Manning-Great Lakes Focus i119

Feature Story

TasteFest on the Manning

January 2017 // issue 119

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | COOPERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU | HELLO@COOPERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU

focus

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

ADDRESS: Suite 2 / 42 Wharf St, Forster 2428 PHONE: (02) 6555 3381 FAX: (02) 6555 7338 EMAIL: jo@focusmag.com.au WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts.

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Jo Robinson jo@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Chrissy Jones JP chrissy@focusmag.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER East Coast Photography

ph: 0411 846 084

http://www.eastcoastphotography.com.au/

COPY EDITING: Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services rnrmedia@bigpond.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals.

Manning-Great Lakes Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2016 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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

N

ot quite sure how 2017 crept up on us … 2016 will have to go down in the record books as being one of the busiest years for us at FOCUS and probably for a lot of others who call the Manning-Great lakes home!

It was a year of change for many, including the merging of small local Councils into the larger MidCoast Council. We can, however, still be proud to call our own patch of turf one of the best areas in Australia.

If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy some time off over the New Year, be sure to get out and about and check out our region with fresh eyes - live

like a tourist for a little while!

On the Cover January marks our usual Best Kept Secrets feature, which highlights the people, places and services our area is blessed to call their own - but may not necessarily be known to everyone!

Our cover stars this month are Jane Mackenzie from Mansfield on the Manning, which is also our location, Allanah O’Gorman from This and That Unique Homewares, and Gabriel Darzi from The Sicilian. Our location this month is definitely a stunning one and really captures the beauty of the Manning Valley.

This feature will be combined with

the Best Kept Secrets features from our sister publications in Greater Port Macquarie, the Coffs Coast and the New England and available online as a beautiful flip book. What better way to check out your next holiday destination in NSW!

discovered their passion for the craft

In this Issue As it’s holiday season and people are out and about being tourists, we had a chat with wildlife photographer Dick Jenkin, who’s based in Dungog.

This is a scenic, peaceful place to visit, so why not take the short drive and check it out?

to Norfolk Island exactly one year

Doug and Cristina Smith are talented woodworkers, who have recently

could potentially develop into more than just a hobby. We chat to Doug about their newly formed enterprise, Paradise Creations.

Well known former locals, the Zarb family, made the adventurous move ago. We check in with Matty, to see how they’re travelling!

Final Say “Wishing you 12 months of success, 52 weeks of laughter, 365 days of fun, 8,760 hours of joy, 525,600 minutes of good luck and 31,536,000 seconds of happiness.”

A Daimler Brand

The all new GLC Make the best of every ground.

DL050223

It’s not often an SUV comes along with the best of everything. Mercedes-Benz first ever Australian mid-sized SUV has it all while compromising nothing. Every model features a powerful turbo charged engine, lavish interior and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, that is equal parts sporty, stylish, confident and clever. Exceptionally comfortable and surprisingly efficient, the GLC is a big step forward for SUVs. Experience one today and see for yourself why the GLC is the next big thing.

Taree Motorama 46 Victoria Street, Taree Phone 6539 3300 www.mbtaree.com.au manning-great lakes focus.

3

focusinterview.

Prepare to sup, dine, wine and be entertained on the banks of the Manning River on 14th January, as the inaugural TasteFest on the Manning event kicks into high gear! This family friendly event

promises a great day out for everyone.

P

hil Grisold (President Taree Lions Club), John Lenton (Chairman of TasteFest Committee), and Tony Cowan (Lions Board Member and Co-entertainment Organiser for TasteFest) drop by to tell us more about the event …

Please explain how the idea of the new festival, TasteFest on the Manning, came about?

The Manning and surrounds is fast becoming a hub of locally sourced, fresh and delicious produce and food products - we needed an event that could celebrate this and also showcase our producers amongst other great Australian and international cuisine.

Club member Tony Cowan raised the idea of a Food and Wine Festival on the riverbank at a club meeting last year. He had spoken to many residents and business people, who felt it was a well overdue event.

Many locals also have very fond memories of the massive crowds that would congregate on the Manning River Foreshore for the Summer Aquatic Carnival (1950 to mid 1990s).

The club decided action should be taken to see if it was feasible for Taree Lions to conduct a Beer, Food and Wine Festival. There was strong and enthusiastic support from the whole community, plus some local businesses. Queen Elizabeth Park was chosen as an ideal summer venue.

What is the Lions Club's involvement with the event?

Taree Lions Club initiated the idea and set up a feasibility study for Lions running the event on the Manning River Foreshore between Pulteney Street and Manning Street. Our former Greater Taree City Council was immediately supportive, as were some key business people in the region.

4

manning-great lakes focus.

Taree Lions Club has raised sponsorship funds, plus donation of goods and services to launch the event. This evolved over the last eight months and enabled planning to be put in place to coordinate TasteFest with the support of the community and other volunteers from several organisations.

The new event marquee will also be launched at this event, with an official ribbon cutting from 9:30am in the park.

Thanks to the efforts of local member Steve Bromhead, Taree Lions was able to secure a Premiers Grant towards purchasing a 20 m x 10 m event marquee. Donations from our club and the business community enabled us to complete the purchase of the marquee in time for TasteFest.

When/where will the inaugural festival take place?

TasteFest on the Manning event launches on Saturday 14th January 2017. It will be held in Queen Elizabeth Park on the Foreshore of the beautiful Manning River in Taree's CBD. Our main pedestrian entry to TasteFest will be Manning Street.

Our major focus for fundraising will be The Samaritans, for the women's refuge they run.

Official opening and dedication of the event marquee will be from 9:30am. The vendors will be open from 10am until 8pm in the evening.

Run us through the program …

There is something for everyone! Our focus is making the day family friendly by including a popular petting zoo, reptile exhibit and activities such as face painting. One of our big fundraisers and fun events will be the first Rubber Duck Race on the Manning River, which has caught the imagination of all ages. This will be run sometime after 3pm, depending on the tide and wind.

In the evening there will be a short display on the water and a world first! Hugh McLeod from the Manning River Rowing Club will be revealing a brand new water-based competition with City vs Country at 6:30pm.

There will be great live music throughout the day, plus kitchen stage presentations in the large event marquee.

Come for breakfast/brunch, lunch, afternoon drinks and snacks, or pre-dinner drinks and delicacies before dining on the banks of the Manning River (vendors close at 8pm). Come, stay and enjoy the day!

We will have a great variety of vendors from our region and further afield to take your taste buds on a flavoursome journey! We are excited about the diversity and quality of food that will be available for patrons to graze on across the day. Many are looking forward to you sampling and enjoying the wines and craft beers that will be on sale.

Who are the various sponsors and producers that have come on board for this year's event?

We have been very fortunate to partner with a wide range of quality sponsors and donors for our inaugural event. GPB Partners Accountants and Business Advisers came on board with Civic Heart early in the year as our Foundation Sponsors at the Titanium level. This provided the momentum to gain NAB Bank as a Platinum Sponsor, Club Taree as a Platinum Plus Sponsor and a generous three year sponsorship by MidCoast Water as a Platinum Partner Sponsor.

There have been many wonderful local businesses back the idea and give us coverage through media channels.

What is it hoped TasteFest on the Manning will achieve this year?

Making it a family friendly event, plus

fundraising by Taree Lions Club for local charities will be a big focus for our club. Our theme for the day will be "Stop Domestic Violence" and our main beneficiary will be the Women’s and Children’s Refuge that is run by The Samaritans.

The public want to see Queen Elizabeth Park utilised more and a return to the festive days of the Aquatic Carnival. Taree Lions want to give a positive legacy to the broader community and give the public the opportunity to recognise our efforts by donating generously to our charitable causes.

How much will entry to the festival cost, and where can readers find out more info?

FREE entry, but gold coin donations or more will really help our fundraising efforts for charity.

Visitors should plan for a relaxed time tasting and grazing through the event, with a number of meal options across the day. Bring some loose change and cash for vendors that do not have EFTPOS. There are ATMs close by in Victoria Street.

The best way to be kept up to date is to “Like” our TasteFest on the Manning Facebook Event page and register your interest in attending at: https://www.facebook.com/ events/854902534656066/ There is also our website: www.TasteFest.com.au Final say …

Don't forget to save the date and be ready to taste, graze and dine whilst enjoying music and entertainment, plus activities on the river. The Duck Race is popular, so get in early for your numbered tickets for a chance to win one of four cash prizes up to $500 each! Tickets will be available on the day if not already sold out.

Thanks everyone.

issue I S S U E

1 1 9

12 -

J A N U A R Y

2 0 1 7

SUMMERTIME RODEO.

The Wingham Summertime Rodeo always promises plenty of highlights … spills, thrills, superior horsemanship and the ability to work with even the most ornery cattle. This year is no exception … check out all the action at the Wingham Showground on January 7.

8 16

SEASON

2017

DICK & LYNN JENKIN.

When’s the last time you visited the picturesque village of Dungog? Wildlife photographers Dick and Lynn are based in this lovely area and showcase some of their stunning photos from Dungog, and their wider travels ...

PARADISE CREATIONS.

50 102

Doug and Cristina Smith both have a creative bent that has led to the production of some beautiful, unique and quirky items. Never once thinking that their passion for woodwork would be anything more than a hobby, they’ve been stunned by the interest in their designs, and have decided to notch things up a peg and start Paradise Creations. Doug tells us more about their future plans …

R EGU L A R S 14.

41.

48.

32

WHAT’S ON FOR JANUARY TOURISM INSIGHT SHARON BULTITUDE BUSINESS MINDS JEREMY THORNTON

A world of entertainment on your doorstep Tickets and details at:

follow us on

facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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

www.theMEC.com.au Stockland Forster Ph 6592 5466 (Tues to Fri 10-1) or at the Theatre (Tues to Fri 10-1)

manning-great lakes focus.

5

focusinterview.

It’s a beautiful forest unlike any you’ve seen before, with a strong environmental and social message. Currently on display at the Manning Regional Gallery until 15th January, we chat to Bryony Anderson and Chay Khamsone from Frugal Arts Inc., the creators behind the project …

P

lease give us some background about Frugal Arts Inc. …

Bryony: We actually started making things together in about 2011, beginning with a giant Orb Spider made from old stuffed toys. We formed an association when the Frugal Forest Project started to get huge. We were running workshops across the whole Mid North Coast, funded by MidWaste, and looking at two years of regional touring.

Chay: There were quite a few crafty people in the Pappinbarra valley and surrounds who needed both an artistic and social outlet, and we were all really on the same page about sharing messages about our environment. A lot of us who have tree-changed here from the cities have great concerns about the way our world is going, but are too shy to jump up and down about it. This is one way for us to share what we know, without being shot at.

How has Frugal Arts developed since it first formed?

Bryony: From a harebrained idea and a loose group of people getting together to make stuff in a shed, we’ve now got a solid committee of seven, a growing network of contributors and an ever-spreading reputation.

We’ve developed a way of working that considers the environmental and social aspects of everything, and goes deeper than the usual recycled art projects.

Chay: We’ve made some fantastic connections around the region, and had the privilege of meeting people like Professor Veena Sahajwalla from the SMaRT Institute at UNSW, who is looking at big picture solutions to our waste problems. We’ve learnt a lot about how complex the issue of waste is, and how hard it is to deal with once it’s at the end of the line. So we’ve focused our attention

6

manning-great lakes focus.

we premiered it in January of 2016. There a lot on using art to help people see that are more than 6,000 hours in it, most of recycling is not a stand-alone solution. We them voluntary. We’ve had over 1,170 active really need people to join the dots between participants across the Mid North Coast with their consumer choices and the world we live a core of people based in Pappinbarra and in. nearby regions doing everything from The exhibition you’ve created, Frugal advising on the botany, cleaning Forest, is currently on display plant pots and renovating at the Manning Regional the touring caravan, to Gallery. What types of running workshops and materials have you It’s entirely om fr doing endless craft … used to create the created ld ou w at How have you used forest? th materials to ed ad he en multimedia aspects Chay: It was have be ntial te po e Th l. fil to add to the important that the land treat as e w gs in th e th overall experience first impression was in credible! disposable is in of the exhibition? of a forest, but then ve For instance , I ha Chay: Alongside the materials show respect for ep de a the exhibition we themselves once you ing strap now ...” ck pa play our 10 minute get a bit closer. Some doco. It showcases all the of the materials aren’t people who’ve been involved immediately discernible, and how the forest happened. but once you tell people, “That We also play some of our shorter tree fern has two old umbrella frames in instructional videos that school kids it” or “The flowers are made from old helped make, for example, “How to make swimming caps” then they go, “Oh, yeah! bottle-top fungi”. These videos are great Of course!” At the outset Bryony worked fun and really help to involve the audience with waste officers from councils to compile if they haven’t been to workshops or don’t a list of problematic materials that could be know anything about the project. It also helps harnessed. Obviously we had to avoid the explain the soundscape, which is an artwork hazardous things, but mostly we have used a in itself and has been lovingly created from lot of plastics that currently have no recycling junk sounds, by composer Rae Howell. systems, like silage mesh and wrap, for What do you feel is the most important example. message Frugal Forest aims to pass on to Bryony: Yes, it’s entirely created from viewers? materials that would have been headed to Chay: I’d love people to understand that landfill. The potential in the things we treat as convenience comes at a high cost. Time disposable is incredible! For instance, I have and money saved now in buying “cheap a deep respect for packing strap now, and I and nasty” things costs all of us in the long think old socks are an untapped gold mine. term. I’d love people to start finding out for How long did it take you to create the themselves what those hidden costs are, and forest? feel empowered to do something about it: Bryony: The idea was formed in 2013, and

“

shop for better products, make your own gifts, sit down for a coffee instead of a takeaway, whatever small changes they can think of - it all helps! And it will enrich your life in the process.

Bryony: Sometimes it feels overwhelming that we’re facing a future of dwindling resources and a spiralling waste problem. But ecosystems like forests are living examples of endlessly sustainable, zero waste systems.

They are proof that it can be done! Not only that, they are endlessly beautiful, prolific and diverse: working towards a waste-free future actually presents glorious opportunities.

What’s next on the drawing board for Frugal Arts Inc.?

Bryony: So much! We’ve got a residency coming up at the Koala Hospital, making eucalyptus canopy for their new Education Centre. The Frugal Forest is headed to Wollongong and the Opera House. We’re working on a scheme to bring it back to the Hastings in 2017 and we’re partnering with Wauchope Arts to turn JunkFest into something that the whole town can get involved in.

Chay: I’d love to see Frugal Arts strengthen its presence in the Mid North Coast by having a physical space where people can come to make art, fix things, share skills and actually set in motion some of the principles of a circular economy. The Mid North Coast could be hotbed of frugal creativity! What do you think! We have some amazing minds and energy here.

You can find the Frugal Forest videos, information and free education kit at frugalforest.frugalarts.net. Contact us on hello@frugalarts.net or find Frugal Forest on Facebook.

Thanks guys.

We’re expanding!

Brand new units will be available early in 2017.

Please don’t delay in contacting us to register your interest.

View our new floorplans now: sunrisesupportedlivingtuncurry.com.au Sunrise Supported Living pioneered the concept of seniors purchasing and living in their own homes with dignity, privacy and individuality.

We understand both the expectations and capabilities of our residents and provide the support necessary to ensure their on-going comfort and well-being in all aspects of life.

Unlike multi-storey developments, the peace of mind of carers being on hand and the genuine companionship found within our friendly village is unique and loving.

Our Village at Tuncurry is expanding, with brand new units available early in 2017, so please don’t delay in contacting us to register your interest.

24-HOUR ONSITE NURSING CARE

Sunrise Village: 11A Chapmans Road Tuncurry NSW 2428 | Tel: 6554 8424 | www.sunrisesupportedlivingtuncurry.com.au manning-great lakes focus. 7

focusinterview.

Zarb Brothers Gig

Matty - live at the Jolly

Twelve months ago, the Zarb family left the Manning-Great Lakes and moved to Norfolk Island. It seems a world away … a little isolated, peaceful, beautiful … During this time the family has opened its own little piece of paradise - a pirate themed hospitality venue called the Jolly Roger - but how’s everyone doing? We thought we’d check in, but Matty only has positive things to say …

H

i guys. It’s been a year since you “upped stumps” and relocated to Norfolk Island. How have the past 12 months treated you?

Well as I type, it’s a year ago to the day that we arrived here on Norfolk Island. Wow, that has gone so quickly!

The last 12 months have been an incredible experience, to say the least. I personally have learnt more in this 12 month period than I have in any other part of my life.

We have been accepted in this beautiful community of mutineer descendants with absolute kindness and support.

This part of the twelve months is so amazing, I could write a book - and probably will some day.

We came with suitcases and guitars, and not much more. We did not look for a thing. Things just turned up on our doorstep in the form of tools, food and welcomes. We got straight into making a life here and amid a crazy workload, have not looked back.

What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced since you moved so far away, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge has been learning the restaurant hospitality trade on the run, with absolutely no experience in any area of the game. We were lucky from the start in getting an incredible chef in the form of a fella called Jason Suska. Without Jas at our side, calmly guiding us along, we would not have had the confidence to get off the ground like we did.

We arrived on the 14th December to an old empty building, and opened the doors on the 9th January with no idea what was to happen at all.

Describe island life for us ... how is it different from life in the Manning?

I guess I’ve spent years on various islands, but

8

manning-great lakes focus.

nothing as remote and unique as this. Norfolk is Mondays and Tuesdays off. There is always so much an incredible place, with a thriving community and to do though, so you tend to rarely get a day off - so passion for their island - and it’s infectious. to speak - but we find windows to get out and about Everyone works hard out of sheer necessity and for a simple drive or a swim at Emily Bar, to remind tradition. The sense of community is amazing for us of how beautiful the island is. So much to see! lots of reasons, but I guess the main one being the What chance have you had to come back to the history of how this place was settled through serious mainland for a visit ... or are there any plans in hardship and determination. the pipeline to do so soon?

How has your new restaurant business, the Jolly We have all been back a few times for various Roger, progressed since you opened the doors? reasons, mainly to catch up on medical checkups that The Jolly Roger has been a busy, happy place since cannot be done here. That’s definitely we opened, and we just stick to the good old one of the hardest issues in living fashioned recipe of good food, smiles so remotely, but part of the and music. Like my old guitar though, e did not deal.

W I never stop learning new things. look for a thing.

OK, here’s a typical trip What musical activities are ed up Things just turn back to Aussie for a 51 you up to these days ... still in on our doorstep year old man … “Let’s od fo s, playing and singing? the form of tool t take Marli to the zoo for a go e W .

Musically I’m playing five nights and welcomes g in ak day out, and grab a quick m to a week to a transient crowd of straight in a id am d an colonoscopy on the way!” re music lovers - it’s a dream! a life he ve ha d, oa kl or w y Ha! Most recently I did a live craz .” not looked back There is no diagnostic recording over four nights with my great old mate, fiddler Mark Oats from equipment here, so you have to the Bushwackers. That will be out in the go away for anything like that. It’s New Year, which will be fun. great to get off for a bit, but fantastic I love the sound and stage at the Jolly - it’s perfect. to come home.

Ahhh!

Other plans for the future?

How supportive of your business venture has As for the future plans, I guess that’s a hard one the local community been? … We like the saying Que Sera Sera: “What will be We are very thankful for the ongoing local will be”. support. Without a doubt, it’s been a huge part of Final say … being able to keep the doors open. I could tell 1,000 One more thing! A big hey to all the folks in fantastic stories of local support in every facet of our the Manning! Thanks so much for all the love and lives. support you gave us during our time there! Much What other activities keep you busy these days love, Zarbys x when you’re not working?

Thanks to you Jo; it’s always lovely to talk to you.

We open five nights a week and have our Thanks Matty.

“

‘

’

When you want unpacking to be fun... choose Coast Building Company

From

$275,826*

See you at our Show Home

A real, honest, upfront price.

Not a franchise builder. Local builder, local trades who build your home to the highest quality standard.

No stress, open communication and information every step of the way.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, Seabreeze 26.

* For full lifestlye inclusions and terms & conditions, please contact our office

Let’s have a chat!

Phone: 02 6559 2509 Display: 9 Torquay Circuit, Red Head Email: info@coastbuilding.com.au www.coastbuilding.com.au

We are not a franchise builder... ‘That’s the Difference’

manning-great lakes focus.

