Manning-Great Lakes Focus i140

Sally Lyons

October 2018. issue 140

2 Manning-Great Lakes focus

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team From the

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

I

t’s never really spring time until Daylight Saving starts, am I right? I don’t know about you, but I find myself so much more relaxed during Daylight Saving time. Some people love it, some people don’t, but I’m sure we can all agree that heading to the beach on a warm afternoon after work, or getting those extra few hours of outdoor time with family and friends are rather enjoyable.

October kicks off our festival season, with The Old Bar Beach, Wingham Akoostik and Lakeside Festivals taking front and centre. We are so lucky to have these great events in our area, and I encourage as many of you as possible to pop out and support these festivals. FOCUS would like to congratulate all involved and wish them all the best for a smooth and successful event.

Whilst we are in the middle of congratulating people, let’s give a huge shout out to those wonderful people who have just completed Year 12. Although exams are still to come, it’s definitely a wonderful feeling for those students, with minds full of what’s next and excitement aplenty - the sky’s the limit for our school leavers.

With school holidays in mind, there is definitely no shortage of things to do in our region for children of all ages, from Slime Lab fun at Stockland Forster, to kids’ movies and pool parties at YMCA - there should be no “I’m bored” from the kids this month.

There is just an abundance of things happening in our wonderful region at the moment, and in the coming months and to add to the already massive to-do list, you can’t go past the Taree

Show. This year’s show will run from Friday the 5th October to Sunday the 7th, with the horse events kicking off on the Friday, Saturday will be the grand parade and Show Girl announcement, and Sunday it will all wrap up with the demolition derby.

Last but not least, FOCUS would like to give a massive shout out to Sue Williams from The Great Lakes Food Trail. This is an absolutely amazing initiative showcasing our local producers and their products. The aim of this is to connect local and ethical producers with the community. The next Great Lakes Food Trail will take place on Sunday 7th October, 10am - 4pm.

For more information: www.thegreatlakesfoodtrail.com.au Enjoy our October edition of FOCUS and everything our wonderful area has to offer.

Precious metal is coming to Taree.

The Mercedes-Benz Precious Metal Roadshow will be arriving at Taree Motorama on 26th October.

This rare opportunity offers access to some of the latest and most exclusive models from the Mercedes-Benz range including the luxurious Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, E-Class All-Terrain 220d and GT C Roadster. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity at Taree Motorama, before it moves on. www.mbtaree.com.au

Taree Motorama 54 Victoria Street, Taree (02) 6539 3300 50223 www.mbtaree.com.au

Manning-Great Lakes focus 3

wingham akoostik festival

4 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

&Cara wingham akoostik festival

HAT FITZ & CAR A’S MUSICAL STYLE IS A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF FOLK, ROOTS AND GOSPEL BLUES WITH OLD TIME FLAVOURINGS REMINISCENT OF A TIME ONCE FORGOTTEN ...

H

ey guys. How did you meet and come together musically?

We met at a festival in County Mayo in Ireland called the Castlebar Blues Festival; it was 2008, and we saw each other playing in separate bands.

It was pretty instant admiration for each other’s music and performance. There was no talking involved - just a last dance as the festival band played their encore and then a few words, and we went our separate ways until we met again in Australia three months later (after a huge phone bill).

Describe your style and how this developed. Was it an organic process based on favoured genres and what you were playing before you met?

Fitzy was immersed in the ways of Hill Country Blues, whereas I was deep into Southern Soul Blues. It was merely me following him on the drums and holding back from singing, as I had a lot to concentrate on just keeping time. I was really happy to be introduced to the likes of Jessie Mae Hemphill and Mississippi John Hurt, then as we started to find our feet in our own sound we shared in tastes, mixing Gospel into the equation, as we are both fans.

You use a raft of different instruments and noise makers in your performance. How do you guys perfect the craft of each of these instruments, and what do you each play?

Fitzy plays a Beeton national, made of brass and hand crafted by Australia's own Greg Beaton, and he plays the Tiesco Mid ‘60s 4WSL electric guitar. I play a combination of a drum kit from 1920s Ludwig kick drum to 1939 Slingerland Radio King, two tone. Also, I play a washboard that’s been in the Fitzpatrick family since Hat Fitz and the Jug Slouchers, and I play whistle and fife. We both sing.

Fitzy has been playing guitar since he was 14, and I have been playing flute since nine, and we have both been singing for years. Getting out on the road together was the best practice when we first started out.

The dynamic you share is powerful, and you always

seem to be enjoying yourselves.

Tell us about your most memorable What do you love most about gig.

Fitzy has been playing being able to work alongside your Now, that is a tough one. I would like guitar since he was 14, biggest love? to choose a gig I went to, which was to and I have been playing It’s hard to say what you most see Tina Turner when I was 14 years old. flute since nine, and we enjoy, as being a musician on stage eEen though I was a soul girl at heart, I have both been singing for generally you really want to support was wrapped in the palms of her hands Getting out on the road years. the other musicians; but yes - there is from when she hit that first note. Man, together was the best practice a chemistry that happens, where like can she bring it! when we first started out. any musician you switch off and tune Fitzy’s would have to be going to see T in to the music, you’re there with the Model Ford with Cedric Burnside, as they crowd and they’re feeling it too. Those were playing the same festival at Byron are magic moments, and to share that Bay Blues many years ago. They hung with your biggest love is pretty amazing. out afterwards and talked blues ‘til the early morn.

When it comes to writing, what influences you? Who Favourite song of all time for each of you and why … does the writing generally?

I’m sorry; I cannot do that, as there are so many great We both write. When it comes to lyrics and melody lines, songs! At the moment I am loving Aretha Franklin’s Rock that’s me, and then when it comes to creating grooves and Steady. riffs, that would be Fitzy.

For Fitzy it would have to be Freddie King’s Same Old Blues.

With regard to influences, I'm pretty moved by moments in What’s on the horizon for you guys? history, human feelings in life experiences; trying to express We’re hoping to release a new single soon, Hold On, with what we feel in this day and age is something I'm most the Brisbane City Gospel Choir, recording it in a renovated curious about. Basically, it’s writing about where you are at water tank at Govinda's Studio, Gold Coast. We should have in life at present. Other musicians inspire me for sure; Alvin a video of us all crammed in together.

Youngblood Hart and Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks reminds At present we are working on a new album, No.5 for us, me of way back when I was growing up. trying to keep it pretty raw. There are a few things in the Fitzy gets in the zone and plays for hours sometimes, pipeline for a tour in Feb/March next year to Canada, USA, and I'll be walking past and run for my phone to record the Europe and UK. idea, and that’s where a song sometimes starts from. Or, Where can our readers follow your journey? we will both be jamming out and hit record; if we’re lucky, Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/hatfitzcara/ something we like will come through.

Website www.hatfitzand cara.com We are excited to have you playing this year’s WIngham Thanks guys.

Akoostik Festival. What do you enjoy about playing festival gigs? plug!

Lots of people together having an awesome time, letting their hair down, meeting other likeminded souls is the key.

Don’t miss Hat Fitz & Cara at the Wingham Also, getting to see and hear other bands ... By the way, love Akoostik Festival, 19th - 21st October. akoostik.com.au the line up!

Manning-Great Lakes focus 5

contents Issue 140 - October 2018

focusinterviews

08

Sally Lyons.

feature a special

26

FORSTER - TUNCURRY LAKESIDE FESTIVAL

Meet Sally Lyons ... a talented local artist specialising in graphite and colour pencil artworks, which we think are just amazing! We had the pleasure of chatting with Sally recently ...

10

Jordan Bird.

At just 22 years of age, Taree local Jordan Bird is already a successful small business owner, as well as finding time to put into other ventures that she is passionate about. Jordon took time out from her busy life to fill us in on what she’s been up to.

28

Russell Morris.

ARIA hall of fame inductee Russell Morris captured the hearts and imagination of Australians in 2012 when he unveiled Sharkmouth,, the first of a trilogy of albums re-telling some amazing stories in Australia’s distant past ...

the Usual

Suspects

16. WHAT’S ON for October 20. EAT local restaurants

25. WINE TIME with Robyn Piper 25. WHAT’S IN SEASON with Neville Donovan 36. SOCIAL SCENE with Donna Carrier 45. TOURISM with Sharon Bultitude

56

49. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 51. BUSINESS MINDS with Jeremy Thornton 54. BUSINESS VOICE with John Stevens

Lee Black.

Up and coming metalwork artist Lee Black takes us on a creative journey and shares with us his inspiration and the artistic process behind his latest project for the Queen Elizabeth Park Playground.

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

6 Manning-Great Lakes focus

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You choose and change the type and level of domestic and care services as you need The village can cater for dementia and palliative care On-site Nursing staff available to provide care services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week You don’t have to move. Our onsite Nursing staff bring all the Care you need into your own villa unit, even if your Care needs change Our Village is pet-friendly.

Sunrise Village: 11A Chapmans Road Tuncurry NSW 2428 | Tel: 6554 8424 | www.sunrisesupportedlivingtuncurry.com.au

Manning-Great Lakes focus 7

focusinterview.

Meet Sally Lyons ... A TALENTED LOCAL ARTIST SPECIALISING IN GRAPHITE AND COLOUR PENCIL ARTWORKS, WHICH WE THINK ARE JUST AMAZING! We had the pleasure of chatting with Sally recently ...

Sally Lyons

H

l o c a l

a r t i s t

i Sally. You’ve been in the Manning-Great Lakes for around four years, so what brought you here?

My family and I had been living in the Southern Highlands for 13 years. It was beautiful there, but we felt a sea change was in order. During my time living here I’ve completed two courses in Animals Studies and two in Business Studies, earning my Certificate III in Micro Business late last year when I joined the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) to get a start on running my own small business - and I haven’t looked back since. Running my own business has been extremely rewarding and also gave me a chance to learn about, and get in touch with, the locals.

Tell us a bit about what first inspired you to become an artist. Did you have any formal training, and if so, where?

Ever since I was little, I was told I was often found quietly sitting and drawing. It wasn’t until I was around 13 years old that I started putting more practice into it ... and I’d say I'm still practicing. Studying Visual Arts in high school helped a little with sketching, shading and blending colours, but I'm mainly self-taught, and I often get inspiration from looking at other artists’ work on Instagram or YouTube. I’ve also had plenty of support from friends and family.

The idea to actually start making a living from what I love doing began when I was volunteering at the Wingham Pet Motel, where I was encouraged by the owner who, after seeing a portrait of her dog that I 8 Manning-Great Lakes focus

drew, suggested that I draw portraits of her customers’ pets.

I notice that you specialise in graphite and colour pencil art. Can you tell us what you like most about using these mediums?

I’d never really thought about why I use them. I just picked up whatever pencil type was nearby and began drawing - sometimes practicing with a ball point pen when a lead pencil wasn’t available. Graphite and colour pencils were also often the most affordable art tools for me, along with being one of the most common birthday gifts I received.

What about your photography - tell us a bit about what you love and what inspires you when using that medium?

When it comes to my photography, I don’t really give much thought to it. I just take photos of what looks good or interesting. Sharing it on sites like Instagram allows people to see some of the pretty things this region has to offer.

What has been your favourite subject, and why?

Drawing anything is fun to me, but I feel animals or pets would be my favourite subjects.

While drawing realistic fur and keeping to the pet’s fur pattern can be challenging, it’s fun - and I love the feedback I receive from pet owners when they see their furry friend in graphite or coloured pencil form!

If you could draw or photograph anything in the world, what would it be (and what medium would you use)?

If I could draw (or photograph) anything in the world it would have to be the critically endangered animals on the World Wildlife

Fund list. I absolutely love animals and have actually begun working on a small art project to help out the charity, which involves drawing small portraits of each animal on the WWF critically endangered list and selling them as prints or on home décor products online, with the originals being sold at Not A Café in of celebrities or other Wingham. Ten per cent animals whenever I of what I make on every I absolutely love animals and have time between sale is then donated to have actually begun working on commissions. the World Wildlife Fund. a small art project to help out Most of the time those It’s not much, but every the charity which involves drawings are put on hold dollar counts. drawing small portraits while I fi nish customer Are there any artists of each animal on the WWF portraits.

It means I have who have inspired critically endangered list. an entire art folder filled you, or who you look with unfi nished art, up to? but it makes for good The artists who inspire references or changes in me are the ones similar my drawing. to myself - not well known, but showing their Where is the best place to view your art, work to the world via social media. There’s a and how do our readers contact you? friendly competition amongst artists online, but The best place to view my art is my Instagram we also all have each other’s backs, no matter page (@sallylouiseart) or my Facebook page, how different our art styles are.

Sally Louise Art. It’s where I post finished Do you have any exhibitions coming up? versions of my artwork, along with progress My business, Sally Louise Art, will be a part of shots and behind the scenes of the drawing the Not A Café stall at the Wingham Akoostik coming together with a few photos of my pets Festival in October this year. thrown in for good measure.

I also occasionally sell some of my original Both my social media accounts each have work through the Not A Café shop. links to my online shops; Etsy and Redbubble.

Do you do mainly commissioned work?

Thanks Sally.

While doing commissioned work is what Interview: Ingrid Bayer. my business is based on, I also draw portraits

10 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

At just 22 years of age, TAREE LOCAL JORDAN BIRD IS ALREADY A SUCCESSFUL SMALL BUSINESS OWNER, AS WELL AS FINDING TIME TO PUT INTO OTHER VENTURES THAT SHE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT. Jordan took time out from her busy life to fill us in on what she’s been up to.

H

i Jordan. Can you give our readers an insight into what it’s been like growing up and starting a career in our lovely Manning Valley?

Being part of the community all my life, including attending school here, has meant that I have a strong sense of family, and I have also made some amazing friends who are definitely "friends for life". I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without their amazing support.

In terms of my career, it could have been so easy to get stuck on the 9 - 5 treadmill. I think being part of this community has made it so much simpler for me to by-pass that treadmill and keep on shooting for my goals to achieve the things I want to achieve.

By the time you were 20 years old, you had already opened your own business Elsewhere Hair - which is a phenomenal achievement for someone still so young.

How has the journey been so far with your business, and what have you learned along the way?

It was such a daunting thing going out on my own and not knowing how it would all turn out. I guess I just hit the ground running

Now I’ve also started a journey into a more chemical free, natural and mindful life with the help of essential oils ... I’ve recently started a

business sharing that journey so far, in the hope that I will be able to help out as many people as I can.

and got my social media presence out there!

From the beginning, I have made my business an inviting space for people to come and relax. I pride myself on a personalised experience, and I’ve seen myself grow in more ways than just in my business.

You’re very entrepreneurial ... as well as hairdressing, what else have you been dabbling in?

I’ve always had quite a creative mind, and I don’t find it very easy doing the same thing all day every day. I like to brighten up my life as much as I can, and I guess that is what led me to undertake all the different things I’ve been doing.

For the Wingham Akoostik Festival last year, I made and sold about 500 macarons of different flavours and colours, which was such a fun thing to do!

Now I’ve also started a journey into a more chemical free, natural and mindful life with the help of essential oils ... I’ve recently started a business sharing that journey so far, in the

hope that I will be able to help out as many people as I can. People can read more about this little venture on Instagram (theoilybird_).

I’ve also started doing the bookwork for my dad’s electrical business - just another thing to add to the list that will probably keep growing - ha!

Why did you choose to stay in the area after finishing your education, and what do you love most about living and

working here?

The Manning Valley is filled with beautiful coastal towns that have beaches and scenery you just don’t get anywhere else! All my family live and work here, so it was kind of a natural transition from high school into my working career.

Who or what has inspired you most in your life so far?

Obviously, my mum and dad played a huge part in shaping me into the person I am today, instilling in me a strong sense of self-confidence, which I am so grateful for, and extremely lucky! In all honesty, my husband, Jim, inspires me every day. He is the main reason I started Elsewhere Hair around two years ago.

Every day, I think about how grateful I am for this wonderful opportunity, and for the fact that now I have this thriving and amazing business!

What do you do when you’re not busy with all your various projects and business?

I’m super in love with visiting our local farmers' markets every Thursday morning - The Secret Weekly Farmers' Market Taree. I think it’s such a great thing for our town to have. It’s also a great way to support some of the local farmers, and I get to sit around drinking tea in the morning sunshine before I start the working day off - plus bringing home fresh fruit and veg is the best!

Weekend camping trips to local beaches and campgrounds with the "Troopy" (Troop Carrier) will be a lot more frequent again now the weather is warming up. As well as that, I always try and get to the local parkrun on a Saturday morning and really enjoy having a swim or two throughout the week when I can!

What do you hope to be doing five years from now?

I hope to keep succeeding in all my business endeavours, have some travel destinations ticked off my list, create a more sustainable waste free salon environment, and keep on being a driven and inspired person!

A really big one that is more of a long term goal is that my husband, my cat Socks (who I hope lives forever) and I would like to create a fully off the grid sustainable home in the area.

Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurial-minded people living in our area?

Just keep motivated and crush those goals!

Thanks Jordan.

Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

11 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

WINGHAM

MEN’S SHED Shoulder to Shoulder

INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT PAUL AUSTIN.

H

ow did the concept of the Men’s Shed originate?

Men’s Sheds have developed quite spontaneously in many different areas of Australia.

One of the earliest sheds was the Lane Cove Community Shed in 1998. The concept spread rapidly, with approximately 100 sheds existing in Australia now. Sheds exist in many overseas countries as well.

The slogan for Men’s Sheds is “Shoulder to shoulder”, shortened from the concept that “Men don’t talk face to face; they talk shoulder to shoulder.” The Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) was established in 2007 to represent, support and promote the Men’s Shed movement. It receives funding from the Federal Government to provide initial and ongoing support to all Men’s Sheds.

The Wingham Men’s Shed was established by the Rotary Club of Wingham in 2009. The driving force behind its formation was long time Rotarian Bill Freeman, with much voluntary assistance from local builder Marshall Meaker and several local tradesmen and businesses.

What are the aims of the Men’s Shed?

