Manning-Great Lakes Focus i152 by Focus

Blue Love

October 2019. issue 152

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contacts.

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

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Ingrid Bayer ingrid.bayer@fairfaxmedia.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Bronwyn Davis bronwyn.davis@fairfaxmedia.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT / BUILD AND HOMES SPECIALIST: Chrissy Jones JP chrissy@focusmag.com.au

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

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

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Cristian Campano cristian@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER Craig Mason ph: 0411 846 084 www.eastcoastphotography.com.au

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

team From the

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

he recently formed Barrington Coast Women’s Network has enjoyed a whirlwind growth in its first few weeks, with now 600 members in the Facebook group. Local business women living and working in the Barrington Coast region are welcome to join and enjoy the benefits of this wonderful network of women. The first networking morning tea and mingle was hosted by FOCUS, at The Deck Tuncurry, and with a wonderful turnout of about 40 members, we all had an exciting time talking (lots of talking!) and learning about each other. Meeting new friends, strengthening business relationships and building opportunities for our community interests were at play. It was remarkable to learn about the fascinating

businesswomen busily working way in our area - from crafters and creators to estate agents and engineers; there was a buzz of excitement in the air! Following on from the success of the morning tea and mingle, we took a group to the J R Richard and Sons Waste Management Services for an educational morning in waste management. Led by the ever passionate Megan Griffiths, we learned a few key things about what happens at the tip. Did you know, that on average you will produce about 700kg of waste per year enough to fill three three-bedroom houses; you’ll waste 20% of your food; and coffee cups are NOT recyclable. For more info or to take a waste education

tour, contact midcoast.nsw.gov.au/waste This month Bronwyn and Ingrid have brought some amazing stories to our pages. Hannah Burley dispels some of the myths about cheerleading in her double page interview. She’s super passionate about the sport and encourages women and girls of all shapes and sizes to try it! And, Shaun Parker drops by to fill us in about the super exciting - and funny - show Blue Love, which you’ll be able to catch at the MEC. This is not one to miss! Keep an eye on our next edition for November; we’re shaking things up a bit with some new columnists and a change over of contributors! Until then, enjoy this edition!

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Manning-Great Lakes focus 3

contents Issue 152 - October 2019

focusinterviews

Hannah Burley Taree Cheerleading

feature a special

FORSTER & TUNCURRY 2019 LAKESIDE FESTIVAL

Oli Moran

Sarah Baker speaks with recently named silver medallist world champion and Forster local Oli Moran about his recent success in Junior Elite BMX racing.

Name a Cow Linga Longa Farm

the Usual

Hereford cow 422 at Linga Longa Farm in Wingham is “Grace”- named for 16-year-old Grace McCallum of Tinonee for her gift of $20 a week to buy feed during the drought. The St Clare’s student is now urging people to support the “Name A Cow” sponsorship programme set up by farm owners, Greg and Lauren Newell.

Suspects

10. WHAT’S ON for October 20. EAT local restaurants 25. WINE TIME with Robyn Piper 26. SOCIAL SCENE with Donna Carrier 30. WHAT’S IN SEASON with Neville Donovan 45. STARS with Terri 51. REAL ESTATE UPDATE with Amanda Tate 53. MONEY MATTERS with Alan Tickle 55. TOURISM with Sharon Bultitude

Steven Losh

Steve Losh initially set about creating a space in Taree where he could paint and sell a few art supplies. On a whim, he decided to see if there were any other local artists who might be interested in joining him … and he was overwhelmed by the response.

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www.facebook.com/mgl.focus/

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

focusinterview.

FEATURING ON THE COVER THIS MONTH ARE JOSH, BOB AND MARC, WHO ARE REPRESENTING THE OLD BAR BEACH FESTIVAL. WE CHATTED WITH BOB AND JOSH ABOUT THEIR INVOLVEMENT WITH THIS AMAZING LOCAL EVENT AND WHY THEY ENJOY IT SO MUCH.

lian Record though. i Bob. For those who don’t They have a parade and the Kombis all do know you, can you please a run out to the Pacific Highway from Old Bar introduce yourself? - which is about 10 km, and we had over 200 I am a resident of Old Bar participate last year. It starts on the Saturday and have lived here for about afternoon at about 4pm - a lot of locals will line 28 years. For most of that time I the streets to watch, and all along the route there have been a sales agent or owner of the Lauders will be people waving them on. Real Estate in Old Bar. What is your role in the event, Bob? The Old Bar Beach Festival has been running I have always been involved in organising the for 15 years; how did you get involved? Kombis - I have been to the VW Nationals in I have been involved for around 14 years, and I Sydney and the VW Events at Valla to promote did attend the first festival when it the event and Old Bar and get more participants started. It ignited my interest in Kombis again to come along. On the you see, I used to own a day I am part of getting Kombi back in the 1970s everyone ready to do and after the first festival, I the parade; I also select bought a who gets to lead the Transporter (a later model Numbers are steadily event. Kombi) I’ve since bought increasing and we are On the Sunday I work a second Kombi. A 1976 getting close to 300 on the gate collecting camper that I not only polKombis at the event registration details ish up for the festival, but and contact details for I regularly take it camping. now. the cars; and then at Our office (Lauders Real the end of the day I Estate) has been proud to present the trophies, be involved and sponsor which have always been the event for the last 13 or supplied by Lauders - we used to have over 20 so years. categories, which made it a bit hard to judge. What was it like in its early years? With the nember of Kombis growing each It was a lot smaller back in those days. Just year, judging of the 12 categories became too recently I found a document from the early days, difficult. So it’s now a bit different. We draw where they outlined that they wanted to attempt three cash prizes for registered Kombis- $500 for a world record for the most number of Kombis first, $300 for second and $200 for third. in one place, and I was entrant number 82; this What is your favourite part of the event? was in about 2006, and I think we got around I would say the atmosphere of the whole 100 Kombis. Numbers are steadily increasing and town, which gets an amazing vibe and feel. The we are getting close to 300 Kombis at the event event runs smoothly, without any issues. now. The world record is in the thousands. The Thanks Bob. attempt was to get the most Kombis in the one place in Australia. We do claim unofficial Austra-

ell us about yourself and life we had to finish it in a rush. I had a friend living in Old Bar. who also loved Kombis and owned one, and I live in Wallabi Point with my I had been trying to get it finished before he wife and three children. I grew passed away, so that we could drive the split up in the area and returned 12 screen together at the festival. Unfortunately, years ago to raise my family. he didn’t make it to the Have you always festival last year. I drove owned Kombis; where his Kombi at the festival did the interest begin? each year during the last I got my first Kombi three years of his illness I had restored one previously about 13 years ago. I and drive it now for him and sold it at the festival, and I have always been into in his memory. always wanted one with them, but not enough to What do you enjoy the split windscreen. have one as my every day most about the Luckily, I found an drive. Kombis that turn up advert for one at the I have had three at the festival? festival a long time ago; it was Kombis, and I go to the I think it is more the just a rusted shell, and I spent festival every year! festival itself rather than seven years doing it up. Tell us about the Kombi just the Kombis. The we have on our cover festival is the start of this month? Where the season, the start of did you get it; did you daylight saving, the start refurb it at all? of warmer weather - everything! It is an 1962 Micro Bus with 11 windows, Thanks Josh. which I have restored over a seven year period. See you at festival. I had restored one previously and sold it at the festival, and I always wanted one with the split windscreen. Luckily, I found an advert for one at the festival a long time ago; it was just Don’t miss the Kombi Parade at 4pm Sat, Oca rusted shell, and I spent seven years doing it tober 5th ... Plus mega markets and live music up. all day. More info at www.facebook.com/ We only got it on the road last October; VisitOldBarBeachFestival/ 5 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

We chat with Shaun Parker about his feel-good show, that is bound to have you roaring with laughter.

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focusinterview.

I wanted to create work about romantic love. I was inspired

an you tell us what the audience can expect from the production Blue Love? Blue Love is about a married couple, Glenn and Rhonda Flune, who use pop culture and high art to talk about love! They are both in their late 40s, and they show the audience home movies of their younger selves, which were shot 20 years ago! They dance the tango, sing baroque love ballads in the nude, and throw each other about the stage with reckless abandon! The music is fun mega mix of pop, opera and tango. And, how can anyone go past the power ballads of the '80s … especially Pat Benatar’s Love is a Battlefield! We also have some beautiful Piazolla tango music … layered against a deconstructed physical theatre scene, complete with a pseudo-tango - the dance of romantic love! I danced the tango in Baz Luhrmann’s feature film Moulin Rouge, so it is always great to do the tango again! The audience always laughs so much - it is the most fun of my shows to perform! It is definitely a "feel-good" type of show. What was the inspiration that drove you, Shaun Parker, to create Blue Love? The inspiration for Blue Love came in a karaoke bar in Vienna in 1999! My collaborator, Jo Stone and I were drinking a few beers, whilst singing power ballads within this cheap and nasty, yet inspiring karaoke setting! Some of these hits rang so true, we were astounded by their timeless relevance! They were so bad, they were incredibly

Jo Stone is an actor who can dance! And, I am a dancer who can act! We both have experience in comedy … so it was a match made such juicy thematic fodder for good! in heaven! artists and audiences alike. It was here, that an How does music, entire scene popped art and pop culture into my mind, where the impact the storytelling spoken words of a love in Blue Love? argument would be only the one-liners from pop Blue Love began as a short dance film, and songs about romantic love! This was the initial was later developed, over a number of stages, inspiration for Blue Love! into a full-length dance theatre production. I What was challenging about bringing this wanted to create work about romantic love. script to life? I was inspired by how romantic love runs The most challenging thing was trying to rampant through all art forms, both popular decide which power ballads from the '80s would and high-art, and provides such juicy thematic be included in the show! There are so many fodder for artists and audiences alike. It’s a topic brilliant ones! that everyone knows only too well. I also remember thinking how important it In romantic love, the cliché becomes the was that every single scene we created had to poignant, and vice versa. Enter our characters, resonate precisely with the journey of our two Glenn and Rhonda Flune. They believe that main characters, Glenn and Rhonda Flune. They they are the perfect couple, and in believing are a married couple, who believed they were so become the tenuous, sometimes fabricated, "love gurus", and who invite the audience sometimes real storytellers of Blue Love. They into their living room to embark on a series of and their "sketched-out" living room become "lessons of love". the canvas for our story, as they reference The audience fall in love with Glenn and film, dance, text and song in playing out their Rhonda, and cheer for them, wanting them relationship. to do well, and to "work things out" - despite This is quite a production and looks their roller-coaster relationship. All of the physically exerting. What goes into putting choreographed scenes were inspired by this on a show like this? premise … and as Glenn Flune comments in the Performing Blue Love is like playing a footy show: “Part lecture. Part opera. Part group night match, but in a brown '70s suit! To keep fit, I … Blue Love is a love documentary series!” It is do lots of yoga and I have a personal trainer, a fun work to perform, and my co-star, Jo Stone, Brock Ashby, who is amazing! He works me is hysterical! hard and keeps my mind on track. Can you tell us how yours and Jo Stone’s I am 49 now, so it is hard work; however, it background and experience has influenced just goes to show that if you keep training, you the show? can dance late into life! Brock is an amazing

by how romantic love runs rampant through all art forms, both popular and high-art, and provides

singer and performer himself, having been in a famous boy-band in New Zealand, as well as being a top finalist on The Voice last year, so he truly understands the demands of being a performer. What do you love and hate about the characters Glenn and Rhonda ? I love Glenn’s '70s brown suit! But, I hate his overuse of puns! I love Rhonda’s faux fox fur! But I hate her bringing up Glenn’s affair with "an actress" at their fondue nights! Without giving anything away, what’s your favourite dialogue line or scene in the play? I do like it when Rhonda says, “Our dog, Simon, was killed in a tragic boating incident last year … but luckily we managed to salvage a little bit of his fur!” It is at this point that Rhonda points to our real taxidermy stuffed dog, Simon, on the stage! The audience always laugh their heads off at this point! What lasting impression would you like to leave on your audience? What will the they be thinking and chatting about in the car as they drive home after this show? The audience always have lots of fun. What I like about this show is that the audience always come into the theatre really serious, but then by the end of the night, they are roaring with laughter! The audience really "root" for Glenn and Rhonda, pun intended, and they really want Glenn and Rhonda to get through their hardships with love! Where can we buy tickets or get more info? You can book at the Manning Entertainment Centre Box Office, online at theMEC.com.au or by phoning 6592 5466. Tickets are also available at Stockland Forster. Thanks Shaun. Interview: Bronwyn Davis. Manning-Great Lakes focus 7

focusinterview.

Sunrise Supported Living

Sarah Baker speaks with MidCoast Business Chamber’s Outstanding Business Leader for 2019, Nicole McMullen from Sunrise Supported Living on her recent recognition.

i Nicole. Congratulations on your recent and prestigious recognition at this year’s awards. What does this award mean to you? I am beyond words as to how happy I was to receive this award; I still have not come down from cloud nine yet. The years of training and working for hours and hours towards this goal have been recognised by others. It was love at first sight when I walked into the Sunrise Tuncurry Village - the concept, the people, the directors are just amazing! Sunrise is a way of life for me, not a job. The people, staff and residents are my family. Being one of the youngest village managers in Australia is an amazing achievement, and I would like to thank everyone who has ever supported me to get here. You learn something from everyone that comes into your life. Sunrise Supported Living was also named as this year’s MidCoast Business of The Year. I know you work with a tremendously talented team of people. Who or what inspires you in your role? The directors, staff and the residents are a huge inspiration to me and the team. The concept of the residents making Sunrise Village their home and making the residents as happy as can be is my inspiration. It is why I do what I do; I go the extra mile every time to ensure they are all happy and healthy. Sunrise Supported Living is an iconic destination for retirement living. Please tell us about some of the benefits of choosing

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Sunrise to call home. a fabulous catering team. Sunrise is a family and brings They provide a fully catered Our residents can move happiness to all who come morning tea, free of charge, in while they are still here. to all our residents. Lunch independent and slowly Our residents can move in is the main meal of the day add personal care and/ while they are still independent and comprises a two-course or nursing care support and slowly add personal care hot meal. There is a wide when and if required. and/or nursing care support selection of meals available This means that they can stay when and if required. This to suit all taste buds and living independently and with means that they can stay living dietary requirements. Dinner dignity for as long as possible. independently and with dignity is a smaller "supper" type for as long as possible. It also meal. Our residents have the means that couples can stay choice to have all their meals together. provided, or to partake whenever they feel like it. The units at Sunrise Village are set up for totally What’s on the horizon for new planning independent living. All units come fully equipped and developments, as well as any upcoming with the electrical appliances provided. They are events on the calendar for Sunrise? also maintained by Sunrise. The units all have Nothing holding us back now; the third and air-conditioning and ceiling fans and sunny private final stage of the Sunrise Village is in the pipeline, courtyards. The village is totally "pet friendly" so and construction should start early in the New our residents can bring their furry friends along Year. This will comprise 28 new units. There will too. be 24 Tallowwood units; this is our most popular Sunrise are fully approved/accredited Home Care design. Some of these villa units will also have providers. This means that we can provide care attached garages with internal access. There will services to our residents at no additional cost to also be four Casuarina one-bedroom villa units. them. Our care staff are on site in the village 24 The existing village is virtually full. We do, however, hours a day/seven days a week. have some units available right now. We also have support networks come to the What do you love about living and working in village or staff that can help on call 24 hours a the Manning-Great Lakes? day. From the local doctor who comes out every Being able to work in one of the most beautiful three weeks, to the other health care professionals places in the world is amazing. Sunrise is just down such as, but not limited to, podiatrist, dietician, the road from amazing beaches and lovely lakes. physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech We want to support people to not have to move therapist and so much more, right to your own away when their care needs increase. Staying in front door. This can all be organised by our own their area and keeping employment local is very wonderful staff. important to Sunrise. We are very fortunate at Sunrise Village to have Thanks Nicole.

AWARD WINNERS 2019 WINNER BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

SunriseVillage Tuncurry

2019 HIGHLY COMMENDED EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS NICOLE MCMULLEN Outstanding Business Leader

Supported Living is a unique alternative to a Retirement Village

Villas from $229,000 Advantages of Sunrise Village include: • Couples stay together regardless of each individual’s health card needs • Your own home with a fully equipped kitchen OR have your meals in our Community Dining Room The choice is always yours • You’ll never have to move again. Our onsite nursing staff bring all the Care you need into your own villa unit, even if your Care needs change • As approved providers, our care can be provided at no additional cost • You choose and change the type and level of domestic and care services as you need • You can bring your current Home Care package with you OR we will facilitate a fully funded package for you

Sunrise Village Tuncurry offers supported living in your own villa unit. There’s no other village like it on the Coast. Sunrises unique approach to Retirement Living combines the three crucial tiers of traditional components of Retirement Living into one package:

1 the lifestyle and independence of Independent Living Villages 2 the domestic services of Assisted Living villages 3 Security of on-site Nursing Staff available to provide care services 24/7 FULLY FUNDED GOVERNMENT APPROVED HOME CARE PROVIDER

• The village can cater for dementia and palliative care 24/7 ON-SITE NURSING

Call us on 02 5528 5000 to arrange an inspection.

PET FRIENDLY

All we do is care

11 A Chapmans Road Tuncurry NSW 2428 | www.sunrisesupportedlivingtuncurry.com.au Manning-Great Lakes focus 9

focus_What’s On Manning-Great Lakes

O C T O B E R

GREAT LAKES ORCHID SOCIETY

39th Annual Spring Show

Great Lakes Orchid Society will once again hold their Annual Spring Orchid Show. Potting demonstrations will be given on both days, and members will be on hand throughout the weekend to answer any questions. Entry is by donation. There will also be a variety of orchids for sale. Come along and have a look at a fantastic display. When 5th October, 9am. Where Forster Public School, Head Street. For more information email greatlakesorchidsociety@ hotmail.com or call Graham on 0414 256 645.

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GREENPATCH

Open Day

See where we grow over 200 varieties of seeds and 500 varieties of nursery plants, propagated onsite. Take advantage of over 70 years’ horticultural experience on the day. Self guided tour - an excellent experience. Tea and coffee provided. When 13th October, 10am - 2pm, with horticulturalists Neville and Sophia Donovan. Where Greenpatch Organic Seeds, 109 Old Bar Rd, Glenthorne. Entry FREE.

56 &

Forster

BEACH FESTIVAL

Live music, mega markets, kids’ entertainment, Kombi parade, Beetle display, rides and much more! When October long weekend - 5th and 6th October, 8am - 4pm. Where Sports ground, Old Bar Road, Old Bar.

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AKOOSTIK FESTIVAL

The Wingham Akoostik Music Festival is three brilliant days of music, camping, food and more on the NSW MidCoast. When 18th - 20th October. Where Wingham Showground.

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TOWN MARKETS

Old Bar

Wingham

Your chance to experience a true-blue coastal market with a veritable array of stalls. You’ll find stallholders selling handmade, homegrown and pre-loved wares to holidaymakers and locals. The market more than lives up to its mantra of “homemade, homegrown and home-baked” - with a diverse selection of handmade craft, jewellery, clothing, homewares and artworks. And once you’re done browsing and buying, why not take a stroll down the main street for a morning coffee or brunch in one of the many cafés. When 13th October, 8am - 2pm. Where Town Park, Forster.

