, I know how hard it is to maintain the name and quality of your food. But this café has remained unshaken for a long time, and I admire them for their hard work in the community and the meaning behind Bent On Food in the food industry. Next time you’re in the Manning Valley, stop by. Buying local is investing in the future. When was the last time you visited your local market, butcher or baker? Gabriel Darzi, Executive Chef, The Sicilian Restaurant. manning-great lakes focus.

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with Steve Attkins from Great Lakes Paddocks

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with Horticulturalist Neville Donovan - Greenpatch Organic Seeds

WILD FERMENTATION WH

WILD FERMENTATION, ALSO KNOWN AS NATURAL WINE, IS A THING THAT IS GAINING IN MOMENTUM WITH MANY WINEMAKERS IN AUSTRALIA AND IS PRODUCING SOME INTERESTING END PRODUCTS. IN MY VIEW, WILD FERMENTATION IS TO WINE WHAT RAW MILK IS TO CHEESE.

ermentation is a biochemical process where the yeast consumes the sugar and converts it to alcohol and carbon dioxide ... So yeast has a significant role to play in the winemaking process, influencing aromas, alcohol level, texture, acidity and other key characteristics.

the winemaker’s role is imperative and requires constant testing of the wine to ensure none of the nasties take hold and spoil the wine. But it is the wild uncontrolled nature of these yeasts that brings forth interesting flavour, mouth feel, aroma and complexity.

Over time, the wild yeasts can be considered to be “tamed”. This occurs in wineries and It is typical for many wineries to control the vineyards that have existed for generations fermentation process primarily for - vintage after vintage being the purposes of consistency made from fruit from the in the end products. Many same vineyard and the rWild yeast fe of us like to know that wine being produced ow gr is n mentatio the wine we bought in the same winery ith w , ty ri ing in popula s last year from a er environment. Over ak em in creative w ket ar m particular producer e time, the wild yeasts th to in g tappin urous nt will be pretty much ve can build up to a ad e or m of ho are the same this year and point where they wine drinkers w ing rest the year after that, are predictable and looking for inte urs and diverse flavo exiand this is achieved can be relied upon pl m and unique co by human intervention to consistently provide es . ” ties in their win and controlling the the desired characteristics winemaking process. to the wine. It is common Important to that process is a in many of the traditional wine controlled fermentation. This is achieved growing regions of France to be by inoculating the must with a particular using wild yeast for their fermentation. strain of yeast that imparts specific desirable So, there is a little background of one of the characteristics to the fermenting grapes and latest trends in wine drinking and if you are an the resultant juice. explorer in the world of wine, natural wines

“

Wild yeast fermentation is growing in popularity, with creative winemakers tapping into the market of more adventurous wine drinkers who are looking for interesting and diverse flavours and unique complexities in their wines.

will provide you with some interesting and new flavours. But be warned - if you find a wine you really enjoy in the natural wine world of the current vintage, you better stock up on it, as it most likely will not taste the same next vintage.

Allowing wine to ferment naturally does involve some risks, as it is dependent upon yeast that occurs naturally in the vineyard, on the grapes, in the winery, on winemaking equipment etc. Along with the yeasts that have a positive impact on the wine, there are those that can have a negative effect. This is where

SUNDAY, SEPT 4 with “BIG FINS” - Celebrate “Dad’s Day”.

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UPCOMING BACK PADDOCK MUSIC

AT ’ S I N

BEE FRIENDLY GARDEN WITH BEES ON THE DECLINE WORLDWIDE AND THE FACT THAT OVER 75% OF OUR FOOD CROPS RELY ON BEES AND INSECTS FOR POLLINATION, WITH OUR AUSTRALIAN FLORA RELIANT ALSO, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT WE PROVIDE HABITAT FOR THESE IMMENSELY BENEFICIAL INSECTS IN OUR GARDENS. As well as the introduced “honey bees”, we

varieties of flowering plants in large clumps

have over 1,500 species of Australian native

throughout the garden will provide plenty

bees, ten species of which are “sting-less”,

for bees to forage on throughout the year.

with the Great Carpenter Bee the largest at

Even if you only have a very small garden or

24 mm long. The black and yellow stingless bee can be seen on the Mid North Coast foraging on nectar and pollen in the early morning hours.

courtyard, you can grow in pots. Here are some suggested varieties, with some also producing food to eat - an added bonus! Herbs: Basil, Borage, Catmint,

Bees need access to fresh drinking

Catnip, Chamomile, Chives,

water; birdbaths and other water features are ideal. If you have these features in your garden, ensure there is a rock, piece of timber or plant placed in it, on to which they can land. Place containers throughout the garden in shady areas and maintain

The use of pesticides and s will other chemical en using Ev . es destroy be ys or plant based spra ch hi w other products idered ns co are generally rm ha ay m non toxic, bees .”

“

periods.

Thyme and Sage. Vegetables: Rocket, Brassicas, Radish, Pumpkin, Squashes, Watermelons, Zucchini

Hollyhock, Larkspur, Lupin

chemicals will destroy bees. Even using plant

bees. The best time to apply sprays is late in

Marjoram, Oregano,

Flowers: Cosmos, Foxglove,

The use of pesticides and other

generally considered non toxic may harm

Lavender, Lemon Balm,

and Cucumber.

the water level during dry

based sprays or other products which are

Coriander, Fennel, Rocket,

Nasturtiums, Poppies, Sweet Peas, Sunflower, Clover, Lucerne and Vetch, which can be planted under trees.

SUNDAY SEPT 25 with “CARAVANA SUN” new album launch!

the afternoon, when bees are less likely to be

Natives and Shrubs: Grevillea, Bottlebrush, Tea

flying or foraging. Have a good look first!

Tree, Lillypilly, Macadamia, Citrus and stone

For more info, check out our website: www.greatlakespaddocks.com.au

Australian native bees generally like smaller

fruit.

flowers to forage on. Planting several

Happy growing!

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focusinterview.

WUNDERKAMMER

ell us a bit about yourself. You're a man of many talents ... sculptor, children's author, teacher, photographer, among others ... but what is it about taxidermy that inspires you? Why did you learn this particular skill? What's your work/artistic background? I guess I'm a storyteller - over 50 children's picture books illustrated between1983 - 1991, some of them written by me as well, including Terrible Tracy 1989, a cautionary tale. I really like “cause and effect” literature for children - The classic stories of Aesop's Fables 1990 and my attempt to draw attention to the plight of the environment in Cry Me a River 1991. In the 1980s, I realised a long held fascination with taxidermy and took lessons by correspondence from a taxidermist in Narrabean. Since settling in Sydney, I have always kept animals in my terraces. In Woolloomooloo I had a mad Afghan Hound called Heathrow; he featured in a reader I wrote and illustrated for kids, The Trouble with Heathrow 1984, and a goose called Winston, and two fat NZ white rabbits called Mercedes and Scooter. The freezer was always full of road kill from Lady Macquarie's Chair and from the animal dealers at Paddy's markets, who would keep their fatalities for my taxidermy projects. I opened Animal Fetish Australia in Flinders St, Darlinghurst in the mid ‘80s with my brother, and

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we stuffed people’s budgies, traded mounts and printed Sourcing skins our own range of animal I is complicated . a print shirts and gift packed eate don’ t want to cr , so I boxer shorts! em th r fo t ke mar ion to nt te My private collection at pay special ence , id ov pr of taxidermy specimens ’s chemicals and each skin and om fr e m ca grew exponentially during it dark room printing where , how tly an rt po im t those early years of the was replaced too mos shop, to include a 19th it died .” quickly with the digital Century Orangutan! Photoshop. My art photography practice In 2010, I returned to slowly grew after 1992, when I sculpture and taxidermy. finally stopped illustrating books. At the This present work represents a time I joked I had lost the “inner child”, but culmination of so many of my previous in hindsight I just needed a change and an life experiences - the desire to tell a story, opportunity to explore some more grown up share a tale or flog a fable, build a collection and themes after years of drawing bunny rabbits, combine and create narrative installations that dragons and princesses. draw attention to the big issues in and around My photography practice took me to an climate change and the environment. I get to altogether darker place; I was drawn to use play with animals again (be they deceased!) and animals and human in compositions both I plan to use photography as a means of making surreal and absurd. I later came back to more my installations more democratic; lets face it, rigid narratives, text from the bible to continue most people don’t have the room for most of my my investigation of the body in space and in work! communion with others. I am not a religious Please explain where you first discovered person; to quote Oscar Wilde, "The true mystery the concept of "Wunderkammer". What does of the world is the visible, not the invisible". I like this word mean to you, personally ... and Oscar; he has a quote for every occasion! how have you used this perception to bring With the rapid onslaught of digitalisation life to your latest exhibition? in photography, the magic of analogue Wunderkammer translates from the German as photography with its film and emulsions, Cabinet of Wonders.

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Wonder seems like such an outmoded notion in our technological age, where all appears to be explained by the scientific method; however wonder can and does exist in the imaginings sometimes triggered, yet not fully explained - by an object. Rachel Poliquin’s The Breathless Zoo, Taxidermy and the cultures of longing 2012,¹ puts it thus: “From early cabinets of wonder to philosophical repositories, collections of curiosities never really displayed knowledge. Rather, they acted as warehouses of raw potentiality”. Krzyszt of Pomian, writing in his book Collectors and Curiosities, suggests “Objects were not seen - but seen through” ²; in other words, the objects become like portals to other worlds, exotic lands, adventure, mystery and the excitement of the unknown, all without the inconvenience of traveling to them. 1. Rachel Poliquin, The Breathless Zoo, Taxidermy and the cultures of longing, Pennsylvania State University Press, 2012, p.36 2. Paris and Venice 1500 -1800, trans Elizabeth Wiles-Portier (Cambridge: Polity Press 1990), p.36. The pieces in your upcoming exhibition at

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Wunderkammer started its life as ders the Tent of Won e th at Sculpture by been s ha d Sea 2012 an onal gi Re e th g travellin t ui ever Art Gallery circ since.”

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the Manning Regional Art Gallery showcase many social and environmental issues facing our communities today. What pieces are your favourites, and what are you hoping viewers of Wunderkammer will experience/take away from the exhibition? I don’t really have a favourite. Each work has a stand-alone message; each is as important as the other. In this age of climate change fatigue, it has become more and more difficult to get people to sit up and take notice of conservation issues. The taxidermy animal as a medium has proved an effective tool in doing just that, more so than sculpting an animal in clay or stone, metal or faux fur. The taxidermy animal is both authentic and empathetic; it speaks to its audience because it is real. I hope my work comes across as authentic and creates empathy with the viewer to start conversations about issues important to all of us. Where did you source the animal hides used in your exhibition, as there's no doubt a story or two there as well? The art of taxidermy is principally about realness; it is part of nature, and all artists know how difficult it is to improve on nature. Because taxidermy works with the real skin, half the work is done; all that remains is to arrange that skin in the most life like manner. Sourcing skins is complicated. I don’t

want to create a market for them, so I pay special attention to each skin’s providence, where it came from and most importantly, how it died. I can confidently say that no animal has died in the first instance to make any of my work. Animals in my work in the first instance died as a result of hunting for sport, were slaughtered for food, euthanised, and/or have died of old age or illness. In the work Z is for Zebra, I found the full mount zebra on eBay; I purchased him third hand from a taxidermist in Montana, who was selling him on behalf of an American big game hunter who was selling his collection of trophies after a messy divorce. I had him road freighted to LA, then air lifted to Sydney to tell his story. The antelope in Serengeti are by products of the hunting industry; these are the discarded bodies after the heads have been severed for trophies. These bodies came from a South African taxidermist, who was perplexed at being asked to mount the headless bodies. The absence of the heads asks the viewer to fill in the gaps and imagine the animals’ expressions as they graze on the long grasses of the Serengeti, stand alert looking for predators and fight each other for dominance. What are some of the awards/ acknowledgements you have received for your work? Where can readers

view other samples of your work, or find out more about you? I have been a finalist in the Wynne Prize for Australian landscape/figurative sculpture, Art Gallery of NSW in 2007 and 2010, the Blake Prize for Religious Art in 2005 and 2006, the Fishers Ghost Art Prize in 2007 and 2009 and Sculpture by the Sea in 2008 and in 2011. I undertook an archeological dig at Tamarama beach to unearth the legendary Alice the elephant of Wonderland City fame. Wunderkammer started its life as the Tent of Wonders at Sculpture by the Sea 2012 and has been travelling the Regional Art Gallery circuit ever since. This year I have launched a new show called AfterLife, Animal Stories from Beyond the Grave, which is also travelling regional centres with an emphasis on the difficult and complex relationship humans have with the animal kingdom. This show also uses taxidermy and animal skeletons including a family of giraffe. I also presently have a work in the Salon de Refuses at the S.H. Erwin Gallery in Sydney ‘til the 18 Sep 2016. Dates and locations for upcoming shows are posted on my website: www.rodmcrae.com.au Thanks Rod.

the plug! See Wunderkammer at the Manning Regional Gallery from September 16 November 13.

