Manning-Great Lakes Focus i126

Feature Story Benmar Farm

August 2017. issue 126

Manning-Great Lakes

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team From the

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

W

hat do you get when you combine a string band with bees, a holiday in the Whitsundays, a yoga retreat, a brewery, Holden cars and an array of fabulous, local, hardworking men in business? This edition of FOCUS! Welcome to our August edition, which not only features the melting pot of content listed above, but many more items that cover entertainment, events, local identities and more.

August always marks our annual Men in Business feature, and we’re very proud to showcase many of the talented men who live, work and play in the Manning-Great Lakes.

On the Cover Our cover models this month are Damian Clements, Garry McQuillan, Steve Attkins and Aaron Temple. A big thank you to Michael from Yarads for providng the gentlemen with very schmick RM Williams polo shirts, and Gloria

Jean’s for allowing us to use their coffee shop - check out all our Men in Business, starting on page 38.

spirit have led to big things, with Coastal Brewing Co. now producing some seriously good brews.

In this Issue We really do feature a string band in this edition.

The Dingo Creek String Band features three bearded blokes with a passion for our home.

Their music is written, sung, and played to express their love for the Manning-Great Lakes.

Go see them, at one of their upcoming gigs …

At FOCUS, we’re always delighted to share the stories of local people achieving their goals.

Whether you’re an entrepeneur, a person on the land, involved with sports, a community helper, entertainer, artist, or just have a story to share drop us a line! We’d love to hear from you.

Ana and Sven from Amber Drop Honey share how they came to own 55 bee colonies, which sometimes contain up to 50,000 - 60,000 bees each … While Harrington resident Joel Wakely celebrates the release of his second book, The Passion for Holden - a work he’s put many hours of research, writing, and yes - passion - into.

Following their dreams, Helen and David Black left the corporate world behind to open a brewery in Forster. Their courage and innovative

Final Say This issue is chock full of individuals who have followed their dreams in whatever field their passion lies. It’s inspiring, heart-warming, and downright amazing. The late actor Christopher Reeve also had something to say about dreams, so we’ll leave you with his words: “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.”

The best in luxury is coming to Taree.

The Mercedes-Benz Precious Metal Roadshow will be arriving in Taree on 14th August.

This is an exciting opportunity to experience some of the most exclusive and captivating models from the Mercedes range at Taree Motorama. Amongst the collection of precious metal is the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupé, Mercedes-AMG S 63 Cabriolet and Mercedes-AMG E 63 S. The much anticipated Roadshow will be in Taree for a limited time only at Taree Motorama.

Visit www.mbtaree.com.au to find out more before it hits the open road again.

Taree Motorama 46 Victoria Street, Taree Phone 6539 3300 www.mbtaree.com.au Manning-Great Lakes focus 3

focusinterview

Benmar

farm

Karyn Cassar and Carissa Wolfe run Benmar Farm - a beautiful property located on Hannam Vale Road. Their business encompasses both dairy and beef, and the girls have a special interest in the more unusual Fleckvieh breed of cattle. Offering tours of their business operation and the chance to get up close and personal with their stock, Benmar Farm is one of the less common organic dairies in NSW you can visit …

H

ow did you two meet?

We were penpals for quite some time, before meeting face to face (Karyn was in Australia, Carissa in America). We never dreamed we’d actually physically meet; we were across the globe from each other!

But the world’s not such a huge place, after all!

Karyn grew up in Berry on the South Coast; Carissa in Troy, Montana, a little town in the Rocky Mountains. Karyn was still in the South Coast when we met; Carissa had spent a few years in the Portland, Oregon area.

What led to you working on Benmar Farm at Hannam Vale Road, Moorland?

We were in the USA (in Portland, Oregon) for 10 years, but “the plan” was to return to Australia to have our dairy business.

In 2012 we came back and started looking for a farm; 18 months and much searching later, this property kind of found us. We’re so grateful; we love it here!

Benmar Farm is the name of our dairy business (we lease the property), and is a combination of both our names (we haven’t heard a property name for this land; we’ve wondered, though!)

You produce both beef and milk on your farm, so what are the various breeds of cattle you look after - and how many stock do you currently run?

We currently have 130 adults cows, plus the young stock from birth to adult is 220 total.

There are two reasons for the different breeds we have - one practical, and the other just preferential. When we started, we had to start from scratch (we couldn’t bring cows over from America with us), so our base herd is a combination of cows from other dairy herds

4 Manning-Great Lakes focus

(all very good herds, so we’ve had a great They are a heritage breed that was originally start). tri-purpose, for beef, milk and draft - primarily Preferentially, we like the variety and apprethey’re used for beef and milk these days. We ciate the unique characteristics of the different like them because their dual-purpose provides dairy breeds - plus, having the Fleckviehs, we a sustainable animal that (as a dairy) has value want the ability to compare how they perform apart from milk production, they are very heat in the Australian environment compared to and humidity tolerant (they’ll still be out grazthe other dairy breeds, and it’s difficult to do ing when most the other dairy breeds are in that farm-to-farm, since each farm runs a bit the shade), are steady in their milk production, differently. The Fleckviehs give us the ability to lending to longevity, convert pasture to milk produce beef, but as a dairy business primarily, well (so don’t need as much “special” feed they also need to prove to stay healthy or produce out in milk production. milk), and have strong The other beef breed “health traits” (this covers we have is “Pustertaler”, a whole range of things, We’re also an organic which is a heritage breed but simply put, they don’t commercial dairy, which that is almost extinct, but get sick very easy and have there aren’t very many of in has incredible qualities. a genetically high quality NSW. Our standards for The dairy breeds that milk). our herd health and we have are: Jersey, the Their milk is naturally long-term farm health “queen” of creamy milk; higher in protein and CLAs, are very particular, Ayrshires, who have a natand feels more like silk in and we place a very urally homogenised milk your mouth compared to high value on animal (meaning the cream and the velvet of Jerseys (the welfare practices the milk don’t separate as flavour is also not as strong and seeing what we do as much, like sheep’s milk); as Jersey milk, so a lot of producing food to nourish Holstein, the “queen” of people find it easier on the families. volume production; and palate). We’re often asked Brown Swiss, another how they perform in the Alpine breed. dairy, since they “look” like The Fleckvieh breed - which (correct me a beef cow, and in our herd they are on par if I'm wrong!) has Germanic origins and with the Holstein x Jersey cows for the amount appears to be a versatile breed, suited of milk they produce. Plus, the calves are cute. for both beef and milk. What do you love What do you feel sets you apart from most about the breed? other beef/dairy operations?

Oh, you asked the perfect question, That we milk beef cows (jokingly, since the according to Karyn! Yes, it is Germanic (well Fleckviehs are in fact a dairy breed themselves!) done!) “Fleck” means spotted, and “vieh” We’re the same as other farmers in loving (pronounced “vee”) means cow, so literally our animals, taking care of our land, and being translated “Fleckvieh” means “Spotted Cow”. quirky in our particulars. What sets us apart is

that we’re choosing to do these things in ways that aren’t “typical” to farming practices today … and while they work for us, it doesn’t mean they are “more right” than other ways. We do hope, though, that by doing things out of the ordinary, it encourages other farmers to try things out of the ordinary too.

We’re also an organic commercial dairy, which there aren’t very many of in NSW. Our standards for our herd health and long-term farm health are very particular, and we place a very high value on animal welfare practices and seeing what we do as producing food to nourish families.

You offer tours of your property ... what do you aim to show visitors?

One of the most common things we hear is, “I remember on my [grandparents’] farm …”, and people want their children to have that experience. There’s also a lot of curiosity about how milk is produced. Our aim is to provide the opportunity for real interactions between children and cows, and a “back-stage” pass to understanding what it means to be a dairy cow and make milk as food.

Where can we purchase your products, or contact you?

For our tours and beef, you’ll need to contact us. Our general farm tours are private “immersion” experiences on a working farm; they’re best suited to family groups (kids love them!) and we schedule them per request. We can also facilitate bus tours, which are focused on the milking process. Beef is available through private purchase at request.

For our milk, soon we’ll be able to offer our milk directly, but in the meantime, our milk goes into the Paul’s brand.

Thanks Karyn and Carissa. www.benmarfarm.com.au

The Passion for Holden.

8

Amber Drop Honey.

If you haven’t tried Amber Drop Honey, you’re missing out on something pretty special. What began as an interest in bees and rescuing colonies that had established themselves in unsafe locations, such as inside houses and sheds, has led Ana Martin and Sven Stephan to establish their own business.

24 22

With his passion for Holden cars unwavering, Harrington resident Joel Wakely is about to launch his second book, The Passion for Holden. If you’re a motor enthusiast, don’t miss Joel’s launch at both Harington and Taree libraries this month …

16 20

Dingo Creek String Band.

Sam Bielby, Silas Darnell and Simon Little form the Dingo Creek String Band. The great thing about this awesome bunch of bearded blokes is they’re so inspired by the beautiful Manning-Great Lakes, they pen songs about the area - and perform them so we can gain a greater appreciation of the place we, too, call home.

issue inside this

Issue 126 - August 2017

Regulars

38

12. WHAT’S ON FOR AUGUST 35. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI HALL 50. BUSINESS MINDS JEREMY THORNTON 54. TOURISM SHARON BULTITUDE

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The Coastal Brewing Company, a locally-owned independent microbrewery, is now open at 3 Dalman Street, Forster.

On tap and in cans at select licensed premises as well as tasting and take-away sales at the brewery.

Visit our website or Facebook page for more details. coastalbrewingco

www.thecoastalbrewingcompany.com

coastalbrewing

The Coastal Brewing Company, a locally-owned independent microbrewery, is now open at 3 Dalman Street, Forster.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 5

Expansion T U N C U R RY

V I L L AG E

We are very excited about the expansion project. Our current village is full to capacity and with the significant influx of retirees into our area, expanding the village to cater for additional residents will not only benefit our village, but will also be a huge asset to the Great Lakes area.

T

here has been a lot of media coverage over past months regarding the expansion of Sunrise Supported Living - tell us about this new

development.

After some frustrating delays, building has finally begun, but the wait has been worthwhile. We are still on track to complete our new community centre, as well as stage 1 of the project, comprising 26 units, which will ensure that the first of our residents will take possession of their units by Christmas.

Our advertising campaign has been very successful - 60% of stage 1 has already been sold, with huge interest in the remainder of the new village. We envisage that by the time stage 1 is complete, all the available units will have been pre-sold. We will then be turning our attention to our final stage, where a further 13 units are being built.

So naturally, if people are interested in investigating the option of moving into our village, we would recommend that they contact us to discuss their plans.

Can you give us an idea of what residents may expect in the new development?

There will be a new Community Lounge, which will incorporate a new cinema, a library and computer/internet area. There will also be a tea/coffee bar. The new lounge will offer our residents a place to enjoy a quiet moment reading, watching a movie or chatting with friends. It will also be a quiet place for our morning exercise and meditation classes.

Above the new Community Lounge there will be a huge new nurses’ admin office and sleepover station. The new Community Lounge will be joined to the existing Community Dining Room with a new covered 6 Manning-Great Lakes focus

outdoor dining area. This is where we will be “supported living” - the best of retirement serving morning tea each day and also enjoy living, combined with the best of traditional an evening barbecue and Happy Hour in the aged care. Unlike other retirement villages, warmer months. residents have access to various levels of We asked Tony and Lindy Stumbles, personal care and nursing care, with the managers of Sunrise Village, how they distinct difference that this care and support felt about this latest project. is provided in the privacy and luxury of their We are very excited about this project own home 24 hours a day, seven days a and in fact, this is a very logical step in the week - a choice not available in an aged care journey of Sunrise. Our current village is full facility. This care is provided by our own on to capacity and with the significant influx of site dedicated nursing staff. retirees into our area, expanding the village Couples can stay together, even when to cater for additional one partner requires a residents will not only be different level of care. In beneficial to our village, many villages, when one but will also a huge asset partner is assessed as The new lounge will offer to the Great Lakes area. needing care, the couple our residents a place to enjoy I have been involved in is separated and one a quiet moment reading, the retirement industry for spouse is moved away to watching a movie or chatting almost ten years, and prior receive specialised care, with friends. It will also to Sunrise I managed two which is traumatic for all be a quiet place for our large retirement villages. concerned. By ensuring morning exercise and The extra workload here our residents remain meditation classes. will therefore not pose an together, we guarantee Above the new Community issue from a management less anguish to both Lounge there will be a huge perspective. In fact, residents, as well as their new nurses’ admin office and Lindy and I are looking loving families. sleepover station. forward not only to new We are pioneers of the challenges, but also to concept, “Ageing in place” welcoming more residents in NSW, and its success to our Sunrise family. We can’t wait for the is evident by the fact that other retirement arrival of our new residents, which will give villages are emulating our initiative. We are us the opportunity to enhance the lives of so therefore proud to be leaders in this field. many more people.

What is it that attracts people to the Tony, you mentioned that you have “supported living” concept? worked in other retirement villages It’s all about the freedom of choices and what is different between those villages the fact that residents retain their personal and Sunrise? dignity. People decide the level of service they There is so much that sets us apart require and the type of service they want from conventional retirement villages. The to use. Their choices range from domestic fundamental difference is that we offer assistance, to comprehensive palliative care,

or possibly a few minutes of nursing, to 24hour round-the-clock care.

We also provide meals, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, prepared in our stylish kitchen from local produce. The majority of our residents avail themselves of lunch, the main meal of the day, which is a very reasonably priced two course meal.

Also available are domestic services and maintenance staff. Medical practitioners, podiatrists, hairdressers etc. also visit the village to attend to the needs of our residents. In addition, we cater for the residents’ spiritual needs as well.

Tell us about the awards that Sunrise has recently received ..

These awards are due mainly to our dedicated staff. In May this year, we participated in the Mid Coast Business Awards and were adjudged winners in the Excellence in Small Business category. We were also finalists in Excellence in Health and Wellbeing and Excellence in Customer Service.

Furthermore, we are very proud of our Care Team Leader, Trevor Milgate, who was a finalist in the Myall Lakes, Senior Person of the Year, Community Award. This was a wonderful achievement and testament to the high calibre of our staff.

What is your vision for the future?

We will continue to do what we do best care for our residents. We will never lose sight of the fact that their wellbeing is our primary objective, and we will continue to ensure that they remain happy and content in the knowledge that this is their home and that they are loved and cared for by our staff.

We will continually strive to improve our services for the good of our residents.

! d l o S % 0 6

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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.

Stage 2 – at a glance n n n n n n n

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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.

The Passion for

Holden J O E L

W A K E L Y

With his passion for Holden cars unwavering, Harrington resident Joel Wakely is about to launch his second book, The Passion for Holden.

If you’re a motor enthusiast, don’t miss Joel’s launch at both Harington and Taree libraries this month …

H

i Joel. We last spoke to you about a year ago, when you released your book, Legends of the 48-215. Your love for Holden cars obviously hasn't diminished, as you've since written a new book, The Passion for Holden. What inspired you to write a second book?

When Holden announced they were ending all car production in Australia by the last quarter of 2017 and all future models would be imported from their worldwide network, I was inspired to write about Holden’s history in Australia from the 1880s to 2017 and covering all models manufactured over 70 years of mass car production by GM-H. My Legends of the 48-215 books had received good reviews, and acceptable sales while getting the attention of Woodslane Press, the publishers of my second book.

Another bonus was being invited as a guest speaker at several car club meetings in Sydney, Newcastle and several in the Manning Valley region to talk to club members. At those meetings and also at car shows and race meeting events I engaged with many club members, who were keen to tell their car story and provide photos of their pride and joy.

Without exception, all were die hard Holden lovers full of passion and enthusiasm for their model of choice. It was their “passion” that inspired me to select 48 special stories with photos to include in my book, and allow them the opportunity to tell it in their words.

Your new book does appear to be broader in scope - in the sense that it covers many Holden models and their history, rather 8 Manning-Great Lakes focus

than focusing on a specific series of cars.

How else does this new book differ from your previous work?

Together with the book’s original compiled story line, I added 48 feature stories together with over 350 photo illustrations, including 120 taken from the GM-Holden copyright archive records held by the Adelaide Library.

When the book was finally finished to my satisfaction, and after the final proofreading, the book (The Evolution of Holden) was renamed The Passion for Holden, voted to be the most appropriate book title given the end result.

My Legends of the 48-215 book was centred on the history of the FX Holden in car racing around the 1960s and drivers who later became legends in the sport. It also featured an account of the mechanical challenges in the development of a racing Holden in the earlier times and was supported by a number of car stories and events from the ‘60s era.

I realised my next book had to cover a wider range of activity and be much broader in depth. To achieve this, I feature and reference all model Holdens manufactured in Australia from the 48-215, 1948 model through to the 2017 Commodore and added the 48 stories, all together with photographs.

As a final and fitting chapter to celebrate the last model Commodore, I feature in detail a range of photos taken at Holdens test track outside Melbourne, together with a summary provided for my book by GM-Holden of the final special build models, named “The Red Line Special”. The 1800 special models are considered a collector’s item, while noting all are pre sold with delivery scheduled for

October /November 2017.

From the first to the last models manufactured by Holden, including four special prototypes, one of models, makes my book differ from my previous effort and others.

What are one or two interesting facts you've uncovered about Holden history/ manufacture that the general public may not already know?

The most interesting fact I discovered in my research was the GM’s American company's involvement in the design and development of model Holden from 1946 through to the 1978 Commodore. All work was carried out in their American Global Design Centre, based in Detroit. In addition, each Holden series model was developed as a prototype two years before they finally went into production in Australia.

As an example, the 1965 HD Holden was an approved design and ready for production in 1963 - two years before the release of the 1963 EH Holden.

The first prototype 48-215 car hand built in the US Detroit factory was first registered in America in 1946. After it was shipped to Australia for testing, it was again registered in Victoria on the 12th February 1947, registration JP-480. This number one Holden, purchased by the National Museum of Canberra for $650,000 in 2004, is one of the most recognised cultural artefacts of 1950s Australia.

Of all the Holdens you've owned/driven/ raced in the past ... what particular model/s are your favourites (and why)?

The most favourite Holden I owned would have to be my 2003 Monaro CV-8 coupe. I say it was mine, but my wife, Kerry, disputes all

reference to my ownership. By 2003, Holden were making world class vehicles, and this was one of their best. This was a car that had everything - it ticked all the boxes for style, performance plus for the highway, yet it was a pleasure to amble around town in the traffic in style.

My second choice would be my Holden Walkinshaw Group A Commodore, outlandish in style and performance. Called the ugly duckling, it was not a town car; it’s brutal in traffic and it has too much go on speed restricted highways. I described it as my love/ hate car. After four years and only 23,000 km, I let common sense prevail and sold it.