SCRAPS TO SOIL

Workshop

Turn your kitchen scraps into amazing food for your garden and soil. $20 fee includes workshop attendance and either compost bin + aerator or a worm farm + worms to get started at home. When October 19th. Where Tucker Patch, Gloucester. Visit midwaste.or.au/composting for more info and to register.

Forster Tuncurry

Time to Upgrade Your Lifestyle

Large 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments that will exceed your expectations!

SE NO LL W IN G !

www.rockpoolapartments.com.au

To: Tuncurry Golf Course Forster Tuncurry Racecourse Great Lakes College

Tuncurry Public Shcool Cinema

Tuncurry Sporti & Leagues Club

Tuncurry Bowling Club

Refl Holi

Museum

Visit our onsite display suite or contact our friendly team

PH: 6555 6555

Onsite display suite now open in Kent St (opposite Woolworths)

Australia Post

Bellevue Hotel

Woolworths Display Suite Manning-Great Lakes focus 11 TUNCURRY

Wallis La

focusinterview.

Race Club

137 YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG

i Sandy. The Krambach Race Club has been running for 137 years. Can you tell us about its history? In the late 1800s, Krambach boasted a racecourse below the village on Paterson’s Flat. The Larry’s Flat Race Club (as it was known) was first incepted in 1882, with the first races being held on 28th December 1888. Races were held at the Krambach track on Tom Paterson’s land until 1968, when the TAB took over. A Centenary Cup Meeting for the Krambach Race Club was held on 16th October at the Taree Racecourse. From 1968, the Krambach Race Club ran three race meetings each year at the Taree course: The Hannam Vale Cup (March), the Gloucester Cup (April) and the Krambach Cup (October). In 2017, the Krambach Race Club merged with the Taree-Wingham Race Club to become the Manning Valley Race Club, and four Krambach Race Club committee members retain directorship at the new entity; Brian Kelly (Vice Chairman), Trevor Wisemantel (Treasurer), Martin Bates and me, Sandy Kiely. The local community runs a Gala Dinner in September, preceding the Krambach Cup, along with the Krambach Calcutta the night before the Cup Meeting; both events are much anticipated each year. What is the importance of the Gala Dinner to the local community? The Gala Dinner brings the community and locals together each year and is well supported by local groups: the Krambach and Firefly Fire Brigades, the Krambach School, the Krambach Hotel, many Krambach businesses and families, along with the hardworking committee members and friends of the old Krambach

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Race Club and of course, the Krambach Krambach Cup and always generates a HUGE amount of interest. Last year the prize pool directors of the new entity; Manning Valley was $4,300, with the top horse bid of $1,000 Race Club. It’s an opportunity to frock up, (Scotty Be Gottie) and in 2017 it was nearly forget the farm, and have a wonderful night $4,500, with the top horse bid of $680 out. (Nadacheva). Past guest callers for the night The Krambach Gala Dinner is held at the have included Ben Looker and Priscilla Schmidt. Krambach School of Arts Hall. What can The other major community event is the one expect from the evening? Australia Day "Iron A fun filled evening of Man" competition, friendship, local support, which attracts a huge good food and music, crowd and involves an with the bonus effect THIS PRIZE IS FOR THE iron and ironing board, of building momentum ‘BEST PRESENTED HORSE’ rather than the more and enthusiasm for the AT EACH RACE MEETING traditional muscles and forthcoming Krambach AND IS AWARDED TO stamina. The "Golden Cup. Calcutta tickets THE WINNING STRAPPER Gala" trophy is always can be purchased at the TO ACKNOWLEDGE, hotly contested. event, and newcomers ENCOURAGE AND The success of the to the area are welcome; CELEBRATE THE HARD Gala Dinner relies on each year we find WORK AND LONG HOURS a number of people; ourselves with a new SPENT IN SENDING OUT is there anyone you contingent of locals who THEIR HORSES IN PEAK would like to thank? have heard about these CONDITION ... The organisation annual events via word of of the Gala Dinner mouth and social media. each year is handled Where do the proceeds by a small group of from the evening go? individuals that were on the Krambach Race Organisation of the event is done on a Club committee, all of whom lend their shoestring budget, and all proceeds are support, time, skill and knowledge to ensuring donated back to a worthy local cause. Past the event succeeds in the best way possible. recipients have been the Krambach Primary Having said that, the biggest accolades really School (funding EVERY school child for the need to go to the people of Krambach; the cost of transport for their annual swimming community who buy tickets each year and initiative in November), and the Krambach Fire those who organise a table of supporters, Brigade (funding much needed torch helmets). the local businesses that support the event This year we have a surprise recipient in annually (Garry and Michelle Muller from the mind - more news on that later. Krambach Hotel and their staff, Helen Legg What other events does this community and the hall committee, the various caterers group host throughout the year? and musicians we enlist, Delwyn Thomas The Cup Calcutta is held at the Krambach from Nabiac, who each year provides us with Hotel on the Thursday night before the

beautiful table florals and the assistance of the MVRC, with some borrowed items and prizes). There are many others that assist on the day and in the days post and preceding, to ensure the venue looks amazing and runs smoothly; the MC, the photographer, the audio visual guys, the runners and vote counters, the many who help clean at function’s end, the list goes on… Can you tell us a bit about the importance of the Strapper Prize? This award is donated and judged by Linda Grono, who’s been in the racing industry in the UK since she was 15 and has held the positions of strapper, track rider (flat and steeplechase), travelling head girl and jockey. Linda came to Australia in the early '80s and worked for stables in Perth and Sydney. She lives on the Mid North Coast and generously funds the Strapper Prize of $100 at each of the Manning Valley Race Clubs meetings. This prize is for the "Best Presented Horse" at each race meeting and is awarded to the winning strapper to acknowledge, encourage and celebrate the hard work and long hours spent in sending out their horses in peak condition (and beautifully groomed), whilst also acknowledging the key contribution the strapper plays in the racing team of each stable. Thanks Sandy. Interview: Bronwyn Davis. The 136th running of the “Bakewell Haulage” Krambach Cup will take place at the Manning Valley Race Club on Friday, October 18, 2019. The full TAB meeting will feature eight races, with $186,000 up for grabs across the day. Races will be run over a variety of lengths, with the showpiece Krambach Cup to be contested over 1,600 metres.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 13

UNDER CONTRACT

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Cheerleading is a sport that Taree local, Hannah Burley, has been involved in for over 12 years. This year marks her first year as Taree Cheerleading Coach, and she has just completed CheerCon in Newcastle with the Gymaroo Allstars. We found out a bit more from Hannah recently about this unique sport, thatâ€™s alive and well in our local area!

hannah cheerleading

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T A R E E

C H E E R L E A D I N G

i Hannah. Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and your background here in the Manning-Great Lakes? I grew up in Cundletown, surrounded by friends and family. I attended Cundletown Public School, like my father and his father before him, then headed to St Clare's high school. I went to university in Wollongong for a year but didn’t like being away from my family and the area, so decided to move back to the area and start a career in real estate. So, how did you first get involved in cheerleading? What inspired you to get started? I've been dancing since I was three, but I eventually stopped loving it as much as I used to. I attended one of the cheerleading try outs at the PCYC with my friend, not knowing what to expect, and have never turned back. What’s your role with Taree Cheerleading, and how did that come about? When I started cheerleading, it was very overwhelming. I was only seven and the smallest girl in the team and couldn’t do a forward roll! When I was old enough, I started to help out the other coaches teach their classes, until I was old enough to have a class of my own teaching juniors. Ten years later, I left for university in Wollongong, where I started my own cheerleading team from scratch … and it is still going strong today! When I moved back to the area, it was pure luck that the PCYC was looking for a coach to take over the team, and I didn’t hesitate to

put my hand up for the role. This is now my 12th year doing cheerleading and my first year coaching the team I was once an athlete of. Tell us about the competitions that the Taree Cheerleading team have been involved in, or plan to be involved in? As an athlete, there is nothing This year the Gymaroo better than stepping on to Allstars have already that floor at a competition, competed at CheerCon: thousands watching, The Experience in waiting for the music to Newcastle, where they start, so you can make all faced off against seven the sweat and hard work teams. For all but two totally worth it. To me, it’s in the team, this was not just a sport - it’s a family … work totally worth it. To the first time they such a good way to make friends. me, it’s not just a sport had stepped on the it’s a family … such a good competition floor. way to make friends. They didn’t place; It is such a different however, watching them experience being the coach; I am way more brought tears to my eyes, and I am so proud nervous having to sit on the sideline than I ever with how well they performed the routine, was competing myself - not to mention the given how quickly they went from knowing constant need to restrain myself from jumping nothing about cheerleading to heading to up on stage and do it with them! the Newcastle Entertainment Centre on There are some common misconceptions competition day. about cheerleading, aren’t there? Tell me Competing that day lit a fire under my girls, and they are so excited to do even better at the about those, and what your response to these misconceptions are. September State Championships (being held as I am trying to break down the barriers, we go to print) at the Sydney Olympic Park. especially in young girls who think, “I’m too What is it about cheerleading that you fat or too ugly to do that” or, “I can’t do a love? Are there any great moments or cartwheel or splits, so I can’t be involved in highlights you could share? cheerleading”. What I love about cheerleading As an athlete, there is nothing better than is that it definitely caters for all body shapes, stepping on to that floor at a competition, sizes and abilities … in fact, there is a place for thousands watching, waiting for the music to everyone. start, so you can make all the sweat and hard

Another misconception is around what cheerleading is. A lot of people are caught up in the Americanised style that is portrayed in TV shows such as Glee and Bring it On. We don’t use pom poms and jump up and down on the sideline of a football game shouting, “Go team go”. The reality is that we use a combination of dance, gymnastics and acrobatics to create a two minute and thirty second routine full of stunting, jumps and tumbling. What’s involved, and how do people in the area find out more about joining Taree Cheerleading? To find out more information about joining the team, they can email taree.cheerleading@ gmail.com or talk to the PCYC about becoming a member. Term 4 will be our “come and try” lessons, to allow people to see if cheerleading is for them before our tryouts at the end of the year. Thanks Hannah. Interview: Ingrid Bayer. Manning-Great Lakes focus 15

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hen and where did your love affair with photography begin? My love for photography began when I was a young child and became a passion from the ashes of a tragedy. My father worked for the Dept of Environment and Conservation WA as a biologist/ranger. He was an amateur photographer and would take me on site to take photos. My father died in a plane crash when I was 12. Immediately after his death, I stayed with a family friend, Scott Bauer (Margaret River based photographer) and he gave me my first SLR and taught me how to use it in manual. The camera was a lifeline and the beginning of my passion and love affair with the art. What photographers have helped influence and inspire your work? This is difficult, as there are so many. Moving from the West to the East Coast in my late teens and living in the Great Lakes region of NSW, I respect the works of Shane Chalker, Graig Mason and Glen Golby. The way they capture the local environment continues to inspire me. Then there are the artists; Semyon Fridlyand and Annie Leibovitz - their knowledge and contribution to the art form is invaluable. Although, photographers who have the greatest impact on me are: Tony Northrup, for the way he teaches the art form with such depth; Peter Eastway - how he articulates his philosophy speaks to me on a personal level; I love the works of Russell Ord - he is the master of turning water into art. Finally, there is Scott Bauer. Scotty has guided and mentored me for the past 15 years; he continues to inspire me and remains the photographer who has the greatest influence on me. What do you love to capture and why? 16 Manning-Great Lakes focus

To put it simply, I love to capture light! The more I understand the theory, how a camera works, the physics of how light works and the psychology of design principles and how they interact - I realise the less I know about the actual act of recording photons. Also, surf photos - there's no money in them, but there’s a lot of travel and they're great fun to shoot. Photography has allowed you to travel across Australia. Do you have a favourite area or state and if so, why? This is difficult to answer, as Australia is so big and magical, with thousands of unique ecosystems - but I'll have a go. I was raised in the Gascoyne Region of WA and have never lost my love of the landscape: the big skies, the red dirt, the palate of the north west and shapes of the wildflowers in bloom and the awesome pale blues that come from the Indian Ocean. I love the variety of shooting in WA. I’ve done a fair bit of work in the NT; it's a photographer's Mecca - the landscape, wildlife and hospitality of people are awesome. Melbourne is a great place to shoot; the city’s

A passion that began through tragedy

Aidan Kean

I have met a variety of people and have had some remarkable experiences. One highlight was when I was asked to shoot an '80s arena party. Standing on stage and looking over a sea of people of 10,000 or so strong was a surreal feeling I love the early hours of the that cannot be described. morning, around 2 or 3am. Do you have any advice There is something for anyone looking very special about the to get started in softness of the light; photography? there is an atmosphere The best advice I was skyline, the street life in the shadows that is given was to put your and night life are just difficult to recreate in the camera in manual, go out, too much fun not to daylight or under studio lights. shoot, and discover the shoot when I’m in basics for yourself. Then Victoria. acquire knowledge, learn Barrington Tops is the theory and apply it to another favourite - watching the sun rise over your work and keep on learning; YouTube is a the mountains is magical and really is one of great start, but take it with a grain of salt. the best views in Australia. A great way to complement this process Do you have a favourite camera or lens? is to send your portfolio to photographers I am currently using a Nikon D850 as my who inspire you, take note of their feedback, main body. I love this camera; it’s an absolute and apply it to your work. Don’t be afraid of weapon when combined with one of Sigma’s criticism learn from it. Art Prime Lens. The sharpness and quality are What is the one thing you wish you'd amazing. known when you were starting out in What is your favourite time of day to take photography? photographs? That taking a photo is the tip of the iceberg. I love the early hours of the morning, around How can we view more of your work or 2 or 3am. There is something very special about get in touch to find out more information? the softness of the light; there is an atmosphere light2lens.com.au in the shadows that is difficult to recreate in the light_to_lens daylight or under studio lights. aidankean74@gmail.com What has been one of the highlights of Thanks Aidan. your career so far? Interview: Bronwyn Davis. I’ve had some great times behind the lens;

GLASSHOUSE

REGIONAL GALLERY

Tuncurry Coaches DAY TRIPS Thursday 28th November 2019 - Newcastle Shopping trip. Get your Xmas shopping sorted, as we enjoy the morning at Charlestown, with 240 specialty stores. After lunch (own cost) we will travel to the recently expanded East Maitland Shopping Centre, Stockland Green Hills, which includes a David Jones. After shopping, we will head to East Maitland Bowling Club for dinner, before heading home. Price includes dinner. Cost: $60.00 pp.

The biennial Mid North Coast showcase exhibition is

BACK IN 2020! If you would like to be part of this showcase of regional talent, please apply online at www.glasshouse.org.au/ NE2020

LIVE SHOWS October 2019, Wednesday 30th - Billy Elliott Returns. Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, gritty, heart-warming and feel-good celebration. Billyâ€™s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family, the whole community and changes his life forever. Day trip includes ticket to show and dinner on the way home. Lyric Theatre, Sydney. Cost: $150 pp. November 2019, Saturday 2nd - Mamma Mia. Set on a colourful Greek island, the plot serves as a background for a wealth of ABBA songs. A young woman about to be married discovers that any one of three men could be her father. She invites all three to the wedding, without telling her mother. This is a totally different show to the one recently in Sydney. Includes lunch and show. Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Cost: $150 per person. March 2020, Wed 11th - WarHorse. WarHorse tells the story of a young boy and his horse during the outbreak of World War I and the treacherous mission that must be endured to reunite them. Matinee show Lyric Theatre Sydney, inc. dinner. Cost $150 pp.

ARTIST SUBMISSIONS

NOW OPEN

glasshouse.org.au/NE2020 02 6581 8888

Digital Marketing Partner

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SARAH BAKER SPEAKS WITH RECENTLY NAMED SILVER MEDALLIST WORLD CHAMPION AND FORSTER LOCAL OLI MORAN ABOUT HIS RECENT SUCCESS IN JUNIOR ELITE BMX RACING.

i Oli. Wow! Congratulations on your recent win in the sporting field of BMX racing. How does it feel to come second in such a prestigious event? It exceeded all my expectations. The whole experience was awesome, as I went to Belgium as part of the CYCLING AUSTRALIA BMX team and was able to spend the week preparing with future and past Olympians and riders whom I’ve always looked up to. It was a valuable insight into different athlete preparations for big events and also provided a great atmosphere for me to prepare. I went to the World Championships in Belgium hoping to make the final, but to come second was an amazing feeling. This is my first year in Junior Elite, so I get another chance next year to better this result, before I race in the Elite ranks. It was also great to see where Australian riders rate on the world stage, as we have a very competitive group that have pushed each other over the years, contributing to my results. How long have been you riding a BMX, and what do you love about the sport? I started riding BMX when I was five years old. My dad took me and my brothers to our nearest track in Taree (Manning Valley BMX Club) for a ride, and we all loved it. 18 Manning-Great Lakes focus

The following year as a Sprocket, I competed a day, six days a week. Weekly training in my first State Titles and have been consists of two sprint sessions, three gym competing competitively since. sessions, and two track sessions, plus two I love riding bikes. race meets a month. I just have so much I have a home gym. fun trying new things The local track is 40 on different tracks minutes away in Taree. particularly technical I go there weekly for NO ONE PERSON tracks that really track work/gates. The INSPIRES ME, BUT challenge me. weekends involve PEOPLE WHO DO I really enjoy travelling to my coaches WHAT THEY LOVE mountain bike riding in Sydney, or attending AND MAKE THE too, and you’ll race meets interstate or MOST OF THEIR often find me at the locally. OPPORTUNITIES Tuncurry Skate Park In preparation for all MOTIVATE ME TO trying new tricks or events, I watch my diet MAKE THE MOST just rolling around. carefully and ensure OF MINE. I also love the I am well hydrated. I friendships I’ve made test these levels with a over the years and all Balance Energy Test Kit, the amazing places I which tells me my pH have been with my family and on my own and sodium levels, to name a couple. This because of BMX. enables me to be at my peak and give my all We have travelled all over Australia and in racing. New Zealand as a family, competing in state I can tell you have a very supportive and national events. I spent four months in family around you. Who inspires you in Canada and the USA when I was 13 years your everyday life? old with another Australian BMX family I am so lucky to have the support of my riding different tracks and meeting great family to drive me to training and events. people. Being in a regional area means I do a lot of Tell us about your training schedule and training on my own, but I have an awesome how you prepare for racing. team that includes my coach Luke Madill, I train for one and a half to two hours my strength coach Rob, my physiotherapist

Jonathon Newman and my sponsor, Ross Harland. These guys are all instrumental to my results, and I could not achieve what I have without them. They are all so giving with their time, and their belief in me inspires me to do my best. All are successful in their disciplines, and I admire their work/life balance. No one person inspires me, but people who do what they love and make the most of their opportunities motivate me to make the most of mine. What’s on the horizon for you, Oli? I begin Year 12 next term and want to do the best I can to keep my future options open academically. As mentioned, I have one more year in Junior Elite. The 2020 World Championships will be held in Houston, Texas in May, and I want to be there aiming for a podium finish. To ensure I make the team, I will compete in national rounds and Australian Champs and some World Cup rounds. For the first time ever, these World Cup rounds will be held in Australia and will bring some of the best European and USA racers to Bathurst and Shepparton. This will be a great way to hopefully earn some UCI points and gain some experience against Elite racers. In the meantime, it’s training as usual, with a big emphasis on strength to get me to that first corner in a great position. Thanks Oli.