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This & That Unique homewares This store represents a life change for Allanah (an interiors devotee) who swapped her job in the corporate property development world for a retail outlet selling unique homewares. The store offers various goods, insisting on great service and a collection that is inspired by minimalistic coastal living. “My goal was to accommodate every age group,” says Allanah. “The town’s population is so diverse and is growing every week something I have kept my eye on over the last few years whilst in the real estate industry. “I have had an obsession with architecture and design for as long as I can remember, so I guess the store enables me to feed my obsession. I spend many hours devouring design books and magazines, studying images and sourcing individual pieces. I also wanted to

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incorporate local artwork and homewares into the store. We have so many talented people in the Manning Valley that aren’t always easy to find.” Browse around this beautiful store for an on trend assemblage of Teak tablewares, kitchenware, ceramics, organic skincare products, linen and soy candles, locally made baby goods, local artwork and the odd Sunnylife inflatable flamingo. “This & That Unique Homewares can also provide customers with special orders - let me know if you are looking for something specific, and I will assist you as best as I can.” Must Have: Robert Gordon ceramic “White Ochre” Mugs, $24 ea. Open: Wed - Fri, 10 - 4pm, Sat - Sun, 10 - 2pm. Visit us: 1/51 Old Bar Road, Old Bar. Instagram: thisandthathomewares

DAMIEN LEITH UPCOMING TOUR Tell us about your upcoming tour. This year I’m celebrating 10 years since I first stepped onto the Australian Idol stage. Since then I’ve released eight albums, and this concert is going to be a “best of” from all those albums. I’m very excited, because there are some gems I’ve recorded in that time that I don’t always get to perform and of course, crowd favourites and most requested. What can we expect from your show? I’ll be playing all the favourites from my Winner’s Journey album through to today. Hallelujah, Nessun Dorma, Roy Orbison, songs from Ireland ... I’m even taking requests. It’s going to be lots of fun, and I’ll be sharing stories from the past 10 years - lots of great adventures. Is there anything you haven’t done in your career that you would like to do? I have been so lucky to experience so many things like acting, presenting, and performing all

around the world and working with incredible songwriters and legacies. Over the next while I’d like to expand on that even further through my studio and through mentoring. I would also love to do a stint in Vegas for a month or two! How much fun would that be? How have you changed as an artist since winning Australian Idol almost a decade ago? I have grown a lot since Australian Idol, and I’ve learnt so much. I really appreciate the fact that for the past ten years I’ve been able to do full-time the one thing I love to do - music. It’s sometimes demanding, but I have a lot of freedom now, which is brilliant ... Being able to go to my children’s school for events and even just walking them to school most days is a treat. Thanks Damien.

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TASTINGS ON HASTINGS

FESTIVAL OF FLAVOURS RETURNS TO PORT MACQUARIE

l The fo cu s is lo ca ith w h, es fr d an in g producer s come th in ith w om fr dary ‘lo cavore’ boun dius , ra ile of a 10 0 m g in ss pa m co en ever ywhere from the Woolg oolga in ale in the north, Armidso n Bay west and Nel ” h. ut to the so

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n abundance of food, fun, feasts and flavours will return to Port Macquarie on the last weekend in October, with the 14th annual Tastings on Hastings, proudly presented by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. Local producers, provedores, farmers, award winning chefs and entertainment will come together to create a banquet of events for the whole family, from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 October. A jam-packed three-day festival, Tastings on Hastings will include masterclasses and cooking demonstrations, celebrity chef dinners, a night time festival, satellite events, live bands and the main event on Sunday. The focus is local and fresh, with producers coming from within the “locavore” boundary of a 100 mile radius, encompassing everywhere from Woolgoolga in the north, Armidale in the west and Nelson Bay to the south. One of the largest food festivals on the North Coast, Tastings on Hastings will highlight our unique and abundant region to locals and visitors alike. A range of accommodation options, many within walking distance to the festival, are listed at tastingsonhastings.com.au Three top professional chefs will join the festival, all with a passion for local produce. Celebrity chef Matt Wilkinson will be joined by Nicolas Poelaert to host dinners at The

Stunned Mullet and cooking demonstrations. Both Matt and Nicolas are renowned for growing, foraging and sourcing local produce for their own restaurants. As this year’s Producer’s Ambassador, chef Matt Golinski will also celebrate our local produce, with cooking demonstrations over the weekend. Friday 28 October The festivities begin on Friday, with the first of two “Feast with Matt & The Mullet” dinners at The Stunned Mullet. Matt Wilkinson will team up with Nicolas Poelaert and the talented team at The Stunned Mullet to produce an extraordinary fine dining experience. At the Latin Loafer, a Beer Masterclass will be hosted by Matt Kirkegaard, who will embark on a tasting of local and regional craft beers. The beers will be expertly matched with a five course degustation meal beginning at 6:30pm; tickets $75. Saturday 29 October Saturday will be an action packed day, with Producers Ambassador Matt Golinski hosting a Sustainable Table event, as he forages fresh produce from The Lost Plot Community Garden, to pair it with locally sourced protein, creating a delicious meal. Located at The Lost Plot Community Garden, entry is free.

The Town Green will set the scene for a new Harvest Lunch at the Alfresco Marquee from 12pm, celebrating locally sourced and freshly prepared produce from the region. Tickets are $145, and the menu will feature an abundance of shared plates prepared by Drury Lane. Alex and John Cassegrain will host a Wine Masterclass, guiding visitors through a tasting of Cassegrain Wines. The class starts at 2:30pm at The Barrel Room, Cassegrain Wines. From 5pm, the Town Green will delight the senses, with the Tastings Ignites Festival, including the new Oyster Barn, tasty food stalls, fire twirlers and art installations. Tickets cost $5, which covers entry to the Main Event on Sunday. The second “Feast with Matt & The Mullet” will be held at The Stunned Mullet, promising a six course harvest themed feast, focused on fresh, seasonal produce, accompanied by matching wines. Sunday 30 October The Tastings on Hastings Main Event from 9am to 4pm Sunday in the Town Centre

provides an opportunity to sample delicious products, chat with producers, share tasting plates and shop for local produce. Several distinct precincts, including a Farmer’s Market, the Restaurant Precinct, a Wine and Beer Precinct and the Maker’s Market will ensure there is something for everyone to try, taste and take home. Entry is $5 for 18 years and over and includes access to all cooking demonstrations. The “Learn with Matt & The Mullet” cooking demonstration will see Matt Wilkinson and Nicolas Poelaert prepare a delicious gourmet sensation made with fresh local produce at 10am. The “From Paddock to Provedore” demonstration will showcase produce sourced from the local Wauchope Farmers’ Market, turned into a delectable meal by Matt Golinski at 11am. A Fermenting Demonstration at 12pm, hosted by Sammi Zajko, will delve into the microbial world of sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha and more. Tastings on Hastings 2016 has been supported by the NSW Government as part of its Regional Flagship Events Programme. For up to date event info and tickets, head to tastingsonhastings.com.au, sign up for the newsletter and follow us on Facebook: tastingsonhastings #TOH2016

CELEBRIT Y CHEF M AT T W I L K I N S O N

FRIDAY- S UNDAY 2 8 - 30 O C TOBER 20 16 OUR SPONSORS #TOH2016

For a full schedule of events visit

www.tastingsonhastings.com.au manning-great lakes focus.

Australian Chamber Orchestra Collective The Australian Chamber Orchestra presents Beethoven & Mendelssohn starring Meta4 Quartet and ACO Collective at Manning Entertainment Centre on Friday 16 September. In the words of Australian Stage Online: “If you’re looking for the finest young string players in this country, this is where you’ll find them.” ACO Collective is the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s critically acclaimed 17-piece string ensemble that combines musicians of the ACO with Australia’s most talented young professional musicians at the outset of their careers, creating an ensemble with a fresh, energetic performance style. Now ACO Collective’s Artistic Director Pekka Kuusisto has invited the prestigious Finnish Quartet Meta4 to join the ensemble on its third tour of the year. Meta4 Quartet makes its Australian debut directing the energetic Orchestra with Beethoven and Mendelssohn.

Alongside the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s fiery young guns, they will perform Beethoven’s last complete work, as part of the mighty pillar on which the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s 2016 season is built. This exciting programme will also showcase an Australian piece by Peter Sculthorpe and a small gift from Meta4 country, Finland to the audiences, with Jaakko Kuusisto’s Wilma. Audiences will also enjoy the unique experience of a quartet leading ACO Collective. “We’re very excited about it,” says Antti Tikkanen from Meta4. “There are huge advantages with directing as a quartet, compared to one violinist directing. Our ‘four-headed-monster’ can take care of various instrument groups and aspects simultaneously; we can cover all functions of the score.” Book now at theMEC.com.au or ph 6592 5466.

AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

DIRECTED BY META4 QUARTET

FRIDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 8PM MANNING ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE BOOK NOW theMEC.com.au | 6592 5466 STOCKLAND FORSTER THE MEC BOX OFFICE (TUESDAY TO FRIDAY 10AM – 1PM)

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TOUR PARTNER

PRINCIPAL PARTNER: ACO COLLECTIVE

Spring Fling The Tuncurry/Forster Jockey Club is having their “Spring Fling” on the 10th September at the Tuncurry track, with a six race programme.

Forster Tuncurry (see website); one bus leaves

Spring is just around the corner, so join in the “Spring Fling” by renting a Gazebo on top of the ridge or booking yourself into the Pavilion, where the music will have you rocking, the champagne is overflowing, and the bookmakers are ready for you to win heaps. Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club will be sponsoring three races, and TJL Business Advisors Taree - Forster, and First State Conveyancing Taree - Forster are also on board as race sponsors. Gates open at 12pm. Free buses run from

The Mid North Coast Racing Association

Black Head Tavern at 11am and the Nabiac Hotel at 11:30, returning after the last race. awards will be presented at the track on the day. Our local trainer, Terry Evans, will be awarded the MNCRA Horse of the Year “Arise Augustus”, who was trained on the Tuncurry track. It will be an exciting day for all, so make sure you get out to the track to see coastal country racing at its best! For all enquires and bookings, ring Marg: 0429 967 823.

The Australian Tenors “The Australian Tenors” by popular demand are returning to The Glasshouse and TheMec Taree. Internationally renowned for thrilling audiences around the world with the power of their beautiful voices they are constantly in demand for performances.

ABC TV HIT SHOW SPLASHDANCE Tuesday 27th September at 11am. Splash for the Colour! Splash for the Music! Splash for the way it makes me want to dance! SplashDance is the new hit series from ABC Kids Television. All of the songs performed by the SplashDance cast have been written by John Field, who has written more than 300 songs for The Wiggles! And the series has been directed by Deb Ryan, who has also directed hugely successful series such as Playschool, Bananas in Pyjamas and Hi 5. SplashDance offers fun, highly participative songs and dance for young children. The songs, costumes and sets that are such a feature of SplashDance are very modern and fresh, and the series is unique in that it encourages young children to explore their imaginations through dance. Tickets are on sale at Club Forster now. Monique and Adrian will also look forward to meeting young fans after the show! DARYL BRAITHWAITE Forever The Tourist Tour,

Supported by local talent JAKE DAVEY. Sunday 16th October at 8pm. Daryl first found fame as lead singer of Sherbet, a band synonymous with the ‘70s, and their accomplishments during their long career were many. Between 1971 - 1978 Sherbet produced 20 national top 40 singles and were the first Australian band to top the $1million mark in album sales in this country, with a total of 15 albums and 30 singles to their credit, with songs like Summer Love becoming the highest selling single of 1975, and Howzat not only a hit in Australia, but also in England and America. During this period he won the Australian King of Pop award three times. FOREVER THE TOURIST the latest CD released in 2014 reveals a brand new stunning chapter in Daryl’s unparalleled career.