Among many other I owned my 1950, 48215 - Appendix J racing Holden @137 bhp that still holds the Bathurst speed record for its class @ 122.11 MPH timed on Conrod Straight, all in the ‘60s.

When will your new book be launched?

Harrington Library, 1:30 on Tuesday 29th August, followed by Taree Library at 1:30 on Thursday 31st August.

Bookings are essential, as light refreshments will be served. Ph 6592 5290 or email: Library.events@gtcc.nsw.gov.au Free event tickets also available: www.midcoastlibraries.com.au For those who can't make the launch, where can they obtain a copy of your book?

To order a copy of The Passion for Holden book@ $49.95 plus postage online: www.pitstop.net.au Email: avant-garde@bigpond.com Thanks Joel.

E w

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‘That’s ‘That’s the the Difference’ Difference’ Manning-Great Lakes focus 9

Stage 1 Selling Fast! Almost 50% Sold!

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.

I

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.

The early response and uptake of Stage 1 “Off the Plan” sales has been excellent; considerable progress has been made on earth works, and the site starts to take shape. It is anticipated blocks will be registered and the first homes appearing later this year.

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

10 Manning-Great Lakes focus

throughout coastal and country NSW. We a range of home site sizes to choose from, could say “we know our stuff”. you’re bound to find the land that’s perfect We have a passion for creating value for to build the home you’ve always dreamed money opportunities for clients from all of. walks of life to purchase quality real estate, Building sites are surprisingly affordable. so they can build the Whilst nearly 50% home of their dreams. of Stage 1 is already Our reputation sold to eager buyers means everything to who recognised the us. As a developer, undoubted value, a This is an outstanding opportunity, you’re only as good as good number of blocks but it won’t last. Make your your last project, which remain available. With move to the weekend by is why we work hard strong government the coast now ... 41 blocks to ensure we become incenties for new home are included in the first neither complacent nor buyers and the estate release. All homes will be aloof. taking shape, now is connected to underground When buying land, the time to make your power and Australia’s National you want someone move!

Broadband Network. who is approachable, With land available has an outstanding in Forster Grange from reputation in the just $239,000, this is area with experience second to none, and outstanding value in a highly sought-after someone who always put the buyer first. location.

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Forster Grange; it’s what the locals call The only decision you need to make now “every day weekend”. is which block to buy ... Enjoy the process.

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

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”.

THE LAND YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR...

D N A L SALE Affordable, easy to build-on blocks. Variety of sizes.

From just $239,000 Do not miss this fabulous opportunity!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY! WWW.FORSTERGRANGE.COM.AU

6555 6555

focus_What’s On Manning-Great Lakes

A U G U S T

25

Dingo Creek String Band.

Hayley Grace Live.

Take banjos, guitars, a dobro and a very special double bass, throw in some harmonica, singing, and a bit of stomping that’s how these guys roll! When 6th August, 4pm - 7pm.

Where Australian Hotel, Wingham. www.facebook.com/pg/thedingocreekstringband

Where Bent on Food. When Friday, August 25th. $45 includes music and a two course meal. We are fully licensed. Call the café on (02) 6557 0727 or email donna@bentonfood.com.au www.bentonfood.com.au

Legally Blonde Junior The Musical.

Life Drawing Studio.

Untutored Drawing in the Studio. Come and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the studio space, and participate in a life drawing session with a model. Bring your own materials and easel. Where Sunday 6 August. | 1:30pm - 3:30pm.

Where Manning Regional Art Gallery, 12 Macquarie Street, Taree. Cost $15. More info Manning Regional Art Gallery: (02) 6592 5455 or art.gallery@midcoast.nsw.gov.au

13

Harvest Lunch @ Pacific Palms.

A Local Organic Harvest Lunch prepared by Chef Sarah Wilton and an Edible Garden Tour by Megan Cooke. Enjoy the delicious flavours of the Seasonal Harvest, where our focus is on local, seasonal, organic, sustainable, whole foods. Our philosophy is all about using in season produce that will be harvested from the garden at Pacific Palms and enjoyed around the table with friends … When Sun 13 Aug; 12pm - 3:30pm. Where Coomba Road, Charlotte Bay. Web www.gardentotable.com.au Phone 0413 769 530. Email megan@gardentotable.com.au

12 Manning-Great Lakes focus

20

Based on the smash hit motion picture and the award-winning Broadway musical, Legally Blonde Junior - The Musical is a fabulously fun journey of self-empowerment and expanding horizons. The show's fun, upbeat songs are filled with humour and sass - leaving audiences seeing pink! When Sunday, 20 August | 3pm to 05pm. Where Manning Entertainment Centre, 33 Manning River Drive, Taree. mec.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/See-a-Show/Legally-Blonde-JuniorThe-Musical

20

Dirty dog tail run.

Grab the mutts, get outside and explore with the Dirty Dog Tail Run series. Join us for a barking mad doggy run or walk at one of our adventure filled locations. Experience the freedom of a trail away from the usual suburban dog friendly haunts and have a great day with other pooch lovers. As well as a chance to run wild, there will be displays, games, stalls, food and entertainment. When Sun 20 Aug. Location Coopernook State Forest, Moorland. Phone 0402 519 521.

Website www.dirtydogtailrun.com.au Email info@fullyradadventures.com.au

Tomatoes – Garden to Table.

10:30am - Lee from Islands In The Stream will discuss the benefits of bio-stimulants (Biocast+) and what effects it will have on your soil and vegetable growing. 11am - workshop on tomato care, including soil preparations, pinching out, staking, growing, harvest, plus pest and disease management. HowTo-Guide for growing tomatoes - a take home step by step information sheet suitable for home gardeners. Huge range of tomato plants available to choose from for your spring garden.

21 varieties available. Plants are $3.50 each. When Sunday 27th August, 9:30am to 12:30pm. Where Greenpatch Organic Seeds, 109 Old Bar Road, Glenthorne.

Phone (02) 6551 4240.

31

Travel play live women's adventure summit Explore your outdoor passions and discover a love for new ones.

CONNECT, UNLEASH, EQUIP AND SURPRISE YOURSELF at the Travel Play Live Women’s Adventure Summit, a "build your own adventure" three day mammoth weekend.

When Thu 31 Aug - Sun 3 September. Where Forster.

Website www.travelplaylive.com.au/play/

focus_contributor

A L A N T I C K L E F R O M Y O U R H E R I TA G E

m ney matters. with Alan Tickle

Demystify Age Care October 28th There are very few greater challenges or stressful situations than working through age care decisions.

The tough decisions are not just the financial ones, but are very much about making some heart felt emotional decisions about the care of someone dear to you.

More often than not, those tough decisions are left to the adult children (of the age person), who are often rushed and ill-prepared.

Dr David Gillespie MP, our Federal Member, announced to a group of businessmen last month that his electorate now has the highest average age of any electorate in Australia, so the local challenge is immense.

The choice of housing, the question of money lasting a life time, are challenges that need strategies and solution options.

Age Care Expo Your Heritage Financial Planning is facilitating an Aged Care Expo at Taree Wingham Race Club and Winning Post Function Centre, Saturday, October 28th.

There will be information booths with representatives from age care providers, support services and Centrelink.

While entry will be available from 9:30am to visit the booths, there will be two theatre style strategy sessions conducted at 10:30am and 2.30pm.

These sessions will run for just over an hour and will leave attendees with a greater understanding of process and some strategy options that can make a difference in meeting age care costs.

The sessions are being held on a Saturday, to make the information available to a wider audience, in particular the potential decision makers, the children, who have aged parents.

More snippets in the next couple of Money Matters editions will shed some light on

age care challenges and some insight on terminology and potential financial and care solutions.

Accredited Advice and Age Care Services The experienced team of Alan Tickle and his Paraplanning support, Narelle Dark, have both completed training and accreditation in age care advice.

A package of service options are available that cover age pension applications and retirement strategy, age care strategy and financial solutions, age care income and assets assessment and applications.

Liaison with legal representatives on review or preparation of Wills, Power of Attorney and

“

Your Heritage Financial Planning is facilitating an Aged Care Expo at Taree – Wingham Race Club and Winning Post Function Centre, Saturday October 28th.”

Enduring Guardian, superannuation nominations and death benefit tax strategy, are also provided when required.

Post June Blues Some investors may have noted a drop in the value of their investments or superannuation balances in July.

This is nothing

unusual, as apart from the rise and fall of markets, there is often income that has accumulated, as well as net capital gains taken prior to the end of financial year which may not have been re-credited and accounted for in investor’s accounts during early July.

One fund manager had income distributions of 12% credited mid-July, which effectively caused the value of the investment to drop by that amount until the income was received back into the fund if reinvestment was elected.

This is very similar to when shares go exdividend, which generally results in share prices falling to reflect the value of the dividend about to be paid.

The The LegalLig Legal Light

For further information on the Age Care

Matters.

Expo, or appointment requests, please phone 6551 2333.

[ w it h A l a n T ickle ]

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

Financial Coaching and Facilitating My son Jonathon, who is my fellow director of Your Heritage Financial Planning, has been busy

J U S T I N

Manning-Great Lakes focus 13 They had no Wills in place and while it is often a subject put to the back of one’s mind, it really is a responsible act to make sure that there is some

Justin Stack

S T

focusinterview.

Coastal BREWING Co

D AV I D +

H E L E N B L AC K

It doesn’t matter what time of year it is … a great beer is always welcome! David and Helen Black have probably followed the dream many of us have - to turn a passion for a good brew into a profession. Coastal Brewing Co. is the first microbrewery in Forster … the Blacks had a plan, they’ve turned it into a reality - and the proof is in the tasting!

See you at Coastal Brewing Co., where the beer is fresh and flavoursome!

H

i Helen. There's a bit of an interesting story behind your new business, The Coastal Brewing Company!

What led to David switching careers from being a chartered accountant to a brewer?

Prior to starting the microbrewery, David and I both enjoyed 20 years plus in the corporate world - so this is a big change for both of us.

Essentially, David did what many keen home brewers dream about; he focused on turning his home brewing hobby into a business after completing the Certificate in Brewing from Federation University.

At the brewery, David looks after all things brewing, product development, packaging, cleaning and financial.

My background is in marketing and communications; largely, in the financial services sector. At the brewery I focus on the sales, distribution, marketing, branding and the communications aspects of running the business.

I also look after the Tasting Room, with the aim of making sure customers maximise their experience when they visit the brewery. We both enjoy talking to customers and taking them through the brewing process and talking about the specific ingredients that have gone into each beer.

Whilst our prior careers may seem a long way from what we are doing today at the brewery, we draw heavily on our prior experience all the time. Above all, we are extremely excited about the opportunity to build and grow a strong local business.

Tell us a bit about your set up at the brewery …

14 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Having spent many weekends and holidays makes them special? in the region, Forster was the location We are all about bringing locally produced, we chose to establish the brewery. As fresh, flavoursome beer to both residents and much as David and I wanted to establish a visitors to the Manning Valley/Great Lakes microbrewery, we felt Forster, equally, needed region. a brewery to complement its excellent bar and We brew a range of ales and lagers using restaurant scene, as well as its iconic coastline. natural ingredients. Our customers in the We went into the brewery setup with a Tasting Room and places where we are “on clear project plan, as a lot of the specialist tap” include long time craft beer devotees, all equipment had long lead times. After the way through to those having a first taste of purchasing the building in Dalman Street, craft beer. With many beer styles and different Forster, the first thing we did was order the palate preferences, we want to ensure there is 1,200 litre brewhouse something for everyone. from the US. And we truly believe We started the there is a beer style to renovations of the suit everyone’s taste building in January this people who “don’t like It’s all about the customer year, which included beer” just haven’t found experience, and at The Coastal new drainage systems, the right one yet!

Brewing Company we want reinforced concrete We plan to have a customers to not only taste flooring to hold the core range of beers, great, locally produced fermenters, extensive as well as seasonal craft beer, but we want pipework and electrical specials to bring variety them to feel proud of their work to manage to customers. The first local brewery. temperature control, as of our seasonal specials well as a complete fit out was the milk stout we for the brewery Tasting recently launched.

Room. All this took place What types of before the brewhouse arrived in April, and we products/packaging are you able to offer commenced production in May. to customers?

Being as sustainably responsible as we All of our beers are available in our Tasting can be is also important to us. In building Room for tasting and for take-away sales. the brewery, we have invested heavily in Customers can purchase a reusable “growler” technology to support us in this endeavour. For (1.89 litres) or “squealer” (945 ml) from us, example, we use pH adjustment equipment which is filled with fresh beer. and above ground growth bioreactors to When customers bring back their growler effectively treat our waste water before it goes or squealer for the next fill (after a thorough back into the local sewer system. wash!) they save, as they aren’t paying for Describe the beers you currently brew packaging. your Pale Ale, Golden Ale, and IPA ... What Shortly, we will also start canning our beer,

and these will be available for take-away from the Tasting Room and at participating bottleshops, bars and restaurants.

We also encourage people to keep an eye on our Facebook (coastalbrewing), Instagram (coastalbrewingco) and website (www. thecoastalbrewingcompany.com) for updates as to where our beers are on available.

What do you see as important to your future success?

It’s all about the customer experience, and at The Coastal Brewing Company we want customers to not only taste great, locally produced craft beer, but we want them to feel proud of their local brewery.

So for us, this means we can’t do enough listening to people’s feedback around our beers, what they would like to see in our future lineup of beers, and suggestions for restaurants and bars where they would like to see our beer on tap.

When is the brewery open to the public?

We currently open the Tasting Room on a Friday (2:30pm - 5:30pm) and Saturday (Noon - 4pm). As we move into spring and summer, we will open more often.

Apart from on site at the brewery, where else can we taste your brews locally?

We have had tremendous support from the Bellevue in Tuncurry and The Recky in Elizabeth Beach, as well as a number of bars in Newcastle and the Roundabout in Gloucester.

The availability of our beers on tap is growing, and it’s best customers check our website (www.thecoastalbrewingcompany. com) on a regular basis for local availability.

If we aren’t available at people’s local, we encourage them to contact us - so we can try to remedy it!

Thanks Helen.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 15

focusinterview.

MANNING ART PRIZE 2017 $21,000 Prize money GALA OPENING NIGHT

Mark Vincent

Saturday 2 September 6.30pm Tickets $25 available at the Gallery - Limited numbers

www.friendsmanningvalley.com.au Exhibition dates: 2 September - 15 October 2017

20 July - 27 August 2017 SATU BUSHELL - Perpertual Motion Leading edge scientific research confirms this interconnection between all life forms through the study of electromagnetic fields. Every person and object, including non-living forms, emit electromagnetic fields. image: Satu Bushell Perpetual Motion (detail) mixed media

AMBER CARBURY + LAURA SOUTHWELL Coalescence

This exhibition encapsulates the journey between two life-long friends and the unique interpretations gathered from similar experiences and interests.

Manning Regional Art Gallery 12 Macquarie Street, Taree ph 6592 5455 art.gallery@midcoast.nsw.gov.au www.manningregionalartgallery.com.au

left: Amber Carbury Symbiosis oil on board right: Laura Southwell Thick blood, thin skin mixed media and natural pigments on paper

Hours: Wed to Sat 10am - 4pm, Sun 1pm - 4pm

ADMISSION FREE

16 Manning-Great Lakes focus

A cultural service of MidCoast Council

Who could forget Mark Vincent’s debut on the third season of “Australia’s Got Talent", performing "Nessun Dorma"! From this moment on, Mark’s velvet voice has helped him to become an absolute national (and international) star - possibly one of the best tenors Australia has ever known.

M

ark will tour his new show, You Raise Me Up, over the next few months, stopping in at the Glasshouse and the Manning Entertainment Centre …

Hi Mark. It's been an absolute whirlwind ride for you since winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, with multiple albums (including a collaboration with Marina Prior) and extensive touring. Eight years on from AGT, what inspires you to keep performing?

What inspires me to keep performing is the passion and love I have for my singing and of course, performing on stage. Music is everything to me. To see the joy on people’s faces when I perform is very overwhelming for me as an artist. AGT was my big break, and now, eight albums later … It just feels so surreal. But I can humbly say I've worked very hard to be where I want to be.

Where are you answering these questions ... and what took you this particular country/city?

I'm actually answering these questions from Melbourne. I'm currently here performing in My Fair Lady, which I'm proud to say Dame Julie Andrews is directing. It has been such an amazing experience working with her, and I've learnt so much as a performer. Being directed by Miss Andrews is a career highlight. She's very humble and so energetic.

Yes, you've been playing the role of Freddy in My Fair Lady. How much are you enjoying performing in musical theatre in general?

For me, it's been a pleasure working in

musical theatre, as I've learned so much as a live performer. Working in a group and working solo on stage are two different things altogether. This has made me versatile as an artist. Freddy is a fun character to play ... He’s deeply in love with “Eliza Dolittle”. He waits on Wimpole Street, until Eliza comes out … Poor Freddy, I say lol!

How will your new show, You Raise Me Up, differ from your previous shows performed in our area?

I can say the show I'll be bringing to the Glasshouse Port Macquarie and the Manning Entertainment Centre will have variety. The number one rule at my shows is for people to have fun. That's what music is all about to me. There will be an amazing ten piece band ready to play and put on a spectacular show.

I love playing in Port Macquarie and Taree, and I can’t wait to go back.

Given how much you've achieved already in your career and your hectic schedule ... what are you most looking forward to these days?

I've been in My Fair Lady for over six months now. I'm looking forward to this regional tour, as well as my national tour around Australia in October/November. I truly love performing on stage, as this is who I am and what I love to do.

My dream is to be the next Mario Lanza.

Thanks Mark.

See You Raised Me Up - Mark Vincent in concert at the MEC on August 25th, at 7pm.

Visit: www.themec.com.au

great country Songbook The

VOLUME II TOUR

Mid Coast

Big Book A R V O

Forster Fellas Book Club and Midcoast Libraries will present the Midcoast Big Book Arvo 2017 on 16 September, from 2pm - 5pm, at Club Forster.

T

his event provides an opportunity for Book Clubs and interested members of the public to gather for discussions about three great books: All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr; The Gift of Rain, by Tan Twan Eng; and the Handmaid’s Tale, by Margaret Atwood.

Lakes Education Fund (GLEF).

Funds raised from the event go to the Great

email: bigbooknight@gmail.com

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased from the Forster Visitor Information centre (Little St, Forster), or the Sitting Wombat Bookshop (Head St, Forster).