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Potato Skins with BBQ Chicken, Sour Cream & Sweet Chilli From Dine on 19 at Club Taree.

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The Kranky Goat Café. Restaurant. Bar. Restaurant food, with a café vibe. Open from 7am every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Kranky Goat is the place for meeting and eating! Located at Tallwoods Golf Club in the beautiful coastal village of Halliday’s Point, The Kranky Goat is perfect for casual dining any time of the day. With a relaxed, informal atmosphere and a passionate team, we create a unique food experience that you’ll love. So whether you join us for an early morning coffee, lazy breakfast, working lunch, a perfectly crafted cocktail in our bar or gather a group of friends for dinner to feast on our beautiful sharing plates - we look forward to welcoming you to our place. If you’re planning a function, wedding or event, we offer a fantastic flexible space. With a large restaurant and bar (100+ seating capacity), separate café & bar (30+) and two peaceful outdoor areas overlooking the golf course, we can cater for groups large or small. So come on down and say hello! To book: (02) 6593 3256 - open seven days. Breakfast 7am to 11am, lunch 11am to 2pm, dinner 6pm to 9pm*, coffee and cake all day, bar open from 11am. thekrankygoat.com.au facebook.com/thekrankygoat *Winter hours - open for dinner Thur/Fri/Sat/Sun only.

Kenny’s Thai If you’ve travelled and discovered the tastes of Thailand, you’ll love “Kenny’s THAI Kitchen”, 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’s THAI Kitchen is a multi-award-winning restaurant, having received the highly sought after “Certificate of Excellence” from Trip Advisor for the past four years in succession! Along with a wide and varied main menu to suit all tastes, Kenny offers a very special lunch menu that offers a mixed entrée and the choice of 12 main dishes for only $12. Kenny welcomes you to Kenny’s THAI Kitchen BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL! Takeaway is also available by simply calling the club. Phone 6591 6591 to book a table today. Open from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. (Sorry, online bookings are not accepted.)

Lakes and Ocean Hotel So much delicious food, you could eat breakfast, lunch and dinner here every day and with spring now here, the view from our deck is better than ever. Breakfast is available from the café, 7 days a week from 7.30 - 11.30. Modays - Chef specials. Tuesdays - $15 ribs night! Treat yourself to our mouthwatering ribs served with chips; we have various portion sizes to suit your hunger levels! Wednesdays - purchase any beer/wine and get a $12 steak. Thursdays - purchase any beer/wine and get a $12 fresh chicken schnitzel. Make sure you keep an eye on our Facebook page for what we have in store for the October long weekend and the NRL Grand Final.

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farm from our

SHARON BATESON

A holistic way of life that needs to be experienced.

ou’re a self-confessed city girl. Can you tell us how From Our Farm began? I am a city girl originally and ironically, I found myself the owner of a farm called Heston - 140 acres of pristine farming land in the Manning Valley, surrounded by mountainous views, fertile soil and lush paddocks. I often asked myself the question, “How did I end up here?” However, I’m a believer that the universe points you in the right direction, and that your destiny has a way of finding you. I also own the Greenhouse Café Nabiac, a quaint 104 year old cottage nestled in the township. Here, I strive to serve produce that is sourced locally and grown in an organic, sustainable way. My commitment to serving fresh, homegrown, beyond organic produce to the community and my desire to connect with the farm I had, led me to thinking … why don’t I combine the two? This seed was firmly planted, however, when I stumbled across Brett Cooper from Limestone Permaculture. Brett’s passion for all things permaculture and my desire to provide paddock to plate produce inspired us to join forces. Hence, the vision for From Our Farm was born, and the dream of making it a reality had begun. What does your philosophy “Growing with Nature” mean to you? From the very beginning, growing with nature has been at the core of From Our Farm; I guess you can say it’s our mantra. From the time the first seed was planted, we lovingly nurtured it, slowly watching it grow and transform into nutritious produce. However, what was not so obvious, was how we were growing with nature and the effect it was having on our mind, body and soul. Turning the soil, planting and reconnecting with nature was making us healthier, happier people. You’ve had a varied career in many different industries diverse from farming. How did your passion for food originate? Food has always been a passion of mine. In my early days as a flight attendant with Qantas, I had the privilege of enjoying a variety of cuisine from all corners of the globe. However, as my career in the food industry evolved, I found myself more intrigued, and I guess you could say mindful about where my food was coming from - its journey from paddock to plate. I have always been a believer in the old saying “you are what you eat”, and it is this passion and drive that encourage me to pursue this endeavour. In what way does From Our Farm service and contribute to Greenhouse Café Nabiac? The team and I at the Greenhouse are committed to serving the

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community ethically grown, sustainable, beyond organic produce in our meals. Where possible, we source as much produce From Our Farm, which is located a short 15 minutes away. This guarantees low food mileage and the optimum in freshness. Can you explain to us a bit about your permaculture and market garden? Our garden has been designed using the swale system. A swale is a long narrow mound in the ground designed to collect or redirect water. Water is a precious commodity, and it must be used wisely; we mulch all our beds to prevent evaporation and retain WE ARE ALSO healthier, tastes better and brings the community soil moisture, whilst also eliminating PASSIONATE ABOUT weeds. together. REGENER ATIVE Our swales grow anything from From Our Farm also operates as a farmstay; AGRICULTUR AL edible flowers, bananas, watermelons, what can guest expect when visiting? PR ACTICES AND pumpkins, citrus, herbs and much Our private rural retreat boasts sweeping IMPROVING more. We rely on companion planting view and is the perfect location to relax and OUR LAND to repel pests, attract bees, improve unwind. You can wake to the sounds of birds FOR GENER ATIONS growth, enhance flavour and enrich chirping, breathe in the fresh air and disconnect TO COME. the soil. from the world as you know it. From Our Farm Our market garden is where we plant is the ultimate way for you to recharge and vegetables that require a little more reconnect with nature. protection. All produce that we grow is As many of you know, country life is never seasonal, using organic methods and permaculture practices. Here dull; we are always busy, tending to gardens, animals and the land. you will find our lettuce, tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, corn to name Here, guests can help themselves to our permaculture garden, a few. Our beds are designed to retain and capture water, while where they can choose from various seasonal, beyond organic reusable netting is used over insecticides to prevent unwanted produce, get acquainted with our farm yard animals, paddle pests. board on the dam, relax by the pool, or simply take themselves We are also passionate about regenerative agricultural practices on a country walk exploring the local area. There is ample room and improving our land for generations to come. Our farm yard for children to run and play, and there’s plenty to do and see. In friends play a major role when it comes to fertilisation. We collect addition, we are perfectly situated close to quaint and vibrant cow, chicken, goat and horse manure from our paddocks. This shopping townships and beautiful coastal beaches. goes into reinvigorating and enriching the soil. What future plans do you have for From Our Farm? In addition, we rely on composting, which is rich in nutrients. Our main focus is to continue to provide the Greenhouse Café Here, we recycle various organic materials, much of it from Nabiac, and in turn our local community with the optimum in the Greenhouse Café; this may vary from table scraps, coffee fresh, local produce and healthy meals. In addition, we are hoping grounds, vegetable scraps and also grass trimmings, paper or to offer a variety of workshops, ranging from permaculture wood. Once the compost has decomposed, we spread it amongst principles to making preserves. our garden beds, to continually improve our soil condition. How can we get in touch to find more information? You’re very community minded. How do you support local? For more information, visit fromourfarmnsw.com.au or contact I’m a big believer in supporting local producers. If we are Sharon@fromourfarmnsw.com.au or follow us on Instagram unable to produce it at our farm, we source additional product from the local area. This in turn supports our local farmers, builds @fromourfarm_ @greenhouse_cafe_nabiac Facebook Thanks Sharon. better relationships, improves the local economy and reduces our environmental impact. In a nutshell, locally grown food is Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

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DISHES of the month

KRANKY GOAT 61 THE BOULEVARD, TALLWOODS COUNTRY CLUB, HALLIDAYS POINT 6593 3256 WWW.THEKRANKYGOAT.COM.AU

THE GREENHOUSE CAFÉ 72 CLARKSON ST, NABIAC 6554 1944 WWW.FROMOURFARMNSW.COM.AU

KENNY’S THAI 19 STRAND ST, FORSTER 2428 6591 6591 WWW.CLUBFORSTER.COM.AU/DINING-BARS/KENNYS-THAI

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

OLD BAR TAVERN 13 SALTWATER RD, OLD BAR 6553 7111 WWW.OLDBARTAVERN.COM.AU

DINE ON 19 - CLUB TAREE 121 WINGHAM RD, TAREE 6539 4000 WWW.TAREERSLANDGOLF.COM.AU

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Greenhouse Café Nabiac

Old Bar Tavern Old Bar Tavern is having a makeover; can you tell us about the changes you have made and are making to the restaurant? We totally gutted the kitchen in our first stage of the renovation and have put in a pub style kitchen, which can cater for a variety of dishes and events. Our menu is created with local produce in mind, from Wingham Beef, Mother Fungus mushrooms, Stone Oysters, Old Bar Bakery and other Manning Valley produce. We have a range of dishes, from traditional pub dishes to upscale seafood and bistro style meals. We run specials three nights a week: introducing Mayhem Monday - selected dishes for $15; Two for One Tuesday - bookings recommended, as this is a busy night and covers all meals excluding pizza; Wednesday is a Wingham Reserved Donald Rump 350 g steak day/night for $15, or if you’re thirsty, $20 and includes a beer. We have moved on from just having a Chinese restaurant to having a bistro that caters for all tastes, with a menu ranging from ribs, pizza, schnitzels to curries, and daily blackboard specials. Pizzas can be ordered at the tavern and can be take away if needed.

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Have you been to the Greenhouse Café in Nabiac? Here, we are focused on serving quality, nutritious food that not only nourishes the body, but also the mind and soul. The team is committed to serving the community ethically grown, sustainable, beyond organic produce in their meals, all dished up with a side of friendly country hospitality. Our dishes are packed with goodness, flavour and are inspired by what’s in season. They are an expression of our beliefs and of our paddock to plate values. We hope that you can taste not only the delicious ingredients, but also the love and care that goes into them. Where possible, we source as much produce as possible From Our Farm, which is located a short 15 minutes away. This guarantees low food mileage and the optimum in freshness. Our produce is grown in our very own permaculture and market garden, which is chemical and pesticide free. If we are unable to produce it, we source additional product from the local area. This in turn supports our local farmers, builds better relationships, improves the local economy and reduces our environmental impact. In a nutshell, locally grown food is healthier, tastes better and brings the community together. We also understand how important coffee is to customers; that’s why the Greenhouse Café proudly serves Merlo Coffee. Merlo has been producing premium, freshly roasted coffee for more than 27 years and to ensure you enjoy the highest quality coffee every time, they pack every order within 24 hours of roasting. Pop on in the next chance you have and enjoy all the sweet treats, signature salads and delicious meals we have to offer.

Greenpatch Organic Seeds It’s time to think about your spring vegetable gardens. Greenpatch Organic Seeds plant nursery and seed range is extensive, to say the least. With seasonal vegetable seedling punnets available year round to complement our ever expanding perennial plant range, we are a must see for your spring garden. Greenpatch has a big range of seedlings available, including Tomatoes, Zucchini, Cucumber, Lettuce, Spinach, Coriander, Kale and much more! Getting into the garden now with your first batch of seedlings then consecutive follow on plantings four - six weeks apart provides a continual harvest for the kitchen. September through to October is the best time to get all your annuals established, before the summer heat arrives. We also have an extensive range of perennial plants available, including herbs, edibles, flowering cottage, succulents and fruiting plants. Join us for our FREE Open Day: Sunday 13th October 2019 - 10am - 2pm - see where we grow over 200 varieties of seeds and 500 varieties of nursery plants propagated onsite. Take advantage of over 70 years’ horticultural experience on the day. The day will include Farm Tour, Growing Summer Greens, Japanese Nori Rolls and Dumplings for lunch then Microgreens - How to get Started Growing your Own. For the full itinerary, visit our website at www.greenpatchseeds.com.au

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

The Cellar Door Experience Some people ﬁnd visiting a winery a little bit intimidating, believing they will look silly because of their lack of wine knowledge. If you have been made to feel that way at a particular winery, then don’t go back but don’t give up. Visit another winery.

he majority of wineries many in the under 25 age group beginning genuinely enjoy sharing their their wine drinking careers, who have never love of wine with everyone, experienced a Cellar Door wine tasting in particular those who are before. There are also many beer drinkers beginning to appreciate the who don’t go near wine, because they believe world of wine. Wineries much prefer to spend it all tastes like vinegar. I often persuade beer time with people who know nothing about drinkers to try wine that is low in acidity, and wine than spend time with “wine snobs” to their surprise, they do enjoy them. There or “wine wankers”, who take delight in is also a large market segment that have a asking questions that are designed to make wine appreciation course under their belt themselves feel clever in and are out exploring the hope of impressing and expanding their wine others. journey. The primary purpose These days it is of Tasting Rooms common to be charged I OFTEN PERSUADE and Cellar Doors is to for a tasting, but usually BEER DRINKERS educate and sell wine. the tasting fee will be TO TRY WINE THAT Wineries want you to refunded when you buy IS LOW IN ACIDITY, learn, and generally the something. It is funny AND TO THEIR people serving will take how some people feel SURPRISE, THEY DO the time to share their that wineries are places ENJOY THEM. knowledge with you. For where they feel entitled many wineries, the Cellar to get something for Door is also a primary nothing. Some help place for them to sell themselves to produce their wine. It isn’t a place for opportunists to on shelves, such as chocolates, and others go for free booze. There is typically a selection have felt they should be able to walk out the of wines available to taste; however, it is not door with a free wine glass and then make to be assumed that every wine on the list is references such as “tight arse” after having to be tasted. The person serving will ask the had a free wine tasting ... go figure! When appropriate questions, to give them some you have been running a cellar door for a few direction of which wine might suit your palate years, you quickly identify those who come or what you may find interesting. You will be for the wrong reasons. given a tasting pour of approximately 10 As with any business, customer service is 15ml. Multiply this by four or five wines, and what brings people back to a winery’s Cellar it’s getting close to a standard drink. Door. Of course, the wine is important, but We get great pleasure talking to first time it’s the overall experience that creates the wine tasters in the cellar door. There are memory that sticks with you. Manning-Great Lakes focus 25

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WITH DONNA CARRIER FROM BENT ON FOOD

social scene.

Fashions on the Field at Forster Tuncurry Race Day Cup.

Sarah Baker and Annette Wannell at the Forster Tuncurry Race Day Gold Cup.

Claire Dunkley and Stacey Lee attending The Business Women's Network, Barrington Coast, morning tea mingle at The Deck, Tuncurry.

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Food glorious food at the Bent on Food brunch.

Megan Griffiths from JR Richards at The Business Women's Network, Barrington Coastâ€™s Mid Coast Waste Event.

Great Lakes Palliative Care Support

Melbourne Cup Day

A very special Melbourne Cup Day is to be held at Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club on Tuesday 5th November. This wonderful celebration is a day of fun, a long lunch, and all the excitement of the Melbourne Cup.

t is a fundraising event held in aid of A free wig service and help for patients Great Lakes Palliative Care Support undergoing chemotherapy; (formerly Great Lakes Hospice). This Social work. charity was established in 1989 and Great Lakes Palliative Care Support continues to increase the services appreciates all the financial help that is given that it provides to help the Great by people and organisations in the Great Lakes community. Lakes. The Auxiliary work very hard to raise The funds raised funds also. provide financial Ten years ago, Sally assistance to support Whitehouse expressed palliative patients in the the wish that an oncology Great Lakes area. What service be established in WHAT A DIFFERENCE a difference a little Forster Private Hospital. A LITTLE HELP help can make when a The funds raised by her CAN MAKE WHEN patient, their family and generous family and A PATIENT, THEIR carers are faced with a friends in her memory FAMILY AND CARERS very difficult time. have seen her wish ARE FACED WITH A Our services include fulfilled. At the Sally VERY DIFFICULT TIME. the following: Whitehouse Memorial Day Provision of extra held in August 2019, more nursing services than $5,000 was raised in and personal care tribute to Sally, so her wish assistance; continues to be fulfilled with the purchase of Free loan of special equipment; special equipment for the Oncology Unit. Financial assistance for medication and The Melbourne Cup Lunch is a major fundrespite; raiser for our organisation. Come along and Education and scholarships to increase join us and enjoy the special celebration to palliative care awareness; help this very good cause. Manning-Great Lakes focus 27

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A Murder is announced ... and Miss Marple needs you to bear witness to help solve the crime! Taree Arts Council will be presenting this classic Agatha Christie murder mystery at the Manning Entertainment Centre on October 17th, 18th, and 19th at 8pm, and on October 19th and 20th at 2pm. A murder is announced in the Gazette newspaper of the English village of Chipping Cleghorn and is stated to take place on Friday October 29th, at the estate known as “Little Paddocks”. This comes as news to Letitia Blacklock, the owner of the property. However, being a good English hostess, she prepares for the evening, thinking that it is some amusement set up by one of her friends. The announcement also requests that “Friends accept this, the only intimation”. Naturally,

many curious villagers all find a reason to be at the estate at the specified time to join the “game”. The clock strikes the half hour, the lights go out, the door swings open and … Miss Marple now has to solve the crime. We are pleased to have the Director, Paul Addison, return to Taree and decide almost immediately to direct this play for Taree Arts Council. Paul has directed many plays and musicals for us in the past, and his return is very welcome. His cast of 11 include some new faces to Taree Arts Council, as well as some “old hands”. Please come and join us but, after you’ve seen the show, “keep the cat in the bag”… Shhhhh! Tickets are available at the usual Manning Entertainment Centre outlets.

Ptown ink UP

your

October is Australia’s Breast Cancer Awareness month, and this month Forster’s streets will be turned PINK to bring awareness to this disease. THIS PROVIDES AN OPPORTUNITY FOR US ALL TO FOCUS ON BREAST CANCER AND ITS IMPACT ON THOSE AFFECTED BY THE DISEASE IN OUR COMMUNITY. Peta is behind the drive and is looking for ladies to drop in their old, no longer used bras, that in turn will line the streets of our town.

i Peta; what a great initiative! What made you decide to get involved and turn our town into bright pink, bra-lined

nasty is happening. Bras play a connection in our lives, so let’s adorn the streets. In what ways can the community get involved in the cause? The community can get involved by donating their bras and by visiting the town streets? during the month of October. Saturday 5th Hi Claire. My partner and I were in October is Pink up your Town day for the far North Queensland on holidays and McGrath Foundation here in Forster. The visited the town of event will have buskers, Yungaburra, where a chocolate wheel, a they had just finished remembrance wall and “pinking up”. The more, so it’s a great day feeling in the street to focus on breast cancer THE COMMUNITY was magical. Not only awareness. CAN GET INVOLVED did their town look Where can we donate BY DONATING beautiful; it had a and drop in our old THEIR BRAS AND BY feeling of community bras? VISITING THE TOWN and as if something Wharf Street shops who DURING THE MONTH special had taken are taking donations have OF OCTOBER. place in the town. signs in their windows: On returning, I Peta E, Coasting Home, heard of friends and Iguanas, Emily’s Boutique, a couple of young Bluewater gifts and Jujus. girls dealing with breast cancer. Light bulb What will happen to these bras once moment; we can do this! Breast Cancer Awareness Month is My thoughts behind the bras were as girls over? and women we are connected emotionally After they have been adorning our street, to our breasts; we wait for them when we we are donating the bras to refuges in Bali are young, we wear sexy colourful bras and possibly Cambodia if we have enough growing up, we have our children and feed to go around, by women who visit Bali them with our breasts and then have them regularly. So, no bra will go to waste. checked regularly, just to make sure nothing Thanks Peta.