Soloists in their own right, “The Australian Tenors” combine in a amazingly dynamic display of true Australian talent. In the great tenor tradition they bring romance and excitement along with warmth and humour to their performances. “The Australian Tenors” versatility spans all genres of the classical tenor repertoire. Audiences are thrilled by the ever popular classical arias such as La Donna e Mobile & Nessun Dorma, traditional Neapolitan songs, Santa Lucia and Funiculi Funicular, popular tenor tunes from the hit music theatre productions such as Somewhere from West Side Story, The Impossible Dream, You Are My Heart’s Delight, Bring Him Home, This Is The Moment, and beautiful duets including, All I Ask of you Phantom of the Opera, The Prayer, (Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli song). The 5 Tenors and Ms Garth singing “Time to Say Goodbye” made famous by (Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman), “Amigos Para Siempre” (Friends for Life).

evolution and development of Australian popular

An absolute stunning program that encapsulates the spirit, the beauty and vocal demand of truly authentic tenor voice.

music and a must see live on stage.

A performance from “The Australian Tenors”

Daryl Braithwaite remains an integral part of the

is never complete without the ever popular Waltzing Matilda, Australia My Country (Dorothea Mackellar poem), I Am Australian, among other favourites. Their vocal artistry, powerful stage presence and their ability to connect with an audience earns “bravos” and standing ovations wherever they appear. The Australian Tenors have performed extensively with Opera Australia, Australian and International Symphonies & Philharmonic Orchestras. The Australian Tenors are: Warren Fisher, Thomas Strong, Lorenzo Rositano, Stuart Neilson Kemp and David McKenzie. Backed by The Southern Cross Orchestra under the direction of Musical Director & Conductor Mr Bernard Walz and supported by an Opera Australia Soprano Emily Ann Garth.Website: www.tenors.com.au

A U S T R A L I A N G LO BA L E N T E RTA I N M E N T P R E S E N T S

The

Australian tenors

You are My Heart’s Delight Tour 2016

with the Southern Cross Orchestra GLASSHOUSE, PORT MACQUARIE

MANNING ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

SATURDAY 8TH OCT 2016 | 2PM SHOW

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THE LULU RAES ARE MAKING THEIR MARK ON THE FESTIVAL AND MUSIC SCENE AND ARE SET TO RETURN TO FOTSUN THIS YEAR, ARMED WITH A NEW EP AND PERHAPS A FEW NEW SNEAKY TRACKS FOR FANS TO ENJOY. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH MARCUS, WHO SHARED A LITTLE ABOUT WHAT THE BAND’S BEEN UP TO AND WHERE THEY’RE HEADED …

i Marcus. How did you guys all meet and come together as a band? Well, Taras was kind of mates with everyone’s siblings. He was mates with Tom’s sister, my older brother and his brother were friends with Eddie from school, then Angus came along when we were recording the EP. So that’s how we all know each other. Taras and I met around Bondi Beach; we were down there every day and then one day he was like, “I’ve got some demos I’ve been doing with Eddie, do you want to hear it?” and I was like, “Yeah, sweet”. Then I joined, Tom was in, and we had a band. We played a little gig at the Marley Bar in Newtown, and now here we are. Explain the story behind the name ... Lulu Rae is a girl we know, and when we were coming up with names, Eddie was like, “Something La-La, something the Lalas Ra ... and then this girl said, “Lulu Rae; that’s my name. Why don’t you name the band after me?” How would you describe your style as a band, and what influences have you adopted? I’d say that we are kind of constantly battling ... We love pop music so much, but we don’t want to be too intense with pop. You kinda wanna put it through a blender and make it a

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little bit more palatable. We all like the Beatles, the Strokes, Oasis and stuff, so Eddie and I are more Strokes, Taras is more hyper-pop like Katy Perry and stuff, and it kind of just blends through that. There are a lot of diverse tastes when we are making the tunes … It can be quite tumultuous at times, but we get through it. You’ve had great success with your last lot of singles. What was it like the first time you guys got picked up by the radio? Tell us about that experience. We were pretty surprised. The first song we put out, we put on to triple j Unearthed, and then we hooked up with a manager who was keen to get us on the radio - and we didn’t think much of it. And then we did get picked up and thought, “This is pretty cool”. We didn’t get a lot of radio play until we put out Burnout, and that was full on high rotation on triple j, FBi and some community radio stations. It’s very gratifying. With the recent release of your new EP, All Our Parents Are Divorced, how has this been received so far? Pretty positively. It’s all been pretty good; my mates like it, our parents like it. It was pretty funny writing the title; I ran it past my dad and he was like, “It’s an OK title, I guess. Is it true?” and I said, “Yeah, all of them”. When it comes to writing, who or what

get a

We didn’t inspires you? back line and stress; you lot of radio play Taras spends most of kind of just rock up ‘Burnuntil we put out the time in the studio with a bunch of guitars as full out’, and that w polishing s**t, and a lot and hang out for the on on high rotation of the early songs came weekend. e som triple j, FBi and stafrom him. So the EP is You mentioned o community radi ifyat very Taras heavy. Now you’re working on an gr tions . It’s very that we are writing for an album. Can you give us ing.” album, everyone is bringing a sneak peek into when songs forward. In the early we may be hearing that? days when someone would bring I can’t say. I think we currently a song in, we would play it and it have five new songs, but we want to would go around in circles. have around 50 and then wittle it down We figured now to not bring in anything from there. Everyone is bringing in demos less than a chorus, so if you bring in a riff, and unfinished songs and stuff, and when we that’s fine, but if it’s not working in the room, finish this tour we are going to go away to this you gotta take it home and develop it more so house in Goulbo, spend the week away from it’s a little bit more presentable. our families and girlfriends, and see what we On the FOTSUN bill this year, what are you can do. looking forward to? Anything else you’d like to share with our We played at last year’s on the little side readers? stage; we played just after Skeggs. We had Umm … please buy tickets to our tour. heaps of fun; we enjoyed the band area and Thanks Marcus. catching up with everyone. We are on the big stage this year, so hopefully we will have the plug! a better production and a better sound; who knows, it may even be better received. Don’t miss Lulu Raes at this year’s Do you prefer playing gigs like this, or are FOTSUN. you more of the intimate gig types? tickets on sale September 1st. I like festivals. I think they’re more fun, less www.fotsun.com pressure, you don’t have to bring your whole

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Here at East Coast Photography, we have a large format professional photographic printer, enabling us to provide our clients, fellow photographers and the general public with high quality enlargements. Our current range of papers include 300 gsm Exhibition Lustre, 300 gsm Metallic, 320 gsm Fine Art and professional quality canvas prints. Part of our printing services is providing consultant and advice on which papers suit the clients’ requirements. Linked closely with Memory Lane Picture framing, we provide a one stop shop for your enlargement services to the final image on your wall.

We care for over 280 animals in this friendly 10 acre Koala and Wildlife Park. Be informed with our much loved Zoo Talks: 13 keeper presentations every day, plus a Reptile Show at the weekends. You can also book one-on-one UpClose animal encounters with koalas, red pandas, snakes, meerkats, penguins and leopards. Especially popular for children and adults alike is the kangaroo and wallaby hand feeding area - free and open all day. Kids can enjoy the playground, and the whole family have access to picnic areas set in beautiful shaded gardens

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19/08/2016 11:35 AM

MASTERCHEF COMPETITOR

JM AAH ANJ A N

NIDHI MAHAJAN WAS A RECENT COMPETITOR ON MASTERCHEF AND WILL BE ATTENDING THIS YEARâ€™S CURRYFEST AT WOOLGOOLGA. FOCUS FOUND OUT ABOUT HER TV EXPERIENCE AND ALSO WHAT PEOPLE CAN EXPECT TO SEE HER CREATING AT THE EVENT ... ou recently competed on MasterChef. Can you tell us a bit about that experience? Being a contestant in MasterChef Australia 2016 was a surreal experience. I never thought I would be doing something like that in my life. Being on MasterChef was living in a food world. What we did was only food, cook, eat, read, live, love, think, sleep and repeat. What did you learn from the experience? I learnt a lot from this experience, not only just about food, but also about my abilities and strengths as a person - time management and working with unique ingredients, and actually learning that I am more capable of doing things than I used to think beyond my capabilities. When did you begin cooking? I started cooking when I was 10 years old. I helped my parents in the kitchen and by the

time I was 12, I could make proper meals and snacks for the family. Do you have a favourite spice or flavour? Yes, I love working with green cardamom, as it is a versatile spice. I use it for sweet and savoury dishes. It not only adds a depth to the dish, but a lingering aroma which tantalises the senses. If you could work with any chef around the world, who would it be and why? Actually, there are two. I want to work with Marco Pierre White, as he is a legend in the industry and I really look up to him for being a godfather of modern cooking. Sanjeev Kapoor: he is one person who inspired my passion for food. I grew up watching his cooking shows and cooking from his cook books. He brought a revolution in the Indian food industry. Are you excited about Curryfest? Yes, I am very excited, as Woolgoolga was an early settlement for the Sikh migrants.

This gives us an insight into how they settled in the Australian culture and lifestyle. I have never been to such a big Curryfest, and I am pumped to be a part of this festival. What can people expect to see you create? I will be giving a demo of my favourite dishes in the kitchen, and how in a short time one can create restaurant quality food in the kitchen without any exotic ingredients. Simple and flavourful is what people can expect in the demo. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in learning to cook Indian cuisine? Indian cooking is very simple, as well as a

complex cuisine. The perfection comes with practice. Creating a balance of the flavours is the most important point and to strike a balance, add a little and taste and then repeat â€˜til your palate appreciates it. One needs to know what spice will go with what vegetable/ meat/fruit. What are your hopes for the future? I am putting my heart and soul into my food, so that my dream will come true. I will be able to cook for people who love me and love my food. This is what I wanted to do when I was 13 years old; this wait has been worth the last 17 years. I hope to live each moment in food and with food. Thanks Nidhi.

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DONNA CARRIER

from Bent on Food

Akoostik @ Tourism Awards.

Bent on Food @ Tourism Awards.

Boogie Woogie Beach House @ Tourism Awards.

Taree Business Chamber.

Tarnie-Lee’s Birthday.

SOCIAL/SCENE

e were there for the NSW Business Chamber Regional Advisory Council, as my partner, Grahame Nash, sits on the board alongside other Manning Valley-Great Lakes business people Ivan Batchelor and Gary Gersbach. Whilst they were in their meeting, I caught up on some work in the peace and quiet of the resort. I often accompany Grahame to Coffs Harbour, and the Business Chamber kindly invited me to join them for dinner. At dinner, I caught up with my Northern Rivers tourism mate Cameron Arnold, and also met the wonderful Rowle and Barbara. I learnt a lot of life lessons from this couple, who had so many wonderful stories to share. Rowle retired at 50 years old, but one week later decided he was bored so went back to his practice, where he still works as a CPA at 80 years old; and why? Because he loves his work! Barbara thinks he should retire soon, but I can’t see this happening in the near future. It is wonderful to meet people who find so much purpose in their work, whilst still finding time for family and friends, for travel and for contributing to their community. Whilst in Coffs, I also ran into Tom and Aunty Barbara Clarke from Wingham, who were there with my old school mate Janelle Clarke, now married to my Nabiac childhood friend Rob McCudden. They were there with other Indigenous leaders for the Indigenous Legal Conference. We also had a great time at a charity event with our friends Lisa and Geoff Harvey and enjoyed long beach walks, great food and just a few glasses of Australian wine. Of course, the rosters still needed doing and fires had to put out when a staff member called in sick, but all in all it was great to get away and clear the head. You do not have to go too far in our beautiful region to find a place for a well-earned mini break. Even if I did have to work a little, it was a great way to wind down. The region’s tourism business did us proud at the 2016 Legendary Pacific Coast Tourism Awards, where

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I HAVE JUST SPENT A WELL-EARNED FOUR DAYS OFF IN COFFS HARBOUR, AND WHAT WAS REALLY NICE ABOUT THIS WAS THE LOVELY INTERACTIONS I HAD WITH OLD FRIENDS, ALONG WITH PEOPLE I HAVE NEVER MET.