The aim is to provide a forum and physical location where members can regularly assemble to share skills, make friends and network with other members, with the primary purpose of supporting and enhancing their personal wellbeing and health. The modern Men’s Shed is an updated and larger version of the backyard shed, which has long been a part of the Australian culture.

The Men’s Shed is more than doing something with your hands. What are some of the health and wellbeing benefits?

Most men have learned from our culture not to talk about feelings and emotions and as a result can suffer from isolation, loneliness and depression. Being a member of a group

12 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Some examples of what you will find includes children’s

chairs and tables, stools, lazy Susans, wood turning products, spice racks, assorted tables, cupboards, decorative

of other males can provide an environment where they may be able to communicate in wishing wells, bird boxes and an atmosphere of old children’s toys. fashioned mateship.

Many men don’t learn You do a lot for the to communicate well local community. What about their emotions, are some of the projects you’ve done? which means they don’t ask for help. Also, the Over our nine years of operation, the shed shed can be valuable in overcoming isolation for has assisted with many projects in the local men who live out of town and for providing an community. We have been happy to assist with escape from domestic routine. such things as projects for the showground You have some creative members. Tell us in which we are located; tables, chairs and about their hidden talents. playground equipment for the Wingham The shed membership consists of men from Community Preschool; garden beds and boxes many walks of life, all of whom possess some for the local hospital and C.A.D.E. unit; sandpit, degree of skill in various areas. We have retired outside library and benches for St Joseph’s tradesmen, motor mechanics, painters, fitter and Primary School; and garden beds and fowl pen machinists, steel workers, as well as men from for the Wingham High School. These are just professional areas such as law, accounting and a few examples of what we have done in the teaching. All are only too willing to learn and community over the last nine years. We are pass on their skills to one another. You don’t always happy to help out if we can. necessarily need to have any particular skills in You sell some of the things made. What woodwork or metalwork - just come along for type of things can we purchase? the companionship.

While we are a not-for-profit organisation, What are some of the skills that men can we do need to have income to allow us to learn? operate. A showroom at the front of the shed The main areas of activity in the Wingham displays numerous and varied items which can shed are woodwork and metalwork. The shed be purchased. Some examples of what you will is equipped with a large array of modern find includes children’s chairs and tables, stools, woodworking machinery, which the men can lazy Susans, wood turning products, spice racks, use for joinery, woodturning, model making, toy assorted tables, cupboards, decorative wishing making, log milling, spraying and painting, just wells, bird boxes and children’s toys. As well, we to name a few. The shed was fortunate to have a will consider taking on jobs made to order. retired cabinet maker as a member in our earlier How can people assist and donate to the years, and Don Forbes was able to teach us many Men’s Shed? skills which are being used and passed on today.

We are always looking for donations of timber Our metalwork section activities include (such as Cedar and Camphor Laurel), small logs welding, milling, metal cutting and engineering, to mill, metal scrap and certain tools. Some fitting and turning, etc. We are well equipped furniture items which can be restored and sold with tools and machinery in these areas. are also welcome.

We have received various grants, both government and private, since our inception and are always on the lookout for financial assistance.

We are always looking for showroom space and have occasionally occupied vacant shop windows. We are grateful to Machin’s Sawmill for their regular donation of hardwood offcuts.

Timber is also sourced and recycled from pallets supplied by local businesses.

The general public is invited to visit our showroom to see what can be purchased.

Are there any future plans and projects coming up for the shed?

Extensions to our building have been our main projects over the years; however, any further extensions to the shed are restricted by the boundaries of our site. We constantly need to upgrade and maintain our machinery and tools. Probably our main project at the moment is to expand our solar panel array on the roof.

Electricity is our major expense, and this is where our efforts are directed at the moment.

How can men become a member?

We are located at the Wingham Showgrounds via the Skinner Street entrance. We are open on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30am to 2:30pm.

Our contact phone number is - 6553 0934 and email address - info@winghammensshed. com.au New members are welcome. Annual membership fee is $35 (which includes insurance cover) and $2 per day for tea/coffee.

Thanks Paul.

Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

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focusinterview.

The Professionals Forster Weekend of Surf, presented by Forster SLSC, is in its 23rd year. The event will take place over two days, on the last weekend in September, and welcomes competitors from U10 to Masters.

T

he Weekend of surf is in its 23rd year. How did the event get started?

Two members, Jeff Bonner and Simon Lee, thought it would be a good way to start the season with a small carnival at Forster on the Long Weekend. About 100 competitors turned up for the Sunday, and then the idea of an Ironman event was borne a couple of years later for the Saturday, so competitors and friends could make a weekend of it.

From small things, little things grow. Now it is one of the most popular carnivals in regional NSW, with over 500 competitors expected to compete each day. Simon, of course, along with our Event Manager Beth Lee have never had a weekend away from Forster, as they have been heavily involved in the running of them all.

What’s involved in setting up a weekend like this one?

We need assistance from MidCoast Council to flatten and rake the beach for the sprints and flags and support from members to setup the competition areas, which are two water courses for swim, board and ski and then the sprint track and flags pit. We have our own PA system that needs to be run out to keep competitors, officials and families up to date with the events as we go and also support our great event sponsors. We provide sustenance 14 Manning-Great Lakes focus

to our volunteer carnival Surf life saving in general officials, who give two provides positive days of their time to outcomes for member be on the sand. Then of our partnership development there is all the back of with Professionals for and meeting the beach jobs - sending out this event and their community's needs, entry forms, inputting continued support. and this is something the over 500 competitors For those wishing to Professionals highly value - assembling prizes go and watch, can you and align with. and liaising with our give us an overview sponsors. We always of how the weekend welcome more helpers will run? to make the event Saturday commences at 9am, with Ironman happen. events conducted in both competition water The Professionals Forster are the major areas from Under 10 to Masters in the over 50 sponsors for this weekend; how did they category. From midday, we head to the beach get involved? events with sprints, sprint relays and flags They came on board eleven years ago. events again through the various categories.

We had an excellent early relationship with On Sunday, we commence with the iconic both Principals, Darrell and Richard, and it has March Past at 8:15am and then on to the grown from strength to strength. various sim, board, ski, taplin and finish with Professionals' commitment to FSLSC and the various board relay events for the different the surf life saving movement has been age categories, which has been a huge unwavering. Surf life saving in general addition to the carnival over the previous two provides positive outcomes for member seasons. development and meeting the community's What will be some of the feature events needs, and this is something the Professionals that should not be missed? highly value and align with.

We are looking at some Australian This commitment has recently escalated medallists in the Under 14 - Under 19 age further, with a significant contribution to the groups in Ironman, swim, board races over the purchase of the Thundercat II IRBs for the weekend. In the younger age groups, you find club. We are very grateful and appreciative state and country champions competing, and

our Masters competitors are also at the top of the competition stream. With our sprints on the Saturday, we may also see a quality field in Under 15 - Opens.

Why is it important to keep events such as this running?

It provides a wonderful group of visitors to our area, with many staying for the week. Our event attracts more than 90% of competitors and families from outside the Mid North Coast Council region, and many come back and visit at other times of the year. This is also Forster Surf Club's major fundraising effort and assists to provide valuable lifesaving equipment to keep our local and visiting beachgoers safe.

Where do you see this event in five years’ time?

We see continued growth as we listen to the competitors and team managers, as we try to freshen up the format from time to time. They all comment that is a well-run event and everyone is friendly and they love visiting Forster-Tuncurry. A continued excellent relationship with our major sponsors Forster Tuncurry Professionals will hopefully see a combined commitment for an event that will grow and cement itself permanently as a major event on the Forster calendar.

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focus_What’s On Manning-Great Lakes

OCTOBER

Great Lakes Members’ Art Exhibition The recently refurbished Lake Street Gallery in Forster is again the venue for the artists of the Great Lakes Art Society to display new paintings and sculptures in their Members’ Exhibition. Come and see great art in a beautiful new setting.

Where Lake Street Gallery, 34 Lake St. Forster.

When 1st - 14th October, every day 10am - 4pm.

Cost Free entry.

4

Sydney Sixers Beach Blast

We only have 200 spots per location, so make sure you register today to secure your spot. In recent years, each location has sold out prior to the event. Beach Blast is for youngsters aged between 5 - 12 and each registration is just $12.50 per person. DON’T FORGET, each Beach Blast participant will have access to a *FREE Sydney Sixers match-day ticket!

Registration First Session (5 - 7 years): 8:30am -10:30am. Second Session (8 - 12 years): 9:30am 11:30am. When Thursday 4th October. Where Beach Street, Forster. Website www.sydneysixers.com.au/ beachblast Email info@sydneysixers.com.au

19

Charmaine Wilson The Australian Medium. Suitable for 16 years plus only.

When Friday 19th October 2018, Show starts 7.30pm Tickets $40 per person available now at Club Taree Reception Phone 6539 4000 to purchase your tickets

20

Club Taree Community Concert Band

Club Taree Community Concert Band celebrates its 20th anniversary at 2pm on 20th October at the Salvation Army Hall in Manning Street, Taree. The Salvos Junior Band will also take part. A concert with great music of all types, from marches to musicals, and films to classics.

When Saturday 20th October.

4

Kids’ Movie, Peter Rabbit

7 21

The Great Lakes Food Trail

Great Lakes Aquatic and Leisure Centre hosts kids’ movies during the school holidays. For $10pp, the kids will receive the movie, mini sandwiches, fruit cups, a popper and treats. BYO pillow and blanket. Suitable for ages 5 -12 years. Movie - PETER RABBIT (PG) - 95 mins.

Looking for something to tickle the tastebuds this autumn? NSW Great Lakes Food Trail returns for its spring event on Sunday 7th October. Discover the Mid North Coast region’s finest producers along a trail through rolling green hills and with stunning lakeside views. Visit a variety of local farms, wineries and cafés, take an educational tour and enjoy tasting experiences along the way.

When Thursday 4th October, 5pm. Where Lake Street, Forster. Website www.ymcansw.org.au/centres/greatlakes-aquatic-and-leisure-centre/programs/school-holidayactivities/ Phone (02) 6555 4617.

When Sunday 7th October, 10am - 4pm.

Where MidCoast Council region, NSW. Website www.thegreatlakesfoodtrailnsw.com.au Phone 0438 433 063.

16 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Silver Tones Singers concerts Manning Valley U3A choir the Silver Tones Singers present their Magic of Melody charity concerts: proceeds to Great Lakes Manning Homeless Support Service and Great Lakes Women’s Shelter. The diverse program ranges from Blue Moon and Climb Ev’ry Mountain to The Prayer, HMS Pinafore and Vivaldi’s Gloria. Sing wartime-era songs with the choir to commemorate the centenary of the end of WWI. When Tuncurry, Sunday 21st October; Taree, Sunday 28th October. 2 - 4:30pm. Where Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club, Parkes Street; Taree St John’s Anglican Church, Victoria Street. Phone Pam Archer 6552 4694. Tickets $10 adults, $5 children - at the door from 1pm.

focusinterview.

the

Diamonds

IT WILL BE AN EVENING THAT’S BOUND TO HAVE YOU DANCING AND SINGING TO HIT AFTER HIT. Get your groove on with The Diamonds at the Manning Entertainment Centre.

T

INTERNATIONAL HIT SHOW!

ell us a bit about the show There are weeks and weeks of rehearsals that and what the audience can go into the show, costume fittings - there's A expect.

LOT of bling, shooting of the promo videos, From the creators of BOYS IN THE BAND thediamondslive.com.au It's an all singing, all dancing, and then of course the challenge of getting non stop hit after hit celebranine people from place to place around regional tion of the greatest divas of Australia. There's often very long all time! If it sounds high energy, it is! Bring travel times between venues, and we get to your dancing shoes and warm up those singing know each other very well! voices, because we cover all the favourites, from What genre of music do The Diamonds Aretha to Beyoncé, Diana Ross to Tina Turner, cover? Who are their major influences?

The Supremes, The Andrews Sisters, Lady Gaga, The music is from the biggest pop, rock, disco and everything in between. and soul divas of the 20th Century. Think Tina How long have The Diamonds been togethTurner, Aretha Franklin, The Andrews Sisters, er?

The Supremes, Sister Sledge, Diana Ross, Donna The Diamonds launched at the end of 2013 Summer and contemporaries such as Beyoncé, and were invited to perform as the VIP pre-show Alicia Keys and Lady Gaga. The show is fully entertainment for Beyonchoreographed and is cé's Mrs Carter concerts heavily influenced by the in Sydney at the then vocal and style of each of Allphones Arena. The these iconic eras of music girls seem very tight. and artists, with gorgeous These guys are the best in the How did they meet and harmonies and really fun biz and have toured all over the create the show? energy. world. The show is really The show was created They are backed by a fast moving and only the

by SMA Productions, who very talented band, most talented musicians are also responsible for The Players. Tell us a bit are able to keep up, which international hit shows about them. these guys certainly can.

BOYS IN THE BAND and These guys are the best THE RAT PACK RELOADin the biz and have toured ED, both who have all over the world. The also performed at the show is really fast moving gorgeous Manning Entertainment Centre. The and only the most talented musicians are able to uber talented cast of The Diamonds were hand keep up, which these guys certainly can. picked by SMA directors Dale Burridge and Dave What's the ultimate direction for your Malek and have appeared in numerous TV and show? theatre productions, both here and overseas.

We are looking forward to some high profile What's the background of all three girls?

New Year’s Eve performances - sssh, keep your Casey Burgess was a member of Hi-5 and has eyes peeled - and later next year we will be appeared as a TV presenter for Channel 9; she's heading out on a wider national concert tour also just come back from writing an album in starting with NSW, QLD and VIC. Nashville! Kirrah Amossa has just come off the What dates will you be touring our local road, starring in the musical The Bodyguard with area, and where can we buy tickets or get Paulini, and Emily Harlow appeared on Channel more info?

9's hit show Love Child and - fun fact - was We are performing at Manning Entertainment Carey Mulligan's double in the movie The Great Centre, Taree, on Saturday 6th October.

Gatsby!

Tix from the venue website: mec.midcoast.

This is quite a production! What goes into nsw.gov.au putting on a show like this?

Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

Diamonds_NEW_A3Poster_v5.indd 2

2/5/17 3:08 pm

Manning-Great Lakes focus 17

focusinterview.

Wide elastic bands strain to secure the lid on a shoebox that is weighty with tightly packed gifts. It is an Operation Christmas Child present, and number crunching reveals our community has donated more than 22,000 boxes in 10 years. It is an impressive Christian ministry and this month, area manager Karen Reeman will manage her last collection campaign as she supports two new leaders to learn the ropes of the rewarding volunteer role.

love pray do

Packed with

LOVE OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

H

i Karen. Congratulations on the growth of Operation Christmas Child over 10 years in the Barrington Coast region. Please share what it is and what is in the boxes that are sent to children living overseas in poverty.

In one word. Love. That is what is in the shoeboxes. Samaritan’s Purse runs Operation Christmas Child, and it is the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind. The gift-filled shoeboxes demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children. Each box is filled with gifts purchased or made by people and they must contain something to love, something for personal hygiene, something special, something to play with, something to wear, something for school and a special message and photo from the person who packed the box.

Where are the children who receive the boxes, and why is it important to care for children living in other countries?

Poverty is present in so many countries and in the countries that Samaritan’s Purse goes to with Operation Christmas Child, there is no support for children; some children do not have the privilege to attend a school, or have access to clean water, or medical aid, which is something Australian children, and adults for that matter, take for granted. God lays on our heart where we are to support and gift, and thankfully some of us can support locally, as well as outside of Australia.

Samaritan’s Purse will generally send the boxes from Australia and New Zealand to

18 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Cambodia, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Vietnam, Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa.

Why did you act to gift 10 years of your life to managing Operation Christmas Child?

It has been a massive privilege to give my time to such a wonderful cause, and it was one of the hardest decisions of my life to relinquish the position, hopefully only for a time. I have been able to support and get to know so many people who have the same love and passion for underprivileged children, and who want a child to know that someone out there, that they don’t know, loves them.

Giving hope and giving a child the opportunity to know of Jesus and His love for them is the icing on the cake!

Who will now lead Operation Christmas Child in the Barrington Coast region?

Philippa Murray and Mariann Hall of Forster Christian Life Centre will share the responsibilities of area manager and be involved in the October collection of boxes from churches, schools, community groups and individuals in readiness for launch day.

They have both donated boxes to Operation Christmas Child over many years.

How does it feel when you fill a shoebox with items for a child that you will never meet?

Karen: It is wonderful, and it has always been something that I have done with my children. They will pack a box for a child just like them - their age and gender - and they love shopping for their special friend each year. It’s a valuable lesson for every child

and gives them the opportunity to start. opportunity to give Karen: God lays on our We need to change our a gift to a child who hearts to support others, thinking when it comes to could quite easily to want to give to others; helping people in need never receive one in it's a need for some poverty may seem too their lifetime. of us to give to other big of a problem to Philippa: It's people. My faith is me; it tackle, but it is too big exciting. I delight in moulds me and gifts me to not do something. finding simple things forgiveness, reassurance that I enjoyed as a and growth. I strive to be child, like a skipping more like Jesus every day. rope or a tennis ball.

Philippa: I've been a I packed a box for a 14-year-old boy a couple pastor's wife for over 44 years, and my faith of weeks ago, and I just packed so much into enlarges my heart to embrace others. When I it that I had to put three rubber bands around pack a shoebox, it does something for me too, the box to keep it closed, but I just couldn't very deep within, and I will pray for the boxes take anything out! Everything that went in to have safe transport, because they might be there was meant to be, and so if it took more transported by canoe, on top of somebody’s rubber bands to close the lid - then so be it! head, in a rickety old van … it's unbelievable Mariann: I like to be mindful of the fact how they get to where they need to go!

What is your hope for Operation that Jesus is the Christmas child. He was the Christmas Child as you hand it over? greatest gift, and Operation Christmas Child is The fact that more people know about a teensy-weensy way of trying to give Jesus to Operation Christmas Child and that our area children in need.