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Taree Film Society

watch Club Forster

Movie: Who You Think I Am (MA)

aree film Society screens the spectacular Who You Think I Am at 6:50pm, Monday 14th October at Fay’s Twin Cinemas ($16). Juliette Binoche plays Claire, a university lecturer and mother of two teenage boys, who is contending with the approach of middle age and remains stung by the betrayal of her ex-husband (Charles Berling), who is building a new life with another partner. Claire has a new lover too, the handsome Ludo, but is under no illusions

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as to his fidelity. Out of a mix of petulance and curiosity, she impulsively creates a fake Facebook profile in which to keep an eye on him: she’s "Clara", vivacious, blonde … and 24 years old. Ludo doesn’t take the bait, but his close friend, Alex (François Civil) does, and their online connection soon becomes flirtatious. Titillated by the opportunity to be “young again”, Claire’s deceptions lead both of her identities into increasingly dangerous territory. More info: tareefilmsociety.org.au

HORTICULTURALIST NEVILLE DONOVAN - GREENPATCH ORGANIC SEEDS

AT’S IN

season

Growing Summer Greens

A large percentage of leafy greens grow best in the cooler months from autumn to early spring, often with an oversupply of those lovely fresh salad greens. Once summer hits, it’s very much the opposite, with a shortage of salads to harvest.

ardeners often ask what we can grow in summer for salads. There are many varieties that are well suited to handle the hot conditions, with several largely unknown and not commonly grow. It’s really about time we embrace vegetables that will actually grow well during summer and provide the greens we require in the kitchen; no doubt some will take some getting used to the different tastes and flavours. Green Orach is an easy, fast growing, soft leafy green, upright growing - the plant can be used in salads or lightly steamed, very similar to spinach. Amaranth edible green leaf can be cut continuously at a young age and used as a spinach substitute. The brassica family includes kale black Toscana and little known collards, with these two varieties lasting several years, forming

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a stem to over 1 metre high and producing new growth all year round. The spinach family includes the climbing shiny leaf Ceylon spinach and Warrigal greens, or NZ spinach, naturalising and growing well all year round. Perpetual gator spinach grows to only 40 cm high and provides a regular supply of small spinach leaves. A sheltered position with morning sun, afternoon shading, regular watering and fertilising will benefit all leafy greens. Lettuce varieties with a slightly firmer leaf can be sheltered under shade cloth cover. Kept moist and grown quickly with regular feeding, they can be harvested at an earlier age, with successive plantings every four six weeks. Some useful perennials include sweet potato, kang kong, betel leaf, Lebanese watercress and young tips of cucumber vines. Happy Growing!

SUPERSTARS - get ready for an unforgettable night out with three of the greatest SUPERSTARS of all time, Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Glen Campbell. Relive hit after massive hit in a spectacular two hour musical performance. Be captivated by the world’s no.1 Roy Orbison tribute artist, Dean Bourne, singing such classics as Penny Arcade, Leah, In Dreams, Pretty Woman and Blue Bayou, to name a few. Join in and sing along to Walk the Line, Jackson, Folsom Prison Blues, A Boy named Sue, Ring of Fire and many more, by acclaimed country artist Chris Callaghan, as The Man in Black. Let the magic of Glen Campbell transport you with the timeless hit songs of Galveston, By the Time I get to Phoenix, Gentle on my Mind, Wichita Lineman, Southern Nights, and It’s Only Make Believe, featuring renowned singer and entertainer Graham G Toole as The Rhinestone Cowboy.

DON’T MISS OUT! BOOK NOW! Welcome back to the 1970s - a time when cats were in the cradle, they filled up your senses, country roads took you home and the good old girls were drinking whiskey and rye. ‘70s Unplugged is a collection of the greatest hits from the coolest decade of our lives, taking you back to the days of flower power and stairways to heaven - when people built bridges over troubled waters. '70s Unplugged includes the best-loved music from the greatest bands and performers of the 1970s, including America, the Eagles, Bread, Neil Young, Led Zeppelin, John Denver, Elton John, Cat Stevens, Fleetwood Mac, Carole King and The Rolling Stones. This exciting show is supported by authentic, historic video footage, which will transport you back to a time when you were probably still searching for a heart of gold.

focus_guest contributor Ainslee Dennis from

Hereford cow 422 at Linga Longa Farm in Wingham is "Grace"- named for 16-year-old Grace McCallum of Tinonee for her gift of $20 a week to buy feed during the drought. The St Clare’s student is now urging people to support the "Name A Cow" sponsorship programme set up by farm owners, Greg and Lauren Newell.

Name a L I N G A hat is the "Name A Cow" sponsorship programme, and why did you decide to support it? It’s a simple idea shared on the Linga Longa Farm Facebook page that caught the eye of my mum and I. It was shocking to see pictures of the farm with empty dams and creeks, brown paddocks, and to learn Greg and Lauren had about 60 breeders needing feed. One bag of feed costs $20 and lasts one cow about one week; it just keeps them alive. We know this area is in terrible drought, and we know it’s so important to support our farmers, but sometimes people just don’t know how to help, or the best way to help. This is so simple and such a great opportunity, because I know every cent of the $20 each week will help them to keep their breeders alive, and now, cow 422 has a much nicer name! St Clare’s guides us to follow the example of Saint Mary MacKillop, “Never see a need without doing something about it” - and right now, our local farmers are in desperate need of help to keep their cattle alive, and this is something we can do that will make a real

difference. What did you learn from Lauren during your visit to Linga Longa Farm? It is an amazing place, with cattle, chooks, dogs, and cats, and there is so much love for all of the animals, particularly little calf Darcy, who doesn’t have a mum. It was challenging to hear Lauren talk about how many breeders have died. It was surprising to learn that most farmers won’t tell their neighbours or anyone if they are doing it tough, but I am really thankful Lauren is talking about it, because people need to know. Lauren is emotional as she speaks about the choice to start "Name a Cow" at the beginning of September, as cow 523 became terribly unwell. I’ve cried a lot since the start of doing this. It’s hard getting up every day and looking at land that is turning to dirt, and then cow 523 died. The calf had died inside her, and all week I had been hand feeding her and giving her water, and I thought she was going to give the calf. You might think, well, why don’t you ring the vet? But, I rang the vet for Darcy’s mother and she died, and there’s $500 for the vet and the cow is probably worth only $100 … it might sound cruel, but you’ve got to say at the end of the day, all you can do is

L O N G A

try. We had two in the creek four weeks ago, one died two weeks ago and one Greg had to humanely destroy, because after a month it still couldn’t get up. We tried to lift it up with the tractor, and the vet said that all you can do is feed them and roll them twice a day - my arms are killing me, because you are talking about a tonne animal. This never happens to us; before the drought we might lose an animal once every two years or so, but we’ve probably lost eight in the last two months. We’ve got a cemetery in which Greg has to bury them, and I drive past and just cry. I felt sorry for him on R U OK? Day having to destroy two animals. It’s heartbreaking and hard, because the cows are the backbone of our business, as they produce the offspring that are grown to be a buymeat.com.au animal. How have you seen Linga Longa Farm change after years of low rainfall? Normally when you’re coming into spring, when you try to drive the quad bike around the feed is over the top of the bike. It is just turning to dirt now; the dams are empty and I’ve never seen the creek dry, ever. I’ve been here 10 years, and Greg has been here 20 years, and he has never seen it like this. How have you been managing to feed

F A R M

your buymeat.com.au animals, which are grass fed beef? Last year we were able to make our own sileage, about 150 bales, so we could get through this winter. The cattle are being fed those bales, so they are still grass meat. We’ve got about 30 bales left and if we stretch it out, that will last us three to four weeks. I can’t feed them the cattle nuts, because it’s grain. We rang buyabale yesterday to see if we could get sileage, and they can’t get any, and that just freaked us out - because they gave us some sileage about 12 months ago. What has been the initial response to the "Name A Cow" sponsorship programme? It’s been wonderful, although it’s created a few challenges, as I have to get out and photograph the cows - and they are not really good at standing still, so that I can capture the ear tag in the photo! Each cow that is sponsored is featured on the Linga Longa Farm Facebook page with their new name and a thank you to the sponsor. Some people sponsor for a week and name a cow for a week, and others are choosing to sponsor for longer; we are so thankful. To "Name a Cow", visit the Shop section of the Linga Longa Farm website, buymeat. com.au or call Lauren on 0418 414 405. Manning-Great Lakes focus 31

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LEE MURRAY AND GREG NIX ARE NO STRANGERS TO THE LOCAL MUSIC SCENE, HAVING BEEN PLAYING FOR OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES FOR DECADES - but not always as a duo. Joining forces as "The Southern Hold" has opened up new doors and opportunities for them, leading them down a path of success.

L e e M u r r a y & G r e g N i x

Southern

ou’re playing in your hometown at the Wingham Akoostik Music Festival in October. What do you love most about performing locally? Lee: We love playing locally! It’s such a great area, and we find that the local community is always keen to come out and support local acts. We can feel the love when we’re up on stage, seeing friendly faces in the crowd. Greg: Playing close to home is always great, because it gives our family and friends the opportunity to come and enjoy these experiences with us. It also allows us to collaborate with other local musicians whom we have formed friendships and worked with over the years. Lee: Yeah, the area has a pretty tight community of musicians and performers, with some amazing talent. There are also some great venues and events popping up for original music around the area; it’s really exciting to see. The Wingham Akoostik Festival and The Old Bar Beach Festival have been going from strength to strength each year, and we can’t wait to be a part of both of these amazing events. Where does your love of music come from? Greg: Music has always been a part of me. I have been playing guitar since I was about 13 years old. Music has always been the thing I

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can come back to. I am proud to say I am now seeing that same passion for performance and music in my two daughters. Lee: One of my earliest memories is sitting listening to my mum’s old Elvis and Buddy Holly records before I could even walk, watching Countdown and raiding my brother's and sister’s record collections. I convinced my mum to buy me a guitar in Year 10 and formed my first band with my mates playing punk covers about a week later. We weren’t very good! Ha ha! But, that sowed the seed, and I’ve been in one band or another ever since. It looks like my youngest boy has also caught the bug, and he’s turning out to be an awesome drummer. I’m very proud. How did your band come together? Did you know each other beforehand? Greg: Lee and I have known each other for decades. In the early days, we would often be playing in separate bands on the same bill, but in more recent years we’ve been writing, recording and performing in bands together. We have both always done the rock band thing, so the idea of something a little more laid back appealed to us. We’ve also found that this has opened up gig opportunities that we may not have seen doing the rock stuff. Lee: I guess we were both keen to get back into writing and performing our own music, so that was a big reason we formed The Southern Hold. Playing covers in a pub band is a heap of fun, but there’s nothing quite like

the feeling you get when a crowd is totally enjoying a song we wrote ourselves. What genre of music would you fall into, and has this changed over the years of playing in bands? Greg: I personally grew up on heavy/hard rock bands. In saying that, I think I have always been pretty open minded when it comes to music. I’ll give almost anything a go and try to find something positive I can take out of it. I have played in all different styles of bands over the years, which has brought me to this point. I’m not sure what genre of music to put us in. Lee: Yeah, my taste in music has definitely changed over the years. I still love getting up on stage and getting loud and sweaty, but I really enjoy the stripped back simplicity of two voices and two acoustic guitars. I love the fact that the acoustic gigs are quite intimate; we can’t hide behind loud guitars and crashing cymbals. It makes us think about our vocal harmonies and melodies a bit more. I see the Southern Hold as a little bit Rock, a little bit Country, a little bit Folk. We love to jam and extend parts of songs; no two performances are exactly the same. Greg: I agree. We love interpreting songs, all types of songs, putting our own take on them with as little limitation and boundaries as possible - keeping it fun, free and easygoing. Who are you most excited to see play at the festival? Lee: I was caught in the downpour at last year's festival waiting to see Diesel, so I’m

looking forward to his performance this year - hopefully under clear skies this time! The Mason Rack band is awesome, and I’m keen to see 19-Twenty - so many great acts! Greg: We’ll also be supporting all the local artists too! James Bennett, The Trapps, Hudson Rose, Mark Oats and Matty Zarb - so much local talent. What’s next for The Southern Hold? Lee: We are appearing at Old Bar Beach Festival on 6th October, and then Wingham Akoostik Festival a couple of weeks later on Friday the 18th. We will also be performing on the Taree Riverbank for New Year's Celebrations. Greg: We are always busy gigging most weekends at various venues around the local area too. We’ve also been busy recording our first EP, which we will be releasing in time for the Wingham Akoostik Festival. We are super excited to share it with everyone! Where can we find out more about The Southern Hold? You can check us out on Facebook; just search for “The Southern Hold” or come along to a gig and say hello in person! Thanks guys.

The Southern Hold Wingham Akoostik Music Festival 2019, October 18 - 20, Wingham Showground.

Diesel Lloyd Spiegel Hat Fitz & CarA TURNER BROWN BAND 19-twenty Hussy Hicks

Mason Rack Blues Arcadia Andrew Swift Afro Moses Blake Oâ€™Connor Fat Picnic Leanne Paris Montgomery Church Angus Gill Waang Djarri Dancers

Mark Oats & Matt Zarb Sofiella Watt & the Handsome Husbands Josh Needs Colin Lillie James Bennett Miniq Vena KLYMO Then Jolene Hudson Rose Trapps The Southern Hold Ruby Blunt Wingsong

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It’s all here. Everything we love about our region and more! SARAH BAKER SPEAKS WITH FESTIVAL COMMITTEE MEMBER MARK JOHNSON ahead of this year’s 2019 Lakeside Festival.

i Mark. It’s always an exciting time of year in Forster Tuncurry when the community comes together to be part of this exciting special event on our calendar. Tell us what’s in store this year ... Thanks Sarah. In our seventh year, we have trusted our instincts and decided to reposition the stage in John Wright Park. We are moving to the southern end of the park, and we are excited at the opportunities that this has created for the afternoon. May I say what an impressive line up of talented bands there is for 2019! Please give us a brief overview of the major acts

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and how lucky we are that each band will be part of this year’s festival ... We are very proud of the line up that we have been able to offer this year. Several members of our music team travel around each year, attending shows and festivals, looking to secure a blending of different musicians and acts to showcase an attractive afternoon of music for our patrons. This year’s line up is a reflection of their hard work. Opening for #LFEST19 are our local legends The Big Fins. Now a nine piece band, they play casual styles of classic songs everyone loves in R&B, Soul, Blues and Rock, with an emphasis on brass, creating a fun atmosphere for all ages. Your only worry will be wanting to start to dance too early.

We welcome The Swamp Stompers back to rock our stage once again by popular demand. These local boys know how to get your tail feathers shaking! If you loved them at #LFEST17, then you’re in for a real treat at #LFEST19. Floyd Vincent and the Temple Dogs are one of the country’s most enduring and unique bands. They play a high-energy blend of Latin, Jazz, Rock, World, Rhythm and Blues. The band has been highly regarded over the past 25 years for the energy and intensity of their live shows. The Round Mountain Girls are a high-

energy, feel-good, Folk-Rock band at its best! Based in Northern NSW, they have recently completed a very successful UK tour. Warning: this band may contain traces of nuts and a vibe that is so infectious, it’ll be impossible for you not to get up on the dance floor! Each of these talented musicians will be working hard to get you ready for The Aussie music legends GANGgajang. An Australian Pop Rock band formed in 1984, renowned for their single Sounds of Then (This is Australia) made them a significant part of Australia’s cultural fabric for over 30 years. As you listen to GANGgajang, you will understand why the

Association of Surfing Professionals named them the "World’s Best Band" two years in a row. This year will see some new initiatives take place, including gourmet foods, chillout spaces and a licensed pop-up bar. Take us through some of the new aspects to this year’s festival. One of the beliefs we have is that the standard of produce from our surrounding areas is second to none, and the festival will spotlight this to patrons. We try to adhere to the mantra of 100 miles around Forster / Tuncurry, and we are rarely disappointed. Occasionally we have had to look further, but not often. This year, amongst the various offerings from our food vendors, will be Wallis Lake Oysters. We are very pleased that Graham Barclays Oysters will be available on the day, perfect to

pair with our local Coastal Brewing Company offering their craft beer and two local wineries, Old Inn Road Wines and Great Lakes Paddocks. A huge part of the event is also the "create and grow" market and the many art exhibitions showcasing works of our talented locals. What can people see and be part of in these areas? The Create & Grow Market opens at 8am on Saturday morning at Lone Pine Park. We’re all about unique locally produced, handmade or home grown items, community information, workshops, displays and demonstrations, all sourced from the Barrington Coast. There will be so much to see. The market will be bursting with unique, handmade treasures, arts and crafts that you won’t find anywhere else. Our market is a sure winner for early Christmas shopping. We will also offer the best of fresh produce from the local region.

This year we have changed the way we are conducting the art section of our festival. The exhibition theme for 2019 is “From the MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA” and is presented by the Great Lakes Art Society and Lakeside Festival. Artworks will be on display and for sale, created by local artists. Admission is free. The exhibition will be held between October 25th to November 10th, 2019, Lake Street Art Gallery, 34 Lake St., Forster NSW 2428 and is Open 10am - 4pm Friday, Saturday and Sundays.  This year we are also presenting the Lakeside Youth Art Trail. Lakeside Festival is partnering with Great Lakes College Forster and Tuncurry campuses and Wharf Street Forster Shopkeepers for an exciting NEW exhibition showcasing Youth ART by local students. Supported by MidCoast Council, this art event is dedicated to the ever growing youth artists in the Midcoast. The Art Trail will be held over two huge weeks in the lead up to the Seventh Annual Lakeside Music Festival and Create & Grow Market on November 2nd. Art Trail Maps will be available for download from our website https://www.lakesidefestival.com.au/art Follow the trail map to discover a variety of local youth artists, as they exhibit in participating stores along Wharf Street, Forster, between October 19th to November 3rd.   You will be able to vote for your favourite artwork in the “People’s Choice" Prize. Students will have an opportunity to not only bring their talents out into the community, but will be in the running for some of the prizes. The Youth Art Trail will commence on Saturday 19th October and end on Sunday 3rd November, with the People’s Choice Prizes

announced at Tartt Café (12 Wharf Street, Forster) at 2pm on Sunday 3rd November. Winning artwork and runner ups will then be displayed for a further week at Stockland Forster. #LFEST19 also has an alliance with the Great Lakes FM “A Star is Born” talent quest. Our team will be involved in the judging and sound production and will be providing a platform for the winner to appear on our stage on event day. We are very proud to also be included in this community initiative. The festival could not be made possible without the support of invaluable local sponsors and volunteers. How can people get in touch if they would like to contribute in a volunteer capacity? Yes, you are correct. The festival is now in its seventh year. Our aim is to provide an entertaining, safe and happy environment for all patrons, performers and the local community. We work all day, from Thursday to Sunday, to present a Saturday afternoon of music. Festival volunteers play a vital role in helping us to achieve this, and we have a variety of jobs and tasks to help us to achieve our aim. Details of our volunteer opportunities are listed on our website as follows: https:// www.lakesidefestival.com.au/volunteer Where can we get our tickets, so that we don’t miss out? Tickets are available via our website: https://www.lakesidefestival.com.au/tickets listing discounts for children, groups etc. Or alternatively, tickets will be available at the gate on the day for $35. Seriously, what great value! We look forward to seeing you there! Thanks Mark.