Wingham Akoostik Festival, Boogie Woogie Beach what she believes in, and her friendly approach inspires House, Big 4 Great Lakes and Bent on Food all won and uplifts. Her music is original and unique; we really Gold, with Seashells at Diamond Beach winning Silver. enjoyed her talent, her friendly disposition, along with The awards were held at my old stomping grounds, her amazing ability with the loop pedal. Cassegrain Winery. We all sat amongst the barrels Tarnie-Lee Drury held her 30th birthday party on and enjoyed some great local produce and a few Saturday 20th August at Wingham Bowling Club, laughs with MC Cameron Marshall. These awards are complete with lawn bowls and fancy dress. Her theme only presented to businesses and events that meet “I’ve always wanted to go to a party dressed as ...” a mighty high level of criteria, so guaranteed some fabulous costumes, including a well done to everybody, as Nun (her mum), Mr Bean (AKA Ian Furner), The just to make it to finalist is Joker, Harlie Quinn from the Suicide Squad, no mean feat. A special Catwoman, The Queen of Hearts, Superman, We all sat e th t shout out to Wingham Tinkerbell, Peter Pan, The Mad Hatter, amongs d ye jo en d Akoostik Festival, that is Brienne of Tarth from the Game of Thrones barrels an l run on volunteers who and Walter White from Breaking Bad (AKA some great loca w produce and a fe do a fabulous job at Simon Livingston) complete with a bag of laughs with MC bringing us this wonderful blue toffee crystal shards. 1960 hippies and all.” Cameron Marsh event each year. All of 1970 disco divas joined the celebs, and her the Gold winners will now boss Yvette Furner created her own fake skin compete at the much more and applied theatrical makeup to look like a competitive NSW Tourism Awards Zombie. in November. Best of luck to all! Tarnie-Lee has always loved an excuse to dress Taree Business Chamber held their up and play a part. Drama was one of her favourite August breakfast meeting at the Manning subjects at school, so she figured that having a fancy Valley Visitors Information Centre on Wednesday dress party for her 30th birthday was a great idea. 17th August, with catering by Bent on Food. Guest Turns out that the 40 people who attended the party speaker this month was Paul Murray from NSW Fire were just as enthusiastic as she was. and Rescue. Paul spoke about the role of NSW Fire Saying good bye to her 20s and as a tribute to and Rescue vs NSW Rural Fire Brigades, and most bygone years, Tarnie-Lee chose a 1920s flapper importantly, about how businesses can become costume. The outfit had style, class and sparkling fun, involved through volunteer retained firefighters. It all mixed up in one glamourous package. She hired was a very interesting talk, and I now feel much more local DJ Ryan Encanto and organised a mix of catering aware of the roles of the fire brigades. that included a barbecue, cheese platters and sushi We enjoyed a fabulous music event on 29th July, created by the amazing chefs from Two Hans in Taree. with the very talented “Erin” touching our hearts. A fabulous night was had by everyone, who all made a This hard-working emerging original artist, brings a huge effort with their costumes. fresh new sound to Australian shores; with her work I would love to hear from you if you have any social developing through three extensive National NZ Tours, events, weddings, parties anything! nine years of writing and gigging, and of course, many Send pics and info to donna@bentonfood.com.au various life experiences. Erin is not afraid to stand for Cheers, Donna.

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socialscene

Taree Wingham Cup

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WELLBEING W I T H JOH N F ROM K I N ET IC M E DIC I N E

TIPS

FOR

success

Urinary

hat would be the best challenges? These may work in the short health advice we could term, but long term the weight normally give to someone in 200 returns. A recent meta-study of all the diets words or less? (paleo, low carb, Atkins, Mediterranean, Would etc.) found only a 1 kg difference it be to move more, eat between them; the key to better, or love yourself success was consistency. et di more? All great Any diet programme or Any suggestions, but they meal plan that does not programme at won’t solve the obesity address the underlying or meal plan th s the es dr problem by themselves. habits is doomed to failure. does not ad ts is underlying habi Fad diets, detoxes, Sooner or later, those re .” doomed to failu diet pills and meal bad habits will resurface replacement shakes are as you start to get hungry not long term solutions to or are falling asleep at work, being overweight. On a side because you are trying to exist note, when did food become so on unsustainable rabbit food. If you bad, that we have to “replace” it with struggle to change those habits, you may a shake? need a coach to help guide you through the What about those four to 12 week process.

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TRACT INFECTIONS

rinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common infection, usually caused by bacteria, that involve parts of the body’s urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. UTIs are more common in women, children and the elderly; however, one in 20 men will suffer at least one UTI during their lifetime.

always the case. Some UTIs are caused by microorganisms that are sexually transmitted, such as chlamydia. Drinking plenty of water, using urinary alkalisers (e.g. Ural, Citravescent, etc.) and avoiding acidic foods and drinks (e.g. soft drinks, meat, vinegar, etc.) can all help treat a

Symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, burning pain upon urination, a feeling that the bladder is still full after urinating, stomach pain, cloudy/smelly urine and/or blood in the urine. Some infections will also cause fever, chills, nausea, vomiting and back pain. Most UTIs are not contagious and cannot be passed on during sex; however, this is not

UTI; however, if these treatments do not work or you get recurring symptoms, you should see your doctor, as you may need antibiotics. If you would like more information on Urinary Tract Infections, please call Saxbys Pharmacy on (02) 6552 1662 or come in and talk to one of our pharmacists. Ian, Shari and Erinn.

PROSTATE

CANCER What is your number? Is it rising? Do you know why? Your health is your responsibility; see your doctor.

he Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia reports that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. There are 120,000 men and their families living with prostate cancer, 20,000 men will be diagnosed this year, and 3,000 men will die from prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is an age-dependent disease, which means the chance of developing it increases with age. The risk of getting prostate cancer by the age of 75 is 38

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one in seven. By the age of 85, this increases to one in five. A prostate cancer diagnosis is least common in men under 50 years old (less than 3%). However, compared with other cancers, prostate cancer has one of the highest five-year survival rates after diagnosis (92%). Men over age 50, or 40 with a family history of prostate cancer, should talk to their doctor about testing for prostate cancer as part of their annual health check-up.

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focuseditorial.

KINETIC JOHN STEVENS

HAVING SORE KNEES IS A FAIRLY COMMON EXPERIENCE. MOST OFTEN ATTRIBUTED TO OSTEOARTHRITIS (OA), IT AFFECTS NEARLY 10% OF THE POPULATION, WITH 3.5 OUT OF EVERY 100 GP VISITS BEING FOR THIS REASON.

it’s this change in “biomechanics” that leads massive burden on our healthcare to reductions in muscle strength, a continually system, sufferers of OA often sensitive knee and established behaviours of feel hopeless, their quality of avoiding anything that might harm us, and this all life and independence hindered ironically prolongs our experience of knee pain. by pain or the lingering If you’re someone who has pain with threat of pain. Often the only activity, we can determine what solution presented is in the activities contribute to those form of pain medication danger messages being set or surgery. Despite , How can that be off, and with a targeted this, there is another t n’ you say? You ca strategy we can change option. Whilst not n , ca change arthritis ees the way a joint bears load, the most “sexiest” of kn you? Aren’ t my tis ri th ar making it less painful. options, there is great eo ‘stuffed’? Ost of These exercises, if given evidence to suggest on iti is a cond e th of n io appropriately, shouldn’t be that improving at or deteri .” es ac rf painful; there is nearly no knee function can su t join truth in the adage “no pain drastically reduce pain no gain”. Can you imagine and substantially improve playing a game of golf without quality of life. knee pain? Walking along the beach How can that be, you say? with family and friends without worrying You can’t change arthritis, can you? how far you have to go before knee pain stops Aren’t my knees “stuffed”? Osteoarthritis you from getting back? This isn’t just theory; is a condition of deterioration of the joint therapy with a focus on knee extensor strength surfaces. The meniscus that covers the bony has been proven in multiple studies in eminent surfaces in the knee joint doesn’t have any medical journals as being just as effective as nerve fibres. This means you can’t usually feel arthroscopic knee surgery (such as meniscectomy the change, unless it happens in an acute injury. and debridement) in the short term, and of far When the nerve fibres in the bone become greater benefit in the long term. stressed enough to send danger messages, which Whilst knee pain associated with osteoarthritis can happen for a number of reasons, then pain is is an ongoing battle for the sufferer, there is likely to follow. hope. If you haven’t seen an exercise physiologist A joint in pain is usually one that isn’t moving before, you might want to think again before you well, people limp, they walk stiff legged and do resign yourself to having to go under the knife. everything they can to protect the joint. In part,

T E C H N O L O G Y

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MESSAGING TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR SMILE HAS COME A LONG WAY. HELP YOUR TEEN STRAIGHTEN THEIR SMILE LIKE IT’S 2016.

magine where we’d be if technology of hiding their smile, they can enjoy the hadn’t changed the way we do confidence of a better smile, every day. things? Would we still be looking They can also eat with freedom, because for directions using a street directory Invisalign aligners are completely removable, instead of a GPS? Or, a cassette allowing them to eat all their favourite foods player to play our music? The list is endless. (and avoiding the need for you to cook special Well, the way we straighten meals for them!) Most importantly, this teeth is no exception. also means they can easily keep Invisalign treatment is brushing and flossing as they the virtually invisible, normally would for proper Firstly, no-one more comfortable and oral hygiene. needs to know removable alternative Lastly, they can keep ing they’re straighten to braces that can doing what they love. their teeth, as rs are ne help your teen get ig Whether they play sports al n lig sa vi In th , a straighter smile, or a musical instrument, made of a smoo is without the need for other teeth straightening clear plastic that ” e! virtually invisi bl brackets and wires. options can hold them Clearly, this changes back from enjoying the everything … things they want to. Invisalign Dr Darin Ballard from treatment helps them focus on Taree Orthodontics says, “We doing what they do best - being a are seeing an increasing amount of teen.” teenage patients coming into our More than three million people worldwide practice looking for alternative solutions are already enjoying the benefits of a to straighten their teeth. There are many clear straighter smile thanks to Invisalign treatment. differences for choosing Invisalign aligners/ Invisalign treatment requires a prescription. treatment. Your Invisalign trained orthodontist or dentist “Firstly, no-one needs to know they’re will advise if this product is suitable for you. straightening their teeth, as Invisalign aligners Right now, Taree Orthodontics are offering are made of a smooth, clear plastic that is free Invisalign Teen consultations. virtually invisible! Their friends probably won’t Book yours today by visiting even know they’re wearing them. Instead www.tareeorthodontics.com.au

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No needles. No drilling. That’s a reason to smile! When you think of tooth decay, needles and drills immediately come to mind. A Smile Dental in Taree now has the technology to detect tooth decay earlier. This means we can avoid painful needles and drilling! Our innovative new DIAGNOcam will shine a light through your tooth to search for any dark spots that indicate the very earliest signs of decay. No X-rays required! Capturing a potential problem at this stage allows for a painless treatment to arrest the spread of decay before it begins to compromise your tooth structure. So make an appointment with A Smile Dental today and take advantage of our new patient special. Getting in early has its benefits.

199 SPECIAL

NEW PATIENT

Dr Ralf Freier DENTIST

# Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 5pm

INCLUDES: full consultation check up & clean • fluoride treatment • Laserscreening, decay detector • any necessary full mouth xray

THIS IS A ONCE-ONLY OFFER TO NEW PATIENTS FOR A LIMITED TIME. PLEASE MENTION THIS OFFER WHEN BOOKING AND BRING THE COUPON TO YOUR APPPOINTMENT. * Health fund rebates may also apply.