9

BREATHTAKING SUNSETS ON THE BEACH, LONG AFTERNOONS ON THE GOLF COURSE, FUN-FILLED FAMILY PICNICS DOWN BY THE LAKE AND A PLACE TO GO HOME TO THAT FULFILS ALL THE LIFESTYLE DESIRES YOU EVER DARED TO DREAM OF.

f this floats your boat (with the ocean so close, there’s plenty of opportunity for that too), then you’ll love being a part of Forster Grange, the land release Forster has been waiting for ...

Forster Grange brings you a whole new way of life, where a new community is taking shape from the ground up. You’ll be right next door to established quality homes and close to all the neighbourhood facilities.

Stage 1 will ultimately provide 41 new homes with level - easy to build lots ensuring space and privacy for future residents.

This well designed community features a distinctive entrance, newly built asphalt roads with kerbing and channelling, landscaping, street lighting, underground power services and telecommunications with NBN access, so that you can enjoy the latest, fastest technology at home. Whilst selling off the plan now, you will see lots of activity on the site from early 2017. It is anticipated blocks will be registered and the first homes appearing in the second half of 2017.

Forster Grange is perfect for first home owners, families looking to expand, and investors alike - with many substantial blocks enjoying a beautiful bushland outlook. With a range of home site sizes to choose from, you’re bound to find the land that’s perfect to build the home you’ve always dreamed of.

10 manning-great lakes focus.

Building sites are could say “we know our surprisingly affordable. stuff”.

Many have already We have a passion nding This is an outsta for creating value been quickly snapped t it opportunity, bu ove for money up by eager buyers, your m won’t last . Make the opportunities for who recognise the by to the weekend e ar clients from all undoubted value. ocks co ast now ... 41 bl walks of life to st release.

At present, a good fir e th in ed includ d te ec nn co be purchase quality number of level All homes will er w po d un real estate, so they easy building blocks to undergro National can build the home remain available. and Australia’s work.” of their dreams.

Early buyers will Broadband Net Our reputation obviously enjoy a wider means everything to us. choice, and government As a developer, you’re only incentives are still in place for as good as your last project, new home buyers. which is why we work hard to With a growing number of people ensure we become neither complacent discovering all it has to offer, now is nor aloof. the time to make your move. With When buying land, you want someone land available in Forster Grange from just who is approachable, has an outstanding $239,000, this is outstanding value in a reputation in the area with experience highly sought-after location. second to none, and someone who always Get ready to live the good life at the put the buyer first. That is why we partnered Forster Grange; it’s what the locals call with Forster Tuncurry Professionals. “every day weekend”.

The only decision you need to make now THE DEVELOPER - WAKEFIELD ASHURST is which block to buy ... Enjoy the process.

DEVELOPMENTS You’re in good hands.

With more than 30 years’ experience, PROFESSIONALS FORSTER TUNCURRY we specialise in acquiring land, subdividing Darrell Roche and Richard Crowther and it and developing real estate in premium their team not only believe they “live in location around Sydney’s Hills area and paradise”, they work hard in paradise too. throughout coastal and country NSW. We

“

The Mid North Coast is one of the most beautiful, natural areas in Australia, and the people who live here like a no-nonsense, down to earth approach from someone who knows what they’re talking about. As exclusive marketing agents, Forster Tuncurry Professionals have been highly involved with the project since its inception.

We are excited about Forster Grange, because the area has had a serious shortage of residential land for some years now; in particular, there has been a shortage of level building blocks. Not only is Forster Grange premium land (as they say in real estate, “Location, Location, Location”!) but the vast variety of blocks will ensure buyers can build an individual “dream home” by choosing their own builder. From the first release of 41 blocks and beyond, we are working together with a developer who is committed to make all of this land available as soon as practical.

With over 35 years’ local knowledge and relationships, we are proud to have become a household name in the Great Lakes area.

We want to ensure we exceed your expectations and believe that this is an exceptional opportunity for you to “weekend by the coast ... every day”.

Contact us today to secure your “reservation in paradise”.

Build your Dream Home in a Premium Location from just $239,000! – 1 NG E G LLI A E ST S W O N

41 LOTS

WWW.FORSTERGRANGE.COM.AU

6555 6555

focusinterview.

SUMMERTIME

DAVID MILLS AND BRAEDYN CAMERON The Wingham Summertime Rodeo always promises plenty of highlights … spills, thrills, superior horsemanship and the ability to work with even the most ornery cattle. This year is no exception … check out all the action at the Wingham Showground on January 7. David Mills and Braedyn Cameron, two competitors who both hail from Wingham, share some of their insights about the event … i guys. You’re both from the Wingham area initially. What did you most enjoy growing up/ living there?

Braedyn: The best thing about Wingham is it’s not a big town, but it’s not too small either. Growing up on the coast there was always something to do; with a couple of mates living close by, we made plenty of good memories.

David: What I enjoyed about living in the area was you always had your mates close by and always had adventures to go on.

Where are you based these days?

Braedyn: I currently live and work out at Willow Tree now.

David: I’m now based in Bringelly, NSW. How did you first get your start with rodeo?

I’m curious to know what inspires people to give bull and bronc riding a go - it’s not for the faint-hearted!

Braedyn: Back when I was younger when Dad would be working with the cattle in the yards, I would ride some of the calves with a bit of ordinary rope to hang on to. Soon after, I went to a rodeo to ride a couple of steers and did okay - and haven’t stopped.

David: My uncle and dad were a big inspiration in getting me started; without them, I wouldn’t be able to have this lifestyle.

What events do you usually compete in at rodeos, and which is your favourite?

Braedyn: I only ride bulls, although I would like to give bareback a crack once or twice.

David: I normally only compete in the bull riding and saddle bronc competition, but only in the last 12 months I’ve started team roping. I’ll have to say bull riding is my 12 manning-great lakes focus.

favourite - nothing else like getting on a beast of nature!

You must have had some hairy (scary!) experiences.

What ride in particular sticks in your mind (and

it gets the best crowd out of the shows I travel to. It gets pretty loud, which gets the blood pumping - and all your family and friends are watching.

why)?

David: What I liked about Wingham the most was Braedyn: I’ve been pretty lucky and never really been there’s 6000+ screaming your name. Your whole family is hurt bad. Copped a few good knocks here and there watching and supporting you, and walking there, but that’s about it! alongside Braedyn Cameron in the grand David: Ah ha, yeah … I’ve had some entry this year - that was a pretty cool pretty scary busters, but the worst feeling!

The setting one I’ll have to say would be You’ll be riding at the of Wingham my knee - tearing the Anterior g bi a r Summertime Rodeo once again arena allows fo never Cruciate Ligament (ACL) off the re su it in January. Which event/s will crowd, and bone and completely shattering ppoints. I would sa you be competing in - and how di the bone. ts the have to say it ge do you hope you’ll go?

What’s something about rodeo d out of the

“

or riding that you reckon most

best crow .” shows I travel to

people wouldn’t know?

Braedyn: A lot of people probably don’t realise the preparation guys put in to it. Same goes with the stock; the contractors do a lot of behind the scenes work in order to get the best performance out of their bucking stock - many of which aren’t big, angry stereotypical bulls. A lot of time they are looked after better than people and are probably quieter than the average herd bull.

David: It’s not just throwing a rope on and hanging on; there’s a lot more to it, like fitness, style, guts and reaction time.

You’ve competed at the Wingham Summertime Rodeo before. What do you most like about this rodeo?

Braedyn: The setting of Wingham arena allows for a big crowd, and it sure never disappoints. I would have to say

Braedyn: I’ll just be getting on a bull and hoping I can manage to do something good for the crowd!

David: I will be competing in just the bull riding and hopefully the team roping too.

Thanks guys. We wish you all the best - you’re absolute champs!

Don’t miss all the rodeo action on January 7; gates open at noon.

For further info, visit: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WinghamRodeo/ The web: http://www.winghamshowground.com.au/ Many thanks to the Wingham Show Society for their assistance with these interviews and the photos of Braedyn (top and bottom right).

Photos of David (left and centre) kindly supplied by Dale Aubrey Photography.

1

focus_What’s On Manning Great Lakes

LIVE MUSIC - JACOB COOK

RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS.

Don’t miss Live & Local Acoustic sessions every Sunday @ Hamiltons. When Sun 1 Jan 2017, 3pm - 6pm. Where 1 Palm St, Tuncurry. Website hamiltonsoysters.com.au/ Phone (02) 6554 8245.

Aust Fleetwood Mac show. Members $20 | Non Members $22 | SPECIAL! Group 10+ $15 each | 18+ years.

When Sat 21 Jan 2017, 8pm. Where Club Forster, Strand St, Forster.

12

26

AUSTRALIA DAY- COOMBA FEST.

REPTILE SHOW. BACH TO THE BUSH. When Sunday, January 8th, 2pm. Where Tuncurry Memorial Hall, 7 Point Rd, Tuncurry. Adults $25, Concession $20, Students $10, Children Free (U10). Tickets AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR OR ONLINE: www.anthonyalbrecht.com Anthony Albrecht cello.

10

MOVIE SCREENINGS - TAREE.

When Tue 10 Jan 2017, 2pm - 3:50pm. Location 242 Victoria Street, Taree. Phone (02) 6592 5290.

The Jungle Book. Rated PG. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Screenings are supervised and entry is FREE. Parents must supervise children five years and under. Bring own cushion to sit on.

14 manning-great lakes focus.

21

JANUARY

Come and join us at the Forster Visitor Centre and get hands on with some incredible reptile creatures. When Thu 12 Jan 2017, 10am. Where Forster Visitor Centre, Little St, Forster.

21

TROY BAYLISS CLASSIC.

The fifth edition of the iconic Troy Bayliss Classic returns to Taree Motorcycle Club the third Saturday in January. 150 competitors including 36 invited Australian and international champions will contest the day/night dirt track racing spectacular. Don’t miss your favourite past and present Australian motorcycle champions taking it to the best American dirt track stars visiting our valley. When Saturday 21st January 2017.

Action from midday ‘til 10pm. Where Taree Motorcycle Club, 328 Old Bar Road,Pampoolah. For more info and tickets visit www.troybaylissevents.com

From 9am - Australia Day breakfast, orange juice, bacon & egg rolls, sausage sandwiches. 10am - Australia Day ceremony.

10:30am - family picnic races. 12pm - raft race. 1pm - presentations. 2:30pm - pool challenge, Kids’ fun. 11:15am & 2pm - kids’ waterslide. 9am to 11am & 12pm to 1pm - fun activities, face painting, chocolate wheel ticket sales, guessing comp, lucky dips, Aussie music and more! Food and drinks throughout, espresso coffee, burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, toffees, water and soft drinks. Enjoy the festivities, picnic and relax on the beautiful Coomba Park foreshore.

When Thu 26 Jan 2017. Where Coomba Foreshore, Coomba.

SUMMERFEST.

28

A popular outdoor live music event is returning to Harry Bennett Park on 28 January 2017. Showcasing the best young performers from the 2016 Live'n'Loud @ the Library events. All-ages, drug and alcohol free live music event featuring talented young bands like SOAR, Zenith, Sweet Sound, EZ3, Amber Jenkins, Sinistra and Habit. Gates open at 5:30pm, with the music kicking off at 6pm. Entry is $5 at the gate and there will be a BBQ and soft drinks available on the night. When Saturday, Jan 28th, 6pm - 9pm. Where Harry Bennett Park, River Street, Taree. Cost $5. Contact MidCoast Council Youth Services.

Website http://www.facebook.com/ManningYouth Phone 6592 5399.

The The Legal Legal Light Light W I T H

J U S T I N

TT L L Le Le LL

Matters.

Matters. [[ wit withh AAla lann TTickle ickle ]]

S T A C K

Financial Dear Alan,Coaching Financial Coachingand andFacilitating Facilitating My son Jonathon, who isismy director ofof IMy remember you once a seminar son Jonathon, whomentioning myfellow fellowin director Your Heritage Financial Planning, has been busy how beneficiaries in a Will Your changing Heritage Financial Planning, has can beenmake busy of late young families and couples aofdifference with the asset test.

How doesinthat lateassisting assisting young families and couples inthe the Mid Coast and Newcastle Hunter area secure HOW TO M A K E YOU R W I L L C H A L L E NG E-PRO OF work?

LA. and Newcastle - Hunter area secure Mid Coast and their andprotect protect theirfinancial financialand andfamily familywellbeing. wellbeing.

Dear LA, legal expert.” hallenging wills has become The role of financial planner extends to IThe don’t advocate people giving away assets or role of financial planner extends tobeing being much more widespread as propMr Crowther says it’s a good idea to make a aneedlessly facilitator and with couples who both work, spending money to increase pension a facilitator and with couples who both work, erty prices have soared and the detailed statement outlining your reasons for finding totoorganise financial matters entitlements.

There are, however, a number of findingthe thetime time organise financial mattersand and family home is worth a fortune. making your will the way you have. even home loans can be a stressful experience. options available that can reduce the impact of even home loans can be a stressful experience.

But maybe you don’t want a the asset test.

One of those is the use of a Will.

“If you explain why you decided to exclude The Thefollowing followingare areactivities activitiesJonathon Jonathonhas hasbeen been certain relative to get a slice of your hardsomeone from your will, your wishes will involved with of late.

The names have Where a Will and testament might be coninvolved with of late. The names havebeen been earned assets. Perhaps you’d like to make carry a lot of weight before a court which is changed sidered, isobviously, when a but pensioner couple who are are changedobviously, butcircumstances circumstances arereal, real, sure that your estate goes to the person or considering a challenge. You’ll need to stress which reasonably comfortable fi nancially, might be young families can relate to: which young families can relate to: people you think deserve it most, and that how you considered any obligations to those getting near the end of their life and are happy Sandy your Will is as challenge-proof as possible.

Sandyand andJohn Johnboth bothwork workand andhave havegreat great who might feel the will is unfair. This can be to leave getting some assets to benefi ciaries other than difficulty time during work difficulty getting time during workhours hourstotoseek seek Wills and estates expert Joshua Crowther of done in writing or by filming a statement on their surviving spouse. financial financialadvice. advice.They Theywanted wantedtotopurchase purchaseaa Stacks Law Firm says there are things you video.”

In casesbut where thehelp asset test might asubstantially house, house, butneeded needed helpininobtaining obtaining aloan loanand andaa can do when drawing up a will to make it as Mr Crowther says it’s important not to forget total reduce entitlements of the surviving pensioner, review of their financial situation.

They had total review of their financial situation. They had legally watertight as possible. money you have in superannuation. and particularly when interest ratesnot on investsaved savedenough enoughfor foraadeposit depositbut buthad had notsought sought “A good first step is to own assets jointly, ment are so low,for foregoing assets through a “Money held in super is transferred dipre-qualification a loan, nor had any idea pre-qualification for a loan, nor had any ideaon on because such assets pass automatically to Will much may end upcould leaving theon survivor with more rectly to the person you nominate as your how they spend a home. how much they could spend on a home. the surviving joint owner of the property,” income than would be the case had the money beneficiary on your death. In fact, the use Jonathon Mr Crowther said.

Jonathonsaw sawthem themafter afterhours hoursinintheir theirhome homeand and remained invested. of super and life insurance policies is often completed details needed to refer to a mortgage completed details needed to refer to a mortgage “This, of course, assumes you want that perfundamental in getting your desired postAnother way of transferring assets through a broker, broker,who whoinformed informedthem themjust justhow howmuch muchthey they son to inherit your joint assets. If not, then death outcome – but be careful who you Will but still retaining benefi t for the surviving could couldborrow, borrow,asaswell wellasascosts costsassociated. associated. you had better change your joint ownership nominate, because you can’t appoint just pensioner, is by appointing a trustee of the Will The loan was arranged to purchase their arrangements as soon as possible.”

The is loan was arranged to purchase theirfirst first anyone.” that different to the surviving spouse and home at an interest rate way lower than what home at an interest rate way lower than what then leaving a specifi ed amount to the trustees Mr Crowther warns that if there is not “This will largely depend on your individual the had researched. theclients clients upon trust had untilresearched. the death of the surviving enough in the estate to make proper circumstances, but is especially worthwhile As part of Jonathon’s he reviewed spouse.

This is described Testamentary Trust provision for a claimant, the court may use As part of Jonathon’srole, role,as heaalso also reviewedtheir their if you have a complicated blended family financial situation and personal risks. arrangement. “notional provisions” of the NSW Succession with children and young people you want to financial situation and personal risks.

Act 2006 to claw these jointly held assets provide for properly after your death.”

He their cover When it can beinsurance demonstrated that the benefiHefound found their insurance coververy verybasic, basic, back into the estate of the deceased. which would have left them vulnerable due ciary (surviving spouse) has no control over the Given all these possibilities, it is worth which would have left them vulnerable duetoto underinsurance that reduced further as they got assets held in the Testamentary Trust, then the “You can also put your assets into a testagetting expert legal advice, particularly from underinsurance that reduced further as they got older. that their asset value is not counted

by Centrelink; was howevmentary trust for the benefit of someone people like Joshua Crowther who is a Law older.He Hefound found that theirsuperannuation superannuation was in a default fund that really did not address er, income produced will be assessed, so this has you want to inherit, although this can also Society Accredited Specialist in Wills and in a default fund that really did not addresstheir their to be considered when determining how much longer term goals. be challenged if it’s not done properly by a Estates. longer term goals.

Justin Stack

C

They had Wills to bequest theinWill.

They hadno noin Wills inplace placeand andwhile whileititisisoften oftenaa subject put to the back of one’s mind, it really is subject to themeasures back of one’s it really For any put of these to bemind, effective, theis aaresponsible act to make sure that there is some responsible to make sure that there is some Will needs to act be able to be implemented. estate planning strategy, which can include estate planning strategy, which caneven even This means ensuring that the amount of include asset provisioning for future children. provisioning in forthe future transferring Will children. is held either in individual Jonathon aspect Jonathon co-ordinated this aspectwith withaasolicitor. solicitor. names orco-ordinated as tenants inthis common; otherwise, the The clients felt secure in the knowledge that their asset will pass to the survivor and not through The clients felt secure in the knowledge that their the new house newWill. houseand andfamily familywere wereprotected protectedagainst against potential financial catastrophe such asashas sickness, Transferring assetscatastrophe via a Will such been potential financial suchas sickness, disability death ororpermanent disability. described is likely to require the Will to be disabilityororalso death permanent disability. probated, which does entail in a legal process and Because BecauseJohn Johnwas wasvery veryactive active insport, sport,there therewas was associated costs, so that extra too has to beinconsidcover included to provide benefits the cover included to provide extra benefits in the ered. of specific accidental injury. event event of specific accidental injury.

Simple Measures They Theyhad hadaaclear clearbudget, budget,sosothat thathome home The important thing toinsurance remember about the maintenance, rates and maintenance, rates and insurancewere wereallall asset test changes, is that many pensioners will covered coveredeach eachpay payday dayand andtheir theirWills Willsand andPowers Powers actually get an increase, whereas those with a ofofAttorney Attorneyallallneatly neatlyheld heldininaasafe safepacket packetwith with larger amount of assets may get a reduction. their theirsolicitor. solicitor.

I sympathise with those in the latter situation, This assistance allalltook no interruption This assistance tookplace placewith with interruption because many in that category arenofar from tototheir work hours. their work hours. wealthy.

They to mention that their parents Theyhappened happened Simple measurestotomention counterthat the their assetparents test, is were concerned about retirement and ofofconcern were concerned about retirement to be vigilant in updating assets toand allowconcern for was were aged wasthat thattheir theirgrandparents grandparents werefacing facing aged the depreciating value of vehicles and other care. care. personal assets, as well as reduced bank and Jonathon able investment balances.

Jonathonwas was abletotoassist assistthe thewhole wholefamily familyininaa diverse range ofofneeds across four generations, diversecan range needs across fourwhich generations, YHFP arrange funeral bonds not only including the future children of John including the future children of John andSandy.

Sandy. provide for a funeral but theand invested Centrelink amount is not assessed as an asset.

Centrelink ItThe been bemusing totohear comments pension, however, a safety net - not Ithas hasage been bemusing hearismedia media comments and shock just this week regarding changes necessarily a right so having it as a supplement and shock just this week regarding changestoto asset test for to personal investments is a better proposition asset testlimits limits forCentrelink.

Centrelink. thaninformation needlessly wasting or giving away assets, This This informationhas hasbeen beenout outnow nowfor forwell wellover over for the sake of increasing pension entitlements.