Why is it important for people of faith to has been able to increase the number of do things to help others, and what does boxes each year is a real achievement that I your faith give you? have enjoyed watching over the years. My Mariann: We need to change our thinking prayers for it now will be for more people to when it comes to helping people in need want to learn about it, and for more yearpoverty may seem too big of a problem to round volunteers to come on board. It is a tackle, but it is too big to not do something. In meaningful and wonderful ministry. a sense, we facilitate a way for people to meet Thanks everyone.

To learn more about Operation Christmas that need, one shoebox at a time. It's helping Child, visit samaritanspurse.org.au and to empower people. I feel that sometimes to volunteer contact Forster Christian Life people just don't know where to start, and Centre on 6555 6562.

Operation Christmas Child gives people an

Manning-Great Lakes focus 19

Photo by Matthew Berry

Beetroot cured local king fish and salmon in a macadamia nest with poached quail egg, and spring greens from local growers from Bent on Food 20 Manning-Great Lakes focus

DISHES of the month

DINE ON 19 - CLUB TAREE 121 WINGHAM RD, TAREE (02) 6539 4000 WWW.CLUBTAREE.COM.AU

LAKES AND OCEAN HOTEL 10 LITTLE ST, FORSTER (02) 6554 6005 WWW.LAKESANDOCEANHOTEL.COM.AU

Photo by Matthew Berry

BENT ON FOOD - WINGHAM 95 ISABELLA ST WINGHAM (02) 6557 0727 WWW.BENTONFOOD.COM.AU

CLUB FORSTER - KENNY’S THAI 19 STRAND ST, FORSTER (02) 6591 6591 WWW.CLUBFORSTER.COM.AU/DINING-BARS/KENNYS-THAI

THE SICILIAN 1 WEST ST, FORSTER & 139 VICTORIA ST, TAREE (02) 6555 2261 & (02) 6557 8689 WWW.THESICILIANRESTAURANT.COM.AU

CLUB OLD BAR 1 BELFORD ST, OLD BAR (02) 6553 7224 WWW.CLUBOLDBAR.COM.AU

Manning-Great Lakes focus 21

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If you've travelled and discovered the tastes of Thailand, you'll love "Kenny's THAI Kitchen", now located on the top floor, at the rear of Club Forster, overlooking Forster Golf Course. Revisit your memories with the fragrance of jasmine rice, the richness and colours of Thai curries, visit satays, coconut and pad Thai, journey through tom yum and linger with the tantalising spices of lemongrass, coriander, chilli and kaffir lime. Kenny welcomes you to "Kenny's THAI Kitchen" - Great Lakes, great authentic Thai cuisine.

New lunch special - 12 dishes for only $12 each.

Enjoy an entrée of two vegetable spring rolls plus your choice of one main meal - all for only $12!

Choose from: Angel Prawns, Hot Chilli Basil Leaf, Kenny Pork, Pepper Pork, Crispy Squid, Pad Thai, Pat Briao Waan Moo, Pad Se Ew, Mango Chicken, Yellow Curry Chicken, Coconut Chicken, Crispy Fish with Ginger Sauce or of course, you may choose from our extensive regular menu at listed prices.

Bent on Food Not just a café, but a destination.

Bent on Food is one of the region's most loved venues, with a dedication to local seasonal produce that is highlighted at breakfast and lunch, seven days a week. The venue also comes alive for special events and music nights, supporting local and visiting musicians. Seasonal dinners, themed events and workshops all make Bent on Food a special place. This food loving café also caters for weddings and corporate events, with a beautiful vintage caravan in tow by the name of Travelling Millie. You can find local produce on the shelves every day, or pop by on a Tuesday morning for the local farmers' market, where all produce is grown locally. Take in a coffee in the garden, or a glass of wine and lunch. Pop up to Bent on Life for some shopping. The choice is yours; there’s so much to do, that you won’t want to leave.

NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS (02) 6557 0727 www.bentonfood.com.au Find us on Instagram and Facebook.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 23

focusinterview.

Great Lakes Hospice

Palliative Care S U P P O R T

S E R V I C E

pal care

Great Lakes Hospice is a local charity formed in 1989 that raises money to enhance the provision of Palliative Care services in the Great Lakes Area.

P

ast president Elizabeth Fisher OAM spoke about the early years of Great Lakes Hospice during the Compassionate Communities Symposium in Sydney, 21st February 2017.

“Community meetings were held to talk about the local need for a hospice.

Although there was great support for what was to become the “Cottage Hospice” initiative, many local folk were too busy to invest a lot of time in establishing and running a facility, and support dwindled to a dedicated few. In the early days, the vision was to purchase and then staff a small hospice facility.

Laurel Cottage, a three bedded facility, was established in Forster and was used for a short time.

“Unfortunately, ongoing funding was not possible, and we were advised it had to be a nine bed hospice for it to be economically viable. So instead, we sold the cottage hospice, invested the money, and ever since we have used that money to support people to stay in their own homes; so, our money now is used not on bricks and mortar, but on providing a whole range of services that enable people to die in their own home or at least be at home for as long as possible.”

Deidre Stokes, current President, recalls how much assistance the Great Lakes Hospice has given to patients living in the Great Lakes. Prior to retirement, Deidre had worked as a Community Palliative Care Nurse for over 20 years.

24 Manning-Great Lakes focus

“I had the privilege to see firsthand the assistance and services that were provided

by Great Lakes Hospice in order to enhance the quality of life of our patients and to assist those facing one of the most difficult times of their life.

“As a charity we receive no government funding; we have a hard working Auxiliary that conducts regular fundraising activities such as garage sales, fashion parades, raffles and the annual Trivia night, which is always popular.

We have a major fundraiser coming up for Melbourne Cup Day - our thanks to Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club for supporting us in this way. We also have amazing community support from service and sporting clubs, as well as individuals that make regular donations towards our work.

“The Matt Nixon Golf Day, held annually for 16 years, has donated over $150,000 to our organisation. What an amazing tribute to Matt, his family, friends and colleagues.”

Well, what is the money used for?

We provide an equipment pool and loan equipment out at no cost to the user. This includes portable oxygen concentrators that allow patients to go out of their home, whether for appointments, to visit friends or just to get outside the house. Earlier this year we donated a concentrator to the Bulahdelah team for the use of patients in their area.

We provide extra services like assistance with personal care, domestic assistance

and cover the costs of medications, social work, podiatry and physiotherapy visits for those who are in financial need.

Referrals for assistance come from the Community Palliative Care Team, and all requests are considered on an individual needs basis. We have provided education opportunities, including scholarships, to enhance the knowledge of our local care providers. We can also assist with the cost of respite care, should that be required.

Currently we spend $70,000 per year on service provision.

A few years ago Deidre recalled having a patient at Nabiac who had run out of water and didn’t have any money until his sickness benefit came in the following week. Great Lakes Hospice paid for his water tank to be filled, an unusual request, but one that made a huge difference to that family.

We have a Wig Service for Oncology patients. Charmaine Barraclough does a wonderful job by providing support to patients losing their hair as a result of cancer treatment. Charmaine visits, advises on the choice of a wig, places the order and follows up the patient with the provision of the wig at no cost to the patient. Many people report the wonderful support they have received from Charmaine through this service.

Get in touch with Great Lakes Hospice: Great Lakes Hospice inc., PO Box 163, Forster 2428.

Ph 0437 830 818.

focus_contributor

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

Taree Film Society

watch

T Budburst.

Budburst in the vineyard is one of those things that always brings a sense of wonder and amazement ... Mother nature providing the raw material for creating the nectar that has been revered for centuries.

B

udburst represents both renewal and hope. Renewal from a period of winter dormancy, when the vines appear to have shutdown and

be near death. Hope is for the season ahead providing a good amount of rain at the right time, plenty of ripening sun and a negligible storm season.

frost can be disastrous, burning and effectively killing them. The 2017 vintage was extremely vulnerable to frost, because the winter was particularly mild and budburst came on during August. This year budburst has happened at the customary time of year, being September. There is always risk of a late frost, but the risk is reduced the later budburst occurs.

For us, the best way to protect the vines be a risky time, when from frost damage air temperature rises the vines are most is to make sure the and the days grow vulnerable to damage plants have plenty of longer. The sap flows from late frosts.

Once moisture, so that when in the vines, and the the buds have emerged, (and if) ice crystals form buds swell. The stored frost can be disastrous, on the buds and draw carbohydrate in the burning and effectively moisture, the buds roots and wood of killing them.” don't dehydrate. The the vine provide the most effective method energy for this burst of frost protection is of growth. It is both to cover the plants to beautiful and exciting stop the frost from settling on them. An to see vines transform in some minor way alternative method to minimise frost damage each day. is to use a sprinkler system to slowly defrost Budburst is the first sign of the vintage the ice that has formed on buds. ahead, when the fluffy buds emerge.

Budburst has announced the growing season They progress from buds to shoots, to leaf is here and the vineyard will be needing emergence, to inflorescence, to flowers, and constant care. Every aspect of the vineyard, the final transformation into tiny bunches of the soil, the posts and wires, the inner rows, grapes that slowly grow and fill out into juicy, the weeds, the vines, the pests, the canopy, flavoursome sweet berries. keeping the vines fed and watered ... there Budburst can also be a risky time, when the is plenty of work to keep a vineyard healthy and productive. Let's see what this new vines are most vulnerable to damage from season brings! late frosts. Once the buds have emerged, Budburst occurs when

the soil warms and the

“Budburst can also

aree Film Society screens the gorgeous Summer 1993 (PG) at 7pm Monday 15th October at Fay’s Twin Cinema.

One of 2018’s most awarded and acclaimed films (achieving a rare 100% positive rating by over 60 international critics), Carla Simón’s autobiographical debut is an evocative and profoundly affecting depiction of childhood and family lost and found, marking the arrival of a major new voice in world cinema.

In the summer of 1993, following the death of her parents, six-year old Frida (Laia Artigas) is forced from bustling Barcelona to the Catalan provinces to live with her aunt (Bruna Cusí) and uncle (David Verdaguer), her new legal guardians. Country life is a challenge: aside from the emotional upheaval, the nature that surrounds her is mysterious, if not dangerous.

focus_contributor

The couple’s own daughter Anna (Paula Robles), even younger than Frida, welcomes her new sister with open arms and without a flicker of jealousy, but Frida has a hard time coping with her emotions. Even as the new family begins to find a fragile balance, the source of her parents’ passing casts a shadow over how Frida is treated by the local community … Indeed, her life will never be the same.

To reveal more would only spoil the pleasures generated by this very special film experience, which proves that even the most familiar stories can seem brand new when told with such empathy, authenticity and beauty. Summer 1993 is a film to discover, treasure and share. Tickets are $16, including coffee, cakes and chatting.

For more info, visit www.tareefilmsociety.org.au or call 6552 3476.

HORTICULTURALIST NEVILLE DONOVAN - GREENPATCH ORGANIC SEEDS

WH

AT’S IN

season Pumpkin

Pumpkin, also known as squash, is an abundant vegetable which rewards us with ample fruit of all shapes, sizes, colours and textures, cooked and served as a savoury or sweet dish. Pumpkin is a nutritious vegetable low in calories, high in vitamin A, B, potassium, and the seeds are a good source of protein and other minerals. The young stems and leaves can be steamed or added to a stir fry.

Certain pumpkin varieties grow compact and bushy, take up little space in the garden and can produce up to six fruit per plant. If space is available for a larger vine, allow the plant to spread and as the long stems send down roots into the soil, this will also help the plants' health and vigour.

The yellow male flowers appear earlier than the female flowers in the growth cycle and eventually can be seen on the same plant.

Fruit is ready for harvest when the leaves start to yellow and the fruit changes to a dull colour. Also, the attachment between

the fruit and the plant begins to dry.

A mostly sunny location is ideal, well drained soil with a depth of 20 - 30 cm, avoid water logging. During the dry periods, retain moisture by mulching around the plant and water deeply.

Pumpkin responds well to additions of compost, organic based fertilizers such as animal manure, blood and bone, pelletised chicken manure and liquid fertilizers. It’s important not to over water or over fertilize plants, as this will produce excessive leaf growth and may cause young fruit to rot, ending with less fruit growth.

The pumpkin beetle is the main pest, which chews the young leaves. When a plant is healthy, it will generally outgrow such an infestation and it is usually not a problem.

Powdery mildew occurs much later in the growth cycle on the leaves, when the fruit is well formed.

Happy Spring Gardening!

Manning-Great Lakes focus 25

focusinterview.

Lakeside FESTIVAL

THE LAKESIDE FESTIVAL IS GEARING UP TO BE BETTER THAN EVER THIS YEAR! Sarah Dunstan speaks with the proud event team ahead of the Saturday, November 3rd festival, to find out a little more about what’s in store.

H

i everyone; thanks for speaking with FOCUS. Lakeside Festival is now in its sixth year in Tuncurry and gaining incredible momentum. Please tell us a little about what we can expect this year? This spectacular not for profit event for all ages, held on the first Saturday of November, celebrates the creative and rich talents of our diverse Midcoast and hinterland communities.

We’ve packed the finest combination of our local culture, artisans, harvest, community, local and touring musicians, street food, beverages and other fun attractions into three amazing events - The Create & Grow market, The Art Prize Exhibition and of course, The Lakeside Music Festival. All are celebrated on the shores of the beautiful blue Wallis Lake, the gateway to our region, Cape Hawke Harbour, Forster-

26 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Tuncurry NSW. One of the key areas of focus for the festival is encouraging community engagement across the MidCoast region and hinterland, highlighting our thriving local communities, The Great Lakes, Hastings, Gloucester and the Manning Valley. Why is this a key focal point of the festival, highlighting and sharing our local culture with locals and visitors to the area? Since the first Lakeside Festival in 2013, thousands of people have visited the Great Lakes to be part of the festival. This is all thanks to local businesses, volunteers, neighbourhood services, youth groups, disability groups, artists, market stall holders, farmers, vendors, performers and other participants joining together to create a positive and well organised cultural event for the wider community. It is encouraging to see the local community

the Aussie music legend Russell Morris, the iconic Bondi Cigars and blues It’s never an easy task picking who will be on our stage. We’ve rock legends The Mason acting as tourism included a combination Rack Band. We’re also ambassadors for the of seasoned and up-andshowcasing our local area and proudly coming performers, both local supporting acts: Galleri, showcasing their artists and higher-profile acts from Cranky Duck, The Black region to enhance the outside the immediate area.

Nor-Easters and Belle image of the MidCoast Badi. You’re going to and the community love their fantastic mix where we live and of blues, soul, funk, rock work. and R & B on the Lakeside We are looking forward to eight hours stage. Bring a camp chair or rug; there is plenty of live music scheduled from midday of space to relax, dance and have a good time! onwards. Tell us about the diverse groups A number of local businesses have pledged of artists in the line up this year? It’s their support to the event as sponsors. never an easy task picking who will be on Why is it important to have a local flavour our stage. We’ve included a combination of to the festival, and who are some of the seasoned and up-and-coming performers, wonderful food and drink vendors that both local artists and higher-profile acts from will be on display at Lakeside? Partnering outside the immediate area. We feel we have with many local businesses to showcase our a great eclectic mix of music to shake your area is an important aspect of the festival. It tail feathers to, featuring our headlining acts,

focusinterview.

has provided a variety of opportunities for sponsorship participations and broadened the network of support for our region. Within the Music Festival we have a bit of everything from kids rides and workshops, and a tasty selection of local and international cuisines, including Flamin Pizzas, Sue Thai Tucka, Dr Drool Grilled Cuisine, to name a few. The Bellevue Hotel is once again hosting our fully licensed LAKESIDE BAR, with a selection of beverages with the assistance of two local wineries, The Great Lakes Winery and Old Inn Road Vineyard. This will also feature our local brewer, The Coastal Brewing Co, who will be offering their latest special brew, the Lakeside Fest Beer. Please donate your 10c cans and bottles into bins provided. Proceeds go to the GLWS. You will be rising with the sun with Yoga by the Lakes this year, before commencing the Create & Grow Market from 8am until 1pm. Tell us about some of the highlights ... For all the early birds,

Yoga By the Lake class begins at 7am in John Wright Park, awakening you ready for the full day of festival fun. Bookings can be made via our Facebook page or a donation of $5 on the day, going directly to the GLWS. Once you’ve stretched out, The Create & Grow Market at Lone Pine Memorial Park is bursting with unique, handmade treasures, arts and crafts. Learn more about our local culture and community, displays and demonstrations, all sourced from the Mid North Coast. Plus, a variety of craft “make & take” workshops, lawn games and public playground to keep the little ones entertained.

Smell the sausages sizzling? Grab a BBQ snag to raise funds for our local fire brigade.

There’s no doubt there is a lot of local talent in our region. This year’s Lakeside Art Exhibition will be held from 9am. Tell us a little about how this year’s event will run at Tuncurry Memorial Hall and some of the new initiatives put in place for entrants this year? Artworks will be on

display and some marked for sale, featuring categories in Painting, Photography, Drawing and a Junior Section in this year’s Lakeside Art Exhibition Prize, with attractive cash prizes for each section. Entries have increased each year, and the Junior section has now become a large exhibition of its own, including the kids’ colouring-in competition.

We have introduced a theme of “Local Life”, which will help identify this year and allow artists to plan their works. We hope this will result in an amazing snapshot of what it is to live in our diverse area.

Vote for your favourite people’s choice and kids’ colouring in competition before exiting.

The Art Exhibition is held in the Tuncurry Memorial Hall and is open on Saturday from 9am to 2pm and Sunday 9am to Midday.

Entry to the Art Exhibition is a gold coin donation.

You are also calling out for volunteers to support in the lead-up to and for the event itself. How can people get in touch to show their interest in supporting as

a volunteer? As Lakeside Festival is a Not for Profit Festival, 100% run entirely by a committee of volunteers, we are always encouraging others to jump on board. Keen to help? Simply email our volunteer manager: aaronjosephdodds@gmail.com Where can we get our tickets? Music Festival Tickets can be pre-booked online at http://bit.ly/LFEST18Tickets or our website www.lakesidefestival.com.au Every pre-purchased adult ticket is automatically entered into the draw to WIN a $500 overseas travel voucher, proudly supplied by Lauren Finlayson - Travel Managers. Limited tickets will be sold at the gate on the day of the event. $25 ADULT (18 yrs+) online or $30 at gate $20 pp GROUPS of 6 (18 yrs+) online $15 YOUTH (13 - 17 yrs) Free CHILD (12 yrs and under) This is a family friendly and licensed event.

