Manning-Great Lakes Focus i130

Feature Story The Trapps

December 2017. issue 130

r e d n U Southern

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team From the

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Jo Robinson

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

I

t’s marvellous, magical, Merry Christmas season - and we sure have a festive edition for you this month! We’ve been hard at work putting this edition together (as always), but this time of year brings about daydreams of twinkling lights, smiling people, bon bons, and unseasonably hot baked dinners (or prawns on the BBQ) while we work!

Christmas means something different to everyone. For many, it’s a season to not only reflect on the year that’s passed, but a chance to look ahead at the year to come. For some, it’s the opportunity to give thanks for the birth of Christ, or to spend time with loved ones. Of course, for others, it’s all about the presents ...

Whatever the holiday season means to you, the FOCUS team wish you all the happiness in the world. Stay safe and enjoy all that Christmas in the Manning-Great Lakes has to offer!

On the Cover Orianthi Panagaris and Richie Sambora will be two of the super talented performers at the Under the Southern Stars event in Tuncurry. You can catch them in action on January 6!

In this Issue Imagine the crisp, resiny scent of pine in the air … or the experience of tramping through a paddock with your family and spotting your perfect Christmas tree! The Hutchinson family have been growing Christmas trees on their property at

Burrell Creek for many years … and you too can visit Mark and Ryan to select your very own tree.

In the spirit of giving, Marie Stack and Maestro George Ellis share how we can help our local kids through the Australian Children’s Music Foundation, by attending a very special cocktail evening at the Manning Entertainment Centre.

Local band The Trapps, photographer Keith Pascoe, the Forster Surf Lifesaving Club’s Warrior Women, the Taree Branch of the Salvation Army and many more inspiring people also share their stories with us this month …

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focusinterview.

They’ve been rockin’ since the ‘70s, and they’re still going strong!

Kevin Ballard and the boys have played around “the traps” for a good while now; they know how to show a crowd a good time! You can catch The Trapps on New Year’s Eve, and also at the Wingham Summertime Rodeo in January ...

H

i Kev. What's the current line up of The Trapps, and who plays what instruments?

Brian Lambert plays drums, Brett Godwin is on guitar, my brother, John Ballard, plays bass, and I sing and play lead guitar.

What are the origins of The Trapps?

The Trapps rock band was formed in the late seventies in the basement of the Godwin family home, when Brett Godwin, then 21, and I started jamming. I was 19. We quickly formed a strong songwriting bond and set about the quest of starting our own band to play our own songs, with a few covers added in - songs by the Ramones, the Cars, and Elvis Costello.

We needed a bass player, and Rod Crocker came on the scene with his Hofner copy bass - which would not stay in tune! We were then approached by classically trained keyboard player Bernie Warham, and quickly The Trapps were looking like a reality - all we needed was a drummer.

A friend, Squeaka, drummed for a few jams, but was committed at the time to another local band, The Willow Band. Another friend, Steve Pearson, was recruited as drummer … and The Manning Hotel was booked in early August ‘79 as the first paid gig. From then, regularly playing the local traps became a reality.

A couple of years later, when Bernie the keyboard player went AWOL (we assume to a hippy commune) Brett’s brother, guitarist Rob Godwin, fresh from his Sydney music experience with The Trouble Boys, joined. The music became more rock orientated, and the fans loved it. We played for years and ended up morphing into other bands.

4 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Many years later in home in the Manning After all the preparation and 2013, founding members Valley and love the such a successful reunion Brett Godwin, Rob networking that takes gig, we had built an Godwin and I revived The place between all the incredible comradery.

Trapps when we heard bands in the area.

This rekindled our passion of the ABC Exhumed Local bands for the music of the ‘70s and competition. We added genuinely support ‘80s, and we couldn’t stop at Dave Gollan on bass and each other and help just one show.

Peter Madigan on drums. out with fundraisings Dave had played in The gigs like Movember Willow Band back in the and Relay for Life and same era as The Trapps Jamm for Genes. We were playing the scene help coordinate these in the eighties, and Peter had been playing events and value the importance of giving our in Sydney through the eighties, so knew the time to raise funds for much needed medical repertoire well. research in these specific areas of men’s The Trapps were chosen as Mid North health, children’s medical research and cancer Coast finalists in the ABC radio Exhumed research. competition, making it to the final six bands What have been some of your more for the region. The Mid Coast gig at Bellingen memorable (in a good or bad way!) gigs? was filmed on ABC TV, and all six shortlisted In the eighties, we supported most of acts featured on ABC Radio Mid North Coast Australia’s top bands that played in Taree on mornings before the Exhumed gig. their way north to the Gold Coast, some of After all the preparation and such a which were Cold Chisel, INXS, The Saints, Jo Jo successful reunion gig, we had built an Zep and the Falcons, Mental as Anything, and incredible comradery. This rekindled our Divinyls. passion for the music of the ‘70s and ‘80s, Supporting The Saints at Taree’s Royal Hotel and we couldn’t stop at just one show. led on to supports with a young and crazy Coincidentally, the venue to host our Taree INXS - remember Shove it Brother, Just Keep return gig in 2013 was again the Manning Walking? The INXS night was memorable; they Hotel. were top blokes. One of the Farris brothers Since 2013, local leading musicians John broke into my car for me and recovered my Ballard and Brian Lambert have joined the keys - those guys had many skills! band.

The night with Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons The band has played at many places was memorable too; the roadies stole my around "the traps" ... but where do you all guitar and threatened to keep it, unless I currently call home, and what do you most stayed and lugged out all their heavy stage like about the area? gear!

Three of us live in Wingham and the other A current gig that was fabulous was a on Wingham Road, so we are very much at corporate gig on the Central Coast, where we

were indulged with the best food and ales and treated like royalty, with good accommodation thrown in.

Locally, the last two years at the Longview Farm Party have been a dream gig, with such a super responsive, music loving, out-to-have-agood-time crowd.

The bad gigs are the ones where you have only your wife and our good mate, Skip, and no one else but the bar staff in the venue!

Those ones are a paid practice gig!

If we were to take all of the instruments off the band members and sit them down together in a group, what would you all most likely end up doing?

We’d be talking! About our last gig and who made what mistakes in what song. Or talking about our next gig, and which song we need to drop from the list. Or arguing about what new song to add to the set list and why it has merit!

What are some of your upcoming gigs?

Well, I am about to go travelling to the music spots of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans, so the band have recruited well known front man Dean Snook and Danny Woods to take care of Christmas and New Year gigs while I am away. You can catch The Trapps, featuring Dean Snook, at Wingham Services club for New Year’s Eve. By early January I’ll be back in time for The Trapps to play at the Wingham Summertime Rodeo at the showground on 6th January.

Where can we find out more info about the band, or book you for a performance to remember?

Find us on Facebook: www.//facebook.com/trappsreunion or ring me on my mobile: 0400 670 357.

Thanks Kev.

10 Keith Pascoe.

Forster local Keith Pascoe has a very unique way of viewing scenes … and his beautiful photos are evidence of this. Carefully composed, imaginatively pictured and emotively captured, check out Keith’s work on these pages.

24 20

Warrior Women.

For friendship, fun, fitness and coffee - the Forster Surf Life Saving Club Warrior Women have no equal! This female group of all ages and abilities meet weekly to swim and share some laughs and adventures ...

issue inside this

Issue 130 - December 2017

The

16 18

CloudControl

Recently dropping their new single, Zone, written in a small beach house near Forster, Cloud Control top the bill of this year’s Grow Your Own Festival. FOCUS chatted with lead vocalist Al about their release and upcoming Forster appearance ...

Christmas A special focus feature

Regulars 16. WHAT’S ON FOR DECEMBER 30. TOURISM SHARON BULTITUDE 33. BUSINESS MINDS JEREMY THORNTON 50. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI HALL

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Manning-Great Lakes focus 5

focusinterview.

Cocktails

P H O T O S A S H L E Y C L E AV E R A N D J E S S I C A C L A R K E N A S H

ACMF

at the MEC

The Australian Children’s Music Foundation Cocktails at the MEC event will provide fabulous entertainment, drinks, finger food and showcase the skill of Maestro George Ellis - and this is just an overview of what promises to be a fantastic evening! Cocktails at the MEC will help ensure music programs are available to local schools … Maurie Stack, Chair of the Rotary Clubs of the Manning Valley and George Ellis both stop by to chat about the event and what it will mean for our local kids …

H

Maurie Stack - Chair of the Rotary Clubs of the Manning Valley

i Maurie. What's your Where will funds raised from the cocktail role with organising evening go? the 2017 Australian Funds raised go to the Manning Music Children's Music Program of the Australian Children’s Music Foundation Cocktails at Foundation. The founder, Don Spencer - of the MEC event?

Play School fame - found that when he took I am fortunate to chair the Rotary Clubs of his guitar into Juvenile Detention Centres, he the Manning Valley committee to help fund our could relate to and get a positive response Manning Music Program of the ACMF, which from the hardest of kids. “Why not go into we have been doing for five years. Without our schools and get them before they end up in community’s financial support, the program detention?” thought Don. So was born the wouldn’t exist here. music program, which - after a partial lull this The event will be held year - is back in all five on December 7th. of our local schools in What time will the the Manning Valley in function commence, 2018. Local musicians, and what format will it entertainers by definition, Being on the stage at the follow? go into our schools and MEC provides us with 6pm to 8pm. It will use the power of music great opportunities be a cocktail party to engage with students, mixing with performers on the stage at the sometimes giving them guests - which is what we are Manning Entertainment one of the few reasons presently finalising.

Centre with drinks and to go to school. Plus, finger food - and great they unearth some entertainment. This is hidden talent. a unique opportunity How can individuals or to catch up with the local community for a businesses sponsor this music program?

Christmas drink and to be entertained at the Each year our real fundraising comes same time. We had great feedback from this from sponsorship of this amazing program, event - which was at the Regional Art Gallery strongly supported by the Principals of the two years ago - and the stage at the MEC will five local schools. Platinum $5,000, Gold enable us to do something even more special $3,000, Silver $500, and Bronze $250 - help this time. us help our kids - and thereby help our own Who are some of the special guests community.

Just email me if able to help: planning to attend the event? maurie@stacklaw.com.au We have a great cast of local musicians How much are tickets to the event, and and singers, and our finale gig will be maestro where can they be purchased?

George Ellis - conductor to the stars - leading $45, and everyone is welcome. But act the Kaleidoscope Pops Orchestra. Those who now, because we can only take 120 people attended the 2016 Schools Spectacular will on the stage. Tickets can be purchased online remember how great this part of the concert

by Googling Manning Entertainment Centre was. Being on the stage at the MEC provides and then selecting See a Show/Cocktails at the us with great opportunities - performers mixing MEC. with guests - which is what we are presently finalising.

Thanks Maurie.

6 Manning-Great Lakes focus

H

Maestro George Ellis

i George. What/who inspired you to choose music as a career?

When I was five years old in 1969, my father and older brother were listening to The Beatles. I fell in love with their music immediately.

As I got older, I marvelled at how their producer, George Martin, would include orchestral arrangements in their recordings.

Songs like Eleanor Rigby, Yesterday and A Day in the Life had wonderful orchestral accompaniment to their brilliant songs. I longed to do that for a living - orchestrate and conduct orchestral arrangements in combination with great popular music.

Your career appears to be threepronged, as you compose, conduct, and produce musical arrangements. What keeps you most busy these days, and what aspects of your musical life do you most enjoy?

That’s like asking which is your favourite child! They’re all wonderful to do. Arranging is the most time consuming, and conducting in front of a live audience is the most exciting, but there’s nothing like coming up with a completely new work on your own.

I compose less than I arrange and conduct, but at the moment I’m composing the music to a new Australian film, and I am finding that very satisfying.

Your accomplishments are many - we can't mention them all in the space we have available! You've conducted and arranged music for artists such as The Church, Sneaky Sound System and Guy Sebastian; you conducted the Opening Ceremony of the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000; you composed Pop Mass, which received first prize in the Sydney Eisteddfod. Your talent covers multiple genres of music, from pop to rock to

opera. Here's a question out of left field - what's the last listened to track on your iPod or music device - and what were your thoughts while listening to it?

That’s very kind of you to mention those activities - I loved them all!

The last track I listened to was a song called Drive, by Gretta Ray, a young Melbourne singer/songwriter. I love Australian music. We have the best artists here. I had the privilege of working with Kate Miller-Heidke recently - what a wonderful songwriter with a stunning voice!

When did you become aware of the ACMF, and why did you decide to become involved?

I was working for the Sydney Festival in the mid-2000s, and the producers asked me to take the songs from a national songwriting competition, orchestrate them and present them live on opening night with a symphony orchestra and choir. The competition was run by the ACMF, so I met with Don Spencer, and we hit it off straight away.

I had of course heard of him before, but had never had the chance to meet and work with him. Don then asked me to be an ambassador for the ACMF - an invitation I gladly accepted. This inspirational organisation helps young people in need through the power of music education.

You'll be one of the special guests at the ACMF Cocktail Evening at the MEC on December 7th. What are a few hints about what you'll be sharing with audiences on the night?

The combination of popular music with orchestral instruments is a magical one.

The audience can expect a little magic on 7 December. See you at the MEC! Thanks George.

To read more about George, visit: www.georgeellis.com.au

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focusinterview.

For a little (or a lot!) of festive spirit, why not consider a genuine Radiata Pine for your Christmas tree this year? Selecting a tree from the paddock with your family to decorate and the scent of crisp, clean pine throughout your home at Christmas time are special experiences. The Hutchinson family at Taree Christmas Tree Farm have been helping generations of the same families choose their very own tree, year after year. Plan the short drive out to Burrell Creek to experience your own Christmas magic …. Ryan Hutchinson tells us more.

Christmas

tree

H

i Ryan. What's the history behind your farm at Burrell Creek how long has it been in the family?

Taree Christmas Tree Farm was originally started at Hillville, Taree in 1978 by our aunt and uncle, Sandra and Paul Gaskin. Sandra and Paul actually travelled to America to learn the art of growing traditional Christmas trees.

When did you first start growing Christmas trees on the farm; has the land always been used for this purpose?

In 1993, our parents, Peter and Kim Hutchinson, took over the family business from Hillville and started growing Christmas trees at Burrell Creek.

This has been a family business throughout the three generations of our family for 39 years - and it’s still progressing.

As of 2010, my brother, Mark, and I took over the business from our parents.

What species of trees do you grow - and what are generally the most popular species with your customers?

In our climate, the Radiata Pine is the most suitable type of tree to grow.

Many people would say, "Why use a real tree for Christmas - what's wrong with an artificial tree?" What would your answer be to that comment?

The positive atmosphere of a family picking 8 Manning-Great Lakes focus

their own tree in the paddock - and the wonderful smell of pine There is nothing quite like throughout the house, watching a family picking which comes from their own tree. It’s an owning your own real individual choice for Christmas tree! each family, picking the Choosing a Christmas perfect tree, whatever while to grow? tree is a very personal size they require. We have Yes, the average tree thing for most people many sizes to choose from! takes a minimum of four - there are so many years to get to a sellable variables to consider! height.