12 months.

It is certainly not new information 12 months. It is certainly not new information Getting individual comprehensive advice that and andthis thiscolumn columnhas hasaddressed addressedthe theissue issueaa looks at the bigger picture is a far better way of number numberofoftimes. times.Last Lastmonth’s month’scolumn columninin dealing with the asset test changes. particular particulardealt dealtwith withthis. this.

Thisinformation informationand andadvice adviceisisofofaageneral generalnature natureonly onlyand andno noreliance relianceshould shouldbe beplaced placedon onthe theinformation informationbefore beforeseeking seekingindividual individualadvice advice This This information and advice is of a general nature only and no reliance should be placed on the information before seeking individual advice fromaaFinancial FinancialPlanner Plannerand andTaxation TaxationAdviser Advisertotoensure ensurethe theappropriateness appropriatenesstotoindividual individualcircumstances. circumstances.Alan AlanTickle Tickleand andYour YourHeritage Heritage from from a Financial Planner and Taxation Adviser to ensure the appropriateness to individual circumstances. Alan Tickle and Your Heritage FinancialPlanning Planningare areboth bothauthorised authorisedrepresentatives representativesofofSecuritor SecuritorFinancial FinancialGroup GroupAFSL AFSL240687 240687ABN ABN48009189495.

48009189495.

Financial Financial Planning are both authorised representatives of Securitor Financial Group AFSL 240687 ABN 48009189495.

1414 manning-great manning-greatlakes lakesfocus. focus.

manning-great lakes focus.

15

Ju J

GRE GR

P

insurance insuranc reform reformpo p

Justin JustinSta St Law LawFirm Firm ininthe thepa p that it int that it in drastically drastica injured injuredini out outentire enti people. people.

“Stacks “StacksL ininthis thisfie fi thousand thousan and andpain pain abandon abandon profits,” profits,”

Under Underthth having having“l“ what whatisisc won’t won’tha h years yearsororc

“This “Thisisisa Many Manyofof ororare areco co been beensha sh changes changes Mr MrStack Stac

focusinterview.

D i c k a n d L y n n J e n k i n

WHEN’S THE LAST TIME YOU VISITED THE PICTURESQUE VILLAGE OF DUNGOG, JUST A SHORT TRIP DOWN EITHER THE PACIFIC HIGHWAY OR THE BUCKETTS WAY? AS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ARE HERE AND PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES, WHY NOT CONSIDER CHECKING OUT SOME OF THE MAJESTIC SCENERY AND BEAUTIFUL WILDLIFE IN OUR NEARBY NEIGHBOURHOODS!

D

ungog based photographers Dick and Lynn Jenkin have a passion for wildlife - especially birds. They love to travel and tell a story of a region’s furred and feathered inhabitants through their photos - both at home and further abroad. Dick shares some tips for capturing great images…

Tell us the story of which came first ... your love of photography, or your love of wildlife ... What initiated your interest in both?

My love of wildlife developed as a small child, as my family kept budgerigars and finches which used to fascinate me by their colours, constant chatter and activity. I then became interested in the natural world surrounding me. During our earlier working careers, Lynn and I both loved to holiday in National Parks and spent our time bush walking and observing nature.

I have the greatest respect for David Attenborough and his passion for the natural world. My dream career would have been to be a part of the film crew for the myriad of wildlife documentaries produced over his remarkable life time.

I did have an early camera, the old Kodak Instamatic 110 and 126 ASA film variety,

16

manning-great lakes focus.

where you spent ages taking 12 or 24 them with other people. You can’t beat a shots and waited an eternity to have them South African game drive for amazing close developed, only to find the birds were very encounters with some incredible wildlife. In small dots in the picture!

Australia, there are also some pretty special As my birding passion/obsession grew into wild and untamed places that get into your a full blown “twitcher” i.e. having the need heart and soul as well. to constantly travel to new places to see You call the beautiful Dungog new birds, our holiday destinations area home. A lot of people expanded to all corners of will be out and about Australia and the globe. travelling throughout Essentially after seeing the upcoming G o low and go most of Australia’s school holidays; t slow is a grea resident and regular so why would r be motto to remem migrant species, the you encourage g in ch when approa enext thing was to set them to visit ey l, el w s A wildlife. e or m about photographing e Dungog? What ar es ag level im ing ok lo them in the new is it about the an th e iv ct effe ec t.” digital camera age. area you most down on a su bj The constant appreciate? development of new We both love technology and prices Dungog for the peace and dropping has put fantastic tranquillity, the amazing views cameras within the reach of everybody. of the Barringtons and the relaxed You’ve travelled extensively around rural lifestyle. We feel that it is unique Australia and abroad. What have by being just off the beaten track, but still been some of your favourite places to readily accessible to the major towns and photograph (and why)? facilities of our region. It is worth a detour My favourite places are actually the off the Pacific Highway or the Bucketts Way. locations that I am focusing on (pun What are some of the more unique intended), with the tours that I am taking birds/animals you’ve been able to because I love going there and wish to share photograph locally?

“

We are blessed with over 200 species of birds in the Dungog area, but to me, the Paradise Rifle-bird, the Wompoo Pigeon and the Noisy Pitta are the jewels in the crown of our local birding world.

A male dark phase Euro is pretty special as well, and we do have plenty of platypus in our rivers.

What are some interesting or little known facts you’ve been able to uncover about the various species of birds that live throughout your region?

There are many bird species that have their southern range limits in the Dungog area, including the Paradise Rifle-bird, one of four Australian Birds of Paradise representatives.

What skills do you feel are essential for those people who’d like to pursue wildlife photography? (I’m guessing you’re going to say “patience” is one of them!)

A great question! Definitely patience, but also get to know your subjects and how to read their body language, so you know when to back off if they appear agitated. Go low and go slow is a great motto to remember when approaching wildlife.

As well, eye-level images are more effective than looking down on a subject.

Keep your clothing neutral as well, so as to blend into the environment and not easily

focusinterview.

D i c k a n d L y n n J e n k i n

frighten the wildlife; you don’t have to make a fashion statement!

What publications/business partnerships have you been involved with due to your photography?

Being mostly bird orientated in my interests, I am involved with Birdlife Australia and also their photography division. I am a member of the Australian Photography Society and I have written and had published several articles for their on line digital magazine, Monitor.

Professionally, I am an emerging member of the AIPP, Australian Institute of Professional Photographers.

What plans do you have tentatively in place for 2017?

Our calendar of events for next year starts mid-March, with another local “Birds and Nature Photography” Workshop at the very scenic Riverwood Downs Retreat located at Monkerai between Dungog and Gloucester.

In April I have a trip to the Flinders Ranges and Gluepot Reserve in the Mallee country of South Australia. The next adventure will be to the Top End, including Darwin, Kakadu and Katherine in August.

Closely following this I have organised an amazing private photography safari through Kruger National Park in South Africa.

a collective body of local artists that only Back closer to home will be a ten-day include locally made goods in their store.

Hunter Valley photography tour following on from a very successful trip run in October She has both framed limited edition prints, and cards for sale through the shop, which 2016. fortuitously is next door to the Coffee Bean The final destination for the year will be Café, a great friendly place for food tropical North Queensland, visiting Cairns, and coffee. the Daintree and the Atherton Lynn’s main passion, Tableland. whilst sharing my Details of all these trips of ar nd wildlife interests, is can be found on our le ca Our year xt ne r fo in creative horse website and we have ts en ev , with ch ar -M id photography, a special 5% off all m ts star irds and “B l ca lo r which fits nicely trips booked and he ot an phy” with our Friesian deposits paid by 31st Nature Photogra ry e ve Workshop at th March, 2017.

Horse Stud and d scenic Riverwoo ted at The Riverwood Lynn’s business, loca D owns Retreat g Downs retreats are Horsanity, a go n Dun Monkerai betwee being offered as an hands-on equineand Gloucester.” early bird discounted assisted learning rate of $299, instead of program for both the normal $350. private and corporate Where can readers view clients focusing on team samples of your work, or contact building, leadership skills and you? personal development.

As well as our website, email, and Final say … mobile phone contacts, I have some of my Our philosophy at Jenkin Photography is bird and animal canvas wraps and framed to share our favourite locations with likeprints on display and for sale through the minded people interested in wildlife and Coffee Bean Café in Dungog. photography. It does not matter what your Lynn is a member of Dungog Design, level of photography experience is, as there

“

is always something to learn. The benefits of travelling with us is that everything is organised, you don’t have to worry about transport, where to stay or eat or the best locations and times to be there to maximise your photo opportunities. www.jenkinphotography.com.au Facebook: jenkinphotography Mobile: 0407 267 207.

Thanks Dick.

Photo of Dick and Lynn courtesy of Anjali Powar Haridass.

manning-great lakes focus.

17

18

manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

EVERMORE STAGE 2 SOLD OUT. STAGE 3 SELLING FAST – 1/3 ALREADY SOLD!

It feels like the Great Lakes community finally discovered just how attractive Evermore is as a supported retirement lifestyle! Stage 2 has sold out and more than a third of Stage 3’s 29 luxuriously appointed apartments were secured by shrewd retirees.

I

f you have been considering an affordable supported retirement lifestyle that gives you the freedom to enjoy a great family atmosphere with likeminded friends, you’ve found the right place.

You can secure your apartment with just a $1,000 deposit. And when you consider the strength of the Mid North Coast’s local real estate market, it’s understandable that retirees are selling their properties to secure a lifestyle that supports their every need at Evermore. The Christmas and New year period into January are shaping up to be very busy months at Evermore, with 15 new residents settling into their new homes.

There is a lot of excitement amongst the residents, with new friendly faces just on the horizon.

One of the comments we hear most often from “newbies” to Evermore is their appreciation of the “designer quality of the apartments and facilities of the Evermore complex”. Many are pleasantly surprised by all that Evermore has to offer, including …

• Club Lounge, including coffee and sports bar • Amazing restaurant with chef designed dining • Spacious Movie Theatre • Well stocked library • Inviting heated swimming pool • BBQ alfresco dining • Gym for staying in shape • Landscape gardens and water fountains • Transport to get you where you need to go • Roof top garden and bar area in Stage 3 • Hotel style reception • A welcoming family community where you can feel at home Further still, residents often comment on how willing the staff are to lend a helping hand. And the 24/7 onsite care and management is reassuring when healthy living is a consideration.

It’s little wonder Evermore is being

recognised as the premier retirement village on the Mid North Coast and a benchmark for supported retirement Make an living around the country. day appointment to les Sa Make an appointment e or m er Ev by calling , er ag today by calling M an and Marketing on , Evermore Sales and Braden Graham s our A 3.

40 Marketing Manager, 0 28 65 2) (0 more like s it’ y, Braden Graham, on residents sa resort than (02) 6528 0403. As our living in a 5-star ge!” residents say, it’s more like a retirement villa living in a 5-star resort than a retirement village!

Open Day January 14th 2017!

Evermore Retirement Living will be conducting another hugely popular Open Day on Saturday 14th January from 10am to 2pm. Anyone who is considering retiring or township, medical precinct and just those who already have are most welcome a couple of more minutess to Main Beach to attend. We are expecting a high number • Pleasantly overwhelmed at all the highof attendees, given our last Open Day in quality facilities and luxurious apartments at October was hugely successful. such an affordable price Ann’s Testimonial: • Having the freedom that I can go travelling I made the decision to move to Evermore anytime and for any duration - close my just on one year ago and was living at Lake front door knowing my apartment will be Macquarie overlooking the lake. I have safe and secure been waiting for the regret to set in, but • Don’t have any concerns about my future happily surprised that it hasn’t! I’ve been as I’m ageing. Whilst Evermore offers far too busy within the Evermore and local independent living, it also has supported communities to be pondering my future! living options if and when it’s required - for Evermore and the Great Lakes region is such me, it won’t be for a while, but knowing a fantastic place to retire! it’s here is just another feather in its cap! A Living at Evermore has provided me with definite tick for new age retirement living! such a wonderful lifestyle that I couldn’t I recently returned to Lake Macquarie achieve at Lake Macquarie: affordable, to visit family and friends, and they convenient, safe, hassle and stress free - so were amazed and astounded at my glad I made the decision to relocate and transformation.

They all knew how I downsize to a brand new, ultra-modern was living alone in a house and keeping retirement village at Forster! It’s genuinely to myself, stressed out about the home the best decision I have made in a long maintenance and the responsibilities with while… it. I am now living the dream, meeting and Some of the reasons I relocated to socialising with so many like-minded people Evermore: within Evermore and being involved in local • Super central location, where it’s five minutes’ flat walk to the cafés, lakeside, clubs and activities! Whether it’s attending

“

Photo: Left to Right; Maggie, Kevin and Ann celebrating Evermore’s Melbourne Cup day.

a race day event (check out Evermore Facebook) with the Evermore crew or out to dancing or dragon boat training - it has it all and more!

I’ve assisted with Evermore’s Open Days over the past months and I sometimes hear from attendees that “they are not ready yet” or “too young” to relocate to Evermore, as most are in their mid to late 70s. I say do it as soon as you can, as you won’t be looking back - only onwards and upwards! This village truly enhances one’s lifestyle - isn’t that what life’s all about at our age?

As we the residents say, “Evermore Retirement Living is more like a 5 Star resort than a retirement village!” My family and I are very happy and assured that moving to Evermore has been a very good decision for me and given them peace of mind that their mother is living in a wonderful retirement village in Forster!

See you at the upcoming Open Day on 14th January!

Regards, Ann. A big thanks Ann, for providing such a lovely testimonial … It’s appreciated by the Evermore team! manning-great lakes focus.

19

focusinterview.

Art may be seen by many as paintings, or sculptures, but there is so much more to explore through an artist’s eyes! During January, there will be two art exhibitions in the local area, which fuse textiles and fibre art with painting, printmaking and other mediums. There is an extremely creative and talented group of artists who work with textiles and fibres in the Manning-Great Lakes, and artists Pat Land, Robyn McGrath and Jana Pearceova are just three of them …

Fibre Art

MANNING GREAT LAKES

W

hat led you to work with textiles/fibres?

I was born and grew up in Central European Slovakia, where making textiles still remains part of a long craft tradition. My maternal grandmother earned her living as a skilled seamstress and was also proficient in other techniques, such as fine embroidery, crochet and knitting.

My other grandmother was a small scale flax and jute grower. She processed these plant fibres as well as wool from her sheep, felt it, spun it, and wove it into utilitarian cloth. As a small girl I witnessed as women gathered around the kitchen table in participation in the communal domestic fibre and textile craft activities, chatting, telling and sharing stories … I have learned to appreciate the unique qualities of textiles while living in Australia, and I strive to continue the fibre and textile heritage of my grandmothers.

What's the inspiration behind your exhibition, Encounters with Nature?

The exhibition Encounters with Nature is the artists’ individual record of a snapshot moment of focus, of each artist capturing a brief instant of nature. The aim of the exhibition is shifting focus towards an ever greater appreciation of our natural environment.

Often we view nature as something distinct from ourselves, but nature is all around us, it is part of us, it can exist in our memory, as recollections of the past events and experiences. Our relationships with natural places give us a sense of who we are, reminds us where we come from and where we belong …

Describe a couple of the pieces in the exhibition …

Artist: Jana Pearceova. Work: Casuarina.

Casuarina botanical impressions on textiles, 90 cm x 120 cm.

Textile wall hanging, dyed and printed from local botanical material.

Artist: Gerard Pearce. Work: Wave Series Unridden.

A series of paintings, oil paints on canvas, capturing that most transient and poignant oceanside visitors, the unridden waves that travel 1,000s of kilometres to end their travels in a brief display of power and grace.

Artist: Lyn Beme. Work: Weed Pods. The non-traditional weaving of functional and sculptural pieces by contemporary basket weaver Lyn Bemet combines found plant materials with unwanted weeds and garden prunings which she transforms into natural art forms. One such example is Lyn’s Weed Pods, which introduce colourful variation of hemp fibres and complexity of organic shapes.

Image: Jana Pearceova, 2016, Casuarina botanical impressions on textiles, 90 cm x 120 cm. Photography Julie Slavin, courtesy of Manning Regional Art Gallery.

20

manning-great lakes focus.

Pat Land

Robyn McGrath

Jana Pearceova

W

hat led you to work with textiles/ fibres?

My delight in textiles really started as a small child, when I explored my mother’s and collections of fabrics and amazing ribbons, left from dresses of the ‘20s and ‘30s and I learned to embroider.

I love to work particularly with fabrics, as I can colour them with dye, paint and print, transform them with stitch, manipulate them and texture them with padding and quilting.

How have you interpreted the meaning of and found inspiration for the exhibition Sense of Place?

I have long had a strong spiritual connection with the Australian landscape, so a “Sense of Place” inhabits quite a number of my works.

Those entered in the exhibition interpret aspects of the landscape, sometimes with embedded environmental messages.

Describe a couple of the pieces in the exhibition …

Rockpool at One Mile depicts my grandchildren’s favourite place at One Mile Beach, Forster, with waves coming into the pool between the rough jagged rocks.

Lying under the water are shells and weed etc.

It is an art quilt made up of layers of cotton and synthetic fabric which have been shibori textured and manipulated with cord and fishing line and shrinking fabric. I have used applique, machine stitching, fabric paint and quilting and embellished with beads and found objects.

Fortune is a recent work made up of five drill cores that tell the story of tapping into the Great Artesian basin to give the inland dwellers a reliable source of water.

As drill cores are brought up from each of the thousands of bores, this seemed an appropriate means of conveying the story.

They are really made up of five small quilts laid over poly pipe. They include hand dyed and commercial fabric with applique and reverse applique to reveal text.

Some of the fabric has been printed with photos, diagrams, and poetry. All have been quilted to create texture.

W

hat led you to work with textiles/fibres?

I have loved working with fibre in all its many forms since I taught myself to make clothes in my early teens. After thoroughly exploring traditional forms of the craft, my art background eventually led me to experiment and to apply materials and techniques in innovative ways - discovering new art forms is thrilling and sharing the process with others through teaching, group work and exhibiting is highly motivating.

How have you interpreted the meaning of and found inspiration for the exhibition Sense of Place?

Finding inspiration is seldom a problem, especially with a title like this. I am constantly absorbing the more sympathetic visual elements of the environment, natural or man-made, and am currently exploring the less obvious of nature’s offerings: lichens, fungi and corals all provide strange and wonderful forms, vibrant colours and tactile qualities. These inevitably conjure times and secret, hidden places where I have been happily absorbed in quiet contemplation.

Describe a couple of the pieces in the exhibition …

Although I tend to enjoy working with installations these days, the chance to take part in an exhibition with the Manning Fibre Artists has allowed me to be a bit more whimsical. In the spirit of the public art knitting movement which is currently sweeping the world, I took pity on a beautiful, curved lemon gum tree in my garden which looked to be suffering from the cold last winter. I used free knitting techniques and a wide range of colourful yarns to create a scarf for it; with the aid of a ladder on the back of the ute, it was duly installed and hopefully was gratefully received!

the plug!

See the stunning work of Jana Pearceova, fellow amazing artist and husband Gerald Pearce and members of the Manning Fibre Artists in the exhibition Encounters with Nature.

Where Green Point Gallery, 105 Green Point Drive, Green Point. When 6th January - 5th February.

Manning Fibre Artists, including Pat Land and Robyn McGrath, will showcase their beautiful work in an exhibition titled Sense of Place. Where Great Lakes Art Society, 34 Lake Street, Forster. When 10th - 29th January.

C RYS TA L WATERS

OVER 50S LIFESTYLE VILLAGE

CRYSTAL WATERS ESTATE IS A PEACEFUL AND SECURE LIFESTYLE VILLAGE, THAT PROVIDES AN AFFORDABLE RETIREMENT OPTION FOR THE OVER 50S.

T

he main reason homes are more affordable in lifestyle villages, such as Crystal Waters Estate, is that ownership of the land and home are separate,” says Crystal Waters Estate Manager Peter Luxford.

“Although you will own your home, you rent rather than buy the land. Also, there is no stamp duty, expensive legal fees or ongoing Council rates to pay, and pensioners may be eligible for government funded rent assistance,” Peter says.

