Issuu

Feature Story Buzz Art

March 2018. issue 133

2 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Photo credit Jesse Galloway Photography.

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COPY EDITING: Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services rnrmedia@bigpond.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Manning Great Lakes Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2017 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Fairfax Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation. FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

team From the

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

s always, March marks our annual Women in Business edition - an edition we are always so proud to put together each year, as it highlights the wonderful women in our community across all sectors. It’s our chance to say “thank you” to all of our brilliant local women for their hard work, enterprising spirit and awesome achievements. March, of course, is also the month we celebrate International Women’s Day, and there are some fabulous events happening locally on March 8 to coincide with this special day. The theme for this year’s IWD is #PressforProgress - a reminder for all of us to press forward and progress gender parity. Together, we can all work to ensure we think

and act in gender-inclusive ways. ON THE COVER I love the fact that our past few covers have been all about our local people, and this is definitely no exception. Our Women in Business cover models are some of our local business women. A massive thank you to Nicole from MSS, Melissa from YMCA, Melinda from Bluewater Gifts, Bronwyn from Clui Creative and Oriole from Sanctuary Beauty. It’s not easy getting any photoshoot done, let alone one that will be on the cover of 20,000 editions! Thanks again, ladies. IN THIS ISSUE Local author Cate Dunn tells us about her two books - she’s written a teen fiction work entitled A Grommet’s Tale and a full length novel called Gentle. Both works have been

inspired by our beautiful Manning-Great Lakes. Kyah Stewart shares how the Evonne Goolagong Foundation has changed her life and how it can also have a positive impact on the lives of our local Indigenous youth. Evonne Goolagong-Cawley will be visiting Forster this month, for a “Tennis Come and Try” session. We also speak to two of the amazing performers from “The Boys in the Band”, who’ll be visiting Club Forster with what is billed as the “feel good show of the year”. FINAL SAY “A strong woman accepts both compliments and criticism graciously, knowing that it takes both sun and rain for a flower to grow” - unknown.

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focusinterview.

Carol Saul and Jenni Catt - photographer and artist - have collaborated to form an exhibition that celebrates our bees. BUZZ ART, which will be on display at A Little to the Left Gallery in Taree, will showcase some gorgeous macro photography and beautifully painted works that capture some of our many varieties of bees as they go about their day-to-day business. There will also be some amazing bee related merchandise on display and for purchase, including honey!

hich part of the Manning-Great Lakes do you call home - and how do you two know each other/how

did you meet? Carol: My husband and I moved to Killabakh, north of Wingham 36 years ago from Sydney. We have a small two acre property on a hill in a beautiful valley. Being exzookeepers from Taronga Zoo, we have tried to create a habitat native garden to encourage wildlife into it. There are several ponds, lots of stumps, rocks, large flowering trees and winding paths. This has been very successful in attracting all kinds of birds, marsupials, reptiles and insects. Having the BUZZ ART exhibition was Jenni’s idea, as both of us are so interested in bees. Jenni keeps a hive of honey bees in her garden, and I met her several years ago because she is a painting buddy of my mother’s. Jenni: I live in beautiful Old Bar. A few years ago I put a beehive in my yard that backs on to bush, so there’s plenty of nectar and pollen for the bees. I’ve also noticed the fruit trees in my yard are much more productive since the hive has been here and cherry tomato plants are self-seeding and producing abundantly all over the place, without me doing anything at all. I met Carol through her mum, Mieke, who is also an artist. Mieke and I have regularly spent time painting outdoors at various locations. 4 Manning-Great Lakes focus

We’ve painted at Saltwater, Crowdy Head and at Carol’s property. That’s how I got to know Carol and her passion for her garden and nature photography. What sparked your interest in bees? Carol: I’m actually interested in all things natural. A macro lens lets you see so much more than you can with the naked eye. With over 1,600 species of native bees in Australia, the variety of colours, sizes and habits is really amazing. Bees are fascinating insects, as well as being pollinators of a lot of our food. Research is being carried out in Australia to find out if native bees could support the crop pollination work of the honey bees if the varroa mite enters Australia, where it is predicted to decimate honey bee populations. As far as we know, native bees are resistant to the varroa mite. Jenni: My interest in bees in general goes a long way back. I’ve always found them fascinating. When I moved to Old Bar about six years ago, I was happily surprised to see that there was an amateur beekeepers club. Eventually I met other people with bees, and went from there. Describe the works you'll be presenting in your upcoming exhibition? Carol: I have tried to capture the beauty and diversity of our native bees: their habitats, food sources and nesting sites, that will hopefully spark some interest by gallery visitors to have a closer look at the bees in their garden.

I KNEW I WANTED TO BE INVOLVED WITHIN THE FOOD INDUSTRY, SO I BOUGHT A CAMERA AND TO BE HONEST, IT HAS REALLY REIGNITED MY PASSION AND DEDICATION FOR WHAT I WANT TO PURSUE AS A CAREER IN LIFE.

It may inspire them to create an environment for these insects by making bee motels, planting bee attracting shrubs and trees, and think seriously before using pesticides which kill bees. Jenni: This exhibition is a series of works on paper exploring some of the things about bees that obsess me. I love to watch them excitedly working together on flowers or at the hive entrance. They are totally focused on their individual job, but also on the wellbeing of the whole hive. They’re communicating all the time. They’re gentle and observant; I believe they really do become familiar with their beekeeper. Research shows that they can recognise a human face, but what we know about bees is probably just the tip of the iceberg. A Little to the Left Gallery is quite a new place. It’s upstairs in the Taree Literary Institute building on Victoria Street. Sam and Jenny, the owners, are great supporters of local artists and share my passion for raising awareness of the need to appreciate and protect our bees. It’s great that more people are planting bee-friendly plants these days, but even

those who don’t have gardens can help by buying chemical-free fruit and vegetables if possible. In Australia, we are fortunate in that our bees seem to be doing better than many other parts of the world. We lag behind

Europe though, in banning the use of seriously destructive pesticides in agriculture. As well as the artworks, there will be a range of bee-related products, including local honey, screen-printed tea towels, bags, even bee journals. The whole place is a creative treasure-trove, so well worth a visit! Where can we see more examples of your work? Carol: My photos and cards are exhibited every year at Killabakh’s “Day in The Country” fair, held on the first Saturday in September at Killabakh Hall. Jenni: My website: www.jennicatt.com Instagram and Facebook. Thanks ladies. See BUZZ ART at a Little to the Left Gallery in Taree. Exhibition opens on 17th March.

issue inside this

Issue 133 - March 2018

Brickfest.

LEGO fans from across the region will be thrilled that the MidCoast Brickfest is back this March, with a fun-filled day for families! FOCUS chatted to event organiser Kevin Evans about all things LEGO …

Boys in the Band.

Hugh Barrington and Tom Struik are just two members of the immensely talented and ultra-charismatic “Boys in the Band” - a stage show that presents hits from the 1950s through to the 1990s, over 50 years of wonderful music. These boys can sing, and dance, and they’re a phenomenon on stage. You can catch them at Club Forster this month …

Cate Dunn.

Gentle is a novel that explores love and loss, hope and renewal and was written by Forster resident Cate Dunn. Cate’s experience growing up in the Manning Valley, her knowledge of the local people, and her love for the landscape all had a direct influence on this work. Here, Cate shares a bit about her writing journey so far.

Regulars

Special Feature

15. WHAT’S ON FOR MARCH 54. TOURISM SHARON BULTITUDE 53. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI HALL 62. BUSINESS MINDS JEREMY THORNTON

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focusinterview.

Lego fans from across the region will be thrilled that THE MIDCOAST BRICKFEST IS BACK THIS MARCH, WITH A FUN-FILLED DAY FOR FAMILIES! FOCUS chatted to event organiser Kevin Evans about all things LEGO …

mid coast brickfest

BRICKfest

here did the idea for Brickfest originate? It came from my wife (Angela) who was the fundraising Co-ordinator for our son’s primary school back in 2011; she was looking for something different and something the children would enjoy. We as a family had been building together for a while and had seen that were a few big shows happening around the world. So, we decided to run a LEGO Fan Event for the school as a fundraiser. It was a great success, and we still run that event today, but for a different charity each year. As a result of that event we received requests to put on other events, and it has continued from there. We were approached by a member of the Hallidays Point Public School P&C committee about putting on a fundraiser for them, which we did back in 2016 at the school. Because the event was so successful, we had to move to the current bigger venue last year. Who are "Rainbow Bricks"? Rainbow Bricks was established in 2013 by a group of adult LEGO enthusiasts, who had an interest in the brighter range of LEGO colours. We are a recognised LEGO User Group and currently have 90 members. We can be followed on Facebook or on our website: www. rainbowbricks.com.au How long have you personally been building? I had LEGO as child and played with it until my teens, like most kids. In 2010 our son received a LEGO set for his birthday, and of course Dad had to finish the set for him. Then I saw the London Tower Bridge set that LEGO produced, and I was hooked again. As soon as it was 6 Manning-Great Lakes focus

released, I purchased it - and from there it has snowballed. Tell us about the event … We have 22 exhibitors coming THERE WILL BE A BBQ from across NSW with their creations. RUN BY THE LIONS There will be lots of new exhibits, as CLUB AND CAKE STALL our LEGO creators have been busy FEATURING THE FAMOUS building since last year's event. Talk LEGO THEMED COOKIES to the creators about their displays AND CAKES, AS WELL AS Who can get involved? and see what can be done with SLUSHIES AND A COFFEE Everyone is welcome to LEGO bricks and some imagination. VAN FOR PEOPLE TO ENJOY. come along and view the Our exhibitors come from the Hunter displays. Valley, Central Coast and Sydney, As far displaying goes, we bringing their creations for you to are an adult group, so you enjoy. Old favourites like the City have to be over 18 to display. People can contact us via layout will be back, with lots of movement, lights and the website or Facebook pages. working trains. Where can our readers go to find out more and As well as the exhibits, there will be the always register? popular Build Area for the kids to play in. Readers can followed the event on Facebook at: www. There will be a BBQ run by the Lions Club and cake facebook.com/midcoastbrickfest stall featuring the famous LEGO themed cookies and Readers can follow Rainbow Bricks on Facebook or cakes, as well as slushies and a coffee van for people to our website. enjoy. Thanks Kevin. Plus, there will be LEGO sets, parts, and other LEGO merchandise for sale on the day. So, start saving your pocket money! What is the best LEGO build you have seen to date? A life size X-Wing from Star Wars was pretty Sunday 4th March; 9am - 3pm, impressive and was built by LEGO master builders. at Great Lakes College Tuncurry Campus, Northern Not only is this a fun day out, it also raises funds. Parkway, Tuncurry. Who'll be the recipient this year? Entry is $5 per person, or $15 per family. This event is raising funds for Hallidays Point Public More info www.facebook.com/MidCoastBrickFest School P&C.

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focusinterview.

EVONNE Goolagong F O U N D A T I O N

An exciting opportunity for our local Indigenous youth is coming to town on March 28 …

Kyah Stewart, National Projects Manager for the Evonne Goolagong Foundation, explains how Indigenous kids aged 5 - 15 can take part in a Tennis Come and Try Day and meet Evonne Goolagong Cawley …

i Kyah. What is the Evonne Goolagong Foundation, and what are its aims? The Evonne Goolagong Foundation (EGF) is the realisation of Evonne’s dream, for life after the pro tour. To give as many Indigenous children the opportunity to be the best they can be, given half the chance.”DREAM-BELIEVELEARN-ACHIEVE” has been Evonne’s life motto and has now been adopted by her foundation. The Evonne Goolagong Foundation uses tennis as a vehicle to promote the importance of education and to improve the health of Indigenous children through diet and exercise. Evonne’s programs are designed to identify kids who display enthusiasm, determination and a willingness to improve themselves. The program invites Indigenous children to give tennis a go in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Athletic ability is taken into consideration, but is not the sole factor in ongoing participation in the program. How did you become involved with the foundation, and how has it helped you? Evonne gave me a racquet at the age of nine and began mentoring me as a junior player. Through participation in the program, I was offered a scholarship to further my tennis at Boxhill Senior Secondary College, VIC. After deciding competitive tennis wasn’t for me, I moved back to Forster and began coaching at Forster Tennis Club, under Jaime McDonagh, who was my coach. I later became 8 Manning-Great Lakes focus

a Development Officer with NSW Sport and Recreation in Newcastle, where I studied and learnt the skills I now utilise in my role as the National Projects Manager. I had ambitions to be the next Evonne Googlagong as a player, but now I share her dream of encouraging and supporting young Indigenous children to succeed in sport, education and life. What’s involved with your current role as the National Projects Manager for the foundation? I’m lucky enough to be able to work from home whilst enjoying a lot of family time with my two young daughters.My role includes planning our yearly schedule, budgeting and all aspects of our federally funded four stage national program, including liaising with our coaches. I work closely with Evonne and her husband, Roger (CEO-EGF) to make sure that we are always developing as a foundation, as well as supporting children on scholarships around Australia. There’s an exciting event happening in Forster in March involving the foundation. Could you give us the finer details of what’s planned, and who’ll be visiting? Evonne and the EGF Staff are coming to Forster for the first time. They are all extremely excited to meet the community. Ausha and Logan Paulson (Taree) who are involved in the program and recently attended our National Development Camp in Melbourne will be assisting on the day. Evonne will share her life story about growing up and achieving her dreams before the children hit the courts.

Participants all receive Learn, Achieve initiative SPORT IS AN a free lunch, shirt and promotes and helps IMPORTANT PART OF drink bottle from Evonne. provide better health OUR CULTURE AND What do you hope to and education for young WHEN OUR CHILDREN achieve for tennis and Indigenous Australians. ARE SUPPORTED AND for Indigenous youth Our program invites NURTURED, THEY CAN locally - what’s your Indigenous girls and boys ACHIEVE ANYTHING THEY dream? aged five - 15 years to SET THEIR MIND TO. I would love to see have fun and give tennis our local courts full a real go. Our coaches of young Indigenous are looking for kids who children participating display enthusiasm, and enjoying the sport of tennis. Sport is an determination and a willingness to improve important part of our culture and when our themselves given half a chance. Athletic ability children are supported and nurtured, they can is also taken into consideration, but is not the achieve anything they set their mind to. determinant factor. So send your kids out onto Where can we find out more info about the courts to have fun and to try their best. the Evonne Goolagong Foundation, or Some youngsters from each Indigenous register our interest in any of its activities? Tennis Come and Try day may be selected to The event will be held at Forster Tennis receive equipment and further coaching. With Club, Lake St, on Wednesday 28 March. agreement from their parent/guardian, these The day is for Indigenous children aged boys and girls will be encouraged and exfive - 15 years. Numbers are limited, so pected to attend their school and their tennis for further information please email me: sessions. This will give them the opportunity k.stewart@evonnegoolagongfoundation.org. to be selected to attend a Goolagong State au or visit our foundation website at www. Development Camp. evonnegoolagongfoundation.org.au Participants at the State Camp level may also Thanks Kyah. be chosen to attend the Goolagong National A few words from Evonne Goolagong Development Camp held in Melbourne Cawley, Chairperson Evonne Goolagong each January during the first week of the Foundation ... Australian Open. Since 2005, the Evonne Welcome to our Indigenous Tennis Come Goolagong Foundation has awarded school and Try Days, which are run by the Evonne scholarships, produced tennis coaches, sports Goolagong Foundation and supported by the administrators, university scholars and has Australian Government. The Dream, Believe, helped with employment placement.

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focusinterview.

They’re back! WE MET MITCHELL BROWN, BECKY WRIGHT AND HANNAH HARTUP A FEW MONTHS AGO, AS THEY WERE BUSY R AISING MONEY WITH THE REST OF THE HUNTER WIND ENSEMBLE, SO THEY COULD TOUR SPAIN AND PORTUGAL. And, by all accounts, the trip was a huge success! Here’s what they had to say …

Wind Hunter

Bo BA Co wh

E N S E M B L E

T O U R of S P A I N and P O R T U G A L

ast time we spoke, you were busy raising money so you could visit Spain with the Hunter Wind Ensemble. It’s amazing you were able to achieve your goal! How was your overall Spanish experience? Mitch: Thanks to the amazing support we received from our community, we were able to raise in excess of $6,000! That was beyond all expectations and the concert was so well received, we’re returning to perform again on Sunday 29th July. This was my first trip outside Australia. I loved Spain! The culture, both art and music are so old, and the audiences were amazing. Becky: Fabulous - a great experience with a wonderful group of people. The sights were amazing, and the people we met were all lovely. I am so glad that I had this opportunity; it has exceeded my expectations in many ways. What were some of the towns you played in? Mitch: We performed in Madrid, Granada, Seville Professional Conservatorium, Lisbon School of Music and Salamanca Professional Conservatorium. We played in churches covered in gold in Lisbon, beautiful cathedrals and professional music schools. We even performed for the Australian Ambassador to Portugal. How did the Spanish audiences react to your performances? Mitch: We got standing ovations on many occasions. We performed a piece by Spanish composer Manuel De Falla. That was very popular. The audiences were either sold out or very nearly, wherever we went. Hannah: The Spanish audiences we all

performed to were great. I hope they all really enjoyed the music we performed for them. For the final performances in Lisbon and Salamanca, we received standing ovations twice! What were some of the things you found most surprising while you were away? Mitch: I love tapas. And Portuguese custard tarts. I admire the way people immerse themselves in culture, food and music. They are very proud of their history. Punctuality isn’t important in Spain. They are more relaxed in their everyday lives and find time for food, family, friendship and music. I wish we did that more here in Australia. Hannah: I went with an open mind, expecting that everything would look very different to us. Some of the foods we consumed were interesting, like calamari sandwiches and Spanish omelette, but I think it was great to try everything and get the full Spanish experience. I think overall what surprised me the most was the fluency of the English spoken by the Spanish, which came in really handy. What was a sight/site that truly took your breath away in Spain? Becky: Everywhere we travelled to had its own amazing site, whether it was a building or a view, but the place that really took my breath away was Toledo. It was just stunning. Hannah: It’s hard to pick just one; they were all so spectacular and different from the Australian scenery. I think the architecture was the most beautiful sight of all. The buildings hold so much culture and heritage - they are stunning. Best experiences: European hot chocolate, a Flamenco dancing concert, master classes with brilliant conductors, tapas. How long were you away?