FREE ENTRY for Kids 12 and under.

(Under 18s must be in direct supervision of parents or guardian at all times).

Wristbands must be worn at all times.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 27

S Russell

MORRIS

ARIA hall of fame inductee Russell Morris CAPTURED THE HEARTS AND IMAGINATION OF AUSTRALIANS IN 2012 WHEN HE UNVEILED “SHARKMOUTH”, the first of a trilogy of albums retelling some amazing stories in Australia’s distant past ...

28 Manning-Great Lakes focus

ome famous, some not so famous creating a historical document using blues and rock to celebrate the yarns that modern Australia was built on the back of.

In April 2014, Russell released Van Diemen's Land. Van Diemen’s Land picks up where Sharkmouth left off, this time covering great Australian characters and stories including Breaker Morant, Sandakan, the Eureka Stockade and many more.Morris is joined on Van Diemen's Land by a host of special guest artists, including Joe Camilleri, Rick Springfield, Rob Hirst (Midnight Oil), Scott Owen (The Living End), Ross Hannaford (Daddy Cool), Vika and Linda Bull, Phil Manning (Chain) and Joe Robinson.

"Van Diemen's Land is an album that has been an amazing experience to make," said Morris.

"With the success of Sharkmouth, it really let me off my leash - so to speak. It showed me that people want music that tells them a story and moves them.

"I spent over a year researching these great Australian stories. To me, these albums are about looking back at the characters that deserve to be remembered and then doing that in the best way I know how - through song.

“It's about leaving a legacy that in fifty years’ time, someone can put these records on and learn something about the spirit of our great country, in the same way we do when we read The Man From Snowy River."

In 2015 Russell Released the third album in his Blues Trilogy, Red Dirt - Red Heart, debuting at #6 on the National Aria Charts and still going strong in the charts today, hitting the #1 on the National Aria Blues/Jazz Charts.

Red Dirt - Red Heart tells a story of the Australian interior. Any history of Australia, albeit very brief, must include the people who have inhabited this wonderful country for at least 40,000 years.

Catch Russell at this year’s Lakeside Festival.

M I D C O A S T WA S T E S E RV I C E S

festivals divert local

aids

waste to

from landfill

In 2017, JR Richards was approached by the Akoostik festival team to assist in reducing their waste going to landfill.

Whilst household recycling has consistent contamination levels of approximate 14%, event recycling has been an issue that effects all councils Australia wide. Australia is now reportedly the second highest waste generator in the world, and the major cause of this is single use items. Festivals can create a lot of single use items, such as coffee cups, straws and take away containers. The Akoostik team established a Waste Free target by 2020 and 2017 set a benchmark for us to improve on. By applying signage to all bins indicating ‘what goes where’ and seeking vendor collaboration we were able to divert 49% of all waste generated from landfill. This was an amazing achievement in our first year.

In 2018 we are ramping up our signage and promoting our waste free focus to the public in advance. Please bring along your reusable coffee cup and water bottle. Over the three day event, if just half of the 4,000 festival goers consumed 2 coffees each day, we would be sending 12,000 coffee cups to landfill, and that is not considering the hot chips or burger consumed along with it.

This year we will have a team of dedicated staff to assist festival goers to get it right. We will also be increasing the size of the signage and displaying each stall’s packaging indicating which bin it needs to go in. The biggest issue for staff will be items that are brought into the event.

On November 3, 2018 Lakeside Festival (John Wright Park, Tuncurry) will be teaming up with Midcoast Waste Services Education team to reduce their waste going to landfill. All compostable waste will be collected, and recyclable PET glasses will be used at the bar. Midcoast Waste Services reusable cups will be available for purchase at both events, and our water refill station will be available to keep you hydrated, so don’t forget your reusable bottles.

Hottest Spring & Summer the

fashion TRENDS

2018 Each change in season presents us with new inspiration and trends to follow when it comes to fashion. Styles change, new colours become “popular” and there’s a brand new attitude to adopt when it comes to dressing as the best version of yourself.

B

y now, it’s clear that the cold, brisk days of winter are officially behind us, which means spring summer fashion is very much at the forefront.

At Stockland, we’re shedding the dark, heavy layers and embracing floaty fabrics, head-to-toe tonal moments, clashing prints and bright “look at me” statement accessories.

If the catwalk trends are anything to go by,

this season is set to be a bold one. So, without further ado - here are some of the hottest trends for spring summer 2018.

Pretty In Pastel While pastel is certainly not a new trend, it’s never been reinvented quite like it has for spring summer 2018. Think shades of ballerina pink and baby blue, combined with lavender and lemon for the more adventurous fashionista.

There’s just something about this sorbetinspired colour palette that feels incredibly grown up and put together. For added detail, try a striped shirt or floral print from Jeanswest and pair back with some paperbag-waist denim shorts from Cotton On. But don’t stop there; your accessories and sleepwear can be pretty in pastel too. We love these lace-up flatforms from Kmart, simple sandals from Novo Shoes and playful pyjamas from Bras N Things.

Off Duty Chic When it comes to casual dressing, everyone should have a handful of pieces in their wardrobe that they call upon when they want to look casual and cool, but feel comfortable too. Which is why the Off Duty trend for spring summer is one of our absolute favourites.

It combines on-trend denim jumpsuits from Sportsgirl with edgy cargo pants from Cotton On and printed Lorna Jane crop-tops with ease.

Just add white sneakers for instant street-cred, a neoprene bag from Strandbags and a pair of cat-eye sunnies to top off the look.

Because, let’s face it - we all have days where we don’t want to think about our outfits, but we still want to look stylish! And that’s where the Off Duty chic trend can help you out.

Tonal Moment It would be easy to overlook this next trend as being overly fussy and fraught with danger, but we’re here to tell you an all-tonal look is right on the fashion money this year. In general,

people underestimate the chic nature of this look, instead turning to an all-black number, which while classy, can sometimes feel tired and out-dated. Whereas, a tonal look allows you to really experiment with shape, texture and intricate detail.

We’re especially fond of a linen midi skirt and crop-top combo from Sussan and Jay Jays or an adorable gingham playsuit from Sportsgirl.

Just add mules from Spendless Shoes and gold accessories, and you’ll be a picture of sophistication at every event this summer.

Spots and Stripes Over time, old fashion rules have been broken down and reimagined. Now, it’s considered on-trend to wear blue and green together and to double up your denim for date-night. And this next trend is no exception. Pairing spots and stripes together may seem overwhelming, but as long as the patterns stand out from each other, you can put together a look that will turn heads for all the right reasons. It’s time to earn your stripes (and spots, for that matter) with this winning combination.

A tie-waist floaty dress from Sussan looks great paired with espadrilles for a summer barbecue, or for something a little subtler, pick up a plain tee from Noni B to pair with stripe shorts for a picnic in the park. Keep your accessories simple though - a pair of roundframe sunnies from Specsavers will do the trick.

This information has been provided by our Stockland retailers. All reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information is correct at the time of the content going live. However, no warranty is given as to the accuracy of that information. The information may change from time to time without notice. Stocks are limited and only available while stocks last with individual retailers. Products may vary from location to location.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 29

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COFFS COAST // 15-18 NOV 2018

Don’t miss the unforgettable climax of the FIA World Rally Championship!

See the world’s most daring rally drivers and the fastest rally cars in up-close action. Who will be the new World Champion?

Thursday (4pm): FREE Rally Show and Ceremonial Start with all the drivers, Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore.

Friday: All-day competition on shire and forestry stages followed by the spectacular twilight Destination New South Wales Super Special Stage on the Jetty Foreshore.

Saturday: More shire and forestry stages includes the stadium-style Raleigh Special Stage. The Destination New South Wales Super Special Stage on the Jetty Foreshore caps an exciting day.

Sunday: The rally and the WRC season end on Wedding Bells Special Stage, with heaps of all-day family entertainment. Wait to the end for the Podium Ceremony.

All weekend: Visit Pedders Rally Central, where the rally cars will be based and return for service. It’s FREE and a great place to see drivers and cars up-close, eat, drink and buy souvenirs.

Turn your rally visit into a great mini-break.

See www.rallyaustralia.com.au for holiday ideas and a full rally spectating guide.

BOOK NOW RALLYAUSTRALIA.COM.AU Manning-Great Lakes focus 31

Get yousr Ticket

October

19-21 WINGHAM

Now

Music FESTIVAL FOOD

Diesel • Dragon • Backsliders Hat Fitz and CarA • Bill Chambers • Grizzlee Train

Round Mountain Girls • The Swamp Stompers • Minnie Marks • Lachy Doley Liam Gerner • Eagle and The Wolf • Mitch King • Darren Jack • Matty ZarB • D’Boyzos • Cornstalk

Love Drunk Hearts • Jesse Redwing • Galleri • Dave Wilkins • Glen Mead • Trapps • The Girl Folder • Wingsong Sofiella Watt + the Handsome Husbands • Sam Hasty • Angus Gill • Blake O’Connor • Peggy Van Zalm • Waang Djarri Dancers • Rachel Hore Choir

Follow us on Facebook

C.

MA N

EY LL IN

B

O

ES

GH

Camping, Stalls & more

NG VA

N EI

3 BRILLIANT DAYS of Music,

NI

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H O O D S ER

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Wingham NSW • akoostik.com.au • Tickets @ oztix.com.au 32 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

ZER O

T

With so many festival-goers flocking to the Wingham Akoostik Festival, THERE’S BOUND TO BE AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. We speak to Donna Ballard about the festival’s aim of zero waste by 2020.

he Wingham Akoostik Music Festival is presented annually by a committee of eight volunteers, who share a passion for music and the arts. The committee formed in 2006 with the aim of raising the cultural profile of the Manning Valley and is auspiced by Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services.

The festival is three brilliant days of music and aims to attract visitors to the rural town every October. The festival is one of the most vibrant arts events on the NSW MidCoast calendar, attracting headline acts including Russell Morris, Kasey Chambers, Joe Camilleri, Ross Wilson, James Reyne, Richard Clapton and many more.

What does zero waste really mean?

In order to preserve the natural beauty of the region, the committee have set the target for the festival to be waste free by 2020, aiming to send zero waste to landfill.

Is it possible to actually get zero?

Whilst it is an ambitious target, it can be achieved if we recycle all waste generated.

In 2016, through contamination of recycled materials, all festival waste went 100% to landfill.

In 2017 we returned a really amazing outcome, to have 49% of waste diverted from landfill. This indicated that communication and education to event-goers was well received, and they were responsive to the requests made by the strong team leading the project and the dedicated volunteers who enforced their aims.

In 2018, with improved processes and communication strategies, an even better diversion result will be delivered. By 2020, the event will be waste free.

What was the driving force behind zero waste by 2020 for the festival?

Many music festivals leave their festival sites littered with rubbish, and then for efficiency in a quick clean up push, all waste goes straight to landfill. At the end of the 2016 Akoostik Festival, I personally felt like we had let our community down when I saw three skip bins of mainly food waste and rows of bins all lined up to go to landfill. We were looking for options to address waste, as our volunteers had always passionately pushed for us to be more responsible with recycling.

It's a massive goal; how do you aim to get there?

It is a sizeable goal to reduce or recycle 30 cubic metres of waste! We aim to communicate our goal and educate our audience to adopt the waste free philosophy. We are also ensuring we make the most of the return and earn station by returning our cans, glass and plastic bottles.

The funds from this will be donated to the local heroes of our Rural Fire Brigade.

You mentioned in 2016 that all waste went into landfill. How have you managed to divert this, and where does all the waste go?

In 2017, despite a 10% increase in festival attendance, overall waste was reduced by more than 20%, to 24.5 cubic metres. Of this, 49% (11.9 cubic metres) was diverted to recycling,

Waste

by 2020 Initiative

with approximately 2 cubic metres from the event composted for soil for the Wingham Community Garden via Islands in the Stream Vermiculture letting the worms do the work!

In addition, the Akoostik Festival and MidCoast Waste Services put a number of key strategies in place in 2017 to reduce event waste going to landfill. The strategies include: • Requesting that stall holders provide compostable packaging • Placing clear signage on all bins, indicating what goes where • PA announcements promoting “Waste Free by 2020” aim • Our waste team attending to bins across the entire weekend • Water refill station to reduce single use water bottles • Promoting reuse of coffee cups Stall holders would create considerable waste; how did you manage to change this?

Many stallholders are already on board with the concept of using packaging that can be recycled; in fact, many of the local weekend markets insist on this. We state it as a requirement in our stallholder applications, and ensure they are also on board with our Waste Free by 2020 target.

It must take an army to pull this off. Who else is on board, and what do they do?

Besides our incredible Akoostik volunteers, of which approx. 20 are on the waste team, we collaborate with local service providers: MidCoast Council, MidCoast Waste Services, JR

Richards, Islands in the Stream Vermiculture, and the Community Garden committee of Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services.

All are focused on providing practical solutions for diverting and recycling waste to meet the Waste Free by 2020 event aim.

What where some of the biggest challenges you face?

In 2017, people were not sure if their waste belonged in recycling or rubbish, and if their scraps could be sent to the worms! In 2018 we will staple samples of the waste items above the bins they belong in, to save any wrong decisions at the time of tossing.

How can the festival-goers contribute?

If festival goers can bring their coffee keepcups, that will assist greatly. MidCoast Waste officer Megan Griffiths installs drink stations on site too, so people can refill their water bottles and save waste from plastic water bottles. We also ask they follow the instructions from our well educated waste team and dispose of their rubbish in the right bin. We also invite festivalgoers to visit our “Akoostik Art of Recycling”, to witness local artists converting “waste” into pieces of art across the festival weekend. Those who attended last year may recall our rainbow chandelier made from plastic soft drink bottles.

Where can we find out more? akoostik.com.au/zero-waste-by-2020 www.midwaste.org.au and www.islandsinthestream.com.au Thanks Donna.

Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 33

Greenpatch Open Day. Up-close Animal Encounters.

Billabong Zoo Koala and Wildlife Park cares for over 80 species, with over 200 animals located throughout ten acres of shady gardens.

Experience an up-close Animal Encounter with personal Zoo Keeper commentary: available with Snow Leopards, Cheetahs, Red Pandas, Meerkats, Koalas and Snakes. Bookings essential.

An Animal Encounter is a very special experience that stays with you for a lifetime.

You can also enjoy 16 free Zoo Keeper talks throughout the day included in the entry fee; PLUS, there are reptile shows on the weekends and during the school holidays. There is a children’s playground and an all-day Kangaroo and Wallaroo walkthrough meadow for patting and feeding; Zoo Café for meals, snacks, ice cream, coffee and drinks; souvenirs, gifts and retail therapy in the popular Zoo Shop.

The multi award-winning Billabong Zoo is always fun for the kids and educational for everyone. Open every day: 9am - 5pm, rain or shine. Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie - it’s more than a great day out. It’s the best value zoo in Australia. Located at 61 Billabong Drive, just off the Oxley Highway (two minutes from the Pacific Highway).

For full details, visit billabongzoo.com.au or call 6585 1060.

Enjoy a fun day out at Billabong Zoo, set amongst 10 acres of lush beautiful gardens.

Get up close to over 80 species of animals, reptiles and birds. Feed our kangaroos, pat a koala, dingo or snake. We are open every day except Christmas day, rain or shine.

Zoo talks 16 FREE keeper presentations daily

(included in entry fee) + reptile show at the weekends and holidays Up-close Book one of our Personal Encounters Zoo Café Enjoy a fresh and delicious bite at our café Zoo Shop Buy a souvenir or a gift for someone special

Conservation through education

OPEN DAILY 9am to 5pm

Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie 6585 1060 | Billabongzoo.com.au

34 Manning-Great Lakes focus

H&N_PORT_ADVERT_SEPT18_107x169.indd 1

12/09/2018 10:14 PM

When: Sunday 14th October - 10am to 2pm.

Where: Greenpatch Organic Seeds, 109 Old Bar Rd, Glenthorne - see where we grow over 200 varieties of seeds and 500 varieties of nursery plants are propagated onsite.

Nursery and shop will be open from 10am to 2pm for purchases.

Lee Fieldhouse from “Islands in the Stream” will have his BIOCAST+ on display and available for purchase.

10am - “Farm Tour”, including orchards, herb and flower gardens, nursery production and vegetable seed cropping.

11am - Anna Martin from “Amber Drop Honey” is a local environmentally minded bee keeper passionate to share her wisdom and talk about bees, pollination and how it all works!

12pm - enjoy the “Dingo Creek String Band” while having your delicious BBQ lunch; vegetarian option available. Tea and coffee. Gold coin donation for lunch.

12:45pm - 2pm - “Plant Propagation” workshop with horticulturalist Neville Donovan, covering the basics of seed raising, divisions and cuttings.

Become a Greenpatch member and save. For A $29 one year subscription, you will receive six seed packets of your choice with a Greenpatch Catalogue, 10% discount off all bulk seed, seed packets and nursery plants for one year. For a $54 two year subscription, you receive 12 seed packets of your choice with a Greenpatch Catalogue, 10% discount off all bulk seed, seed packets and nursery plants for two years.

Tunccury Coach Tours.

South Coast NSW 27th November to 2nd December 2018 6 Days and 5 Nights Come with us and explore the amazing South Coast of NSW. Some of the places we see include Braidwood, The Bedervale Homestead, the pristine waters of the Clyde River, Nelligen, the Mogo Zoo, The Tilba Cheese Factory, Eden, the Killer Whale Museum, The biggest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, The Nan Tien Temple (staying at the Pilgrim Lodge). Then, get the opportunity to participate in a chanting session and try Tai Chi with a guide, see the Seacliff Bridge, the Sydney Tram Museum and much, much more.

Cost $1,050.00. Single Room extra $300.00.