What size trees can Mother Nature can be you normally provide, our worst enemy; for example hail, damaging as an eight-foot pine may not suit every winds, severe storms and floods, plus, the lack home? of rain can also be an issue.

There is nothing quite like watching a What's the average life span of a live family picking their own tree. It’s an individual Christmas tree - and what are some tips choice for each family, picking the perfect tree, you can give for maintaining one? whatever size they require. We have many After the Christmas tree has been freshly sizes to choose from! cut for the customer, we advise that when the Once a customer selects a tree they love, tree arrives at the customer’s home, half an how can they ensure it arrives safely at inch should be cut off the base of the tree, and their home? D ​ o you deliver, and if so it should be placed straight into a bucket of how far and wide do you travel? water.

Most people come to the farm with a ute It’s important to maintain this water level, or trailer, which allows proper transportation due to the fact that a normal size Christmas of the tree. We can also deliver within the tree can drink up to a litre a day. If this Wingham, Taree and Old Bar areas if needed. procedure is followed, the Christmas tree can Christmas tree farming must be an last for up to six weeks. interesting industry - fraught with a How will your family celebrate Christmas few challenges, I suspect. It's a seasonal this year?

We’ll have our usual traditional Christmas business; plus, trees must take quite a

farm

celebration around the pool.

Where can we find out more info or contact you?

You can contact us via Facebook (Taree Christmas Tree Farm) or call on (02) 6550 6328. Call between 8am to 5pm, seven days a week. From December 1st, there will always be someone on the farm to help you. If you plan to visit during November, please phone first.

Final say …

It gives us great pride and joy to watch generations of the same family coming out to pick their Christmas trees.

On behalf of us from Taree Christmas Farm, we would like to wish everyone a merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Thanks Ryan.

Note: Radiata Pines (also known as Pinus radiata or Monterey Pine) can grow to up to 50 m in height and 90 cm in diameter. Radiata Pines were originally introduced to Australia from a small area near Monterey, on the West Coast of the USA. Radiata Pine is a softwood, and can grow up to ten times faster than Eucalypts. (Source: Forestry Corporation.)

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focusinterview.

Women -

F O R S T E R

S L S C

-

WARRIOR

For friendship, fun, fitness and coffee - the Forster Surf Life Saving Club Warrior Women have no equal! This female group of all ages and abilities meet weekly to swim and share some laughs and adventures. There’s no war involved, but these are strong women, all facing their own life challenges - and conquering their battles through shared experiences …

W

ho are the Forster SLSC Warrior Women?

Janet Robertson: The Warrior Women are a group of women who love swimming and doing it in a way so we are part of the beautiful environment we live in, but that also pushes us to go out of our comfort zone. Rain, hail or shine, we swim along the beach to keep fit, challenge our fears and enjoy ourselves.

Sometimes we meet in other places to swim, go kayaking or hike to a picturesque waterhole. We’re always looking forward to the next swimming adventure!

Janice Williams: The name Warrior Women came about after a swim, when we were having coffee at our favourite meeting place, Beach Bums. During our discussions, we realised a few of our ladies were having some serious health issues. We talked about how we could make it easier to get through these times with the help of friends, swimming included, and came up with the name, the “Women Warriors”.

How long has your group been around and why did it initially form?

Kaz Berg: Our group started about eight years ago, when four or five mums decided to complete our Bronze Medallion, to help out with our young children in Nippers. We could all swim, but had limited surf awareness skills (and lacked a bit of fitness).

Long time surf club members and local swim coaches - Laura Thurtell and Carole Brown - decided to whip us into shape and teach us some new tricks to help us along. Many laughs were shared and firm friendships formed, and we have strived to continually shape our working weeks around our Wednesday mornings off to continue this.

10 Manning-Great Lakes focus

What are some of the activities you all do keeps us on the straight and narrow. There together on a regular basis - and when/ are days when it is wet and cold, so we could where do you usually meet? easily go straight to coffee. But Laura just gets Kylie Jones: We meet every Wednesday on with it ... between 9am - 9:15am at Forster Surf Club You’ve been involved with the Great for a swim in the ocean, a coffee, chat and Lakes Children’s Centre recently. Who are lots of laughs at Beach Bums Café. the “Whales” - and what have you been Laura Thurtell: Every now and then we do a teaching them? road trip to a water hole or beach for a special Laura Thurtell: The Whales are four - five treat. We’ve been to Burgess Beach water year olds moving on to primary school next hole, Crystal Pools, Potoroo Falls, Lizzy Beach, year. I’m really impressed with the outdoor Merewether Baths, learning/healthy lifestyle Flynns Beach, McBrides philosophy they have Beach, the Rockpool, adopted and would Blackhead Beach, often see the children Crowdy Head Beach and walking with their carers The motto is nothing formal. It many more, just to mix in the Forster beach is to keep things simple, things up and explore area. I offered them a six happy and supportive our beautiful local area. week, one hour program between us all, and We’ve been board incorporating Nipper welcome new ladies paddling, stand up activities based on surf into our wonderful paddle boarding, awareness, basic first aid Wednesday swims, which snorkelling, rock diving, and surf sports. results in us leaving with smiles mountain climbing, Each week about on our faces every Wednesday. trekking and are always 18 children don bright looking for the next green Nipper skull caps crazy adventure. and with the help of a What would you say is few Warrior Women, the aim or motto of the Warrior Women? we teach them flags, beach sprinting, beach Kaz Berg: I would say that the aim relays, board paddling and wading. of keeping our group going is to be all We have introduced how to treat blue inclusive. We encourage all women, all shapes, bottle stings, cuts, sunburn and basic CPR ages and abilities, and we love to have a good principles. The children are extremely receptive laugh and coffee, with fitness thrown in. and enthusiastic, and we love spending time Jancie Williams: The motto is nothing with them. At the end of the six weeks, they formal. It is to keep things simple, happy will receive a surf lifesaving activity pack. and supportive between us all, and welcome What other projects/future events are on new ladies into our wonderful Wednesday the horizon? swims, which results in us leaving with smiles Laura Thurtell: A similar program will on our faces every Wednesday. We do have commence with Active OOSH (Out of School a fearless leader, Laura Thurtell; she is such Hours) Forster in November/December for a an inspiration to us all - so motivated. Laura four week block. Forster SLSC Youth Group

will be helping to run this program. These children will be aged from five to 12 years.

Laura, I believe you’ve also been selected to be a baton bearer in the Queen’s Baton Relay. Congrats! What can you tell us about the relay and your role with the event?

Laura Thurtell: Thank you. The relay will pass through Forster/Tuncurry on 2 February 2018. A number of local people have also been nominated to carry the baton. At this stage I don’t have any further details, but it will be very exciting and I feel very privileged to carry the baton.

Can anyone become a Warrior Woman?

Do you welcome new members ... and if so, how can we get involved?

Laura: We would love new ladies to come and join in. You don’t have to be a good swimmer; we can give you lots of tips and you can build your fitness up. We have ladies from 20 to 75 who regularly swim with us, and we all have the common love of the ocean, friendship and coffee to bind us together. We meet every Wednesday (rain, hail or shine) at the front of Forster Surf Club at 9am. You can check out our Facebook page - Forster SLSC Warrior Women.

Final say …

Kaz Berg: These women are the highlight of my week. We encourage each other with new adventures, and there is always a road trip around the next corner. I drive out of the surf club car park every Wednesday with a big grin on my face.

Kylie Jones: To sum it up, this is a fantastic group of welcoming, encouraging, friendly women taking time out once a week to do a little exercise and have a lot of fun.

Thanks everyone.

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Left: Robert Johnson (1890-1964) The shearing shed, c.1933 Oil on canvas on board Gift of Howard Hinton 1933 The Howard Hinton Collection New England Regional Art Museum

Below: Liu Fang, China International Woolmark Prize 2013, Asia Region International Woolmark Prize archive at Australian Wool Innovation Photograph by Michael Taylor

Art

Wool exhibition

of

From Farm to Fashion A new exhibition that explores the relationship between fine art and fine wool will open at the Manning Regional Art Gallery at 6pm on 1st December. Aiming to bridge the gap between farm and fashion, The Art of Wool is a touring exhibition from the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) in partnership with The Woolmark Company …

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ignificant artworks drawn from NERAM’s extensive collection of Australian art, including paintings by Sydney Long, Thomas Cooper, Blamire Young and Emily Kame Kngwarreye emphasise the role of wool in the artistic and design imagination of Australia from the 19th Century until the present day.

The artworks are complemented by avantgarde fashion garments selected from the International Woolmark Prize archive at The Woolmark Company. With an emphasis on the work of young and emerging international fashion designers, the garments include the 2013/14 International Woolmark Prize winner Rahul Mishra and Australian designers Alistair Trung, Christopher Esber, Dion Lee, ELLERY, Magdalena Velevska and STRATEUS.CARLUCCI, as well as 2015/16 nominees Celeste Tesoriero, Taro Horiuchi and Etexeberria.

“The pairing of garments with woolinspired artwork creates a visual dialogue between art and fashion - a fusion that enhances both garments and artworks in unique and unexpected ways,” said Robert Heather, Director, New England Regional Art Museum. “The Art of Wool exhibition moves beyond a presentation of the history of wool in Australia, to explore qualities of wool that are shared with and complemented by these 12 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Sydney Long (1871-1955) The shepherdess, 1909 Oil on canvas on board Gift of Howard Hinton 1939 The Howard Hinton Collection New England Regional Art Museum

iconic artworks.

“The Art of Wool is rich with artworks that depict all aspects of the wool industry - from prize sheep to shearing sheds, farm work to hand knitting. Sheep and wool have provided inspiration to generations of Australian artists.

“We are very fortunate to be working with The Woolmark Company on presenting this exhibition to our local community. Their gorgeous International Woolmark Prize garments help us present new relationships between art and fashion design that add to an understanding of the place of wool in the artistic imagination.”

Supporting the global Campaign for Wool, with HRH the Prince of Wales as its patron, the exhibition also highlights the plentiful properties of wool as a flexible raw material used in the fashion industry.

The exhibition is accompanied by an illustrated catalogue to provide further insights into the exhibition content, with images of the garments and artworks, alongside essays by fashion historian Associate Professor Margaret Maynard, artist and academic Adam Geczy and art historian Christine France OAM. Rachel Piercy, Director, Manning Regional Art Gallery added, “This is an outstanding exhibition, with something for everyone to see. From historic artworks, to contemporary

fashion, this show brings making, sculptural The Art of Wool is rich with together art and fashion woven tapestry wall artworks that depict with a quintessential hangings, freestyle/ all aspects of the wool Australian feel. We have free form knitting industry - from prize some very strong textile and crochet, drawing sheep to shearing sheds, based artists and groups with yarn, painting farm work to hand in the region, and The with fibre, fabric knitting. Sheep and wool Art of Wool is sure to collage, and basketry. have provided inspiration to inspire. This exhibition is To coincide with the generations of Australian artists. not to be missed, and for residency, there will be the first time the gallery an exhibition of the will be open throughout Manning Fibre Artists the Christmas and New at A Little to the Left Year holiday season.”

Studio and Gallery in Taree.

During the month of January, the gallery The Art of Wool exhibition is presented by will host floor talks, specialised workshops The Woolmark Company and New England and a children’s art trail. A special part of Regional Art Museum. This project has these public programs is presented by The been assisted by the Australian Government Manning Fibre Artists, I wool, if you wool, through the Ministry of the Arts Visions of a collaborative residency, as part of the Australia program. gallery’s artist-in-residence program, The Wall Project, which will explore all things wool in four Acts, Act 1 - Spinning a Yarn, Act plug!

2 - Feelings Felt, Act 3 - A Stitch in Time, Act 4 - Weaving Wool Bring us Together. The See The Art of Wool at the Manning Manning Fibre Artists will play the roles of the Regional Art Gallery, Friday 1st December alchemists, magicians, story-tellers, historians 2017 to Sunday 4th February 2018. and artists, while friends and visitors to the Open 10am - 4pm, Wednesday - Saturday; gallery will play the magician’s apprentices, 1pm - 4pm Sunday. co-creators, audience and future story-tellers.

Where 12 Macquarie Street, Taree.

During the residency, there will be workshops Free entry. on offer at the gallery, ranging from feltwww.manningregionalartgallery.com.au

Manning-Great Lakes focus 13

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Stars Southern

O R I A N T H I

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P A N A G A R I S O R A R I C H I E S A M B

Early 2018 sees Tuncurry play host to some of the biggest names in Rock, including power couple Richie Sambora and Orianthi. FOCUS caught up with vibrant bombshell Orianthi for a chat about their new EP and upcoming tour …

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i Orianthi. Firstly, tell us about how your love story began …

I was playing a New Year’s Eve charity show up in Maui, and we had lots of different guests come up - Steven Tyler, The Doobie Brothers, Weird Al Yankovic ... Richie came last, and he introduced himself to me. We just hit it off straight away, I sat there with Alice and watched him play, and then afterwards we hung out and jammed, played a couple of songs on stage, and then he asked for my number. We sat together that evening; he seemed like a really nice guy … He called me when I got back to LA to come hang out and jam, and then it kind of just started from there.

He kept on calling and we kept on hanging out; we started dating within a month or so.

A lot of guitarists collaborate together, but this is certainly something special ... Having both a musical and romantic connection, how would you illustrate your creative relationship?

We wrote songs together straight away; it just happened naturally. We are influenced by the same styles, and we have similar artists we look up to, like Buddy Guy and Jimi Hendrix. We shared a really similar interest in music; we’d sit there and listen to records together and then we starting jamming. The chemistry was just Rise is a really empowering song. there! The first couple of nights we started I think you know, in any field, hanging out, we wrote a few songs, and whatever it is, you’ve just got to it’s just continued from there. We’ve now have confidence within yourself. written over 70 together and recorded 22.

There are always people You’ve freshly released your brand new who are going to hate on EP, Rise. Tell us about the project … you, people trying to bring bringing people together.

It’s been a long process. We started this you’ve just got to you down; Strength, encouragement, record about four years ago, and we started have that strength within you, that supporting one another, it around a piano. We wrote Truth first; that light that keeps you going. believing in each other and was one of the first songs we wrote for believing in yourself. this album, and then Rise and Masterpiece; Tell us about your that’s kind of the order of how the songs recording studio … were written. It was very piano based, which is kind of Well, we have our kitchen table, which has turned into weird, because we are both guitar players. a studio.

It started with Garage Band on the computer We really worked the songs quite a bit to where they at 3am; we did a cover of I Got You Babe, and it just are now; they’ve kind of had different lives and moulded grew from there.

We thought it was a really comfortable themselves. We really wanted to mould a sound and that area; the kitchen is really big and the sound’s good ... We took some time, because you record a song and think brought in big speakers etc. and it’s literally now a full this could change, this could be better ... We wanted to studio in the kitchen.

People come in and out and jam on make it a little more interesting, so we spent a lot of time the record.

We have an open door policy, so it’s fun like working on that. that!

I can cook when I’m not needed to play I put a big What was the inspiration behind the EP’s title and viking feast on for everyone. opening track?