Mitch: We left on the Mitch: I’m in Year THE RECEPTION WE GOT 11th January and arrived 11, so I have two more FROM THE AUDIENCES home on Australia Day years with Hunter Wind MADE YOU WANT TO so just over two weeks. I as a student and would KEEP IMPROVING, AND would like to have stayed like to continue playing EVERYONE SEEMED longer. with Hunter Wind with TO HAVE THE SAME Becky: I have actually the alumni members DETERMINATION. IT WAS A been away for 32 days after that. My goal is GREAT TEAM EFFORT. in total, as I tagged on a to study at the Sydney visit to the UK after the Conservatorium after Spain and Portugal tour. my HSC. I definitely I was born in the UK, so I would like to go back went back to visit family to Spain. I would like to and friends. I only arrived back in Australia on study music there for a year. 11th Feb. Becky: I'm not sure where I’m going next What do you feel was the most valuable musically. I’m heading to Western Sydney learning experience from your trip? University next week to start a degree in Mitch: I learnt two things. The first is natural science/zoology. that I want to do this for the rest of my life. I hope I’ll still be able to support the HWE The second is that music is truly a universal at some performances and also come back to language. Some of our conductors and Taree to play with the Manning Valley Concert Spanish artists spoke only in Spanish, but a Band. I’ve always loved playing music, so conductor’s gesture with a baton is the same hopefully I’ll find a band near to my university anywhere you play. to continue my interest, along with other likeMy favourite moment was during one of minded musicians. our final concerts on the tour. We had been My life is just about to change dramatically playing and working for over two weeks, so and I will be moving in a new direction it was sounding amazing. We looked up at educationally, but I will always be very thankful Scott Ryan our conductor, and you could see to have had the support of Roger Griffiths, how proud he was of all of us. I will always who has given me the tuition and support remember that moment. to enable me to participate in these musical Becky: I think that I have really learnt that achievements and adventures. however well prepared you are, you can still Hannah: Over the next few years with music improve. We seemed to somehow get better I think I will be mainly focusing on school and with each performance we did. The reception HSC going into senior years, which I will be we got from the audiences made you want to doing music in. I will continue with HWE to keep improving, and everyone seemed to have further my skills and work with the Manning the same determination. It was a great team Valley Concert Band. I also will be working effort. We learnt and grew together. towards my AMEB exams. What's next for you guys musically? Thanks guys. Manning-Great Lakes focus 10

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Jesse Galloway 12 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Jesse Galloway has been fortunate enough to combine his love for both the ocean and photography into a skill behind the lens that is remarkable … Seemingly able to position himself in just the right spot at the right time to capture a magical image, Jesse credits his life spent in, on and under the ocean as the main reason he’s able to produce such beautiful shots.

esse also admits that the ocean is never predictable - it’s offered him a few adrenaline fuelled experiences as well … Hi Jesse. Tell us a bit about your background in the Great Lakes

area? Well, I grew up in Pacific Palms, aka God’s Country, where I had an amazing childhood surfing nearly every day and hanging out with friends getting up to all sorts of fun/mischief - as most kids do, I guess. In the later years I have recently moved into town, where I bought my first house and have been loving life. I go spearfishing and surfing whenever I can. Your love of both the ocean and photography are obvious from your images! Which came first - and how have both of these interests influenced each other? My family have always been all about spending a lot of our time in and around the ocean. Dad, being a keen spearfisherman, was always dragging us off the bus after school and down to Celito Beach to go diving with him, or to surf while he dove and tried to get dinner for us. Mum, being an artist, allowed my photography to develop, through the influence of her artworks and her creative nature. Having a great love for the area and ocean in general helped me to combine the two into a hobby I

now love. up awesome shots like these ... what's your What have been some of your favourite plan of attack? photographic shoots in recent times, and I think having surfed most of my life has why did you enjoy them? definitely helped a lot with understanding the Just really any nice afternoon that I have been way a wave breaks, or how it is going to break. out late in the water … You never really tire of Therefore, it makes it a bit easier to know where seeing a beautiful sunset around this area. to position yourself to get the shot you are One that has stood out recently for me was chasing. when I was shooting at Main Beach on dusk, Having said that, surf photography is never when the sun was well easy, by any means, and truly setting - I had a as the ocean is always Grey Nurse Shark come unpredictable - which in and bump me on I guess makes it all the I HAVE SHOT A FEW the back of the legs in more fun and challenging. WEDDINGS, AS WELL AS the shallows. That was Considering your skill MATERNITY/NEWBORN definitely an adrenaline behind the lens is so PHOTOGRAPHY AND rush ha ha! comprehensive, what A FEW REAL ESTATE What are some of the types of shoots would SHOOTS. I ALSO LOVE pieces of photographic FOCUS readers be able DOING PORTRAITS OF equipment in your kit? to commission you for? PEOPLE’S DOGS - IT’S I've noticed you've What photographic ALWAYS GOOD FUN. taken some amazing fields would you shots from both the air, normally find yourself and underwater? working in regularly? I’m currently using a A lot of my clientele is Canon 7D with an Aquatech water housing for definitely more towards selling prints or canvases my water shots, and for my aerial shots I am of my work, which I absolutely love. Any of using a DJI Phantom 4. my prints can be commissioned to be printed You've taken some fabulous surfing/ on aluminium, acrylic glass, framed prints and bodyboarding action shots too. This requires canvasses. It’s a great feeling knowing people a different skill set entirely, as movement love your work enough to want to hang it on can be difficult to capture. How do you set their wall at home.

I have shot a few weddings, as well as maternity/newborn photography and a few real estate shoots. I also love doing portraits of people’s dogs - it’s always good fun. When you're not behind a camera, what would we be most likely to find keeping you busy (or relaxing)? I’m currently an apprentice carpenter with Danny Godwin Building, which is also a passion of mine. It’s always interesting work, and there is an artistic side to carpentry which I love. Other than that I surf, dive and love just living a happy lifestyle around the ocean, with my friends, girlfriend and my dog, Rusty. What's your photographic dream ... Where would you like to see yourself situated professionally in, say, five years' time? To be honest, I just love trying to create art through photos, and seeing people buy prints of my work is insane. So, I want to just to keep selling photos, and seeing them on as many walls as possible is my main dream. One day I would love to be able to open a gallery up to showcase my work to the public and sell photos from home. Where can we follow your story, contact you, or see more examples of your work? Facebook: www.facebook.com/ jessegallowayphoto Email: Jessdes777@hotmail.com Mob: 0432 262 493. Thanks Jesse. Manning-Great Lakes focus 13

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J U S T I N S TA C K F R O M S TA C K S T H E L AW F I R M

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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.

legal

light.

with Alan Tickle

with Justin Stack

Media headlines don’t make the story.

Beware traps in buying off the plan. For many people, so-called off-the-plan home and land packages seem to offer an affordable way to get a foot into the property market and buy their first home. But solicitor Zohra Ali of Stacks Law Firm warns there are many traps for the unwary in off-the-plan offerings that look appealing, but have hidden dangers. “Buying property is probably the biggest investment of your life and one that has long term consequences, so it is best to get good independent legal advice on the deal before you sign,” she said. “The first thing to remember about an offthe-plan contract is that you are dealing with a developer whose business is to buy land, develop it and sell it. A developer’s contract is designed to benefit them and can conceal unfair terms a buyer might miss. Remember, if you buy off the plan you are buying something that does not yet exist. Many things happen before the apartment or house is completed. Many other parties are involved, such as Councils, valuers, surveyors and strata certifiers. “If you are told it’ll take six months to a year before the home is ready, you should double that time estimate. It’s important to have a clause in your contract giving you the right to terminate or rescind the agreement and get your deposit back if you want to pull out.” Ms Ali said it is possible to ensure there are exit conditions, such as when deadlines for the construction are not met. You also need safe-

guards in case the developer becomes bankrupt or insolvent. “Before signing anything, you should have an experienced person check the developer’s background and whether they are facing any court action, find out who the builders are and ensure they are licensed. “The law does provide some protection and warranties, but you can request additional clauses in the contract in case there are any defects in the building. Also, ensure the contract contains a limit on changes the developer can make to the size or shape of the property. “Check the market carefully, to make sure the price you are paying is in line with the current market. Don’t pay too high a price, thinking the market will go up. It may not. Consider your position with respect to future finance approval. Your circumstances might change.” Ms Ali says it’s wise to ensure you have a clause in your contract requiring the developer to have adequate insurance to protect your property. “You should incorporate a clause allowing you to cancel the contract in circumstances where there has been a substantial change to the market.”

“The biggest fall in one day since 2015!” “Billions wiped off the stock markets around the world!” were the headlines across various forms of media. Just ponder that for a while, and now consider phone calls from a worried client. The conversations went like this: “Alan, do you think I should have all my money now in cash, because I’m worried? “I guess you’ve had lots of calls like this,” the client assumed. “Matter of fact, you’re the only one,” I replied. “However, another client phoned, as they saw the market fall as an opportunity and wanted to place some money that was held in cash,” I said. “Really!” was the response from the concerned client. “Let’s look at this market fall in perspective,” I said. “ First of all, this market fall is not a crash and the market can recover the loss just as quickly as it came down. “ Secondly, the fall was from a pretty good starting point. For example, the Mid Cap and International Share Funds that you are invested in within your portfolio have had average annual returns over the past five years of around 18%pa, with double the income that bank deposits have produced. “So, it’s not a shock-horror situation that the market slipped back three or four per cent, because your annual and medium term return has been exceptional.” The client phoned the next day, somewhat excited to tell me how relieved she was that the market had already started to rise again. What are the conclusions or lessons that

we can take from the two client phone call scenarios? The very fact that there was only one client concerned enough to phone, was a reflection on how investors are now more aware of market movements and the rewards for maintaining a medium to long term asset allocation that is aligned to their objectives. It also demonstrates how markets can overreact to overseas market activities. The return provided by shares in Australia that sit outside the top 20 over the past few years has been very satisfying for investors. The mum and dad investors don’t get to meet with directors and CEOs of smaller companies in the same way the analysts for fund managers get to do. This enables the managers to identify up and coming companies in the smaller end of the market. The analysts also identified value amongst some significant companies sitting in the top 50 of companies in Australia, which resulted in some amazing returns the past couple of years. Conversely, investors who relied on “blue chip” Australian companies and bank type deposits have had less exciting investment performance. This illustrates how asset allocation and stock selection can make enormous differences in investor performance, which also explains the varying results between superannuation funds. On a lighter note, because my son Jonathon wrote the last two columns, some people have assumed that I was retiring. I’m not retiring any time soon! I’m still a spring chicken!

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, Jonathon Tickle and Your Heritage Financial Planning are both authorised representatives of Securitor Financial Group AFSL 240687 ABN 48009189495.

If you have a case, Stacks has the expert

Our Client’s Best Interest is Central to all our Endeavours • Income Protection & Life Insurance • Superannuation • Retirement Planning

02 6592 6592

stacklaw.com.au/taree 14 Manning-Great Lakes focus

• Investment Portfolio Management • Centrelink and Aged Care Strategy

6551 2333

www.yhfp.com.au

Alan Tickle & Jonathon Tickle (Directors)

Your Heritage Financial Planning Pty Limited Authorised Representatives Securitor Financial Group Ltd ABN 48009189495 AFSL 240687

focus_What’s On Manning-Great Lakes

M A R C H

HARRINGTON QUILT SHOW

PAINT & SIP AT CLUB OLD BAR When Friday, March 2, 6pm - 8:30pm. Arrive @ 5:45 to get your seat, order a drink and get ready to have a good time. Painting begins at 6pm. There will be a designated 30 min break, so that we can all sit down and enjoy a meal together. We’ll have a canvas, paint, brushes, even an apron waiting for you. Don’t worry; an artist will walk you through step-by-step, so no experience required! Besides, it’s FUN art, not FINE art. Cost $55 - includes your 2 1/2 hour paint class, canvas, and all paint supplies. Food and drinks sold separately.

GREAT LAKES VIKING SOCCER CHALLENGE The Viking Challenge is an annual six a side football or soccer event hosted by the Vikings in Forster Tuncurry on the Mid North Coast. When Sat 3 and Sun 4 Mar. Where Beach St, Tuncurry NSW. Web thevikings.org.au/viking-challenge/ Phone 0427 592 137 / 0419 532 942

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Forster Tuncurry Quota invites women to celebrate IWD Brunch with guest speaker Donna Horsey, Marketing and Fundraising co-ordinator North Coast for Ronald McDonald House. Donna has been with Ronald McDonald House since February last year. She’s passionate about helping sick kids and families and looks forward to sharing more about her work. The raffle will raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Forster. When Thursday 8th March, 10am. Where Sporties Tuncurry. Tickets $25. Info: ring Heather Dwyer 6557 5454 to book your spot.

TAREE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Forced by circumstance to step into the limelight as a victim of violence, Dr Angela Jay will be the guest speaker at the 2018 International Women’s Day function conducted by Taree Quota. Angela, having faced the greatest challenge of her life, has recently completed a 65 km, five day Trek on the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory, with her dad Steve and brother Zac by her side. When Thursday 8th March, 6pm. Where St John’s Hall. Bookings essential. Tickets $20 at Margaret’s Underfashion Taree, Ashlea Road Fashion, Wingham and Dans, Taree.

MEN OF LEAGUE RACEDAY

Gates open at 12pm. Non-members $10 / members $5. Buses will also be running to and from the event. When Sat 10 Mar. Where Tuncurry Race Course, Chapman Rd, Tuncurry. Website tuncurryforsterjockeyclub.com.au/ Email garrymargaret@bigpond.com

Presented by the Pelican Piecers Patchwork and Quilting Group, who have arranged for local patchwork traders to be part of our show, and as usual the Pelican Piecers will have their trading table. The 2016/17 Quilt NSW travelling suitcase challenge, “Repurposed, Recycled, Reloved” will also be on display. The raffle this year is a beautiful quilt, with two baskets (one personal and one home wares) as support prizes. Proceeds will go to Crowdy Head Surf Life Saving. The Harrington CWA is again catering with morning tea and a light lunch. When 16, 17 and 18 March; 10am - 4pm Fri and Sat, 10am - 2pm Sun. Where Harrington Waters Function Centre, Caledonia Street. Cost $3 entry.

RELAY FOR LIFE Join us ... Great Lakes Relay For Life. 24 hours of entertainment, music, food, BBQ, juice bar, various demonstrations and activities for the whole family. When Sat 24 Mar - Sun 25 Mar; 10am. Where North Tuncurry Sports Complex, Beach St., Tuncurry. Website www.relayforlife.org.au/ greatlakes Phone (02) 6659 8403. Email katie.mead@nswcc.org.au

THE LAKE STREET GALLERY

The Lake Street Gallery in Forster is again the venue for a very exciting art exhibition, the 36th Open Art exhibition, with over 300 entries from artists near and far. What Great Lakes Open Art Exhibition. Where Lake Street Gallery, 34 Lake St, Forster. When 25th March - 8th April; every day - 10am - 4pm. Cost Free entry.

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RotaryLodge Expands! Rotary Lodge has been providing low cost onsite accommodation at the grounds on the Port Macquarie Hospital Precinct for over 20 years. The growing demand for accommodation for patients, guests, and family has seen a recent expansion of the premises. We chat to the Operations Manager Paula about what Rotary Lodge is and what they have been up to recently.

hen was Rotary Lodge established, and by whom? Rotary Lodge was the brainchild of Ron Walesby, a member of the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie, after the unfortunate tragic Kempsey bus crash. With the support of the District Governor and two members of each of the four local Rotary Clubs, namely Port Macquarie, Port Macquarie West, Laurieton and Wauchope, they formed the committee, and Ron as the chairman made the first press release in Feb 1991. The proposal was to build six units to accommodate accident and emergency patientsâ€™ families, which they completed in 1996. Then in early 2000, planning commenced by the then committee chairman Richard Morocco for Stage 2, which was opened in 2005 containing an additional 18 units to service the further expansion of the Base Hospital, including a Radiotherapy Unit along with patients at the Port Macquarie Private Hospital. In 2014, the realisation was that we either continue as we were with 24 rooms and turn people away, or extend the accommodation for patients and carers with the new $150 million extension to the Base Hospital and the Private Hospital. The decision was really a given, as we are here to support as many people as possible who need to attend Port Macquarie for their medical procedures. So, 2018 sees 12 more rooms opened up, and 16 Manning-Great Lakes focus

the slab laid for another 12 rooms when funding allows. Can you tell us about THE LODGE OFFERS 12 NEW your role with Rotary ROOMS, MAKING A TOTAL Lodge, and who else is OF 36 ROOMS. THEY ARE A part of the team? FULLY SELF-CONTAINED My role is to ensure MOTEL TYPE UNIT, WITH and accommodate our the efficient operation EXTERNAL LAUNDRY clients from outside Port of Rotary Lodge 24/7, FACILITIES, COMMON Macquarie, from the every day of the year, to ROOM LOUNGES AND OFFManning region to the ensure the clients have a STREET PARKING. south to the Queensland comfortable and relaxing and western state borders. stay whilst undergoing We will also be able to their medical procedures. provide hospital in the I am supported by my home type accommodation for people who live able-bodied staff and the 10 volunteer members in outlying areas who may not need to be in of the Rotary Lodge Board. hospital, but who require daily medical services to Who does the Lodge offer its facilities? support their recovery. Rotary Lodge offers accommodation to What is the next stage that is planned? patients, carers and family members coming to The next stage for Rotary Lodge development Port Macquarie for any medical appointments is the completion of the final 12 rooms. This will and/or procedures. We also continue to service compete the full development of 48 rooms. the needs of Accident and Emergency patients, Where does the funding come from? as per our original charter. The funding comes from grants from the You've just complete a new stage of the Federal and State Governments and community development - how many rooms and what is groups, and with the current expansion funded included? by a loan from Holiday Coast Credit Union. The Lodge offers 12 new rooms, making a Funding for the original land was funded by total of 36 rooms. They are a fully self-contained the operator of the Base Hospital in the form of motel type unit, with external laundry facilities, the donation of the land, and the first stage was common room lounges and off-street parking. funded by Rotary Clubs and Federal Government How will the extra rooms benefit locals. This increase of rooms will allow us to expand grants, along with various community groups.

Stage 2 was funded by federal funded grants, Cancer Council of NSW, Hasting Council and a financial loan from Holiday Coast Credit Union. We were also funded by various local community groups. For Stage 3, unfortunately we have been unable to receive any grants from Federal, State or Local Government Areas, so we have again gone to the Holiday Coast Credit Union to gain a loan facility to complete this stage of the building. Various local community groups have contributed to the cost of the fit out of each of the individual 12 units. How can locals help Rotary Lodge? We would love to see locals assisting community groups to raise funds for Rotary Lodge. We are like so many not for profits; a dollar donated goes a long way. Also, donations given to the Rotary Lodge stay in Port Macquarie. Our biggest wish would be for local community groups to assist with putting on a evening meal for our guests. These are such rewarding events for not only our guests, but also for the community groups. Thanks Paula.

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In search of myself in

By Michelle Parker

It hits you as soon as you exit the airport. A wall of men shouting, waving signs and competing for attention with offers of "auto" rides. The heavy heat and smog so thick it burns the throat.

o many lives and so much life I soon got used to the free-forall mayhem of weaving, honking traffic. The heady scent of spices swirling out from hole-in-the-wall eateries crammed with people. Cows wandering wherever they please. Chennai is a city of contrasts Women wearing exquisite, brightly coloured saris walk down tree-lined streets, dodging the garbage that clogs the gutters and the dogs eating scraps off the pavement. Alongside the 7th Century Kapaleeshwarar Temple of Mylapore, rich with ancient Hindu wisdom and bustling with worshippers, is an unfathomable and appalling caste-based poverty. But you don't travel to India for a comfortable holiday. I was there for the culture shock, to shake up my privileged perspective, and to connect with something much deeper in myself and the world. As I watched men kissing the ground in front of the gods, I was mesmerised by the spirituality of the people and the place. The local Priestâ€™s mother proudly showed us her tiny shrine

18 Manning-Great Lakes focus

stressed-out society. room filled with incense, golden deities and Cooking, craft and colour unwavering faith. At a Southern Indian cooking school I I bought a little blue statue of Ganesh, the scorched up a storm of spices into a colourful Lord of New Beginnings and the Remover of array of dishes, all laid out on a banana leaf, to Obstacles. The elephant-headed god represents be eaten with the right supreme consciousness hand (donâ€™t ask what and is often worshipped they do with the left). At at the start of a journey. one restaurant I ate like a Ganesh is one of 330 king for the princely sum million gods revered in AS I WATCHED of $3. Hinduism. He is the son MEN KISSING THE I watched traditional of Shiva the Destroyer, GROUND IN FRONT saris come together who works alongside OF THE GODS, I WAS from strings of raw Brahma the Creator and MESMERISED BY cotton, dyed with natural Vishnu the Preserver, THE SPIRITUALITY colourings and hand in the infinite cycle of OF THE PEOPLE block printed at a craft destruction and rebirth at AND THE PLACE. village. Out on the street, the centre of the Eastern however, the saris are circular view of time. mass-produced, technoI spent several days coloured polyester. at the Krishnamacharya In India cows love the Yoga Mandiram, taking beach as much as the tourists. We watched sessions in asana (postures), pranayama them meander along the sand as we dined on (breathwork) and philosophy. Here yoga is not a fish freshly-caught in the Bay of Bengal, dragged gym class. It is an all-encompassing way of life in by local fishermen who head out each with great lessons for us all, particularly in our

morning in bright wooden boats. At the seaside temple of Malybalyporum the crowds were thick with Indians dressed in red for Pongal, the four-day long harvest festival celebrated in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Nearby we walked among giant elephants, lions and chariots in Pancha Rathas, a UNESCO World Heritage site of temples handcarved from solid rock in 680 AD. In the pre-dawn dark of the Chennai Market, my senses were completely overwhelmed. The hall was heaving with fresh-picked blooms and boisterous flower-sellers shouting for photos with the foreigners. The scent of floral oils crushed under thousands of feet was intoxicating - sending up wafts of sweet aromas better than any Parisian perfume. I left my heart in Auroville Auroville is an experimental city founded in 1968, home to around 2,000 people from all over the world who live in harmony with the purpose to realise human unity. The vision is to build a community where a new way of life can be worked out, a centre of accelerated evolution where people can begin to change the world by the power of the inner spirit.

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AT THE CENTRE OF THE SELF-RELIANT COMMUNITY IS THE HUGE GOLDEN MATRAMANDIR - A BEACON OF PEACE AND A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION, BLINDING IN THE SUNLIGHT.