For more info, visit: Midcoast Big Book Night on Facebook, phone Steve: 0408 002 541 or

A

DAM HARVEY and BECCY COLE have individually remained at the forefront of Australian country music for almost two decades, each boasting an impressive list of awards, top selling albums and a loyal legion of fans. The combination of the two dynamic performers has already proven to be a hit with live audiences, having toured the country on several occasions since their first encounter almost 20 years ago, they now return again with a new and unique project for their fans. This album and tour follows the original 2013 release of THE GREAT COUNTRY SONGBOOK album and tour,

by Adam and his good friend and multi-award winning artist, Troy Cassar-Daley. THE GREAT COUNTRY SONGBOOK VOLUME II TOUR will see Adam and Beccy performing songs all across the country from their long awaited and first full album together. The pair have handpicked the most classic country music duets of all time for

Volume Two of this album project. Together they have brought back some of the most famous country combinations of all time; including classic duets recorded by Johnny Cash and June Carter, George Jones and Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn and Kenny Rogers and his many duet partners...including Dolly Parton. Don’t miss Australia’s most entertaining duo onstage for two unforgettable hours, bringing you their versions of the great country duets, delivered with high energy and a few laughs.

See Adam and Beccy live at Club Forster on Wednesday 16th August; tickets from www.clubforster.com.au or 6591 6591.

Keep an eye on Manning-Great Lakes Focus’ Facebook page, for your chance to win a VIP ticket package. The package comprises a meet and greet with Adam and Beccy prior to the show, with a photo opportunity, reserved seat, and souvenir merchandise.

THE MID NORTH COAST’S

NUMBER ONE OUTDOOR EVENT • Over 175 Exhibitors • Camp Oven Cooking • 4WD Demo Track • Reptile Awareness Show • Fishing Show • Freestyle Bike Show (Sat & Sun)

MID NORTH COAST 11, 12 & 13 August 2017

PLUS Value d at

Wauchope Showground Wauchope

$5,000

9am - 5pm Friday & Saturday / 9am - 4pm Sunday • Adults $15 • Aged Pensioners $11 • Kids Free with Adults

LTPS/17/14784

facebook.com/RuralScenePromotions Phone: (02) 6769 4132 Fax: (02) 6769 4140 www.ruralscene.com.au

Manning-Great Lakes focus 17

Burger and chips from the new Dine on 19 Burger Bar, inside Club Taree 18 manning-great lakes focus.

focus_contributor

MICHAEL FROM CAFE BRASS BELL

Mango Chicken.

Kenny’s Thai Kitchen Enjoy a taste of Thailand! $11 Lunch Specials.

Entree of two spring rolls, plus your choice of one main meal.

Choose from a range of delicious mains, including Chicken or Beef Cashew Nut, Chicken or Prawn Laksa, Kenny Chicken, Pla Sam Rod, Chicken or Beef Hot Chilli Basil, Mango Chicken (pictured above), Angel Prawns, Pad See Ew, Green Curry and the very popular Pad Thai.

HEAD CHEF KENNY

Kenny’s Thai Kitchen will be closed until Wednesday 9th August 2017

acai B E R R Y

CLUB FORSTER, 19 STRAND ST, FORSTER 6591 6591 OPEN WED - SUN, LUNCH AND DINNER. LUNCH: NOON UNTIL 2PM. DINNER: 5:30PM UNTIL 8PM.

Sticky pear pudding with caramel sauce, honey roasted cashews and vanilla ice cream.

Smoothie Bowl INGREDIENTS SMOOTHIE 100 g frozen simped acai berry pack (available from AJ Wilsons, Forster) 100 g frozen mixed berries 1 tsp white chia seeds 100 ml coconut water ½ fresh banana

Moby’s on Red Gum Chef Evan and his team have designed a new menu showcasing local produce, from our seafood squid ink linguine, our roasted cauliflower salad with Burraduc Buffalo yogurt, to our locally sourced fish of the day.

Breakfast and lunch menus for lazy weekends will also amaze. Dine outside on the pool deck, or enjoy the warmth of the restaurant on these cooler evening - altogether creating an unforgettable dinning experience.

Follow us on Facebook @mobysretreat.

4 RED GUM ROAD, BOOMERANG BEACH 6591 0095 WWW.MOBYS.COM.AU MONDAY & THURSDAY 5:30PM -8:30PM, FRIDAY 3PM - 8:30PM, SATURDAY & SUNDAY 7:30AM - 8:30PM.

GRANOLA RECIPE 2 tbsp vegie oil 120 g maple syrup 2 tbsp honey 300 g oats 50 g sunflower seeds 4 tbsp sesame seeds 100 g flaked almonds 50 g coconut flakes 50 g sunflower seeds

GARNISH 3 fresh large strawberries ½ banana Toasted shredded coconut

Chef & Owner Michael Allport Café Brass Bell Phone (02) 6554 5333 Shop 5, 41-43 wharf St, Forster Arcade, Forster www.fb.com/cafebrassbell

method Granola Method: Preheat oven to 150 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Pour the granola on to two trays lined with baking paper and bake for 15 mins, then stir and bake for a further 10 - 15 mins. Take out of the oven and cool.

Bowl Method: Combine acai mix, frozen berries, ½ banana, coconut water and chia seeds in a blender and blend until smooth.

While the smoothie is blending, peel and thinly slice the banana and strawberries.

To serve, pour smoothie into a chilled bowl.

Place fanned fruit ontop of the smoothie and then garnish with toasted coconut and granola.

Smoothie bowls are a fresh and fun way to combine a smoothie with healthy fruits.

There are unlimited ways to make a variety of smoothie bowls using other ingredients.

Try adding kiwi fruit or dragon fruit to the garnishes, or even change the smoothie to an avocado, kale and oat variation. Have fun blending and creating your own smoothie bowls.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 19

focusinterview

Amber Honey D R O P

If you haven’t tried Amber Drop Honey, you’re missing out on something pretty special. What began as an interest in bees and rescuing colonies that had established themselves in unsafe locations, such as inside houses and sheds, has led Ana Martin and Sven Stephan to establish their own business. The couple currently manage 55 bee colonies, and their business (and love for bees!) is growing …

W

hat brought you to John's River to live?

I came to Australia over 20 years ago. Sven arrived about 10 years ago, and we met seven years ago, when he came as a customer to a café I coowned in the Central Coast. We lived there for a few years. Two years ago we were looking for a property and were getting frustrated with how crazy the real estate market was.

Whilst on holidays in Europe (totally jet lagged), we stumbled upon a Facebook post that featured a farm around Wingham. We had nothing better to do in the early hours of the morning, so we started checking out what other properties were available in the area.

Once we found our current farm, we made an appointment to see it on the same day we arrived back in Australia (which in hindsight, was a bit crazy!) So maybe it was the sleep deprivation, but we decided to buy it on the same day we saw it. We moved permanently in September last year.

Where did your fascination with bees begin?

For Sven, it began when he was young, but he never got a chance to learn beekeeping whilst he was growing up in East Germany.

When the Indigogo campaign for the Flow Hive came out about two and half years ago, we started investigating more about bees, and we found out how badly they were doing all over the world. We started watching videos and reading articles and once you start learning about them, you cannot help but be more interested in 20 Manning-Great Lakes focus

to be handled with care. What are some of how amazing they are. your favourite bee-related memories?

Your business, Amber Drop Honey, kind of Sven was moving a couple of hives from our began a bit by accident! Explain how you house in Empire Bay to a farm in Sommersby. came up with the idea of relocating bee Sven’s parents were visiting, and his dad wanted colonies to a safer location and ultimately to go with him and help him carry the bees. producing your own honey …

One of the hives was a two storey nuc [nucleWhen we decided to do something to help ar colony] and even though they thought they the bees, we were thinking small scale … one or had strapped it correctly, on one of the curves two hives in the backyard, just for our use, and driving back it must have to give honey to friends. moved enough to let bees We joined the Central out. In less than a minute, Coast Beekeeping Associathey had thousands of bees tion, and we found out that We feel that bees are 'the canary flying around in the car. a good way to get a colony in the mine', and their They had to very quickly for free was to be on the difficulties in surviving grab their suits and get out swarm list and get a phone are a clear indication that we are coming to of the car to put them on, call when someone needed a tipping point in our and then they drove the rest a colony removed. environment. We feel that of the way fully suited.

We didn’t know that a lot in general people do not quite "I don’t think I have ever of colonies make a home comprehend the extent of the been so quick to jump out inside walls, in chimneys, destruction we are creating ... of the car and into a suit, sheds, and that many and I can still see the faces beekeepers find it messy or of the other drivers as they don’t have the tools to open saw us driving around in full suits and surroundgyprock walls, climb up on the roof etc. in order ed by bees,” Sven says. to collect them.

How many bee colonies do you currently Sven is a kitchen installer by trade and has care for? done some building work, so he had the tools At the moment, we have about 55 colonies. and the know-how. He started getting a lot of Each colony can have between 50,000 and these calls, and he ended up with 35 colonies 60,000 bees in summer. In winter, the popwithin the first four months. Nine months into ulation in a hive dwindles down to conserve it, we had quite a bit of honey, and Sven was so resources. passionate about it that we decided to give it a What honey products do you produce - and go as a business venture. how do you market them?

There must have been some interesting Regular, creamed and ginger honey, as well as possibly even scary - moments for you guys, comb honey, and we are also developing other as bees are definitely creatures that need

flavours. We go to different markets all the way from Newcastle to Bellingen, and we have a few stockists in the area. You can also purchase our honey online.

If you are a beginner beekeeper, we can help by providing you with the boxes, and we are starting to get a course together to teach the skills we have learnt ourselves.

Why are you so passionate about bees and their survival into the future?

We feel that bees are “the canary in the mine”, and their difficulties in surviving are a clear indication that we are coming to a tipping point in our environment.

We feel that in general people do not quite comprehend the extent of the destruction we are creating, and we do not think about where our rubbish goes to, what happens to the plastic we use only once, how the animals we eat are treated, how we are decimating fish in the ocean and how many species we are driving to extinction. We put the blinkers on and go on consuming, like there is no impact.

Everyone can make a difference, even by making small changes in our day to day choices. The way we have chosen to do so is by helping the bees and by creating a business that has its basis on rescuing colonies that might otherwise be destroyed and by trying to educate customers to make better decisions.

Five percent of our sales go to “Save The Bees Australia”, as our way of giving back.

Where can we find out more info? info@amberdrophoney.com.au www.amberdrophoney.com.au Ana 0403 896 248.

Thanks guys.

We are dedicated to organic principles in all aspects of our farm, incorporatingg lifest yle, and makin it as sustainable as we possibly can.

Upcoming Events Greenpatch Organics Greenpatch Organic Seeds is a family owned business that was pioneering seeds and plants as certified organic in 1993. From the beginning, Greenpatch has made a unique approach to having seeds available for purchase and also growing seeds and plants organically onsite. We are dedicated to organic principles in all aspects of our farm, incorporating lifestyle, and making it as sustainable as we possibly can. Visit us at our shop located on Old Bar Road, just 1 km from Taree Service Centre.

Upcoming events at Greenpatch!

Tomato - Garden to Table day - Sunday 27th August, 9:30am to 12:30pm.

10:30am - Lee from Islands In The Stream will discuss the benefits of bio-stimulants (Biocast+) and what effects it will have on your soil and vegetable growing. It will also be available for purchase on the day.

11am - Workshop on Tomato Care, including soil preparations, pinching out, staking, growing, harvest, plus pest and disease management.

How-To-Guide for Growing Tomatoes - A take home step by step information sheet suitable for home gardeners.

21 varieties available. Plants are $3.50 each.

We use only natural and organic ingredients, perfect for those with sensitive skin, eczema and psoriasis.

Coco & Mali.

What led to the creation of Coco & Mali Skincare? Coco & Mali Skincare was an idea that I had been playing around with in my mind for quite some time. Most of my inspiration and ingredients came from the environment around me - whether it was from my own veggie garden, the beach, or places I had visited during my travels.

What are the more popular products of the range? I have been overwhelmed with so much positive feedback from our entire product range, but if I had to name a few standouts, my fave would be the Coconut + Vanilla Body Moisturiser, Facial Elixir, Makeup Remover, Coconut Milk Bath Soak and of course, our Coconut + Coffee Body Scrub. We have also just released the first product in our new baby range, which is our Baby Body Oil infused with lavender, to help the little ones sleep.

How can our readers purchase products and learn more about yourself and the brand? To stay connected and updated with our brand, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @cocoandmaliskincare, purchase items online in our Etsy Store www.etsy.com/shop/cocoandmaliskincare or find us at Blackhead Bazaar + Nabiac Farmers' Market.

We are pleased to offer all FOCUS readers a $5 discount on any items purchased in our Etsy store by simply using the code word FOCUS at the checkout.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 21

focusinterview.

Sam Bielby, Silas Darnell and Simon Little form the Dingo Creek String Band. The great thing

about this awesome bunch of bearded blokes is they’re so inspired by the beautiful Manning-Great Lakes, they pen songs about the area - and perform them so we can gain a greater appreciation of the place we, too, call home.

T

ake banjos, guitars, a dobro and a very special double bass - throw in some harmonica, singing, and a bit of stomping - that’s how these guys roll!

Simon stops by for a chat ...

Where do you guys call home ... and what do you most love about it?

After six months of attending uni in Sydney, I realised that I would never feel as whole as I did when I lived at home in the Manning. It was my spiritual residence; I decided then that I would die there. I brought Emily, my fiancée, back home with me, and we’re putting down roots and setting up a farm near Bobin. The forest is what I love most about my home.

There is a magical interplay of light between the forests and fields here.

Silas is out by the river in Coopernook with his wife, Kate, and their two daughters, Eden and Lucy. He spent some time travelling around with Kate, before he was drawn back to the great Manning River to raise his family. When Silas isn’t working or studying, he spends much of his free time exploring the Manning Valley, its beaches and the bush … And the German butcher.

Sam was originally out at Harrington, before having to ship out of the area to Newcastle for university. I think it was a case of “absence making the heart grow fonder”, with Sam realising that this is the place he wanted to come back to, to raise his family. Sam, being a science teacher, is fascinated by the diversity of the Manning Valley - the way you can go from the beach to the river to the bush within a half hour.

How did you all meet and decide to form a band?

22 Manning-Great Lakes focus

started as absent minded humming down there Emily got me some chooks for our first by the wet stones on a hot summer’s day.

Christmas at home in 2015, so on a steamy The dingo itself is a mysterious creature, December noon, we climbed down from Upper much maligned by many of my neighbours, Lansdowne to Coopernook to pick up the for obviously agricultural reasons. My hope is poultry. This bloke with a beard and AC/DC that through our music we can restore some shirt came out, and we hit it off immediately. respect, or at least intrigue, for predators that We became good mates, and subsequently aren’t us. That’s what our song, Carnivore’s discovered a mutual love of plucking the odd Lullaby, is about. banjo. Silas and I just wanted to make music, And then there is the obvious fact of us no pretensions of fame, just fun, so I roped in a all playing stringed workmate, Sam, who is instruments. also bearded, of course, When Silas and I coined to play bass. The rest, as the Dingo Creek String they say …

It’s got some of the clearest Band, we hoped that “Dingo Creek” ... waters in the valley ... Seeping our name would evoke would I be correct in down through the thick some of these ideas for guessing your band is green folds of the Elands and potential listeners. named after an actual Comboyne escarpments, very What instruments do place? What inspired sacred country. More than you all play? you to name your one of my melodies I play the banjo and band after it? started as absent guitar, and am the Yeah, the name is minded humming down principal singer. There’s absolutely homage to my there by the wet stones also the odd bit of favourite watercourse. It on a hot summer’s day. harmonica and foot forms about 500 metres stomping. Silas plays of the south-western guitar and dobro, and Sam plays a modified boundary of my property, right near Bobin. cello that’s been converted to a mini double We wanted the band’s name to resonate bass. with locals. I wanted people to feel that their You guys write your own songs ... who lives and connection to land was legitimised looks after the lyrics, and who works on and celebrated publicly. the melodies and beats?

And from a purely aesthetic viewpoint, you Thus far, I’ve been the songwriter both should see the gallery of Water Gums, Weeping lyrically and musically. I generally come to the Lilly Pillys, She Oaks and Staghorn ferns that boys with something that’s pretty close to hang over this beautifully spooky water. It’s completion, and we then work on it together got some of the clearest waters in the valley ... as a band. Silas flushes my twangy melodies Seeping down through the thick green folds of with rich sound and Sam kicks it up the *rse the Elands and Comboyne escarpments, very with meaty bass lines. sacred country. More than one of my melodies

What’s your favourite song to play at gigs (and why)?

I guess I enjoy playing Cattai Wetland Blues for having a stomp and a wail. Moon, Brother hits close to home for me too. It’s easy to sing stories that you care about.

What’s an awesome memory from a gig or jam session you can share with us?

Sam and Silas both have toddlers, so every practice we find we are fighting for airwaves with the kids. I honestly think they have helped us to project our sound and persist through background noise and distraction.

My fondest memory of a jam was when we were playing originals and Sam’s eldest son, Theo, who is only three, was singing along to our songs and having a boogie. Kids are honest. And they honestly like our sound. That is all the approval I need.

What upcoming gigs do you have?

6thAugust at Flow Bar, Old Bar, from 12:30pm - 2:30pm.

6th August at the Australian Hotel, Wingham, 4pm - 7pm.

30th September, “Groovin’ in the Garden” at the Manning Valley Community Gardens, Wingham.

Where can we find out more about you or contact you?

Simon: You can check us out on our Facebook page for regular band updates, songs and gigs: www.facebook.com/ thedingocreekstringband/ Alternatively, you can make contact with the band via our email: dingocreekstringband@outlook.com Thanks Simon.

focus_contributor

S T E V E AT T K I N S F R O M G R E AT L A K E S PA D D O C K S

Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole perform live at Club Forster, Wednesday, August 16th.

Club Forster in August

Degustation.

What does that word mean, exactly? It brings images to my mind of blatant overeating, preceded by the need to fast, to ensure the tummy has the capacity to house all the degustation will deliver to it. So, the word degustation is derived from the Latin word meaning to “taste” or “savour”. This evening we are going to embark upon a seven course degustation, but I’m not sure my “fasting” will be adequate.

Surprisingly, the restaurant is a BYO!

T

his is kind of a relief, because you know you are saving approx $50 on the bottle of wine. But then again, the true foodie/chef surely wants to ensure the degustation experience is maximised by pairing the appropriate wine with each course. Wine recommendations from wait staff are always considereed, sometimes taking their advice, but if something on the list calls to me, I go with my gut feel and the knowledge I’ve developed from 32 or more years of wine drinking. So this BYO option for the degustation requires a decision to be made; which wine to bring?

A degustation typically involves a variety of dishes, and for us tonight it will be seven dishes.

I need some help to make an informed decision as to which wine will best complement the evening’s deliciousness. The sample online menu makes the mouth water, promising delights including light Japanese morsels, seafood mouthfuls, other proteins and veggies presented in ways I would never contemplate.