Sales and Lifestyle Coordinator Lorraine Woodward adds that, “Crystal Waters Estate

offers something for everyone, with prices starting from just $230,000 for a brandnew home or for as little as $110,000 for a pre-loved home. We can also work with you to design and build a home that suits your taste, budget and lifestyle. All new homes come fully completed with floor and window coverings, rainwater tanks, carport and low maintenance landscaped gardens. So all you have to do is move in your furniture.”

If you are concerned about having sufficient funds to enjoy a comfortable retirement and to tick off some of the things on your “bucket list”, you can take advantage of

Crystal Waters Estate’s unique shared equity facility. Rather than paying the full price on settlement, you need only pay 65% - 99.99% of the purchase price in return for the same percentage ownership. This frees up capital that would otherwise be tied up in your home, allowing you to spend it or invest it as you choose. On top of the financial advantages, there are also numerous lifestyle benefits of living in an over 50s community like Crystal Waters Estate. Residents enjoy fantastic facilities, a wide variety of social activities and a secure living environment.

“Our wonderful Community Centre and

AFFORDABLE RETIREMENT LIVING!

outdoor BBQ area enable residents to socialise with each other and for those who like to be active, there is a tennis court, swimming pool and bowling green,” says Peter.

Residents of the village, Pam and Frank said, “Moving into Crystal Waters Estate was the best move we have made. The people and staff are friendly; the available activities are many and varied. You can participate as much or as little as you wish. It’s a very secure lifestyle; we would totally recommend it.”

For more information, please contact Lorraine on (02) 6554 7447 or visit www.crystalwatersestate.com.au

Crystal Waters Estate is a beautiful lifestyle village for the over 50’s, situated in Tuncurry.

SAVE $100,000

USING SHA RED EQUITY!

Downsize into our village and you’ll enjoy low maintenance homes, great leisure facilities and a friendly community! ✓ New & pre-loved homes ✓ No stamp duty ✓ No council rates or taxes ✓ Shared equity finance option

Contact our friendly team to arrange a tour today!

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

✓ Independent living ✓ Social groups & activities ✓ Secure living environment ✓ Pet friendly manning-great lakes focus.

21

$11 Lunch Specials from kenny’s thai at club forster.

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

22

manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

Mango Chicken

kEnny’s thai kitchen Enjoy a taste of Thailand!

Julie-Ann Booth

$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, deep fried sweet chilli Barramundi fillets, traditional Green Curry (chicken or prawn or beef), Mango chicken (pictured above), Pad Thai or Pad Mee Mao Drunken Noodles.

CENTREPOINT CAFE

Head Chef Kenny.

JULIE-ANN IS THE PROUD NEW OWNER OF CENTREPOINT CAFÉ IN TAREE. WE CATCH UP TO FIND OUT ABOUT HER FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CAFÉ ...

Club Forster, 19 Strand St, Forster 6591 6591

H

Café in Taree. What’s your vision for the i Julie-Ann. Can you tell us a bit about your background in café? the hospitality industry?

My passion is using fresh local produce. I love I completed my playing with different flavours and textures to apprenticeship a hundred years create something unique for customers. My ago at the Sheraton-Wentworth Hotel in Sydney. vision is to continue blending Centrepoint Café’s I’ve been really lucky, as my career has been very traditional recipes with some of my tried and diverse; there isn’t much I haven’t done when it tested recipes and modern food trends. We comes to hospitality. The advantage of being a are now booking out the café exclusively for chef is you can travel anywhere in the groups wanting breakfast or celebrating world and get a job just about occasions. 2017 sees us moving anywhere. ahead with technology in the Since I completed I applied for an my apprenticeship, business, so you can now at apprenticeship I’ve worked in fine order coffee via Hey You app entworth the Sheraton-W dining restaurants ch hi online. It’s all about creating (w ey Hotel , Sydn overseas, in Sydney r he ot m y a better customer service. m involved also, and locally. I’ve also ed w ie rv te in g I am really excited about bein was worked as a private !) ng si as rr ba em the gradual update of the truly chef for families for successful and look of the café in 2017 ... love a number of years, started to fall in all I will say is that it involves including the Lowy with cooking. ” using beautiful recycled local family at Westfield.

Open Wed - Sun, lunch and dinner. Lunch: noon until 2pm.

Dinner: 5:30pm until 8pm.

“

Centrepoint CafÉ Nestled in the heart of Taree, Centrepoint Cafe offers a modern dining experience using local produce. Be tempted with the Centrepoint Classic Breakfast (pictured) or homemade cakes for morning tea. Keep lunch light hearted with the popular “Sassy Sista Sandwich” - grilled chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, basil and aoili.

Head Chef and Owner JulieAnn Booth

Centrepoint Arcade, 153 Victoria Street, Taree 5591 8280 Open Monday - Friday 7:45am - 3:30pm. Saturday 8am - 12:30pm.

Sundays closed.

Where did you first fall in love with cooking?

It’s something I fell into, really.

Dad died when we were young, and Mum went back to work. My sister was away at school and often it was me that was left to start the cooking duties, before Mum got home from work. I realised I enjoyed it and when I finished Year 12 at school, briefly started university but ultimately decided it wasn’t for me.

I applied for an apprenticeship at the SheratonWentworth Hotel, Sydney (which involved my mother being interviewed also, embarrassing!) was successful and truly started to fall in love with cooking. The rest is history, so to speak!

You’re the proud new owner of Centrepoint

timber. Watch this space.

What do you believe is the most important part of running a café?

Great customer service, happy staff, good coffee and consistently good quality food.

What can our readers expect when they dine at Centrepoint Café?

Great coffee! Friendly service and some of my favourite dishes, which I have refined over the years. Our Centrepoint Café Breakfast of Poached Eggs, Bacon, Baby Spinach, Avocado, Sautéed Mushrooms, Trussed Cherry Tomatoes on rye toast is a favourite amongst breakfast goers.

Thanks Julie-Ann. manning-great lakes focus.

23

focus_inseason

with Horticulturalist Neville Donovan - Greenpatch Organic Seeds

WH

focus_winetime

with Steve Attkins from Great Lakes Paddocks

AT ’ S I N

CHILLI THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF CHILLI VARIETIES THAT SCALE FROM MILDEST TO THE HOTTEST. THE FRUIT IS GENERALLY GREEN THEN RIPENS TO RED AND CAN VARY TO INCLUDE COLOURS OF CHOCOLATE, YELLOW, ORANGE AND PURPLE.

T

he plants' growth habit comes in different shapes and sizes, so they could grow to be small and compact or open and shrubby to a metre high. The flavours vary from smoky, fruity, subtle to mild and extra, extra hot!

Well, you either love chilli or you don’t - it's very common to hear they’re too hot - but if a little is used in a cooked dish, it adds just a small amount of heat and improves the flavour.

The plants are highly ornamental, suitable for

pots or the garden and will produce fruit over two - three years in a sheltered sunny position.

The Mid North Coast is well suited to growing chillies year round. Plants can be started from seed, or get a head start with young seedlings.

Plant in fertile, well drained soil, rich in organic matter. For optimum growth, keep the soil moist throughout the growing season.

Protect from frost and strong winds, while older plants can be pruned early spring to encourage vigorous new growth.

Happy growing!

focus_local recipe

CHILLI JAM INGREDIENTS

Method (Serves 4)

Chilli Jam 1.5 kg chillies 8 medium size onions, peeled & roughly chopped 20 garlic cloves 1½ cups tamarind juice or 2 tablespoons paste 125 g palm sugar, cut into small pieces 2 cups sunflower or olive oil 4 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)

Add chillies, onion and garlic to a food processor and chop finely. Transfer to a large saucepan.

24

manning-great lakes focus.

Simmer the mixture for approximately 20 minutes.

Add palm sugar, tamarind juice or if using paste dilute with ¼ cup water. Stir occasionally while jam is cooking, for up to 1½ hours. Slowly add the oil to the jam. Cook a further 20 minutes, until it has thickened.

Spoon jam into sterilised jars and seal. Refrigerate after opening.

Tip! Wear gloves when handling hot chillies.

DRINK OF THE SEASON...

WINE COCKTAILS! I PROMOTE SPARKLING WINE AS A DRINK TO BE ENJOYED YEAR ROUND AND FOR ANY OCCASION, WHETHER SIGNIFICANT OR INSIGNIFICANT - IT TRULY SHOULD BE ENJOYED LIKE ANY OTHER WINE AND EXPERIMENTED WITH, PAIRING IT WITH ALL TYPES OF FOOD.

M

ost of us have enjoyed a glass of Sangria at a Spanish restaurant or at a party where the red wine has been flavoured with fresh fruit and juice, a little brandy, a cinnamon stick, lemonade/soda water or ginger ale - served in a lovely big jug - it looks like a party in a jug and tastes delicious! This is just the beginning of a whole new world of wine cocktails.

There are many other creative recipes with wine as the base, and it's fun to experiment, so I thought a few ideas for wine cocktails minus the spirit is something different. There are numerous easy ones you can do without much effort and you would readily have access to the ingredients.

Champagne cocktails come in all sorts of flavours, so just go with whatever flavours you like. For me, a dash of pomegranate syrup and a sprinkling of fresh pomegranate seeds adds a lovely twist to the pre-dinner glass of sparkling.

Any fruit syrup or fresh fruit makes an instant champagne cocktail.

Got a piece of ginger in the fridge you don't already have plans for? Try muddling a tablespoon of chopped ginger with a teaspoon of sugar in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add some mint, crushed ice and white wine and shake it up. Pour away ... looking forward to this one it; should have a nice little kick to it!

Use the leftover red wine and mix it with lemon-lime mineral water, garnish with a slice of lime and pour over ice - might be something very special.

Muddle a little apple juice and a few mint leaves in the bottom of a glass, top with Rose and add a little ice - another cool, refreshing combination.

Add some tonic water and a sprig of mint or slice of orange to your favourite dessert wine, for a little zing that complements the sweetness.

A more extravagant wine cocktail that sounds enticing to me is "coffee-infused red wine with chocolate bitters". Sounds like something to finish the evening off, combining three favourite flavours.

Three steps to make this: 1. Infuse a bottle of quality red wine with coffee beans for 24 hours 2. Make a star anise syrup with water, star anise and sugar (infuse the star anise for 30 minutes) 3. Mix the a glass of the coffee infused red wine with a little of the star anise syrup and add a dash of chocolate bitters. Garnish with either a cinnamon stick or in warmer weather add ice ... mmmmm So there are a few wine cocktail ideas to get you started - don't limit yourself to just pouring wine straight from the bottle - have some fun with it!

manning-great lakes focus.

25

Manning-Great Lakes locals

jack Yates TARTT F O R S T E R

W

Steve Attkins

here in the focus their promotions on the obvious, Manning-Great rather than getting creative and tapping Lakes do you call into the explorer market. home?

Favourite food/drink?

A lovely little place Pretty obvious that one ... Great Lakes just off the highway between Coolongolook Verdelho paired with a slow cooked Great and Bulahdelah is our home in Wootton.

Lakes grass-fed beef brisket.

How long have you been a FOCUS Favourite music? contributor?

Thats a difficult one ... locally we have so I think we started in 2009 with much talent, it’s hard to pick just the Wine Time column, so one, and on a global scale that’s seven years ... that’s it would have to be Van about 84 columns ...

Morrison.

It’s good fun that’s pretty good Most humorous ur yo shifting g going! memory? in do to thinking a e lik What do you like Ringing Rob when ng hi et som quires most about being she was away on column, as it re cus creativity and fo a contributor? business in Hong ng hi to write somet It’s good fun Kong and telling her find that people will shifting your thinking that I bought us a interesting.” to doing something winery in Wootton ... like a column, as it not sure she thought it requires creativity and was that funny! focus to write something Who/what is your biggest that people will find interesting. inspiration?

I really enjoy it when people want Inspiration for me comes from to chat to me about the subject of creating a business that others get a recent column, because they found it enjoyment out of. Hosting events such as really interesting ... that inspires me to our Music Days and seeing so many people keep coming up with subjects that are enjoying our back yard gives me great interesting. pleasure.

Favourite thing about our area?

Where are you answering these The beauty of the coast is amazing, questions? but my first love is the hinterland and the Sitting in one of our paddocks watching many parts of it yet to be explored. More the cows on a Sunday afternoon sitting in and more people are keen to explore the the back of the ute with a well earned cold hinterland, which is fantastic, because it is beer and my girls helping me answer these largely neglected by tourism bodies who questions.

“

26

manning-great lakes focus.

How long have you lived in the ManningGreat Lakes?

I’ve called Forster home for over six years now. After trying my luck in a variety of towns and cities throughout Australia and the world, I’ve found a place that I really connect with.

Favourite hobby/pastime outside work?

I’ve been involved with a range of sports in Forster in both the social and competitive aspects, but I’d have to say my favourite distraction is getting down the beach with the kids or just diving in the lake. Around our coastline is some of the most amazing scenery in the world.

Best thing that’s happened to you so far this year?

The past year has been very exciting for us with the opening of our coffee roasting business, Little Street Roasters. We’re hoping to help cultivate and promote the hospitality industry throughout the Great Lakes by

providing artisan roasted coffee as well as training to cafés and restaurants in the area.

What’s a skill or talent you have that you’d like to develop more?

I’m all about continuous improvement in all aspects of my life. I am keen to be better at everything. When you have a small business, you’re always looking for ways to progress and things to improve. Tartt does a lot of things well, but we’re never going to stop striving to be better. As for me personally, I could always improve my line dancing skills.

If you were to win a multi-million dollar lottery tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d buy with the money?

When I win the lottery tomorrow, I’m going to fill a swimming pool up with red jelly and dive in. Do you reckon I would drown? I don’t know; can you breathe in jelly? I feel like I could make an air pocket and work my way back to the surface. I’m excited to find out.

3:43

Video OF THE

MONTH

VIDEO BY: Port Media.

ABOUT: Take in these stunning aerials of the beautiful area of Forster - Tuncurry New South Wales.

WATCH AT: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnKDIe6Ci5E

focusinterview.

A W I REST PRO W

SUMMERN MELT DOW

LING

TOUR

THE IWA LIVE PRO WRESTLING SUMMER MELT DOWN TOUR IS ON NOW! CATCH ALL YOUR FAVOURITE IWA STARS IN ACTION AT CLUB FORSTER ON JANUARY 4TH. TOUR MANAGER MARK MERCEDES TELLS US MORE.

W

hat makes the Summer live performance?

Melt Down Tour a great The great thing about our events is their show for the whole interactivity - so just when you think you know family? what's coming next, a chant or comment from We are your favourite the crowd can change the whole dynamic.

Marvel movie, come to life - the physical Imagine if a movie could talk back to you embodiment of action and adventure, and the plot changed based on good vs evil and triumph in the your response? face of adversity. Stories as What goes on behind old as time, presented for a g the scenes to pull The great thin modern audience within ts en ev a show like this about our so touching distance; there's ity iv ct together? is their intera u yo k nothing that compares in th u yo A lot of hard work just when g next , in m to the live experience of co t’s ha and planning from w know ent from m m IWA. co or t an our entire team, who a ch

“

change the

Who are some of the the crowd can are dedicated to being .” whole dynamic characters that will be the best at what we wowing the crowd? do, years of practice, We have an array of incredible blood, sweat and tears talent, featuring Heavyweight and hundreds of thousands of Champion Apollo, who will be looking kilometres of travel all come down to stay atop the mountain; the self proclaimed to two hours, where we want everyone baddest man alive, former Heavyweight to leave exhilarated and entertained.

Champion, Alex Titan; an evil behemoth, “The How would you describe the IWA Summer Jurassic Punk” Syd Parker, who is one of the most Melt Down Tour in a few short words? unique wrestlers the world has ever seen; fan A live action experience that has to be seen to be favourite Turkish Delight; and many more! believed.

With international wrestling heavyweights and femme fatales, what will be some of the highlights of the show?

The athleticism, skill and precision with which the crazy manoeuvres require to be successful is always a sight to behold - the risks our performers take and the sacrifices they will make to entertain the fans is unlike anything you'll witness in competitive sport; it’s the bone crunching physicality of football mixed with the incomprehensible feats of wonder shown at Cirque De Soleil.

How do characters combine comedy with modern showmanship to give a standout

the plug!

IWA Live Pro Wrestling Summer Melt Down Tour coming to the following venues in January. More info at www.iwawrestling.com.au Jan 3 - Club Lemontree Jan 4 - Club Forster Jan 5 - Laurieton United Jan 6 - Macksville Ex Services Jan 7 - Sawtell RSL Jan 9 - Woodburn Evans Head RSL manning-great lakes focus.

27

DONNA CARRIER

Barbara Walker’s Farewell

Bent on Food Christmas Party

Choral Society

NSW Tourism Awards

St Joseph’s Christmas Party

Well Creative Breakfast

Y

SOCIAL/SCENE

ep, it is winter and freezing cold at that time of year, but that’s what makes the UK so special; all those B & Bs, cosy restaurants, open fires and an excuse to buy some cool winter clothes. Mind you, I will be spending five days with Annie Sloan, getting down and dirty while I learn more chalk paint techniques from the expert herself, so I will need to take my painting clothes.

There hasn’t been a lot of time for painting lately though, with so many functions and weddings to cater for over the last month.

On 23rd November, we catered for a successful Wingham Chamber of Commerce breakfast function for 32 local business people, held at the newly renovated Well Creative premises in the old ES & A Bank on Bent Street. Aaron Cuneo spoke about the recent restoration that showcases the original features of this fabulous 1950s building. They have done an amazing job of returning this building to its original state, which houses their graphic design studio so perfectly. Aaron urged people to be sympathetic to a building’s era and historic significance when restoring, and they have done just that with their building. I also love that era and love the funky feel of the space.

We headed to Sydney the next day, where we joined local Manning Valley - Great Lakes

28

from Bent on Food

manning-great lakes focus.

THE BEGINNING OF ANOTHER NEW YEAR AND I AM SUPER EXCITED, AS WE JUST FINISHED BOOKING OUR FLIGHTS TO OXFORD FOR THE END OF JANUARY.

Tourism operators at the 2016 NSW Tourism included fresh prawns and oysters, lovely Awards. We have some really fantastic canapes and friendly service in a stunning tourism operators, who do their bit to lift location on the river. With so much on that the profile of the region by going above week, we really enjoyed the relaxed setting and beyond. Finalists included Mansfield on and the hospitality from Jane and Neil. the Manning, Wingham Akoostik Festival, I always enjoy Celebrating Abilities Day, Boogie Woogie Beach House (Silver), where I join many other volunteers who Seahorse Diamond Beach (Silver), Big 4 work together to create a fantastic day full Forster Tuncurry (Bronze) and Bent on Food of entertainment, art and photography (Silver/Bronze). To be a finalist competitions, along with the in these awards you must cooking competition that I meet a strict criteria, so love to judge. This year we should be extremely the day took place on I would like proud to have this the 1st December and e to wish all th y pp many Manning Valley proved to be another ha , readers a safe , 17 20 us - Great Lakes finalists successful event, with ro and prospe e ag ur co in 2016. many entries into the and I en ec iate pr ap to y od yb I raced back from competitions, along ever fe haven the beautiful , sa the awards to host a with an entertaining that we live in .” lovely Christmas party concert afterwards. for St Joseph’s on 25th There is much dancing, November; 25 guests singing and musical enjoyed pre-dinner drinks instruments, with lots of in the garden followed by a two healthy competition, and I am course meal. We catered for a beautiful proud to be associated with this day as wedding (story later) on Saturday 26th a sponsor and judge.

November at Mount George, and then The same evening, we hosted a fabulous it was our turn to party as a team! Bent Christmas party for the Manning Valley on Food and Bent on Life chose Mansfield Choral Society. What a fabulous event it on the Manning for our Christmas party was! We prepared a traditional Christmas on Sunday afternoon 27th November, and feast with shared platters of locally smoked we couldn’t have made a better choice. quince glazed ham, Galantine of chicken, Eighteen of us enjoyed fabulous food that stuffed with fresh chestnuts, leeks and

“

sage served with Mooral Creek King oyster mushrooms and honey roasted parsnips, vincotto and fig duck ragout with red cabbage braised in port and apple, all finished with traditional plum pudding.

Not surprisingly, the choral society likes to sing and we enjoyed some beautiful songs, including Christmas Carols.

On 9th December, we hosted a special farewell for the much loved Barbara Walker, as she retired from Wingham Brush Public School and from a lifetime of teaching. Over 40 people came along to celebrate with her.