At the centre of the self-reliant community is the huge golden Matramandir - a beacon of peace and a source of inspiration, blinding in the sunlight. Around the outskirts are villagebased businesses, innovative social enterprises and permaculture farmlands. There are basket weavers using recycled newspaper pages as rope, dams growing bright green spirulina, and makers of incense in every fragrance imaginable. I spotted the cute timber volunteer huts, like something out of a tiny-house doco, and started daydreaming about my return. Once my young children have flown the nest, perhaps it will be my time to fly too. That afternoon we walked around the town of Pondicherry, affectionately known as Pondy, with it’s French-inspired parklands, pastel coloured colonial villas and chic boutiques. The city has a fascinating history full of conflict, changing hands frequently between the Dutch, the Portuguese, the British and the French. The formal transfer of territory agreement between France and India was signed in 1962. As night fell, the streets came to life, more closely resembling the neon-flashing, grid-locked Las Vegas strip than a classy French boulevard. On the hippy trail in Goa We left the east coast behind and boarded an internal flight across the country to Goa, a state of touristy beachside villages dotted along the Arabian Sea. Goa was the place to be for hippies in the ‘70s, searching for meaning and trippy

days in the tropical sun. Today most of the hippies are gone, but you’ll still spot the occasional tie-dyed dress or magic mushroom top. Now the palm-fringed black sands of Goa are a hotspot for Britons and Russians from the Known, Thich THAT AFTERNOON WE looking to party and share Nhat Hanh’s No Mud No WALKED AROUND THE obligatory sunset selfies Lotus, and the ancient TOWN OF PONDICHERRY, on social media. Indian text Bhagavad AFFECTIONATELY But with the Russian Gita. I also studied the KNOWN AS PONDY, WITH economy in decline, Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, ITS FRENCH-INSPIRED growth in Goa seems oncompiled before 400AD PARKLANDS, PASTEL hold. Massive construction from much older yoga COLOURED COLONIAL projects have stopped traditions, perhaps as old VILLAS AND CHIC almost overnight, leaving as 3,300BC. BOUTIQUES. roads, bridges and hotel In Sanskrit, the word complexes half built. yoga means “union” or On our busy beach “to join”. My favourite at Morjim, a visit by the definition of a yogi tourism authority saw half the ramshackle is someone who experiences themselves in beach-side bars dismantled overnight. the universe, and the entire universe within Stretching my body and my mind themselves. I checked into the Devarya Wellness Centre I signed up for a traditional Indian massage, for a week-long retreat. During a fire-side to relieve my tired muscles after hours of yoga. Puja ceremony, I set my intentions for the days Ayurvedic massage is thought to involve a subtle transfer of energy between the therapist and the ahead, ready for a routine of yoga, mediation, client, with awareness on the chakras. I could philosophy, reflection and relaxation. feel the energy shift and tension release, except Days were spent stretching in the yoga shalas, when the lights went out during one of the enjoying the most amazing vegetarian food, common blackouts, leaving me in a mild panic drinking lemon ginger tea, and cooling off in for a moment. the sea. One of the highlights of the trip was meeting In the evenings I read Krishnamurti’s Freedom

an intriguing character named Agyat, meaning “The Unknown”. Agyat is an Osho meditation master with a long dark beard and eyes that see straight into your soul. I spent a whole day with this humble guru and a small group of meaning-seekers, and it was one of the most life-affirming experiences of my life. At some stage during our “active meditation” camp, between laughing and dancing wildly on the crowded beach, speaking jibberish to strangers and practicing self-hypnosis something cracked. Just enough to let the light in. So, did I find myself in India? In many ways, I lost my “self” in India. For a time I was able to let go of the ego identity of images and labels, the projection of an illusionary self. Instead, I discovered something much greater - consciousness, spirit, the silent space within, and a sense of oneness with everyone and everything. Thank you to Beverly from Healing Heart Yoga, and to my beautiful mum, Julie, for sharing this incredible, life-changing journey with me. Manning-Great Lakes focus 19

Beef and ale pot pie with chunky beef, vegetables, Monteith Barber Lager, mash potato, green beans, and tomato mango chutney. from Mobyâ€™s on Red Gum. 18 Manning-Great Lakes focus

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R O B Y N P I P E R F R O M G R E AT L A K E S PA D D O C K S

Twice cooked pork belly, master stock caramel, apple slaw

Mobys on Red Gum Has it been a while since you last visited the beautiful beaches at Pacific Palms? Why not take a drive to Boomerang Beach today and visit the friendly team at Mobys on Red Gum! With extended trading over the school holidays, Mobys is the perfect spot for breakfast with friends or a bacon and egg roll and coffee on the go. Planning a day at the beach? Stroll across the street to Mobys and feast on a burger for lunch, or enjoy a beer on tap at the poolside bar.

China ... a country of wine lovers.

HEAD CHEF EVAN

China is in the process of transforming into a country of wine lovers, and Australia is fast becoming the preferred country to supply product that is pleasing to Chinese palates.

Mobys on Red Gum are open for dinner almost every night, and Head Chef Evan McMahon invites you to come and experience something special.

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.

Tender Calamari Strips

he demand for Australian wine European and American wine. Compared to in China is enjoying exponential European and American wines, the Australian growth, with an increase of 42% wine products are easier for the Chinese market in export value for the year to to understand. The more simplistic and modern September 2017. The industry labelling is appealing and is reflective of the easy has had high expectations but in a market as drinking style of wine. Fruit driven, low acidity expansive as China, it is really difficult to grasp and soft tannin wine styles are being bought to exactly what is going on. And it seems this is just enjoy at home, rather than for the benefit of the beginning for this emerging wine drinking others. White wine is also growing in popularity, market. Wine has been used primarily as a status as previously red wine has been preferred by the symbol by the Chinese, in much the same way Chinese for its health giving properties. as fashion labels. High There is a conscious value wine brands have effort being made in been used to impress and some Chinese regions are typically brought out The market is changing to develop and nurture at business meetings to fast and has shifted away from a "wine culture". create an impression of being a product primarily in Professional wine sophistication. But these the domain of the wealthy. education institutions high value wines, such With a hunger for knowledge are providing excellent as Grange and famous and willingness to experience courses and wine French brands such as new things, the younger experiences accessible to Chateau Lafite, are more middle class have discovered all. Driven by passionate suited to experienced and are embracing more Chinese wine lovers, wine palates with heavy aﬀordable wine. ” education, wine tourism, tannins that typically food and wine pairing should be cellared for experiences, Sommelier at least 10 years before training, blind tastings, drinking. To make them palatable to the Chinese,

“

The Tanks Café We’re proud to announce the opening of “THE TANKS” Café, Lounge & Bar at Club Forster! Relax and enjoy our brand new space, featuring state-of-the-art facilities. The perfect place to unwind and meet with friends, sample our exciting new menu, try our range of craft beer, and listen to great music presented by some of the coast’s leading musicians - FREE every Friday, Saturday and Sunday!

CLUB FORSTER, 19 STRAND ST, FORSTER 6591 6591 OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM TO LATE.

EXECUTIVE HEAD CHEF STEVE CURLEW

it has been pretty standard practice to mix these wines with coke, juice and ice. The market is changing fast and has shifted away from being a product primarily in the domain of the wealthy. With a hunger for knowledge and willingness to experience new things, the younger middle class have discovered and are embracing more affordable wine. Australian wines, in particular, are outselling

industry tasting events are offered, creating opportunities for both consumers and the wine industry. So the maturing of the Chinese wine drinking market presents opportunities not just for exporting product, but also for wine tourism. The Chinese tourist visiting Australian wineries today is more likely to be genuinely curious and have a thirst not just for the wine, but for knowledge. Manning-Great Lakes focus 21

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in the

hat can you tell us about the history behind The Boys in the Band stage show? Tom - The show was created by David Malek and Dale Burridge, owners of SMA Productions. They have over thirty years between them starring as leading men in musical theatre productions across the globe, from Broadway to the West End and back here in Australia. Now as producers of entertainment, they noticed a wave of jukebox musicals like Jersey Boys and We Will Rock You coming out; they loved them so much, but wondered what if there was a show that could take you through the story of all of the greats - over 50 years of music, back to where the "boy band" began with Frankie Valli and right through the Rock ‘n’ Roll era, the Motown era and to the Pop era of today ... Boys in the Band was born! Why do you enjoy being a part of this particular show? Hugh - Because we get to cover so many iconic decades of music and artists, with so much different repertoire. The medley format means we get to touch on hit after hit, and it's a really exciting show to be a part of. Tom - The beauty about the show is I get to be myself on stage, rather than playing a character, show our own personality and sing songs that are just adored not only by us but by audiences everywhere. How far and wide have you travelled with 22 Manning-Great Lakes focus

The Boys in the Band? Hugh - All throughout Asia and all around Australia and the South Pacific. We've performed in concert on theatre tours, many festivals, as well as on some of the most luxurious cruise ships. Everyone just loves the show; we always get people coming up to us with fond memories and stories of what the songs mean to them or where they were when the song was released. Tom - The show has performed right around the world, Singapore, South Africa, we have just come back from Jakarta - which was so much fun. By the end of the show you can almost guarantee everyone is up on their feet, clapping and singing along, and we just love it. The band will be singing a huge array of hits from the past 50 years, encompassing the Bee Gees, Queen, Simon & Garfunkel and more. What are some of the songs you most like to perform? Hugh - Simon & Garfunkel is my favourite medley in the show; I'm such a massive fan, and it's a beautiful, intimate moment in the show that has the audience mesmerised. Queen is also fun, but with over five decades of music, it is really hard to pick just one favourite! Tom - The Queen medley is definitely a favourite, as well as the Motown section - they are both brand new for the 2018 tour, and we can't wait to bust them out live on stage. I was lucky enough to experience a few of you guys in action at the Glasshouse's 2018 Season Launch in Feb. You were amazing! I was sitting on the edge of my seat when you sang Unchained Melody, waiting to

THE QUEEN MEDLEY IS DEFINITELY A FAVOURITE, AS WELL AS THE MOTOWN SECTION - THEY ARE BOTH BRAND NEW FOR THE 2018 TOUR, AND WE CAN’T WAIT TO BUST THEM OUT LIVE ON STAGE.

see how the challenge of "that high note" was treated. Nailed it! Who's the lead singer for this particular piece - and how much practice went into perfecting this difficult song? Hugh - That would be me! It's a notoriously difficult song to sing, and perfecting the transitions and different parts of the voice you need to use in order to perform it - and make it look easy and seamless - takes years of training. It's a very rewarding part of the show, and to be able to experience that moment of such a loved and iconic tune one on one with the audience is very special and a definite highlight. However, "that high note" is nothing compared to what I have to sing in Queen - so strap yourselves in for that one! This show is billed as the "Feel Good" performance of 2018. Why's that? Hugh - There's no other show around that covers over 50 years of music, the greatest hits from the greatest bands of all time, and we do it in medley format, which means you get a taste of all the hits - and it's really fast moving. We are singing, dancing, and telling the story of how the "boy band" phenomena evolved, all the way from artists like Frankie Valli, throughout the Rock ‘n’ Roll era, the Motown era, and into the pop and rock eras, from the 1950s all the way up to ‘90s, the Beatles, the BeeGees, Jackson 5, Queen, Elvis and beyond. We take the flavour of those eras,

incorporating the style of the choreography and vocals and weave it together with the stories of these iconic artists. We've worked really hard to make sure you are experiencing a world-class show; there are no tacky tributes, wigs or costumes here - just world-class performers who have all been in touring musical, TV and stage productions, delivering a high energy, top notch performance that you'd expect to see in the world's entertainment capitals such as New York or the West End. How many of you will be performing live at Port Macquarie and Forster? Tom - We are bringing our full 90 minute concert show, with four great guys out front, myself, Hugh, Damon and Tom Sharah. Tom Sharah has just finished starring in the world premiere of musical Muriel's Wedding, and Hugh has just come out of touring with We Will Rock You. We are backed by our live band, “The Players”, who are super talented musicians that have travelled the globe with various artists such as Jess Mauboy and Boney M. Thanks guys.

plug! See the Boys in the Band at Club Forster on March 16th at 8pm. Visit clubforster.com.au for more details.

Club Blackhead lots to love! Boys in the Band plus Strassman’s iTedE. International hit show “Boys in the Band” celebrates the world’s greatest hits from the most iconic bands of the 20th Century.

show! Strasso’s screwed. He can’t get Chuck and Ted E. off their iPhones. They’re lost to Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook.

Billed as “the feel good show of the year”, this high energy concert features 50 years of iconic tunes such as You’re Just Too Good To Be True, Can’t Buy Me Love, Let it Be, Hey Jude, Blame it on the Boogie, Jailhouse Rock, Unchained Melody, Bridge Over Troubled Water, You Should Be Dancing, Staying Alive, We Will Rock You and many more in a nonstop all singing, all dancing celebration that will have you grooving in the aisles.

The battle is on! And in an amazing live-show breakthrough, Strasso throws his voice to five puppets at once.

It’s about Chucking time … Side-splitting comedy! An hilarious all-new

It’s a riotously unbelievable, six-way comedy routine. You seriously won’t believe it! Ted is cuter than ever and Chuck just as evil. Sid the Beaver cracks a heap of depraved jokes.

Club Blackhead is set for a huge month of March, with live entertainment including John Curtin on Saturday, March 10 from 5pm to 9pm.

page. Please “like” us on Facebook for all

Sunday Sessions will feature Covers With The Croziers on Sunday, March 25 from 4pm to 7pm. The talented Jake Davey will also perform at the club on Saturday, March 31 from 7pm to 11pm.

March and receive a bonus four months free

The annual Easter Raffle will take place on Sunday, March 25. Tickets go on sale at 5:30pm, with the draw commencing at 7pm. Lots of great prizes to win.

the up-to-date and upcoming information for the club. Become a club member in the month of membership with your 12 month purchase. Creation 2 is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, serving up delicious Asian and Western style dishes with daily blackboard specials. Come in and try one of our $10 lunch specials, served weekdays Monday to Friday. Don’t forget, Social Barefoot Bowls is

You’ll cack yourself!

The “Our Club Superdraw” is up to $23,000 (at time of print). Our famous meat and seafood raffles are also on each Wednesday night.

The best night out you’ll have in long time!

Club Blackhead now has a live Facebook

or website at www.clubblackhead.com.au

And you won’t believe surprise guest, Buttons, the very pissed clown.

also available daily. Contact the club for information and bookings. For more information, please visit our Facebook page

Manning-Great Lakes focus 23

focus_contributor

WITH MOBYS ON RED GUM

HORTICULTURALIST NEVILLE DONOVAN - GREENPATCH ORGANIC SEEDS

Roasted Cauliflower & Sweet Potato

SALAD with Harissa Dressing

AT’S IN

season Rainbow Chard If a range of colours is what you are looking for in a vegetable, then look no further than Rainbow Chard! It has an edible long stem in a rich yellow/cream colour and can also be red. The broad green leaves make an attractive contrast to the coloured veins. A very nutritious vegetable, high in minerals, vitamins A, C, K and E and an ideal ornamental for small spaces, container growing and mixed borders. Rainbow Chard loves the cooler conditions, full sun or half shade. Young seedlings do benefit with some protection from heat and frost with a shade cloth cover. Deep watering once or twice a week, early morning or late afternoon is preferable in dry conditions. Mulching is beneficial to hold in soil moisture, reduce evaporation, minimise weeds. To raise seedlings, sow seeds in containers or direct in the garden. Prepare your soil to a fine till, sow two seeds together

Ingredients 1 lemon 3 tablespoons of good quality vegetable oil. 1 tablespoon of Harissa paste ½ head cauliflower, cut into florets 1 Spanish onion, thin sliced ¼ large sweet potato peeled and cut into large dice 12 cherry tomatoes, cut in half 2 tablespoons of sliced almonds (roasted) 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds 1 teaspoon of sumac 1 teaspoon of smokey paprika 2 tablespoons of olive oil ½ cup fine chopped flat leaf parsley ½ cup fine chopped coriander 1 cup baby spinach ½ cup of chickpeas Couple pinches of sea salt

30 - 40 cm apart. Cover seed with 1 cm of soil; keep moist. Plants will do well in loose, friable soil with organic matter, either of compost or aged animal manures or any organic based fertilizers. Moist, humid weather and leaf spot go together and can affect the surface of the leaves with the appearance of small dark, round spots. Damaged leaves can be removed. Watering plants at the soil level can minimise leaf spot from spreading further. Fresh leaves and stalks can be picked when 20 cm long. If the plants have an abundance of leaves, they can be refrigerated in moisture proof bags, cool stored for up to a week at 5°C. They freeze well by removing the stalks and blanching the leaves for two minutes; cool in cold water, drain and freeze in containers for up to one year.

Mobys on Red Gum 4 Red Gum Road, Boomerang Beach www.mobys.com.au

Method 1. Pre heat oven to 180°C and line two trays with baking paper. 2. Take small bowl and place in olive oil, cumin seeds, paprika and sumac and mix. 3. Place cauliflower and sweet potato on to one tray and chickpeas on the other. 4. Coat the cauliflower, sweet potato and chickpeas with the olive oil and spice mix. Roast the cauliflower and sweet potato for approx. 15 mins; roast the chickpeas for 5 mins. 5. To make the dressing, mix the vegetable oil, Harissa paste and a squeeze of lemon juice; add a pinch of salt and whisk. 6. Add the rest of the salad ingredients to a large bowl, add the roasted vegetables and chickpeas, dress and serve. Best topped off with creme fraiche or good quality yogurt. 24 Manning-Great Lakes focus

image of the month. Title: Whale fun off Forster. Photo by: Marguerite Lamb. Camera: Nikon D7100. Lens: AFS Nikkor 1.4-5.6G 70-300mm lens. Settings: F9 1/2000 sec ISO400 at 135mm Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email jo@focusmag.com.au

ARTS CRAFTS CENTRE. Forster

Forster Arts & Craft Centre, Breese Parade, Forster will be holding an exhibition and workshops of Beading and Felting on 10th and 11th March, 10am to 4:30pm.

isitors are welcome to view the exhibits and watch demonstrations of beading, felting and bead making.

Workshops: 1. Make a lovely Bracelet, $10 plus kit. 2. Dry felt a piece of fruit or decorate card, $10 plus kit. 3. Wet felt a Nuno Silk Scarf $65, plus kit $35. This class needs to be pre-booked on 6554 6900. Morning and afternoon teas will be available.

Gold coin donation on entry. The craft centre will also be holding a Painted Pet Rock Workshop on Thursday 8th March from 9am to 2pm with Nita Keys. Cost is $15 per person and includes a complete kit with everything you need for the workshop. Just bring your lunch. Bookings are essential. Please phone the Forster Arts & Craft Centre on 6554 6900. Samples of the Pet Rocks will be on display at the Centre from Thursday 15th February.

Volunteers are needed for the annual bush regeneration camp to be held from the 3rd- 8th April at beautiful Kylies Beach in our iconic Crowdy Bay National Park.

he camp is run by volunteers from the National Parks Association, Mid North Coast Branch, which has been running bush regeneration activities in the park for 39 years, and the National Parks Service. Volunteers are welcome to come for just a day, or for however long they can make it and work at their own pace and ability. There is time to swim and relax. In 2013 a severe bushfire affected the southern park section, resulting in mass germination of Bitou Bush, undoing years of work. What on Earth was to be done? Thankfully, the Environmental Trust came to the rescue, with a three-year grant of $97,000. A contractor was employed, with

resulting fantastic success. So, most of the hard work is already done in this area; the main role now is the vitally important follow up, including at previously worked sites such as magnificent Diamond Head. The use of a trailer fully equipped with cooking and eating gear etc. and tables set up under a tarpaulin makes camping easy. We have a fabulous, friendly group of core volunteers, and a great time is had by all. A BBQ is provided on the Saturday night. So why not come and join us and/or help by spreading the word to anyone who might be interested? Phone Sue Baker on (02) 6559 7134 for further information and to book in.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 25

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

David Bartush.