Immediately I think a white wine will be the go - a good Chardy, or maybe a Pinot Gris or Grigio. A wine that will be subtle yet complimentary across a wide range of flavour

“

combinations.

My dinner companion suggests we take two bottles - indulgent, but a good call - don’t have to drink them both, but gives us options when the menu is fully revealed ...

The seven course degustation was magnificent, and we did not feel we had overeaten yet were very much satisified; each dish was interesting and packed with flavour.

So which wine did we go with, and did it work for every dish?

Surprisingly, we had decided on a rose, believing a red would be too heavy for many of the courses and a white ... well, we weren’t in the mood for a white. The rose was a winner! It truly complemented each of the seven courses. The accompaniments are as significant as the primary ingredient of each of the dishes, with creativity and flavour packed into every morsel on the plate, and I think that’s where the rose really works. It is these ancillary ingredients that the lightness of the rose does not overpower, but becomes part of each dish in a subtle way.

Rose is often overlooked for food pairing, with many opinions being that it is insipid and sweet - but this is not the case. The flavour is subtle, and if you select your rose carefully, there will be delicate complexity that truly complements a range of delicious food.

Adam Harvey & Beccy Cole As individual artists, Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole have stayed at the forefront of Australian country music for close to two decades, each with an impressive list of awards and top selling albums. The combination of these two dynamic performers has proven to be a hit with live audiences, having toured the country on several occasions since their first encounter almost 20 years ago. Something very special happens when this duo hits the stage; the audience experiences an extremely entertaining blend of wits, along with their shared love of true and authentic country music. The Great Country Songbook Volume II Tour will see Adam and Beccy performing songs from their long awaited and first full album together.

The Adele Experience.

Adele’s retro soul revival has been unstoppable since her songs of love and loss touched the imagination of music lovers everywhere, with her smash-hit albums 19 and 21. In The Adele Experience, soulful songstress Emma Kirk embodies the Brit’s sensational vocal range and sassy performance in an exploration of songs in true “Adele” style.

Backed by some of Sydney’s powerhouse internationally acclaimed musicians, Emma performs Adele’s classic hits with the vocal attention they deserve. From her heart wrenching, piano driven Somebody Like You to the punchy pop-challeng Rumour Has It, Emma delivers a stirring performance that showcases pop’s most striking new star.

A degustation typically involves a variety of dishes, and for us tonight it will be seven dishes. I need some help to make an informed decision as to which wine will best complement the evening’s deliciousness.”

Manning-Great Lakes focus 23

The World famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will also feature 24 musicians, singers and dancers.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra.

The long-awaited return of the greatest big band of the 1940’s, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, featuring the unforgettable music of the 1940s from the Golden era of Swing ...

A sentimental journey down memory lane to celebrate the Glenn Miller Orchestra’s 80th anniversary.

The World famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will also feature 24 musicians, singers and dancers - a presentation that highlights the great “Big Band” hits, the original Glenn Miller arrangements, the music of The Andrews Sisters, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and the romantic World War II melodies made famous by Vera Lynn - music which captivated millions of people worldwide - are all brought together on stage in a nostalgic concert spectacular.

The concert will also feature sensational dance routines by the Broadway Swing Dancers.

The Glenn Miller musical arrangements are unique; even after 80 years, they are still heard worldwide - timeless icons of American culture such as Chattanooga Choo-Choo, In the Mood, Tuxedo Junction, A String of Pearls, Moonlight Serenade, Little Brown Jug and Pennsylvania 6-5000 ... Music hits which captivated millions of people. “The Glenn Miller Orchestra is a colourful and flamboyant evening filled with fun and nostalgia of the ‘30s and ‘40s.

Our unique jazz sound is sought all around the world and in addition to recreating the golden era of swing, we bring to life the colour, costumes and spirit. Having travelled across the globe, The Glenn Miller Orchestra is delighted to be bringing iconic tunes such as In The Mood and Moonlight Serenade to Australia,” said Musical Director Rick Gerber.

24 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Day and Overnight Trips.

Our specialty is senior groups, providing personal and caring service for holidays that are either organised by us, or as a charter organised by the groups.

One Day Trips We also travel to the live shows in Sydney and Newcastle, as well as local shows in Taree and Port Macquarie.

We can offer a coach booking and itinerary planning service, to help you organise your own tour or day trip.

Overnight Tours We tour extensively over areas from Tasmania in the south to Cape Tribulation in Far North Queensland, west to Cameron’s Corner, Broken Hill and down to Adelaide and the Great Ocean Road.

Upcoming Overnight Trips Taronga Park Zoo Sydney, 2 days and 1 night, two trips 30th/31st October and 2nd/3rd November 2017.

Darwin, The Ghan and Adelaide - 13 days and 12 nights - 26th August - 8th September.

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, 6 days and 5 nights - 15th September - 20th September.

Mudgee/Gulgong Tour - 4 days and 3 nights - 22nd September - 25th September.

focus_contributor

WITH DONNA CARRIER FROM BENT ON FOOD

Jesse Morris and Rob DeMasi

Blossom Hair and Beauty

The Berrigan’s wedding

Bob’s 3 daughters from Sydney: Linda,Angela and Monica Berrigan and Linda’s husband, Simon Ivers.

The opening of The Hub

Latest felt workshop

Social /Scene

I love August! Finally I can taste my favourite beverage after one month of Dry July. I can’t wait for a glass of fabulous bubbly to pass my lips. I really do love the taste of wine. After all, I did spend 18 years in the wine industry and completed a degree on the subject, so to not drink it would be just like being a restaurateur and not enjoying food.

N

ow someone asked me the other day if I drank because of the taste or the effect.

I am not 21 anymore and I don’t drink to get drunk, so the answer is that I love the taste. We are lucky in Australia to have so many fabulous wine choices, and our sparkling wines are amazing.

I also love August, because I have finished my tourism awards submissions, I have usually managed to have a cleanup for the Council pickup and managed to collect just as much. My staff have been so wonderful; during the holidays they came in on their days off and did a clean-up for me.

Now, that’s commitment!

Anyway, looking for an elusive Segway here, but not feeling it, so I better just jump right in and tell you about July.

A fabulous workshop was held to coincide with A Little to the Left Studio & Gallery’s exhibition called Macroscopica.

It was the first solo art exhibition for local and emerging artist Kevin Griffiths. He is represented by the gallery and his ink on Yupo paper paintings are unique, organic and beautiful! Yupo paper is very special, as it is made from recycled plastic.

His workshop was a real success, with the studio organising three more locally and one in Newcastle as a result!

Workshop attendees included Faye Collier (member of the Manning Fibre Artists), James Bartlet (the young man) and Rod Dayment of Blackhead Beach. This special gallery is open Monday to Friday from 10 - 4, and most Saturdays or by appointment. The next exhibition is an introduction/retrospective of owner Samantha Everett’s art! The gallery is situated upstairs in the Taree Literary Institute building, on the corners

of Victoria and Manning Streets in Taree.

Monique Finlay and team were excited to launch their new organic concept salon, Blossom Organic Hair Beauty Wellbeing in Forster.

The salon is delivering fantastic hair and beauty services while creating a cleaner, safer, less toxic and ultimately more enjoyable salon experience. Book in now for organic, hair and beauty treatments that won’t compromise your health.

Benny and Brooke from Heath and Hoff opened their new business The Hub on Wednesday the 19th July. The Hub is a creative shared workspace in Forster that unites its inhabitants in a single purpose - to build a vibrant community, we wish them all the best.

It’s been a little while since we had some live music at the café, and we were in for a treat when Jesse Morris and Rob De Masi came to town on Friday 14th July. On 15th July they played at the Aztec in Forster. These globe-trotting, conscious, acoustic, soul, roots and reggae troubadours are based in the Australian Northern Rivers Bundjalung region of the Byron Bay hinterland. It was a lovely night and so good to see the

place rocking again, that we have decided to go back to our monthly music nights, with the next one on 25th August. We can’t wait to bring you Hayley Grace. Make sure you head out and support some live music, with regular gigs at Flow Bar and The Aztec and other

“

I also love August, because I have finished my tourism awards submissions, I have usually managed to have a clean-up for the Council pickup and managed to collect just as much. My staff have been so wonderful; during the holidays they came in on their days off and did a cleanup for me. Now, that’s commitment!”

venues in the region.

Whilst on musicians, a very special one celebrated a very special occasion recently.

Bob and Mary Berrigan celebrated a musical party at their wedding for 95 guests in a marquee at their home in Taree on Saturday 15th July. Bob’s best man was well known local musician Larry Belton, and Mary’s matron of honour was her daughter, Christine Howell from Port Macquarie.

The service was conducted by The Reverend Colin Tett. Twenty six musicians provided non-stop music and entertainment from 2pm ‘til midnight. I would like to wish them both a fabulous future filled with music, as I am sure it will be.

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.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 25

evermore I’m So Happy That I’ve Made The Move!

Marjory Stokes has made the move to Evermore, and we were fortunate to catch up for a one on one interview with her and her son, Bill, and his wife Bronwyn, to discuss what it’s like living at Evermore. Here are just a few of the highlights from the conversation …

M

arjory, what’s been your living experience since moving to Evermore?

It’s been a very good experience, combining everything I want, and help is here if I need it.

I like joining into the planned group activities, including the craft club, light exercise classes, weekly bingo, entertainment afternoons, music and dancing, and day trips on the village buses.

It was a big step downsizing and moving to Evermore, but well worth it! The staff are always very obliging and happy to assist whenever required. I relocated from the NSW South Coast, where I was living with my daughter and wanted independence, as I didn’t want to burden my children. My son, Bill, and daughter in law Bronwyn visited several villages within the Forster region and thought it would be ideal for me to live at Evermore - it truly is, and I’m so happy that I’ve made the move!

The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, and I choose to eat lunch there every day. I have a nice group of people that I lunch with daily, and the staff know my drink and it’s waiting for me when I arrive. They are so helpful …

I live in a beautiful one bedroom apartment with a full kitchen, lounge, large senior friendly bathroom and queen size bedroom. The balcony is quite large, and I can even see some of Wallis Lake from it!

26 Manning-Great Lakes focus

My daughter whom I used to live with on came close to what Evermore offers! I am the South Coast is a GP and was amazed and a Registered Nurse working in community very impressed with Evermore’s services and care and have been for quite a while now. facilities.

Everything is just so high end here. Some other Evermore provides seniors like myself an villages you walk into have that musty smell, environment where I can live as independently where at Evermore it’s so fresh, brand new, as I wish to, but with the knowledge that if inviting, clean, and the staff are always so I require assistance then it’s there ASAP. It’s friendly and helpful. certainly been a very good decision to move As I work with assisting seniors in their own here, and I’m looking forward to many years to homes, it’s sometimes very sad to see them come! on their own, struggling Bill and Bronwyn, in their own home and what are your believe their life would thoughts on be greatly enhanced by The restaurant is open daily Evermore? relocating to Evermore, for lunch and dinner, and I What impressed as it’s so uplifting and it’s choose to eat lunch there every us, and unlike other lovely to see the residents day. I have a nice group retirement villages enjoying themselves! of people that I lunch that have little houses/ It’s very affordable to with daily, and the staff townhouses, is you live at Evermore and is know my drink and it’s either should drive to great value for money, waiting for me when I those village facilities when you calculate what arrive. They are so helpful … or it’s a long walk - at it costs to run your own Evermore everything is home compared to living a short walk to the lifts, at Evermore. We have told and the vast number of our daughter that we are facilities are centrally located onsite. The village considering moving to Evermore in a few years, is geared for seniors living, where people as we love the place! Sooner, rather than later! can mix and socialise easily and should Mum The climate in Forster has also diminished require assistance, then she only needs to push Marj’s asthma, compared with living in the her call button and someone is there to assist.

Illawarra district, and we are very fortunate Bronwyn: We looked at all the villages within that Evermore is here and not down there. the region and had a list to visit, but when Bill: Evermore is geared not to leave the we saw what Evermore offers, including its village (modern conveniences) as it has facilities, we didn’t go any further. Nothing wonderful facilities, including the library,

movie theatre, Club Lounge, hair salon, consulting rooms for podiatrists and other para professionals, fourth floor restaurant and bar, heated swimming pool, gym and coffee lounge, to name a few…

People see all these bad news stories on TV but the reality is, in the main, the new villages are just simply beautiful and provide a fantastic option for seniors to enjoy and live their lives in comfort - particularly so with Evermore Retirement Living!

It’s been a sensible move to Evermore, as Mum can retain the freedom she wants, with the knowledge that she is well cared for if it’s required.

A big thank you to Marjory, Bill and Bronwyn for their account of their real-life experience at Evermore Retirement Living. If you are thinking of following in Marjory’s footsteps with a move to a friendly, affordable luxury retirement lifestyle in Forster, now is the time to come in for a visit and see all that Evermore has to offer.

Evermore is now taking deposits for Stage 4 and there are a very limited number of one and two bedroom apartments available within Stages 1 to 3.

Winter is the best time to prepare your home for listing and selling ready for springtime.

To make an appointment to discuss and view Evermore’s stunning retirement village, please call Braden Graham, Evermore Sales and Marketing Manager on (02) 6528 0442.

focus_contributor

image of the month.

Title: Pelican over the Manning River at Harrington.

Photo by: Stephen Wright. Shot with: iPhone 7 Plus.

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see?

Just email jo@focusmag.com.au

focus_contributor

Jo Robinson.

H O R T I C U LT U R A L I S T N E V I L L E D O N O V A N - G R E E N P AT C H O R G A N I C S E E D S

Responsible for producing many of the stories/interviews for both Manning-Great Lakes and Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS, meet Jo!

WH

AT ’S IN

season Choko

Choko is a large pear shaped green/cream skinned vegetable that’s been around for a while, and I’m sure many who read this article may have grown up with it too.

Memories come up for me as a child eating choko for dinner with a meat and three veg combination! The choko was simply boiled and served plain. I can’t say I was fond of eating them that way, but it did help to feed us all. This vegetable is quite versatile and can be eaten as a sweet or savoury dish.

Bake peeled choko with pear to create a delicious dessert. The young vegetable can be cut up finely or grated for a delicate salad with the addition of a tangy dressing. Small cubes sautéed in a pan with other vegetables works well too. Add young leaves, shoots and the creamy white seed to stir-fry. It makes a fabulous choko pickle.

Choko is native to Central America, suited to warm climates. It is related to the pumpkin

and cucumber, and it has a similar habit, with the ability to climb to 10 metres. Provide a trellis or frame such as a chook shed for room to grow. The choko is a perennial, forming edible tubers in the ground similar to sweet potatoes and can be cooked and eaten the same. The large, soft green fruit is the most commonly grown, but there is also a white form. Produced on the vine, the fruit matures in autumn.

The plants enjoy a mostly sunny, warm, frost free, sheltered position. An enriched soil with ample organic matter is ideal for these heavy feeders. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot; regular watering is required during the growing season. In the cooler months the vine will die back, regrowing in spring. Once a choko develops a growing shoot during winter, it can be potted or placed direct on top of the soil in the garden during September.

Keep moist. Happy growing!

W

hat’s your current position with FOCUS? Senior editorial contributor.

Most humorous memory/experience? It wasn’t so funny at the time, but on my recent trip to The Whitsundays I slipped in sand at the top of a headland, and bounced down some stairs on my hip - complete klutz-style.

What do you like most about being involved with FOCUS? I love sharing amazing I gathered an interesting, multi-coloured collection of bruises, and it probably looked people’s achievements and stories with the hilarious to onlookers rest of the community. … But hey … I totally Despite being pictured saved the camera I was in this edition on a few holding! You’ll be able to pages (kinda comes see some of the photos I love sharing amazing with the job!) I really I took with this lucky people’s achievements don’t like being in the Canon inside this edition and stories with the limelight myself much of FOCUS. rest of the community.

- but I do enjoy shining I don’t like being in the Who/what is your the spotlight on others. limelight myself much, but I biggest inspiration? My Favourite thing about enjoy shining the spotlight on dad - Jim Muir. He was the Manning-Great others! well known in Wingham, Lakes? The beautiful having operated a TV/ hinterland. I’m a bush video repair service for and mountain girl … many years. He passed in the sense that hiking away in 2008, but he taught me the value of through bushland and walking (very slowly!) hard work, individuality, and open mindedness. up tracks to mountain summits is my thing. I Wish I’d inherited his ability to create a remote love being on top of the world. controlled garage door out of old washing Favourite food/drink? Italian and Mexican machine and bicycle parts … But sadly, the food … and accompanying red wines. I enjoy “creative inventor” gene passed me by. a bit of spice in my food! Can’t go past cheese Where are you answering these either. questions? Sigh … at my desk. I spend a lot How long have you worked with FOCUS? Over ten years now - yikes!

Favourite musician/band? I’m an ‘80s music tragic and not-so-closet dag … Favourite song 28 Manning-Great Lakes focus

of all time is The Final Countdown, by Europe.

I’ll admit to listening to Whitesnake back in the day too.

of time there! I’m currently in FOCUS’ head office in Port Macquarie.

• BREA

•

AST •

DINNE

KF

R

The Fox Den Along the main street in Gloucester, tucked away is a quiet little place called The Fox Den. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving the most amazing meals that will keep you coming back again and again.

The Fox Den is a café, wine bar and tapas bar, serving amazing Pablo & Rusty coffee and delicious meals and desserts!

Why not come and join us for morning or afternoon tea; Miss Clavel’s

What's On Gloucester AUGUST 2017

sweet treats are sure to hit the right note for that sweet tooth. So much to choose from, and so delicious!

The Fox Den also provides delicious, fresh sandwiches to grab and go; pop in now and take your lunch to work today!

Pop in and say hello; we look forward to dining with you shortly.

Like us on Facebook!

82 CHURCH STREET GLOUCESTER 6558 9701

GLOUCESTER FARMERS' MARKET Get fresh with us on the second Saturday of each month at Gloucester Farmers' Market! Discover Gloucester’s fresh food treasure and stock up on foods that will give you energy, vitality and a twinkle in your eye.

WHEN: Saturday 12 August 2017, 8am - 12pm.

WHERE: Billabong Park, Denison St, Gloucester.

INFO: Angela Hutchins call 6538 5252 or email to angela.hutchins@gloucester.nsw.gov.au

Gloucester

Gallery

Voci Stupende The virtuosos of classical song from Voci Stupende return to

A beautiful community gallery located in the historic School of Arts

the Gloucester region! This is a captivating musical journey as

building in the heart of Gloucester. Features monthly changing exhibitions

the singers present solos, duets, trios and ensemble pieces from

by artists, community groups and touring exhibitions. Entry is FREE.

some of the best loved operatic and classical repertoires.