Ph: 6551 0427 | 31 YORK ST, TAREE | Email: info@asmiledental.com.au | Web: asmiledental.com.au manning-great lakes focus.

focus_health

with Dr Linda Dade - Chiropractor

IF YOU DON’T LOOK AFTER YOUR BODY, WHERE WILL YOU LIVE? I T CA N B E A C O N F U S I N G T I M E F O R H E A LT H CA R E , I N C LU D I N G F O O D A N D SUPPLEMENTS!

here is so much information “out there” and we can think for you? In practice, I use all of these diets we are doing the right thing for for specific cases. Food can be seen as either ourselves, when in fact it may be nutritious or noxious. However, what is the opposite of what our super perfect for you can be very bad for someone amazing bio-individuality may need. else. The aim should always be to bring One thing I learnt for sure at university down inflammation and heal any gut issues. was to “be aware of vested interest”. Most (Gut issues like “leaky gut” and SIBO have of what you read and certainly what you the potential to lead on to bigger issues like see on TV are advertisements paid for by the auto-immune disease). Just because you read people who want you to buy what they are about a particular new wonder diet or your selling, which is a big fat VESTED INTEREST. neighbour swears by it, does not mean it is They want your money! They don’t care if it is going to work for you. good for you, let alone right for you. Supplements are another Let’s talk about you! You have issue. Taking products your own genetic make-up, that are not right for which is going to make you can make your you susceptible to certain symptoms worse diseases. This is what You have your and cause damage. came with you, and it own genetic I see it so often in is is important that you make-up, which practice - patients u going to make yo ain understand this only taking a particular rt susceptible to ce determines what you supplement that diseases .” are susceptible to. It is is not required, not often a series of events, getting digested environmental, emotional or causing harm. and structural that will Expensive either way! trigger your genetics and propel A holistic practitioner your health to the stage of disease. will empower their clients with We cannot change our genes, but we can important information designed change our environment to support our specifically for them following a very health. The really good news is that the body thorough history taking and examination. All is designed to regenerate. Just think - your aspects of health are taken into consideration gut lining repairs and replaces itself every before treating and prescribing. Structure three to five days. How amazing is that! and integrity of the nervous system, levels of Interestingly, the average age of diagnosis toxicity and inflammation, emotional load, gut of both breast cancer and coeliac disease health including ability to digest and absorb is 55 years. There will have been a genetic nutrients from your food, immune status, predisposition for both of these conditions, allergies and any triggering events are all but why did it take so long to express? We considered. now know environmental triggers and your Having someone on your side who is internal environment potentially took you over interested in getting to the root cause of your the edge to the disease state. Pain and any issues, who will not “sell” you stuff when it digestive issues, brain fog, headaches etc. are is not right for you and who works with you all signals that you body is sending you that to boost your healthier living journey is vital things are not right. Act on these signals; in these days of misinformation. Great things don’t wait for the BIG message to arrive. can happen! We now have a plethora of “diets” all We regularly run “Healthier You” seminars. guaranteed to fix us. Paleo, auto immune If you would like to get on our mailing list for future events, give us a call on 6557 6333 or Paleo, blood type, vegan, GAPs, Fodmap, email us on info@bdfchiro.com specialty elimination, etc. What diet is right

“

manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

MARTIALARTS for the whole family

Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts System [KRMAS] has opened a brand new facility in Suite 10 upstairs, 51 - 57 Albert Street, Taree and offers our world renowned martial arts programmes for the whole family. Kyoshi Kevin Blundell Kancho and his dedicated team of Instructors, who are all fully government accredited professional martial artists with decades of experience, are here to guide you and assist you reach your goals. Kumai Ryu Martial Arts System also offers you the award winning “Be Your Own BodyGuard” personal protection programme, with training suitable and specifically designed for everyone from pre-schoolers to people well into their retirement years. You can learn and obtain the benefits of Authentic Muay Thai Kickboxing, Traditional Karate for both teens and adults and the Karate just for Kids Little Ninjas programme. The classes are conducted in a professional, yet easy to understand, fun environment, ensuring

the participants acquire a better understanding of a range of suitable and realistic responses when faced with an aggressive person or difficult situation.

• Enhances conditioning, flexibility, agility,

entire life!

coordination

KRMAS have many training packages available

• Can aid in weight reduction, increase

to suit your availability, commitment level and

endurance • Develops confidence, respect, discipline,

interest.

Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts System specifically designed programmes will not only get you in great shape and enhance your fitness level, but you have the added bonus of learning realistic and effective self-defence at the same time! The world class air conditioned facility is purpose built and set up for Muay Thai Kickboxing and a world class Karate studio as taught in Thailand and Japan.

discipline

you at KRMAS!

For further information, call our local Dojo

Some of the many benefits of training with Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts include:

IMAGINE - BELIEVE - ACHIEVE

representative Nige Evans Mobile 0438 148

Give yourself or your child an unfair advantage

648 or check out the Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts

• Helps release stress and tension • Builds a sound body as well as a sound mind

in sport, school/work or life; with just one

System website www.krmas.com.au

email or phone call, you will transform your

RESPECT ALL FEAR NONE!

character, concentration, leadership • Provides a means of self-defence • Higher self-esteem • Greater understanding of respect and • Develop a positive and winning attitude • Teamwork and a new social group all await

SPECIAL OPENING OFFER - go to www.krmas.com.au/karate-taree.html and register for our special Introductory package, which includes a Karate uniform or a set of boxing gloves for Muay Thai plus two weeks of training for the first 50 people! Register now!

manning-great lakes focus.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

SEPTEMBER 2016

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

The universe asks for you to decide what you desire. You are being guided, so listen to your intuition, set goals to cater to all aspects of life and then enjoy the contentment of NOT needing or wanting anything. Ruby is great for connecting with the excitement of the unknown.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 You can expect smooth waters and contentment. Good luck and great opportunities surround work. Terrific new friends with like minds are entering your reality and perhaps some travels or adventure into new experiences. ENJOY! Blue-Lace Agate is very calming for your thoughts.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 A journey may present a paid opportunity for one of your talents to be explored. You will be likely to feel this is your destiny and enjoy all related emotions. It is time for you to receive, as you have given so much in the past. Moldavite is very good for aligning talent discovery.

manning-great lakes focus.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21 Don’t be hassled by not participating in some family conflict. You are the advisor, counsellor and arbitrator. Being segregated from everyone else is perfectly where you need to be for now, as this keeps you objective and preserves your energy. Chrysocolla helps with loving communication.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Your mind needs satisfaction, or else your thoughts will become your own worst enemy. Find a topic of interest or intrigue, and pursue it. Spend as much time as you can in nature or outdoors, to keep your imaginative energy strong. This is where you connect with knowing anything is possible. Moonstone and Labradorite help realise dreams.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Now is the time to release all past hurts, as a fresh beginning awaits your heart energy. Personal growth through relationships will be high on the agenda, so don’t make anything unnecessarily complicated; just view issues without emotion, and be completely honest with yourself lovingly. Rose Quartz strengthens love.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 A promotion at work can be anticipated, with financial rewards. You will be feeling much more secure and honoured for your efforts. A happier atmosphere in the work place is likely to come into effect soon, so help make it happen. Citrine attracts happy, bright energy and shatters any negativity.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 A happy, bright outlook on life can be expected, as your focus is drawn to nurturing. Family life holds much laughter and happiness for your next cycle with adventure. Set some fresh goals and enjoy! Clear Quartz helps with direction in life.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Exciting changes are fast approaching, so connecting with your “Gypsy” energy will ensure no opportunity is missed. New friends are approaching, with shared interests to enjoy. Travel opportunities are also coming into the picture. Carrying Citrine with you will help release any fear.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Even though you may not feel like much is happening in your reality just now, there is an abundance of good fortune and luck just waiting for your recognition. Put that brilliant head-strength to work and set some fresh goals. Lemon Quartz is wonderful for attracting happiness.

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

Be patient just a little longer, as your efforts are about to be rewarded. Do not give up on your dream; you will gain confidence by focusing on your truth and feel the success waiting. Remain positive. Selenite will help to keep a confident outlook.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Words need to be expressed, but your fear of consequence makes you bite your tongue. This leaves you feeling weak and powerless. Regain your strength by owning your reality. If you keep it about you, there can be no manipulation. Turquoise helps with positive communication. Good luck.

living AND RETIREMENT

manning-great lakes focus.

A lifestyle village for the young at heart

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Call Lorraine on 6554 7447 to arrange an inspection today!

Crystal Waters Estate 46

www.crystalwatersestate.com.au 133focus. South Street, Tuncurry • 02 6554 7447 • info@crystalwatersestate.com.au

manning-great lakes

focusinterview.

living AND RETIREMENT

On August 18, it was the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in Vietnam. Graham Kelly, President of the Great Lakes SubBranch of the Vietnam Veterans Association, describes the memorial that has been erected in Forster to commemorate this major battle, and invites all ex-service men and women, their partners and associates to become a part of this supportive local organisation …

Our hope is that those who orial, stop at the mem ger particularly youn ke ta ill generations , w with something away this e ac br em d them an for y or st hi r ou of part e.” m co many years to

“ ell us a bit about the history of the Great Lakes Sub Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia. When/why was it established? We started off as an outpost, in the late 1990s, moving around from people's garages until we decided to become a sub-branch as part of the Vietnam Veterans Federation based at Granville in Sydney. In 1999 we had nowhere to go and one of our veterans, Dave Tully, purchased the shed that we are still in today. Sadly, Dave passed away a few years ago, but left provision for us to use the shed for the Veterans as long we need it. A highlight was our opening day, when Little Pattie came to Forster and opened The Dave Tully Centre on Vietnam Veterans Day 1999. How many members does the local branch currently have? Membership has dropped off over the years, for many reasons, but new members come from time to time - and we have about 35 paid up members. What are the aims of your organisation? In the early years, our aim, of course, was to help veterans with pension claims and welfare

issues. These days we don't do very much of that, but are more focused on keeping the veteran community together, as we get older, with monthly luncheons and get togethers. What have been some of the Great Lakes Sub-Branch's most notable achievements in recent years? In the early years when we had a lot of "younger members", we teamed up with the Newcastle Variety Club, doing catering on their road trips, as fundraisers, raising money for children. One of my favourite memories was a ten day trip to the Birdsville Races with about a dozen veterans and partners. What a trip - hard work, but great fun as well. Even Dick Smith dropped in with his helicopter. Also, Legacy has been a major focus for us over the years, helping out on badge days and catering their Christmas party every year. The memorial that we have put in place this year has been a great achievement and will leave a lasting legacy from the sub-branch. There was a special service and unveiling

of this memorial on August 18. Please explain the reason behind this commemorative service and describe the monument ... This year we have reached a milestone in our military history, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle Of Long Tan in the Vietnam War. On the 18th of August 1966, men of “D” Company 6th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment fought one of the most iconic conflicts of the war and won the day against overwhelming odds. So, this year we decided to honour this milestone with a lasting memorial to the Vietnam War and all who served. Our hope is that those who stop at the memorial, particularly younger generations, will take something away with them and embrace this part of our history for many years to come. The memorial is in two parts, with a large information panel, produced by Barrier Signs in Taree, telling a short overview of the war, with background images and photos. The other part is a hardwood bench seat

made here in Forster by Harvey Jensen and Russel Robertson, with a laser cut metal panel as the back with the iconic Iriquious hellicopter "Huey" cut into it. How does membership of your organisation work? Are all your members past servicemen who fought in Vietnam - or is membership open to other community members? Our members are mostly Vietnam Veterans, but any ex-servicemen are more than welcome. We also welcome their partners and associate members who wish to be a part of our subbranch. Where can people contact you, or find out more info about the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia? We are open on Mondays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm, and lunch is always provided for a small donation. We also have a monthly luncheon on the second Tuesday of the month for members, partners and friends. Our ladies also have a monthly luncheon. Our address is unit 3 80/82 Kularoo Drive, Forster 2428 Telephone (02) 6555 3755 or email vvagl@southernphone.com.au Thanks Graham. manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

living

SUNRISE LIVING

AND RETIREMENT

S U P P O R T E D

We are talking with Tony and Lindy Stumbles, who manage the Sunrise Supported Living Village in Tuncurry. MID COAST Retirement law Retire in Style. And after a life’s hard work you deserve no less.

ow are plans progressing with the When moving into a RV it is vital that you properly understand extensions to your ‘the deal’ you are entering into – that is, exactly what you village? are buying and how much it is really costing. Official advice These are exciting from State regulators is that before signing a village contract times for us, and you should “seek advice from a solicitor with expertise in plans are well underway to doubling the retirement village legislation before signing any contract”. size of our village. Sunrise have settled on Many seniors (and their families) now have to consider moving the land, and plans are currently awaiting into an aged care facility. There is a very complex system final approval before we start building. Our of fees that may be payable although you may be partially residents are also excited at the prospect of exempt from some of these. welcoming new residents to our family. What are you proposing for the expanThis is also a good time to take stock of your affairs and sion? ensure your will accords with your wishes, and that your Over the years, residents and potential family or friends have the necessary Power of Attorney and residents have told us what they are looking Enduring Guardian so they can later make vital decisions for in a village, and we have used these about your finances, health care, and welfare. ideas to design the extensions to our village Contact me, Phil Goodsell, to discuss how I can assist you. - we have listened to the people. The units will be larger and have more space awround them. There will be a new Community Centre too, featuring a television theatre and more communal lounge space. How many new units are planned? At this stage, we are proposing 13 large one bedroom units and 12 medium sized two bedroom units and 14 very large two bedroom units. All units will be finished to our usual high standard with granite or Caesarstone benchtops, quality stainless steel appliances, polyurethane cabinets and beautifully appointed bathrooms. All units come fully equipped with all appliances installed, right down to the dishwasher, washing machine and clothes dryers. Why is the supported living model so attractive to our senior citizens these days? Supported living really does offer the best of both worlds. Our residents live in their own villa unit. Each unit is fully set up for independent living, with a lovely fully equipped kitchen, lounge/dining room, very stylish disabled compliant bathroom and either one or two bedrooms with built in robes. Each unit has its own private garden courtyard. Residents are welcome to have their own small pet. It’s just like usual villa 48

manning-great lakes focus.