Characteristic of bush communities in particular, starting and growing a small business is the hallmark that’s always helped regional Australia survive and thrive. Susie’s guest this month wants not only to support his own new enterprise but help other locals too.

s Perth has Rottnest Island, Townsville has Magnetic Island and Darwin has Melville Island ... Port Macquarie is one of those rare lucky locations around the Australian coastline that has its “own” offshore beauty - Lord Howe Island. And if local entrepreneur David Bartush has his way, many more of us will be taking the short flight due east to experience the special attractions of LHI. It’s a wonderful opportunity. The island has an affinity with us in that it’s part of the NSW electorate of Port Macquarie and MP Lesley Williams has responsibility for State government matters affecting it including, for example, its policing and traffic laws. But, as much as it has remarkable, unique aspects that lure visitors from here and afar to its glorious, Lilliputian, shores, Lord Howe too has remarkably unique challenges to its tourism industry, an industry fundamental to the livelihood of many if not most of its tiny population. Qantas recently ended is traditional direct flights between Port Macquarie and Lord Howe: not just for the season, but for good, at least for the time being anyhow. Qantaslink passengers to the island must now travel year-round via Sydney or Brisbane, an itinerary that inevitably adds an extra overnight at each end for Port Macquarie, and nearby regions’, travellers. (Locally, Oxley Travel specialises in Lord Howe packages via the two capitals). As cute and boutique as it is, Lord Howe has a significant logistics problem in relation

26 Manning-Great Lakes focus

to aircraft landings, and take-offs too. It has a very short runway and zero geographical scope to lengthen it to cater to larger, more economical, more robust aircraft. (Although a study of options is currently under way). Locals have died waiting to be medically evacuated by air during periods of strong winds. Treasured native birds pose an air traffic problem too. Characteristic wind sheer sees pilots circling or “going around” in an attempt to land, but aircraft need to carry enough fuel to abort and return to the mainland if necessary. Even recently an aircraft experienced what’s euphemistically termed a “hard landing” (make that: a ruddy great thump on the tarmac) sufficient to see it need to make its return journey in parts, via sea, although no one, it’s said, was injured. Nevertheless, Bartush has identified the demise of the Qantas service as an opening for business development here at home. Utilising the fleet of locally-based Eastern Air Services, part-owned by his son-in-law, Bartush has mounted a range of offerings to take Hastings visitors - and others from the Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne capitals - to the island. In an earlier foray into tourism-related activities, he was operations manager for two years for Kimberley Discovery Cruises based in Broome. He and wife Deb worked on the company’s boat that plies the majestic locations of Australia’s remote north-west coast. And, since moving from Forster 12 years ago to be closer here to one of his three children and his grandchildren, he’s been in

the hospitality game, at Macquarie Barracks, the quality 34-room Motor Inn on Hastings River Drive. A Narrabri farm boy originally, he’s worked in sales and marketing, and real estate for 18 years during 22 years in Forster. Now he’s mounted Eastern Tour Services, founded in June of 2017 and offering Lord Howe package tours since September. “We charter Eastern Air Services’ [aircraft], who’ve been in operation for 12 months. They’ve been doing mainly freight to Lord Howe. Once we knew Qantas were ceasing their operations out of Port Macquarie ... that was the main reason we set up Eastern Tour Services – because that left a huge gap and Port Macquarie isolated, so ETS was set up to fill that void. “Both Deb and I are past retirement age; I wanted new direction; I’m passionate about tourism in Port Macquarie. We could see not only could we use Port Macquarie as a gateway to Lord Howe Island, we could incorporate Port Macquarie itself as well...” From an island holiday perspective, Bartush explains, you can only do seven nights on Lord Howe out of and return to Brisbane, for example, because Qantas flights depart and return there on only one day of the week. So he’s now developing “dual destination” packages to bring passengers out of Brisbane ... for instance, to stay in Port Macquarie for a night or two ... and go on to spend three nights, say, Friday to Sunday, on the island. “While they’re in Port Macquarie we’ll utilise our bus and give them a winery tour here, a cruise ... so it gets people to Port Macquarie as well. That’s just kicking off now.”

Eastern Tour Services is also offering day tours to Lord Howe: “Leave here at 6am, get to the island at 7.15. Courtesy bus pick-up and complete island tour, a very informative experience. Fish feeding at Ned’s Beach, meet up with [renowned LHI naturalist] Ian Hutton and do bird watching, a bush walk up Malabar Hill, to the plane crash site [where an RAAF Catalina flying boat went down almost 70 years ago], lunch at the Museum and Ian leads a tour there, then out on the lagoon for an afternoon cruise, snorkelling and a glassbottomed boat, and an hour and a half of free time. The bus returns passengers to the airport at about 5-5.30, back to Port about 6.45!” Cost: $1395. What happens if high winds prevent a return flight? Bartush says visitors would “obviously” have to be accommodated on the island for the night and assumes travel insurance would reimburse the expense. The day trip, however, also forms part of what would be a three-night package out of a capital city, with two “bookend” nights in Port Macquarie – including tours to, say, a strawberry picking experience at Ricardoes and other local attractions, a sunset cruise, dinner, and so on. Bookings are already coming in for the first half of 2018 and says Bartush: “I’d like to see it grow where Lord Howe Island is the hook, in a sense, to our marketing but Port Macquarie is the base: to see people to come here and have four days in Port and three days on Lord Howe - a seven or eight-day package!” Out to Lunch is hosted by Lou Perri at The Stunned Mullet on Town Beach.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 27

focus_contributor

WITH DONNA CARRIER FROM BENT ON FOOD

TasteFest

The Beez

Toria's Dinner

Social /Scene

I have been writing this column for around 10 years now, and last month was the first time that I haven’t been able to do it. This page has become part of my life - one where I share a little piece of me, along with what has been happening around the region.

would like to say I was off on a world trip last month and far too busy to write it, only the truth is that our very close family had one of those tragedies that you just never want to experience, and my beautiful brother, James, is now with the angels. But this is the social scene, and I don’t want to fill it with sadness; however, I should re-iterate a few things. Firstly, I must take my own advice and spend less time working and more time with loved ones, and secondly, we live in a wonderful community with the most compassionate and considerate people, including the lovely people that work on this magazine. Thank you everybody for your support; it is heartwarming. Now, to what’s been happening in the region! The second Tastefest on the Manning event was held on 13th January, with a huge crowd descending on the riverbank for a taste of regional produce, craft beers and local wines. The day was filled with fabulous entertainment; cooking demonstrations were held on the kitchen stage, conducted by local chefs and producers. The mighty duck race raised funds for local projects, and in total $15,000 was raised for charity from the event. This year’s major charity was Samaritans’ Women and Children’s Refuge. Huge thanks to the Lions Club, along with the fabulous sponsors and volunteers for another 28 Manning-Great Lakes focus

this very stylish restaurant. Recently her desserts successful community event. were written up in the Sydney Morning Herald The Manning River Rowing Club’s Summertime Regatta was held on the same day, with Good Food Guide. On 5th January, Toria came the mixed eights starting near the Martin Bridge back to Bent on Food to create a stunning four and finishing at the rowing club, providing a course local menu, including courses such as great view for the Tastefest crowd at Queen Burrawong Gaian breast and confit leg, liquorice game jus, with poached cherry and strained Elizabeth Park. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) won the Stack’s Finance-Croker Oars yogurt, finished with fried kale garnish. And Mixed Eight Challenge, that was just one course! followed Nepean in second It was a fabulous night, place. Manning River finand we would love to do it ished in eighth place. again sometime soon. The second Tastefest on The successful launch More often than not, staff the Manning event was at the Manning Regional becomes like family, and held on 13th January, the last month has really Art Gallery of local artist with a huge crowd Jo Ernst’s exhibition Not brought that home to me. descending on the Just a nude - life models Many years ago a young lady riverbank for a taste of came to me after finishing of the Manning was held regional produce, craft on Saturday 10 February at Year 12 and presented me beers and local wines. 2pm, along with the launch with a letter to express how much she wanted to be a of Jocelyn Maughan's exhichef. We employed Toria bition, Inspirations - Black Head to Patonga. Morton as an apprentice chef, and she did an outstanding job as a very creative part of Focusing on the work of a life model as art in our team, but her young feet got itchy, so she itself, Jo Ernst's exhibition offers some thought provoking contemplation of the creative headed to Newcastle to further her career in process. Jo explores body and spirit through the restaurant scene. She worked at Silo, before heading to Restaurant Botanica in the Hunter the medium of the human figure, focusing on local models who are an important part of her Valley, where she became a valuable member of working and teaching practice. their team, heading up an important section in

Inspirations - Black Head to Patonga by Jocelyn Maughan is a snapshot of her career and includes drawings, paintings and printmaking inspired by these seaside communities. Jocelyn Maughan has been a finalist in the Archibald and Wynne Prizes many times. Both exhibitions run until Sunday 25 March Last November we welcomed German band “The Sauerkrauts” to Bent on Food, and it was a fabulous night, so when they mentioned that the full band “The Beez” would be touring the region in February, I quickly booked them. The Beez are known and loved for their sheer inexhaustible ideas of making famous rock and pop hits, as well as German hits, appear in a completely new guise, but since 2009 they have increased production of their own musical honey and in December 2016, a second album was released exclusively with their own material. The band is made up of Rob and Deta Rayner, drummer Annette Kluge from Hamburg, and Peter D'Elia from San Francisco, who is seasoning the whole thing with bluegrass and Americana. It was another fabulous event in the café, and we welcome them back anytime. I would love to hear from you if you have any social events, weddings, parties anything! Send pics and info to donna@bentonfood. com.au Cheers, Donna.

Queen’s Baton Relay - Photo Credit MidCoast Council

Queen’s Baton Relay - Photo Credit Mid CoastCouncil

Morgan and Geoff with the Taree Women’s Refuge

Taree parkrun

Social /Scene

Amber Kelleher - Taree Old Bar Surf Life Saving Club

Taree Old Bar Surf Life Saving Club

Christie and Brendan’s wedding - Photo Credit Eastcoast Photography

Christie and Brendan’s wedding - Photo Credit Eastcoast Photography Manning-Great Lakes focus 29

Dr David vid

Gillespie MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LLYNE

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

Hundreds of New Jobs The Federal Coalition Government’s massive multi-million dollar investment in job-creating projects throughout the Manning-Great Lakes area will provide a further boost to the region’s economy. Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said he was delighted to be able to announce that Federal funding was being injected into a range of important local projects across the region which would create new opportunities for employment. Our investment in industry through the North Coast jobs and Investment package will generate a further 226 new jobs in our electorate, building on other recent projects announced for the area in seniors living, road and communication infrastructure, health and education.

Unemployment continues to fall in Lyne The unemployment rate continues to fall across the Lyne electorate with the latest quarterly ﬁgures in the Small Area Labour Market data revealing increased jobs growth.

to 4.2% in the September quarter. The Mid Coast also experienced a drop from 7.3% to 6%, Port Stephens 5% to 4.2%, Dungog 4% to 3.3% and Maitland 5.2% to 4.2%.

In the Hastings, unemployment fell from 5%

Over the past 12 months, the Federal Coalition

Dr David

30 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Gillespie MP

Government has announced its small business tax cut, new job programs including the JobsPaTH (Prepare-Trial-Hire) initiative and a record investment in infrastructure across the nation delivering a signiﬁcant boost to the nation’s economy.

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

DELIVERING ON JOBS Taree

Pacific Cape

Transport

Aged Care

Terminal – 110 jobs

– 260 jobs

AT A GLANCE Jim Pearson Transport – 110 jobs Project Name: Taree Transport Terminal, Cundletown Project Cost: $4-million (Federal Funding - $500,000)

AT A GLANCE GLAICA Aged Care – 260 jobs Project: Paciﬁc Cape Residential Aged Care and Seniors Lifestyle Project Cost: $40-million (Federal Funding - $9.432-million a year)

Construction of the national transport operator’s ﬁfth major transport terminal will complement the three segment driver change over on our Sydney to Brisbane transport operation.

The Coalition has announced 144 new Federally-funded residential aged care places for the new multi-million dollar development which includes dementia care, residential aged care services and a further 50 two-and three-bedroom apartments for seniors.

It will also form the major anchor of the Taree Northern Gateway Employment Precinct which also proposes a new highway service centre, accommodation and other industry.

The project is being undertaken on a three hectare site at the corner of Kularoo Drive and Karloo Street in Forster. Many construction jobs are being created locally as a result of this project and a further 160 post-construction jobs in the aged care sector will be created in the Great Lakes as a result of this development in Forster.

Stebercraft

New Manning

Facility - 8 Jobs

Facility – 130 jobs

Aged Care

Manufacturing AT A GLANCE Stebercraft – 8 jobs Project: Stebercraft Manufacturing Facility Project Cost: $300,150 (Federal Funding - $150,075)

The planned upgrade will allow production of stainless steel and aluminium components that are currently outsourced from the metropolitan area. At completion of the project an additional ﬁve staff will be employed along with immediate staff requirements to complete the upgrade, increased productivity & competitive product. The project will generate three jobs during construction and include modiﬁcation of the existing factory, production cradle, deck tooling, additional equipment & a manufacturing software upgrade; which will allow Stebercraft to be able to increase productivity; increase turnover, create new & sustainable employment, remain competitive and allow future expansion into new markets.

AT A GLANCE Salvation Army Aged Care Taree – 130 jobs Project: Hilda Close Residential Aged Care Centre Project Cost: $20-million (Federal funding - $5.24-million a year)

Over 130 jobs will be created in the construction and post-construction period of a new residential aged care centre that will be constructed in Taree to cater for the care needs of 80 local residents. Around $5.24-million a year in Federal funding will be made available to deliver around 80 residential aged care places in various areas of care including dementia, mental health and respite services. Construction on the proposed new $20-million residential aged care centre on the vacant block of land located at 2 Hilda Close, Taree is expected to get underway this year and the new state-of-the-art facility is expected to open in early 2020.

NATIONALS for Regional Australia

Manning-Great Lakes focus 31

DELIVERING ON JOBS Forster

Civic Precinct – 496 jobs

Water Infrastructure

AT A GLANCE Infrastructure Development in Forster/Tuncurry – 496 jobs Project: Forster Civic Precinct, Project Cost: $80-million (Council Development - $18-million, Federal Funding - $6-million)

AT A GLANCE Mid Coast Water Record Infrastructure Investment Project: Manning-Great Lakes Infrastructure Water Upgrade Project Cost: $34.6-million (Federal Funding - $9.43-million)

Construction on the new Forster Civic Precinct is expected to get underway in April. The precinct, which incorporates a landmark site on the corner of Lake, West and Middle Streets, will involve both public and private development. The project will be undertaken over four stages creating 236 jobs. Council facilities will be constructed as part of the ﬁrst stage. A further 260 jobs will be created on site following completion of all four stages. The proposed development includes the construction of three new buildings incorporating: 4.5 Star comprising of 84 Hotel Rooms, 18 Serviced Apartments, 138 Seniors Residential Apartments, Child Care Centre, Cinema, Library, Community Building/rooms, Gymnasium, Nightclub, Retail tenancies including a Supermarket, retail shops and restaurants, and Visitor Centre (Tourist Information Centre).

The Manning-Great Lakes region will have enormous capacity for future growth with the roll out of a multi-million dollar water supply upgrade.

Croker Oars Oxley

Valley Industries

Mid Coast Water has completed a major upgrade to the region’s water supply which will see the development of an additional water supply system to support its largest water scheme. The project was given a major boost last year when Dr Gillespie announced Federal funding of nearly $10-million towards the upgrade. The new Nabiac Inland Dune Aquifer Water Supply System project will ultimately deliver a second water source to the region and support the Manning Water Supply scheme.

Expansion

Island

– 15 jobs

AT A GLANCE Croker Oars Oxley Island - 8 jobs Project: Upgrade of Manufacturing Facility Project Cost: $1,326,000 (Federal Funding - $663,000)

AT A GLANCE Valley Industries Taree – 15 jobs Project: Valley Linen Service Capacity Improvements Project Cost: $333,166 (Federal Funding - $166,583)

This project will create an advanced composite manufacturing facility using new automation equipment and tooling, and implementing energy efﬁcient and waste reduction initiatives. It will keep talent in our region with skilled job offerings in a new world-class manufacturing facility initially with three additional jobs. This project will generate ﬁve jobs throughout the construction phase and a new manufacturing facility that will allow the business to compete on the international market sustainably into the future.

The project will address capacity constraints in the Valley Linen Service through the installation of additional machinery and power generation capacity. The additional capacity will enable Valley Linen Service to offer improved laundry services to additional customers in the Visitor Economy and will provide additional employment of four construction jobs and 11 ongoing jobs.

Dr David

32 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Gillespie MP

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

DELIVERING ON JOBS

– 100 jobs

Taree Sport & Recreation Grounds upgrade – 100 jobs

AT A GLANCE Newcastle University Manning-Great Lakes Health and Medical Training program Program: Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training (RHMT) program. Cost: Federal funding across three campuses of $29.24-million over three years

AT A GLANCE Taree Sport and Recreation Grounds – 100 jobs Project: Taree Hockey Field and Clubhouse Upgrade Project Cost: $1.5-million (Federal Funding - $750,000)

The Taree Health Precinct is beneﬁtting from the Federal Coalition Government’s $29.24 million three-year investment in Newcastle University’s Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training (RHMT) program.

The Federal Coalition Government is investing $750,000 towards the $1.5-million upgrade of Taree Sport & Recreation grounds.

Medical Training

Campus

A signiﬁcant proportion of the funding package has been allocated to the University Department of Rural Health which operates the campus in Taree, and another in Tamworth and Moree. Health and medical students in the Manning and Great Lakes will continue to receive increased training opportunities through this Coalition Government initiative in partnership with the University of Newcastle’s Department of Rural Health.

The Manning Valley Hockey Association and the Cycling Club are working together to improve the facilities at the Taree Sport and Recreation Grounds. The upgrade includes the construction of a third turf multi-purpose playing surface to cater for hockey, soccer and futsal. A major expansion of the clubhouse for the cycling club and other groups is also proposed. According to the Manning Valley Hockey Association, 90 jobs are being created during the construction phase, along with a further 10 jobs on completion.

Bamboo Engineering Taree – 65 jobs AT A GLANCE Bamboo Engineering Products Taree – 65 jobs Project Name: Bamboo Building Products Manufacturing Facility Project Cost: $1.01-million (Federal Funding - $500,000) The project will upgrade an existing factory, including removing asbestos, new electrics, roof, ﬁt out and equipment to support twenty ﬁve new jobs in the manufacturing industry in Taree which will reach Australia-wide markets with eco-sustainable bamboo timber products.

Dr David

Gillespie MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

NATIONALS

for Regional Australia

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

144 Victoria Street, Taree BSW 2430 – 02 6557 8910 CORRESPONDENCE: PO Box 244, Wauchope NSW 2446 www.davidgillespie.com.au @DavidGillespieMP @DaveGillespieMP davidgillespieMP

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, Cnr Hastings & High Streets Wauchope NSW 2446

Manning-Great Lakes focus 33

34 Manning-Great Lakes focus

I am so lucky to have such amazing staﬀ; the experience, knowledge and expertise that my therapists have is phenomenal.

S A N D R A Hollins

K Y L I E Jones

REGIONAL INSIGHTS AUSTRALIA DIRECTORS

Describe how you got started in your business? To put it simply, we love data. Kylie and Sandra, the founders of Regional Insights Australia (RIA), share a passion for helping businesses utilise customer and market intelligence to drive improvements and growth. “Businesses have more data than ever before and can find it a challenge to know how to use data effectively,” says Sandra Hollins. “We created RIA to provide local businesses with services to help them understand and analyse their own customer and market insights, as well as the opportunity to access primary market research services locally.” RIA brings together over 25 years of experience in market research, strategy, marketing, customer insights, operational improvement and change management. “We can help businesses to understand what data they already have, as well as identify what should be collected from customers,” explains Kylie Jones. “It’s about working with businesses to use this intelligence in their daily activities, how to measure success, and future-proofing the business for change and growth.” If you would like more information on Regional Insights Australia, please call Kylie Jones (0418 595 433) or Sandra Hollins (0411 014 095). Regional Insights Australia is a member of the Australian Market and Social Research Society.

O R I O L E Warmers SANCTUARY BEAUTY & SKINCARE OWNER

K E L L Y Williams VA S T F U R N I T U R E & H O M E W A R E S TA R E E O W N E R

Describe how you got started in your business. I have been at Sanctuary Beauty & Skincare as a senior therapist working for the previous owners for six years and when the opportunity arose to take over the business, I jumped at the chance! I love my clients, and I couldn’t wait to continue my role as skin therapist and business owner.

How do you measure success in business?

How will you embrace change in 2018? My staff and I are really excited to take the business to the next level by moving into more cosmeceutical treatments and products. 2018 will see us bringing in highly reputable equipment and treatments in conjunction with the latest technology in ingredient advancements.

on my team who, like myself, are not only interested in

What is your business’ greatest asset? Our therapists! I am so lucky to have such amazing staff; the experience, knowledge and expertise that my therapists have is phenomenal. I know that all of our wonderful clients are well looked after and in such great hands. How do you measure success in business? I think success is measured in many ways, but as long as our clients are always happy and continually rebooking and expanding their experiences, that to me is success. Having happy staff who are proud to represent the name and reputation is also a winning moment. These two combinations deem success to me, because without them the business wouldn’t grow and get and bigger and better!

Financial goals are vital for longevity, but I also measure success on the strength of my staff and the happiness of my customers. Success can’t exist without all three. I am fortunate to have like-minded and dependable women selling a product, but also a positive experience. How will you embrace change in 2018? The business has already embraced its biggest challenge to date, when we relocated from Forster to Taree. It is hard to believe that this month a year has already passed - flown by, in fact! We have so many plans for 2018, with new designs already in the showroom. My goal is to continue to build on the variety and quality of product that Vast is known for. What business leaders do you look up to? I’ve always admired and can relate to the words of the late Steve Jobs. “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet keep looking. Don’t settle.”