Exhibition now on - Filaments, with fabulous metalwork sculptures by

WHEN: Saturday 26 August 2017 at Barrington Community

Michael Kolbe, delicately coloured monotype prints by Helene Leane and

Hall at 2:30pm, Sunday 27 August 2017 at St John's Anglican

hand drawn feathers in ink on paper by Donna Cavanough.

Church, Stroud at 2pm.

These three artists come together to present a quality exhibition in a variety

COST: Adult $45; senior $35, student $25; family (2A+3C)

of media.

$110; under 17 years $15. Tickets from Gloucester Health

DENISON STREET GLOUCESTER 0425 203 877

Foods, Stroud Pharmacy or at the door.

CONTACT: More details from Jane Fraser 6778 1233.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 29

LUNCH

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

W I T H P E T E R E L FA R F R O M S U N D I A L D E N TA L

WITH MONIQUE FINLAY FROM BLOSSOM ORGANIC HAIR BEAUTY WELLBEING

HappyGas, Gas, Happy Celebrate Dental Health Month with Happy Gas; Take the Fear out of your Dental Treatment. Nitrous oxide (more commonly known as “happy gas”) is a colourless, tasteless, slightly sweet smelling gas which has significant sedative and analgesic (painkilling) effects.

I

t has been used in Australia by dentists to treat anxious patients since 1847, with the technique we use today being refined back in the 1940s. Its long history of use has given the gas a proven safety record, being safe for use in patients with heart conditions, those on blood thinning medications, poor kidney function, children, and the elderly.

In the dental office, the gas is administered by appropriately trained dentists through a small “hood” which rests over the nose, leaving the mouth and eyes completely unobstructed. The gas is delivered mixed with oxygen, with the percentage being “titrated” (adjusted) to a level specific for each patient to reach their lowest effective dose. This is different to the “happy gas” used for mothers during labour (Entonox) which is delivered as a fixed dose of 50% oxygen to 50% nitrous oxide. The dosages used in the dental office are often much lower than this, sitting at around 35 - 40%. This variable dosage

allows a more comfortable and controlled level of sedation for the patient.

The optimum level of sedation is reached slowly, with the dentist monitoring the patient’s breathing and level of alertness. Patients can expect a feeling of warmth, a pleasant tingling throughout the arms and legs, feelings of heavy limbs or floating in the chair, and a general euphoria.

Being nervous or scared about attending for dental treatment is very common. Nitrous oxide sedation is available and safe for almost all patients and can be helpful in reducing or even eliminating that nervousness or fear. Be it for a simple filling, or for a complex extraction or root canal treatment, nitrous oxide is a safe, easy and affordable alternative to general anaesthetics, or being “knocked out”. Ask your dentist at Sundial Dental if they think nitrous oxide sedation could work for you, and look forward to a more relaxing and pain-free dental visit.

Organic Hair

Happy Gas,

Products

Monique Finlay from Blossom Organic Hair Beauty Wellbeing discusses the benefits of using organic hair care products.

O

rganic products of all varieties have seen a spike in popularity in recent years. There has been an emphasis in our society to take better care of our planet and ourselves. As a result, people are buying fewer products that use harmful chemicals and more that are made with all natural and Certified Organic ingredients.

Because of this, organic hair care products are now more widely available at salons and spas.

You may not realise it, but when you wash your hair you are washing chemicals down the drain. The chemicals used in your hair don’t just stay on your head; they penetrate the skin and end up in the blood stream, as well as going down the drain and into the environment. Over time, this can have a negative effect on us and the world around us. Natural based organic hair products are much better for the environment, as they are more biodegradable and won’t pollute our bodies or the environment.

Using chemicals in products can be a recipe for skin irritation and other allergic reactions, as well as possible hormone disruption. With organic products, you won’t have to worry about any of this. You can rest assured knowing that the product you put in your hair uses all natural ingredients. Unlike chemically enhanced products, organic hair products can even be a healthy choice for women during pregnancy. Of course, anyone who is pregnant should consult their doctor about which products are safest for them.

Organic products are actually good for your hair. The more you use them, the healthier your hair will be. By using organic hair products, you also eliminate the unnecessary chemical intake that can be harmful to your body. These products will lead to healthier hair and a healthier body, improving your overall health. Better for you, better for the environment.

Keep the winter cold out of your complexion with a few tips for your skincare “wardrobe”, to keep your face and body supple, hydrated and glowing in the colder season.

S Nourish your skin

this Winter

30 Manning-Great Lakes focus

et aside your harsher, oil-stripping sulphate cleansers, peels and toners to hibernate. Avoid products which include sulphates on the label - a common cleansing ingredient that can cause redness and irritation, which winter conditions can aggravate. If you find that your warmweather skincare regime is irritating your skin, opt for milder products that are free from artificial fragrance, and jam-packed with natural, soothing active ingredients like aloe-vera and green tea.

Avoid that winter “chalk face” by

exfoliating away dead skin cells that lie on the skin’s surface at least once a week. Swap grittier scrubs and masks for gentler, hydrating and calming products.

Whether it’s the cold outside or the warmth of artificial heating, the low humidity of winter air can be our skin’s worst enemy. Windburn, the friction of the wind against our delicate faces, can peel like sunburn and leave the skin red and chapped from exposure to the elements.

Parched skin often makes fine lines and wrinkles more prominent. To prevent

dryness and tightness in the face, invest in a deeply-hydrating moisturising formula to layer under sunscreen and makeup. Look for moisturisers and oilbased serums containing antioxidants to protect your skin from the harshest of elements.

Harmful UV rays can damage the skin even on days you’re left wondering where the sun is. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens with a SPF no lower than 30.

Layering this over a moisturiser high in antioxidants can help protect against free radical damage.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 31

Dundaloo Support Services.

Stephen recently moved into Shared Accommodation with Dundaloo. I asked Stephen and his family, Marianne and Keith, what they liked about Dundaloo.

“We like Dundaloo, because the people listen whole heartedly and they provide support that’s personalised and focused on Stephen,” Marianne said.

“

We like “The caring, friendly and Dundaloo, relaxed staff and management because the people know Stephen will continue are flexible and approachable listen whole at any time. We see the to receive quality care and heartedly and they direction,” said Marianne. “It staff support Stephen to provide support make his own decisions. It is important also to know that that’s personalised our son has the opportunity to is important that Stephen and focused on has the opportunity to be have control over his life. We Stephen.” a valued member of his believe Dundaloo has impeccable community,” Keith said. standards and upholds these “We know Stephen is valued basic qualities and rights of and respected at home, and we feel the staff Stephen.” respect us, his family, as well.” Keith added.

“It is important to us that Stephen has the So as Stephen is settling well into life in opportunity to live in a community that accepts his new home, from your perspective, as him for who he is, that he feels safe and his family, what is important in regards to supported to aspire to a quality life. We see Stephen’s future?

Stephen enjoying life; he is happy, he feels safe, valued and involved. All this is important to “It is really important to us we have the us,” said Keith. reassurance if something happens to us, we

32 Manning-Great Lakes focus

nursing agency

33 Manning-Great Lakes focus

34 Manning-Great Lakes focus

All About Diversity and Development with Melissa Haigh with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

August 2017

About Inclusion.

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Now is a great time to enjoy an activity that you may have been drawn to for a long time, but have not had the means to access. Write a list of all the things required to make it happen, and obtain something from that list. You will be surprised how easily things will fall into place.

Enjoy!

Citrine attracts an abundance of positivity.

If you are feeling unsupported, try to recognise what emotion will satisfy your needs, and activate it by using your breath. Draw it through every cell with each breath. Lighten up your energy by playing, pranking and laughing; you are taking things far too seriously.

Ruby shatters fear.

Enjoy your quiet before the storm. Now is a great time for fresh goal setting, as you might be feeling a bit idle. You are very gifted at manifesting; to strengthen this ability, you only need to recognise this and acknowledge yourself when you manifest something.

Turquoise is great for self esteem.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Congratulate yourself on how you have recently faced and grown through some challenging times. You are so much more powerful than you realise. You have probably outgrown some old beliefs. Try debating those beliefs by pulling them apart, and see how free you become.

Ruby shatters self doubt.

Challenges from past relationships will soon be a thing of the past. Try to find positive outcomes from the challenging times you previously faced, and be grateful for who you became as a result. Love is likely to bring newfound joy to your reality.

Clear quartz empowers us.

It is time for you to reach your potential; you only need to want this. Set some new goals, give yourself permission to receive them, and get ready. You will be experiencing some restless energy, and this can prove to be such a powerful mover and shaker if embraced and utilised.

Rose Quartz is the empowering crystal of self love.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

If relationships are proving to be a challenge, try having no expectations of each other and love unconditionally. Valuing your friendship can bring happy change and inner contentment. In times of turmoil, look inward at your beautiful qualities that you chose to incarnate with, to initiate self love.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

Avoid relying on another person to make you feel complete. This will only lead to disappointment. Instead, try honouring yourself a little more by smiling at your reflection in the mirror. This will enhance self approval, and your self esteem will grow.

Turquoise is great for self esteem.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Movement and change will settle some of your restless energy. Try working through any undigested emotions gathered over the past twelve months, and find something to satisfy your clever mind. Boredom in an active mind can be devastating for enthusiasm.

Blue Lace agate clears the mind, as well as stimulating it.

A civil engineer by trade, Terry works in the About Inclusion Day Program team and is a member of both Taree and Wingham Men’s Sheds in his own time. Terry supervises the young guys from About Inclusion and manages their paperwork and access.

Like the Men’s Sheds, Terry’s role is about so much more than supervising the young men he supports. He’s intricately involved in planning their projects, building jigs to make sure their projects work, teaching them safety procedures and how to use the tools.

He’s on a first name basis with all of the families, he knows what goes on at home, and socially he sets up a yarn between his guys and the older men at the shed.

Terry says, “The Men’s Shed is a very social place; you have the older men and they talk and joke with these younger guys. It’s all about the interaction.”

As for what they make, this varies from a dining room table to a jewellery box or a toy car. “The one thing we always learn though, is patience,” says Terry knowingly.

Don’t be hassled if you are feeling alone or experiencing loneliness. You are needing to see how independent and strong you are and how little you need from others. By reflecting on past hurts and gaining something positive from it, even if it’s understanding, you will clear past damage efficiently.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of self love.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

Be patient with yourself, as big changes are coming. Your focus recently has been on the bigger picture of your life, so setting some fresh goals and challenging some fears or phobias will elevate you towards the rewards in store for you.

Jade is great for self worth and healing.

The Men’s Shed is like a second home for thousands of Australian men and often just as important. So why should it be any different for young men with disabilities? Thanks to Terry Wright, Disability Support Worker and Shedder, it’s not.

Calm reflecting time is required at present, to bring contentment back into your cells. You have been caught up in distractions lately that have hindered your personal power. Speak words of empowerment, and honour yourself by avoiding language that represents negativity, as your thoughts need happier influences.

Citrine attracts an abundance.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 35

focus_contributor.

The awe inspiring Mel Lock from the Hollow

Sarah Gale

YIN, ZEN, KEFIR, FALAFEL

To the seasoned Yogi and health enthusiast, these words are most likely their first language; and should you fall into one of the aforementioned demographics, you may well be wondering who this rookie journo is?

M

phoebe's "yoga kit" ...

Phoebe & her delish breakfast

Mexican Fiesta ...

36 Manning-Great Lakes focus

y name is Sarah, and I’m a self-confessed untrained, undernourished, and a little-too-indulgent soul ... and until recently, these words were a foreign language to me. But for three days at the "Comboyne Hideway" I drank kefir, ate falafel and went in search of my Zen, and this is my journey "Coming Home" ...

I was more than pleased to find myself driving through the winding hills and lush greenery upwards to the Comboyne Hideaway - a modest and humble residence hidden on the Comboyne Plateau, where I was gleefully welcomed by Phoebe from Nectar Creative Therapies and her wing-woman, Laura. They showed me to my well-appointed room, with panoramic views of the entire Comboyne Valley and beyond. Literally, it took my breath away, and made for the inspired head space I needed for the next three days at the retreat.

Already nested at the end of my bed was a hand-made bag filled with carefully chosen items for my stay, including a blended essential oil from Kate at Gumboots by the Sea, bath tea bag and lavender eye bag made by Phoebe herself. To say I was already feeling Zen is an understatement.

This was a simple gesture of "giving", and I felt received and cared for - a pleasant contrast to the busy world that continued to bustle back home.

Each day began with a Yoga session to get us moving. After a long Yoga sabbatical, I was feeling way out of practice, but Phoebe’s confident and gentle manner was exactly what I needed to stretch my loins and get my stiff body moving again. I was relieved that it wasn't only me feeling tense and unoiled; this wasn't a retreat full of highly skilled yogi posers (phew!) It was a group of everyday women taking time out from their busy lives for themselves, for that ever elusive "me time".

There were no rules, or expectations of skill level, and you certainly didn't have to know your "Mudras" (the positioning of fingers for yoga and mediation, for those who - like me - was yearning to know). We came from different

generations, locations, walks of life, but we were all there sharing one common bond - and that was to experience a retreat and better something about ourselves. And that felt mighty good!

If you’re a foodie, you would’ve been in Whole-Food Nirvana. Paul and Ash from Allswell inspired us with their incredible cuisine during the retreat, boasting a flavoursome and gut friendly degustation at every meal. Each breakfast, lunch and dinner was an absolute feast, with generous options of vibrant green smoothies, house-made organic sourdough, coconut yogurt, and belly warming porridge with every trimming you could possibly imagine.

The food was a mass of vibrant colour and texture, and we were visibly excited to sit down at every single meal. Not only were we treated with their soul food, we also partook in a cooking class, creating a Mexican feast that would impress the fussiest amigos. Our meals and breaks were accompanied by warm cups of organic herbal tea by The Hollow, delicious chai and coffee. We felt at home and it was a delight.

I left the retreat feeling a little overwhelmed and a little apprehensive of returning to the "real world", even after only three days. I felt like I was healed, or repaired, though I didn't realise how busy and broken I had felt arriving.

Nectar Creative Therapies and Allswell have announced their next retreat, which will be taking place in Crowdy Bay 12th - 15th October 2017. So far in the pipeline, Phoebe has planned a herbal tea making workshop with Mel from the Hollow, "Find Your Light" meditation with Kate from Gumboots by the Sea, Lydia from Internal Instinct will be running a sourdough bread making workshop, Phoebe will be running your daily yoga sessions, along with a yoga/dance fusion class. There'll be a Stand Up Paddleboard yoga class and paddle, wildflower walk at Diamond Head, beach picnic, massages, and an intention setting writing class.

Phoebe says she has so much she wants to offer, so follow her on Facebook for updates and announcements over the next couple of months. wwww.fb.com/nectarcreativetherapies Namaste x

Taking in the panaromic view...

Here’s a breakdown of how the retreat went THURSDAY

SATURDAY

2pm: Arrival; I was greeted by the delightful Laura, Phoebe’s right-hand girl through the retreat.

3pm: Flow yoga class - a sequence of flowing postures, connected by breath.

4pm: Welcome circle and meditation - guided

by Kate from Gumboots by the Sea. 6pm: Dinner - hommus vegetable pie encased in chickpea flour pastry w/ kale salad and vegan cashew pesto.

7pm: Free time - this time was spent getting to know the rest of the retreaters - on your own with a book - or whatever you felt compelled to do.

7am: Flow yoga class - a sequence of flowing postures, connected by breath.

8:30: Breakfast - breakfast buffets, including locally made sourdough, Allswell orange cinnamon vanilla muesli, coconut yogurt, avo smash, miso mud (a different take on Vegemite ... tahini and dark miso), Allswell green dream smoothies.

9:30: Day trip to the majestic Rawson Falls, with six different types of lush rainforest to discover. I was in awe of its beauty… (Note: enjoy the way down; it's coming back that will give your legs a real workout!)

12pm Lunch: at the Rawson Falls picnic area, sweet sesame broccoli + edamame quinoa salad with roasted baby beetroot.

2pm: Afternoon tea - raw tahini and passion fruit slice (paleo), organic tea from the Hollow Store.

3:00: Free time.

5:00: Creative dance workshop - well, this was fun, with painted faces and in our brightest attire we frolicked around and learnt some new dance moves from Phoebe and the other retreaters. It was a blast to watch each participant let go and express themselves.

6:00: Dinner - tonight's dinner was a special one. I teamed up in the kitchen with Paul and Ash; we delivered Indian chickpea curry with Lebanese rice (a much cherished family recipe of Ash) cucumber raita and my delicious yogurt flatbread topped with nigella seeds.

7:00: Meditation with Phoebe.

8:00: Free time.

FRIDAY 7am: Flow yoga class - a sequence of flowing postures, connected by breath.

8:30: breakfast buffets, including locally made sourdough, Allswell orange cinnamon vanilla muesli, coconut yogurt, avo smash, miso mud (a different take on Vegemite ... tahini and dark miso), Allswell green dream smoothies.

9:30: Health-talk with Naturopathic powerhouse Melanie Lock from The Hollow Store, who educated us on health, cutting the BS and living a balanced life whilst creating food rituals to honour your digestive system, allowing your body to heal.

11:00: Brunch - raw tahini and passion fruit slice (paleo), organic tea from the Hollow Store 11:30: Free time.

1pm: Lunch - handmade pumpkin falafels, sweet potato chips, locally made kimchi (bottled culture) apple fennel slaw, green tahini, ajvar paste ( roasted eggplant + capsicum).

2:00: Creative writing workshop.

3:30: Afternoon tea - yummy banana coconut yogurt muffins topped with nut butter, organic tea from the Hollow Store.

4:00: Free time.

5:00: Cooking class - Mexican Fiesta.

6:30: Dinner - roasted pumpkin wedge topped with Mexican spiced black beans, pico de gallo, charred corn salsa, pickled onions, crumbled Marrook farm feta, guacamole and cashew cheese.

8:00: Yin yoga - a series of passive poses, held for 3 - 5 minutes each, in order to access deep layers of fascia and guided meditation.

9:00: Free time.

SUNDAY 7am: Flow yoga class with partner work.

8:30: Breakfast buffets, including locally made sourdough, Allswell orange cinnamon vanilla muesli, coconut yogurt, avo smash, miso mud (a different take on Vegemite ... tahini and dark miso), Allswell green dream smoothies.

9:30: Check out.

The Girls!

Nourishing Breakfast Bowl ...

Paul & Ash from Allswell

Manning-Great Lakes focus 37

Manning-Great Lakes

38

manning-great lakes focus.

Damian C L E M E N T S

F O R S T E R

B O W L I N G

How has 2017 been for you, thus far?

Exciting times, as the club has recently purchased the Forster Palms Motel, which has 36 rooms. We have had to do a lot of work and renovations to bring the motel up to standard.