She was a very popular teacher and it was obvious that her workmates also love and respect her, with many tears and beautiful words spoken. John and Kevin Ballard played some tunes, and there was some serious dancing. It was a fabulous celebration for a fabulous lady.

I would like to wish all the readers a safe, happy and prosperous 2017, and I encourage everybody to appreciate the beautiful, safe haven that we live in. There is so much hatred in the world and we are so fortunate to be able to live in paradise, so let’s enjoy it and look after what we have.

I would love to hear from you if you have any social events, weddings, parties anything!

Send pics and info to donna@bentonfood. com.au Cheers, Donna.

focusinterview.

JACKSON

JAMES

CLUB TAREE PLAYS HOST TO THE EVER TALENTED JACKSON JAMES ON THE 8TH JANUARY. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HIM IN THE LEAD UP TO HIS GIG …

H

i Jackson. Who or what most of the setup and maintenance work on influences you when it them myself. After pulling them apart enough comes to writing lyrics and times, I was confident I could put one together. composing?

I spent the next three months scouring eBay for Everyone is different when it original Fender USA parts, as I’d decided to build comes to creating and honestly, it usually comes a 1952 Telecaster. All was smooth sailing, I had and goes quicker than the tide. One thing I have the body painted, picked the neck; however, it learnt over the years is what doesn’t work and was almost impossible to find the original screws for me, stress instantly dulls my creativity. This to hold it together. After all the waiting and time is partly why I had to push aside other work, spent anticipating how it would play, I so I can remain in a creative state. couldn’t be happier - it’s perfect, I grew up listening to great and something I’ll keep forever. guitar players such as Robert Have you been working Cray, Eric Clapton, SRV, BB I’ll be playing on any new projects? e King, John Mayer and at Club Tare y. ar nu I’m in the process of many similar, and even Sunday 8th Ja u yo y, building my own home today they are still huge Alternativel a my recording studio and can reach me vi influences. w me getting together some website , or follo here Recently I’ve taken a ,w on social media ent equipment needed to nt liking to Country music, all shows and co record quality material. I ” e. inspired by artists like bl la are avai really wanted a space that Dierks Bentley, Keith Urban feels great when you walk and the TV show Nashville; in - peaceful and inspiring. I’m the stories in the songs are really looking forward to seeing this captivating and honest, and that’s project completed and the music that what I aim for in my music. Writing lyrics has will come from it. always been from personal experiences; using Direct us to where we can go to listen to imagery and some clever techniques, I try to your music and follow your journey… paint a vivid picture and encourage the listener to I’ll be playing at Club Taree Sunday 8th January. get lost in the music.

Alternatively, you can reach me via my website, The guitar pictured above isn’t just any old or follow me on social media, where all shows guitar; how did you learn the skills to create and content are available. this beautiful instrument?

“

This all started one day when I saw a unique colour on an early ‘50s guitar. I did a bit of research; however, I found the only one available, I didn’t like. So, I decided I would build my own.

I’ve been playing guitars for a long time and do

Thanks Jackson. www.jacksonjames.com.au www.facebook.com/jacksonjamesmusic @jackson_james__ jacksonjamesmusic@gmail.com manning-great lakes focus.

29

Beatles festival is back in 2017

ALE

he er ip

The Port Macquarie Beatles Festival is back in 2017, 9 to 12 February. This year’s special guests are Beatle Magic, who have been honing The 14th January “Seafood” race day is and hot dogs. There are plenty of refreshments their musical skills and “authentic” sound on the his races,one allofthrough and that to be exciting.high seas and around Australia for many years. becoming the major his events on the was new for the mums andwas dads, going plus jumping castles, TFJC raceHe daywas calendar; theafeature fairy flossinand drinkshas for the kids.own This is little a very niche, career. such greatrace of the Everyone town their Beatle Magic were even asked by the Cavern day is the Oyster Cup, ran over 1400 m, with enjoyable day for the whole family.

Club (yes, the one in Liverpool, England) to conhorse that he went on to and I thought that the burgers could be ours. five others races held on the day. The betting As the Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club race days tribute to the 50th Anniversary Celebration video Australia at and threeIt’s going really, really well; verysocial happy with ring represent provides ten local bookmakers are becoming one of the mostI’m popular of From me to you which was originally released interstate, and a six window with a new events the Great Lakes area,where booking it and the Olympics.

He TAB didn’t the way it’sinopened up and is at aton 11 April 1963 in the UK. addition of the TAB van on the southern end of the saving of dates is very important: 14th do any good at the the moment. We are excited about the holiday There will be plenty of opportunity over the the hill.

January Sea Food Race Day, 18th February Men weekend to experience the ever popular sound of Olympics, he did seasonof and meeting all March the visitors.

The “Seafood” race but day serves up prawn rolls, League and the 11th XXXX Gold Cup the Beatles performed by Beatle Magic and many BBQ fish, opened Wallis day.on If you wish to have a seat the Pavilion winfreshly Show Horse ofLake theBarclayWhat’s the agenda forinyou in future ... local groups and artists. The challenge will be Oysters and snag carpet bagger oysters cooked or a Gazebo, please ring Marg 0429 967 823 Year four times at the Any big plans in the making for Dasher’s, NOT tapping your foot when the music is playing. on top of a sausage in a fresh bread roll, as well or just find a seat on the hill for a great day’s

Free Buses Town, Black head AND Nabiac

all

as steak sandwiches, cut sandwiches, pies Royal Easter fresh Show. or forracing. you

From jockey, to restaurant owner, as you now own Dasher’s Bar and Grill in Forster ... When did ou decide to enter the hospitality try, and why did you choose this r career change? was a right hand turn from my career, but it was something that I’d anted to do. I had been coming to Tuncurry for over 10 years; I have a nds here and my best man from my lives here, so I was always going to e. It was then just a matter of finding I could set up here in Forster. e is very passionate about food and so we were always going to venture field. We explored what was in town was the going trend in Sydney, and w we came up with the hamburger t. is well known for its American gers, dogs and sides. What was oning behind choosing this type or your restaurant - did you see a he marketplace locally? n concern was that I didn’t want to rect competition with anyone or step 30 manning-great lakes focus. e’s toes. We wanted something that

personally?

Events include the Beatles Brain Bending Trivia To keep improving, we are always designing new things to add to the menu. I’ve been a big fan of having spare ribs on the menu; there is a lot of work that goes into preparing the ribs, so we need to make sure that we are ready and we do it properly, before actually popping it onto the menu.

We have started off small so that we can grow and keep adding things to the menu; this keeps us fresh and allows us to expand, which hopefully our customers will like.

For myself in 2016, I am still involved with racing; they have talked me into being on the committee of the Forster Tuncurry Jockey Club, which I’m really excited about.

The Jockey Club is another thing that really attracted me to the area. I just love how the town gets behind their race club. Like I said before, I’ve ridden all around Australia and all around different parts of Asia, and I’ve never seen anything like I have come across here in Tuncurry.

When I first came here to ride before the track was built, I was shocked how the town all turned out for barrier trails - you never see that anywhere else in the world, and it’s a really big testament to the club. I’m looking forward to being involved in 2016.

Thanks Dale.

Night at Bago Tavern, Fab Beatles Champagne Breakfast at the beautiful Roses Vineyard, free concert in the Forecourt of the Glasshouse, music and dancing at Laurieton United Services Club and Port Macquarie Panthers (including some Rock ’n’ Roll), and two days of markets and car shows plus free entertainment.

This year’s car shows include the themes Beetlemania and British Invasion, as well as the spectacular classics of yesteryear. Car and motorcycle enthusiasts are welcome to bring along their own “pride and joy”, and should email the organisers at info@portmacquariebeatlesfestival.com or contact Chris on 0411 591 520 to ensure a space is reserved to display their vehicle. Prizes will be given for best in show.

focus_local recipe

PASTA

Most Outstanding over 50’s Estate in Australasia 2015

Most Outstanding over 50’s Estate in Australasia 2015

BURNT SAGE, PINE NUT AND PARMESAN

A vegetarian pasta dish that is so light but flavoursome. It has the most amazing combination of flavours and is my favourite pasta meal. Sage has a soft, yet sweet flavour and is known to contribute to an array of health benefits, including antioxidant actions and better brain function.

NO STAMP DUTY, NO BODY CORP FEES, NO EXIT FEES •••

Affordable

luxury

• Stunning clubhouse • 5 star amenities • Designer homes

for the over 55’s

• Quality slab-on-ground, steel frame construction • Sublime location on Queens Lake

INGREDIENTS (Serves 2 - 3) Pasta of choice (mung bean, wholemeal fettucine or egg noodles work great) 1 - 2 tbsp virgin olive oil ½ cup sage 1 grated lemon zest 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 bunches of asparagus 2 cups spinach and rocket ¼ cup pine nuts salt and pepper to taste shaved parmesan (to serve)

method

Recipe supplied by Lisa from Lisa Michele’s Every Day Nutrition lisamicheles.com.au

Cook pasta in a saucepan of boiling water according to packet instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Add the pasta to the pan, along with the lemon zest, spinach and rocket. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick fry pan over a medium heat and add the garlic, sage, asparagus and pine nuts.

Serve the pasta topped with shaved parmesan.

25 minutes to Port Macquarie Kew Country Club

A1

Queens Lake

Dooragan National Park

Bonny Hills North Haven

11 Resort Rd, Laurieton NSW visit us online www.laurietonresort.com.au

Call today to arrange your personal sales consultation

P: 1300 55 70 75 manning-great lakes focus.

31

Best Kept Secrets Photo by Matt Hardyman

Photo by Shane Chalker

Photo by East Coast Photography

Photo by East Coast Photography

Photo by Constance Bond

32

manning-great lakes focus.

Photo by Lyndon Buttola

Best Kept Secrets

This & That Homewares I always found it hard to source the beautiful homewares I saw in magazines in our region, and the lack of availability was the inspiration behind This & That.

‘GOING BUSH HAS NEVER BEEN SO LUXURIOUS’ Sydney Morning Herlald Traveller ‘The Getaway’

Mansfield on the Manning is a boutique lifestyle retreat, set on 16-acres on the banks of the Manning River.

A blend of modern luxury and natural, unsoilt beauty, each of our 4 properties is uniquely styled and designed to create a hassle-free haven.

Surrounded by nature and the beautiful Manning River, this is the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Enjoy the views, go kayaking, take a dip in the double-edge infinity pool, help yourself from the abundant veggie garden, have a meal cooked just for you and delivered direct to your door.

“I’m a visual person, so the need for a brick and mortar store was a necessity for me”.

The store has been open now for six months, and business is steadily increasing. “It’s nice to know that the word is getting out there,” says Allanah. “I’ve had people drive from Newcastle and Port Macquarie just to take a look at the store. It’s great, because they often spend the day here visiting our cafés, beautiful beaches and other retailers.”

A range of new homewares are now available in store, including products from Raine & Humble, Husk, The Mister Brand (Men’s skincare) and Posie hand poured soy wax candles from Byron Bay. Keen photographer Tom Toshack has also provided an affordable range of framed prints instore from Wallabi Point and surrounding coastal areas.

Open: Wed - Fri, 10 - 4pm and Sat - Sun, 10 - 2pm.

Visit us: 1/51 Old Bar Road, Old Bar. Instagram: @thisandthathomewares

95 Beauly Road, Tinonee NSW 2430 www.mansfieldonthemanning.com 02 6553 1800

manning-great lakes focus.

33

Best Kept Secrets

The Manning-Great Lakes is one beautiful place and for those lucky enough to live here, we know the secret treasures and magical places to explore ... Or do we! Four business locals have taken the time to share with us their favourite things about the region ...

Jane

T I N O N E E

Allanah O L D

B A R

Family members: Myself, partner Clancy and our two Chihuahuas, Pete and Chicken.

Number of years living locally: I grew up here but relocated to Sydney after school and have now been back in the area for 12 months.

How I came to call The Manning Valley home: My parents moved to the area after falling in love with Wingham on one of their many trips up and down the coast from Queensland.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: The lifestyle! I feel like I’m on holidays every day of the week.

Favourite café/restaurant: Probably a tie between Flow Bar and Garden Grub Café.

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: I’d have to say the lookout at the top of Middle Brother Mountain (the view is to die for and unlike anything else I’ve ever seen).

Best shopping spot: I love rummaging through the two antique stores in Wingham’s main street - always something interesting and unique to be found!

Best kept secret: The Lot on Old Bar road (farm gate produce, coffee shed, yoga and flowers).

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: So many people still haven’t tried a burger from Blowfish!

Best entertainment hub: Boogie Woogie Beach House.

Best place for families: Black Head Beach and picnic area, for sure!

Must not miss while in the Manning Valley this summer: Wingham Sunmertime Rodeo held at the Showground in early January. It’s hot, dusty and always entertaining for the whole family.

34

manning-great lakes focus.

Gabriel T A R E E

Family members: Two beautiful kids; one boy and one girl.

Number of years living locally: I moved here from Sydney in 2009 - about eight years.

How I came to call The Manning Valley home: It’s a great location with lots of potential!

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: Easy acess to anything and not many traffic lights!

Favourite café/restaurant: First the Sicilian, because I love my restaurant, then I love any café or restaurant that serves good, fresh, quality food and has great service. The location and the fitout are the bonuses.

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: Black Head lookout.

Best shopping spot: The local markets around the valley.

Best kept secret: Lumpy’s Nursery, Tuncurry.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: Local horse riding.

Best entertainment hub: Forster Tenpin Bowling.

Best place for families: Fay’s Twin Cinema.

Must not miss while in the Manning Valley this summer: Boomerang Beach.

Family members: My husband Neil, and currently, my brother Paul - although he goes back to the UK at the end of December.

Number of years living locally: Two and a half - we moved from Hackney in London to Mansfield on the Manning in Tinonee in April 2014.

Living in: The piece of heaven that is Mansfield on the Manning in Tinonee.

How I came to call The Manning Valley home: Neil and I have always wanted to run a boutique retreat and searched along the Mid North Coast until we came across Mansfield on the Manning - and knew it was “the one” immediately.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: The people! We’ve made such good friends in our relatively short time here - because so many people have been so welcoming.

Favourite café/restaurant: We have several local favourites … but a very special place for us is Sai Thai in Old Bar. Favourite outdoor photographic spot: Anywhere along the Manning River - but I think the best views are from Mansfield on the Manning!

Best shopping spot: I love This and That Homewares in Old Bar. Best kept secret: The Old Bar Wellness Centre - all the massage therapists there are amazing.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: It’s not that new now … but the Secret Weekly Farmers’ Market at Rudi’s every Thursday is fantastic, and I love the mix of producers there.

Best entertainment hub: Flow Bar in Old Bar - they’ve created an amazing space and have some really great entertainment out there.

Best place for families: Best place for families to stay?

Mansfield on the Manning! Sixteen acres for the kids to run around in and burn off their energy, while the adults can enjoy a well-earned glass of wine on the verandah overlooking the Manning River.

Must not miss while in the Manning Valley this summer: TasteFest on Saturday 14th January. A fantastic opportunity to celebrate local produce, some wine and beer. tasting and enjoy some awesome entertainment.

Best Kept Secrets

Paul T A R E E

Family members: Five (two adults; three kids).

Number of years living locally: 18, then left for 10, then back for another 10!

Living in: Taree - Manning Waters.

How I came to call The Manning Valley home: Family.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: Easy access to anywhere in the world, yet locally we have so much natural beauty to explore - waterways, mountains, forests.

Favourite café/restaurant: Dineon19 or Fish Fish Fish.

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: The rock pools at Wallabi Point.

Best shopping spot: Black Head Bazzar.

Best kept secret: Restaurants like Flow at Old Bar or Garden Grub in Wingham.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: It’s amazing how many locals don’t visit our beaches, and other local destinations. I have a hashtag I use on social media: #getoutanddostuff.

Best entertainment hub: Club Taree.

Best place for families: Choose any beach, or waterway.

Must not miss while in the Manning Valley this summer: Ellenborough Falls.

manning-great lakes focus.

35

Best Kept Secrets

Markets in the

NEW YEAR

The Manning-Great Lakes is rich with market culture, from food providores to jewellery, furniture and handicrafts. Unearth treasures at one of this month’s local markets ...

ULAHDELAH MARKETS When Sat 7 Jan 2017, 8am to 1pm.

Location Visitors Centre Grounds, Bulahdelah.

Located next door to the Visitor Information Centre, this small market focuses on native plants, vege seedlings, fruit and veg, great home made cakes and delicacies, crafts, jewellery and clothing.

TUNCURRY MARKETS (EXTRA MARKET) When Sat 7 Jan 2017, 8am - 1pm.

Location John Wright Park, Tuncurry.

Phone 0417 400 994.

This is a popular market located harbour side near the bridge and has the added advantage of being seen from the main street in Tuncurry.

This is totally open air with use of the under cover Podium for entertainment. Many of the stall holders come from the local North Coast region and sell a diverse range of products, from handmade wooden toys to handmade organic skincare. A good variety of clothing, lots of plants, plenty to suit all tastes.

Also available at the market is face painting and the famous Marine Rescue BBQ. WINGHAM FARMERS’ MARKET When Sat 7 Jan 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location Gloucester Road, Wingham NSW. Wingham Farmers’ Market is held on the first Saturday of each month at the Wingham Showground.

Since 2003, the Wingham Farmers’ Market has been a great source of fresh food and products that are locally grown, baked or

36

manning-great lakes focus.

made sustainably. Enjoy fresh produce, cakes, local olives, pickles and jams, flowers, goat milk soaps and more. Come along and enjoy the friendly atmosphere, supporting the local community.

If it’s grown, baked or made sustainably in the region, it’s welcome at Wingham Farmers’ Market.

FORSTER TOWN MARKETS When Sun 8 Jan 2017, 8am - 2pm.

Location Town Park, Forster.

Your chance to experience a true-blue coastal market with a veritable array of stalls.

You’ll find around 50 stallholders selling handmade, homegrown and pre-loved wares to holiday makers and locals.

The market more than lives up to its mantra of “homemade, homegrown and home-baked” - with a diverse selection of handmade craft, jewellery, clothing, homewares and art works.

And once you’re done browsing and buying, why not take a stroll down the main street for a morning coffee or brunch in one of the many cafés.

WINGHAM COMMUNITY MARKETS When Sat 14 Jan 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location 2 Dennes St, Wingham NSW. Wingham Community Market is held on the second Saturday of the month in Skate Park in Dennes Street, Wingham. This popular community market offers fresh produce, homemade jams and preserves, handcrafted items and bric-a-brac. Enjoy this relaxing market and experience the beautiful village of Wingham.

THE HUB MARKET When Sat 21 Jan 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location 24 Muldoon St, Taree NSW. The Hub Market is held at the Taree Showground every third Sunday of the month. This is the biggest market in Taree and surrounds, and has both outdoor and undercover areas.

At the Hub Market you will discover pre-loved books, fresh produce, plants and seedlings, homemade jam and gingerbread, bric-a-brac and food stalls.

NABIAC FARMERS’ MARKET When Sat 28 Jan 2017, 8am to 12pm.

Location Nabiac Showground, Nabiac.

Website www.nabiac.com/events/nfm.php Email a_arnoux@bigpond.com Local producers supplying quality fresh food to the community on the last Saturday of each month.

Come along to buy really fresh local produce at the Nabiac Farmers’ Market. Locally grown organic vegies, free range eggs, local fruits, cakes, chocolates, gingerbread, olive products, honey, natural skin care, gourmet goodies, wines, sourdough bread, a variety of plants, locally made crafts, gifts for friends and family, seedlings, chooks and lots more!

A bit of yesteryear with today’s produce.

So bring a friend and come along for a bite to eat, a chat and enjoy an old-fashioned shopping experience. Don’t forget your baskets and reusable bags!

PACIFIC PALMS MARKETS When Sun 29 Jan 2017, 9am - 1pm.

Location Pacific Palms Community Centre, The Lakes Way. Website www.palmsmarket.com.au Email info@palmsmarket.com.au On the last Sunday of the month, with extra markets in the holidays, the Community Centre comes alive with vibrant colours, textures and a really great vibe here ... Come and experience it for yourself!

The Palms Markets showcase quality handmade, home grown and home baked products from around the Great Lakes region and beyond.

Sample some of our fabulous food from around the globe, including organic vegetarian curries, Asian noodles and Aussie style barbecues!