Manning-Great Lakes focus 35

J O A N P A R S O N S and F A I T H S T A C E P R I N C I PA L / L I C E N S E E

PROFESSIONALS HARRINGTON

Mother and daughter team up at Professionals Harrington! Joan Parsons, Principal and Licensee in charge and Faith Stace, Office Manager. Having worked in the agency in Property Management and Sales for over 11 years, Joan Parsons purchased the agency in February 2017 and has not looked back. Joan is loving her new role and is focused on looking after her landlords and tenants and building the office’s property management portfolio, as well as huge growth in house sales. Having returned to the workforce, after being a stay at home mum for the past number of years, Faith is loving being back in a professional office and assisting the smooth flow of the day to day operations in her role as Office Manager. Previously a national award winning manager for one of the local telecommunication

OFFICE MANAGER

providers, Faith has taken to the new role in the family business with passion and enthusiasm. Faith truly loves being able to assist all the office’s agents and clients. Faith brings a wealth of experience and a bright personality to the business. Joan adds, “We are always looking for more homes to sell and our recent track record is amazing, with so many happy vendors and purchasers. “Our office is conveniently located in the Shopping Centre Complex and open seven days a week for maximum exposure and opportunities. This alone makes us a great point of contact for those potential visiting sea and tree changers, as well as the buyers in our own local market. Our slogan says it all: #itsallaboutthelifestyle.

Harrington

B R O N W Y N Davis C L U I C R E AT I V E C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

Describe how you got started in your business? Many people have the perception that advertising is coming up with logos, slogans and pretty pictures. The truth is there’s a lot more to it. The strategic thinking, understanding of your audience, the conceptual development and marketing plans are critical to building successful businesses. With 25 years in the advertising industry, specialising in branding, graphic design, web design, social media and copywriting. I wanted to bring some of my strategic and creative know how to local businesses. What is your greatest achievement? I have worked in both small and large agencies such as M&C Saatchi, Badjar Ogilvy and Studio Woo. Here, I’ve had the privilege of developing creative campaigns on some of Australia’s largest fashion

and home brands, such as David Jones, Myer, Sheridan, Queen Victoria Building, Westfield and Sunglass Hut to name a few. It’s thrilling to see how a well thought out campaign can revolutionise and change people’s perception of a brand. What is your businesses greatest asset? I have acquired a wealth of retail knowledge while working on a variety of businesses. This includes understanding the business you’re working for; the audience you’re trying to reach; the message that will resonate with them; and the best way to deliver that message. All these points are critical to achieving a successful outcome. In the end the principals of advertising and marketing are the same no matter what the brand. We are all trying to sell or promote a product or service.

THINK D I F F E R E N T LY A well thought out, strategic and creative campaign can revolutionise and change people’s perception of a brand...Now that’s Clui.

TIME FOR SUPPORT Whether you are looking to sell, buy, rent or engage fantastic property management, Professionals will make your property shine! If you’ve got the time we have the properties and local knowledge! Professionals have raised over $3.1 million for the National Breast Cancer Foundation! A portion of each Professionals sale is donated to NBCF, so by selling your home with us you will be joining us in the fight against breast cancer! Help us save the lives of Aussie Women. Professionals Harrington Shop 10 1-7 Caledonia Street Harrington, NSW 2427

36 Manning-Great Lakes focus

E admin@professionalsharrington.com.au P 02 6556 0188 W professionalsharrington.com.au

Specialising in branding, marketing, graphic design, web design, social media, video production and copywriting.

www.cluicreative.com bronwyn@cluicreative.com

Our focus now is about creating a store with unique and inspiring jewellery, clothing and homewares, providing quality and aﬀordability to our customers.

M E L I N D A Moncrieﬀ B L U E W AT E R G I F T S O W N E R

What is your business’ greatest asset? Our amazing staff! Our staff are the most creative, intelligent and fun women. We all work really well as a team, with a focus on creating a friendly and creative shop that’s constantly changing with our huge range of jewellery, crystals, fashion, wall art and homewares. We want people to come in and feel at home.

jewellery, clothing and homewares, providing

How do you measure success in business? Happy long term customers, laughter in our workspace, and food on our dinner table!

built his business from the ground up, literally

How will you embrace change in 2018? We’ve had some big changes within the shop itself, renovating and refreshing the premises. However, our focus now is about creating a store with unique and inspiring

He worked seven days a week to build his

quality and affordability to our customers. I’m a creative person who thrives on new ideas and challenges, so Bluewater Gifts will always be a place where people will find something unique. What business leaders do you look up to? My father is my inspiration in business. He physically building the premises he worked from whilst creating a thriving business. business and make it successful. He wasn’t afraid to make mistakes and move forward. He gives me confidence and strength to trust in my own abilities.

A M A N D A T A T E and the team L . J H O O K E R TA R E E P R I N C I PA L / L I C E N S E E

Describe how you got started in your business? An opportunity came up to buy the business and despite having no experience in real estate other than investing, my husband and I jumped in. How has your business evolved since it began? Now with 21 years of experience and 20 staff, our business has become part of the community, and I like that. We have branched out into all areas of real estate, including just recently strata management. What is your greatest achievement? Winning awards is always rewarding, but my biggest reward is watching my team grow and learn and become experts in their field. Over the years I have had many great employees who have helped us achieve our goals. They have come and gone, and

at times come back. Some have gone on to be business owners themselves and really successful in real estate and different careers. What is your business’ greatest asset? My team and how they look after me. I look on in amazement at how they create the culture in our office and share my vision and strive to be the best. How do you measure success in business? When you are embraced by your community and your customers remain loyal and seek you out for advice. What business leaders do you look up to? The quiet achievers in our town, especially the generation of women before me who have fought for their right to succeed but have remained in support roles, ensuring their leader is successful.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 37

Changes are an ongoing process in our industry; the NDIS and Home Care Packages are two current ones. MSS prides itself on staying abreast of any changes and is continuously looking at ways to make it easier for our clients, to improve our service delivery, and our business eďŹƒciencies.

N I K K I Clancy escribe how you got started in your business? After completing my post graduate qualifications in Human Services in 2010, I

was on the lookout for a position within the community services industry. I was offered a team leader position at MSS, which provided me with a wonderful start within the sector. I worked in many of MSSâ€™ service delivery areas over the next seven years, which led to the role as Manager of Connected Families Team, one of five senior management roles in MSS.

MANNING SUPPORT SERVICES INC. (MSS) CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

by the Board of Directors. How has your business evolved since it began? Manning Support Services (MSS) began as a volunteer service known as Manning Counselling in the 1980s. In June of 1988, Manning Support Services Inc. became an incorporated entity. It had a number of Government funded services at this stage, including Family Support Services, Manning Neighbour Aid and Home Maintenance and Modifications. MSS continued to grow over the years and now provides the following programs: Home Care Packages, NDIS,

In early 2017 the CEO resigned, and I filled

Home Maintenance, Home Modifications,

the role temporarily. In late 2017, after a

Neighbour Aid, My Meals, Volunteer

recruitment process that was open and

Recruitment, Transport, Community Visitors

thorough, I was selected, and appointed CEO

Scheme, Family Support, Parenting Programs,

38 Manning-Great Lakes focus

No Interest Loans, Counselling, Supervised Contact and Barra Marruk. What is your business' greatest asset? The people who work for us: the staff and volunteers. Without dedicated, committed, loyal and highly skilled staff and volunteers, MSS would not function as well as it does. At MSS we are extremely lucky to have staff and volunteers who are committed to the vision and mission of the organisation, displaying care and respect towards clients and most of all, enjoy what they do every day. Our Board of Management has broad community experience, diverse backgrounds and is drawn from across the region. Last year our amazing volunteers donated over 20,000 hours of their time to support our

community. How will you embrace change in 2018? Changes are an ongoing process in our industry; the NDIS and Home Care Packages are two current ones. MSS prides itself in staying abreast of any changes and is continuously looking at ways to make it easier for our clients, to improve our service delivery, and our business efficiencies. Changes in the Home Care Package industry in February 2017 saw clients gain greater choice in who delivers what services and how often. MSS have been working closely with all our clients to facilitate the reforms. MSS will continue to embrace change by providing services we know we can deliver and deliver them well.

What happens when two inﬂuential businesswomen in the real estate industry with a passion for innovative business practices, a strong focus on customer service, high-end property and the natural wonders our region has to oﬀer holidaymakers and property owners come together? An exciting new era in real estate is what happens.

The T E A M

M A R G A R E T P R I C E A N D PA C I F I C PA L M S R E A L E S TAT E

his year sees the merger of Margaret Price Real Estate Forster and Pacific Palms Real Estate in a whole new venture, with Margaret Price and Kim Jeffress at the helm. In what has been a traditionally male-dominated arena, it is unusual in a regional area to find female-led agencies perform as well in the market as these two. A common misperception within the industry is that there is a lack of leadership and robust female role models. However, these two agencies have defied the adage and have now combined forces to lead the local industry into a new era of property and holiday marketing and networking.

male presence well represents both agencies, it is the attention to detail and the focus on customer service that the women bring to the offices, which both licensees value and customers appreciate.

With a shared philosophy of employing the very best people for the job, both women agree that often this proves to be a woman. While a strong

Kim Jeffress said, “It was a natural progression for us, after purchasing Tea Gardens Real Estate, to make the transition into the Forster market.

Margaret Price said, “Forster is a dynamic and changing market for real estate, and we feel that we have the staff dynamics to meet that challenge. We have young, strong and innovative people who love what they do, and this translates into better business outcomes and a great working environment. Combining with an agency like Pacific Palms Real Estate will only improve those dynamics and give us a unique coastal networking presence”.

We have known Margaret Price and her team for several years and felt that the dynamics of her agency would be a perfect fit for The Palms and Tea Gardens family. It is an exciting amalgamation for us and one that will give us a solid presence on the coast.” With a very large holiday rent roll that covers from Tea Gardens to Pacific Palms, under Kim’s guidance, and Pacific Palms Real Estate being one of the leaders in holiday rentals and hospitality for the region, the combination of the two agencies, the expansion of the Forster office, new branding launching in the coming weeks, will see a fresh new property offering for visitors to the region. With the shared vision to make the MidCoast THE premier holiday destination, exciting plans are afoot.

The new company are also key stakeholders in creating coastal walks, the Sugarloaf Lighthouse at Seal Rocks and creating the kind of tourism future where people who share the same values for conservation and protecting the coast can engage with the natural environment our region has to offer, with the confidence it is in good hands. So next time your family and friends are looking for holiday accommodation or buying (or selling) their new sea change property, check out the team with extensive local knowledge who are dedicated to assisting you with everything from beginning to end. Also, if you are in the market for the leaders in holiday property management, be sure to call: Margaret Price Real Estate 6555 7211. Pacific Palms Real Estate 6554 0500.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 39

8 MARCH 2018

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

i Rhiannon. When and where will the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat Forster’s International Women’s Day event be held this year? Our luncheon is being held on Thursday, March 8th at Club Taree, who is also our Event Partner for this event for the second year in a row. What’s on the agenda for the event? This year we have something happening for our audience from as soon as they arrive. We have a welcome drink and gift bag on arrival, with a cheese platter on every table. Club Taree will be serving a delicious two course lunch and everyone will leave with a beautiful pamper gift from our Styling Partner, This & That Homewares & Accessories. Who are the guest speakers for the day - and what are their stories in brief? We have three inspirational and interesting speakers again this year. Amy Mills from Ronald McDonald House Charities Australia is a project officer in our national team. She is also an artist. Her art focuses on how society looks at and perceives the disabled female form. Amy also has Cystic Fibrosis and after receiving a liver transplant at 13 years old and taking the anti-rejection medication, developed diabetes. Having grown up in Canberra and needing treatment in Sydney, Amy and her family spent time at Ronald McDonald House. Throughout her childhood, as well as spending time at a Family Retreat, Amy was a Ronald McDonald Learning 40 Manning-Great Lakes focus

International Women’s Day each year marks an opportunity for women (and men) to come together and celebrate the achievements made by the female members in our communities, and also to acknowledge the challenges they’ve faced and the personal growth they’ve attained as a result. Once again the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat Forster will host a special International Women’s Day luncheon, this year on March 8, at Club Taree. Rhiannon Curtis from the Retreat introduces us to this year’s guest speakers … Program Student. Jada McNeil is a wife, a mum, a daughter, a sister and a friend; she is also the creator, collector and stylist for Nusa Indah. Jada grew up in the Manning-Great Lakes and is living, raising her family and running her business here. Jada is going to share with us how she juggles all the balls of her life, even about dropping them occasionally and how she keeps striving to achieve her personal and professional dreams. Our third speaker is a return guest from last year’s luncheon. Jennifer Wendtman from 360 Connections presented to us last year about the importance of self-care and setting boundaries; she has been on the self-compassion journey for a while now. Jen will explore the concepts and challenges and offer some tips to building selfcompassion, and why it’s a game changer in the workplace, family and in your relationship with yourself. The theme for this year’s IWD event is #Pressforprogress. What does this mean for you personally, and for the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat Forster? I think like most people, I like to push and challenge myself, whether that be personally or professionally in an effort to #pressforprogress. At the Family Retreat we are always trying to go above and beyond for our families, to make their experience really special. We are continuously looking for ways to not only meet the needs of our families, but to exceed the need to help them create beautiful life lasting memories. Along with our volunteer team, we are

working on ways to decrease our operational costs and increase our environmental sustainability. For Ronald McDonald House NNSW, we are, throughout the whole year, each year, working hard to support as many families as possible when they need it most. We are always working on ways to increase our reach across Northern NSW through our programs - Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room, Ronald McDonald Learning Program and of course, Ronald McDonald Family Retreat, and we continue to #pressforprogress within those programs to exceed the needs of our families and support them while they care for their sick or injured child. What’s a success story or two you can share from the retreat over the past year? In 2017 we had over 180 families come to stay at the Family Retreat and enjoy a much needed break away. This was our biggest year yet, and we are now seeing more months with full bookings than not for 2018. We have families who have celebrated birthdays, remissions, anniversaries and even a wedding with us at the Family Retreat. With the support of the local community, we have been able to provide families with even more fun during their stay, enabling them to create memories to take home and have during the next part of their journey. Where can tickets for this year’s IWD event be purchased? Tickets are available from Club Taree for $80 each. Individual seats or tables of ten are available. With the ticket, our audience will

receive a welcome drink, gift bag, table cheese platter, lucky door prize entry, two course lunch, three amazing speakers and a gift from This & That Homewares & Accessories. Whom would you like to thank for their involvement with this year’s event? We have been really fortunate to have our sponsors from last year back on board again this year. Club Taree is our Event Partner, and our Styling Partner is This & That Homewares & Accessories. UpBound have been very kind to assist us with our graphic design and electronic needs on the day, and this year we are thrilled to have Imprint Imaging with us at the event capturing beautiful images for us to share. Why would you encourage readers to attend the event? We aim to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW, of course, so we can continue to support Manning-Great Lakes families with a sick or injured child, but we are also aiming to give our audience a really entertaining and lovely day out with friends and colleagues. We hope to inspire and encourage everyone attending to go forward and value themselves in an even higher regard, knowing that the goals they set either personally or professionally are important, achievable and something to be proud of. With the help of our partners, we hope to provide our audience with an overall experience that appeals to all of their senses and leaves them feeling invigorated, nurtured and appreciated. Thanks Rhiannon.

KY L I E , LY N D I , K A R A , M A N DY & A S H L E Y PA C I F I C PA L M S R E C R E AT I O N C LU B

What is your business’ greatest asset? Kylie, Secretary Manager: Besides having one of the most spectacular views over Wallis Lake, I’d say my business’ greatest asset would have to be my staff; without them, the club wouldn’t be where it is today.

over the past decade.

What is your greatest achievement? Lyndi, Chef: My greatest achievement is being back here in the Great Lakes (my home for over 40 years) working in my profession as a chef and using my experience of the industry to work as a team member in my local area here at the Recky. Describe how you got started in your business? Kara, Front of House/Cook: I began here in the bistro ten years ago and have enjoyed seeing the club improve for the better

L E E A N E Terp H A N S O N C O N S T R U C T I O N M AT E R I A L S C O N C R E T E P L A N T M A N A G E R

Describe how you got started in your

and has been involved in numerous road projects,

How will you embrace change in 2018?

business? As a single parent, I started working

including the Wrights Road intersection. The Oxley

Mandy, Payroll Officer: I’m looking forward

for CTK Constructions Sancrox Quarry in 1997.

Highway Upgrade, Blackmans Point Roundabout

to seeing changes in the financial industry

Pioneer purchased the company in 1998. And

and the Sancrox Interchange Bridge. The plant,

this coming year; the adjustments in accounts

shortly afterwards, I became the weighbridge

which has grown from three to 10 staff, also

and payroll processing have been extremely

operator, followed by logistics allocator, quarry

plays a huge role in the domestic home building

beneficial for us in the past seven and a half

sales and quality and administration supervisor.

industry, through our Imagecrete display range for

years I have worked here.

After 17 years at Sancrox Quarry, I was offered

home owners wanting beautiful, quality driveways.

the role of Concrete Plant Manager and charged

What is your greatest achievement? Without

with the responsibility of reopening the Taree

doubt, my daughter, who has grown into an

plant, while continuing to explore opportunities to

intelligent, ethical, community-minded young

expand the Port Macquarie plant.

woman. I always tried to be the best role model

How has your business evolved since it

possible, so she could learn that through hard

began? The once closed Taree Concrete Plant

work, honesty and a strong sense of ethics that

reopened and now has three employees servicing

in this country women can achieve whatever they

the needs of the Manning Valley. The Port

want, even if they are working in an industry

Macquarie Concrete Plant has continued to grow,

regarded as being male-dominated.

What do you love most about your role? Ashley, Functions & Marketing: I enjoy being creative with our marketing and organising a variety of functions. I especially love weddings; it’s special to be part of the biggest day of someone’s life. All the months of planning and hard work is worth it when everything falls into place.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 41

I’ve created my role here at Hibbards, this is deﬁnitely my greatest achievement outside of family. It has been (and constantly is) a work in progress where I am always creating in conjunction with other people.

T A M Z I N Shotbolt escribe how you got started in your business? I was initially doing contract work for Hibbards for graphic projects. I had two young children (five

years old and two years old) so I would fit it in where I could - even if it meant staying up until 3am each night to complete it. Eventually I was asked to become full-time and began a lot of personal assistant work for Bruce Hibbard. This meant I was involved in many business meetings and got a thorough understanding of how the business operated and developed a true to the core belief that was in line with the Hibbard values. My passion for communicating that core belief to clients and potential clients - that is how I’ve created my position here in Promotion, Marketing, PR and New Business Generation.

42 Manning-Great Lakes focus

HIBBARDS HOMES MARKETING MANAGER

How has your business evolved since it began? When I first started here (as a full-time employee) in 2012, Hibbards was building in five locations. We are now fully operational in 11 regions, with research into other future regions happening as we speak. The running of the business has changed, with the expansion of the amount of employees and the structure creating confidence and empowerment of people in their roles. What is your business’ greatest asset? Our belief that EVERY Australian deserves the opportunity to own their own home. This is something believed in by the Hibbard family and is instilled in our staff. How do you measure success in business? Success is obviously very different in everyone’s eyes. How do I measure it? It’s an across

the board thing. I don’t believe you can be successful and maintain that level if you don’t bring it across your whole life; success is a lifestyle. I’m not talking about the kind of lifestyle where you’re laying back on the beach drinking mojitos; it’s something where at every moment you are learning, growing, doing your best in each situation and at the same time with the intent of bringing out the best in people.

in their drive to reach for what they want in life,

What is your greatest achievement? I’ve created my role here at Hibbards; this is definitely my greatest achievement outside of family. It has been (and constantly is) a work in progress, where I am always creating in conjunction with other people, setting and reaching goals and expanding across all the dynamics in my life - which above everything is being a positive role model for my children, both

that’s the only path I want to take.

and how they relate positively to other people. This is an even greater achievement for me and will always be the one I am striving for. How will you embrace change in 2018? Generally change is growth, and I love it. Being adaptable to changing circumstances always with the mentality of solutions and success What business leaders do you look up to? Bruce Hibbard, Mike Hibbard, Jon Hibbard. I am inspired and coached by them every day. More diversely, I get inspiration from listening to people such as: Grant Cardone, Anthony Robbins, Simon Sinek, Mel Robbins, Brene Brown.

With Electronic Conveyancing becoming mandatory in 2019, Smart Coast Conveyancing is already conducting settlements on PEXA and oﬀering clients the latest in conveyancing procedures. We embrace change with open arms and encourage new advancements in the industry that could improve the service and security we can oﬀer to our clients.