It has also been great for the club, as we have been able to offer great packages which include the club, the entertainment centre and the motel.

What drives you to be successful in business? Before I implement any new ideas, I do a lot of research, which includes online investigation, and talk to a number of my stakeholders to ascertain whether the idea is viable.

I spend a lot of time in industry training/ conferences to keep abreast of current legislation. I hold a Bachelor of Business, Dip HR, corporate governance and an ACCM, and I’m also a JP.

C L U B

G R O U P

I feel it is important to keep up my skills and education.

to encompass families, bowls organisations, corporate travellers and senior tours.

local netball club and tennis club, as well

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? As a club we offer accommodation, and entertainment centre which consists of ten pin bowling, laser skirmish and a nine hole putt putt dinosaur themed course.

The senior tours highlight our local district and bring a lot more tourists into the area.

regatta each year.

participating in the Great Lakes Pearl Dragons The club also helps funding with the

The club has been successful in introducing birthday parties, corporate functions and charity fundraisers at the entertainment centre, which includes tenpin, laser, putt It has also been great for The club has both putt and a light meal and the club, as we have been buffet style dining, as is looking to promote these able to offer great packages well as a coffee shop, further. which include the club, the which offers light meals Does your business entertainment centre and including schooner of participate in local the motel. beer/soft drink, chips community activities/ and burger for $10. initiatives? The club The club also owns and participates in the Club rents eight units to long term residents.

Grants and donates over $22,000 annually to local charities.

Tell us how your business is being/plans

Women’s Shelter, the local surf club and

to be innovative in 2017? The club is looking at expanding our range of packages

those who are interested to attend our free

We are the major sponsors of the Viking Junior Football Club, we also sponsor the

Ronald McDonald House, along with other smaller local charities.

Where do you see your business in five years? I feel very strongly about the club diversifying its interests and not relying as heavily on gaming revenue.

Promoting the game of bowls, which is the core of the club and the reason it exists.

Encouraging juniors to participate in the game of bowls by sponsoring junior members.

We also believe that we have the best coaching team in NSW and would encourage coaching sessions held Wednesday and Friday.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 39

The Team

// M A C K I E S E L E C T R I C A L

MARK HARDY What drives you to be successful in business? We are driven by building success within our great team, brought about by personal and professional development.

Encouraging our staff to put those skills to use in the most effective way, and to extend those learnt skills to others around them, including colleagues, family and community for their benefit also. Sometimes the best way to understand something is to teach it to someone else. As Albert Einstein once said; “If you can’t explain it to a six year old, you don’t understand it yourself.”

ADAM HOLT Where will you be in five years? I see myself putting my skills to good use and helping advance the business’ goals.

I believe that collaboration and mutual support are especially important in our

40 Manning-Great Lakes focus

business, so I look forward to using my time-management, organisational skills and product knowledge to provide solid support to our team as and when required.

MARK DREYER What do you do to keep yourself motivated? Researching new products in the industry and then having the opportunity to install them keeps me motivated.

Battery technology is the hot topic at the moment, and integrating them into new and existing systems to increase the customers’ self-consumption of solar power and reduce their reliance on the grid is what most people want to talk about.

The solar industry is one of the fastest evolving industries, and keeping up with new products, researching their operation and then becoming accredited/certified to install them is a very satisfying role.

Andrew Johnson

//

PROFESSIONALS FORSTER TUNCURRY

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? In a word,” Amazing”. A career change into real estate with Forster’s market leading Professionals team was an opportunity I couldn’t resist and fulfils a long ambition to work as a sales executive in an industry that has always fascinated me. I couldn’t be more excited.

What drives you to be successful in business?

Understanding the needs of clients, helping vendors achieve the best possible result, helping buyers move into the next stage of their lives, whether it be moving into a bigger property for their growing family or downsizing into something more manageable now the kids have moved on.

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? Clearly customer service, Professionals Forster Tuncurry is the market leader, an achievement that doesn’t happen by chance.

The team at Professionals really does go beyond all expectations, which sits nicely with my own personal values.

Tell us how your business is being/plans to be innovative in 2017? I am essentially a business within a business and am encouraged to plan and operate that way. Having grown our own client list with Forster Gas to well over 3,000 shows the dedication and commitment to customer service I am accustomed to providing. I plan to bring the same dedication to my new career, with attention to detail and a focus on the little things that make a difference.

Does your business participate in local community activities/initiatives? Yes, quite a lot. We believe in giving back and are involved in a wide range of community and charity events, including netball, soccer, surf lifesaving, local schools, the “I love Forster Tuncurry” Facebook page and our corporate involvement with the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Something we are all very proud of, knowing we make a difference in the community that supports us.

Mario Tomlin M I D C O A S T

A U T O M O T I V E

G R O U P

The MidCoast Automotive Group is an integrated car dealership representing Ford, Kia, Isuzu and Nissan.

It sells and services both new and used cars from their exciting and popular location, the Big Oyster, 100 Manning River Drive, Taree.

The business is family owned and operated by Mario Tomlin, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the automotive industry and took over the existing business in November 2015.

Mario has been involved in the automotive industry since leaving school at age 18. Before Taree, he owned numerous dealerships in Newcastle and Cessnock and was a specialist consultant to automotive businesses.

Mario is always learning, solving problems, looking for efficiencies and encouraging others to do the same.

At MidCoast Auto, customer satisfaction is one area where they show the greatest level of improvement. 92% of their customers are completely satisfied with their purchase and buying experience, and would recommend MidCoast Auto to others. “Cars are my passion, my life, and I get great satisfaction from the business!”

Midcoast Auto 6592 6300 www.midcoastford.com.au 100 Manning River Dr, Taree

I believe it’s important if you want to be successful in business to invest approx. 10 - 20% of income back into things like marketing, advertising and sponsorship throughout the local community and operating quality and reliable tools and equipment.

Aaron Temple

// C O A S T A L S L A S H I N G & M O W I N G S E R V I C E S

Benny Heath

// C R E A T I V E P A R T N E R

What drives you to be successful in business?

By receiving positive customer feedback, including client testimonials and five star reviews praising my professional, efficient and quality standard of work.

if you want to be successful in business to invest approx. 10 - 20% of income back into things like marketing, advertising and sponsorship throughout the local community and operating quality and reliable tools and equipment.

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? It’s been a very busy year for us, but we’ve loved every minute.

be innovative in 2017? Our co-working space, The Hub, takes an innovative approach to office space.

Our biggest achievement has been creating Forster’s first co-working space - The Hub.

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? I think what makes my business unique is the fact that I can accommodate a high percentage of my customers’ needs. So, the one company can take care of everything, whether slashing a 500 acre property or mowing a small courtyard.

What do you do to keep yourself motivated?

My motivation is positive feedback and return business. I get inspired when I turn a property from being neglected into something where people say, “WOW! What a difference!” For example, if you are looking at listing your property for sale, for a relatively small outlay on your most important asset, to have it presented at its best, you can make a significant increase to your bottom line.

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? We specialise in branding, marketing, advertising and web design, and we’ve worked with some of the world’s largest brands and some of Australia’s most iconic; but what we value most is bringing our unique level of thinking and creativity to smaller businesses, where we feel we can really make a difference.

It gives small businesses the opportunity to get out of their home offices and into a creative, energetic and motivating environment.

I also pride myself on always getting back to people within a short turnaround and treat communication as an absolute priority within my business.

I never like turning business away, so I try to accommodate anyone seeking my services and always return calls as promptly as possible.

Tell us how your business is being or plans to be innovative in 2017? I believe it’s important

Where will you be in five years? Hopefully still working and keeping my loyal customers smiling.

Where do you see your business in five years?

I’d like to see my business at the stage where the majority of enquiries are from referrals from my loyal and satisfied customers.

What drives you to be successful in business? We strive to create meaningful, well thought out and well-crafted work that we care about; ultimately it’s this that drives the success of our own business.

Tell us how your business is being/plans to

What do you do to keep yourself motivated? I’m constantly motivated by new technologies and innovative ideas.

Podcasts like TED Radio Hour provide a constant source of inspiration.

Where will you be in five years? I’ll be right here in Forster; I can’t imagine wanting to live anywhere else.

Where do you see your business in five years? We see our business growing over the next five years, and it would be awesome to build a client base that extends across the MidCoast region.

Calling all

doers makers thinkers & shakers Forster’s 1st co-working space is here.

Find out about booking a desk or meeting room at:

W W W.HEATHANDHOFF.COM/THEHUB The Hub, Shop 1 Sundek Plaza, 15 Wallis Street Forster.

42 Manning-Great Lakes focus

It would be great if pet health had a “Medicare” system of its own, so material resources weren’t a factor when making health decisions about our pets,, but unfortunately that’s not the case.

Rob McMahon

// S W E E T P E A

John Stevens

// K I N E T I C M E D I C I N E

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? 2017 has been another very busy year, maximising our resources and testing the endurance of us all in keeping up with the workload.

working with our clients (the people) to accomplish this. We all have factors that affect how we live and the resources available to us to help look after our families, and our pets.

How has 2017 been for you, thus far?

Massive! We’re now helping more than double the number of people on a week by week basis than we were at this time last year.

What drives you to be successful in business?

Healthy, happy, patients! And owners! For me, the success of the business is the consequence of putting everything I have into doing what I love. So, I guess the drive is the demand or need for what we do. My desire is to use the skills and resources I have, to the best of my ability, to look after the animals of our area, and to work alongside their human families to do this. I am fortunate to share this desire with my partner, Sam, and all the talented and motivated people working with us at Sweet Pea.

At Sweet Pea Animal Hospital, we all take great pride in working with people and the resources they have available, to look after their pets in the best way possible.

What drives you to be successful in business? If the last answer didn’t give it away, our sole mission as an organisation and for me personally is to make a difference in the lives of as many people as possible.

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? Everyone at Sweet Pea - the vets, nurses, trainees and volunteers - are dedicated to and focused on the positive welfare of our patients (the animals). This, of course, includes

This involves not only the commitment our team have to the primary care of the animals, but their commitment to educating pet owners about the health of their pets - making them aware of the options that are available and how to make the most of the resources they have.

Tell us how your business is being innovative in 2017? The Great Lakes community has been incredibly supportive of what Sweet Pea Animal Hospital does and stands for, so at present our plans revolve around keeping up with the needs of a continually growing practice. At times, it feels like this requires something more than innovation!

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? In many of our locations, we’re the first ones to be delivering the services that we offer. On top of that, to my knowledge we’re the only health service providers who guarantee what they do with a 100% money back guarantee - that’s how determined we are that what we do works and more importantly, how committed we are to ensuring our clients receive the care they’re after.

Tell us how your business is being innovative in 2017? We’re using technology from

other industries to help facilitate our operations. Most of our team spend a fair amount of time working remotely in some capacity, so we can stay tight knit without always being face to face. On top of that, we spend a ridiculous amount of time in continual professional development, so we can constantly be reinventing our services.

Does your business participate in local community activities/initiatives? Absolutely!

Because we deliver health services, we’re always tied up in grassroots community initiatives to make people’s lives better. We’ve got Veterans Health week coming up in October, which we’re keenly planning for.

Where do you see your business in five years? Kinetic Medicine is set for some massive things in the next five years, as we look to have stand alone venues offering services five days a week across the major centres of our MidCoast region.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 43

John, Karen and Lauren Hoswell (JKL Real Estate Forster/ Tuncurry) are proud to showcase Daniel Schubert and Alex Jacobs as our “Men in Business”. Daniel is a local, born and raised in Forster, and has had a successful career in the corporate world. Alex relocated to Forster two years ago from the Gold Coast with his wife, who is also a local, having built a successful career in sales in Queensland. Both men are invaluable assets to our business, and we encourage you to pop into our office to meet them.

Dan Schubert

// S A L E S M A N A G E R , J K L R E A L E S TAT E F O R S T E R / T U N C U R R Y

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? After 11.5 years in the corporate mining sector then making the move to become a part of the JKL family, I could not have asked for a better first half of 2017. Learning, change and personal development are all things that I really enjoy, and lucky for me, I have been able to experience a significant amount of all three so far. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings.

What drives you to be successful in business?

Setting myself goals both personally and in business, then achieving them.

How to do you measure your business goals? I review and make notes on my goals every day. In a fast-paced world, you cannot simply set and forget your goals.

Tell us how your business is being/plans to be innovative in 2017? Let’s just say, good things come to those who wait …

Does your business participate in local

44 Manning-Great Lakes focus

community activities/initiatives? We sure do. We have done two events this year, The Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea and the Forster Keys Family Fun Day. We plan to get involved with a few more throughout the rest of the year, and we are always open to hear from anyone looking for a hand at a fundraiser or local event.

What do you do to keep yourself motivated?

Networking with other motivated business people, especially those who have already achieved similar goals to what I have set for our business.

Where will you be in five years? Living comfortably, married, and hopefully with one or two children running around. It’s all about planning and timing now, though.

Where do you see your business in five years?

We have some big growth plans for our little family owned business over the next few years. I am hoping that the JKL brand becomes a household name in more places than just our quiet coastal town.

Alex Jacobs

// SALES CONSULTANT, JKL RE AL ESTATE FORSTER / TUNCURRY

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? Busy!

The start to the year from the summer to Easter was manic, but excellent in terms of sales. It has been very steady over winter, but already feels like it is heating up again for a big spring.

coming into the business, bringing new ideas and ways to do things. Some new systems and analytics, which will make things more efficient - I don’t think I can really give too much else away though.

What drives you to be successful in business? I think in business, and in a sales position in particular, if you aren’t driven to be successful, it’s time to do something else. I try to put myself in my vendors’ shoes and ask what they would want from an agent.

What do you do to keep yourself motivated? Motivation isn’t really an issue for me; I struggle to sit still. I also exercise a few mornings a week and still try to surf when I can. I find this clears the head and gives me lots of energy.

How to do you measure your business goals? I keep it very specific and realistic. I basically set myself certain numbers for phone calls, appraisals etc. and I know that if I achieve those numbers and give a high level of service, that the success will come.

Where will you be in five years? In beautiful Forster with my wife and expanding family. We have a two year old, with another on the way!

Tell us how your business is being/plans to be innovative in 2017? We have some exciting stuff in the pipeline, with new people

Where do you see your business in five years? We have new people coming into the business with great ideas and new energy; this, combined with the experience of our existing team, is going to make for exciting times ahead.

Now horse racing in TuncurryForster is bringing one million dollars into the town per year, the racecourse is helping the town’s economy go forward, with great race day TV exposure all over NSW, Australia and fifty country countries around the world. That is very special.

Garry McQuillan

//

TUNCURRY FORSTER JOCKEY CLUB

What drives you to be successful in business?

Failure has always scared me; I always shoot for the highest star. I have always applied the same rules to myself in everything I do - “Nothing for nothing”. Whatever you want in life, you must work hard for; don’t expect it to be handed to you on a plate.

What makes your business special for its customers?

Horse racing is one of the most exciting and social events that everyone can be involved in. Now horse racing in Tuncurry-Forster is bring one million dollars into the town per year, the racecourse is helping the town’s economy go forward, with great race day TV exposure all over NSW, Australia and fifty country countries around the world. That is very special.

What do you to keep yourself motivated? I have always been self-motivated. Eleven years ago Racing NSW gave the racecourse six months to

gain community support, or the track - which was then only registered as a training track - would be closed. The racecourse is run by volunteers; only the curator is paid (he does a marvellous job). Approximately 35 volunteers run the race meetings, every day maintenance at the track, as well the administration. To see the effort all of these terrific people put in is enough to keep my motivation up.

Where do you see your business in five years?

Eighteen months ago, Racing NSW invested one million dollars into the Tuncurry-Forster track infrastructure, bringing the track up to a standard where now Sky One racing can be held. In the next five years, the committee has set out a program to complete the last necessary infrastructure for patrons’ comfort - a track maintenance program, which will further improve the racecourse to the highest level of racing. This whole project has been very pleasing, considering all the knockers who said, “Racing will never eventuate at the Tuncurry-Forster track”.

Steve Attkins

//

LJ HOOKER FORSTER/TUNCURRY

How has 2017 been so far? The year has been “full on”, with the taking on my new business venture at L J Hooker Forster Tuncurry.

A great team of people to work with and the very robust market has kept us all very, very busy. There is huge interest in our beautiful part of the world in terms of visitors.

Tell us how your business plans to innovate in 2017. The business world has changed dramatically in the last five years, given the value of the internet and its impact.

It is not limited to one sector of business - it impacts all sectors - tourism, real estate, agriculture, development, and the building industry - particularly any service orientated industries. Being up to date with the available platforms and internet “tools” is imperative to business owners.

What does it mean to be a business owner to you? Being an owner of a business is very

much about working and nurturing people staff, clients or customers. The role is difficult and not easy, as the activity of business is always challenging. Many business owners are time poor, stretched for resources, challenged by legislative requirements and the never ending challenge of setting out the strategy for the future. Many people may not realise that over 7 million Australians are employed in small businesses (Aus Gov Treasury Dept 2011).

What is a key driver of success in small business? If there was one element to small business that “makes or breaks” a business and particularly a small business, it would be customer service. You have to be the “best” you can be in whatever endeavour or sector you choose. Although not easy, it is deeply satisfying to be an owner of a business growing and nurturing people within your organisation.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 45

Thomas D U T T O N A C T I V E

O O S H

Still as enthusiastic about working with children as he was when he first graduated as a teacher 10 years ago, Thomas Dutton saw a need for quality Outside of School Hours (OOSH) and Vacation Care in our area.

Since identifying this need, Tom has now gone on to form Active OOSH, with centres now located in Forster, Taree, Pacific Palms, Old Bar and Lake Cathie. Tom explains how Active OOSH has been recognised by its industry peers in recent times …

i Tom. What brought you to the ManningGreat Lakes area to live/work initially - and how long have you been associated with the area for now? My wife, Bec, and I have been living and working in the Manning-Great Lakes for over 10 years now. We travelled here together after completing degrees in health and education at Newcastle University. We now have two “true” locals who were born here, Oliver (4) and Bridie (2).

What’s your study/education background in teaching/children’s services? My interest in working with children started in high school, when I coached tennis squads after school and in the holidays. After high school I went on to study a Bachelor of Early Childhood and Teaching.

While I was studying, I worked as an educator at an OOSH service in Adamstown, as well as continuing to coach tennis. After graduating in 2007, I worked as a casual teacher in schools at Taree and Forster. I gained a full-time teaching position at Forster Public School in 2010, teaching kindergarten.

When/why did you decide to concentrate your efforts on providing OOSH (Outside of School Hours) childcare services locally?

After my first year of teaching in Taree, I had noticed a lack of quality care options for primary school aged children - particularly during school holidays. In the January school holidays of 2008, I established Manning Valley Vacation Care. The service was an instant success, and after a couple of holidays was providing care for over 100 children per day.