Deposit $100.00 at time of booking.

The Ghan 24th August to 6th September 2019 14 Days and 13 Nights Coach to Sydney, fly to Darwin with sunset dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour, Litchfield National Park four days and three nights. Ghan Expedition Package to Adelaide, four nights in Adelaide overnight, Mildura and Wagga, includes all day tours of Ghan and meals. See itinerary for full details.

Limited seats available. Gold Class single cabins on Ghan and Gold Class doubles with bunk beds.

Deposit $100.00 at time of booking. Cost (TBA).

Les Misérables After a record-breaking run of 33 years around the world, Les Misérables is still as fresh, vibrant and relevant as ever. Fresh staging and orchestrations bring an epic season of entertainment to the Manning Entertainment Centre.

Set against the Paris uprisings of the 1830s (not the French Revolution of the century before), the stage show adapts Victor Hugo’s epic saga into a moving, thrilling and thoroughly entertaining piece of live theatre.

The story follows Jean Valjean (Tim Gibbs) an ex-convict who has served 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread. He escapes parole and starts a new life for himself after the kindness shown by the Bishop of Digne (Alex Wilson). Valjean adopts the child Little Cosette (Amara Crutcher/ Isabella Howard) orphaned when her mother, Fantine (Mary Camphuis) dies. Valjean pays the corrupt innkeepers, the Thenardiers (Dave Stephens, Patricia Williams) and their daughter

Little Eponine (Katelyn Davidson/Chloe Hicks) to rescue Little Cosette from their clutches.

Meanwhile the dogged Inspector Javert (Rod Illidge) is determined to track Jean Valjean down. To escape, Valjean flees to Paris and a decade passes. An older Cosette (Caitlyn Cameron) meets Marius (Alex Blenkin) a young revolutionary in a group of students, led by charismatic Enjolras (Ian Castle). Other unforgettable characters such as streetwise Eponine (Stacey Evans) and young urchin Gavroche (Alexander Ford-Chilvers/Sam Stephens) are dramatically involved in the narrative, which reaches a poignant and uplifting climax.

Director Gayle Cameron and Vocal Director Don Secomb have assembled an outstanding production team and a live orchestra to bring this blockbuster to the MEC. An absolute mustsee; book now, as tickets are selling fast.

Coming in October Pro-Am Boxing Club Forster, in conjunction with CCB

General admission tickets (unreserved seats) are

Promotions, is proud to present a night

$30 each and available at reception or online

of live boxing featuring the cream of

at www.clubforster.com.au or you can call the

local amateurs, plus a great lineup

club on 6591 6591.

of professionals - including a current

Ringside corporate tickets (tables of 10) are also

NSW Champion, along with a couple of

available by calling Kylie Mannix on 0410 493

international fighters!

770, who will explain the special package price

Come and support your favourite local athletes,

and inclusions.

along with enjoying the exciting atmosphere

This event has been sanctioned by Boxing

that only a live boxing event can create.

Australia NSW and Combat Sports.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 35

focus_contributor

WITH DONNA CARRIER FROM BENT ON FOOD

Marie Johnston’s 60th

Marie Johnston’s 60th

The cast of Les Misérables at “A night in Paris” Photo Credit Daniel Barry

The cast of Les Misérables at “A night in Paris”

Spring Dinner Tellers Restaurant

Photo Credit Daniel Barry

Spring Dinner Tellers Restaurant

Social /Scene

L

I just saw a commercial for Ocsober, and immediately decided that this would not work for me. I have always known October as Rocktober, along with being the month of my birthday and that of many of my friends.

ocally, October is the month of Wingham Akoostik Festival and Old Bar Beach Festival. So as much as I would like to help a good cause, and take a month off the wine, it just won’t be happening. I am looking forward to this month, with some great music and for me, a new beginning in our new home in Wingham. I will write my next column as I look over the Manning River; I am sure I will miss the view of the Ghost Gums and the sounds of the birdlife, and I will certainly miss fresh eggs from my own chickens, along with alpaca pats, and impromptu get togethers with the neighbours, but walking to work, being closer to the beach and cooking the evening meal in a kitchen that I can move around in will be a bonus.

September has been busy, in a good way, with lots of outings - including some great live gigs locally.

I have been a fan of The Clouds for many years, and I was so excited when I saw that Trish and Jodi from the band would be playing at Flow Bar on Saturday 15th September; I booked my tickets immediately. These talented ladies put on a fantastic performance with their beautiful harmonies and amazing guitar ability, combined with some of the most captivating lyrics ever written. The venue has a great feel, with super friendly service and tasty food, and I had a fabulous time. Thanks to the Flow Bar team for bringing great gigs to the region.

36 Manning-Great Lakes focus

the show and after the snippet of what is to We were thrilled to collaborate with Tellers come, I am tempted to go more than once.

Restaurant for a successful spring dinner on 1st Our local thespians and cast of the production September. It quickly booked out, and we are entertained us beautifully, with Jeremy Miller being asked often about a follow up dinner. doing his usual great job of emceeing the event.

Local produce was the star of the night, with The French inspired canapés and cheese platters our head chef Michael Finch doing a superb job were delicious, and it of preparing most of was great to see so many the courses, including familiar faces. Make an entrée of beetroot sure you get online or cured local kingfish and pop into Bass n Blues to salmon in a macadaSo as much as I would like to help mia nest with poached purchase your tickets to a good cause, and take a month off quail eggs, and spring Les Misérables soon. You the wine, it just won’t be happening. greens from local can see it at the Manning I am looking forward to growers. Coco Conner Entertainment Centre this month, with some great prepared an amazing from November 2nd to music and for me, a new blood orange and November 18th. beginning in our new home rosemary crème brûlée September has been in Wingham. with Kingston Creek a busy month for local Creamery’s vanilla bean independent gallery “A icecream and roasted Little to the Left”, with macadamia nut crumb book launches, radio - very tasty! We all eninterviews, news spots joyed working together, which made it a relaxed and exhibitions! They began the month with a night of doing what we do best - celebrating beautiful family exhibition called 10 in the Bag; local produce! featuring works of the late Marjory Cockburn We had a fabulous time at “A Night in Paris” and her three children, Peter and Linda Hume, on Friday 21st September. The event, held in and local David Glenn-Hume. Opening night The Waterfront Room of the Exchange Hotel, broke the gallery record, with 80+ people in was a bit of a teaser and fundraiser for Taree attendance, including Dr David Keegan, Marion Arts Council’s upcoming production of Les Hosking, Dr Michael Burgess, and many other Misérables. I was always intending to go see locals. People travelled from Avalon and inter-

state to be part of the festivities, with 50% of funds from all sold artworks being donated to Dignity, a charity supporting homelessness that was co-founded by a relative of A Little to the Left gallery owners.

Jane Milburn, who is the author of acclaimed publication Slow Clothing, came to town to hold some inspiring workshops and book launches.

If you missed the workshops, A Little to the Left will be running more of these in the next month, so pop on up there to find out when!

At the end of July, we were invited to a very special surprise 60th birthday get together for Marie Johnston. Her beautiful daughter, Shona, kept a very good secret with the help of her dad, Grant and brother James. Marie arrived to see 30 of her close friends and family gathered on their family farm with glass in hand to toast the lovely birthday girl. Shona hadn’t forgotten a thing, and even ordered Marie’s favourite cheesecakes from Bent on Food. Other friends made some delicious sweets, which followed a great looking grazing table and a tasty spit roast.

The night was made complete by some tunes from Marie’s very talented son, James Johnston and his mate, Chad Haydon. We all enjoyed a relaxed afternoon of celebration.

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.

Social / Scene

Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club XXXX Gold Cup Day

Manning-Great Lakes focus 37

iTero+Invisalign Dentistry is an exciting field that is constantly changing and reinventing itself. Recently, with the invent of technology such as 3D Xray, scanner and 3D printer, it is an exciting time to work, study, or seek treatment in the field of dentistry. These new technologies are revolutionising how patients experience dentistry, by meeting the needs of patients faster, keeping them comfortable and delivering a service in a timely manner, while achieving consistent and reliable outcomes that allows the patients to actually be involved in the designing process.

One of the newest revolutionary technologies in dentistry is the iTero scanner. The iTero is not only an intra-oral 3D scanner, but also a simulator that makes a 3D digital mould of your mouth with precision, speed and reliability, so you can not only see your teeth in 3D, but you can plan treatment with specific outcomes and see the final results in 3D. The iTero scanner is now available at all four of Sundial Dental’s friendly practices, to give you a visual impression of your teeth, mouth and bite. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, because this technology literally changes the way you see your smile!

The iTero scanner/simulator can be used to take a virtual impression of your teeth, so you can look at your current condition to check

your teeth’s alignment, bite and view any improvements that can be made to change your bite/alignment or your smile. This scan can also be archived to track how your smile is changing over time, or it can be used in a simulator mode to see what changes could be made to improve your smile.

These changes can all be made with the clear orthodontic solution that is known today as Invisalign. Invisalign is the world’s leading clear orthodontic appliance. It uses a sequence of clear aligners to change your smile, bite and the fit of your teeth and because the aligners are clear, they fit in with your lifestyle, without the heavy intrusion of metal braces. Invisalign not only corrects the appearance/aesthetics of your smile; it also improves your bite, your teeth’s

alignment, resolves crowding, gaps, impacted teeth, and helps improve your overall health by making it easier to keep your teeth clean and healthy and keep gum disease at bay. Invisalign can also correct any pressured areas, that may cause reoccurring chips/broken teeth, TMJ issues and can be used to improve your overall health.

What does the iTero scanner involve?

The iTero scan is free at Sundial with an Oral Health Therapist/Hygienist appointment.

The scan takes about 20 - 30 minutes and will generate a visual impression that can be used for future diagnostic purposes or a consultation regarding your dental health. Your Oral Health Therapist/Hygienist will go through the digital simulator and present your current dental health, or they can look at a realistic image of

how your teeth could look after treatment with Invisalign. It is a fast procedure that consists of an intra-oral camera used to scan the surfaces of your teeth, which will then activate the digital simulator. At this appointment you will be able to ask any questions you may have regarding the treatment, before having a consultation with one of our Invisalign providers. What’s even better, this fast, digital impression appointment is FREE! Let us change the way you view your smile! Call the caring team at Sundial to schedule your FREE scan today!

PMQ 6583 3533 Wauchope 6585 2015 Taree 6551 1005 Laurieton 6559 9276

Don’t kiss your optical benefits goodbye

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38 Manning-Great Lakes focus

*Terms and conditions apply. See in practice for details. Mention this offer in practice to claim your free pair of prescription glasses.

16 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Manning-Great Lakes focus 47

kinetic MEDICINE

A recent study of GP prescribing habits of a group of medications called Benzodiazapines showed that those who are most vulnerable to their ill effects were the ones most likely to receive the drug.

This was shown by matching prescribing habits to a report by the Victorian Coroner showing drugs like Diazepam to be risky, especially when prescribed to older adults. Another recent survey of GPs who sent patients for imaging like X-ray, CTs and MRIs showed that those least likely to benefit from this imaging, and in fact most likely to suffer harm, were the ones most sent, instead of receiving the care most likely to improve their condition.

Why am I telling you this? Because we live in a society where our healthcare system is geared through its funding to favour drugs over empowering people to do better with their health through getting expert advice. Specific exercise-based therapies have been shown to be as effective in some cases as the relevant drugs in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, diabetes, osteoarthritis, chronic lung diseases and polycystic ovary syndrome. In a large number of other conditions like osteoporosis, Parkinson’s, many forms of cancer and many autoimmune conditions, pharmaceutical therapy has a much better effect when paired with exercise therapy. Yet, despite this groundswell of evidence, the vast majority of sufferers are not referred to an exercise physiologist for goldstandard in care and many, in fact, get exactly the sort of care they shouldn’t.

I don’t want to get all tin-foil-hat conspiracy theorist, but there are many invested in the status quo of poor care continuing. I don’t mean your trusted GP or local healthcare team. Pharmaceutical companies, as one example, sponsor medical conferencing and control the agenda on published health education. At one conference where I was a speaker, one drug company threatened to pull their support unless we assured them our presentation would not paint their products in a bad light. So even though the government spends $12 billion a year (and growing) on pharmaceuticals, it spent less than $8 billion on GP visitation and relative spare change on access to allied health like exercise physiology, dietetics and psychology, and no government has the guts to change this.

A change in habit can be a tricky to thing to put in to practice, am I right? It’s pretty easy to talk up how we’re going to do this and that, but at the end of the day we always end up reverting back to the thing we generally do.

People are people, and medical professionals are no different. So the next time you’re at your GP for a specific concern, why not have a discussion about whether exercise, diet or thinking better could help - it might just save your life.

Is a work injury co$ting you?

Take the steps to get back control of your life and livelihood.

Kinetic Medicine wants to empower you to get better and move forward, back to work. Contact us on 02 6557 7479 or visit www.kineticmedicine.com.au

Get Better | Stay Better| Live Better Manning-Great Lakes focus 41

focuseditorial.

B u l m e r

Olympics World Summer

T e i l a

Special

G A M E S

J a s o n

H o l l y

It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be selected to represent Australia in sport, and that is exactly what Jason Holly and Teila Bulmer, from Forster, have done. Joining over 7,000 competitors from 170 countries, Jason and Teila will compete at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi in March 2019.

J

ason will compete in Ten Pin Bowling singles and doubles events. Teila will compete in the 100 m and 200 m freestyle, relay and breastroke or backstroke swimming events.

For both, it is a dream come true.

“At first,” said Teila, “I didn’t think I was going, but when I heard I was really excited.”

It has been Jason’s ultimate goal for some time. He is excited to be bowling for his town, his country and to follow in his grandfather’s steps, as he was also a first class bowler.

The pair have just arrived backed from a training camp at Tallebudgera, where they met up with other team members.

“This region has some very talented bowlers,” explained Julie, Jason’s mum. “Of the 12 in the National team, seven are from NSW; we have a strong representation.”

Training camps are just one element of a committed training regime. Teila does pool work two days a week and works on strength and fitness in the gym as well. Her coaches, Pete and Adele, have been working with her to improve her turn technique. Jason works in the gym on the elliptical machine and free weights to increase his upper body strength and has a personal trainer in the gym to fine tune his regime and encourage him to work harder.

There will be 50 lanes in the Bowling Alley in Abu

42 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Dhabi, and Jason is working hard TEILA EXPLAINED THE to remain calm and shake off the SPECIAL OLYMPICS HAS noise around him. His part-time job BEEN HER BIG GOAL FOR at Coles has helped him to adapt OVER 14 YEARS: ‘WHEN I to busy environments with lots of STAND ON THE BLOCKS “We are very pleased to strangers around.

BEFORE THE RACE, I TELL have as our major sponsors Jason’s coach, Clay, says Jason’s MYSELF TO STAY CALM AND Dundaloo Support Services, preparation is going well: “He listens SWIM MY OWN RACE. Forster Bowling and to everything I say, focuses well and Entertainment Club and the shows great discipline and healthy Mid North Coast Country competitiveness. Jason is currently and Western Association,” working hard increasing his sparing said Julie. “Their support has capability and has seen good results. This really helps helped enormously, and we do have some community with building his score.” fundraising events that people can attend.”

Teila explained the Special Olympics has been her big A Trivia and Auction Day will be held at Forster goal for over 14 years: “When I stand on the blocks Bowling Club Function Room at 1pm on Sunday, before the race, I tell myself to stay calm and swim my October 21. Donations of merchandise, gift cards and own race.” cash are still being gratefully received. You can make up After a 14 hour flight, the team will have three days’ a table of family or friends, bring your own nibblies and orientation to get used to the climate, environment and enjoy a fun packed afternoon. Entry is $10 per person. time zone differences before the Opening Ceremony.

On Sunday, November 25, there will be a Ten Pin All athletes recite the Athletes Oath at the beginning Bowl-a-thon at Forster Bowling and Entertainment of all competitions - Teila and Jason know it well - “Let Club. For full details and bookings, you can contact me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the Julie on 0417 655 305 or email jdaskal1@gmail.com. attempt”.

With so many preparations underway, Jason and Teila There is a busy crew of supporters raising funds and hold fast to their goal to do their best, bring home as working hard to get the pair to Abu Dhabi, with several many medals and ribbons as they can and enjoy the fundraising events planned. experience. We wish them the very best.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 39

Heart, and Soul, of the City

W

ith eight weeks until Christmas and high summer, planning now for school holidays and travel is essential. If Sydney with its huge array of attractions is your destination, booking no later than this month secures the best remaining availability and rates for accommodation during the high-demand peak season. Leaving arrangements longer adds to costs, reduces options and will certainly impact inevitable festive frustration.

This urgency was evident on my recent visit to Sydney for a tourism convention and preview of the Sydney summer shows. Leaving it till last minute saw my trip clash with many conferences and events I hadn’t considered; my favourite hotels had no vacancies. Happily, serendipity struck and I discovered a lesser-known gem well worth sharing.

Breakfree on George is a newly-refurbished property amid bustling Chinatown, managed by the respected Mantra Group. This isn’t your five-star elite retreat in the rarefied environs of Circular Quay - yet one that has superior practical attributes for holidaying couples and families at budget rates. Its location is its special appeal: with dual frontages on George and Sussex streets it gives ease of access to major city attractions.

Breakfree’s modest exterior belies the fact it offers the same crisp white sheets and towels, immaculate bathroom, bath and hand-held shower, morning newspaper, car parking, wifi and Foxtel at half the price of big-name hotels.

(So: stay twice as long!) Better than many toprated establishments are its efficient lifts and aircon, personable staff and self-catering facilities with bar or full-size fridge for the economy of preparing in-room meals. Enjoy yum cha at many adjacent outlets and go on foot for slap-up Chinese dining day and night, minutes away.

Paddy’s Markets and Central Station are nearby and, best of all, Capitol Square Light Rail stop is at the door, its cheap frequent service sweeping you fast to various destinations: e.g., to Darling Harbour for King Street Wharf, Barangaroo, the aquarium, maritime museum and ferry connections, the ideal way to navigate around.