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GANG gajang a part of Australia’s cultural fabric for more than 30 years!

THE AUSSIE MUSIC LEGENDS RENOWNED FOR THEIR SINGLE, "SOUNDS OF THEN (THIS IS AUSTRALIA)" , WHICH BECAME THEIR MOST RECOGNISABLE TR ACK IN 1984.

n 1984, GANGajang was formed in Sydney; the name is onomatopoeiac for the sound of a guitar playing a loud chord. The band grew out of songwriting and performing sessions.The group’s live debut was at the Mosman Hotel in March 1985.

The band gained a solid following around Australia during 1985, aided by support from national radio station triple j and pop music TV series Countdown. Their biggest commercial success came in November from the release of their self-titled debut album, which sold over 120,000 copies. The LP included the hit single, Sounds of Then (This is Australia), as well as House of Cards and Giver of Life. Sounds of Then was released in December and peaked in the top 40. Renowned for the perennial Sounds of Then (This is Australia), GANGgajang has been part of Australia’s cultural fabric for over 30 years, beginning with their debut single in November 1984. It was the mid 1980s surf culture who first adopted the band, when songs from their debut self-titled album became the entire soundtrack to Quiksilver’s seminal surf movie, Mad Wax. Surfers would describe GANGgajang’s distinctive groove and sound as a seamless soundscape to the rolling waves. In 1986 and 1987, the Association of Surfing Professionals aka World Surf League voted GANGgajang

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“World’s Best Band”. They performed in Long Beach California at the U.S. opening for Mad Wax, as well as music being included in the film soundtrack of North Shore.

tracks featured backing vocals from original members Kayellen Bee and Marilyn Delaney (aka Marilyn Sommer). In 2004, a live concert featuring a selection of new songs and some of the classics was filmed for the ABC’s Live at the Basement series.

GANGgajang also played at the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour as part of the Corroboree 2000 Late in 2006, their double DVD, The Complete celebrations and during the 2000 Summer Olympics, the GANGajang was issued. It featured music video clips, band was in demand for concert live performances, interviews, and appearances around Sydney as part of a documentary of their first tour of the Olympic Arts Festival. In February Brazil. GANGgajang’s current single, 2001, the group completed its third Surfing Round the World was recorded THE BAND GAINED A tour of Brazil. at Freshwater Beach Sydney, where in SOLID FOLLOWING 1915 the father of modern surfing, The success of Mad Wax took AROUND AUSTR ALIA Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku brought GANGgajang’s music to surfing DURING 1985, AIDED surfing to Australia. Included on the communities around the world BY SUPPORT FROM soundtrack of Australian surf music from South Africa to Brazil. Brazilian NATIONAL R ADIO documentary, Delightful Rain, Surfing surf judge Ricardo Chantilly played STATION TRIPLE J, Round the World features the last GANGgajang songs regularly on his AND POP MUSIC TV recording lost friend and founding half hour radio show devoted to all SERIES 'COUNTDOWN'. member Chris Bailey made with things surfing. GANGgajang toured GANGgajang. Brazil three times and in 2001, together with Yothu Yindi, they played to over 20,000 people at a concert on Copacabana Beach. In October 2002, they released their fourth studio album, Oceans and Deserts, which spawned the singles Nomadsland, Anodyne Dream and Trust, to critical acclaim and extensive airplay across Australia on ABC radio. Five

The Surfing Round the World tour and song are dedicated to the surfers and free spirits of the world, from the grommets to the pros and to anyone who has ever waxed a board or thought about it! GANGgajang will be headlining at the 2019 Forster Tuncurry Lakeside Festival on Saturday, November 2nd.

Festival TIME IT'S

The season of festivals, fun and frivolity is at our door. BUT, IT ALSO MEANS MORE TIME OUTSIDE, MORE TIME WITH FRIENDS, AND WELL ... more waste.

hen we are at home or at work, we generally stick to a routine. We prepare meals at home, we recycle more, and we do our best. But what happens when we go out for the day? It all goes out the window. Why is that? We choose our meals on the taste - not on the waste! This year Midcoast Waste will be working again with the Akoostik and Lakeside Festivals to assist in diverting as much waste from landfill as possible. The past two years we have been working with the event goers, and this year our focus will be on the stall holders. The stall holders are doing a fabulous job in providing the event goers with recyclable or compostable packaging to

minimise waste going to landfill, but this year we are going behind the scenes and working on source separation. Source separation? It’s just a fancy way of saying, sorting our waste when we make it, not when we get to the bins. Unfortunately, many stalls (like our kitchens) are not properly set up to sort there and then. We are all busy, and we all get caught up in the rush, so we will be assisting stallholders by providing them with three collapsible buckets to sort their waste. Festival waste attendants will be regularly emptying and checking these buckets to reduce contamination and increase waste being diverted from landfill, while minimising the impact to the stallholder or customer. In addition to providing sorting buckets, the festivals will be implementing wash up

stations for coffee cups. found by downloading Disposable cups are the Choose Tap app. This year Midcoast confusing for everyone, If you are keen to Waste will be working but the plastic lining get your waste free kit again with the Akoostik prohibits it from being together, you might like and Lakeside Festivals recycled. The most to include some cutlery to assist in diverting practical solution is to and a straw. Not only as much waste from choose reusables. are these items so readily landﬁll as possible. Both events will have available and disposable, water refill stations on the size and shape make site, so remember to bring it almost impossible for along your water bottle, them to be recycled. so that you can refresh throughout the day So, next time you are heading out to the without the single use impact. If you are out beach or to a festival, take your reusables and about enjoying the season, MidCoast with you, and if you end up with unavoidable Council have several water refill stations packaging, choose hard recyclable plastics located throughout the region. These can be over Styrofoam or plastic lined cardboards.

IMAGINE IF RECYCLING

was everybody’s business Recycling is a big part of our business, but it’s your business too! We can all play a part in creating a sustainable future for the MidCoast region. And while almost 3 in every 4 MidCoast households regularly use their yellow recycling bin, we can all be doing more to waste less and recycle more. Reduce - avoid single-use items like plastic grocery bags, takeaway coffee cups and disposable razors. Hot tip: Many local cafes offer a discount if you bring your own “keep cup”. Re-use or re-home - could your unwanted item have a second life? Refashion clothing, turn containers into storage, or sell or give away items that someone else may have a use for. Recycle - sort your waste carefully to ensure items that can be recycled, like glass, hard plastics and paper products, are kept out of landfill. Hot tip: Soft plastics are not recyclable. Visit our website for inspiration on how you can do your bit to help. Re-Imagine Waste, part of our commitment to reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.

Your weekly kerbside waste service is provided by JR Richards & Sons in partnership with MidCoast Council.

midcoast.nsw.gov.au/waste Manning-Great Lakes focus 37

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Manning-Great Lakes focus 35

kinetic MEDICINE

FAQ:

Help! I think I have “bursitis”; how do I know and what should I do?

Hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis, is an often painful condition typiﬁed by pain in the area around the outside of the hip.

sually pain presents as an ache that worsens with increased activity as well as direct pressure, such as when laying on the affected side. The name of the condition indicates that inflammatory processes are considered a part of the nature of the condition, but as we

have an increasingly more sophisticated way of understanding pain and musculoskeletal conditions, we understand there may be a lot more at play. Often there are muscular and tendon related factors that develop, especially as the condition persists. As such, we more accurately now call this condition Greater

Trochanteric Pain Syndrome. Whilst many people are given reasonable This aside, when you’re in pain, oftentimes advice and exercises that often have some a name doesn’t much matter. So, why does effectiveness, an approach that doesn’t this condition occur, and what can we do take into account all the things that make about it? It might sound cliché, but since you, you, as well as considering where every body is different, there are usually a you’re at right now with your body and number of inter-relating factors that help the things you do isn’t as likely to succeed. create a condition where pain first arises and Oftentimes, pain medication and injections then usually a number of are put forward. Whilst other circumstances that at times appropriate, enable pain to persist. a movement-based Factors around hip problem requires, at least DON’T AVOID rotation during loading in part, a movementPAIN RELIEF, BUT are often part of the based solution. Don’t EQUALLY DON’T movement picture. Whilst avoid pain relief, but FORGO UNDERGOING there is no one “right” equally don’t forgo PERSONALISED way to move, for each undergoing personalised AND TARGETED person there will be ways and targeted REHABILITATION. of moving - walking, rehabilitation. In our lifting, carrying, stair practice, the first step is climbing - that induce a making a plan that you’ll stress upon the structures understand, that you’ll of the hip including the bursa, which is a feel better for doing. We don’t do “cookie small fluid filled sac that assists the movement cutter” stuff. of muscle and connective tissue. As the hip So if you’ve got an aching, lateral hip has one of the best ranges of motion for region pain that just won’t let you do any a large joint in our bodies, poor muscular of the things you love, don’t waste time not function and regulation of stress are prime getting better. If you need a hand, help is contributing factors. within reach.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 39

40 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Share the

journey THIS OCTOBER

Mental Health Month held in October each year is an opportunity to raise awareness about mental health and wellbeing. The theme this year is “Share the Journey”, and it is all about ways we can connect with people to provide support for each other on our journey to live better.

ne in five Australians are affected by mental illness, yet many do not seek support because of the stigma. Depression does not discriminate, and greater understanding of depression is the first step toward getting help. It’s OK to seek help and can be as simple as a phone call. Depression commonly involves a persistent feeling of sadness or lack of interest in usual activities; the onset of a major depressive disorder is commonly associated with exposure to stressful life events and genetic factors. The Mayo Private Hospital mental health services provide our community with understanding and access to the right treatment. Our purpose is to enhance your overall wellbeing for you to live your life to the fullest through achieving your health goals. Mayo Private Hospital offers outpatient and inpatient treatment programs, with the only private inpatient mental health unit between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour. Consider contacting the Mayo Private Hospital if you or a loved one is experiencing the following: • Insomnia or excessive sleeping • Fatigue, low energy • Social withdrawal or isolation • Participating less in usual activities

LEFT TO RIGHT Psychologist - Sylvia Hill, Clinical Psychologist - Miles Johe, Clinical Psychologist - Ava Read, Provisional Psychologist - Katrina Neal, Mental Health Nursing Unit Manager - Paul Cox

currently think and behave. It does not dwell • Concentration difficulties on the past but aims to find solutions. • Lack of motivation • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Program • Frequent crying - combines standard cognitive behavioural • Anger, irritability techniques for emotional balance. DBT can • Pessimism or hopelessness be used to help people who experience • Misery or sadness impulsive behaviour, frequent conflict in • Anxiety relationships. At Mayo we work in partnership with • Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic general practitioners and other key service Stimulation - a drugproviders to treat free alternative for people suffering treating depression. This with a large range of treatment is effective for mental health issues. OUR PURPOSE people who experience Our team includes five IS TO ENHANCE severe depression and do psychiatrists, three YOUR OVERALL not respond well to other psychologists, and allied WELLBEING FOR forms of treatment. health professionals. YOU TO LIVE YOUR • Electroconvulsive Our services include LIFE TO THE Therapy - is a medical inpatient and outpatient FULLEST THROUGH treatment for severe treatments and group ACHIEVING YOUR depression, bipolar therapy. HEALTH GOALS. disorder and psychotic Group Therapy illness such as Programs are popular schizophrenia. and include: A testimonial from one of our patients: • Mindfulness Group - mindfulness is to “Mayo Mental Health provides a very become aware of avoidance and to be more supportive and safe environment. The care I connected to yourself and significant others. receive from all the staff on each admission • Trauma Recovery Program - Post is consistent - the staff notice and take time Traumatic Stress Disorder Program. to sit with patient; they give guidance and • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Day offer suggestions and solutions. I find their program - recognises that events from your services invaluable - especially outreach past have helped shape the way that you

outreach provides me with direction and security - knowing appointments are regular and flexible keeps me focused. Regular home visits allows me to reset in my own surrounds and motivates me to keep going. I find all services are fantastic - from being an inpatient to attending the outpatient program weekly and receiving ongoing outreach visits.” Outpatient appointments: For an appointment with one of our psychologists, you will need a Mental Health Care Plan and a referral from your general practitioner. For an appointment with one of our psychiatrists, please consult your general practitioner for a referral. Mayo Consulting Suite: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5pm Ph: (02) 6551 0722 Fax: (02) 6551 0822 Email: referral.mayo@healthecare.com.au Inpatient admission and day program: Admission to one our private, spacious rooms in the Mental Health Unit must be under the care of one of our treating psychiatrists. If you would like assistance with selecting a psychiatrist, our admission and assessment team are here to assist you. Mayo Mental Health Unit: Ph: (02) 6552 0070 Fax: (02) 6539 3692 Email: mayo.private@healthecare.com.au

Manning-Great Lakes focus 41

Use it or lose it

D O N ’ T M I S S O U T O N Y O U R FA M I LY ’ S P R I VAT E H E A LT H F U N D B E N E F I T S I N 2 0 1 9

re your family’s private health What should you do? funds about to expire for If you have not had a dental check-up 2019? within the last six months, it is a great idea With the end of the year to book one now. Don’t wait until the end fast approaching, your family’s of the year, as that’s the "silly season" and private health insurance and you may find it difficult to find appointments dental benefits may be about to expire. Most and there will be limited time to schedule major health funds within Australia provide any required treatment before your benefit benefits from the 1st runs out. We recommend January through until patients know what their the 31st December. health fund benefits entitle And any dental benefits them to; schedule a checkthat have not been up in plenty of time to IF YOU OR YOUR claimed before the end reschedule for any further FAMILY HAVE NOT of the year may expire, treatment. CLAIMED YOUR as health fund benefits If you’re looking for DENTAL BENEFITS do not rollover into a dental practice, why FROM YOUR the following year and not consider the team at PRIVATE HEALTH cannot be saved up. Sundial Dental? We have INSURANCE IN What does this mean four locations, a team 2019, YOU MAY for you and your of caring professionals BE MISSING OUT family? and advanced dental ON VALUABLE If you or your family technology to look after BENEFITS. have not claimed your you and your family’s dental benefits from dental health. Take action your private health now and call Sundial insurance in 2019, you Dental on 6551 1005 to may be missing out on valuable benefits. This get on top of your dental health before your may mean that next year, if you need extra family's health benefits run out in 2019. work, you could be left without coverage For further information about our team through your health insurance and be out of and our services, visit our website: www.sundialdental.com.au pocket even more.

42 Manning-Great Lakes focus

TIME NOW IS THE

new

for a

at Eyecare Plus

RUN IN RUN OUT!

before your optical health benefits

BOOK NOW MOST OPTICAL HEALTH FUND BENEFITS EXPIRE DEC 31. IF YOU DON'T USE THEM YOU LOSE THEM.

Are you in a private health fund and year after year miss out on using your rebate to get a new pair of glasses? Well, it’s that time of year again to use it or lose it. Now is the ideal time to think about a new pair of glasses.

think about glasses like shoes; in Taree. “We spend the time with one pair is just not enough. You you to choose the lens design that don’t wear the same shoes on you need. That may be a work style the tennis court as you would lens for a desk worker, so they can when you go out for dinner,” see both at near to read and also said Dale Rolfe from Eyecare Plus in the computer at the same time. Or, Forster. Glasses it might be the have specific tasks, correct tinting like so it is sometimes polarisation and necessary to have a UV protection for THINK ABOUT different pair from someone who likes GLASSES LIKE your everyday pair. to fish.” SHOES; ONE People have second If you have a PAIR IS JUST pairs for work, health fund rebate NOT ENOUGH! out in the sun or due for glasses, for sport. Or, it’s there is no better just nice to have a time to come in for choice in style and that second pair, colour, depending on how you feel. even if it's just for a spare. We have At Eyecare Plus, “We are here to ranges that are fully covered by most help you with advice on what is the health funds, right up to the latest in best pair of glasses for your lifestyle,” fashion brands and lens technology. said Peter McKay from Eyecare Plus

Receive $125 OFF your second pair!* Hurry, this is a limited time offer. Eyecare Plus Forster 1/12 Wharf Street Forster NSW 2428 02 6554 7817

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Manning-Great Lakes focus 43

Dr Paul Brennan Midcoast Skin Cancer Clinic

our Midcoast Skin Cancer Clinic opened 12 months ago; how have things been going? It is hard to believe it has already been a year, and we have diagnosed and removed over 60 melanomas, plus countless non melanoma skin cancers. So that means 60 lives saved? Potentially. Most were very early melanomas, with only 3% chance of recurrence. The important thing is to catch them early. How do patients book in and see you? Do they need a referral? No, although a referral is good, because it provides me with some background details. Patients can just make an appointment and come in themselves for a skin assessment. They should do this especially if they have a family history of skin cancers. We use dermoscopy to review any suspicious looking skin lesions, particularly pigmented ones. What is your background as a skin cancer doctor? Throughout my medical career I’ve had an interest in skin conditions. I’ve been practicing in Forster-Tuncurry since 1988, but the last

44 Manning-Great Lakes focus

10 years have been focused on skin cancer medicine and surgery. I have post graduate qualifications in both, and I’m still studying to keep up to date with changing techniques and contemporary practice. Continuous learning is crucial to staying at the top of my game! What sort of procedures do you perform at the clinic? We excise and repair small to large skin cancers and can perform skin grafts and flaps if required. Many suspicious lesions are biopsied first, to determine if further treatment is needed. We never perform surgery unless it is indicated. All lesions we remove are sent to pathology to confirm the diagnosis. Are all skin cancers treated surgically? Not at all. Many surface skin cancers can be treated with topical creams or gels. I believe you even diagnosed a melanoma on yourself? Yes, unfortunately doctors are not exempt from skin cancers. I got it very early, so like my other 60 patients, I am one of the lucky ones, hopefully. Do you bulk bill? We bulk bill aged pensioners for skin

assessment; however, additional charges do apply when surgical procedures are performed. What is dermoscopy? A dermatoscope is a magnifying instrument that uses predominantly polarised light to illuminate, enlarge and see through the upper layer of the skin (epidermis) to

the structures below, so that all the special features are highlighted; it makes it easier to diagnose the bad ones - when you know what to look for - at a much earlier stage. So where do you see yourself in another year? Hopefully doing more of the same. Thanks Paul.

MELANOMA

NORMAL MOLE

MELANOMA

These are dermatoscope images of two melanomas found on a routine skin check on a 28 year old fit man. They are only 3 mm. They show disorganised, asymmetrical structure and colour, and the peripheral dark clods are a clue.

Here is another recent melanoma. Again, chaotic - and the blue grey areas are a clue to malignancy. In contrast, this is a non cancerous congenital mole showing good symmetry of structure and colour.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

October 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

You are gifted at manifesting. If you acknowledge yourself with gratitude when you manifest, your ability will grow enormously. Try doing a wishing ceremony in nature. Think of what you want, feel its excitement, then let it go with gratitude, as if you have it already. Clear Quartz amplifies our gifts.