After the success in Taree, we opened full-time 46 Manning-Great Lakes focus

OOSH services in Newcastle, Forster, Pacific Palms and Taree.

What OOSH services are you currently involved with? Where and when do they operate? We currently have five services under the Active OOSH banner at Forster, Taree, Pacific Palms, Old Bar and Lake Cathie. All the services operate before school care, after school care and vacation care from 6am or 6:30am, ‘til 6:30pm.

lessons. We offer homework help and tutoring programs at our services, which busy parents really appreciate. We offer experiences during vacation care such as trips to Newcastle, as well as local attractions. Our active, energetic team sets us apart from a lot of other services.

You’ve received some prestigious acknowledgement and awards for your OOSH services. Please tell us a little about this, and what it means to you to have What ages do your been the recipient services cater for? of these honours.

Our services provide We have a large number of It’s been a big year of care (and a heap of fun) highly qualified educators on recognition for our for children enrolled in our team with bachelor degrees, services. In January we primary school. During diplomas and certificates in were honoured with the Christmas vacation childcare. All of our educators a visit to our Forster we provide care for attend regular training and go service by Tracy Mackey, children who are starting through a thorough induction the Executive Director school that year as well. process. They all share a passion of Early Childhood What do you feel for educating and entertaining Education NSW. She sets your childcare children. had heard of our services apart from highly qualified staffing others? Our educators arrangements and and our approach to unique relationships with the schools and their programming has been key to our success. staff.

After visiting the service, we were invited We have a large number of highly qualified to speak at a series of forums in Sydney on educators on our team with bachelor degrees, improving the quality of outside school hours diplomas and certificates in childcare. All of care. our educators attend regular training and go through a thorough induction process. They all share a passion for educating and entertaining children.

We are mindful of how busy parents are these days and try to assist them in any way we can. We have pioneered programs such as after school bus services, that take children to after school sports training and activities.

We also offer learn to swim classes and tennis

In April we received an award at the Network (the peak representative body for OOSH) OSHCARS awards. These awards happen every two years, and we were one of only four recipients on the night. Our award is for innovation in transition to school.

We worked closely with Forster Public School last year to design and implement a program to assist children in the transition from preschool

to kindergarten. The program was developed in partnership with the Principal, Rick Clissold, and Early Stage One Leader, Tianne Gosling.

The program was designed to help children and parents feel comfortable in transitioning to school over the December/January school holidays. The program was a huge success and achieved some great outcomes for the kindergarten children. Children who attended the program were much more confident and happy on the first day of school.

What inspires/motivates you to keep working within the childcare industry?

A passion and love for the industry. When you get to work with children, their energy and enthusiasm rub off on you. There is no better feeling then having a positive impact on a child’s life. It’s the “watch me do this” moments when a child is proud of learning something new. It’s the card that a child makes for you when they are still learning to write.

It’s the relationships we build with children and families over the years.

In a world where large multinational companies treat childcare as a purely money making entity, it’s nice that we are able to offer something that has the children’s and families’ best interests at its core.

It’s also easy to stay motivated with a very talented and innovative team, with special mention to Troy Murphy, Mardi Gosling, Brittanie Gutherson and Sigourney O’neil, who are part of our leadership team.

Where can we find out more information about the services/facilities you offer?

You can find more information on our website www.activeoosh.com.au or find our services on Facebook.

Thanks Tom.

Joshua Rogers

// C O M M U N I T Y W E L L B E I N G M A N A G E R

How has 2017 been for you, thus far?

Both busy and rewarding. With the Federal Government’s aged care reforms continuing to rollout, particularly in the deregulation many services, we have had to continually evolve and improve our programs.

Steve Panos

// F I N A N C E & A D M I N I S T R AT I O N M A N A G E R

groups is a great motivator.

What makes your business special or

Where will you be in five years?

unique for its customers? We are a very

Having been with the MSS for almost seven years, I have seen it constantly grow and improve while delivering great outcomes. This really does give a high level of While it has certainly job satisfaction, so hopeThe knowledge that the been a challenge, the fully in five years I’ll still be descisions and work put benefit to MSS and our here in some capacity. into MSS has a direct impact clients has been very Where do you see your on our employees, customers positive. business in five years? and community as a whole.

What drives you to be Still offering the same, successful in business? and more, great services The knowledge that the to the community, but descisions and work put into MSS has a larger from an employee and customer perdirect impact on our employees, customers spective. If we keep the same great culture and community as a whole. and values that we have developed, I have Seeing great outcomes across all of these no doubt this is where we will be.

diversified charity operating within the Manning-Great Lakes and Hastings shires.

We offer a range of services for the community, such as high quality meals, home modification and maintenance, group outings, family support etc.

Finance and Administrative perspective, our goals will be to: streamline internal transactions, improve software, share knowledge and continually improve staff skills.

Does your business participate in local community activities/ initiatives? Absolutely.

We have strong ties with the local Indigenous communities (Biripi and Worimi) and have been co-existing with other like organisations for approximately 30 years.

We offer a range of services for the community, such as high quality meals, home modification and maintenance, group outings, family support etc.

Our total operation is unique, in that there is only one other organisation nationally that is comparable.

Tell us how your business is being/ plans to be innovative in 2017? From a

We actively participate in ongoing local area meetings and are a strong voice (if required) towards government bodies.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 47

Alan Tickle

// Y O U R H E R I T A G E

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? New business tends to be steady throughout the year. Retirees are finding low interest rates and Centrelink asset test changes challenging, so they are seeking advice on a range of issues, including estate planning and age care strategy.

Alex Cosway C O M M A N D E R

C E N T R E

M N C

Able to build quality NBN communications systems for your business, Alex Cosway is the owner of Commander Centre MNC. Alex offers ways to streamline your business’ communication capabilities - often

H

prviding cost savings in the process ...

ow has 2017 been for you, thus far? 2017 has been a crazy year!

I’m saying this having seen a 200% growth in our business with the continued rollout of NBN areas on the MidNorth Coast.

Most recently, the geographic areas now connected to NBN include Wauchope, Laurieton, Kempsey, and very soon Port Macquarie.

To support our continued growth, we have recently expanded our Commander MNC team by two … stay tuned for future FOCUS features, to learn more about them!

What drives you to be successful in business? Firstly, I am passionate about saving businesses $$ using the latest NBN technology. Over the past three years of migrating businesses to the NBN, the savings our clients have seen are enormous. For some businesses, it has enabled them to remain viable and even expand into new markets.

Secondly, seeing my team develop new skills and take on challenges inspires me to succeed. Their enthusiasm and dedication to not only our business but to their personal life drives me to ensure the business is successful.

When it comes to creating new ideas or innovation, what inspires you? For me, inspiration comes from fellow successful businesses and leaders. Attitudes are contagious, so surrounding yourself with successful people with bold ideas that conquer risks is a great start. As a young business owner, I’m always looking out for successful mentors who share their intrinsic innovative and inspiring aspirations.

What makes your business special or

48 Manning-Great Lakes focus

unique for its customers? We are unique, in that we are the only specialist NBN communications company on the Mid North Coast. As a true NBN carrier, Commander offers next generation NBN internet and voice services that our competitors don’t.

Would I classify us as being unique?

Absolutely! Our NBN phone systems connect directly to the NBN carrier servers, providing the latest features and best savings on lines and calls. Our pricing is industry leading, with NBN phone lines starting at $25, which includes local and STD calls.

What we do very well is integrate multilocational business and organisations.

By using the latest NBN technology, we maximise employee and office resources by connecting all users, lines, phones into a single communications system for a seamless operation.

Does your business participate in local community organisations/activities/ initiatives? Yes, we participate in business activities and networking groups such as local Business Chambers, Business Network International (BNI) as two examples. We also engage and speak about NBN through community organisations such as Rotary and Probus International. We believe that giving back to the community through business leadership roles, mentoring, and community engagement is a important for us and should be a goal for every business.

Where do you see your business in five years? I see the Commander Centre MNC being the largest and most prominent communication provider on the Mid North Coast, with strong brand recognition and a solid reputation for building quality NBN communication solutions.

What drives you to be successful in business?

Living up to our mission statement, that “client best interest is central to all endeavours”, drives success.

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? I have specialised in financial planning for nearly 30 years, with my staff working with me for almost that length of time. That level of experience and a bunch of national awards for excellence is somewhat unique. We are there for the long haul, and we help people through life challenges.

Tell us how your business is being/plans to be innovative in 2017? A separate service is being established around completion of pension claims,

age care financial assessment and funding advice.

We have gained accreditation to offer that specialist advice service.

How does your business participate in local community activities/initiatives? My staff and I are active in many community organisations. An Age Care Expo is being facilitated by us in Taree on October 28th.

What do you do to keep yourself motivated?

You get pleasure from helping people and making a difference.

Where will you be in five years? I enjoy what I do, so unlikely to be retired.

Where do you see your business in five years?

My son, Jonathon, will have an increasing advice role, as we cement ourselves as offering intergenerational advice that covers all key aspects of financial and insurance needs. I think that technology innovations will enable us interact more readily with younger generations, who seek advice solutions.

Craig Mason // E A S T C O A S T P H O T O G R A P H Y

What makes your business special or unique for its customers? One on one business/working relationship with my customers; no second shooters etc. Nor am I a believer of photographic trends - already the hipster/seventies look is fading, and people are realising that very quickly their images are looking dated. Rather, sticking to a tried and true style throughout my career has maintained East Coast Photography’s position in the Manning-Great Lakes regions.

Tell us how your business is being/plans to be innovative in 2017? Through technology. Currently photography is seeing a massive revolution, which in turn, is driving manufacturers to maintain their market place by way of technology. This in turn leads to innovative products/ideas and finally photographic shoots, that were once considered impossible, are now possible by way of this technology.

What do you do to keep yourself motivated? A good balance of work and life keeps the motivation healthy.

A following of the right leaders in my field and quality discussion amougst peers - keeps the mind active and

Billy & Justin Hughes. // H U N T E R S P E C I A L V E H I C L E S

Tell us how your business is expanding in 2017? We are opening a new showroom in Forster Tuncurry. You may have seen that our construction is nearly completed, which is very exciting.

The new showroom will showcase an array of 4x4 parts and accessories, of which IRONMAN will be the focus.

We will offer the ability to fit your new products in house in a modern workshop. From bullbars to towbars, from roof racks to suspension, a fit out can be tailored to suit your specific needs - all under the one roof.

How to do you measure your business goals? By our growth.

We have been supplying quality ex-government 4x4s and commercial vehicles for the past 23 years from our Gloucester showroom and have seen consistent success over the years, hence the expansion into Tuncurry.

What drives you to be successful in business? Our country dealership is family owned and operated. Myself and my son, Billy, bring to the business a combined 32 years of experience in the automotive industry being qualified mechanics so we can offer a personalised and professional service every time while continuing to offer a selection of quality 4x4 commercials and utes.

motivation strong.

How has 2017 been for you, thus far? In one word BUSY. I’ve experienced a very busy year to date, with work not slowing up at all over the winter (yes, apparently it’s winter) period. Whilst portraiture is down on previous years,

From bullbars to towbars, from roof racks to suspension, a fit out can be tailored to suit your specific needs - all under the one roof.

other sides of my business are booming.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 49

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jeremy Thornton of Insurance Advisernet

BUSINESS MINDS

Darrin

Cornall B E A C H

I

B U M S

Picture an iconic location within our iconic location. Forster Main Beach would be in your Top Five, right?

And an iconic location at Forster Main Beach must be Beach Bums. This café is in arguably the most prime piece of real estate and takes advantage of year-long sun, easy parking and access for walkers.

f you are a parent sitting at Beach Bums having a coffee, watching the kids doing Sand Angels is the perfect half hour of peace and quiet, no matter the time of year.

Darrin Cornall is the man driving Beach Bums, a local business that has had a busy couple of months with renovations and is now looking a treat. I sat down with Darrin overlooking paradise, sipping a coffee.

Darrin, tell us about your upbringing …

You’re a Gloucester boy, I believe?

Yes, I was raised on a dairy/beef property about 35 minutes west of Forster. My primary school education was a little unique, as my school only had 10 children in total. When it came time to go to high school, the only bus went to Gloucester, which meant an hour and 40 minutes travel each way, five days a week. I started my apprenticeship as a pastry chef at Forster the day I finished school and transferred to Gloucester to complete the final two years of my trade.

So, after finishing the trade in Gloucester, what did you do? Was it time to move away for experience? If so, what did you learn from this?

No, not straight away. In my early twenties I actually moved to the Gold Coast, where I ran a business for about four years. I then moved to Sydney, where I met my wife, Kate, who had just arrived on a backpacking holiday from the UK. After two years working our way around Australia, it was time for Kate to return home, so I packed my bags and headed to the UK for six years, while Kate finished her studies.

50 Manning-Great Lakes focus

While I was in the UK, I started working raised over $2,300 and sold out in just two as a chef for a hotel company, before being days! Cancer is something that has affected identified as management material and everyone in some way. The sooner we find a undertaking their management program. cure, the better. I always try to support charity I found this training invaluable, and it was wherever possible; I may need it myself one great to work in many different locations day. I will be climbing the 1,504 steps of including the last three years in London. It also Sydney Tower in October, with some mates to gave me a greater appreciation of the Great raise money for Motor Neuron Disease.

Lakes and its natural Great initiative, Darrin. beauty, which I had Now, War on Waste taken for granted. It was has been in spotlight always our intention to lately. As a very return here - and that community minded While I was in the UK, I we did, to get married in local, what does Beach started working as a January 2006.

Bums do to reduce chef for a hotel company, Ten years later, and the impact on our before being identified as Beach Bums has environment? management material become an institution We have been actively and undertaking their in our area. What is it reducing our waste for management program. that makes the café so many years, including I found this training invaluable, special? energy and water. and it was great to work in many In the first few Our takeaway coffee different locations - including the years we decided cups and containers last three years in London. to support sporting are Biopak, which is groups and community both compostable organisations, as much and recyclable. We as we could afford to. This was great for recently registered with the Responsible Cafés goodwill and over the years, they have made it website https://www.responsiblecafes.org so their home; I guess it’s a bit like one big happy we encourage customers to bring their own family. reusable coffee cup (12 oz max) and offer a You’ve just finished a big week supporting 40c discount incentive. Our biggest waste the Mark Hughes Foundation; Beanie saver was installing an I-Milk system, two years Week was a success. Why is this such an ago. This milk tap system uses 10 litre bladders important charity to you? instead of bottles, reducing our waste by We were blown away by the support for around 35%. the “Beanies for Brain Cancer Week”. We As a lifelong local, you would understand

the value of locals supporting locals. How do you collaborate with other tourism operators to support Great Lakes tourism?

We are working together with some of the accommodation operators to not only promote activities and attractions in the area, but enhance their stay by offering room chargebacks and breakfast packages.

Operators of events often approach us to help enhance the experience of participants and volunteers with incentives. I am only too happy to offer suggestions to visitors stuck for something to do while visiting.

You’ve got some exciting changes happening at the café. Can you give us an insight into what is going on?

We are celebrating 10 years in August and are currently undertaking the biggest renovation we have ever done. We are having a permanent awning erected, with weather curtains and a new internal fit-out. Over the next few months we will shift to using some home grown produce from our family property, so you won’t only be seeing the changes, but tasting them as well.

For you, what is the best part about being in business in the Great Lakes?

I’m just proud of this area. I love having visitors to the region and seeing them amazed at the dolphins and whales playing out the front, or the amazing crystal-clear water things that we just take for granted. It’s also a great place to raise children. What’s not to like!

Couldn’t agree more. Thank you, Darrin, and congratulations on 10 years and the renovations.

focus_contributor

JEREMY THORNTON FROM MANNING VALLEY BUSINESS CHAMBER

voice

business

There’s a lot to be positive about in our area. A group I see as leading this charge at a grassroots level is Wingham Chamber of Commerce. Liz and the executive have powered through the first half of 2017, putting in place a number of strategies and programmes to drive growth and positivity.

F

rom hosting special workshops on marketing and branding and the big weekend blitz, this is a group that deserves high praise from the community.

For those who don’t know, the blitz rose from the Place Making projects run with a consulting firm and from a grant won with the aid of MidCoast Council. From this, we saw working bees through Isabella Street,

with the community getting involved in creating seating and planter boxes. There were also family friendly events, like a pop up cinema and lantern walk. The difference small changes make to a community cannot be understated, and I personally applaud Wingham Chamber for their initiatives.

What they have also done is stand firm on local issues and try to be the voice of reason for positive change. I’ve kept an eye on other

supposed community driven identities and can’t believe the opposite coming from some of them. In regard to Wingham obtaining a crucial grant to get much of this off the ground, comments like, “Wingham being thrown a few crumbs” were seen. I also witnessed criticism that Chamber was inviting “Business types to throw around ideas then the humble community was invited”. OK, so these are small plays on words, but the undercurrent of negativity towards positive change is disturbing. Wingham Chamber is - again in my eyes - one of the most progressive in trying to embrace the entire community and make the town a winner.

Yet factions from within the area are inadvertently trying to undermine them!

So, what’s the motivation? Why are some within our region scaremongering and distorting changes in a manner that puts fear and negative vibes in their own community? I don’t get it, and I wonder if they looked in the mirror and asked themselves the question, whether they would get it as well?

Some of these will no doubt be running for Council, which is of concern. If we end up with a Council that is negative towards its own communities’ innovations and attempts to

beautify and enhance our villages, what chance do we have? It’s all small words, I know, but words are mighty and people in influence need to consider how they project themselves.

It’s now up to us to elect the positive leaders of our community, with just over a month to go till polling day. “Business types” are some of the community’s most positive, and those with innovative, strategic minds we encourage to run. For the rest of us, we need to look beyond the façade of an individual or group and get to the root of why people are running. If they run seeking applause, for example, or are championing negative campaigns, then we need to consider alternatives.

The best candidate may not even be in your own backyard.

With strategic planning in place on Tourism and Economic Development, all local Chambers doing stunning things for grassroots change, plus the new MidCoast Business Chamber now up and running, it’s time to cut through the negative and change the language in our area.

I’m not suggesting everything is perfect, but the ground work is now in place to make MidCoast number one in regional NSW. Thank you to all local Chamber executives for being positive ambassadors in the community.

So, what’s the “ motivation? Why are some within our

region scaremongering and distorting changes in a manner that puts fear and negative vibes in their own community?”

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focus_travel with Travel Editor Susie Boswell & Travel Writer Jo Robinson.

Photo courtesy of WASP NQ Productions.