choose. Our wonderful nursing staff are onunit living! Having said that, Sunrise also offers all the support services that you site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We would usually expect to see in an Aged Care also offer a range of other support services complex. We have a wonderful community to our residents, like personal care, laundry, dining room, where lunch and dinner are unit cleaning, bill paying and transport available every day if required. Just ask one to doctors and specialists appointments. of our residents how wonderful the food is! We have our own village bus to transport Our nursing care staff are on site 24 hours a residents on weekly shopping trips and day, seven days a week. Our staff also proother social outings. Our residents can vide a full range of support services. This all participate in a wide range of social, craft means that our residents can be as indeand entertainment activities. It’s up to pendent as they choose. They them how much they want to can come and go as be involved. they please. They can have friends and/or What about couples? Most imfamily come and Sunrise is ideal for portantly, stay when they couples, particularly r it means that ou please. But, if if they have different residents will , in they need care of ity or care requirements. the vast maj in the future, to Usually, in the past, cases, never need we are there for move again.” one partner would them. No-one have to go into an aged knows what is care nursing home, and around the corner the other would continhealthwise. Most imue to live in the family home. portantly, it means that our This obviously led to the anguish of residents will, in the vast majority separation. Some of our residents have of cases, never need to move again. Why is this different from other been married for over 60 years! If they are supported living villages? separated through illness, this can lead to Well, Sunrise is the ONLY supported one, or both of them, going downhill physliving village on the coast that has nursing ically and emotionally. However, at Sunrise care staff onsite 24 hours a day. It is very couples stay together in their own unit. important to know that if you or your loved The person that requires care can receive as one has a fall in the night, that there will many support services as they need, whilst be immediate assistance available to them. the other partner can continue to support Their distress call won’t go through to a call their partner and also join in the activities centre or to an ambulance station where and the wonderful, supportive atmosphere staff may or may not be available. It will go of the village. through to our own onsite nursing staff for

“

immediate attention. What support services will be available to residents in the new part of the village? We will be offering all the same services that we currently do. Our new residents will be able to have lunch and/or dinner in our dining room seven days a week if they so

This all sounds great; how can our readers find out more information? We welcome everyone to come and have a look at our existing village and view the plans for the new units. They will be able to register their interest and secure their future. Or, contact us on 6554 8424. Thanks Tony and Lindy.

focusinterview. Photo courtesy of Manning River Times.

living AND RETIREMENT

HelenRichey’s Richey’s Experience Helen Experience S I LV E R

T O N E S

Helen Richey’s Experience

Robert and I recently visited the spectacular Robert and I recently Robert I recently Laurieton area and on the Mid visited the spectacular visited the spectacular North Coast of NSW, including W I T H P A M A R C H E R Laurieton area on the Mid Laurieton on the Mid a visitarea to the impressive Laurieton North Coast of NSW, including Resort. including After a North Residential Coast of NSW, PAM ARCHER IS THE CHOIR LEADER OF MANNING VALLEY awhirlwind visit to the impressive Laurieton career in dancing that a visit Residential to the impressive Laurieton UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE (U3A) SILVER TONES SINGERS. Resort. Aft er a spans more than 50 years, we are now MANNING VALLEY U3A WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS TO Residential er a thatoptions, whirlwind careerAft in dancing startingResort. to weigh our retirement ANY OF ITS WIDE VARIETY OF CLASSES … AND THE SILVER TONES SINGERS IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF JUST HOW MUCHwhirlwind spans more than 50an years, we are now career infor dancing that and are looking active lifestyle ENJOYMENT U3A PARTICIPANTS EXPERIENCE. starting to weigh our community that ersretirement a distinct diff erence. spans more than 50 off years, we areoptions, now i Pam. You've been Choir concert. and are looking for an active lifestyle Wetowere in awe the natural beauty of the resort weigh ourofoffretirement Leader of the Manning Valley The Silver Tones have some upcoming starting community that ers a distinct options, difference. U3A Silver Tones Singers since performances. Where will they be held? surrounding area, and we could picture ourselves and areand looking for an active lifestyle 2009. How has the group We will be giving two public performances We were in awe of the natural beauty of the resort forming warm friendships within the community. evolved since this time? - one in Harrington, and the other in Taree. community that offers a distinct difference. and surrounding area, and we could picture ourselves When we started the U3A choir, our songs HARRINGTON - Sunday 11th September, The team at Laurieton Residential Resort understands forming warm friendships within the community. were mainly sung in unison. As our membership Harrington Community Church at 2pm. We were in awe ofand theoffnatural beauty of the resort while retirees’ needs ered a solutions-based approach, grew, so did the musical enthusiasm, and we TAREE - Sunday 9th October, St John's Anglican Th e team at Laurieton Residential Resort understands respectfully guiding through the various options. moved forward and tackled more challenging Church at 2pm. All proceeds from both concerts and surrounding area,usand we could picture ourselves works. We now sing in three and four-part will be going to the Manning Valley Push for retirees’ needs and offered a solutions-based approach, while I give the Resort top marks for scenery, climate and proximity to forming warm friendships within the community. harmony. Some of the works we’ve studied Palliative. respectfully guiding us through the various options. include the Gloria from Mozart's Twelfth Drop us a little hint about some of the songs major services. It’s welcoming to find a unique community that is still Mass, Slaves Chorus from Nabucco by we may hear at these performances ... The team attheLaurieton Residential Resort Isogive top marks for scenery, and proximity to care. close toResort much-needed services such asclimate the understands airport and medical Verdi, Faure's beautiful Cantique, Gilbert and Our programme includes songs from different services. It’sered welcoming to find a unique approach, community that is still retirees’major andare off a solutions-based while Sullivan favourites etc. genre - religious songs, Faure's beautiful Thneeds e amenities gorgeous and the homes are simply stunning, but so close to much-needed services such as the airport and medical care. Over the years, we have become well known Cantique, negro spirituals, Australian songs, respectfully through one of guiding the biggestus draws for us isthe thatvarious our pets options. are a welcome addition in the area and have been invited to sing at a Gilbert and Sullivan item and songs from Th e amenities are gorgeous and the homes are simply stunning, to the resort. We often joke that our pups are our children, and but there luncheons, the Winter Festival and Scottish Oklahoma and other well known musicals. A I give the Resort top marks for scenery, climate and proximity to Concerts. We also regularly perform at Bishop few of our members will be performing solos, one of the biggest draws for us is that our pets are a welcome addition is peace of mind that the Resort encourages this companionship by Tyrrell Place and Storm Village Retirement Village. and the ladies and fellows will be entertaining the resort. often jokefor that areare ourinchildren, and there major to services. It’sWe to fi ndpups unique community that is still allowing a pet inwelcoming the home asour long asa you the community. In 2014 we decided to do two concerts a year us with some light-hearted moments as separate peace of mind that the Resort encourages thisairport companionship by for charity. We raised $5,300 and donated all the groups. The audience will be invited to sing along so closeisThto much-needed and medical care. ank you to Vicki andservices the wholesuch teamas forthe a beautiful visit. proceeds to the Children's Ward at the Taree Base some of the “old favourites” with our singers. allowing a pet in the home for as long as you are in the community. Hospital and the local CanAssist organisation. Ticket details ... Warmest regards, Helen Richey The amenities are gorgeous and the homes are simply stunning, but Thank you to Vicki and the whole team for a beautiful visit. Our choir numbers have grown to approx. 55, Tickets for the noth concerts will be sold at

and many of the original members are still with us. I really look forward to rehearsals each week, as the enthusiasm, willingness to learn and happy atmosphere is always present ... What have been some of the Silver Tones' significant achievements? We performed at the U3A concert at the end of last year, as well as the Launching of the Anglican Care Auxiliary in the Manning. We have been working on a completely new repertoire in preparation for our concerts in September/ October this year. After these, we will prepare for our usual Christmas concerts and end of year

one of the biggest draws for us is that our pets are a welcome addition to the resort. We often joke that our pups are our children, and there is peace of mind that the Resort encourages this companionship by allowing a pet in the home for as long as you are in the community.

the door. There are no bookings. Cost is $10 for Warmest regards, Helen Richey adults and $5 for children. Afternoon tea will be 11 Resort Rd, Laurieton NSW provided for a gold coin donation. More info? visit us online www.laurietonresort.com.au 11 Resort Rd, Laurieton NSW If you wish to find out about us and have a Call today to arrange your personal sales consultation computer, type in Manning Valley U3A and click visit us online www.laurietonresort.com.au on the Newsletter. Information in the Term 3 Newsletter is on Pages 3 and 11. We meet each Call today to arrange your personal sales consultation Wednesday at the Uniting Church, Chatham from 1pm to 3:30pm. New members are always welcome, and you don't have to audition. Website: http://manningvalley.u3anet.org.au/ Thanks Pam. LRR_Testimonial_DL_v1.indd 1 26/07/2016 5:25 pm

Thank you to Vicki andP:the1300 whole 55 team70 for75 a beautiful visit.

1300 55 70 75 Warmest regards, HelenP:Richey

11 Resort Rd, Laurieton NSW manning-great lakes focus.

LRR_Testimonial_DL_v1.indd 1

visit us online www.laurietonresort.com.au

49 26/07/2016 5:25 pm

living AND RETIREMENT

TAREE DENTURE CLINIC U N D E R S T A N D I N G

Y O U R

S M I L E

The Taree Denture Clinic has been providing denture services to the Manning Valley community for almost 30 years. The clinic prides itself on providing patients with quality dentures that not only fit well, but also look attractive and individual.

onstructing a denture is an art that requires patience, precision and experience. We are thrilled that Jenine Bradburn, dental prosthetist, has joined the practice to continue to deliver outstanding quality our patients know and expect. Philip Wright continues to see patients by appointment only, as he winds down to retirement. The Taree Denture Clinic aims to deliver comfort and confidence to all our patients’ smiles. Our mission is to deliver high quality yet affordable dentures and mouthguards, that will enhance our patients’ overall health. Why Choose Taree Denture Clinic? At the Taree Denture Clinic, we understand just how unique your smile is. Dentures can affect how you look, eat, speak, act, and feel.

manning-great lakes focus.

A denture that fits well can have a tremendous and positive impact on your overall appearance, health, and outlook. Each denture we construct is individually crafted, and we use only quality materials and time tested techniques. We are committed to working closely with you to ensure that your new denture fits your appearance, physiology, personality, and lifestyle. Made On-site All of our dentures are made by our on-site dental technician, who has had over 25 years of experience in the profession. No work is outsourced overseas! Our materials are all acquired from top Australian dental suppliers and comply with strict government regulations. About Jenine Bradburn - Dental Prosthetist Jenine has been working within the dental profession for over 30 years, 25 of these years

knowledge, combined with in making dentures. We offer a free n tio quality materials, she is an Her passion for her ta consul l ta en expert at denture making. work and patients D with our ss se as to t is To provide you with continues to grow. In et Prosth pe , ty e ur nt de ch the best advice 2012, after working whi r you. if any, is best fo possible, we’d really in the corporate world arges There are no ch .” like to see you in for 20+ years, Jenine ns io at lig ob no d an person … opened her first private We offer a free denture clinic in the Hills consultation with our Dental District of Sydney, and in Prosthetist to assess which denture early 2016 she became business type, if any, is best for you. There are partner and co-owner of the Taree no charges and no obligations. Denture Clinic. We price all our denture services such that You will deal with Jenine directly from you get the best quality, while still remaining start to finish, for all your denture needs. competitive. Call us today to book! With Jenine’s many years of experience and

“

Come & Experience Evermore for Yourself Affordable 5 Star Supported Retirement Living - Forster • • • • •

Beautifully appointed spacious apartments and facilities 24/7 onsite care managed by our registered nurse Next door to Forster’s private hospital Central location - leisurely stroll to shopping and restaurants Independent and supported living options available

STAGE 2

Selling Fa st! Inspection Appointm by ent

18-30 Bruce Street, Forster Next Door to the Forster Private Hospital

02 6528 0442

www.evermoreliving.com.au manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

living AND RETIREMENT

Ian & Gwen C O C H R A N E

OUR NEW INDEPENDENCE AT HOME: “IT WAS LIKE STARTING LIFE AFRESH …”

e would like to introduce Gwen and Ian Cochrane, who have been clients of Ageing and Disability Services MidCoast Council for several years. Gwen and Ian were invited to share their experiences with our service: "Ian and Gwen Cochrane here. We have been asked to share our experiences with the organisation that we are mightily impressed with. "Each one of us has been independent and self-sufficient from an early age, but we reached a point where we knew we really did need care, because we were simply not coping. "After some five years with Alzheimer’s disease, Gwen found she was doing less and less … I had a plastic artery in my right leg, a consequence of a burst aneurism, some asthma, severe fatigue, yet I was house keeper, cook, shopper, gardener, treasurer, driver and doer of all things Gwen was now unable to do. "We went to Ageing and Disability Services, MidCoast Council. Two delightful ladies visited us in our villa with a printed explanation of it all. We signed after due consideration the next day - good thinking." (The service Ian signed up for is a Home Care Package designed to assist people over 65 years to remain in their own home with the benefit of support.) "Benefits? Scores of them. It was like

starting life afresh and so inexpensive - we were astounded. We now have two hours of housekeeping by the most capable, caring person every Monday and Friday, nursing/ grooming Tuesdays and Thursdays for Gwen and a companion Wednesdays for four hours so I can take time off from my caring duties. This also takes the form of a luncheon with the boys once a month. We dine in a different venue each time, mostly pubs - good men, good fun." (The service Ian is describing is the Neighbour Aid Men’s Group, which provides an opportunity for men to enjoy the company of other men and take a break from their day to day responsibilities. Ian also attends a Carer’s Group, which features support from other carers as well as guest speakers to assist with ways to manage their caring role). "Do we like the staff and volunteers? Love them. They are all there because they are well suited for the job. There has been some first class recruitment. Congratulations. "Would I recommend Ageing and Disability Services? Too right! Our lifestyle and comfort is immensely improved with their help. Council gets almost everything right, but Aged Care is one BIG feather in their caps!" This is just one of the many stories to be told by clients of Ageing and Disability Services MidCoast Council. For more information on what they do, please contact Christine Ellis (Senior Leader, Ageing Services) on 1300 65 88 30.