It’s something different and I love the environment of Rise is a really empowering song. I think you know, being able to record at home. When you’re in some of in any field, whatever it is, you’ve just got to have those amazing studios, there’s so much history there confidence within yourself. There are always people and that inspires you - but at the same time there’s also who are going to hate on you, people trying to bring different people coming in and out. I like that homely you down; you’ve just got to have that strength within feeling and creating something in my space and then you, that light that keeps you going. I think it’s a really putting it out to the world. empowering song. You are who you are - it’s about that,

Stars Southern

We are elated to have you playing Under the Southern Stars in January alongside Aussie Rock heavyweights including Jimmy Barnes. Have you played alongside him before; what are you looking forward to about the gig?

My first show ever in LA was my Business Manager’s Bar Mitzvah and my second show was actually opening for Jimmy Barnes at the House of Blues in LA; he was wonderful, a really sweet guy. His daughter sang with him and we got to hang out. He’s an incredible singer.

Growing up in Australia, my mum would always play his records around the house.

I know you’ve just released the EP, Rise, but are there plans for an album release in the near future?

Yeah, the second EP is coming out this month, and then the full album will be released in February.

Thanks Ori.

See Under the Southern Stars at Harry Elliott Oval, Tuncurry on Sat 6th Jan 2018, 1pm.

Tickets underthesouthernstars.com.au Manning-Great Lakes focus 15

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focus_What’s On Manning-Great Lakes

DECEMBER

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Gypsy Royals live Don’t miss Live & Local Acoustic sessions every Friday and Sunday @ Hamiltons. When Fri 1 Dec, 4pm 7pm. Where 1 Palm St, Tuncurry.

More info hamiltonsoysters.com.au Phone (02) 6554 8245

Summer fest 2017

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Secret farmers’ market

The annual Summerfest will be held once again at Harry Bennett Park, Taree, on Saturday, December 2. The event is the culmination of the Live ‘n’ Loud events that are held throughout the year. Now in its sixth year, Summerfest is planned and run by local young people.

Everything from organising, marketing, production and performances is the responsibility of the Manning Youth Action Team (MYAT). When Sat 2 Dec, 4:30pm 9pm. Where Victoria St, Taree.

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Christmas BBQ in the keys Come along to Elizabeth Reserve and celebrate Christmas early. Enjoy live Christmas carols plus a BBQ. When Sun 3 Dec, 11am. Where Elizabeth Reserve, Forster Keys. Bring a picnic rug and chairs plus nibbles and relax.

Bookings are essential Please phone 0481 481 049.

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Kids’ Bingo

The Secret Weekly Farmers’ Market is held every Thursday with locally grown and created products, including fresh fruit and vegetables, local honey, pastured eggs, fermented food and drinks, jams and chili sauces, fresh pork and beef, raw cakes, organic pasta, seeds and seedlings, olives and olive oil and lastly, flowers. Stall holders include Hidden Valley FreeRange, Bottled Culture, Yvette’s Raw Kitchen, Organics MattR, Totally Freerange, Granny Mels, Parched Earth, Refugium Flora, Gilchrist Honey and more. Where Taree Park, Corner of Wynter & Macquarie St, Taree. When Thu 14 Dec, 8am - 1pm.

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Grow your own music festival

The Hopeless Utopian presents ... Grow Your Own Set in Forster-Tuncurry on NSW’s Mid North Coast. Grow Your Own is a music and produce festival centred on homegrown talent and produce. When Fri 22nd Dec, 1pm - 11pm. Where Harry Elliot Oval, Beach St, Tuncurry. More info www. growyourown.tv Email media@growyourown.tv

Both Club Forster and Sporties Tuncurry bring you Kids’ Bingo during the school holidays. It's loads of fun, with great prizes on offer. Games are called at a slower pace for the children. Games start at 4pm, and entry is $8 per child. When Wed 27 Dec, 4pm. Where Sporties Club, Beach St, Tuncurry. More info www.clubforster.com.au/ just-for-kids.html Phone: (02) 6554 9270

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from

Waterworld central WATERWORLD CENTRAL, Australia’s first portable water theme park, will be sliding into Forster at the Lakeside Tavern from the 27th December through the 7th January 2018 these school holidays! Waterworld is Australia's first mobile waterpark. There are loads of water attractions, from a massive drop on the Colossal Dino Slide, walking on water in a Zorb Ball. Bump your friends with Bumper Boats and spray each other with water guns. Tickets prices $10 for adults (2 hours on the Dino Slide only) $25 for children 2 - 16 years (2 hour unlimited rider). The daily unlimited Rider Wristband Session times are as follows: 10am - 12pm, 11am - 1pm, 12pm - 2pm, 1pm - 3pm, 2pm - 4pm.

When Wed 27 Dec 2017 - Sun 7 Jan 2018. Where 89 The Lakes Way, Forster. More info www.waterworldcentral. com.au/ Email: pramod@ofa.net.au

Update your Racing Calendar Country racing at its best - it’s just so true. Get your calendars out and fill in the dates. Tuncurry Race Club have three major race days heading our way.

11th Decemeber - Christmas Party.

s races, all through his was20th new and- Seafood that Race wasDay.going to be exciting.

January 11th March - Men of League. reer. He was such a great Everyone in town has their own little niche, If you wish to have a seat in the Pavilion or dayshe racing: Christmas horseGreat that went on Party, to Seafood, and aIGazebo, thought the0429 burgers pleasethat ring Marg 967 823, could be ours. and Men of Leage. or just find a seat on the hill for a great day’s represent Australia at It’s going really, really well; I’m very happy with Save the Dates racing. the Olympics. He didn’t the way it’s opened up and where it is at at do any good at the the moment. We are excited about the holiday RACING and meeting all the visitors.

Olympics, but he did URRY season C N U ER T of the F O R ST win Show Horse What’s on the agenda for you in future ...

Year four times at the Any big plans in the making for Dasher’s, Royal Easter Show. or for you personally?

From jockey, to To keep improving, we are always designing estaurant owner, as you new things to add to the menu. I’ve been a big w own Dasher’s Bar and fan of having spare ribs on the menu; there is Forster ... When did a lot of work that goes into preparing the ribs, to enter the hospitality so we need to make sure that we are ready hy did you choose this and we do it properly, before actually popping hange? it onto the menu. ht hand turn from my We have started off small so that we can it was something that I’d grow and keep adding things to the menu; this o. I had been coming to keeps us fresh and allows us to expand, which r over 10 years; I have a hopefully our customers will like. nd my best man from my For myself in 2016, I am still involved with so I was always going to racing; they have talked me into being on the en just a matter of finding committee of the Forster Tuncurry Jockey Club, www.tfjc.info up here in Forster. which I’m really excited about. ssionate about food and The Jockey Club is another thing that really e always going to venture attracted me to the area. I just love how the xplored what was in town town gets behind their race club. Like I said

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F I G H T I N G

T H E

B U S H

F I R E S

Keith

Pascoe Forster local Keith Pascoe has a very unique way of viewing scenes … and his beautiful photos are evidence of this.

Carefully composed, imaginatively pictured and emotively captured, check out Keith’s work on these pages. He’s received accolades and won awards for his work - and rightfully so!

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i Keith. What part of the Manning-Great Lakes do you call home, and what do you most enjoy about the area?

I live in Forster, after moving from an alpaca farm in Coolongolook that my wife, Robyn, and I developed in 1999 when we retired and left the “big smoke” of Sydney.

We were attracted to the area because of the natural beauty of the beaches, lakes and mountainous areas in the hinterland. Initially, we also wanted to have a go at farm life.

Forster is such a beautiful area and presents some fantastic opportunities for photography, including whales, dolphins, ospreys and other wildlife, as well as the beautiful landscapes.

What initially drew your attention towards photography?

Most of my adult life I have been interested in photography. Back in the sixties, I hitchhiked for eight months around the world, and I wanted a photographic record of my trip.

I sailed from Sydney to England via Auckland, Papeete, Panama Canal, Lisbon and then to Southampton. After leaving England, I visited 18 Manning-Great Lakes focus

France, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, differences between the two?

Denmark, Norway, Austria, Italy, Greece, Syria, My first camera was a Canon 35 mm film Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, camera, and all the photos had to be printed or Philippines and Hong Kong. Those were carefree put on slides, so that you could project them on times. to a screen. Today I have a digital camera, which This trip was a photographer’s dream, and I allows the luxury of taking many photos at little took hundreds of photos cost. using a film camera. Today, Currently I am shooting I still have boxes of slides with a Panasonic GX85 from that trip, and they Lumix four thirds camera. are still quite good quality The four thirds system I love post production, images. produces top results, as it opens another Many of the famous without the weight and world of photography places I visited were easy size of standard digital and allows for more to access, as tourism was cameras. It features artistic treatment. nowhere near as popular leading edge technology, There are many post as it is today. In those days starting with 4 K video production programs available you could simply walk and 5-axis dual image to photographers today. in and take the photo stabiliser built into a without difficulty in places compact body. such as the Dome of the One of the 4 K video Rock in Jerusalem, St features allows you to Peter’s and the Sistine Chapel in Rome. Not so shoot a short video of thirty frames, and then easy today. you can select one of those frames in an eight What was the first camera you ever megabyte file. This is fantastic for capturing fast owned, what camera do you mostly shoot moving subjects and then choosing the exact with these days - and what are the major photo you want.

What subjects do you most like to shoot, and why do these inspire you?

My photography covers all genres, but I do like to shoot that “different” image. I am always looking for new ideas and new compositions that are outside the square. I also like to take photos with emotional appeal. Recently I had the opportunity to photograph chimpanzee families in the Singapore zoo. You can see an example of this with the photo included showing mother and baby.

I also like to produce images which present an altered reality, where you’re only limited by your imagination.

I love post production, as it opens another world of photography and allows for more artistic treatment. There are many post production programs available to photographers today.

No doubt the “favourite” photo you’ve taken changes from time to time - but what’s your current favourite and why?

I don’t really have one favourite image at the moment. I love the emotional feel of my chimp family images and the street performer, but at the same time my image of a storm over Paris taken from the Arc de Triumph is a wonderful

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S T O R M

O V E R

P A R I S

K E I T H

A

M O T H E R ’ S

L O V E

H E A R T

O P T I C A L

A N D

S O U L

I L L U S I O N

reminder of an amazing trip.

What photography clubs are you a member of, and how do they help you hone your skill behind the lens?

I am a committee member of the Forster Digital Photography Club (FDPC). I also belong to the Australian Photography Society (APS).

Belonging to both of these organisations has helped me enormously with my photography.

Our local club has monthly competitions with a set subject and an open competition and these competitions can be challenging, as you are competing against other talented photographers in the club. Members also share their photography tips and ideas.

The Australian Photography Society has also provided another challenge for me, where I can compete internationally, and this can be very rewarding - particularly if you are interested in gaining honours in photography.

What are some of the awards/comments/ recognition you’ve received for your photography?

Recently I gained the AFIAP (Artiste FIAP) honours award, which is an international award issued by the Federation Internationale De L’Art Photographique. To gain this award I was required have at least forty acceptances, with at least fifteen different photographs.

This success had to come from at least fifteen different salons with FIAP patronage, and those salons had to be spread over at least eight different countries. I also The Australian Photography had to have five prints Society has also provided accepted internationally, another challenge for me, so this award was quite where I can compete a challenge. These internationally, and this awards really test your can be very rewarding photographic skills and - particularly if you are really help you improve interested in gaining honours in your photography, as photography. via the Straits of Messina, you are competing passing the island of internationally.

Stromboli (we could In the year 2013/14, I see the flames from this was successful in winning volcano) and then into Palermo and Sorrento. the Probus National Photographic Competition, Our journey then finished at Civitavecchia, the where you had to submit a photo on the theme port of Rome.

Once again, I had many wonderful of “Active Retirees”. My photo was chosen from photo opportunities on this trip. some two thousand photos nationwide and was What’s one piece of useful advice you can taken locally at Knorrit Flat, which is about a share with the beginning photographer forty five minute drive from Taree. something you wished you’d known when First prize included return airfares to you were starting out?

Europe for two and a boutique cruise of the My advice for beginner photographers is to fill Mediterranean. Starting at Istanbul, my wife and I visited Lemnos, Izmir, Delos, Mykonos and the frame with your subject and think about your Santorini. We then sailed between Italy and Sicily composition before you click that button. Unless

you are taking a landscape, then the closer the better. Most cameras these days incorporate a rule of thirds grid that you can switch on, and this grid helps you compose your photo.

What other photographers’ work inspires you?

Rather than being inspired by a particular photographer’s work, I am more inclined to be encouraged by the many photographers who go that extra mile to capture that special image. For example, I am amazed at some of the images taken by wildlife photographers.

Thanks Keith.

Forster Digital Photography Club: www.forsterdigitalphoto.com/ Manning-Great Lakes focus 19

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Cloud Control Grow Your Own Festival

Recently dropping their new single, “Zone”, written in a small beach house near Forster, Cloud Control top the bill of this year’s Grow Your Own Festival. FOCUS chatted with lead vocalist Al about their release and upcoming Forster appearance ...

H

i Al. What’s Cloud Control’s backwards in a blender. Basically. backstory in brief; how Compared to previous recordings, what did did you guys meet/come you change or enjoy most about the process of together musically? developing this album?

We formed to enter a band It was fun being next to the beach for a while. competition, and we grew up As in, it's always fun near the beach, but we were around the Blue Mountains together. So, there for a while. Not like, it was fun for a we've known each other a pretty while, and then the beach got boring. long time.

You’ve been placed on the Earlier this year you top of the stellar line up e w , Man dropped your third album, for this year’s Grow Your ly al actu e th of Zone. How has it been h Own Festival on the sunny nc bu a recorded r, te received so far? shores of Forster. What are rs Fo at album up l. fu The latest Newspoll you guys looking forward ti au be and it’s so ip tr results suggest that 14.36% to? ad ro a We’re gonn e of Australians are stoked m Man, we actually recorded so e ak up and m about being in the “Zone”. a bunch of the album up at s.” new friend Out of 420,000 respondents, Forster, and it's so beautiful.

69.420% had never been in the We're gonna road trip up and “Zone” before. Further questions make some new friends. revealed 2,000% were looking Heading into summer, what are your forward to getting into the “Zone”. Only top four go to summer bangers? one person surveyed had been in the “Zone” Cool Oz music like Cub Sports album BATS. previously and was disappointed. Pauline Tiny Little Houses are sick - the new track, Entitled Hanson is the only person ever to be banned from Generation, is rad. Also into Beautiful Thugger Girls entering the “Zone”. a lot - that's Young Thug's second latest album.

How would you describe the sonic profile/vibe Moving into 2018, what’s on the horizon? of Zone?

Big things coming!

Big bad beats and bass bins blazing Billy's banana Thanks Al.

“

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Set in Forster-Tuncurry on NSW’s Mid North Coast, Grow Your Own is a music and produce festival highlighting homegrown talent and local products from our great region.