See the colourful stalls, including eco and fair trade products, jewellery, art, craft, clothes, plants, fruit, veg and beautiful body products.

A jumping castle and pony rides will keep the children entertained, whilst you can enjoy an organic coffee and cake on the alfresco deck.

manning-great lakes focus.

37

Best Kept Secrets

Summer Forest Fun Want to know a secret?

Great Lakes Paddocks Great Lakes Paddocks is a family friendly destination offering delicious wine, grassfed Angus beef, local produce, music events and private functions.

Nestled in the stunning hinterland of the Great Lakes region inland from Forster-Tuncurry and Pacific Palms, we are a part of the magical natural landscape that surrounds us.

Great Lakes Paddocks has evolved from Great Lakes Winery, reflecting the diversity of what is on offer for locals, not-so-locals, tour groups, and families. You are welcome to visit our Tasting Room, soak up the tranquillity of “the Back Paddock” and savour a grazing board with a glass of our wine.

38

manning-great lakes focus.

Our range of wines includes whites that are crisp and clean, together with medium bodied reds that are easy drinking. Our customers tell us what they want and that’s what we aim to produce, using fruit from our vineyard here in Wootton and some from further afield mainly the Hunter.

Explore and choose from a range of produce, including artisan cheeses, olives and oils, gourmet cordials, conserves, condiments and more! We source produce from around our region and also from small producers who are making delicious products we love. Do your wine and produce shopping while you relax with a cheese board and a glass of wine. The no-stress way to go shopping.

NSW State Forests cover two million hectares of forest across NSW, offering a range of experiences that few others can match. There are roomy campsites, shaded picnic areas, tree-lined walking tracks and spectacular lookouts. The natural environment is centre stage, showcasing an abundance of unique Australian flora and fauna within spectacular landscapes. You can swim in a creek, hike up a mountain, chat around the campfire, or simply listen to the sounds of nature.

You can bring your car, caravan or campervan, you can pitch a tent anywhere you like, explore forest tracks on trail bike or mountain bike, ride a horse cross-country, 4WD and bring your dog too - yes, that’s right, dogs are welcome in NSW State forests.

Best of all, visiting NSW State Forests is absolutely free, representing one of the most cost-effective summer holiday escapes you can find. With over 125 forest-based dedicated visitor areas statewide, with a mix of visitor facilities such as picnic tables, BBQs, fireplaces, shelters, rainwater tanks, toilets and easy-access carparks, NSW State Forests are a “must-see” destination in your travels.

Your local State Forest is an unmissable stop on your summer self-drive outing, whether it’s for a few hours, a picnic or an overnight stay. An extensive network of roads and trails provide easy entry to State Forests, whilst walking tracks allow visitors to experience special places and nature at its best.

NSW State Forests provide beautiful forest environments for you and your family to “switch-off” and connect with nature. A range of information is available to ensure your next trip is a memorable one, including a NEW free mobile phone app called “VisitForests”, providing online and downloadable maps, photos and information on forest experiences.

With great places to explore, rest, learn, play or just get away from it all, come and experience a forest playground!

Visit us on the web: www.forestrycorporation. com.au/visit And share your experience: Facebook: Visit NSW Forests Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

Find out more at

visitmanningvalley.com.au tourism@visitmanningvalley.com.au facebook.com/visitmanningvalley Visitor Information Centre 21 Manning River Dr, Taree North Ph: 6592 5444 or 1800 182 733

Top10 things to do

Big Buzz Fun Park A short drive along The Lakes Way, you’ll find 25 acres of adventure and fun, a favourite with the kids. The park features a toboggan run, three open water slides, toddler slide, kamikaze slide, BMX and mountain biking, speed karts, tricycles, half tennis court, swimming pool, beach volleyball, trampolines, swings, putt putt golf and more!

Lookouts From the coast to the hinterland, we have some spectacular lookouts! A few of our faves include Brushy Cutting, Apex, Flat Rock, Crowdy Head and Vincent’s.

Ellenborough Falls A trip to the Manning Valley is not complete without a visit to one of the longest single drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere! Why not take in the stunning hinterland scenery and enjoy historical Wingham along Tourist Drive 8.

Beach 4WD For the more adventurous travellers we allow 4WD access to many of our beaches.

A nature reserve with a difference – take a stroll along the gently winding boardwalk, spot the resident endangered flying foxes and stand in awe of the giant Moreton Bay fig trees.

Beaches

River fun With more than 150km of navigable waterways, the Manning River provides the perfect environment for boating, fishing, water sports and tranquil picnic spots. All sorts of activity happens on the river, including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and water skiing. The Manning River is the only double delta river system in Australia with two entrances to the ocean.

Wingham Brush

We have 45 kilometres of pristine coastline to discover, whether you go to the beach to swim, surf, fish, picnic, sunbathe or 4WD, we’ve got all your bases covered.

Mountain biking Get close to nature as you bike the coast or discover 40 kilometres of challenging mountain bike loop tracks, hidden deep within our forests.

National Parks

Cattai Wetlands

The 9 stunning National Parks and Reserves within the Manning Valley are perfectly placed for day-trippers to explore by car, bike or foot.

You’ll discover waterfalls, lookouts, walking tracks and the perfect picnic spot!

Don’t forget your camera!

Here you’ll find over 180 species of birds, kangaroos, goannas and more including beautiful black swans! manning-great lakes focus.

39

Best Kept Secrets

Mel’s One of the Manning’s Best Kept Secrets has to be Granny Mel’s Chilli Sauces. Completely locally sourced and produced in her own backyard … ow long have you called the Manning-Great Lakes home, and why did you choose this part of the world to live in?

Spending every holiday for ten years camping at Myall Lakes, going home to the mayhem of Sydney became more and more difficult with every visit. Our vegetable garden had outgrown the ¼ acre block we were renting in Campsie, and our visits to the Manning soon became our hunt for land to buy.

At first we focused our hunt around Bulahdelah, because their small town pies are the best in Australia, and we do love a good small town pie, but then we discovered Wingham and fell in love with the people who live here.

There is something really special about an area when the locals will happily hold random conversations in the street with random people from out of town. We moved here nearly three years ago, and I am now one of those happy locals holding random conversations with strangers.

Tell us about your home-grown organic sauces; what inspired this idea?

Going back many years, I made our Sweet Mango & Chilli Sauce for family and friends for Christmas. All of a sudden, I had friends asking for it to give to their friends, so I made it in my spare time, and when our first grandson was born in 2008, so too was Granny Mel’s Chilli Sauces. With the desire to give everything a sec40 manning-great lakes focus.

ond life, I used our old beer bottles to package the sauce. This has stuck with us throughout the years, and we now have a great network of beer drinkers who recycle their pre-loved beer bottles through us on a weekly basis.

Where do you source your ingredients?

As well as begging, bartering and stealing from other local, chemical free growers, we cultivate as many of the ingredients as we can to put into our products. Many of our customers grow chillies too, and we’re always happy to swap a bottle of sauce for a bag of chillies or any other glut they happen to have in their gardens.

There must have been a fair bit of trial and error in the creation of your recipes?

After so many years, and a few disasters along the way, we’ve developed a nice range of sauces from super mild and family friendly to our crazy super hots. I once attempted to make marmalade and after it failed to set, it ended up being a delicious orange, ginger and chilli sauce, which became very popular. I’ve also made a batch of pineapple chilli and mint sauce, and the women who bought it used it as a cordial for their vodka cocktails, which is awesome.

Not only do you offer sauces, you have introduced a range of pastas, “Parched Earth Pasta’’ - how did this come about?

Oh, and as if we weren’t busy enough, in February this year we set up our marquee at The Secret Weekly Farmers’ Market and soon discovered that chilli sauce is not a weekly product. We

I’ve also made a

“

ple wanted to fill a void that The Cheese Cave in Taree, batch of pineap d an e uc sa the Manning Valley was Bluey’s Cellars at Bluey’s t in m d an chilli ught bo ho missing. We’ve always w Beach has a small range en om w the rdial for made our own pasta, so does Café Buzz at it used it as a co ils , ta and we had heaps of dePeachtree Walk. their vodka cock ” e. licious free range eggs, so More recently we have which is awesom this seemed like the perfect been snapped up by Organopportunity to share. ics Matt’R and the Murray St A few weeks later the chooks Bakery in Port Macquarie (who stopped laying and we decided that are now the winners in our small they (the eggs) made our pasta too brittle town pie hunt). It is due to the support of to package anyway. We buy organic flours our customers and local businesses that we are and use the bits and pieces from ours and more successful than we ever imagined. other local, chemical free gardens to make When we moved here, my plan was to take pasta with a difference. a couple of years off to write a book, maybe Besides our dried pasta range, we also make sell a few of bottles of sauce on the side to help frozen ravioli, so we can further utilise the supplement my love of cooking magazines and beautiful produce we’ve found in the area. smoked pork products. But we’ve got a huge Nothing says “the Manning Valley” like a amount of work to do now, so the thought of ravioli stuffed full of Mooral Creek Mushrooms, taking it easy will have to wait another day Comboyne Culture Lindsay Blue Cheese and maybe next year. We have a little online shop home grown silverbeet wrapped in Parched at grannymels.com but are still nutting out the Earth organic spelt pasta. It’s the most delicious logistics for our Parched Earth Pasta. combination.

What is the Manning-Great Lakes’ best Where can our readers get hold of your kept secret? delicious products?

Since moving to the Manning-Great Lakes, We are so grateful to our customers for being we have discovered an awesome spot at patient with us while we tripped over ourselves Wingham Brush where you can swim and fish endeavouring to produce something unique during the day and watch the flying foxes filling and amazing using local ingredients, and now the sky at sundown. It’s a beautiful and surreal we are really stoked to have our products in place to be.

Go Vita in Taree and Forster, Jack & Co BP and Thanks Mel.

focus_business

Sharon Bultitude - Tourism and Marketing Coordinator, Great Lakes Tourism

undermining the economic sustainability of our tourism industry.

Tourism

Seasonality, which concentrates income generation within a limited timeframe each year, often results in businesses closing completely for a number of weeks or even months in winter.

This in turn creates a degree of uncertainty that can deter investors, especially when considering small tourism businesses or start-ups.

sharon bultitude

HYPER SEASONALITY! YAY, SUMMER IS HERE, AND OUR TOWNS ARE BUZZING WITH VISITORS ENJOYING THE PRISTINE NATURAL BEAUTY OF OUR BEACHES, WATERWAYS, PARKS AND FORESTS. FOR OUR KEY HUBS LIKE FORSTER-TUNCURRY, IT SEEMS LIKE IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN THUS.

O

ur region has a proud tourism history, with large numbers of loyal visitors returning to holiday here year after year.

The genuine affection these families feel for our area and its communities is palpable.

This six week summer holiday period will see over 900,000 people visit the wider MidCoast Council region, which represents a staggering 60% of our total annual visitation.

Seasonality is not unusual in the tourism industry, and many destinations worldwide continue to grapple with how to reduce the reliance on their peak season and extend visitation throughout the rest of the year.

Our region’s visitation pattern, however, goes beyond traditional seasonal flows and can only be described as “hyper seasonality”. Ironically, this heavy seasonal reliance on a single domestic market is one of the elements currently restricting the future growth of the region and

Another key impact of tourism seasonality is on the continuity of employment which operators are able to offer. The absence of continuity means that tourism operations are unable to offer sustainable employment, are less able to compete for the best local talent, are reluctant to invest in training and development of their staff and are less likely to offer flexibility in working conditions.

These factors, in turn, can impact on product and service quality and, ultimately can damage customer satisfaction and the likelihood to return to the business and even the destination.

And it doesn’t stop there; tourism seasonality transfers the impact of uneven demand throughout the entire supply chain, affecting a wide range of associated businesses within the wider tourism sector (taxis, tour guides) as well as into associated sectors such as agriculture, wholesale, distribution etc.

So how can we start to address our “hyper seasonality”?

As work concludes on a new Destination Management Plan for the Mid-Coast Region, an exciting strategic vision emerges - one which

looks to a future that more effectively leverages the region's natural assets, local character and environmental credentials to ultimately reposition the area as a leading nature-tourism destination in its own right.

A future where our traditional family market continues to not only be welcomed but also extended by an offer of active and adventurous experiences for families wanting more than a visit to the beach. A future which will speak to new niche markets and importantly, will appeal to an international audience keen to leave our cities and discover the true sense of Australia.

All pointing to not just visitation growth, but a levelling of this “hyper seasonality” with stronger shoulder and off-peak visitation.

Hence, providing greater economic stability and employment opportunities within our tourism and hospitality industry.

But it is critical to recognise that this will not happen overnight, and any strategy will need to successfully address key aspects of effective destination management. It will require development of significant new experiences and products which meet the needs of these new niche markets; capacity building of our industry; diversification through events and festivals; and innovative targeted digital marketing and visitor service delivery. And essentially, it will need collaborative partnerships at a local, regional, state and national level. In the short to medium term, it might also require a wider “out of the box” business and policy response.

All the best for a happy New Year!

manning-great lakes focus.

41

focuseditorial.

focuseditorial.

KINETIC JOHN STEVENS

IF NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS HAVE STRIPPED YOUR MEMORY OF LAST MONTH’S COLUMN, I STARTED DOWN THE RABBIT-HOLE OF A TOPIC THAT IS BACK PAIN.

leaves NSW red-faced NATIONAL SKIN CANCER ACTION WEEK PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON SUN PROTECTION

C

ancer Council research shows indicating that the lack of broad-brimmed hats fewer NSW adults are using hats was translating to the places on the body where to protect themselves from the people across Australia are sunburnt. sun and getting sunburnt on “The national research also shows that the their face, head, ears and nose face, head, nose, or ears are the most comas a result. mon places on the body that Australians get The data from Cancer Council’s National Sun sunburnt, alongside the arms and hands,” Tim Protection Survey reveals that just 42 per cent Chapman said. of NSW adults wear a hat when exposed to UV “There’s no doubt that by neglecting a range on summer weekends, down from 47 per of sun protection measures, including cent in 2003. slapping on a broad-brimmed hat, Tim Chapman at Cancer all Aussies are putting themCouncil NSW Lower Mid selves at risk of a potentiale on an th Fewer North Coast said that with ly deadly skin cancer.” ts ul ad e in fiv or 237 people in Lower Mid Australasian College e re th ed us in NSW n North Coast expected tio of Dermatologists' ec ot pr n su more to be diagnosed with ng President, Associate ri du s re su mea is a ch melanoma this year, Professor Chris Baker, hi w , er m m su the and 24 deaths expectsaid that dermatoloreal worry given in ed, the results show that gists regularly treated prevalence of sk d an SW N in too few adults in NSW skin cancers that could cancer .” are understanding the have been easily preacross Australia importance of a combination vented through proper sun of sun protection measures. protection.

“A five per cent drop in hat “Dermatologists see a lot of skin usage over the past ten years may sound cancers on the face, ears, head and small, but any downward trend is a concern. neck,” Associate Professor Baker said.

This latest decrease shows that more than “These skin cancers are particularly concern240,000 people in NSW have stopped wearing a ing because they can arise quickly and are more hat to protect themselves when exposed to UV difficult to treat. Surgery is the most common on weekends. treatment, with visible scarring often unavoid“Fewer than one in five adults in NSW able. Other treatments include topical therapy used three or more sun protection measures for some early skin cancers through to radioduring summer, which is a real worry given the therapy and chemotherapy for more advanced prevalence of skin cancer in NSW and across cancers. Sadly, we don’t always get them in Australia,” continued Tim Chapman. time.”

“Yet most skin cancers are preventable by the He also urged Australians to keep a close eye use of comprehensive sun protection. There can on their skin, know what normal spots they be a tendency for many Lower Mid North Coast have and to keep a watch for any changes. adults to slop on some sunscreen and think they “It’s important to remember that skin cancer are protected all day long. But sunscreen isn’t can be prevented and, if detected early, can a suit of armour. It should be your last line of often be successfully treated. If you notice any defence - a hat, clothing, sunglasses and shade changes in size, shape or colour of an existing are also key to protecting your skin.” spot, or the development of a new spot, you The data also showed some worrying trends should get it checked as soon as possible.”

“

42 manning-great lakes focus.

I

f you missed it, the gist was that if you other therapeutic intervention. The second thing have back pain you should have it assessed they need to do is to develop a comprehensive and get help moving again as quickly as plan with you about how you are going to possible. I can tell you it’s very frustrating as control your experience of pain. The third thing, someone passionate about helping people and probably most importantly, they are going to with back pain, that the medical fraternity is integrate a priority of getting you moving prone to doing a mediocre job at in a specific and graduated way following set standards on this into everything they do. This one. An eminent organisation means treatments that rely called the International e honest Th solely on bed rest, or you Association for the Study truth is that receiving something of Pain has volumes of one specific no books on the diagnosis, like massage, oven approach has pr classification and manipulation, needling e. iv ct fe to be ef g treatment of pain - and in tt ge and electrotherapy hy w is This red ilo these standards are not ta ly al du vi which can provide indi so commonly followed. is ce an st si as much needed relief, but Regarding back pain, it’s crucial.” will significantly impair pretty simple and based on your prospects of long term time frames: if you have back recovery if they don’t show you pain for two weeks, attending how to fix you back pain yourself. physical therapy is the bees-knees. If Speaking of fixing it yourself, we’ll your back pain persists for more than 12 continue unravelling that bag of snakes. The weeks after engaging in this process, then it’s time for imaging and a referral to a specialist honest truth is that no one specific approach like a spinal interventionist, a neurologist or a has proven to be effective. This is why getting spinal surgeon, depending on your specific pain. individually tailored assistance is so crucial.

So with that in mind, let’s say your pain has Everything from “core strength” and pilates to lasted longer than two weeks and you’ve rocked hydrotherapy have useful applications, but there up to physical therapy (I use this term to include is no magic bullet. To assess their effectiveness, physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and these strategies should be well tried but should exercise physiologists, not wanting to exclude also feel like they’re helpful, leading to you anyone). The first thing your clinician should do doing more, and you’re the best judge of that. is thoroughly assess your pain and then explain I’ll bounce back next month with the two most it back to you. Explaining the reasons for pain common causes of back pain and what you can in a specific way has actually been shown to substantially diminish pain, without even any do.

“

Same-day crowns.

Same-day Another reason crowns. to smile!

Another reason to smile!

Fitting a crown to your tooth has always been a drawn-out process. A Smile Dental in Taree now has the technology to mill and place a crown in one appointment, without impressions!

The efficiency of our process in no way compromises the quality of your crown either. Metal-free, individually coloured fittedtooth to precision, our product is so a good we offer you a Fitting a crown toand your has always been * . Their also means fewer visits seven warranty drawn-out process.

A year Smile Dental in longevity Taree now to the ultimately you money. has the technology to dentist, mill and placesaving a crown in Call us today for an appointment or to find out more.

one appointment, without impressions! * CONDITIONS APPLY

Dr Ralf Freier DENTIST

#

ours: 30pm 5pm

m.au

The efficiency of our process in no way compromises the A SMILE DENTAL ALSO OFFERS: quality of your crown either.

Metal-free, individually coloured • HICAPS (you and fitted to precision, our productpayment is so goodoption we offer youonly a pay the gap) * longevitythrough also means seven year warranty . Their • Payment the fewer Child visits Dental Benefit Schedule (if applicable) to the dentist, ultimately saving you money.

Call us today for an appointment or to find out more. * CONDITIONS APPLY

A SMILE DENTAL ALSO OFFERS: • HICAPS payment option (you only pay the gap) * • Payment through the Child Dental Benefit Schedule (if applicable)

Dr Ralf Freier DENTIST

199 SPECIAL $ 199 SPECIAL $

NEW PATIENT

Opening H Mon-Fri 8.30am - 5.3 Saturday 8.30am to

#

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

Opening Hours: THIS IS A ONCE-ONLY OFFER TO NEW PATIENTS FOR A LIMITED TIME. PLEASE MENTION Mon-Fri 8.30am - 5.30pm THIS OFFER WHEN BOOKING AND BRING THE COUPON TO YOUR APPPOINTMENT. Saturday 8.30am to 5pm * Health fund rebates may also apply. *

NEW PATIENT

INCLUDES: full consultation check up & clean • fluoride treatment | 31 YORK Ph: detector 6551 0427 ST,xray TAREE | Email: info@asmiledental.com.au | Web: asmiledental.co • Laserscreening, decay • any necessary full mouth 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.