Sydney’s annual spring-summer season of top line shows and events has opened with an outstanding Sydney Opera House presentation

44 Manning-Great Lakes focus

of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Evita, Tina Arena in the title role. The Joan Sutherland Theatre is a superb venue with excellent seats, sight lines and acoustics for the impressive orchestra and voices. Some 115 cast, musicians and crew perform for audience delectation (tickets from $58.40 incl booking fee, although you’ll spend more for the better seats. Hearing and wheelchair assistance facilities.) “Tour de force” describes Arena’s performance; her remarkable vocal range meets the exceptional demands of the fully-sung Broadway-West End piece. She’s seldom off stage, breathtaking in her endurance in the physically demanding role and its many costume changes, many elegantly effected right on stage.

Parents: the production appeals, too, to children and teens studying dance (striking choreography, a twist on Argentine tango) or music, costume or staging (clever and poised.) Make a night, or matinee, of it. The Opera House is an experience in itself with good underground parking rates and harbourside bars and restaurants at reasonable prices, glittering views free. Arrive early or stay late but do allow good time to park and walk in, to arrive comfortably. For best enjoyment, brief yourself on the storyline beforehand. Playing till Saturday November 3.

Right next to Breakfree at the unmatchable Capitol Theatre see Jersey Boys, the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The songs are thrilling; the quartet, a true-to-life replica of the group, has the audience humming, clapping and toe-tapping along. As well as the all-time popular hits it’s a narrative of the group’s history woven through their music (note: repetitive “authentic Jersey” swearing, an American idiom possibly less irritating in its US staging, entirely pointless here.)

Welcoming Capitol front-of-house staff dispense drinks into plastic to enjoy inside during the show.

To Sunday December 9. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from Saturday January 5.

Search the web for details of coming attractions: the Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race start, NYE fireworks (free and alcohol-free vantage points), Sydney International Tennis from January 6, Sydney Festival opening January 9.

Evita image: Jeff Busby.

focus_contributor

SHARON BULTITUDE, DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR, MIDCOAST COUNCIL

of place. Places and communities define

of an overnight stay, and the returns quickly

themselves by their events. Events in our

multiply. Each overnight stay with an event

region are a part of how we live. We love a

boosts activity in the region.

good excuse to celebrate and put on some of

However, there is an added return from

the best events on the North Coast. We also

events that while harder to measure, is by no

have a team of volunteers that is the envy of events across the country.

would not normally go to and bring “new”

tourism; they are catalysts for attracting

people to the region. These visitors then go

visitors, increasing spend and stay. They are

home talking about their fantastic experience,

image-makers, creating profile, position,

post about it on their social media pages and

providing a competitive marketing advantage

plan their next visit. So the region benefits

and point of difference.

from word of mouth advertising (invaluable)

Events are a core part of our destination

and increased visitation.

marketing. They provide a point of difference

This is important for the businesses that may

and an added reason to visit. Increasingly

not see “on the day” return from an event.

visitors are seeking “real”, authentic

Events assist with long-term sustained growth

experiences. Events provide these.

for the region, and in turn individual business.

Events are good for business. They get people

Moving forward, events will continue to

outside and exploring, celebrating and

play a vital role in delivering our tourism

spending. They are also a great platform to

objectives. They will be used to showcase our

promote.

people and places; provide platforms for the

help to break down barriers, as well as create opportunities. They influence a community socially, culturally, environmentally, economically and politically. At a personal level, some of our most treasured memories come from events. Do you remember the last concert you were at and the wonderment on kids’ faces (and the adults’ as well!)

Traditionally we’ve attracted events to the

visitor to interact with our local culture and

region that have broad appeal and depth,

produce; activate new product, experiences

provide a solid resource base, spread visitation

and visitor markets; and of course, build

between regions, time of year and operators,

awareness of our brand.

increase yield and attract/develop new events.

So next time there is an event in town, go

The economic value of events cannot be

and check it out. Better still, why not enter

underestimated. For example, Tourism

or volunteer! Not only will you be supporting

Research Australia estimates that someone

your own community and local economy, but

Events are vitally important for communities and are linked to wellbeing and a sense

attending a sporting based event spends

you will also meet new people and enjoy a

$257 per person per day. Add in the spend

different experience.

UPDATE

Events

O

Events connect people, breed innovation, build communities and spark change.

Events are a window into a community’s heart and soul. Many visitors come to our region for events, as they get to be a part of something more than just a holiday. Events

quiet time busy, take visitors to places they

Events have always been important for

tourism

ctober is a huge month for events. From Running Festivals, Adventure Races and Sailing Regattas to Music Festivals, Country Shows and Food Trails - our region is abuzz with vibrancy and activity.

means of any less value. Events can make a

Manning-Great Lakes focus 45

focustravel

Louise Beaumont, husband Jay and three year old Perissa embarked on a quest to the Land of Ice and Fire. THEIR ICELANDIC ADVENTURE TOOK THEM FULL CIRCLE AROUND THE COUNTRY, taking in all the sights of what can only be described as an epic road trip.

T O

T H E

O T H E R

S I D E

O F

T H E

E A R T H

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland will admit - Iceland was never at the top of my travel bucket list, and for a few reasons.

A. It is LITERALLY the other side of our Earth (from Port Macquarie, Australia).

B. It’s cold; most of the year below 10°C. It just sounded a bit dull, far from history and city lights, no notable attractions … But, nonetheless, the opportunity came up to travel to this marvellous location as part of a holiday in May, and here is the tale of our adventure.

Why Iceland?

I honestly can’t pinpoint the exact moment I chose to travel to Iceland. There were a couple of times over the last few years, however, when my interest was piqued in discovering this remote island. There are the Northern Lights, of course; then there were the Game of Thrones scenes that made the country famous. However, I think at the end of the day I just wanted to do something really different, something that challenged us as a family, and pushed the boundaries of type of travel we normally chose.

We visited Iceland in June 2018 - the beginning of their summer, when we knew it would be warmer and more enjoyable. The temperature was around 8°C during the day - which with a thermal layer and a good coat (and rain jacket!) was mostly pleasant. Going in June, we knew we would be in the high season - when there were bound to be crowds and higher prices. So we made sure in our planning that we allowed for extra costs, and looked for budget conscious options wherever 46 Manning-Great Lakes focus

possible.

Booking the accommodation was the Getting there - we decided on Qantas from hardest part of the whole trip. I was looking Sydney to London (with a short stopover in at least four - six months out, and due Singapore) and then Icelandic Air through to to the summer season, and high visitor Reykjavic. numbers, it was really hard to find affordable Once you’re over the 24 hours from Sydney accommodation. to Heathrow, London, it’s another three hours Most of the places we stayed at were 3 on to Iceland. So, as I said, the other side of star guest houses or hotels, at prices of over the Earth! $200 per night! Hotels Landing at 11pm, in were very few and far daylight! was our first between, and prices were introduction to this well over $350 per night magical land. (hello sticker shock!) Even The Philingviller Park was Getting around hostels (backpackers) amazing - seeing how the Iceland on our own was were well above the earth just cracks in super easy! We chose average per night stay. half and rises up out to hire a car, so we In the end, we tried of the ground, where could set our own pace to book the cheapest its crust looks like a moss - which was generally accommodation, within covered chocolate brownie! up early and out to #btb reasonable amount of (Beat the Buses!) driving time each day.

In recent years, The attractions in Iceland’s tourism Iceland are easy to locate numbers have grown and well signposted. a staggering amount. With roughly 300,000 Day 1 we headed for the Blue Lagoon, inhabitants of the island, there were nearly located about 40 minutes from the capital 2.2 million foreign overnight visitors in 2017, of Reykjavic. The Geothermal pools located according to the Iceland Tourism Board. So, among the volcanic landscapes were a summer + tour buses = we were getting out soothing treat for us after travelling. At about and about early to see the attractions. The 38c, these pure springs, heated by geothermal Itinerary and the Highlights. gases. It was a unique and fun experience, We set out our itinerary based on following swimming in the warm water, complete the Route #1 Highway, known as the "Ring with swim up bar and silic mud mask bar Road" anti-clockwise around the whole island; exquisite! and we booked a car and nine nights of Day 2 we visited The Golden Circle - taking accommodation in advance.

In Phlingviller National Park, The Geysir,

Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater.

Highlights: The Philingviller Park was amazing - seeing how the Earth just cracks in half and rises up out of the ground, where its crust looks like a moss covered chocolate brownie!

Walking through the valley was mesmerising!

Nearby we visited the Silfra Fissure, where the two tectonic plates (Eurasian and North American) are separating at a rate of 2 cm per year! You can snorkel and scuba dive between them in the world's "clearest" fresh water.

Heading further south east, we visited the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, which sits at the base of the Vatnajokull Glacier.

The tour of the glacier lagoon and subsequent visit to the beach were simply amazing. "Glacier Bay" and "Diamond Beach", as they are known, are one of the major attractions in Southern Iceland, with giant pieces of glacier breaking away, and then floating out to sea, only to be washed up on to the black sand beach. These giant "diamonds" scatter the shore - it was truly a place of wonder.

Along the way we visited about four waterfalls, including the 60m Skógafoss, and our favourite - the Seljalandsfoss - which we could walk behind. Iceland is famous for its waterfalls, as there are over 10,000!

If you plan to visit Iceland on a short trip, then the three - four days of Reykjavik, Golden Circle and South Coast is all you need to see.

But for those looking for adventure, then travel on!

Days 5 - 6 saw us skirt round the south and

Námafjall, an amazing sight, but the stench of natural gas was almost unbearable when down wind ... rotten eggs!

into the eastern fjords.

The long and winding road can be seen around the base of the huge mountains. Cars travelling on the further eastern side look like ants against the giant mountains.

Surprisingly, it is a quick trip zigzagging in and out of the fjords; the road is flat, and easy to navigate.

We averaged 300 km per day and about four hours of driving, which may seem like a lot - but we were travelling in summer, there were no adverse weather conditions and with 23 hours plus of daylight, we were able to pack a lot into each day.

The paved road speed is 90 km per hour, and I would say we were lucky if we passed six

- eight cars per day.

This land is vacant of people, towns, and sights between its capitals, but it is equally filled with diverse landscapes that leave you with mouth gaping and wondering how the Earth produces such contrasts.

There were gravel plains, lava fields, rocky outcrops, mountains that soar, glaciers, fields of green, fjords, and quaint fishing villages … sometimes all in the same day.

As we continued to head east, the major landmarks became few and far between, and without enough time to venture inland to the volcanoes, or further eastward to the villages, we maintained our course to get to the northmost capital of Akureyri.

Perissa riding an Icelandic Horse, just outside the northern capital of Akureyri.

Throughout the past six days between the ever changing landscapes, we found a few constants - one being the

beautiful Icelandic Horses that featured on the many farms and homesteads of the country along the route.

Louise exploring Seljalandsfoss, on the south coast.

Glacier Lagoon, at the base of the glacier, Vatnajokull.

Day 7 - Akureyri.

This was a highlight of the trip. Throughout the past six days between the ever changing landscapes, we found a few constants - one being the beautiful Icelandic Horses that featured on the many farms and homesteads of the country along the route. Other than the sheep, it was only horses and a few geese that we saw on the farms.

Horseriding was always on the agenda for this trip, and when we searched for accommodation we also searched for somewhere that offered horse riding.

We settled on Skjaldarvík Guesthouse. This picturesque property offered horseriding and views of the fjords of the north of this magical country.

The Icelandic Horse (which is more of pony size) is also the only breed of horse in Iceland.

They are stocky and sturdy - often used for sheep herding. Most of all they are beautiful, and their foals are divine! We must have passed thousands, and they came in all colour combinations. The most beautiful we saw was a chestnut colour with platinum mane and tail, and one that had black front and rear, and all white middle saddle area.

Our daughter, Perissa, enjoyed grooming the horses and riding them along the shore.

Day 8 saw us turn the corner and head back southwest towards Reykjavic, but first we had scheduled a tour that we knew would be unique.

After a four hour drive, we arrived in the town of Hussafell - the starting point for our journey up the Langjokull Glacier. At the top we had booked the "Into the Glacier Classic Tour". As we had the 4WD, we decided to make our own way to the Kaki Base camp to meet the tour guides.

As we headed inland, the landscape began to change again. From rolling hills and green farms came snow capped mountains and gravel terrain, not unlike something from a movie about Mars! We soon found ourselves in 4WD drive mode and crossing a gravel plain.

After a short drive of 20 minutes, we made

it to the base of the Glacier and unloaded, ready for our expedition.

Into the Glacier is a unique experience. We travelled by modified glacier vehicles, through what can only be described as "whitewash" conditions. Bamboo poles poke out of the snow line along the road, so the driver knows where to go. In complete blizzard conditions, the tour operates, but they use GSP to locate the entrance to the tunnel.

After heavy snowfall, the only way to find the man made entrance is via GPS, where the staff then have to shovel the snow from the opening.

The glacier tunnel is a unique man made experience. As you enter the cave, you are taken down to about 25 m below the surface.

Langjokull Glacier is the second largest in Iceland, and our tour below the surface allowed us to see and experience being inside and observing the magnificent “blue ice” that is buried deep below the surface.

After our tour we re-surfaced to be met with snow falling on the top of the glacier! Magic.

This was the last tour and experience on our round trip of Iceland and it was a great way to finish!

There is so much to see and do in Iceland - too much to fit in one story. If you intend to go in summer, you won't see the northern lights, but you will be treated to the wonder of nature.

Story By Louise Beaumont.

"Into the Glacier" - a man made cave that dives deep below the glacier.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 47 47 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Drought Dresses 4

with Karen Johnson.

A desire to do something for the families experiencing the devastation of drought has led WINGHAM RESIDENT KAREN JOHNSON TO SET UP A UNIQUE INITIATIVE - DRESSES 4 DROUGHT. We caught up with Karen, to find out more about it.

H

i Karen. Can you tell our readers a bit about your background, and how long you have been in the Manning Valley area?

I was born in the Wingham area and, together with all my family, have lived here my whole life. I worked at Taree Motor Registry for 28 years, and now work at Manning Valley Dental in Taree, with a fabulous bunch of women. I also enjoy hand embroidery, quilting and my “fur babies”.

You recently set up a fabulous initiative Dresses 4 Drought - which involves collecting donations of formal wear, including clothing, jewellery, shoes, and accessories. Can you give our readers a bit more of an insight into this project?

Like many of us watching the terrible drought unfold, I wanted to help those in the drought areas of NSW in some way. I felt for the young people in those communities who would not want to add pressure to their parents by asking to spend money on a formal outfit that often does not get worn again, while animals and loved ones go without. In fact, what we heard was that up to 60% of students were opting not to attend formals for this reason!

Both my daughters’ formal dresses, as well as a bridesmaid’s dress, were hanging in the wardrobe, and I wanted them to go to someone who would appreciate them … So, the idea for Dresses 4 Drought was born.

Since then, we have been collecting not only dresses, but suits, accessories, shoes and jewellery.

It’s a huge undertaking. Have you ever done anything like this before?

I have done many fundraising events in the past, but nothing on this scale. I would never have been able to do this without the help and support of my daughter, Josie.

48 Manning-Great Lakes focus

What are the logistics involved in actually getting the formal wear to the recipients?

Are you going to deliver the donations in person?

A colleague at work, Denyelle Mullay, found out via friends that there were also some individuals and businesses on the Central Coast who were collecting formal wear for drought stricken communities in NSW, and these people have family connections in the Tamworth area who they were going to use as distribution channels.

This was great, because it has enabled us to coordinate the delivery of the outfits to schools in the Tamworth region via these wonderful people on the Central Coast.

Denyelle is kindly taking the donations to her friend, Narelle, at Ocean Beach Dry Cleaners in Umina, and from there the donations are being driven to Tamworth on the October long weekend in a small bus which has been generously donated, together with various family in 4WDs who will make the trip.

Who have you been working with in those areas to coordinate those on the receiving end? Do you already have a list of people who have expressed an interest in receiving these donations?

Once the donations arrive in Tamworth, we have a local connection who will assist with distribution to the various schools in the region.

I understand that there are at least 13 schools in the Tamworth area who have requested help with receiving formal wear for their students.

It really has been a team effort, and we would like to thank everyone who has been involved; from those who donated, right through to those who have kindly delivered the donations.

What’s been the reaction from these communities?

So far, one load has already been gratefully received, and the students have had fun selecting from the gorgeous array of stunning dresses,

I have done many fundraising

kindly donated dresses. suits and accessories. events in the past, but nothing As of mid-September, we However, as the bulk on this scale. I would have collected a total of 294 of our donations have never have been able dresses, jewellery, a lot of not gone yet, we havto do this without the shoes and accessories plus en’t had a lot of feedhelp and support of my suits, shirts and jackets for back, but I am sure that daughter, Josie. the boys from our local area, everyone involved will and we have donations still be appreciative, grateful arriving daily. and overwhelmed by Unfortunately, we won’t everyone's generosity. be accepting donations after I am looking forward 20th September, as we needed to make sure that to receiving photos once the deliveries arrive and we were able to get the formal wear distributed will post on Facebook. to the schools in time for the formals.

How have you been getting donations so far, We estimate that when this interview goes to and what’s been the community response to print, we will have clothed 400 people with the the call-out for pre-loved formal wear? generous donations from our local area!

We have had such a great response from the Would you consider doing this again next community, and are so overwhelmed with how year if needed? many people are willing to get involved and Yes, I would definitely consider doing it again donate. next year. We’ve also asked the students to “pay We have set up local collection points at it forward”, and I heard that the Tamworth reAshlea Road Boutique Wingham, Manning Valley gion are thinking of setting up their own “Dress Dental Taree and Great Lakes Dental Forster.

Library”, so in future, students in need won’t go Also, a lot of local businesses have really got without. behind our initiative and donated many items, Thanks Karen. including Top of the Town Shoes Wingham, Dress Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

Up in Wingham, and Manning Shoe Store Taree, and also the Reps for Ashlea Road Boutique

with Clairvoyant with Clairvoyant Terri HallTerri Hall Phone. 0424 Phone.