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eld in the heat of summer as the town bustles with holidaymakers and prodigal ex-pats, the festival event seeks to bring national music to a regional area with Cloud Control, Skegss, Jack River, The Belligerents, Alex the Astronaut and more. Presented by The Hopeless Utopian, the event supports local talent, whether that comes in the form of a band, a local farmer or producer, or a local clothing label. Migrating from the inaugural site of Club Forster’s backyard to Tuncurry Footy Fields in 2017, Grow Your Own will swell to a capacity of 3,000 for its second installment, with scope to further expand the event in subsequent years. Festival director Holly Rankin said, “we are part of a generation that cares enough

about and has a desire to celebrate all things homegrown, and we strive to highlight this mindset through all aspects of the event”. “We support Australian companies, environmental sustainability, locally grown produce and collaboration with local creatives, communities and cultures,” said Holly. Tickets are on sale for the Friday, December 22nd event via www.growyourown.tv - the event will open its doors at 1pm and close at 11pm.

A range of food vendors and a localised Grower’s Area will provide patrons with some tasty options, and the main bar including Stone & Wood will have plenty to quench your thirst. All information, including the line-up, tickets, artists and growers, food and drink, frequently asked questions, accomodation, getting there and conditions of entry is available via the website.

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“Aloha� Poke bowl, Hawaiian style sashimi salad with rice, edamame beans, roasted sesame dressing from Beach Bums.

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Local caught Flathead fillets baked with lemon myrtle and Manuka honey butter with rocket and avocado salad

Moby’s Mess

Hallidays Point Tavern

Moby’s on Red Gum

Hallidays Point Tavern is your go to destination for a relaxing time, day and night. Recently renovated, the family friendly tavern has launched live music Sunday sessions. Every second Sunday from 3pm to 6pm, come and enjoy some drinks, cheese boards and dinner from our fresh sourced produce, as you listen to an array of local talent with your friends.

Weekly specials are available from 5:30pm nightly, including pizzas made from dough prepared fresh on premises. Check Facebook for the nightly special. Friday is also home to members’ draws and meat raffles.

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.

HEAD CHEF GREGORY BULTITUDE

51 BLACKHEAD ROAD, HALLIDAYS POINT 6559 2995 DAILY FROM 10AM.

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 evenings - altogether creating an unforgettable dinning experience.

Follow us on Facebook @mobysretreat

CHEFS EVAN AND JESSE

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.

$11 Lunch Specials

The Fox Den

Kenny’s Thai Kitchen

Welcome to The Fox Den. Along the main street in Gloucester, tucked away is a quiet little place

Enjoy a taste of Thailand!

called The Fox Den.

$11 Lunch Specials.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving the most amazing meals that will keep you coming

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

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!

We have just finished our renovations and have a great line up ofr live entertainment Friday and

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, Angel Prawns, Pad See Ew, Green Curry and the very popular Pad Thai.

HEAD CHEF KENNY

Saturday nights heading into the next few months.

Find us on Facebook to keep track of who we have playing.

82 CHURCH ST, GLOUCESTER 6558 9701 WWW.THEFOXDEN.COM.AU MONDAY, TUESDAY, WED: 6:30AM - 3PM THURSDAY, FRIDAY: 6:30AM - 9PM

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

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HORTICULTURALIST NEVILLE DONOVAN - GREENPATCH ORGANIC SEEDS

AT ’S IN

season WH

Peaches Summer brings with it a luscious selection of fruits, including the juicy flavour of a ripe, home grown peach.

This fruit can’t be beaten and several varieties can be planted from early-late maturing, harvesting over three - four months. Ask for the low chill varieties that are suitable for the North Coast. These can be planted almost anytime and are self pollinating. The dwarf varieties take up little room in the garden.

back to one or two buds. Prune to maintain a small open vase shaped tree and keeping to a maximum height of 2.5 m.

Peaches require a mostly sunny position, soil that drains well and holds organic matter. In clay soils it would help to mound the plant, to avoid water logging of the roots. Feed as required with compost, organic fertilizer such as chicken manure or blood and bone, as peaches are heavy feeders. Place a thick mulch around the tree to help with weed reduction. Water regularly when conditions are dry.

Peaches do encounter a few problems, including birds, fruit fly, slugs, peach leaf curl; however, your time spent in managing these pests will be rewarded with abundant tasty fruit. Firstly, cover with bird netting or fine exclusion net to keep out the smaller insects. A constructed frame or polypipe will keep the netting off the branches. Fruit fly traps can also be used nearby.

Chooks and ducks will keep the slugs in check. Good cultural practices such as planting in a sunny position, maintaining yearly pruning and avoiding shading will help minimise the risk of fungal diseases.

Pruning can be carried out after harvest by removing crossing branches, sappy growth and any dead wood.

Cut back old lateral wood that has just finished fruiting

Peaches crop heavily in spring. Once fruit has set, thin out to 10 cm apart to grow good sized fruit. Harvest when the fruit is a little soft to touch. Refrigerate and place a few each day at room temperature to ripen and enjoy.

image of the month.

Title “Touched by the Sun” at Forster. Photo by Roland Anderson. Taken with Nikon D5200.

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

24 Manning-Great Lakes focus

jo@focusmag.com.au

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

S

parkling wine is also known as Champagne when it originates from the Champagne district of France, Cremant when it is made from other regions of France, and in Italy it is known as Spumante.

We promote sparkling wine as a drink to be enjoyed year round and for any occasion, whether significant or insignificant - it truly should be enjoyed like any other wine and experimented with, pairing it with all types of food.

Sparkling wine sales continue to soar during the Christmas period when, for whatever reason, the majority of us feel justified in drinking the bubbly stuff. It is a fabulous way to kick off Christmas Day. Most of us don't do that too often, so on this day we tend to feel OK about having a champagne breakfast.

Bubbly comes in all colours and grape varieties - traditionally the base wine is made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier, but over time creativity has taken over and we are seeing many varieties being used.

A very popular style in Australia is sparkling red using grape varieties including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin, creating richer flavoured sparkling wines.

So what makes bubbly ... bubbly? Its origins are

from a natural occurring process, which has been refined into an art form. Having made a base wine, the winemaker generates a second fermentation process with the addition of yeast and sugars.

Dependent upon the method being applied, the wine is then either bottled under pressure or stored in specialised tanks under pressure. The bubbles occur as a result of carbon dioxide releasing into the wine. The second fermentation process sometimes begins naturally under the right conditions, so you may not be imagining it when you open a bottle of table wine and see bubbles. Sometimes it is possible for a bottle of still wine to explode under the unintended pressure! The pressure created by the bubbles is the reason sparkling wine is produced in a heavier style of bottle, which is strong enough to handle the additional pressure.

I think I may have got a little too technical ... So just pop the cork, get out the champagne flute and enjoy the light, refreshing bubbles of your favourite sparkling wine. Christmas is nearly here, then there is Boxing Day, then there is New Year, Australia Day, your birthday, your anniversary, your neighbour's birthday, your neighbour's anniversary etc. etc. ... but who needs an excuse?

Bubbly comes in all “ colours and grape varieties - traditionally the base wine is made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier, but over time creativity has taken over and we are seeing many varieties being used.�

Every day, any time, for any reason.

I'm talking about sparkling wine ... fondly known as "BUBBLY" and oftentimes left for a special occasion, rather than enjoying it as regularly as you would a table wine.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 25

Live Baby Live! The INXS Tribute Show Live Baby Live! The INXS Tribute Show is Australia’s premier rendition of one of the most iconic bands in Australian history.

Live Baby Live! brings together a group of musicians that have a combined 40+ years’ experience playing music and performing live.

Live Baby Live! deliver a stunning replication of all the classic INXS tracks, performing songs from their first album all the way through to their latest hits. Frontman Guy Collings is a natural born performer and brings the late great Michael Hutchence to life on stage, bearing a striking resemblance to Hutchence in both sound and looks.

Guy is joined by Matt Porter on keyboards,

26 Manning-Great Lakes focus

saxophone, harmonica, guitar and backing vocals, Jesse Fildes on electric and acoustic guitars and backing vocals, Justin Miranda on bass and backing vocals, and Jackson Collings on drums, percussion and backing vocals.

Bringing all these elements together, Live Baby Live! produce what can only be described as an amazingly accurate tribute to the mighty INXS. With meticulous attention paid to the unforgettable INXS Live at Wembley performance and swagger to match, let Live Baby Live! take you back to a time when rock and roll ruled.

Club Blackhead welcomes Creation 2 Club Blackhead is proud to introduce new caterer, “Creation 2”, to the club. This is a very exciting venture for the historic club, with the menu featuring 60% Asian cuisine and 40% Australian influence.

Club Blackhead is pleased to welcome Alex Wen and his father, Kevin Ho, to the role of providing fine food to our locals and tourists, with a unique menu to the Hallidays Point area. The menu will also include $10 bistro lunches, sure to be very popular over summer. Great value and even greater taste.

out with family and friends. Open from

There’s always plenty on offer at the club, perfect to enjoy a magnificent day or night

club on (02) 6559 2923 or visit the website

10am daily, drop by and take part in one of the many weekly events, including meat and seafood raffles, bowls, ultimate poker or simply enjoy a relaxed drink, lunch or dinner and monthly entertainment.

Club Blackhead can cater for your next function, pricing is affordable, so come and enjoy all that the club has to offer. Courtesy Bus available seven days for members and guests. For more information, contact the on www.clubblackhead.com.au

focus_contributor

WITH DONNA CARRIER FROM BENT ON FOOD

Dundaloo Morning Tea

Formal

Grahame’s 60th

Grahame’s 60th

High Tea

The Sauerkrauts

Social /Scene

N

ovember has kept us busy with our own party to organise, a few weddings, corporate events and a charity high tea.

It is well known around town that we throw a pretty good party after my 50th a few years ago, and hey, it is my job, so I should be good at it! It’s all about the theme! Then you throw some people who love to party into the mix, and you have it. My partner, Grahame, turned 60 this month and on 4th November we held a fabulous ‘70s party in the back yard of the café. People came from afar to be with us for this special occasion, with hippies, punk rockers and disco queens all making an appearance.

We served some very retro ‘70s style food, including vol au vents, sausage rolls, French onion dip and our version of devils on horseback.

A disco ball shone brightly above us, with some fabulous lighting installations by Matt Woodward. The playlist kept us dancing all night. An amazing disco style cake was made by Stephanie Poole. It was a perfect night, although rain threatened during the day, and we did get a few drops mid party, but nothing would stop the partygoers from having a good time. In lieu of gifts we made a $470 donation to the Australian Cancer Research Foundation. Happy 60th, Grahame x.

On the 10th November, we were treated to some fantastic entertainment by The Sauerkrauts, all the way from Berlin. Deta and Rob are the Sauerkrauts, and their band, The Beez, performs

Christmas is almost upon us, and although it is a busy time of the year and somewhat exhausting, it is also joyous and a wonderful time to spend with family. I will have a few days off and although my team and I work hard between Christmas and New Year, I look forward to Christmas Day around my sister’s pool with a glass of wine in hand.

regularly throughout Europe and Australia.

They’ve appeared on ABC TV’s Spicks and Specks and at just about every folk festival you care to think of. Deta and Rob always felt that the German Oeuvre was a little underrepresented in The Beez, so they are travelling the country to make amends with an evening of “Dancefloor -Compatible Deutsche Derring-do”, featuring Deta´s fabulous “Brunhilde Bass“accordion. We were treated to comic classics from the likes of Rammstein and Kraftwerk, we caught a glimpse of Nena´s 99 Red Balloons and we swooned to Marlene Dietrich’s Lili Marlene, all in the one Friday night! This was a great event! We are looking forward to welcoming the incredible Sam Hasty to play on December 29th.

Last year we held a successful fundraiser to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer; it was a big day, with many guests seated in the garden. There was a bit of a heatwave, so this year we decided to enjoy the air-conditioning and take it indoors, to stop the ladies and the cream from melting.

Sixty guests enjoyed caramel tarts, scones with jam and cream, chocolate torte, macarons, finger sandwiches, quiches and cheesecakes. Some of my staff volunteered their time for the event and others baked delicious cakes to contribute.

We had a great day, and the ladies managed to raise quite a bit of money for the charity.

Romae Muggleton lost her beautiful daughter to pancreatic cancer a few years ago too, and it was Chelle’s wish for more awareness and research to be undertaken into this difficult disease. Romae, Sharelle and the ladies raise a vast amount of

money throughout the month of November and Wingham and the surrounding area is known for its generosity to the cause each year; but it’s not just about money - they also share information through their Facebook page “Pancreatic Cancer Awareness and Fundraising” and through the media. These ladies are truly amazing.

because English is Jana’s second language and she is more of a small, intimate conversationalist as opposed to a public speaker!

November 15th was a big day for many people, especially our friends, who were awaiting the outcome of the postal survey. The nation said “Yes”, so a little party was held at the café to celebrate, with Shelly and Jane from Dundaloo bringing all their team in for cakes and coffee.

A heartfelt speech brought us all to tears, as we heard how much this meant to them and to many other Australians who can now marry the person they love.

Those in attendance were : Jana Pearceova, exhibition artist; Sam Everett, gallery owner + artist; Jenny Dayment, Sweet-pea & Mumma Maker; Rachel Piercy, Manning Regional Gallery Director; Ali Haigh, Current exhibiting artist at the Regional Gallery and Regional Gallery staff; Rod Dayment, artist from Blackhead Beach; Master Luke, artist; Sarah-Jane Mariah, artist and disability support worker; Penny Green, artist; Sir Theo, Gardening extraordinaire and master weaver,; Peter Richards, emerging artist; Bec Montgomery, artist; AJ Richards; Julie, friend of the Regional Gallery; Young Casey, student of Sam.

There was a real VIP turn-out to the last exhibition opening at A Little to the Left Gallery on Saturday 18th November.

Next month will be the 1st year birthday for the gallery, and will feature the Manning Fibre Artists, who were the first exhibition.

Common Ground is a show of new works by collectable local artist Jana Pearceova. The artist’s calm nature is carried into the works beautifully; they are elementally stripped back, sparse mixed media compositions that document the artist’s interactions with landscape. Found objects and common everyday materials such as paper, clay, fibres and shells, are presented as an archive of constructed textiles and series of stitched hybrid compositions.

Indigenous and collectable local artist Gina Varagnolo is also exhibiting in December; she has done new work especially.

Those in attendance were blessed with Jana leading an informal and relaxed discussion about her artistic practise - it was wonderful, especially

Send pics and info to donna@bentonfood.com. au

Kevin Griffiths, whom the Gallery represents, is also having an exhibition at Hallidays Point Library Gallery Space; Whale-song; Beyond the Blue is up ‘til mid December.

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

Cheers, Donna.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 27

focusinterview.

Summer is here, and so is the fresh drop from local label “Ossix”.

FOCUS caught up with creative goddess Amy Smith about her stunning new range.

ossix

Ossix

L

ast time we chatted with you, Ossix was just finding its feet. Now in your sixth year with the label, how have you grown both personally as a designer and as a brand?

Hi guys. I’m sure Ossix is still finding its feet; it’s an ongoing and constantly evolving process!

I actually took a break during this time, and I felt the time was right to restart the brand roughly 18 months ago. I was lucky enough to spend some time under the guidance of David and Diane Edgerly at Softedges Sportswear.

Upon their retirement, I acquired five industrial sewing machines and now have a small studio.

I can manufacture my swimwear complete from

28 Manning-Great Lakes focus

start to finish.