43

44

manning-great lakes focus.

About Inclusion with Donna Ballard

Why would I want to work supporting people with disability?

Are you looking for a new career for the New Year?

Have you thought about supporting those with disabilities ?

Kumiai Ryu TAREE Join Kumiai Ryu Taree in 2017 and enjoy the many benefits of professional government accredited martial arts training with our dedicated team. Martial arts training will give your child or yourself greater confidence, focus and the skills to deal with life’s challenges. Watch your child become more confident and excel in school, sport and life! Busy life?

Then join one of our awesome programs and let us help you get rid of those unnecessary stresses! Try our introductory program in either Karate or Muay Thai - Kickboxing and receive two weeks’ unlimited training + a Karate uniform OR boxing gloves, both valued at $55, all for only $49.95. 2017 enrolments being taken now! Go to www.krmas.com.au > locations > Taree Dojo and click on the offer to secure you place today! Limited places available.

Testimonials: “Our son, Travis, has just joined at age four. He absolutely loves it! Great friendly staff and Instructors. I would recommend KR Little Ninjas to anyone wanting their child to learn discipline and respect, as well as self-defence.” - Raymond Holbert.

“Phoenix had a great first class in the Little Ninja Karate class.

Everyone is so friendly, and Phoenix looks forward to his next class.“ - Starsha Worth.

Making a difference to another person’s quality of life is one of the most rewarding things a person can do. Disability support workers do this every day.

Benefits are many, including variety, work-life balance, challenge, advancement and opportunity. Each day is different; hours vary, so can be arranged to suit your schedule.

The work is not always easy, but the rewards are attractive, and it will bring out the best in you.

and health

There has never been a better time to get into the industry!

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) will require a huge increase in jobs across the industry from 24,750 to 59,200 in NSW by 2019.

What would you be doing?

The level of assistance you’d be providing depends on the ability of the individual you’re supporting - from being in the community having fun, to supporting someone with high needs in their home.

A “day in the life” of a disability support worker could involve supporting participants to develop skills and abilities so they are more able to make decisions affecting their lives and be involved in the community, to supporting participants on outings and social activities as part of a group.

It could be the New Year’s change you’re looking for.

manning-great lakes focus.

45

focusinterview.

ALI JOYCE

LOOKING FOR A WAY TO HELP YOUR KIDS BURN OFF SOME OF THEIR SURPLUS ENERGY? ALI JOYCE MAY JUST HAVE A SOLUTION. WITH A DEGREE IN EXERCISE SCIENCE UNDER HER BELT AND EXPERIENCE COACHING A VARIETY OF SPORTS, ALI IS PLANNING TO START A SPORTS PROGRAM IN PACIFIC PALMS FOE CHILDREN AGES THREE - SEVEN IN 2017. THIS PROGRAM WILL INTRODUCE CHILDREN TO A VARIETY OF SPORTS, BUT WILL ALSO ENCOURAGE THE DEVELOPMENT OF GROSS MOTOR SKILLS, BALL SKILLS, HAND-EYE COORDINATION AND TEAMWORK …

46

manning-great lakes focus.

ow was the Sportlets program established?

Having three young children myself, we have participated in many of the established activities in the Great Lakes area. I’m always looking for new programs for the kids and felt there was a need for an active sports program in Pacific Palms - something fun, but also an activity where they could begin learning some basic ball skills over many different sports.

I had participated in similar programs in Sydney and my kids had responded really well to the variety of sports on offer, how quickly the program changed in a session, and the structure of the class.

I have had so many parents comment how their kids had surplus energy to burn, and they are always searching for activities that will do that. Sportlets will do that! Initially, the class always starts with movement - and lots of it.

Who are the people behind the concept, and what qualifications/ experience do they have?

It’s my idea, my concept, based on similar effective programs I have seen in Sydney. I have a Bachelor of Exercise Science (Human Movement). I also have experience in teaching swimming, skiing and coaching a variety of sports.

When/where will the Sportlets

program be held (and when does it school, encouraging sharing, listening, kick off in 2017)? following directions in a group sports The Sportlets program will be environment. kicking off at the start of For children who still like Term 1, 2017 and will the play time, it also be held at the Pacific caters for younger Palms Tennis Courts I have had so school children (five on The Lakes Way. many parents - seven years) who eir The classes will comment how th like to play lots of s kids had surplu d run along the sports - not just an energy to burn , same dates as one specifically. they are always ities school terms. tiv I have had so searching for ac What skills does .” much interest for that will do that the program aim two year olds, I am to teach? going to run a class The program aims which will involve parent to encourage positive participation. basic gross motor skills What are some of the sports (running, jumping and directional Sportlets will introduce kids to in changes), enhancing ball skills 2017? (catching, throwing, rolling, bouncing) Soccer, basketball, tennis, hockey and and improving hand-eye/foot-eye AFL. coordination through playing a large How much participation do you range of popular sports. invite from parents? Are parents We also encourage participation within welcome to stay and watch their a group environment, which aims to children play, or even participate in establish positive team play. the program?

Each week the activities and sports will There is no participation required from be different. parents (above three years), but they What ages does Sportlets cater for? are most definitely welcome to stay and This program is so versatile, that it watch and we do encourage that. caters for a large group - three - seven Where can interested people register, years. or find out more info?

For preschool ages, it gives them a fun www.sportlets.com.au introduction to a variety of sports and games. It’s great for kids about to start Thanks Ali.

“

manning-great lakes focus.

47

focus_interview

Business Minds with Jeremy Thornton of Insurance Advisernet

BUSINESS minds

DANIEL

HENDER HENDER MASSAGE

H A P PY N E W Y E A R ! I F YO U I N D U L G E D T O O M U C H AT C H R I S T M A S - L I K E M E - T H E N I T ’ S T I M E T O S TA RT A N E W. DA N I E L H E N D E R I S T H E M A N L E A D I N G H E N D E R M A S SAG E . DA N I E L G R E W U P I N T H E M A N N I N G B U T L I K E M A N Y, M OV E D AWAY T O K I C K S TA RT H I S C A R E E R .

T

ell us about your journey, Daniel?

I studied a two-year Diploma of Remedial Massage in Brisbane.

A month into my course, I set my goal to work with the Australian cricket team. My mentors said to massage, massage, massage! To get my hands on as many people as possible was how they achieved similar goals.

Six weeks into the course, I met an Olympic level gymnast. After treating her, I used her name to enable me to get work with the QLD body building champion and his team. Promoting their names secured work with the NZ open water swimming champion. Within six months starting the course, I had worked with The Brisbane Broncos, Olympic beach volleyball gold medallist Natalie Cook, Canadian beach volleyball players, Olympic gold medallists in hockey, Australian netball players, a South African Rugby Union team and more.

The January after completing my Diploma in August, I was massaging the Australian cricket team, working with Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Adam Gilchrist and Mitchell Johnson!

I believe dancers and even famous authors also came to you for treatments!

I worked with the QLD Ballet Company, who travel the world presenting their performances.

They may be petite, but they were harder to work on than a front row forward. They would turn up two hours before work just to stretch.

I was blessed with one of Australia’s top authors and local Di Morrissey on my table. She is an amazing lady who would do anything to help.

She gave me a thank you gift once after helping

48

manning-great lakes focus.

her partner, a signed book called The Valley, which is based in the Manning.

Is there a stand out individual or story from working closely with any of these big names?

Shortly after moving back to the Manning Valley, I had a phone call from “Billy”. At that time, my business was mobile. When he opened the door to let me into the rented holiday apartment, it was Billy Slater, the NRL superstar! After he filled in a form and I had set up the table, I asked “How can I help?” He said, “I do a bit of football and um …” He was so down to Earth and an absolute gentleman.

After the massage, he said, “If you ever move to Melbourne, you have yourself a job.” I had a big head for months after!

Great story! What was it that drove you to come home and open your own business?

I met my wife, Lauren, at our Wingham High School reunion. After about a year long distance, it was easier for me to move back home, than for her to move to Brisbane. Looking in the phone directory, there were over 15 massage therapists listed. With that much competition, it made me realise that the Hender Massage concept would work in the Manning Valley.

Another confidence booster was talking to Brad McPherson, who moved from Sydney and is now plastering more houses here than ever before, saying his secret to success in the Manning Valley is having a city mentality of doing the job correctly, turning up on time and giving great service - he is right.

So, who is in the Hender Massage team? Tell us about them and the services offered.

hitting the tarmac and radical diets.

There’s more to massage than simply relaxation; in fact, most of what you do is What about the future. Where do you see remedial.

Hender Massage in five years?

Remedial or sports massage is about fixing The present aim is to open a fourth room and injuries/injury management and preventing find a good female sports therapist to join our injuries. If someone has a problem with back team. Within five years we hope to have five pain, shoulder and neck pain therapy rooms helping the people of the or hip issues, that is when Manning Valley. The dwelling will look they seek our help. We contemporary from the outside and specialise in helping have ample carparking out the Set an le people with plantar ab ev hi ac back. un fasciitis, migraines, To the business community go al . Make it ine sciatica and impossible . Imag of the Manning Valley, what it! other chronic if you achieved would you say to them? Any ly Even if you on conditions. , words of wisdom? ay lfw make it ha Vaughn is a ly al Set an unachievable goal. re u yo have trigger point and Make it impossible. Imagine if iled?” fa sports therapist, you achieved it! Even if you only loving lower back make it halfway, have you really failed? issues. Jared does Imagine if you actually massaged the remedial therapies, lives in Australian cricket team?

Newcastle, helps me Thursdays and For you, what is the best part about being in loves working with headache and business in The Manning-Great Lakes? neck sufferers. Tim is a bit more The best part is the help you can get from alternate, using fascia release techniques and his professionals in the area; if you are struggling love is hip problems. with an issue, just ask and someone will help.

We’re looking at starting anew this year.

I have found the best accountants, marketing How can Hender Massage help locals refresh managers, real estate agents and even the after a big Christmas? best painters here in the Manning Valley. The If you have not set a New Year’s resolution Manning Valley has the beach, the river and the and always say you never achieve it anyway forest, all in one!

And with the diversity in sports Make 2017’s New Year’s resolution a monthly we can do here, comes an interesting array of maintenance massage at Hender Massage. This injuries that the team at Hender Massage can helps you fix any issues caused in that month and help to fix. helps prevent injuries in the month to come. This is a great goal and is much easier to achieve than Thanks Daniel.

“

Wendy & Joan Clancy AG E I NG & D I SA B I L I T Y S E RV I C E S

Meet Wendy Clancy and her beautiful mum Joan, who joined MidCoast Council’s Ageing and Disability Services two years ago. Wendy talks with us about their experience.

H

ow did you come to the decision for Joan to take a homecare package with MidCoast Council’s Ageing & Disability Services?

Since Dad died in 2003, Mum has lived on her own in Forster. In recent years, she noticed she was forgetting a few things and took herself off to the doctors. While her diagnosis was as expected, it was upsetting, and my sister and I thought she might need some extra support.

In 2013, we arranged for her to have an Aged Care Assessment and though she was a bit unsure about accepting assistance at first, she recognised she needed a little extra help.

We met with a few providers and then came across MidCoast Council’s Ageing and Disability Services. I felt instantly at ease with Mum’s case manager, Kristie, who was fantastic - I knew she had Mum’s best interests at heart. Kristie included Mum in conversations and worked with her to tailor a homecare package to meet her specific needs.

What other services do you use?

Mum’s really social and loves company, so she

now spends Mondays with the ladies group and Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the centre with her friends. She’s also had assistance with shopping, continues to have medication checks each weekday morning and we’ve used the community nurses when Mum had an injury that needed dressing.

away, she didn’t want to go to the Melbourne Cup lunch. Kristie went to Mum’s house, helped her get her “race day hat” on and sent me a photo of her all dressed up at the “races”. I was so pleased they cared enough to look out for Mum like that and sent me the photo, so I knew she wasn’t alone.

Has your experience so far been a positive one?

Yes, more positive than I could have imagined!

We’d be lost without Kristie and the team, who help Mum in so many ways, without making her feel inadequate. Whatever we need, A&DS have been able to help, and the support I get as Mum’s carer is amazing. A&DS helped Mum to remain independent, so she could stay in her home as long as possible. We’re so happy we found them; we trust them and would recommend their services to anyone.

How has your life changed since you came to A&DS? It’s taken a huge weight off my shoulders, as I know if there’s a problem, I’ll be notified straight away. With me being an hour away and my sister six hours away, we wanted someone we could trust to see Mum every day. Her homecare package is designed for her needs and it’s flexible, so when she needs more, it can happen.

The team are there for her when we can’t be.

How do the staff and volunteers make you feel?

So supported and so important. They are caring, kind, respectful and helpful. They know Mum and I so well, they’re more like friends. Once when Mum was upset after a friend passed

Together!Day is coming up on 19 January; will you and Joan come along?

Yes, and others should too. We think it’s really important for people to see what a service is like and meet the people who run it. Together!Day is a great opportunity to do this.

To read Wendy and Joan’s full story, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/WendyandJoan

Could you, your parent or ageing relative do with a little extra help in the year ahead?

MidCoast Council’s Ageing Services team has been providing a wide range of quality, personalised support services for older people and their carers, for over 20 years.

From 27 February 2017, Home Care Packages, through My Aged Care, will change and expand to assist older Australians to stay in their own homes for longer. From this date, we’ll be able to take on more clients across the MidCoast region and we invite you to come and chat to us about how we can help you, every step of the way.

Our staff are fully qualified professionals, who live locally and will work with you to ensure you have choice and flexibility in the way your care and services are provided to you at home. Whether it’s help with cleaning, shopping, meals, medications or just a friendly visit, we help our clients to maintain their independence. We also have our own nursing and domestic services team, so clients are always greeted by a smiling familiar face.

Our other services include carer support, assisted transport, dementia care, shopping assistance, social outings and more!

To find out more about how we can support you or your family, call 1300 65 88 30 or visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/AgeingServices

Phone 1300 65 88 30

Call our friendly & professional team for an obligation free consultation today 1300 65 88 30 manning-great lakes focus.

49

focusinterview.

Doug and Cristina Smith both have a creative bent that has led to the production of some beautiful, unique and quirky items. Never once thinking that their passion for woodwork would be anything more than a hobby, they’ve been stunned by the interest in their designs, and have decided to notch things up a peg and start Paradise Creations. Doug tells us more about their future plans …

ell us a little about Where/when did your interest in working yourselves ... with wood begin?

We’re just a couple of I guess my biggest influence would be my homebodies with tools, I dad. From about the age of six, most Saturday guess. mornings he would drag me out of bed at the Doug, you’re originally crack of dawn, and we would build or repair from the USA. What brought you to Oz, something together. At the time, I wasn’t so and how did you and Cris meet? keen - but in hindsight, I reckon this is what laid I’m originally from Silsbee, Texas, a small town the foundation. on The Gulf Coast, about the size of Wingham.

As for Cris, I can only speculate. But, I kinda It was a wonderful place to grow up, but this is like to think I maybe had a little to do with it. home now. I love living here.

She has always been a crafter and is always Cris and I met a little over eight years ago keen to try new things. She’s only been doing online. It’s a very long story, and at the time, this for a couple of years now. neither of us was looking for any kind What are some of the items you’ve of serious relationship - especially made recently that you’re a long distance one. We most proud of? never really thought we If I had to pick anything, I spend as much would ever meet face I guess it would have time at Spotlight to face. We spent five to be the toys I make. ial as I sourcing mater months getting to I can’t imagine any so try do Bunnings. I al h know each other, and better use of time than muc to repurpose as ne O became best of friends, making things that n. material as I ca s ow before we decided to spark the imagination never really kn y m f of ll meet. This was in April of a child.

I really love what will ro 2009. I returned three ” making toys. bench. months later in July to What’s the most propose. By the way - she unusual/quirky piece said yes. you’ve ever made?

Cris still had three children at home Most of what I do could be labelled then, so it just made more sense to live as quirky. I’m not really about rules! But, here. It took about two years to complete I did make a working Bat Signal once. It was the immigration process. We had our ups supposed to be a night light, but 22 LEDs later and downs along the way, but we were very … Things got a little weird. committed. We have been married four and a Introduce us to Paradise Creations ... at half years now. We often refer to our home as what point did you decide your skills could Paradise (this will make a lot more sense later!) potentially lead to more than a “hobby”?

“

50

manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

After Cris became interested in woodworking, we joined The Manning Great Lakes Woodworkers Inc. It’s a wonderful club, and we have made a lot of great friends there since joining. Being around others who share common interest is always a good thing. From time to time the club holds special workshops on various techniques. Cris lives for these.

To our shame, we can’t get to the club as often as we would like. We usually are at work during club hours, but try to be as active as we can. Everyone has been so supportive and has taught us a lot of cool stuff. The range of talent there is amazing.

Anyway, on a shoestring budget, we started tooling out a little workshop of our own. Then, we just started playing. We never really thought of what we were doing as a source of income.

It was just a way to spend some quality time together.

We started making stuff, mostly for ourselves, or as gifts intended for friends and family, and occasionally would post a couple of our projects to our personal Facebook pages - pretty much only playing show and tell and just showing our friends what we had been up to lately.

The reaction was mind blowing. People were actually interested in buying our work! This got a few wheels turning. Maybe, this could be a way to help pay for a few saw blades and sand paper! So, we created our Facebook page and started thinking about possible outlets. Paradise Creations is just what we decided to call it, really.

How do you and Cris work together as a team - what areas of interest/specialties do you both have that complement each other?

Cris and I have two very different styles. She

leans more towards classic woodworking and is all about the scroll saw - particularly, fretwork.

It’s extremely meticulous, and fiddley. But, she is starting to experiment with other techniques.

Me? Not so much. I don’t really have a particular style. My projects aren’t always made from wood. I spend as much time at Spotlight sourcing material as I do Bunnings. I also try to repurpose as much material as I can. One never really knows what will roll off my bench.

But, we do work well together. The shop is a neutral space, and we both respect that. We do what we want, when we can, and try to keep an open mind. We offer our honest input whenever asked, and just have fun.

What are your hopes and dreams for Paradise Creations?

We do hope to someday be able to do this full-time. But, we are years from that possibility.

We both have full-time jobs that we love and are years away from retirement.

For now, we’re just going to keep doing what we do, and enjoy the ride. A bigger workshop would be nice though.

How can we see samples of your work, or contact you for more info?

You can find our work at: Not a Café Wingham and The Bridge Gallery - Taree.

You can keep up with what we are up to on our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ fromourshed/?fref=ts We work out of our home, which is not open to the public.

(Expressions of Interest are always seriously considered.)

Contact us at: paradise.creations.au@gmail. com Thanks Doug. manning-great lakes focus.

51

focus_business

with Gary Gersbach from Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber

W

elcome, welcome, welcome to every one of our visitors, whether they be regulars visiting family and friends, and long-time holiday makers, but especially to all the first timers who have taken the opportunity to try somewhere different. Surely you will find something to do, be it fishing (inside or outside), water skiing, body and board surfing, sightseeing, bush walking, visiting the myriad of small villages, shopping, boating on our extensive waterways or simply laying back and enjoying our part of the world, which we believe to be paradise.

In all of the above there are many activities not mentioned, but more importantly, we have to eat and drink! There is a multitude of excellent eating venues, where you can sample the local oysters, prawns, crabs and fish for which we are renowned, in addition to our local produce. E.g. did you know the Manning Valley produces a third of NSW’s milk?

We expect you to receive the highest standard of service while you are here. However, if it isn’t quite up to the mark, make sure you let the appropriate people know i.e. the business owner!

Don’t short change us, or yourself, by only telling your acquaintances! Give us a chance to fix the problem.

We want you to have the best experience possible.

The Forster Tuncurry Chamber has just completed its AGM, with few changes to an experienced team which should result in regular references to our members and the bedding in of

BUSINESS

A BRAND NEW YEAR! TIME FLIES WHEN YOU ARE HAVING FUN, OR JUST PLAIN BUSY! AN OLD ADAGE THAT SHOULD BE APPLYING TO ALL OF US IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD AT THIS SPECIAL TIME, A BRAND NEW YEAR!

the new MidCoast Council and a new MidCoast Business Chamber.

It will be more important than ever for the members to have their say and back up their positive suggestions, and criticisms, in support of the new committee, whom in turn has to promulgate this feedback and be sure we are representing the whole of the membership.