K E L L I E Cary

escribe how you got started in your business? Jessica: I was working at a local conveyancing firm, when I was told that the business

was being sold. I felt like life had hit me in the head with a brick. I approached Kellie, who had been a friend for many years. We shared the view that the industry needed a young, fresh and energetic uplift. Smart Coast Conveyancing was born so we could work towards building a stable future for our families by creating something we believed in.

J E S S I C A Gray

SMART COAST CONVEYANCING LICENSED CONVEYANCERS/OWNERS

realised we have similar work ethics, life goals

been into our office will tell you that it feels

and work great together as a team. When we

more like a catch up with friends sitting on

began discussing starting a business together,

the couch than a daunting trip to your legal

there was no hesitation.

representative.

What is your business’ greatest asset?

How do you measure success in business?

Our smile … every Conveyancing business is

Jessica: There are the obvious financial

required to have a licensed person who has

benefits to success that I look forward to,

years of experience in property law. Smart

including not living on baked beans every day.

Coast Conveyancing is no exception to this

Most importantly, it is the positive reviews

rule, with two fully licensed conveyancers.

and feedback that our clients are posting

The most outstanding difference in our

online that help us measure our success.

staff is that we have an enthusiastic and

We can proudly boast that we have a 100%

positive approach to conveyancing. Our

- five-star rating for our services! We have

Kellie: Both Jessica and I have worked in

staff is available seven days a week. You will

over 750 followers on Facebook, and that is

Conveyancing in the local area for a number

always receive friendly and helpful advice

growing every day.

of years. We play netball together, went to

from our staff and walk away knowing that

Kellie: Success to me is about exceeding client

university together and are good friends. We

you are in good hands. Anyone who has

expectation. I want my clients to be 100%

satisfied with the service we provide and for them to want to tell people about our business. If a client is prepared to recommend me to a friend, that to me is success. How will you embrace change in 2018? With Electronic Conveyancing becoming mandatory in 2019, Smart Coast Conveyancing is already conducting its settlements on PEXA and offering its clients the latest in conveyancing procedures. We embrace change with open arms and encourage new advancements in the industry that could improve the service and security we can offer to our clients. If there is a change coming in conveyancing, it’s likely we have already started planning its implementation into our business.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 43

CATE DUNN "Gentle" is a novel that explores love and loss, hope and renewal and was written by Forster resident Cate Dunn. Cate’s experience growing up in the Manning Valley, her knowledge of the local people, and her love for the landscape all had a direct inﬂuence on this work. Here, Cate shares a bit about her writing journey so far.

i Cate. You grew up in the Manning Valley and now live at Forster. What do you love most about our area ... and why do you choose to call it home? The natural beauty of the area is very special. The coastline, lakes and river system are like a living organism. When I walk the break walls at Forster and Tuncurry as the tide surges in, it feels like the whole system is breathing and we’re part of it all. I’m amazed at the valley seen by the air as well, when you can appreciate the spread of rich agricultural land mixed with forests. There are many families and communities in the valley dependent on maintaining a healthy ecosystem for their own sake and for future generations. My family have been in the valley for over five generations, and I am grateful that they had the good sense to settle in such a rich, diverse landscape. I find the people who live here know this about the area and love experiencing what it has to offer. I also like sharing the valley lifestyle with visitors, as I know they will take away with them happy memories. You've just written your first novel, Gentle. Why did you decide to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard!) and write a book? It was a desire to tell a story that belongs to this area. I wanted to write a book about people in the landscape and the impact of outside forces on our way of life. I also wanted to honour the people of the valley by giving them a voice. I hope I have achieved this in some way. Without giving too much away, give us a brief rundown of Gentle's storyline ... The novel is set in a retreat in the upper reaches of the valley. The characters are drawn to the natural world of the retreat as an antidote to the excesses of modern life. The experiences

they find there are unexpected but redeeming. There are connections made with each other and to an inner life. The river that runs through the story is under threat, and the characters come to recognise the delicate nature of the ecosystem that sustains them. What are some of the themes the novel explores? Themes of love and loss are balanced with hope and renewal. All lives and ages have difficult times to reflect on, and Gentle’s scope covers some major ideas of betrayal, war and rebirth. Essentially, it is a family story played out against a backdrop of troubled times. How much did your background in the Manning-Great Lakes area influence your writing? The people and the landscape are familiar to me, as are issues such as the Vietnam War and forced adoption that touched lives in the sixties and seventies and which are part of the book. I saw the impact of country people having to be resilient in the face of hardship. But most of all, I experienced the support of community and the freedom of life here. Describe the process of completing this book ... how long was it in the making, and how much research did you need to complete? It took almost a year, and Google research was needed for many moments of writing. Luckily, many people before me have written about the area, and this was a rich vein to mine. Also, I have been attending writers’ festivals as much as I can to be inspired, and a meeting with Marilla North at The Newcastle Writers’ Festival was a particular point of encouragement. She’d compiled the letters of the writers Dymphna Cusack, Florence James and Myles Franklin in a book called Yarn Spinners. Their enthusiasm for writing was infectious. Dymphna and Florence

Grommet’s Tale, had co-written Come The people and the about a young in Spinner, which landscape are familiar surfer and his love to me, as are issues such won a major prize in as the Vietnam War and for surfing and for Australia during the forced adoption that the new girl who war, but they had touched lives in the sixties comes to town. to publish it under a and seventies and which I lived at Wallabi male pseudonym to be are part of the book. Point for many accepted. Their feisty years and surfing discussion of this time was in most conveys an Australian people’s blood trait of egalitarianism there, so I was that I admire. easily inspired. When you're not I have also turned this book into a play, which writing, I assume you like to read (correct will be out shortly. I have had many years’ me if I'm wrong!) What book clubs/libraries experience in the theatre, so it seemed a natural are you a member of - and what are you progression. I have a children’s series in the currently reading? pipeline and then will hopefully continue to write I’m a member of the local Great Lakes Library and the Turtles Book Club, which has been going as the motivation drives me. Where can we source copies of Gentle, or for ten years now. Last year we celebrated our find out more about you? hundredth book reading with the club. Being Copies can be purchased from Amazon, in a book club gets you reading beyond your The Sitting Wombat book store or by preferences when it’s someone else’s turn to contacting me at www.catedunnauthor.com or choose. The library’s vision in providing this catedunnauthor@gmail.com opportunity has been invaluable. I’ve been asked to give my first author talk at I’m also a member of Port Macquarie Hastings a local book club, and I’m happy to do this for Fellowship of Australian Writers and Hunter anyone interested. What I have found to be a Writers Centre. The last book I read was Richard particular enjoyment is what other people have Flanagan’s First Person. The interplay between to say about their responses. It is fascinating to author and character was intriguing. learn what their experiences are in the act of Now that you've released your first book, reading. what are your future plans (more writing?) I have just published a teen fiction called A Thanks Cate.

escribe how you got started in your business? I was thrown in the deep end! The original owner of the business decided business ownership

was all too difficult, and he asked if I wanted to buy the business. I had been working as a *commission only sales person from his office and helped him create the business for the 12 months prior to taking it on myself. *(paid a percentage of your sales only - no salary, no car, no phone, no clients supplied.) I found out I was pregnant the day I signed the contracts to buy the business, so itâ€™s been an interesting journey, especially with bub in tow. Mind you, she has won over many hearts during our business endeavours together.

D E N I S E Haynes

R & R PROPERTY MANAGING DIRECTOR

How has your business evolved since it began? Today the business is completely different to the one I purchased. At the time of purchase it was going backwards fast, so I had to rebuild it from the ground up. Today it is a highly successful, thriving and evolving business Iâ€™m incredibly proud of. Originally I worked alone, and today there are nine of us in the team. There are also numerous contractors who work with us behind the scenes to help make everything happen. We have two office locations now - the original Stroud office and then our Bulahdelah office, which opened in January 2017. How do you measure success in business? Success to me is a happy team who are succeeding with their own goals, treating the

business as a career and enjoying the work

ground running, with a high number of sales

culture.

across the line already, plus new property

Another one is customers who are raving fans

managements coming on board regularly.

and refer us to their friends and family. Also

This tells me that we are certainly on the right

when our reputation proceeds us; which tells

track.

me our customer service is right and also that

I am aware that the real estate industry, like so

our marketing is working.

many others, is changing dramatically, and we

Growth - is our 2018 word! Never standing

intend to continue weeding the good changes

still, always progressing, but maintaining our

from the bad and taking on what we think will

excellent reputation.

improve our services.

When people proudly and excitedly talk about

Personally, I love the new and exciting changes

us when we are not even in the room. Our

that are happening, especially in the marketing

success is their success, because we are part of

department. These days there is such amazing

their community.

technology available at your fingertips.

How will you embrace change in 2018?

We will use the changes to our advantage

2018 is going to be a huge year for the R &

by improving our customersâ€™ experience with

R Property team. We have certainly hit the

them.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 45

The YMCA values: Honesty, Respect, Caring, Responsibility and Safety. These values enable us to focus on our belief that people have the right to a healthier life, so we cultivate the happiness that goes with being physically active.

escribe how you got started in your business? I was deliberating as to whether I should go back to study and become a PE teacher when I saw an advert in the local paper to work at the brand new Council Aquatic Centre, to be managed by the YMCA; that was in 1991, nearly 27 years ago. I was the first employee and was hired as a full-time receptionist. I went on to hold the role of Programs Manager and Assistant Manager, before being offered the role of Centre Manager at Taree in 2012. When long time manager Len Newman retired last August, I was asked to step into his shoes, so today I manage Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre, Wingham Memorial Swim Centre and Great Lakes Aquatic & Leisure Centre. I have to say it’s nice to back and to see so many familiar faces.

46 Manning-Great Lakes focus

M E L I S S A Morgan

Y M C A G R E AT L A K E S & TA R E E R E C R E AT I O N M A N A G E R

How has your business evolved since it began? At YMCA NSW, we believe in the power of inspired young people. And to provide that spark, we focus on healthy living, empowering young people and social impact.

ship to visit YMCAs in America back in 2005. It was on this trip that I realised the potential of the “family” membership. YMCA needed to become the “hub of our community”- a place for people to connect and belong.

As a not-for-profit organisation, we also run important community programs, including our FitAbility and Swimability programs, offer a 60 Day Brightside program for those in recovery of mental health challenges and offer Fee Assistance to people facing financial hardship. We employ around 120 people across our communities. Each year we record around 350,000 visits to the sites, have over 2,000 children enrolled in our swimming lessons and squad programs and a membership base of 3,000 plus.

What is your business’ greatest asset? The The YMCA values of Honesty, Respect, Caring, Responsibility and Safety. These values enable us to focus on our belief that people have the right to a healthier life, so we cultivate the happiness that goes with being physically active. We value the uniqueness and diversity of Australians. We develop and run programs that help build resilience, improve social engagement and create successful lives. We seek to create positive change through community programs that are inclusive to everyone.

What is your greatest achievement? Being awarded the National YMCA IC Howard Scholar-

How will you embrace change in 2018? We

are transforming our organisation and local operations through strong leadership, clarity of purpose and clear articulation of the values supporting our culture. Our commitment is to always act in the best interests of all people, but particularly children and young people, so we are focusing on growing the business by programming activities that reflect our values and give people a reason to want to engage. We will continually review and refresh our activities to improve access to fitness, aquatics, child care and community services. What business leaders do you look up to? Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman, founders of Nike. I was in awe of their story in Shoe Dog … their determination, resilience and the belief they had in themselves and their product was incredible, but what resonated with me the most was their ability to reinvent the business. You have to embrace change, or you will fail to grow.

Each day is filled with laughter and fun. All team members are passionate about what they do, and this is felt by our customers.

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

Describe how you got started in your business ... I have an extensive retail background, starting out in FMCG as a merchandiser then a territory manager. After so many years in supermarkets, I decided that a change was necessary. I wanted to work at Priceline, because it had been my favourite store for such a long time. I was like a kid in a candy shop when I started, getting to play with all the cosmetics, skincare and fragrance. What is your greatest achievement? Recently I was nominated to be a finalist as Priceline’s Retail Manager of the Year for NSW. It was great to be recognised for the extra events that I have organised in store. A collaboration between myself and the beauty advisors in store has seen us participate in a vast array of community events - everything from wedding expos to beauty workshops and fundraisers.

K I N E T I C M E D I C I N E Accredited Exercise Physiologist SEPHORA C,SOPHIE RHODE, JENNA NELSON, LIZZIE STEVENS

What is your business’ greatest asset? I believe that a business is only as good as the team they have working for them. I am so fortunate that I work with the greatest bunch of people. Each day is filled with laughter and fun. All team members are passionate about what they do, and this is felt by our customers.

My greatest achievement so far is landing

business I am involved in, and that is because I

a role in a profession I love.

feel part of a team that cares about me.

By pursuing my interest in exercise and

The success of Kinetic Medicine is based on the

health at university, I have given myself

satisfaction, enjoyment and wellbeing of our

the opportunity of a career that I feel very

clients.

passionately about.

This means everything to us; we really value the

How do you measure success in business? I love to see customers returning to the store. There are so many people who regularly come in. I think it is great to be able to greet them by their names and ask them how they are. When a customer feels like they have been given personalised service and that you genuinely care about what they want, they walk out happy. They recommend us to their friends and family, and Priceline becomes their first point of call when they need health or beauty products.

There is no doubt that Kinetic Medicine’s

opinion of our clients and strive to exceed their

greatest asset is its employees. The team I work

expectations.

with really are an amazing group of people

I think it’s really important to be flexible in

who really care about doing their best and

a small business, in order to cope with and

looking after our clients.

embrace change.

Working in an environment where colleagues

Continuous development in the health industry

support and encourage each other really makes

is vital; therefore, we are always challenging

a huge difference to how much effort you put

each other to continue learning and striving to

into work and how much you enjoy work.

be the best we can be, both professionally and

I’m really lucky to say that I love my job and the

personally.

For More Information Contact

Corporate Health Management (CHM) Phone: 1300 246 262 Email: hearthealth@chm.com.au Website: veternshearthealth.com.au Kinetic Medicine Phone: (02) 6557 7479 Email: info@kineticmedicine.com.au Website: kineticmedicine.com.au

TAREE | WINGHAM | GLOUCESTER HARRINGTON | FORSTER

Manning-Great Lakes focus 47

D I A N E Morley ESSENTIAL POOLS’ LONG-TERM EMPLOYEE OF 30 YEARS

Describe how you got started in the business? In June 1983, proprietor Les Eakin’s father decided to retired and travel, so the business moved to Les and Kerry’s family home.

chemical knowledge and new technology.

In January 1987, Taree’s first pool shop was opened opposite Chatham Pharmacy, where the Chatham Newsagency has its business. Kerry was due to have her second child, and the family home was no longer a practical place to run the fast growing business.

around the walls in our showroom, we keep our

What is the business’ greatest achievements? Apart from the multiple awards for the beautiful pools Les and the guys have built that are hanging customers up to date with knowledge of how to care for their pool by sending our staff to chemical worksshops each year. How do you measure success in business?

How has the business evolved since its beginning? I came to work for Les and Kerry in August 1988, and it was quite difficult at first, working in a male dominated industry.

Endurance is the word that comes to mind. I have

However, the pool industry was in its infancy, so I was around in those early years as we pioneered through and endeavoured to keep up to date with

for Les and Kerry I have always seen them go

48 Manning-Great Lakes focus

witnessed personally the business go through good times and bad and sometimes difficult staff transitions, and yet in the 30 years I have worked forward with new ideas, so that the business is always going forward.

S U P P O R T Coordination team ABOUT INCLUSION

Describe how you got started in your business? About Inclusion has been operating for more than 30 years. The Support Coordination aspect of our services commenced with the NDIS roll out in the Manning Valley on 1st July 2016. How has your business evolved since it began? In the early years, our organisation was powered by families providing support for one another on a volunteer basis. Success in gaining funding for respite and recreational activities allowed our organisation to grow year on year, developing to Day Program Activities and NDIS supports in recent years. What is your greatest achievement? Adapting our organisation into the NDIS framework. We empower individuals by creating opportunities aligned to their NDIS goals, by providing support

workers of their choice in home, in the community and in our programs. What is your business’ greatest asset? Listening to our customers - the families we support on their NDIS journey. How do you measure success in business? By word of mouth referral and by our customers returning to us for trusted support and skill building activities. How will you embrace change in 2018? We realise change is a constant for our business; it is part of the industry we are in. We embrace change by ensuring we are a strong connected team that support one another in providing quality services. Our success comes from clear communication built on trust and respect.

focus_contributor

GARY GERSBACH FROM FORSTER TUNCURRY BUSINESS CHAMBER

voice

business The T E A M TA R E E O R T H O D O N T I C S

Describe how you got started in your business? Dr Ballard was my orthodontist many years ago. During my treatment, Dr Ballard and the team always created such a comfortable, happy and professional environment. Following my orthodontic treatment, I knew that this is where I wanted to be and grow in my career. Luckily enough, a position became available that outlined my experience, and I was successful in joining this incredible team. How has your business evolved since it began? Orthodontics has come a long way and is continually developing as a profession. Advances in orthodontic technology mean treatment is getting quicker, easier and more successful. We offer a range of treatment options to align teeth; however, Invisalign is the greatest advancement in orthodontics to date. It is the

modern way to straighten your teeth without the pain and embarrassment of braces. Invisalign treatment doesn’t use brackets and archwires to straighten your teeth. Instead, this method uses clear plastic aligners that are virtually invisible, removable and comfortable. What is your greatest achievement? At Taree Orthodontics we’re now recognised as a Blue Diamond provider of this treatment, meaning we are one of the leading Invisalign providers in the country. What is your business’ greatest asset? Our amazing team! Every staff member at Taree Orthodontics works to ensure your treatment journey with us is both enjoyable and successful. They create an environment in which you feel comfortable and will put your needs first to achieve this.

The Quieter Period. Now that the large inﬂux of visitors has gone on their merry way, business people have an interlude where they can appraise the frenetic activity and determine if it was managed successfully.

ny criticism received has to be viewed in a constructive manner, so that lessons can be learned, and forward planning instituted to accommodate the targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPI) set to achieve the results desired.

• Industrial relations matters, including wage rates, penalties and staff issues; • Occupational health and safety compliance; • Keeping you up-to-date with your workplace obligations via educational seminars; • Marketing advice; • International trade assistance.

This is also an ideal time to consider whether something new and different can be attempted. One of these is to consider if you should be joining the Business Chamber, if not a member.

Remember you don’t have to feel you are alone; share and seek assistance with the chamber.

network and become better known within the business group; you should use these to your advantage.

All finalists and winners receive an official Business Awards FINALIST or WINNER logo, which can be used on collateral, websites, business cards and signage.