I am also blessed to have continued access to their head production manager, Vicky, to answer any questions and keep me on track; she’s a wealth of knowledge and dear friend. Overall, I’m in a good place; I feel really supported and have all the right people around me.

The biggest area I’ve had to grow in and adapt to is in the social media arena. Since starting the first time round, the escalation of social media, Instagram in particular, has presented a whole new ball game. Social media channels present massive opportunity for individuals to start their own brands and market direct to the consumer. This has created opportunity for Ossix, but at the same time, an increased amount of

recycle, support Greenpeace initiatives and am a major fan of the “seabin project”. There is a lot of fabric wastage in clothing manufacturing. A lot of our offcuts are kept and used to make cute little kids’ swimwear for another line launching next year; our wastage and contribution to landfill is minimal.

If you could dress I USE HIGH QUALITY ITALIAN anyone in Ossix, who competition, more than I FABRIC THAT CONTAINS would it be? ever imagined.

‘ECONYL’; THIS COMPONENT I am honestly over the What does Ossix pride moon every time someone IS MADE 100% FROM POST itself on? chooses to wear Ossix; CONSUMER WASTE PRODUCTS, I take pride in there’s something very SUCH AS FISHING NETS FROM producing a high quality special seeing something THE OCEAN FLOOR AND product that’s Australian you’ve created and put PLASTIC BOTTLES. designed and made. your heart and soul Also, being sustainable, into being worn and environmentally friendly appreciated. Someone and ethically focused. quite iconic who keeps I use high quality Italian fabric that contains coming to mind when asking myself this “econyl”; this component is made 100% from question is Lady Gaga. I discovered her latest post consumer waste products, such as fishing documentary, Gaga: Five foot two and found nets from the ocean floor and plastic bottles. a whole new level of respect and appreciation I also use environmentally friendly packaging, for her and her music I’ve never had before. I’ve

Photographer TDKCreative Babes Lana, Talara, Jemeyah Makeup arstist Hayley Dwyer makeup artistry Stylist Death do us art

like company ethics, sustainability, fair trade, listened to her latest album on repeat many times whilst sewing my collection over the last who made the garment, what they support, few months. She is one talented and incredibly transparency, the environmental footprint the inspirational lady. company leaves and things that the brand/ I especially love that she bares herself to company does to give back to the community. the world; in the first scenes, she appears in All these features and more can play a part in tracksuit pants and no makeup. I actually had how we view a product and determine how we no idea what she really looked like underneath feel when wearing or purchasing a garment. all the makeup. It’s nice to see that under her Do you have any exciting future plans performing persona there is just a normal girl for the brand? who feels the same emotions and life’s trials Oh, it’s all excitement and nothing short and tribulations like the rest of us. It’s refreshing of !!! 2018 will see a stronger focus on the in an age where our own identities are lost wearable art line; I’m looking forward to between our real selves and the false ones we working in more with local artist and legend, project through our social media channels.

Adam Murray. I’d also like to launch a men’s What’s the inspiration behind your latest line and bring back the budgie smuggler. Next line? year I’ll launch our cute little kids’ line, “MOKA I’d have to say the motherland, Australia, means fun”, and eventually if all goes well, I’d is one major inspiration behind the latest like to branch out into apparel. line. I adore the rawness of her history, her For budding young designers reading this barren terrain, luscious landscapes, the interview, what advice do you have to opportunity and freedom she offers, and our share? multiculturalism. I I think I’d have to say love using dusty, rusty, to keep it real and in rugged and neglected perspective; go at your buildings for our photoown pace. Be patient; shoot backdrops. I find dreams often take a lot BE PATIENT; DREAMS there is something of time and money and OFTEN TAKE A LOT so artistically enticing don’t happen overnight OF TIME AND MONEY about placing a especially when starting at AND DON’T HAPPEN beautiful lady in front of the bottom. Always listen OVERNIGHT - ESPECIALLY something so raw and to people you admire and WHEN STARTING AT THE organic; the contrast know the game, but don’t is epic.

BOTTOM. be discouraged if you do it The first drop, differently and in your own “Essential elements”, way; there is no one “right is the basics line. It way”. Get a mentor, be embraces class and prepared to work extra hard, surround yourself style; the cuts are simple, clean and on trend. with good people you love, swallow your pride, The fashion shoot for this range was taken exercise, do yoga, meditate, drink water, be mainly around Wauchope. The team all worked kind to others, don’t judge, say thank you, in closely with Tia from TDK creative. The show appreciation, compliment more/complain imagery is bang on and unique - such a fun less, eat well, say “I love you”, pat your own day. back; above all, look after yourself and your The next drop is our high summer mental health.

“Chanamee” collection. Chanamee is the Someone once told me, “If starting a Walpiri name for the Tanami desert in the business was easy, everyone would be doing northern territory and means “never die”, it”; this has rung true many times since! I’ve as some of the rock holes in this desert were been told on numerous occasions that I need thought to never run dry. We are planning this to be more organised and focus on planning shoot with a “Burning Man” vs. “Mad Max” and goal setting; unfortunately I struggle in avant-garde theme. I’m so excited to roll this this area. I feel that if I waited until these skills one out! were polished, I would never actually start or For Summer 2017/18, I’ve also drawn accomplish anything. I seem to work in the inspiration from Z-boys and ‘70s fashion and short term, often my best work is done at the music culture. I feel that music and fashion go very last minute, and my goal setting is more hand in hand. Music festivals have created their along the lines of daily to do lists. I certainly own unique fashion obsession; it’s next level, would pass this wise advice on to everyone else and I love it. I’m looking forward to seeing it all though, as having a plan and measurable goals unfold during FOTSUN 2017. on paper is proven to aid in success.

From a personal perspective, what do you Where can our readers purchase Ossix and think the most important thing is to take follow you on social media? into account when buying swimwear?

Ossix is making its debut at Stormriders as I think it’s all about how you feel in the we speak. We also have an online store at garment. We have so many options and access www.ossix.com.au to just about any brand via the Internet that Anyone wishing to follow us on social media things like comfort, fit, price, quality and service can do so at Facebook @ossixswimwear and are only just the beginning in the decision instagram @ossixswim. making process when purchasing a product.

Thanks Amy. We now also take into account elements

Ossix

Manning-Great Lakes focus 29

focus_contributor

S H A R O N B U LT I T U D E - 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

Examples of this impact are well documented.

In New York, the economic impact of the first year of gay marriage was over $275 million. In more recent times, the LGBTI visitor in Ireland is now worth a staggering 2.3 million per day, and Ireland’s general tourism figures are also rising, with the positive waves projected around the globe from last year’s same-sex marriage referendum lifting all boats.

Secondly, the cavalcade of same-sex couples heading down the marriage aisle (not to mention all those fabulous honeymoons!) will be a boom for the wedding and travel industry locally.

tourism UPDATE

Marriage Equality While the majority of Australians cheered the happy news that an historic marriage equality vote passed with a resounding “yes!”, tourism operators were also clapping their hands with glee.

T

he anticipated benefits for Australia’s visitor economy are two-fold: firstly, the vote will have a real and tangible impact on how Australia is seen internationally. As Chris Zeiher from Lonely Planet acknowledges:

30 Manning-Great Lakes focus

“The wide brown land is bathed now in shades of rainbow, unashamedly telling the world that it’s also a very inclusive destination to visit. The resounding YES vote has demonstrated that Australia is an open and tolerant place for the LGBTI community to travel to”.

With nearly 50,000 same-sex couples in Australia potentially planning to take their marriage vows, plus tourists and expats heading down under to marry on Australian soil, many industries are predicting a similar boom in business. According to ANZ senior economist Cherelle Murphy, the economic benefits of marriage equality related to weddings alone would be a conservative $650 million in the first 12 months.

For destination marketers, it does, however, demand a broader question as to whether a LGBTI visitor is different to any other visitor and whether “rainbow tourism” or the so called “pink dollar” is a thing of the past?

Previously, LGBTI travellers tended to use specialist travel companies to plan their holidays.

Sure, there are plenty of cruises and tours that still specifically cater to LGBTI travellers. But the “gay-vacation” that once existed out of necessity

is now often simply a vacation - be it a routine family getaway, a destination wedding or a romantic weekend.

Certainly, to define any traveller by his or her sexuality is to view that person through a narrow lens. Countless factors shape travel interests, including, but hardly limited to, age, gender, race, socioeconomic status and, of course, personal taste. Some crave adventure; others long to be pampered. There are those seeking a party and those seeking a respite. Plenty of gay and lesbian travellers want to participate in LGBTI-related activities; many do not.

Many mainstream suppliers are working harder than ever before to better understand the LGBTI market and to create more inclusive marketing strategies. Sophisticated brands and destinations are evolving beyond images of rainbow flags and shirtless men, and creating ads that, while showing same-sex couples, look like the rest of their brand’s advertising.

And the rest? Until brands stop worrying about how to cater for the LGBTI market and tiptoeing for fear of alienating their other customers, they won’t be able to claim they are equal.

Our industry needs to wake up, shape up and innovate. We may lose a few loyal customers, but we’ll gain far more new ones - and we all know the LGBTI community is one of the most loyal you’ll ever be lucky enough to serve!

Nature never felt so good We’re preserving 37 of the best coastal and inland reserves so your family can recharge the way nature intended. Relax at a camping spot, caravan site or cabin just right for you. Experience a break you’ll all remember for a lifetime.

reflectionsholidayparks.com.au

50 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Indoor SPORTS

Wanting to get fit, strap on those old boots or find a new way to socialise with friends?

Manning Indoor Sports provides a quality indoor sporting facility for the Manning-Great Lakes area to play netball, cricket, soccer, hockey and volleyball - for all ages, all year round.

A

family owned and operated business, owners Lee and Alison Burgess have a passion for sport. Lee has

Manning Indoor Sports also provides local schools with a venue to facilitate their school sports, with a variety of sports available.

To find out more or register a team, see manningindoorsports.com been an active Manning Indoor member of the Sports is also the cricket commuInflatable World Taree is nity as a coach home to Inflatable a fantastic location to host and administrator, World Taree, which your child’s birthday party having been the has been operbecause it is so easy. Book ating since April President and online, download invitations 2016, offering Secretary of Taree from the website, order or the Manning a West Cricket Club make a cake, bring along fun and exciting and the Manning some snacks then sit back place for famiJunior Cricket Asand watch the kids at play. sociation. With a lies, every weekpassion for junior end and school development, Lee holidays. Don’t be fooled, it's not is now the Milo just for kids - it’s just as much fun for In2cricket facilitator in the Manning adults.

Valley, with the sessions being held in Sessions are for two hours per single the indoor centre.

32 Manning-Great Lakes focus

entry fee - you will be tired by then anyway! You can play on the inflatable activities as many times as you like during the session.

The perfect place for large groups, including birthday parties, school trips, school holiday programs, corporate events, Christmas parties, or just a group of friends.

Inflatable World Taree is a fantastic location to host your child’s birthday party, because it is so easy. Book online, download invitations from the website, order or make a cake, bring along some snacks, then sit back and watch the kids at play.

Tea and coffee, along with c​ old​​ drinks - water, fruit juice, soft drinks and slushies,​ ​packets of ​chips​ ​and​ c​ onfectionery​are available for purchase from the canteen.

It's all about having fun, so bring the whole family and bounce on in to Inflatable World Taree!

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jeremy Thornton of Insurance Advisernet

BUSINESS MINDS

A

s we enter our busy tourism season, it’s timely to put the spotlight on one of our local success stories. BIG4 Great Lakes is a favourite with many families, who come from far and wide to enjoy the hospitality. Margaret Shannon is leading the new BIG4 and like some of our tourist friends, has come from far away.

Margaret, the accent is a dead giveaway!

Tell us about home and what it means to you.

I grew up in a small country town in New Zealand on a farm, not dissimilar to Taree, actually. Rural life, and living in the outdoors, is something that remains important to me and is a value that we are trying to instil in our daughter, Charlotte (5). There is so much freedom and authenticity that comes with that type of upbringing, and I’m so grateful to have had that start in life.

Growing up in NZ, did you ever imagine being in such an idyllic location in Oz? Or was a move always on the cards?

I have a lot of extended family in Australia, but it still took me 26 years to get over here.

When I first moved to Brisbane, I fell in love with the climate and the Australian countryside, and while I still love and miss New Zealand and head back whenever I can, Australia is now home. I think most people tend to take for granted what they have in their own backyard, so having not grown up here I can appreciate the diversity that Australia has.

You finished university in 2006 and seemed to pop up in Australia almost straight

away. Tell us about that journey.

Yes, it didn’t take long! I’d finished uni and was living in Christchurch, and came over on holiday - within six months, I had moved! I didn’t do the traditional OE (overseas experience), so Australia was it. After a year in Brisbane, I moved back to Christchurch for a year ... but missed Brisbane too much, so came back for good in 2009.

So, you joined us in The Great Lakes in 2014. What were your thoughts coming out of some big companies and looking after The BIG4? Was it a cultural shock?

Truth be told, I didn’t know about Forster until four weeks before I started the job! The first time we came to Forster was for the job interview, and I was blown away by the natural beauty of the area, and the amazing park. It was a very exciting time for us; we had our daughter, who was two years old, and we were looking for a “sea-change” of sorts.

While I have worked in some large corporate companies, I think at the end of the day the things that really matter are not all that different at the BIG4 Great Lakes - the customer is our number one priority, and the decisions we make reflect that.

There have been some significant changes at BIG4 over recent times. How you are reinventing the park?

The park has undergone a period of real growth recently, which reflects the increasing customer expectations. Long gone are the days where you had to wear your thongs in the shower - caravanning and camping, along with cabins that rival serviced apartments are now

WE WON BEST DELUXE

par for the course. one of the biggest of which PARK FOR THE SECOND We’ve also added has been the merger of YEAR IN A ROW AT THE facilities that give the three previous Council STATE INDUSTRY AWARDS families and couples regions in one large LAST MONTH, ALONG an opportunity to have destination, as tourists don’t WITH A ‘BEST OF THE fun and connect within see Council boundaries!

BEST’ AWARD - PLACING the park, including There has been some US AS THE BEST HOLIDAY a jumping pillow, fantastic work done with PARK IN THE STATE. new playground, the regional Destination renovated family pool Management Plan, and and waterpark and lap the diversity we have is our pool. biggest asset; we now just And awards have followed - three big ones need tourism operators to work together and only last month, I believe. What does it be more proactive, especially during the quiet mean to you? season, and to get behind local organisations Yes, we won Best Deluxe Park for the second such as the Council tourism office and local year in a row at the state industry awards business chambers. I’ve been known to say last month, along with a “Best of the Best” “Create, don’t criticise” - meaning if you are Award - placing us as the best holiday park in going to be critical of something, I think you the state. The awards are recognition for the need to be prepared to put your hand up and hard work that the team has put in over the contribute to a solution. past few years. As the park gets busier, it raises Well said. For you, what is the best part challenges, but our staff are always out there about living and being in business in the putting the customer first and trying to exceed Manning-Great Lakes? their expectations.