The new cycleway in Memorial Drive will now go ahead with the larger parking model, which was a direct result of the Council and the Chamber working together.

Newer issues in the immediate future will be the possible plans for the Civic/Community Centre on the old Forster Primary School site, along with the extension of the Boardwalk along Memorial Drive.

The Civic Centre is indeed a challenge for the people of Forster and the Council. Unlike most desirable future projects, the funds are available for this facility. Thus, everyone needs to get involved to ensure the result successfully blends in with the city landscape, as well as meeting all of the purposes required with such a building.

The MidCoast Council has been proactive in responding to the issues raised within the Memorial Drive Cycleway public meetings, and has just completed the first community meeting to discuss further development of Memorial Drive, with the possibility of extending the Boardwalk and subsequent parking issues.

One cannot help but to envisage a carryover of these issues being considered within the Civic Centre project planning. One could well reflect in the other.

Happy and prosperous New Year to everyone!

Waste matters Drop off your household problem waste for recycling

Your local Community Recycling Centre (CRC) is NOW OPEN. You can drop off: Port Macquarie Hastings CRC: Port Macquarie Waste Gas bottles and

Paint

Fluoro globes and tubes

Car batteries

Hours: 8am–4pm every day Macleay Valley CRC: 638 Crescent Head Road, Kempsey Hours: Mon to Fri: 7am–4.30pm; Sat to Sun: 9am–4pm

Household batteries

Motor oils

Other oils

This project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy. Visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au

52

manning-great lakes focus.

*Only household quantities 20kg or 20L for free, other amounts will incur a charge.

Smoke detectors

KEMPSEY Shire Counci

For more information visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au/recyclingcentres

focusinterview.

Therese LLOYD MANNING VALLEY ANGLICAN COLLEGE

AS A TEACHER WITH 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE, THERESE LLOYD IS STILL ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT HER CAREER AND CONSIDERS HERSELF A LIFELONG LEARNER. CURRENTLY THE DIRECTOR OF TEACHING AND LEARNING AT MANNING VALLEY ANGLICAN COLLEGE, THERESE HAS BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR INITIATING MANY PROGRAMS THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL …

H

i Therese. Tell us a bit about yourself ...

I have been teaching for twenty years, after completing my degree at Newcastle University. I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree, Majoring in English and Drama and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. I also have my Cambridge CELTA Certificate to teach ESL. I decided to become a teacher initially because of my love for English and Drama, but it is the teaching component that is my passion now; it is much bigger and much broader than simply content knowledge.

How long have you been working at Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC)?

What led to you accepting a position there?

This is my eighth year at the College. I was employed as an English and Drama secondary teacher. I applied for the position at the College, as after working in Newcastle in both public and independent schools, I was looking for a school in which I could teach and also develop professionally. MVAC’s foundation year was 2003, so I was enticed by the fact that it was a new and growing school.

Your role these days is “Director of Teaching and Learning”. What’s involved with this position ... are you also still involved with day to day teaching and if so, what grades/ subjects do you teach?

As Director of Teaching and Learning I oversee both of these areas within the school. This involves supporting students in their learning and supporting teachers to develop professionally.

I manage numerous programs and initiatives that we run within the school to deliver excellent education in an engaging and relevant way. I oversee how we assess and track our students, so we can make sure we allow them to be the best they can be. This learning is both inside and outside the classroom, as our aim is to empower our youth from the very first years of school to move confidently through to adulthood, teaching them to discover their full potential.

I also still teach English and some years Drama in the secondary school. I think it is imperative that I stay in the classroom, so I can continue to understand the demands of delivering quality teaching.

What have been some of the programs you’ve initiated or assisted with at the college?

I have facilitated a number of programs in my role. Our school has just finished the three year funded Schools Leading Learning Program. This program saw me working with a consultant from the Australian Independent Schools Corporation to drive teaching and learning within the school.

I also established the Co-teaching program, in which teachers co-plan and co-teach lessons together. The aim of this is to make our classrooms more visible and to work collaboratively together for the betterment of our students.

We have now been fortunate enough to be selected to participate in the NSW government’s four-year Action Plan in Literacy and Numeracy K-2.

S.T.E.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) is another area we have worked

to develop in the school. Earlier in the year we opened a Makerspace as part of the library to drive this. This space is a designated resourced area where students can create and discover, driving their own learning. Now we are taking this into the classrooms, as we have also secured a grant from the AIS in the area of STEM. In this initiative we will further STEM within the school through Project Based Learning Stage Days from K-10. From this, our vision is to create classrooms which follows the path of future education in inquiry based learning.

What do you feel is MVAC’s point of difference in the education sector?

MVAC stands out in many ways.

Being a K-12 school, we are able to offer every child a continuum of learning from K-12.

It also offers our students the opportunity to draw on the expertise of subject specific teachers for areas such as Music and Japanese. Under the leadership of Principal Sandra Langford and staff with a wealth of experience, MVAC is very progressive and dedicated to making our teaching relevant for our students today.

Globalisation and technology have dictated the need for our youth be creative and innovative - problem solvers who do not shy away from independent thought and investigation. MVAC definitely stands out in ensuring that each individual child receives an education that equips them for this, fulfilling their potential in a nurturing environment. It is a dedication to the students from all of the teachers that is quite remarkable.

In all the schools I have worked throughout my career, I can say the relationship between

teachers and students here is quite unique. The many students who come back to visit after they finish their schooling is a testament to that.

What most inspires you to keep teaching and working within the field of education?

The future for our youth is exciting, and I want to build our students’ capacity to, not just learn, but importantly to want to learn. I am a lifelong learner myself, we all are, and I think we need to give our students the confidence and desire to be everything they can be.

As 2017 is upon us, what is it about the new school year you are you most looking forward to?

I am really excited about the work we are doing in project based learning and developing that within the school. I also am directing our school production, which I do every second year, so that is always fun. It is great seeing our students’ elation when they perform.

When you’re not busy at work, how do you enjoy spending your time?

I enjoy going to the gym, and I also like running. My family and I normally participate in various fun runs throughout the year. I have also received a scholarship and am participating in the Advanced Women in Leadership Program through Monash University. I am loving the opportunity to return to study.

Where can readers find out more info about MVAC? Anyone can visit our website for information and contact details. We are available during the week to take any prospective parents and students on a tour of the school.

Thanks Therese. manning-great lakes focus.

53

focus _Travel

BE

Robyn Buttler withwith Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

AMBITIOUS & ENROL NOW

Check out your local TAFE campus during January to learn

about the new and exciting courses in 2017!

During the week of 16 -21 2017 January Taree

“Following on from our fun, popular Open

and Great Lakes TAFE Campuses are open

Days in November and December 2016 we

for extended hours, as part of a state-wide

are keen to bring the community together.

TAFE week. TAFE Week is your opportunity to

Come along and learn more about studying

discover a treasure trove of study

at TAFE, whether it’s on campus, online or

options at your local TAFE, explore career options and meet teachers, support staff and local employers.

As part of the Taree TAFE celebrations there will two Open Days, one at Great Lakes on Wednesday 18 January

on the job. We’re also encouraging

During the 1 week of 16 -2 ee ar T , January 2017 es TAFE ak L at re G d an open e ar s C ampuse ours , h ed d n for exte ate-wide as part of a st .”

TAFE week

“

employers to come along and discuss their staff training needs.” said Maura Luxford, Leader Community and Business Engagement.

Open Days will be held at Great Lakes Campus, Northern Parkway, Tuncurry, Wednesday,

and one at Taree Thursday

18 January from 10am- 6 pm and

19 January, both 10am -6pm.

at Taree Campus, Montgomery Crescent,

The Great Lakes Open Day will include

Taree, on Thursday 19 January from 10am -

pizza lunch and live music and kicks off at Student Central. Taree Open Day has lots of

6.00pm. Open extended hours January 16

stalls, fun interactive events, BBQ, live music

onwards.

and giveaways at kicks off from 10 at Student

Check us out at northcoasttafe.edu.au or call

Central, Taree Campus.

us on 1300 628233

OPEN WEEK STARTS 16 JANUARY

Discover incredible courses, get career advice, meet our teachers and check out our campus!

BE AMBITIOUS Taree & Great Lakes Campuses all sections open for enquiries 16 – 21 January - opened extended hours.

Great Lakes Open Day – 18 January, BBQ, music, activities Taree Open Day – 19 January, BBQ, music, activities.

All Welcome

54

manning-great lakes focus.

A

BEST BED INTHE BUSINESS

new 5-star Sydney hotel has stolen its elan from Singapore’s hip hospitality vibe with cutting-edge design that recalibrates the way we regard and what we expect of on-the-go accommodation in the NSW capital.

What’s more, its location and room rates defy the city’s top CBD hotels, daring them to match the fuzzy feeling its genuine warm welcome and personal attention evoke. It’s Pullman Sydney Airport, brand spanking new six months ago and likely to become a kind of “my city club” for country visitors to town.

The Pullman draws you into its vast mutetoned marble lobby, defined by clean vertical and horizontal geometrics and soaring two-storeytall double-glazed windows. Sofas in the wide, uncluttered reception area are slashed sharp on the square, the overall ambience minimalist, unfussy, smooth, soothing. At check-in desks, baskets of help-yourself fresh green apples offer low-key confirmation your patronage is valued here, and accurately predict your spotless, crisp guest room.

Yet ... can you be seeing things? Across the foyer a big bright green dog sits solemnly between the staircase and the bar as if contemplating: “Shall I order an Aperol Punch or the Snoop Dogg gin & juice?” This quirky sculpture of Dogman joins another, of his partner, high-gloss red Rabbitwoman, lurking next to the lifts, and a formidable 2m bronze Dogman near the front doors. Art aficionados will recognise the cult figures, rendered in bronze, fibreglass and resin iterations, as Sydney’s trendiest sculptures, a statement that guests can expect a quirky, cool hotel. And so it is when I slip into my 13th floor room, fortified with full-height soundproof windows, and discover an architect’s nirvana of glass-fronted wardrobes, craze-pattern carpet and matching smoky room divider, timber-size floor tiles twinned with timber-look wall panels, a wide-winged armchair and luxurious freestanding bathtub. My king bed’s superb and the shower’s heaven: both rainfall and hand-held massage heads with good strong water flow.

My favourite touch: a generous magnifying make-up/shaving mirror, handily located, perfectly illuminated – a rare appointment! Small things, too, indicate respect for the guest: good quality

tea/coffee bags and “amenities” (as the industry quaintly calls in-room shampoos and bath gel) that are actually usable (in pliant tubes that avoid the irritating need to thrash tiny containers to give up their contents.) It all creates a terrific, complacent, feel-good sense: the ideal state of mind for departing, or arriving, passengers; an impeccable experience.

It’s no secret reaching Sydney Airport, domestic or international, from the city or indeed anywhere beyond, is an unreliable expensive quest at best, usually a scramble and with high potential for missed flights. For any significant travel, overnighting at an airport hotel is smart strategy; the Pullman’s the only five-star property here.

With rates from $229b&b it beats the cost and distance of CBD hotels in the $400+ bracket (and offers excellent, far more accessible undercover parking at $30pn). So use it also on arrival back from a long journey and during Sydney visits: it’s close to major summer attractions. Open Air Cinema at Mrs Macquarie’s Point, from Sat Jan 7; Sydney Festival incl Symphony under the Stars (Sat Jan 14) and Opera (Sat Jan 21) in the Domain; Rugby 7s Fri 3-Sun 5 Feb.

Pullman: 600m from domestic and 3km/international terminals; 191 O’Riordan St, Mascot; tel: 8398 4600; Mobius (change the name, it sounds medical!) Bar & Grill; 24hr room service, reception and gym/ fitness facilities; laundry/valet service; top connectivity; $7 airport shuttle (but allow extra time: it’s independently operated). NB: Travelling from the city via O’Riordan St, a GPS may fail to note a median strip blocking right-hand turns into Pullman, so use the airport freeway (M1/Southern Cross Drive). Coming from the airport it’s an easy left-hand turn in.

focus_realestate.

with Amanda Tate form LJ Hooker

STARTING THE NEW YEAR There is always something good about starting a new year. It is a good opportunity to reflect on the previous year and make plans and positive changes for the year ahead - maybe even start afresh. As we reflect on the previous real estate year, we have experienced good capital growth in all areas, an abundance of buyers - especially investors - and steady growth in the rental market. 2016 has definitely finished as a sellers’ market.

Whilst we would love to look in to a crystal ball for what 2017 will bring, I am confident our market will continue to flourish. When you research our area against even our closest neighbour in Port Macquarie, we have a lot of room for growth. Banks are trying to put pressure on interest rates, with investors being penalised in an attempt to slow that market

down; however, with the strong rental market, affordable housing is still providing excellent returns, especially in Taree.

My prediction is that we may see a slight increase in interest rates in 2017, but I believe this will not have a negative effect on our market at least for this next 12 months. The amount of properties to come on the market may decrease, and this will put upward pressure on prices. So if your New Year’s resolution is to buy property, then my recommendation is to get in early. There is no time like a new year to create a new start and use the equity you have made from your home in 2016 to purchase that investment property. It’s easy to find out how much equity you have made on your home; just give L J Hooker Taree a call for an obligation free market appraisal. You may even win a dream holiday in the process.

manning-great lakes focus.

55

meet FORSTER/TUNCURRY

THE TEAM AT THE FORSTER ACCOMMODATION CENTRE ARE HOSPITALITY EXPERTS AND TAKE PRIDE IN WELCOMING ALL OUR HOLIDAY MAKERS INTO OUR FRIENDLY OFFICE AND ASSISTING THEM WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE THROUGHOUT THEIR STAY. I have been involved with holiday management for over 10 years and take great pleasure in helping guests choose the perfect accommodation to suit their needs and to advise holiday owners how to get the most out of their investment.

The award winning Forster Accommodation Centre are market leaders, particularly when it comes to technology. We have a fantastic holiday app for those who visit our area.

The app allows visitors and guests to see what is available for accommodation, whilst also offering tips and information on your accommodation, local restaurants, places to go and things to do.

Here is what one of our many owners has to say about us.

Describe your experience with the Forster Accommodation Centre ...

My first experience with Professionals Holiday team was as a guest. With little knowledge of the area, but a good idea of the type of property I wanted to stay in, I gave them a short list of inclusions that I wanted, and they selected a beautiful property for me that ticked all the boxes. On arrival I was greeted with a sea of friendly faces, who were more than happy to talk me through the local area and the must see things to see and do during my stay.

56

manning-great lakes focus.

Why did you choose Professionals to manage your investment property?

Being new to the holiday market, I already knew that the Professionals Forster Accommodation Centre were going to be my choice of agency because of the friendly first impression I received as a guest, and I wanted my own holiday guests experience the same.

Nicole helped us feel at ease in getting our property ready. The Professionals are very informative, motivated and competent and upon meeting Nicole, we instantly got on like a house on fire. I put my full trust in her and continue to be impressed with the way Nicole and the rest of the team manage Heritage 201.

Would you recommend them to others and why?

Absolutely! The Forster Accommodation Centre are experts in their field and take all of the stresses away from being a holiday owner.

I without doubt recommend Professionals to take care of your property.

Thank you Alison, we appreciate your kind words!

So, If you are thinking of holiday letting your property or wish to discuss anything to do with holiday letting, please give me a call, Nicole Sanki - Hospitality Manager.

focusescapes.

C H A T E A U L E M A R A I S The Ultimate Luxurious Retreat

Want to escape the madness of the world?

Here’s a chateau situated in the middle of one

of Australia’s most beautiful waterways.

T

Chateau Le Marais faces a 1.5 km beach and is in a region ed that is consider e th of e to have on in es at best clim the world .”

“

The island includes a helipad, making it

The surrounding waters are prized as some of the cleanest estuaries in Australia and are renowned for their oysters, blue swimmer crabs, prawns and oysters. The lagoons are filled with an abundance of sea life.

is blessed with an abundance of environments, including savannah, dry and subtropical forest. It is also fringed by three ponds, two lagoons and wetlands, with local wildlife such as black swans, eagles, pelicans, turtles and dolphins dotting the area in their natural habitat. The island is visited by deer, which can be observed across the property. There is also a magnificent 500 tree orchard that yields different fruits from tropical and subtropical temperate regions across the world.

convenient for the aeronautically inclined. The

With numerous walking tracks, the estate

The Chateau Le Marais has stunning architecture,

his safe, idyllic hideaway is positioned on Wallis Island in beautiful Wallis Lake - south of Forster on the Mid North Coast of NSW; the ultimate private retreat still

exists. Relax, while you take in the exceptional views and the natural beauty of the Great Lakes and surrounding areas. Take some time to fish from your own jetty or indulge in unlimited water sports. This property is something exceptional views to soak in every day, wildlife and sea life.

This holiday shared with family or friends will be remembered for a lifetime.

residence is neo-classical and offers luxury, privacy and all the advantages of modern living. Award-winning builders, sculptors and master stonemasons from Australia and France constructed the two-storey chateau from the finest European imported materials.

Chateau Le Marais faces a 1.5 km beach and is in a region that is considered to have one of the best climates in the world.

nature, cutting edge technology and green energy, all in the one building. The chateau generates its own electricity and is entirely self-sufficient, to complement the natural environment without a heavy footprint on the earth.

Additional features include a state of the art security system, sound system and electronic monitoring.

The property will also cater for weddings, wedding parties and long luncheons.

Contact LJ Hooker Forster Tuncurry for more information.

manning-great lakes focus.

57

focusreal estate.

LJ HOOKER F O R S T E R / T U N C U R R Y L J HOOKER FORSTER TUNCURRY OFFICE IS SEEING LARGE GROWTH VOLUMES FOR BOTH THE RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL MARKETS OF THE GREAT LAKES REGION.

M

any people are looking for investment opportunities and growth in the low interest rate market we have at the moment. Buyers from Sydney, Newcastle and the Central Coast are in abundance and actively seeking to maximise their investments and returns. The real estate market is definitely moving upwards in the Forster Tuncurry marketplace.

There are excellent opportunities for growth in the market, as the region starts to feel the dollars of Sydneysiders exiting the Sydney market - cashed up from realised growth of capital of their properties.

There are still well priced investment opportunities in the local area of Forster Tuncurry and a real shortage of rental properties available for good tenants. The market is rapidly changing, and this year will mirror the last 12 months of growth in the residential sector for property. This growth is particularly due to “Baby Boomers” exiting with cash that are looking for a downsize or sea change.

Why invest in Forster Tuncurry: There are a number of properties that show

58

manning-great lakes focus.

investment potential. There are land parcels, land and house packages, properties ripe for renovation. Many of our properties are showing good returns.

We also have a growing holiday l well market that is becoming year There are stil ent m long - with winter becoming priced invest e th in s less of a low season for ie it n opportu r te rs Fo our combined holidays rentals. Great options local area of a real d an y rr experience to help are available for investors cu n Tu ntal you find the right and people who are looking shortage of re lable for ai rental property to to move into the area longer properties av .” ts an n te good begin or add to your term. investment portfolio.

We are also seeing an increase We are currently in acreage and lifestyle blocks experiencing a very high becoming sought after in the market demand for rental properties. with income potential from agricultural and Property in the area is affordable tourism activities. People are looking for a way in comparison to other markets, both to maximise their money, and real estate is an regional and particularly Sydney/Newcastle attractive investment strategy. metro; as shown by the attached graphs, Why use the L J Hooker permanent regional areas - particularly the Mid North rental team: Coast - need more building for the growing Our team of permanent rental team have a population. combined experience of nearly 25 years and are We have a range of options that include: all local residents. They know and enjoy living • Vacant land in this great area. We are very happy to share

“

• Established homes • Villas • Home units • Businesses • Acreage We are happy to sit down and chat about our local market. To talk to one of our friendly and knowledgeable property managers, call us on 6591 6400.

We will be available throughout the holiday period and would love you to come in and meet the team.

Permanent Rental team Left to right at the back: Janice - Accounts Manager, Karina - Property Management, Christine - Accounts Manager.

Left to right at the front: Kaylee - Property Management, Kath - Property Management.

manning-great lakes focus.

59

FORSTER • 1 West St • 6555 2261 TAREE • 139 Victoria St • 6557 8689 www.thesicilianrestaurant.com.au 60 manning-great lakes focus.

Open seven days breakfast, lunch & dinner