Business Awards

Need more recognition and product awareness? Entering the Business The Forster Tuncurry Awards can give your Business Chamber business an unparalleled has regular breakfast The chamber’s association opportunity to: meetings, usually with the NSW and Australian • Gain recognition at a monthly, with a keynote chambers can help your local, regional and state guest/speaker. Among business with gaining a level; these have been: voice at local, regional, • Raise the profile of your • Midcoast Council state and federal levels business and showcase it of government and General Manager to a state-wide, countryauthority ... • Midcoast Mayor wide and global audience; • Prominent Local • Build a reputation for Business People excellence inside and • Area Chief Inspector outside of your industry; or Commander of NSW • Benchmark your business Police year on and against other • Representatives of Regional Development Area businesses in your local area and industry; and other pertinent people to advise of local • Improve employee engagement by involving events and developments. your employees in the entry process; • Boost staff morale through the recounting of As attendances for breakfast meetings can be in successes and wins in your business. excess of 80, these are an ideal opportunity to

The chamber’s association with the NSW and Australian chambers can help your business with: • Gaining a voice at local, regional, state and federal levels of government and authority;

Even if you are unsuccessful, the very process enables you to understand your business better, which is a win in itself. Manning-Great Lakes focus 49

Health Wellbeing and

B Y S U N D I A L D E N TA L

B Y H E A LT H F U L W I S D O M

Oral Healthcare FOR MUMS TO BE

Tips

A lot of pregnant women skip dental visits, thinking that dental treatments during pregnancy can harm their babies. The Australian Dental Association, the Australian Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Australian Academy of Pediatrics all encourage women to get dental care while pregnant.

n fact, studies show that the bacteria from gum disease can actually get into the bloodstream and target the fetus, potentially leading to premature labor and low-birth-weight babies. Pregnancy offers an opportunity to educate pregnant women regarding oral health by providing a “teachable moment” in self-care and future child-care. Here are Sundial Dental’s top five oral healthcare tips for pregnant mothers: 1. Know your facts and risks - good oral health can reduce your risk of having a premature baby. 2. Oral Hygiene - brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to keep your gums healthy. Remember, if you have good oral health habits, your child will too! If you experience vomiting, rinse with a cup of water containing a teaspoon of baking soda, and wait an hour before brushing to avoid dental erosion. 3. Diet - what you eat affects your baby’s health. Snack on healthy foods like cheese sticks, fruits, vegetables and nuts. Drink lots of water and lowfat milk. Eat high calcium food instead of acidic food, juices and sodas. Avoid drinks and any food loaded with sugar, as they might lead to caries and affect your baby’s health. Chewing sugarless or xylitol-containing gum can help minimise your caries risk. 4. Professional oral care - get a dental checkup; it is completely safe to have most dental treatments while you are pregnant. Do not put off your dental visit until after you’ve had the baby. 5. Book your baby’s first dental appointment

50 Manning-Great Lakes focus

as soon as you see his/her first teeth erupt. We offer children a dental home where they can have a long-term friendly relationship with their dentist. What’s the right age to bring a child in for their first dental check-up? In order to prevent oral and dental problems, your child should see a paediatric dentist when their first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday. Healthy habits start early in life. First birthday = first dental check-up. Can a mother’s poor oral health status affect her baby’s oral health? Yes, because the bacteria responsible for caries in a mother’s mouth are related to early childhood caries in their baby’s mouth. The same bacteria are transferred from mum to baby. Mums and caregivers pass on the mentioned bacteria by sharing saliva, spoons, testing food before feeding it to the baby, cleaning off a pacifier in their mouth instead of with water and through various activities. So, make sure your mouth is healthy and taken care of before your baby is born. It’s important for pregnant mums to have their oral check-up as soon as possible, in order to treat and prevent any oral disease. For proper oral health counselling and early intervention, book your appointment with Sundial Dental Today. If you have an emergency or are looking for a dentist in Port Macquarie, contact our team on (02) 6583 3533. Our dentists are also available in our Taree Dentist Sundial clinics, Laurieton Dentist Sundial and Wauchope Dentist Sundial clinics to service your every dental need.

Medications can cause

nutritional deficiencies The problem with taking some medications is that even though they treat illness, they can also cause undesirable effects. Side effects of medications can range from mild and short lasting, to more severe and longer lasting.

utrient deficiencies are a side effect from taking some medications. There have been many studies and reports on this; however, it is not something that is taken in to consideration very often when people present to their Doctor or Pharmacist to ask about symptoms they are suffering with. How medications affect nutrients There are a few ways that medications can affect how our bodies absorb vital nutrients. The medication may: • Take hold of a nutrient and pass it out of the body • Change the pH in the gastrointestinal tract, so that the nutrient can’t be absorbed properly • Increase or decrease the body’s ability to move nutrients around the body • Increase or decrease the activation of nutrients, so that they can be properly absorbed • Some medications need particular nutrients in order for them to be able to work also. Medications that can cause nutrient deficiencies Some commonly used medications that can cause nutrient deficiencies include: • Oral contraceptive pill

• Hormone replacement therapy • Antibiotics • Epilepsy medicines • Diabetes medicines • Blood pressure medicines • Cholesterol medicines • Anti-inflammatories • Heartburn medicines It is likely that someone who takes prescription medicines is taking at least one medicine from the list above. Symptoms that may be caused by nutrient deficiencies It is possible that some diseases, symptoms and conditions could be caused by nutrient deficiency. Examples include: • Leg cramps • Nerve pain • Osteoporosis • Depression • Chronic diarrhoea • Hair loss • Erectile dysfunction • Memory loss • Weight gain • Fatigue The list goes on. Read more at healthfulwisdom.com Shannon Lawrence is an Accredited Consultant Pharmacist.

“HAVING FRIENDS MAKES MY WORLD BETTER!”

Living Life Your Way We caught up recently with Pheebe, Kristin and The ladies all agree getting out of the house Michelle sharing a drink at the Rockpool Café in and socialising provides opportunities to build Tuncurry. While Pheebe and Kristin had worked independence. Therefore friends are important not together for some time they didn’t meet Michelle only for their enjoyment of everyday life and happiness until the Dundaloo’s Christmas party last year. Since but also for their longer term goal to increase their then, the 3 have become great friends independence. and look forward to meeting up for ‘Having friends helps me build my coffee, lunches, planning and independence, and Dundaloo has enjoying weekend outings helped me a lot” said Michelle. together. ‘I love the company “LIFE WOULD However ‘friend’ is a term and having someone to chat BE BORING AND used casually in our everyday with’, said Kristin, ‘It makes life to describe a multitude LONELY WITHOUT me feel happy and nice’, of relationships ranging from adding ‘it feels good to have HER BEAUTIFUL short term acquaintances to friends’. FRIENDS.” long term ones involving deep Having friends and being commitment. Sometimes, for a friend defines us as human people with an intellectual disability beings. Michelle describes the understanding the different contexts importance of friends this way, and expressions of friendship can be ‘having friends makes me feel special and challenging. This means finding, keeping and losing appreciated. It makes my world better”. Pheebe friends can be perplexing. added ‘life would be boring and lonely without my Dundaloo Support Services are facilitating workshops beautiful friends’, she looks forward to lunches, for people with an intellectual disability to learn swimming and ten pin bowling together.

appropriate and safe ways of social interaction. Through fun learning activities and group discussions about safe boundaries for establishing friendships we will explore and understand what it means to be a friend and what safe friendship is. People with an intellectual disability sometimes struggle to understand how to maintain a friendship and what to do when a friendship ends. This workshop provides opportunities for participants to develop skills for keeping or ending a friendship as well. Michelle is looking forward to getting to know other people within Dundaloo and the wider community. Dundaloo staff can support people* to discover opportunities to build friendships and relationships in ways that are meaningful to the individual. Spend time with these three women and it is evident how important their friendship is to them. “Time together makes me feel appreciated,” said Michelle. And for now they are happy planning more coffee dates, picnics and trips to the movies and Friday night outings. *Dundaloo Support Services is a registered NDIS Service Provider for people over the age of 18 with a mild to moderate intellectual disability.

If you are interested in the Friendship Workshops please phone Dundaloo Support Services for more information.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 51

focus_contributor

JOHN STEVENS FROM KINETIC MEDICINE

kinetic

Announcing #LitFest Keynote Speaker Will Kostakis.

MEDICINE

Asking for directions. I can remember feeling particularly disappointed and confused. You know that feeling, right? When you’re in a big shopping complex, and all of a sudden you’re not sure which way to go?

was with my daughters, who at the time were aged three and 18 months, when we had to do what every parent at a shopping centre must do - navigate the fastest route to the toilet! Certain that I had passed a loo not that long ago, I dispensed with any notion of looking at a sign and went with my gut, picking them both up and briskly walking in what I thought was the right direction. After walking far too far with the angst-ridden cries of toddlers with a certain delicate grip on continence, I was pretty despondent when I found myself at a dead end with no lavatory in sight. I had to do what most self-respecting males never want to do - ask for directions - only to be confronted with my worst fear; we were farther from the toilet than we were at the beginning of our current expedition. Odd isn’t it, that sometimes the things we need to do in life feel like the things that at first glance seem to make the least sense? Take recovering from a heart attack, for instance. Some 40 - 50 years ago, it was best practice for someone who had recently suffered a heart attack to be confined to bed rest for a considerable period of time. The same goes for most injuries like back pain, and even significant fractures. What we’ve learnt though, is that when our

This new year get

drive to protect the body from immediate harm causes us to avoid steady physical recovery, our likelihood of harm is significantly increased. Similarly counterintuitive is new evidence emerging around two conditions - Osteoporosis and Parkinson’s Disease. With both conditions there is a perception that a steady and gradual decline is inevitable and that preservation and protection are the only lines of action. We’re steadily coming to understand, though, that exercise plays a pivotal role in minimising this decline and even reversing some disease processes.

Award-winning Australian author, Will Kostakis, will be the 2018 keynote speaker at #LitFest2444. Kostakis won the Sydney Morning Herald Young Writer of the Year prize as a high school student for his short story, Bing Me. By the age of 17, he signed his first publishing contract.

commented #LitFest2444 organiser, Suzanne Penson.

Kostakis continues to write, and the awards follow. In 2014 he won the Inky Awards for his second novel, The First Third. The Inky Awards are Australia’s first national teen choice award voted solely by teen readers.

His latest novel, The Sidekicks, released in 2016, was shortlisted for the Queensland Literary Awards, 2017 Gold Inky Award and just debuted in the United States.

The First Third was also short listed for the CBCA Children’s Book of the Year Award: Older Readers, which has recognised outstanding writing for the secondary school audience since 1946.

Kostakis’ keynote address to an anticipated crowd of 800 teens is titled: :How I got a book deal in high school (and other accidents)". He will candidly share mistakes he’s made and what he’s learnt through his writing career that started at an early age.

“To have someone who followed his passion as a teenager and achieved what he did by the time he graduated will show our aspiring youth their dreams are achievable,”

For more information about #LitFest2444, visit www.litfest2444.com.au - you can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

With patients with Osteoporosis we’re carefully devising bone loading exercise strategies that have successfully helped reverse bone mass losses, reducing the fractures we’ve been frantically trying to avoid by instigating a “cotton-wool” strategy. With Parkinson’s patients, having them perform safely controlled brief but intense exercise, amongst other interventions, we’re seeing some patients regain confidence to live independently. Sometimes what feels like the right thing at the outset really does set us up for a longer journey than we needed in the end. Sometimes it pays to “ask for directions”!

moving with

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Sports Performance | Injury Management | Physical Healthcare | Athletic Conditioning

Ask uswww.kineticmedicine.com.au how we can help you! Get Better | Stay Better| Live Better 52 Manning-Great Lakes focus

..............................

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

March 2018

AQUARIUS.

TAURUS.

LEO.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

There is much comfort for you to be found in relationships at present. Be especially kind to yourself. Your support is vital to your success. Keep bouncing ideas off others, as you will see the benefits of this. New friendships can be anticipated. Citrine attracts abundance.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Your personal strength is inspiring to those close. Avoid heavy discussions or bullying energies at the moment, as your reserves are affected by other people’s needs. Place yourself in the company of light, happy people, where you will shine. Citrine shatters negative energy and attracts an abundance of positive energy.

If you are feeling unsupported, identify the emotion you are craving then visualise it in the pit of your stomach, close your eyes and breathe into it to activate it in your body. You will discover how strong and independent you already are. Kunzite and Hiddenite both aid in bringing a balance of joy and gratitude.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUNE 22

You are vulnerable at taking things too personally at present. Disconnect from this morbid practice, as it dwindles your self esteem. Smile at your reflection to raise your self worth and observe the positive changes. Don’t be afraid of change. Danburite will give you confidence in your decisions.

Now is a perfect time to stop, sit back and reevaluate your situation at work. Your leadership skills are yearning to be used and your creativity has suffered from “mundane burn-out”. Listen to your own inner voice, as you know your answer clearer than anyone. Turquoise is great for selfvalidation.

VIRGO. AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

A clear conscience is a soft pillow. There are words you need to express to ease a loved one’s anxiety. Be objective, not judgemental, if you wish to be heard. You can claim your future by being the person you want to be. Play in nature, take a bushwalk, or stroll along the beach and “de-stress”. Moonstone will help with your mood swings. Hold it and think of three things you are grateful for.

SCORPIO. OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Even though you may have been feeling rejected lately, just look at the new attitudes and selfconfidence you have gained. New friends are coming into the picture. Work opportunities are likely to offer a nice distraction to your sadness. Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

SAGITTARIUS. NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Good news is on its way, more than likely bringing cause to celebrate. Kick up your heels and party; celebration is good for the soul. Your writing skills are suffering from boredom lately, so pick up that pen and put your creative self to good use. Citrine attracts an abundance of positive energy and shatters negativity.

ARIES.

CANCER.

LIBRA.

CAPRICORN.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

This month will benefit you by prioritising that special person in your life. Plan some impromptu adventure and rediscover how and why you fell in love. Conflict will clash with your vibration, so be disciplined and remain positive. Azeztulite helps us to explore alternate realities with comfort.

It’s a perfect time to release yourself from your fears and take a plunge. Re-connect with that adventurous self and do something spontaneous. Push your boundaries and step outside your comfort zone, then see how powerful you feel. Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence.

Your faith has been tested, as has your patience. Don’t give up so close to receiving your success. The wait will be well worth it. An opportunity to further educate yourself and gather new friends will soon present itself. Turquoise gives self confidence a boost.

An exciting adventure is on the horizon. If this opportunity has never been available to you before, shouldn’t that mean something? Don’t allow other people’s worries to spoil your exciting adventure. Listen to your intuition, and you can’t go wrong. Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 53

focus_contributor

SHARON BULTITUDE, DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR, MIDCOAST COUNCIL

What’sON

tourism

at the M A N N I N G E N T E R T A I N M E N T C E N T R E

UPDATE

A brand new future. As summer drifts to its inevitable conclusion, it’s time to reflect on another fantastic peak holiday season across our region and look forward to a brand new future.

his summer our fabulous destination didn’t disappoint, with thousands of visitors enjoying our stunning waterways, lush forests and warm hospitality.

Whilst there was undoubtedly a different “pattern” to visitation this summer, the region was incredibly busy, with many businesses recording some of their busiest days ever. The seemingly unstoppable rise of the caravan and camping market was witnessed right across the MidCoast, from Gloucester and the Barrington Tops to Pacific Palms and through the Myall Lakes to Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest. Campsites and parks were at capacity for pretty much the entire summer. However, other winners this season included the Taree motels who, with their ability to offer single nights and short stays, benefited from the referrals directed their way by the MidCoast Tourism team right across the region. Other trends this summer included the noticeable increase of “independent” Chinese visitors, particularly in Gloucester and Barrington. This reflects a global trend, which is seeing a significant shift from the traditional generation of Chinese visitors travelling as part of large organised coach tours, to a much younger, independent type of Chinese traveller. The authentic natural and cultural experiences that this region offers in abundance is just what this new market segment is seeking. Another major take-out for business was the significant increase in visitors using our social media channels, in particular Facebook Messenger, as their enquiry tool of choice, both before travelling and whilst in destination. The potential marketing and customer service opportunities this opens up are enormous and very exciting. So as our peak season comes to a close, the MidCoast Tourism team looks forward to the upcoming year. At the end of last year, Tourism Research Australia (TRA) released its annual regional visitation figures. These included the first set of tourism statistics for the new combined MidCoast Council area. These figures confirm the significance of

54 Manning-Great Lakes focus

tourism to our region, with a whopping 1.97 million visitors, spending $504 million each year. This level of visitation is the highest of all the Destination North Coast’s fourteen regions, which includes Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay. As one of our region’s key economic drivers, it’s incredibly important we continue to build on this established base. Just before the Christmas break, Council adopted the MidCoast Destination Management Plan (DMP), our strategic plan for long-term sustainable tourism. I’m also pleased to announce that our new MidCoast Council Destination Management Team is also now in place and ready to assist our visitors, community and industry on anything tourism related. This team, which brings together staff from the Manning Valley, Gloucester and Great Lakes, is structured specifically to better enable delivery of DMP goals. As such, it is divided into the two main delivery areas of Research and Marketing, and Destination Services. The management structure also ensures a continued presence right across the region, with Destination Management staff based at Gloucester, Taree and Forster. The next 12 months will be incredibly busy, as we continue to integrate destination management across the region. A snap shot of current and upcoming projects include: a Destination Branding Strategy; launch of a new “MidCoast Business Hub” website; development of a new Destination Website; development of the Great Lakes Great Walk Masterplan and Feasibility; new weekly Industry enewsletter, “Talkin’ Tourism” and calendar of business workshops and networking events. We also want to hear from you - if you’re a local resident, business or community group, make sure to sign-up for a regular enewsletter and/ or follow one of our Facebook pages, to keep abreast of what’s happening in tourism and to find out how you can have your say in the future of the region’s visitor economy. To sign-up for enewsletter updates, go to http:// bit.ly/TalkinTourismOptin For more information contact the team on (02) 6554 8799 or email: marketing@midcoast.nsw.gov.au

There’s everything from the maverick hi-jinks of The Spooky Men’s Chorale, to the best of Roald Dahl for the kids, when Shake & Stir tour their acclaimed production of George’s Marvellous Medicine.

he annual joke-a-rama returns years, and are marking the milestone with a with the Melbourne International joint brochure detailing the exhibitions, shows Comedy Festival Roadshow, bringing and workshops on offer over the next six the best of the fest to our stage months at both venues. from all corners of the globe. The exquisite 7 Acting Manager of the MEC, Chris Tippett, Sopranos will be popping in with their brand sees the combined brochure as a great way to new show, Songs From Stage and Screen develop audiences for both venues: to delight and enthral fans, and jog more “What a fantastic opportunity for collaboration than a few memories from the early days between the Manning Regional Art Gallery of Australian TV. The and the Manning Very Hungry Caterpillar Entertainment Centre will be making a very in this, our 30th year of adorable appearance for operation,” he said. “It the littlies, and there’s feels like we’ve come full This year they’ve a whole new raft of circle, and by combining combined forces popular National Theatre in this way, we’ll reach to celebrate 30 Live filmed productions more patrons than ever extraordinary years, on the calendar. And before.” and are marking the milestone this time the MEC is with a joint brochure detailing It’s hoped that the dual doing something a the exhibitions, shows and format of the brochure little different with the workshops on offer over the will encourage MEC brochure, by including next six months at both venues. patrons to dip a toe the Manning Regional into the events at the Art Gallery’s half yearly gallery, and conversely schedule. lure art lovers to sample Residents who’ve been living on the MidCoast more live entertainment on stage. Brochures for a while might remember that originally, are available at the Manning Regional Art the Manning Entertainment Centre and The Gallery and the Manning Entertainment Manning Regional Art Gallery shared a space. Centre, and a digital brochure is available for The Gallery used to exhibit in the MEC foyer download on the websites of each venue: and office, and the two cultural services began manningregionalartgallery.com.au and life joined at the hip. theMEC.com.au Happily, the gallery now has a dedicated, If you would like a hard copy mailed to you, more spacious premises to call home, but the please call the MEC on 6592 5466, or the MEC and MRAG still share a birthday and a gallery on 6592 5455. commitment to providing premium cultural Now that there are twice the reasons to pick entertainment, engagement and education up a brochure, you should grab one right away across the MidCoast region. This year they’ve and reacquaint yourself with these two local combined forces to celebrate 30 extraordinary treasures of culture and art.

focusinterview.

The Great Lakes Art Society proudly presents its 36th Open Art Exhibition from March 25 to April 8, featuring the work of local, NSW and interstate artists. President Ross Williams invites everyone to come and view the amazing array of art on display ... 2017 best

Can you please introduce us to yourself first to view the artworks and hear the judge’s and describe your role with the Great decisions. The exhibition will be open every day, Lakes Art Society? 10am to 4pm, and entry is free. As President of the Society for just a few Who are some of the artists who will have months, it has been my privilege to work with their works on show for this? such a great team of energetic enthusiasts, and Some of our regular wonderful artists are to enjoy the their creativity. There is also a new Noelene Millar, Colina Grant, Keith Blake, surge of membership and Robyne Berling, Graham a determination to bring Cox, and many more. our facility up to the These are all artists from best possible state-wide Sydney, Central Coast, standards. Inspirational Queensland and some The major event of course, indeed! from further afield. We will be the opening night, Tell us a bit about also feature our local which is on Saturday the Great Lakes Art talented artists - and put 24th March at 5pm. This Society. together, the exhibition includes drinks and refreshments Great Lakes Art Society will be stunning and very (at a small cost for opening night) was established in 1983, diverse. and the opportunity to meet the and currently has a Putting on all of these judge and also be the first to view membership of 140. The exhibitions can’t be the artworks and hear the judge’s society owns and runs easy; whom would you decisions. a gallery and workshop like to thank? area at 34 Lake Street, Our committee work Forster, with dedicated tirelessly, leading up to volunteers opening the and during the exhibigallery on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am tion. Our members who take care of minding to 4pm each day. The society hosts many the gallery during the two week period, and of special exhibitions during the year, with the course, our sponsors. The major sponsors are upcoming Open Art Exhibition being the major Evermore, Betty Mackinnon, and Ray White event of the year. There are also many art classReal Estate. Without these generous sponsors, es offered throughout the week. Enquiries are we could not proceed with this very important most welcome. event on our calendar. Your next exhibition will be the 36th Open How can our readers find out more inforArt Exhibition, which is very exciting. What mation about the society or come and see events do you have planned for this? the works? The major event of course, will be the openAnyone interested may contact Ross Williams ing night, which is on Saturday 24th March at (President) on 6555 4403 or Vicki Bullard (Sec5pm. This includes drinks and refreshments, retary) on 0429 506 883. We will be pleased to (at a small cost for opening night) and the advise and welcome any new members. opportunity to meet the judge and also be the Thanks Ross.

land lease living community

2015 most outstanding over 50’s estate in australia

25 minutes to Port Macquarie Kew Country Club

Queens Lake

2015

mhia awards of excellence, best estate in nsw

Bonny Hills North Haven

Dooragan National Park

Manning-Great Lakes focus 55

focusinterview.