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Business Minds with Jeremy Thornton of Insurance Advisernet

BUSINESS minds

T H I S M O N T H W E ’ R E F O C U S I N G O N O N E O F T H E M O S T C RU C I A L I N D U S T R I E S I N O U R R E G I O N, AG R I C U LT U R E .

ne of the innovative providers in our area is Linga Longa Farm, outside of Wingham. I caught up with Lauren Newell and found out that whilst the name Linga Longa conjures up images of lazy days sitting on the verandah watching the grass grow and the cattle fatten, farming life is not that simple. Right, Lauren? For our guests staying in the farmstay it probably is, but for us every day can have its challenges. We are privileged to live in a high rainfall area, but when drought hits it can take its toll on pastures and animals. Floods can also do lots of damage, destroying fencing and if you are not ready, leaving cattle stranded and in danger of drowning. Farming life is never a 9 - 5 job, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Tell us about your background. Linga Longa is only a handful of years old in your care. What led you to take the tree change route? Love! I met and fell in love with a farmer! When I met farmer Greg, I had been working in advertising for over 25 years, with my last placement heading up a team planning and buying for the Federal Government advertising account. Swapping working on million-dollar media campaigns for a pair of Blundstones has been the most fulfilling time of my career. We started selling out of an esky locally to heading to Sydney each week to sell direct to foodies and chefs at genuine farmers’ markets. Whilst I have taken the cattle business in a new direction, the Newell family were among the first to bring Hereford Beef into Australia in 1859, from Cox’s Green Herefordshire aboard 54

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the Duncan Dunbar. Why do you think it is important to It is such a diverse business you operate. promote organic and grass fed produce in Give us an insight into what goes on at today’s society? Linga Longa? Health, basically. Cattle have become like We grow pasture fed cattle, using a fast food outlets, fattened quickly on grain in traditional rotational grazing system, and our feedlot environments. Cattle aren’t meant to animals are cared for throughout their lifecycle. eat grain; the meat does not contain the health We know everything about our herd, from benefits of a grass fed animal. A grass fed conception to consumption, and this is beast is left to roam the paddocks stress part of the reason we believe you free; whereas, a feedlot animal is can “Taste the Difference” in in a confined space and force our product. fed. We spend a lot of We employ sustainable our time at the farmers’ Swapping and ethical agricultural markets educating on working practices and do consumers not only ia ed m r million- dolla of ir not use artificial about the health pa a to campaigns en be s growth stimulants benefits of pasture ha s ne Blundsto e tim ng or anti-biotics in fed beef but also the lli lfi fu t the mos .” our production. In importance of the nose er re ca y of m 2012, we were one to tail experience. We do of the first producers tastings of the secondary to be accredited by the cuts, give out recipes and Cattle Council with Pasture explain what each part of the Fed Certification, because we do beast could be used for. My latest not supplement our herd with grain. In venture is making bone broth, which is order to offset the carbon emissions that currently trending; it is a matter of always cattle produce, we have concentrated being one step ahead of the game. on reducing the amount of “food miles” our It would be so good to see a proper food product travels. Unlike large-scale production trail set up within the Manning-Great systems, we can readily track the miles our Lakes. You are a big supporter of local product travels, because we take our meat tourism; do you see this as a selling point directly from paddock to consumer. We utilise for our region? the services of a local abattoir only 4 km away Absolutely! Our area has so much to offer and a local butcher. consumers when it comes to the food grown We also have a 4-bedroom cottage available here. We have the most amazing produce for guests to come stay on farm. here, from the mountains to the sea, with The Paddock to Plate philosophy is macadamias, avocadoes, dairy products, oysters something that has become a real - the list goes on. A food trail would be an attraction for foodies and non-foodies. amazing event to see eventuate.

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Farming and agriculture are some of our most traditional and productive industries in the Manning-Great Lakes. How can locals do more to support locally grown produce? Buy local where they can, instead of the big supermarket chains, visit the local farmers’ markets, and buy and eat what is in season. Having said that though, I feel that Manning Valley tourism need to get behind local producers, as I believe locals are not aware of the quality and diversity of produce that is available on their doorstep. We continually promote the Manning via the markets and through our farmstay advertising; a reciprocal campaign would be very effective. You have had a recent win. Tell us about the award? We received a Bronze medal in the Australian Food Awards, Australia’s leading national food awards programme, conducted by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV). We were one of the only small producers up against the some of the national large beef suppliers. A great result, though I have told farmer Greg I expect Silver next year! How do people get to taste Linga Longa produce? Locals have the advantage, as we are on their doorstep; they can jump online: www. buymeat.com.au - order, and we can either deliver or they can pick up from the farm by appointment only. For you, what is the best part about being in business in the Manning-Great Lakes? My office - watching the cattle out the window with the Comboyne Mountains in the background; what could be better! Thanks Lauren.

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Sharon Bultitude - Tourism and Marketing Coordinator, Great Lakes Tourism

_Travel focus focus_editorial

withTravel RobynEditor Buttler with Susie Boswell.

Photo: Celso Pupo

POKEMON GO GREAT LAKES HAVE YOU MET JIGGLYPUFF AT THE TANKS? OR SPOTTED CHARMANDER HIDING IN THE BUSHES AT CAPE HAWKE LOOKOUT? WHAT ABOUT EEVEE OR CLEFAIRY? THOSE TWO ARE ROAMING THE STREETS OF WINGHAM, WAITING FOR THE INEVITABLE "POKÉ BALLS" THAT WILL BE THROWN THEIR WAY.

f you’ve been living under a rock recently and are not familiar with any of these cartoon monsters, you may not have heard about the Pokémon Go phenomenon that is sweeping the

globe. For the uninitiated, Pokémon Go is an augmented reality (AR) game based on the popular Pokémon franchise. The app is integrated with Google Maps and works by using your mobile phone’s GPS to locate, capture, battle and train virtual creatures called Pokémon, who appear on screen as if they were in the same real-world location. The aim being to capture all 151 Pokémon - hence the game’s mantra “gotta catch 'em all”! However, if you've written off Pokémon Go as some fad for teenagers who think socialising is taking selfies on snapchat - then think again. In the first week of launch, Pokémon Go was reported to have more than twice as many users as the dating app Tinder and more users than Twitter. Within two weeks it was the biggest mobile game ever and to date has over 100 million downloads. It’s caused a spending frenzy too, generating over $200 milllion in net revenue in the first month from players according to app analytics platform, Sensor Tower. And what's really interesting is that 44% of players are millennials (22 years - 42 years) and a staggering 33% are “Baby Boomers” (40 years - 55 years)! So what does this all mean for tourism? Pokémon Go is already having an impact on tourism destinations across the world and is being exploited to increase visitation and open up new ways to get people to interact and engage with new things. First of all, two key components of the game - Pokéstops and Pokégyms - are typically located at tourism landmarks and attractions. So in order to “catch 'em all” people are exploring places that they may not have otherwise and discovering the nooks and crannies and hidden gems of the places they thought they knew and

seeing their home town with a fresh perspective. Essentially, the Google Maps integration has turned Pokémon Go into a bit of a local tour guide. Gecko Adventures has taken this even further by creating Pokémon: Let’s Go, a tailor made six-week trip giving travellers the chance to be among the first to capture the pocket monsters in remote destinations around the world. Tourism attractions are also hosting events and enticing players by creating “lures” (an additional feature which businesses can pay for) which encourage spawning of valuable creatures and hence generating extra traffic. Although many Pokéstops are mostly significant points of interest, there’s also a host of public buildings, cafés and bars that are designated stops. Many such businesses have realised very quickly the potential and have been quick to capitalise. In a broader context, the ability of AR to shape the travel and tourism sector has been debated for a while. However Pokémon Go has quite seriously demonstrated that digital integration with the real world is a viable product, with the ability to affect behaviour. Who knows what could be developed next? And of course, this in turn has implications for destination marketers. Our teams now need to be incredibly agile, with the flexibility to react quickly in order to leverage and maximise emerging digital trends. The way we reach and engage with our audiences at every stage of the visitor cycle has changed forever. For all local players, make sure you hop on to our interactive map on the Great Lakes regional website www.greatlakes.org.au/pokemon-gogreat-lakes. The map highlights locations of Pokéstops and Pokégyms across the MidCoast Council region and allows gamers to add to the ever growing number of map markers. A Pokémon Go Great Lakes Facebook group has also been set up as a forum for people to share the best locations, show off their latest captures etc. www.facebook.com/groups/ PokemonGoGreatLakesNSW

M USIC M A K E S T H E WOR L D G O ROU N D

ravo Brazil! Despite the hype and pop-media overkill, the cuidad maravillosa staged a truly “marvellous”, happy, 2016 Olympics. Brazil has a population two-thirds that of the USA, but muggings in Rio - real, or imagined - rated nowhere near the one larceny every five seconds, or murder every half-hour, in the North American territory. Not one terrorist bomb either, while, sadly, more than 70 died in two locations on the other side of the world as the Games’ spectacular closing ceremony was getting under way. And, apparently, no casualties of Zika or the pea-green diving pool. Brazil’s heightened profile thanks to the Olympics makes it, and other major South American countries, likely to be much more frequently sought after in coming months. A leading attraction: Rio de Janeiro’s annual Carnaval - costumes, colour, rhythm-crazed Cariocas singing and dancing along the Sambadrome - in 2017, on the last four days of February, from Friday 24 to Tuesday 28. But there are also magnets including sensational Iguazu Falls, Machu Picchu of course, magnificent Buenos Aires and more. Great flight options to get around the vast southern continent are on offer via LATAM, the airline formed in recent years by the merger of LAN (Chile) and TAM (Brazil). For example, one advance purchase fare this month (conditions apply; purchase at least 90 days before departure) is $1699 return SYD-GIG (Rio) and allows a generous three stopovers across its Latin American network at USD100 each. I spent a week in Rio travelling solo and, observing a few sensible precautions (no jewellery; keep taxi windows closed at traffic lights), encountered no problems. The beauty of the city’s harbour supersedes Sydney’s, if only because its iconic Sugarloaf is natural, not man-made. And Cristo Redentor, the towering Christ figure on Corcovado, rivals the Opera House and Bridge. But I was scolded by my five-star hotel concierge for mooting what he described as “poverty tourism” - and warned of danger

- when in fact the slum favelas, so immediate and overpowering, spark an irresistible desire to explore their amazing - and, from the distance, quite enchanting - presence. Looking up a Portuguese phrasebook this week, I was amused to see, “I lost my wallet; I haven’t done anything wrong; Where are you taking me; It was a misunderstanding; I am an American/Australian citizen; Can I just pay a fine?” Did the Olympians take the book too literally, I wonder? For starters, see: visit.rio/en/ editorial/must-see-rio and latam.com/en_au/ DREAM LOVER, DREAM MUSICAL This month Sydney once again stages a “world premiere” - a new toe-tapping extravaganza, “Dream Lover”, the life of entertainer Bobby Darin and his movie-star wife Sandra Dee, featuring a veritable bombardment of 34 hits from the 1960s - Mack The Knife, Beyond the Sea, Splish Splash and the eponymous multimillion-seller Dream Lover. Led by David Campbell, the cast includes a list of stars with credits in a string of acclaimed local musicals (among them, as the young Bobby Darin, popular child star Nicholas Cradock, Gavroche in Les Mis.) The musical aims to capture “the glamour and passion of the big band era, the Rat Pack in Vegas and the Golden Age of Hollywood”, with an 18-piece band. The production team boasts costumes by Tim Chappel (Priscilla, Queen of the Desert; Miss Congeniality) and the venue’s the superbly-appointed Lyric Theatre at The Star (casino), Pyrmont. The season opens Thursday September 22 and runs to Sunday November 27; evening performances are on Wed-Sat and matinees Tues-Wed and Sat-Sun. Prices from $69.90 plus fee/s. Some 30,000 overnight visitors are expected to travel to Sydney for the show and Virgin Holidays has packages. An example: Tickets, flights and one night’s accommodation at centrally located Ibis Sydney World Square for two, $395pp. I had conflicting results on the website though, so call them on 13 15 16 or make your own arrangements. Bookings: ticketmaster.com.au or 1300 795 267. susieboswelltravelbug@gmail.com Photo: Brian Greach. manning-great lakes focus.