Feeling suspended should dissipate soon. Reflect on the last six months and heal any undigested emotions. Try listing everything you wish to release and burn it on the full moon. Your higher self does not want your future to have to deal with your past. Aquamarine releases negativity from our entire being.

You are currently clearing out anything that prevents your success. Old friends may move on, for new ones to fill their place. Now is a good time to clear out negativity from your mind, body and heart. This will attract kindred souls to you. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You will be likely to step into new circumstances soon. Don’t allow delays to dissuade you; instead, use your gift of inner sight, and visualise your outcome. From there, keep sight of the passion for what you are pursuing. Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

You are a wise old soul and hold great knowledge within; don’t be afraid to share it - you are a natural-born teacher. To avoid spending too much time in your own head, spend more time in nature. (Great discipline for being in the now!) Lapis Lazuli is the stone of wisdom.

When you’re feeling out of sorts, try sitting listening to the sounds of the ocean. With each wave in, allow each emotion to engulf you, and then see it completely wash out to sea when the wave recedes. Ten minutes of this kind of “Scorpio” therapy is very powerful. Apophyllite tip placed on the third eye helps to see clearly.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Now is great timing to fulfil a dream that you have held for a long time or from a long time ago. List everything needed to complete the project, and take action. If you keep focused on the outcome and stay connected to your nurturer, you will not be able to fail. Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

Time for movement and change. Set some fresh goals, then you can start with beliefs and attitudes and clear out the old to make way for the new. Be aware of your thoughts, and only entertain uplifting ones. Laugh at your fears and become the answers to them. Pyrite will bring back courage.

Don’t be too serious.! You are the life of the party and when you are feeling down, everyone will feel it. Your fears engulf you when your thoughts become critical of yourself. Prank, play, laugh, lighten up and BE the difference. Turquoise boosts our self-confidence and esteem.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Adventure and surprises are likely to fill your thoughts and heart. Find something stimulating to learn about, and its opportunity will be likely to cross your path on your adventures. Discovery of new talents can be anticipated, bringing a feeling of fulfilling destiny or fate. Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness

You have been so focused on other people’s traumas, that you began to lose yourself. Spending time in nature will earth you and ground you, where you naturally feel more content within. It is time for you now, so spoil yourself with some “time-out” time. Clear quartz amplifies strength.

You’re likely to have some big changes with career soon that could be blessings in disguise. Avoid slipping into fear or selfdoubt; stay connected to your ability to see opportunity just waiting to be accessed and enjoy your success. Carnelian is a terrific stone for focus and productivity.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 45

focusinterview.

St e ven LOSH

The Edge Gallery and Art Supplies

pen since early August, The Edge Gallery and Art Supplies displays the work of over 50 artists and is well worth a visit! Hi Steve - can you start by telling our readers a bit about your background, when you initially arrived in the area, and what brought you here? I grew up on the NSW Central Coast in Woy Woy, and upon finishing school, I started as a boat builder on the Central Coast. In the ‘80s, my parents moved to Taree, while I stayed working on the Central Coast. In 1991, I brought my first house here, so that I could be closer to my family, and upon moving to the area, I got a job as a frame and truss fabricator and continued doing that for 25 years. Opening an art gallery is a huge leap from being a frame and truss fabricator. What was the motivation, and how did it all happen in the end? Actually, I have had a connection to art since I was a kid through my family, with both my uncles being professional artists. One uncle, Tom Hockey, was an artist who painted landscapes in oil paint, and my other uncle, Lionel Sheely, was a graphic designer, as well as my father also being a talented sketch artist, and I also have completed a degree in cartooning and illustrations. While visiting my son, Caleb, who is 22 years old and lives and works in Sydney, I found myself falling in love with Newtown and the art scene down there. I was really inspired by all the street art, the art stores and

46 Manning-Great Lakes focus

the vibe of all the art creation that Newtown is famous for. Upon returning to our area, I started to notice that there was nowhere in Taree for artists to buy good quality materials. So, when I was forced to finish up with my job earlier this year due THAT NIGHT I RECEIVED to the downturn in OVER 200 EMAILS FROM You are very the building industry, I LOCAL ARTISTS IN much focused on decided to try and bring RESPONSE. IT WAS THEN showcasing local some of the inspiration THAT I STARTED artists - tell us a bit that I had found in TO REALISE THAT more about that? Newtown to our local JUST MAYBE I The Edge Gallery and area. HAD TOUCHED ON Art Supplies displays Originally, my idea was THAT THE SOMETHING only local, original art. to open a studio where LOCAL AREA HAS NEEDED The artists are welcome I could paint and maybe FOR SOME TIME. to leave or rotate their sell a few art supplies art as much as they like, and have a few art works and the objective of the from other local artists store is to support local for sale. artists and the art they As I got closer to getting ready to get create, as well as supporting the other local set up, I decided to advertise one night on art businesses in our area, such as all the art Facebook to see if I could maybe find a local societies and other galleries. artist or two who wanted to display and sell It’s not just about painting as an art form, their art. Well, that was the start of it all, but about all art forms. We display all sorts because that night I received over 200 emails of local art and, at this stage, we have been from local artists in response. It was then open for about four weeks and have 53 artists that I started to realise that just maybe I had displaying over 100 amazing pieces of art. touched on something that the local area has The art community has embraced this needed for some time. venture with open arms! I’ve met so many I took possession of the store in early July, amazing people in the few short months since and when we opened in early August, we had that first advertisement on Facebook. around 45 local artists displaying and selling What’s your vision for the gallery? their art!

My vision for the future is to make Taree the capital of art in NSW, by bringing our local artists to the forefront of art, and by bringing people from all over to our local area to see and experience great local art, and to come away inspired. When is the gallery open to the public? The Edge Gallery and Art Supplies is located in Shop 7, River Arcade, near Raw Sugar. We have a great view of the beautiful Manning River and are located right in the heart of Taree. The gallery is open from 9am to 3pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 12pm Saturday. Any final thoughts for our readers? I now have the best job in the world! Every day I meet people who bring their heart and soul through the door in the form of an art work, and with a smile they say, “Steve, look at what I’ve created!” I can see even in this early stage of this venture that the Gallery is becoming the people’s gallery, and I am very humbled by all the support the local community has shown. I am looking forward to the exciting future, and seeing where it takes me from here. Thanks Steven. Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

Parenting, Family & Health

Blossoms Children Services Shared values are so important I think all of us who run a small business start with a passion. It may be a love of cooking, a love of fixing something that is broken or in my case, a love of teaching children in their early years. We start our businesses based on a desire to take our passion and grow it into something bigger that we can share with employees, as well as our local community. With Blossoms being a major part of my life for over eleven years now and with a staff of over nineteen local employees, the importance of being able to have a shared value base that enables everyone to work cohesively together for our children and our families has been a challenge that we have welcomed and made a part of our workplace culture over the past twelve months. With a firm joint understanding that what

makes Blossoms a special place is identified and agreed upon by everyone means that we can all individually analyse and strive to ensure that the core values are put into place every day. Values such as respecting relationships within our team and our families; enjoying our children’s ability to make decisions independently and develop with our program; the love of our natural environment and our desire to support our children to engage each day actively have always been important, but by honouring these as part of our daily thoughts, we have found ourselves more able to articulate and in return increase our own professionalism. For me as an owner and an early childhood professional, it has provided confidence in my business and a love of the shared energy that a motivated workplace can provide.

Dolphins Children's Services Dolphins Children's Services is a family owned and operated business. We have been caring for the children and their families of the Great Lakes for the last 22 years. Dolphin Cottage offers quality care and education for babies and toddlers. This service caters exclusively for children from babies up to the age of three in our homestyle cottage. Dolphins Child Care Centre continues to offer our comprehensive preschool program, focusing not only on pre-reading and pre-writing skills, but children’s talking and listening skills, social interactions and communication skills. Our qualified staff are passionate educators sharing their passion and knowledge in their

areas of interest, including our comprehensive music/movement program, cultural awareness and building knowledge/skills on sustainability and looking after our environment. We are now proud to provide new programs, such as our Kitchen Garden and Indigenous Art Program, as well as our Literacy Learning Space, to extend on our children’s interests and learning. In conjunction with our Literacy Learning space is our Children’s and Parents' Libraries, to encourage the enjoyment of books at home as well. Our preschoolers visit the Great Lakes Library fortnightly to borrow books on our interests at the time. Should you require further information, please call Jo on 6555 3266.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 47

Catholic Education in the Manning The Manning region is proud to host some of the best Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, providing students from the communities of Taree, Wingham, Bulahdelah, Forster and Gloucester with quality education in a caring and nurturing environment. Four students share with us their journey, recalling the support and encouragement they received as they progressed through school and set about pursuing their dreams.

St Joseph’s Primary School, Taree — Elizabeth Avery

Holy Name Primary School, Forster — Rourke Banham

Elizabeth Avery completed her primary education at St Joseph’s Primary School, Taree, where she found a love for the performing arts.

Since his early years at Holy Name Primary School, Forster, Rourke has always held onto the message from his teachers that he should do what makes him happy.

“Throughout my education, I have always been provided with a supportive and encouraging environment and have always been able to pursue my areas of interest,” Elizabeth said.

“My teacher during Year 5 and 6 always said I could do anything I wanted and always said ‘as long as you’re happy, that’s enough’,” Rourke said.

“Being involved in the Joey’s Annual Festival of Arts (JAFA) performance with my Year 6 class and the support from my teacher, Mrs Brotherton, allowed me to pursue this within school and reinforced my passion for the performing arts and encouraged my love of creative writing.” Elizabeth’s passion for performing arts and creative writing continued throughout her secondary schooling at St Clare’s High School, Taree. “My teachers for drama and extension courses in English, Mr Howard and Mrs Busby, have encouraged, instructed and mentored me, further shaping my dreams and goals within these fields. My current hope is to pursue a course at Sydney University, majoring in English, while actively continuing my passion for performance.”

St Joseph’s Primary School, Bulahdelah 26C Bulahdelah Way, Bulahdelah, 2423 4997 4189 bulahdelah.catholic.edu.au 48 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Transitioning into high school at St Clare’s, Rourke found it was the “little things” staff did each day that made starting “big school” that much easier. “All the teachers were so nice and would take time out of their day to stop and say, ‘Hello, how’s your day?’ Just little things like that made it very easy to fit into school and I knew St Clare’s was the place for me,” he said. “All of my teachers have always said to me, ‘Rourke, the sky is your limit’. They have always been so supportive in my decisions and I know whatever path I go down, they will support me 100%. “My goal is to open as many doors as possible so I can have as many options as I can. I believe that when the time is right, something will come to me and when it does, I’ll be ready to do whatever it is that I have to do.”

Holy Name Primary School, Forster 41 Lake Street, Forster, 2428 6554 6504 forster.catholic.edu.au

St Joseph’s Primary School, Gloucester 53 Denison Street, Gloucester, 2422 6558 1555 gloucester.catholic.edu.au

St Joseph’s Primary School, Wingham — Jayla Stewart During her time at St Joseph’s Primary School, Wingham, Jayla was always encouraged to be an active learner and was introduced to the many possible career paths available to her.

Throughout my education, I have always been provided with a supportive and encouraging environment for my social, educational and emotional development, and have always been able to pursue my areas of interest. Elizabeth Avery, St Joseph’s Primary School, Taree

“My Year 6 teacher, Mrs Cleaver, inspired me to be more focused in school and proved to me that I could do anything when I put my mind to it,” Jayla said.

St Joseph’s Primary School, Gloucester —Thomas Relf

Since starting at St Clare’s, the teachers and staff have continued to be a source of inspiration for Jayla in finding her passion. “My Maths teacher, Mrs Rowsell, always pushed me to be the best I can be and has been extremely encouraging throughout her years of teaching me,” Jayla said.

Throughout his educational journey, including his primary school years at St Joseph’s Primary School, Gloucester, Thomas has always felt supported and encouraged to reach his full potential.

“Miss Posadas, my Community and Family Studies teacher, has also been a huge influence on my goals for the future of becoming a registered nurse, as she was always there if I ever needed extra help and always looked after my wellbeing in class.

“All my teachers have encouraged me to put 100% into everything I do, and this has always prompted me to put my all into my work throughout high school,” Thomas said.

“Both St Joseph’s and St Clare’s have helped me exceed my educational goals, with all the wonderful teachers that were willing to provide as much help and support as I needed, as well as all the opportunities provided by St Clare’s, including career days and university days.”

Both St Joseph’s and St Clare’s have helped me exceed my educational goals, with all the wonderful teachers that were willing to provide as much help and support as I needed.

“I also feel that the closeness of the relationships between students and teachers encouraged, not only me, but others, to fully achieve their own goals, as they are able to help and enforce the drive needed to achieve our full potential.” Thomas found the transition to high school at St Clare’s “a breeze” thanks to the many Catholic regional sporting events, including cross country, swimming and athletics, in which he had competed during primary school. “These events allowed me to get to know other students who were potentially going to be in my year group in high school, meaning that I would know many faces when I started and wouldn’t feel as overwhelmed making the big leap.”

Jayla Stewart, St Joseph’s Primary School, Wingham

St Clare’s High School, Taree Davis Street, Taree, 2430 6552 3300 tareesc.catholic.edu.au

St Joseph’s Primary School, Taree 1 St Joseph’s Drive, Taree, 2430 6557 7031 tareesj.catholic.edu.au

St Joseph’s Primary School, Wingham Church Crescent, Wingham, 2429 6553 4774 wingham.catholic.edu.au Manning-Great Lakes focus 49

focusinterview.

Ref l e ct i o ns HolidayPark - Seal Rocks -

Justine & Eddy Syme

rriving in our region a little over a year ago, Justine and Eddy Syme have put a lot of effort and energy into their role as Park Managers at Reflections Holiday Park Seal Rocks, and recently took out the Caravan and Holiday Parks Category at the 2019 Destination North Coast Regional Tourism Awards. Justine was kind enough to give us some time recently to talk about the awards, their background, and what it takes to run an award winning holiday park. Congratulations on your win - what a fantastic accomplishment! Tell us about the awards process - I hear it’s fairly rigorous? The awards submission process can indeed be quite rigorous, with a huge amount of information needing to be collated from all areas of the business. We find the earlier you start, the better - and it also helps to keep notes on achievements and anecdotes from the past year, as it can be easy to forget the sheer amount of things we’ve done when it comes time to put the submission together. The nominations usually open early in the year, around March, with the final submissions due a couple of months later. We’ve been lucky to have some experienced team members on board with us at Reflections, whom we work with to write the submission, along with the wider business such as our Marketing, Capital Works and Safety Teams, to ensure we

50 Manning-Great Lakes focus

get input from everyone and nothing is missed. winning awards)? The next step is an onsite judge’s visit to We have always camped and caravanned verify our entry and score the park in person, with our families, and it is our preferred before we wait to hear on the results. The holiday. We have had a tent, older style process can be long, but it’s also so rewarding, caravan we did up, camper trailer, and now as we can reflect on what we have achieved back to a caravan. We love the atmosphere over the year and easily identify any areas to of camping and the people you meet, which improve for next year. is one of the things that You took on the drew us to this industry. role of Contract We feel that we put Park Manager at in as much as we would Reflections Holiday expect from anywhere We do have to give a special Park Seal Rocks in May that we would stay. We mention to Rachael, 2018, so you’re both have a very high standard our Park Supervisor, relative newcomers and we think that who most people will to the area. What definitely shows, and know as the friendly was your background yes, it does help with our face you see when you before arriving here? ability to win awards! check in or out or make a Before coming to The hospitality booking over the phone. Seal Rocks, I came from industry is hard work, a customer service isn’t it? Was it a very background, varying steep learning curve, in different roles, most or did you find you recently in the banking sector. Prior to the retail were able to adapt fairly well? sector I worked in a five star historic hotel in Working in the retail and previously in the Victoria and before that a hotel in the city in hospitality industry, we were prepared for what Melbourne. we were getting ourselves into, but yes - it is Eddy had been working in the community hard work. A lot of people have the mentality services sector, most recently in the disability that it is a bit of a holiday running a holiday area. park, and while there are certainly some I understand you are both experienced benefits, it is still a full-time (and sometimes campers as well - does this knowledge more than) job. and experience help when it comes We have an amazing team whom we could to managing the park (and ultimately not do without, and who all work tirelessly to

do the absolute best they can do and treat the park like it’s their own … we are very lucky. Any other thoughts, final words, or people you’d like to say a special thank you to? We would not be where we are without the support and loyalty of our guests, who have assisted and accepted us in this role, and we are so grateful for this. Our team on the ground are amazing, each and every one of them, including the ones who are no longer working with us. We do have to give a special mention to Rachael, our Park Supervisor, who most people will know as the friendly face you see when you check in or out or make a booking over the phone. She really is a big part of what we do here … and of course, Reflections Holiday Parks, who are brilliant at supporting all 37 locations in NSW. Reflections manages the operations of 37 holiday parks and community reserves on Crown land throughout NSW. Rebranded from Crown Holiday Parks to Reflections Holiday Parks in February 2018, the Group brings its 37 holiday and community parks on Crown land under the one unified banner. The group is a not-for profit organisation and reinvests its surplus funds across all its holiday and community parks, so visitors and regional communities can keep enjoying these pristine locations. The vision of Reflections Holiday Parks is to inspire all who visit. Thanks guys. Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

focusinterview.

Photo Caption: Swans Crossing Nature Playground, Kerewong State Forest.