I love that the region is big enough to be To me, that has been one of my biggest sustainable and provide opportunities for myself accomplishments - having the opportunity to and my family, but small enough that you can lead and motivate a team to achieve something bump into other locals in the supermarket or great together and to have such a great support fruit and vege store. Everyone knows everyone, network that allows me to do that. and that sense of community is important to You’re a big advocate for local tourism, both individuals living here and also business. coming from a strong combined voice.

I look forward to meeting and working with a What is it you would like to see of from our lot more of you over the year to come; feel free local tourism industry? to pop into the BIG4 Great Lakes to say hello if Collaboration is key - I think we have so you are passing by! many fabulous opportunities within our region, Thanks Margaret. manning-great lakes focus.

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focus_contributor

A special focus feature

W I T H K AT E M I T C H E L L

The

xmas cake

Christmas

Dark Chocolate & Cointreau Soaked

Ron

Jones

W

hat’s your role with Carols in the Park?

My involvement in the Carols in The Park Committee has been Chairperson

Ingredients 450 g mixed fruit (I used prunes, sultanas, cranberries and dates) ¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice ¼ cup cointreau 110 g butter, softened ½ cup rapadura sugar 2 eggs (I use duck eggs for added creaminess) 105 g plain organic flour ¼ cup walnuts (or macadamias would also be nice) 80 g dark chocolate

Kate Mitchell katecaters Organic Larder Phone (02) 6582 0400

Method In a glass bowl or jug, combine your chopped mixed fruit, juice and cointreau; cover well and leave to soak overnight. (You can get away with four hours if you need to hustle.)

Preheat oven to 150 degrees; grease and double line a loaf tin.

Either chop or gently blitz your chocolate and nuts together; set aside.

In your electric mixer, beat eggs and sugar until light and creamy - approx. 5 mins. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Remove bowl from mixer and fold through flour, fruit mix and its liquid, and your chopped nuts and chocolate.

34 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Spoon into your prepared tin, and smooth over. Bake for approximately 50 - 60 mins, or until a skewer comes out clean. You can cover with foil to avoid too much browning. Once removed from oven, pour over another 30 ml or so of cointreau and allow to soak in.

When cooled completely, cover with chocolate ganache and allow to set. Serve with citrus whipped cream. I have also served with a cumquat and rosemary marmalade and dehydrated orange rounds. *I also use organic sulphite free dried fruits for maximum moisture and flavour.

Ron Jones, a retired Pastor of Rivercity Christian Outreach Centre Taree, gives us a little insight into the Carols in the Park’s history and what to expect this year.

that has made it into what it is today. Thank you!

What are you most looking forward to about the carols this year?

I am looking forward to the gathering of family and friends this year. The program will suit young and old alike. I love the enjoyment and vice chair person. of the children with Currently I am a spiritual glow sticks and sausage support with my wife, sandwiches, the singing Lyn. What of the Christmas carols.

This Christmas, I trust can you tell us about The excitement in the that you will experience the history the Carols atmosphere creates smiles loving kindness and joy ... How many years has and laughter; it all makes with family and friends. the event been held in a great night.

Never forget God loves Fotheringham Park?

What special Christmas you and that he comforts To my knowledge, the message would you and cares. Jesus is the carols was started by like to pass on to the reason for the season; the Rotary Club in 1985.

Manning-Great Lakes may his peace guide and This was in the Johnny communities? protect you.

Martin Oval supported Christmas is a time in by a community called the Christian calendar God Fest. The Ministers where we celebrate the Fraternal in 2003 then birth of Christ the Saviour, became the event organisers and moved to the where love and forgiveness go hand in hand. current position at Fotheringham Park. In 2009, It is a time when peace and goodwill are given the event was carried by Christian Outreach to many. Peace is our theme for this year. It is Centre until 2011. where peace comes from; God’s free gift in His At this time a committee was formed from son, Jesus. Because of that great gift, giving is various members and ministers of the local the mark of Christmas. This Christmas, I trust churches, along with Amanda Tate from that you will experience loving kindness and joy L.J. Hooker and members of her staff. The with family and friends. Never forget God loves committee was endorsed by the Taree Combined you and that he comforts and cares. Jesus is the Ministers Association and because of this it, reason for the season; may his peace guide and became a strong unified team. We thank the protect you. community for their support and involvement God Bless, Ron Jones.

A special focus feature

carols in the

Park

W

hat's your personal doing ahead of the event? involvement with Carols in the Our first committee meeting is usually held Park? in March, so that we can set the date. Once I am the President of the Taree we have the date, everything is booked and Carols in the Park Committee, as well as owner confirmed, with auditions usually being held of LJ Hooker Taree, who along with Viatek are around September. That is when the real the main sponsors of the event. Every year it is work starts. We are extremely grateful for the a pleasure to be part of a committee that brings Program Directors we have, as they have a this free event to the community for all to enjoy. huge responsibility leading up to the event and Who’ll be involved with the carols this year? ensuring the night runs smoothly whilst being Taree Carols in the Park is an annual event entertaining. completely run by volunteers. Whilst the What can you tell us about the particular committee members put the event together, we songs/entertainment and who will be have a lot of help from Aurora ShowFX, who performing this year? handle the sound, stage Carols wouldn’t be and lighting and of course, carols without singing our Program Director, along to our favourites, who this year happens to so you can expect all the Whilst I am not denying it be Leanne Ralston. The traditional carols such as Program Director is the Silent Night, Oh Come does get stressful towards biggest role, so Leanne is All Ye Faithful as well the day, it amazes us already busy with choice as upbeat renditions how the community of songs, singers and including Christmas in comes together as one entertainers, and the band Taree, performed by a to celebrate the true has been rehearsing for local high school band. meaning of Christmas and weeks in preparation.

Gymaroos will be special remind us of that sense of Adding up the volunteers, guests, as will our very gratefulness, peace and singers, entertainers, own Santa, who will pay unity that we are blessed BBQers and security, we a special visit for the little with at this time of the year. would have up to 60 and big kids. Emcees, the people involved.

“Two Jeremys” are back Years ago we decided by popular demand and that because we have of course, the finale is the so much talent in our valley, we would keep explosion of fireworks at 9pm. it all local and involve the local schools, dance What does it mean to you to be a part of an groups etc. as much as possible, to ensure it is event of this kind? a community event. The majority of food and Whilst I am not denying it does get stressful drinks sold on the night are generously donated towards the day, it amazes us how the by all our local butchers, bakers and of course, it community comes together as one to celebrate wouldn’t be an event without Saxbys Soft Drinks. the true meaning of Christmas and remind us of Running the BBQs are the team at LJ Hooker that sense of gratefulness, peace and unity that Taree and The Salvation Army. we are blessed with at this time of the year. My Every cent raised on the night, including favourite is watching the kids’ faces when the the sale of glowstix, goes straight back in to fireworks go off and listening to all the “aahhs” financing Carols in the Park. from the crowd. That is what makes the whole How much preparation have you all been process completely worthwhile.

Download LJ Hooker Taree Mobile Application FREE for access to the Carols Songbook. Also available from Appstore & GooglePlay.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 35

A special focus feature

The Australian Tenors.

Internationally renowned for thrilling audiences around the world with the power of their beautiful voices. In the great tenor tradition, they bring romance and excitement along with warmth and humour to their performances.

Soloists in their own right, The Australian Tenors have performed extensively with Opera Australia, Australian and International Symphonies and Philharmonic Orchestras.

They unite in this wonderful concert with a dynamic display of true Australian talent.

The Australian Tenors’ versatility spans all genres of the classical tenor repertoire.

Audiences are thrilled by the ever popular classical arias from the best known operas, traditional Neapolitan songs such as Funiculi Funicular, and popular tenor tunes from the hit music theatre productions such as Somewhere from West Side Story, The Impossible Dream, Bring Him Home, This Is

36 Manning-Great Lakes focus

The Moment, and beautiful duets including, All I Ask from Phantom of the Opera, Time to Say Goodbye, made famous by (Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman), Amigos Para Siempre (Friends for Life).

A sensational program for 2018. The concert encapsulates the spirit, the beauty and vocal demand of truly authentic tenor voice.

A performance from The Australian Tenors is never complete without the ever popular Waltzing Matilda, Australia My Country (Dorothea Mackellar poem), I Am Australian, among other favourites.

Their vocal artistry and powerful stage presence and their ability to connect with an audience is the trademark of their worldwide success.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Thrills Metal Eagle Muscle $49.99

Rip Curl Lola Slim Stone Watch $299.99

Windsor Smith Inka Slide $39.99

Adidas Superstar Vulc $130.00

New Era 9Forty New York Yankees Cap $35.00

Urban Originals Moontide Wallet $49.95

Afends Volume Cut Muscle Tee $49.95

Stormriders Sea Swim Trunk $45.00 Crisp Blaster Scooter $170.00

Capitol Starburst Complete $99.99 Stormriders Boys Circle Tee $25.00 (Mens $29.99)

Volcom Single Stone Leather Wallet $50.00

We have a huge range of gifts for all the family. And if you still can’t decide, you can purchase one of our Gift Vouchers in store or online.

(02) 6555 7908 | stormriders.com.au Shop 104, Stockland Shopping Centre, Forster

A special focus feature

Treasures gathered from around the globe and across the ages.

The

Christmas Bluewater Gifts.

WINGHAM FARMERS’ MARKET

BURRELL CREEK MARKETS

When: Sat 2 Dec 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location: Gloucester Road, Wingham NSW 2429 Phone: (02) 6550 7213 Wingham Farmers’ Market is held on the 1st Saturday of each month at the Wingham Showground.

Open 8am to noon.

When: Sun 10 Dec 2017, 9am - 12:30pm.

Location: Bucketts Way, Burrell Creek NSW 2430 Phone: 0425 246 916.

Held on the 2nd Sunday of every month. This family friendly market has lots of local produce, books, crafts and vintage wares. This market has a real country feel to it, so come and join in with the locals.

BLACKHEAD BAZAAR When: Sun 3 Dec 2017, 8:30 to 13:00.

Location: Main Street, Blackhead NSW Phone: 0468 312 452.

The Blackhead Bazaar is a community market organised and operated by Hallidays Point Landcare Group.

THE SECRET MARKET When: Thu 7 Dec 2017, 8am - 1pm.

Location: Corner Wynter & Macquarie St, Taree NSW 2430 Email: weeklysecretmarket@gmail.com The Secret Weekly Farmers’ Market every Thursday, with locally grown and created products.

WINGHAM COMMUNITY MARKETS When: Sat 9 Dec 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location: 2 Dennes St, Wingham NSW 2429 Phone: (02) 6550 7533 Wingham Community Market is held on the 2nd Saturday of the month in Skate Park in Dennes Street, Wingham. Open 8am to noon.

GLOUCESTER FARMERS’ MARKET When: Sat 9 Dec 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location: Denison Street, Gloucester NSW 2422 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. At Billabong Park.

FORSTER TOWN MARKETS When: Sun 10 Dec 2017, 8:00 to 14:00.

Location: Town Park, Forster.

Phone: 0437 634 056.

Your chance to experience a true-blue coastal market with a veritable array of stalls. You'll find around 50 stallholders selling handmade, homegrown and pre-loved wares to holiday makers and locals.

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THE HUB MARKET When: Sat 16 Dec 2017, 8am - 12pm.

Location: 24 Muldoon St, Taree NSW 2430 Phone: 0429 192 149.

The Hub Market is held at the Taree Showground every 3rd Sunday of the month. This is the biggest market in Taree and surrounds and has both outdoor and undercover areas. At the Hub Market you will discover pre-loved books, fresh produce, plants and seedlings, homemade jam and gingerbread, bric-a-brac and food stalls.

PACIFIC PALMS MARKETS When: Sun 17 Dec 2017, 9am - 1pm.

Location: Pacific Palms Community Centre, The Lakes Way. Website: www.palmsmarket.com.au Phone: 0401 968 516.

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

TUNCURRY MARKETS When: Sat 23 Dec 2017, 8am - 1pm.

Location: John Wright Park, Tuncurry.

Phone: 0417 400 994.

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

OLD BAR MARKETS When: Sun 24 Dec 2017, 7am - 1pm.

Location: Old Bar Road, Old Bar NSW 2430 Old Bar Markets are held on the 4th Sunday of the month on the beach promenade in Old Bar. Old Bar Market offers a laid back atmosphere, fresh produce, bric-a-brac, plants, jewellery, homemade products, homewares and lots more.

Looking for something special for yourself or an exotic, quirky or inspirational Christmas gift for a loved one? Perhaps you’re looking for that unique piece for your home or to remind you of your recent, worldly holiday?

Bluewater Gifts has a vast array of items for every style and taste. From rustic furniture, art and homewares, crystals, unique clothing, jewellery, cards and gifts, Bluewater Gifts is a Mecca for inspiration and exploration.

New owners Melinda and Ben Moncrieff have been busy revitalising and merchandising the established Forster destination, with new stock arriving daily. With its distinctly coastal feel, Bluewater Gifts has everything you need

to create an eclectic feel in your home, with tableware, vases, clocks and decorative indoor and outdoor pieces sourced from around the world.

Equally impressive are the many shoulder bags, back packs, elaborate beaded purses and bohemian bags in-store, perfect for the special event, and the many stocked labels of rings, pendants, bracelets and earrings finished with crystals, ethnic designs and shellwork.

Extensive varieties of fossils and crystals to entice both the amateur and professional collector, or those looking for that one-off piece for Christmas are now in-store.

Go Pro Karma Drone $1399.95

Christmas Gift Guide Billabong Fluid X Boardshort $79.99

Sunnylife Round Towel $129.00

Billabong Combat Backpack $99.99

Rhythm Zimbabwe Bikini Top $44.99

Rhythm Zimbabwe Bikini Pant $34.99

Sunnylife Beach Seat $79.95

Ripcurl Search GPS Watch $350.00

Billabong Illuka Hat $29.99 Hurley Mens O&O Rashie $49.99 Hurley Boys O&O Rashie $45.99

Sex Wax Xmas Stocking $49.95

JS - HYFI Monsta Box Surfboard $999

Tomo SKX Firewire Surfboard $960

DHD MF DNA Surfboard $860

Limited Edition Basic Wrist Leash, Basic Board Cover & Nomad Bodyboard $225 Ocean & Earth x Saltwater Wine Hooded Towel $65.00

Sunnylife Beach Pillow $18.95

We have a huge range of gifts for all the family. And if you still can’t decide you can purchase one of our Gift Vouchers in store or online. saltwaterwine.com.au 21-23 Wharf Street, Forster | (02) 6554 7979 53A Manning Street, Taree | (02) 6552 3778 Manning-Great Lakes focus 41

C

A special focus feature

The

Christmas

Give

Hope

This Christmas With Christmas just around the corner, The Salvation Army is encouraging Taree locals to connect with their community - whether it’s participating in Christmas activities, reaching out for help, or giving to people in crisis.

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hristmas can be a challenging (02) 6551 2570. and lonely time for some, and we The Salvation Army is inviting the public to don’t want anyone to have to go gather to celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas. it alone.

The Salvos Christmas Eve and Christmas Day “Through the incredible services will be held at Taree Salvation Army (55 generosity of our local community, Manning Street, Taree) and everyone is welcome we were able to assist many to attend. Both services families and individuals in need will commence at last year,” says Taree Salvation 9:30am.