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with Gary Gersbach from Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber

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with Amanda Tate form LJ Hooker

BUSINESS

GLITZ & GLAMOUR BALL THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY TOOK A WELL DESERVED OPPORTUNITY TO RELAX AND ENJOY ITSELF WITH THE RECENT GLITZ AND GLAMOUR BALL.

veryone was clad in his/her finery, unemployment figures and more importantly, to to ensure advantage was taken of help keep our school leavers with jobs, so they will the fantastic music, wine, food and not have to pursue employment out of their home company. Congratulations were well area. in order for the sponsors, Evermore Our new front yard from the merger has Retirement Living, the ball committee and the introduced a lot of challenges and opportunities, Forster Club for an extremely successful event. with the combined strength of the increased area and its associated industries. Whereas the Any profits received will be part of Great Lakes was strong in tourism the developing fund the Forster and seafood, the new council Tuncurry Business Chamber The recent on has many more assets, such as reserves to contribute to, and site exposé heavy industry, dairying, beef support events generating of the plans drew e production, beef processing, significant visitors to the thos comment from agriculture in general, area. as present, and it w eisteddfods and significant Cycleways or Parking e es believed that th in sporting grounds, in Again the Chamber ly nt ca were signifi addition to a wealth of aged g has been involved in in in ta re favour of .” es care establishments. ac combating the introduction sp g in rk the pa As a consequence, it is of a cycleway at the expense vital the new council has a of parking within the Forster significantly different approach Business Zone. Although the to business development than was community wasn’t asked if it wanted previously displayed in the Great Lakes. a cycleway in Memorial Drive, Forster, it is To help encourage this to happen, all the now being asked to comment on whether Chambers within MidCoast Council have arranged the introduction of the cycle way should be with to present a combined face, in support of an parking, or without 21 parking spaces. establishment of a meaningful and effective The recent on site exposé of the plans drew policy and process to develop business within the comment from those present, and it was believed council. that these were significantly in favour of retaining When a business starts, moves into town or the parking spaces. The Chamber will continue to plans to increase or modify its functions, the do what it can to safeguard the interests of the single biggest hurdle it has to overcome is the community by aiding the businesses that provide council. At this time a business needs every help the services to the town. and assistance it can have, and it is the chamber’s Business Development aim that this can and will happen with a business The MidCoast Council resulting from the friendly and innovative council. merging of the three local councils has progressed Once it has been decided, agreed or even well, and although the Premier stated that in the hoped a business type would be beneficial to immediate period it would be business as normal, the area, then it is the council’s duty to ensure there have been significant changes occurring every assistance is given in an efficient and timely within the council precincts. manner. It is imperative that the new council adopts The chamber looks forward to ongoing a significant and aggressive approach to discussions with the MidCoast Council with this business development. This is essential to help end in mind. provide employment (jobs) to combat our high

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SPRING IS IN THE AIR

pring is in the air - such a cliché, but such an accurate description. You can feel it in the heat of the sun, see it with the bulbs and leaves just about to burst on the trees and smell the lushness of the new growth. No wonder spring is the most popular time to list properties on the market. Every spring comes a flurry of new listings, where owners can showcase their homes at their very best, making the most of the spring greens and colour in the gardens and warmer, drier weather. Everyone not only feels better, but looks better. The only negative to listing your property in spring is that there is usually more competition. but don’t be concerned - just arm yourself with knowledge on the current real estate

market and trends. Investing in a professional real estate agent allows you the opportunity to discuss not only market price and how your property should be marketed, but also any obvious problems that should be fixed prior to placing the property up for sale. A good agent is not afraid to have the difficult conversation and give additional advice on decluttering, cleaning, damp areas and areas around the home that look tired. Remember, first impressions are paramount, so your gardens should be manicured, house sparkling clean and start packing away some of the family treasures that may work against you. One of the easiest ways to add value to your home is a new lick of paint. Nothing beats the smell and the clean look when taking potential buyers in, adding thousands to your sale price.

m a n n i n g - g r e at l a k e s

Property guide

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focusabode.

When local experience and workmanship counts ... there really is only one choice - Coast Building Company! hrissy Jones had the pleasure of taking a walk through the stunning Display Home - Seabreeze 45, which is now open to the public at 9 Torquay Circuit in the beautiful Seascape Estate, Redhead and chatting with Michael Kucinskis, co-owner and licensed builder of Coast Building Company. Looking forward to entertaining your friends on your brand new alfresco? Want to immerse yourself in your very own modern home

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theatre? Want to be a MasterChef in your stylish designer kitchen? Get ready for those things (and more), as Coast Building Company transform your dream into a flawlessly finished quality home. The display home is an exceptional display of quality workmanship and eye for detail. A fantastic design, the Seabreeze 45 will accommodate your family and guests in complete style and comfort. A modern facade welcomes you into the

home via an entry portico opening into a spacious entry tiled foyer. Boasting four large bedrooms, including an exquisite master with en-suite and walk-in-robe, a fully equipped and expertly laid out kitchen including full butlerâ€™s pantry, supplied and installed by Viison Kitchens, plus home theatre, open plan living/ dining and outdoor alfresco - the home is the perfect layout for entertaining family and friends. Because you deserve the best, the Seabreeze

45 has 2.7 m ceilings throughout, LED downlights, 40 mm stone bench-tops, a luxurious free-standing bath, soft close drawers and top quality SMEG appliances. The newly opened display home is a must see if you are dreaming of your new home; it will inspire you to build what you have always desired. Call into the display home and see for yourself how easy it can be to have a beautiful house you will call home for many years.

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From the Builder - Coast Building Company. Tell us about your business … How long have you been operating? From the first point of contact with us, you’ll quickly begin to see that the cornerstone of our business is our attitude towards each and every relationship with our suppliers, staff members, trade personnel and, most importantly, with our valued customers. As a locally owned and operated home builder, with over 100 years’ combined building experience, our team of friendly professionals knows that a commitment to building quality homes with affordable, value-

for-money inclusions and a “realistic price” without any hidden costs is the starting point to building trust. Our goal is simple … We strive to be your only logical choice when looking for the most trusted quality builder in the region. Our company was formed in 2015; all owners and business partners are licensed builders, so when a client talks to us, they are talking to a licensed builder, not an employed salesperson who will sell at all costs. They will benefit from building with us, simply because they talk and deal with the builder right through the entire building process, from start to finish, minimising any inconsistencies in

communication with the build. We are not a franchise: “that’s the difference”. While our company is relatively new, we all have a vast understanding of clients’ expectations, site conditions and customer satisfaction. We are not a builder who is looking to corner the market with strength and dominance; rather, we are looking to maintain consistency and build trust and reliability - as stated above, the most trusted builder. What type of construction do you specialise in? Our company has been working hard to be able to provide clients with all types of options in new home construction. We are able to

build project style homes offering a range of plans to choose from and different inclusion levels. We also customise our plans, or we are able to work with our clients to develop and customise a plan entirely from scratch specifically for their budget, site and desired inclusions. We are very much a custom home builder. Do you source your materials and associated trades locally? All our suppliers and trades are local to our area. The reason behind this is a deliberate decision to keep our local economy going and local people employed. But the big and major contributing factor is that the tradesmen are

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focusabode.

Come talk to us about your ents! exact requirem be built ill w e m Your ho l, by a team of loca ced en professional , lic tradesmen with s’ ar more than 20 ye ” . ce en ri expe

“ local and close at hand if anything at all like minor maintenance adjustment is required; being close by, they’re readily available to inspect without delays. While a couple of our suppliers are large national companies, they still in turn employ locals to keep their businesses running. How do prospective clients contact you? Our clients can view and contact us through our website: www.coastbuilding.com.au or they can visit our display home at 9 Torquay Circuit, Redhead, or simply by phoning us on 6559 2509. For all new home enquiries, contact Bob on 0428 402 555 or myself

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(Michael) on 0437 171 418 or email us: info@ coastbuilding.com.au Why build with Coast Building Company? Coast Building Company believe it is just so important for you to be able to relax. You see, we understand that building a home can also bring up feelings of stress and anxiety in people. For starters, we provide an upfront “realistic” price to build your home in writing. We’re flexible and friendly! Come talk to us about your exact requirements! Your home will be built by a team of local, professional, licensed tradesmen with more than 20 years’ experience. Our

suppliers have been handpicked to ensure they meet our high standards in product and service quality. We want to ensure that you will enjoy your home for many years to come. You will also be surprised to discover that we include many special design features and products as standard. Naturally, if you want the very best of everything, we also offer two upgrade packages, which you will find to be excellent value. Ask us about our “Lifestyle” and “Platinum” inclusions.

From class-leading kitchen appliances to modern designer bathroom vanity units and shower-heads, you’ll be glad we know how to give your new home the special “WOW” factor. Which one of our architect’s unique, exclusives designs do you like? Can’t decide? Need to make changes to one of them? Or would you prefer to custom-build with us? Relax - you’re in good hands, no matter what you decide! For that “real” quality and complete peace of mind feeling … Coast Building Company!

g n i t i c x E ng ExcNiteeiw Nw

SHOW HOME DISPLAY OPEN

‘

9 9 Torquay Torquay Circuit, Circuit, Seascape Seascape

Forster & Districts only Quality Show Home. Come and see Forster & Districts only Quality Show Home. Come and see what we Build & How we can Deliver the Same to You. what we Build & How we can Deliver the Same to You.

For opening times and queries please For times and please team... feel opening free to contact onequeries of our friendly feel free to contact one of our friendly team...

Phone: 02 6559 2509 Phone: 02 6559 2509 Email: info@coastbuilding.com.au Email: info@coastbuilding.com.au www.coastbuilding.com.au www.coastbuilding.com.au We are not a franchise builder... ‘That’s the Difference’ We are not a franchise builder... ‘That’s the Difference’ manning-great lakes focus.

JKL real estate are still celebrating 20 years in Forster as a family owned and operated business. Lets talk Real Estate! In comparison to last year, there is a large decline in available properties for sale in the Great Lakes area, pushing prices up and creating demand. This has transformed what has traditionally been a buyer’s market, into a seller’s market. Our offer to you is going to be the following:  From now until the end of December 2016 JKL are offering you a reduction in Sales Commission if you List & Sell with JKL.  This offer is our way of including all of our past, present and future clients in our birthday celebrations.

With a Reduction in Commission, and a shortage of properties on the market, NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL WITH JKL!

A rare opportunity has arisen at Bluey’s to purchase in one line, four x 2 bedroom villa’s opposite the local village shops & within a 200m walk to beautiful Bluey’s Beach. Aqua Villa’s are currently being operated as holiday lettings and are providing a comfortable income for the current owners, with the potential for higher returns. Alternatively, live in one and rent three! Thus enabling you to have the ultimate beach lifestyle with an income. Contemporary in design, low maintenance, modern Interiors, each villa has a timber deck for private outdoor entertaining plus outdoor showers to remove the salt and sand after the beach. Surrounded by national parks, multiple beaches and lakes - this exclusive area south of Forster is definitely a one of a kind, so do not let this opportunity pass you by.

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Phone our Sales Team for your Free Market Appraisal. We can have a cuppa and discuss all this and more. Carlie Basham 0439 757 378, Alex Jacobs 0400 643 317 and Karen Hoswell 0408 078 606.

$1,390,000

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