Spring has sprung! Winter is over, and warmer days herald the start of spring. What better time to visit your local State Forest? With around two million hectares of NSW State Forests, you’re spoiled for choice. Check out your local State Forest-based mountain bike club and take in an adrenalinpumping ride, picnic by a stream, camp out under the stars, or simply take a leisurely forest drive. The natural environment takes centre stage in spring, with 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.

on forest experiences. Alternatively, you can

A range of information is available to help plan your next visit, including a free mobile phone app called “VisitForests”, which provides online and downloadable maps, photos and information

State Forests are a “must-see” destination in your

real estate

pick up a regional Forest Map at local Visitor Information Centres in NSW, or contact Forestry Corporation online to purchase a copy. Visitors are also encouraged to share their experience

UPDATE

via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter via #visitnswforests. The @visitnswforests Facebook page offers ideas on where to go, plus the latest safety advice, while the Visit NSW State Forests YouTube channel features some great videos to inspire your holiday plans. With so many forest-based visitor areas statewide, with a mix of visitor facilities such as picnic tables, BBQs, fireplaces, shelters, toilets, lookouts, walking tracks and easy-access carparks, NSW travels. @visitnswforests #visitnswforests www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit

OUR CURRENT MARKET IS FULL OF SURPRISES, MAINLY FROM A RENEWED DRIVE FROM THE REPOSITIONING SYDNEY MARKET.

must start with congratulating the does achieve top prices. owners (and agent) of an exquisite, Average house sales vary greatly between showpiece home at Red Head our towns, from $335,000 in Taree and overlooking the headlands and Pacific Wingham to $490,000 in Old Bar, $531,000 Ocean on an impressive 1,000 m² in Forster and interestingly, $605,000 in Red block. At $2.2 million, I believe this Head. has created a new record for a house sale in The median house sale price across the our area, apart from Boomerang Beach. Mid North Coast is currently $440,000, and I couldn’t resist congratulating the agent, I’m predicting this is on the increase. who after relocating from outside our Still plenty of affordable residential area cannot believe land sales across our how undervalued our area, ranging from exclusive properties are. $95,000 to $237,000 at I think we all know Tallwoods, depending that had this property on views, $145,000 at Many of our properties in been on the Northern Wingham, $178,000 exquisite positions have older Beaches of Sydney, it Taree to $224,000 at homes, and this recent would have attracted Old Bar, and $250,000 sale is a testament to at least five times this at Harrington - or if you an upmarket home in a price plus. don’t mind the peace unique position like Red We do have buyers and quiet of Comboyne, Head to blow the other property looking for that at $65,000. I’m still sales out of the water. special property with finding some bargains, showpiece homes and especially for investors stunning views to retire who are looking for to; however, if you go manual labour therapy searching - that market to add value. is scarce. A quaint four bedroom home straight Many of our properties in exquisite from the Happy Days era sold for $250,000 positions have older homes, and this recent in Harrington, and you cannot accuse the sale is a testament to an upmarket home in agent of photoshopping an old home in a unique position like Red Head to blow the Wingham that fetched a mere $235,000 other property sales out of the water. - no building report necessary; it was The other sale with a showpiece home obviously in disrepair. and river frontage acres was Mondrook, at A boarded up home in Patricia Street, $2.675 million. Taree wins the cheapest house award at But wait - there is more! Another grazing $190,000 - I wonder if the special conditions property with 970 acres, creek frontage for included windows? $1.55 million, waterfront in Tuncurry and Apart from that, our real estate market is beachfront in Boomerang, both over the really healthy, and investors are back looking $1 million. for healthy returns. With our affordable Add to that, another sixteen sales between prices and strong rental yields, that is one the $800,000 to $1 million, proving our area thing our area offers in abundance. Manning-Great Lakes focus 51

FOCUS ON

52 Manning-Great Lakes focus

BUSINESS

ALAN

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

m ney matters. with Alan Tickle

Transition to Retirement Pension Tax Trap Transition to retirement superannuation pensions commonly known as TTR pensions are pensions taken from superannuation funds that are commenced while a person is still employed. They can be commenced once a person reaches their superannuation preservation age.

rior to July 1st, 2017, the earnings in the fund did not attract tax; however, from July 1st, 2017, the fund earnings were taxed at 15% in the same manner as accumulation superannuation. Unless the pension provider is informed that the recipient is retired, that tax would continue to be deducted until they reached age 65. Retirement does not necessarily mean the pension recipient stops working completely, but they need to be able to declare that if they are still employed, they are working less than 10 hours per week, with no intention of seeking further employment. I’ve come across a couple of cases in the past week where there was a TTR pension in place while they were employed; however, they took retirement before age 65 but had not taken the step of informing the fund. The tax deducted by the fund in those circumstances can be significant, and I’m sure most people would agree that it’s OK to pay the tax that is due, but it doesn’t sit comfortably paying tax that should not apply. Timing Retirement A common question that is posed to taxation agents or advisers by clients is what date should they retire. The question often relates to minimising tax on long service leave or accrued leave by finishing up in a new financial year. For others with limited retirement assets,

eligibility for the age pension can have a bearing on the retirement date. Age requirements for the pension Those born: From 1st July 1952 to 31st December 1953 - 65 years and six months From 1st January 1954 to 30th June 1955 66 years. From 1st July 1955 to 31st December 1956 66 years and six months. From 1st January 1957 onwards - 67 years. What is not often realised, that once a person reaches age 65, despite being employed full-time, they can access superannuation, even though the Centrelink age pension is now creeping towards age 67. Accessing superannuation while still employed at age 65 can be a significant retirement strategy. Cashing in part of the superannuation, then recontributing up to the concessional cap to claim a tax deduction becomes an option, but this also enables the withdrawn amount to be re-contributed up to the non-concessional cap, as un-deducted. Utilising this re-contribution strategy can potentially save thousands of dollars that might otherwise apply in death benefit tax, should the final superannuation beneficiary be a nonfinancial dependent, such as adult children. To be effective, it is generally best to have a separate fund for the un-deducted contributions.

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 Authorised Representatives of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd | ABN 93 161 647 007 | AFSL 449221|

Manning-Great Lakes focus 53

Leading law firm opens T A R E E

O F F I C E

Leading regional NSW health, medical negligence and elder law ﬁrm, Catherine Henry Lawyers, has opened an oﬃce in Taree.

he office, at Hooke Chambers in Victoria Street, Taree, is headed by Manning born and raised solicitor Erin Woodard. Ms Woodward joined the firm as a senior associate earlier this year. Ms Woodward said the Furness inquiry relating to disgraced gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Emil Gayed, who practiced in Taree, had again shone a spotlight on medical negligence issues experienced by local people. She said the Aged Care Royal Commission is also shining a spotlight on poor aged care providers. “We want to help people and their families in the Manning and other parts of regional NSW to seek answers, to seek justice and compensation from rogue doctors, as well as health care providers and aged care facilities who provide sub-standard care,” Ms Woodward said. “We fight passionately for our clients, but also provide other resources and referrals for support, because we understand our clients have experienced significant trauma,” she said. “Our team is predominantly female, and we find that many

women prefer to have a female lawyer represent them, particularly for women’s health law issues. “In the many cases we are currently running for victims of rogue doctors, such as Dr Gayed, we always take the time to listen and appreciate the impacts on our clients.” She said that the firm’s in-house clinical nurse consultant means her team can quickly get to the crux of a legal issue and determine if there is a case with which to proceed. Catherine Henry Lawyers’ principal, Catherine Henry, said many people living in regional NSW are reluctant to make complaints or to seek answers or justice from health professionals for fear of “rocking the boat”. “Local people and local solicitors may be reluctant to take on local doctors because of close connections,” Ms Henry said.

“We take on those cases, because litigation helps hold health professionals to account and forces changes to health care practices, so mistakes do not happen to another person or family,” she said. Ms Woodward has lived and worked in Taree as a personal injury lawyer for more than 10 years. She is a Law Society of NSW accredited specialist in personal injury law. Ms Henry has decades of experience in health and medical law, working on many high-profile cases, particularly in relation to women’s health. Catherine Henry Lawyers is the only firm headquartered in Northern NSW and one of only two firms based outside of Sydney to make the prestigious Doyle’s list of NSW’s top 16 medical negligence plaintiff lawyers. It also has offices in Newcastle and Sydney. Visit www.catherinehenrylawyers.com.au

Our specialist health law team: • has decades of medical negligence experience • includes Doyle’s Guide recommended lawyers • includes an accredited specialist in personal injury law who is based in our new Taree office • has a 100% success rate in health and medical negligence cases taken on • includes inhouse nursing personnel • is the leading health law team in regional NSW.

Call 1800 874 949 info@catherinehenrylawyers.com.au

catherinehenrylawyers.com.au Health & Medical | Family & Relationships | Wills & Estates | Elder Law Sydney, Newcastle and Taree

54 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focus_contributor

S H A R O N B U LT I T U D E , M I D C O A S T C O U N C I L

tourism UPDATE

Mid Coast Flooring & Blinds YOUR VISION IS OUR PASSION at Mid Coast Flooring and Blinds ... The team at Mid Coast Flooring and Blinds are passionate about helping people turn a house into their dream home. They believe floor coverings and blinds are a big part of what give your home its cosy feel. FLOORING From small one-room jobs to entire buildings, they can provide you with the right flooring advice. Their newly renovated showroom is filled with a huge range of carpet, vinyl planks, sheet vinyl, laminate and engineered timber for both commercial and residential use. Not only do they supply quality products, they fit them as well. BLINDS Whether you need blinds, awnings or shutters for your home or business, Mid Coast Flooring and Blinds can help. They also stock a large

range of spare parts for your window fixtures if needed. SHUTTERS If you want to keep cool and save energy this summer, ask them about their solar powered shutters. Mid Coast Flooring and Blinds offer an obligation free measure and quote for your next project. The friendly team will guide you through the whole process, with the right advice from start to finish. Whether it’s advice with colour selection or the right product for your needs on floors and windows, the team are the Taree and surrounding area’s top pick for home and commercial flooring and window coverings. Find them at 33 Muldoon Street in Taree, call 6551 2701 or follow them on Facebook, where they share the latest news on their products and services.

“Destination Management can no longer hide behind Steps to aorganisations new beginning the tired oldWelcome line that ‘our role is just promotion’. Those days are over” to the Barrington Coast William Baker, 2019.

STARTING POINT - THE all key measures visitation, spend and way, ust likeNEW many businesses at this ofinstakeholders in a of coherent and intuitive STRATEGY overnight stays. time of year, the Barrington Coast to ensure our experiences are authentic and tell the visitation: (4.3% increase tourism The teamformation has beenofbusily our Annual local “story” in a2.1 waymillion that resonates with MidCoast LGA in 2016 naturally and highest on the North Coast) reviewing and developing its our target markets. necessitated a conversation over Overnight stays: 3.8m (4.2% increase and business and marketing plans for On one end of the experience scale is the the delivery of tourism across second highest on the North Coast) the next financial year. During this big idea that becomes a game-changer for the our new bigger region. This, together with the Spend: $582 million (6.9% increase and process, what really struck me was how much destination, like a Great Walk. At the other end broader global tourism impacts and changing second highest on the North Coast) the tourism environment has changed in a it can be something as simple as finding the visitor trends, drove the development in 2017 of Barrington Coast’s social media platforms relatively short period of time. micro moments that can make the difference the “MidCoast Destination Management Plan” are also performing incredibly well, with a total Many of today’s leading destinations to someone’s experience. (DMP). The DMP stakes out the strategic road of 78,000 followers, reaching an average of are recognising the reality that a focus on Experience development also doesn’t map for what’s needed to successfully develop over 23,000 people each day. Engagement has promotion is not enough to succeed. A shift always mean starting scratch; might and manage our new destination into the future. also doubled, with anfrom annual total ofit 591,377 toward destination just require some One of the key actions of the DMP was the engagements. Our fans are twice as likely to management creative The developmentand of a engage with thinking. the Barrington experience development opportunity to any leverage Destination Brand Coast content than of is Strategy. no longerCompleted up for at existing experiences our North Coast competitors. debate. create newrate news the end of 2018, this The to engagement on the Ultimately, asisanew. destination Barrington Coast It is Just likewill destinations is oftenCoast overlooked. strategy help us to Barrington Instagram we can’t separate unifying, inclusive and adevelopname around thethe world, we between promote diverse pageCollaboration is also now the highest on ofment whichfrom we canpromotion. all be proud. We arerange being a number of businesses ofchallenged outstanding the North Coast. needimportantly, to walk the talk Most it is with a toexperiences, ask ourselves “areand places thatSTARTING offer different A NEW POINT name that together we can a holistic approach that stories our region has to COLLABORATION AND we equipped to create services in different use to inspire and attract includes all branding and offer. Barrington Coast PARTNERSHIP experiences?” Without locations could result in visitors to help grow our marketing activities. leverages the told strengths When preparing this year’s a unique story a bundling of offers that economy, delivering benefits of our region, from Tourism Partnership Program, consistently and by together can create a to the communities and World-Heritagethe first under Barrington all,the a destination and whole newthe experience. businesses of our region. listed Barrington Coast brand we realised that its products become Ultimately, as a Range to our iconic it too no longer reflected the simply a commodity, with price as the only destination we can’t separate development coastline, as well as changes broader industry battlefi eld. This becomes a slippery slope to from promotion. We need to toour walk the talk with our rivers that originate or indeed, our destination’s increasing irrelevance in what is a very dynamic a holistic approach that includes all branding in the Barrington Range and flow through new strategic direction. marketplace. and marketing activities. Since a brand is the our valleys to the sea. It is inclusive, including Feedback from our industry also prompted a So as a destination management team, sum of all stories that are told by and about acknowledging the local Aboriginal story of our change in focus. Fundamentally, the program how are we making this shift to the visitor our destination, the experiences we provide region, “where the leaves touch the waters from felt increasingly like a membership, rather than experience, in order to deliver the right must match our words. the mountains to the sea”. a partnership. A partnership implies a two-way destination experience that creates brand If we’re making promises and appeals in Barrington Coast is new. It is unifying, inclusive mutual benefit, with a joint responsibility and advocacy from visitors and locals alike? our marketing communications, we need to and a name of which we can all be proud. investment in the outcome. Well, we ensure that we clearly emphasise be able to keep those when people arrive Most importantly, it is a name that together we We are therefore inviting businesses to join the experiences a visitor has invisitors our destination, inwith our us region. To overpromise while not can use to inspire and attract to help this year in a true partnership - one rather than purely the product found here. delivering on thewe: experience isn’t the right grow our economy, delivering benefits to the where together More fundamentally, we are starting to help thing to do ... remembering that our visitor communities and businesses of our region. • Advocate the benefits oftoo tourism in our shape build these positive and inspiring perceptions ofwider our destination Weand know that the successful delivery of region to the community,are almost experiences. But, this shift Brand has demanded exclusively shaped by the promote opinionsthe of millions the DMP and Destination will require • Support and actively Barrington that we step outside of our and historic role of ofCoast individuals, collaboration, cooperation a unified brand, communicated through word marketing of mouth, primarily today via digital andand social approach.and We,promotion. therefore, embark on this • Participate in workshops, programs Our rolewith hasthe become one of channels. Justevents like the adagecapacity “you don’t have journey sharedabsolutely ambition of co-creating networking to build and skills “management”. about development, a within brand our untilindustry, your customers say you have sustainable and It’s long-term value for our bringing the whole experience destination, together with our together partners, and our local a brand” • Collaborate and communicate regularly - “an experience that is not talkedand residents and of course, our visitors. honestly with each other. guiding collaboration across a wide spectrum about might as well be invisible”. A NEW STARTING POINT - THE NUMBERS For more information on the Tourism Recently released LGA Visitor Profiles for 2018 Partnership Program and/or a copy of the (Tourism Research Australia) shows continued Partnership Prospectus, please email marketing@ year on year growth for the Barrington Coast midcoast.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 6554 8799. Manning-Great Lakes focus 55

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pro wil but exc gar eat C am gro pat nee ten tre at l stru pro S wit

56 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

GLENN DAVIS Glenn Davis is a man on a mission … an entrepreneur at heart, he is also very passionate about building growth in our local trades industries and is generous when it comes to putting great ideas into action. We talked to Glenn recently to ﬁnd out more about a couple of really amazing initiatives that he’s been instrumental in getting up and running - the Midcoast Renovation and Lifestyle Expo, and the Taree Career and Trades Expo.

hanks for your time, Glenn - let’s start with your background and links to the area. I've always wanted to be a carpenter, for as long as I can remember. When I was a teenager, we would build double storey cubby houses with balconies … so, yeah, I always wanted to build things. I kick-started my business when I relocated to the area from Bathurst-Mudgee in 2015. My business, “Glenn Davis Carpentry” came about after I had repeated requests from local people I’d met since moving here - it was the best decision I've made in quite a while. I have since rebranded, and we are now known as “Distinctive Building Co”. I love working here, I love the customers I have, and I love the flexibility of working for myself and providing a fantastic team culture in my business that I don’t believe many businesses offer. I believe that in business, everything comes down to the ability to build great relationships; that, and trust, honesty and open communication. That’s what drives me … not the financial side of business. It's not just a job … we are a team, and we all work hard to be the best we can be as individuals, and as a group. I like being involved in our community with the encouragement of more traineeships and apprenticeships, keeping our kids local and getting more tradesmen. The Midcoast Renovation and Lifestyle Expo is something you have been instrumental in kicking off in the local area. It obviously took a lot of effort and energy, but it sounds like it was really well received by the local public. What was the driver or

motivation in setting this up? The first Midcoast Renovation and Lifestyle Expo was held on the 24th August 2019 at the Manning Valley Racecourse and Winning Post Function Centre. I was focused on providing an event where locals can see that there are a large number of businesses here in the renovation sector who are very enthusiastic and eager to do business in the community. We had approximately 40 exhibitors, and it was sensational! The group of businesses were very keen to be involved, and the visitors on the day gave us very positive feedback. We had a wonderful briefing evening leading up to the event; all the exhibitors attended and shared their ideas, and we all had some guidance from Business Coach Chris Mackey on how to make the most out of the day - which was fantastic. How many attended, and what was the feedback? We had approximately 1,500 visitors attend. Every business that exhibited on the day reported very positive results; some booked jobs on the day with their expo specials on offer and others, myself included, booked a very large number of quotes, some of which have already been booked in as proceeding jobs. I’m informed the pool company sold two on the day. Awesome. It sounds like you’re planning a 2020 Renovation and Lifestyle Expo - I know it’s early in the piece, but what are the dates for the next one? Yes, we are planning the next expo to be held on Saturday, August 29th 2020. I understand you’re also involved in an annual Career and Trades Expo, with this year’s event being held in September (as we go to print). What is your involvement in

this initiative, and how did it come about? Sure … So, last year I attended a local school’s course selection evening, and I walked away feeling very disappointed at how much emphasis was placed on kids needing to get a good ATAR for university, and how much pressure there seems to be for them to succeed doing their HSC. For me, I totally don’t agree. I believe that the HSC is not the be-all and end-all. So many kids use school to kill time before they decide what they want to do. I like to consider myself an entrepreneur, and school is not equipped for entrepreneurs. It’s equipped for workers with a worker mentality. Some schools seem to think that doing a trade is just for the troubled kids, or kids who aren’t so smart, and that really bugs me. So rather than whinge about it, I decided to make something happen. I met with the local schools, employment agencies, local business and decided to make a change locally. I’ve been attending a number of schools, TAFE colleges, and being a guest speaker discussing trades careers. I’ve also been helping get back what used to be called “work experience” (or “work placement”, as it’s now referred to) and this seems to be beneficial to helping students get a taste of a trade. Some schools are on board, some aren’t … but we push on. This is where my idea of the Taree Careers and Trades Expo comes from - my passion to to help kids understand that it’s OK not to go to uni. They can attend the expo and talk direct to numerous trades, not just building, but various, and gain some understanding on how to approach an employer and the kinds of things to expect being a tradie and so on.