Army officer, Captain Louise “Our service is family The Salvos plan Beamish. friendly and a great way to help even more “The Salvos plan to help to celebrate the true people this year, so even more people this year, meaning of Christmas. we are gearing up to so we are gearing up to There will be fun activities Christmas. We would Christmas. We would like to for the kids and a real like to encourage encourage those who are able, festive atmosphere, so those who are able, to to embrace the spirit of giving come along and join us!” embrace the spirit of this Christmas.”

If you’re able to give giving this Christmas.

Christmas is the busiest time to The Salvation Army of year for the Salvos. Not only Christmas Appeal, $29 is The Salvation Army in Taree can provide a box of running its Christmas Cheer operation to provide emergency supplies or put a gift under the tree for toys and food for those in need, it is also holding someone in need. preparing for special Christmas Eve and Christmas “Everyone’s circumstances are different, so Day services. giving money rather than goods helps us support each person in the way that will help them the “We will need all hands on deck this Christmas, most.” so join us and give hope where it’s needed most.

To find out more information about what The Whether it’s by donating or volunteering just a few Salvation Army is doing at Christmas across the hours of your time, you can make a meaningful country, go to salvos.org.au difference and bring comfort and joy to Aussies Please share your photos with us on social doing it tough.” media using the hashtag #givehope New quality toy donations can be dropped off Please donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas at Taree Family Store (67 Pulteney Street, Taree) Appeal at salvos.org.au/Christmas or by calling Monday to Friday (9am - 3:30pm).

13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Donations can be made in Emergency supplies, gifts and assistance will person at any Westpac branch. also be available for those in need, by calling

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

are now open for the Mid North Coast’s premier artistic showcase – NORTHERN EXPOSURE 5!

Call for

ARTISTS

2018 Expressions of interest close: 1 February 2018 Exhibition: 14 July – 9 September 2018 For more information visit www.glasshouse.org.au/ northernexposure2018

02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence and Hay Streets Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Manning-Great Lakes focus 41

Tuncurry Coach Tours Snowy Mountains and Tumut in Summer Time 25th February to 2nd March 2018 6 days and 5 nights Cost $1,130.00 pp; single room extra $235.00 Great Ocean Road Saturday 17th March to Saturday 24th March 2018 8 days and 7 nights Cost $1,580.00 pp; single room extra $410.00 Ballina Stay Put Tour 8th May to 12th May 2018 5 days and 4 nights Cost $1,030.00 pp; single room extra $255.00 Bendigo and Ballarat Christmas in July 7 days and 6 nights 21st July to 27th July 2018 Cost $1,400.00 pp; single room extra $299.00 Floriade in Canberra and the Southern Highlands 6 days and 5 nights 23rd to 28th September 2018 Cost $1,400.00 pp; single room extra $402.00 Murray Princess Cruise 6th to 14th October 2018 9 days and 8 nights Cost $2,700.00 pp; single room extra $690.00 $100.00 deposit required on all bookings for overnight tours.

Contact us for full itineraries.

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Table Craft Food and holidays are a marriage made in heaven!

Christmas is no different. It is a favourite occasion to gather and focus on people we love and care for. Sharing a meal on this day is special. Stories are told and memories are made with the dining table at the heart of it all. Your dining table is the centrepiece of holiday festivities and silently functions to bring people together.

At Vast table craft is our strength. Made from plantation grown Mango hardwood our beautiful designs are created by artisans skilled in the traditional methods of joinery and construction.

They are built to last a lifetime of meal times.

Vast can accommodate all sized families, from bistro tables to 12 seater dining suites. All tables and chairs are sold separately so you are in the drivers seat for choice.

Our Signature range tables are coated with superior lacquer, making them tough enough to withstand the rowdiest of Christmas parties!

The perfect table always needs the perfect décor.

We can help you create a knockout table setting this festive season with our selection of table runners, placemats and centrepiece ideas.

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

Aged Care Decisions ... Planning can make a difference.

I’d like to thank booth operators for their efforts at last month’s Aged Care Expo, which drew a lot of interest.

was placed in care, with assessed assets just over $162,815 and as a result was not assessed as low means.

The following gives an overview of the major take-outs from the expo and illustrates that planning advice years before aged care becomes a possibility can make a difference.

Some advice before hand, could have easily used certain provisions and strategy to lower assessed assets and removed the significant cost of the DAP by making her “low means”

What are the Costs for Care and Financial Challenges

If a couple own their home and have assets apart from the home of more than $325,630 then the person going into care will not be assessed as low means, so will be asked to pay a RAD or a DAP.

A means tested fee applies to anyone with assessed assets over $47,500 and assessed income of greater than $26,328 (single) and $25,860 (couple).

Even a person of low means but with assessed assets of more than $47,500 will attract a means tested care fee in addition to the basic charge of care of $49.42 per day (equivalent to 85% of the single pension).

In addition to that basic daily charge, the means tested and care fee, a resident may also be asked to pay an accommodation contribution, depending on income and assets.

Residential Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is the market price to obtain accommodation. (local range $250,000 to $460,000); this is refunded to the estate.

Simple measures such as taking out funeral bonds, use of annuities, pre-payments, gifting to reliable family, can be enough to lower assets to a low means status, if there is some preplanning before assessment forms are lodged.

There are also funding mechanisms and product that can help cover cash flow issues.

over 50’s estate in australia

2015

mhia awards of excellence, best estate in nsw

From there the financial considerations come into play and often there is little time to prepare.

It can be a major struggle for the person left in the family home to pay the bills on a single pension after significant cash and money has gone to providing care for their partner.

If assets are below $162,815, while there might not be a RAD or DAP to pay, there may be a Residential Accommodation Payment (RAC) or Daily Accommodation Contribution (DAC).

Selling the house, when assets are substantial, can sometimes have a negative effect on Centrelink payments.

I met with a family recently, whose loved one

2015 most outstanding

When a person needs care either in the home or in residence, the local doctor is a great place to start, so that the Aged Care Assessment Team, can assess need.

Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) is the interest charge (currently 5.7%pa ) when the full RAD is not paid (this can be deducted from any RAD paid).

Value of Advice

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land lease living community

There is complexity, but the first consideration needs to be the care and consideration of the person going into care, not the impact on the children’s inheritance.

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

25 minutes to Port Macquarie Kew Country Club

A1

Queens Lake

Bonny Hills North Haven

Dooragan National Park

Manning-Great Lakes focus 43

focushealth

focus_contributor

Health Wellbeing

JOHN STEVENS FROM KINETIC MEDICINE

kinetic MEDICINE

and

BY SACHA CARY, THE HAVEN FORSTER

New Year’s Resolutions.

I

Essential oils.

Essential oils are highly concentrated non-water soluble phyto-chemicals distilled from different parts of the plant, including leaves, roots and flowers.

H

aving gained popularity in blends include peppermint, great for nausea recent years, they are, in or fever; lavender, excellent for skin care and fact, an age old remedy with as a relaxation oil, in the bath or applied to superior health benefits, the wrists or temples. Rosemary is excellent including speeding up recovery from illness, to stimulate hair growth and for scalp care; improving immunity, tea tree works wonders balancing hormones as a natural antiseptic; and in skin care and citrus oils, including products as a natural lemon, lime and orange Some of the most common alternative to chemical are thought to stimulate essential oil blends include laden creams and the immune system peppermint, great for cleansers. and are uplifting and nausea or fever; lavender, Two of my favourite excellent for skin care invigorating for the ways to use essential and as a relaxation oil, in Taree body. Wingham Harrington oils are diffusing them Gloucester Forster-Tuncurry the bath or applied to the wrists The Haven Forster has and for topical use for or temples. just launched a series their fragrance benefit. of topical essential oil The body can still blends for the skin and utilise and absorb the as a natural perfume goodness of the oil in a more gentler and safer way than ingesting, and essential oils distilled in the air, otherwise known as aromatherapy, provides the same benefits of the oils inhaled.

Some of the most common essential oil

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perfect for Christmas gifts and to attract love, peace or zen into your life. Contact The Haven Forster to revitalise your wellbeing for all your beauty treatment needs on 0413 953 627.

I love the time of year that’s upon us. Christmas has a special meaning for many of us, and with it comes this energy as people rush to prepare for the end of the year. We also get a great opportunity to reflect on the year that has been and begin to consider all the things we hope for in the year to come.

n all this reflection though, there may be a little sting of the things that could have been. The fuel for many New Year’s resolutions is the hope that things might be better, if only we get our act together. So we challenge ourselves to give up sugar and lose 10 kg or to call our loved ones every week, but come the second week of January, it’s all over.

Habit changing is tricky. The average amount of time to create new habits based on the cumulative data is 66 days, so if you want any chance of success this New Year’s, you’ll need to be carrying on into March. So why is it so hard for us to do things we know to be good for us? The answer lies in a well-known defect in human rationality - instant gratification. Our ability to put off our wants for now to achieve the things we want further down the track is awful ... Let’s be honest, and you can test this one for yourself this Christmas when confronted with the festive gorge-fest this December 25th.

So what can you do to get the things you want, really? The most important thing is to actually

Build Better

Bones Kinetic Medicine WITH

Find your nearest Osteoporosis Clinic today! Simply contact Kinetic Medicine on

(02) 6557 7479

www.kineticmedicine.com.au Wingham Gloucester Forster-Tuncurry

Get Better | Stay Better | Live Better

know what you want. If you can get some serious clarity about the things that are really important to you, then you might be able to unleash their power to change you. Secondly, you need to plan to fail. Sounds a little odd, I know, but you have to consider what happens when you become vulnerable. If you can allow yourself some opportunities to be less disciplined but still focused on your end goal, you’ll stand a reasonable chance of outlasting your self-sabotage.

Lastly this Christmas, I was wondering if you could do me a favour. If you’re someone who’s been putting off doing something about your health, putting up with back or knee pain for so long you’ve stopped doing the things you love, if you’re going to get around to dealing with your diabetes, if you’re sick and tired of being sick and tired - do something about it. So many of our patients wish they had let us help them sooner, so do us both a solid and get the help you need.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 45

Inner Sense Health.

The Best Solution for Pain, Injury and Emotional Suffering

CONNECT Hearing

ENAR Therapy is a bio-feedback device brushed lightly over the skin to locate and treat key points for chronic and acute pain, injury, nerve damage, skin disorders, anti ageing beauty treatments Restores function, promotes wellness.

Genome Healing We unknowingly create bad relationships, poor health from past traumas and negative emotions which can manifest as various health issues.

the words ‘Inner Sense Health’. I believe that my 3 visits to Carol resolved some deep seated trauma – which I DIDN’T have to

Distorted information between the male and female energy in organs and other parts, are transformed back to the Creators Norm.

Would you like to be free of the negative patterns that create pain and suffering?

relive – through Genome Healing. I cannot

Give me a call on 0466 977 822

resolved my health problem. I thoroughly

“I had a stomach/digestive issue that medical tests couldn’t identify satisfactorily and was drawn to Carol’s advertisement, specifically,

recommend Carol, and the process, to those

46 Manning-Great Lakes focus

explain how the healing actually occurred – the process enabled my body/organ to have a voice. Carol was professional, sensitive to my emotions and facilitated a healing that

that are seeking inner peace.”

- Trish from Taree

It’s been an exciting time for Hearing Care and their valued clients in Forster and Port Macquarie. A year ago Hearing Care become a part of Connect Hearing, where Audiologists Alex Meares and Michael McIntosh have continued to look after their clients hearing needs — many of whom they’ve had for over 18 years.

“We chose to be associated with Connect Hearing as we could see that they were very client-focused, encouraged a choice of devices and had an Australia-wide network that could service our clients if they decided to travel or move location,” Alex says.

Alex and Michael’s longstanding commitment to providing a high level of hearing care aligns perfectly with Connect Hearing’s philosophy of using professional hearing solutions to improve their patients’ quality of life. From finding the hearing solutions that will improve your

hearing to providing the latest, state of the art hearing technologies. The talented team of audiologists and customer care representatives of Port Macquarie have serviced the Mid North Coast community for nearly 20 years.

“I am passionate about Audiology as I feel I am really helping people, many of whom I have been seeing for 18 years, and I love the challenge of learning about new technology and passing appropriate knowledge onto my clients. “ In addition to your trusted hearing care providers at Port Macquarie and Forster, you can also have access to this quality service and support from any of the Connect Hearing centres across Australia. To book a consultation with Alex or Michael regarding your hearing care, call 6583 3174 or to find out more about Connect Hearing, visit connecthearing.com.au

WITH MIA TYCEHURST FROM FORSTER YOGA STUDIO

stress power SHIFT

FROM

TO

D

o you find it hard to keep up with to deal with your stresses. Let’s face it, we live the school notes from your kids? in a fast-paced world: it’s not going to change.

Are you overwhelmed with work But you have the power to change how you commitments? Are your house respond to the stress triggers around you. chores seemingly never ending? How many Yoga and meditation friends have you not helps you learn how caught up with in ages? your stress is triggered Do you feel like whatever and develops alternate you do, it just doesn’t If you suffer extreme neural pathways, gearing seem to be enough? fatigue, go and seek your mind towards more If that’s you, then help from a local useful responses to you are prone to natural health stress. Most people who adrenal fatigue: it’s a practitioner. For practice yoga find an naturopathic term for milder symptoms, instant calm after a class. people experiencing consider learning Yoga is also tiredness caused by how to deal with your commonly prescribed by stress. Your adrenal stresses. Let’s face it, psychologists for having glands producing cortisol we live in a fast-paced the same effects on struggle to supply the world: it’s not going to depression and anxiety body with the demand change. as medicine. Apart from during prolonged periods giving health, strength of stress. Some of the and flexibility, yoga gives symptoms include mild depression or anxiety, you a more fulfilling outlook on life where you putting on belly fat and not getting it off, and - after all - feel that you are enough. lack of energy.

Forster Yoga Studio offer beginners yoga If you suffer extreme fatigue, go and seek courses and open yoga classes seven days per help from a local natural health practitioner.

For milder symptoms, consider learning how week.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 47

Manning-Great Lakes focus 17

focusinterview.

Dundaloo Support Services We specialise in supporting people to explore and develop independence in all aspects of life, either at home or in the community.

C

an you tell us about Dundaloo?

Dundaloo provides accommodation and support services to adults with a mild to moderate intellectual disability in the Manning and Great Lakes area. We have been part of the community for over 64 years, and we specialise in supporting people to explore and develop independence in all aspects of life, either at home on in the community.

What are the key features of the service?

Firstly, we want people to live a happy life in a safe and secure home. Also, we have staff who care, who are professional and are consistent in what they do.

How do you support people to be happy?

Central to people’s happiness is the relationships they share. We develop relationships by listening to people’s hopes, needs and aspirations. This often involves family, and we work together so people can move towards being at the centre of their life and their own decision making. This is not as

easy as it sounds; however, Dundaloo is really committed to the rights, responsibilities and wellbeing of all people, especially those with a disability.

In practical ways, this means people who live in our homes are involved in decisions about what they eat, where they go and how the house tasks are completed. They all have an equal voice. For people who live independently, we support them with cooking, money managements, day to day tasks and we design programs about what they want and not what we think they want or might need.