Tuncurry Coaches

Mal Prewett and his lovely partner Debbie are the faces behind Tuncurry Coach Tours. We catch up with Mal to find out more about the origins of the company and some of their signature services ...

ntroduce yourself to our readers, and tell us about your connection to the Manning-Great Lakes … I have lived in the Great Lakes for about 40 years and have always loved the local area. My children grew up here and still live locally, which these days is a plus, as many kids have to move away for work and education. I have travelled all around Australia over the last 20 years and have never found anywhere else that has as much to offer in the one place as the Great Lakes, especially Forster-Tuncurry. I had worked in the building industry for many years and realised as I aged that the building game is for younger people. I needed a different type of work. You’re the proud owner/operator of Tuncurry Coach Tours. How long have you been in business for? I came into the tourism industry by accident. We used to hire buses to take our kids and others away on tennis trips, and I decided to buy our own mini bus. Some ladies from the local bowling clubs asked if I could take them to pennants bowls, and Tuncurry Mini Coach tours began. I then started doing trips to the Maitland Markets, wharehouse shopping in Sydney and lots of sports trips with kids from surf clubs to volleyball to school excursions.

56 Manning-Great Lakes focus

As time went on, I branched out into knowing where they’re off to and what is longer tours and started Wallis Lake Tourers around the corner and what is going to happen Travel Club, with a group of very enthusiastic to them next. I think it is always nice to have people who loved to travel doing day trips and some surprises in life. extended tours. We then renamed the business Also, we’re known for the personal friendly, Tuncurry Coach Tours, and we now have been old fashioned service we provide our customers; operating for 25 years. we have passengers who have travelled with us We have two 48 seat coaches and specialise for over 20 years and keep coming back. in doing seniors tours On all our tours we as far north as Cape try to stay in four star or Tribulation, south to better accommodation; Tasmania, west to Broken this is not always possible Hill and down to South on Outback tours. OUR TOURS CHANGE Australia. This year we We make a point of EVERY YEAR, SO WE have tours going to helping the passengers TRY NOT TO REPEAT the Snowy Mountains on and off the coach and THEM UNLESS THEY in the summertime, provide some cushions ARE EXTREMELY POPULAR - LIKE Great Ocean Road, the and lap rugs when THE GLOUCESTER International Flower they’re cold. We carry BUSH POETS IN THE show Melbourne, Ballina, bottled drinking water SALEYARDS. Orange and Bathurst, on all longer tours, and Vivid Lights Sydney, Debbie, my partner and Cairns Winter Escape, hostess, tends to all their Murray Princess Cruise, needs. Passengers are Bendigo and Ballarat Christmas in July, Floriade on holidays to enjoy themselves, and we try to and much more. make sure they have an enjoyable holiday which Tell us more about your signature service… is as hassle-free as possible. They like that their Our signature service is probably our mystery whole holiday is planned for them. trips; they always fill pretty much straight Our tours change every year, so we try not to away. Our passengers love the intrigue of not repeat them unless they are extremely popular -

like the Gloucester Bush Poets in the Saleyards. What have been some of the highlights throughout your travels/time in business? I have always enjoyed touring Tasmania; every time we travel there, we try to do something different. The next trip in February 2019 we are going to the Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart. Strahan, Wall in the Wilderness and the Port Arthur Ghost Walk are always popular. I think of all the tours that we have done recently, the tour to Darwin and the Ghan and South Australia would have to be one of the best. The Ghan Expedition Package is something that, like the Melbourne Cup, should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is a very rewarding experience to visit the Outback and being a coach driver, I never thought I would recommend a train trip to anyone, but the service and staff on the Ghan were first class. Where/how can our readers get in touch to book a tour, or to find out more information about Tuncurry Coach Tours? If readers are interested in any of our tours, we can be contacted via our website, Tuncurry Coaches, or phone us or come to one of our travel club meetings, pick up a newsletter and start seeing our great country. We also advertise every month in the FOCUS. Thanks Mal.

MidCoast Assist. Upcoming day trips! SHOWS Mama Mia Capitol Theatre Wednesday 11th April, $135.00 Priscilla Queen Of Desert Wednesday 30th May, $140.00 Jersey Boys Thursday 8th November, $155.00 Gloucester Bush Poets Saturday 10th March, $45.00 DAY TRIPS Buffalo Farm Eungai Thursday 29th March, $50.00 Jazz in Vines Bago Winery Sunday 8th April, $25.00 Upper Lansdowne Players Saturday 19th May, $53.00 UPCOMING Tasmania February 2019 The Ghan August 2019

At MidCoast Assist, we support people to live independently in their own homes for longer. We understand that everyone is different, so our personalised approach includes taking time to get to know our clients, their situation, their interests and the people who matter to them. As well as providing Home Care Packages, we offer the Active and Older program - a great way for people over 65 years to get out and about, meet new friends, learn new skills, and gain practical assistance with routine tasks like grocery shopping, transport to and from appointments, or paying bills. Home Care Packages are provided across the MidCoast region, and our Active and Older programs operate from our Forster, Hawks Nest and Stroud centres. As the ageing and disability support service of MidCoast Council, we’ve been supporting the local community for over 20 years. We’re local, and we’re here to stay. If you could use a little extra help, visit www.midcoastassist.com.au to find out more, email AgeingAssist@midcoast.nsw.gov.au, or phone 1300 65 88 30, and our friendly staff will be on hand to assist.

AGEING SUPPORT SERVICES

Support that starts with a smile If you could do with a little extra help to stay living at home, our friendly, professional team is on hand to assist. • • • • • •

Support for people over 65 and their carers Personalised services tailored to your needs Home Care Packages delivered by qualified professionals Social activities and outings Practical assistance Regular companionship over a cuppa

And we’re local, like you, so you’ll always be greeted by a familiar, friendly face. Contact us to find out how we can assist you. Ph: 1300 65 88 30 midcoastassist.com.au We understand our community’s needs because we’re locals assisting locals. MidCoast Assist is an ageing support service of MidCoast Council

Manning-Great Lakes focus 57

58 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Evermore Stage 4 is on track for completion, with new residents moving in from mid-March!

collection of beautiful architecturally designed open living floor plans are currently selling off the plan, featuring spacious ensuites, studies and

large balconies. In addition to offering independent living apartments, Evermore will also incorporate a private aged care home located onsite, but separate and secure from the retirement village. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with moving to a retirement village that offers the best of both worlds - independence and support when it’s ever needed - where else but Evermore! Living at Evermore provides so much more than just residing within an apartment or villa complex. At Evermore, it’s all about lifestyle. Evermore is what retirement living should be like for seniors: beautiful apartments, smart amenities, sharing valuable time with likeminded friends, diverse social activities when you choose, peace of mind that assistance is on hand 24/7, easy walking access around the village and chef prepared dining at the restaurant every day.

And the residents are enjoying the practicalities of downsizing from big homes to enjoy the simplicity and relaxation that comes with living at Evermore, as we heard from Evermore resident Margaret … “I truly feel blessed living here, and there is always someone around to talk to, I TRULY FEEL BLESSED say hello or ask for LIVING HERE, AND THERE assistance. No wonder IS ALWAYS SOMEONE I feel relaxed and very AROUND TO TALK TO, comfortable living For those wanting SAY HELLO OR ASK FOR at Evermore!” said to stay active, there’s ASSISTANCE. NO WONDER Margaret. the inviting swimming I FEEL RELAXED AND One of the pool and gym for VERY COMFORTABLE statements that is staying in shape. LIVING AT EVERMORE! heard most often And those who just from new residents want to relax enjoy to Evermore is their the rooftop spa, the appreciation of the movie theatre, well “designer quality of the apartments and stocked library and the peaceful green facilities at Evermore”. Many are pleasantly spaces and vegetable garden. surprised by all that Evermore has to offer. Evermore is built for resident Residents enjoy delicious chef prepared convenience, offering hotel style reception, dining in the restaurant every day, seasonal its own transport to get you where you alfresco BBQ meals, and catching up with need to go, including buses, cars and friends and family in the Club Lounge with scooters, hairdressing salon, three lifts its coffee and sports bars and four big servicing all levels and secure basement screen TVs.

carparking with storage. Residents appreciate the 24/7 onsite assistance and easy access to the adjoining medical precinct and private hospital should the need arise. Evermore will be attending the Great Lakes Retirement Expo being held at the Tuncurry Beach Bowling club on Sunday 8th and Monday 9th of April from 10am to 3pm daily. Call Evermore on (02) 6528 0442 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm to organise an appointment to tour all the facilities and everything Evermore has to offer … You’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Manning-Great Lakes focus 59

Seniors

focusfeature.

Living and Retirement

The perfect retirement lifestyle

Australia’s over-55s have a wealth of lifestyle options available to them. Retirement communities run the gamut from luxury resort-style developments to laid-back residential parks.

ith so much variety, there’s something for everyone, but it can be difficult for the average person to wade through the paperwork to find their ideal situation. Sometimes, you just need to talk to a person. That’s where the Retirement Village Expos can make a real difference. These free events are dedicated to bringing together the general public and the retirement living sector in a no-pressure, informal setting. At the expos, retirees can meet with representatives from leading retirement housing providers, collect information and ask any questions they might have about retirement living. Visitors are encouraged to take their time and engage in detailed conversations with village staff to gain a real insight into the life of a community, as well as the rights and obligations of residents. Moving into a retirement village is as much a lifestyle decision as a financial one, and both aspects should be carefully considered. Retirement villages offer real benefits to residents.

A 2013 survey conducted by McCrindle Research found that 98 per cent of new residents were happy with their decision to move into a retirement village and would do so again, given the choice. The survey also found that more than 90 per cent of residents experienced improved physical and emotional wellbeing following the move. A strong sense of community, greater physical security and low-maintenance living are among the top attractions of these communities, but they are not a standard real estate proposition. They provide special-purpose housing for the 55-and-over demographic and are governed by specific legislation that varies from state to state. It is vital that prospective residents fully understand how retirement villages differ from other property purchases, so they can enjoy the best years of their lives relaxed and worry free. Retirement villages growing in popularity Baby Boomers are the most active generation of retirees ever, and they have no plans to slow down. Abounding with energy and a zest for life, Australia’s over-55s are looking for an environment that promotes independence and provides a rewarding lifestyle. And, it is only

going to become more so. Currently, more than 200,000 retirees live in retirement villages and resorts across Australia. With a 92% occupancy rate nationally, it’s clear that Australia’s over-55s have embraced retirement village living and its many advantages. Demand for retirement housing is set to double by 2025, according to Property Council research. Low-maintenance living and the opportunity for an expanded social life are key factors driving this trend. A 2013 Australian National University study found retirement villages offer unique lifestyle benefits, including: Community: Residents highly value the company of compatible neighbours at the same stage of life. Freedom: Fewer home maintenance chores leaves more time for leisure activities and socialising. Convenience: Most villages are located close to essential facilities and services and provide reliable transport to nearby metropolitan centres. Independence: For residents who enjoy travel, the ability to simply “lock and leave” their home at any time, safe in the knowledge that it will be taken care of in their absence, is a significant advantage.

Security: Retirement villages are perceived by residents as safe and secure environments. Retirement villages offer residents many benefits, from physical security to eventful days spent in the company of friends, but it is important to remember that the decision to move into a village is primarily a lifestyle choice. While communal life can be immensely rewarding, a few welltimed, open ended questions can quickly reveal the essential character of a retirement village. To maximise your chances of finding the perfect place, take your time and do your homework. Visit as many villages as you can to find the residential situation best-suited to your needs and pace of life. Talk to residents and staff to get a sense of a village’s atmosphere and daily life. A happy well-maintained village should be your starting point. Once you have found a few suitable options, you can narrow your choice with more specific enquiries. As with any important decision, research is imperative, and the place to start is at The Great Lakes Manning Retirement Village Expo at the Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club; please see details below. Don’t miss this great opportunity; it could change your life.

Discover the joy of Retirement Living! Visit the...

The Great Lakes Manning Retirement Village Expo Incorporating Resort Living for the Over 55’s

Sunday 8th & Monday 9th April FREE ADMISSION

Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club - 21 Parkes St, Tuncurry 10am – 3pm both days On display will be the latest resort style developments as well as established villages from different organisations. All offering a wide range of services & facilities, sizes, prices and locations, all under one roof.

www.retirementexpo.com.au 60 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Enjoy LIFE Forster Tuncurry Quota International Inc. members are renowned for their hard work in the local community. Elizabeth Fisher O.A.M tells us more about the benefits of being a club member and discusses some upcoming activities - including a very special event on April 7th called “Enjoy Life”, which will showcase the array of organisations available to seniors in our area ... North Coast Marketing and Fundraising uota International of Forster/Tuncurry Inc. is Co-ordinator. The brunch is held at the a Service Organisation Sporties, Tuncurry. which was chartered in Throughout the year our members hold 1986, and for 31 years a wide variety of fundraising events, and has worked in the Great at the end of the President’s year in April Lakes community. The members enjoy the funds raised are distributed mainly to working together in many different ways, organisations in our local community. and their two main aims are to help Hands-on-service is also important, and i) disadvantaged women and children regular visits are made to the preschools of ii) people with a speech and hearing the area, where members talk to the staff disability. and pupils about the difficulties associated The members believe that while helping with deafness and one person might the need for early not change the recognition of the whole world, it problem. could change the Through working THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY world for one together, members person. TO MEET MEMBERS OF of Quota form firm Meetings are friendships, while at AN ORGANISATION IN held twice a month the same time they AN INFORMAL WAY, AND - a Business Meetdevelop confidence LEARN WHEN THEY ing first to organise in public speaking, MEET AND WHAT THEIR club activities, and organising events, AIMS ARE. then a Programme meeting protocol Meeting, and above all, usually with a guest experience a speaker. sense of achieveAn important day ment in finding ways to help our in the Quota year is International Women’s community. Day, March 8th. We join with women Enjoy Life Expo around the world in celebration of this Where: Tuncurry Memorial Hall. special day and also recognise that many When: 10am - 4pm; Saturday, April women in the world do not have the ben7th. Free entry for all; refreshments efits that we have here in Australia. available. Each year a guest speaker is invited to This Expo is organised by QI Forster/Tungive an insight into her particular interests, curry in conjunction with the NSW Seniors and this year the guest speaker is Donna Festivals, which generously provided a Horsey, Ronald McDonald House Mid grant.

We are delighted that the official opening will be by Stephen Bromhead, Member for Myall Lakes, at 11am on Saturday, April 7th. The aim of the day is to give old and new residents the opportunity to realise just how many organisations there are in this beautiful area, and hopefully they may find one they would like to join - even if they don’t know where to begin! This is an opportunity to meet members of an organisation in an informal way, and learn when they meet and what their aims are. Many residents have left their family and friends to enjoy retirement in the Great Lakes Shire. This means that it is especially important to find ways of meeting new friends and perhaps sharing enthusiasms and/or learning new skills. This will lead to a sense of belonging and of contributing to our community. You will be surprised by the number of organisations that are represented at the Expo, so come along and see for yourself. People feel reluctant to step out and join a group when they really know very little about it or the people behind it. So, we encourage you to come along to the Tuncurry Memorial Hall and hear what is available and meet some of the enthusiastic members of the organisations. This will be an informative and enjoyable day. Look out for your Quota hostesses in their distinctive blue shirts! Manning-Great Lakes focus 61

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jeremy Thornton of Insurance Advisernet

Tony

BUSINESS MINDS

STUMBLES SUNRISE SUPPORTED LIVING TUNCURRY IS ON THE GROW. I CAUGHT UP WITH MANAGER TONY STUMBLES TO FIND OUT WHAT MAKES HIM TICK AND WHAT’S IN THE PIPELINE …

ony, the accent is a giveaway. You’re South African, am I right? I was driving about a year ago listening to Great Lakes FM, when I heard an obvious South African accent, so naturally I listened to the advert more intently. To my surprise, it was my own voice, advertising our proposed new development at Sunrise. So yes, correct, the accent is a giveaway! Tell us about the differences in lifestyle and conditions from home to here. In many respects, the lifestyle and conditions are very similar. However, prior to leaving South Africa, crime was rampant, and emigrating to Australia gave us an immediate sense of safety and security. Family must have been an important reason in moving? It was THE most important reason. I was fortunate to win a trip to Australia, so my wife, Lindy, and I came across and visited my sister and family in Melbourne. My sister suggested that we apply to immigrate, and this began the process. We are very privileged to live in Australia, and this certainly is the “Lucky Country.” We have a daughter in Perth, who is a counsellor to teenage girls with drug and alcohol addictions, a married son who holds a PhD and works for the Department of Meteorology in Melbourne, and another son who works for the Country Fire Authority in Victoria. We have two wonderful Aussie daughters-in-law and three lovely grandchildren. So, Melbourne was your first stop when emigrating. How did you end up here? 62 Manning-Great Lakes focus

The timing in Melbourne was quite opportune, as I found work for a company in the process of applying for accreditation, which I had previous experience in. I took charge of this process, wrote the manuals and implemented the necessary systems. I was then approached by a retirement village to apply for the manager’s position. This was my introduction to retirement living. From Melbourne, I took a position in Port Macquarie, before moving to Tuncurry. Tell us about your role at Sunrise Supported Living. Lindy and I are a husband and wife team who manage the village, and we can honestly say that we love the residents and treat them as though they’re family. I am involved in the managerial duties, while Lindy is more hands-on with the residents, arranging outings, functions and entertainment. What is it that attracts people to Sunrise? The Sunrise concept combines the best of supported living with the best of traditional aged care. Residents receive the care and support from our staff in the privacy of their own homes, 24 hours a day/seven days a week - a choice not available in an aged care facility. Couples can stay together, even when one partner requires a different level of care. In many villages when one partner is no longer able to live independently, the couple is separated, which is traumatic for all concerned. By ensuring couples remain together, we guarantee less anguish to both residents, as well as their loving families. Supported living is all about freedom of choices, where residents retain their personal dignity. People decide the level and type of

We were a finalist in two categories, as well as being a winner in the “Excellence in

service they require, and to enjoy a quiet moment Small Business” section. our on-site staff provide of reading, watching a This win promoted us to be the appropriate services. movie or chatting with a Regional Finalist – another Their choices range from friends. It will also be notable achievement for Sunrise. domestic assistance, to a quiet place for our comprehensive palliative morning exercise and care. meditation classes. We also provide meals We are very excited seven days per week, about this project. Our prepared in our stylish kitchen from local current village is full and with the significant produce. Most residents avail themselves of influx of retirees into our area, expanding the lunch, the main meal of the day, which is a very village to cater for additional residents will not reasonably priced two course meal. only be beneficial to our village, but also a huge Also available are domestic services and asset to the Great Lakes. maintenance staff. Medical practitioners, How do you connect with your customers podiatrists, hairdressers and other providers and other businesses? also visit the village to attend to our residents. We spend a substantial amount of our In addition, we also cater for the residents’ budget on marketing, and this is certainly spiritual needs. paying dividends. Our village has a high profile We are an accredited Home Care Provider. in the vicinity and almost weekly, people We assist residents to access Government approach Lindy and I to engage in discussions funded care packages, and our on-site staff about Sunrise. provide the services. As a member of the Forster/Tuncurry In effect, we are a one-stop shop - we offer Business Chamber, Sunrise participated in the everything and more. MidCoast Business awards, and we proudly Big developments are happening at fared extremely well. We were a finalist in two Sunrise, which people really need to see. categories, as well as being a winner in the What’s happening next door? “Excellence in Small Business” section. This win This site is a hub of activity. Stage 1 comprises promoted us to be a Regional Finalist - another 26 units and is selling fast. In fact, almost notable achievement for Sunrise. 75% of the units are sold. We believe that For you, what is the best part about living when the building of Stage 1 is complete, all and being in business in the Manning-Great available units will have been pre-sold. We then Lakes? commence our final stage, where a further This is a close-knit community, and businesses 13 units will be built plus a new Community in the area support one another. I really like the Lounge, which will incorporate a cinema, library fact that the locals encourage one another to and computer/internet area, as well as coffee buy local products. This, to me, is important. bar. The new Lounge will offer residents a place Thanks Tony.

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