It’s obviously an event that is of great benefit to local school leavers, but what have been the benefits that you’ve seen come out of a day like this? Basically, it’s the amount of information we are able to provide to students. The schools do have a similar day but, in my opinion - and from feedback I’ve received from a number of the exhibitors - the kids who come to our expo are there because they want to be there. They are keen to ask questions, they listen, they are completely engaged. In fact, last year, from the first ever Taree Careers and Trades Expo, I understand that approximately six apprenticeships were generated from the event. Also, it was a great opportunity for employers to find good potential employees. So, yes, our eyes are open and looking on the day. I do believe I have been able to generate a lot more awareness and interest in these areas with my efforts, and the efforts of all the business who give up their time to attend the careers expo. I have sat down and discussed this in detail with David Gillespie MP, and it was also an honour for me that David spoke about me and the careers expo on the floor of parliament. Any other thoughts / comments? I’m always interested to hear from business or any organisation that wishes to assist me in driving the local economy trades sector and increasing the opportunity for our youth. IT'S OK NOT TO GO TO UNI. For more info, you can find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ tareecareersandtradieexpo/ and https://www. facebook.com/distinctivebuildingco/ Thanks Glenn. Interview: Ingrid Bayer. Manning-Great Lakes focus 57

BLE BUILDING takes out prestigious award! SARAH BAKER SPEAKS WITH BEN EDWARDS ABOUT HIS RECENT AWARD RECOGNITION.

i Ben! Congratulations on taking out HIA-Laminex Northern NSW Winning Bathroom of the Year Small Bathroom Award. What an incredible achievement. How do you feel? Thanks Sarah. I feel very excited and extremely proud to take out this award for our team, as there were a record number of entries this year

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in our region, which covers an area from Taree in the south to Yamba/Maclean in the north, and west as far as Moree and Coonabarabran. It is indeed a great honour to be recognised for doing something I am so passionate about. I also understand the judges had some very complimentary comments for you on the work of this particular bathroom design. Please tell us a little about the creativity and

style of this renovation? Yes, indeed Sarah, the judges were very complimentary with their comments about our bathroom. The judges said, “It was a very neat and classy bathroom. The tiling was spot on; the cedar work was absolutely immaculate. The tap fittings were all copper and incredibly neat. The timber shelving was finished immaculately. Practical design of the bathroom, given the size they had to work with. A very light and airy bathroom - a true credit to workmanship at its best with this project”. The creativity was inspired by the design brief from the clients and the very limited space and shape of the area we had to work with. The clients wanted a bathroom to blend with their 1970s style home, whilst being a feature in itself. They wanted the space to feel open and light, but at the same time to be functional and user friendly for many years to come, to provide easy access for them as they advance into their senior years. BLE Building is renowned for renovations, particularly kitchens and bathrooms. What trends are you seeing in the market that people are wanting to emulate in their own homes? BLE Building does specialise in custom design for renovations and extensions for existing dwellings, but we also build new homes. No home is too old or too new to transform. Our team prides itself on taking the stress out of what can be an overwhelming process for people, whilst bringing new life to their home - be it in their bathroom, kitchen or other areas of their home. For a lot of Australians, their home is

their greatest asset, so making the right choices when building or renovating it can ensure great satisfaction and long-term value for many families. I take great pride in being able to bring new life to old things for people. From my perspective, the current trends are leaning towards natural, earthy influences and features in design such as timber, which is now prominent in bathrooms, light, airy spaces and earthy tones in tiles. What’s on the horizon for your business? BLE Building is looking forward to a very busy year ahead, with upcoming renovation and construction projects. I have recently published a book, The Insider’s Guide to Building Your Dream Home for people considering building or renovating a home. We’re expanding our range of client options, which includes our Venetian Plaster, as recently seen on The Block, and our passion for including recycled timber products wherever possible throughout our projects, as we have recognised the hidden value and benefits of such materials. For people wanting to enquire about a build or quotation, how can they get in touch? For those people interested in talking to us about a possible project, they are able to contact us in several ways, predominantly by phoning BLE Building on 0401 362 964, email: blebuilding@ gmail.com - Facebook: BLE Building Contractors, Instagram: @blebuilding. All enquiries are welcome; no job is too big or too small. We are happy to listen to and talk with people about their needs and provide them with our brochure and information in the process to help them. Thanks Ben.

focusinterview.

Richard

COLEMAN Upper Lansdowne local Richard Coleman has so much on the boil, that you get dizzy just thinking about it! An extremely active member of our community, Richard shared with us some snippets of what he’s involved in and what keeps him busy!

ou arrived in the area in 1998, settling in Upper Lansdowne. What was your background prior to moving into the area, and what led you here? I was brought up on a small dairy farm on the Isle of Wight. The island didn’t offer much in the way of prospects, so I gained an apprenticeship in the Army, training as an armourer, or military gunsmith. Leaving the Army in 1973, I started to travel, spending time in South Africa, then Port Noarlunga SA, before finally settling in the Manning Valley, having transferred from Britax’s Adelaide plant and working in industrial maintenance. So, let’s start with your involvement in U3A (University of the Third Age) … what does that entail? I’ve been leading the “Philosophy for Everyone” course for just over two years. We are a diverse group who share an interest in philosophy. It’s my role to find interesting material, present it to the group and moderate the resulting discussion. I like to find a topic for a term and look at it from a number of viewpoints. We recently looked at Germaine Greer’s The Female Eunuch … plenty of material there for the term! We have one prerequisite, which is to please bring an open mind, and one immutable rule; thou shalt not attack the person. If you don’t agree with a person’s point of view, that’s fine - we’ve got you thinking. But if you are going to disagree, please give your reasons, and remember that it is the idea that you question, not the person who proposed it. You are also involved in the Upper Lansdowne Players. That must be so much fun! My partner, Vivienne Scott, runs The Upper

Lansdowne Players and has done since the mid ‘90s. I joined in late 2000, and my first play was A Breath of Spring. I had a very small part, fortunately. My skill level was somewhere below low. But time goes on, and one learns a few tricks. It is hard work, but very good fun. I do like the bit at the end where they all clap! I get involved in the set, the sound and lighting, as well as being on stage. I think that I’ve been involved in every play in some way since I joined. There have been memorable occasions, some of them best forgotten. You’re appearing in Half Frozen, which is the next Upper Lansdowne Players production. Can you give our readers a bit of insight into the story? The Upper Lansdowne Players are trying to put Upper Lansdowne back into their casts. So, we were very pleased to recruit a number of youngsters from the Lansdowne Valley. Our stock in trade is comedy, and we have chosen a play to make the best use of our new members’ skills and appeal to our audiences. The play centres around Princess Mirabelle, who has been cursed. Everything that she touches turns to ice! You can imagine that this can cause some difficulties, so follow the attempts by King Augustus, Queen Regina and the rest of the cast, ably directed by Catherine Watson, as they struggle to deal with the consequences and get their kingdom back to normal. I play King Augustus, perhaps not the sharpest knife in the box, who also suffers from a bit of “born to rule” mentality. The play is high energy and great fun. We open on Saturday 19th October. Follow us on Facebook, or book online at www.upperlansdownehall.org.au As if you don’t have enough on the boil, I hear that you have just returned from an

overseas trip with years now. Starting as a I joined the Rural Fire Service Taree Gymaroos! basic fire fighter, I’ve now soon after I retired. It had I joined the adult completed Crew Leader been a bad ﬁre season, team of the Taree PCYC training and subsequently and enrolments went up Gymaroos about a year filled a position as a as people realised that we ago. My partner is a Deputy Captain. It is a all are the community, long term member, serious responsibility. You and the community will only and has been on are responsible for your survive if we all support it. four Gymnaestradas, crew’s safety and for their while this was my effectiveness. first. The International What is your advice to Gymnaestradas are others who are thinking held every four years, typically in Europe, of becoming involved in community where display gymnastics is popular. This year groups and activities? it was held in Dornbirn, Austria. I’m tempted to quote two Americans: The Australian contingent was about President John F Kennedy - “Ask not what your 340 people in ten teams. The Taree PCYC country can do for you; ask what you can do Gymaroos team numbered 36, including the for your country”, and Martin Luther King Jnr. Team Manager and two coaches, with ages - “We ain't what we oughta be. We ain't what ranging from 10 years to 86. we want to be. We ain't what we gonna be. There are so many stories that could be But, thank God, we ain't what we was”. told about this. I’ll leave you with the thought To me, together, those two quotes that from now on I shall be known as “the summarise a way of looking at life. old man with the seagull”. The routine will There are people who are bored. There be performed at the Manning Entertainment are people who are looking for some sort Centre on the 12th October as a part of the of meaning or value in their lives. There are Gymaroos’ annual concert. people who are lonely. We are social animals; You’re so busy, but you obviously we work best in groups. And we have a level enjoy volunteering … I hear you’ve of consciousness which demands activities to even managed to achieve every man’s satisfy it. On top of that, the medical world childhood dream of driving a fire engine! is telling us that the more active you are, I joined the Rural Fire Service soon after the better your health will be - physical and I retired. It had been a bad fire season, and mental. enrolments went up as people realised that we So get out there. You won’t be the only all are the community, and the community will one. Think about what you would enjoy only survive if we all support it. doing. Whether you volunteer your services or I’m no longer a young man, so I looked for whether you try a new skill, your interaction ways in which I could be of most use. Getting with others will pay back your effort a a truck licence met that criteria. So, yes, I thousand times. get to drive a big red fire engine. I’ve been Thanks Richard. in the Lansdowne Brigade for a number of Interview: Ingrid Bayer. Manning-Great Lakes focus 59

focusinterview.

FEATURE PROFILE

Adrian ROBERTSON M C R

B U I L D I N G

i Adrian. Thanks for speaking to us about your award winning, commercial building company MCR Building. As a Master Builders Association member with over 130 years' combined construction experience in commercial, retail, education, sports facilities and aged care construction, tell us about what drives you in business ... To be successful in business today, both Melanie and I are highly motivated, and it is this that impacts on every aspect of our daily business and private life. In our view, to be successful requires one to have passion, integrity and honesty, in all aspects of the business. We also both realise that we cannot be expert at all aspects within the construction industry ourselves, which leads us to understand the importance of the team we surround ourselves with. At MCR Building, our mission is Exceeding Expectations. Both Melanie and I set out in the business to deliver high quality construction projects that exceed our clients’ expectations in the quality of the project finishes, in their experience in working with MCR, and in delivering projects within budget. You recently appointed a General Manager; can you tell us about him? We decided that we wanted to grow and expand the company and in order for us to do that, we appointed a new General Manager, Steven Meechan, who has been involved with some of the larger Queensland building companies, such as General Manager for Matrix Homes and 50 Plus, as well as General Manager for MJH Multi, part of the MJH Group here in NSW. In the short time since his coming over to 60 Manning-Great Lakes focus

the business, we have focused on resetting the company in many areas, from systems and processes to educating and empowering our staff to undertake what is required to be done by them within their projects to succeed. We have focused on developing an ethos which gives the team the accountability and responsibility to deliver the best for our clients - to motivate by getting them to embrace their projects. What are some of the recent completed projects throughout the region we would know, and what are some currently underway? MCR Building have completed many projects within our region, including works at some of our local schools, Taree TAFE, St Clare’s High School, Coastal Brewing Company, Taree Auto Group and many others. We are also working throughout the Mid North Coast on other projects, including Department of Justice and Social and Community Housing Projects. Our project locations currently span from the Hunter region, Mid North and North Coast regions. We have also recently signed a contract awarding MCR Building as sole building company to construct the new local development at Tallwoods Golf and Country Club. This will consist of a high-level, award winning over 50s golfing lifestyle resort and community facilities, along with hotel accommodation and conferencing facilities. Tell us about the areas of expertise the skilled construction team can offer clients? MCR has many levels of expertise within the construction industry, from apprentices and trades through to our General Manager having a master’s degree and being a Fellow of the Australian institute of building (FAIB). Our staff are professionally trained and qualified in the discipline necessary for the

success of the business. We currently employ a range of staff, including project managers, contract administrators, site managers and foreman, accounts and maintenance manager. Our skilled team provide the following services: • Construct only projects • Design and construct • Project management • Contracts administration • Cost plus contracts • Facilities maintenance and management You are also a proud business sponsor of many sporting and school-based initiatives around the region. Why is this important to you professionally? MCR are proud to work on projects that will deliver first class infrastructure to our region. In turn, we understand the importance of giving back to our community. MCR Building do this either by giving time and/or financial support to a number of local sporting clubs, including Wingham Kart Club, Forster Surf Life Saving Club, Sporties Tuncurry Netball Club and Riding for the Disabled, where we sponsor two horses. Quality construction and project management is key to your business model. Tell us how your business continues to be at the forefront of research and development, including its level of expertise, software, Council compliance etc.? MCR are also ISO accredited for Workplace Health and Safety and for Quality. In order to maintain our international standard accreditation, MCR undergo an annual review of our systems, policies, procedures and processes. We must remain up to date and reflect current best practice standards in all we do. MCR recently obtained approval for the government pre-qualification scheme for

construction to the value of $10M. The company boasts high staff retention, with a significant percentage of staff over 50 years of age, as well as a strong focus on apprentice development and trade accreditations. How does employee development and retaining highly qualified staff in their fields increase the ability of the company? MCR recognises the value that a diverse teams brings to the morale of a workplace, as well as the benefits to the delivery of projects. Melanie is an active member of the Master Builders Women in Construction special interest group, and we are proud that the team at MCR is made up of 45% women. This is significant in construction, which has an average of around 11%. We currently have three cadets who are studying at the University of Newcastle and feel it’s important to nurture and create our own home grown professionals. Our apprentices and cadets are the future of the industry and are mentored and supervised by our senior, highly knowledgeable staff. What is your vision going forward for MCR Building, and what areas of development are in the works? MCR Building will continue to do what we do best - deliver high quality construction projects that exceed our clients' expectations. We are excited about the upcoming works at Tallwoods Golf and Country Club and whilst it is at the master planning process phase, it is something we look forward to working on around mid 2020. Additionally, we have recently opened an office in Newcastle. This is due to the recent expansion in projects in the Hunter region. We are also planning for our third ISO accreditation in Environmental Management. Thanks Adrian.

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EVERY second two people in the world celebrate their 60th birthday, and whether that’s in your yoga class, your workplace or your retirement village, the stats soon add up because according to the UN, almost 700 million people are now in this group.

he good news is we’re reaching an advanced age in greater numbers and in better health than ever before. By 2030, just a bit over 10 years’ time, there will be 1.4 billion of us reaching this milestone, making over 15 per cent of the world’s population 60 or older. The UN states that The International Day for Older Persons celebrates the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and continues to promote “the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by older persons”. Human rights lie at the core of all efforts in this regard, with the UN International Plan of Action on Ageing addressing many of the issues. Like independence - older persons should have the opportunity to work or to have access to other income-generating opportunities. They should also be able to have a say in determining when and at what pace their withdrawal

from the labour force takes place, plus access to appropriate educational and training programs if they desire. On participation - older persons should remain integrated in society, participate actively in the formulation and implementation of policies that directly affect their wellbeing and share their knowledge and skills with younger generations. About care - they should have access to social and legal services to enhance their autonomy, protection and care and be able to enjoy human nights and fundamental freedoms when residing in any shelter, care or treatment facility, including full respect for their dignity, beliefs, needs and privacy and for the right to make decisions about their care and the quality of their lives. Dignity - older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of abuse, treated fairly regardless of age, gender, racial or ethnic background, disability or other status, and be valued independently of their economic contribution.

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North Brother Mountain

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Manning-Great Lakes focus 59

Let’s talk future proof career paths Are your future job prospects keeping you awake at night? A quick Google search, and you will find that health care is one of the top eight “future-proof” career paths - especially within the aged care industry. Given the rise of automation, off shore services and production, plus the introduction of artificial intelligence, the importance of finding a role that is future proof has never been more pertinent. Recruiters are reporting a supply shortage of health professional recruits across the board. The aged care sector is particularly affected by the problem of supply and demand. Research undertaken by McCrindle (2018) shows that Australia is headed to a mass retirement of our aged care workers. At present, approximately 350,000, equating to half the current workforce, are of retirement

age. This is particularly concerning, as the aged care industry is about to be hit with the “Baby Boomers”. The research also shows to maintain the current ratio of aged care workers to people aged 85+, the industry will need to grow by a whopping 129,945 workers in the next ten years! Lauren Knight, People & Workplace Officer at Anglican Care said, “The challenge we face as a growing aged care provider is meeting our continuous demand for passionate and skilled care workers with a declining workforce. People of all ages should consider a rewarding career in aged care.” Clearly, demand for aged care health professionals is rising each year, making it a terrific choice for those wanting to future proof their careers.

Let our local team support you to

stay independent and happy at home. Call us today if you are considering your options, unsure how to apply for a home care package or looking for a new provider. We are committed to making the process of obtaining home care as easy as possible. GET IN TOUCH

P 1800 733 553 (Free call) www.anglicancare.com.au HOME CARE I RETIREMENT LIVING I RESIDENTIAL CARE 66 Manning-Great Lakes focus

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focus_contributor

SUE REID

novaskill

GARY Robinson

As acting senior officer at Novaskill Port Macquarie, Gary enjoys helping people to achieve their training goals ...

Choosing where to spend your retirement years is an important decision. At Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA), we make that transition as seamless as possible.

e recently launched a when a resident nominates a friend who might “Friends to Neighbours” be interested in moving into one of our villages. program, to add to the If that friend moves into either St Agnes Village multitude of ways we bring or Lourdes Villages, the resident receives a $250 together community and gift card. lifestyle, removing the stress from the move to While residents obviously benefit from the retirement living. dollar value of the gift card, Often when faced with our main focus is to make the decision to move, a the transition to retirement common concern is losing living less stressful and more We not only encourage contact with friendship familiar. No doubt it also this, but we take it a step groups, but this doesn't helps new people moving have to be an issue. After into our villages if one of further and invite residents moving to Lourdes Village their friends recommend St to convert their friends into or St Agnes Village, our Agnes or Lourdes as great neighbours through a new residents continue to places to live. Moving into program, which CCA has maintain contact with a community with your recently launched. friends, whether it might friends already close by; be invitations to stay or what more could you ask taking part in a variety of for? activities we have on offer. “Friends to Neighbours” We not only encourage this, but we take it a is yet another way that CCA can continue to step further and invite residents to convert their bring together community and lifestyle. friends into neighbours through a new program, More information about the program can be which CCA has recently launched. found at: www.ccacares.org.au or call Donnelly House on (02) 5525 3600. Our “Friends to Neighbours” program works

i Gary. Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Novaskill. I am married with three grown boys, I reside in the Lakewood in the Camden Haven, where we have lived for 22 years. I have been in the training industry for around 20 years, and during that time have worked from Maroochydore in the north to Wagga Wagga in the south and out as far as Mudgee. My role at Novaskill started as a casual trainer back in July 2018 within the warehousing and hospitality areas. I have since grown from full-time trainer/assessor to lead trainer in business to my current position, where I am acting senior officer for our local branch in Port Macquarie. This position has me looking after the daily running of the branch, but also trying to fit in my training role, where I look after business, retail, hospitality, warehousing and food safety. How long has Novaskill been servicing the area? Novaskill has been in the Port Macquarie area since 2003. It started out as a Group Training Organisation (GTO) and over the years has grown predominately into a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with GTO as a part of the organisation. What is it about your role that keeps you coming back each day? Excitement; it is that every day is different, and I like to set myself a challenge to make a difference in someone’s life, whether

they are students attending class or a team member doing a project. To see the smile on somebody’s face when they are finished or achieve a milestone is a real buzz. Tell us about the different options on offer Novaskill? At Novaskill we offer a wide range of services and options. The most popular courses are Individual Support (Cert. III, IV, Diploma), Business (Cert. III, IV, Diploma), Warehousing (Cert II, III) and Hospitality (Cert II, III, IV). We also cover Horticulture (Cert II), Retail (Cert. II, III, IV) Construction (Cert II) and Food Safety. We run courses as full classroom-based training, as well as self-paced, including Traineeships and Apprenticeships. How has Novaskill grown over the past two years, and what can we expect in the future? Having only been with the organisation for a little over 12 months, I can only comment on what I have seen since arriving. The biggest change is the move from our Short Street office to the new location at 2/40 Gordon Street; we believe that the bigger exposure has helped us as a local office grow in a positive way. We are a small, very close team, with almost everybody having less than 12 months service, that are all about growing the business together. It is a place where no-one is scared to get their hands dirty to help each other. We can see the results on the board by the team taking ownership and in fact, take it hard when we do not reach our allotted targets.

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