How does Dundaloo support people to have a safe and secure home?

Having a happy and safe home life is fundamental to all of us. A positive environment creates opportunities to grow individually and to develop confidence to try new things and develop new skills.

We have a diverse range of accommodation, where privacy and diversity are respected while creating opportunity for skill development and social interaction. The

four men (pictured) are successfully living in villa style accommodation in Old Bar. The young men work and participate in the life of their community.

Home is where the heart is, and we endeavour to ensure that each person living in one of our modern homes is comfortable, secure and cared for in a manner that fosters individualised fulfilment and growth. In our homes there is an emphasis on creating an environment that welcomes people to be themselves.

How can you be support people to have individualised lives?

Our support staff empower people to access information and resources to make informed decisions about their goals and the activities they choose to do. Empowerment is about supporting people to be responsible and in charge of their own lives. Where possible, people are making a choice about how they live their life.

How do you support staff to be their best?

I know we have the best workforce in

the local area, and I know this because of feedback from customers and their families.

Recently, a family shared with me how their daughter, who has a disability, is flourishing now she has Dundaloo as a service provider.

Our staff care about what they do and are committed to ensuring people are living a life that is meaningful to them. Staff are trained in how to communicate and listen, how to keep people safe and how to give people a voice. All our staff are trained to recognise signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect and how to support people to achieve their NDIS goals.

What makes Dundaloo unique?

As a community based service, it is important to me that I am available, visible and accessible. I take the time to listen to participants and their families. I want to know what people want and how we can work together to strengthen the status of people with a disability and our community as a whole.

Thanks Shelly and Pam. Manning-Great Lakes focus 49

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

December 2017

Blossom Eco Skin Care Celebrates 10 years

BY MONIQUE FINLAY When I realised the health benefits of organic products years ago, I created an organic skin care range. That range is “blossom eco skin care”, hand crafted from Certified Organic ingredients using solar power and packaged in glass for purity. I am super excited, as blossom eco skin care has just turned 10!

It took a little longer for the haircare industry to realise that organics was the way forward. Now there is a lot more available in professional hair products, and this has allowed me to recently open blossom organic Hair Beauty Wellbeing.

The products I use in my salon adhere to the core principles of my skin care brand - organic, sustainable and certified cruelty free.

Why not come in and enjoy a natural, ammonia free hair colour, organic facial or maybe some Reiki healing, or have my Psychic Medium read your cards. Come in and enjoy the blossom experience!

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A nice feeling of personal satisfaction can be anticipated this month - the opposite of feeling you need support from others; in fact, you’re quite chuffed with yourself and independent.

You are very inspirational to others as when you are confronted with challenge, you have the ability to rise above it and only allow it to make you more powerful.

Garnet will enhance your passion for living.

Connect with a passion you have. Your love of life needs satisfying. Change is coming forward, and this is a natural challenge for the Libran.

Start a project or play with your creative energies.

You will soon offer your family members some profound healing advice, so don’t be afraid to speak. You would benefit from spending some quality time expressing some thoughts and feeling into poetry or words. Topaz strengthens our self esteem and brings personal power to situations surrounding us.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Avoid taking life too seriously; all this is doing is bringing out a grumpy you which isn’t you. You are the practical joker, the fun loving one, so lighten up and watch your spark affect everyone else.

Rose Quartz is a wonderful crystal for self esteem and unconditional love.

A gift is about to be bestowed upon you. This was your creation through a wish made several months ago. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life.

Fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths.

Calcite brings spontaneity into the picture.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

An opportunity to access something from your past will be likely to present itself. Be prepared for it by identifying what it may be and write a list of all the things required, then take action and get some things from the list so you can achieve full success. Avoid sabotaging it by thinking, “Too hard; can’t do”. This opportunity will greatly benefit your self esteem and self worth. Citrine is a very powerful motivator; carry some.

You are good at manifesting your desires, but you are trapped by your old beliefs.

If you debate your old beliefs and create new ones, luck will follow. The universe is offering a path of cleansing through a purging of anything or anyone not serving the highest good for your future.

Selenite is a very powerful cleanser.

Your focus lately has been inward. Don’t be worried if you have not felt involved lately; life has a funny way of unfolding opportunities. You needed to regather yourself. Make a list of your strengths and watch them fulfil you.

Turquoise has a confidence boosting effect.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Avoid being caught up in how you will be able to support yourself comfortably in the future; you have always been able to progress from one opportunity to the next with perfect timing, so see this as a gauge in how you manifest and thank yourself for being self sufficient. Avoid placing emphasis on negative possibilities.

Turquoise sustains our confidence.

50 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Avoid taking life too seriously at present; this is why all your fears and insecurities are playing with you. This is leaving you feeling trapped in life, instead of owning it and creating it. Try to connect to your silly self and do some pranking to lighten up your energy and brighten your world.

Ruby shatters fear and leaves us feeling safe and comfortable in our reality.

Your attention is drawn to your beliefs and rules by which you live. As you have changed, your reality is beginning to change. Don’t be afraid of the differences life will offer; be excited. There are new friends approaching and your intellect will have stimulation, so look for that perfect class to join and enjoy new talent and associated experiences.

Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

Listen to your “gut feelings”, as they will lead you into an exciting experience that is a “meant to be” one. You will enjoy playing with gifts or talents that will relate to this opportunity, and your confidence and self esteem will benefit enormously. Have fun discovering something new you are already very good at.

Apophyllite is a great crystal for aiding in reaching full potential in projects.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 51

It’s Christmas Time Again

L

As the festive season moves into full swing, we are all busy managing our businesses and lives getting ready for Christmas ... ots of gifts, wonderful food and hopefully time with our nearest and dearest family and friends.

Unfortunately, this time of year is

time. In particular, we are partnering primarily with the Women’s Domestic Violence Advocacy Service and Great Lakes Women’s Shelter - as these teams are

often difficult for many in our community for

able to qualify to assist and support them

various reasons, and it is timely to be aware

with our donations.

that some are facing very difficult circumstances

The Forster Tuncurry

within the family and may fear domestic violence

community is extremely

during this period - even more so than other

generous and supportive

times of the year. Often domestic violence afflicts

in times of need when

people in our community without others realising

adversity hits. Unfortunate-

it - except those who are tasked to deal with it.

ly, many of the domestic

At LJ Hooker Forster Tuncurry we are committing this year to gather

food and other donations to pass across to these

better. As the tourism and festive season approaches, violence issues that people toys, food and other we encourage everyone endure go unnoticed or are donations to pass to remember to be a little across to these people hidden from view - often more patient and kind to in need in our community from family and friends. one another during this during the pre Christmas As proud supporters of “crazy time”. rush time. the Great Lakes Women’s We invite you to drop Shelter and recognising by our office at 7 Wharf the wonderful work the Street, Forster, by Saturday volunteers and staff do, December 23rd with your gifts, wrapped or unwe are pleased to assist in making some of the wrapped, and donations of food, or if you would

people in need during the pre Christmas rush

people in our community’s Christmas a little

As a team, we at LJ Hooker Forster Tuncurry felt compelled to assist the groups that directly deal with this situation on a daily basis.

The Manning Great Lakes Police, The Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services and The Great Lakes Women’s Shelter are some of the organisations that confront the reality of this situation every day.

We have committed this year to gather toys,

52 Manning-Great Lakes focus

like to donate via the bank:

Great Lakes Women Shelter - BSB 082 603 - Account 41 478 4490 - with reference being “your name” or via the website www.givenow.com.au/wcslforstertuncurry If you provide a wrapped gift, please assist by providing a note with the appropriate age and type of gift.

Any help to these families would be very much appreciated. On behalf of all the staff at LJ Hooker Forster Tuncurry, we would like to thank you for your support of this campaign and to wish everyone a safe and happy festive season.

focusinterview.

Hugh McLeod, Graham Nix and Louise Beeton are just three of Manning River Rowing Club’s friendly members. The trio fills us in on some details about their club, which has a history that stretches back 60 years! They also encourage anyone, regardless of age and fitness level, to come and give rowing a try. What better way to enjoy our beautiful Manning River!

H

ow long has the Manning River Rowing Club been in operation ... What’s a little of the history behind the club’s establishment?

Graham: The club started 60 years ago, with its inaugural meeting in October 1957. When the club started, very few people knew how to row.

In late 1958, the club purchased its first boat, a four plus coxswain. The purchase was made with donations from the then owners of the Royal Hotel, the Taree Aquatic Festival committee and fundraising, a cost of 395 Pounds. The boat was christened the Manning Royal. A local dentist, Vic Neal, had been a rower in Sydney and started to teach people how to row. The boats were originally housed in unused buildings and back yard sheds until the clubhouse was built, starting in 1967 and finally completed in 1971, being built with only volunteer labour.

When and where do you meet for regular training sessions?

Hugh: Generally training sessions on weekdays start at 6am. Weekends we usually get on the water a little later, at 7am.

Beginners’ lessons are run Saturdays at 9am, and we like to get the big boat (the Eight) on the water Monday afternoons from 5:30pm, weather permitting. Other training times are available on request, subject to availability of our volunteer coaches.

Graham: The club also hosts Manning Indoor Rowing, which runs fitness classes during the week. All this takes place at our clubhouse at

Endeavour Place, Taree.

What type of craft do you use - what are they made of, and how many people does it take to operate each one?

Hugh: The boats are streamline racing craft made of carbon fibre composite materials. They are lightweight and fast, and we always take good care of them. There are boats for a crew of eight, four, two or a single. We also have a small fleet of roto-moulded plastic “learn to row” boats. These boats are shorter, wider and more stable, as well as being extremely durable, making them an excellent platform to learn from.

Graham: The original club boats were made of timber - beautifully made, but much heavier than the boats of today.

What skill level/age is required to become a member of your club?

Louise: No experience is required to join. It is recommended though, that for those without previous experience to take part in a beginners’ class to learn the basics. The technique for rowing is something anyone can learn, and there are members ready to help with coaching.

Generally anyone from the age of 12 up can come along and have a try. Older folks shouldn’t feel their age is a barrier. We have several members in their 70s, some new to the sport and some experienced.

What are some of the things you most enjoy about rowing?

Hugh: Rowing is a fantastic, low impact, safe full body workout. It offers challenges to both team work and individual performance.

Whether you enjoy the excitement of close quarter racing or simply the zen-like experience

Manning River

Rowing club. for juniors, seniors and of a long paddle on The next big event on a river surrounded by Masters, with all sizes of our calendar is the Taree nature ... Rowing rarely boats being used. We have Summer Regatta held fails to satisfy. a special “Feature Race” 12th, 13th, and 14th What are some involving as many Eights as January 2018. This of the events possible (last year 14 club is a major event, you’ve taken part boats!) to line up across bringing over 600 in recently at club the Manning River near competitors from all over level, and what were the Martin Bridge and race the state to compete. your results? to the finish line at the Hugh: We were clubhouse at Endeavour recently a host venue Place, a fantastic sight. for the Australian We are fortunate enough Indoor Rowing to have two great sponsors in Stacks Finance Championships. Several of our members and Croker Oars, which gives us a prize pool improved greatly on last year’s performance, of money for the first four place getters, plus a although we don’t have the full national results random draw prize for one lucky crew’s club. at this stage. Some of our club members were gold, silver and bronze medal winners in this In March we run our Central District Regatta event in their age/sex division last year. over two days. This regatta is smaller, being the Louise: More locally, our club competed Newcastle and area clubs and Port Macquarie at the Port Macquarie Rowing Club regatta Club. We have about 300 competitors and 150 last month held on the river at Wauchope. A races that weekend. number of first place medals were won, and it A busy start to the year - but a lot of fun! was a great social day as well!

Where can we find out more info/contact What events are coming up on your someone about the club? calendar ... In particular, fill us in about Visit our website: manningriverrowingclub. the regatta you have planned for January org.au for more information.

2018?

Final say ...

Louise: The next big event on our calendar is Louise: Rowing is a great team sport or solo the Taree Summer Regatta held 12th, 13th, and sport. It gives you a chance to improve your 14th January 2018. The regatta is co-hosted overall fitness, while also enjoying the beautiful by the Manning River Rowing Club and Port Manning River and the great outdoors.

Macquarie Rowing Club. This is a major event, Hugh: It doesn’t matter what your age or bringing over 600 competitors from all over the fitness level is; come along a give it a go! state to compete.

There are approximately 250 races held Thanks everyone.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 53

focus_contributor

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

real estate

UPDATE

I feel like I just need to press the repeat button from the last few market updates, with our real estate market still red hot.

R

esearch shows that we have had of lifestyle blocks under $400,000 so when over 360 property sales in the they do hit the market, they are selling for last two months, with Taree and premium prices. Back in the towns, duplexes Forster now holding the majority. are in demand, with serious lack of options for At an LJ Hooker Corporate retirees wanting to downsize and not move meeting in Sydney last week, the Sydney into retirement homes. You can still buy a agents seem resolved that their market boom comfortable two bedroom unit in Forster for has ended, at least for now. The big million under $300,000 and around $210,000 for dollar question is how long will our market something similar in Taree. Anything that is continue at this fast pace with strong capital neat, good garaging, shedding and complete growth. Whilst we do usually ride off the back is selling for top dollar, proving that purchasers of the Sydney market, it do like to move into does take time for the a new home where effect to hit regional everything is already areas. Remembering the done. last boom in the Great A few bargains still Land sales are still popular, with Lakes-Manning Valley exist if you are frugal new builds on the rise. With was in 2003 and just and do your research. the new release of Riverside came to a halt in the $310,000 bought you at Old Bar, the best blocks early months of 2004. a small three bedroom have been snapped up, Sydney had peaked home in Forster, and prices are moving over twelve months $162,000 for an ex upwards of $209,000. prior. I can report that Housing Commission there is still good quality home in Taree and stock coming on to $230,000 for a little the market, which is shanty in Harrington. relieving pressure. However, take note if you For a bit extra, $425,000 secured a home on are in buying mode - be confident and ready to Beach Street, Harrington with views of the lake secure your purchase. and a huge backyard.

Land sales are still popular, with new Of course, we all like to dream about builds on the rise. With the new release of the million dollar properties, with six sales Riverside at Old Bar, the best blocks have been over $1,000,000 in the last two months. snapped up, and prices are moving upwards Whilst a beach front property at Boomerang of $209,000. A residential block sold in Beach took the residential prize this month Harrington Waters for $295,000, Wingham at $2,300,000, an expansive 14,525 acre $138,000, whilst Forster secured $425,000 in property known as Strike A Light has just been one of the new estates. The last block standing sold at Cooplacurripa via Wingham for a tidy in Manning Waters Estate in Taree sold prior to $3,000,000. Forster had two home sales at auction for $443,000, topping the land sales $1,160,000 and $1,145,000, with another across our region. beach property at Blackhead at $1,550,000.

Lifestyle blocks around that $600,000 Another rural sale of 1,426 acres was sold at price range are still proving very popular, Wingham for $1,300,000. The larger sales are especially when presented in pristine condition mainly Sydney buyers, so it will be interesting with shedding. There is very limited supply to watch our market over the next six months.

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Manning-Great Lakes focus 55

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