8180424 343 818 343

October 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Your inner strength has been challenged lately.

Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends.

Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.

Stand your ground with important discussions; you are waking up inner strength and everyone in your space will like you more, so remain true to yourself.

Citrine shatters any negative energy in our space and attracts abundance.

Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak from the heart.

Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You are letting go of a lot of passed hurt. Try to recognise all of your insecurities, so you can release them and their influence from your sphere of existence.

Phenacite is a wonderful stone for initiation, bringing a new level of awareness.

Your words hold the power to end conflict. You are a peace keeper and a natural teacher, so don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive.

Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.

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

Calcite brings spontaneity into the picture.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Your past hurts have re-surfaced, just so you can release them and free yourself. You are being prepared for new beginnings, so try and go with the flow and focus ahead.

Ruby shatters any fear and strengthens our passion.

Goal setting at this time will benefit you most, so make the most of this time. You can have what you want, but you need to know this. Give yourself permission to receive your wish and enjoy it when it gets here.

Aventurine will help you to grow very quickly.

You have already wished for something; now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

You are aligning with career changes, stepping up or into a new job. You need to be confident, and assertive without being bossy, and enjoy the new learning.

Turquoise is great for confidence, and uplifts our energy.

Listen to your words of wisdom, as these words will contain your own answers.

Removing any prejudices or judgements will assist you further. Look for the outcome of your magical words.

Kyanite helps us to build inner bridges for personal-growth.

Some direction is needed now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside you have your own answers; trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong.

Labradorite brings magical energy into the picture for manifestation.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 49

focuson_business

FOCUS ON

52 Manning-Great Lakes focus

BUSINESS

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jeremy Thornton of Insurance Advisernet

BUSINESS MINDS

Michael Hilsden

October is Small Business Month. What a great opportunity to talk to someone with a diverse business background but who now uses those skills to coach others. Let me introduce Michael Hilsden, Senior Business Mentor at The Business Centre.

M

ike, tell us about your early years.

I grew up in London, four years after WWII; most of our street was bombed and in ruins, but a great place to play ... and many of my friends didn't have dads anymore. But we were taught to survive and like me, many of us got jobs at age seven - my first two jobs were back to back paper rounds, and I did this until I was 18 to bring the money in ... so a really good start to business life. No regrets.

What was it you wanted to do as a career?

I wanted to be a bus or train driver like the rest of the streets kids, but I also loved to break algorithms and codes.

At age 15 I was lucky enough to be awarded first in Britain in Arithmetic, and was so embarrassed, but, it got me my first job at ICL - the biggest computer company in Europe at that time. A really good start from a working-class background and no chance of going to uni.

So, it was computers for me - not a bus driver.

What was it that led to you relocating to Australia?

After losing both of my parents at age 14 and 21, but with a great job, I met a wonderful Aussie girl and decided to emigrate to Oz as a $10 Pound Pom. Australia didn’t have the class distinction, and I really wanted my children to grow up in this wonderful country, not as Poms. I never went back to live, but have worked back in England and the US many times since, but Australia has always been my

home. I am the ONLY Pom left in the family - all my children are proud Aussies. My entire career I owe to Australia.

Tell us about your career up until now. As you said, it started early in life at ICL in the UK, but where to from there in Australia?

I was very fortunate as a computer nerd; back in 1973, it was easy to get a job and build a career here back then. For the next 40 years I led many Australian companies, both large and small, but owe all of this to my first Aussie employer, who gave me the break. For 12 years they grew from a small company to being in the top four in the country.

From their training and mentoring and many takeovers, I became a CEO and have been involved in the Telecoms, IT, manufacturing, and Venture Capital sectors and start ups ever since. So, a lot of international experience and representing Aussie companies throughout my work life. I decided to semi-retire 10 years ago to move to my beloved beach house in Forster.

You’re now coaching and mentoring at The Business Centre. Tell us what benefits this has for local small business owners.

Yes Jeremy, a great question. I started my semi-retirement in corporate training up here for local business owners, and volunteering as a local DJ. I hosted the Baby Boomers segment every week for GLFM, our local radio station.

In 2009 I was asked to build and support the local business economy by the State Government and the Business Centre who represents them in our region. This led to me being the local Business Mentor, and I have transformed into being a coach, not a leader of businesses

- my goal now is to build programme, which we In the last few years we’ve local businesses and represent, is planning a helped create over 500 help them with survival, major Small Business Pronew jobs, from our funding, growth and motion during October 600 client base in our start ups which are our for all regions in NSW. region. I think the main new employers in five Keep an eye out for more benefit most get is getting years’ time. information at https:// funding, market access and How do feel your www.businesscentre. talking to someone about their background can com.au issues. benefit local business Also, MidCoast people?

Council are planning two My main goal is to Master Class workshops create regional jobs, with interactive elements regional economies and help our business for customer appeal and promotion. owners in any way we can. In my nine years For you personally and away from work, here, I’ve dealt with a wide range of where is your favorite local haunt and businesses, from dairy farmers, to retailers, pastime? manufacturers and even medical practitioners.

My favourite place to go as a Baby Boomer I love them all! is to watch the Big Fins band at Great Lakes In the last few years we’ve helped create Winery. Don’t miss them; they are simply over 500 new jobs, from our 600 client base in superb. My favourite pastime is woodworking our region. I think the main benefit most get is and gardening and of course, rock music. Just getting funding, market access and talking to love Zepp, Floyd, The Stones, The Who, The someone about their issues. My background in Kinks and miss so much presenting the Baby funding, international, govt agencies conBoomers show. tacts and an extensive network of local legal, For you, what is the best part about doing accounting and marketing firms does help in and being in business in the Manningsome way.

Great Lakes?

Most of our business clients need help with I love this region so much - where else can these issues - we are merely the conduit to you live with the cleanest oceans, lakes and everything they need to prosper, and someone rivers in the world, and at the same time be to talk to about confidential issues. involved in such a wide range of businesses!

How is the Business Centre promoting I wake up looking at dolphins and whales at Small Business Month, and what can we One Mile, and then deal with issues across the do to get involved? world.

The State Government’s Business Connect Thanks Mike.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 51

WITH GREG MCINNES FROM ALLIANCE UNITY LAW

Springtime Fun

Greg McInnes from Alliance Unity Law discusses the importance of career planning.

Planning A Career Equals Planning Your Future.

We Are Doing Likewise.

Alliance Unity/Bromhead Legal, with a tradition of 50 years, looks to the future, not the past. That is why we are changing to our new identity. We embrace change, and become better at what we do in the process.

T

omorrow, for those now starting their careers, will be a world of fast trains (maybe even flying cars), virtual reality, and “Smart” Cities. A world of different skills.

With regular training and up-skilling, we remain both local and yet available for service to all locations.

And our region will continue to prosper and grow even more. That is because it will still be peaceful, and still as beautiful. Yet the concept of our regional distance will be diminished by internet communications - smart systems, video conference, virtual mapping - all combining to better service for our friends and clients.

That is becoming the practice of Law today; more so will it be into the future.

All professions are similarly affected - accountants, medical services face exactly the same challenges. Alliance Unity/Bromhead Legal believe that we can use the new ways to better perform to our long-standing emphasis on caring, personal service. We know also that

52 Manning-Great Lakes focus

computers cannot say “Don’t worry; we’ll help; it will be OK.”(Or, they can “say” it, but won’t be believed). Computers can’t innovate - they can’t figure out new ways to do what hasn’t been programmed yet. We can. And we do.

Process innovation enables us at Alliance Unity/ Bromhead Legal to work smarter, faster, more accurately with minimal error, and to report to our clients transparently, at every stage. To work as a team.

Benefitting from our new technology services, you will be kept constantly informed, always, at every stage of your matter, whilst your information is securely protected. That is because we are now able to offer secure external and remote access to your file records (just like remote banking does).

And for someone wanting to choose or extend a career in Law, we say that the future not only is bright - it is exciting! We encourage adaptive people who agree to come and talk with us.

We are ready now!

It’s time to pull back the blankets and head out to your local NSW State Forest to take in the fresh spring air! NSW State Forests cover 2 million hectares of forest, offering a range of experiences from adrenalin pumping mountain bike riding to leisurely forest drives. The natural environment is centre stage during spring, showcasing an abundance of unique Australian flora and fauna emerging in bursts of colour and activity. You can bring your car, caravan or campervan, you can pitch a tent, explore forest roads on trail bike, horse-back, or 4WD and bring your dog too - yes, that’s right; dogs are welcome in NSW State forests.

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

NSW State Forests provide beautiful forest environments for you and your family to “switchoff” and connect with nature. A range of information is available to ensure your next trip is a memorable one, including a NEW free mobile phone app called "VisitForests", providing online and downloadable maps, photos and information on forest experiences. Alternatively, you can pick up a regional Forest Map at local Visitor

Information Centres in NSW, or contact us online to purchase your copy. We also encourage visitors to share their experience via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram - we love to hear from you and are happy to share your ideas on special places to visit, and your holiday snaps!

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

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

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

m ney matters. with Alan Tickle

Look before you leap before amalgamating superannuation or pension funds

real estate

UPDATE

By opening a My Gov account and linking the ATO to that account, details of superannuation funds, including lost super held by the ATO, can be viewed.

fund and insurance was established, the replacement insurance recommended by their adviser was more expensive than the one they closed.

To transfer between the funds listed against the taxpayer’s name, is as simple as ticking a box online and submitting.

The bank admitted the action from their Financial Planner was wrong and compensated the client for the increased insurance costs.

Avoid superannuation becoming lost: The most common reason for super being recorded as “lost” and going to the ATO, is failure to notify a change of address.

Insurance companies and their employees, agents or superannuation fund consultants who hide behind general advice disclaimers give no comfort to people who amalgamated a fund they should have retained, or who needed to claim on insurance that they inadvertently lost when they changed super funds.

It’s important, therefore, to keep your superannuation funds active.

So, what is the property marketing doing now? It would seem it very much depends on where you are, who you talk to, who you are prepared to listen to, and what part of the market you are in.

A

re you buying, selling, leasing prices go up continually every week. It was or renting, as all these areas will difficult to hold on to a property until auction come with different opinions? day, as the pre-auction offers were ridiculous.

Just like the one on a certain Then in 2004 and for no reason, the market current affairs show recently just stopped. Vendors’ price expectations aired on television, with an interview on the were just too high and a natural market self-proclaimed “experts” in property. They adjustment occurred, as people still needed managed to scare me, let alone the buyers to move, to sell or to buy. I believe prices who are looking to invest in this property dipped around 20%, until another peak in market. At first anyway, until logic kicks in, the market around 2006. Here’s my point; and my experience in property over the last they only dipped around 20%, not anywhere 40 years comes front of near the capital growth mind. Then the brain we had seen in 2003, goes to work, and I and by 2006 prices start planning around were on the rise again, buying in Sydney next entering another cycle.

They managed and get excited over The property price to scare me, let the bargains that may graph is definitely not alone the buyers come up for sale in the a straight line moving who are looking next twelve months. upwards, as it has its to invest in this My logic is to imagine a dips and rises and flat property market. graph of sale prices for points, but if we start property over the years. at the $50,000 point Let’s use my 22 years in for the house in Boyce actual real estate, and I will verbalise for you.

Street in, say, 1996, that same house would We were selling homes for as low as $50,000 sell today for around $250,000; that’s a in Boyce Street, Taree, for example. I can 500% increase, despite the dips and curves. remember unit rents at $80 per week and This investor has eight years to pay off his the average house rent was around $140 per typical thirty year mortgage and already week. We all know that real estate comes has an easy $200,000 capital growth, less in cycles and in the “Barrington Coast” costs, of course. His rent has gone up from the boom came around 2003, and I still $140 per week to the $320 per week he is remember selling that last house in Beeton receiving today. With any investment there Parade for under $100,000 - before prices is an element of risk, but when you smooth doubled in less than two years. The market out the graph line, the evidence is there that went crazy, and we were seeing property property is one of the better ones.

Don’t rush to amalgamate, because it may not be in your interest to do so.

The ease that superannuation can be transferred or amalgamated can lead to unsuspecting members cancelling a fund they should have kept.

Advertising by various funds to amalgamate under the guise of saving fees is often a fallacy.

Amongst the considerations a financial planner is obliged to apply when considering amalgamating funds, is whether there is a potential loss in benefits such as insurance.

Determining whether insurance should be retained is crucial before considering cancelling a superannuation account, as this can result in insurance cover being lost.

A case in point is our intervention for a new client, to lodge a complaint against a bank, whose financial planner changed their superannuation fund before establishing new insurance in the replacement superannuation product or determining whether the new insurance was superior.

Due to increased body weight (BMI) and change of occupation since the original superannuation

Fee savings: It is not uncommon for a superannuation fund to have a basic administration charge, which is mostly less than a couple of dollars per week.

The rest of the administration costs is percentage based, depending on how much is invested.

Amalgamating funds can save that basic administration fee, but if that means losing valuable insurance cover, then the savings might outweigh the real cost of amalgamating.

Assuming that all Industry Superannuation funds are cheaper and offering better returns compared to other options is a fallacy, as there is a massive variation between funds.

Pressure on funds to contain costs: A reduction in costs for certain new BT and Asgard products (e.g. Asgard Open) has been astounding, and others might be forced to compete in a similar manner.

The new pricing offers significant savings for balances over $200,000, while still being competitive for smaller balances. With zero administration charges on the proportion over $850,000, this has really made self-managed fund trustees reconsider the viability of an SMSF.

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.

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

Manning-Great Lakes focus 53

focus_contributor

J O H N S T E V E N S F R O M TA R E E B U S I N E S S C H A M B E R

Photo credit: instagram.com/dropzone.photography

W

hy is that? From my own digging and experience, I see there being four things: risk, friction, certainty of success and the “difference” that makes a difference.

What do I mean? If you’re in business, your offering needs to be easy to access, free from the obvious risks of being a waste of time or money, have some degree of certainty you can do what you say you’ll do, and have a point of difference that makes your product or service better than anyone else’s. Know these, and you’ll know the secrets of taking your business to success.

Noticing Business.

For those of you in business, many of you would attest to the highs and lows of small business. Something I’ve been working on lately in my own is this notion of, no matter how much you spend on advertising, how much effort you put into marketing, there will always be people who see your business but still don’t buy from you.

It’s this thinking that I hope we’re bringing to this Business Chamber in Taree, and it’s been a happening few months since I last gave you all an update in this fine publication.

We’ve had some of our most well attended breakfast events in recent times, including our most recent tour of Steber International’s factory, with a presentation from Dr Natalie Gillam from Ausindustry, sharing how local businesses can access government resources and funding to get their products to market.

Amongst the fantastic sight of seeing multimillion dollar vessels about to be exported to our own Navy, as well as foreign governments and corporations, all built in Taree, it was even better to hear that Dr Gillam is in Taree

fortnightly, meeting with exciting businesses doing great things.

We’ve also been putting together a strategic plan to take the Chamber forward over the next 12 months and beyond. Doubling our membership in the last 12 months, we are keenly working on projects like parking in the Taree CBD, supporting local sporting and tourism infrastructure projects and enlivening our public spaces. I’d love for us to help unite local community groups to get our hands dirty in producing the infrastructure needed for revitalising public spaces, especially for Manning Street. Our AGM will be held shortly, so if you’ve stood by thinking about being involved in a community-focused, energetic, results-driven local organisation, then you might want to find out when and where you can get involved.

With this month being Small Business Month, it’s a great time to remember just how vital small business is to a community like ours.

Families our region over depend on industrious small enterprises to make our lifestyles vibrant and to meet our needs. So if ever there was a time to shop locally or to consider the services of a local small business, it’s now. We’ll be hosting an exciting event a little different from our usual offering this month, so check out the Taree Business Chamber Facebook page for more details.

Delivering for the Manning Great Lakes region Congratulations to Donna Ballard and the Wingham Akoostik Festival Committee on securing Federal funding towards the organisation and promotion of this wonderful music event. Make sure you get down and take advantage of the Festival between 19th and 21st October at the Wingham Showground.

Dr David GILLESPIE MP He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, National Party of Australia, 144 Victoria Street, Taree NSW 2430.

54 Manning-Great Lakes focus

4 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Up and coming metalwork artist Lee Black takes us on a creative journey and shares with us his inspiration and the artistic process behind his latest project for the Queen Elizabeth Park Playground.

Y

ou completed an apprenticeship with your father at Shearwater Engineering. How did that shape you and your artistic career?

I had completed a mechanics apprenticeship, which did not fill any artistic ambitions, when I was lucky enough to be offered a second apprenticeship at Shearwater Engineering with my farther. It was a great opportunity to learn skills in metal forming and fabrication that I could apply to my artistic endeavours.

I acquired a lot of skills through fabricating domestic and commercial kitchens and bench tops for local kitchen manufacturers, as well as working with specialised equipment in the dairy packaging industry for Yoplait, Nestle and Murray Goulburn. In 2009 I was awarded TAFE NSW Mature Aged Apprentice of the Year. I took the plunge in 2017 and started Burnished Projects.

When did you first become interested in sculpture, and how did your passion start?

I have always loved creating things from childhood, whether it be from lego, timber or clay, from an idea, to a sketch, to turning it into a 3D object. In addition, travelling around the country installing equipment provided much inspiration. Here, I was lucky enough to see different architecture, sculptures and art installations like "Sculptures By The Sea”.

I have a connection with cool shapes and patterns in different forms, may that be natural or man made. In my spare time, I started to use my skills to create some sculptures for family and friends; I also entered local art competitions. I love to be able to create something with meaning and visual impact.

56 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Have there been any major influences in your career?