Whitsundays’ Warm Welcome W R I T T E N

B Y

J O

R O B I N S O N

I was one of nine fortunate people chosen to visit the Whitsundays in June, for a four-day familiarisation tour (famil) organised by Tourism Whitsundays and Jetstar. Despite notoriety in the media earlier this year, while Tropical Cyclone Debbie lashed the Whitsundays with all her fury, the area is now very far from being a scene of destruction. The Whitsundays is very much an area “open for business” ... it’s beautiful, vibrant, colourful ... and warm!

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hen visiting the 74 beautiful islands collectively known as The Whitsundays, which float peacefully in the tropical waters of the Coral Sea off the coast of North Queensland, it’s quite easy to see the area through explorer Lieutenant James Cook’s eyes. As Cook sailed north aboard the Endeavour in 1770, on the Feast of Pentecost during the Festival of Whitsun, he encountered the aquamarine waters and brilliant white sandy beaches we can still see today …

Although Cook’s encounter with the islands may be the first recorded European history of the site, it’s believed the area has been inhabited for more than 8,000 years by Aboriginal people. The islands are rich with beauty and cultural heritage, and teem with an abundance of marine and land based wildlife.

Arriving at Whitsunday Coast Airport in Prosperine one stunningly sunny morning in June, it was difficult to believe that back home in Port Macquarie, residents were experiencing the constant tattoo of rain and temperatures in the high teens. This was my first experience of The Whitsundays’ warmth … 24 degrees Celsius … a glorious winter’s day!

This warmth was echoed by everyone I met during my four day visit in North Queensland not a cranky cabbie to be found, and even the airport security smiled as you passed!

Beautiful Bowen Whitsunday Transport collected me and my companions from the airport, and our first stop

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was to set the tone for the rest of our stay. aware of just how much fresh produce is grown The “Big Mango” is exactly that - a 10 metre here. Locally grown Bowen tomatoes feature high mango built in 2002 at a cost of $90,000. regularly on menus of cafés and restaurants in Located just 4 km south of Bowen on the Bruce the area - and for good reason!

Highway, the mango sits outside the Bowen Breakfast at the stunning Horseshoe Bay Café Information Centre, which is a fantastic place to was a highlight of my trip. From luscious tropical start your Whitsunday journey. fruits, to homemade baked beans, bacon and Bowen is the birthplace of the popular scrambled egg wraps and avo on sourdough “Kensington Pride” mango (also affectionately toast, this was truly breakfast nirvana! known as the “Bowen You can’t possibly visit Special”).

Bowen without sampling Bowen has another the seafood the area is claim to fame, with the famous for. Bird’s Fish Bar Although Cook’s encounter 2008 film, Australia, provides the opportunity with the islands may be the first (starring Nicole Kidman to view live Coral Trout recorded European history of the and Hugh Jackman) taking caught on the Great site, it’s believed the area place in town. Drive down Barrier Reef - and with has been inhabited for the main street, cover the views overlooking the more than 8,000 years bitumen road with dirt, harbour and a multitude

by Aboriginal people. The remove the accoutrements of fishing boats, you can islands are rich with beauty and of modern day life - and indulge in an array of cultural heritage ... there’s an early 1940s fresh and hot succulent scene come to life. seafood.

Interestingly, Bowen is Where to Stay also the oldest town in Whether travelling north Queensland, established in 1861. solo, or with a spouse and children in tow, the Where to Eat Big4 Coral Coast provides self-contained, air While in Bowen, lunch at Le Sorelle Coffee conditioned cabins with all the creature comforts.

House is a must. Le Sorelle means “the sisters” Slide open your screen door, and the beach in Italian, and this cozy café, florist and gourmet is there - literally right there - complete with fudge outlet is the brainchild of three very swaying palm trees and a strategically placed charming siblings. Food, flowers and fudge - an Adirondack chair or two. Bliss! interesting combo that works!

Things to See and Do: Bowen is fondly known by some as the “Salad Bowen has eight beautiful beaches to explore, Bowl of the North”, although not everyone is complete with opportunities to snorkel, stand up

paddle board, swim and fish.

There are plenty of trails and walks that offer scenic views and an array of wildlife to observe.

Head to Flagstaff Hill Lookout and enjoy views over Bowen - both ocean and farmland.

Visit Grey’s Bay and indulge in a sunset cruise with Whitsunday Paradise Explorer, who’ll also take you for day trips to the islands for diving and exploring. The sunsets experienced while afloat are sublime.

Walk along the jetty at Bowen’s Front Beach, and spot turtles playing in the water.

Our first stop in Airlie Beach was at the one-of-a-kind Fish D’vine. Not only did we have lunch here, we watched it being prepared by Bec Clark - aka “The Food Junkie”. Bec runs cooking master classes on selected Sunday mornings, and her Moroccan chicken, prepared in a tagine, was simply … well … divine!

Under the same roof, Fish D’Vine also houses a Rum Bar. With over 450 rums on his shelves, Dr Rum and his team design fabulous alcoholic creations. Their mojitos (which we were able to indulge in while being entertained by Bec’s cooking skills) were pure magic.

Alluring Airlie Beach Airlie Beach is a vibrant town that instantly makes you feel like you’re on holidays. Smiling faces and tanned legs are everywhere! The cafés in the main street host hordes of locals and tourists … Having sampled quite a few of them while I was in the area, I’m very surprised to report that I didn’t experience a single bad coffee while I was away. It may be warm in the Whitsundays, causing you to think long,

Airlie Beach is a vibrant town that instantly makes you feel like you’re on holidays. Smiling faces and tanned legs are everywhere! The cafés in the main street host hordes of locals and tourists …

chilled, frosty glasses would be the norm, but it seems hot, aromatic coffee is one of the town’s strengths.

Where to Eat Mantra Club Croc not only offers superb accommodation, with 160 freshly decorated, luxurious rooms, but dinner or lunch in the relaxed Club Croc Bistro provides delicious modern Australian cuisine at its finest. The bistro is open for lunch and dinner for both Club Croc guests and the general public. Tip: the house made gnocchi with pan fried wild mushrooms, pesto and roast pumpkin, cream reduction, finished with rocket and grana padano is amazing!

Walter’s Lounge Fine dining at its best, the refined and classy Walter’s Lounge won an Australian Good Food and Travel Guide Chef’s Hat in December 2016.

Beautifully, freshly prepared food, exceptional cocktails and a boutique wine list can all be overjoyed overlooking the Port of Airlie Marina.

Tip: Try the peanut butter ice cream, banana textures, salted peanut brittle, roast white chocolate and maple sap. Simply decadent!

Where to Stay Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays provides luxurious, boutique hotel accommodation, located right in the centre of Airlie Beach. The location affords the opportunity to walk to shops, cafés and beaches. My elegant suite, complete with private balcony, offered views over the sparkling Airlie Beach. Tip: The Deck restaurant, which you’ll find underneath the hotel, was the venue of choice for breakfast - couldn’t go past the eggs benny!

Pinnacles Resort provides those looking for self-contained accommodation the ultimate

holiday experience. Jacuzzi, anyone? I shared a stylish three bedroom apartment with two of my fellow travellers, but the resort also offers one and two bedroom units. Girls’ weekend, family holiday, business trip - anyone will enjoy their stay here. The 180 degree views of the glistening Coral Sea and the 20 metre ozone wet edge pool are unbelievably glorious. Free Wifi, a gym and sauna are also available on site.

Things to See and Do Explore Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet - book a boating experience with Red Cat Adventures and explore the islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbaking and snorkelling. The Thundercat one day tour took us to the famous Whitehaven Beach, located on Whitsunday Island - 7 km of the whitest sand (composed of 98 per cent silica) you’ll probably ever see. This is possibly the most photographed beach in the world!

A short bushwalk uphill to the scenic outlook at Hill Inlet also provides amazing photo opportunities. The layers of swirling sand in the turquoise water resemble an artist’s painting, although it would be impossible to recreate the glorious colours in 2D. The Thundercat also stops off at Manta Ray Bay, where you can feed the fish, snorkel and meet the huge resident Maori Wrasse, George, who will swim right up to you.

Segway Tours - the perfect opportunity to explore the Whitsunday Bicentennial Boardwalk, departing from Abell Point Marina, you’ll take in sights including Shingley Beach and the Whitsunday Botanic Gardens. An almost effortless - and totally fun - way to travel, Zak, resident Segway expert, provides tuition and guides the tour. Tip: stop in at Hemingway’s

Restaurant at Abell Point Marina afterwards for a coffee and a bite to eat.

For those who prefer to travel in a seated position, Just Tuk’n Around offers rides in a tuk tuk. These quaint pedicabs afford the chance to sit back and relax, take in the scenery and snap photos, while your driver does all the hard pedalling work!

Enjoy a Sunset Cruise - Sundowner Cruises operates from Port of Airlie, providing a splendid opportunity to enjoy a drink from their wellequipped on board bar, while you watch the sun slowly sink behind the horizon.

Sundowner’s catamaran circumnavigates Pioneer Bay from Mandalay point to Cannonvale Beach.

The biggest surprise is being able to approach the shipwreck at Cannonvale Beach quite closely; an almost spectral sight silhouetted against the setting sun, with its once proud masts now sadly awry.

Airlie Beach/Whitsunday Markets - local artisans showcase their creations, the wonderful scent of cooking food and coffee waft through the air, as you stroll along the foreshore and indulge in some Airlie Beach flavour. The markets are on every Saturday from 8am - 12pm.

Getting to The Whitsundays Jetstar operates a direct flight from Sydney to the Whitsunday Coast (Prosperine) three times a week, and also offers direct flights from Brisbane 10 times a week. Visit www.jetstar.com for info.

To Wrap Up It’s quite difficult to imagine the destruction Tropical Cyclone Debbie unleashed on The Whitsundays in late March this year. The friendly, hardworking communities in Airlie Beach and surrounds have done a phenomenal job clearing away debris, banding together to help one another through the most difficult of times. Life moves on, and The Whitsundays rank as one of the most delightful places I’ve visited.

The people, the scenery, the weather, the food are all warmly welcoming - but perhaps the best way to sum up the “feel good” vibe of the whole area is to quote a lovely local lady (name unknown) I passed on one of my treks to the top of a headland: “We are truly blessed here. It is simply the most amazing place to live”.

Well ... you may not be able to live there, but you can certainly visit! Many thanks to Tourism Whitsundays and Jetstar for organising this tour, and to all the hosts who made us feel welcome. #lovewhitsundays Manning-Great Lakes focus 53

focus_contributor

S H A R O N B U LT I T U D E F R O M G R E AT L A K E S T O U R I S M & M A R K E T I N G C O O R D I N AT O R

focus_contributor

A M A N D A TAT E F R O M L J H O O K E R

tourism What’s Happening in August.

According to recently released tourism figures, tourism expenditure has grown $6.3 million to $212.2 billion in the year ending March 2017, which now places the visitor economy just ahead of the mining industry’s contribution to the Australian economy.

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real estate

UPDATE

(Tourism Research Australia, National Visitor Surveys, March 2017)

he MidCoast region already has a well-developed and significant tourism industry delivering social, economic and environmental value to the region, with over 1.86 million visitors delivering $570 million in annual revenue and contributing over 19% of the value of MidCoast’s Gross Regional Product. It, too, is one of the most important industries in our region.

The amalgamation of the three former destinations of Gloucester, Great Lakes and Manning Valley has afforded a unique opportunity to review, re-evaluate and reposition the new MidCoast destination to fully maximise the potential of the unbelievable products, experiences and natural assets that this wonderful region has in abundance.

During the past 10 months, the MidCoast tourism team has worked with consultants “Destination Marketing Store” to develop a Destination Management Plan (DMP) for the MidCoast.

As with any great plan, the DMP is evidence based. Consumer research and assessment of the economic contribution and potential for growth of MidCoast’s visitor economy is outlined in significant detail in a Baseline Analysis Report.

This Baseline Analysis, together with a Product and Experience Audit and insights from an extensive industry and stakeholder consultation process, has identified a number of significant opportunities for the region - some very significant - that have the potential to grow the MidCoast Tourism Industry to over AUS $1.55 billion by 2030 - an increase of more than 270% from its current value.

As work on the new DMP moves towards conclusion, an exciting strategic vision has emerged - one which is quite different to its current state. A future where the overall tourism mix is a much more balanced and sustainable one, with over 25% of the MidCoast economy directly or indirectly supported by tourism.

A future which more effectively leverages the region’s natural assets, local character and environmental credentials, to reposition the MidCoast as one of Australia’s leading nature and adventure-based tourism destinations.

A future where our traditional family market

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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 “high yield” 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 our “hyper seasonality”, with stronger shoulder and off-peak visitation.

This future is certainly an ambitious one, but also an attainable one based on the overall growth forecasts and various opportunities that have been uncovered.

However, it is critical to recognise that this will not happen overnight and that we will need to successfully address key aspects of effective destination management. The DMP therefore not only provides a long term vision, but also identifies short, medium and longer term initiatives. It addresses both supply and demand and clearly articulates the region’s competitive advantage, destination positioning and visitorfacing brand framework. Also highlighted are initiatives to build the capacity of our industry, develop innovative targeted digital marketing and visitor service delivery.

Successful implementation requires that the DMP be embraced and viewed internally as a “whole-of-council” document, with due consideration to future policy decisions, and essentially demands that we build strong collaborative partnerships between industry, community, business and key stakeholders at a local, regional and national level.

The draft Destination Management Plan is now on public exhibition until the 26th August 2017.

It can be viewed/downloaded from the MidCoast Council website: www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/DMP Printed copies are also available from Forster, Gloucester and Taree Council Offices and all of the regional Visitor Information Centres.

You are also invited to attend one of our DMP Presentation Sessions (check the above link for details on dates, venues and times.)

If you have any comments or questions on the DMP or tourism industry generally, please don’t hesitate to give me a call on 6591 7405 or email tourism@midcoast.nsw.gov.au

Not much to report on this month, with our real estate market chugging along rather nicely. Demand is still exceeding supply in all markets, which is still putting upward pressure on prices. Popular areas have been waterfronts, lifestyle blocks especially in the under $400,000s - and units and/or villas.

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$370, Harrington and Wingham at $330 and house in Taree recently sold within six months of Taree at $320. Interestingly, Port Macquarie’s purchasing at $295,000 median house price is currently $549,000 for $340,000, with just a and their weekly rent $420. What we can minimal tidy up, giving a realise from these median prices is that Taree nice tidy profit to the owner. is the still the best place to invest in if you are Plenty of movement in the higher end in the looking for a strong return.

Great Lakes area, with a few good sales in With the release of the first home buyer Forster Keys for just under the $900,000. incentives on 1 July, we have seen a surge of Three different beach first home buyers back properties sold, with in our market. It will be one on the popular interesting to see if this Blueys Beach for just results in a shortage Modern executive style homes can under the $2 million. of rental properties now command top rents, pushing Further north in Lewis available in the not too up to $650 per week in Taree.

Street, Old Bar, a distant future, as first Owners of these high end similar style home sold home buyers are usually properties should not be for $1,050,000, and looking in the same concerned with leasing, $835,000 for a two price range as investors. as there are plenty of storey only steps away Our rental market excellent tenants looking for from Diamond Beach. remains strong, with long term homes to rent.

A two bedroom, two rents steadily increasing. bathroom top floor unit It is almost impossible with gorgeous views to find a small flat for of Forster Beach went under $150 per week and a two bedroom for a similar price of $820,000. If you don’t house for under $250 per week. Modern mind going inland, similar prices could have executive style homes can now command top bought you 100 acres of resort style living at rents, pushing up to $650 per week in Taree.

Lansdowne, with a dam big enough to ski in.

Owners of these high end properties should Just like those beach sales, median home not be concerned with leasing, as there are prices across our area are so varied at the plenty of excellent tenants looking for long moment, with Forster leading the way term homes to rent. at $519,000, followed by Harrington at So while the Sydney market may be $456,000, Old Bar at $444,500 and our slowing, there are no signs of our market more affordable Wingham at $286,000, following any time soon - especially while narrowly ahead of Taree at $285,000. The new homes on the market are in short rental market is not so varied, with average supply. weekly rents for Forster at $400, Old Bar at

The Waste Transfer unity Stations and Comm Recycling Centres s of divert large amount items unwanted and used to from landfill and in ojects. recycling or reuse pr

Making your MidCoast Materials Recovery Facility Tours Midcoast Waste Services (MWS) care about the environment and are working towards a healthier, more sustainable future for all its residents. One of the ways that MWS actively encourages community participation is through our free tours of the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) located at Tuncurry Waste Management Facility, Tip Road Tuncurry.

Free tours are available for all residents, including schools, community groups and individuals. The tour takes you behind the scenes to find out what happens when your yellow bin is collected by the recycling truck.

Our education room overlooks all of the machinery, so you are able to get a bird’s eye view of the action, watch the dedicated employees as they remove contaminants, see the recyclables sorted into the various streams, right through to the end product baled and ready

to be sent to one of our many customers to be recycled into new products.

Learning to look at our waste as a resource and not just something to be thrown away is a key part of becoming more sustainable. Each aluminium can that is recycled is back on the shelf in just six weeks, and has saved 95% of energy use in terms of electricity, mining, water and transport costs. But when we toss that can in the red bin - it is gone forever. We will never be able to recover that resource, and we have to go back to the mines to start over again. At school we learnt about finite resources, but we have forgotten what it means, and we all need to be reminded.

To book your tour, you can contact the Waste Education Officer on 6539 7073 or email education@jrrichards.com.au - online forms are available also via our website: www.midcoastwaste.com.au

more sustainable

Tuncurry Waste Transfer Station & Community Recycling Centre MidCoast Council is excited with progress on the construction of the state-of-the-art Waste Transfer Station (WTS) and Community Recycling Centre that will soon replace the Tuncurry landfill, and changes that will affect customers of the Tip Shop and commercial waste customers are taking effect now.

You may even find yourself going home with

While construction of a brand new Tip Shop is underway, the current shop is closed to customers on Mondays and Tuesdays. Of course, you can still drop off donations for the Tip Shop seven days a week, and the shop is open for shoppers from Wednesday to Sunday, from 8am to 4pm.

transfer station opens.

Soon residents will be able to drop their items for reuse at the Tip Shop, along with being able to recycle materials and items that are not accepted in the yellow bin, all at one convenient location.

To find out more about recycling and “what

more than you came with!

The Waste Transfer Stations and Community Recycling Centres divert large amounts of unwanted and used items from landfill and into recycling or reuse projects.

We will still be accepting domestic self-haul loads in cars, utes and trailers of waste when the The Tuncurry WTS is the final project in the former Great Lakes Waste Management Strategy to complement previous upgrades to Bulahdelah and Tea Gardens, providing safe, clean and state of the art processing of waste items. goes where?” our A-Z list is available at www.midcoastwaste.com.au or contact the Waste Education Office or 6539 7073.

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