I did art in school and was encouraged by If it is a design for a teachers to follow this customer, I need to look path. My parents, alat their constraints, though encouraging my how high, how delicate art, suggested I needed You recently completed or bold, is there a a trade to earn a living. a major work for Rotary; meaning, or what’s the They now see my art as tell us a bit about it. need for the project ... my passion and are very It’s funny how it came supportive of my work. around. I happened to be What artistic process working in Victoria, when do you undertake I received a news article when starting a new about Rotary needing ideas from the general design? public on a shade structure for Queen Elizabeth I may be fiddling with some materials or see Park playground. I came up with a few concept something that takes me in a direction to explore. sketches and went to a meeting. The group If it is a design for a customer, I need to look at seemed happy with my sketches, and I continued their constraints, how high, how delicate or bold, to go to the meetings. It took quite a while to is there a meaning or what’s the need for the get to the final design, which had to comply with project. I like to look at the site, check out the strict regulations and design constraints. local conditions, lighting, exposure and of course, The idea was to create a tree dappled light the safety requirements. shade structure over the play equipment for the I always consult with the customer about early part of the day, until the surrounding trees their expectations, as some people have trouble casted shade in the afternoon. Uncle Russell seeing the concept I have in mind. After that, I Saunders created a pattern for the dappled light, usually sketch the concept. Then comes the hard and I adapted the pattern into the leaves of the bit - engineering the design and experimenting canopy. with different fabrication processes, materials and It was an enjoyable experience to have the opfinishes to achieve that wow factor. portunity to work with the Rotary Sunrise on the Where do you get your inspiration from?

Manning committee. I have great respect for the My inspiration comes from many forms, committee and those who think of these projects. whether it be the latest trends, contemporary They are all busy people who raise funds, volunshapes and patterns, or as simple as nature and teer their time and make it happen. natural formations.

This is not your first installation. Tell us a bit

about the other sculptures you’ve designed for the local area?

I have done a few local public art installations.

My first commission was the Abacus, an interactive sculpture in Victoria Street, Taree. This sculpture was part of the “Vibrant Spaces” initiative, led by Graham Brown. Another example of my work is the bike rack located in front of Raw Sugar. Its aesthetics are based on a fig tree, and it’s a functional compact bike rack for speedy cycles.

What effect do you think art has on our streets and amongst the community?

If nothing else, art is a conversation starter.

Some like it, some hate it, some don’t care.

I think art softens public spaces; it creates a pleasant place to be and gives our town a point of difference.

Are there any future projects in the pipeline?

I have ambitions to have works in Sculptures by the Sea in both Bondi and Cottesloe. I also have some small projects I’m working on and continue to look for opportunities to produce high quality sculptures, art pieces and interior/exterior domestic and commercial work.

What’s the best way to contact you?

You can contact me on 0432 436 070 or email lee@burnishedprojects.com.au - in addition, you can visit my Facebook page, Burnished Projects.

Thanks Lee. Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

Smart Coast Conveyancing FOCUS speaks with licensed conveyancers Jessica Gray and Kellie Cary of Smart Coast Conveyancing about their local business model and how they stand apart from the rest.

As two local, highly skilled professionals in your field, how did you both come together to form the business?

We have always been close friends, going to uni together and playing netball on the weekends. We both worked for different companies, but decided that we could offer a better service to the local area by bringing our innovative ideas, positive attitudes and goals for success together.

What do you think are the most important aspects for gaining and retaining clients in business today? Reliable service, knowledgeable staff and flexibility to work with our clients. Also, being able to offer the latest procedures and fastest methods is important to give our clients the best result.

Making sure your clients feel valued and cared for is the key to maintaining long term relationships in any field.

How do you measure business success? We love hearing that people are referring business to us. Word of Mouth is the greatest indicator that people are happy with our service.

Seeing our positive feedback and reviews written by clients on social media is always very satisfying.

What are you most proud of to date business-wise?

Raising nearly $4,000 for the Great Lakes Women’s Shelter at our Birthday Trivia Night was the most rewarding moment since we opened. We love being able to support the local community, and everyone who came had a great night. We look forward to seeing everyone at the Lakeside Festival, which is the next event we are proud to sponsor.

Forster Tinting & Detailing Please introduce yourself: My name is Josh Hinton, and I am the proud owner of Forster Tinting and Detailing here in Forster.

When did you start your own business?

I have been in the industry for 13 years now, but I started my own business, Forster Tinting and Detailing at the end of 2013.

Why did you choose to go out on your own?

The opportunity emerged when I was working for my old boss and asked him if he wanted to sell it. It was always something I could do really well and make sure there was constancy in every job, so I thought why not! I decided to just take the next step and challenge myself to own a small business and see where it takes me.

What are your goals over the next five years?

I have a few goals and a massive to-do list, which I’m super excited about, but to start with I just want to continue pushing the boundaries of where I can take the business. There are some key areas which I want to focus a lot more of my time and energy into, but it won’t take effect until the New Year.

Right now I want to continue the great work that my team do on a daily basis and have happy clients who keep coming back for the service we provide.

FIXED FEE, FAST, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

Discounted Rate Contract Preparation $150 inc GST Find us on Facebook

Phone: 6519 4933

Email: info@smartcoast.com.au

Shop 5, 1-5 Manning Street, Tuncurry www.smartcoastconveyancing.com.au

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Marylyn SENDAH With numerous awards and achievements to her name, Marylyn Sendah is a young lady who is definitely going places! We spoke with her recently about her many accomplishments, her background in Zimbabwe, and her life her now in Taree.

T

aree is a long way from Zimbabwe. Can you give us some background into your life in Zimbabwe, and how you and your family ended up living and working in the Manning Valley?

Living in Zimbabwe seems like a lifetime ago. I have vivid memories of travelling from Zimbabwe to South Africa. I loved being at school and surrounded by my relatives, many of whom I haven’t seen since the move the Australia.

My mother was the primary caretaker for me and my siblings, as my dad was away studying.

He has two bachelors, four masters in various sciences and a doctorate in Forensic and Clinical Psychology, which eventually led to him being offered a job right here in the Manning Valley, and the opportunity to uproot the family to Australia and give us a better life.

You are such a high achiever for someone so young. Can you tell us about the awards that you have been nominated for/ received?

Last year I won the Plain English Speaking Award for my district and was recognised by the NSW Government Department of Education as one of the top 20 public speakers in the state. I was also nominated for the Dame Maire Bashir Peace Award. I was elected as Rotary Youth Ambassador for our area for 2017/18 and was given the chance to compete in the Rotary Public Speaking Competition, where I won all rounds and was awarded with a trip to New 58 Manning-Great Lakes focus

field of medicine and neurosurgery, but with my Zealand. involvement in public speaking competitions, I was also nominated to be a member of the my experience as a Rotary Youth Ambassador YMCA Youth Parliament. We attended camps and my recent experience in Youth Parliament, I in the school holidays that taught me how to am tempted by the idea of a career in Law and write legislation, which we then debated in Parliament. I was one of the top three applicants Politics.

What do you think have been the key for the position of Youth Governor for NSW, motivators or drivers behind your success and was elected as the Youth Minister for the so far?

Hunter and Newcastle regions.

Moving to Australia Through Awards from Zimbabwe has Australia I have recently opened me up to a been nominated for some world of opportunities.

Young Achiever awards, I think just the idea of such as the First National He has two bachelors, four being given a second Real Estate Leadership masters in various sciences and a chance at life is enough Award, the NSW Deputy doctorate in Forensic and Clinical of a motivator for Premier’s Regional Psychology, which eventually me to do my best Achiever Award, the led to him being offered in everything I can.

Scouts NSW/ACT Youth a job right here in the Another key motivator Development Award and Manning Valley, and the is passion; with all the Wester University opportunity to uproot the family to my projects, I am Academic Achievement Australia and give us a better life. passionate in what I Award. I have also do and aspire to create been nominated for the positive change, and TransGrid leadership that means I’m never short of motivation. award, which is a regional achievement award.

You are currently in Year 12 at Chatham Do you have any role models who inspire High School - what subjects are you you? studying, and do you have a career path in I do have some very public and famous mind for when you’ve completed your HSC? role models, such as Nelson Mandela, Martin I am currently studying Chemistry, Physics, Luther King Jr and Rosa Parks, but my biggest Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension inspiration is a lot closer to home … my mother.

1, Mathematics Extension 2, English Advanced, When she was young, her father passed away English Extension 1, English Extension 2. and she couldn’t afford school, which meant I have always wanted to do something in the she had to drop out in Year 10.

When we moved to Australia, it was a big change and a big challenge for her, but I watched her go to TAFE to finish her Year 11 and 12 equivalent. She then did a few more courses in nursing, before eventually going to university and getting her Bachelor in Nursing.

She was a mother of five, and I remember her carrying me and my brother to the local TAFE, taking us to her classes and carrying us back home every day. When she was at university, she was studying full-time and working two jobs at one point.

Growing up to see her gaining an education and empowering herself was amazing, and she raised me to believe strongly that anyone can do anything and that it’s never too late. That is why she is my biggest role model. She inspires me to be my best self.

What do you and your family do for leisure/ recreation?

With parents who work full-time and siblings who either study or work, family life is always really busy. However, we do always find time to support each other and go to each other’s events. My father loves watching movies with me and my siblings, while my mother enjoys taking us for picnics and fun days at the park.

As a family, we also love to explore and immerse ourselves in Australian culture. This Australia Day we went on our first camping trip, and it was so much fun.

Thanks Marylyn. We wish you all the best in your HSC, and all your future endeavours!

Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

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stacks Law Firm the

Meet Erin Woodward, Sophie Lee and Di Branch - three very accomplished and talented lawyers from Stacks Taree, specialising in Personal Injury and Workers’ Compensation. WE TALKED TO THEM ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES, INCLUDING HOW THEY GOT STARTED, AND THE CHANGES THEY’VE SEEN OVER RECENT YEARS IN THIS OFTEN COMPLEX AREA OF LAW.

E

rin, your entry into practising law wasn’t the traditional stereotypical “High School to Uni” pathway. Can you tell us a bit more about that?

Instead of going straight to uni, I found myself a job in a law firm in Newcastle.

Once I knew that was what I wanted to do, I started studying through the Legal Practitioners Admissions Board and later transferred to uni. I was able to work all that time as a law clerk, eventually returning to the Manning Valley, where I started as a law clerk at Stacks, eventually qualifying as a lawyer - going on to achieve specialist accreditation.

Di, tell us about the area of law that you specialise in and what you love about it.

I have worked in many different areas of law over the past 38 years, but in 2008 I began to focus solely on workers’ compensation. I am meticulous about details, and workers’ compensation is an area of the law which is fairly technical - there are several pieces of legislation and multiple guidelines which govern the rights of injured workers. I like to research complicated or novel questions of

law, in order to best navigate the legislation and the insurer’s guidelines, to the benefit of injured workers.

Sophie, do you think being regionally based has impacted your career in any way? Do you travel much, or is all your work in our local area?

Working in a regional firm enables you to become familiar with your clients. It presents diverse work opportunities and of course, lifestyle benefits.

Our clients are from both metropolitan and regional areas throughout New South Wales. The majority of personal injury cases are commenced in the District Court in Sydney, which requires us to travel to Sydney to confer with barristers or attend conferences, mediations or hearings.

Erin, I understand that there have been a lot of changes to the law recently which have affected personal injury claims. Can you give us a bit of an overview about these changes, and how it’s impacted your clients?

There was a big change in motor accident compensation in December last year. On the plus side, almost everyone, even drivers at fault, can

Our clients are from both metropolitan and regional areas throughout New South Wales. The majority of

obtain some payments travel through Europe personal injury cases are for wage loss and medical with my husband and our commenced in the District expenses for six months, young daughter, which was Court in Sydney, which but if you weren’t at fault, very relaxing. I also love requires us to travel to Sydney you potentially lose some supporting live music, so to confer with barristers of the compensation you that’s where you’ll find me or attend conferences, might have otherwise when I’m not at work … mediations or hearings. claimed. My real concern that, or coffee and friends. is that injured people are For any young women hearing that you don’t contemplating getting need a lawyer in this new into law, what is your scheme, but the reality is that there are stages in a advice to them? claim where you really do need some help in dealing Erin: You can definitely have a family and a with insurers. We are still able to help people career, and regional law firms are a good way to navigate the system, and at some stages it can be find that balance. vitally important to seek legal help.

Sophie: Embrace the novelty of being a female Sophie, what do you love most about your lawyer in a field traditionally dominated by men. career?

There is no harm in faking confidence until you The diversity of work and the benefit of helping actually achieve it! people find vindication and closure during very Di: Being a female in the law does not mean that difficult times throughout their lives. you have to be aggressive to get ahead! I always Erin, you juggle family and career, so you must remember the old saying: “You catch more flies be incredibly busy. What do you do to relax? with honey than you do with vinegar!”

I recently took a good chunk of time out to Thanks Erin, Di and Sophie.

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Evermore Retirement Living’s final stage is set for completion in December 2018, with expressions of interest now being taken for the final stage. Since opening the village back in Oct 2015, Evermore has grown to include 148 luxury retirement apartments featuring resort style facilities and is known for its friendly atmosphere and vibrant, social residents.

A

ll this within a stone’s throw of the pristine waters of Wallis Lake and a leisurely walk to Wharf St in downtown Forster.

Evermore typifies what retirement living should be - a beautiful village, onsite services when required, safe, affordable, convenient location and a community of friendly, likeminded residents right in the heart of Forster. In addition to offering luxury retirement living, Evermore has commenced building a private aged care home, enabling care to be managed within the village or in the comfort of the resident’s apartment.

Evermore is all about assistance and wellbeing and once completed, will provide all levels of retirement living: independent, assisted and high care! Complete peace of mind for those looking to make the most of retirement living, knowing there’s assistance on hand if ever required.

Resident testimonial from Margaret: “I’ve

made so many new friends, and the staff have made me feel so welcome. If you have been thinking of living at Evermore, just don’t think about it … make the move today! You won’t be sorry; I’m not. I love living here!”

Evermore will be hosting their final Open Day for 2018 on Saturday 13th October from 10am to 3pm. Come along and meet the residents, tour the village and find out what’s really on offer at Evermore.

Refreshments will be available throughout the day.

For those who can’t make the Open Day, please don’t hesitate to contact the sales office directly on 6528 0000 to make an appointment. Friendly staff will show you around the village. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm daily and weekends by appointment only.

Evermore has been described by many as the future of retirement living! Make an appointment today and come in and experience it for yourself!

FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T MAKE THE OPEN DAY, PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT THE SALES OFFICE DIRECTLY ON 6528 0000 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT.

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Reaches our to the local community

It’s been a local icon since 1921; now the Tuncurry Memorial Hall is reaching out to the local community for support. We chat with Leigh Vaughan OAM about the history of the hall, what makes it so special and what’s required to keep it up and running. ell us a bit about the history of the Tuncurry Memorial Hall ...

From 1919 the people of Tuncurry decided they should build a hall in memory of those who fought in the Great War, which would also provide a large meeting place for the community.

Public meetings were held, committees formed, plans drawn up and a debenture scheme established. Building materials were all sourced locally, and there was a large band of community volunteer workers.

The official opening was held in September, 1921, with much ceremony, a brass band, concerts, dances, a woodchop and a chocolate wheel. From 1934 with the support of local funding, a High School was run in the hall. Also from that time, to 1937, there were regular travelling silent moving pictures shown in the hall, which were soon followed by talking movies.

The gala opening of the refurbished hall/ cinema on 17th April 1937, showed the now classic Australian film Tall Timbers. Special guests were Bert Bailey (Dad) and Fred McDonald (Dave) from On Our Selection. Ms Richards later starred in the film Dad and Dave Come to Town. Kemble Thompson, the local projectionist, was paid 7s and 6p a week for his work, which included cleaning the theatre. Mrs Wilga Wedlock sold hot soup on cold nights and ice creams in the summer. In 1974, despite the advent of TV, Don Howard took over the lease, renovating extensively and continued operating the theatre

60 Manning-Great Lakes focus

in the hall until 1999, when he erected a threecinema complex on Manning Street. The hall was then transferred back to a Management Trust, and once more reverted to a multipurpose facility, providing many entertaining and educational classes for the community and also providing a venue for weddings and other social events.

Today it is managed by the Tuncurry Memorial Hall Management Committee under the auspices of the creativity and performance Department of Industry that will not only (formerly Crown Lands).

You name it, we have it: encourage local performers What events are held at concerts, visiting performers, to share their skills, but the hall? weddings, funerals birthday make it a small theatre You name it, we have parties, family gatherings and venue that encourages it: concerts, visiting celebrations, art exhibitions, visiting artists. performers, weddings, craft displays, quiz nights, and The hall is not owned by funerals, birthday parties, life-drawing classes. council. What does this art exhibitions, craft mean for its ongoing displays, quiz nights, and future? life-drawing classes. We It means existing literally on the smell of an also have a number of regular users, which oily rag, with no external funding, on the small include line dancers, boot scooters, Taekwando, income we get from hiring the hall. a Physie club, a social touring club, meditation What are the challenges facing the hall? and yoga groups and the ABC Boating College.

Lack of money to do the necessary upgrades In the past there was a very active Drama Society to bring the hall to modern standards and thus that performed plays and musicals (sadly no improve our income by encouraging more longer). Over the last two weekends we have participation. been delighted to host Brazilian jazz singer and What renovations does the hall need? guitarists Anna and Guy, and a solo cellist with The main foyer and kitchen area need to be percussion Rachel Ben with their amazing Bach in renovated to better meet modern standards. the Dark. We are really wanting to promote the An upgrade is needed for the main front doors: hall to its former glory and make it a centre for

refurbishment to better secure new facilities and allow smoother access for wheelchairs, the elderly and disabled. The total refurbishment of both female and male toilet facilities, including upgrading and improvements to disabled facilities, is required. There needs to be an upgrade of the stage area, including new flooring, installation of a rear backdrop wall, upgrading the proscenium arch and painting.

How can people support the hall?

They can join the volunteer Management Committee, assist in writing grant applications or offer ideas to raise funds, donate their skills to help with maintenance, or help to organise functions that will raise money for ongoing maintenance.

More info?

Nyaree Donnelly is the Hall Booking Manager; she can be contacted through the hall website www.tuncurrymemorialhall.com.au or on 0404 279 710 or contact me: leightvaughan1@gmail.com Thanks Leigh. Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

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64 Manning-Great Lakes focus